The Montague Downtown Development Authority gathered on November 20, 2025, for its monthly meeting, covering key updates on local projects, long-term planning, and the ongoing efforts of Bardic Wells Meadery. Below is a full breakdown of discussions and decisions from the session.
Approval of Minutes
The board approved the minutes from both its October 16 meeting and the special meeting held on October 23.
White Lake Agency / Rant Insurance Building Update
Discussion focused on the potential purchase of the former Rant Insurance building on Dowling Street—a collaboration originally explored between the City of Montague, the DDA, and the municipal campground.
- Shift from Appraised Value to Set Value:
The property owner communicated that they preferred a set sale price instead of going through a formal appraisal process.
- Council Response:
With the change in expectations, the city council opted to step back from pursuing the property at this time, allowing it to move to the open market.
- Next Steps:
The seller is now expected to list the property and is working with multiple real estate agencies.
Walk the Beat 2026 Funding Request
Walk the Beat, a summer music event that spans both Montague and Whitehall, is seeking an additional $200 in funding for 2026 due to rising costs.
- The request arrived early so the DDA can plan for it as they build next year’s budget.
- Montague and Whitehall DDAs, private donors, and participating businesses all contribute to the event.
- While the DDA didn’t vote on the request during this meeting, they will revisit it at their next session.
Developing the 2025–2026 DDA Priority Project List
The DDA began revisiting its priority list—a process last completed in 2019.
Highlights from the Discussion:
- The 2019 list included 15–16 items, with several completed or integrated into other projects since.
- The board reviewed ongoing needs such as landscaping, alley improvements, and downtown bench placement.
- The Dowling Hill bench remains uninstalled due to slope issues; a new idea emerged to create a sledding hill landing area, possibly combining the bench installation with safety and accessibility upgrades.
Future Priorities Under Consideration:
- Revisiting the long-planned Church Street stairway, which would provide direct pedestrian access between Harbor Point and the farmers market area. Engineering plans exist, though the project stalled after changes in the Harbor Point development agreement.
- Exploring additional tree lighting downtown. Members noted how inviting towns look when white lights are kept up year-round, though aging electrical infrastructure may require upgrades.
The DDA will continue refining the project list into early 2026, possibly conducting a spring “walk-around tour” before ranking priorities.
Bardic Wells Meadery Update
Owner Steve provided an in-depth update on challenges and opportunities for the Meadery.
Key Takeaways:
- Financial Pressures in the Winter:
Meadery revenue drops significantly during the colder months. Steve suggested the idea of a very low monthly loan payment—even as low as $50—to maintain operations until business picks up in spring and summer.
- Possible Partnership with Sawyer’s:
Discussions have taken place about supplying mead to Sawyer’s, but licensing, branding, and realistic sales volume remain concerns.
- Market History:
Previous years selling at the Farmers Market were highly successful and helped sustain the business. Had the Meadery been allowed to sell there last year, Steve believes they would not be facing current difficulties.
- Future Plans & Ideas:
- A potential price increase for products.
- More events at the Meadery, such as Euchre nights or game nights.
- Exploring outdoor seating options (pending regulations and funding).
- Considering paint or building improvements, though investment is limited while loan payments remain high.
- Long-term: Possible sale of the business or attracting local investors/partners.
Next Step:
The DDA asked Steve to prepare a formal proposal outlining projected monthly payments starting in January. This will be reviewed with legal counsel at the next meeting.
Additional Notes
- No public comments were raised at this meeting.
Next Steps
The DDA will revisit the Walk the Beat funding request, continue refining its multi-year project list, and review Bardic Wells’ financial proposal at the December meeting, scheduled for December 18, 2025.
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