Wanted: A leader with experience as "a natural connector and relationship-builder" interested in a new role that will "help shape the future of the North Avenue corridor."
Finding that person is the aim of a newly launched recruitment drive for the East Tosa Business Improvement District's first executive director. Applications are due by May 20 to eastosabid@gmail.com.
"This role is ideal for someone who thrives in both big-picture thinking and day-to-day execution — someone who can build structure, move ideas forward and help define what East Tosa becomes," the BID said this week in its social media announcement that it was taking applications for the role, the organization's first paid staff member.
The job description, as posted online here, says the executive director candidates should have at least three years of nonprofit and volunteer management, economic development, marketing or small business support. The executive director will be expected to work 20 to 25 hours a week as an independent contractor. Compensation was not specified but will be "commensurate with experience."
"This foundational leadership role is focused on building momentum, strengthening connections and bringing our district’s vision to life," the East Tosa BID said. "You’ll work alongside local businesses, property owners and the city to create a vibrant destination where people gather, shop, dine and connect."
The business improvement district was created last fall and stretches from 60th Street to Wauwatosa Avenue. It is intended to support businesses, promote growth and vitality along the avenue, advocate for safety and physical improvements and market North Avenue beyond the neighborhood.
Under the East Tosa BID's operating plan, nonresidential properties on North Avenue are taxed at $1.50 per $1,000 in assessed value, up to a maximum of $5,000 each, to fund an annual BID budget of about $140,000. It does not tax homeowners.
The BID's inaugural board, a mix of business and property owners and East Tosa residents, has been slowly increasing the district's visibility this year, including by starting clean-up campaigns along North Avenue. Dozens of residents came out April 19 to support the first such clean-up since the BID was formed.
Beautification projects are one of a range of initial priorities of the newly created East Tosa Business Improvement District. To achieve those priorities, it now seeks an executive director to "serve as the driving force behind the East Tosa BID’s day-to-day operations, strategic initiatives and community engagement efforts," according to the job description."
- David Paulsen, a Tosa East Towne resident and editor of Tosa Forward News, has more than 25 years of experience as a professional journalist. He can be reached at editor@tosanews.com.
