Q&A: Who’s paying for those new 25-year banners near the mall?

Sentinel staff report–
Residents traveling near Sunrise Mall in recent weeks may have seen new banners set up along the Sunrise-Greenback commercial corridor, prompting one reader to inquire why the banners have been set up and whether the cost is being paid by taxpayers.

In an email reply to The Sentinel, Sunrise MarketPlace Executive Director Kathilynn Carpenter, clarified that her organization had paid for and installed the banners to celebrate the business improvement district’s 25th anniversary.

Formed as a tax assessment district 25 years ago, SMP collects additional revenue from commercial property owners near Sunrise Boulevard and Greenback Lane, which Carpenter said goes to enhance the area’s safety, cleanliness, attractiveness, and economic vitality through marketing efforts, special events, security, and maintenance services.

As previously reported, the business district is in the petition phase of a renewal effort to extend the life of the district for several more years. Efforts are currently underway to seek signed petitions from property owners representing over 50% of the district’s assessment, with that phase targeted for completion by late February or mid-March.

Carpenter said a total of 160 banners were installed on 80 poles in the district, which help delineate SMP’s boundaries and foster a sense of destination. She said while the district has collaborated with the city for federal funding on certain projects, the city did not contribute financially to the banners.

Got a question about Citrus Heights you’ve always wanted an answer for? Click here to submit a question for consideration in a future Q&A article. See other recent articles below:

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