About the DLBP

The Downtown Lodi Business Partnership, comprised of business owners, professionals and merchants, is a non-profit association developed to encourage growth and prosperity in the Downtown Community of Lodi, and to maintain its economic health on an on-going basis. Under agreement with the City of Lodi, the DLBP manages the Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA), and works in partnership with businesses, property owners, cultural institutions and local city officials to enhance the revitalization efforts of downtown Lodi.

Since its inception, the Downtown Lodi Business Partnership has been instrumental in the tremendous growth and vibrancy of the downtown community. The DLBP plays an important role in economic development by partnering with the public and private-sector to improve the overall viability of downtown Lodi, while establishing it as a key destination point through such signature events as the annual Parade of Lights, Farmer’s Market, Octoberfest and Winterfest.

Additionally, the DLBP implements visual streetscape improvements such as holiday décor, banners and signage. The DLBP also serves as an advocate for businesses to the City of Lodi on a variety of topics including parking enforcement, security and street maintenance. In conjunction with the City’s Finance Department, the DLBP levies annual assessments on businesses who reside within the benefit area.

The organization elects its own Board of Directors (comprised of fellow business owners) and is run by a staff of two, which includes an Executive Director and an assistant. The organization maintains its own bank account, and allocates those monies towards projects and improvements which will benefit all merchants, offices, and services within the business improvement area.

The mission statement of the DLBP is to:

• Encourage the development of new businesses, while retaining and revitalizing existing businesses
• Promote retail activity by creating and maintaining a quality environment through co-operative advertising and special events in the downtown area
• Serve as an advocate for downtown businesses in dealing with local government, maintenance projects, the media and general public

2010 Board of Directors

Jaime Watts, Executive Director
Downtown Lodi Business Partnership

Rita Sperling, President
Cutting Edge

Nancy Byer-Hauan, Vice President
Jackson Hewitt Tax Services

Linda Martin, Treasurer
Providence Professional Services

Erin Smith, Secretary
Scooter’s Restaurant

Sam Rehmke
Lodi Beer Company

Allan Levy
New & Again Consignment Furniture Gallery

Dennis Bloom
Spinning Tunes

Jennifer Nesbitt
City Girl