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Welcome to the

CONTACT INFORMATION

Jeffrey Townsend, Chair

269-381-2360 ext. 130

(269) 381-4382

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jtownsend@comstockmi.gov

DDA Newsletter - Winter 2026

NEW COMSTOCK CENTER BUSINESS OPENS!

Nifty Thrifty Five and Dime Upscale Thrift opened its doors on December 13, 2025, at 5922 King Hwy. The store carries everything you would normally find in a department or boutique store. Our belief and mission is to provide a great shopping experience, and to make customers’ feel welcome and appreciated. Store Owner and Broker Owner of Sharp Realty, Inc. Jack Sharp states, “I have worked tirelessly to make those buyers’ dreams come true through home ownership. As a result of this desire to help in this capacity, I wanted to take it one step further. Through the sales in the shop, we are continuing to help folks in need to be able to purchase higher end merchandise at $10 and below, making it affordable to all.”

Come visit Nifty Thrifty for the Holidays!

Commercial Demand in Comstock Center

The Comstock Center DDA is seeking new businesses to open a location in the downtown district.  Our 2024 Retail Market Study indicates that Comstock Center can support the following retail uses. 

Destination Comstock Center

If you are looking for property for sale or lease for a new business or loft living in Comstock Center please contact us.  We keep an inventory of available property on file to assist you in finding a location for your new business opportunity.  Below is the current listing for the former Comerica Bank Branch at 5937 King Hwy.  a prime corner location with a drive thru feature.

Renovations are underway on the southeast corner of King Hwy and River St. Property owner, Tim Kerney, is remodeling the 6,000 sq. ft. commercial building into five new retail and office spaces.  Three units are already leased.  Contact Tim Kerney at 269- 806-3739.

The Comstock Center DDA encourages you to shop and visit all the downtown businesses this holiday season and in 2026!

Downtown Development Authority/ Tax Increment Financing

The Township established a Downtown Development Authority (DDA) in 2019. A map of the DDA boundaries is below. The DDA district allows the Township to capture taxes from other taxing jurisdictions through Tax Increment Financing and use them for improvements within the boundaries of the district to increase property values, promote economic development, eliminate causes of deterioration and improve the vitality of the area.

The DDA is run by a governing board appointed by the Township Supervisor with approval of the Township Board. The Township Supervisor is automatically a member. The DDA Board is required to prepare an  annual budget showing the proposed expenditures for the year. The Township Board must approve the DDA’s budget. The DDA Board is authorized to hire a Director, but only with the approval of the Township Board.

Board Members

Jeffrey Townsend, Chair
Keith Wilcher, Vice Chair
William Knight, Secretary/Treasurer
Ben Martin, Township Supervisor
John Gisler, Kalamazoo County Commission Liaison
Matt Elliot, Member
Jaspreet Nannan, Member
Larry Rabbitt, Member
John Scholly, Member


Meeting Minutes

Downtown Development Authority Minutes & Agenda

Activities of the DDA

Informational Meeting Notices

2023 Comstock Center Goals and Priorities

Annual Synopsis of DDA Activities and Events

Beautify Comstock Center Initiative

PA-57 Report Informational Meetings



Budget, Financial Reports & Grants

2026 Annual Budget
2025 Annual Budget
2024 Annual Budget
2023 Annual Budget
2022 Annual Budget
2021 Annual Budget
2020 Annual Budget

2024 Annual Audit
2023 Annual Audit
2022 Annual Audit
2021 Annual Audit
2020 Annual Audit
2019 Annual Audit

Documents

Downtown Development and Tax Increment Financing Plan
Comstock Center Place Plan for Redevelopment and Prosperity
DDA ByLaws- Updated July 2023
2022 Economic Development and Marketing Strategy
2022 DDA Mission and Vision Statement
DDA Director Position Description

Current Contracts/ RFPs

Beautify Comstock Center Maintenance Contract

The Comstock Township DDA has selected MowCo to provide maintenance services for the five gateway entrances throughout the DDA district during the 2026 season. Gateway maintenance helps enhance the appearance of the district and create a welcoming entrance to the community.

The flower planter program will not be utilized during the 2026 season. The DDA will continue to evaluate beautification opportunities and maintenance needs as part of its ongoing efforts to support and improve the district.

Banner Contract

Annual contract with Sign Art to hang seasonal banners on light poles in the DDA for 2025.

Façade Improvement Grant Program

Sign Center was the contractor selected to prepare new signage for The Rabbitt Hutch and Kate’s Kupboard. Both businesses received grant funds from the DDA to design and install new signs in 2025.

Real Estate Legal Services

The legal firm of Miller Johnson was hired to provide real estate services to prepare a Letter of Intent to purchase three downtown parcels on behalf of the DDA in 2025.


DDA Newsletter

You can find the Comstock Center DDA Newsletter online.

DDA Events
  • 2026 Events at Merrill Park:
    • Memorial Day Parade – The parade will be held on Monday, May 25 at 11:00 a.m. 
    • Parks & Recreation Farmers Market – The weekly Farmers Market will begin June 1 and will be held every Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. through August 31.
    • National Night Out – This event will occur on Tuesday, August 4.

  • 2026 DDA Business Events:
    • Comstock Center DDA Informational Presentation – The Comstock Center DDA invites all businesses and community members to attend an informational presentation highlighting the DDA Board’s activities and accomplishments in 2025, along with targeted strategies planned for 2026. The presentation will be offered on two dates for public convenience, both to be held at the Township Offices, 5858 King Highway:
      • Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. during the regular DDA Board Meeting
      • Monday, February 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. during the regular Township Board Meeting.

    • DDA Façade Improvement Program – All Comstock Center businesses are encouraged to check out the DDA’s Façade Improvement Program. This program offers matching grants for storefront improvements, including repairs, signage, and outdoor seating platforms. Learn more by visiting the Façade Improvement Program link:  Facade Improvement Program