The City of Omro Business Improvement District, commonly known as the BID, was created in 1988 to support the continued improvement, promotion, and economic vitality of Omro’s business district. A BID is a defined geographic area where eligible business properties contribute through a special assessment, and those funds are reinvested back into the district for activities that benefit the business community.
Omro’s BID includes the downtown business area along both the north and south sides of the Fox River, including much of the Central Commercial district along East and West Main Street, North Webster Street, East River Drive, and the Willow Street area.
The purpose of the BID is to help strengthen Omro’s business environment by supporting marketing, promotion, business development, façade and improvement opportunities, community events, and projects that encourage residents and visitors to shop, dine, and do business locally.
The BID is overseen by a Board of Directors appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Common Council. The Board prepares an annual operating plan and budget, reviews district priorities, recommends projects and programs, and ensures BID funds are used for the benefit of the district.
BID assessments are collected by the City of Omro and placed in a separate municipal account for BID purposes. Residential-only, tax-exempt, and manufacturing-only properties are not specially assessed. The BID Board meets in accordance with Wisconsin Open Meetings Law, and BID records are maintained in accordance with Wisconsin Public Records Law.
The Omro BID helps promote a strong, attractive, and active business district that supports local businesses, encourages investment, and contributes to the overall quality of life in the City of Omro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Omro Business Improvement District (BID)
What is the Omro Business Improvement District (BID)?
The Omro BID is a special district established by the City of Omro in 1988 to support, market, and develop the downtown business district. The BID provides a way for businesses and property owners to collectively invest in activities that improve the economic vitality and appearance of the district.
What is the mission of the Omro BID?
The mission of the Omro BID is to support, market, and develop the Omro Business District through coordinated promotion, management, and maintenance programs that create a positive image for both downtown businesses and the community as a whole.
Where is the BID located?
The BID includes much of Downtown Omro along both the north and south sides of the Fox River. It generally encompasses the Central Commercial District, including portions of East and West Main Street, North Webster Street, East River Drive, and Willow Street.
Why do businesses pay a BID assessment?
The BID assessment provides funding for marketing, promotions, community events, business development efforts, façade grants, and other activities that benefit businesses within the district. These funds are used exclusively for BID purposes.
How is my BID assessment calculated?
Assessments are based on each property's proportionate share of the total assessed value of all eligible properties within the district. Once the annual budget is established, each property's percentage is applied to determine its assessment amount.
Is there a maximum BID assessment?
Yes. The annual BID assessment is capped at $800 per property regardless of assessed value.
What types of properties are assessed?
Commercial and mixed-use properties within the district are generally assessed. Residential properties and properties used exclusively for manufacturing purposes are exempt. Tax-exempt properties are also exempt from assessment.
What happens to BID funds?
All BID assessments are deposited into a segregated account maintained by the City of Omro. Funds may only be used for activities authorized by the BID Operating Plan. Unused funds remain in the BID account and carry forward to future years.
What are the primary goals of the BID?
The BID works to:
- Market Omro businesses through coordinated advertising and promotion.
- Support events and activities that attract visitors of all ages.
- Provide information and assistance to existing businesses.
- Encourage business expansion and recruitment.
- Partner with the City and community organizations on projects that strengthen the business community.
Does the BID offer grants?
Yes. The Omro BID Grant Program assists businesses with projects that support business growth and improvement. Grants are available for up to $2,000 per application, subject to BID Board approval. Documentation of project expenses is required.
Can BID grants be used for building improvements?
Yes. The BID budget includes funding for façade improvement grants and other eligible business-related improvements approved by the BID Board. In 2026, the BID budget allocates $8,000 toward façade grants.
How much money does the BID spend on marketing?
The 2026 Operating Plan allocates $4,000 toward marketing and promotional activities designed to attract customers and visitors to Omro businesses.
Who serves on the BID Board?
The BID is governed by a seven-member Board of Directors appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Common Council. A majority of members must be property owners or occupants within the district. The Board includes representation from the business community, City Council, and community organizations.
How often does the BID Board meet?
The BID Board meets at least quarterly and may meet more frequently as needed to conduct business and oversee BID programs and projects. A quorum of four voting members is required for action.
Are BID meetings open to the public?
Yes. All BID meetings comply with Wisconsin Open Meetings Law. Agendas and meeting records are maintained in accordance with Wisconsin Public Records Law.
How can I get involved with the BID?
Business owners, property owners, and community members can:
- Attend BID meetings.
- Volunteer for committees and events.
- Participate in marketing initiatives.
- Apply for grant opportunities.
- Share ideas with the BID Board regarding downtown improvements and business development.
What organizations does the BID work with?
The BID collaborates with the City of Omro, Future Omro, local businesses, property owners, and other community organizations to strengthen the downtown business district and promote economic development.
How does the BID support downtown development?
The BID supports orderly development by funding façade improvements, coordinating marketing efforts, sponsoring community events, and implementing projects that are consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan and downtown revitalization goals.
How is the BID budget approved?
Each year, the BID Board reviews the Operating Plan and budget and submits it to the Common Council for approval. The Operating Plan must be approved by the Council before it takes effect.
How can I apply for a BID Grant?
Applications are available through the City of Omro. Completed applications, along with supporting documentation and paid invoices, must be submitted to the BID Board for review and approval. Grant awards are subject to available funding.
Who should I contact with questions?
For information regarding BID meetings, grants, assessments, marketing programs, or district activities, contact:
City of Omro Clerk's Office
201 East Main Street
Omro, WI 54963
(920) 685-7000
Bid Documents and Applications
The documents and resources listed below provide important information regarding the City of Omro Business Improvement District (BID), its programs, operations, and governance. Property owners, business owners, board members, and community stakeholders can access applications, grant program materials, operating plans, annual budgets, meeting documents, policies, forms, and other BID-related resources. These materials are provided to promote transparency, encourage participation in BID programs and initiatives, and assist businesses in understanding the services, opportunities, and requirements associated with the district. Visitors are encouraged to review these resources regularly for updates on available programs, funding opportunities, district improvements, and BID activities.