Locals and tourists alike can find something to do downtown. In all, it seems the downtown area of Sylva is doing well. But just as important as timing is momentum. Many of those involved in SPIR have been there since the beginning. New support, in terms of downtown area business people willing to give time and energy, is needed.
New blood is vital for a group that relies almost entirely on volunteer support.
Without the new volunteers, it's not too hard to imagine a day when SPIR will lose steam. Elections will occur, and new town aldermen or county commissioners may not be as generous when asked to support the group with cash contributions. That's why a regular source of income will, at some point, be necessary. We're talking about a modest tax increase that won't be detrimental to property owners but will create a vital flow of cash. Creating a special downtown taxing district and continuously injecting new money, new projects and new ideas into downtown Sylva is the best way to keep it moving forward.