Advocacy

Advocating for California Main Streets 

Advocating for Main Street is an essential element of revitalizing our communities. Whether reaching out to local officials on a project to improve downtown or seeking resources from state agencies to support our network of Main Street programs, advocacy is essential to uplift the value of Main Street to decision makers. 

About our Advocacy Efforts & Priorities

 

California Main Street advocates on the issues that matter most to our membership and the places they champion. The CAMS Board of Directors reviews pending legislation and takes positions on bills which have a potential impact on our mission. We also partner with other economic development agencies and historic preservation-based organizations to meet our common goals. Our staff then works with lawmakers to support legislative and regulatory measures that promote place-based economic development and historic preservation.

  • Community Preservation

  • Place-Based Economic Development

  • Civic Infrastructure

Recent Advocacy Efforts

AB 1669 (Quirk-Silva) California Historically Significant Commercial District Act

Historically and culturally significant commercial corridors are hubs of small businesses. Supporting the underserved entrepreneurs within these districts with specific skills and tools helps individuals and whole communities thrive. AB 1669, introduced by Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva with Principal Co-Author Senator Benjamin Allen, would create the California Historically Significant Commercial District Initiative. The program would support entrepreneurial development within California’s historic commercial districts, including Main Streets and Cultural Districts.  The bill would also create a subgrant program for Main Streets and Cultural Districts to execute locally driven strategies in support of underserved small businesses. 

AB 1669 Fact Sheet | AB 1669 Text As Introduced | Current Status of the Bill

FOR RELEASE: AB 1669 Moves Forward

Show your support for AB 1669 by submitting a letter of support!

Take Action!

Our efforts can only succeed when its’ amplified by the voices of our downtown leaders, small business owners, and property owners.  Here are our current legislative projects and their respective support or opposition letter templates. If you support local, place-based initiatives, we invite you to get involved!

Quick
Guides

Crafting Your Message for an Elected Official
Make the case for your Main Street with face-to-face and written communication. 

Planning Main Street Tours for Elected Officials
Showcase your accomplishments and education decision-makers on the impact of your organization. 

Building and Maintaining Relationships with Elected Officials
Use these tips to initiate and continue conversations and build support for the Main Street Movement.

Not sure where to start?

If you have specific questions or needs related to advocacy efforts in your community, reach out to our team at mainstreetadvocacy@mainstreet.org