The mission of McMinnville Downtown Association (MDA) is to sustain and enhance historic downtown McMinnville as the cultural, retail and professional heart of the community.

Since it was established in 1986, the MDA has become a model for downtown districts. A vibrant assortment of unique, locally owned retail shops in the downtown core underscores the low vacancy rate. The healthy mixture of retail, office, residential and other uses maintains a diverse and energetic downtown.

By supporting the MDA with their dues, members play an important role in keeping our historic downtown district strong and making McMinnville a more livable city.

Download: Member Application | BusinessLink Directory Listing Form

The MDA contracts with the City of McMinnville to manage the cityís downtown Economic Improvement District. That work is financed by a city assessment on downtown properties, and a contribution from the cityís general fund in lieu of assessments that might be applied to city-owned property.

We work with property owners and business owners on a wide variety of projects seeking to assist with development projects and improve the general economic climate. We provide a unified and influential voice on downtown policies, legislative decisions, parking, streetscape issues, safety and beautification.

A strong, active membership provides the MDA with resources that enable the organization to be more effective in its economic development activities. That effectiveness is returned to members in the form of a healthier, move lively downtown district.

  • Opportunities to be involved on decision-making committees that tackle downtown issues related to Design, Economic Restructuring, Promotions, and Traffic & Parking.
  • Design and historic signage consultations, and assistance with locating funding sources for renovation and facade improvement.
  • An enhanced listing in the Historic Downtown McMinnville (printed) Directory and a basic listing in the MDA Website online directory at no charge.
  • Quarterly downtown merchant meetings that keep members informed about upcoming activities and provide a forum for feedback to the MDA board and manager.
  • Informative quarterly newsletter detailing MDA happenings and highlighting downtown businesses.
  • Discounted fees for educational workshops and speakers.
  • Opportunity to participate in the MDA gift certificate program.
  • Annual meeting highlighting the year and special awards ceremony.
  • Access to the resources of National Main Street and the Oregon Downtown Development Association.
  • Membership plaque to let customers know you are an active participant in keeping the downtown thriving.

The MDA produces and promotes events that are designed to increase customer traffic and establish the downtown as the place for the community and visitors to meet, shop, dine and enjoy the historic ambiance. Since membership dues are dedicated solely to promotions, a strong membership base produces improved promotional efforts that enhance the entire downtown. Our annual promotions calendar includes:

  • Quarterly Open House On & Off Third St
  • Summertime Brown Bag Concert Series
  • Halloween Safe & Sane Trick or Treat Downtown
  • Santa's Parade, Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting Ceremony
  • Trail Band Christmas Concert
  • Historic Downtown Tours