Vice president of the city’s ratepayers association Lance Perry believes $10 million is too much to spend on Griffith’s CBD.
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“I really don't believe that spending $10 million in the CBD is going to improve business or anything like that,” he said.
Mr Perry slammed some of the Griffith Business Chamber’s recommendations.
“It’s ridiculous,” Mr Perry said.
“Why would they want to move the information centre and the art gallery into the clock building when there's absolutely no parking.
“Where the tourist information centre is now, there’s parking for buses, caravans, motor-homes and all that stuff.
“If they take it up the clock building, where are they going to park?”
Despite his criticisms Mr Perry agreed that Yambil Street was in desperate need of a resurface.
He also endorsed the relocation of the fire station and ambulance station.
The Griffith Business Chamber has put together a proposal for business owners to pay a levy each year to allow for the implementation of the CBD strategy
Griffith Business Chamber vice president and business owner Pat Pittavino said he would be happy to pay the levy as long as it was implemented the right way.
“Yes, because if it’s done properly, the value (of shops) will be increased by probably $20,000,” Mr Pittavino said.
“We had a public meeting, the business chamber called it and advertised it.
“The meeting was well attended, questions were asked, it was unanimously agreed on.”
The business chamber wants a CBD committee made up of members of council, the business chamber, shop and business owners to ensure the needs of the community were being met.
Mr Pittavino said the revamp would have a flow on effect in town.
“We can rejuvenate the main street and we will drag more people into it and the owners will do more business,” Mr Pittavino said.
“The landlords will have increased value on buildings.
“It will be a job stimulant and the building trades a bit quiet, this will create work for builders.
“Tourists coming through are going to be impressed with the city because its presented well.
“For me it’s a win-win for everyone. To me it’s not wasted money it’s an investment of the future of Griffith.
“We want to get people to be proud of Griffith.”
Mr Pittavino wants to see action immediately.
“We want them to form a committee before Christmas, or thereabouts, to say what do we want lets get into it,” he said.
“Hopefully by sometime next year it’s started.”
