An excellent records management program is essential for three reasons:

1. Tracked performance will guide refinements in programming. It will also provide the means to identify and communicate momentum. There's an old saying, “Nothing breeds momentum like momentum.” Being able to demonstrate it will draw entrepreneurs and investors (both in Downtown and in the team).
2. Information is power. Demonstrated progress, economic trends, efficient use of funds, etc., all help create organizational strength. MDC and its team members will find great credibility in becoming the keepers of information. Realtors, investors, developers, and business people will be well served by and become vocal advocate for MDC as it expands its capacity to inform development. Tracking such issues as real estate values, available properties, retail sales, business and jobs growth, promotion expenditures, and market trends will have exceptional value in building Meridian 's case for investment in the community's Heart, Home and Hub.
3. Detailed, accurate records greatly improve nonprofit organizations' capacity to capture grant funds and other outside resources.

Both the MDC and the City should establish systems to track performance and trends in Downtown development. These systems should be formally organized, adopted and sustained over time. Roles and responsibilities should be clarified to ensure implementation is seamless.

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