When Scott Knies joined SJDA, it was already incorporated, Business Improvement District consultants had already been engaged, city funding had been approved, a dozen board meetings had been held and a diverse 23-member board representing the business community was hard at work.

The new CEO was selected after a nationwide search conducted by the HRS Executive Search firm to replace Knies, who has led the association for 34 years and retires in November as part of a planned transition.

The San Jose Downtown Association is undertaking a nationwide search to replace longtime executive director Scott Knies, who was promoted to chief executive officer last week. Knies will step down Nov. 1, 2022, after 34 years with the organization, as part of a planned succession anticipated in its August 2020 strategic plan.

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation announced it will provide the funds over a five-year period and work with the San Jose Downtown Association to build a downtown that is “innovative, vibrant, equitable and inclusive.”

The governor's announcement includes the use of sidewalks and converted parking spaces for outdoor dining and the sale of alcohol to-go. Bars will also be allowed to continue partnering with food trucks, restaurants and catering companies to sell food with alcohol even if they don't have an on-site kitchen.

Business owners have until March 16 to file claims. However, there is no guarantee that they will be fulfilled by insurance agencies.

By the end of last week, 18 independent shops and eateries in the heart of the city had received $1,700 each from fundraising efforts.

Katia McClain, a managing partner at architecture firm Steinberg Hart, will helm the San Jose Downtown Association board.