Welcome to The 109 Cultural Exchange – Where Downtown Comes to Life

Programming Policies & Procedures Guide

I. Purpose of Programming

The 109 Cultural Exchange exists to:

• Draw consistent foot traffic into downtown Saline
• Provide cultural and creative experiences that may not otherwise be available
• Celebrate underrepresented voices and perspectives
• Complement—not compete with—existing downtown offerings
• Create opportunities for local connection, education, and enrichment

II. Guiding Principles

All programming at The 109 must be:

• Mission-Aligned: Advancing creativity, connection, and culture
• Collaborative: Favoring partnerships with local creatives, businesses, and nonprofits
• Non-Competitive: Offers a distinct focus or style different from existing downtown services, enhancing—not duplicating—what’s already available, unless in partnership
• Inclusive & Equitable: Centering access, affordability, and diversity of voices

III. Programming Categories

• Art exhibits, performances, and creative workshops
• Author readings, panel discussions, and open mics
• Cultural celebrations and awareness events
• Educational classes or community-led forums
• Fundraisers and nonprofit awareness events
• Fun, engaging, and community-building events that bring people together and spark joy in downtown

IV. Event Proposal Process

• Proposal Form Submission – Individuals or groups submit a Programming Proposal Form.
• Review Process – A Programming Subcommittee reviews proposals monthly for alignment and scheduling.
• Downtown Coordination – If offerings overlap closely with other local businesses, Saline Main Street will initiate contact to collaborate or adjust.
• Short-Term Use Agreement – Approved hosts sign a use agreement outlining responsibilities and expectations. 
• Fees - If your event is free, open to the public, and community oriented, there will be no charge (unless it falls under the political category - see below). If you are planning to sell tickets, we ask for 22% of ticket sales, and if it is a private event, rates start at $250 for a 6-hour block. 

V. Community Consideration

• Saline Main Street prioritizes trust-building with local businesses.
• If concerns arise, we commit to:
• In-person dialogue
• Assessment of concerns
• Transparency in programming decisions
• Actively seeking partnerships to reduce duplication and build mutual support

VI. Inclusion & Accessibility Commitments

• ADA-compliant space
• Diverse representation in content and leadership
• Promotional materials that are welcoming, clear, and affirming

VII. Political Meetings & Events

The 109 Cultural Exchange welcomes meetings and events from all political parties and organizations. No public funds shall be used to support political activities.

• Public Political Meetings: Any political meeting that is open to the public will be charged a $10 fee to ensure that no public funds are used to support political activities. This fee helps cover utility costs  and overhead incurred during the event or meeting. 
• Private Political Events: Political events that are private or by invitation only are welcome, and will be charged at the same rate as any other private event booking. 
• For the purpose of The 109 Cultural Exchange, the term, "Political" refers to activities, events, or communications that are primarily intended to influence or advocate for government action, legislation, regulation, public policy, electoral outcomes, or the support or opposition of specific candidates, political parties, or ballot measures.
• Excluded from this definition are educational, cultural, or civic discussions that address issues of public interest in a nonpartisan manner, as long as they do not explicitly endorse or oppose political candidates, parties, or legislation.

Disclaimer: 
Events, activities, and discussions hosted at The 109 Cultural Exchange do not necessarily represent the thoughts, beliefs, or opinions of the Saline Main Street Board of Directors, its staff, volunteers, or any individual associated with the organization. 

For questions or to discuss an idea please Contact Us