Recently, however, Fillmore has begun to see a surge of growth, attracting new residents from surrounding cities, drawn by its affordable housing and improving school district. This classic small town, reminiscent of the fictional “Mayberry” is also recognized as a prime filming location for Hollywood movies, TV shows, and commercials. REVITALIZING THE HEART OF FILLMORE Central to Fillmore’s recent developments is the downtown revitalization effort, spearheaded by the Fillmore Action Team, a group of business owners in the city core. “Last year with the ARPA funds, we provided funding for all of the businesses within our central business district to do some facade improvements if they wanted to participate,” expands City Manager, David Rowlands. The reopening of the Fillmore Town Theater has become a focal point of these downtown efforts, bringing new life to the area. The historic theater hosts comedy shows, plays, student performances, and other events, adding vibrancy and cultural richness to the community. Rowlands notes, “Sean McCulley, who owns the theater has been a really good partner, working with us and the downtown merchants to have them grow and work with the city over the past couple of years.” Mayor Carrie Broggie adds, “That theater was built in 1920.To have that open up again, that will be the hub of the downtown district.” Roan Mills Bakery is a popular new establishment in the city. “They have customers coming from over 60 miles to get bread,” shares Rowlands. “They also provide a variety of high-end restaurants in Beverly Hills in Los Angeles. And they’ve put Fillmore on the map for other individuals to come out here and visit our area.” The city is also home to a unique and diverse restaurant scene, including La Fondita, described as, “Worth the Trip to Fillmore.” In 2022 Fillmore hired the consultancy firm Retail Strategies, to put together a five-year strategic vision for the downtown area. “We’re in our second year of implementation of various projects,” Rowlands 179 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 FILLMORE, CA
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