Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2025 08 14

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City Council Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes July 24, 2025 Page 4 of 5 Mayor Leh asked for Council feedback around how long it might take for Council to review the applications. Mayor Leh stated that he agrees that it likely makes more sense for Council to approve applications for monetary assistance, providing an opportunity for public comment and transparency. Manager Zarate responded that staff would prefer Council to review the applications and make a ruling within 30 days from the application close date. Manager Zarate confirmed that staff will provide an initial review of the eligibility criteria and include a summary of the application and any relevant details. Councilmember Fahey agreed that a month makes sense. She asked if Council will receive every application, even if the total financial ask exceeds the budgeted amount. Manager Zarate confirmed that staff would provide all of the submitted applications that meet eligibility criteria and Council will make the final decision. Councilmember Kern asked whether staff will be able to cross-reference requested dates against existing events that have already been approved. Manager Zarate confirmed that staff will do their best and that any conflicts (such as two events both requesting Steinbaugh Pavilion) will be identified. Councilmember Fahey asked if staff had information around the number of applications that and the average award amount that other communities with similar programs. Manager Zarate responded that she does not yet have that information but that she is working on gathering it. Councilmember Fahey commented that it would be helpful to have that information prior to the Council discussion. Councilmember Kern and Mayor Leh both wondered whether the financial assistance should be limited to a certain amount, such as $1,000. Mayor Leh suggested that the EVC omit a cap from their recommendation to Council and allow Council to discuss that item. Mayor Leh asked if there was any additional information that staff needs. Manager Zarate confirmed that she received feedback on the application process, the eligibility criteria, and the remaining questions. Mayor Leh suggested asking Council if what the program offers is what we should be offering. Councilmember Kern asked how much a permit for an event would cost. Director Zuccaro responded that a block party permit includes a $538 application fee plus a deposit. Councilmember Kern wondered if the financial assistance should be packaged as a reimbursement of the application or permit fee. Director Zuccaro clarified that fees will vary based on the type of event. Mayor Leh asked whether staff's intention was to include the fee waivers as part of the $10,000 of proposed monetary support. Manager Zarate responded that although that is