City Council Study Session Summary 2007 01 18 JT

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City Council Study Session Summary January 18, 2007 Page 2 of 2 Panel members spoke generally about the following items: . What are big box developers looking for? . What role do incentives play in development and redevelopment? . How does the development of big box affect smaller stores? . As developers what are the development process do's and don'ts? o Be clear what development fees are up front; o Be sure the city's vision is matched by appropriate processes and regulations; o Be sure to give developers clear direction and understanding of the process; . What does a city need to do to attract quality retail development? o Have a consistent and clear development process; o Dispel the idea that development of all kinds is bad; o Have a uniform message from the City (staff, council, planning commission) that implements the city's vision; o Learn about the market forces and what retailers are looking for; o Don't micromanage a project; o Demand quality development without dictating the minutia o Determine the gaps in the marketplace and recruit businesses to fill those specific gaps; o Talk to land owners and zone properties before going out to recruit a development; . How does the City retain current businesses? o Spend time with your retailers and talk to them about their needs. o Create some "economic gardening" - work with your business owners to help them grow. Panel members took a few questions from the audience and discussed what types of development may work for Louisville: . Regional activity generators . Alternative developments . Most retailers already have a presence on the US 36 corridor, so Louisville may need to create unique development opportunities. Adjourn - The meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM. Submitted by Meredyth Muth, January 19, 2007.