City Council Minutes 2013 03 05 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes March 5, 2013 Page 6 of 14 Michael Menaker, 1827 W. Choke Cherry Drive, Louisville, CO voiced his support of the Business Assistance Package for Twelve Degree. He stated changing the space configuration will enhance the building and the business. COUNCIL COMMENT Council member Jasiak asked who would do the construction, the applicant or the building owner. Economic Development Director DeJong explained the applicant has requested the building permit however the remodel will benefit the building owner. Council member Jasiak stated the primary component of business assistance packages is to assure businesses will come to Louisville. The resolution approving the business assistance program outlines assistance for the encouragement of the recruitment, retention, establishment and/or substantial expansion of sales tax revenue generating businesses. She voiced her appreciation that the business assistance to Twelve Degree is on a smaller scale, but cautioned the Council must be consistent when giving business assistance packages to other applicants. Economic Development Director DeJong recommended the applicant wait until the business assistance package was reviewed by Council, but the applicant decided to go forward. Economic Development Director DeJong felt the improvements to the building would enhance the downtown area. Mayor Pro Tem Dalton felt the Louisville Municipal Code should be changed if the intent of the assistance will improve the building rather than assist a new business. Economic Development Director DeJong felt the assistance assures success for the business. Council member Loo noted the applicant was not present. Economic Development Director DeJong stated the applicant was informed of the meeting date. Mayor Muckle did not favor changing the code. He was willing to support the small business assistance package to Twelve Degree and felt the improvements to the building would be significant. Council member Loo suggested reviewing past practices on business assistant package approvals and disapprovals. Mayor Pro Tem Dalton noted this is a small business assistance package and is more in good faith. He felt unless there is a very good reason for granting a similar type package, the code should be reviewed. City Manager Fleming stated it was a difficult decision to support the business assistance package for staff, especially when the building activity began. The City does not want to compromise their principals and staff has been very careful about their review of business assistance applications. In the future staff will not recommend approval or bring forward a business assistance package if construction has begun.