Revitalization Commission Agenda and Packet 2020 06 10

Home Browse Search

Revitalization Commission Minutes May 6, 2020 Page 4 of 6 Director Pierce provided a report that is going to the Economic Vitality Committee, which includes an overview of the grant program outcomes. There were a total of 180 applications. Of applications received, 62 eligible applications in the URA. Most ineligible were due to very clear and objective criteria. The LRC funded 20 grants. Today, the Resolution approving an agreement with City needs formal approval. Checks based on this agreement have already been rolled out in order to aid struggling businesses as soon as possible. Commissioner Adler asked if the LRC can see which businesses got grants. Director Pierce replied the City decided to not publish which businesses got grants. Commissioner Bradfield asked if additional business grants could be considered with an additional $50,000 from LRC. Monthly filers were priority, but some quarterly filers were funded. Once process for funding was explained, most who did not get funding were disappointed but understanding. Director Pierce explained the delineation between filing categories: $300 or more, quarterly $101 - $299, annual less than $100. Commissioner Gambale agrees with Commissioner Bradfield; the LRC should relook at applications for businesses that did not get funds or reopen the program. Director Pierce said that given the size of the business community, $350k was significant. We made the process accessible. She knows there are still needs but is conflicted over whether or not the program should be reopened and how to communicate specifically how some additional funding was being added, but not necessarily to cover all eligible applicants. Commissioner Gorsevski asked if Director Pierce got any sense from businesses about their future viability. Director Pierce said businesses seem to be focused on June and July. Commissioner Tofte said there are three quarterly filers who did not get funding. He would be in favor of using $15,000 to fund those three applications. City Manager Balser said this grant program was done in conjunction with the City Council program. She asked City Attorney Kathleen Kelly about awarding more funds; what is the best way to move forward? Attorney Kelly said City Council has to approve the agreement. She said today the LRC should approve the original agreement then draft amendment for approval by Council and LRC if the LRC wishes to provide additional funding. Council member Lipton said the Economic Vitality Committee is meeting and will most likely have a similar conversation. He advocated not rushing into different funding if Council is satisfied with results of the program. He said the Council's direction was to focus on monthly filers and that was accomplished. Commissioner Adler agrees with Council member Lipton and would like to wait to see what EVC and Council do. Director Pierce would move forward in a transparent manner which could lead to a lot of questions. Agenda Packet P. 5