Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2020 12 18

Home Browse Search

Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes November 18, 2020 Page 3 of 4 Mayor Pro Tern Maloney said the strategic plan is the first focused effort the Council has had to create alignment in this area. He agreed the Council needs to get input from the business community and needs to explore how that can be obtained on policy issues. Chair Dickinson and the Committee members continued discussing the importance of giving a voice to business stakeholders. They reviewed the desire to not duplicate the efforts of boards and committees and also still achieve inclusion. The EVC members agreed the Committee had been successful in 2020, in part because of its laser focus and leadership. Eric Reed, owner of Acme Fine Goods, said he has found it disjointed to determine how to get involved and have a voice in the business community. He suggested that if businesses feel valued they will be encouraged to be involved. Mike Kranzdorf, commercial property owner, said that he loves the promise of the EVC, but that he does not feel that the business community has ever had a voice with the City Council. He stated the Council needs to want and value the input. Rick Kron, President of the Downtown Business Association, agreed with the remarks made and that a streamlined form to represent the groups was desirable. Mayor Pro Tern Maloney made a motion to discontinue BRaD Committee meetings and to maintain the Economic Vitality Committee in its current form. He suggested a discussion about business stakeholder input and how to effectively incorporate that into the process could continue. Councilmember Leh seconded the motion. There was further discussion on the motion, due to concern that there was not a resolve on how business voices would be heard. Chair Dickinson suggested discontinuing the BRaD Committee without a solution could send the wrong message to the business community. Councilmember Leh made a substitute motion to table the BRaD issue (including its future and changing the form of business input). Chair Dickinson felt it was important to come to the Council with clarity. It was suggested that BRaD Committee should have a conversation about how to move forward. Motion was seconded by Chair Dickinson. On a roll call vote, Councilmember Leh and Chair Dickinson voted in favor and Mayor Pro Tern Maloney voted against; motion passed. IX. Staff Updates: Director Pierce provided brief updates on the Outdoor Dining program and recent communications to businesses about temporary signage allowances. Agenda Packet P. 4