Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2021 03 19

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes February 19, 2021 Page 3 of 5 Chair Dickinson said it's difficult because the Council is still trying to make plans for something that it cannot predict. He felt it was critical to establish the timeframe under consideration to avoid confusion and establish the program parameters. He noted that LaFarge Avenue does not just absorb the bus from the detour but also increased traffic and parking, so that there may be mitigation measures to evaluate. He framed the key issues of the next steps of developing the closure plan to include: timeline of late April to early November; address Fire District access; conduct additional engagement, especially with residents; and whether the planning should return for further EVC discussion or go directly to Council for consideration. Councilmember Leh said the public process is very important. He suggested EVC should continue to be involved with the program over the next several months. He inquired what would be the trigger for making a final decision about Main Street. Mayor Pro Tern Maloney suggested the dates were fine but did not like the idea of undoing the closure possibly in the fall just because indoor dining restrictions had ended. He felt staff should get direction today and then the issue could go directly to Council. City Manager Balser said it would be important to determine the date for Council and to include that on all communications, so people are clear when the decision will be made. Mr. Clark felt that if it is in the best interest of the Downtown, people can probably walk to Highway 42 for the bus instead of Main Street. He said he has heard the feeling is that City Hall doesn't love Main Street and that simple action is not being taken in support of businesses. Chair Dickinson thinks that Main Street has received more staff and Council support than other areas because Downtown is the heart and soul of Louisville. Mr. Oberholzer said he felt the direction to the DBA had been that the City would not do engagement. And now the staff is being directed to do engagement, as if there is not trust in the information presented. Mr. Leary said that old town residents love all of downtown and just want mutual respect from the businesses. Chair Dickinson and Director Pierce summarized the direction, including the goal to develop the closure plan to present to City Council on April 6. An update on the planning will be provided at the next EVC meeting. VII. Discussion/Direction- Business Support Recommendations and Updates: Director Pierce briefly summarized the City's two most recent grant programs, both of which closed in January: the Small Business Preservation Grant program and the Recovery & Improvement Matching grant program. She noted that the recipients of both grant programs have been published to the City Agenda Packet P. 4