Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2022 09 16

Home Browse Search

Cityof ECONOMIC VITALITY COMMITTEE Louisville COLORADO -SINCE 1878 SUBJECT: DISCUSSION/DIRECTION- STRATEGIC PLAN ACTION #2-6: HOST ANNUAL (OR SEMI-ANNUAL) BUSINESS FORUM TO GATHER ALL STAKEHOLDERS, REVIEW CITY PRIORITIES, AND GATHER FEEDBACK DATE: AUGUST 19, 2022 PRESENTED BY: AUSTIN BROWN, ECONOMIC VITALITY SPECIALIST SUMMARY: The Economic Vitality Strategic Plan contains Action #2-6: "Host annual (or semi- annual) Business Forum to gather all stakeholders, review City priorities, and gather feedback." This is an ongoing Action. DISCUSSION: An annual (or semi-annual) Business Forum is included within the Economic Vitality Strategic Plan. The City of Louisville previously hosted two business forums in 2018 and one in 2019. After a two-year absence due to COVID-19, the first 2022 Business Forum took place on April 21, 2022. The April event attracted 36 attendees, including five members of City Council. After discussion with the EVC and with consideration of feedback received from the business community, staff is exploring the option of hosting a second Business Forum in October 2022. The Forum is anticipated to include members of the EVC, members of City Council, and local business leaders. Because the April forum took place in the morning, staff recommends an afternoon or evening meeting which may attract different members of the business community. Staff suggests the event should include some brief networking, light food and drinks, and a presentation. Based on feedback following the last forum, staff proposes a more City -focused program which would allow staff to highlight Economic Vitality services and accomplishments. The program could include Economic Vitality updates as well as a City presentation on a topic or topic(s) of choice. A draft agenda is included as Attachment #1. Staff is exploring several options to host the Forum at a local business —potentially a primary employer in the Colorado Technology Center (CTC). However, since the previous forum was held in the CTC, it may be beneficial to consider alternative locations. Staff has reached out to The Pro's Closet, Vaisala, Umoja Biopharma, and the Louisville Recreation Center to gauge interest in hosting the event. The City will provide food and drinks from local businesses. Staff hopes to have the ability to record the presentation portion so that those who are not able to attend the event in person will still have the ability to view the discussion. Staff envisions that there will be additional networking following the presentation. Depending on the location, there may also be an opportunity for the hosting business to Agenda Packet P. 9