Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2022 11 18

Home Browse Search

Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes October 21, 2022 Page 3of5 Councilmember Dickinson commented that the EVC does not have its own budget so it's important to understand what opportunities are currently available for businesses. He mentioned that there may be funding from the Inflation Reduction Act and wondered whether that could be tied into an incentive program. He concluded that the EVC can determine what they think is appropriate and what they think businesses want, and then present those ideas to Council. Councilmember Fahey wondered whether there could be a one-step shop for businesses that have questions about building codes and incentives. Councilmember Most agreed and added that there may be different incentives available for small businesses. Specialist Brown commented that Partners for a Clean Environment (PACE) currently performs the role of connecting businesses with available incentives and confirmed that PACE will be in attendance at the Business Forum. Councilmember Most emphasized that there needs to be incentives available for small businesses. She added that the smaller businesses typically tend to have more issues with this process. Public comment from Mark Oberholzer: Mr. Oberholzer commented that he and his business have worked with PACE in the past, but that it has been difficult to find the time to take advantage of some of the programs that PACE offers. He agreed that this time requirement would likely be more of an issue for small businesses. City Manager Jeff Durbin commented that input from the Sustainability Coordinator may help this conversation. He suggested that this item return to the EVC for discussion with the Sustainability Coordinator present. Public Comment from Chris Leh: Councilmember Leh commented that this has been part of the Economic Vitality Director's role and may not necessarily need any new efforts from staff. Councilmember Dickinson asked where the Sustainability Coordinator position is housed. City Manager Jeff Durbin confirmed that the position is in the City Manager's Office. Councilmember Dickinson continued that Economic Vitality, Community Development, and Sustainability should all be working together to disseminate this information. Public comment from Mike Kranzdorf: Mr. Kranzdorf commented that the new building codes will increase construction costs and that these costs will likely be passed on to the tenants. Any incentives that can help keep costs low would be good for the business community. Agenda Packet P. 5