Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2022 12 16

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes November 18, 2022 Page 3 of 4 Ms. French commented that PACE would be interested in partnering with the City of Louisville to promote the Climate Action Challenge. Coordinator Betzold confirmed that the Climate Action Challenge is a Sustainability priority for 2023. She continued that the Climate Action Challenge makes more of a measurable impact on emissions that does the Green Business Program. The Climate Action Challenge is an action -oriented program, whereas the Green Business Program is more of a recognition mechanism. Coordinator Betzold summarized that staff will continue to work with PACE to promote their rebates, identifying overlaps as well as gaps with existing incentives, and determining what percentage of projects can receive these rebates. Ms. French commented that making businesses aware of these existing incentives should be a priority. Councilmember Most agreed that it's important to get this information to businesses without intimidating them. Coordinator Betzold concluded that staff will work with the Chamber and Downtown Business Association to promote PACE and its services to Louisville businesses that have questions about incentives. 8. Discussion- Gas Station Moratorium: Specialist Brown presented Ordinance No. 1842, Series 2022 providing for a temporary moratorium on gas stations for discussion. Chair Dickinson clarified that this conversation originated from residents who oppose gas stations and want City officials to discuss this topic. He continued that any outcome of this ordinance would have an impact on economic vitality in Louisville and this is an important topic for the EVC to discuss. Director Zuccaro commented that not all gas stations are "stand alone". This ordinance would also affect the City's ability to attract larger retailers that may also include a gas station element. Councilmember Dickinson questioned whether one of these retailers could purchase an existing gas station rather than building a new one. Director Zuccaro responded that it is possible but that this ordinance would still make it more difficult for one of these retailers to locate in Louisville. Councilmembers Most and Fahey wondered how this ordinance could tie in with any future discussions about sustainability and rezoning. Director Zuccaro responded that attracting a tax base is one of the many elements that would go into future rezoning considerations. Councilmember Fahey commented that she expects that there will be some restrictions put in place on gas stations following the conclusion of the moratorium in September 2023. She wondered whether the end result could be a limitation on the total number of gas stations. Councilmember Most added