Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2023 01 27

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes December 16, 2022 Page 3of5 Chair Dickinson asked Specialist Brown about the new business welcome packet that is provided to new businesses in Louisville. Specialist Brown responded that the packet contains contact information for City departments, the Downtown Business Association (DBA), and the Chamber of Commerce. He concluded that the packet is sent out to new businesses that reach out to the City or that are identified through other means, such as word of mouth or acquiring a sales tax license. Chair Dickinson agreed that it can be especially challenging for small businesses who lack additional resources, but wondered whether BAP incentives should be made available to businesses that have already made the decision to locate in Louisville without previous knowledge of the incentive program. Councilmember Most responded that because the BAP program exists, it needs to be equally accessible to all businesses. Public Comment from Mark Oberholzer: Mr. Oberholzer asked when a new business typically makes first contact with the City. Director Zuccaro responded that every business in Louisville must obtain a sales tax license. He agreed that many businesses acquire their license after signing a lease or moving into a space, which would make them ineligible for BAP participation. Many businesses also reach out to Planning for zoning review. He suggested that the commercial real estate community might be the best point of contact. Mr. Oberholzer agreed that this could be an effective approach. Chair Dickinson wondered whether the City is doing enough to support new and existing businesses. He reiterated that new businesses generate revenue but also bring amenities to residents. He concluded that the City may need to reassess what resources it makes available to new Louisville businesses. Councilmember Most countered that the current vision statement does not emphasize serving the business community, but rather producing revenue for the community. She concluded that the EVC may need to revisit its vision statement and objectives. Chair Dickinson agreed and recommended that this happen concurrent with the work plan discussion. Chair Dickinson asked how the EVC can get ahead of Council and prepare itself for important discussions. Councilmember Most responded that Council will likely prepare the budget and work plan simultaneously in 2023, which should provide the EVC with an opportunity to reevaluate its work plan. Councilmember Fahey suggested that any future work planning session involve feedback from the business community. City Manager Durbin requested that this take place on January 27, 2023. Chair Dickinson agreed that this would give the EVC appropriate time to react to Council's Work Plan, which will be finalized on January 17, 2023. Agenda Packet P. 4