City Council Agenda and Packet 2024 01 30 - SP

Home Browse Search

2024 City Council Ward I Application Page 5 of 9 2) In your view, what are the most important issues facing: WCitiyof . Louisville COLORADO • SINCE 1878 Louisville as a city and community and what strategies do you believe will be most effective in addressing them? • Ward I and what strategies do you believe will be most effective in addressing them? Louisville faces several critical issues, namely affordable housing, transit, sustainability, and economic vitality, each requiring focused strategies for resolution. 1. Affordable Housing and Transit: The city's limited affordable housing and transit options are interconnected challenges. The strategy here involves revisiting and updating our outdated zoning policies to promote mixed -use and higher density developments incorporating affordable housing units, while maintaining the charming historic character of our city. We need to created housing for those in serious need and those embedded within the middle -income bracket. A focus on transit -oriented communities can help to improve the overall quality of life in (and maybe existing) developments by reducing traffic and promoting more sustainable transportation. 2. Sustainability: Our commitment to sustainability should be evident in every city initiative. This means investing in renewable energy, sustainable building practices, and community -wide recycling and waste reduction programs. Integrating sustainability into all city planning ensures long-term environmental health and resilience. 3. Economic Vitality: In recent years, Louisville has faced the departure of retail and commercial businesses, creating a perception of being non -business -friendly. To counter this, we must adopt a more proactive approach to retain and attract businesses. This involves the ability to carefully, yet more easily, move new and existing commercial business applicants through the process of approving their investment in our community, offering financial incentives such as sales tax exemption to attract new investment, and actively market Louisville as an attractive location for diverse enterprises. Regular dialogue with business leaders and entrepreneurs will also help identify barriers to business growth and opportunities for city support. In addressing these issues, a collaborative, inclusive approach is crucial. Engaging with all stakeholders - residents, business owners, city staff, and external experts - ensures that our solutions are well-rounded and effectively address the diverse interests of our community. Ward I faces unique challenges, particularly in attracting and retaining retail and commercial businesses and altering the perception of decline due to empty storefronts along Main Street. 1. Attracting and Retaining Businesses: A primary strategy to revitalize Ward I is to actively attract and retain both retail and commercial businesses. This can be achieved by simplifying the land use application process to make it easier for businesses to invest in better and more appropriate architecture that supports modern businesses. Additionally, continuing to offer tax relief incentives for new and incoming businesses would make the ward more financially appealing to entrepreneurs and business owners, encouraging them to set up shop in our iconic Downtown. 2. Filling Empty Storefronts: To address the issue of empty storefronts, a multi -pronged approach is necessary. First, we need to make it easier for businesses to invest in Louisville by simplifying and making the land use application process more transparent and friendly. Second, offering financial incentives like tax breaks or reduced lease rates that will ultimately result in increased city revenue streams created by vibrant retail, office and restaurant businesses. 3. Changing Perceptions: The perception of Louisville, and particularly Ward I, as a city with a diminished reputation needs to be urgently addressed. This involves not just filling empty storefronts but also improving the overall aesthetic and appeal of Main Street. Beautification projects, community events, and enhancing local amenities can all contribute to a more vibrant and appealing image. We also need better connectivity on foot and bike to our communities with safe crossing at major roads (South Boulder road, Highway 42). Consistent positive communication about the developments and successes within the ward is also crucial in changing this narrative. In implementing these strategies, collaboration with local business owners, residents, and other stakeholders is key. Their insights and participation are invaluable in developing effective solutions tailored to the unique needs of Ward I. 7