Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2024 05 17

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes April 25, 2024 Page 3 of 4 agenda. That will give Council a chance to discuss the item and introduce ED week to the rest of Council and the City 7. Staff Updates: Manager Zarate presented staff updates and asked if there were any questions or comments. Chair Dickinson summarized his conversations with the business community and their concerns regarding the proposed minimum wage increase. There was a question of whether the minimum wage increase could apply to larger businesses with more than a specified number of employees (such as more than 50-100 employees). Councilmember Bierman wondered if the businesses in nearby communities have the same concerns regarding the minimum wage increase that Louisville businesses do. City Manager Durbin responded that those communities have not had conversations with their Council yet, but acknowledged that it will be a tough conversation for Louisville. He mentioned the desire to address diversity, equity, and inclusiveness programs such as affordable housing, while still remaining business friendly. Councilmember Dickinson cautioned getting too far ahead or too far behind neighboring communities, and hoped that this issue could be addressed regionally. Manager Zarate gave an update on the Enhanced Patio Program and next steps for expanding and enhancing the program. Current ideas include bike racks, planter, community events to decorate the bike racks and planters, and additional space activation including activities and events. Manager Zarate also shared that the City has sent a contract to the owner of the former Chase building to lease some of the parking spots on their property. Manager Zarate added that staff will also be working with businesses to help implement some of their ideas. There was also discussion around South Boulder Road and McCaslin and what could be done in these areas to rival the patio program. Councilmember Bierman asked for clarification regarding the final two patios that were given to Crystal Springs and Nora's. Manager Zarate gave an overview of the application and selection process. Chair Dickinson wondered what other ideas businesses might be able to implement in parking spots that did not receive a patio. Manager Zarate encouraged Councilmembers who have these conversations with businesses to direct them to Economic Vitality staff. Councilmember Dickinson commented that the business community may be upset with the City, the Chamber, and the Downtown Business Association because they were not successful in closing Main Street. He also wondered when the City can start talking about a closure of Main Street for 2025. Manager Zarate confirmed that as part of the 2024 program, businesses should be collecting data and sharing experiences that would help with a proposed