Economic Vitality Committee Agenda and Packet 2022 04 22

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Economic Vitality Committee Meeting Minutes March 25, 2022 Page 3 of 4 those that were able to continue operating. Director Pierce clarified that the goal of the question is to identify employees that are working remotely and that the questions will be condensed. Both EVC and staff agreed that there is enough direction for staff to move forward with the survey. VII. Discussion/Direction- Marshall Fire Impact to Business Survey 2.0: Director Pierce gave an overview of the closures and economic impacts resulting from the Marshall Fire. The survey was targeted towards both Louisville and Superior, and 62% of responses received were from Louisville businesses. Councilmember Dickinson commented on the discrepancy between home - based and brick -and -mortar businesses. Councilmember Most questioned whether there might be a need for business support policy or funding. Director Pierce commented that there is some concern that there has not been any significant early action for businesses assistance. Only five brick and mortar businesses have received small business grants as of early March (each for $2,500). The eligibility of the Community Foundation funding has been unclear. Director Pierce continued that there may be a gap in support for businesses that were shut down and lost revenues. However, the business community has widely acknowledged that the residential damage is more severe and pervasive and took priority. Councilmember Fahey agreed that there should be something done to help with the continued loss of business. Councilmember Dickinson offered that compared with the previous two years, there may be increased optimism for the next six months. V111. Discussion- Economic Vitality Strategic Plan: Director Pierce confirmed that there are not any major changes the Strategic Plan. Although staff was impacted by the Marshall Fire, it is not anticipated that there will be significant impacts to the strategic initiatives planned for 2022. Director Pierce commented that with the new timeline for the Comprehensive Plan update, it may make more sense to do a separate market analysis. Staff will evaluate this and report back to the EVC. IX. Staff Updates: Director Pierce mentioned that The Rotary has decided not to pursue a new location in Louisville. Additionally, Papa Murphy's has also closed its location on South Boulder Road. Director Pierce continued with an update that the new Erie Lowe's will open on May 25 and it is anticipated that the current Louisville staff will be relocating to the new location. Finally, Director Pierce explained that all 2021 Business Assistance Program (BAP) sales tax and use tax rebate payments have been made. The new BAP program materials have been launched. Director Pierce closed her updates by announcing that the Business Forum has been moved to Thursday, April 21 at the Allen Company, located at 609 S 104t" Street in Louisville. Agenda Packet P. 5