2010-03-15 Regular - Laserfiche WebLink

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Cindy Nelson, Deputy City Manager for Development Services, introduced topic and presented Linda Summers, Economic Development Manager. Ms. Summers provided Council with an update of recent efforts of the Economic Development Division. Highlights of the presentation included: Current Economic Development Objectives: • Promote Business Expansion, Retention, and Attraction • Support Infrastructure for Economic Development • Continued Partnerships with Local Business and Community Associations • Establish Cohesive Citywide Marketing Program • Continue to Promote Linkages with Workforce and Economic Development • Employee and Employer Training — Work Experience Programs • Market new Enterprise Zone (EZ) Expansion Areas • Continue Citywide Branding and Image Campaign through Website Update and "Good News" Portal • Promote Use of International Trade/Foreign Trade Zone • Continue to Utilize American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Funding • Continue to Support Entrepreneurship and Small Businesses • Enhance Downtown's Economic Vitality with Programs and Services New Business Licenses Issued: Date # of New Business Licenses July, 2009 277 August, 2009 305 September, 2009 246 October, 2009 283 November, 2009 227 December, 2009 227 Business Outreach - Business Attraction Tools: • Marketing • Broker Forums and Tours • Interactive Available Properties Website (Loopnet) • Inventory of Available Properties • Retail Mapping Tools • Site Selection and Permit Assistance Business Outreach - Business Retention Tools: • Rapid Response Site Visits • Business Wellness Surveys • New Business Receptions • 100 Businesses for 100 Days Entrepreneurship Event • Next Event — April 22nd — "Money: Where to Find it and How to Get it - TODAY!" CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 9 MARCH 15, 2010