13A - COUNCIL COMMITTEE MINUTES - Laserfiche WebLink

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(Item 4 was taken out of order.) 4. Santa Ana Wellness District: A Study of Demand and Supply for Wellness Goods and Services in Downtown, Santa Ana, California — (Jeb Brugmann, The Next Practice & Ana Urzua, Building Healthy Communities) Utilizing video conferencing, Jeb Brugmann of The Next Practice (Canada), provided presentation that focused on: 1) What is the downtown's existing competitive advantage — for both traditional and new customer segments? 2) What is the potential to increase sales and to renew downtown retail through a 'wellness district' strategy? 3) How is that potential most cost effectively achieved, with the greatest local economic and social benefit? Three scenarios were provided to councilmembers: 1) The Latino Downtown Revival; 2) The Santa Ana Downtown Tourism; 3) The Post - Latino Downtown. Detail of changes provided within video presentation along with handout of their working draft of Resolution for the City Council. Councilmember David Benavides had several questions for Mr. Brugmann regarding the source of his data and other information. Would like open discussion to review several questions and responses. Committee Chair Martinez stated that health and wellness has been talked about since 2006 and should be a part of economic development. Branding and embracing the Latino community would be an opportunity to be proud of our culture and people that make us a vibrant community. Much of what was presented we are already doing, we just need to balance downtown and set good policies to move us forward. We don't want to miss any opportunities to invest in Santa Ana. Councilmember Vince Sarmiento withheld comment until after public comments were completed. He met with Jeb several years ago. Downtown goes through cycles, cultures, and generational influences. All wanting downtown healthy, successful, and to be a draw from outside and also from immediate area. Continue to reinvent downtown. Latino Downtown label should be embraced. In support of principles outlined in resolution. Initial motion by Committee Chair Martinez to move forward to full City Council in March, with review by staff (City Attorney's Office, City Manager's Office, Community Development Agency) and Ana Urzu. City Manager, David Cavazos, has identified 18 issues regarding policies and authorities. City Manager's office will review and write summary of issues as well as an analysis of the Resolution and forward to the City Council. January 12, 2015 1 Finance, Economic Development, & Technology Minutes 13A -5