Minutes - Economic Development Authority - 08/14/2014

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Assistant to the City Administrator Brama stated a bi- annual community survey has been sent. The City started a new bi- annual survey and results will be front of the Council in November, in time for strategic planning for 2015. This will enable the Council and other Boards to help track progress and trends for public engagement with the City. Community Development Director Gladhill updated the EDA on the process of rezoning the old municipal center and future business park. He noted the City will not be pursuing a data center but will be pursuing private development for single - family housing because it will not be as complex as a future business park if it is single family. Acting Chairperson Skaff asked about the PSD purchase. City Administrator Ulrich stated it is scheduled to close September 15, 2014. He reviewed the proposed plans with the members. City Administrator Ulrich updated the Members on recent Council approvals and updates. 5.03: Vacancy of EDA Position Member Riley stated he wanted to discuss this item with the Board to learn of the groups feelings as to who should fill the position left by Mr. LaFrance. He wondered what the timing would be to fill the position. Member LeTourneau asked for an update on this item because he had not heard about it before the meeting. City Administrator Ulrich stated Mr. LaFrance has decided to pursue other interests. He reviewed with the Board the dates this will take effect and how the transition will occur. Acting Chairperson Skaff asked for other comments on the need for the role. Member Williams indicated she saw a need. She stated there are other areas in the City where Mr. Brama's skills are required and she thought they were just starting to hit their stride with someone in that role. She thought there were needs and it was a bit disappointing. Member Williams thought it previously took a long time to interview and the process seemed tedious. She would like to consider what alternatives there could be and the pros and cons of full -time employment versus contract services that could fulfill some of the responsibilities of that role. Acting Chairperson Skaff stated he has seen some progress and good things happen with the things Mr. LaFrance has taken on, such as business retention. He agreed the momentum was starting to build and they were starting to see capitalization and results happen that he would not want to stop. Acting Chairperson Skaff stated the EDA would have to talk about how to do that on an interim basis. He thought it was important to have a professional person who is concentrating on the economic development of the City. Economic Development Authority /August 14, 2014 Page 4 of 6