Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 05/14/2020

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Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that the clarifier was inserted in the event that the State charges a fee. He stated that he is not aware of any additional fees but felt that disclaimer should be included. Member Cords referenced budget proposed to be used which would have been used for the TIF analysis work done on the section of buildings east of Do All Printing. He asked if the City has stopped doing that work because of the shutdown. Economic Development Manager Sullivan replied that analysis was being done on a case by case basis when access is available. He stated that if there is a situation in which the analysis could be completed, staff would still move forward with that. He explained that it is not an active pursuit but occurs when the opportunity presents itself. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that as the City looks to prioritize and identify essential services, there are other funds available within the City budget to complete that analysis. Chairperson Steffen reiterated that if the EDA needs additional professional services throughout the year there would be additional funds that could be used. Member Hardin stated that at the last meeting he brought up the perception that this would be picking and choosing businesses. He stated that these businesses have already been told that this would happen and felt that this backs the EDA into a corner. He stated that the EDA is then in essence voting on this after the fact. He stated that he is disappointed that the City is picking and noting that some of these businesses have been open and selling liquor. He stated that perhaps a different method would have been fairer and more equitable. Economic Development Manager Sullivan commented that this action began in EDA with a recommendation to move forward to the City Council with this program. He stated that the purpose of this case is to quantify the policy in writing and to formalize. He stated that if the EDA does not feel that EDA funds would be a good source of funding, that recommendation could be made for the City Council to find another potential funding source. He stated that while all businesses could use a cash injection, there is not always a City controlled fee for all the types of businesses. He noted that the intent of this program was to provide assistance through this City controlled fee. Deputy City Administrator Gladhill explained the quick reactions that have occurred during this COVID-19 pandemic and local state of emergency. He stated that staff is attempting to be more flexible during the pandemic. He stated that the case is titled phase one and the next phase could be to look on a broader scale as more information develops. Councilmember Musgrove asked for additional details on the dates and terms of the license and whether there has been discussion of prorating the license fee rather than using a one-year term. Economic Development Manager Sullivan replied that the license has an annual renewal with a fee based on the terms of the license. He stated that when this was originally brought to the EDA Economic Development Authority/ May 14, 2020 Page 5 of 10