09/23/1981 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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-- _._-----~ Mr. Lindberg stated that many people do not understand these ideas. He asked if quantitative data can be made available to help retailers and citizens better e understand the benefits. Mr. Gleason indicated that this would be done. In reference to the Four Corners Redevelopment Contract with the Chamber of Com- merce, Ms. Wooten stated that this is a feasibility study that will be under- taken. She asked if it will only address the potential for reselling redeveloped sites. She would also like to know the expectation of the study. Mr. Gleason stated that would be the first time two committees (the City Task Team and the Chamber of Commerce) would work together to develop their skills. They will determine whether it is feasible to do redevelopment. It could be done by tax increment financing, private financing, or a combined mechanism. He hopes this will provide a mechanism for the commissions to proceed with the West Eugene area. Ms. Wooten stated that it is the council's intention that any redevelopment will be accountable to the City rather than creating a new district or agency. Mr. Gleason agreed and stated that a pool of money will be set aside to use existing skills and knowledge in the community. For example, they can draw on skills at less-than-market value if people are willing to share expertise. Ms. Wooten asked if the project will be bound by State contract laws or bid awards. Mr. Gleason stated that professional services are not necessarily bid on. Ms. Wooten said she would like a one-sheet summary from the City Attorney of when projects must be bid and when they need not be. e Ms. Smernoff stated that the second item she wanted to bring to the council's attention is the Economic Development Committee, which was established by the Mayor two years ago. They have developed two policy documents that the council has adopted: Eugene's Economic Development Strategies, and Guidelines for Locating Firms on Special Light Industrial Sites. The committee has also made recommendations on applications for industrial revenue bonding through the State's Industrial Development Revenue Bonding Program. At the Council Study Session, it was determined that the Economic Development Task Team would report directly to the City Council. Staff would like direction as to whether the task team will pick up where EDC left off or if they should be in communication with each other when appropriate. Mr. Gleason added that there also is a staff support problem. Ms. Schue asked if the Economic Development Committee has a work program and a focus for the future. Ms. Smernoff stated that their focus is the estab- lishment of an industrial revenue bonding program for the City. In regard to abolishing the committee, Ms. Smith stated that she would like to ensure there is a monitoring program that will take their place. Ms. Wooten indicated agreement and noted that those concerns should be taken to the committee. There should be citizen input regarding economic development. In that regard, there should be an ongoing monitoring system. Mr. Gleason indicated philosophical agreement. He felt the council wanted the task team to report directly to them. They can keep the Mayor's Committee informed. Sometimes there is confusion as to who reports to whom. Th is also e MINUTES--Eugene City Council September 23, 1981 Page 4