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e also may have a good opportunity to secure a Federal Economic Development grant and have applied for State Lottery funds. I believe, with the strategies we have laid out, that part of the Agenda is very promising. "Second, I propose that we ask airport service providers, including the airlines, to pay a larger share of the cost. This is primarily a matter of negotiation. We are currently discussing the project with them and are looking for an option that is mutually acceptable. The airlines and the other airport service providers have been extensively involved in planning the airport project. We want to continue that good working relationship and expect that they will be willing to help finance the project they have helped to develop. We must ask and expect them to provide a significant portion of the revenues needed. And I believe they will offer. "Last, I propose that the council consider a 3% room tax increase dedicated to airport expansion. The room tax is a travel-related tax. A 3% increase would bring our room tax to 9%, matching Portland's, and would not put us at a disadvantage in competing for conference business. "Finally, both the Springfield City Council and the Lane County Commissioners, collectively or individually, have expressed their agreement and concern about the Airport and the importance of it to our economy. I ask them to work together with us and the travel industry to consider similar action that would help this project move forward. I also believe that, if we maintain our commitment and take the course of action I have outlined, we indeed will break ground on a new terminal this year. e Riverfront "The second Agenda item was the Riverfront Project. The Riverfront Research Park, as Council President Wooten described, has profited from much work over the past year. We now have the principle financing mechanism in place, and this week University President Paul Olum and I will recommend to the council appointees for the very first Riverfront Research Park Commission. The major focus in 1986 will be to prepare a well thought-out site plan that will be attractive to the needs of private industry and the educational and scientific purposes of the University. Once the development proposal is in place--and it has had thorough public review--we can begin the improvements needed and locate companies in the park. "Here again, the seeds have been planted. They will require constant care and feeding, but will blossom into a new economy for this area, affecting the lives of generations to come. Downtown "In regard to downtown, Council President Wooten outlined to you the progress that has been made. We find that progress to be incremental and we are sti'll looking for the major solution for downtown development. I think it is important that we understand why downtown is important and I would like to share with you my answers or my thoughts on that question. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council January 6, 1986 Page 10