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the code and other City policies. There should be some effort to help permit applicants find ways to fix their development to meet the spirit of City standards. The Economic Development Committee identified one specific action related to this problem: the City could create a staff position that would act as a business facilitator, or ombudsman. An ombudsman would enhance the experience and image of doing business in Eugene. An ombudsman's day-to-day role would be to help coordinate the multi- agency aspect of development. The permitting process requires that applicants work with different departments that have different goals. The ombudsman would assist an applicant to navigate through the process, and help negotiate solutions to permitting obstacles. The ombudsman would work with all the different departments and divisions that regulate the development of new and existing sites. The ombudsman would have the perspective of both an applicant and a City staffer. Because this person will have a different vantage point from other staff, he or she would have insight into how to develop methods and policies to streamline the permitting process. It is recommended that the job description also include time devoted to code revision recommendations or other systemic changes. In the long-term, the expenditure on an ombudsman will be cost effective. The Planning Division generates a large portion of its own budget through permitting fees. If an applicant decides to not pursue a development because the process is too cumbersome, that revenue will never be generated. A staff member who works to keeps these applicants in the system will help the Division continue to raise permitting revenues. RECOMMENDATION . The City Council and Budget Committee should fund a facilitator to assist businesses with expansion, coordinate multi-agency review of development permits, and assist in developing methods and policies to help streamline permitting process. 4. ENTERPRISE ZONE THE PROBLEM The City of Eugene has few public financial incentives for new or growing businesses. There is a perception that Eugene's lack of an Enterprise Zone puts us at a competitive disadvantage with other jurisdictions that do have an Enterprise Zone. The problem with the lack of incentives is that neighboring communities do have them. Eugene competes with other communities in Oregon for jobs. SOLUTIONS Governments can offer firms financial incentives to encourage growth. Financial incentives come in many forms, but all reduce the cost of doing Mayor's Committee on Economic Development July 2004 Recommendations Page 11