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constructed new sports stadiums in their downtowns, drawing people from outside those communities. He noted his own support for locating the University of Oregon basketball arena in the location of the former Agripac cannery. Mr. Korth asked Mr. Obie if he felt that large industries were unlikely to be part of the solution because of the political challenges they created. Mr. Obie said he felt they were unlikely to be part of the solution because of the world and United States economies and the lack of growth occurring in the industrial sector. He said that as mayor he 'spent time on business recruitment and found it frustrating and a long-term process. Mr. Obie thought the community's empty buildings could attract some businesses to the community, and suggested the City work with those business owners to determine the best approach for marketing those buildings. Mr. Bowerman said he was concerned the City did not embrace the broadest commonalities within the community. He asked Mr. Obie to share any observations he had about how the community could create a common vision. Mr. Obie said a vision was important but without action it did not mean anything. When he was mayor, difficult economic times brought people together and it was easier to agree on an agenda. He believed the question of vision was one of leadership. He said the City needed to achieve a balance, and could not ignore any elements of the community. The committee then heard from former City Manager Jim Johnson. Mr. Johnson discussed how to get something done in Eugene, making the following points: WILL HAPPEN (Level of enthusiasm is high) · Mayor constantly asks about progress · Six of eight councilors support; strong support, within the council's goals · In individual meetings, six councilors frequently ask about progress · City Manager is excited; part of legacy f~or organization · Multiple executive managers excited · Organization embraces effort · Chamber of Commerce supportive, such as in the case of the parks and open space bond · Advisory committee with members that have ties to a majority on the City Council · Intergovernmental partners are excited · Champions in the community--lots of talk, e.g., Rotary Club and the Rose Garden project · Register-Guard editorial support is strong--multiple good editorials and good stories over time, such as in the case of the federal courthouse project · Doesn't cost a lot of money, · Short duration versus long-term makes easier to accomplish MINUTES--Mayor's Committee on Economic Development April 20, 2004 Page 3