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Mr. Goldsmith expressed a desire to maintain the concept of regionalism. Ms. Rygas noted it was important to develop a methodology/structure and balance it with the greater public interest. She said thoughtful consideration regarding membership was key to having a commission autonomous from the City Council. Mr. Kahle proposed that the body be named the Eugene Development and Conservation Commission, with the charge of developing the same number of acres as those preserved on an annual basis, within or contiguous to the urban growth boundary. Ms. Pierce said she would protest the proposal because the available land would be exhausted in a short period of time if it were adopted. Mr. Re' Voal said the only way he could see the proposal working was if it assumed the role currently held by the Lane Metropolitan Partnership and be autonomous from both City Councils. Mr. Korth said he was impressed with Mr. Bowers and the PDC model, and suggested that this committee should study the PDC model. Summarizing the discussion, Mr. Forbes asl(etl what option.s were available for achieving the first goal, and what work should be requested of staff and Mr. Moore. Ms. Pierce stated that creation of an enterprise zone, good for ten years, insulated projects from political issues and changes on the City Council. She added that once established, urban renewal districts were also taken out of the political arena. She said that a development commission could be very focused on getting the best out of an enterprise zone or urban renewal district. Ms. Teninty said she would support a recommendation that the committee work towards coordination and structural partnerships of the University of Oregon (UO), Lane County, other cities in the area, and the regional business communities, to make a statement that regional coordination would contribute to stable economic planning. Ms. Rygas said it felt like the discussion kept coming back to the perception that there were some segments of the community that felt if the right tools were Jn plac6, economic development goals could be achieved but for the presence of those who opposed such action getting in the way. She added the central issue needed to be addressed to enable economic development to be successful in the community. Mr. Wanichek said there were some things that consensus would never be reached on. He supported the concept of enterprise zones coupled with a Planning and Development Commission to address overall planning goals. Mr. Goldsmith expressed support to pursue a regional focus w~tn a county-wide commission. Mr. Kahle, seconded by Ms: Pierce, moved to form a subcommittee to research the feasibility of creating a regional group based upon the Portland Development Commission to pursue economic development issues. The motion passed 13:1. MINUTES--Mayor's Committee on Economic Development May 3, 2004 Page 5