The City convened an Economic Development Task Force (EDTF) in 2021 to better understand the challenges facing our business community, and to develop recommendations for City Council consideration on business attraction and retention efforts.

The EDTF met six times from Oct. 2021 to Jan. 2022, presenting their culminating recommendations at the Jan. 25, 2022 City Council Special Meeting. At this meeting, Council directed staff to incorporate the EDTF's work into an updated Economic Development Action Plan, include economic development activities in the Fiscal Year 2023 budget, proceed with the development of a Community Benefits Program, and distribute regular development activity updates to the community.

Past Meetings

• Oct. 12, 2021: Confirmed upcoming meeting dates and topics; discussed local businesses perspective of current opportunities, issues and challenges; and reviewed public information needs of the business community.
• Oct. 25, 2021: Reviewed and discussed local and national business trends along with shop local polices and best practices.
• Nov. 8, 2021: Reviewed and discussed business assistance programs, grants, technical assistance, and annual training/social media program.
• Nov. 29, 2021: Reviewed business license proposal/upcoming election and affirmed a high-level calendar and activities to improve the relationship between the City and local businesses.
• Dec. 13, 2021: Discussed events/gatherings and other resources connecting the business community.
• Jan. 10, 2022: Reviewed the draft presentation to City Council and assigned EDTF presentation roles.
• Jan. 25, 2022: Staff report and final presentation to City Council.