HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-12-16 Economic Development Policy Group_MIN
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY GROUP
December 16, 2009
Page 1 of 2
MINUTES FOR THE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY GROUP
December 16, 2009
51 Winburn Way
CALL TO ORDER
Russ Silbiger called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. in the Siskiyou Room, 51 Winburn Way.
Committee Members Present: Staff Present:
Russ Silbiger Tom Bradley Adam Hanks, Project Manager
John Stromberg Pam Hammond April Lucas, Admin. Assistant
Wendy Siporen Annie Hoy
Ric Holt John Fields
Mark Marchetti Laurie Gibbs
Absent Members:
Dean Cropper DeeAnn Everson
Jim Klein Emile Amarotico
AROUND THE ROOM INTRODUCTIONS
The members briefly went around the table and introduced themselves and the organizations they
represent.
OVERALL WORK PLAN LAYOUT DISCUSSION
Project Manager Adam Hanks reviewed the Economic Development Strategy flowchart and
project timeline with the group. He explained this group will work with the Technical Advisory
Committee to form strategic goal categories and ultimately economic development goals for the
City. From there, the process will include a public comment component, after which the groups
will reconvene to form the final strategic goals and associated action items.
Mr. Hanks clarified the City has hired a consultant to assist with this process. The consultant’s
first presentation to the Policy Group and Technical Advisory Committee has been tentatively
scheduled for January 13, 2010.
Ric Holt presented information to the group on “Economic Gardening” and suggested they
consider this concept. He stated this model for economic development is more in line with
Ashland values and focuses on supporting local businesses, rather than bringing new businesses
into the community. Mr. Holt also recommended the City consider hiring a permanent economic
development person (Director of Economic Gardening). He stated this model is not new, but is a
different approach than what was brought forward in the Economic Opportunities Analysis
(EOA).
Mr. Hanks clarified the EOA is a land use document and under state law had to follow specific
guidelines. Mayor Stromberg added the EOA is really a projection of historical trends, and while
this is a useful document, it is not THE document they want to use as they move forward.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY GROUP
December 16, 2009
Page 2 of 2
BRIANSTORM NATIONAL, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL ECONOMIC TRENDS
The group went around the table and each member identified trends they have observed.
\[SEE Economic Development Policy Group, December 16, 2009 for details\]
STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSESS, OPPORTUNITIES, THREATS OUTLINE
The group went around the table and members identified the City’s strengths, weaknesses, and
opportunities.
\[SEE Economic Development Policy Group, December 16, 2009 for details\]
NEXT MEETING TOPICS/GOALS
Mr. Silbiger suggested the group consider moving their meeting dates in order to accommodate
everyone’s schedules. Mr. Hanks stated he would email the group possible options and would let
them know what is decided.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 4:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
April Lucas, Administrative Assistant