06-08-10 Community & Economic Development Committee

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be awarded points for this practice. The Mayor sees this as an important distinction from the Council bill which requires common construction wages. Not wanting to discuss details at this point, he said he would provide a summary sheet of other point changes. He also deferred describing closer enforcement of granted abatements. Marty Wolfson spoke stating the importance of the bill being a statement of community values. Bob Mathia from Community Development submitted a list of 18 points in the bill that needed clarification (attached) The Mayor then acknowledged the need to review fees the city charges to review the application. Chairperson Rouse then recognized Phil Newbold, the Chair of Project Future's Board of Directors. He asked for a delay of 60 days to craft a bill that would be a welcome mat for business while upholding community values. The Chamber of Commerce President, Paul Cafiero, said the 60 days were needed to encourage input from the Chamber. This position was reflected in a letter saying such. The letter was filed with the Clerk. The Chairman asked Council for comment Councilmember Puzzello urged Council input in discussions and supported the request fora 60 day pause. President Dieter and Councilmember Varner supported the delay as well. Councilmember Varner added that the bill should be an incentive and kept simple. Councilmember Henry Davis said the entire economic development strategy should be reviewed to find an approach that will produce results. Councilmember White agreed that more time was needed to solicit input and find common ground. Speaking for himself, Chairperson Rouse said he was surprised the bill was filed without input from all sectors. He feels the bill should be a good tool for economic development practitioners not a hurdle to clear. If the bill does not incent development, we will not have a change to sell our community values. The bill must be user friendly and be seen as apro-active, progressive approach to development. Mr. Rouse then asked the Mayor to accede to the 60 day delay request. Kathy Cekanski-Farrand said more time was needed to review the changes from the 2003 bill. Marty Wolfson said more deliberation was ok, but felt no one has been shut out of discussions begun 3 or 4 years ago by Roland Kelly. He said the Mayor started discussions, including disparate opinions from the community, last October. Objections to the recently passed County abatement ordinance were addressed in the process. The Mayor said he was supportive of the request fora 60 day delay suggesting the Council take that action at their meeting on the 14`"