04/09/07 Community and Economic Development Committee Minutes

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April 9, 2007 Community and economic ©evelopment Committee Meeting Minutes Page 5 Council Member White thanked Council Member Dieter and the Committee for "pulling the meeting together". She stated that she believes that Board oversight is critical and that there must be a proper check in balance in place. She hopes that the questions presented to DTSB will be addressed so that the Council may have further discussion; and thanked Mr. Meyer far coming to the committee meeting. Council Member Kirsits questioned the process in giving out contracts such as that for the ambassador program to an out-of-state company. He noted that he believes that many of those services have been done in the past by city personnel and believes that many of them could be done today. Mr. Meyer stated that they sent out for bids and that three (3) were received. He noted that the scope of services is substantially different, and that the Board made the final decision. Council Member Pfeifer stated that she agrees with much of what has been said by the Council Members, and that perhaps there needs to be another executive session of the Council. The Council needs more information to that adjustments can be made and so the Council can determine "what part we should play". She noted that she has seen many very positive changes in the downtown and is very appreciative of them. She noted that the community also enjoys such things as Art Beat and many are wondering if it will continue. The West Washington Neighborhood is in the downtown and she does not "want the baby thrown out with the bath water". Mr. Meyers stated that they are "getting hard pressed with vendors" Hating that TIF, voluntary BID money and capital budget monies have funded them in the past, Council Member Dieter stated that he does not want any misconception that the Common Council is against DTSB; rather the Council is in need of more information in light of the many questions which have been raised. The Council Attorney noted that the Council is unable to initiate an appropriation ordinance of this type. Council Member Kelly stated that he appreciates hearing what has happened, noting that it is vital that things happen downtown. Council Member White inquired about the time frame which DTSB has under their current funding and what contacts they have made with businesses. Mr, Meyer stated that Memorial Hospital has agreed to give $75,000 as their voluntary bid for this year, and that they are the biggest contributor. They should be able to operate until mid to late Summer. He noted that fetters have gone out to over 300 persons and that many individual meetings began last week. Common themes include: