11-12-12 Community & Economic Development

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Council ordinance last year. Mr. Fitts summarized the DUB activity with a handout for Council. (Attached) He noted the progress made by the Board from its early 2012 organizational phase,to defining the Council's requirement for a Diversity Compliance Officer. He reported the Board had contracted with Trinal Inc. a consulting firm to help bring the intent of the MBE/WBE ordinance to fruition. In part,based upon Trinal's continuing counsel, alliances were formed with Ivy Tech and St. Mary's College for promotion of training programs and advocacy for more women and minorities in business. Mr. Fitts also highlighted a"Breaking Down Barriers" outreach event sponsored by the City and considered a well-attended success. He also mentioned another event a bid workshop at Ivy Tech was in the works. Mr. Fitts then opened himself to questions and comments from Council. White it seem most Councilmembers were supportive of the DUB's progress,Henry Davis saw a lack of progress in actually transferring opportunity to MBE/WBE businesses. Tim Scott and Karen White agreed with Mr. Davis that there be better communication between the DUB and the Council. Nonetheless, Henry was unconvinced that the pace of progress was acceptable. Henry took up the next agenda item billed as a report from the Chamber of Commerce. The Council's request for the report came during the Council's budget hearings during which the Council's financial support of the Chamber was worthwhile or money well spent. The Chamber President Jeff Rea along with its Director of Business Development, Greg Lorch made the summary report. Using a folder handout for Council (attached) a brief who, what, where, and when summary of Chamber activity promoting job growth in South Bend was presented. Some clarifying Council questions were subsequently asked. The Council expressed a desire for more frequent reporting of Chamber activity along with some measurable results of their work. Moving along the agenda Henry announced work would soon begin on revising the purpose, intent, and process of tax abatements in South Bend. He hoped for completion by year's end. Other Committee Members saw spring as being more realistic. Before adjournment under miscellaneous Henry Davis recognized Faith Slaughter who addressed the Council encouraging an effort to train women in the construction trades. She provided a letter(attached) which described a similar program initiated in Chicago. The request was taken under advisement.