02-09-15 Informal Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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INFORMAL MEETING FEBRUARY 9, 2015 5:34 P.M. Council Members Present: Tim Scott, Henry Davis, Valerie Schey (EAB), Dr. Fred Ferlic, Dr. David Varner, Oliver Davis, Gavin Ferlic, Karen White, Derek Dieter Others Present: Kathy Cekanski - Farrand Agenda: - Council Agenda - Interviews DUB & Redevelopment - Updates In addition to the Council's quick run -thru of the Council's formal meeting agenda, President Tim Scott set about conducting interviews for the Diversity Utilization Board (DUB) and the Redevelopment Commission. There was only one applicant for a position on the DUB, that being Audra Kent Wilcox. In her opening remarks Audra said the City workforce should better represent the diversity of the city's population. Karen White asked Audra if she had any ideas or strategies in mind. Audra said she was researching the successful Indianapolis approaches to diversity. Audra said her background was involvement in Health Care back in New York, her volunteer work at Wilson School and her volunteer efforts at LaCasa de Amistad. After the interview Audra was accepted to the DUB on motions by Derek Dieter and Gavin Ferlic supported by all. Three applicants were interviewed for two openings on the Redevelopment Commission. Councilmember David Varner was first. As a current member of the Redevelopment Commission David emphasized the importance of having a Council voice on the Commission. He also supported Karen White's questions about how TIF funded projects were prioritized. Robert Emery was next. He said there were too many vacant store fronts and too many closed businesses. He said he would work to expand the tax base. Derek Dieter asked if there were differing views on a project between the Mayor and the Council who would Bob support. Bob said who he thought had the best idea. Gavin Ferlic was the final applicant interviewed. Gavin said he was passionate about economic development. Karen White asked how he might balance the wishes of the Council and the Mayors. Gavin responded saying communication was key to finding common ground.