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<br />underutilized sites while allowing development in other areas of the city to remain primarily market- <br />driven. Establishing a framework for when and how the City participates in redevelopment efforts may <br />help ensure consistency and clarity for both staff and potential development partners. <br /> <br />Questions for the EDA <br />1. Should the EDA formally identify specific corridors or opportunity areas as redevelopment <br />priorities, or should the strategy remain flexible as opportunities arise? If so, how should we <br />approach that process? Should it occur as part of the Comp Plan, include the Planning <br />Commission, or be an independent effort? <br /> <br />2. What types of outcomes should the City prioritize in these areas (tax base growth, housing <br />diversity, site design quality, connectivity, etc.)? <br /> <br />3. Under what circumstances should the City take an active role in redevelopment (land assembly, <br />incentives, partnerships)? <br /> <br />2. Establish Clear Policies for the Use of EDA Tools and Resources <br />The workshop included discussion about the role of financial tools such as Tax Increment Financing <br />(TIF) and the City's Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) funds. Members expressed interest in <br />establishing clearer expectations for when these tools should be used and what public benefits should <br />be expected in return. Developing baseline policies may help staff evaluate potential projects and <br />provide more consistent guidance to developers and property owners prior to formal engagement with <br />the EDA. <br /> <br />Questions for the EDA <br />1. What types of public benefits should generally be expected when the City provides financial <br />assistance? <br />2. Does the EDA think a formal TIF policy is needed or that Staff should operate based on the <br />more informal feedback provided in these meetings? <br /> <br />3. Strengthen Relationships with the Business and Development Community <br />Members discussed the importance of maintaining strong relationships with property owners, <br />businesses, and developers in order to better understand market conditions and redevelopment <br />opportunities. Proactive engagement may also help the City communicate its priorities and better <br />position itself to support reinvestment within the community. <br /> <br />Questions for the EDA <br />1. How proactive should the EDA and/or City Staff be in engaging with property owners and <br />developers about redevelopment opportunities? <br /> <br />2. Should the EDA formalize business engagement in an additional committee (business council, <br />economic development commission, etc.)? <br /> <br />3. Are there additional ways the EDA could support or engage with the existing business <br />community?