03/02/2000 EDAC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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as-you-go basis with the exception of assessments which will be offered upfront in the Apollo Business Park; 3) the city will be reimbursed first, then the developer will begin receiving increment. These recommendations can be made a part of the EDAC recommendations to the city council for adoption. Ms. Divine said the criteria reviewed by the finance subcommittee will also be incorporated into use as a guide for providing TIF. Mr. Chase said the criteria should be a tool, but it’s not necessarily good to give more points to larger companies. Ms. Divine noted that the wage/job goals would be worked out with each development prospect. She said it is difficult for small companies that make a commitment to employ people within two years, since they risk losing the subsidy if they do not make the goal. Mr. Milbauer said companies should have enough working capital to expand into new facilities, and TIF shouldn’t be provided to companies that may not succeed. Action: Mr. Milbauer moved to recommend the policy changes in TIF as part of the EDAC plan to the city council. Mr. Juni seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. OTHER ISSUES Discussion regarding EDAC meetings included the role of EDAC. Mr. Wessel stated EDAC needed to be free to have an open exchange of ideas. He added he will encourage the mayor to keep attending because he has an excellent background in economic development issues. He stated that every time the council rejects a project the anti-growth perception gets stronger in the development community. Mr. Milbauer stated that it was important to have council representatives take an interest in what EDAC is doing and it might be appropriate for an EDAC member to represent the group at council meetings when there is an important economic development issue. Ms. Sullivan noted the code of conduct does not allow committees to represent issues. Mr. Wessel said the committee doesn’t advocate, but makes recommendations. Ms. Schwartz asked if EDAC could become the EDA. Mr. Wessel stated the responsibility for decisions made by the EDA should stay with the city council. If the committee wants to upgrade to the level of an advisory board like Planning & Zoning, it would require meeting in the council chambers in the evenings, being televised, etc. Ms. Carlson suggested taping meetings. Mr. Milbauer moved to adjourn. Ms. Schwartz seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned, 8:43 a.m.