SUBJECT: Economic Development Partners: 2021 Action Plan Presentations- Erie Chamber and Erie Economic Development Council
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DEPARTMENT: Economic Development
PRESENTER: Ben Pratt, Economic Development Director
Elle Cabbage, Executive Director of the Erie Chamber of Commerce
Barry Lunginbill, President of the Erie Economic Development Council
TIME ESTIMATE: 60 Minutes
FISCAL SUMMARY: N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
To listen and discuss the strategies and organizational objectives for the Erie Chamber of Commerce and the Erie Economic Development Council for 2021.
SUMMARY AND BACKGROUND OF SUBJECT MATTER:
The Erie Chamber and the Erie Economic Development Council are the Town’s local business and economic development partners. The role of these organizations is to ensure we (the greater Erie community) create an environment in which businesses can prosper. The main functions are to promote the interest in local business possibilities. Money, planning, inspiration and guidance is directed through the participation of their members working on committees of their choice.
For many years the Town of Erie has been the largest financial contributor to these organizations. During 2021 budget planning sessions the Board of Trustees indicated that before budgeted funds are distributed to these organizations, that they come before the Board and clearly map out what outcomes they will achieve with Town funding, how they plan to navigate public health restrictions brought on by COVID-19, and present their respective strategies for 2021. This study session is to fulfil this request and provide Board comments to the Erie Chamber and the Erie Economic Development Council.
Town of Erie 2021 Budgeted Contributions:
Erie Chamber: $112,000 plus rent-free use of Town owned building
Erie Economic Development Council: $32,000
Erie Chamber request we provide a link to this very short video of the Chamber Events:
<https://youtu.be/N29GsbkO8Js>
Board Priority(s) Addressed):
ü Engaged and Diverse Community
ü Prosperous Economy
ü Effective Governance
ü Fiscally Responsible
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Erie Chamber of Commerce Presentation
2. Erie Economic Development Council Presentation