Question from Anonymous

Please share your SPECIFIC ideas for economic development in the city and ideas for downtown revitalization. Also, please share your position on the hiring of an full time economic development position.

Rita Smart answered:

Having worked in Economic Development and Downtown Revitalization for a number of years, I can tell you it is a very complex and long range venue. It takes a lot of different players coming to the table, working through issues and developing a plan of action. My specific ideas include beginning to develop this process--organizing an economic development task force, do some asset mapping, search out possible economic venues and work to develop a job description-if we see the need for a full-time economic development position. I am not in favor of hiring someone just to recruit for vacant buildings--that's the property owners responsibility. I have also been a part of the Chamber's Leadership trips to various cities. Over and over again, we saw evidence of alliances and local coaliations collaborating together for succcess. Remember the ultimate goal is good paying jobs for our citizens which in turn provides revenue for the city. As for downtown revitalization, the city must make downtown more customer and neighbor friendly. We immediately need public rest rooms, green space including benches and lighting, adequate parking and signage so people know where to park and what businesses are available.We must develop downtown housing for young professionals and baby boomers. People living downtown create the need for retail and speciality shops.