(A) The purposes of the Economic Development Commission are:
(1) To create an awareness both in the public and private sectors of the city of the need for and encouragement of effective community and economic development.
(2) To encourage cooperation between the public and private sectors of the city and the region to provide an effective community economic development program.
(3) To advise on the goals, strategies, and policies of both the city and the urban renewal agency to facilitate effective community and economic development.
(4) To assist in city policy advocacy relating to community and economic development that consider sustainability, environmental concerns, and the overall quality of life for residents.
(B) The duties and responsibilities of the Commission include but are not limited to the following:
(1) Develop long-term economic development strategies and plans that align with city vision and goals for City Council approval.
(2) Receive input from the local community, including residents and business owners, to gather input, address concerns, ensure that economic development initiatives align with community values and needs, and make reports and recommendations thereof to the Council and City Manager.
(3) Develop marketing materials to promote city business advantages including but not limited to location of the city, availability of sites for new employer locations, workforce, incentives, and infrastructure to industry and visitors.
(4) Provide information about resources and access to training and funding opportunities to existing and new business in North Plains in order that they thrive and remain competitive, including promotion of awareness and local and regional workforce training and enhancement programs and opportunities to the benefit of local businesses.
(5) Advocate for infrastructure improvements that can support economic growth, such as transportation networks, utilities, and broadband access.
(6) Develop recommendations and advice Council and the City Manager on incentive programs, such as tax incentives, grants, or loans, to encourage business investment, job creation, and innovation within the city.
(7) Seek to develop, collaborate with and coordinate close communications and relationships between the city government, Chamber of Commerce, private businesses and industries, neighboring cities, regional/state economic development agencies and interested citizens regarding the economic betterment and improvement.
(8) Foster an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation, which can include home occupancy businesses and startups, encouraging programs such as incubators and others that provide access to resources and capital.
(9) Assist in the gathering and analysis of economic data and trends to inform decision- making, track progress, and identify areas where city policies and programs are needed.
(10) Provide guidance on zoning regulations, permitting processes, and other regulatory matters to streamline business operations and development projects.
(C) The Economic Development Commission members have no authority to make any direct expenditure on behalf of the city or obligate the city for payment of any sums of money except as expressly authorized. However, the Commission may make recommendations to City Council from time to time regarding expenditures and/or obligations.
(D) The Commission shall not direct personnel nor investigate complaints regarding performance of personnel.
(Ord. 492, passed 12-4-2023)