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REPORT: Redevelopment Agency Executive Director, February 13, 1995 Housing Specialist Svoboda presented the staff report and described the Agency Board's direction to staff two years ago to work with the Chamber of Commerce to create an economic development strategy for the City. Housing Specialist Svoboda described the work of the committee formed and the RFP it designed. Ten firms received the RFP, three responded. Sedway Kotin Mouchly Group (SKMG) was unanimously selected by the committee. The total contract, after additions were made, is $68,000. In response to Director's questions, Housing Specialist Svoboda explained there is a connection with the County's economic development plan with City staff serving on the County's program. The County is looking at the larger businesses, and although the cities are interested in that part of economic growth, Redwood City is generally focusing on the smaller businesses, concentrating on current business retention and assisting their growth. City Manager Everett added that 75% of new economic growth comes nom small companies between and 20 and 50 employees. In response to Director Steinfeld's questions regarding original cost estimates of this program, Housing Specialist Svoboda advised the original $50,000 was a guestimate, and the $68,000 included more detailed data and analysis than originally anticipated, and the Chamber of Commerce was devoting time and expertise to the project, but not an outright financial contribution Chairwoman Gasparini called on those people in the audience who wished to speak to this issue. Joe Steinfeld, 850 Main Street, Redwood City, described the former Business Improvement District, accused the Redevelopment Agency of engaging in make work projects, and spoke in opposition to spending $68,000 on a plan for economic development in Redwood City until more retail people were involved in the decision. Mr. Steinfeld stated that two years ago he had proposed a citywide retail business improvement seminar with marketing and merchandising specialists invited by the retailers to investigate ways to improve Redwood City's retail sales. Mr. Steinfeld said the City and Chamber should have paid for this, and he met with City staff to discuss it, but nothing ever happened. Director Steinfeld, suggested the proposed economic development plan study be delayed until more retailers could serve on the committee, the Chamber should contribute financially to the program, there should be no confidential focus groups, the plan does not address traffic issues, there are not enough details nor a complete scope of work included in the plan, and Redwood Shores is not included. Director Steinfeld suggested adding $10,000 to $12,000 to include Redwood Shores and to include transportation economics. MINUTE BOOK NO.1 Page No. 256 Redevelopment Agency Minutes February 13, 1995 Page 2