07-06-09 Special Called Regular Meeting of the La Porte Development Corporation Board of Directors

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Section 4B 1/2 Cent Sales Tax Fiscal Year 2009-10 Expellditllre SUII/mary Actual Budget Estimated Proposed Percellt 2007-08 2008-09 2008-09 2009-10 Cha1lge Persollal Services $ 89,632 $ 96,393 $ 108,732 $ 107,898 11.94% Supplies 1,318 2,000 1,656 1,900 -5.00% Services & Charges 2,025,893 4,241,292 3,953,033 1,800,666 -57.54% Division Tutal $2,116,843 $4,339,685 $4,063,421 $1,910,464 -55.98% Scope of Services SlI1IImary The Economic Development Division works with the Economic Development Corporation Board to set direction and polices related to economic development projects in the City. The Department and its activities are funded through the collection of a 1/2 cent sales tax which must be spent on economic development proj ects related to capital investment and job creation. The Board recently authorized a complete refurbishment of the city website and a community branding campaign which will be finished and launched in FY 2009. Each of these initiatives is designed to assist us with focused, targeted marketing efforts that will effectively communicate why La Porte is the idea community to establish a business. They will also allow us to better emphasize the many amenities we have to offer such as affordable housing, parks, green space, hike & bike trails, outstanding schools and Galveston Bay. The Board also approved the development ofa City-Wide Economic Development Strategic Plan for FY 2009. This strategic planning process when complete will serve to provide the Board and the City with a comprehensive vision and direction as it relates to economic development decisions and also assist with budgeting for infrastructure and other desired projects, including job creation. Physical projects for the upcoming year include creation of a Town Plaza, Gateway Enhancements of Main Street and the Sylvan Beach Shoreline Renourishrnent. We will also continue to focus on possible retail developments throughout the City. The Board has also budgeted $200,000 for facade grants andlor loan programs for the businesses along Main Street FY 2009. Recommendations will be brought forth to the Board from the Main Street Advisory Board during the year. The Department is also responsible for working with our community economic development partners on business retention and expansion programs, small business development, marketing efforts, workforce initiatives, transportation issues and quality of life issues such as green space development and air and water quality. PersOIl1Iel Positioll Roster Approved 2007-08 Approved 2008-09 Requested 2009-10 Economic Development Coordinator Total 7-55