07-21-08 Special Called Regular Meeting of the Development Corporation Board of Directors

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Section 4B 1/2 Cent Sales Tax FY 08-09 Expenditure Summary Actual Budget Estimated Requested Percent 2006-07 2007-08 2007-08 2008-09 Change Personal Services 38,271 82,256 91,626 96,393 1 7.19% Supplies 2,195 5,500 2,500 2,000 -63.64% Services & Charges 1,061,378 885,686 1,047,886 3,856,194 335.39% Division Total 1,101,844 973,442 1,142,012 3,954,587 306.25% Scope of Services Summary 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 projects 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 of a 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 Renourishment. We will also continue to focus on possible retail developments throughout the City. The Board has also budgeted $200,000 for facade grants and/or 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. Personnel Position Roster Approved 2006-07 Approved 2007-08 Approved 2008-09 Economic Development Coordinator Total