HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/12/98 EDC MINUTES
THE COLONY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
MEETING
MARCH 12, 1998
CITY HALL CLASSROOM
The meeting was called to order at 8:10 p.m.
Present were:
Jorge Diaz Kate Jarvella
John Gordon Richard Seidler
Staff Present:
Betty McKean, Director of Economic Development
Also Present:
Lanny Lambert, City Manager
Jenny Pace, Economic Development Intern
Lanny Lambert discussed the cancellation of Betty McKean's contract, and his original plan of
hiring her as Assistant City Manager. He recommended that the 4A Board contracts her.
Lanny Lambert explained that he had no objection to the 4A Board remaining independent, but
felt that it would be a poor political choice.
Betty McKean explained the need for marketing tools in regards to the Texlan proposal, and she
pointed out the necessity for the City to help with the expenditures. Lanny Lambert agreed that
the City could authorize a one-time cash advance, but stressed that if the 4A Board wanted to go
independent, that it should act independently from the City.
Lanny Lambert recommended that the City provide finance to the 4A Board until it can get itself
set up.
Extended discussion was held on the proposal for the EDC to relocate to City Hall on a
temporary basis until they can set themselves up in an acceptable location. There was general
agreement that City Hall was preferable to the current location. Issues discussed were:
- Image of the EDC
- Problems associated with temporary workstations in the lobby
- Working conditions
Employee relations
Possible relocation to the library
Telephone lines
The majority of the Board agreed that moving to City Hall on an interim basis was the best
option.
Richard Seidler pointed out the importance of the 4A Board focusing on the same agenda in
regards to the EDC remaining independent and on possible interim locations.
John Gordon expressed concern over having a set meeting time and date, the problems associated
with changing them, and the necessity for conducting good business.
Discussion was held regarding EDC expenses. Kate Jarvella pointed out that the Board needs to
approve any purchases, moves, costs, etc., that the EDC incurs, and the need for a proper
procedure/approval for bringing on any expenses to the Board. The Board requested that they
approve EDC costs before any action is taken.
Betty McKean proposed a framework for a plan for an interim budget and stressed the need for a
budget workshop so plans can be made toward some direction that the Board wants to go. She
also discussed a finance committee that would bring recommendation and approval to the Board.
The Board agreed with McKean that an interim budget must first be in place before strategic
planning and a mission statement is made.
The Board discussed the issue of staffing for the EDC and the need for the Board to be aware of
the job descriptions of the staff and understand what they are being paid for.
The Board agreed that they wanted to extend Betty McKean's contract, and discussed length of
contract and considering her contract as a package. John Gordon moved to extend Betty
McKean's contract to 60 days. Kate Jarvella seconded. Ail were in favor.
The Board proposed that Betty McKean put together a list of furniture that would be needed if
the EDC move, and that the Finance Committee comes back at the next meeting with an interim
budget and a list of the furniture.
Board approved agenda item//6 of adopting a depository bank and agreed on setting up a general
operations/office account. There was no discussion.
Betty McKean discussed agenda item//8 regarding prospect activity regarding Henry Billingsly
and the Austin Ranch prospect.
Discussion was held on agenda item//9 regarding legal counsel. Betty McKean pointed out the
need for someone with EDC, local government, of real estate experience. The Board agreed on
the need for legal counsel and requested names for possible candidates to be brought to next
meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 p.m.
Richard P~. Seidler, President
ATTEST:
J~Jmy Pac ,~ecordin~g Secretary