Title
Discussion: Lee's Summit Economic Development Council
Body
Issue/Request:
Discussion: Lee's Summit Economic Development Council
Key Issues:
At the February 6, 2024 City Council meeting during Council Comments, discussion was held regarding the status of the Lee's Summit Economic Development Council (LSEDC) and the efforts that are underway to reset and reposition the LSEDC, as well as the direction that should be pursued for economic development in Lee's Summit. From the discussion during Council Comments, Mayor Baird requested an agenda item regarding the LSEDC be placed on the February 13, 2024 City Council agenda to allow for further dialogue and a status report from the LSEDC.
At the February 13, 2024 City Council meeting, LSEDC Vice Chair Brown provided a status report on efforts being taken by the LSEDC, and reported that in having discussions with the private sector members of the LSEDC Board, the Board's position is to "cease any further discussions or efforts at this time to develop a joint or collaborative measure in support of economic development in Lee's Summit with the Lee's Summit City Council."
On March 5, 2024 the LSEDC Board of Directors held a monthly meeting, and during the meeting held discussion on the position of the LSEDC with respect to any desire(s) to continue to work toward a partnership with the City of Lee's Summit or discontinue efforts toward any partnership. After discussion, the LSEDC Board of Directors approved a resolution which is attached to this packet. This action is in draft from as the LSEDC Board of Directors has not held a meeting to approve the minutes/action report from the March 5, 2024 Board of Director meeting, however reflects the intention and vote of the Board of Directors on this matter at the March 5, 2024 LSEDC Board of Directors meeting. Provided below is the action of the LSEDC Board of Directors with regard to the approved LSEDC resolution:
* The LSEDC Board of Directors (Board) is desirous of a relationship with the Lee’s Summit City Council (Council) on economic development matters and believes collaboration between the parties is in the best interests of the community.
* The Board has drafted new Bylaws and is prepared to reorganize the Board of Directors.
* The Board is appreciative of the conversations with Council members that have occurred in the past two weeks.
* The Board is ready to work with the City on the next steps and looks forward to hearing back from the Council.
For informational awareness, the Economic Development Organization (EDO) Best Practices report and the EDO Recommendations report have been included in this packet. These reports were prepared by Thomas P. Miller and Associates which were commissioned by the City to provide considerations in moving forward with economic development functions within Lee's Summit.
Presenter
Mayor and Council discussion