Placement: Proclamations and Special presentations
Action Requested: Discussion
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Hear a presentation proposing an expansion of the Small Business Plan and related support services.
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Submitted By: Elijah Wooten, Business Navigator
Strategic Plan Link: The City's Goal of a diverse local economy and employment opportunities.
Executive Summary (General Business): During the 2021 City Council Winter Retreat, the Mayor and City Council requested a presentation providing recommendations as to how the City can better support the development of small businesses in the City of Port St. Lucie.
Presentation Information: A PowerPoint presentation and discussion will be conducted by Elijah Wooten, Business Navigator.
Staff Recommendation: Authorize the City Manager to establish the Office of Business for City Council consideration as a part of the FY21-22 City of Port St. Lucie Budget.
Background: At the February 2021 Winter Retreat, the Mayor and City Council directed staff to provide recommendations on how the City could assist businesses at all stages of the business life cycle. Staff researched the approach used in other Florida cities (see attached "Small Business Development Programs in Florida") and has prepared a model for City Council consideration.
Issues/Analysis: Currently, the City's Business Navigator serves as Ombudsman for development services, coordinates economic development in conjunction with the St Lucie Economic Development Council, and serves as a business liaison to the small business community. Proposed is the formation of the "City of Port St. Lucie Office of Business," a division within the City Manager's Office.
Financial Information: N/A
Special Consideration: N/A
Location of Project: Citywide.
Attachments:
1. PSL Office of Business Division,
2. IEDC Business Retention Program Awards Summary 2020,
3. Small Business Development Programs in Florida,
4. Office of Business Presentation.
NOTE: All of the listed items in...
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