Notes from my CRA interview...

These were notes that I prepared going into the interview with the City Commission re appointment to the CRA board. As it turned out, I used some but not all of these as most of the interview was devoted to answering Commissioner questions. The Mayor didn't ask any. I urged them not to let political considerations cloud their decision. I'll let you know what happens.

One of my major points was to use the CRA as an advisory board on economic development issues that might set the stage for broader City policy.

· Communication

o Between CRA and City Commission

§ Better alignment of goals and budget priorities

§ Meet at least twice a year to discuss projects/concerns

o Between CRA and other boards

o Between CRA and neighborhood associations

o Make sure that entire packet is available on the web, including exhibits to staff reports

o Avoid drama

· Budget

o Time of many competing demands

o Important to focus priorities – biggest bang for buck, leverage other funding sources in projects

o Look for low cost, high priority issues to address to be most effective

· Examples

o City Image and Business Attraction

§ Many investors scared away from Lake Worth

· Indecisive if we want redevelopment – need to make positive case for investment in the City and lead by example

§ Many better contractors scared away from Lake Worth – get a narrow selection which causes a vicious cycle.

§ Possibility of an “Ombudsman” or the like to troubleshoot problems and delays in permitting.

§ One stop Wednesdays – simple permits are issued the same day – successful in many communities

o Solutions

§ Training of City staff in customer service

§ Examine Palm Beach County as provider of building department services

§ Identify Downtown stakeholder needs through a summit where all issues are discussed

§ Capitalize on Treasure Coast Charrette this month and Robert Gibbs input

o Transit

§ Better partnership with Palm Beach Community College

· Mention National conference participants’ charrette in Lake Worth last October – free of charge, other opportunities – planners required now to fulfill continuing education credits – waiting for the chance.

· Parking lot filled with vehicles

o Keep them off the streets between classes and get them in the recommended shuttle to downtown businesses, promote it jointly, grant possibilities

o Shuttle would serve all of Lake Avenue including Lake Worth Towers, Publix and Condos along water, as well as beach

o Promotion of redevelopment opportunities, especially along North Dixie Hwy.

o Follow-through on 10^th Avenue Gateway project.