In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on community engagement and the status of the Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) related to local development projects. Key points included the history of community meetings, the representation of dissolved organizations, and the timeline for funding disbursement.

Officials confirmed that 25 meetings were held prior to the signing of the CBA, with ongoing quarterly meetings involving various community groups, including the GS Coalition and the now-dissolved Global First organization. Birdseed Collective has stepped in to represent Global First in these meetings, raising questions about the clarity of representation and the potential lack of engagement from community members.

Community outreach efforts have faced challenges, with officials acknowledging that traditional meeting formats have not yielded significant attendance. In response, they are considering alternative methods such as coffee shop office hours and newsletters to better inform residents about ongoing developments and address their concerns, particularly regarding health and safety following remediation efforts in the area.

The timeline for funding distribution was also a focal point, with assurances that funds would begin to flow in spring 2025, contingent upon the sale of land parcels. Officials emphasized their commitment to the CBA and the importance of maintaining transparency with the community as they navigate permitting and cleanup processes.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the need for improved communication and engagement strategies to ensure that community members are informed and involved in the development process.