During the City Council Workshop held on June 10, 2025, in Kerrville, significant discussions centered around enhancing economic development through a proposed scalable incentive program aimed at supporting small businesses. Council members emphasized the importance of aligning these incentives with community needs and the broader goals outlined in the city’s 2050 plan.

One of the key proposals discussed was the introduction of a scalable $3.80 economic development program. This initiative aims to provide tailored incentives for small businesses, allowing them to receive support based on their size and specific contributions to the local economy. Council members highlighted the necessity of balancing these incentives with public benefits, ensuring that any financial support is justified by the economic impact on the community.

A notable point raised was the potential requirement for businesses to provide health insurance in exchange for receiving incentives. This consideration reflects a growing awareness of the need for businesses to contribute to the well-being of their employees while also benefiting from city support.

The council also discussed the importance of creating a level playing field for all businesses, particularly smaller enterprises that may struggle to compete with larger companies. By adjusting the incentive structure based on the scale of the business and its contributions, the city aims to foster a more equitable economic environment.

In addition to the main topic, the council members expressed interest in making the details of the proposed economic development program accessible to the public, ensuring transparency and community engagement in the decision-making process.

As the city moves forward with these discussions, the outcomes of the workshop could significantly influence local economic growth and the support available to small businesses in Kerrville. The council's commitment to revisiting and refining the incentive matrix reflects a proactive approach to addressing community needs and fostering a thriving local economy.