Both mayoral candidates said Medina should play an active role in encouraging economic development while removing obstacles for businesses to open or expand.

Jim Shields described an approach of convening city departments to solve permitting or infrastructure obstacles. "If there is an obstacle, figure out the solution," Shields said, citing a recent effort to bring plumbing review in‑house to speed business openings.

John Coyne said the city should offer shovel‑ready sites, workforce and payroll incentives, and other grants to attract businesses and lower resident tax burdens. Coyne said developers respond to quality of life and access to workers and that the city should market available sites.

Both candidates discussed an upcoming hotel south of the square and said it would increase foot traffic. That expectation shaped their comments about short‑term rentals: Coyne noted an existing ordinance governing short‑term rentals within a one‑mile radius of the square and said enforcement should continue; Shields said Medina has had few Airbnb problems to date and that a hotel may reduce demand for vacation rentals.

Both candidates said a DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) could help downtown businesses if implemented with appropriate safety and enforcement measures. Shields referenced other cities’ examples and cautioned the city should research and coordinate with police and business owners before adopting a DORA.

No changes to economic‑development incentives or short‑term‑rental rules were adopted at the forum.