Delray Beach commissioners seek clearer economic‑development policy, schedule follow‑up workshop

Delray Beach’s City Commission on Tuesday, Oct. 14, discussed a range of economic development topics — from business recruitment and workforce training to permitting assistance and use of limited commercial land — and directed staff to circulate a prior plan and return with updated analysis and an implementation framework.

The workshop was convened by Mayor Kearney and led by Assistant City Manager Jeff Orris, who summarized current economic development work including business attraction leads, small‑business assistance and seminars, workforce development partnerships, and permitting “hand‑holding” for businesses struggling to navigate the city process.

The discussion matters because Delray Beach officials said choices about organizational resources, incentives and land use will shape how the city attracts higher‑paying jobs, sustains local businesses and maintains the commercial tax base.

Commissioners repeatedly raised two linked concerns: limited supply of commercial land and how the city should focus its economic development effort. Commissioner Cassale said she remained skeptical that routine job fairs duplicate…