EDC attorney outlines '60‑day' project‑creation notice; board debates streamlining and Island District priorities

Staff and the EDC attorney spent much of the June 24 meeting reviewing the procedural steps for creating EDC projects, public‑hearing notice timelines and options to reduce delays in moving approved budgeted projects into procurement and execution.

The attorney told the board the biggest procedural delay often arises from a statutory 60‑day publication period that begins when the project notice is published. The attorney advised that if a city identifies projects during the budget process and publishes the required notice in August/September, the 60‑day clock would run during the lead‑up to the Oct. 1 fiscal year start and staff could begin spending immediately when the budget becomes effective.

Board members discussed who must prepare and publish notices. Several members said the city has struggled to publish notices because of staff turnover and vacant positions (public works director, economic developer). Multiple members recommended contracting out short administrative tasks if city staff cannot get notices posted, with one board member advising the EDC budget should include a professional‑services line to retain outside assistance when positions are unfilled.

The board also discussed a longstanding set of Island District needs — sidewalk gaps, drainage/ditch issues and unfinished curbs — and whether to treat those as incremental maintenance or a multi‑year redevelopment program. Some members urged a phased redevelopment and land‑banking strategy tied to a long‑range plan; others wanted a focused first step: pay for engineering and cost estimates to scope projects before committing large sums. Staff said the professional‑services budget line (typically $100,000) could fund an initial assessment; members suggested raising that amount in the next budget amendment if the board directs a larger study or land‑banking program.

No final vote was taken on a single Island District project or a specific funding increase at the meeting. The attorney and staff said they will return with a sample resolution and proposed schedule so the board can consider publishing notices on identified projects in time to have the 60‑day period run during August–September and permit spending effective Oct. 1.

Why this matters: SEDC’s ability to expedite capital work often depends on correctly publishing project‑creation notices and coordinating with the city’s budget calendar. Ensuring notice publication and clarifying responsibility for that task can significantly shorten the time between board approval and project execution.