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Greenbelt council approves up to $75,000 for economic development plan, drawing mixed reactions
Summary
The Greenbelt City Council authorized the city manager to contract with Willdan Financial Services for an economic development strategic plan and marketing strategy using ARPA funds, voting 6–1 amid requests for more public notice and assurances about local stakeholder outreach.
The Greenbelt City Council voted to authorize the city manager to enter a contract with Willdan Financial Services not to exceed $75,000 to produce an economic development strategic plan and marketing strategy, citing the need to support local business recovery under the American Rescue Plan Act. The motion passed 6–1.
Staff described a competitive process that drew 24 proposals and yielded four finalists. Mayor Jordan told the council that after multiple reviews staff concluded “Willdan Financial represents the best value for the city.” Willdan managing principal Molly McKay introduced the firm and outlined a community‑focused, eight‑task methodology that includes at least 50 business interviews, focus groups and performance metrics.
Supporters pointed to the continuing economic effects of the pandemic and the city’s limited capacity to market itself without outside expertise. Council member Niesel called the $75,000 “an incredible investment in our community” and noted the city has already directed other ARPA funds to small local programs.
Several residents and council members urged more public notice before adopting the contract. Bill Orleans, a resident who had asked earlier about closed‑session decisions, said he was not opposed in principle but recommended deferring the decision so residents could review the presentation materials. City Manager Josue Salmaron said the RFP and attachments were published in the city’s News Review and outlined prior business outreach, including a roundtable at the New Deal Café.
Staff and Willdan representatives said the firm will prioritize local outreach and work with the city’s economic development manager, John Mason, who was introduced during the meeting. Molly McKay said the team will tailor surveys and conduct interviews and workshops specific to Greenbelt.
The council approved the contract after additional discussion and public comment. The next steps are contract execution and the consultant’s engagement schedule, including community outreach and interim deliverables.
The city manager said implementation will be coordinated with the new economic development manager and reported back to council as milestones are reached.
