Council asks for clearer deliverables on $60,000 Capital Rivers Connect economic development contract

Staff presented a proposed one‑year, $60,000 agreement with Capital Rivers Connect to provide economic development services, and multiple council members asked for clearer evidence of past deliverables before approving additional funds.

A staff presenter introduced the contract, saying it would fund a year of services including a strategy, community engagement workshops and assistance to jumpstart a Chamber of Commerce. "The item before you is to approve an agreement with Capital Rivers Connect for economic development services in the amount of $60,000 for 1 year," the presenter said.

Several council members said they recalled an earlier contract with the same firm and asked for a report on what the city received in return (for example, whether commercial vacancies were filled and how prior workshop data had been used). One council member said the previous engagement felt "spotty" during the COVID period and requested documentation of deliverables and outcomes before voting to commit additional funds.

Council direction: members asked staff to request a presentation from Capital Rivers Connect or provide a clearer summary of past deliverables and outcomes and to return the item with that information before final approval.

Why it matters: Councilors noted the city has a tight budget and wants to ensure contracted consultants produce measurable outcomes that support downtown and business development.

Next steps: Staff will seek additional detail from Capital Rivers Connect, including past deliverables and measurable outcomes, and return the item for council consideration.