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Council discusses forming redevelopment commission to pursue grants and projects
Summary
Council members debated whether to form a redevelopment commission to drive economic development, outlining steps (draft ordinance, leadership, partners) and noting political-balance requirements and potential funding or volunteer models; staff will prepare draft ordinance language.
Council members discussed creating a redevelopment commission to help the town plan and pursue grant funding and shovel-ready projects. Chair outlined a two-phase approach: draft an ordinance to form the commission and leadership structure, then identify priorities and partners (Ripley County, Office of Community & Rural Affairs, planning consultants) to prepare projects that could qualify for outside funding.
Members raised questions about political-balance requirements for commission membership and whether the town should pay members or rely on volunteers. Speaker 4 said the commission would align with the town's comprehensive plan and could make the town more competitive for grants if properly staffed and organized. The council asked staff and legal counsel to prepare draft language for consideration at a future meeting.
