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Council debates $3M proposed infusion to economic development fund and consultant vs. in‑house grant work
Summary
Magner proposed a $3 million year‑end transfer to the economic development fund and discussed contracting a $90,000 consultant (RISE360) to identify grants and funding; council members were split on consultant use versus in‑house work and asked for scope and cost breakdowns.
Don Magner urged the council to consider a one-time $3 million transfer from FY26 year‑end savings to bolster the economic development fund and provide greater capacity for incentives and deal support.
He outlined two tactics: a consultant-led economic development incentive analysis and a market scan for grants and funding opportunities (RISE360 proposed for $90,000), or performing the work in-house under the proposed director of strategic initiatives. "If it took us to probably Q1 of 2027 to roll out a report or briefing to you, then I'm confident we can do a very good job" in-house, Magner said; proponents of the consultant argued it would deliver earlier and with specialized experience.
Council members asked for a detailed scope for the $200,000 study figure mentioned for some tactics, revenue and ROI projections, and a clearer breakdown of the $90,000 consultant price. Some members supported using a consultant for speed; others preferred building in-house capability for sustainability.
