Consultants outline city-led economic development plan, promise iterative drafts and outreach

Community Attributes consultants Chris Meford and Elliot Weiss on Monday told La Grande elected officials they will lead a city-directed economic development strategic planning process that emphasizes local visioning, data refresh and public engagement.

"We are very excited to be here," Chris said as he outlined the firm's approach and regional experience. He told the council the team scoped four in-person trips up front, with a mid-fall return to present a working draft and iterative public review leading into the holidays.

The consultants described a typical deliverable sequence of two to three full drafts: an initial working draft in October informed by interviews and data, a second draft responding to substantive comments, and a polishing stage for final alignment. They said they will refresh data where necessary but will not redo prior plans unless needed, and they will align the strategy with relevant sections of the city's comprehensive plan.

Chris also referenced Oregon planning frameworks the team will consider, noting that the effort will be calibrated to statewide planning goals cited in council conversation. The consultants encouraged early council involvement to shape the plan's vision and prioritized strategies that can be implemented given the city's resources.

The meeting closed with consultants soliciting what success would look like to councilors and residents and with a reminder that the team would be available for follow-up during implementation and stewardship discussions.