2020-10-21 EDA Meeting Minutes - Approved

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City of Centerville EDA Minutes October 21, 2020 1. Revolving Loan and Grant Program –7087 Centerville Road Executive Director Statz summarized that the applicant submitted an invoice that appeared to show costs for a driveway to the south of the building that was not a grant eligible expense. Mr. Statz asked for a new invoice that showed the itemized costs, and reported that there was a discrepancy between the old invoice and the new one. Mr. Statz asked for a copy of a canceled check to prove that the applicant paid his contractor the amount on the invoice, and is now asking the EDA Commission if they want to award the grant, even though the concrete was only colored and not stamped as promised. There was discussion on adding language to the grant application stating that any changes to the work applied for must be approved. Discussion took place with the general consensus being that the property was improved, but the applicant did not make all the upgrades that were promised. Some members stated that they don’t want to make it difficult for businesses to use the grant program, but they also don’t want to set precedence by awarding grants for work that was not done as promised. There was also discussion regarding a high corner on the property and there was general concern that it was a safety issue and needed to be repaired. The amount of money to award the applicant was considered. Motion by President Hanzal, seconded by Commissioner Weatherhead, to release payment of the full grant amount of $5000.00, contingent upon the high corner safety issue being addressed, reviewed and approved by city staff and the applicant showing canceled checks for the work that was performed. A roll call vote was taken. All in favor. Motion carried. VI. NEW BUSINESS 1. Business Coaching Program Executive Director Statz stated that he had been approached by an individual at the Chamber of Commerce regarding providing business coaching for businesses in the city. Mr. Statz asked him to assemble packages to offer to Centerville businesses. Mr. Statz asked for input from the commission regarding offering a potential 50% cost share, and a budget of approximately $2000- $3,000 annually. Discussion was had regarding the Open to Business program which is free of charge. Executive Director Statz stated that he felt Open to Business was project and capital based, where business coaching focused more on businesses that wanted to reinvent themselves. The general consensus was that the grant program hadn’t generated a lot of interest, and the commission members would like to send an email to the businesses on the email list asking if there is any interest in such a program before dedicating money to it. 2. Accept the Resignation of Mr. Michael Giovinazzo and Declare a Vacancy on the EDA Board. Page 4 of 5