Carbondale Reporter

City of Genoa Economic Development Commission met Feb. 13.

Here is the agenda provided by the commission:

Chair Nick Bradac called the February 13, 2024 City of Genoa Economic Development Commission Meeting to order at 9:07 A.M.

On roll call, members Nick Bradac, Carolyn Tobinson, Matt Hoffman, and Josh Kubiak were present; Alyssa Seguss, City of Genoa, was also present.

The Economic Development Commission moved on to Old Business. Mr. Hoffman moved and Ms. Tobinson seconded to approve the minutes of the January 9, 2024 meeting. Upon voice vote, all members present said aye.

New Business:

A. Action Plan for the High Priority Short Term Strategic Goal “Support the growth and development of small businesses by exploring incentives and resources and encouraging local entrepreneurship”: The EDC reviewed the goal outlined in the Strategic Plan. There was lengthy discussion about what services the City offers to new and expanding businesses, what the Chamber offers, and how we can enhance current services. The EDC discussed reinstituting the Incubator Program to foster new business growth. There was also discussion about costly build outs for restaurants and also the cost to update some of the existing buildings before a new tenant can move in. There was discussion that part of the goal related to rebated rent to new businesses could be offered to desirable businesses that will help update buildings and install new equipment, such as kitchen equipment.

B. Updates from the Chair: None at this time further than what was discussed. C. Next Meeting Agenda: Review 2024 goals established and report on the following action items:

a. Update on possible rental of commercial kitchen space

b. Reinstating incubator space

• Review existing building leases

• Contact possible strip mall locations for alternative incubator space

• Continue conversation regarding shared professional workspace c. Invite downtown business owner

There being no further business, Chair Bradac made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:57 AM, seconded by Ms. Tobinson. Upon voice vote, all members present said aye.

https://www.genoa-il.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EDCminutes02132024.pdf