Title
Olympia 2045 - Economy Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan Update Recommendation
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The Planning Commission and Social Justice and Equity Commission has each reviewed the Economy Chapter updates and recommend approval.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the recommended updates to the Economy Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan and forward to the full City Council for consideration.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve the recommended updates to the Economy Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan and forward to the full City Council for consideration.
Staff Contact:
Tim Smith, Interim Director of Community Planning and Development, 360.570.3915
Joyce Phillips, Principal Planner, Community Planning and Development, 360.570.3722
Mike Reid, Director of Economic Development, 360.753.8591
Presenter(s):
Mike Reid, Director of Economic Development
Background and Analysis:
Like communities everywhere, Olympia emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic to an altered economic landscape and a clearer understanding of the barriers individuals and households face when seeking economic security. The City launched Olympia Strong in July of 2022 to better understand how community members hope to see our economy recover, evolve and grow in the years ahead, and how we can work with partners to create pathways that serve a broader cross section of those that call Olympia home.
Over eight months, staff analyzed data and deployed surveys, focus groups, person-on-the-street interviews and a variety of other engagement activities to understand the long-term economic needs and desires of the community. This input then shaped updates to the Economy Chapter of Olympia's Comprehensive Plan along with a set of initiatives to be implemented over a 10-year period.
What Does Economic Development Look Like in Olympia?
Olympia Strong goes beyond what might look like a typical "economic development plan" that focuses on business, taxes and infras...
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