Title
Acceptance of "Olympia Strong: Economic Opportunity for Everyone" as the Guiding Economic Development Strategy for the City of Olympia
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
This topic was presented to the Finance Committee on May 31, 2023 and to the full City Council at a study session on August 15, 2023. Statements of support were provided but no formal action was taken.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to accept "Olympia Strong: Economic Opportunity for Everyone" as the guiding economic development strategy document for the City of Olympia.
Report
Issue:
Whether to accept "Olympia Strong: Economic Opportunity for Everyone" as the guiding economic development strategy document for the City of Olympia.
Staff Contact:
Mike Reid, Economic Development Director, 360.753.8591
Presenter(s):
Mike Reid, Economic Development Director
Jason Robertson, JRO & CO. Consulting
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 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 the past 24 months, staff have 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 has shaped the updates to the Economy chapter of Olympia's Comprehensive Plan along with a set of initiatives to be implemented over a 10-year period.
Staff will be presenting the final draft of the plan and seeking acceptance from the City Council to formalize the plan as the City's economic development strategy document. ...
Click here for full text