Title
Consideration of a Proposed Cultural Arts, Stadium and Convention Center District
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to consider the proposed resolution, which would remove the City of Olympia from the Cultural Arts, Stadium and Convention Center District proposed by Thurston County.
Report
Issue:
Whether the City of Olympia should remain in the proposed Cultural Arts, Stadium and Convention Center District.
Staff Contact:
City Manager, Steve Hall - 360-753-8370
Presenter(s):
City Manager, Steve Hall
Background and Analysis:
On June 13, 2017, the Thurston County Commissioners sent a letter to Thurston County jurisdictions proposing the creation of a Cultural Arts, Stadium, and Convention Center District (District) to study and potentially authorize a regional convention center pursuant to RCW 67.38. The City's options are to do nothing and be part of the proposed District pending voter approval in the November General Election. Alternatively, the City may opt out of the District by passage of a resolution and notification to the Board of County Commissioners prior to July 25. The attached resolution would indicate the City opting out of the potential District.
On July 11, the City of Yelm voted to opt out. The City of Tumwater is proposing to opt out on July 18 and the City of Lacey is proposing to opt out on July 13 or 20. While the proposed district would create economic opportunity and jobs, the statute used to create the district is very rigid and allows little time for discussion with the Visitors and Convention Bureau, Economic Development Council and others before acting.
On July 14, the Mayor, on behalf of the Olympia City Council sent a letter to the Thurston County Board of Commissioners requesting that they slow down the process by withdrawing their current resolution to create a district.
If the County chooses to move ahead, staff recommends the City opt...
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