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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-01-13 ACE MINUTES• ALLIANCE FOR COMMERCE IN ENGLEWOOD January 13, 2005 I. CALL TO ORDER The regular meeting of the Alliance for Commerce in Englewood (ACE) was called to order at 11:30 a.m. in the City Council Conference Room of the Englewood Civic Center. Mr. Hollingsworth presided until new officers were elected. Present: Absent: Staff: Cook, Guinther, McDermott, Schalk, Lonborg, Vasilas, Panetta (late) Wolosyn, Council Liaison Woodward, City Council Member Penning, Chamber of Commerce Liaison None Darren Hollingsworth, Business Development Coordinator II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES October 14, 2004 November 18, 2004 • Mr. Hollingsworth stated that Minutes of the October 14, 2004 and November 18, 2004 were to be considered for approval. • McDermott moved: Cook seconded: The motion carried. The Minutes of October 14, 2004 and November 18, 2004 be approved as written. III. ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR 2005 Chairman Vice-Chairman Mr. Hollingsworth stated that the ordinance creating ACE specifically states that an individual may serve as "Chair" no longer than two consecutive terms, a "term" being one year. Mr. Pa- netta has served as Chair for two years, and the commission now needs to elect a new slate of officers for 2005. He noted that Ms. McDermott is currently serving as Vice-Chair. Vasilas moved: Cook and Schalk seconded: Margaret McDermott be elected as Chair of ACE for 2005 . The motion carried unanimously . H:\GROUP\BOARDS\ACE\Minute s\2005\ACE 01-13-05 .doc • • • Chair McDermott called for nominations for Vice-Chair for 2005 . Cook moved: Schalk seconded: Mr. Vasilas be elected to serve as Vice-Chair for 2005. The motion carried unanimously . IV. ACE AWARD GECC Mardi Gras at the Gothic Chair McDermott noted that all members were asked to complete their ballots for the ACE member who has made a difference in the overall business climate in Englewood, and to submit those ballots to Mr. Hollingsworth. Mr. Hollingsworth stated that four members of the ACE were nominated for this award, and will be recognized at the Greater Englewood Chamber of Commerce gala at the Gothic Theatre on January 20, 2005. He thanked members for bringing their completed ballots to the meeting. V. CITY WEBSITE Online Business Directory Mr. Hollingsworth stated that the City web page is being redesigned and updated. There has been discussion on inclusion of linkage for the Englewood Business Directory -this will have provision for the name, address, and contact information. He asked the thoughts of ACE mem- bers whether this Directory should also contain an e-mail address, or web site information for the businesses in the Directory. Mr. Hollingsworth noted that concern has been expressed regarding legal issues if web-linkage is included. Mr. Schalk asked what the "legal concerns" were. Mr. Hollingsworth stated that one issue raised is a possibility of "graphic displays" that may be of- fensive or inappropriate. Councilman Woodward stated that concern regarding providing linkages to other web pages is that it may relate back to the City -the City would be presumed to supportive of a particular business or advertisement. Mr. Schalk stated that if someone is doing business in Englewood, the City should not be judging that business; 99% of the good businesses could be "punished" for the 1 % of businesses that may be inappropriate or undesirable. Mr. Schalk stated that the City and ACE should be promoting businesses and a good business climate. He suggested that the "bad eggs" will eventually move on, and he reiterated that it is not the position of the City or ACE to judge businesses. Ms. Guinther suggested that a disclaimer be included on the Englewood web page that the City is not responsible for the content of individual business web pages. Ms. Guinther further noted that e-mail addresses change constantly, and it would be very difficult to keep that information cur- rent. H:\GROUP\BOARDS\ACE\Minutes\2005\ACE 01-13-05 .doc 2 • • • Ms. Lonborg stated that as a parent with young children, it is her responsibility to monitor what those youngsters access on the internet. She stated that she agreed with Mr. Schalk's position that the web linkages from the City's web page should not be shut down because of inappropriate or undesirable advertising of a few businesses . Mr. Cook mentioned the business licensing proposal that is being considered; this will provide a way to reach businesses also . Mr. Schalk said he had received a call from someone regarding the proposed business licensing, and the individual "wanted to know what the City was trying to do". Mr. Schalk stated that it is his opinion the web page is something the City could do for the business community, and emphasized the need to promote what businesses we have in Engle - wood . The City web page Business Directory, with linkage to businesses, will be an information portal for those seeking a specific business, and maybe also for those looking to relocate and they can see that Englewood does promote and support the business community. Chair McDermott asked how "something trashy" on a web page will be handled -what will the City do. Ms. Lonborg asked how other cities handle this issue. Mr. Hollingsworth stated that some cities that have links to businesses have disclaimers, some provide only for name, address, phone number and contact person on the link and not an "advertising" web page for individual businesses. He stated that the City would have to develop a strategy to deal with problem web pages if the determination is made to include linkage for business web pages . Ms . Lonborg suggested the possibility of a pop-up box on the City web page that would indicate "caution, you are leaving the City web page", or that the contents of some individual web pages may be offensive to some viewers. Mr. Schalk asked if the web site could also include a page for businesses to post up-coming events -a special sale, etc. The possibility of a "business calendar of events " and a "city calen- dar of events" on the web page was discussed . Mr. Hollingsworth stated that a community event calendar has not been considered, and suggested that this might be more appropriately addressed by the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Schalk urged that the City and business community share ideas and work together-don't be afraid of little things. Mr. Panetta entered the meeting at 11:50 a.m . and was seated with the members . Further brief discussion ensued. Mr. Woodward suggested that the City Attorney might be con- sulted regarding how to address the web page business linkage content and negative feed-back if someone finds that content offensive. VI. ACE BY -LAWS Chair McDermott stated that the proposed By-Laws were in the ACE packet for members to read. She asked if there were comments , suggestions , or modifications that members wanted to see in the proposed By-Laws. Mr. Hollingsworth noted that paragraphs that contain an Engle- wood Municipal Code citation are quoted from the EMC, and cannot be changed until or unless the EMC is changed. He noted that the proposed By-Laws are modeled on approved By-Laws for the Englewood Urban Renewal Authority and the Keep Englewood Beautiful Commission . H :\GROUP\BOARDS\ACE\Minutes\2005\ACE 01-13-05 .d oc 3 • • • Brief discussion ensued . Vasilas moved: Lonborg seconded: The By-Laws of the Alliance for Commerce in Englewood be adopted. The motion carried unanimously . VII. ACE WORK PROGRAM Mr. Hollingsworth stated that the Economic Development Strategy that ACE approved in 2004, and which goes before City Council on February 7 , 2005, set forth an aggressive program for ACE to work on. The proposed 2005 Work Program is based on the ED Strategy. Five items have been suggested for 2005. These include: 1. ACE Visitation -S i te Survey or Phone Contact 2 . Business Networking Opportunities 3 . Business Communications (Newsletter Articles) 4 . Business Attraction -Contact Brokers , Property Owners Re: Vacancy, Investment 5 . Business Recognition Mr. Hollingsworth asked that ACE members, if they become aware of property that is vacant, or have contact with another busines s looking to relocate , to please refer them to staff. Mr. Cook asked whether open forums with the business community would be advisable -it might give business community members an opportun ity to "air their opinions". Mr. Hollingsworth stated that business forums have been held previously , and attendance was quite disappointing . Mr. Cook suggested that a guest speaker for the forums could be an enticement for attendance; he noted he had recently attended a meeting with a speaker that addressed terror- ism issues -the room was "packed". Mr. Schalk stated that he felt ACE should work more on marketing Englewood and promoting existing businesses , in addition to trying to attract new businesses. He suggested the need for more and improved interaction with the City. Chair McDermott noted that five topics have been identified by Mr. Hollingsworth, and Mr. Schalk has suggested marketing and promotion also be included as a sixth item. She stated that ACE needs to discuss and define what they want to address in 2005 . Mr. Vasilas suggested the need for a new slogan -"Support your local business and support your community". He stated that he has talked to the Chamber of Commerce, but there has been no follow-up . He stated that the downtown merchants have to find a way to reach out to existing and potential customers. Mr. Vasilas stated that he supports continuation of the visitation pro- gram. He participated on at least two visits , and suggested that continuation of this program be a #1 priority for ACE in 2005 . Mr. Cook asked about notifying businesses of upcoming visits; he did not like just "dropping in " for a visit with no previous notice . Brief discussion ensued. H:\GRO UP\BOARDS \ACE\Minut es\2 005 \AC E 01-l 3-05 .doc 4 • • • Chair McDermott noted that ACE is a small group -only 7 members, plus the liaisons from Council and the Chamber. She suggested possibly trading the projects such as visitation around so that no one "team" gets burned out. Ms. Wolosyn and Mr. Woodward both indicated they would like to participate on the visits to the merchants, and asked that they just be notified a little in advance if possible when and where the visits were scheduled . Chair McDermott then brought up the "communications" issue. She noted that it will be difficult for her to write an article every month or every quarter on activities of ACE and what is happen- ing in the business community. She suggested that Mr. Hollingsworth, as the Business Devel- opment Coordinator and staff liaison to ACE, "put on his ACE hat" and assume this responsibil- ity. Mr. Hollingsworth stated that he has written articles for inclusion in the Chamber of Com- merce newsletter and for the business newsletter. Mr. Panetta suggested a quick synopsis refer- encing accomplishments and positions that ACE has taken on issues, such as the head tax, that would have impacted the business community. Mr. Panetta suggested that the article ''ask for input" from members of the business community on issues of concern. He also suggested that names, phone numbers, and e-m ail addresses of ACE members be included in the articles so that if any business person has an issue they want to discuss they will have a list of contacts readily at hand. Mr. Schalk asked if ACE has a budget, and whether there are funds available for marketing . How does the City promote itself -how and where are these funds budgeted. Mr. Hollingsworth stated that the Community Development Department does have a budget, with limited funds in- cluded for marketing . He stated that marketing the Enterprise Zone , or properties available for instance , are frequently "pigg y-backed" through the Denver Chamber of Commerce newsletter because of the wide circulation . Ms. Wolosyn stated that she would like to look at the "gaps" in business types that exists in Englewood -what do we need th at is not being offered, and how can that business type be en- couraged to consider location in Englewood. Mr. Hollingsworth stated that staff is currently working to develop a marketing plan and "void analysis" that should address Ms. Wolosyn's concerns. Mr. Hollingsworth stated we need to understand the demand versus supply of mer- chandise available in Englewood. Mr. Cook stated that he has talked to eight or nine different businesses and no one had heard of ACE. Mr. Schalk stated that this is because "we don 't market ourselves", and in his opinion in- clusion on the City web page will provide a good connection with the business community. He stated that newsletters , radio ads , posters can all be done with the tools we currently have. Mr. Schalk suggested an "ACE page" on the City web site -this would provide a good way to mar- ket what ACE's mission is. Chairman McDermott questioned whether a banner across Broadway that advertises ACE might be considered . She suggested that the banner might say "ACE -the voice of business in Engle- wood", and include a primary phone number . H:\GROUP\BOARDS\ACE\Minutes\2 005\AC E 0 1-13-05 .doc 5 • • • Ms. Lonborg noted that in the Capitol Hill area of Denver, and in the Cherry Creek shopping center area, merchants have used banners on light poles to market and advertise their activities . Chair McDermott stated that she found this banner approach interesting. Ms . Penning suggested having a display regarding ACE at the Chamber gala planned for January 20 . Mr. Hollingsworth stated that he will inform the Information Technology department that ACE is desirous of an "ACE button" on the City web page. Chair McDermott asked when the web site will be a "reality". Mr. Hollingsworth stated that the target date is in March, 2005. Mr. Schalk further discussed the possibility of having an ACE web site -he noted that there are so many possibilities for interaction with the business community -promotion and marketing of our business community -that could come about if ACE had its own web site. Businesses out- side of Englewood could also be attracted to Englewood via this web site . Further discussion ensued. Ms . Wolosyn asked whether the information on the web site can be updated. Mr. Hollingsworth responded affirmatively. The possibility of hosting additional business forums or a business fair was briefly discussed. Mr. Cook suggested that possibly the business forum could be broken into "retail" or "industrial" oriented businesses . Ms. Wolosyn asked about a collaboration between ACE and the Chamber of Commerce to encourage a "business forum" in conjunction with the after hours events the Chamber hosts. This may be a way to invigorate attendance for both functions. Mr. Panetta ex- pressed his doubt regarding participation in the "forums". Ms. Lonborg spoke against dividing any forum or meeting "geographically" -maybe by "type" of business -possibly a meeting of restaurant owners, or clothiers , etc., with a speaker of interest that might encourage attendance . She stated that it works well to "give people information for free " at such forums . Chair McDermott stated that the issue of "networking" merits further discussion. Chair McDermott asked for clarification on "business recognition" -exactly what is meant by "recognition". Mr. Hollingsworth stated that the last few years the Chamber of Commerce has taken the lead on business recognition in conjunction with their annual "gala". Mr. Hollingsworth stated that he would like to see this activity and the awards program strengthened through the Chamber. He suggested that business recognition can be something as simple as publicizing and participating in ribbon cutting for new , relocated , or expanding businesses. He suggested that businesses might also be recognized for adding to the work force, or for long-time presence in the community. Mr. Cook commented that if linkage is provided for individual businesses that this linkage be provided through an ACE web page -this would be one means of providing ACE recognition in the business community . H:\GRO UP\BOARDS\AC E\Minutes\2005\AC E 0 1-13-05 .doc 6 • • • Mr. Panetta suggested possibly a "recognition" for businesses that "don't do anything" -an in- cognito business recognition, in addition to those recognitions given at the Chamber gala. He suggested that maybe a joint ACE/Chamber luncheon could be hosted to recognize businesses that have been in Englewood for some period of time -say, 20 years or more . Ms . Penning of the Chamber commented that the Chamber is trying to "go outside the box" this year at the gala. Ms. Penning also suggested that when ribbon cuttings and after-hour events at the Chamber are scheduled representatives from ACE should attend. Mr. Schalk asked about the business license program. Mr. Hollingsworth stated that this pro- posal is in the very early stages of research, and he didn't really have information available. The intent is to make the licensing a benefit to the community, and it will not be a revenue source for the City. Mr. Schalk suggested that any revenues brought in from the licensing program should be used to further communications with the business community. Mr. Woodward stated as he recalled, City Council was very clear that ACE is to take the lead on the licensing program --re- search, publicizing the program, and educating the business community to the advantages of a licensing program if one is adopted. Chair McDermott stated that the Work Program for 2005 has been increased to six items with the addition of the marketing and promotional efforts. VIII. COMMENTS AND EVENTS a . Chamber of Commerce Ms. Penning reminded members of the Chamber "gala" scheduled for January 20 . Mr. Hollingsworth stated that tickets for members who wish to attend will be paid for out of the ACE budget ; guest tickets will be paid for by the member. Mr. Panetta, Mr. Vasilas , and Mr. Cook all indicated interest in attending the gala. Mr. Hollingsworth briefly discussed the City participation in the gala, and the "take a closer look at Englewood" memento that will be given to attendees. b. ACE Members Ms. Wolosyn stated that she wanted to do an article on "things to do in Englewood", and include a list of restaurants available; however, she "met with resistance from City Hall " because the list of restaurants was not up-to-date. She stated that this list needs to be updated and publicized. Mr. Vasilas stated that the Downtown Merchants Association is still interested in having the car show this summer; however, they are still short of funds to secure the show. He stated that any- one interested in contributing to this event, to please send the checks to the Chamber of Com- merce. Mr. Vasilas advised Chair McDermott and members of the ACE that he will be unable to attend the February, 2005 meeting . H:\GRO UP\BOARDS\ACE\Minutes\2005\AC E 0 1-13-05 .doc 7 • Nothing further was brought before the ACE for consideration. The meeting was declared ad- at 1:00 p.m. ertrude G. Welty, Recording Secretar. Agenda Items: • Research other jurisdictions on web-page "disclaimers" • Research cost of ACE link or web site • Research cost of light pole banners Action Items: • Elected new Officers for 2005 • Approved By-Laws • Letters to targeted businesses prior to scheduled visits • • H :\GRO UP\BOARDS\ACE\Minutes\2005\ACE 01 -13 -05 .doc 8