HomeMy WebLinkAboutPackets - Council Packets (1061) *AMENDED 06/21/05, 11:30 a.m.
AGENDA
ORO VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL SPECIAL SESSION
AND
ORO VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THINK TANK
MEMBERS
JOINT STUDY SESSION
JUNE 22, 2005
ORO VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11,000 N. LA CANADA DRIVE
*SPECIAL SESSION: AT OR AFTER 5:30 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER: 5:30 P.M.
ROLL CALL
*1. STOP O.V. OUTRAGEOUS GIVEAWAYS & OLDAKOWSK1 v.
CUVELIER AND TOWN OF ORO VALLEY; DISCUSSION AND
POSSIBLE ACTION CONCERNING THE SEPARATE DEFENSE OF THE
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY, INCLUDING POSSIBLE DIRECTION TO THE
TOWN ATTORNEY TO ENGAGE OUTSIDE COUNSEL FOR THE
SEPARATE DEFENSE OF THE TOWN
ADJOURNMENT
JOINT STUDY SESSION: AT OR AFTER 5:30 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
1 . DISCUSSION REGARDING "THINK TANK" MEMBERS
RECOMMENDATION — ORO VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
STRATEGIES
ADJOURNMENT
The Town of Oro Valley complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
If any person with a disability needs any type of accommodation, please notify
the Oro Valley Town Clerk, at 229-4700
POSTED: 06/15/05 AMENDED AGENDA POSTED: 06/21/05
4:00 p.m. 11:30 a.m.
lh Ih
AGENDA
ORO VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THINK TANK
MEMBERS
JOINT STUDY SESSION
JUNE 22, 2005
ORO VALLEY TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS
11,000 N. LA CANADA DRIVE
CALL TO ORDER: 5:30 P.M.
ROLL CALL
1. DISCUSSION REGARDING "THINK TANK" MEMBERS
RECOMMENDATION — ORO VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
STRATEGIES
ADJOURNMENT
The Town of Oro Valley complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
If any person with a disability needs any type of accommodation, please notify
the Oro Valley Town Clerk, at 229-4700
POSTED: 06/15/05
4:00 p.m.
Ih
I
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
STUDY SESSION
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
MEETING DATE: JUNE 22, 2005
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR & COUNCIL MEMBERS
FROM: JEFFREY H. WEIR, CEcD
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR
SUBJECT: MEETING AND DISCUSSION WITH THINK TANK MEMBERS.
SUMMARY:
The Think Tank was created at the direction of the Mayor and Council to review the
existing Community Economic Developemnt Strategy (CEDS), assess and recommend
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changes to the CEDS, suggest new directions (for Economic Developemnt) and offer any
other considerations the Think Tank members wanted the Council to consider.
The Think Tank members included representatives from a variety of local interests,
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businesses,
the development community, the arts and citizens-at-large.
The session to day is an opportunity for the members of Council and Think Tank to
pp t'Y
discuss the proposed
changes and suggestions submitted to the Mayor and Council by
the Think Tank.
I have attached cope reportprepared copies of the by Dr. Lay Gibson titled "Understandings
and Observations from the15,
January8 and 2005 Think Tank Sessions"; and a copy of
the May 6, 2005 Think Tank Interim Report that was submitted to the Mayor and Council.
Additionally, I have
attached a copyof the names of the Think Tank members.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Report preparedDr.
byLayGibson titled "Understandings and Observations from
the January 8 and 15, 2005 Think Tank Sessions".
2. May 6, 2005 Think Tank Interim Report.
3. List of Think Tank members.
TOWN OF ORO VALLEY
STUDY SESSION
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
PAGE 2 OF 2
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JEFFREY H. WEIR, CEcD
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADM.
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JtA 1,i_ A 111 f.J 4 jZ
CHUCK SW ET
TOWN MANAGER
ATTACHMENT # 1
THINK TANK SESSIONS REPORT FROM
DR. LAY JAMES GIBSON
JUNE 22, 2005
The Oro Valley Economic Development Think Tank:
Understandings and Observations from
The January 8 and 15, 2005
Think Tank Sessions
Lay James Gibson, Ph.D.
Consultant
Submitted to
The Town of Oro Valley
Attention Jeff Weir
January 19, 2005
The Think Tank sessions were organized
around five lectures offered by Dr. Gibson, five
and
group discussions facilitated by Dr. Gibsonspontaneous discussions on a variety of
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topics initiated by the participants. This discussions produced a "Vision"for economic
development in Oro Valley and a "Mission Statement"that called for creating export
jobs that are commensurate with h the education levels and aspirations of Oro Valley
residents; creating a sustainable public income stream to support high quality public
goods; supporting the development of business activities that are consistent with Oro
encouraging Valley's high quality living environment; 9 g the retention and expansion of
especially businesses — ex ort oriented businesses; and making Oro Valley a
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seeking destination for businesses new locations and individuals seeking a
place to visit or reside.
Mr. Weir's Vision and Mission Statement are in Appendix A.
Three of Dr. Gibson's
five lectures were offered on Saturday, January 8. The first was
titled Economic Development 101. Discussion which followed suggested that Think Tank
participants prefer to combine considerations of community and economic development
themes; feel that initiatives i tives which focus on efficiency will eventually enhance equity
outcomes; and feel that
investments in "place prosperity"will eventually be translated
into enhanced "people prosperity."This lecture provided a broad overview for
participants.
A copyof this presentation is found in Appendix B.
The second lecture,
"The Economic Landscape, The New Economy, and Your Region
introducedadditional topics including a discussion of the structure of
and Its Economy," p
a regional economy andemerging emer in trends in the world's economic systems. It also
introduced the notions of comparative advantage and barriers to economic
development and theanalysisstrengths,of stren ths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in
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regional systems. Appendix C describes this presentation.
9
The third lecture on the first day focused on economic base theory and cluster-driven
economic development. Specifically export building and leakage-reducing strategies
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were discusses along with basic and non-basic sources of income. Finally, often ignored
in and transfer payments were reviewed. The notes for
themes such as cross commute g p Y
"Economic
Base Theoryand Clusters" are found in Appendix D.
Following discussions based on these three lectures and associated themes"homework"
participants were asked to produce lists of"strengths and
was assigned. Specifically, p p
", "barriers and weaknesses,""opportunities" and "threats."
comparative advantages
These lists would at least partially guide discussions during the January 15 Think Tank
and Session.
The second Think Tank Session was held on January 15. Dr. Gibson offered two
lectures designed to stimulate thinking on the attributes of effective economic
development efforts. The first focused on the regional approach to economic
— value as a wayof leveraging resources but also some of the red
development its va u g
flags, downsides, and disbenefits that might come from being "too regional."This
called "The Regional Approach" it is found in Appendix E. The
presentation was simply 9
other lecture was called "The 12 Commandments" and it focused on the rules that
should be followed to
assure the creation of a successful economic development effort.
The materials for this presentation are found in Appendix F.
Discussion topics.covereda varietyof to ics. Each of the first four structured discussions
follow a theme
that had been introduced on the previous Saturday. And all four
produced lists of"recommendations"commendations" or more properly, items which could certainly form
the topics of future projects,discussions, or policy initiatives. In some ways, these
four different work programs. The items on each list are not ranked;
discussions yielded
they simply appear in the order mentioned.
List 1. Oro Valley's comparative advantages and strengths. Ten items were mentioned.
p 9
List 2. Opportunities for economic development. Fifteen items were mentioned.
List 3. Potential weaknesses and barriers to economic development in Oro Valley.
Twelve items were mentioned.
List 4. Threats to Oro Valley's economic future. Fourteen items were mentioned here.
Finally there was substantial discussion on the business of incentives and economic
development. Whereas no firm positions were taken most participants had a genuine
interest in seeing an objective analysis of the pros and cons (and costs and benefits)
associated with specific incentives. The nine potential incentives on List 5 are those
clearly identified during discussions.
Conclusion. There appears to be strong and enthusiastic public support for economic
development initiatives in Oro Valley. Further, fully engaged elected officials and a
knowledgeable and effective city staff are in place to move Oro Valley forward. This mix
of capable players in a growing and dynamic community bodes well for Oro Valley.
List 1. Oro Valley's Comparative Advantages and Strengths
"build-out" Oro
1. Unlike communities atValley can "do it right"when developing
its open land.
2. quality h urban and natural amenities make Oro Valley an exceptional place
to live and work.
3. Oro Valleyhigh-quality subregion within the larger Tucson
a hig -
�s perceived to be q tY
Metropolitan Region.
4. Oro ro Valleyoffers a clean and safe environment.
5. Oro Valley is a "high end, high amenity" place to live and work.
6. Oro Valley's residents are
well educated and form a high quality workforce.
and highly 7. Oro Valley has competentg Y motivated community leaders.
8. There
is a real "sense of community" in Oro Valley.
9. There is room in Oro Valley for continuedgrowth rowth of local markets and demands
for additional goods and services.
homogeneous, and large enough to offer variety while
10.Oro Valley is cohesive, 9
being small enough to be"manageable."
List 2. Opportunities for Economic Development
1. OroValley new,
is open to change, and not"set in its ways."
2. great OroValleyhas potential to become a "branded"destination.
3. Oro
Valleycan be and should be) proactive when promoting small business.
4. Oro potential Valleyhas the to become a year-round cultural center.
Ile still has the opportunity to broaden its retail and service offerings,
5. Oro Valley pp
especially those now under represented.
II has the opportunity to be innovative in the physical design of the
6. Oro Valley pp tY
community.
7. Oro Valley has the opportunity to develop small business assistance resources
and capabilities.
opportunity Oro
Valleyhas the o ortunity to develop festivals and events, including fine arts
appeal that will enhance its a eal and reputation as a "branded destination."
Ile has the opportunity to develop the Naranja Town site"the right way."
9. Oro Valley pp tY
Valleyhas the opportunity to further exploit its wonderful winter weather.
10.Oro ppo tY
11
.oro Valley opportunity the o ortunity to have full citizen participation in building a
consensus blueprint for the Town's future.
r Valleyhas the opportunity to better utilize the Mt. Lemmon resource by
12.0 o pp
building a tram to link the Town to the mountain.
13.Oro Valley has the opportunity to expand its public revenues by instituting a
property tax.
Ile has the opportunity to rethink its "big box" position and recognize the
14.Oro Valley pp tY
emergence of the"small box retail revolution."
15Valley opportunity oro has the o ortunity to develop "neighborhood-style retail."
List 3. Potential Weaknesses and Barriers to Economic Development in
Oro Valley
1. Town rules and regulations may negatively impact business ventures.
2. Poor access to Tucson International Airport.
3. The perception of unstable local government.
4. Poor access to lower skill/lower wage workers.
5. Inflexible town rules and regulations and uneven administration of town codes.
6. High land cost and limited availability of land for development.
7. No speculative buildings for potential industrial tenants.
8. Lack of affordable housing for all but the most affluent.
9. High crime rates in the Tucson Metropolitan Region.
10.Lack of ethnic diversity.
11.Unreasonably high impact fees.
12.Lack of transparency in building regulations and lack of consistency in building
regulations over time.
List 4. Threats to Oro Valley's Economic Future
1. Unimaginative developments and poor land-use choices could squander Oro
Valley's future.
2. Depletion of ground water.
pp
3. Oro Valley may be oversupplied with retail and retail establishments leading to
declines in business activity.
4. All infrastructure, but especially roads, may be near or at capacity.
5. Water availability
both in absolute availability and in terms of systems capacities.
6. The perception by outsiders that Oro Valley is a "tough place to do business."
7. Lack of economic diversification and overdependence on a single cluster (retail).
8. Failure of leadership to gather ather authoritative "strategic intelligence" on local,
regional, national, and global trends, issues, and opportunities.
9. Secure and sustainable quality public goods are not in place.
10.Oro Valley's leadership
is too reactive and not nearly as proactive as it should
be.
11.Upward movement
of housingcosts and diminished supply of"suitable housing"
will increasingly limit the "Oro Valley demographic."
12.Oro Valley has t potential otential to create an inappropriate balance in commercial vs.
residential land use.
13.Failure to recognize the need to consider redevelopment of land and to plan for
reuse of already developed parcels.
14.Institutin9 a property tax would be a threat to the community.
List 5. Economic Development Incentives
1. Job training.
2. "Fast tracking"of the development permits-and-permissions process.
3. A mechanism to develop and support (bus or other) transport for low wage
workers who are employed in Oro Valley but who live elsewhere in the
Tucson Region.
4. Tax incentives or inducements for a) retail businesses or b) other business
types.
5. Fee waivers.
6. Incentivize development of Town Center (public incentives to private
developer(s)).
7. Tax rebates to commercial developers.
8. Town subsidy of (selected) infrastructure development costs.
9. Code relaxation.
ATTACHMENT # 2
THINK TANK
INTERIM REPORT
MAY 6, 2005
MEMORANDUM
TO: MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS
FROM: JEFFREY H. WEIR, CEcD
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR
DATE: MAY 6, 2005
SUBJECT: THINK TANK INTERIM REPORT.
Vision
By formally engaging in economic development Oro Valley will demonstrate its
.
to the process in which the government engages to stimulate or
commitment .
business activityand/or employment. The principal goal of economic
maintain
development is employment to stimulate em to ment opportunities in sectors that improve the
region orusing
communityexisting human, natural, and institutional resources.
Mission Statement
The Mission of Oro Valleyeconomic development initiatives are to build an even
ss
stronger and more desirable Oro Valley by...
• Creating exportjobs that are commensurate with the education levels and
aspirations of Oro Valley residents;
• Creatinga sustainable public income stream to support high quality public
goods;
• Supportingthe development of business activities that are consistent with
p
Oro Valley's high quality living environment;
• Encouraging in the retention and expansion of existing businesses — especially
export oriented businesses;
• Making Oro Valleya branded destination for businesses seeking new locations
a g
and individuals seeking a place to visit or reside.
METHODOLOGY
The Think Tank members utilized a process that included:
o Education on the foundations and principles of Economic Development;
o Free flowing discussions;
o Focused areas and evaluations;
o Presentations from outside sources/experts; and
o Recommendations to Council achieved through Consensus.
CHRONOLOGY Meetings were held on four (4) Saturdays ending on April 23,
2005. Most sessions were four (4) hours in duration.
PARTICIPANTS Participants included members of the Think Tank, invited
presenters, Council members, residents and staff.
1.
Mr. Al Cook Citizen-At-Large & Arts Community
2. Mr. Bob Schwarz SCORE representative
3. Mr. Chet Oldakowski Stop Oro valley Outrageous Giveaways
4. Mr. Erik Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
5. Mr. Gregg Forszt Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
6. Ms. Kim Stine Bank One/Finance sector
7. Mr. Kit Donley Commercial Real Estate Development
8. Mr. Ray Paolino Former State of New York E. D. person
9. Mr. Rob LaMaster AZ Restaurant & Hospitality Association
10. Mr. Paul Kappleman CEO, NW Hospital — Oro Valley
Pp .
11. Mr. Ben Crane Bourn Partners/Retail Tenant Broker
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12. Mr. Jeff Jones Small Business Retail Owner & Incoming
President of the Chamber of Commerce
13. Mr. Alex Jacome SAHBA Government Affairs Liaison
14. Dr. Leo Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
15. Mr. David Andrews Assistant Town Manager & Finance Director
16. Mr. Doug McKee Resident
17. Ms. Helen Dankwerth Council member
18. Ms. Conny Culver Council member
19. Mr. Barry Gillaspie Vice Mayor
20. Mr. Chuck Sweet Town Manager
21. Ms. Karen Greenspoon Economic Development Specialist
22. Ms. Danielle Tanner Administrative Assistant
23. Mr. Jeffrey H. Weir Economic Development Administrator
Considerations,
Recommendations and Suggestions.
• p
Continuation & Expansion of the Economic Development Think Tank.
+ Creation of a Small Business Advisory Council.
•
Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
❖ Annexation action of specific properties.
••• ntinued Use and expansion of existing Incentive Policy.
Co
••• Revsexisting i ions to Community Economic Development Strategy.
❖ Recommendations on adoption of NEW revenue sources.
Recommendations to the Council.
Continuation p
i n & Expansion of the Economic Development Think Tank.
I,
P
o
Continuation and expansion of the Think Tank comprised of the existing
volunteers with appropriate ro riate staff support from the Economic Development
Division.
o Added members of non-represented businesses and community groups
may
include: Owner of a Small Retail Business, Real Estate professional,
Aerospace Industryrepresentative, and a Lawyer or Certified Public
p
Accountant.
o
The Council maywant to additional members who represent other diverse
areas of the Town.
II. Creation ofa
Small Business Advisory Council.
o Establishment of a Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC).
o Members of this Advisory Council will be appointed by and report to
the & Council (or Ma or the permanent Economic Development Think
v
Tank committee) for a specified period/term.
o The SBAC will be charged with providing input on all proposed
legislative actions, Town process revisions and/or rule changes which
would impact the local business community.
o The SBAC will participate in the Town's Business Retention &
Expansion program efforts; assist in meeting with other businesses
p
and assessing potential assistance needed by the local business
community.
o The SBAC would serve as the interface with Oro Valley businesses and
the proposed Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities (TREO) Small
Business Council.
o The SBAC woulda part become of the Northern Pima County Chamber
of Commerce's activities in engaging local small businesses.
III. Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
o Currently the Economic Development Division acts as the Ombudsman
t y
for all inquiries from members of the business community concerning
issues related to interactions with the Town.
p
o
There is a need to expand this effort based with an emphasis on
assisting
small business owners/operators in the development of
permits applicationsfor building and/or tenant improvement permits
and the associated review and approval process.
o The position Ombudsman would be the liaison between Development
Services and the business community.
position• This would remain reporting to the Economic Development
Division to ensure positive outreach efforts and coordination with other
entities.
p
o
The Ombudsman expanded position would include that of Liaison to
the Small Business Advisory Council.
IV. Annexation action of specific properties.
The Think Tank members support the following annexation targets:
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A. The Westward Look Resort property. This worldwide recognized
property a would be "plum"for Oro Valley. Revenue sharing, if
considered, must be mutually beneficial.
B. The OMNI Tucson Resort. This worldwide recognized property
would be a "plum"for Oro Valley. Revenue sharing, if considered,
must be mutually beneficial.
C. The Foothills Mall Retail Center. This established retail center,
when annexed into theprovide Town would a large source of new
revenues and further add to the local economic diversification efforts
the Town has initiated.
D. Preparation and consideration to annex the State Lands located due
�
north and west of Sun City.
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V. Continued Use and Expansion of existing Incentive Policy.
o Continue the use of incentives.
performance• Incentives must be
linked to clauses and clawbacks.
that assist existingbusinesses with retention and
o Focus on incentives businesses which create high payingjobs,
expansion, new and existing
and the continued promotion of resort development.
o Reta e l
sales tax sharingshould continue on a limited basis.
o Independently prepared economic analyses must indicate clearly that
revenue sharing between the Town and any recipient of any form of
incentives is justified.
o New retail developments
should focus on high quality retail stores.
g
o Revenue sharing agreements would apply to qualifying expenditures
made by the developer physical evelo r for h sical infrastructure expenditures; i.e.
road improvements, trail accesses, etc.
o
o Additional
forms of incentivization for consideration could be:
1. Reduction of impact fees, permit fees and/or connection fees;
p
Z. Extension oft
the Project Team approach that has been used for
larger developments for ALL commercial projects.
g payments Y
Hold all a ments until a specific level of performance
has
been attained.
Please refer to the attached Incentives Table wherein potential applications
of some of the non-revenueencouragements could be applied. The table
indicates by category(s)
for each of the eight (8) proposed new CEDS
attraction emphasis groups.
VI. Revisions to existing Community Economic Development Strategy.
o The consensus of the members was the recognition that the existing
CEDS attraction emphases clearly expressed the desires of the
community in 1996/97.
o The members have recommended separating future new business
attraction efforts into two categories.
I.
Economic Development— Income Generation.
o category This cate o focuses on Income Generation opportunities
which provide and produce sales tax revenues and/or high
paying employment opportunities for the residents of the Town.
o There are both direct revenue sources and secondary revenue
sources.
II. Quality of Life & Services.
o category This cate o focuses on providing a direct Quality of Life
benefit to the residents of the Town.
Possibly also provide Income Generation but the emphasis
o Pos y ma y
within this category is a continuation of the quality of living
desired by the existing residents of Oro Valley.
The new business attraction efforts that should replace the existing CEDS
are:
1. Resorts, Destination Spa's and Tourism related businesses.
2. High-tech manufacturing and Research & Development.
q
3.
Boutique Retail Shopping including Art Galleries and Restaurants.
4. Medical Services and support businesses.
5. Headquarters operations and professional services.
6. Performing Arts facilities/ development of Oro Valley as a Regional Arts
Center.
Educational facilities (degreed programs and support efforts for
7.
existing businesses).
8. Hotels and Lodging facilities.
attached CEDS Recruitment Emphasis Table indicates the above eight (8)
The
separated into the two primary categories of Economic
attraction emphasis areas Income— Generation and Quality of Life & Services.
VII. Recommendations on adoption tion and enactment of NEW revenue
sources.
o The attached City/Town Local Sales & Property Tax Rate
Comparison indicates that the Town of Oro Valley has enacted fewer
taxes than any of the surrounding Tucson regional jurisdictions.
p
o The attached
Revenue Impact — Various Tax Considerations
table indicates the dollar amounts that could be realized from each of
thero osed new taxes at proscribed tax rates.
p p
y
The Mayor and Council should adopt/enact following new taxes:
1. Approve a 4% Utility
Sales Tax $ 1,572,000
2. Approve a 4%o/ Telecommunications Sales Tax $ 637,000
$ 212091000
3. Increase Bed
Tax from 3% to 6% $ 475,000
Town raising members support the the Bed Tax Rate to the same level
as that of the City
of Tucson as well as the planned increase by Pima County.
The members would encourage the Mayor and Council to identify the use of
Y
the Bed Tax forTourismDevelopment,Develo ment, Specific Program Uses (Naranja Town
Site Program Cost Study) and Economic Development.
4. Initiate
the creation of Franchise Agreements with Tucson
Electric Power and Southwest Gas Corporation.
5. Project specific secondary property tax.
The members support the initiation of a secondary property tax by the Mayor
and Council for the
bondingneeded for important community projects such
as the Naranja Town Site.
p
6.
Development of an Economic Vitality Model.
The members expressedPP
support for the development of an economic
sustainability model.
VIII. Future Items for Consideration.
o Housing affordability and availability.
o Transportation system demands and opportunities.
o Workforce development/education.
o Diversification of the local economy.
o Public Safety &Quality of Services.
o Creation of a centralized Purchasing function for all Town
Departments.
Attachments: 1. Incentives Table.
2. CEDS Recruitment Emphasis Table.
3. City/Town Local Sales & Property Tax Rate
Comparison Table.
4. Revenue Impact - Various Tax Considerations
Table.
•
ATTACHMENT # 3
THINK TANK MEMBERS LISTING
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MEMORANDUM
TO: MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS;
CHUCK SWEET, TOWN MANA •
FROM: JEFFREY H. WEIR, CEcD
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR
DATE: JUNE 21, 2005
SUBJECT: UPDATE/REVISED THINK TANK INTERIM REPORT.
Attached is a copy of corrections made to the Think Tank Interim Report
as a result of meeting with the Think Tank members on Saturday, June
18th. The changes add clarity and where applicable a prioritizing of
itemized lists. The REVISED copy is a markup of the changes and the
REDACTED copy is a finalized version with all deletions and corrections
incorporated.
Attachments: 1. Think Tank Interim Report-- REVISED.
2. Think Tank Interim Report— REDACTED.
MEMORANDUM - REVISED
TO: MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEM = RS
_
FROM: JEFFREY H. WEIR, CEcD
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR
DATE: MAY 6, 2005
SUBJECT: THINK TANK INTERIM REPORT.
Vision
Byformallyengaging in economic development Oro Valley will demonstrate its
commitment to the process in which the government engages to stimulate or
maintain business activity and/or employment. The principal principle goal of
economic development is to stimulate employment opportunities in sectors that
improve the region or community using existing human, natural, and institutional
p
resources.
Mission Statement
The Mission of Oro Valley economic development initiatives & is to build n a
stronger and more desirable Oro Valley by:
1. Creating a sustainable public income stream to support high quality public
goods;
2. Supporting the development of business activities that are consistent with
pp g
Oro Valley's high quality living environment;
3. Encouraging the retention and expansion of existing businesses — especially
export oriented businesses;
4. Making Oro Valley a branded destination for businesses seeking new locations
and individuals seeking a place to visit or reside.
5. Creating export jobs that are commensurate with the education levels and
P
aspirations of Oro Valley residents.
METHODOLOGY The Think Tank members utilized a process that included:
o Education on the foundations and principles of Economic Development;
o Free flowing discussions;
o Focused areas and evaluations;
o Presentations from outside sources/experts; and
o Recommendations to Council achieved through Consensus.
CHRONOLOGY Meetings were held on fsauf five (5) Saturdays ending on Nara
23 June 18, 2005. Most sessions were four (4) hours in duration.
PARTICIPANTS Participants included members of the Think Tank, invited
presenters, Council members, residents and staff.
(Permanent members)
Mr. Al Cook Citizen-At-Large &Arts Community
Mr. Bob Schwarz SCORE representative
Mr. Chet Oldakowski Stop Oro valley Outrageous Giveaways
Mr. Erik Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
Mr. Gregg Forszt Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
Ms. Kim Stine Bank One/Finance sector
Mr. Kit Donley Commercial Real Estate Development
Mr. Ray Paolino Former State of New York E. D. person
Mr. Rob LaMaster AZ Restaurant & Hospitality Association
Mr. Paul Kappleman CEO, NW Hospital — Oro Valley
(Invited Guests/Speakers)
Dr. Lay Gibson Professor of Geography, U of A
Mr. Ben Craney Bourn Partners/Retail Tenant Broker
Mr. Jeff Jones Small Business Retail Owner
Mr. Alex Jacome SAHBA Government Affairs Liaison
Dr. Leo Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
Mr. David Andrews Assistant Town Manager & Finance Director
Mr. Doug McKee Resident
(Council& staff participants)
Ms. Helen Dankwerth Council member
Ms. Canny Culver Council member
Mr. Barry Gillaspie Vice Mayor
Mr. Chuck Sweet Town Manager
Ms. Karen Greenspoon Economic Development Specialist
Ms. Danielle Tanner Administrative Assistant
Mr. Jeffrey H. Weir Economic Development Administrator
Page 2 of 8
Considerations, Recommendations, and Suggestions.
I. Continuation, Composition & Expansion of the Economic
Development Think Tank.
II. Creation of a Small Business Advisory Council.
III. Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
IV. Annexation action of specific properties.
V. Continued Use and expansion of existing Incentive Policy.
VI. Revisions to existing Community Economic Development Strategy.
VII. Recommendations on adoption of NEW revenue sources.
I. Continuation, Composition & Expansion of the Economic
Development Think Tank.
p
o
Continuation and expansion of the Think Tank comprised of the existing
volunteers with appropriate staff support from the Economic Development
Division.
o Added members of non-represented businesses and community groups
may include: Owner of a Small Retail Business, Real Estate professional,
Aerospace Industry representative, and a Lawyer or Certified Public
Accountant.
o The Council may want to add additional members who represent other
diverse areas of the Town.
II. Creation of a Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC).
o Establishment of a Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC).
o Members of the SBAC would be appointed
by and report to the Mayor &Council. (eis=the=permanent=Eeeneisnie
o The SBAC will be charged with providing input on all proposed
legislative actions, Town process revisions and/or rule changes which
woukt might impact the local business community.
o The SBAC will participate in the Town's Business Retention &
Expansion program efforts; assist in meeting with other businesses
and assesses potential assistance needed by the local business
community.
Page 3 of 8
o The SBAC would serve as the an interface with Oro Valley businesses
and thero osed Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities (TREO)
p p
Small Business Council and the Northern Pima County Chamber
of Commerce.
- - --_- --.- . i - - - - - - -- is -- - - -- `-III. Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
o Currentlythe Economic Development Division acts as the Ombudsman
for all inquiries from members of the business community concerning
issues related to interactions with the Town.
o There is a need to expand this efforts baseekvoith=i3menvhasis=on to
assists small business owners/operators in the development of
applications for building permits and/or tenant improvement permits
and the associated review and approval process.
o The Ombudsman position would be the a liaison between the Town
of Oro Valley Development=Setvices and the business community.
o This=position The Ombudsman would remain reporting to the
Economic Development Division to ensure positive outreach efforts and
coordination with other entities.
o The Ombudsman evaietdeel=position would ificlude=that=of serve as a
Liaison to the Small Business Advisory Council.
IV. Annexation action of specific properties.
The Think Tank members support the following annexation targets:
A. The Westward Look and OMNI Tucson Resort properties. This
These worldwide recognized properties would be a"plums"for Oro
Valley. Revenue sharing, if considered, must be mutually beneficial.
B.
Page 4 of 8
C
The Foothills Mall Retail Center. This established retail center,
when annexed into the Town, would provide a large source of new
revenues and further add to the bec931 Town's economic diversification
efforts the T...•..n_l.,,r :l:t:ited
D. 11--- - _ = -_-_•-- The State Lands located due
north and west of Sun City.
V. Continued Use and Expansion of existing Incentive Policy.
1. Inde endentl prepared economic analyses must indicate clearly that
p Y
revenue sharing between the Town and any recipient of any form of
incentives is justified.
2. Gantivtie=tiste Use of incentives Ineentive5 must be linked to
performance clauses and clawbacks.
3. Focus on incentives that assist existing businesses with retention and
expansion, new and existing businesses which create high paying jobs,
and the continued promotion of resort development.
4. Revenue sharing agreements would apply to qualifying expenditures
made by the developer for physical infrastructure expenditures; i.e.
road improvements, trail accesses, etc.
5. New retail developments should focus on high quality retail stores.
6. Additional forms of incentivization for consideration could be:
1. Reduction of impact fees, permit fees and/or connection fees;
2. Extension of the Project Team approach that has been used for
larger developments for ALL commercial projects.
3. Hold all payments until a specific level of performance has
been attained.
4. Retail sales tax sharing should continue on a limited basis.
ittifeetion=envhasi,y.gfoup
Page 5 of 8
VI. Revisions to existing Community Economic Development Strategy
(CEDS).
o While the consensus of the members was the recognition that the
existing CEDS attraction emphases clearly expressed the desires of the
community in 1996/97 this is no longer true and needs to be
reassessed.
The new business attraction efforts that should replace the existing
CEDS are:
1. Resorts, Destination Spa's and Tourism related businesses.
2. High-tech manufacturing and Research & Development.
3. Boutique Retail Shopping including Art Galleries and
Restaurants.
4. Medical Services and support businesses.
5. Headquarters operations and professional services.
6. Performing Arts facilities/ development of Oro Valley as a
Regional Arts Center.
7. Educational facilities (degreed programs and support efforts for
existing businesses).
8. Hotels and Lodging facilities.
o The members have recommended separating future new business
attraction efforts into two categories.
A. Economic Development—Income Generation.
o This category focuses on Income Generation opportunities
which provide and produce sales tax revenues and/or high
paying employment opportunities for the residents of the Town.
o There are both direct revenue sources and secondary revenue
sources.
B. Quality of Life &Services.
o This category focuses on providing a direct Quality of Life
benefit to the residents of the Town.
o Possibly may also provide Income Generation but the emphasis
within this category is a continuation of the quality of living
desired by the existing residents of Oro Valley.
Page 6 of 8
- - - . - - .�-a►�_w .�.a....wrr• •a.�•�.r• •.._.- a-tea�_•�•• I • • I I
Devolopment=inconurraeneratioivan‘QuIditspoftife4ESetwice&
VII. Recommendations on adoption and enactment of NEW revenue
sources.
o—The=ettaehed=eityPown=local=Saieveplareperty=TRate
The Mayor and Council should adopt/enact the following new taxes:
1. Approve a 4% Utility Sales Tax $ 1,572,000
2. Approve a 4% Telecommunications Sales Tax $ 637,000
$ 2,209,000
3. Increase Bed Tax from 3% to 6% $ 475,000
members support the Town raising the Bed Tax Rate to the same level
The pp .
as that of the Cityof Tucson as well as the planned increase by Pima County.
The
members would encourage the Mayor and Council to identify the use of
the Bed Tax for Tourism Development, Specific Program Uses (Naranja Town
Site Program Cost Study) and Economic Development.
4. Initiate the creation of Franchise Agreements with Tucson
Electric Power and Southwest Gas Corporation.
5. Project specific secondary property tax.
The members support the initiation of a secondary property tax, subject to,
voter approval, by the Mayor and Council for the bonding needed for
pp
important community projects such as the Naranja Town Site.
6. Development of an Economic Vitality Model.
The members expressed support for the development of an economic
sustainability model.
Page 7of8
VIII. Future Items for Consideration.
1. Diversification of the local economy.
2. Transportation system demands and opportunities.
3. Public Safety.
4. Quality of Services.
5. Workforce development/education.
6. Creation of a centralized Purchasing function for all Town
Departments.
7. Housing affordability and availability.
Gomparisow9Fabi,w
Table.
Page 8 of 8
MEMORANDUM - REDACTED
TO: MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMS
FROM: JEFFREY H. WEIR, CED
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR
DATE: MAY 6, 2005
SUBJECT: THINK TANK INTERIM REPORT.
Vision
By formally engaging in economic development Oro Valley will demonstrate its
commitment to the process in which the government engages to stimulate or
maintain business activity and/or employment. The principle goal of economic
development is to stimulate employment opportunities in sectors that improve the
region or community using existing human, natural, and institutional resources.
Mission Statement
The Mission of Oro Valley economic development is to build a stronger and more
desirable Oro Valley by:
1. Creating a sustainable public income stream to support high quality public
goods;
2. Supporting the development of business activities that are consistent with
Oro Valley's high quality living environment;
3. Encouraging the retention and expansion of existing businesses — especially
export oriented businesses;
4. Making Oro Valley a branded destination for businesses seeking new locations
and individuals seeking a place to visit or reside.
5. Creating export jobs that are commensurate with the education levels and
aspirations of Oro Valley residents.
METHODOLOGY The Think Tank members utilized a process that included:
o Education on the foundations and principles of Economic Development;
o Free flowing discussions;
o Focused areas and evaluations;
o Presentations from outside sources/experts; and
o Recommendations to Council achieved through Consensus.
CHRONOLOGY Meetings were held on five (5) Saturdays ending on June 18,
2005. Most sessions were four (4) hours in duration.
PARTICIPANTS Participants included members of the Think Tank, invited
presenters, Council members, residents and staff.
(Permanent members)
Mr. Al Cook Citizen-At-Large &Arts Community
Mr. Bob Schwarz SCORE representative
Mr. Chet Oldakowski Stop Oro valley Outrageous Giveaways
Mr. Erik Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
Mr. Gregg Forszt Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
Ms. Kim Stine Bank One/Finance sector
Mr. Kit Donley Commercial Real Estate Development
Mr. Ray Paolino Former State of New York E. D. person
Mr. Rob LaMaster AZ Restaurant& Hospitality Association
Mr. Paul Kappleman CEO, NW Hospital — Oro Valley
(Invited Guests/Speakers)
Dr. Lay Gibson Professor of Geography, U of A
Mr. Ben Craney Bourn Partners/Retail Tenant Broker
Mr. Jeff Jones Small Business Retail Owner
Mr. Alex Jacome SAH BA Government Affairs Liaison
Dr. Leo Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
Mr. David Andrews Assistant Town Manager & Finance Director
Mr. Doug McKee Resident
(Council& staff participants)
Ms. Helen Dankwerth Council member
Ms. Conny Culver Council member
Mr. Barry Gillaspie Vice Mayor
Mr. Chuck Sweet Town Manager
Ms. Karen Greenspoon Economic Development Specialist
Ms. Danielle Tanner Administrative Assistant
Mr. Jeffrey H. Weir Economic Development Administrator
Page 2 of 7
Considerations, Recommendations, and Suggestions.
I. Cont , Composition Com osition & Expansion of the Economic
Development Think Tank.
II. Creation of a Small Business Advisory Council.
III. Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
IV. Annexation action of specific properties.
V. Cot expansion Continued Use and of existing Incentive Policy.
VI.
Revisions to existing Community Economic Development Strategy.
VII. Recommendations on adoption of NEW revenue sources.
I. C . Composition Com osition & Expansion of the Economic
Development Think Tank.
o Continuation and expansion of the Think Tank comprised of the existing
volunteers with appropriate ro riate staff support from the Economic Development
Division.
o Added members of non-represented businesses and community groups
may
include: Owner of a Small Retail Business, Real Estate professional,
Aerospace Industryrepresentative, and a Lawyer or Certified Public
p
Accountant.
o
The Council maywant to add members who represent diverse areas of
the Town.
II. Creation of a Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC).
o Establishment of a Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC).
o Members of the SBAC would be appointed by and report to the Mayor
& Council.
o The SBAC will be charged with providing input on proposed legislative
actions, TownP rocess revisions and/or rule changes which might
impact the local business community.
o The SBAC will participate in the Town's Business Retention &
Expansion program efforts; assist in meeting with other businesses
P
and assess potential assistance needed by the local business
community.
Page 3 of 7
o The SBAC would serve as an interface with Oro Valley businesses and
the proposed Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities (TREO) Small
Business Council and the Northern Pima County Chamber of
Commerce.
III. Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
o Currently the Economic Development Division acts as the Ombudsman
for all inquiries from members of the business community concerning
issues related to interactions with the Town.
o There is a need to expand efforts to assist small business
owners/operators in the development of applications for building
permits and/or tenant improvement permits and the associated review
and approval process.
o The Ombudsman would be a liaison between the Town of Oro Valley
and the business community.
o The Ombudsman would report to the Economic Development Division
to ensure positive outreach efforts and coordination with other entities.
o The Ombudsman would serve as a Liaison to the Small Business
Advisory Council.
IV. Annexation action of specific properties.
The Think Tank members support the following annexation targets:
A. The Westward Look and OMNI Tucson Resort properties.
These worldwide recognized properties would be"plums"for Oro
Valley. Revenue sharing, if considered, must be mutually beneficial.
B. The Foothills Mall Retail Center. This established retail center,
when annexed into the Town, would provide a large source of new
revenues and further add to the Town's economic diversification
efforts.
C. The State Lands located due north and west of Sun City.
Page 4 of 7
V. Continued Use and Expansion of existing Incentive Policy.
1. Independently prepared economic analyses must indicate clearly that
revenue sharing between the Town and any recipient of any form of
incentives is justified.
2. Use of incentives must be linked to performance clauses and
clawbacks.
3. Focus on incentives that assist existing businesses with retention and
expansion, new and existing businesses which create high paying jobs,
and the continued promotion of resort development.
4. Revenue sharing agreements would apply to qualifying expenditures
made by the developer for physical infrastructure expenditures; i.e.
road improvements, trail accesses, etc.
5. New retail developments should focus on high quality retail stores.
6. Additional forms of incentivization for consideration could be:
1. Reduction of impact fees, permit fees and/or connection fees;
2. Extension of the Project Team approach that has been used for
larger developments for ALL commercial projects.
3. Hold all payments until a specific level of performance has
been attained.
4. Retail sales tax sharing should continue on a limited basis.
VI. Revisions to existing Community Economic Development Strategy
(CEDS).
o While the consensus of the members was the recognition that the existing
CEDS attraction emphases clearly expressed the desires of the community
in 1996/97 this is no longer true and needs to be reassessed.
The new business attraction efforts that should replace the existing CEDS
are:
1. Resorts, Destination Spa's and Tourism related businesses.
2. High-tech manufacturing and Research & Development.
3. Boutique Retail Shopping including Art Galleries and
Restaurants.
4. Medical Services and support businesses.
Page 5 of 7
5. Headquarters operations and professional services.
6. Performing Arts facilities/ development of Oro Valley as a
Regional Arts Center.
7. Educational facilities (degreed programs and support efforts for
existing businesses).
8. Hotels and Lodging facilities.
o The members have recommended separating future new business
attraction efforts into two categories.
A. Economic Development— Income Generation.
o This category focuses on Income Generation opportunities
which provide and produce sales tax revenues and/or high
paying employment opportunities for the residents of the Town.
o There are both direct revenue sources and secondary revenue
sources.
B. Quality of Life &Services.
o This category focuses on providing a direct Quality of Life
benefit to the residents of the Town.
o Possibly may also provide Income Generation but the emphasis
within this category is a continuation of the quality of living
desired by the existing residents of Oro Valley.
VII. Recommendations on adoption and enactment of NEW revenue
sources.
The Mayor and Council should adopt/enact the following new taxes:
1. Approve a 4% Utility Sales Tax $ 1,572,000
2. Approve a 4% Telecommunications Sales Tax $ 637,000
$ 2,209,000
3. Increase Bed Tax from 3% to 6% $ 475,000
The members support the Town raising the Bed Tax Rate to the same level
as that of the City of Tucson as well as the planned increase by Pima County.
Page 6 of 7
The members would encourage the Mayor and Council to identify the use of
the Bed Tax for Tourism Development, Specific Program Uses (Naranja Town
Site Program Cost Study) and Economic Development.
4. Initiate the creation of Franchise Agreements with Tucson
Electric Power and Southwest Gas Corporation.
5. Project specific secondary property tax.
The members support the initiation of a secondary property tax, subject to
voter approval, by the Mayor and Council for the bonding needed for
important community projects such as the Naranja Town Site.
6. Development of an Economic Vitality Model.
The members expressed support for the development of an economic
sustainability model.
VIII. Future Items for Consideration.
1. Diversification of the local economy.
2. Transportation system demands and opportunities.
3. Public Safety.
4. Quality of Services.
5. Workforce development/education.
6. Creation of a centralized Purchasing function for all Town
Departments.
7. Housing affordability and availability.
Page 7of7
MEMORANDUM - REDACTED
TO: MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBfiRS
FROM: JEFFREY H. WEIR, CEcD
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR
DATE: MAY 6, 2005
SUBJECT: THINK TANK INTERIM REPORT.
Vision
By formally engaging in economic development Oro Valley will demonstrate its
commitment to the process in which the government engages to stimulate or
maintain business activity and/or employment. The principle goal of economic
development is to stimulate employment opportunities in sectors that improve the
region or community using existing human, natural, and institutional resources.
Mission Statement
The Mission of Oro Valley economic development is to build a stronger and more
desirable Oro Valley by:
1. Creating a sustainable public income stream to support high quality public
goods;
2. Supporting the development of business activities that are consistent with
Oro Valley's high quality living environment;
3. Encouraging the retention and expansion of existing businesses — especially
export oriented businesses;
4. Making Oro Valley a branded destination for businesses seeking new locations
and individuals seeking a place to visit or reside.
5. Creating export jobs that are commensurate with the education levels and
aspirations of Oro Valley residents.
METHODOLOGY The Think Tank members utilized a process that included:
o Education on the foundations and principles of Economic Development;
o Free flowing discussions;
o Focused areas and evaluations;
o Presentations from outside sources/experts; and
o Recommendations to Council achieved through Consensus.
CHRONOLOGY Meetings were held on five (5) Saturdays ending on June 18,
2005. Most sessions were four (4) hours in duration.
PARTICIPANTS Participants included members of the Think Tank, invited
presenters, Council members, residents and staff.
f Permanent members)
Mr. AI Cook Citizen-At-Large &Arts Community
Mr. Bob Schwarz SCORE representative
Mr. Chet Oldakowski Stop Oro valley Outrageous Giveaways
Mr. Erik Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
Mr. Gregg Forszt Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
Ms. Kim Stine Bank One/Finance sector
Mr. Kit Donley Commercial Real Estate Development
Mr. Ray Paolino Former State of New York E. D. person
Mr. Rob LaMaster AZ Restaurant & Hospitality Association
Mr. Paul Kappleman CEO, NW Hospital — Oro Valley
(Invited Guests/Speakers)
Dr. Lay Gibson Professor of Geography, U of A
Mr. Ben Craney Bourn Partners/Retail Tenant Broker
Mr. Jeff Jones Small Business Retail Owner
Mr. Alex Jacome SAHBA Government Affairs Liaison
Dr. Leo Shapiro Marketing & Market Research
Mr. David Andrews Assistant Town Manager& Finance Director
Mr. Doug McKee Resident
(Council&staff participants)
Ms. Helen Dankwerth Council member
Ms. Conny Culver Council member
Mr. Barry Gillaspie Vice Mayor
Mr. Chuck Sweet Town Manager
Ms. Karen Greenspoon Economic Development Specialist
Ms. Danielle Tanner Administrative Assistant
Mr. Jeffrey H. Weir Economic Development Administrator
Page 2 of 7
Considerations, Recommendations, and Suggestions.
I. Continuation, Composition & Expansion of the Economic
Development Think Tank.
II. Creation of a Small Business Advisory Council.
III. Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
IV. Annexation action of specific properties.
V. Continued Use and expansion of existing Incentive Policy.
VI. Revisions to existing Community Economic Development Strategy.
VII. Recommendations on adoption of NEW revenue sources.
I. Continuation, Composition & Expansion of the Economic
Development Think Tank.
o Continuation and expansion of the Think Tank comprised of the existing
volunteers with appropriate staff support from the Economic Development
Division.
o Added members of non-represented businesses and community groups
mayinclude: Owner of a Small Retail Business, Real Estate professional,
.
Aerospace Industry representative, and a Lawyer or Certified Public
Accountant.
o The Council may want to add members who represent diverse areas of
the Town.
II. Creation of a Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC).
o Establishment of a Small Business Advisory Council (SBAC).
o Members of the SBAC would be appointed by and report to the Mayor
& Council.
o The SBAC will be charged with providing input on proposed legislative
actions, Town process revisions and/or rule changes which might
impact the local business community.
o The SBAC will participate in the Town's Business Retention &
Expansion program efforts; assist in meeting with other businesses
and assess potential assistance needed by the local business
community.
Page 3of7
o The SBAC would serve as an interface with Oro Valley businesses and
the proposed Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities (TREO) Small
Business Council and the Northern Pima County Chamber of
Commerce.
III. Expansion of the Ombudsman efforts.
o Currently the Economic Development Division acts as the Ombudsman
for all inquiries from members of the business community concerning
issues related to interactions with the Town.
o There is a need to expand efforts to assist small business
owners/operators in the development of applications for building
permits and/or tenant improvement permits and the associated review
and approval process.
o The Ombudsman would be a liaison between the Town of Oro Valley
and the business community.
o The Ombudsman would report to the Economic Development Division
to ensure positive outreach efforts and coordination with other entities.
o The Ombudsman would serve as a Liaison to the Small Business
Advisory Council.
IV. Annexation action of specific properties.
The Think Tank members support the following annexation targets:
A. The Westward Look and OMNI Tucson Resort properties.
These worldwide recognized properties would be "plums"for Oro
Valley. Revenue sharing, if considered, must be mutually beneficial.
B. The Foothills Mall Retail Center. This established retail center,
when annexed into the Town, would provide a large source of new
revenues and further add to the Town's economic diversification
efforts.
C. The State Lands located due north and west of Sun City.
Page 4 of 7
V. Continued Use and Expansion of existing Incentive Policy.
1. Independently prepared economic analyses must indicate clearly that
revenue sharing between the Town and any recipient of any form of
incentives is justified.
2. Use of incentives must be linked to performance clauses and
clawbacks.
3. Focus on incentives that assist existing businesses with retention and
expansion, new and existing businesses which create high paying jobs,
and the continued promotion of resort development.
4. Revenue sharing agreements would apply to qualifying expenditures
made by the developer for physical infrastructure expenditures; i.e.
road improvements, trail accesses, etc.
5. New retail developments should focus on high quality retail stores.
6. Additional forms of incentivization for consideration could be:
1. Reduction of impact fees, permit fees and/or connection fees;
2. Extension of the Project Team approach that has been used for
larger developments for ALL commercial projects.
3. Hold all payments until a specific level of performance has
been attained.
4. Retail sales tax sharing should continue on a limited basis.
VI. Revisions to existing Community Economic Development Strategy
(CEDS).
o While the consensus of the members was the recognition that the existing
CEDS attraction emphases clearly expressed the desires of the community
in 1996/97 this is no longer true and needs to be reassessed.
The new business attraction efforts that should replace the existing CEDS
are:
1. Resorts, Destination Spa's and Tourism related businesses.
2. High-tech manufacturing and Research & Development.
3. Boutique Retail Shopping including Art Galleries and
Restaurants.
4. Medical Services and support businesses.
Page 5of7
5. Headquarters operations and professional services.
6. Performing Arts facilities/ development of Oro Valley as a
Regional Arts Center.
7. Educational facilities (degreed programs and support efforts for
existing businesses).
8. Hotels and Lodging facilities.
o The members have recommended separating future new business
attraction efforts into two categories.
A. Economic Development—Income Generation.
o This category focuses on Income Generation opportunities
which provide and produce sales tax revenues and/or high
paying employment opportunities for the residents of the Town.
o There are both direct revenue sources and secondary revenue
sources.
B. Quality of Life &Services.
o This category focuses on providing a direct Quality of Life
benefit to the residents of the Town.
o Possibly may also provide Income Generation but the emphasis
within this category is a continuation of the quality of living
desired by the existing residents of Oro Valley.
VII. Recommendations on adoption and enactment of NEW revenue
sources.
The Mayor and Council should adopt/enact the following new taxes:
1. Approve a 40/0 Utility Sales Tax $ 1,572,000
2. Approve a 4% Telecommunications Sales Tax $ 637,000
$ 2,209,000
3. Increase Bed Tax from 30/0 to 6% $ 475,000
The members support the Town raising the Bed Tax Rate to the same level
as that of the City of Tucson as well as the planned increase by Pima County.
Page 6 of 7
The members would encourage the Mayor and Council to identify the use of
the Bed Tax for Tourism Development, Specific Program Uses (Naranja Town
Site Program Cost Study) and Economic Development.
4. Initiate the creation of Franchise Agreements with Tucson
Electric Power and Southwest Gas Corporation.
5. Project specific secondary property tax.
The members support the initiation of a secondary property tax, subject to
voter approval, by the Mayor and Council for the bonding needed for
important community projects such as the Naranja Town Site.
6. Development of an Economic Vitality Model.
The members expressed support for the development of an economic
sustainability model.
VIII. Future Items for Consideration.
1. Diversification of the local economy.
2. Transportation system demands and opportunities.
3. Public Safety.
4. Quality of Services.
5. Workforce development/education.
6. Creation of a centralized Purchasing function for all Town
Departments.
7. Housing affordability and availability.
Page 7 of 7