HomeMy WebLinkAboutBED Minutes (signed) 9-23-14BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 23, 2014
A Meeting of the Business & Economic Development Board was held on September 23, 2014, at
the Cape Canaveral Public Library, 201 Polk Avenue, Cape Canaveral, Florida. The meeting
was called to Order at 3:06 p.m. by Chairperson Omar Capellan. The Secretary called the roll.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Omar Capellan
James Massoni
Shannon Roberts
Melanie Evans
Eric Larkin
MEMBERS ABSENT
Andrew Serafin
OTHERS PRESENT
Todd Morley
David Dickey
Susan Juliano
NEW BUSINESS
Chairperson
Community & Economic Development Director
Planning & Zoning Director
Board Secretary
1. Approval of Business& Economic Development Meeting Minutes — August 28,2014
Minutes.
Motion by Dr. Roberts, seconded by Ms. Evans to approve the Meeting Minutes of August 28,
2014 as presented. Vote on the motion carried unanimously.
2. Ad Valorem Tax Abatement (AVT) Presentation by Dina Reider-Hicks of Brevard
Works.
Ms. Reider-Hicks presented some of her professional history. Currently, she is a member of
Brevard Works, a grass roots organization. This is a County program that was developed as a
tool for economic development. She explained the abatement process and how a company
qualifies for this program by encouraging businesses to relocate to Brevard County and the
positive economic impact this has for the communities. Ms. Reider-Hicks explained that her role
is to educate the public and request that residents vote "yes" on November 4th for the Ad
Valorem Tax Exemption.
OPEN DISCUSSION:
Discussion followed regarding what companies in Cape Canaveral utilized this program to which
Ms. Reider-Hicks responded she would obtain the answer. Questions regarding what portion of
the taxes are "abated" was explained in great detail. The average salary in relationship to this
Business & Economic Development
Meeting Minutes
September 23, 2014
program was addressed and that Brevard County monitored this process. It was stressed that
higher salaried companies are being encouraged to explore the benefits of this program. Mr.
Capetian thanked Ms. Reider-Hicks for her time and presentation.
3. Nomination and Election of New Vice Chairgenon
Mr. Capetian nominated Mr. Massom, seconded by Ms. Evam. The vote carried unanimously.
Mr. Massom accepted the nomination to perform the duties in the absence of the Chairperson.
4. Directional/Wayfinding Signs
Mr. Morley requested a recommendation to City Council to approve a Wayfinding
Pregram/Package. Mr. Dickey followed by stating that 6 million cruise passengers will be
coming into this area on an annual basis through the Port. Staff would like to find a way to
capture this opportunity and Wayfinding signs could provide the answer. He went on to explain
what types/styles of signs could be utilized and what other areas are using. Timing of this effort
was perfect. Staff and Board members wanted to ensure this process was well thought out and
done by professionals.
The Branding initiative, including the Community's input, was mentioned and how Wayfinding
signage should match the brand. Part of the Branding initiative could include a self -guided
walking tow. Mr. Morley asked that the following he reflected to confirm the Board supports the
following: (1) Recommendation for creation of a Wayfinding Package; (2) Creation of a
Brochure for a self -guided tour and (3) Possibility of solar lighting for Wayfinding signage.
Motion by Mr. Massoni, seconded by Dr. Roberts to recommend to the City Council (1) Creation
of a Wayfinding Package; (2) Creation of a Brochure for a self -guided tour and (3) Possibility of
solar lighting for Wayfinding signage. Vote on motion carried unanimously.
ACTION ITEM:
The Board requested that Staff investigate the cost for the creation of a City map and review a
possible partnership with the Port to be presented at a future meeting.
Mr. Morley provided a status update on the Branding Initiative and indicated that this process
would be included in each of this Bound's meetings since it had a part in choosing Prismatic as
the firm to assist with this project. Staff conducted a tour of the City with staff members from
Prismatic and shared information. Prismatic presented a pre -kick off questionnaire and listed key
questions. Staff is compiling a list of questions that it wishes to present as well.
REPORTS AND DISC SSION:
Mr. Capetian welcomed Mr. Larkin to the Board and opened the floor for comments. A resident
requested that the community be involved in the process of creating the self -guided tour
brochures. The Charter was mentioned by a Board member and Mr. Morley suggested placing
this item on the next agenda for open discussion.
Business & Economic Development
Meeting Minutes
September 23, 2014
Motion by Mr. Capellan, wconded by Mr. Massom to adjourn the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m.
Approved on this day of 2014.
Susan