CCMIN04152020 - Laserfiche WebLink

Ayes: Councilmembers Pentin Noes: Councilmembers Brown, Narum, Testa, Mayor Thorne Absent: None Councilmember Narum motioned that all businesses meeting the eligibility criteria receive $2,500 and that after the deadline, remaining funds would be dispersed among businesses in the Downtown Specific Area. Councilmember Testa seconded the motion. In response to Councilmember Brown, Deputy City Manager Ott explained no timeframe for accepting applications has been set yet as staff is awaiting Council's direction. City Manager Fialho added there is not a set timeline because circumstances vary by business and funds should be available when circumstances present themselves to businesses. Councilmember Brown noted if the timeframe for accepting applications is extended too long, we may miss the window when downtown businesses need funding the most. Councilmember Narum agreed without a deadline, it would be difficult to calculate and disperse remaining funds in a timely manner. Councilmember Testa agreed the timeline is important and funding should be expedited. She supports a specified amount for downtown businesses, possibly more than $2,900. Councilmember Pentin added if not all businesses outside of downtown apply and there is a large amount remaining, it is not fair for all of that to go only to downtown. He suggests there should be a separate fund allocated for additional funding for downtown. Councilmember Narum withdrew her motion and Councilmember Testa withdrew her second. Councilmember Narum motioned all eligible businesses receive $2,500 and all downtown eligible businesses receive $2,900; that any remaining amount from the $3M be revisited and at that time Council can determine the best way to use it. Councilmember Brown seconded the motion, but asked that a deadline be included for determining remaining funds. Councilmember Narum accepted this amendment. Deputy City Manager Ott suggested applications be due within a 45-day period, while City Manager Fialho recommended 60 days to allow sufficient time to communicate the program, for businesses to apply, and to coordinate state and federal resources. In response to Councilmember Testa, Deputy City Manager Ott confirmed applications would be processed as they are received and not held until the application period closes. MOTION: It was m/s by Narum/Brown to approve a Business Assistance Program to support the retention of local businesses related to the COVID-19 emergency, including the development and allocation of a small business support fund with loans in the amount of $2,500 to eligible businesses, and $2,900 to downtown eligible businesses with an application deadline of 60 days. Motion passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Brown, Narum, Pentin, Testa, Mayor Thorne Noes: None Absent: None City Council Minutes Page 9 of 11 April 15, 2020