Laserfiche WebLink
1. uescnption of the countywide purpose the tunds will be used tor. <br />County funding will be combined with the private sector contributions for the overall operating budget of the Economic <br />Development Office. During FY 2020/2021, in addition to $178,445 collected in reimbursement from County funds, <br />$26,600 was generated through contributions by our Economic Leadership Alliance investors and other sources. Both <br />figures were down significantly due to the negative effects from COVID. <br />Over $175,000 of in-kind services and support are supplied by the Chamber and/or contributed by others in the county <br />to accomplish the goals and objectives for economic development efforts. <br />Specific areas where the funds will be utilized are in keeping with the goals and strategies as outlined and agreed upon <br />by the County, the Economic Development Council, the Department of Community Development and the Chamber; <br />they include but are not limited to: <br />• Direct marketing to site location consultants and targeted industries with continued follow-up and communication <br />• Professional services for maintenance and hosting the economic development website, research, and the production <br />of studies and reports <br />• Prospect/client development and communication <br />• Maintain current cost -of -living data and host cost -of -living calculator on the economic development website <br />• Hosting GIS -based website - www.indianriversites.com, the commercial/industrial real estate data base, including <br />upgraded features to allow <br />for mobile utilization and gathering detailed business intelligence. The cost of the program is shared between public <br />and private funds. <br />• Provide idea -sharing and networking opportunities for existing and new business clients and prospects <br />• Promotional materials, including updated advertising, and general operating supplies <br />• Maintaining relationships with state legislators, regional airports, Enterprise Florida, site selectors, and similar local <br />and regional <br />economic development agencies, plus other key resources who can assist in the success of our mission <br />• Postage and shipping, telephone, internet access; not including cell phone service <br />• Recognition of existing/new industries and new/enhanced developments <br />• Informational presentations to civic and professional groups, and others throughout the county, highlighting the <br />benefits of industry, <br />better paying jobs and a diverse, increased tax base <br />• Workforce preparedness for existing and future workforce, through collaborative planning, innovative programs, and <br />information sharing with <br />our region's schools, colleges and training centers <br />• Facilitate communication and cooperation between the business community, educators (K-12 and post -secondary), <br />training providers, and <br />government <br />• Participate in regional collaboration, research and activities <br />• Promote the Foreign Trade Zone and its benefits to existing businesses and as a recruitment tool; assist local <br />employers with documentation <br />as needed <br />184 <br />