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S3 <br />Commissioner Davis reiterated the need to do something to bring back industries that are <br />down, like construction, tourism, and small businesses, in Indian River County. He believed we <br />could, if we simply do what is right for the County and make decisions that are going to create <br />economic development not just for businesses, but for families here in the County. <br />Ii. PRESENTATIONS <br />A. COUNTY <br />"Piper and Ballf elds" = Joe Baird <br />County Administrator Joe Baird first presented a status report on Piper Aircraft, stating <br />that the County participated with the State in keeping Piper in Florida, and in this County. He <br />said there has been a lot of repeated discussion on this issue, but that people should remember <br />that we only have 2,500 manufactunngjobs in this community and Piper was 50% of that. He <br />discussed the criteria for the County giving Piper $12 million over a three-year period, and said <br />unfortunately, due to the global economy, they had to make adjustments and were not able to <br />meet the requirements. He discussed the economic benefits Piper has brought to the community <br />in the way of employment, among other things. Administrator Baird believed retaining Piper <br />was one of the best decisions this community has made, and it shows we can attract and keep <br />industry if we all work together. <br />Administrator Baird next gave a status report on the Dodger -deal including negotiations <br />and the deal falling through. He reported that the Dodgers did not meet the deadline given by the <br />County to accept or deny the County's offer, and he explained why these negations are so <br />secretive, stating that it was not necessarily the County s preference. On the matter of the <br />Orioles, he said contacts were made with them, but from an economic standpoint, it did not <br />4 <br />February 5, 2009 <br />Economic Summit Workshop <br />BK 136PG724 <br />