74 / 194
Morgan Hill, California
68
Zucker Systems
advance the City’s economic development goals and vision (e.g., a high end for rent
project).
In addition, as Ombudsman, staff is able to facilitate the expedited review of key
economic development projects as needed. Staff said they feel they have been given
sufficient appropriate authority to resolve review process disputes and free projects
that are stuck in the review process by working collaboratively with development
review teammates.
Staffing
Currently, resources for this function consist of one full-time Manager/Principal
Planner and one full-time Economic Development Coordinator. The Manager is a
working position and has responsibility for developing and implementing action
strategies, supervising the Coordinator position and doing the work.
We did not receive feedback that this function was short staffed. The Economic
Development Coordinator was recently hired and working on updating marketing
materials and other higher priority projects and focus areas outlined in the Division
work program.
Training
EDD staff indicated that training opportunity is limited due to budget constraints;
however, they are able to attend important professional conferences, such as the
International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). Staff did identify a need for
outside training on Microsoft Excel, which is an important tool used in their work
efforts.
73.
Recommendation:
Excel training needs for EDD staff should be further
defined, budgeted for and provided.
Web pages
Staff noted that the web pages for the Division need to be improved to better highlight
key program initiatives and accomplishments. We agree the Division should also
highlight news events such as local, regional and state level programs and regulations
that affect local economic development activities (e.g., AB 2 and SB 107). Staff noted
that the recent addition of an Economic Development Coordinator position will allow
the Division to more frequently add and update web page content, which is good.