2019-2024 Economic Development Strategic Plan

January 3, 2019

Amanda Mack, Manager City of Spencer 418 2 nd Avenue West Spencer, IA 51301 RE: PHASE 1B FINDINGS Dear Ms. Mack: Phase 1B of the Scope of Work for the economic development strategic plan involved an assessment of the City’s municipal codes and policies as follows: 1. Assess Spencer Municipal Code Title 9-Zoning Regulations 2. Assess current city resolutions, policies and procedures relating to economic development, planning and zoning, fees and assessments, connection/system improvement charges for new construction GOAL: Evaluate the City’s existing codes and identify obstacles to economic development GOAL: Identify key policy questions to discuss with the Grow Spencer Commission, City Council and Planning Commission GOAL: Prepare discussion points and consultant recommendations for later phases of the project To complete our review under Phase 1b, we have examined the following:

1. Title 9 – Zoning Regulations 2. Spencer Comprehensive Plan 3. Riverfront Development Plan 4. Covenants for Tech Park South and Green Industrial Center 5. Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts 6. Other Miscellaneous Policies, Practices and Documents

Our firm has completed our work and the attached observations and recommendations are being submitted for further discussion with city staff, the mayor and city council and other appropriate city commissions/committees. While some elements of Phase 1b may be topics for discussion with the Grow Spencer Commission, we do not believe it is the most appropriate forum for addressing these items in detail. For example, while the Grow Spencer Commission may recommend a goal in the plan include the review the allowance of food processing industries, they would not discuss the specifics of such regulations (a process better left to the Council to establish policy and Planning Commission to study and recommend development standards and guidelines). Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Very Sincerely,

David Toyer Owner

www.toyerstrategic.com