Consider Authorization for Participation in International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) - ReCon 2019

Recently the City of Ramsey executed a contract with RGH Ramsey LLC to develop Site 42 (Former McDonald's site).  Based on community feedback, the City has set a goal to increase its efforts for retail recruitment. The largest gathering of retail/restaurant brokers is held at ReCon in Las Vegas in May every year. Over 30,000 attendees, 2,700 retailers, and 1,050 exhibitors will be there.  In addition, there are a number of great training and networking sessions throughout the conference.  Mr. Hardy is a regular attendee at this event and believes that it is a good venue to generate prospects and develop relationships that are conducive to bringing retail business to Ramsey.  Working together with a a proven developer to promote our community could prove to be a very effective strategy. 

Notification is not required.

Staff will have updated marketing materials for its commercial sites in the community by the time of this event. ReCon is held from May 19 to May 22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Mr. Hardy has indicated that he could get meetings set up for himself and the City to promote Ramsey opportunities and to try to broker deals or obtain serious interest in sites.  Based on our discussions,  Staff is confident that the City will have many individual meetings with retailers and restaurants. Staff also believes a coordinated approach with improve our marketing efforts.

Staff recommends attendance by the Economic Development Manager from May 18 to May 21. Attendance drops on the final day, and our attendance is not critical. This will create some overall cost savings. Staff is requesting a not to exceed budget of $3,000. Staff has attached summary materials for the event. 

EDA Budget

Staff recommendation is for EDA to authorize Economic Development Manager Sullivan to attend ReCon (ICSC) from May 18 to May 21 at a cost not to exceed $3,000.

Motion to authorize Economic Development Manager Sullivan to attend ReCon (ICSC) from May 18 to May 21 at a cost not to exceed $3,000.