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Following Ms. Riganti’s review of the memo, the Board began to deliberate on each project and vote on funding. Olive Blvd CID – Board is concerned about a return on value for an analysis. Mr. Edwards explained to the Board that a Community Improvement District will provide added value by raising additional funds for infrastructure, marketing, and other projects. Mr. Edwards indicated that the LSBD was approved for funds for the same projects and hopes to become a CID in the near future, like the East Loop. Mr. O’Donnell agreed with Mr. Edwards and stated that a CID would provide property owners with “skin in the game”. Ms. Riganti explained to the Board that the property owners had requested the City start the analysis. Board concerned that it funds analysis and no CID is form. That is a risk that will be taken. Mr. Kuhlman made a motion for the Board to consider the Olive CID and the Market Analysis together since they are both important Olive Blvd projects. Board approved funding $40,000 for CID and $50,000 for the Olive Blvd Market Analysis by a vote of 6-1. Olive Boulevard Sidewalk Improvements – Mr. O’Brien is concerned about the cost of the sidewalk project going over budget, he thinks the requested amount is low. Ms. Lloyd explained that the cost was provided by public works on a cost per linear foot and in addition, Public Works will first design the project and get cost estimates from an engineer. At that time, Public Works can review the estimates with the Board. There are several steps in the process. Ms. Williams questions why the EDRST funds have to pay for sidewalks and not the City’s general fund. Ms. Riganti explained that Olive Blvd is a state roadway and that the State of Missouri Department of Transportation will not fund sidewalks. The state doesn’t have the funds to even maintain the highways. Mr. Kuhlman stated that infrastructure is very important and one of the projects funded through state statute. Mr. O’Brien concurred that this is one of the most important projects this year to be requested. Mr. Lenard asked about other elements of the streetscape that need to be addressed on Olive Blvd like lighting, trees, etc. Ms. Lloyd explained that streetscape and infrastructure projects are expensive and multi-year. For example, FY 17 EDRST funds upgraded all the pedestrian-scale lighting on Olive Blvd and Delmar Blvd. Funds will also be used for five new bus shelters. Mayor Welsch asked why Public Works was requesting funds for sidewalks and not street lights. Ms. Lloyd explained that the City doesn’t own the street lights and the City would need to work closely with Ameren to replace or upgrade the lighting with a cost into the millions. The Board voted 4-3 to fund the Olive sidewalks with EDRST reserves. Olive Boulevard Market Analysis – Approved 6-1 in conjunction with the CID Create Space Generator – Board determined that without Create Space, there is a lost opportunity for real Economic Development in U City. Ms. Williams stated that this is the exact type of project that the funds should be used for. Create Space provides opportunities for students and entrepreneurs. Ms. Hendrix stated that Create Space provides an opportunity for innovative young people. Mr. Lenard stated that he is very supportive of Create Space and this concept of scholarships and programming removes the issue of funding for equipment. The Create Space request is aligned with the state statute for use of EDRST funds. Mr. Adeboye concurred and supports full funding for Create Space programs. The Board voted 7-0 to fully fund both Create Space ($60,000) and Kitchen Space ($70,000). Loop Special Business District Events – The Board supports staff’s recommendation to combine the events in the Delmar Loop. The Board does think that the LSBD should determine which events are best for all businesses in the Loop. Mr. Edwards explained that the Ice Carnival would be expanded to three days and that other events help draw people into the Loop. Mr. Kuhlman acknowledged that the EDRST Board has historically funded Loop projects and the funds are impactful. Ms. Hendrix questioned staff’s decision to combine the events and doesn’t think the Board needs to continue funding projects just because it’s always been done. The Board voted 6-1 to fund Loop events at $75,000 and for the LSBD to use those funds for Loo events (including Ice Carnival), Mannequins in the Loop, and Midtown Farmers Market events (Music, Chef Competition, etc.) 3