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Challenge #2- Economic Development
As Meridian continues its transition to one of the leading communities in the state,
prudent economic development will become more essential. However, the desired
type and pace of growth depends greatly on sustainable business and public support
systems, suitable physical infrastructure, adequate and suitable development land,
well-planned streets, and ordinances that both support and promote economic vitality.
Analysis reflects that several ordinances need modernizing, suitable land is
unavailable for development, business support systems are not fully matured, and
broad-based community partnerships not sufficiently in place to foster and guide the
anticipated level of economic growth.
Major Long-Term Goals
To increase the City’s overall economic base.
To increase the number of new businesses or established businesses locating in
the City.
To increase the number of identified factors that promote business growth and
vitality within the City.
To increase the number of private- public partnerships between the City and a
wide variety of local businesses and private organizations.
To increase capacity of the City’s general physical infrastructure so it remains
current or slightly ahead of development demands.
Key Strategies
Convene a team to conduct a review of all City ordinances to determine those
that are outdated and/or inappropriate for the desired business climate. Amend
as necessary and correct all to current standards by the end of FY 2002.
Complete the City’s Comprehensive Plan and continue to monitor planning and
zoning to achieve a balance between commercial, residential, and open space-
seeking an exceptionally well - planned and integrated community.
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Accelerate development of new private- public partnerships by establishing new
or more pronounced relationships with area business, the Chamber of
Commerce, area service clubs, business organizations, and the urban renewal
agency.
Maintain five, ten, and twenty year plans for physical infrastructure
development maintaining a pace that maximizes tax dollars without
overbuilding. Seek input from the development community along with counsel
from area planning agencies, corporations, and universities to evaluate plan
accuracy.
Convene a study group to assess the status of current business and public
support systems. Complete an analysis and recommend areas of improvement
that can guide development of systems that attract desired business and retain
those already in place. Establish a remediation plan by the beginning of FY
2003.