Jefferson County EDOC March 2013 Meeting

Jefferson County Economic Development Oversight Committee (EDOC) released draft minutes from their March meeting held March 18, 2013. Minutes from the meeting have not been presented to the Committee for approval, though Don Cason, Director of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce and EDOC employee, did review the minutes prior to release. Following the presentation of and approval of February Financial information, a question arose concerning payment to Farrar and Bates and the ability to spread payments to the firm over a year rather than one lump sum. Farrar and Bates is a comprehensive litigation firm that, according to its promotional information, regularly defends municipalities and their officers in the practice areas of employment discrimination and retaliation, premises and general tort liability, workers compensation, wage and hour disputes, land use, zoning and planning, contract disputes and inverse condemnation. Farrar and Bates also consult with the drafting of ordinances and employment issues. The nature of the retention of Farrar and Bates was not included in the minutes of the meeting, nor was the cost associated with contracting with the firm.

The Committee received reports regarding the upcoming golf tournament, which will serve as a fund raiser for the group and a new website designed to promote tourism, as well as up grades to the boat ramp across the green bridge. Under Economic Development, there has been interest expressed in the BAE and US Marine Buildings.

Information on the procurement of options for the Megasite property was brought via conference call from property option negotiators Blanchard and Calhoun Commercial. The committee was informed that of 500 acres expected to sell, 250 acres have signed options.

The Capitol Campaign to raise operational funds for EDOC will be extended until the end of June.

Financial statements were not included as a part of the meeting minutes.