FY26 Proposed Budget

Economic Development The Economic Development Division recommends and implement policies and programs designed to further the economic development of Iowa City, conducts outreach and provides support to local businesses, and manages the City’s public art program. Staff members work closely with Greater Iowa City, Inc., Think Iowa City, the city’s two Self-Supporting Municipal Improvement Districts, the University of Iowa, and others in promoting the City as a viable business location. Finally, they assist developers and prospective companies with commercial and industrial development projects and advise the City Council regarding economic development projects and proposals. General Fund Activities:  The Economic Development activity supports small businesses and entrepreneurs and real estate development projects, particularly those seeking City incentives.  The Public Art activity includes coordinating public art projects in the community, implementing recurring programs like the Sculptor’s Showcase and Public Art Matching Grant programs, and staffing the Public Art Advisory Committee. Recent Accomplishments:  Released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Redevelopment of 21 S. Linn Street, following a comprehensive public input and City Council goal-setting process .  Approved tax abatement eligibility for one property in the Highway 6 Commercial Urban Revitalization Area and a Partial Industrial Property Tax Exemption supporting Alpla, Inc.’s new training facility and creation of 36 new full-time apprenticeship positions.  Awarded $250,000 in American Rescue Plan Act Funds to each of the two Self Supported Municipal Improvement Districts to carry out placemaking improvements.  Launched a new Targeted Small Business Development Grant Program, which responds to community feedback by pairing grant funds with technical assistance or business coaching.  Initiated the first professional condition assessment of the entire Public Art Inventory, which will provide invaluable information for planning for long-term care and maintenance needs.  Awarded seven projects a total of $15,780 in Public Art Matching Grant funds.  Implemented the fourth installment of the rotating Sculpture’s Showcase program, with several improvements including moving to a two-year cycle and increasing the artist stipend.

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