Council restores business development liaison role as part of economic focus

Gina Roland, interim human resources director, asked the council to reestablish a business development liaison classification and retain budgeted authority for a business development manager. The proposal would allow the department flexibility to recruit at either the liaison or manager level; if filled as a liaison the city anticipates modest salary savings for the remainder of the fiscal year.

City leaders said the position is part of a broader push to be more strategic about economic development — including a planned engagement with Perkins Eastman to produce a longer‑range land‑use and business attraction plan — and to ensure the city can capitalize on growth and projects announced in the region.

Council members expressed support for the recommendation and noted land‑use and infrastructure work that will proceed alongside recruitment; the motion to approve staff recommendations carried on voice vote.