Encinitas council backs creation of economic development commission with 5–9 members and three‑year terms

City staff presented a proposal to create an economic development/business commission to advise on business retention, recruitment and an economic development plan. Management analyst Delilah Welnick said the commission would support the council’s strategic work plan and serve as a bridge between businesses and city staff.

Councilmembers discussed composition (geographic distribution by district, representation of chambers/Main Street associations, and whether to require business ownership or allow employees and at‑large members). Several members urged a flexible composition to include start‑ups, small brick‑and‑mortar businesses and larger employers. Concerns about conflicts of interest with chamber officers were raised and council asked for nomination weight to be given to letters from recognized business associations while preserving council appointment authority.

Council voted unanimously to remove the narrow industry quota language from the draft, set membership at 5–9 with two at‑large seats, adopt three‑year staggered terms with two consecutive term maximum, and direct staff to return with a vision/mission statement that reflects Encinitas’ cultural and tourism identity. The item will return to council with detailed bylaws and conflict‑of‑interest guidance.