TO: Community Economic Development Advisory Board
FROM: Michael Meerman, Economic Development Manager
Lori Barnes, AICP, CPM, Deputy Director, Development Services
TITLE: Economic Development Division Update
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Leadership North Port Presentation
* North Port Chamber of Commerce program (similar to NP University)
* Michael Meerman made a presentation to the class March 14, 2025
North Port University Presentation
* Economic Development presentation made on April 10, 2025
* Part of the larger presentation from Development Services Dept.
New Business Welcome Quarter 2
* Quarterly welcome to new NP businesses
* Hosted by Mike McLellan on April 19, 2025
City Tour with Commissioner
* March 7, 2025, Driving tour of the city with Commissioner Duval
Atlanta Braves Spring Training Events
* March 14, 2025, Suite event attended by CM, DCM, Lori Barnes, Michael Meerman, and representatives from SCF, STC, HCA, Encompass Health
* Multi week ticket distribution to partners, developers, and affiliated parties
Discussions with Corporation Relocation Firm
* Developing leads with relocation specialist from Tampa
* Planning city tour with the firm's principle
Entertainment Evolution Experience Trade Show
* Alaina Ray and Vinnie represented the city at this trade event, Feb 25/26, 2025
* Developed a listing of 20 potential leads
Assembly Show South Trade Show
* Lori Barnes and Michael Meerman representing the city at this trade event April 15-17, 2025
* Sarasota Economic Development Corporation will also attend and support our booth activity
* Nashville, TN
HCA Ribbon Cutting
* ED was in attendance to support HCA March 2, 2025
* Also present were Mayor Stokes, CM Fletcher
Evaluating New Industry Silos
* Exploring commercial opportunities across technology and transportation sectors
Affordable Housing
* Pursuing opportunities to increase options for AH growth
* Met with developer April 8, 2025
* Attended...
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