2017-11-06 EDC meetingUpdate with EDC
November 6, 2017
1:01 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Fund, Commissioner Jackson, Matt Matayoshi, Lee Napier
Guests: Susan DeLaire, Justyna Tomtas
Recorder: Rieva Lester
Matt Matayoshi said the EDC did not receive any .09 applications for the current cycle.
Matt discussed the recommendations of the State Auditor’s Office regarding .09 applications. He said
the annual meeting will be held Nov. 9.
Matt discussed the region’s housing needs.
Matt said the EDC has met with Winlock Mayor Lonnie Dowell, the city’s Public Works Director, and an
attorney regarding Winlock’s water rights. He said the city may be able to negotiate with Ecology
regarding recommendations Ecology made in 1980. He said the whole purpose is to get service to the
industrial site at the freeway.
Matt discussed plans to ask the state for funding to install signs, planters, walking paths and parking in
Packwood. He also discussed plans for improvements in downtown Toledo.
Matt discussed a recent study identifying employment needs. He also discussed the conundrum
employers face regarding testing for marijuana use. He said the region’s unemployment rate is at a 30-
year low.
Matt said non-traditional economic development programs are on the horizon for 2018. He said he will
visit Arizona to look at a “business incubator” program in Flagstaff.
Matt asked if the county could appoint an alternate for the .09 committee.
Matt suggested naming an alternate when the board makes its appointment via resolution.
Meeting ended at 1:32 p.m.