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Retail Task Force

Established by Resolution No. 6881, the purpose of the Retail Task Force is encourage the growth of the retail economy in Lawrence.

The Task Force shall have a primary focus on the following issue: What should the City of Lawrence do to grow the retail economy in Lawrence? The Task Force shall organize its work in such a way and provide a report on findings and recommendations by December 1, 2010. The work of the Task Force shall include, but not be limited to following areas of inquiry:

  • What is the status of Lawrence’s retail economy? What existing policies and laws currently govern the retail economy? The inquiry shall include a review of applicable retail statistics and market surveys and provisions of the City’s comprehensive plan applicable to retail issues.
  • What are best practices for communities regarding enhancing the retail economy? The inquiry shall include the possibility and practicality of City sponsorship of a retail incubator. The inquiry shall include a review of what other successful communities have done to enhance their retail economy (with a similar review of lessons learned from poor practices). The inquiry shall include a review of practices to specifically enhance the retail economy of Lawrence’s downtown. Additionally, the inquiry shall include a review of possible tools to enhance the retail economy, including CID, TIF, TDD, Neighborhood Revitalization, New Market Tax Credits, and STAR bonds incentives. Additionally, the inquiry shall include a review of City practices and policies which may currently inhibit the growth of the retail economy, including development costs associated with new or existing expansion of retail establishments.
  • What recommendations for changes in laws, policies, practices, and spending priorities are appropriate to enhance the retail economy of Lawrence? The Task Force shall recognize that any recommendations concerning land use laws or policies shall require an appropriate review through the Lawrence-Douglas County Planning Commission and appropriate governing bodies.

The Task Force is chaired by Commissioner Rob Chestnut and will provide a final report to the City Commission no later than December 1, 2010.