HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-12-09 PACKET 04.C.01.City of Cottage Grove
TO: Economic Development Authority Members
FROM: Danette Parr, Economic Development Director
DATE: December 3, 2014
RE: 2015 ICSC RECON Convention
This purpose of this agenda item is for the EDA to discuss the merits of attending the
International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) convention in 2015. The convention will
take place in Las Vegas, Nevada from May 17–20th, 2015.
Background
As the EDA is aware, the ICSC convention is the largest global convention for the shopping
center industry and provides networking, deal making, and educational opportunities related to
retail real estate. The City of Cottage Grove has been participating in ICSC activities and
attending the convention since 2009. In previous years, the number of meetings with retailers
has varied from 12 to over 40. In 2014 there were over 34,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors
at the convention.
Logistics
In previous years, all participants have stayed at Bally’s Hotel in order to take advantage of
reasonable rental rates, its close proximity to the Convention Center, and the accessibility to
public transportation. In addition to lodging, there would also be expenses associated with
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travel and the convention registration of $530 per participant. December 12 is the last day to
take advantage of early registration discounts.
In the past, City representatives have utilized both electronic and hardcopy material as a part
of one-on-one meetings with retail representatives.
Action
Staff would appreciate the EDA’s feedback in relation to the City attending the ICSC
convention and discuss the following questions or any other questions that may be
appropriate:
Do you believe there is value in having the Mayor and staff attend the ICSC convention
in 2015?
What do you believe the focus should be?
Are there certain retailers you’d like us to target?
Recommendations
If the EDA determines that it would be beneficial for the City to participate in the 2015 ICSC
convention, staff would recommend the following:
A continued focus on areas of our retail market where we are experiencing the most
market leakage (an updated 2009 market study may be beneficial as a part of this)
There should be a focused approach that would look to attract a movie theater and
entertainment venues.