Lots of stuff going on within this meeting and I'm not going to comment on it all. A few thoughts are listed below. Small town administration is just as complex as big city administration. In many ways its even more challenging because of the diverse nature of the needs and a limit of expertise. They do well with what they have. There are opportunities in Escanaba (Delta County in general) for businesses of different kinds in a way that I have not seen in many other places. Underdeveloped, a local central hub, other UP activities, needs to build our competitive infrastructure, and a big need to return foreign direct investment to the U.S.
Marijuana in the City: Let me say that it is one way to shore up a deficit. I have heard the local casino did very well with their revenue and gave out bonuses to employees. That might create some opportunity for Escanaba if the people choose to accept it and allow it (I'm not making any moral judgements here.) Be wise about its revenue and continue to look for ways to cut unnecessary costs and reallocate resources where they improve long term revenue projects (i.e. attracting new businesses, better city marketing, tourism opportunities, fixing up the downtown, etc...).
Budget: I would like to draw your attention to the general budget. It looks like the revenue and expenses are the same at $9,329,379. The question then becomes if there is a new source (i.e. marijuana, investments, etc..) would they be able to use the far majority of that to draw in more revenue. While we are a city (non profit) it is important to maintain a balanced budget and in the green. Programs are great and can draw from new investments but should not overwhelm them. i.e. meaning creating new revenue and upon earning that revenue some will go to livability and general lifestyle that raises the likelihood of new investors and visitors. One might think of an example of summer movies in the park or plays by Boniface Center (or art classes outside, art shows in park, etc...) in the band shell during high tourism months and part of the concession money makes that sustainable and in turn help feed future growth opportunities. Do something to raise revenue and then know what people want to retain/attract more revenue. The same can be said for other necessities like infrastructure. See Sustainable Growth Model , Start Up Esky, SME Esky, Esky Downtown, Venture Cap, Virtual Community, Tourism Micro, Availability of Financial Info, Transac Sub, Multi Cluster, Delta Shipping and American Start Up. Oh...and a nice one I like China and US.😲
Northshore Marine and Hotel: They are discussing preparation to strengthen the nautical and tourist aspects of the city. Both are in landmark locations and they have to do it well. EGLE will be coming to visit to check on the site and ideas. I hear the House of Ludington and other properties were bought by a Chicago investor (I think that is what I heard) and that would help redevelop that pak/downtown area. That is a start we can use as kindle. A few ideas Esky Jail/Marina, Marina Conduit, Slips Filling Up Fast, Digital Nomads, Marina Dreams, Pure Michigan
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