Economic Development Partnership Program Evaluation City of Des Moines Potential Vision DISCUSSION DRAFT PRIMARY RETAIL TRADE AREA DES MOINES MARINA FEASIBILITY STUDY PHASE 2 FINAL REPORT Renton, Washington December 3, 2018 CONTACT CLIFF LONG , ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Community & Economic Development Department | 1055 South Grady Way | Renton, Washington 98057 | 425.430.6591 clong@rentonwa.gov | www.rentonwa.gov 2 12 This page intentionally left blank. 2 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Community Attributes Inc. tells data-rich stories about communities that are important to decision makers. President & CEO Chris Mefford Project Manager Madalina Calen Analysts Michaela Jellicoe Maureen McLennon Bryan Lobel Designers Maeve Rogers Edstrom Maureen McLennon 500 Union Street, Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98101 206.523.6683 www.communityattributes.com Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 3 This page intentionally left blank. 4 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Executive Summary Grant Program Overview • participating cities, which represents 20% more than the funds The Economic Development Partnership Program was developed in 2016 by Port of Seattle to facilitate growth in business, jobs and economic activity in participating municipalities in King County. A comparison of the Port allocated initially • Half of the participating cities implemented wayfinding projects or projects that support tourism, 12 cities completed marketing projects of Seattle's Economic Development Program with other federal, state and and 11 cities implemented business assistance, recruitment or retention local grant programs shows that the program is distinctive in the region in both its approach and mission, with the following attributes: An additional $660,000 was spent in matching funds by the projects • Most cities completed their projects on time except for 4 cities that • The program is open to all cities in King County except Seattle. indicated their projects or parts of their projects would extend into next • The awards are non-competitive, and the allocation of funds is based year on the city's population. Each city may receive between $5,000 and • $65,000. • Cities are required to invest at least 50% of the grant value in their own funds, either in money or in-kind contributions. • Projects should be integrated with the city's economic development strategy and support the Port's Century Agenda goals. • • The Port established a set of eligible project activities from business Program Outcomes Cities that used Port of Seattle EDP grants to implement business assistance, retention and recruitment projects expect that in the long-term the projects will have the following benefits: • Promote entrepreneurship and small business growth capital projects. • Attract foreign investment Cities are encouraged to form partnerships by contracting with local • Diversify the local economy • Recapture spending within the city • Support development of local supply chains; and • Ultimately create jobs and increase economic activity. project impact. 2017-2018 Grant Program Cycle Over the last two years of the EDP program, the Port awarded around $1.8 million in grants to cities in King County. For the 2017-2018 grant cycle year: • by the Port of Seattle. recruitment to tourism development and funds cannot be used for non-profits, private or public organizations or other cities to enhance • Of the 30 participating cities, 29 completed the final reporting required In the short-term, these projects helped cities get a better understanding of their local businesses, their offerings, needs and challenges and improve communication with the business community. The projects 30 of the 38 cities in King County applied for funding and entered into a also successfully generated leads for business recruitment and provided contractual agreement with the Port of Seattle education, training and other support to small businesses and start-ups. Approximately $839,000 of the total Port of Seattle $990,000 allocated funds was claimed and expended by cities Discussion Draft Cities also used Port of Seattle EDP grants to fund planning and feasibility studies designed to help guide future economic development efforts, EDP Program Evaluation 5 address questions of feasibility associated with city and community desires, and provide data needed for future efforts. Cities emphasized the importance of having a robust public and stakeholder engagement program for these projects to help translate stakeholder needs into organizational goals and creates the basis for effective strategy development. Recommendations The following are recommendations for the Port's EDP program design and performance supported through findings from the evaluation: • at $50,000 instead of $65,000 and use the added funding to offer The cities that used the Port's EDP program funds for marketing efforts intended to increase awareness of local city assets and improve the image of their City. The main goals of the marketing projects are to attract visitors, competitive grants for cities seeking to implement competitive projects. • with grantees to define and agree measurable outcomes and indicators of marketing and data and analytics are powerful tools. The projects in this competitive and make use of their advantages to increase job opportunities, progress and success. • Vary reporting requirements with grant amount by introducing some flexibility in reporting to benefit smaller cities and working more closely business revenues and tourism opportunities. with smaller cities to provide support on grant administration and reporting. Cities that invested in wayfinding and tourism projects aimed to create visible navigational systems that guide visitors and residents to key city Provide impact measurement support by establishing criteria for when evaluation is warranted, establishing evaluation priorities and working investors, businesses and residents. Participating cities learned that category emphasized the importance of marketing for cities that wish to be Consider new grant funds allocation approach, such as capping awards • Facilitate more topical discussions between cities and between cities destinations within the city; market cultural, historical or outdoor assets; and the Port of Seattle to provide a frame of reference for future and increase awareness of the city as a destination for developers, residents undertakings by municipalities, increase collaboration between the cities and visitors. Most wayfinding projects implemented by the participating and their staff and elevate the overall economic development activity in the region. cities in the Port of Seattle EDP program are one element of a larger placemaking strategy focused on building inclusive, healthy, functional and • Adjust grant timelines to allow for better project planning, especially for larger scale projects that cities can complete in stages over several grant productive cities. City website updates and development projects allow cities to provide cycles. stakeholders of all types (businesses, residents, tourists) with current information about the City. The projects enable cities to use the power of data to enhance collaboration among government, business, education and other organizations to improve how people work, live, and interact and to make their city more attractive for business investments. 6 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Contents Executive Summary..................................................................5 Contents...................................................................................7 Introduction..............................................................................8 Program Evaluation Framework...............................................9 Port of Seattle EDP Program Profile........................................11 Evaluation Outcomes..............................................................19 Recommendations and Conclusions.......................................27 Appendix A - Evaluation Interview Guide.............................28 Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 7 Introduction Background & Purpose EDP program and summarizes the findings from the evaluation of the 2017-2018 Economic Development Partnership Program cycle. Methods The evaluation of the Port of Seattle's EDP program was guided by an evaluation framework that considered the desired outcomes of each stakeholder: the Port of Seattle and the participating jurisdictions. The framework was developed through discussions with Port staff and Port Commissioners and focused on both process - how a project was implemented and delivered, and impact - the project's results. This study used data and information from the Port of Seattle about their EDP program, from the final grant reports submitted by participating cities to the Port of Seattle, from interviews conducted with cities staff and from secondary research. Organization of Report Port of Seattle In 2016 the Port of Seattle established an economic development fund for King County cities to advance regional economic growth and the This report is organized as follows: • Program Evaluation Framework. Includes a description of the steps Port's Century Agenda. The Port's goals with the grant program are to taken in the evaluation process and the evaluation criteria and metrics facilitate growth in business, jobs and economic activity in participating used. municipalities. • program, with a focus on project goals and objectives, format and how The Port of Seattle commissioned an objective assessment and evaluation the program compares to other grant programs in the country. Also of the impact of the Port's Economic Development Partnership (EDP) program on local and regional economies. The purpose of the evaluation is to get a better understanding of the ways in which the EDP program helps includes a summary of participating cities projects. • Evaluation Outcomes. Includes a discussion of the outreach process, key findings from the evaluation by project category and general key advance local economic development throughout King County and the region. Port of Seattle EDP Program Profile. Provides an overview of the EDP findings. • Recommendations and Conclusions. Provides recommendations for This report outlines the elements of the evaluation process, criteria and the Port's program design and performance based on the evaluation metrics used in evaluating projects, provides a detailed description of the results. 8 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Program Evaluation Framework The evaluation of the Port of Seattle EDP program addresses whether the program achieving its goals to facilitate growth in business, jobs and economic activity in participating municipalities. This requires an understanding of the program's intent, an approach to measuring its accomplishments and benchmarks for comparison. The evaluation process for this study addresses the following: • What will be evaluated? • What is the purpose of the evaluation and what are the desired outcomes? • • • Using information provided by the Port of Seattle about the EDP program, the grant program profile explains what the program is trying to accomplish and how it fits into the larger organizational and community environment. This step also focuses on the specific projects implemented by the cities funded through EDP grants, to illustrate the projects' core components and elements and ability to produce change. Tasks include the following: • for evaluation purposes and to enable comparisons with other economic through the EDP program? development grant programs. What are the measurable outcomes and key indicators of city projects • Determine how the program advances Century Agenda goals. success? • Provide a brief comparison of the EDP program to other economic development grant programs. How does the EDP program compare to other economic development What conclusions and recommendations about program design and performance are justified based on the evaluation results? Evaluation Process Overview The evaluation process includes the steps described in this section. Gather Evidence Data and information collected by the Port of Seattle and through interviews with grantees are the main sources of evidence for the evaluation. Tasks include the following: • Port of Seattle staff, Port Commissioners and grantees are the key stakeholders representing different interests for this study and were descriptors. • Port of Seattle staff and Port Commissioners. • Review final grant reports to acquire an understanding of the type of city projects funded, project outcomes and data available to measure the engaged as part of the evaluation process. Tasks include the following: Establish evaluation outcomes and objectives through interviews with Gather and review data and information collected by Port of Seattle on number of grantees, dollars granted, type of projects and other Engage Stakeholders • Identify the goals, activities and resources of the Port's EDP program What evidence will be used to indicate the impact of the projects funded grant programs? • Profile the Program impact of the Port's EDP program. • Interview grantees to collect data and information needed to evaluate the impact of their 2017-2018 projects. Interview grantees to collect data and information needed to evaluate the impact of their 2017-2018 projects. Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 9 Analysis and Recommendations Impact on Economic Development A set of criteria and metrics help assess the impact of the Port's Economic The impact on economic development is assessed in terms of measures of Development Partnership (EDP) program on local and regional economies. project impacts such as: Where possible, impacts are quantified using metrics such as the number of new jobs created, new money attracted to the local economies and more. Projects are grouped in categories based on the type of initiatives funded and a summary of impacts by category is provided. Evaluation Criteria and Metrics • Quantitative metrics, for example the number of new jobs created, new investment in the local economy, number of individuals impacted etc. • Qualitative measures, for example changes in target population behavior, changes in community norms, policies and practices, changes in quality of life etc. The following evaluation criteria provide the basis on which achievements and impacts of the programs funded by the Port of Seattle Economic Development Partnership (EDP) Program are assessed: 1. Performance of the project 2. Project context 3. Impact on economic development Performance of the Project Project performance is assessed in terms of measures of project activities such as: • Need or the extent to which the project addresses a problem or opportunity. • Progress towards project objectives or the extent to which project objectives were met (both short-term and long-term objectives will be considered). • Implementation of project activities and achievement of expected outcomes. • Financial accountability. Project Context The project context is assessed in terms of strategic fit or the extent to which the project objectives are consistent with a city's economic development strategy or a city's vision for economic growth. 10 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Port of Seattle EDP Program Profile Overview of EDP Program • Position the Puget Sound region as a premier international logistics hub; The Port of Seattle's Economic Development Partnership (EDP) program • Advance this region as a leading tourism destination and business gateway; aims to fill a very specific need in the direct funding of economic development projects administered by individual cities and towns across • small business growth; and workforce development; and King County. At the same time, the partnerships this program establishes will help advance the Port's strategic "Century Agenda" objectives • The Port's EDP program was established in response to a perceived gap in the availability of direct grant funding for economic development projects and programs outside of Seattle in King County. While the Port has had a large impact on the greater Seattle economy - including through sponsorships, memberships, and contracting - it had contributed less to the other cities and towns in King County whose economies are inextricably linked to that of Seattle's and the region's. Anchor Puget Sound urban-industrial land use to prevent sprawl in less developed areas. by advancing business development, job creation, and community revitalization region-wide. Promote women and minority business enterprise (WMBE) growth; Program Set-up The grant funding is available to 38 cities in King County and is awarded on a $1 per capita formula. Awards are capped at $65,000 with a minimum of $5,000 for small cities. Grant funds require a 50 percent match of dollars or in-kind resources. Cities may contract with local non-profits to deliver projects or manage initiatives and may collaborate or aggregate regionally to enhance impact or outcomes. Port Economic Development Partnership Programs can be used to support Project Objectives the following economic development activities: The primary objective of the Port's Economic Development Partnership • Program is to help advance regional economic vitality and equity through focused partnerships with the 39 cities of King County. Direct Port grants made to partner cities, combined with required matching funds or in-kind contributions, will be used to plan and implement projects and programs aimed at expanding local businesses and industries, growing employment Business recruitment initiatives designed to attract new companies to a region or city • Small business development (including incubator/accelerator projects) • Industry retention and expansion assistance (ex. Maritime, Aerospace, etc.) - especially middle-income and livable wage jobs, and revitalizing King • Tourism development County's local communities. • Downtown revitalization • Commercial or industrial property development • Other community or economic development projects that support new By partnering and contracting directly with King County cities on specific economic development program implementation, the EDP Program also promotes the Port of Seattle's Century Agenda vision of adding 100,000 investment and job creation. jobs through Port-led and -assisted economic growth. The Program feeds directly into Century Agenda strategies to: Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 11 Comparison with Other Programs The Port of Seattle's Economic Development Program is distinctive in the region in both its approach and mission. Several similar federal, state, and local programs are described below and compared to the EDP to provide further context for the Programs' structure, efficacy, and reach. US Economic Development Agency (EDA) - Public Works & Economic Adjustment Assistance Grants assistance programs; housing rehabilitation, infrastructure in support of affordable housing; planning; public services. This program differs from EDP in that it is a primary federal funding instrument targeted to distressed communities and can be used for a wider array of projects at the discretion of the grantee; grantees can also partner with non-eligible entities known as "sub-grantees". Port of Tacoma - Local Economic Development Investment Fund EDA solicits applications from applicants in rural and urban areas for construction, non-construction, technical assistance, and revolving loan fund projects under EDA's Public Works and EAA programs. Grants are made to local, county and state governments, universities, and non-profit organizations, and awards range from $100,000 to $300,000. Applicants must demonstrate the economic development need for the project, their capability to complete the project, the fit with EDA funding priorities and the economic impacts of the project. This program differs from Port of Seattle's EDP program in that it is a large-scale network of federal programs that target distressed communities, it is competitive in nature and proposed projects must satisfy regional eligibility requirements set by EDA. US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) / Washington State Department of Commerce (DOC) - Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) Community Development Block Grants offered by HUD and Washington State DOC fund local community development and infrastructure and are largely used at the discretion of state and local governments and their subgrantees. The grant amounts are awarded based on allocation formulas that prioritize distressed communities and grants must principally benefit low- and moderate-income persons. The CDBG program funds a wide Port of Tacoma, Tacoma Waterfront Association Similar to Port of Seattle's EDP Program, the Port of Tacoma's Local Economic Development Investment Fund (LEDIF) is a community economic development grant fund aimed at supporting an array of infrastructure, community revitalization, marketing, and employment / business growth projects and programs in local Pierce County communities. While structurally similar to EDP in its target of all local communities and intended projects, unlike the EDP the annual budget for this program is $250,000 and no grantee match is required - it may even be used to help local jurisdictions fulfill matching requirements to receive a larger grant. range of activities including: sewer, water, streets and other infrastructure; community facilities; economic development, local micro-enterprise 12 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft City of Seattle - Neighborhood Matching Fund (NMF) Whatcom County - Economic Development Investment Program The Economic Development Investment (EDI) Program provides financing for public facilities (e.g. roads and bridges, water and sewer facilities, electricity etc.) through very low interest loans, grants, or a combination of both. Applicants must be a public entity or local government, such as the county, cities, port, a Planned Unit Development, water and sewer, and other districts. The goal of the program is to assist in financing public facilities that stimulate private investment, are required by businesses to create or retain jobs, and facilitate the expansion, retention or attraction of businesses in Whatcom County. Unlike EDP, this is a narrowly focused grant and loan program aimed primarily at infrastructure development required to support regional economic activity. City of Seattle, Image from "Get To Know Our Neighborhood Matching Fund" video US Economic Development Agency (EDA) - University Center Economic Development Program Seattle's NMF was created to provide matching dollars for neighborhood EDA's University Center (UC) Economic Development Program makes improvement, organizing, or projects developed and implemented by the resources of universities available to the economic development community members. NMF requires a match with contributions from the community, including specialized research, outreach, technology community as volunteer time, donated materials, donated professional transfer, and commercialization capabilities, as well as faculty expertise services, or cash. Neighborhood groups, community organizations, and laboratory facilities. The UCs are required to devote most of their informal groups, and business groups may apply. NMF funds projects funding under this program to respond to technical assistance requests which must: directly involve community members; create community originating from organizations located in the economically distressed improvements; be free and open to all; be feasible and ready to begin within portions of their service regions. Most UCs focus their efforts on assisting 1-2 months; demonstrate community match; occur within Seattle; and, local governments and nonprofits in planning and implementing regional not have received NMF funding within the last two years. Like POS's EDP, economic development strategies and projects. In the Puget Sound this program supports community development, though much less explicitly region, the University of Washington was first funded as a UC in 2017, with a focused on economic development, and requires a financial or in-kind match of $100,000 grant supporting the CoMotion collaborative innovation hub; this is grantees. The program also funds neighborhood organizing and sub-municipal a unique program oriented around technical assistance provision to distressed groups, activists, and organizations. communities. Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 13 For the purpose of the evaluation, all projects undertaken in 2017-2018 Summary of City Projects For the 2017-2018 Economic Development Partnership Program cycle, the Port of Seattle made available around $990,000 to the 38 cities in King County, up from around $960,000 in the previous program year. Of the 38 were classified under six different categories based on the type of economic development activities undertaken. Several city projects crossover into multiple categories. cities, 30 applied for funding and entered into a contract with the Port. The • Business Assistance/Recruitment and Retention: 11 cities; cities that did not apply for the program in 2017-2018 were: Algona, Beaux • Planning/Feasibility Studies: 7 cities; • Marketing: 12 cities; • Tourism/Wayfinding: 15 cities; • Website Development/Enhancement: 3 cities; • Workforce Development: 1 city. Arts Village, Black Diamond, Clyde Hill, Hunts Point, Medina, Milton and Yarrow Point. Approximately $839,000 of the total allocated funds was claimed and expended. Approximately $660,000 was spent in total match funds by the 30 participating cities in the 2017-2018 EDP program year, which represents 20% more than the funds allocated initially. 12 cities spent more of their own funds than budgeted either due to cost overruns or because they recognized the value of the projects and were willing and able to invest more. Exhibit 1. EDP Program Allocated and Expanded Funds, 20172018 $1,502 Total Funds $1,491 Allocated Expended $552 City Match Funds $660 $990 POS Funds $839 $0 $200 $400 $600 $800 $1,000 $1,200 $1,400 $1,600 Thousands Sources: Port of Seattle, 2018; Community Attributes, 2018. 14 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Exhibit 2. Awarded and Expanded Funds by City, 2017-2018 POS Funds Allocated POS Funds Expended City Match City Match Funds Allocated Funds Expended Algona $5,000 $0 $0 Auburn $65,000 $65,000 Beaux Arts Village $5,000 Bellevue Total Allocated Total Expended $0 $0 $0 $50,500 $65,979 $115,500 $130,979 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $65,000 $49,116 $33,750 $32,106 $98,750 $81,222 Black Diamond $5,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Bothell $26,860 $26,860 $13,430 $17,807 $40,290 $44,667 Burien $50,000 $50,000 $25,000 $39,334 $75,000 $89,334 Carnation $5,000 Not Available $11,500 Not Available $16,500 Not Available Clyde Hill $5,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Covington $16,000 $13,051 $8,000 $6,525 $24,000 $19,576 Des Moines $30,800 $30,800 $30,800 $54,685 $61,600 $85,485 Duvall $7,425 $7,425 $3,712 $7,425 $11,138 $11,138 Enumclaw $11,400 Not Available $5,705 Not Available $17,105 Not Available Federal Way $65,000 $58,503 $32,500 $41,007 $97,500 $99,510 Hunts Point $5,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Issaquah $34,500 $27,220 $17,250 $13,686 $51,750 $40,906 Kenmore $22,320 $22,320 $11,160 $13,695 $33,480 $36,015 Kent $65,000 $65,000 $32,500 $32,500 $97,500 $97,500 Kirkland $65,000 $65,000 $32,500 $28,280 $97,500 $93,280 Lake Forest Park $26,000 $26,000 $26,000 $118,649 $52,000 $144,649 Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 15 Exhibit 2. Awarded and Expanded Funds by City, 2017-2018 Continued POS Funds Allocated POS Funds Expended City Match City Match Funds Allocated Funds Expended Maple Valley $24,700 $24,700 $24,700 Medina $5,000 $0 Mercer Island $23,660 Milton Total Allocated Total Expended $27,538 $49,400 $52,238 $0 $0 $0 $0 Not Available $11,830 Not Available $35,490 Not available $5,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Newcastle $11,000 $11,000 $5,500 $7,000 $16,500 $18,000 Normandy Park $6,420 $5,681 $3,010 $2,841 $9,730 $8,522 North Bend $6,570 $6,570 $4,265 $6,384 $10,835 $12,954 Pacific $6,835 $6,797 $3,418 $3,403 $10,253 $10,200 Redmond $60,560 $47,354 $30,280 $21,358 $90,840 $68,712 Renton $65,000 $65,000 $32,500 $32,500 $97,500 $97,500 Sammamish $61,250 $61,250 $30,625 $31,043 $91,875 $92,293 SeaTac $27,810 $27,810 $13,905 $13,905 $41,715 $41,715 Shoreline $54,990 $36,986 $28,995 $19,195 $83,985 $56,181 Skykomish $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $10,000 $5,000 Snoqualmie $10,000 $10,000 $5,000 $5,000 $15,000 $15,000 Tukwila $19,540 $13,160 $9,770 $6,780 $29,310 $19,940 Woodinville $11,570 $11,570 $8,500 $6,800 $20,070 $18,370 Yarrow Point $5,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $990,210 $839,173 $551,605 $660,425 $1,502,116 $1,490,886 TOTAL 16 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Exhibit 3. Participating cities by project category, 2017-2018 Business Assistance, Recruitment & Retention Auburn Bellevue Planning & Feasibility Studies ü ü Marketing Tourism & Wayfinding Website Enhancement Workforce Development ü Black Diamond ü Bothell ü ü ü Burien Carnation Covington ü Des Moines ü ü Duvall Enumclaw Federal Way Issaquah Kenmore ü ü ü ü ü ü ü ü ü ü Kent Kirkland Lake Forest Park Maple Valley Discussion Draft ü ü ü ü ü ü ü ü EDP Program Evaluation 17 Exhibit 3. Participating cities by project category, 2017-2018 Continued Business Assistance, Recruitment & Retention Planning & Feasibility Studies Marketing Tourism & Wayfinding Website Enhancement Workforce Development ü Mercer Island Milton ü Newcastle ü Normandy Park North Bend Pacific Redmond Renton ü ü ü Shoreline ü ü ü ü Snoqualmie Tukwila ü ü ü ü Woodinville 18 PORT OF SEATTLE ü ü Skykomish Total ü ü ü ü Sammamish SeaTac ü 11 EDP Program Evaluation 7 12 15 3 1 Discussion Draft Evaluation Outcomes Outreach Process For the 2017-2018 Economic Development Partnership Program cycle, participating cities were required to complete projects and submit all invoices, the final project report and supporting materials by November 1, 2018. At the time of writing this study, only one of the 30 participating cities had not submitted a final report to the Port of Seattle and 4 cities indicated their projects or parts of their projects would extend into next year. All delayed projects are wayfinding signs and more details are provided below: • Carnation - The project was delayed until after major road construction is complete in the second quarter of 2019. • provided on economic development impacts of the project and identified any information gaps to be addressed in the interviews. Discussions with cities were focused around the motivation and need for the project, strategic context, measures of success and cities' experience with the Port's EDP program. Appendix B includes the evaluation interview guide with the questions that were asked during our discussions. Findings by Project Category Business Assistance, Recruitment and Retention Auburn, Bellevue, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kenmore, Kirkland, Pacific, Redmond, Renton, SeaTac, Shoreline Enumclaw - The city experienced delays due to difficulty getting approval for the design of the signs from the City council. Signage will be installed in January of 2019. • Mercer Island - The city experienced difficulties with the project timeline due to limited staff and the lack of economic development expertise. All work to fabricate and deliver signs funded through this project is expected to be complete by December 31st 2018 and signage will be installed in January of 2019. • SeaTac - The project is scheduled for completion in early 2019. Due to permitting challenges, the signage will be installed in January of 2019. Community Attributes contacted all participating cities to conduct interviews to better understand the effectiveness of the Port's EDP program in helping cities accomplish their economic development priorities. Interviews were completed with 27 of the 30 participating cities. The Cities of Carnation, Duvall and Enumclaw did not respond to the interview request. Startup 425, Image from Startup425.org Many cities implemented projects aimed at promoting entrepreneurship Our team reviewed the final project reports submitted to the Port of and small business growth in their city. Some cities leverage partnerships Seattle for each city prior to the interview. We reviewed project goals and between cities or with local Chambers of Commerce and educational objectives, project performance against these objectives, any information Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 19 institutions to design and provide the content most highly desired by their chains. They realized that businesses did not have the time or resources to small business community. seek out local businesses for supplying, sourcing, or logistics relationships, Startup 425 in an example of such an initiative aimed to encourage creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship opportunities across Eastside and that default use of outside vendors further afield was a significant constraint in many cases. communities of Bellevue-Redmond-Kirkland-Issaquah-Renton. As part Several cities (Pacific, Shoreline) implemented projects to help them of Startup 425, the City of Bellevue organized a set of seven workshops acquire a better understanding of the local business inventory and the that expanded finance education and access to capital for participating specific needs and challenges of the business community. This will allow businesses and two export development workshops designed to support cities to tailor their business recruitment and retention efforts and better startups with limited export experience. design economic development strategies. Other cities such as Auburn and Renton offered training, counseling and The City of Pacific created a database of 248 confirmed local businesses other entrepreneurial support to promote education, encourage networking organized by industry with contact information and identified key industry and facilitate access to resources for startups and small businesses. In clusters within the city. In the City of Shoreline, a home-based business addition to yielding new business opportunities for the local community, research and survey was funded by the 2018 EDP grant to help the city these projects also helped promote diversity. Through their Small Business design appropriate outreach and support services, ultimately creating a Incubator program, the City of Auburn was able to provide support for home-based business service program to encourage businesses to grow women and minority owned businesses in the City. and thrive. Diversifying the local economy with a focus on specific industries was The common goal of all cities that used the 2018 EDP grant funds for another outcome of cities implementing business assistance, recruitment business assistance, recruitment or retention projects was to increase or retention projects under the Port's EDP grant program. The City of economic activity, generate new business opportunities and create new Federal Way developed an innovative business recruitment program jobs. The Cities of Kirkland, Bellevue and Redmond formed a partnership targeting businesses and organizations in international trade, specifically called Innovation Triangle (IT) dedicated to promoting the Eastside region groundside air freight and marine cargo, and international relations. The as a destination for ICT businesses. The goal for the projects implemented program works directly toward economic development priorities outlined by these cities under the Innovation Triangle umbrella and funded in the city's plans and was also motivated by the opportunity to support through the 2018 EDP grant was to increase ICT jobs regionally, each city Port of Seattle lines of business in international trade. recognizing that businesses located in one city will benefit and utilize the Cities such as Auburn and SeaTac used some of the funds provided by the amenities of the entire Innovation Triangle region. Port to encourage local business development and interaction, recapture Most cities participating in the EDP program indicated that business spending within the City and increase demand for commercial and office recruitment is a long-term project. While the timeframe for the grant space and tax revenue. The City of SeaTac identified a novel opportunity to is one year, the task of cultivating relationships continues beyond the use their EDP grant to assist local businesses. They directly outreached to timeframe of the grant. Additionally, the success of the projects cannot nearly half of all commercial businesses in the City to develop a profile and yet be measured as it takes long-term commitment to recruit companies database of all local businesses for the purposes of expanding local supply 20 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft to a city. Grantees felt strongly that the opportunity to build relationships demand study to understand the feasibility of future hotel development. and generate leads through Port grant funds was extremely valuable for While the study found that there is not sufficient demand to adequately achieving success in long-term business recruitment goals. support a lodging facility in Maple Valley, the study data helped to direct Bothell, Des Moines, Kenmore, Figure 9 - Kirkland Marina Alternative 2 Kirkland, Lake Forest Park, Maple Cities indicated expected economic development impacts from these Valley, Shoreline studies include: 3.1.3 Alternative 2 the city to future actions such as working to increase employment base and Alternative 2 re-orients the moorage slips, and provides 122 slips and a total of 5,842 lineal feet of Planning & Feasibility Studies focusing tourism efforts on areas of strength such as outdoor recreation. moorage. • Enhance business expansion and job growth opportunities and support the life sciences and other high technology sectors; create a mixed-use neighborhood which offers housing, services, and the types of amenities that attract and retain life science companies and their employees (Bothell). • Encourage private development, generate economic activity in an underused area and enhance city revenues (Des Moines). • Facilitate business recruitment and marketing efforts through better information and data about the city (Kenmore). • Increase tourism opportunities (Kirkland and Maple Valley). • Guide future redevelopment and create a people-oriented town-center; improve mobility, provide more housing alternatives and enhance community facilities for civic gatherings (Lake Forest Park). City of Kirkland Marina Feasibility Study Alternative 2 can be also undertaken in two phases: Portof Seattle EDP grants Alternative2 - Phasewere 1 used to fund market and financial • Help differentiate the city-owned right-of-way in Downtown Ridgecrest from the City's other neighborhood centers, attract more visitors, and encourage visitors to linger and visit other neighborhood o studies Cost estimate is $21.0 million (including the rebuildand of existing moorage). establishments It would providealong the corridor (Shoreline). feasibility for the Marinas in the cities of Des Moines Kirkland, 80 wetfor moorage slips and feet moorage along visioning studies Lake Forest Park2,234 townlineal center andofspecific areas in floats.  Alternative2 - Phase 2 the cities of Bothell and Shoreline, a lands capacity report in Kenmore and In some cases, Port of Seattle grant funds directed towards planning studies have also helped the cities surface unforeseen outcomes. For Cost estimate is $6.4 million. This option provides 42 slips and 1,652 lineal feet of moorage a market demand study in Maple Valley. Cities using Port of Seattle funds example, the Canyon Park visioning effort completed by the City of Bothell along floats. to invest in planning and feasibility studies noted that these projects are revealed a high need for shared laboratory space in the city for small start Alternative2 (both phases) o designed to help guide future economic development efforts, address up companies to develop their concept without the high costs of installing a questions of feasibility associated with city and community desires, and laboratory. October 2018 provide9, data needed for future efforts. The City of Maple Valley hired a consultant to produce a hotel market Discussion Draft Page 16 In the City of Shoreline, EDP funds were used to develop a community vision for a key corridor in its underserved Ridgecrest section, including EDP Program Evaluation 21 a number of "quick wins" for visible improvement of the public realm. The cities that used the funds for marketing efforts intended to increase However, the planning process itself revealed a much stronger appetite for awareness and improve the image of their City. Cities reported that larger-scale public intervention in the area. As a result, City staff is now developing professional marketing materials allowed them to share exploring a broader planning and development intervention in the area and information on the specific topics more nimbly and facilitated greater methods by which they could be funded. responsiveness on the part of the cities in addressing the questions and Some cities also mentioned as a key result the continuing collaboration opportunities of potential leads, partners, visitors and businesses. that was formed through public and stakeholder engagement. The City The Port of Seattle EDP grant allowed the City of Redmond to build and of Bothell indicated the City has maintained an open dialogue with the improve on their city-centric marketing materials that can help promote business community after the completion of the Canyon Park Vision. Redmond at trade shows or other events. The City of Tukwila created As a result, companies felt comfortable approaching the city to discuss a one-page sheet to be used for marketing and promoting the Tukwila expansion, identify issues with permitting and seek assistance. International Boulevard District to potential developers, non-profits and governmental agencies. Normandy Park produced a diorama at SeaTac Marketing International Airport to market the city to visitors from all over US and Bellevue, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kenmore, Kirkland, Maple Valley, other parts of the world. Normandy Park, Redmond, Renton, Sammamish, Snoqualmie, The cities believe that investing in the city's perception benefits the City's Tukwila existing businesses and attracts new businesses. According to the Cities Some places are magnets for talent and ideas. Redmond is one of them. SEATTLE-TACOMA INT'L AIRPORT STADIUM DISTRICT CITY OF redmond, wa PORT OF SEATTLE DOWNTOWN SEATTLE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON of Bellevue and Kirkland, Port of Seattle grant funding has been the seed for the growing work of the Innovation Triangle. Port funding has helped build a brand for the region and generate professional marketing collateral. These efforts have led to continuing conversations with businesses for recruitment. The metrics quantifying the impact of these efforts are currently limited to the number of prospects and leads generated and CLOSE TO PLANES, TRAINS, BOATS AND ADVENTURE forward, the culture to inspire you and the talent to get you there. conversations facilitated. However, the partners hope that over the long- GETTING AROUND Redmond is a place where all three come together. Whether you aspire term this joint effort will lead to job growth within the region. Redmond is known as the "Bicycle Capital to create a startup from the ground up or relocate an already thriving of the Northwest" business, here you can find the resources and the environment your company needs to thrive. Downtown Redmond Walk Score: 80+ MILES 24 16 53 16 If you want to build the next great anything, you need the vision to push King County Metro and Sound Transit operate Downtown offers dining options for every craving 20+ local and regional bus routes serving Redmond TO SEATTLE-TACOMA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT connecting Redmond with Bellevue, Seattle and MILES the region and/or education and training opportunities. The City of Kenmore used the 39% of Redmond employees use an alternative commute (tied for second-most among Puget Sound cities) TO PORT OF SEATTLE GoRedmond.com provides Redmond employers and employees Walking maps are available at Redmond.gov MILES incentives, subsidies and resources for biking, walking, taking the bus, ridesharing and teleworking Taste what's in season at Northwest favorite Molly Moon's TO SNOQUALMIE PASS RECREATION CENTER TOP FIVE PLACES TO LIVE IN AMERICA - Money Magazine MILES Several cities have focused their marketing efforts on specific industries, with a focus on increasing industry job opportunities, business revenues Sound Transit light rail service begins in 2023, TO KING STREET STATION (AMTRAK) pg.2 Port of Seattle grant to promote their craft brewing industry and increase the visibility of these small businesses. The City of Issaquah developed marketing materials and a brand for the Sports Medicine Innovation Partnership Zone, to position Issaquah as the sports medicine epicenter. City of Redmond Economic Viability Brochure 22 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Tourism & Wayfinding Burien, Carnation, Covington, Duvall, Enumclaw, Issaquah, gateway signage as a priority for the area. The City's wayfinding project has also inspired the intention for an arts and culture plan for Newcastle. Kenmore, Maple Valley, Mercer Island, Newcastle, North Bend, Properly designed and strategically planned wayfinding systems help SeaTac, Skykomish, Snoqualmie, Woodinville facilitate cities' civic brands and reinforce positive brand messages. Concurrent with the development of the City of Burien's Downtown Mobility Study, the City launched a rebranding and marketing evaluation which resulted in a new City logo and new branding guide. These were integrated into the design of the new wayfinding signs funded through the EDP program to establish a unified signage system which projects a consistent image of the City. Cities indicated that from an economic development perspective, the wayfinding projects supported by the EDP program will encourage exploration, promote active transportation and stimulate economic growth in the long-term. Clear, well-designed wayfinding systems can attract commercial developers, jobs and employers who value the workforce and life style that a multi-modal, mixed-use urban space creates. Some cities used the grant funding available to them to encourage tourism in the city or the region. The City of Issaquah used their grant funds to City of Duvall Signage, Image from Mountains to Sound Greenway support the creation of Visit Issaquah, which will help increase their capacity to track tourism metrics and the success of tourism investments Cities that invested in wayfinding projects aimed to create visible navigational systems that can guide visitors and residents to key city destinations within the city; market cultural, historical or outdoor assets; and increase awareness of the city as a destination for developers, residents and visitors. Most wayfinding projects implemented by the participating cities in the Port of Seattle EDP program are one element of a larger placemaking strategy. The City of Covington successfully completed a Street Pole Banner Program as one element of the City's Town Center Plan. The City anticipates that the street pole banner project will turn into a full program that will be integrated into their community relations and marketing objectives. Similarly, the City of Newcastle's new vision for its Downtown identified Discussion Draft over time. Woodinville created a mural to raise awareness of the historic and economic assets of the City and improve visitor experience. The City of Maple Valley geared their tourism efforts towards designing a Visitors Guide for distribution throughout the region and placing advertisements in regional tourism publications. Maple Valley wanted to increase the regional visibility of their assets from an economic development and tourism perspective. Cities emphasized the importance of civic outreach and local and regional partnerships for the success of their projects. Mercer Island's project was born out of community conversations on the need for wayfinding signage for bicyclists, which ultimately highlighted the fact that there was no existing wayfinding signage to direct drivers to the Town Center. During EDP Program Evaluation 23 the process of designing the wayfinding signage, City staff worked with updated relevant demographic and business information for use on the their Chamber of Commerce as well as the small business community. City's website and with prospective developers and businesses. Snoqualmie Valley is a cooperative effort between the Valley's towns - North Bend's website development project was part of a larger effort to Duvall, Carnation, Fall City, Snoqualmie and North Bend - coordinated by rebrand the city as an outdoor destination, increase year-round tourism the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust in partnership with business and and support local businesses. The City created a new visitor website in community leaders from across the Valley. During the 2017-2018 grant line with the City's vision and brand, to help inform visitors of tourism year, funds awarded to the City of Duvall and Snoqualmie were used to opportunities in North Bend. strengthen a unified approach to tourism in the Valley and create valuable resources for visitors and residents. Website Enhancement Issaquah, North Bend, SeaTac The cities indicated that having easily accessible data on their websites: • Supports the economic development, marketing and promotion efforts of the cities. • Increases the regional appeal to the business community and highlights local businesses and establishments for tourists travelling to the area. • Supports organizations and companies in their site location and operation expansion decisions within the region. City of North Bend Visitor Website: discovernorthbend.com Website updates and development projects allow cities to provide stakeholders of all types (businesses, residents, tourists) with current information about the City. The City of Issaquah used part of the Port's EDP grant to update the City's Economic Development profile to include economic development data on demographics, education, workforce, economic sectors and quality of life. Similarly, the City of North Bend 24 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Workforce Development Kent City of Kent Advanced Manufacturing Training Center The City of Kent used their Port of Seattle grant funding to operationalize a long-term conversation with AJAC about the lack of training programs in Kent, one of the most highly concentrated manufacturing areas. The funding allowed them to support AJAC in creating a training center and encouraged conversations about educational programs serving the global trade and supply chain management sector and occupations. The City of Kent noted that the project served their own economic development goals related to workforce development, as well as the long-term interests of the Port of Seattle particularly in career connected learning. Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 25 Findings & Recommendations undertaken by cities and the cities do not have a method in place to Findings The following are findings about the overall success and the participating cities' experience with the Port of Seattle EDP program. measure the desired outcomes. • evaluation which requires additional human and capital resources that are not always available to cities. When it comes to choosing between Benefits of EDP Program Funding • the doing and the tracking, cities always prioritize the doing. Cities often use the funds provided by the Port of Seattle as seed money for projects that would not have been possible otherwise, which is a powerful tool for them to achieve their economic development goals. The funds often support innovative efforts that are outside the general Implementation Challenges • • agencies and organizations. As a result, some cities had to change the Some cities found that the projects undertaken with Port of Seattle funds projects funded after the grant period started or often required longer generated follow-up ideas, or the projects received enough traction to timeframes than originally anticipated. Learning to better predict continue with or without future Port grant funding. timeframes was a lesson learned for some cities. Many smaller cities said that the increased capacity was a huge benefit • While some managed to implement all of them successfully, some found development staff and the grant allowed them to expand their resources. that one or two projects was ideal for their capacity and more than two became challenging to manage and coordinate. Developing a tradition of high-quality evaluations of economic Partnerships development programs is work in progress in the economic • development world. Assessment of a program effectiveness requires the evaluator to distinguish changes due to the program from changes due to nonprogram factors, anticipate and measure program impacts before • • and create partnerships that can be leveraged for future initiatives and ongoing city planning efforts. This makes it more difficult to isolate the impacts of these specific projects from the other planning and economic development efforts of the cities. • pooling resources allowed cities to offer services they wouldn't be able Many projects undertaken with Port of Seattle grant funds have longMost projects are not designed to be "one-off" products and are part of Cities noted that partnering with other cities and organizations had two main benefits: it allowed cities to connect with other cities in the region effective monitoring and evaluation process. term objectives, which are hard to measure in the short-run. The Port of Seattle grant program has been invaluable to cities to invest in local and regional partnerships. they are realized and invest resources in designing and implementing an • Several cities pursued different sub-projects with their EDP grants. of the program. Some of the smaller cities have limited or no economic Projects Outcome Measurement • Some cities found that their projects are dynamic, subject to their City Council's priorities or extended time requirements for partner economic development activities for the cities. • All projects would require city staff to conduct monitoring and to fund alone. EDP Program Process Feedback • Cities interviewed often mentioned that the flexibility in the funding provided by the Port of Seattle allowed them to complete their projects despite challenges with timelines and shifting priorities. Some projects are among the first economic development efforts 26 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft • Other commonalities amongst cities' experience included the desire for competitiveness can also help increase accountability and improve success a dedicated "point person" within the Port with whom they could check of the projects funded. in and / or direct questions about the process. • Several grantees also indicated that having extra time for certain Provide impact measurement support. projects with extra-jurisdictional permitting involved - such as signage Most cities measure outcomes in terms of direct project deliverables, for or other transportation corridor related work - would be very helpful. • Cities frequently mentioned they appreciated the opportunity to hear business training session (rather than economic impacts). Cities mentioned about the projects that other cities invest in at the meetings organized that impact measurement is difficult as projects have long-term benefits by the Port of Seattle. Cities requested that the Port of Seattle host and additional city resources are required to measure the impact. additional meetings for city staff to learn from each other and from the • example number of website visits or number of companies attending a economic development expertise of Port of Seattle staff. This was also In order to better measure the impact of the EDP program, the Port should mentioned as an opportunity for the cities to stay engaged with the Port consider prompting cities to think about how to measure outcomes and of Seattle throughout the grant funding cycle. impact of their project from the application stage. Early in the grant One city mentioned that they felt that the Port of Seattle grant program proposal process, the Port could work with grantees to define and agree is an effective way for the Port of Seattle to increase their own exposure on these indicators of progress and success. For projects seeking to as a regional agency outside of the communities most directly served by accomplish similar outcomes, the Port could consider creating a common the airport and seaport. set of metrics to measure collective impact. Recommendations Vary reporting requirements with grant amount. All cities greatly appreciate the Port's Economic Development Partnership Some cities mentioned they found the level of reporting required Program, as it increases their capacity to implement new projects and create lasting results over time. The following are recommendations for potential changes to the program based on findings from the evaluation and discussions with participating cities. Consider new grant funds allocation approach. The Port of Seattle might consider a new approach to allocation of program funds. For example, one city suggested a competitive pool of funds for cities seeking to implement larger scale initiatives. disproportionate to the amount of funding provided, necessitating a lot of time and resources to complete. The program could introduce some flexibility in reporting to benefit smaller cities and prevent reporting from becoming an administrative disincentive to participation in the program. The Port of Seattle could work more closely with smaller cities throughout the grant process, by monitoring grant performance through regular check-ins with a focus on the metrics and reporting requirements and providing guidance and support with administration and reporting. The Port could cap the awards at $50,000 instead of $65,000 and use the added funding to offer competitive grants for larger projects. Introducing Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 27 Facilitate more countywide discussions. Most cities indicated they have benefited from learning about what other cities are doing with Port funding but felt there was a need for more focused discussion and collaboration between cities. The Port should consider facilitating more topical meetings with interested cities to provide a frame of reference for future undertakings by municipalities, increase collaboration between the cities and their staff and elevate the overall economic development activity in the region. Adjust grant timelines. Several cities indicated that longer term funding arrangements or some assurance that the program will continue in the next year would allow for better project planning, especially for larger scale projects that cities can complete in stages over several grant cycles. 28 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Appendix A - Evaluation Interview Guide Introduction • Does the project have any long-term objectives, and do you anticipate whether these will be met? The Port of Seattle commissioned Community Attributes Inc. to conduct an objective assessment and evaluation of the impact of the Port's Economic Section B. Project Context Development Partnership (EDP) Program on local and regional economies. • The purpose of the evaluation is to better understand the ways in which does the project help meet specific objectives in the city's economic the EDP program helps advance local economic development throughout King County and the region. As part of this evaluation, the Port would like us (Community Attributes) to interview representatives from cities who received grant funding through the Port's EDP Program. development strategies and plans? • yours accomplish their economic and tourism development priorities. Your thoughts on the topic are important and we would appreciate • Section C. Impact on Economic Development • • • Section A. Project Performance • • Please summarize the objectives of the project or initiative you implemented as a result of grant funding received through the Port of Seattle EDP program? If applicable, please describe objectives in a Mentoring, coaching and training (e.g. number of firms/individuals receiving assistance, number of training/skills assistance sessions held) Innovation and technology (e.g. number of new technologies licensed or commercialized, measures of improved innovative capacity) Your city received a grant in 2017 through the Port of Seattle EDP does your city's project or initiative address? Events, networking, referrals (e.g. number of conferences, showcases, outreach events etc. held, number of participants) • Program for [Insert project or initiative]. What problem or opportunity Facilities and equipment (e.g. amount of new space developed, value of new equipment purchased) Questions • What were the outcomes of your city's project? If applicable, please provide specific measures for the project's outcomes, for example: me know if there is anything that you would like to be kept confidential. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. If applicable, how does the project advance your city and wider region as a business gateway and/or tourism destination? your participation. The interview will last no more than an hour and be conducted at your convenience. As we go through the interview, please let If applicable, how does the project support diversity, small business growth and workforce development? As a participant in the Port's EDP program, your input is crucial to understanding the effectiveness of the program in helping cities like How does the project fit within the city's strategic agenda? For example, • Economic development and growth (e.g. number of new jobs created, increase in business revenues, new investment attracted) • Please describe any new partnerships formed or new funding attracted through this project. measurable format. • To what extent were the project objectives achieved at the time of completion of the project? Discussion Draft EDP Program Evaluation 29 Section D. Port of Seattle EDP Program Feedback • Please describe lessons learned from this project in terms of what worked and what did not work. • How did the grant received through the EDP program make a difference in achieving project outcomes? • Would the project objectives have been met through other means without the grant? • Please provide any suggestions on improving the Port of Seattle EDP program. 30 PORT OF SEATTLE EDP Program Evaluation Discussion Draft Appendix B - City Economic Profiles Appendix B: City Economic Profiles includes completed profiles for three cities. Profiles for all participating cities will appear in the final Economic Development Partnership Program Report. Each city economic profile contains a project summary, project economic performance, project context, and economic impacts description. Discussion Draft | November 30, 2018 CITY OF KENT Workforce Development Kent Economic Profile Population, 2018: 128,900 Jobs to Housing Ratio, 2018: 1.55 Project Performance workforce training needs related to logistics and supply Project Need opportunity area for developing a program to transition Committee (AJAC), the Center for Advanced Manufacturing County, 2018 (CAMPS) and educational institutions in the area helped the 6% City of Kent identify a gap in training programs for careers 4% 7% Government Wholesale Trade, Transportation & Utilities Kent Project Objectives 8% 27% 50% Services The initial project designed by Kent had several objectives: 26% Manufacturing • Study. The City of Kent contracted Community Attributes Inc. in partnership with the Center of Excellence for Global Trade and Supply Chain Management to conduct a study of the economic impact of and career pathways in the Global Trade and Supply Chain Management industry in Kent Valley. placement among low-income residents and youth in Overall funding for this project was $97,500. Of this $65,000 8% Kent. was funded by the Port of Seattle grant and $32,500 were Establish a local training and educational facility for provided in matching funds by the City of Kent. The City of serving area manufacturers and identify ways to provide Kent indicated that the 'seed' funding provided by the Port tuition free training. of Seattle helped advance an idea that would not otherwise Create a strategy for attracting more Kent youth and be easily funded and is advancing the City's workforce preparing them for careers in manufacturing and development initiatives. • 5% 5% 9% 20% 40% 60% • logistics. About Kent • Kent Valley Global Trade and Supply Chain Management Financial Accountability 2% 0% • Increase knowledge, credential completion and job • 21% Construction & Resources skilled and higher paying back office jobs. 8% 11% Retail Finance, Insurance & Real Estate in manufacturing and logistics in Kent and the Kent Valley. King County 4% workers from shop floor manufacturing into higher Conversations with the Aerospace Join Apprenticeship Employment by Industry, Kent and King Education chain management. AJAC identified logistics as an Located in the Kent Valley, the fourth largest manufacturing and distribution area in the United States, generating one-eighth of the state's GDP. Kent's concentration of over 50 aerospace companies are sharing their expertise with an emerging private space industry. • for an apprenticeship pathway in logistics. Project Outcomes The City of Kent project resulted in the following outcomes: • Grant Information Port Funds: $65,000 City Funds: $32,500 Total Funds Spent: $97,500 Develop a program design and implementation strategy • Advanced Manufacturing Prep Training Center (AMP). Project Context Strategic Fit The project implemented by the City of Kent with Port funds supports strategies in the City's Economic Development Plan, more specifically: facilitate workforce training, The Center opened in December of 2017 and acts as a development and higher education opportunities and manufacturing training hub for students, job seekers and strengthen and diversify the advanced manufacturing businesses. cluster in Kent. Logistics Services. AJAC met with five manufacturing employers in South King County to understand their Discussion Draft | November 30, 2018 POS Century Agenda Goals Collaborative Partnerships The project helps advance the Port of Seattle's objectives Several partnerships were formed or enhanced through to expand workforce training, jobs and career this project's efforts: pathways in port related industries such as construction, logistics for local communities and build a talent • pipeline focused on youth career development. AJAC, the main partner in this project, is actively working to increase access to jobs and apprenticeship pathways • • Train low-income South King County residents to create a steady supply of qualified workers eager to pursue careers in aerospace and advanced manufacturing. • Create new job opportunities and retain and expand manufacturing and logistics workforce in the Kent Valley. Seattle Jobs Initiative and received funding from JP programs. Employers in the Kent Valley are expressing increased Training Center. • 25 youth have been engaged in AMP training. • 9 employers in the Kent Valley hired or placed into apprenticeship around 25 students from the AMP programs. • 15 employers invited to join an Employer Advisory Board for the AMP Training Center. AJAC is partnering with Orion to create and host a short-term training on supplier basics. Suggestions to Improve POS EDP Grant Program Overall feedback on the program was overwhelming positive, particularly focusing on the flexibility of the funding, allowing the City to pursue ambitious and innovative projects that have long-term benefits for the Qualitative Measures region. The City noted it is difficult to track outcome • Develop career pathways that can help fill the gap metrics once the project is complete when working with between warehousing-related jobs and production- a partner. Some partner organizations are too small to related jobs within manufacturing firms. have funding for tracking outcome metrics. • • The AMP Center has led to conversations between interest in partnering with AJAC through the AMP Economic Development Impacts Quantitative Metrics training services through community establishing the center as an RTC training outpost. for opportunity youth. 203 participants received advising or outreach and the AMP Training Center AJAC and Renton Technical College (RTC) about available in manufacturing and the construction trades • The AMP Center established a new partnership with Morgan Chase as part of their career ready program. • Project Highlights Create partnerships between government, the business community, workforce development and educational institutions to advance career connected learning in South King County. Discussion Draft | November 30, 2018 CITY OF PACIFIC Business Assistance / Business Recruitment and Retention Pacific Economic Profile Project Performance Population, 2018: 6,915 The City of Pacific wanted to understand the types of Employment by Industry, Pacific and • Education 6% posts, direct mail sent to all inventoried businesses and Government 7% city's commercial and industrial businesses can help the King County 7% advantage of Pacific by business type. 8% 8% 50% 34% 11% 3% 8% Manufacturing Finance, Insurance & Real Estate city attract new companies by showcasing the competitive Pacific Services Retail 4% 0% to retain businesses. and retain existing businesses. The project had three $6,800 represented Port of Seattle funds. The City was objectives: planning to recruit an intern from University of Washington 34% Inventory all commercial and industrial businesses in the classifications. to complete the work but was unable to fill the position. As a result, the City contracted with a consultant to complete the project. 60% • About Pacific Home to commuters who work in nearby cities as well as many small businesses. Approximately 10% of the city's area is part of the Sumner-Pacific Manufacturing Industrial Center (MIC). learn about the business climate in the City and methods The project had a total budget of $10,200, of which almost city and categorize them by industry using NAICS and SIC 40% coffee gathering on the 4th Tuesday of each month to The main goal of this project was to recruit new companies 5% 20% The Mayor will meet with business owners at a morning Financial Accountability • 2% • Project Objectives 5% Construction & Resources interviews and in-person visits with businesses. new ones. Having more data and information on all the 7% Business outreach program that included an on-line survey for businesses, press releases and social media strategies aimed at retaining such businesses and recruiting Wholesale Trade, Transportation & Utilities • retention and expansion efforts. businesses established in the city to inform their economic King County, 2018 A list of business events or other networking opportunities where the City can support business Project Need Jobs to Housing Ratio, 2018: 0.39 • • • Identify events, such as regional and national tradeshows, where city leaders could interact with local businesses. Project Context Connect with businesses inventoried. Strategic Fit Project Outcomes The outcomes from this project were as follows: • A database of 248 confirmed businesses in the City of The City of Pacific mentioned that the project addresses several policies in their Comprehensive Plan that support better communication with local businesses and understanding of their challenges and concerns. Pacific organized by industry with contact information. Grant Information Port Funds: $6,797 • Update to the business license data collection to request the NAICS and/or SIC code. City Funds: $3,403 Total Funds Spent: $10,200 Discussion Draft | November 30, 2018 POS Century Agenda Goals • local businesses that can guide future retention and The City of Pacific encourages small business growth through their business recruitment strategies informed by this project. Pacific indicated that the City's industrial area is made up of smaller parcels suitable for businesses in other areas of the Puget Sound seeking moderate expansion. By relocating or expanding to Pacific, these businesses would create more family wage jobs. Economic Development Impacts Quantitative Metrics • The project helped kick-off a log-term dialogue with expansion strategies. • Project Highlights • and areas of improvement for the local business • climate. Collaborative Partnerships 248 businesses inventoried and classified by industry. The business outreach helped identify some concerns 13 in-person interviews conducted with local businesses from the City's top industry clusters. • 21 businesses participated in the on- As part of this project, the City is pursuing partnerships line business retention and expansion with several organizations to assist businesses from survey, representing 8% of the Pacific and neighboring communities with networking: inventoried businesses. Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce, Economic • 9 businesses identified as potential for Development Board of Tacoma & Pierce County, expansion and 11 interested in follow up In the long-term, this project has the potential to Economic Development Council of Seattle & King County meetings with City and/or Port. generate new business opportunities and create and BisNow. new jobs. The business inventory is a resource that all businesses can use to learn about other business supports symbiotic connections, where if one Suggestions to Improve POS EDP Grant Program company locates to Pacific that might attract another The City had no suggestions for improving the program company from a related or supporting industry. and found it easy to work and communicate with the Port This project helped identify leads and prospects staff throughout the grant period. in the area. The City of Pacific mentioned the project • for business expansion and retention. However, business recruitment is a long-term project and the task of cultivating relationships is expected to continue beyond the timeframe of the grant. Qualitative Measures • The business research undertaken helped identify key industry clusters within the city and gave the city a better understanding of business concentrations. • The results of the business interviews allowed the development of a preliminary economic development SWOT matrix for the City of Pacific. Discussion Draft | November 30, 2018 CITY OF RENTON Business Assistance / Business Recruitment and Retention/ Marketing Renton Economic Profile Population, 2018: 104,100 Jobs to Housing Ratio, 2018: 1.45 Project Performance improvement program to improve aesthetics of retail Project Need promotion. The City of Renton's project supported by Port of Seattle Employment by Industry, Renton and neighborhoods. These areas were identified by the City as the 6% 4% 7% Government 12% Wholesale Trade, Transportation & Utilities King County 50% 35% 11% 9% 8% Manufacturing Project Objectives 3% Construction & Resources 4% 0% 40% Part of Renton's City Center is a designated Regional Growth Center and is expected to Public art installations and tactical place-making pride. Manufacturing, aerospace, professional technology provide a strong economic base. Downtown branding and promotion to drive positive activities to encourage tourism and generate community About Renton • Business recruitment focused on retail establishments awareness of the City's downtown. 60% services, destination retail, healthcare and • Training and assistance to attract new businesses. Project Outcomes • Marketing research, retail training and promotion. Identified Renton's key retail districts, opportunities for grow significantly in the next 20 years. retail and existing retail gaps. Grant Information • Downtown revitalization. Organized seminar for Port Funds: $65,000 downtown businesses and property owners focused City Funds: $32,500 on retail best practices. Implemented a small façade Total Funds Spent: $97,500 The project had a total budget of $97,500. Of this, $65,000 City. There were no variances in spending from budgeted • • Financial Accountability objectives: • 20% businesses and start-ups in downtown Renton. was supplied by the Port, and $32,500 was matched by the and restaurants. 5% businesses in the City and to encourage new creative The project designed by the City of Renton had the following • 5% Entrepreneurial support. Partnered with Startup 425 to promote education for entrepreneurs and small 26% Finance, Insurance & Real Estate • on more than 50% of the population having low or moderate 8% Retail commercial district along Renton's Sunset Boulevard. and MindShare, a co-work space in Downtown Renton, communities as the key economic driver for these areas. 8% Sunset Shines marketing campaign. Marketed the two high-priority community development areas, based income. The City recognized the need for healthy and happy Renton Services • EDP program focused on the Downtown and Sunset King County, 2018 Education storefronts. Carried out downtown branding and amounts. Project Context Strategic Fit The City of Renton has done extensive community planning for the Downtown and Sunset neighborhoods. The City developed a City Center Community Plan in 2011 to provide a strategy to stimulate economic development, improve the livability of the neighborhoods, preserve the City Center's unique identity and create community character. The Plan established a list of strategies for the City to implement over the 20-year horizon of the plan. The Port of Seattle grant allowed Renton to achieve some of these strategies. Discussion Draft | November 30, 2018 POS Century Agenda Goals • The City of Renton's project supports the Port of Seattle strategy to promote small business growth • • • The project also serves economically disadvantaged communities in Renton (Downtown and Sunset) by • • businesses and visitors to Renton, which will support the local community, provide jobs, attract skilled • Over 1,000 fliers distributed promoting public events that showcase downtown merchants and restaurants. • 21,200 households were reached with • The Small Business Saturday event and local artists to support more community art attracted more than 1,000 shoppers projects and placemaking efforts. and tree light attendees to downtown Renton. The Renton wine walk The City will continue to partner with Startup 425 showcased 11 unique small businesses to encourage entrepreneurship and offer regular and more than 12 local wineries. trainings, workshops and mentor programs for small businesses. The City was pleased with the ease of grant management marketing, ongoing conversations are taking place and the flexibility of the program. The extended timeline The project initiated a partnership with a co-work • bill mailings. developers initiated through economic development Renton market. Business & Property Owners Seminar. the Renton Municipal Arts Commission to seek out As a result of the active recruitment of retailers and with seven national brands not currently in the owners attended the Downtown downtown event listing through utility Suggestions to Improve POS EDP Grant Program workers, and generate capital investment. • • 30 small businesses and property The project's focus on public art has encouraged additional opportunities to work with neighborhoods Economic Development Impacts In the long-term, the project is expected to attract new • The City's strengthened partnership with downtown additional partner marketing materials. 53 retailers and restaurants identified for recruitment to Renton. create a community-wide calendar of events and placemaking strategy. Quantitative Metrics • Renton Downtown Partnership has led to efforts to businesses. Renton as a destination through a focus on art as a Create a brand for Renton downtown as an arts center merchants, Renton Chamber of Commerce, the use multi-family buildings and new restaurants and The project encourages tourism and promotes Project Highlights Collaborative Partnerships encouraging significant private investment in mixed- • of Renton's downtown businesses. and a retail tourist destination. by providing education, training and financial assistance. Increase business acumen, success rates and stability • Two mural projects completed on buildings in downtown Renton. • 10 workshops with small businesses and startups held in Renton. was greatly appreciated. The regular check-ins and reports throughout the grant cycle helped the City keep their records up to date. space in Renton that the City is planning to grow and use as a resource and attractor for small businesses and start-ups to the area. Qualitative Measures • Strengthen partnerships and communication with the business community. • Engage the community, bring people together and generate community pride. Discussion Draft | November 30, 2018