May 26, 2009

Better Business Act

A new policy that will ensure a more thorough review of projects seeking financial assistance from the city received unanimous support from the Fresno City Council last week.
 

Endorsed by the Fresno Chamber, the Better Business Act will ensure that the city is doing its due diligence before loaning taxpayer money to developers and investors.
 

City Council Member Lee Brand developed the policy, which he presented to the Chamber's Government Affairs Council ahead of last week's vote.
 

Under the policy, each project will undergo a two-phase review process. City staff, with the help of outside consultants, will review business plans, equity, and financial statements. The city manager will provide a recommendation to the City Council based on the thorough analysis.

The Chamber's GAC felt this policy will ensure taxpayer money is being invested wisely. The Chamber spoke in favor of the policy at the City Council meeting.

March 18, 2009

Fresno Chamber Convinces City Council To Move Meetings To Thursdays

After much debate, the Fresno City Council finally agreed to move its meetings to Thursdays. The council’s new schedule will start on April 23.
The council voted 5 to 1 in favor of the switch, with Council Member Mike Dages opposed. Council Member Henry T. Perea was absent for the vote.
 

The Chamber has been advocating for the meeting change because we believe it will allow the council to better serve their constituents. Council Members will have more time to review items on the agenda and the meetings will no longer conflict with the Board of Supervisors, which also meets on Tuesdays.
 

Contact Kerri Ginis, the Chamber's Government Affairs Manager for more information at (559) 495-4818 or kginis@fresnochamber.com