Title
Discussion and Possible Action on LEDA Retail Program
Recommended Action
I move that Council support moving forward with the LEDA Retail program as presented.
OR
I move that Council support no changes to the County's existing LEDA program.
Body
The Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) is a key tool authorized by the State of New Mexico to support economic development by allowing public resources to be used for private benefit under specific conditions that promote public good. Recognizing the need to stimulate local job creation and business growth, the Incorporated County of Los Alamos adopted Ordinance No.02-304, establishing its own Local Economic Development Plan in accordance with the Act.
The 2024 National Community Survey results continue to confirm the resident's desires for more downtown vitality. Retail gap data show food services, clothing, health/personal care and cultural, tourism and experience based retail as target market gaps. In response, Los Alamos County Community Development Department has formulated a LEDA Retail program focusing on the gap areas identified. Staff will present the new LEDA for Retail program (Attachment A) and discuss the goals, criteria, steps and timelines. The LEDA Retail process will start with an initial screening application (Attachment B) and then continue on to the full application (Attachment C). A process flow chart (Attachment D) has been developed to communicate the steps and the timelines to potential applicants.
A public forum was held on July 22, 2025 and was attended by several members of the business community, County staff, and Council's Local/Small Business Engagement Working Group members. Clarifications about the process time frames and eligibility have been made in response to feedback received. Additional clarifications can be considered and implemented as needed.
Alternatives
Council could choose to support or not support moving forward with the LEDA Retail program.
Fiscal and Sta...
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