Agenda - 1-27-14 Emerg. Called Meeting

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Ele While the high end potential is very appealing, based on our experience in similar size communities we believe many investors would question going forward with a campaign to only raise $500,000. Experience indicates many would question what the Partnership could do with only $100,000 per year from the private sector, less after deducting fundraising campaign fees and expenses. Convergent therefore recommends the Partnership's Steering Committee work with the County to address the current incentive policy and adjust it appropriately before moving forward with a capital campaign. Worth noting is that while a handful of interviewees want a generous incentive policy that gives Lee County a distinct and compelling competitive advantage over other communities, most interviewees indicated a desire for one that simply levels the playing field, one that does not put the County at a disadvantage when competing with others. If a compromise can be developed along these lines — and key leaders are willing to step forward to fund and to lead the campaign — we believe the high end of our goal range ($750,000 to $900,000) is very realistic, and $1,000,000 is not out of the question. CONCLUSION During November and December 2013, 58 business and community leaders set aside an hour of their time to meet with Convergent and discuss SLCPFP, the draft plan, and the proposed capital campaign. This impressive response, and the comprehensive information provided by the interviewees, indicates that there is interest in supporting SLCPFP and improving the economy of Lee County. We at Convergent are pleased to be a part of this process and appreciate the opportunity to provide SLCPFP with the tools it needs to expand and accelerate its economic growth work for Lee County. We are also energized by the opportunity to help the newly formed SLCPFP find the financial support it needs to "make its mark" and help bring about high quality economic growth in Lee County. + 34