IDB Chairman Promises More Transparency; Gives Helen Burns Sharp 2 Minutes To Speak

  • Sunday, October 26, 2014

City Industrial Development Board (IDB) Chairman James Miller pledged that the IDB will have more transparency in its operations going forward.

Mr. Miller said, "We are going to become more visible. We have to do a much better job of making ourselves more known."

Jimmy Rodgers, one of the new board members recently named by the City Council, said he tried in vain to find information about the IDB on the city website.

He recommended that biographies of board members be among the information on the website along with a listing of upcoming meetings and the agendas.

Helen Burns Sharp, who sued the IDB over the issue of transparency and won, spoke to the board recommending several changes.

One suggestion she had was that board members undergo training.

She said the IDB has legal advice from the city attorney's office, but she said it may need other staff help on such issues as tax increment financing and PILOT tax breaks.

Prior to Ms. Sharp speaking, Mr. Miller told her she would have two minutes to speak.

He directed that speakers should not "badger" anyone.

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