TO: Mayor and Commissioners
FROM: Samuel Camp, MPA, Economic Development Manager
THROUGH: Terrence R. Moore, ICMA-CM
DATE: November 2, 2026
Title
MOTION TO ADOPT THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POSITIONING AND TARGETING PLAN
Body
Recommended Action:
Recommendation
Motion to adopt the Economic Development Positioning and Targeting Plan prepared by Business Flare.
Body
Background:
At the City Commission's request, an economic development consultancy firm, Business Flare, was engaged by the City to prepare an Economic Development Positioning & Targeting Plan that delivers the foundational intelligence and go-to-market framework the City needs to begin actively attracting businesses.
Business Flare began their efforts to create such a plan on April 30, 2026. They have since met with representatives of City partners - the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA), the Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), and the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce as well as with a number of business owners within the City. They have also toured the City and reviewed the properties and buildings that are vacant and/or available for businesses and they have analyzed the list of existing businesses in the City.
At the July 21, 2026 City Commission meeting, Business Flare presented draft findings based on real-time conditions and received direction and feedback from the Commission affirming the plan of work and preliminary recommendations.
Business Flare has now prepared a final Economic Development Positioning and Targeting Plan to be adopted by the City Commission.
City Attorney Review:
N/A
Funding Source/Financial Impact:
No additional funding for any economic development activities are currently being requested.
Timing of Request:
The City Commission expressed desire to begin its efforts to market the City to businesses that are well suited to our economic environment as soon as possible.