City Economic Development Commission

Overview
One of the most influential panels in city government, the Economic Development Commission advises the City Council on the San Angelo business scene.

The commission meets monthly to discuss city-related economic and business issues. Some of its recent recommendations to the City Council have included reducing city fees to aid newly started small businesses and streamlining the permit process for new construction.

Behind the scenes, commissioners use their influence to help persuade companies to locate in San Angelo and act as unofficial mediators in disputes involving local businesses.

History
In 1998, a collection of heavy hitters in corporate and political circles sat on the commission in 1998, including real estate broker Joseph Fong, builder Benjamin Morgan and newspaper publisher Peter K. Fletcher. Other commissioners include a Prospector Bank vice president and a senior partner in the law firm of Madison, Fairchild & Associates.

The effect of supers on the city business scene was a topic of debate at several commission meetings in the late 1990s. One bloc of commissioners, led by Morgan, contended that supers were damaging the economic reputation of the city with their violence and property destruction. Another faction argued that supers were an incentive to tourism and high-tech companies. The dispute remained unresolved for some time, and the panel hadn’t yet submitted a report on the topic to the City Council by the end of 1998.

The constant pressure from the Economic Development Commission to reduce fees and government regulations has caused some friction on the City Council. Mayor Martinez does not get along well with the panel, but Councilman Tom Kincaid strongly supports it.

Notable People
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In 1998 council members include Joseph Fong, Benjamin Morgan, and Peter K. Fletcher. Other commissioners have included a Prospector Bank vice president and a senior partner in the law firm of Madison, Fairchild & Associates.

Appearances
San Angelo: City of Heroes (1998)