BOCC Declines Renewal of Bradenton Area EDC Contract
Manatee County Government’s contract with the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC) will expire on September 30 after the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) failed to reach a majority decision to renew the agreement for the upcoming fiscal year.
The EDC, a not-for-profit corporation founded by business partners to support local economic development, has worked with the county since 2011 through its Redevelopment and Economic Opportunities (REO) Department. The partnership focused on promoting incentives for business retention and expansion, both locally and internationally.
In 2021, during the tenure of former County Administrator Scott Hopes, the REO Department was disbanded, and funding was redirected to expand reimbursements to the EDC, effectively outsourcing many redevelopment responsibilities. The current contract for fiscal year 2024-2025 provided reimbursements of $336,900 for services, including marketing and business development.
At Tuesday’s meeting, commissioners heard a presentation from EDC President and CEO Sharon Hillstrom, followed by discussion that revealed division on the board. Some commissioners raised concerns about how the EDC measured outcomes, its return on investment for taxpayer dollars, and the transparency of its reporting. Others questioned whether the agreement adequately addressed support for small businesses in addition to larger corporations and industries.
Commissioners Jason Bearden, Tal Siddique, and Bob McCann voted against renewal, citing issues with performance metrics, accountability, and alignment with county priorities. Commission Chair George Kruse, along with Commissioners Mike Rahn and Amanda Ballard, supported renewal, arguing the partnership was valuable for local economic growth. Commissioner Carol Felts joined the opposition, resulting in a 3-4 vote against renewal.
Alternative proposals, including extending the contract temporarily to allow for new negotiations, were also considered. However, county attorneys confirmed that the existing terms did not permit extensions, and subsequent motions failed to gain majority support.
As a result, the contract between Manatee County and the EDC will lapse at the end of the fiscal year. Commissioners indicated they may revisit the issue in the future, with the potential to negotiate a new agreement under revised terms.