Palo Alto - Mayor Bern Beecham and the Ad Hoc Retail Committee invite the public to attend a community forum to discuss Palo Alto's retail environment. The discussion will take place on Friday, June 11, 2004 at 8:30 a.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 250 Hamilton Avenue. The event is free and open to the public.

Mayor Beecham established the Ad Hoc Retail Committee in March 2004 following his State of the City address in which he identified a number of issues affecting the City's retail base. The retail sector is a major sales tax generator for Palo Alto. Declines in this sector directly impact City revenues and services. Over the last three years, the City has experienced a dramatic one-third drop in sales tax revenues. The retail sector also provides essential goods and services for neighborhoods and adds to a vital community life.

The Committee is comprised of representatives from the retail community, local neighborhood associations, and various City departments. The Committee has met monthly to discuss issues facing retail businesses and suggest possible courses of action. At the forum, the Committee will present ideas for enhancing the retail sector. Retailers, service providers, residents, and all other interested parties are encouraged to share their feedback on these ideas and any other suggestions for improving Palo Alto's retail climate. The Committee will consider these comments and suggestions as they prepare a final report and action plan to be presented to City Council in the fall of 2004.

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