# Planning and Economic Development Policy Committee - October 2026

The Aurora Planning and Economic Development Policy Committee met on October 29, 2026, to review the draft retail strategy implementation plan. Staff described ongoing business-development work, including business retention and expansion, marketing and branding, identifying underperforming retail properties for reinvestment, and a CRM tool to track businesses, prospects, projects, and incentives. The plan is intended to account for staff and budget resources, pursue non-General Fund sources such as grants and partners, and tailor priorities to different wards. No contracts, vendor selections, procurement awards, or spending votes were identified.

Discussion focused on potential future economic incentives and process changes: a formal economic partnership framework, a matching facade-improvement grant tied to CPTED principles, and faster review for small tenant fit-outs and same-use reoccupancy. The facade grant would require a future budget appropriation—considered unlikely for 2027 unless outside funding is found—and staff will explore grants, private foundations, and partnerships with DDAs or BIDs. Committee members supported bringing forward an incentive menu/framework and the proposed fast-track work together, with staff aiming for January or February; no formal motion or vote was recorded. Staff also committed to provide a comprehensive status and proposed schedule for UDO amendments at a future meeting.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 29, 2026

### Sources
- [Planning and Economic Development Policy Committee - October 2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBUHNLOB8P0) - The Aurora Channel