(Atlantic) Atlantic Executive Chamber Director Bailey Smith and Atlantic City Administrator John Lund presented business development reports to the Atlantic City Council on Wednesday.
Smith says since June, the chamber welcomed nine new members, bringing the membership to 230, covering 12 communities: sixteen ambassador visits, three ribbon cuttings, and three more scheduled. Smith reported six new business startups in Atlantic.
Additionally, Atlantic City Administrator John Lund reported on the progress of Retail Coach. In August 2021, the City signed a contract with the company to boost retail recruitment and related services. The agreement cost was $30,000 and renewed in September 2022 for $20,000. The Firm was tasked to identify retail opportunities within the City of Atlantic, recruit retailers, coach the community, help fill gaps, and ultimately act as an extension to the current staff, particularly how it relates to retail.
Lund says it boils down to three prospects. One appears to be serious and needs to find a location, and the City is attempting to find out what incentives they want out of it.
With the Retail Coaches Contract due, Councilman Brink inquired about prospects committing to Atlantic locations.
Brink admitted there has been interest but no available space to locate.
The most substantial potential for retail space was nine acres behind Casey’s on East 7th Street. However, Mayor Grace Garrett informed the Council that the property had been sold. Garrett says hopefully, the City can obtain some more property.
