REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on a Resolution in Support of Worker Cooperatives [Council Pillar: Promote and Enhance Economic and Housing Development] Continued from March 17, 2020
Report
BACKGROUND
Council held a study session on Worker Cooperatives at its July 9, 2019 meeting. Worker Cooperatives are values-driven businesses that put worker and community benefit at the core of their purpose, meaning worker members at worker cooperatives participate in the profits, oversight, and often management of the business using democratic practices.
Following the study session, Council expressed interest in learning more about how the City could support this business model. Council referred the item to the Economic Development, Communications and Marketing (EDCM) committee for further discussion.
Staff developed possible next steps based on review of actions taken by other cities throughout the country to support worker cooperatives. These findings were presented to the EDCM Committee on September 18, 2019. The EDCM Committee referred the proposed next steps/work plan to the full City Council for review and direction.
At the October 29, 2019 Council meeting, Council approved next steps on Worker Cooperatives, which also included direction to staff to return to Council with an allocation of $100,000 in funding for this effort. On November 5, 2019, as part of the Budgetary Year-End Report, Council approved a budget amendment in the amount of $100,000 to support Worker Cooperatives.
Phase 1 of the work plan includes the following items:
1. Develop a Resolution supporting Worker Cooperatives in Santa Clara.
2. Develop a Worker Cooperative Resource webpage on the City's website.
3. Work with the Chamber (or other 3rd party organization) to identify legacy businesses and develop an outreach strategy.
4. Outsource training on worker cooperatives with outside agency.
Phase 2 of the work plan includes:
1. Research options for technical assistance and con...
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