4/4/2020

Tuesday, March 31, the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) met virtually over possible action regarding assistance for the businesses on South Padre Island amid the Covid-19 global pandemic conditions. Unfortunately, due to an accident, that meeting was not viewable in live time by SPI citizens.

EDC Member Kori Marra mentioned that, “Last week we met to plan.” (NOTE: South Padre's agenda portal shows no record of a meeting last week. The last EDC meeting appearing on their website was January 21,2020.

During Tuesday's meeting there were conflicting reasonings for both immediate action and holding off on a reaction from the EDC. "We should wait until the month of April (is over), to see how much longer this is going to last." stated a member only identified as Kevin. (NOTE: The EDC website does not list any member with the first name of Kevin, however it has 3 members listed with expired terms. Apparently, the list of current members has not been made available to the public.)

Marra was clearly impatient with the planned delay. "It's so easy to say that, when our bills are paid. We saw how many restaurants closed this past week. I'm frustrated, too"

The city is the smallest player on the field now, and it's hard to find the right city role when the Federal Government's strategy, then the state’s, then the county’s all have more leverage than the city. "Let’s see what the banks and government are going to do. It would elevate what a lot of businesses can do. We need to give it some time," said member Thomas Bainter.

Under pressure, the EDC members know what they’re up against and are insistent on making sure timelines are being kept intact. "I thought there were going to be some suggestions last week, and since then businesses have closed and we aren't going to help anybody? We are going to wait until May 5th or the end of April. We've had meetings and meetings and we haven't accomplished anything," said Marra.

The virtual meeting went silent. Not a word was spoken to counter her position, until Executive Director, Darla Lepeyre, said, "You're right, but no one has a good answer."