12-04-13 PTRC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Commission considered creating an electronic economic development newsletter, but it was decided that business news should be included in the City newsletter, posted on the City’s website, andincluded in district-specific newsletters on an as-needed basis.In 2013, Commissioners and staff posted several business-related articles in the Arden Hills Notes; a business news page was added to the City website; and a Round Lake-specific newsletterwas distributed with information on upcoming and proposed transportation improvement projects. Work began on an analysis of vacancy rates for retail, office, and industrial properties in Arden Hills compared to the metropolitan and northeast submarket averages. Vacancy rates within each of the City's business districts were also examined. Business Visits Over the past few years, staff has worked to build a business inventory and contact list for all Arden Hills businesses. In 2013, staff visited every business in the Round Lake/Gateway Business District. Information was provided to businesses on the US 10/Highway 96 construction project and the proposed improvement project for Round Lake Road. Information was collected on the type of business, number of employees in Arden Hills, and business representative contact information. Businesses in the B-2 district were visited in 2012; and business visits are planned for the Red Fox/Grey Fox district in 2014. Commissioners hand-delivered State of the Citynotices to all City businesses in late August/early September. Staff and Commissioners visited new and relocated Arden Hills businesses including Sweet Chocolat and Now Bikes and Fitness. Also in 2013, staff developed an inventory and contact list for leased commercial property including broker and landlord contact information. Attachment 2013EDC Work Plan City of Arden Hills Economic Development Commission December 4, 2013 22 Page of