01-27-14 EDA Joint With EDC - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS JOINT EDA MEETING — JANUARY 27, 2014 3 EDC Chair von Holtum reported that 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. EDC Chair von Holtum commented that 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. EDC Chair von Holtum stated that 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 City notices 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. EDC Chair von Holtum stated that he was proud of the work accomplished by the EDC in 2013. He discussed the successful business visits conducted by the EDC and thanked each of the EDC members for their contributions to that effort. Discussion ensued regarding how to create a local business mailing/email list. EDA President Grant recommended that the EDC add a local business mailing list to its 2014 work plan. B. 2014 EDC Work Plan Executive Director Hutmacher stated that at the December 4, 2013, EDC meeting, Commissioners approved the 2014 EDC work plan. The work plan is based on EDC discussions and the City Council goal to "develop relationships with the business community and establish a reputation as a business and development -friendly City." Specific objectives within the City Council's economic development goal include: • Increase contacts with the business community; • Support Arden Hills businesses; • Research economic development and business outreach efforts in other cities; and • Determine whether additional programs are needed to maintain a healthy economic environment. Executive Director Hutmacher reported that the 2014 EDC work plan includes goals and objectives for marketing and outreach in order to increase contacts with the business community and support Arden Hills businesses. EDC goals related to the revolving loan program and a potential