01-23-08 EDC Meeting Minutes - Unsigned

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EDC Minutes January 23, 2008 Page 2 of 5 Chair Kunkel indicated the current EDC meeting schedule conflicts with his schedule and inquired if the EDC would be flexible to changing the schedule. Discussion ensued as to what times and days worked best for each member. Asst. City Administrator Simon suggested putting together a calendar of possible meeting dates for the group to vote on and make a decision. In the mean time, the group was asked to remain a little flexible on meeting dates and times until a permanent schedule can be decided upon. Chair Kunkel asked the group if they could discuss the EDC's vision for itself and asked what the group wants to be involved in going forward. Nancy noted she thought the B2 moratorium should include the EDC helping find solutions to the problem. Ed Van Holtum noted the EDC represents the citizens of Arden Hills and last year the members polled residents for their feedback so he thought that feedback should be included as well as concentrating on smaller things and setting priorities on the projects. Asst. City Administrator Simon noted a part of today's meeting is to develop a work plan within the next 30 days for the group and develop action steps. Projects may arise throughout the year as well that the group can be flexible and fluid on. • Chair Kunkel said from his perspective he said he believed the group took a shotgun approach and was looking too broadly. Ed Werner noted the businesses within the City Limits hold a lot of employment opportunities. He expressed he believes we should let the developers focus on TCAAP. Jim noted the group should be business- and resident-friendly at the same time. He also noted he thought the group's focus was to be on the business community and he thought the group got drawn to other projects last year. He said he would prefer to stick to development and redevelopment outside of TCAAP. Ed Van Holtum suggested the City make a list of the properties that are development opportunities. It was noted the Holiday Inn property may be looking at a short-term use, but nothing has been officially proposed for short-term or permanent use to the City. Jim referred to the recent letter from Ray McGraw and noted the letter spoke on more involvement in TCAAP. Asst. City Administrator Simon indicated he thought Ray McGraw's letter should be addressed at a meeting when Ray is in attendance so he can be involved in the discussion. Asst. City Administrator Simon noted he wants to engage the existing business community through various levels of interactions to find out what it is they need. He noted the other