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Business Retention <br /> Business development represents some of the core activities of any economic <br /> development program. Over time, the importance of a successful retention <br /> and expansion program has risen over that of the traditional attraction <br /> efforts. The most effective economic development dollars are those spent <br /> working with existing businesses since most of the economic growth in a <br /> community is the result of established businesses. Here are some activities <br /> recommended for Arden Hills. <br /> 12) Business Retention Program. <br /> Recent research on economic development effectiveness conducted by <br /> numerous resources has consistently emphasized that a business <br /> retention program focused on the base (those businesses that bring <br /> money into the community) and the largest companies is the most <br /> successful economic development strategy a community can design <br /> and implement. The center piece of this program is the business <br /> leader meetings. These should be conducted annually and focused on <br /> removing the obstacles hampering business success. Based upon the <br /> input received in these meetings, a series of business services can be <br /> provided. Since they need to be directly responsive to the needs • <br /> presented during the interviews we can only offer suggestions of <br /> programs that other communities have used successfully in the past. <br /> If the recommended staffing levels are added to the community, we <br /> see no reason why 30 to 40 visits per year cannot be conducted in the <br /> community. <br /> The EDC has initiated and will continue with a business outreach and <br /> retention program through quarterly events. <br /> 13) Sign Committee. <br /> It is unclear whether the city's sign ordinance is overly restrictive or if <br /> it is just perceived to be. However, enough businesses in town have <br /> the opinion that the sign code is too restrictive so it would be <br /> beneficial for Arden Hills to convene a committee to review this <br /> matter. These people would be instructed to review surrounding sign <br /> ordinances and standards set forth by the American Planning <br /> Association. The comments received by this committee can be <br /> developed into a recommendation for the EDC and ultimately Council <br /> to consider. Inclusion of the City Planner in this effort would be <br /> essential. <br /> Strategic Plan for Economic Development Page 11 of 20 <br /> \\Metro-inet.us\ardenhillsWdmin\Committees\Economic Development Commission\AH Strategic Plan-Final 5-16-07_doc <br />