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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 /> Comms This initiative was <br /> 13) Sign Committee. <br /> decided <br /> EDC <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 /> The EDC is recommending the City review the number of complaints <br /> received regarding the restrictiveness of the sign code and revisit this <br /> in six to twelve months. <br /> 14) Business Issues on Community Web Page. <br /> Arden Hills' new web page will work to provide a new more progressive <br /> image for the community. This page can become a tool for business <br /> retention by creating a section directed toward existing business <br /> issues. By creating a business only section of the web page the <br /> importance of this component of the economy can be emphasized. <br /> Although the EDC recognizes the value in this initiative, we have <br /> determined this not to be a priority at this time. <br /> 15) Resource Database. Deleted: <br /> City Hall can position itself as more supportive of business if it creates ¶ <br /> a resource directory of business support services available from theFormatted:Bullets and Numbering_; <br /> governmental as well as private sectors. This can be as simple as a <br /> Strategic Plan for Economic Development Page 11 of 21 <br /> • <br />