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effective economic development dollars are those spent working with existing businesses since most of the economic growth in a community is the result of established businesses. Here are some activities recommended for Arden Hills. Early: Years ? —2 13) Business Retention Program. It has been consistently proven that a business retention program focused on the base (those businesses that bring money into the county) and the largest companies is the most successful economic development strategy a community can design and implement_ The center piece of this program is the business leader meetings. These should be conducted annually and focused on removing the obstacles hampering business success. Based upon the input received in these meetings, a series of business services can be provided. Since they need to be directly responsive to the needs presented during the interviews we can only offer suggestions of programs that other communities have used successfully in the past. If the recommended staffing levels are added to the community,we see no reason w y o visits per year can be conducted in - the community. 14)Sign Committee. It is unclear whether the city's sign ordinance is overly restrictive or if it is just perceived to be. However, enough businesses in town have the opinion that the sign ordinance is too restrictive so it would be beneficial for Arden Hills to convene a committee to review this matter. These people would be instructed to review surrounding sign ordinances and standards set forth by the American Planning Association. The comments received by this committee can be developed into a recommendation for the EDC and ultimately Council to consider. Inclusion of the City Planner in this effort would be essential. 15) Business Issues on Community Web Page. Arden Hills' new web page will work to provide a new more progressive image for the community. This page can become a tool for business retention by creating a section directed toward existing business issues. By creating a business only section of the web page, the importance of this component of the economy can be emphasized. 16) Mayors Council on Existing Business Services. We would recommend a council on existing business services that would serve as counsel to the Mayor. This would be an advisory panel of business representatives large and small who would meet with the Mayor and the Economic Development Director to address business/government issues in the community. Initial agenda items may come from city hall, however longer term Strategic Plan for Economic Development Page 17 of 23 9 p Draft—Subject to Approval and Adoption