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Business Retention Business development represents some of the core activities of any economic development program. Over time, the importance of a successful retention and expansion program has risen over that of the traditional attraction efforts. The most 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. 13) Business Retention Program. It has been consistently proven that a business retentionprogram 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 deslgn and implement. The center piece of this program is the business leader meetings. These should be conducted annually and focused on removing the obstacles hamperin '' 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. tt the recommended staffing levels are added to the community, we see no'reason Why,30:to 40 visits per year can be conducted in the community. 14) 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 dxlsting business issues. By creating a business only section of the web page, the importance.of this component of the economy can be emphasized. 15) 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 bean 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 success of this group will occur when the members take ownershipof the agenda and propose things for consideration. 16) Resource Database. City Hall can position itself as more supportive of business if it creates a resource directory of business support services available from the governmental as well as private sectors. This can be as simple as a Word file that is periodically updated, printed and put on display in City Hall lobby to something as sophisticated as an online database accessible from the City's web page. • Working Copy— Not for Circulation 5