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Nancy further commented that she felt DeSCo's proposal was very thorough and complete. Jim Paulet inquired as to the depth of the competitive analysis for the proposals. Barton responded that during the conference call with the respondents, it was determined that due to budget limitations, a general competitive analysis of the area would be done. Rob Davidson asked for clarification of what we are hoping to have as an end-product? Mayor Aplikowski stated that we would have a SWOT analysis. Barton added that we would have an overall economic development picture of the City and a plan to focus future efforts. Bruce Kunkel also responded that Arden Hills has traditionally been a bedroom-community. This plan would provide us with opportunities to look beyond the bedroom-community,while incorporating the wants, needs, and values of the City's stakeholders. The Plan would set direction for us in regard to economic development. He further commented that we would want to revisit the plan in 10 years. Ray commented that he was pleased with both proposals from DeSCO and Barsness. Kevin Kelly stated that he prefers using a local company. Bruce Kunkel recommended tossing out the 3D Strategies proposal and there was a general consensus to do so. Bruce commented that he would like to bring both DeSCo and Barsness in • to talk with the EDC before we make a decision. He also instructed Barton to put together a list of questions for Barsness and DeSCo. Nancy stated she would like to know if both companies would be willing to do a survey. Rob Davidson supported Kunkel's comments. Rob also requested that both organizations references be contacted. Davidson moved to bring in DeSCo and Barsness for an interview to evaluate both proposals. Ed Werner seconded. All in favor; motion carried. Barton would contact both companies and ask them to make presentations to the EDC at the next Meeting on March 15. Business Retention and Outreach Dale Beane had arranged to purchase a list of businesses in Arden Hills. That list was distributed to the EDC members. Beane commented that the accuracy was not guaranteed on the business list (probably 80-90% accurate). However it would provide us with a place to start. Beane added that the list had not been merged with the City's business license list yet. Once he has that list in a useable format, he would then merge it with this list to get a more comprehensive list. Rob Davidson asked if the list could also reflect the number of employees. Beane responded that it could, and also gross sales information. Beane stated that he would get that information put on the list and send it out to the entire EDC.