01-25-16 Joint Meeting w EDC - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS EDA MEETING—JANUARY 25, 2016 4 B. 2015 EDC Report and 2016 Work Plan Executive Director Hutmacher stated that the Economic Development Authority approved the 2015 EDC Work Plan at the January 26, 2015, joint meeting with the Economic Development Commission. The EDC made significant progress on its 2015 goals as summarized as follows: New Member Recruitment • Three new members have been appointed to the EDC in 2015. Business Retention and Expansion Program • Recommended to the EDA that the City obtain consulting services from the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce (SPACC) • Worked with SPACC to compile a list of all businesses in the City of Arden Hills • Created an interview questionnaire • Selected businesses to interview based on industry and job growth • Participated in BRE interviews • Monitored process of BRE program • Received the Leaders in Local Government Award from the St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce in the category of Business Retention and Expansion Marketing and Outreach • Worked with the Communications Committee to assign business-related newsletter topics • Edited, finalized, and posted the City Video Tour on the City's website and YouTube channel • Provided feedback on installed Gateway Signs and possible locations for additional signs • Planned and promoted State of the City events on September 29 and October 1 Executive Director Hutmacher explained that the EDC approved a 2016 Work Plan on January 6, 2016. Staff requested that the EDA review and approve the work plan. Commissioner Holden questioned if the State of the City was still worth the time invested in the event. Executive Director Hutmacher stated that this was evaluated mid-year by the EDC and the City Council on a year-to-year basis. Commissioner Holmes thanked staff for the thorough report. She suggested that the Council check in with its local businesses to see why they are not attending the State of the City. Executive Director Hutmacher discussed the small business series of workshops that were being planned by the City that would encourage community engagement with local businesses. EDA President Grant asked if the EDA Commissioners had any input on the EDC work plan.