10-07-15 EDC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

City of Arden Hills Economic Development Commission October 7, 2015 Page 1 of 1 MEMORANDUM DATE: October 7, 2015 EDC Agenda Item 4.B TO: Economic Development Commission Chair and Commissioners FROM: Matthew Bachler, Associate Planner SUBJECT: Report on the 2015 State of the City The State of the City was held this year on September 29th at City Hall and on October 1st at Flaherty’s Arden Bowl. Two events were held so that one could be scheduled on a weekday morning to maximize business turnout while the second could be held on a weekday evening and be more convenient for residents. Councilmembers presented on the TCAAP redevelopment project, current development projects, the City’s finances, and economic development initiatives including the business retention and expansion program and the city video tour. A representative from the Minnesota Department of Transportation provided information on road improvement projects scheduled for 2016 and 2017. The City Hall event was attended by approximately 35 people and the Flaherty’s Arden Bowl event by approximately 40 people. In comparison, the 2014 State of the City events were attended by 60 people at City Hall and 75 people at Flaherty’s Arden Bowl. Attendees at each event asked a wide range of questions of the presenters including public safety, transportation improvements, and the TCAAP redevelopment. Staff has not yet received all of the invoices associated with the two events. The total cost for this year’s State of the City will be provided to the Economic Development Commission at their next regular meeting. The cost for the 2014 State of the City was approximately $1,580 and staff expects this year’s expenses to be comparable. Staff is requesting that Commissioners who attended either event provide feedback on the program to be used for future event planning.