07-31-24 EDC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – JULY 31, 2024 2 Coordinator to discuss the handout that was identified as a tool that could be left behind with a business representative for them to answer the survey questions that could not be collected in person. This handout will include a survey form, using Survey Monkey, that will allow participants to access the questions via a QR code. The commission is being asked to discuss the content and format, then suggest any revisions and next steps for finalizing the handout. Commissioner Bonine wondered if there are any initial thoughts on the image that will be on the handout. He thought there was a previous recommendation to use a photo of the EDC in action. Senior Planner Fransen noted that Senior Communications Coordinator Luke Cardona had attended a previous meeting of the EDC and there are photos available but she is open to it being a stock photo. Commissioner Williams suggested an aerial view of the city. Community Development Director Jessica Jagoe noted that if the commission doesn’t have a strong opinion, they could leave it up to the Communications Department. Commissioner Bonine thought that was a good suggestion. Senior Planner Fransen noted if the commission wanted to have a mock up printed by the August meeting, staff could work with the subcommittee for approval. Commissioner Williams thought a phone contact and the website to the QR code should be provided on the handout. Senior Planner Fransen said the handout is planned to be a half page. Council Liaison Fable wondered if it would be useful for the commission to know if the businesses were active in other business organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce or the Rotary. Senior Planner Fransen thought that could be a follow up question after this initial interaction if a business indicates engagement. Commissioner Williams shared appreciation for the subcommittee’s work on the documents. A motion was made by Commissioner Bonine and seconded by Commissioner Gronquist to allow the subcommittee to approve the handout once Communications Department finalizes a mock up and have it printed for the August meeting. The motion was approved unanimously. Senior Planner Fransen began the discussion on the drafted timeline document. She noted an error in dating one of the items that will be revised. The goal of this document is to establish milestones and outline next steps for the in-person visit process. She outlined the documents discussed at today’s meeting will be finalized for the August meeting with materials being distributed so commissioners can begin their in-person business visits. Senior Planner Fransen asked the commissioners to review the timeline. Commissioner Bonine thinks the timeline makes sense unless the work cannot be completed in the fall. Each commissioner will be tasked with contacting approximately 30 businesses in a two month period. He believes that should be enough time to reach out. Commissioner Williams stated businesses shouldn’t be skipped if they aren’t on the list. Senior Planner Fransen agreed. Commissioner Bonine noted that if one commissioner completes their list while another hasn’t, those addresses could be reallocated. Commissioner Bonine noted that each commissioner will have their own strategy for the visits. He plans to try calling the businesses before stopping in to avoid multiple attempts if no one is there. Commissioner Williams wondered if the goal is to speak to the business owners, rather than employees. Commissioner Bonine pointed out that is why a pre-visit phone call could be helpful.