Laserfiche WebLink
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – JULY 31, 2024 6 <br />Commissioner Bonine asked if this was taken up by the EDC at one point and the Commission’s <br />input is wanted? <br /> <br />Community Development Director Jagoe replied that this has been back and forth between the <br />EDC and the Economic Development Authority (EDA). The members of the EDA thought there <br />is value in having the EDC look at this in terms of it being a gateway to the city and support what <br />the businesses might see as the main corridors. This could be part of a bigger discussion as an <br />example if flags on the street lights would help establish the street frontage and support what the <br />businesses feel might help establish their presence. <br /> <br />Commissioner Bonine answered there are a lot of signs. He believes the item should wait. The <br />point of the EDC is the better understand who the businesses are. He thinks it would be a poor use <br />of funds until the EDC gets to know the business owners first. He suggested that may be a good <br />follow up after the current task to reach out to the contacts and see if they would value a downtown <br />feel with monument signs or the other options mentioned. He thinks it would be irresponsible to <br />move forward until the businesses can weigh in. <br /> <br />Commissioner Williams pointed out Rice Creek Commons has no businesses there now but that <br />may be a location for consideration after it’s developed. Commissioner Bonine agreed. <br />Discussion ensued regarding Shoreview’s signs and if it’s really necessary for Arden Hills to <br />follow suit. Commissioner Gronquist agreed that it is a lot of signs to advertise the city. <br /> <br />Community Development Director Jagoe summarized that she heard there is value in looking <br />at this topic along with how to support the commercial corridors, however, there is no urgency for <br />the city to move forward with a large gateway sign, at this time. Commissioner Williams pointed <br />out that he has two gateway signs near his house in fully residential areas. <br /> <br />Community Development Director Jagoe stated that gateway signs can serve a dual purpose to <br />establish a presence when visitors enter the community and establish the commercial corridor. <br />Commissioner Bonine said he believes more information is needed about the businesses in order <br />to spend the money wisely. <br /> <br />Community Development Director Jagoe summarized she heard this is an item that should <br />remain on the work plan however for budgetary purposes, funds should not be held or prioritized <br />for 2025. <br /> <br />Council Liaison Tom Fabel thought this was a productive discussion and the topic should be <br />brought back to the council. <br /> <br /> <br />4. COMMENTS AND REPORTS <br /> <br />A. Staff Updates <br /> <br />None <br /> <br />B. City Council Updates <br />