06-02-2025 JDA Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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New Business a. Review Communications Report Director Mitchell reviewed the Communication Report with the JDA. She explained Goff Public worked with Ramsey County, the City of Arden Hills, JDA and Ryan Companies on a media relations strategy to support and celebrate the April 30 groundbreaking of Outlot A phase one. The strategy included: • Issuing a media advisory on April 28 to provide notice of the event. • Targeted pitching to reporters with previous and/or current interest in Rice Creek Commons. • Issuing a post-event press release with photos on April 30. Director Mitchell reported total media exposure: 37 placements. As of Friday, May 2, there have been 37 total earned media placements specific to the groundbreaking event. All four Twin Cities regional TV affiliates attended the event (WCCO, KARE, KSTP and KMSP) along with Nine North TV. Star Tribune reporter Matt McKinney also attended the groundbreaking and is currently conducting follow-up interviews; the timeline for a resulting article is still pending. Coverage in the Shoreview Press is also pending. Commissioner Jebens-Singh, Councilmember Monson and project staff did interviews with the Star Tribune, Finance & Commerce and Fox 9’s online streaming show outside of the groundbreaking event. Commissioner Jebens-Singh asked that the media events and the links for the videos be posted on the Rice Creek Commons website. Commissioner Monson requested staff speak further to the groundbreaking event that was held for Outlot A. Director Mitchell stated last Wednesday, April 30, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for Phase 1 of Outlot A. She explained this event was cohosted by the County, City of Arden Hills and Ryan Companies. She indicated this event was not open to the public because it was an active construction site. She reported the event was attended by City and County staff along with elected officials and representatives from Micro Control Company. Commissioner Weber thanked Commissioner McGuire and Commissioner Jebens-Singh for their comments at this event. He appreciated the positive outlook staff had for this development. b. Approve 2025 Budget Amendment Director Mitchell stated an amended JDA budget is presented for approval. This amendment includes additional scope for green energy and sustainability work and also reflects a grant awarded to the project. The JDA developed a 2025 JDA budget in accordance with the procedures outlined in the JPA. The budget for the Green Energy Consultant was $92,750 for support on the pre-certification process for LEED for Communities. The JDA approved this as part of the 2025 JDA budget at the November 2024 meeting.