11-05-25 EDC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – NOVEMBER 5, 2025 3 Chair Murchie said having a happy hour will create space for people to build community. Commissioner Brausen thought the program was good. He thought we should send thank you notes. Chair Murchie said if we did happy hour, he will work with Commissioner Sorensen to pick a date and location that may work. Commissioner Isak said he likes the happy hour idea. He likes the idea of keeping the Arden Hills only events twice a year. Shoreview is a larger city so the intimate Arden Hills event will stand out. Commissioner Poelzer said it was interesting that we said 7:45 check in and start at 8:00. That happened. People showed up on time and were ready for the event. Chair Murchie took a look at what was happening and he pivoted. He acknowledged that the program was changing. Everyone was comfortable with it. Chair Murchie wanted to be respectful of attendees’ time and said the program was over and people were welcome to leave or they could stay to continue talking. Everyone stayed and were interacting. She was hoping there would be more interaction with the Council members in attendance. She thought the event was good. Chair Murchie thought a thank you email should be sent to all attendees. He asked the commission what didn’t work. Commissioner Sorenson said don’t over program. Two speakers would be great. Commissioner Brausen said it was a great sign that so many people stayed late. Commissioner Shrom said the giveaways were fun. People were talking about that. It kept everyone engaged. Commissioner Isak thought the discussions were valuable and fostered good connection building. His dad will be moving his business to Arden Hills soon and he wants to be a part of these events. Commissioner Poelzer appreciated the Sheriff. She thought maybe giving speakers a time limit would be better. She thought having print outs or links to the presentation may also be a good idea. We know now we have to plan time to change presenters and hand over the microphone. She would like to see the EDC members up front at the start for introductions and then the members can disperse to the seats. Discussion ensued regarding having commissioners up front or at the tables. Handing the microphone and possibly mingling with everyone before. The Youth Commissioners are happy to be participating and their perspective is valuable. Commissioner Sorenson said we can solicit future sponsors from attendees of the first meeting. Community Development Director Reilly asked for EDC members and the businesses who attended to let Council know it was a good experience.