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Economic Development Authority Minutes <br />June 13, 2011 <br />Page 2 <br />Commissioner Moon expressed concerns with the Alliance's decision to only allow local Elk <br />River food vendors to sell food and felt that more revenue could be received if they allowed <br />outside vendors. <br />Ms. Simenson explained the decision to keep the food vendors local and explained the costs <br />being charged for advertising in a brochure that would be distributed the day of the event. <br />Commissioner Tveite questioned why the City Council requested the EDA to review and <br />approve a donation. <br />Commissioner Zerwas stated he felt it was more a decision the EDA should approve since <br />the event would be held downtown and by donating, the EDA shows support to the <br />downtown businesses. <br />Commissioner Dwyer wasn't comfortable with the donation and felt in the future, a <br />donation polity should be put in place for future requests. <br />Commissioner Tviete asked Ms. Simenson if the event would still take place if the EDA did <br />not donate any funds. <br />Ms. Simonson said the event would happen but the budget for the rest of the year would be <br />affected with this donation. <br />Commissioner Moon indicated he would be okay with the donation, as long as it was <br />understood this would not be a reoccurring donation from the EDA. <br />MOVED BY COMMISSIONER DWYER AND SECONDED BY <br />COMMISSIONER ZERWAS TO APPROVE A DONATION TO THE ELK <br />RIVER AREA ARTS ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTSOUP EVENT IN THE <br />AMOUNT OF $2,000. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. <br />6. Discussion and Appointment of Executive Director <br />Ms. Deckert presented the staff report. <br />Commissioners discussed the hiring process and felt that although they feel Ms. Deckert is <br />highly qualified to be economic development director and support the City Council's <br />decision, the City Council should have consulted the EDA before filling the position. It was <br />agreed in the future the City Council would consult with its boards and commissions before <br />approving a new hire. <br />They also discussed the title of manager versus director, and members decided the title <br />should be changed to director to not only remain consistent, but also to reflect the role of <br />the position as one of director. <br />MOVED BY COMMISSIONER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY <br />COMMISSIONER GUMPHREY TO APPOINT ANNIE DECKERT AS <br />EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT <br />AUTHORITY. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. <br />MOVED BY COMMISSIONER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY <br />COMMISSIONER MOTIN TO RECOMMEND CHANGING THE TITLE OF <br />