07-14-2003 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes July 14, 2003 Page 2 Economic Development Assistant Heidi Hall presented an update on the strategic industrial marketing activities. President Gongoll inquired of the status of the MN Technology, Inc. agency. Economic Development Director Catherine Mehelich stated the agency is funded through 2004 and they are trying to transition from aquasi-state corporation to a private non-profit corporation. Ms. Mehelich will update the Commission as further information becomes available. 6. Industrial Land Development Strategy Update Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich provided an update regarding meetings with industrial/business park landowners. Ms. Mehelich noted staff's goal is to gather information in order to develop a strategy to reduce the price competition between landowners within the city, while also allowing them to be competitive with land outside the city. Ms. Mehelich explained that the Land Owner Meeting Form will help to identify what the costs are for each site, in order for development to occur. Ms. Mehelich noted that staff will meet with the EDA Marketing Committee, who will then pass on a recommendation for the Economic Development Commission meeting. Commissioner Kuester asked that more clarification be provided regarding costs for improvements, such as water, sewer and roads. Ms. Mehelich explained that City Engineer Terry Maurer will be preparing concept plan options and costs estimates for development of the individual sites. Commissioner Kuester asked that a price be provided, with all services provided. Ms. Mehelich stated that some of the landowners do not know what the improvement costs are and that it varies from site to site. Business Incubator Update Economic Development Assistant Heidi Hall expressed the City's condolences on the loss of Roger Jenson. Mr. Jenson recently passed away shortly after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. Mr. Jenson was the Executive Director of the Anoka County Economic Development Partnership and President of the Anoka/Sherhurne County Capital Fund. Harlon Jacobs, the EDA's business incubator consultant, provided an update on the status of incubator prospects. Mr. Jacobs explained that with the slow economy, many entrepreneurs are staying in their homes and garages and not willing to make the move to the incubator setting. Mr. Jacobs stated that he feels this is a short-term problem. Mr. Jacobs reviewed his January 14, 2003 and July 10, 2003 reports, regarding new and existing prospects, current companies, and recent graduates/terminations. Mr. Jacobs discussed the