09-08-2003 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes Page 2 September 8, 2003 5. Strategic Industrial Marketing Activities Update Economic Development Assistant Heidi Hall reviewed the recent marketing activities as outlined in her memo to the EDA dated September 8, 2003. Ms. Hall provided an update on available industrial lease space totaling 71,100 square feet. She announced that Incubator graduate Cymbet Corporation was recently honored among 14 other companies as Minnesota Innovator of the Year. Commissioner Motin asked how the City became involved in promoting Rogers High School. Comtissioner Klinzing explained that the new school is being promoted through Energy City, because of the fact that it is considered a "high performance" or "sustainable" building, and incorporates energy efficient capabilities with a renewable energy source. Ms. Hall noted that there are other projects promoted through Energy City such as Haubenschild Farm in Zimmerman and the Livonia Township Hall. Ms. Hall noted that staff is working with the Chamber of Commerce to schedule the annual recognition of Minnesota Manufactures Week. This year's plans include a tour of Cymbet and Marketech, which will be followed by a luncheon with keynote speaker Mark Sheffert. Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich added that the event is being planned in recognition of Manufacturers & Technology Week (October 20- 24), and that Elk River's event is scheduled for October 21. 6. Industrial Land Development Strategy Update Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich introduced Sid Inman of Ehlers & Associates. Mr. Inman discussed options outlined in the analysis of the industrial/business park development costs presented to the EDA in the staff report dated September 8, 2003. Mr. Inman stated that if the EDA was comfortable with his recommendations, that he and staff should meet with the two landowners to begin the process of evaluating their cost of the land and discuss the process. He stated that the EDA should deternune if they prefer having a master developer for the EDA-owned Brown property and if so, an RFP (Request for Proposals) would be appropriate. Mr. Inman explained various strategies that may be required in negotiations, such as variances. Ms. Mehelich noted that the EDA may consider variances from the agreement in order to negotiate a "0" cost when in direct competition with another city for an industrial prospect. COMMISSIONER DWYER MOVED TO CONTINUE STAFF'S DISCUSSIONS WITH THE TWO LANDOWNERS WITHIN THE PARAMETERS SET FORTH IN THE EHLERS & ASSOCIATES MEMO.