5. EDSR 05-14-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Economic Development Authority Mrnutes J~ li, Zoii Page 2 Commissioner Motin stated the Council didn't agree to consult with boards but ratherthis - was a recommendation from the EDA to Council MOVED BY COMMISSIONER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER GUMPHREY TO APPROVE THE JUNE 12, 2011 MINUTES WITH THE CHANGES NOTED ABOVE. MOTION CARRIED 7- 0. 5. Presentation 1zvMN District Ex~On Council Ms. Deckers introduced Senior Partner Yvonne Halpaus of QNet LLC, who is also a representative for the Minnesota District Expon Council. Ms. Halpaus outlined the purpose and services of the Expon Council as noted in the staff repon. She stated the Export Council advises local business on export financing and theyare looking at building export partnerships with organization such as the EDA. She invited the Commission to work with the Expon Council to assist local business with exporting needs by attending one of their four meetings scheduled throughout the year. President Touchette suggested it maybe worthwhile for staff to look at the companies in Elk River to see who could be helped by t~t'1"'n~ this service. Discussion on EDA Donation Policy Ms. Deckers presented the staff report. • Commissioners Dwyer and Zerwas stated theywere not in favor of having a donation policy and looking at each request on aause-b~case basis. Commissioner Tveite concurred but further noted the commission needs to be diligent on the rationale of why it's beneficial from an economic development perspective so they don't create a precedent that says any good cause is something the EDA will donate to. Commissioner Motin expressed surprise that the city attorney could recommend a no donation policy. He stated concerns with late requests and feeling pressure to respond ax the last minute on a request. President Touchette stated the requests need to be rooted in economic well-being and suggested staff loos at each request and howtheyhelp the growth of economics for Elk River. ;t was the Consensus of the Commission to not have a written donation policy. Discussion of Huing Process for Assistant Economic Develop~nt~aor Ms. Decker preserned the staff report. Commissioner Dwyer stated, per the EDA Bylaws, a hiring committee recommendation should be brought to the EDA Commission for approval . Commissioner Motin disagreed and stated the only bodythat can hire or fire staff for the city is the City Council He stated the Council should get input from the EDA. He stated the