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1996 Economic Development Work Program Page 3 <br /> • D. Downtown Events: <br /> The department will continue to work with downtown <br /> businesses and the Area Chamber of Commerce in the planning <br /> of various special events/activities in the central business <br /> district throughout the year. <br /> 3. BUSINESS RECRUITMENT/BUSINESS RETENTION <br /> The department will continue to work in a proactive way to recruit <br /> new businesses to Elk River. The retention of existing businesses also <br /> remains a high priority. Now that Sherburne County has hired a full <br /> time economic development coordinator, it may be appropriate to <br /> evaluate and undertake a county-wide survey of manufacturers. A <br /> similar survey was done in 1992. <br /> The Elk River manufacturing companies continue to meet on an <br /> informal basis and the economic development department has been <br /> included in many of the meetings. This represents a great opportunity <br /> to network with the industrial leaders to learn firsthand of specific <br /> issues facing them. It also represents an opportunity for the business <br /> leaders to learn about various state and local financing programs and <br /> incentive programs to assist with upcoming expansions. <br /> 4. STAR CITY RECERTIFICATION <br /> The department will continue to participate in the Star City Program <br /> as sponsored by the Department of Trade and Economic Development <br /> (DTED). In 1996, the economic development department will <br /> determine Elk River's eligibility for one or more of DTED's special <br /> recognition awards. If applicable, the awards/recognitions will be <br /> pursued. <br /> Although the Star City Program has evolved since its inception, it <br /> continues to be a very beneficial program. Many of its principals <br /> would be implemented with or without the Star City designation. <br /> 5. RETAIL SALES ESTIMATES AND EMPLOYMENT ESTIMATES <br /> The department will continue to provide estimates of the growth in <br /> retail sales and full time employment opportunities in Elk River. This <br /> information is annually obtained through the Minnesota Department <br /> of Revenue and the Minnesota Department of Jobs and Training. <br /> • <br />