5.5. SR 03-14-2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT Ramsey County has a diverse mix of companies contributing to the economic stability and growth in the region. Many are focused on finance, research, technology and industrial production. Transportation continues to be a strong element in the mix. Among the larger and better known corporations are the world headquarters of 3M, the St. Paul Companies and Xcel Energy. The work force is highly regarded for both its loyalty and high productivity. Businesses, considering the area, will find a receptive political and tax environment, a well-educated, skilled work force, a complete transportation and freight network, education and training assistance programs, numerous financial and incentive programs to assist them. ~. fl Xcel Energy St. Paul and the surrounding suburban communities were built on small businesses and neighborhoods - areas that remain strong and centered even today. White Bear Lake, the second largest lake in the Metro Area behind Lake Minnetonka on the far western edge, is home to a charming small city with a resort atmosphere. People "go to the lake," like White Bear or one of the other 10,000-plus Minnesota lakes, to escape the heat of the summer and participate in swimming, fishing and boating of all kinds. In fact, White Bear still has a formal yacht club that has been in existence since the 1880s, when there was a fierce competition with the Minnetonka club. Neighborhoods such as "Grand Avenue" in St. Paul are popular areas for dining at sidewalk cafes and visiting in intimate shops at a leisurely pace, except during "Grand Old Days" - a celebration that kicks-off the summer season and attracts over 200,000 people. ~ SPRINGSTED Page 8