4 PCSR 06-10-1993 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• E1h RiverArea Chamber ofCommerce November 12, 1992 Mr. Don Heinzman, Editor Elk River Star News 649 Main Street • Elk River,MN 55330 To The Editor: Now that the busy election campaign season is finally over, Elk River citizens have the opportunity and responsibility to focus on issues of critical importance to our community's future. One such issue is Elk River's response to new business development and community growth opportunities. The Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce believes that growth of business and industry • is essential to Elk River's future prosperity. Businesses locate where there is a market for their products and services. It is the community's responsibility to identify the most appropriate locations within the city to accommodate the future business investments which are responding to market demands. The proposed commercial development between Highway 169 and Jackson Avenue is a good example of business responding to the marketplace. As a rapidly growing city located in one of Minnesota's fastest growing counties, Elk River is in the enviable position of becoming a destination shopping center for a significant trade area if major retailers decide to invest in our community. We believe that expansion of retailing is essential for the long term viability of our existing retail businesses. The recent program sponsored by the Elk River Economic Development Authority (EDA) presented the research of Kenneth E. Stone, Ph.D. which shows that net retail sales continue to grow after a mass merchandiser such as WalMart comes to the community. More store choices, greater variety, and a commitment to customer service will encourage area residents to shop locally. The alternative is to discourage business investment in Elk River and to shun the convenience, new jobs, and increased tax base that new commercial development would bring to our city. • 729 Main Street • Elk River, Minnesota 55330-1595 • (612) 441-3110 "Building a Better Community Together"