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4d6Pb' <br /> strength in numbers, and if a group speaks as a "downtown II/ <br /> association" then that voice will likely be held in higher regard. If the <br /> businesses in Edina - at 50th and France, or the businesses in Uptown <br /> Minneapolis - at Lake and Hennepin, can successfully organize <br /> business associations, then that model can work in Elk River. <br /> 9. Emphasize Service - More and more, customers are expecting greater <br /> service. For that reason, it is no surprise that services sells, again and <br /> again. Customers will go out of their way - a long way - for service. <br /> National retailers won't repair things, nor will they carry one-of-a-kind <br /> items. Those two illustrations can be found occurring everyday in <br /> downtown Elk River and across America for that matter. Service is <br /> one of those intangible items that spells the difference between success <br /> and just getting by. If residents and visitors believe that customer <br /> • <br /> service is alive and well in downtown Elk River, half the battle has <br /> been won. <br /> 10. Expand the Service Base - The Elk River Mall and the Elk River Valu <br /> Center command much of the retail base in the community. In fact, <br /> much of the downtown area is driven by a strong service base. This <br /> sector should be expanded. More health care providers - doctors, <br /> dentists, chiropractors, and professional users - attorneys, real estate <br /> agents, etc., should be encouraged to expand their operations <br /> downtown. To accommodate this, the EDA/HRA may have to be the <br /> catalyst alluded to earlier. To ensure that reinvestment occurs <br /> downtown, some of the up front costs of a redevelopment project will <br /> have to be absorbed by these agencies. The service base, whether <br /> medical or professional, attracts a strong customer base and customers <br /> translate into shoppers and buyers. <br /> Summary <br /> Ten ideas - some obvious - some not so obvious - to keep Elk River's <br /> downtown a focal point. Many require time and money, but all of them <br /> require a commitment. That commitment starts with all parties - businesses, <br /> civic groups, and public officials agreeing that something needs to be done. <br /> From there, anything may be possible. <br /> William (Bill) Rubin Jackie Schuelein <br /> Economic Development Coordinator Executive Vice President <br /> City of Elk River Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce <br /> • <br />