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Economic Development Authority Minutes Page 2 <br /> June 3,2020 <br /> ----------------------------- <br /> Mr. Leighton explained COVID-19 will make an economic impact including people <br /> who have jobs,impact on tourism and travel, retailers, construction, and <br /> manufacturing. He included a menu of responses that local governments have taken <br /> that Elk River may want to consider in addition to the things they have already <br /> implemented. <br /> Mr. Leighton started the workshop asking for a discussion on the economic Assets, <br /> Deterrents, and Threats. <br /> Chair Tveite stated one threat is the city's response to 169 Redefine project and how <br /> it works through this area. Should we incorporate the Parks and Recreation <br /> Commission or the HRA so that everything is coordinated? <br /> Mr. Leighton asked for clarification whether the 169 Redefine was a threat or an <br /> opportunity. A#W <br /> Chair Tveite stated it was both a threat and an opportunity depending on how it is <br /> managed. Unless the city determines what direction they want to head with <br /> development,it may not end up being constructive or beneficial to the city or for <br /> developers. <br /> Mr. Leighton questioned how this rojvect ma bring more,property on line. <br /> Commissioner Westgaard agreed with Chair Tveite and explained the 169 Redefine <br /> project will increase accessibility for business, residents, and visitors passing through. <br /> Increasing access will open up opportunities in business and housing including a <br /> large tract of land north of the city which may be available within the next decade. <br /> Mr. Leighton asked if there will be improved access to existing properties. <br /> Commissioner Westgaard stated humans naturally avoid places that are difficult to <br /> get into and out of. The same applies to businesses. There are large trucking firms <br /> and an energy company in Elk River whose trucks have to start and stop at many <br /> intersections. From a business perspective,if you are trucking out of your facility, <br /> you would want the easiest way to disperse your product. <br /> Commissioner Blesener added additional natural resources could be added to the <br /> map. He identified Woodland Trails, acreage along the Mississippi river, the Youth <br /> Athletic Complex (YAC), Hillside Park, the Multipurpose Facility, facilities <br /> maintained by ISD #728, the rivers, and Lake Orono as resources. There are several <br /> natural resources within one trip. <br /> Mr. Leighton asked Commissioner Blesener if he would add this detail to the map or <br /> make a bulleted list. <br /> Commissioner Wagner agreed Hwy 169 was an asset and the biggest catalyst in <br /> undertaking a Strategic Plan. The Active Elk River campaign is an important part of <br /> the future of Elk River. She asked about"Housing is Affordable" as an asset vs <br /> PR1ERER RI <br /> AWRE <br />