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Economic Development Authority Minutes Page 5 <br /> May 18,2020 <br /> ----------------------------- <br /> Commissioner Ovall would like to see how it plays out over the next year. <br /> Concern# 9 (fib : Communications regarding process requirements for Building- <br /> Permits, Codes,Loan Programs and Ordinances needs to be timely, consistent, clear, <br /> transparent,and communicated upfront,before excessive money is spent. <br /> Commissioner Wagner stated more work is needed in this area. She stated she wasn't <br /> sure how the Minneapolis technical business program worked and related to Elk <br /> River. <br /> Ms. Othoudt stated Minneapolis has created a business navigator office with staff <br /> dedicated to assist new businesses one-on-one. <br /> Commissioner Wagner questioned if the Authority is looking to create a similar <br /> program in Elk River and how it would fit into the city process. <br /> Ms. Othoudt asked the Authority if they are interested in funding a similar type <br /> position or having a conversation with City Council to discuss further. <br /> Chair Tveite asked if Concern 9 (b) was consistent with Concern 9 (a) as it <br /> relates to the consensus decision made by the Authority. Consensus was yes. <br /> Concern#9 (b) was continued to another meeting for further discussion. <br /> Commissioner WagneY'sfated it wou d be elpfu e more information from <br /> staff, for Concern #11. She stated there is a short summary in the staff report but <br /> doesn't show anything being.accomplished. She stated it is asking the Authority to <br /> review the attached policies and provide direction to staff. <br /> Commissioner Wagner stated a tremendous amount of time is needed for Concern <br /> #15 as it was the largest concern in the survey and likely can't be completed in an <br /> hour. She stated having the Council retreat may help with the discussion for#15. <br /> She stated some of the summaries in the Concerns were lacking in substance. She <br /> stated staff hasn't done a good enough job in the follow up work for the concerns. <br /> Mr. Portner stated policies are owned and approved by the Authority and the intent <br /> was for the Authority to review them to determine how they can be less <br /> cumbersome. He stated it would be helpful if the three commissioners who met with <br /> the survey group to discuss the issues could shed some light on what was <br /> cumbersome so those specific items could be pulled out and reviewed. <br /> Commissioner Wagner disagreed stating it is not on the three commissioners but <br /> rather the Authority as a group to review the policies. She stated she can't pinpoint <br /> what is cumbersome in each loan application because there are several. <br /> Mr. Portner stated the survey information provided to staff is incomplete and not <br /> helpful. He stated staff doesn't have enough information to know the direction that <br /> otm§A UREJ <br />