05-18-2020 EDA MIN SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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Econormc Development Authority Minutes Page 5 May 18, 2020 ----------------------------- Commissioner Ovall would like to see how it plays out over the next year. Concern# 9 (b): Communications regarding process requirements for Building_ Permits, Codes, Loan Programs and Ordinances needs to be timer, consistent, clear, transparent, and communicated upfront, before excessive money is spent. Commissioner Wagner stated more work is needed in this area. She stated she wasn't sure how the Minneapolis technical business program worked and related to Elk River. Ms. Othoudt stated Minneapolis has created a business navigator office with staff dedicated to assist new businesses one-on-one. Commissioner Wagner questioned if the Authority is looking to create a similar program in Elk River and how it would fit into the city process. Ms. Othoudt asked the Authority if they are interested in funding a similar type position or having a conversation with City Council to discuss further. Chair Tveite asked if Concern 9 (b) was consistent with Concern 9 (a) as it relates to the consensus decision made by the Authority. Consensus was yes. Concern #9 (b) was continued to another meeting for further discussion.. Commissioner Wagner stated it would be helpful to have more information from staff, for Concern #11. She stated there is a short summary in the staff report but doesn't show anything being accomplished. She stated it is asking the Authority to review the attached policies and provide direction to staff. Commissioner Wagner stated a tremendous amount of time is needed for Concern # 15 as it was the largest concern in the survey and likely can't be completed in an hour. She stated having the Council retreat may help with the discussion for #15. She stated some of the summaries in the Concerns were lacking in substance. She stated staff hasn't done a good enough job in the follow up work for the concerns. Mr. Portner stated policies are owned and approved by the Authority and the intent was for the Authority to review them to determine how they can be less cumbersome. He stated it would be helpful if the three commissioners who met with the survey group to discuss the issues could shed some light on what was cumbersome so those specific items could be pulled out and reviewed. Commissioner Wagner disagreed stating it is not on the three commissioners but rather the Authority as a group to review the policies. She stated she can't pinpoint what is cumbersome in each loan application because there are several. i� Mr. Portner stated the survey information provided to staff is incomplete and not helpful. He stated staff doesn't have enough information to know the direction that p 0■ E A E I I T NATURE