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