01-21-2020 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes January 21, 2020 Page 3 Commissioner Wagner clarified ISD 728 School District and the City of Elk River were not included among the largest employers. 8.2 Business Survey Matrix Mr. Portner presented the staff report. Commissioner Ovall agreed with section 13 of the matrix which talked about removing one of the public hearings and looking at eliminating some permit processes to speed up timelines. He asked if the city has customer service issues that need to be addressed. Mr. Portner stated as long as someone says there is a customer service issue the city should work on improving their customer service. Commissioner Ovall asked if there is some way to survey customers immediately after an interaction to find out more feedback. Mr. Portner pointed out the back of staff business cards ask "Is there anything I could have done to better serve you today?". However, most people only fill out surveys when they had a negative experience. Commissioner Wagner agreed if the customer experience is not perfect then it is a failure. She believes business owners may be reluctant to give feedback because of perceived fear of retaliation from the city. She is hoping to gather facts on if this is true. She pointed out large corporations who come to town have staff that are familiar with how to start a business but smaller organizations are doing this for the first time and may need help working through the details. Commissioner Christianson felt section 9 of the matrix had the greatest opportunity for improving perception. President Tveite reiterated that it is a living document and can continue to be updated to provide feedback if anyone hears comments from business owners or customers. 8.3 Verizon Ms. Othoudt presented the staff report. Moved by Commissioner Wagner and seconded by Commissioner Ovall to approve an entity name change and execution of a new lease agreement. Motion carried 5-0. P 0! E 8 E 0 e r NATURE