10-19-2020 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes Page 3 October 19, 2020 7.4 Together Elk River Campaign Update Ms. Eddy presented the staff report. The Commission discussed adding new members to the Together Elk River subcommittee. The commission wished to have the positions of Executive Director and a Communications representative, as well as a representative from the Chamber of Commerce, held open. President Tveite suggested amending the committee structure to allow people in these positions or a substitute to fill the role as deemed required by vacancies. Moved by Commissioner Ovall and seconded by Commissioner Wagner to approve the Together Elk River Subcommittee. Motion carried 7-0. Commissioner Wagner discussed an idea for a gift card program that would benefit local businesses. There are some questions from the legal counsel, but she wanted to discuss with the commission. She has contacted Sherburne County to see if they may be interested in participating as well. Commissioner Westgaard asked if it could be classified as CARES Act or stimulus funding. Mr. Portner explained that the CARES Act and stimulus funding were set as a business subsidy, not as an individual subsidy. Commissioner Wagner asked if the EDA could use part of the $200,000 set aside for COVID microloans. Mr. Portner explained it was still public money. Commissioner Christianson asked about a reimbursement program. Mr. Portner will discuss with legal counsel. President Tveite stated there would have to be parameters for who is eligible so that the commission is not in the position to pick winners or losers and there is no advantage toward any one person. He felt that, if the program were set up to promote holiday shopping, it would have to be decided before the November EDA meeting. Commissioner Ovall suggested giving local businesses a promotional grant that they could use to create awareness and decide how to spend the money. rP0 1 1 R E 1 sr NATUREJ