07-14-2008 EDA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Authority Minutes Page 2 July 14, Zoos 6. Appoint EDA Representative to Energy City Commission Commissioner Klinzing stated that she serves as the Council representative on the Energy City Commission and would like to see someone other than a Councilmember serve as the EDA representative to the Commission. She stated that if there are no volunteers she could serve the dual role. Commissioner Touchette expressed interest but needed to check his schedule. This issue will be revisited next month. Update on Restaurant Marketing Activities Ms. Mehelich presented the staff report prepared by Ms. Deckert. Discussion took place and the consensus of the EDA was for staff to maintain contact with restaurant representatives and to provide them with the Retail Trade Analysis Report prepared by the University of Minnesota Extension Service. Commissioner Zerwas suggested taking a location specific approach to restaurant marketing such as locations near the highway or the lake. Commissioner K]inzing concurred adding the area near the commuter rail may be desirable as well. 8. Update on Entertainment Center Proposal Mr. Gongoll provided an update on the entertainment center proposal. He indicated that staff is reviewing the proposed site of the entertainment center but has not received a site plan yet. He added that Ehlers & Associates has requested additional financial information from Energy Entertainment Enterprises, LLC in order to continue the financial review of the project. Mr. Gongoll stated that discussion should take place on what type of development the EDA would like to see in the Gateway Business Park. Commissioner Farber indicated that Mr. Sorensen of Energy Entertainment Enterprises, LLC will be available for the next meeting. President Dwyer stated that the EDA should find out from this group what incentives they are requesting. He stated this will be a polity question for the City and he would like the EDA and Council to discuss incentives at the August 11 worksession. Commissioner Klinzing questioned if a courtesy call has been placed to LeFebrve and Morrell explaining the future plans for the Gateway Business property. Mr. Gongoll stated that he believes Mr. Barnhart has spoken with them. Call EDA Worksho~~int with City Council for August 11.2008 for Gatewav Business Park Discussion Mr. Gongoll indicated that the EDA and City Council will meet in a joint workshop on August 11 to review the activities and discuss issues regarding the Gateway development site and surrounding area. He noted that staff has received recent inquiries into purchasing portions of the property which should be discussed as well.