4.0. SR 08-12-1996 - Laserfiche WebLink

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CiLv Council/~lmules Februao- 12, 1996 Page 2 development coordinator and city council is vitally important. He further indicaled that communication between the economic development coordinator, departmenl heads, developers, chamber of commerce, etc. is also very impodant. Mayor Duitsman suggested appointing a task force to wdte a job description and to interview perspective candidates. He suggested that the task force consist of two councilmembers, two EDA members, one HRA member, the City Administrator and the Assistant City Administrator. Mayor Duitsman indicated that he wants the economic development coordinator to report to the City Administrator and that the City Administrator should attend all economic development authority meetings. Mayor Duitsman stated that the economic development coordinator would continue the role of making presentations to the EDA, HRA, and City Council. The Mayor also indicated that he would like to be kept abreast of developer meetings and contacts made with businesses. Jeff Gongoll indicated that the position of economic development coordinator must be a major position in the City. He also suggested that he provide an exit interview with Bill Rubin. Dick Gongoll indicated that he agrees that the coordinator should hold a strong position in the city. He stated that the city would be moving backwards if a consultant were hired instead of a coordinator because the City started its economic development program with a consultant. Rich Duggan indicated that he also would be concerned about using only a consultant. He felt that a consultant would not be as readily available as a staff person. It was suggested by Dick Gongoll that if a consultant is hired that it be used only for certain issues. Duane Kropuenske indicated that he felt the City needed to continue with a strong economic development coordinator that is available to respond to the business people. He indicated that he would not want to see the city lessen the role that has been established. He further suggested that the economic development coordinator report to the city administrator. Dennis Chuba agreed tha~ economic development coordinator should be a strong position in the City and the person filling the position should be able to relate to the local busnisses. He indicated his concern about keeping the process streamlined to allow developers to move forward in a reasonable timeframe. Councilmember Dietz indicated that he sees the role of economic development coordinator as assisting people with business financing. Mayor Duitsman agreed but indicated that he has also heard the concern that the position should be a spokesperson for developers in City Hall. Chadie Houte indicated that the position should reflect the development philosophy of the council. He indicated that this should be addressed in the job description.