Agenda - Council - 11/25/2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Choose retailers for hard copy marketing packages • Match information loaded into SCOUT — Webinar on SCOUT • Inventory available development sites -lease space • Begin using recruitment tools to address immediate vacancy (contacting retailer matches) • Register for ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers) — plan to attend both regional and Vegas if possible (City and/or developers) • Website /Additional marketing for sites • Stay plugged into Buxton network — find a community client similar to Ramsey for ideas and discussion o Staff will be provided with a number of successful client communities to contact that faced similar challenges to Ramsey. Mr. Norrell reviewed the following recommendations included in the Buxton Survey of 10 High - Performing Cities: • Direct selling to retailer /developer • Direct selling to commercial real estate firms • Attending regional ICSC (Chicago) • Websites • Attending ICSC (Vegas) Chairperson Riley asked whether this study can assist the Board in determining what needs to be done in relation to redevelopment of the 167 Commercial Node, either by the owners or what the City can do to provide assistance. Mr. Norrell replied that the retail matches provide the opportunity to determine the opportunities for existing or redeveloped space. Retailers look at things like traffic count and if the existing site will meet their requirements. To be able to identify and market to a larger group as a whole and pinpoint who will best fit not just the trade area, but that specific site, is key. In going through the retail list they will be able to get opinions coming back from the retailers on what needs to be done to upgrade the site and bring in potential retailers. This will be key in the direction the Board decides to go. Member Steffen questioned if it is the City's role to market the 167 Commercial Node and how to get the information to the current owners of the property if demolition/redevelopment will likely be necessary to attract retailers. Mr. Norrell suggested setting up a meeting with the owners and the EDA Board as the first step in determining how willing the owners are to bring the building up to the desired standards. Member Kiefer asked if the Buxton Group's database shows which particular entities are more prone to redevelopment type opportunities, rather than vacant ground or existing buildings. Mr. Norrell replied Buxton Group can conduct this research and steer the Board in the right direction. The City should also be able to look at the retailer list and determine which retailers look for infill opportunities or to have their own site. Mayor Gamec questioned if it is good to mix industrial and commercial uses. He noted that quite a few industrial companies have looked at the Supervalu building in the 167 Commercial Node. Mr. Norrell replied generally retail is seen coming together without a lot of industrial; generally retail attracts retail. Economic Development Authority /October 9, 2008 Page 3 of 5