Minutes - Economic Development Authority - 03/19/2009

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code for the City. He would like the Ramsey businesses of the year to use Ramsey as their address, rather than Anoka. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan explained that the threshold has been reached for the City to develop their own zip code and the process has begun. Mayor Ramsey advised that he would be discussing that at a meeting on April 8th. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan advised that the EDA identified the area at 16ih, and explained that a study is currently being developed for that area. Chairperson Riley advised that the EDA had tried to work with that area about five years ago and the landowners were not interested in participating at that time. Member LeTourneau advised that he was not a landowner there, but a tenant. He was in favor of participating at that time and explained that ultimately contributed to his decision to get out of that area. He advised that the whole idea was for revitalization because the homes in that area were of higher value and the shopping center did not match with the neighborhoods. He advised that the ownership did not share that vision. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan advised that prices for properties could not be agreed upon and with the opinions of the landowners decided to not pursue that further. Member Elvig questioned if the City did purchase 14 acres in the area. He advised that the landowner there was gravely injured. He advised that the explosive property values in that area have fallen and thought that the City might have a real opportunity now. Chairperson Riley advised that the EDA has identified that area and done some work on it, and would continue to explore that option going forward. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan advised that he is signed up for a conference in April, and extended an invitation for an EDA member or Councilmember to attend. He advised of two businesses would be attending and he would attempt to meet with those businesses prior to the conference. He stated that he had been doing some QCTV business spotlights, and thought that those could work in conjunction with the business spotlight in the Ramsey Resident. He advised that business appreciation day was scheduled for North Fork. He advised that the Business Expo would be held in April, and stated that he has 18 people signed up and paid for the event already. He reported that they would attempt to work with Grow Minnesota this year. He explained that the EDA is always looking for partnerships and educational opportunities. Chairperson Riley thought that the EDA had done a great job establishing partnerships. Economic Development Coordinator Sullivan advised that the EDA is a voice for businesses. Joint Economic Development Authority/City Council / March 19,2009 Page 3 of 11