Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 01/14/2010

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Case # 5 2009 BUSINESS EXPO By: Sean SulUvan, Economic Development Coordinator Background: In 2007-8, the EDAwas asked to increase its activity in the Retail/Service sector of the community. As part of that initiative the EDA became more involved with the Town Center, through the Buxton Study and assisting Sunfish Commons with a signage project: In 2009 the Ramsey EDA hosted a Business Expo at Pact Chart School. This event was co-marketed with the Environmental Expo / Tree Sale and there was definitely some synergy between the events held on the same day. The 2009 Business Expo event had participation from 46 Ramsey businesses. The response by the business community was positive and all comments supported bringing the event back in 2010. . Discussion: St'l.ff contacted the Fountains at Ramsey as well as Pact Charter School for possible venues for the 2010 event. Unfortunately, the Fountains of Ramsey is bO,oked for the end of April and the early portion of May so it will not work out for this year. The EDA shol-lId discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having the event next to the Environmental Expo and the Municipal Center for that matter. Pact Charter School was large enough to accommodate last year's event but there were some concerns as to the separation between the gym and auditorium. Signage was added as the event progressed and it seemed to help immensely. The cost to rent the Pact facility was $279.00 last year and staff expects a similar number for this year. Last year's event was held in April and the weather is very temperamental that time of year. Staff discussed the some dates with the Environmental Coordinator and at was agreed that a May 1 date would be preferred. Staff is recommending to coordinate the two events on May I and to market them together as was done last year and have it run from 9 AM to 2 PM. Staff is also recommending hosting the event at Pact Charter School. Last year the EDA allocated $4000 and this covered the expenditures which-included marketing, banners, supplies, set-up and rental of the facility. There was also a $25.00 charge for all participants in the event to help with the cost. The total budget for the event last years was $2700. Some of the items can be re-used but a number of the banners were damaged and need to be replaced. Staff is asking for an EDA allocation of $3500, which is $500 less than last year, to fund the2010 Business Expo. Staffis also recommending that the fee of$25.00 remain in place for all participants. Staffis looking for direction on how to proceed with the event. . . Funding Source: EDA Levy / Registration Fees Recommendation: Select May 1,2010as the date for the 2010 Business Expo, to utilize Pact Charter School and to authorize $3,500 to help fund the event. 41