Minutes - Economic Development Authority - 01/12/2004

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Chairperson Riley asked if staff will be discussing Highway #10 rather than MnDOT. Ms. Wald expli~ined staff has been working with The Tinklenberg Group. Jodi Ruehle is working on an article and has had direct contact with the businesses on Highway # 10. She will see if Ms. Ruetfle would like to coordinate this discussion. Ms. Wald suggested the Rotary give a presentation to inform the businesses about their different programs. Member Gromberg noted this would likely be a 15 minute presentation. The topics should be limited to the Tpwn Center update, crime prevention, the HighwaY # 10 update, and the Rotary update, as this Will be a 65 minute time frame. Member LeTourneau stressed the need to put more focus on the networking and the possibility of networking ~pportunities for businesses inside Ramsey to participate in Town Center. He inquired how they could let the business community know the reason they are doing this is so the businesses kno~ what is going on in the City, and that they have the opportunity to network and improve their bhsiness. He indicated the invite that is sent out to the business community should state this. The ~ayor could explain the reason this is being done is because they want everyone to benefit from ihe growth opportunities, and they want to fill and grow as a community in all areas. Member Grom!2erg stated the Rotary pitch is really about networking and creating a sense of community. If ~e meeting ends on that note, it will include a very strong idea of networking. Also, even if th~ has been reported in the business connection, to reiterate some of the things l · that have been gomg on would be beneficial and may help people realize this is an opportunity. Member LeTou~eau suggested a pamphlet be prepared for everyone that attends the meeting compiled of information obtained when people register. The pamphlet could include information such as names, phone numbers, businesses, and what the businesses do. Ms. Wald expla{ned often people do not register. She suggested there be someone located at the door to collect information, and the pamphlet could be mailed to everyone that attended. Member Gromberg Suggested the information be emaiIed to everyone possible. The list could also be used to determine who to invite to the next meeting. Ms. Wald suggested a target date be determined for the business directory, and it could be distributed at th~ meeting. Member Gromb~rg suggested there be a link to the City's website to download the business directory list when the networking information obtained at this meeting is emailed. Economic Development Authority/January 12, 2004 Page 4 of 6