Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 01/25/2018

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Page 118 and helps build in accountability in the process of accomplishing projects that align with long- term plans. Just as citizens are engaged with the Comprehensive Plan process, they should be involved in a collective visioning of the COR development, at all stages of the process. This can be done through a variety of platforms and for both long and short range projects. Encouraging inclusive participation in the decision process helps build trust between the City, developers, and citizens. Provided that the COR and retail development is such an integral part of shaping Ramsey's character and identity, it is an even greater priority to ensure that public voices are heard. This ensures that retailers meet the needs and desires of the community. Leverage Assets & Growth The Twin Cities Metro as a whole continues to expand, finding Ramsey as one of the fastest growing communities in the metro. Ramsey's citizens have an AMI well above the average for the Metro, and a population that has seen significant growth over the last decade that shows no signs of slowing. Provided with this advantageous situation, Ramsey has the opportunity to leverage this growth and its community's unique assets to assist in attracting and retaining retail. Ramsey has three key assets distinguishing it from other communities in the Twin Cities metropolitan area: its proximity to U.S. Highway 10 - a highway serving as the gateway between the Twin Clties and more rural Central and Northern Minnesota; its location along the Mississippi and Rum Rivers with access to the resources the rivers offer; and an abundance of greenways, parks and undeveloped land. With these assets in mind, the creation and cultivation of an identity of Ramsey centered around the preservation of rural culture, natural resources and outdoor activities can be leveraged. Ramsey should utilize land currently zoned commercial for the formation of their new identity. The city's abundance of land will be key to creating an identity for Ramsey. Create a Destination10 The traditional retail format is changing and the way people experience stores and restaurants is tied to experiences more than items. Ramsey has a community landscape with many parks and open space. A retail market can be shaped around these resources through the creation of expos, recreational activities, weekend events, festivals, theater, and more. Shoppers need a reason to spend hard earned money. Ramsey has the unique assets necessary to develop an identity lacking in nearby cities. The creation of a retail identity for Ramsey will give character to existing retail in the city, and create a more specific framework for 10 U.S.EPA Office of Sustainable Communities, How Small Towns and Cities can use Local Assets to Rebuild their Economies: Lessons from Successful Places; https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015- 05/documents/competitive_advantage_051215_508_final.pdf