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happy to report that the publication expanded an additional two pages, is published more <br />often, and provides pertinent information to the business community. <br />The EDA directed staff to completo a direct mailing to selected businesses and CEO' s. <br />The marketing piece was successful in the sense that staff received several inquiries <br />based on the mailing, including interest from Carlson Companies. <br />The Business Network meeting was a huge success this year. The meeting generated <br />more attendees than any of the past three events. The EDA was part of the successful <br />topic selection and provided constructive feedback to staff that will further enhance the <br />next event. <br /> <br />City Administrator Norman arrived at 7:10 P.m. <br /> <br />Member LeTourneau questioned how the figures of the square footage and tax assessed values <br />compare in context with other years. This information would show them if results are worth the <br />work and time that has been put in. He noted they still struggle with what the EDA is expected <br />to be. <br /> <br />Economic Development / TIF Specialist Sullivan noted an important aspect that could be <br />provided at a future meeting is what each °fthese projects created in market value and job <br />growth on a yearly basis. A column could be added to show the minimum number of jobs these <br />businesses will have to produce. <br /> <br />Member Strommen suggested they look at past Years and set numeric goals for 2005 for the <br />number of jobs created and tax values. <br /> <br />Mayor Gamec indicated he meets with business people in the City once or twice per month. In <br />the past two years the general overview is better than ever from the business people. However, <br />there are still a few business owners that are very Concerned. He reviewed the following: <br /> <br />' Small shops are having a tough time because of the foreign market. <br />· Blighted areas: <br /> c) The City should work with property owners that are working to improve their <br /> property. ~ <br /> <br /> c~ A new industrial park is opening up west of Waltec Industries. <br />· Zero Zone is looking at an expansion of about 80,000 square feet. <br />· St. Cloud is looking at a freight terminal. If this terminal goes through for St. Cloud it <br /> may assist the City in getting more funding for upgrading on Highway 10. <br />· Town Center: <br /> There has been interest from industrial properties. <br /> o There is concern from one o£the liquor stores regarding the liquor store that will <br /> be going in at Cobums in Town Center. <br /> o Restaurants are becoming more interested now that houses will be coming. <br /> c> There have been meetings with Kohls and Herbergers in attempts to find a maj or <br /> department store. <br /> <br />Economic DevelOpment Authority/August 9, 2004 <br /> page 8 of 12 <br /> <br /> <br />