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Community Development Director Gladhill stated that there was a time when Ms. Hajder was a great interim resource to staff prior to Economic Development Manager Sullivan being hired in the City of Ramsey. He stated that even with a full staff, it is helpful to have that backup assistance when support is needed. He noted that Anoka County HRA funds could be used to fund this partnership. Member LeTourneau stated that he believes that this initiative is well placed and commended the County for taking this action. He stated that there has been a long tradition of underserving the County in terms of economic development and is glad to see that changing. He noted that he was interested to see the leakage of people in terms of employment, which indicates a large number of people that are leaving the County to work each day. He stated that this partnership will provide an opportunity to recapture some of that employment within the County. He stated that having a partner with Anoka County and the regional players will be to everyone's advantage. He stated that the more employment opportunities there are in Anoka County helps to increase the demand for housing and retail. He believed that the investment requested is very reasonable and believed that Ramsey should join this effort. Acting Chairperson Burandt agreed that this position at the County level is much needed and he would also support this action. A member from the public in attendance of the meeting stated that he found the presentation very interesting. He stated that it was emphasized twice that negative perceptions of Anoka County exist. He asked for additional information on the negative perceptions that might be out there for Anoka County and what the marketing will focus on. Ms. Hajder reviewed some of both the positive and negative perceptions that exist for the County and regional area and how the marketing efforts will attempt to change those negative perceptions. She explained that if you are not telling your message, the question will be who is telling that message for you and that is where perceptions come in. Motion by Member Riley, seconded by Member Hardin, to recommend to City Council to participate in the Anoka County Economic Development Partnership and to forward to the City Council for consideration of approval to sign Memorandum of Understanding and Voluntary Cost Share Agreement, subject to City Attorney approval. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Acting Chairperson Burandt, Members Riley, Hardin, Lambrecht, and LeTourneau. Voting No: None. Absent: Members Kanaventi and Steffen. 4.02: Authorize Trail Easement over West 20 Feet of 5195 142nd Avenue (aka former AMOCO site) Parks and Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood presented the staff report. Member Hardin asked if there would be any negative aspects on the future buildability of the lot, parking, or setbacks. Economic Development Authority/ October 11, 2018 Page 3 of 5