Agenda - Economic Development Authority - 03/09/2005

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Case #3: Business Connection Meeting Associate Planner Wald informed the EDA that planning for the Business Connection meeting is underway. Peter Bell of the Metropolitan Council has confirmed his attendance and Wells Catering will provide a catered breakfast. Staffwould like input from the EDA on the power point presentation. At the last EDA meeting, the authority discussed the idea of staff making a short power point presentation about recent development in Ramsey. In order to allow for adequate socializing and networking, and enjoyment of the catered breakfast, staff would suggest that the power point presentation occur at the Fall Business Connection meeting. If the EDA would like development information to be available to attendees, staff would suggest compiling a one page development fact sheet to be included in the hand-out-packet that will be given to each person in attendance. The consensus of the EDA was to direct staff.to compile a one-page development fact sheet to be included in the hand-out-packet.. Member Kiefer suggested the fact sheet include bullet points of coming events with dates and times. Associate Planner Wald indicated she will determine if there are any Chamber events that can be included on the handout, Associate Planner Wald requested inPut from the EDA regarding the invitation follow-up. She explained the original invitation flyer was sent to over 1,500 area businesses. The Business Connection Newsletter is distributed to Ramsey businesses and includes information about the Business Connection meeting. In :the past the EDA has discussed sending some type of reminder to everyone the original invitation was distributed to, which would be very expensive. She requested direction if it would be adequate notice to have sent the first notice, sent the Business Connection Newsletter to Ramsey businesses, and have the EDA make phone calls to selected Ramsey businesses. She indicated at this time a total of 73 people have RSVP'd. The consensus of the EDA was not to send another reminder notice, and to determine if the EDA will make phone calls based on the total number of RSVP's. Associate Planner Wald indicated in the past an evaluation has been passed out at the end of the event in order to solicit feedback from attendees as to the value of the event and continually inquire about how the City can make the meetings most beneficial. It would seem that due to the format of the spring event an evaluation will not be necessary or appropriate. She requested direction from the EDA on whether an evaluation form is necessary. The consensus of the EDA was to include an evaluation in the handout packet. Chairperson Riley inquired what Peter Bell will be 'speaking about. Associate Planner Wald replied she will be putting together a memo outlining topics for him to discuss. Economic Development Authority/February 16, 2005 : Page 5 of 9