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funding opportunities. He reviewed the work plan that was developed for 2020/2021 with input from the manufacturing businesses. He stated that this program is another way the City can extend its touch and benefit businesses in the community. He stated that the cohort is for manufacturing by manufacturing and is driven by that input. Member Cords stated that the presentation was very informative. He referenced the budgetary request within the case and asked for additional details on that budget and what it is used for. Mr. LeTourneau replied that the budget is focused on the mission and 98 percent of the budget is used to benefit the users and to deliver the outcome. He stated that the request from Ramsey is $5,000 and those funds will be used in a way that provides benefit to the businesses in Ramsey. He stated that the budget is flexible and different every year. He stated that there are some miscellaneous expenses, which are minor. Member Heineman commented that this seems like a great program and asked if the budget includes salaries. He asked how much of the budget is used for things like signage, social media and other things that benefit businesses compared to the percentage that is allocated to payroll. Mr. LeTourneau commented that he is a contracted employee with the Chamber, and he facilitates the cohort effort based on the direction of the Chamber Board. He stated that all of the activity is focused on the effort and 98 percent of the activity is the effort he puts forward. He stated that the effort would not exist without the help of the trusted partners. He stated that the contributions from the trusted partners equates to about $15,000 per year with 98 percent of that allocated towards the programming and about two percent towards miscellaneous costs and expenses. Mr. Turok commented that it is legal to have an employee to do this work. He stated that this was never a John LeTourneau push/effort noting that the direction came from the Board of Directors and it was recognized that help would be needed. He commented that the Anoka Area Chamber is one of the largest in the state, with one of the smallest staff as they only have two staff members and therefore, they knew additional help would be needed to implement this program. He stated that the bottom line is the outcome of the program. Member Howell asked if any other cities contribute to the program. Mr. LeTourneau confirmed that Anoka contributes a similar amount. Member Howell stated that she likes to see itemized benefits to the City and while this information is good, it is very broad which makes her uncomfortable. Chairperson Steffen asked if other cities have declined participation. Mr. LeTourneau stated that the focus is appropriate, and the effort of the program is growing. He stated that they do ask for participation. He stated that the cities that are able to understand the depth of the value choose to invest in the program. He stated that his interest is in interacting with the industry and making changes, using the example of working with the school district to rewrite outdated curriculum that provides a focus on manufacturing. Economic Development Authority/ January 14, 2021 Page 5 of 14