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Member Burandt commented that he was around and Connexus was one of the original companies <br />that provided funding. He stated that the names of businesses on this list is the bulk of employment <br />within Ramsey. He stated that a person is needed to facilitate this program and the amount of <br />participation within Ramsey from its businesses is substantial. He stated that the bulk of the <br />programming continues to be done in Anoka and Ramsey. <br />Motion by Member Burandt, seconded by Member Riley, to recommend to City Council to <br />continue its contribution to the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce Manufacture Cohort. <br />Further discussion: Member Riley stated that they would like to see other cities participate. He <br />commented that this is a good use of EDA effort and funds, noting the number of manufacturing <br />businesses in Ramsey. He commented that the function of the EDA is to support local businesses <br />and for $5,000 this is something that specifically helps the businesses in Ramsey. He stated that <br />the challenges with workforce continue to be an issue and this cohort is attempting to tackle that <br />issue in a different way through partnerships with the School District. Member Heineman <br />commented that it is important to support local businesses and manufacturing and agreed that there <br />are challenges ahead. He stated that in terms of transparency he believes this could be seen as <br />lobbying. He stated that he agrees with the mission but based on transparency he will not be <br />supporting this action. <br /> <br />Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Steffen, Members Burandt, Riley, and Cords. Voting <br />No: Members Heineman and Howell. Absent: None. <br /> <br />4.04: Consider Water Treatment Plant Selection Recommendation <br /> <br />City Engineer Westby presented the staff report. <br /> <br />Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that the Council asked that both the EDA and Planning <br />Commission make a recommendation, noting that the Planning Commission recommended the <br />public works site because of the operational efficiencies. <br /> <br />Chairperson Steffen asked where the $32,000,000 cost is coming from. <br /> <br />City Engineer Westby explained that is the cost to construct the plant and the functions within. He <br />stated that there are funds available within the water treatment fund as this was an anticipated <br />expense. <br /> <br />Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that there have been similar projects within the state, <br />where state dollars have been allocated and staff can look at that as an option if desired by the <br />Council. He confirmed that the water treatment funds have come from fees paid by residents and <br />developers. <br /> <br />Chairperson Steffen asked what the building will look like when it is done, whether it would look <br />like a warehouse or commercial building. <br /> <br />Economic Development Authority/ January 14, 2021 <br />Page 6 of 14 <br /> <br />