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Economic Development Manager Sullivan provided background information on the Business <br />Networking Breakfast event and the staff recommendation to hold the event in person. He asked <br />for input on the discussion topics, noting that Highway 10 continues to be an item of interest. <br />Chairperson Steffen asked and received confirmation that the group should think about ideas for <br />the keynote speaker. He recognized that Highway 10 continues to be something of interest but <br />noted that it seems every event involves Highway 10. <br />Deputy City Administrator Gladhill confirmed that Highway 10 continues to be a topic but noted <br />that the City has already secured $91,000,000 in funding and by the time of the event the final <br />design layout will be known therefore that update will be important. He stated that will lead into <br />the "Anoka Solution" project and related schedule and planned closures. <br />Member Riley agreed that while Highway 10 continues to be discussed, a lot has changed, and it <br />is an important topic for the businesses. He stated that they are beyond the plan they would like <br />to have and are making great progress. <br />Chairperson Steffen stated that perhaps three or four new businesses could be chosen to speak to <br />highlight their business and why they came to Ramsey. <br />Economic Development Manager Sullivan agreed that having Ramsey Businesses Speak would <br />be a good idea. <br />Economic Development Manager Sullivan stated that he would like to set the date for the Business <br />Appreciation date as August 17, 2021 at Northfork to begin planning efforts. He noted that staff <br />can work on securing dates, speakers and venues for the other events. The EDA confirmed <br />consensus with selecting that date and Venue for the 2021 Business Appreciation Day. <br />5. MEMBER / STAFF UPDATE <br />Economic Development Manager Sullivan indicated that he has received more inquiries from <br />businesses related to industrial development. He stated that this topic may come back to discuss <br />potential options for additional industrial areas. He stated that there are also a few existing <br />businesses that are looking to expand, and staff continues to work with those businesses. He noted <br />that both GiGi's and Java Properties have received recommendations of approval from the <br />Planning Commission and are moving forward to the City Council with the hopes to break ground <br />in April or May. He stated that Storyteller Cafe is earlier in the site plan process running about a <br />month behind Gigi's and Java and may go to the Planning Commission at its April meeting. <br />Chairperson Steffen asked if staff is still in communication with Cobblestone Hotel. <br />Economic Development Manager Sullivan replied that staff remains in communication with the <br />group, but banks are not actively financing hotels at this time. He noted that there is not an active <br />PA with that business. <br />Chairperson Steffen asked for an update on electronic billboards. <br />Economic Development Authority/ March 11, 2021 <br />Page 4 of 5 <br />