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4. EDA BUSINESS 4.01: Consider Renewal of Anoka County Regional Economic Development Partnership (ACRED) Economic Development Manager Sullivan presented the staff report. Jacquel Hajder, ACRED, stated that the contract is year to year and therefore the City has the option whether it wants to continue participating each year. She stated that the MOU is the five- year document. She stated that all 21 communities in Anoka County contribute towards the program based on their size. She noted that her work with the communities is driven by the needs of each community. She provided background information on the different subcommittees and the tasks that those groups focus their efforts on. She noted that members from the cities participate on either subcommittees or the Executive Committee. She stated that within the case was the year report, recognizing that efforts shifted during 2020 because of the challenges of COVID. She noted that the in -person events were held virtually, and those budgets funds were then used for other purposes such as the marketing video for Anoka County. She stated that they also coordinated information related to COVID and possible grant and CARES Act Fund dollars available to communities and businesses. She provided additional information on the partnership with the Minnesota Real Estate Journal and the promotion efforts they complete for the Anoka County. She also provided information on other coordinated efforts she facilitated between the cities and the highway department and other County departments. She stated that there are still planned events for the second part of 2021, and they will continue to plan accordingly to restrictions at that time. She noted that the other efforts will continue in terms of marketing, promotion and providing direction to businesses related to COVID relief. She reviewed different elements included in the budget for 2021. Member Riley commented that staff believes this is a good relationship and the MNCAR access is beneficial to the City for its City owned parcels that are not marketed through CBRE; therefore, he believes this to be a good partnership. Motion by Member Cords, seconded by Member Heineman, to recommend to City Council to participate in the Anoka County Economic Development Partnership (ACRED) and to approve of the $1,506 continued contribution to the partnership. A roll call vote was performed: Member Heineman aye Member Cords aye Member Riley aye Member Howell aye Acting Chairperson Burandt aye Motion carried. Economic Development Authority/ February 11, 2021 Page 2 of 8