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A roll call vote was performed: <br />Member Howell aye <br />Member Riley aye <br />Chairperson Olson aye <br />Member Johnson aye <br />Member MacLennan aye <br />Member Steffen aye <br />Motion carried. <br />5.03: Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce: Manufacture Cohort: 2021-2022 Renewal <br />Economic Development Manager Sullivan presented the staff report. <br />Pete Turok, Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed condolences on the passing of Scott <br />Cords, noting that he had spoken with him many times over the past several years and his presence <br />will be missed. He stated that 30 percent of Ramsey residents work in manufacturing, which fits <br />perfectly into the cohort. He provided background information on the manufacturing cohort, how <br />it was created and how it has evolved since that time. <br />Member MacLennan referenced the grant and asked if there was a reason only two companies <br />participated. <br />Mr. Turok stated that the opportunity was for businesses with 20 employees and two Ramsey <br />businesses took advantage. He stated that the grant maxed out immediately with businesses that <br />participated. He stated that they work with the school district to develop curriculum and to start <br />thinking about manufacturing. He stated that the dual training grant is for an existing employee to <br />help train them to a higher level. He stated that they hope to continue the program. <br />Member MacLennan agreed that manufacturing is a huge industry, especially for Ramsey, and is <br />often overlooked by students. He believed this would be great to continue. <br />Member Johnson asked the type of training. <br />Mr. Turok replied that the business put forth the candidate and the technical college creates the <br />curriculum for that. He stated that traditionally businesses had to apply to the program, but the <br />cohort was allowed to request the grant on behalf of the businesses. He stated that applying for <br />grants take time and resources that some businesses do not have. He stated that the cohort is <br />excited to step in and be the catalyst for that grant. <br />Member Riley commented that he is excited about the grant and that there have been questions <br />and answers about what has been done by the cohort. He appreciated the work Mr. Turok is doing <br />and believed that this is helpful for Ramsey businesses. <br />Economic Development Authority/ February 10, 2022 <br />Page 5 of 13 <br />