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Member Howell stated that is one concern that she has as to why the contract is run through a firm <br /> rather than having Mr. LeTourneau as a contract employee. She referenced a grant awarded to <br /> DecoPac in 2017 and asked if the cohort was instrumental in that. <br /> Mr. Turok replied that he does not have the specific details on that. He stated that from the <br /> standpoint of a dual grant, he would guess that in 2017, DecoPac did that themselves. <br /> Member Howell stated that it is also a concern that cohort is providing a service that a business <br /> could do itself. She stated that it seems that Ramsey businesses are able to do these things <br /> themselves and therefore she will not be supporting this action. <br /> Mr. Turok thanked the EDA for the opportunity to have a discussion today. <br /> Member Johnson recognized that some businesses could do those things themselves, but others <br /> cannot as applying for a grant is extremely challenging. She stated that many Ramsey businesses <br /> are still small and do not have those resources. She stated that she would like to see contributions <br /> from all cities that have participation in the cohort but recognizes that there is value provided by <br /> the cohort. <br /> Member MacLennan agreed with the comments of Member Johnson. He stated that he deals with <br /> a lot of businesses that are overwhelmed and do not have the extra time. He commented that <br /> anything that helps those businesses provides assistance. <br /> Member Riley stated that the goal of the EDA is to help businesses and at least 26 Ramsey <br /> businesses have been involved with the cohort. He stated that a contribution of$5,000 provides a <br /> great return on the small investment. <br /> Motion by Member Johnson, seconded by Member MacLennan, to recommend that the City <br /> continue its $5,000 contribution to the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce Manufacturers Cohort. <br /> A roll call vote was performed: <br /> Member Steffen aye <br /> Member MacLennan aye <br /> Member Johnson aye <br /> Chairperson Olson aye <br /> Member Riley aye <br /> Member Howell nay <br /> Motion carried. <br /> 5.04: Consider Creation of an Economic Development Facebook Page <br /> Economic Development Manager Sullivan presented the staff report. <br /> Economic Development Authority/February 10, 2022 <br /> Page 8 of 13 <br />