12/01/03 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Case #2: EDA Scope and 2004 Work Plan Associate Planner Wald presented a handout for a power point presentation. The presentation is to discuss ways to become more efficient and to focus on good communication with businesses. She read what the City Code states the charge of the EDA is. Ms. Wald presented staff' s ideas and added that she is not talking about budgeting at this time; the objective is to outline areas of interest. She talked about continuing to be involved with TIF incentives, CDBG, land purchases, blighted areas, etc. Member Kiefer stated he would like to see the EDA be really aggressive with regard to communication with Ramsey businesses. Member LeTourneau thought it was a good idea - but added there is a cost to this. Member Gromberg stated the EDA needs to figure out where we want to go with this. We need to do marketing - the key is where. Member Kiefer suggested cable TV may be a less expensive route. Member LeTourneau questioned if cable is the reach this group wants. Ms. Wald stated that what she was looking for is whether or not the EDA is interested in the communication issue. Member Kiefer felt it was definitely worthwhile to pursue. Member Kurak mentioned "piggy-backing" with the Town Center projects. Associate Planner Wald stated that in her personal opinion, we are lacking in communication to our current businesses. We do the annual Business Appreciation Day, Business Network Meeting, but she wanted to see more done. She suggested initiating annual awards and mentioned the Ramsey Messenger - which she felt should have a name. She would like to increase publication and she also felt that the EDA should have a "corner" in each publication - written by a member of the EDA. Chairperson Riley suggested changing the name to Business Connection. He added that a business tour should be done every year. Discussion ensued relating to when the tour should be. Member Kurak felt that doing it twice a year was a good idea. Discussion took place regarding having QCTV interview Ramsey businesses. Member Kurak stated that QCTV is short on staff time; however, they will come out with their camera if interviews, etc. are set up for them. Ms. Wald suggested working with the Rotary too.