Laserfiche WebLink
<br />Gregory Frahm-Gilles, Anoka County Economic Development Director, introduced himself and <br />explained how economic development also improves the well-being and quality of life for a <br />community. He provided background information on the creation of ACRED and the work that <br />he does with the different communities in Anoka County in order to focus on goals more <br />regionally. He reviewed the ACRED goals and initiatives, details on the partnerships and <br />committees, target industries, and opportunities and collaboration. He provided highlights from <br />the activity of the last year and the continued focus on workforce. He recapped the events from <br />the past six months and also noted upcoming events. He also provided details on grant programs <br />Anoka County is offering to assist in making development sites shovel ready. He stated that he is <br />currently working with the ACRED Executive Committee to help develop a plan for the next five <br />years, noting that they will be reaching out to the cities for input. He also provided details on <br />business support services provided by Anoka County as well as information on additional support <br />programs and financing available for businesses. <br /> <br />Chairperson MacLennan thanked Mr. Frahm-Gilles for his presentation. <br /> <br />Motion by Member Johnson, seconded by Member Wiyninger, to recommend to the City Council <br />participation in the Anoka County Economic Development Partnership (ACRED) and approval of <br />the $1,626 continued voluntary cost share to the partnership. <br /> <br />Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson MacLennan, Members Johnson, Wiyninger, Howell, <br />Riley, and Stewart. Voting No: None. Absent: None. <br /> <br />4.03: 2023 Business Appreciation Day Event Budget and Planning <br /> <br />Economic Development Manager Sullivan presented the staff report. <br /> <br />Member Riley commented that the method that has been used has been great and he believed that <br />adding the additional elements will be great. <br /> <br />Member Johnson stated that she is excited about the best dressed team and best hole sponsor <br />awards. <br /> <br />Member Wiyninger stated that City staff do a great job on the event, and he looks forward to it. <br /> <br />Motion by Member Johnson, seconded by Member Wiyninger, to authorize an allocation of $5,500 <br />for the 2023 Business Appreciation Day Event on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 at The Links at <br />Northfork and to approve the proposed budget as presented. <br /> <br />Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson MacLennan, Members Johnson, Wiyninger, Howell, <br />Riley, and Stewart. Voting No: None. Absent: None. <br /> <br />5. MEMBER / STAFF UPDATE <br /> <br />Economic Development Authority/ March 9, 2023 <br />Page 3 of 4 <br /> <br />