EDA Minutes 02-12-2014 (Special Meeting)MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING — ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA)
Wednesday, February 12th, 2014 — 5 p.m. Academy Room — Monticello Community Center
Present: Bill Demeules, Bill Tapper, Brian Stumpf, Tom Perrault, Rod Dragsten, Tracy
Hinz, Matt Frie
Absent: None
Others: Angela Schumann, Jeff O'Neill, Wayne Oberg
Call to Order
Bill Demeules called the special EDA meeting to order at 5:11 p.m.
2. Purpose of Meeting
The purpose of the special meeting is to discuss development of the 2014 EDA workplan.
3. Workshop
Angela Schumann acknowledged that, although the objectives of the EDA's 2013
workplan continue to be a priority, the focus of the workshop is to develop a unified
message about Monticello upon which to build the 2014 and future workplans. She
suggested that developing a "brand" would establish direction and drive for Monticello.
Schumann provided copies of numerous resources, such as the Economic Development
Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, the 2013 EDA workplan, and a draft workplan idea
sheet to invite brainstorming and identify program options for additional research and
possible future implementation.
Schumann briefly outlined services and amenities cited in the Comp Plan that attract and
keep people in Monticello. Among those noted and discussed were:
o Excellent public education system
o Access to a wide range of quality health care services
o An unequaled system of parks, trails and recreation facilities including
Monticello Community Center, the Mississippi River and Bertram Regional Park
o A downtown area that combines a successful commercial district, community
identity and heritage with connection to the Mississippi River
o A thriving place of commerce that provides needed goods and services
through businesses engaged in the civic life of Monticello
o A wide range of employment opportunities with a growing
emphasis on jobs at higher wage levels that allow more people to live and
work in Monticello
Special EDA Minutes: 2/12/14
Brian Stumpf also pointed to the many quality senior housing options as a local asset.
Jeff O'Neill noted that land availability, access to transportation and a manufacturing
emphasis were also significant local assets. He suggested that successful communities
seem to have a synergy which involves a walkable community, attention to aesthetics,
and connectivity. He mentioned that some communities have hosted competitive events
designed to identify new applications for local technology capacity and draw attention to
the community. O'Neill also suggested a focus on creating an awareness of the satellite
educational opportunities in town.
There was some discussion about the perception that Monticello is too far from the metro
area. O'Neill agreed that countering that perception is critical to marketing the
community. Matt Frie suggested that supporting area transportation efforts would seem to
close the distance. Schumann noted that the IEDC had included continued support of
initiatives like the I -94 Coalition as part of their workplan as well.
Schumann summarized that three factors seem to be key to the City's identity. Monticello
is a subregional hub; it is tech savvy; and it is a recreation destination. She suggested that
the EDA prioritize efforts in support of this identity.
Tracy Hinz suggested that the EDA also focus on enhancing the circumstances of those
that live and work in town. Schumann pointed to the Business Expansion Pilot Program
as one of the many option available to address retention and show local appreciation.
Bill Tapper suggested that the EDA hire expertise to move forward with branding.
Schumann noted that the City of Elk River had done so for their brand "Powered by
Nature." She indicated that while it may be manageable for staff and the EDA to work
together to develop a brand, it would likely be best to hire to broadly market the brand.
Hinz asked about utilizing social media and local print media to address perceptions.
Schumann pointed to the recent "Why I Love Monticello" Facebook effort as one
approach that seems to be working. Schumann agreed to further research branding
opportunities and work with staff to craft a core message for EDA consideration.
3. Adiournment
MATT FRIE MOVED TO ADJORN THE SPECIAL MEETING AT 5:55 P.M.
BRIAN STUMPF SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Recorder: Kerry Burri
Date Approved: Marc 12, 20 14)
Attest:
EDA IITPtive
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