EDA Minutes 11-18-2015 (Special Meeting)MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Wednesday, November 1811, 2015 4:30 p.m., Monticello Community Center
Present: Bill Demeules, Bill Tapper, Tracy Hinz, Jim Davidson, Steve Johnson, Tom
Perrault, Lloyd Hilgart
Absent: None
Others: Angela Schumann
1. Call to Order
Bill Demeules called the special meeting to order at 4:30 p.m.
2. Purpose
Angela Schumann explained that the purpose of the workshop is to begin developing the
2016 EDA work plan. She suggested that the work plan would be used to explain to the
City Council how the EDA intends to use HRA levy funding.
3. Consideration of EDA Work Plan for 2016
Schumann pointed out that the EDA had accomplished some of the more immediate
objectives identified in its 2015 work plan. She noted that many of the long -tenn
objectives would require ongoing effort to accomplish. The commissioners discussed
priorities related to the following workplan objectives and action statements related to
each objective:
o Continue to support redevelopment efforts for publicly -owned properties on
Block 34
o Engage as a partner in other redevelopment opportunities as they arise, actively
encouraging redevelopment within the TH25 /CSAH 75 area
o Market industrial development at the Monticello Business Center (Otter Creek
Business Park), targeting businesses which will be a supplier, customer or
collaborative partner to existing businesses within the community
o Encourage more proactive lead development and response in all market segments
to support a diversified tax base
o Market EDA incentive programs in a more proactive manner, both within the
community and beyond, beginning with the education on these resources at the
EDA level
o Actively market for sale for development the EDA -owned properties at Cedar
Street, 349 West Broadway and 413 W. 4th Street
o Examine housing stock for aging or blighted properties and research development
of programs for redevelopment and /or revitalization
Special EDA Minutes: 11/18/15
o Support the development of the Destination for Innovation brand and implement
in economic development activities
o Consider housing increment resource in terms of strategic goals
o Re- engage in business retention and expansion efforts
There was considerable discussion related to how best to support downtown
redevelopment on Block 34 as a top priority. Commissioners pointed to the importance of
identifying viable options for moving forward those efforts already underway.
The EDA reflected on its role in guiding development as it considered various action
steps proposed. There was much discussion about the need to establish criteria for
making development decisions and the need to be prepared, in terms of market analysis,
site control, design scenarios, and financial tools, to take action as opportunities arise.
Commissioners also commented on the value of networking, marketing and building
relationships. Schumann suggested that the EDA may want to consider the option of
contracting for development facilitation services.
Schumann indicated that she would revise the 2016 workplan to incorporate the specific
action statements proposed based on the workshop discussion for further consideration at
a December EDA workshop.
4. Adjourn
BILL TAPPER MOVED TO ADJOURN THE SPECIAL MEETING AT 5:53 PM.
TRACY HINZ SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Recorder: Kerry Burri
Approved: December 9,-2 5?
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Attest: "J
Angela Schuma I � "o *unity Development Director
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