IEDC Agenda 09-26-2017
AGENDA
INDUSTRIAL & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (IEDC)
Tuesday, September 26th 2017 – 7:00 a.m.
Boom Island Room, Monticello Community Center
________________________________________________________________________________
Members:Darek Vetsch, Steve Johnson, Joni Pawelk, Wayne Elam, Luke Dahlheimer, Dick Van
Allen, Don Roberts, Ollie Koropchak-White, Jason Kisner, Andrew Tapper, Pete
Gardner, Kevin Steffensmeier, Mike Carr
Liaisons: Mayor Brian Stumpf, Jeff O’Neill, Angela Schumann, Jim Thares, Jacob Thunander,
Marcy Anderson, Dave Tombers
1.Call to Order
2.Approve Minutes:
st
a.August 1, 2017 (revised)
th
b.September 5, 2017
3.Consideration of Adding Items to the Agenda
4.Consideration of acceptance of Pete Gardner’s (Xcel Energy, Inc.) resignation and
recommendation of appointment of Christopher Church, Xcel Energy, as new IEDC
Member
5.Consideration ofrecommending appointment ofJoe Hammer to the IEDC
6.Reports(Verbal Reports):
a.Economic Development
b.Planning Commission Agenda(attached)
c.City Council
d.Chamber of Commerce
7.Consideration of 2017Industry of the Year Selection
8.Adjournment (8:00am)
MINUTES
INDUSTRIAL & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (IEDC)
Tuesday, August 1,2017–7:00a.m.
Boom Island Room, Monticello Community Center
________________________________________________________________________________
Present:Darek Vetsch, Steve Johnson,Joni Pawelk, Wayne Elam, Luke Dahlheimer, Jim
Johnson, Don Roberts, Ollie Koropchak-White, Jason Kisner, Andrew Tapper, Kevin
Steffensmeier
Absent:Dick Van Allen,Don Roberts,Pete Gardner
Liaisons: Mayor Brian Stumpf, Jeff O’Neill, Jim Thares,Marcy Anderson, Dave Tombers
1.Call to Order
Darek Vetsch called the IEDC Meeting to order at 7:00 a.m.
2.Approve Minutes:
a.June 6,2017
ANDREW TAPPER MOVED TO APPROVE THE REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES FROM JUNE 6, 2017. JONI PAWELK SECONDED THE MOTION.
MOTION CARRIED, 11-0.
3.Consideration of Adding Items to the Agenda
None.
4.Reports(Verbal Reports):
a.Economic Development
Jim Thares provided a report on the activitiesrelated to Economic Development
in Monticello. The four, current industrial prospects include: Shred-N-Go, Project
Novus, Minnesota DEEDProspect,andProject #6580. Thares stated that Shred-
N-Go is the furthest alongwith their plans and are working on securing their
financing.
Thares also mentioned that the Small Area Study was progressing.The EDA and
Planning Commission held a joint meeting on July 12th to discuss challenging
issues and implementation. The PlanningCommission would consider
recommending approvalat their eveningmeeting, but would likely be tabledto
the September meeting.The EDA would consider the plan on Wednesday, August
th
9.
Thares mentioned the proposed brewery that would be going forward to the
1
Planning Commission meeting. Thares stated that they would be locating in the
Sweet Dreams building, where the current tenants would be relocating.A men’s
barber shop would be locating inhalf of the building. The owners of the brewery
applied and wereapproved for a GMEF loan for $45,000 at the previous meeting.
The EDA allowed staff to work with the owners to negotiate a larger loan of
$75,000.
Thares added that Mills Fleet Farm would be opening tomorrow, Wednesday
nd
August 2.
Lastly, Thares stated that construction of amultiple tenant dental facility was
occuringalong Highway 25.
b.Planning Commission Agenda(attached)
Jim Thares also provided a report of the Planning Commission, noting that several
public hearings would be held, including: the Downtown Small Area Study
rd
(applicant: City of Monticello), Autumn Ridge 3Addition residential
rd
development (applicant: SW WoldConstruction/Ocello, LLC), Featherstone 3
Addition residential development (applicant: Horst Graser), zoning map
amendment for rezoning and text amendmentto Section 5.2of the Monticello
Zoning Ordinance(applicant: Ryan Buffalo Land Company, LLC.),conditional
use permit forRustech Brewing (applicant: Bill and Penny Burt), and driveway
width discussion (applicant: City of Monticello). A development of a self-storage
facility (applicant: KB Properties) was tabled at the July meeting and would be
considered at the evening meeting. The applicant has revised plans to
accommodate the comments from the JulyPlanning Commissionmeeting.
Thares mentioned that discussion regarding the purchase agreement for 220 West
Broadway Street would also occur. The EDA approved the purchase of that
th
property at their July 12meeting. Thares mentioned that it was being brought
forward to the Planning Commission because for review per the Comprehensive
Plan.
Thares added that there is an opening on the Planning Commissionand
consideration of a new member would occur at the evening meeting. The
Directors Report would also be included.
c.City Council
Jeff O’Neill provided an update from the City Council. He stated that the Fenning
Avenue overpass projectwasmoving forward. The City is working with property
owners on providing land for the roundabout. A meeting with MnDOT occurred
to discuss bridge design and no large obstacles were mentioned. O’Neill
mentioned that Mayor Stumpf asked to review road reconstruction including curb
and gutter for Chelsea Road. This project would be pulled into the Fenning
overpass in 2018. Joni Pawelk asked if sidewalk would be included along Chelsea
2
Road. O’Neill confirmed.
O’Neill provided an update on the Highway 25 Coalition. The engineer is
inventorying traffic patterns, projected land uses, and looking at modeling for
river crossing. A work plan was approved for$150,000 and each City would be
going to their boards to continue supportingthe program.
O’Neill stated that the City would be operating the wastewater treatment plant in
2018. O’Neill stated that staff would be sought to run the plant. It was mentioned
thepossibility of the current contractor, Veolia, providing a revised contract that
may be better suited for the City.
O’Neilladded that budget discussions wereoccurring on a department level. A
splash pad would be considered as the Monticello Lions would donate half of the
costs of developing.
O’Neill also explained that TDS is researching into a state broadband grant that
wouldbetter equip underserved areas of neighboring townships. O’Neill stated
that the City would likely support this project and the improvements it would
bring to the area. Expansion of services to new development areasof the City,
such as Featherstone, pursued.
O’Neill stated that the City received approval to move forward on the saleof the
bio-solids site.
O’Neill explainedthat discussion regarding housing development in the
downtown has been occurring, but nothing solid has been proposed. The Small
Area Study indicatessupport of such development.
Brian Stumpf explained that MnDOT are slating I-94 (east and west) overlay from
Monticello to Clearwater around 2020 or 2021.
Stumpf also added that a committee has been formed to discuss adaptive reuseof
the Ellison property.
Joni Pawelk expressed appreciation and positivity that have occurred from the
Small Area Study.
Darek Vetsch asked with the Fallon Avenue overpass if sidewalk would connect
Chelsea Road and School Boulevard. O’Neill explained that staff is working on a
plan to accommodate walking and biking.
d.Chamber of Commerce
Marcy Anderson explained that Riverfest was successful. She also added that the
downtown Block Party went well, butwould occur at West Bridge Park the
3
following year.
Anderson explained that the royal ambassadors were crowned and would be
th
attending the Chamber lunch, Tuesday August 15.
Anderson added that the next event, the Tri-Chamber Bowl Off,would be heldon
th
Thursday, August 17.
5.Table Topic: Various updates
Jim Johnson stated that construction on the school projects are progressing on schedule.
Most of the projects are expected to be completed by the second and third weeks of
August.
Joni Pawelk explained that a large remodeling and expansion project would commence
th
on August 14for CentraCare Health –Monticello.
Jim Thares stated that a hotel developer stopped by City Hall last week and was looking
for feedback. Thares also addedthat interest in housing development has occurred
following the Small Area Study and Housing Study plans.
Duane Northagen stated that the Wright County Economic Development Partnership
th
would be sponsoring a golf event on September 12at Fox Hollow and a broker event
would occur on September 19th to educate them on Wright County.
Thares mentioned that the City’s strategic plan would be discussed at the next IEDC
meeting.
6.Adjournment(8:00am)
OLLIE KOROPCHAK-WHITE MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:00 AM.
STEVE JOHNSON SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED, 11-0.
Recorder:JacobThunander ____
th
Approved:September 5, 2017
Attest:____________________________________________
Jim Thares, Economic Development Director
4
MINUTES
INDUSTRIAL & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (IEDC)
th
Tuesday, September 5,2017–7:00a.m.
Boom Island Room, Monticello Community Center
________________________________________________________________________________
Present:Darek Vetsch, Steve Johnson,Joni Pawelk, Luke Dahlheimer, Dick Van Allen, Ollie
Koropchak-White, Andrew Tapper, Pete Gardner, Kevin Steffensmeier
Absent:Wayne Elam, Jim Johnson, Don Roberts, Jason Kisner
Liaisons: Mayor Brian Stumpf, Jeff O’Neill,Jim Thares, Jacob Thunander,Marcy Anderson, Dave
Tombers
1.Call to Order
Darek Vetsch called the IEDC Meeting to order at 7:00 a.m.
2.Approve Minutes:
st
a.August 1, 2017
LUKE DAHLHEIMER MOVED TO APPROVE THE REGULAR MEETING
ST
MINUTES FROM AUGUST 1, 2017. STEVE JOHNSON SECONDED THE
MOTION. MOTION CARRIED, 7-0 WITH ANDREW TAPPER AND DICK
VAN ALLEN ABSTAINING.
3.Consideration of Adding Items to the Agenda
None.
4.Consideration of acceptance of Jim Johnson’s resignation and to Recommendation
of Appointment of a new IEDC Member
OLLIE KOROPCHAK-WHITE MOVED TO ACCEPT JIM JOHNSON’S
RESIGNATION FROM THE IEDC.LUKE DAHLHEIMER SECONDED THE
MOTION. MOTION CARRIED, 8-0 WITH DICK VAN ALLEN ABSTAINING.
Darek Vetsch explained that Mike Carr from Monticello Public Schools indicated interest
in filling Jim Johnson’s open position on the IEDC.
LUKE DAHLHEIMER MOVED TO APPROVE MIKE CARR TO THE IEDC. OLLIE
KOROPCHAK-WHITE SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED, 8-0 WITH
DICK VAN ALLEN ABSTAINING.
5.Reports(Verbal Reports):
a.Economic Development
Jim Thares provided the Economic Report and explained the following prospects:
Shred-n-Go, Project Novus, Project 6580, and a DEED prospect. He said that the
City is waiting to hear back from these potential projects.
1
Thares also stated that Bondhus has contacted the City and is looking to expand
their existing building by 16,000 square feet. This proposal would allow for
additional production and add jobs at the site.
Thares also provided an update regarding Rustech Brewing, stating that the
owners are still fundraising and that the EDA loan approved for $75,000. Loan
closing has not taken place yet.
Lastly, Thares added that discussion regarding the Housing Study and Small Area
Study would occur at the evening meeting of the Planning Commission meeting.
b.Planning Commission Agenda
Jacob Thunander provided a summary of the topics included on the evening
Planning Commission Meeting. Thunander mentioned that two public hearings
would be held. The first Public Hearing would be for Paxmar LLC for a possible
development in Carlisle Village for detached townhome units. The second Public
Hearing would be for consideration of recommending adoption of the Small Area
Study to the Comprehensive Plan.
Thunander also stated that three items would be included onthe regular agenda,
including a report on the Housing Study, calling for a Public Hearing for Small
Cell and Wireless Communications, and the Director’s Report.
c.City Council
Jeff O’Neill provided an update on behalf of the City Council. He explained that
staff is working on the 2018 budget. He stated that an increase of 4.5 percent tax
levy from the previous year may be proposed.
O’Neill also stated that the City has heard back from Veolia on a revised contract,
but that the City would still be interested in operating the Wastewater Treatment
Facility.
He added that the City is making offers to property owners for the acquisition of
land for the Fallon Avenue overpass project.
O’Neill explained that a housing development is moving forward in Featherstone
for an additional 24 homes. He also said that Autumn Ridge is moving forward
through the planning stages for development of detached townhomes. O’Neill
explained that the City has been receiving multiple inquiries about developing
land south of the City limits.
Darek Vetsch asked if there would be impacts to the tax payers with the increased
levy. O’Neill responded that a large impact would not be seen, but that a tax
growth shift from commercial to residential has occurred. Vetsch indicated the tax
rate for Wright County would be estimated at 5.83 percent for 2018.
2
d.Chamber of Commerce
Marcy Anderson provided an update regarding the Chamber of Commerce. She
th
explained that the Business After Hours would be held on September 13from
4:30 –6 at the American Legion.
th
Anderson also stated that on September 19the Chamber Lunch would be held
with Wright County Law Enforcement presenting. Anderson noted that
historically this lunch has the highest attendance.
Anderson explained that the Chamber is working on updating and printing the
swan brochures. There would be 10,000 copies printed and distributed along the I-
94 corridor.
Anderson said that the Chamber would be teaming up with the Monticello
Community Center to hold the annual Halloween party. It is scheduled for
th
October 26from 4 to 6:30. The location of the event has been changed to be at
Bridge Parks.
6.Consideration of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) DRAFT
Duane Northagen, Wright County Economic Development Partnership, explained that the
CEDS is a four-county economic development strategy plan for Benton, Sherburne,
Stearns, and Wright County. He said that there was a working committee of about 12
people who finalized the draft version of the plan in the past week. He stated that in the
last 20 years, a CEDS plan was not completed, which would not allow for U.S. Economic
Development Administration grant funding. The plan would be submitted to the federal
EDA in October following the review period and any possible revisions.
Northagen explained that funding typically is awarded for projects with a regional impact
and suggested the IEDC members to begin thinking about possible projects for
Monticello and Wright County.
th
Jim Thares stated that public comments are being accepteduntil September 30, 2017.
Any comments regarding the plan could be sent to Jim Thares or Jenn Russell, Central
Minnesota Jobs & Training Services.
Joni Pawelk asked if a river crossing would be a consideration for a project. Jeff O’Neill
stated that the Highway 25 Committee has been working with SRF Consulting to
understand where the demand is coming from. The study is to be completed in the next
eight months. He explained that the committee includes eight jurisdictions and once they
agree on a project they can look for funding and lobbying. Pawelk asked if the IEDC can
support or help move the process along. O’Neill recommended waiting for the study to be
completed.
th
7.Consideration ofChanging the October Meeting Date to September 26, 2017
Jim Thares explained a request to move the October IEDC Meeting date to September
3
th
26. The meeting would take place to vote for the award winner of the 2017 Industry of
th
the Year, which is being held on October 4, 2017 at 7 a.m.
JONI PAWELK MOVED TO ACCEPT CHANGINGTHE REGULAR MEETING FOR
TH
THE OCTOBER IEDC MEETING TO SEPTEMBER 26, 2017 AT 7:00 A.M. PETE
GARDNER SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED, 9-0.
Additional discussion pursued. Joni Pawelk asked if the open position of Don Tomann
had been filled. Thares indicated that no other applicants have stepped forward since
UMC declined to recommend another person from their staff to be involved in the IEDC.
He further suggested that IEDC members reach out to colleagues in and business
associates to make them aware of the opening.
Discussion regarding the need for public transportation occurred.
Ollie Koropchak-White asked if there was a reason that the decisionprocessby prospects
was takinga lot of time. Thares explained that information has been given to each
prospect in a timely manner and he has been checking in with each prospect weekly.
Thares indicated that many of the prospects are considering other cities in their site
searches. Koropchak-White asked if the IEDC could set up a committee to help sell
Monticello. Discussion followed.Jeff O’Neill also mentioned that several of the site
searches are confidential and only a very small group of people have been permitted to
know the identity of the project proposers.
8.Adjournment
Darek Vetsch adjourned themeeting at 8:00 a.m.
Recorder:Jacob Thunander ____
th
Approved:September 26, 2017
Attest:____________________________________________
Jim Thares, Economic Development Director
4
IEDC Agenda:09/26/17
4.Consideration of acceptance of Pete Gardner’s (Xcel Energy, Inc.) resignation and
recommendation of appointment of Christopher Church, Xcel Energy,as new
IEDC Member (JaT)
A.REFERENCE AND BACKGROUND:
th
On September 12, 2017, Pete Gardnersubmitted an email stating his resignation from
theIEDC Board. Mr. Gardneris unable to continue serving on the IEDC due to a change
in job positions.Mr. Gardnerrecommended Christopher Church from Xcel Energy to
replace him.Mr. Churchhas indicated that he isinterested in serving on the IEDC.
B.ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
Decision 1
1.Motion toaccept Pete Gardner’sresignation from the IEDC.
2.Motion of other.
Decision 2
1.Motion to recommend to City Council the appointment of Christopher Church to
the IEDC Board
2.Motion of other.
C.STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommendsalternative one for both decisions.
D.SUPPORTING DATA:
a.Pete Gardner’sResignation Letter
b.IEDC Enabling Resolution
c.IEDC Ordinance –Title 2, Chapter 10
From: Gardner, Peter \[mailto:Peter.Gardner@xenucler.com\]
Sent:Tuesday, September 12, 2017 3:15 PM
To:Jim Thares
Cc: Tombers, Dave; Church, Christopher R.
Subject: IEDC
WźƒͲ
LğƒƩĻƭźŭƓźƓŭƒǤƦƚƭźƷźƚƓƚƓƷŷĻL95/ğƭLğƒƌĻğǝźƓŭƒǤƩƚƌĻŅƚƩğ/ƚƩƦƚƩğƷĻtƩƚƌĻǞźƷŷĭĻƌźƓaźƓƓĻğƦƚƌźƭ͵
LŷğǝĻƷŷƚƩƚǒŭŷƌǤĻƓƆƚǤĻķƒǤƷźƒĻğƷƷŷĻƭƷğƷźƚƓğƭƷŷĻ{źƷĻtƷŷĻƌğƭƷŅĻǞǤĻğƩƭğƓķŷğǝĻĻƓƆƚǤĻķǞƚƩƉźƓŭǞźƷŷƷŷĻ
L95/͵
aǤƩĻƦƌğĭĻƒĻƓƷğƭ{źƷĻtƚŅaƚƓƷźĭĻƌƌƚbǒĭƌĻğƩtƌğƓƷźƭ/ŷƩźƭ/ŷǒƩĭŷğƓķLğƒƦƩƚƦƚƭźƓŭŷĻƷğƉĻƒǤƭĻğƷğƓķL
ğķǝƚĭğƷĻŷĻǞźƌƌĬĻğŭƩĻğƷƩĻƦƌğĭĻƒĻƓƷ͵
ĻŷğǝĻƷğƌƉĻķğƓķŷĻźƭƌƚƚƉźƓŭŅƚƩǞğƩķƷƚƒĻĻƷźƓŭƷŷĻƩĻƭƷƚŅƷŷĻƷĻğƒğƓķǞźƌƌĬĻğƷƷŷĻƓĻǣƷƒĻĻƷźƓŭ͵
aǤƩĻƭźŭƓğƷźƚƓƭŷƚǒƌķĬĻĻŅŅĻĭƷźǝĻğƭƚŅƷƚķğǤ{ĻƦƷĻƒĬĻƩЊЋͲЋЉЊА͵
ŷğƓƉƭ
tĻƷĻDğƩķƓĻƩ
1
IEDC Agenda:09/26/17
4.Consideration of recommending appointment of Joe Hammer to the IEDC (JT)
A.REFERENCE AND BACKGROUND:
Joe Hammer has submitted an application of interest to serve on the IEDC Board. Mr.
Hammer is currently working as a Corporate Warranty Manager at Allstate Peterbilt
Group and will soon be opening a business with his wife in downtown Monticello called
Hammer’s Hair Lounge.
The vacant position was previously held by Mr. Don Tomann and has been posted since
May, 2017.
B.ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
Decision 1
1.Motion to recommend to City Council the appointment of Joe Hammerto
the IEDC Board
2.Motion of other.
C.STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommendsalternative one.
D.SUPPORTING DATA:
a.Joe Hammer’s Application
b.IEDC Enabling Resolution
c.IEDC Ordinance –Title 2, Chapter 10
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING - MONTICELLO PLANNING COMMISSION
Tuesday, October3rd, 2017 - 6:00p.m.
Mississippi Room, Monticello Community Center
Commissioners:John Alstad, Brad Fyle, Sam Murdoff, Marc Simpson, Katie Peterson
Council Liaison:Charlotte Gabler
Staff:Angela Schumann, Steve Grittman (NAC),Jacob Thunander, John Rued
1.General Business
A.Call to Order
B.Consideration of approving minutes
th
a.Special Meeting Minutes –September 5,2017
th
b.Regular Meeting Minutes –September 5, 2017
C.Citizen Comments
D.Consideration of adding items to the agenda
2.Public Hearings
A.Public Hearing –Consideration of a request for Conditional Use Permit for
Micro-Brewery/Taproom in CCD (Central Community District) and Text
Amendment to Monticello Zoning Ordinance, Section 5.2 and 5.3 to allow
outdoor seating for Production Breweries and Micro-Distilleries and Conditional
Use Permit for outdoor seating for Production Breweries and Micro-Distilleries
Applicant: Zach Barthel
B.Public Hearing - Consideration of a request for Preliminary and Final Plat for
Otter Creek Crossing 5th Addition
Applicant: John Chadwick
C.Public Hearing - Consideration of a request for Amendment to Monticello Zoning
Ordinance Chapter 4, Section 13 –Telecommunication Towers and Antennas and
related Sections as related to Small Cell and Wireless Telecommunication
standards
Applicant: City of Monticello
3.Regular Agenda
A.Review of “Business” Zoning Districts
B.Consideration of the CommunityDevelopment Directors Report
4.Added Items
5.Adjournment
IEDC Agenda: 09/26/17
7.Consideration of Industry of the Year Selection(JT)
A.REFERENCE AND BACKGROUND:
The IEDC is asked to select the 2017 Industry of the Year recipient. The event will be
th
held on October 4, 2017 from 7 –8:30 am in the Mississippi Room, Monticello
Community Center.The Industry of the Year event is an opportunity to celebrate the
efforts and contributions of the Monticello manufacturing and industrial community.
The following industries that were nominated and qualify for the award, include: Vector
Tool and Manufacturing, Genereux Fine Wood Products, and UMC. Nomination surveys
and tours were taken by the IEDC to better understand the work that these businesses do
every day and to help with the selection process.
This year’s sponsors include: the Monticello Times, Cargill Kitchen Solutions, Xcel
Energy, and WSI Industries.
B.ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
Decision 1
1.Motion to select ___________________ for the 2017 Industry of the Year Award.
2.Motion of other.
C.STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommendsalternative one.
D.SUPPORTING DATA:
a.Industry of the Year Invitation
b.Industry of the Year Criteria
c.Nominations and Surveys
d.Previous Nominations and Award Recipients
Ɏ
Join us for a breakfast provided by A Catered Event and the presentation of the 2017 award.
Please RSVP to Vicki Leerhoff by September 27, 2017
at (763) 295-2711 or Vicki.Leerhoff@ci.monticello.mn.us
2017 Hosts and Sponsors:
Monticello Industrial & Economic Development Committee
Monticello Economic Development Authority
2017 Industry of the Year Nomination Form
(Feel free to nominate more than one qualified industry please use one form for each nomination)
TH
NOMINATIONS DUE SEPTEMBER 8, 2017
Email the completed nomination form to:
Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
Selection Criteria
Must be classified as Industry.
Industry shall be defined as:a business that performs a majority of their
commercial activity with other businesses and a minority of their commercial
activity directly with the public consumer.
The Business has been established for at least (5) five years.
The Business has not received this award in the past five (5) years.
Business Excellence: Successful business practices, i.e., marketing and promotion of
business ethics; promotion of employee growth and development; contribution to its
industry; and research and development
Staff training, motivation, and employee engagement: Philosophy of engaging and
empowering employees. Empowered employees are proactive and persistent, and
make decisions that are
Organizations benefit greatly from having an engaged workforce. Research shows
strong connections between employee engagement and turnover, productivity,
customer service, loyalty and corporate financial performance.
Innovation: Creativity, entrepreneurial, and implementing innovation in business
operations, products and services. Strides to continually distinguish itself from other
businesses in their industry.
Community Involvement:A demonstrated interest in the welfare of the community
through financial contribution, service, and civic leaderships. Actively supports the
community through participating in volunteer programs and/or events
Customer Relations: A high level of customer confidence and excellence in
customer services and relations.
Economic Growth: Continual increase in tax base and creation of liveable wage
jobs.
I would like to nominate the following industry/manufacturer:
This industry/manufacturer is deserving because (please reference the criteria
noted above in the nomination description):
Email the completed nomination form to: Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
2017 Industry of the Year Nomination Form
(Feel free to nominate more than one qualified industry – please use one form for each nomination)
TH
NOMINATIONS DUE SEPTEMBER 8, 2017
Email the completed nomination form to:
Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
Selection Criteria
Must be classified as Industry.
Industry shall be defined as:a business that performs a majority of their
commercial activity with other businesses and a minority of their commercial
activity directly with the public consumer.
The Business has been established for at least (5) five years.
The Business has not received this award in the past five (5) years.
Business Excellence: Successful business practices, i.e., marketing and promotion of
business ethics; promotion of employee growthand development; contribution to its
industry; and research and development
Staff training, motivation, and employee engagement: Philosophy of engaging and
empowering employees. Empowered employees are proactive and persistent, and
make decisions that areconsistent with the company’s strategic goals and objectives.
Organizations benefit greatly from having an engaged workforce. Research shows
strong connections between employee engagement and turnover, productivity,
customer service, loyalty and corporatefinancial performance.
Innovation: Creativity, entrepreneurial, and implementing innovation in business
operations, products and services. Strides to continually distinguish itself from other
businesses in their industry.
Community Involvement:A demonstrated interest in the welfare of the community
through financial contribution, service, and civic leaderships. Actively supports the
community through participating in volunteer programs and/or events
Customer Relations: A high level of customer confidenceand excellence in
customer services and relations.
Economic Growth: Continual increase in tax base and creation of liveable wage
jobs.
I would like to nominate the following industry/manufacturer:
Vector Tool & Manufacturing
This industry/manufacturer is deserving because (please reference the criteria
noted above in the nomination description):
Industry Classification: Maching/Tool Making
Business began in 1989
Has not received award before
Business Excellence/Innovation/Customer Relations: Machined parts with
outstanding quality
Customer Relations: Manufactures to customers request/needs/timeline.
Customer service is a top priority.
Recycle materials and oils-environmental awareness
EconomicGrowth: Apprentice program for carpentry skills, training provided on
all levels of productionEncourages work/home balance. Encourages students to
enter the field of manufacturing design thru scholarship offerings.
Email the completed nomination form to: Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR NOMINEE SURVEY
Business Name: Vector Tool & Manufacturing Inc.
How long has the business been established?: Since 1989
How many employees do you currently employ?: FT 25PT0
How many employees have you added in the past 12 months?: 9
What types of products and services are offered by your industry? Who do they serve?
We are a job shop and serve all types of industries such as agriculture, sport utility,
medical industry, fluid power fittings, spray paint industry, gun parts and many other
industries related to production components.
How do you promote employee growth, development, and engagement?
Vector Tool & Manufacturing encourages professional development to become future
leaders in our organization. We help them establish goals through development plans and
also use mentors which foster positive and productive working relationships. Our
employees can’t move forward if they don’t grow, and they can’t grow if they never
leave their comfort zones. If you want to help employees develop, trust them to do their
jobs by getting out of the way.
Have you recently completed an expansion or are you planning an expansion within the
next 12 months?
Does not apply at this time.
Is your business involved in any community organizations, event activities, or charities?
Please list.
Not at this time.
Please provide a few examples of how you strive to provide innovation in your industry
and continually distinguish yourself from other businesses?
Filled new positions with highly skill employees in management as well as the quoting
process. This has dramatically improved our sales performance and outside sales
confidence. We have hired multiple people with new ideas as well as new capabilities in
programming, ContinuousImprovement Plans and machining knowledge.Our mission is
to provide our customers precision machined parts with outstanding quality and world
class service.
2017 Industry of the Year Nomination Form
(Feel free to nominate more than one qualified industry –please use one form for each nomination)
TH
NOMINATIONS DUE SEPTEMBER 8, 2017
Email the completed nomination form to:
Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
Selection Criteria
Must be classified as Industry.
Industry shall be defined as:a business that performs a majority of their
commercial activity with other businesses and a minority of their commercial
activity directly with the public consumer.
The Business has been established for at least (5) five years.
The Business has not received this award in the past five (5) years.
Business Excellence: Successful business practices, i.e., marketing and promotion of
business ethics; promotion of employee growthand development; contribution to its
industry; and research and development
Staff training, motivation, and employee engagement: Philosophy of engaging and
empowering employees. Empowered employees are proactive and persistent, and
make decisions that areconsistent with the company’s strategic goals and objectives.
Organizations benefit greatly from having an engaged workforce. Research shows
strong connections between employee engagement and turnover, productivity,
customer service, loyalty and corporatefinancial performance.
Innovation:Creativity, entrepreneurial, and implementing innovation in business
operations, products and services. Strides to continually distinguish itself from other
businesses in their industry.
Community Involvement:A demonstrated interest in the welfare of the community
through financial contribution, service, and civic leaderships. Actively supports the
community through participating in volunteer programs and/or events
Customer Relations: A high level of customer confidenceand excellence in
customer services and relations.
Economic Growth: Continual increase in tax base and creation of liveable wage
jobs.
I would like to nominate the following industry/manufacturer:
Genereux Fine Wood Products
This industry/manufacturer is deserving because (please reference the criteria
noted above in the nomination description):
Industry Classification: Cabinet Production
Business began in 1978
Has not received award before
Business Excellence/Innovation/Customer Relations:Genereux produces
cabinets and counters for home and business needs.
Customer Relations: Manufactures to customers request/needs/timeline.
Customer service is a top priority.
Economic Growth: employees on average 70 employees. Apprentice program for
carpentry skills, training provided on all levels of production
Email the completed nomination form to: Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR NOMINEE SURVEY
Business Name: _Genereux Fine Wood Products ______________________________
How long has the business been established?: __1983___________________________
How many employees do you currently employ?: FT __30________PT ____________
How many employees have you added in the past 12 months?: __2-3______________
What types of products and services are offered by your industry? Who do they serve?
Residential and Commercial cabinetry and fixtures
How do you promote employee growth, development, and engagement?
Weekly meetings, Company culture of “training up”
Have you recently completed an expansion or are you planning an expansion within the
next 12 months?
No
Is your business involved in any community organizations, event activities, or charities?
Please list.
Please provide a few examples of how youstrive to provide innovation in your industry
and continually distinguish yourself from other businesses?
We strive to create and maintain business relationships with our customers to
meet their needs and be more than just the low bidder ona project.It is with these
relationships that we can better solve project issues and create better solutions for the
future.
2017 Industry of the Year Nomination Form
(Feel free to nominate more than one qualified industry – please use one form for each nomination)
TH
NOMINATIONS DUE SEPTEMBER 8, 2017
Email the completed nomination form to:
Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
Selection Criteria
Must be classified as Industry.
Industry shall be defined as:a business that performs a majority of their
commercial activity with other businesses and a minority of their commercial
activity directly with the public consumer.
The Business has been established for at least (5) five years.
The Business has not received this award in the past five (5) years.
Business Excellence: Successful business practices, i.e., marketing and promotion of
business ethics; promotion of employee growthand development; contribution to its
industry; and research and development
Staff training, motivation, and employee engagement: Philosophy of engaging and
empowering employees. Empowered employees are proactive and persistent, and
make decisions that areconsistent with the company’s strategic goals and objectives.
Organizations benefit greatly from having an engaged workforce. Research shows
strong connections between employee engagement and turnover, productivity,
customer service, loyalty and corporatefinancial performance.
Innovation: Creativity, entrepreneurial, and implementing innovation in business
operations, products and services. Strides to continually distinguish itself from other
businesses in their industry.
Community Involvement:A demonstrated interest in the welfare of the community
through financial contribution, service, and civic leaderships. Actively supports the
community through participating in volunteer programs and/or events
Customer Relations: A high level of customer confidenceand excellence in
customer services and relations.
Economic Growth: Continual increase in tax base and creation of liveable wage
jobs.
I would like to nominate the following industry/manufacturer:
UMC Inc.
500 Chelsea Road
Monticello, MN 55362
This industry/manufacturer is deserving because (please reference the criteria
noted above in the nomination description):
UMC provides precision manufacturing services to the medical and aerospace industries
including design for manufacturing, prototyping, machining, supply chain management,
finishing, and assembly.
UMC was established in 1968 and has been in Monticello since 2003.Since moving to
Monticello, UMC has grown to an organization with over 200 employees, exceeding $30
million in annual revenues.
UMC has built a reputation for excellence by going beyond others to solve their
customers manufacturing and service challenges. UMC’s quality management systems
are certified to the ISO 13485 standard for medical device manufacturing, as well as, the
AS 9100C standard for aerospace manufacturing.
UMC proactively supports the industry by investing in workforce development,
employee advancement, and promoting the many opportunities in manufacturing.UMC
encourages and supports active participation in thecommunity. UMC’s Chief Executive
Officer, Don Tomann, serves as a member of the Hennepin Technical College
Foundation Board of Directors. Don also serves as a member of the Minnesota Adult &
Teen Challenge Lakeside Academy Advisory Board. UMC’s President, Eric Gibson,
serves as a member of the Minnesota Chamberof Commerce Board of Directors, and is
also the chairman of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Manufacturing Coalition
UMC is a proud sponsorof several local area schools and youth organizations, giving
both time and financial contributions, to provide area youth with opportunities to
experience and learn about manufacturing. These organizations include:
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Central Lakes Community College
Hennepin Technical& Community College
St. Cloud Technical & Community College
Buffalo High School Robotics Club
Monticello High School Robotics Club
Rocori High School Robotics Club
Dream It. Do It. Minnesota State VEX Robotics
Saint Cloud State University Husky Formula Racing
For the past 3 years UMC has given out scholarships to children and grandchildren of
employees who are enrolled at a university or technical college. Each summer UMC has
an engineering intern program, providing current engineering students with a paid
internship where they gain hands-on experience in various manufacturing disciplines.
UMC also has a machinist apprentice program for students attending technical college for
machining, and a youth apprentice program for high school students interested in
machining.
UMC also helps other manufacturers improve by sharing their knowledge and
experiences. For example, this week, Eric Gibson, is presenting a talk titled, “Shop
Automation Beyond Robots”, at Modern Machine Shop’s Top Shops Conference in
Indianapolis, IN.In August, UMC’s Director of Human Resources, Jaci Dukowitz,
participated in Congressman Tom Emmer’s “Addressing the Skills Gap Summit” at the
Monticello Community Center. Earlier this year, Jaci testified at the Senate Jobs
Committee in support of a Youth Workforce bill to help manufacturing develop the
workforce for the future. UMC frequently hosts tours of their facility and holds an
annual open house to educate people on the career opportunities available in
manufacturing.
UMC also provides financial support to organizations that are keeping our community
safe and helping those in need. In 2017 UMC made donations to over 30 community
organizations, including Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge,Monticello Help Center,
and Wright County Sheriff’s Officeto name a few.
UMC’s Arbor Day tradition is to give free tree seedlings to employees and to donate trees
to the city of Monticello. This year a group of UMC employees planted the trees UMC
donated to the city in the new Monticello dog park and along Chelsea Road.
UMC distinguishes itself from others in the industry through the development of
employees and the application of technology. In 2015 this was recognized by the
National Tooling & Machining Association (NTMA), and UMC was awarded the 2015
NTMA Technology Award for the innovative integration of quality control technologies
in the manufacturing process.
Email the completed nomination form to: Jacob.thunander@ci.monticello.mn.us
INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR NOMINEE SURVEY
Business Name: UMC Inc.
How long has the business been established?: UMC was established in 1968.
How many employees do you currently employ?: FT 207PT 4
How many employees have you added in the past 12 months?:
We have not changed our total headcount in the last 12 months, however, we do have 8
open positions which we have been unable to fill due to a shortage of people available
with the necessary skills.
What types of products and services are offered by your industry? Who do they serve?
Our industry provides precision manufacturing services for Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEMs) in the medical and aerospace markets. Our services include
design for manufacturing, prototyping, machining,supply chain management, finishing,
and assembly.
How do you promote employee growth, development, and engagement?
UMC invests heavily in employee training and development. We have a full-time
training coordinator that designs and delivers technical and non-technical courses to
employees. We have an onsite training room where employees attend classes at local
community colleges remotely via video conference. In addition, UMC gives scholarships
to children and grandchildren of employees. UMC has an engineering intern program
and a machinist apprentice program every summer. We promote engagement by openly
sharing information with employees, involving employees in decision-making, paying
above average wages, hosting employee social events, and financially supporting
employee recreational activities outside of work.
Have you recently completed an expansion or are you planning an expansion within the
next 12 months?
We have not expanded recently and are not planning an expansion in the next 12 months,
but may be ready for expansion in the next 24-48 months.
Is your business involved in any community organizations, event activities, or charities?
Please list.
UMC’s Chief Executive Officer, Don Tomann, serves as a member of the Hennepin
Technical College Foundation Board of Directors. Don also serves as a member of the
Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge Lakeside Academy Advisory Board. UMC’s
President, Eric Gibson, serves as a member of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors, and is also the chairman of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
Manufacturing Coalition.
UMC is a proud sponsor of several local area schools and youth organizations, giving
both time and financial contributions. These organizations include:
Alexandria Tech.& Comm. CollegeMinnesota State VEX Robotics
Central Lakes Comm.CollegeSCSUHusky Formula Racing
Hennepin Tech. & Comm. CollegeMonticello High School Robotics
Club
St. Cloud Tech.& Comm. College
Rocori High School Robotics Club
Buffalo High School Robotics Club
UMC donates 5% of company profits to charitable organizations annually. In 2017, in
addition to those organizations listed above, UMC donated to the following
organizations:
MN Adult & Teen ChallengeInternational Myeloma Foundation
Wright County Sheriff’s OfficeFaith Family Life Center
Buffalo American LegionAmerican Heart Association
Big Lake AmbassadorRonald McDonald House
Scholarship Program
Special Olympics Minnesota
CentraCare Health Foundation
MAML Youth Hockey Association
Elk River American Legion
Minnesota Family Council
Party For A Purpose
Monticello American Legion
Wright County Economic
Monticello Graduation Party
Development Partnership
Monticello Baseball
American Cancer Society
Monticello Help Center
Western Communities Action
Monticello Lions
Network
Furthermore, UMC has a tradition of celebrating Arbor Day each year by giving free tree
seedlings to employees, as well as, donating free trees to the City of Monticello. Several
UMC employees volunteer each year to help plant the donated trees. This year the trees
were planted in Monticello’s new dog park and along Chelsea Road.
Please provide a few examples of how you strive to provide innovation in your industry
and continually distinguish yourself from other businesses?
UMC distinguishes itself within our industry by investing in development of our
employees and applying manufacturing technology to solve our customers manufacturing
and service challenges. We have been recognized by our industry trade association for
pioneering the unique integration of quality control technologies, such as coordinate
measurement machines and in-machine probing, into the manufacturing process. Our
solutions enable the quality control devices to provide process data directly to the
manufacturing equipment with no human involvement required, facilitating real-time
automated adjustment which ensure products are held to customer specifications.
Another innovation currently in operation at UMC is the use of Universal Robotics co-
bot (collaborative robot). UMC’s employees applied a co-botalong with a CNC
machining center, ultrasonic cleaning equipment, and air-gaging to double the output of a
production cell without changing the number of people needed to operate the cell.
Our team is also applying Electro-Chemical Deburring technology to automate the
removal of burrs from machined parts, greatly reducing the time required to finish our
customers product.
In addition, UMC was among the first companies in our industry to add 3D Printing
(additive manufacturing) to our capabilities. Our engineering team uses 3D printing to
produce prototypes for testing and process validation, as well as, work-holding fixtures
for use in production and quality control applications.
INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR
Name of BusinessContact NameAward Recipient
2010
BondhusMike Blackston
Steve Budd
IRT
Electro IndustriesBill Seefeldt Yes
Patrick Thompson
Xcel Energy
2011
AroplaxPaul or Steve Schoen Yes
Bill Demeules
Standard Iron
BondhusMike Blackston
Benji Rashleger
WSI
Midwest Precision MachineRich Harris
Brad or Mary Barger
Suburban Manufacturing
2012
Suburban ManufacturingBrad or Mary Barger
Don Roberts Yes
Cargill Kitchen Solutions
2013
Suburban ManufacturingBrad or Mary Barger Yes
Xcel Energy
2014
Bondhus CorporationMike Blackston
Benji Rashleger
WSI
Xcel Energy Yes
2015
Vector Tool and Manufacturing
Bondhus CorporationMike Blackston Yes
2016
Jay Morrell
JME
Vector Tool and ManufacturingRick Freese
Benji Rashleger Yes
WSI
2017