11-17-2009 EDC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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EDC Minutes November 17, 2009 Page 2 of 3 municipal consent but people feel like they need more communication regarding the process. She also noted that Planning and Zoning does not have a great reputation. She explained that although there is a Downtown Plan,most people feel that the plan will never happen due to the cost. She stated that the Group wants a plan that will work and would also like to have more communication with the City. Kimberly also stated that the people on City Council are not seen participating in local events. Kimberly stated that the recent passing of the Resolution indicating no development along the bypass is seen by a few people as the city trying to take steps to be proactive. The EDC thanked Kimberly for her comments. 4. Hannah Prochniak—Marketing Proposal Hannah was not present. 5. SWOT Analysis Discussion Sheila Haverkamp talked about the SWOT (strengths weaknesses opportunities and threats)that was recently done by John Rhodes for the County. She questioned whether this would be something that the EDC would like to do for Pequot Lakes? The EDC discussed the idea and felt that it would be beneficial to the City. Sheila suggested that the EDC gather the information and have an outside entity review and summarize the information. She indicated that this information could be used as a tool to market the community. Pat Smith suggested a facilitator to work with small groups so everyone is doing this in the same manner. Mark Jurchen suggested doing a SWOT with both the community and businesses. Sheila indicated that she could pursue grants through the Initiative Foundation. Justin Bolz-Andolshek stated he would be willing to assist. The EDC discussed the process to proceed with a SWOT. Chair Larsen stated that the first thing we should do is to decide what we are looking for(what do we want to know and where do we get that information). It was the consensus of the EDC to have a preliminary meeting with a couple of EDC members, Sheila Haverkamp, and the Initiative Foundation before the next EDC meeting to look at the process and cost. The committee would then present a proposal at the next meeting.