12-17-2013 EDC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION DECEMBER 17,2013 MEETING MINUTES MEMBERS PRESENT: Mark Jurchen, Cindy Rieck, Cindy Roggenkamp, and Bill Stroot MEMBERS ABSENT: Barb Merritt ALSO PRESENT: Sheila Haverkamp, BLAEDC; Mayor Nancy Adams; Dawn Bittner, Zoning Administrator; Sandy Peine, City Clerk; and Chris Lindholm, School Superintendent 1. Call Meeting to Order The meeting was called to order at the High School by Chair Jurchen at 8:00 a.m. 2. Approval EDC Minutes COMMISSIONER RIECK MOVED TO APPROVE THE 11/19/2013 EDC MINUTES. COMMISSIONER ROGGENKAMP SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED 4-0. 3. Technology Discussion 4. Resilient Region Project Chair Jurchen updated the Commission members on the Resilient Region Program. He indicated that he had met with Stacy Stockdill to discuss the need for broadband infrastructure in this area. Chair Jurchen informed the Commissioners that there is a kick off meeting for Bridges Academy Career Fair on January 9th. There is also a Virtual Highway meeting on January 14th at Arrowwood Lodge relating to technology. The Commission discussed the need for technology growth in this area, education in technology and the need for a bridge between education and the workforce. Sheila Haverkamp stated that we are lacking the workforce that has the required skills for technology jobs. She stated that the larger companies need the work force to continue to grow and they are finding that there is a shortage. This could compromise the growth of the larger companies in the area. Sheila talked about a campaign to portray the area as "Tech Ready." Discussion was held regarding the shortage of qualified workers and shortage of jobs for the spouses of the workers that are considering a job in this area. Mayor Adams suggested a job bank or portal that spouses could use to search for jobs.