02-18-2015 EDC Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Commission Minutes January 20, 2015 Page 2 of 4 5. Highway 371 Project Mayor Sjoblad updated the EDC and those present on the Highway 371 project and timeline. He reviewed the new map that the City recently received from MnDOT. He explained that the timeframe has moved up and that much of the design cannot be changed after June 1st of this year. MnDOT will put the project out for bids in June. Mayor Sjoblad explained that the biggest problem the City is facing is having to make changes to its sewer system because the highway will run through the land that is spray irrigated. Matt Killian stated that the communities that are proactive in dealing with this type of change are successful. He explained that the Chamber of Commerce wants to engage the business community in any aspect of this project that may need business influence. He explained that because Pequot Lakes is a destination community there is a concern that the downtown area businesses don't miss out on unintentional tourism traffic. The City needs to decide how to market and sign the entrances to the City. The Chamber may be able to assist with this. We want to make certain that the downtown businesses are unaffected as possible. Matt Killian stated that Commissioner Zelle will be holding a meeting at the Chamber in February. He suggested that the City have representation at the meeting. He also noted that Senator Ruud has been very vocal about the project and the support that she can give. Chris Quisberg stated that with the alternate route, the City has to do whatever is possible to get people to realize that Pequot is still there. Discussion was held on signage. Mayor Sjoblad stated that MnDOT will pay for the construction of one entrance sign. The EDC discussed the importance of welcoming signs and visual aesthetics at the City entrances. Dan Frank, Initiative Foundation, stated that the City is fortunate to have a park in the center of town. The City should concentrate on exterior and interior signage and marketing. Chris Lindholm stated that there is a need for green space for soccer, football, and baseball fields. He suggested a baseball complex on the west side of the spray irrigation field. He indicated that there is a lack in baseball fields and that the School and City could partner in this endeavor. This would draw many people into the area. Dan Frank stated that Pequot Lakes is better positioned than other communities who have gone through going through this. The City should identify the main components that need to be addressed and identify the primary stake holders.