03-17-2015 EDC Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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Economic Development Commission Minutes February 17, 2015 Page 2 of 3 Dan Frank, Initiative Foundation, explained that the University of Minnesota has a program to review data based on change. This information could help people identify the new opportunities that will be available due to the alternative route. Dawn Bittner questioned how the City can get people to engage and express their thoughts on the Highway project. Dan Frank stated that the Initiative Foundation will assist the City to engage the community. The City needs to find a champion or core group that is motivated and who will lead the cause. J.P. Gillach stated that the City needs a marketing campaign, resources, and a public relations team. Some of these players could include the EDC, the Chamber, DEED, and the Initiative Foundation. Dan Frank suggested that the City engage with the Minnesota Design Team which may be a good opportunity for Pequot Lakes to receive professional input on the design of the City's gateways and center-of-town park. The Design Team can assist a community who is anticipating a major change such as a highway realignment. Dan Frank explained that the earliest availability for this program is the spring of 2016. Dan Frank suggested another program that could be beneficial called Thriving Communities Initiative (TCI). The program is sponsored by the Initiative Foundation and engages local leaders and citizens in planning for the future. Dan Frank suggested that the City could blend the two processes. With either method the City will need to set up a core team of champions. Dan Frank stated that he will contact the University of Minnesota, The Minnesota Design Team, and the Initiative Foundation regarding the TCI program and have them work with the EDC. Chair Jurchen stated that the March meeting should be focused on coordinating the Minnesota Design Team and the TCI Program. The EDC should consider drafting an action plan at the March or April EDC meeting. 4. Identify Roles of Chamber, EDC, Business, and City Regarding the Highway 371 Project These issues were covered in Agenda Item#3. 5. School Update Chris Lindholm spoke about the Creating Entrepreneurial opportunities (CEO) - program. This program was started by the Initiative Foundation and launched in Staples/Motley. The purpose of the program is to build an improved partnership between K-12 and the business community. The students will tour businesses and