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Economic Development Commission Minutes <br /> February 17, 2015 <br /> Page 2 of 3 <br /> Chair Jurchen stated that we need to focus on getting people off of the highway to <br /> the retail community. He further stated that there are a handful of businesses who <br /> are dependent on the highway such as the gas stations and the grocery store. <br /> Dan Frank, Initiative Foundation, explained that the University of Minnesota has <br /> a program to reviews data based on change. This information could help people <br /> identify the new opportunities that will be available due to the alternative route. <br /> Dawn Bittner questioned how the City can get people to engage and express their <br /> thoughts on the Highway project. Dan Frank stated that the Initiative Foundation <br /> will assist the City to engage the community. The City needs to find a champion <br /> or core group that is motivated and who will lead the c . <br /> J.P. Gillach stated that the City needs a market `campaign, ources and a <br /> public relations team. Some of these players Could include the EDC, the Chamber, <br /> DEED, and the Initiative Foundation. <br /> f, <br /> Dan Frank suggested that the City engage with the Minnesota Design Team <br /> program which may be a good opportunity for Puot Lakes to have some <br /> professional input on the design of the City's gateways and center-of-town park. <br /> The Design Team can assist a community who is anticipating a major change <br /> such as a highway realignment. Dan F� <br /> explained tthe earliest availability <br /> for this program is the spring of 2016. <br /> Dan Frank suggested another program that could be beneficial called Thriving <br /> Communities Initiative (TCI). The program is sponsored by the Initiative <br /> Foundation and engages local leaders and citizens in planning for the future. Dan <br /> Frank suggested that the City could blend the two processes. With either method <br /> the City will need to set up a core team of champions. <br /> Dan Frank stated that he will contact the University of Minnesota, The Minnesota <br /> Design Team, and the Initiative Foundation regarding the TCI program and have <br /> them work with the EDC. <br /> Chair Jurchen stated that the March meeting should be focused on coordinating <br /> the Minnesota Design Team and the TCI Program. The EDC should consider <br /> drafting an action plan at the March or April EDC meeting. <br /> 4. Identify Roles of Chamber, EDC, Business, and City Regarding the Highway 371 <br /> Project <br /> These issues were covered in Agenda Item#3. <br /> 5. School Update <br />