Economic Development Authority (EDA) Board Agendas & Packets

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY REGULAR MEETING AGENDA 12:00 P.M., (Noon) Tuesday, March 26, 2024 East Grand Forks City Hall, 600 DeMers Ave NW Training Room – First Floor South Wing East Grand Forks, MN The m ission of the Economic Development Authority is to maintain and improve the economic vitality of East Grand Forks by doing the following: • By retaining & growing local businesses • By creating & supporting investment & growth opportunities for commercial activities • By creating & supporting opportunities for residential growth, including workforce housing • By working to develop a workforce capable of meeting current & future needs of local employers. REGULAR MEETING 1. Roll Call: President Grinde, Board Members Black, Hecht, Helms, Horken, Larson, Stai 2. Administration of Oath to Newly Appointed Board Member, Penny Stai (Galstad) 3. Approval of the minutes a. February 27, 2024, Regular Meeting 4. Bills and Communications a. Review of Accounts Payable: March 5, 2024; March 19, 2024 5. Reports a. Delinquencies Update – none b. Director’s Reports: February 2024 i. MGI c. Financial Reports: None 6. Unfinished Business a. Economic Development Strategy update (Shill) b. Economic Development Director Job Description as revised (Committee) 7. New Business a. M & W services loan request b. Pierce land sale proposal c. Promise Act Grant Program (Northwest Minnesota Foundation) 8. Adjournment Upcoming Meetings: 500 pm March 26, 2024 1200 pm April 23, 2024 1200 pm May 28, 2024 Individuals with disabilities, language barriers or other needs who plan to attend the meeting and will need special accommodations should contact Nancy Ellis, ADA Coordinator at (218)-773-2208. Please contact us at least 48 hours before the meeting to give our staff adequate time to make arrangements. Also, materials can be provided in alternative formats for people with disabilities or with limited English proficiency (LEP) by contacting the ADA Coordinator (218)-773-2208 five (5) days prior to the meeting. UNAPPROVED MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD MEMBERS OF THE EAST GRAND FORKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA) A regular meeting of the Board Members of the East Grand Forks Economic Development Authority was held at Noon on February 28, 2024 Roll Call: Meeting was called to order by President Grinde at 12:00 pm. EDA Board present at roll, President Josh Grinde, Board Members: Ben Horken, Justin Hecht, Brian Larson and Daniel Black. Dale Helms via TEAMS Absent: Staff present: Paul Gorte (EDD), Economic Development Director; Brenda Ault (EA), Executive Assistant; Ron Galstad (CA) City Attorney; Karla Anderson (FD), Finance Director; Reid Huttunen (CA), City Administrator Also Present: 1. Roll Call: President Grinde determined a quorum was present. 2. Approval of Minutes a. January 23, 2024, Regular Meeting A Motion was made to approve the January 23, 2024, Regular Meeting Minutes, by Board Member Hecht, seconded by Board Member Horken. M/S/P-Hecht, Horken; 6-0, mc. 4. Bills and Communications a. Review of Accounts Payable, February 6, 2024; February 20, 2024 No comments 5. Reports a. Delinquencies – EDD Gorte reported that 1 late payment from last month has been resolved. b. Director’s Reports: January 2024- EDD Gorte stated that the report was in the packet. Board Member Lason asked for more detail on the businesses he worked with in January. Paul explained that: o Tom Campbell questions o Attila Dalmi: various businesses and properties; contacts regarding one business o Dahl Funeral Home o Design Rich Architects o Fert-L-Lawn: expansion o Hawkes Manufacturing: loan o Leisureland: expansion o Mayo Manufacturing: Border Cities tax credits o Sage Legal o Senator Mark Johnson o The Spud, Jr.: loan February 28, 2024 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EAST GRAND FORKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA) (continued) o Ultima Bank: general financing c. Financial Reports: FD Anderson stated that they are currently working on the audit and she will five a full report once the transfers have been completed. 6. Unfinished Business a. Galstad Jenson McCann Lease Renewal EDD Gorte stated the current lease expired November 30, 2023. The tenant has, by the terms of the lease, been on a month-to-month tenancy since then while some small issues were resolved. The current annual lease rate is $10.25 per square foot. Before the 2018 renewal, the Director inquired about downtown lease rates in East Grand Forks and learned that the general lease rate for downtown businesses is $10.00 per square foot. The EDA, at that time, approved a lease that would increase the annual rent by 25 cents to bring the rates into line with downtown rates, which resulted in the current lease rate noted above. Recently, the Director prepared a new 5-year lease based on the same premise: with an annual increase of 25 cents. The Director presented the revised lease to the City Council Work Session on November 14. At the same meeting the Community Developer Director presented new leases for the government tenants in City Hall. There was conflicting rate. The difference between the City Hall rates and the Infill Building rates was noted and discussed at the City Council meeting. The result of the meeting was that the Infill Building rates should more closely align with the City Hall rates absent outside factors. Subsequently, the Director looked at office rental rates in East Grand Forks. The building formerly occupied by the Gerard Neil law firm is available for about $10 per square foot. The Infill Building rents must recognize the competitive rates at that building. Mr. Galstad asked that the lease term be changed to 3 years. Based upon the availability of the Neil office space and the desire for a three-year term, the Director proposed a 37-month term to the tenant. He agreed. The Director also proposed the following lease rate, to which the tenant also agreed: Proposed Rates: December 1, 2023 – March 31,2024 $10.25 per square foot $(2921.25 per month) April 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025 $10.75 per square foot ($3063.75 per month) January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026 $11.25 per square foot ($3206.25 per month) Page | 2 February 28, 2024 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EAST GRAND FORKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA) (continued) He is recommending that the EDA approve the proposed lease and direct the President and Director to sign the lease on behalf of the EDA. A Motion was made to approve the lease, with the above terms, for Galstad Jenson McCan, by Board Member Horken, seconded by Board Member Larson; M/S/P- Horken, Larson; RCV: Black -Y, Larson-Y, Grinde -Y, Hecht-Y, Horken -Y, Helms-Y; 6-0, mc. b. Economic Development Strategy Update On January 30, 2024. About 24 people representing the EDA, City Council, and local businesses met about the economic development strategy which was based on the results of the October meeting. A summary of the meeting is in the packet. Board Member Lason asked if there had been any feedback on the meeting. EDD Gorte stated that the City Council had reviewed the summary as well. New Business a. Gate City Bank program renewal presentation EDD Gorte stated that they couldn’t be here today. b. Renewal of Realtor Listings for City-owned residential lots. EDD Gorte stated that it is time to renew the realtor listings for the City-owned residential lots for another two years. He feels that the realtors have been very helpful with the sale of the lots; 7 lots were sold in 2023. He has two questions: Should Lot 7 Block 1 Waters Edge First remain as part of the listing? This is the large, undeveloped lot at the northeast corner of 23rd Street NW and River Road NW. Should Lot 6 Block 2 Coulee View remain as part of the listing? This is the lot at the corner of 17th Ave SE and 13th Street SE. A Motion was made to include the two lots in question and approve the renewal of the realtor listings for two years, by Board Member Black, seconded by Board Member Hecht; M/S/P- Black, Hecht; RCV: Black -Y, Larson-Y, Grinde -Y, Hecht-Y, Horken -Y, Helms-Y; 6-0, mc. c. Forgivable COVID Loans EDD Gorte stated The three-year term for the forgivable COVID loans will end shortly for many of the loans. Mr. Galstad has provided a Satisfaction and informed the Director of the necessary actions that must occur provided the borrower has fulfilled the terms of the loans. A list of the loans for Round 1 of the program is in the packet. FD Anderson stated that EDD Gorte needs to include with the Satisfaction, a letter, which states that a 1099 will be sent out, because this will be considered income for 2024. EDD Gorte stated that he understood. Page | 3 February 28, 2024 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EAST GRAND FORKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA) (continued) d. RAISE Grant Letter of Support EDD Gorte informed the Board that East Grand Forks is working with Grand Forks, Polk County, and Grand Forks County to determine the location(s) for possible future bridges. A funding opportunity to pay for part of the costs of the preliminary work became available. The four partners agreed to seek funding for the grant. East Grand Forks, as the lead agency, asked for a letter of support. He prepared the letter for the signatures of the EDA President and the Director. A copy of the letter is in the packet. e. SBDC update EDD Gorte stated that as of mid-June the University of Minnesota Crookston will no longer host the local SBDC representative. She is expected to continue her work under contact with the Northwest Minnesota Foundation and be available for East Grand Forks clients. The EDA budgeted $5000 for the support of SBDC services in East Grand Forks. The money was expected to go to the program host: UMC. With the change in the service provider, the Director proposes to use half of the allocation to support the new service provider, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation. A Motion was made that half of the SBDC support funding in the EDA budget be allocated to the Northwest Minnesota Foundation rather than the University of Minnesota Crookston, by Board Member Black, seconded by Board Member Horken; M/S/P- Black, Horken; RCV: Black -Y, Larson-Y, Grinde -Y, Hecht-Y, Horken -Y, Helms-Y; 6-0, mc. f. Economic Development Director Skills and Qualifications EDD Gorte informed the Board, that based upon the input from the economic development strategy meeting in October 2023 and the follow-up meeting in January 2024, he has identified a list of skills and qualifications for the new Director. The list and the current job description are in the packet. CA Huttunen stated that he would like the City Council and the EDA Board to have a joint session at the March 26th work session for the City Council to talk over skills, strategy and to have a discussion to move the City forward and to have a candid conversation. President Grinde stated that he felt that a joint committee should be formed to come up with some of that before the Board meets with the City Council. A committee of Daniel Black, Justin Hecht, Barry Wilfahrt and Josh Grinde will be formed to come up with criteria. Board Member Helms stated he was in favor of that to come up with guidelines before the March 26th meeting. What we’re looking for in a new director, what we’d like to see done, etc. A Motion was made that a committee of Daniel Black, Justin Hecht, Barry Wilfahrt and Josh Grinde will be formed to come up with criteria for the Economic Director Position, by Board Member Black, seconded by Board Member Hecht; M/S/P- Black, Hecht; RCV: Black -Y, Larson-Y, Grinde -Y, Hecht-Y, Horken -Y, Helms-Y; 6-0, mc. Page | 4 February 28, 2024 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EAST GRAND FORKS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA) (continued) President Grinde asked if there was anything else before we adjourn. FD Anderson asked to address the Board, regarding the MN DEED Childcare Economic Development is awarding grants to be used to implement solutions to reduce childcare shortages in the state. She held a meeting, along with Brianna Feil, EGF Light & Water, on Monday. They have individuals interested in the grant. The state has identified a shortage of 200 spots needed in childcare. Individuals, businesses, and financial supporters need to get behind this issue, they will be looking for letters of support for the grant. Another round of this grant will be available in June or July. Anderson also talked about the EGF Area Childcare Fund (EGF Fund), which encompasses the territory included in the East Grand Forks School District. Recently the EGF Fund was established to provide an opportunity for people and businesses to make tax deductible gifts to help secure the future of our communities. The purpose and mission of this EGF Fund is to provide financial assistance to childcare providers in the form of startup costs, capital assistance, education, and continuing education. As part of the Special Project component of the EGF Fund, they have held a provider appreciation meal in the past, which is an event for childcare providers and early childhood educators. The EGF Area Childcare Fund is a component fund of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation (NMF), a public, charitable foundation promoting investment, collaboration, and philanthropy across 12 counties in northwest Minnesota. The EGF Fund provides opportunities to seek and leverage funding for childcare through state, federal and foundation grants, along with tax-deductible contributions from businesses and individuals in the community. 8. Adjournment Motion to adjourn the meeting was made at 12:40 by Board Member Black, was seconded by Board Member Hecht. M/S/P- Black, Hecht; mc. The next regular meeting is February 27, 2024. Respectfully Submitted, Brenda Ault, Executive Assistant Page | 5 Bills 03/05/2024 Account Number Vendor Description GL Date Check No Amount 620-49-870-42000 Timothy Riopelle Name Plate P. Stai 02/29/2024 42126 18.00 Report Total: 18.00 630-00-000-11140 EGF City Petty Cash Ckng Return of Security Deposit 03/05/2024 42093 367.75 630-00-000-11140 EGF City Petty Cash Ckng Security Deposit Refund After Cleaning 03/05/2024 42093 425.59 630-46-410-41510 League of MN Cities 2024 Worker's Comp Ins LMC 1000923-8 02/29/2024 42103 1,703.00 630-46-410-43200 Page 1 Publications, Inc. Sunshine Terrace Rental Notice 02/29/2024 42122 65.25 630-46-410-43610 League of MN Cities 2024 Municipality Liability Insurance LMC 100405-8 02/29/2024 42103 19,484.00 630-46-440-43190 SimplyMaid, Inc Cleaning at Sunshine Terrace 02/29/2024 42128 641.25 630-46-440-43190 Thur-O-Clean Custodial Services Sunshine Terrace 02/29/2024 42132 622.50 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-000/Sunshine Utilities/01/20/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 5,103.64 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-065/Sunshine 207/01/20/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 37.61 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-139/Sunshine 117/01/20/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 31.89 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-154/Sunshine 219/01/31/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 21.47 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-151/Sunshine 102/01/20/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 30.59 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-152/Sunshine 217/01/20/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 30.12 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-150/Sunshine 307/01/20/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 29.99 630-46-440-43800 Water & Light Department 005041-153/Sunshine 214/01/20/24-01/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 31.43 630-46-440-43800 Xcel Energy Acct 51-5171995-8 Sunshine Terrace 02/29/2024 42139 3,559.46 630-46-440-44000 Johnson Controls Repairs at Sunshine Terrace 02/29/2024 42100 3,072.56 630-46-440-44300 Page 1 Publications, Inc. Sunshine Terrace Rental Notice 02/29/2024 42122 65.25 Report Total: 35,323.35 682-46-503-43610 League of MN Cities 2024 Municipality Liability Insurance LMC 100405-8 02/29/2024 42103 3,252.00 682-46-503-43800 Midcontinent Communications Services at Infill Building 02/29/2024 42110 48.21 682-46-503-43800 Water & Light Department 005003-000/Infill/01/20/24-02/20/24 02/29/2024 42137 947.03 682-46-503-43800 Xcel Energy 302611407 - 411 2nd St NW 02/29/2024 42139 176.31 Report Total: 4,423.55 Bills 031924 Account Vendor Description GL Date Check No Amount 620-49-870-43100 Galstad Jensen & McCann PA EDA Civil Services Feb 2024 03/19/2024 42155 762.75 620-49-870-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Copier Lease Economic Development 03/19/2024 42194 83.08 620-49-870-44300 SJA Thunder Corp EDA Board Meal 02/29/2024 42187 136.91 Report Total: 982.74 630-46-410-43200 Allstream Long Distance Service 02/29/2024 42143 12.00 630-46-440-43190 Northland Yard Service Snow Removal at Sunshine Terrace 02/29/2024 42171 1,590.00 630-46-440-43190 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Cintas - Mats at Sunshine Terrace 03/19/2024 42194 171.29 630-46-440-43890 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Cable/Internet/Phone for Sunshine Terrace 03/19/2024 42194 395.86 630-46-440-44000 Marco Technologies LLC Copier Lease Sunshine Terrace 03/19/2024 42164 91.61 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Range Hood Filters 03/19/2024 42194 52.35 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Air Freshners 03/19/2024 42194 41.95 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Pest Control Sunshine Terrace 03/19/2024 42194 225.00 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Vinyl Floor Repair 03/19/2024 42194 71.24 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Fridge Gasket Repair 03/19/2024 42194 110.00 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Paint & Toilet Installation 03/19/2024 42194 178.86 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Smoke & CO2 Alarms 03/19/2024 42194 98.97 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Paint & Recycle Conditioner Additive 03/19/2024 42194 139.92 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Range Terminal Block & Cryer Repair Kit 03/19/2024 42194 54.95 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Dishwasher Solenoid Kit & Spare 03/19/2024 42194 120.00 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Toilet Repair Parts & Door Lock 03/19/2024 42194 52.15 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Bath Assist Bars & LED Bulbs 03/19/2024 42194 66.57 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Ceiling Paint & Humidifier 03/19/2024 42194 133.93 630-46-440-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Freezer Door Gasket Repair 03/19/2024 42194 60.00 630-46-440-44300 Verizon Wireless 9Cell#5814 S.Perez 03/19/2024 42196 41.24 Report Total: 3,707.89 682-46-503-43200 Allstream Long Distance Service 02/29/2024 42143 12.00 682-46-503-43200 Century Link #1635infilbldg Acct 333594128 03/19/2024 42148 49.73 682-46-503-44000 US Bank Corporate Payment Systems Pest Control Infill Building 03/19/2024 42194 110.00 682-46-503-44230 SJA Thunder Corp March Cleaning of Infill Building 03/19/2024 42187 600.00 Report Total: 771.73 MONTHLY REPORT February 2024 Working with the Businesses & Chamber • Worked with businesses o Hawkes Manufacturing: loan o Integrity Fundraisers: use of City brand for merchandise o Leisureland: possible loan for expansion o M & W Services: loan for expansion o Mayo Manufacturing: Border Cities tax credits; tax letters o MGI: workforce o Northdale Oil: EGF building o Valley Golf Association: Waters Edge covenants • Worked with Chamber President and staff on various items o Business After Hours o Intergovernmental Retreat; replaced by call with legislators • Participated in DEED Small Business Call • Worked with AE2S regarding social media, Facebook posts • Worked with Praxis on Strategy and next steps • Discussed future SBDC services after June • Worked with EDA Atorney regarding satisfactions of COVID forgivable loans • Participated in onboarding sessions for use of DEED programs for listing industrial properties • Participated in bimonthly CEDS update meeting • Participated in Mayor Gander meetings on economic development • Began compiling information for Finance regarding COVID forgivable loans Increasing Industrial Space – Land and Buildings • Talked with Russel Crary and Mike Delisle about possible industrial park space • Provided background information about possible EGF industrial parks to City Administrator Workforce (Northern Valley Careers, NWPIC) • No action Child Care • Worked with First Children’s Finance and local Team on childcare project • Conducted the monthly meeting • Tried to obtain information from Gold Childcare Center to complete grant report for First Children’s Finance • Provided letter of support for DEED Childcare Economic Development Grant application to the Northwest Minnesota Foundation • Met with Billie Zukowski about relocating her childcare business into East Grand Forks; zoning issues exist • Talked with Sarah Ellis about a loan for a childcare business; sent loan application Wave Academy • No action Residential Growth & Sale of City Lots • Provided information about City lots and incentives • Worked on Polk County Housing Advisory Board loans • Worked with realtors and public on lot sales • Renewed realtor listings (biannual) • Worked with Gate City Bank and Community Development Department about renewal of Home Improvement program and address the permitting issue; received permit notice from Building for applicant’s signatures • Responded to inquiry about the land around the golf course • Responded to inquiry about property tax rebate program • Responded to inquiry about Minnesota housing assistance programs Infill Building • Signed Galstad lease Infrastructure/Bridges • No action Other • Prepared reports and agendas • Submitted Empowering Small Minnesota Communities proposal • Participated in City Visioning Session • Signed and submitted RAISE grant (bridge) letter of support from EDA • Prepared list of Director job skills • Attended Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals Advisory Board meeting  MEMORANDUM Date March 26, 2024 To EDA From ED Director Subject 2024 Strategic Plan Update Praxis has been working with the EDA, City Council, Chamber, and the business community to update the EDA Strategic Plan. Attached is the draft plan. The updated Strategic Plan is designed to provide direction but be flexible to adjust as needed to accommodate the future. The Plan identifies priorities and core work areas. It also identifies actions where the EDA serves as the lead entity and other actions where the EDA supports broader, citywide actions. The City Council will discuss the Plan at its work session on March 26. The Council may also make edits. The EDA will need to hold a special meeting about two weeks from now to consider the updated Strategic Plan for adoption. The City Council will likely consider the Strategic Plan for adoption at its April 16 meeting. Recommendation: Review and revise as appropriate. East Grand Forks Economic Development Priorities and Work Plan March 2024 The purpose of the Strategic Plan is to provide direction for the EDA, the City Council, and other City departments while allowing flexibility to adjust to changed conditions. This strategic plan comprises two parts: 1) cross-cutting priorities that impact all of the City’s and EDA’s efforts and 2) set of core work areas that define economic development in East Grand Forks. This framework was created with input from local businesses, staff, EDA Board, Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Council. The m ission of the Economic Development Authority is to maintain and improve the economic vitality of East Grand Forks by doing the following: • By retaining & growing local businesses • By creating & supporting investment & growth opportunities for commercial activities • By creating & supporting opportunities for residential growth, including workforce housing • By working to develop a workforce capable of meeting current & future needs of local employers. Economic Development Strategic Priorities 1. Place highest priority on helping existing businesses grow. 2. Increase commercial real estate space and development sites. 3. Increase marketing and communications efforts for East Grand Forks. 4. Create explicit mechanisms to engage and cooperate with the local business community. 5. Continue to facilitate housing development in the city but discontinue direct land development projects by the EDA and devote capacity to other efforts. Current City-owned lots should be sold organically over time until stock is exhausted. 6. For the next EDA Executive Director, prioritize communication, coalition-building, and sales skills. Core Work Areas Local New Business Business The EDA’s economic development work is Development defined by four key work areas: Development 1. Local business development 2. New business development Connect 3. Connect / Convene / Communicate Land and Site Convene 4. Land and Site Development Development Communicate Local Business Development Support for existing businesses in East Grand Forks. • Local Business Retention / Expansion (including regular local business visits) • Administer and Coordinate Assistance Programs • Support Existing Retail EDA Specific Actions 1. Continue explicit business retention and expansion (BRE) visits and the new regular business needs meetings. Goal: at least two business contacts per month. 2. Continue targeted business financing programs and grants. City Specific Actions (EDA Support) 1. Create and support opportunities to draw customers to town, including events, governor’s fishing opener, concerts, youth sports tournaments, etc. 2. Support facilities – including sports – that host events and draw new customers to town 3. Leverage service clubs for events and outreach 4. Recommend signage and wayfinding for the city New Business Development Support for businesses new to East Grand Forks. • Business Attraction • Identify and Support Entrepreneurs • Continue advocacy and “sales” role, specifically targeting businesses in agriculture, UAS, medical, and retail sectors. EDA Specific Actions 1. Maintain a strong relationship with Grand Forks Region EDC and the Chamber of Commerce. 2. Assess factors why businesses choose North Dakota over Minnesota and create a strategy to address what is possible to change. 3. Collaborate with DEED to coordinate economic development opportunities. City Specific Actions (EDA Support) 1. Funnel economic development requests to the EDA. Connect / Convene / Communicate Play a coordination and capacity-building role to further important issues in East Grand Forks • Marketing Campaigns • Communications / Facilitation • Quality of Life Efforts • Maintain workforce partnerships and information EDA Specific Actions  1. Create a specific regular opportunity for EDA engagement with local businesses, such as a larger advisory committee. 2. Create a strategy to incentivize businesses to improve aesthetics. 3. Create a strategy to improve aesthetics for entrances to the city. 4. Identify outside resources to support City beatification efforts and other quality of life initiatives. City Specific Actions (EDA Support) 1. Assess marketing activities across City departments and coordinate where appropriate to maximize resources. 2. Play supporting role in City activities that support quality of life to retain existing and attract new residents. 3. Continue specific outreach regarding sales tax costs and benefits. 4. Support code enforcement activities. 5. Support adequate childcare availability in the community. Land and Site Development Facilitate development of critical real estate in East Grand Forks • Commercial and industrial land development • Housing development • Infrastructure planning and investment • City development policies and processes • City-owned land sales and disposition policies and processes EDA Specific Actions 1. Work to increase land available for industrial development. 2. Sell the existing residential lots held by the City. City Specific Actions (EDA Support) 1. Support the creation of a strategy for infrastructure assessment and development. 3. Support improvements to the City’s development agreement and land development processes and improve business friendliness where possible. Refine standards to reduce costs without reducing quality. 4. Assess access to utilities and services in industrial development areas: a. Power b. Natural gas c. Water d. Broadband and telecommunications e. Sanitary and storm sewer 5. Investigate partnerships to promote development of workforce housing, including home ownership and larger units for New American larger families.  MEMORANDUM Date March 26, 2024 To EDA From ED Director Subject Economic Development Director Job Description At its last meeting, the EDA received a list of skills needed by the Economic Development Director and the current job description. President Grinde appointed an ad hoc committee to review the job description and recommend revisions. The Committee met. Attached is its proposed job description. The City Council will discuss the job description at its work session on March 26. The Council may also make edits. The EDA will need to hold a special meeting about two weeks from now to consider the updated job description for adoption. The City Council will likely consider the job description for adoption at its April 16 meeting. Recommendation: Review and revise as appropriate. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Classification: Economic Development Director Department: Economic Development Authority Reports to: City Administrator Location: East Grand Forks City Hall Grade: FLSA Classification: Exempt Supervises: All Department Personnel Adopted: _____, 2024 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Position Summary Performs complex administrative leadership directing Economic Development programs that identify community needs to create, retain, and grow a vibrant business and economic community. Develops and implements plans and programs that create community, support and accommodate economic growth, and foster tax base growth in East Grand Forks. Has frequent interaction with business owners, developers, elected officials, administrators, and City department heads. Work is performed under the direction of the EDA Board of Directors with supervision from the City Administrator. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Professional Duties • Manage the overall operations of the Economic Development Authority (EDA). • Plans and implements Economic Development programs and policies, manages funds and properties controlled by the EDA. • Collaborates and provides support to grow a variety of economic development programs including, but not limited to, business growth & retention, childcare, workforce development, and housing development. • Meet with public officials, developers, businesses, and the public regarding development plans and Economic Development funding opportunities. • Foster relationships with developers and contractors to support expansion of available housing inventory. • Identifies potential grant and loan opportunities, and other funding sources, for local economic development projects, and makes applications for them. • Works with City businesses that already exist to strengthen them and assess their needs. • Manages available property and markets the City’s Industrial Park. • Establishes and maintains special tax districts. • Manages commercial development loan funds; reviews applications, makes funding recommendations to the EDA, and prepares loan documents. • Holds meetings, represents, and builds relationships with community partners to strengthen the EDA, including East Grand Forks business community, GF/EGF Chamber, Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation, Downtown Development Association, etc. • Prepares, maintains, and submits necessary reports and forms to the State, City elected bodies, and the EDA Board • Prepares financial reports and annual budgets for the EDA. • Ancillary Duties • Participates in a variety of meetings and trainings. • Other duties as assigned or apparent. The incumbent may encounter not public data in the course of these duties. Any access to not public data should be strictly limited to accessing the data that are necessary to fulfill the employment responsibility. While data are being accessed, incumbent should take reasonable measures to ensure the not public data are not accessed by individuals without a work reason. Once the work reason to access the data is reasonably finished, incumbent must properly store the not public data according to the provisions of the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13).  If a new work assignment requires access to not public data, the incumbent is permitted to access not public data for the work assignment purposes only. Any access to not public data must be strictly limited to the data necessary to complete the work assignment and after the assignment is completed, the employee’s work assignment no longer requires access. Qualifications Education: • Bachelor's degree with coursework in Business Administration, Community/Economic Development, Public Administration, or other areas of study closely related is required. • Two to three years of expereience working in economic development or related field is desired. • Or equivalent combination of education and experience Requirements: • Valid MN driver’s license required. • Applicable position, department, organization, and professional training will be provided and must be completed upon hire and on an ongoing basis. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities • Ability to work in a professional and confidential office environment. • Knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration. • Knowledge of economic development principles, programs, and practices. • Knowledge of relevant laws, ordinances, and program requirements. • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with government officials, business owners, developers, community groups, and the general public. • Ability to cooperate and communicate effectively with other city departments, community groups and agencies and the general public. • Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, both orally and in writing. • Ability to analyze service problems and participate effectively in solving them. • Ability to update and maintain EDA webpage, social media, and web-based forms. • Ability to operate standard office equipment and related hardware and software and to learn specialized software, systems, databases or equipment related to department need. • Ability to generate and present applicable records, reports, and files. • Ability to direct and support the work of subordinates. Physical Demands and Working Conditions • This is work requires the frequent exertion of up to 20 pounds of force; and constant exertion of up to 10 pounds of force to move objects; work regularly requires sitting, speaking or hearing, use of hands to finger, handle or feel and repetitive motions, frequently requires reaching with hands and arms and occasionally requires standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, pushing or pulling and lifting; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; visual acuity is required for depth perception, color perception, peripheral vision, for visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining accuracy, neatness and thoroughness at work, and observing general surroundings and activities; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data; operating machines, operating motor vehicles or equipment; work has no exposure to environmental conditions; work is generally in a moderately noisy location (e.g. business office, light traffic).  Equipment Utilized • General office equipment. • Computer word processing and spreadsheets.  City of East Grand Forks 600 DeMers Ave ∙ East Grand Forks, MN 56721 Administration Phone: 218-773-2483; www.egf.mn Reid Huttunen, City Administrator Direct Office Line: 218-399-3388 ∙ Email: RHuttunen@egf.mn March 18, 2024 EDA Director Seach Committee - EDA Board Members: Josh Grinde, Justin Hecht, & Brian Larson, - Chamber CEO: Barry Wilfahrt - City Administrator: Reid Huttunen Review of current Job Description and suggested edits/updates. - Committee reviewed the current job description and proposed updates or changes to the job description to align with the desired essential functions, qualifications, and knowledge/skills for the position. - Mr. Huttunen will make the recommended updates and will submit to David Drown & Associations (DDA), Human Resources Management Consultant for review of the position description and recommendation of a salary range on the City’s 2024 pay plan. - DDA will also conduct a summary review of the Market comparison for Economic Development Director positions in comparable City’s in MN and use that data in recommending a salary range. Top priorities for the EDA search as identified by the committee: 1. Ability to build relationships with businesses and community partners to retain businesses and help businesses grow. 2. Knowledge of EDA programs and available funding opportunities. 3. Experience and ability to write grant applications and funding requests. 4. Promote and market city programs through EDA webpage and social media. EDA Search Process: - In 2014, the EDA hired Springsted (now BakerTily) to conduct an executive search. The search cost $16,335.99 and resulted in 19 applications for the position, of those 10 met the criteria for an interview. - The committee discussed the search process. General feeling from the discussion is that we should develop an updated position and community profile, and the City HR Department manage the advertisement and recruitment. The hired search firm would cost about $20,000 to conduct and does not guarantee applicants or successful results. If the initial job posting closes and receives no qualified applicants, we could reconsider a national search firm be hired at that time. Timeline: - Week of April 8: EDA review and final approval of Job Description/Position profile - April 16: City Council approval of Job Description/Position profile - April/May – Post advertisement for position (4 weeks) - June/July: interview candidates in two rounds: o Round 1) Civil Service Round 2) EDA Board/Committee - Early August: New Economic Development Director begins role. The ideal plan is for two weeks overlap with Mr. Gorte before his retirement (August 23, 2024). City of East Grand Forks 600 DeMers Ave; East Grand Forks, MN 56721 Phone (218)773-2483; Webpage: www.egf.mn KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES 1. Thorough working knowledge of the principles, prac�ces, and procedures of economic development. 2. Ability to organize and coordinate support from professional and technical City staff, legal consultants, other government agencies, private business, and the financial services industry. 3. Ability to analyze the economics of a par�cular business loca�on or expansion project, so as to make independent judgments about the effec�veness of financial assistance or inducements. 4. Ability to establish and maintain contacts and effec�ve working rela�onships with poten�al business clients. 5. Ability to communicate effectively. 6. Ability to understand the needs of the business community and the City. 7. Ability to understand and administer assistance programs, such as revolving loan funds and grants. 8. Ability to administer a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program. 9. Ability to understand what fits within the community and what does not fit. 10. Working knowledge of the development process. 11. Working knowledge of marketing. 12. Working knowledge of workforce. 13. Personal characteristics: a. Adaptability and flexibility. b. Discretion. c. Tact. d. Honesty and integrity. e. Professional demeanor. f. Patience. g. Sense of urgency and inclination toward action. h. Team player. i. Cheerleader. QUALIFICATIONS 1. Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administra�on, Business Administra�on, or a closely related field highly desirable. 2. Minimum of three years of experience working in economic development, preferably at the local government level. 3. A demonstrated record of ongoing con�nuing educa�on in economic development.  MEMORANDUM Date March 26, 2024 To EDA From ED Director Subject M & W Services Loan Request M & W Services wants to construct a new building on Business Highway 2 to house equipment for its business (Fert-L-Lawn). This is a $330,000 project M & W Services proposes to use $110,000 in owner equity, $110,000 in bank loans, and $110,000 in EDA loans. The EDA loan would be at an annual interest rate of 4% for a term of 10 years. On March 20, the Loan Committee recommended approval of the loan. Recommendation: Recommend that the City Council approve a loan of $110,000 to M & W Services at 4% interest for a term of 10 years.  MEMORANDUM Date March 26, 2024 To EDA From ED Director Subject Pierce Land Sale Proposal Kevin Pierce read about the City’s desire to increase the amount of commercial property available for use. Pierce submitted a proposal for the EDA/City to purchase 5-15 acres along the north side of Highway 2 at $4.00 per square foot. The Loan Committee considered this proposal and recommended against the purchase based upon the land price and the lack of available funds. The Economic Development Director is always willing to work with landowners to create development opportunities. Recommendation: That the EDA discuss and provide direction to the Director.  MEMORANDUM Date March 26, 2024 To EDA From ED Director Subject Promise Act Grant Program The Northwest Minnesota Foundation (NMF) recently informed the Director that there will be a new grant program to assist small businesses. Details will be forthcoming. NMF asked the EDA to help inform the businesses and offered a small stipend to defray any costs. The Director informed the NMF that he act to inform the businesses about the program. He will share the information with the EDA as it becomes available. Recommendation: Discuss.