City of Northfield Economic Development Authority 2009 Work Plan
Adopted February 12, 2009
Introduction The Northfield Economic Development Authority, or EDA, was created by the City Council in September 1990 under Minnesota Statute Chapter 469. The EDA is charged with carrying out economic and industrial development and redevelopment within the city. It is governed by a seven-member board consisting of two Council members and five Council-approved members. The Board’s broad range of powers is detailed in Minnesota Statute 469.101. With the exception of workforce and training, the Northfield EDA is authorized to conduct all of the traditional activities associated with economic development (see box).
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUNCTIONS Economic development organizations are expected to perform some or all of the functions listed below. Checkmarks (√) indicate areas of special emphasis. They are based on the orientation of this plan and are, in varying degrees, essential if action is to be taken.
Marketing and recruitment (targeted industries) √√ Business advocacy Business expansion and retention (targeted industries) √ Financial incentives Real estate disposition and improvements √√√ Land and buildings
Bonding authority Northfield’s level of commercial and industrial Infrastructure improvements businesses influences its long-term economic Business start-up support √√ vitality. A strong base of commercial and industrial businesses provides jobs for the residents and shares the cost of city services with the residential sector. The combination of more widely distributed costs coupled with greater employment opportunities brings prosperity to a community.
In recognition of the benefits of a vibrant commercial and industrial base, Northfield’s City Council members have consistently developed policies that support economic development. As a feature of their annual goal setting sessions, the City Council members regularly adopt goals to increase the amount of commercial and industrial tax base. One of the most important factors in achieving the City Council’s goals for a stronger commercial tax base and expanded job opportunities is the preparation and implementation of a comprehensive plan for generating economic growth. Such a plan should include well-thought out strategies that take into account the current economic environment and proximity to the Minneapolis/St. Paul - Rochester Metropolitan area. An inclusive plan will also acknowledge those factors affecting the economies of Minnesota, the Upper Midwest and the U.S. The “Economic Development Work Plan” is a plan that outlines the EDA’s initiatives and the strategies that will be implemented to achieve their desired goals. The plan is executed through the use of a consistent message to businesses on the strengths of Northfield.
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
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Successful City Economic Development Actions Northfield’s EDA adopted a Comprehensive Economic Development Plan in 2006 which serves as the foundation for its operations. That plan examined the City’s assets and financial incentives programs needed to accomplish its economic development initiatives. The result has been a measurable increase in the City’s tax base and employment levels. The City’s capital improvement plans have included an extension of infrastructure into commercial and industrial areas to enable new and existing business growth. More recently, the City Council has taken steps to create more available commercial and industrial sites through the pending annexation of 530 acres of land NW of the City. The availability of new land is essential for creating a sustainable community. To effectively market the advantages of Northfield to business prospects nationwide, the City will continue to work jointly with its economic development partners: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), Rice County Economic Development, Xcel Energy, Northfield City staff, Northfield Enterprise Center (NEC), Northfield Chamber of Commerce, and the Northfield Downtown Development Corporation (NDDC). Through its relationships with partner organizations and the combined activities of the Community Development, Planning, and Economic Development Division, the City of Northfield has the unique ability to serve as a “One Stop Shop” for development. These relationships enable the City to provide businesses with a comprehensive array of information and development tools which will be refined through the initiatives outlined in the 2009 EDA Work Plan. Access to financial incentives, assembling developable land, generating business leads, and creating synergies within the existing business community all help to facilitate a positive environment to business growth. The combination of these assets position the City to be the most efficient first point of contact for persons and businesses hoping to expand, start-up or relocate in Northfield. In turn, the City is best equipped to manage the development process in a consistent and sustainable manner that will enhance the chances of success for both private investors and public stakeholders. The EDA has developed and strengthened its relationships with all economic development partner organizations (i.e. Northfield staff and elected officials, NEC, Chamber of Commerce NDDC, Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), Dakota Futures, Rice County, Xcel Energy, and DEED). The EDA Board will meet with the Northfield City Council in February to introduce the 2009 work plan and provide quarterly reports throughout the year to keep the Council abreast of the EDA’s economic development initiatives.
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Assets of Northfield for Economic Development Northfield offers many unique assets to existing and new business prospects. Northfield is situated just east of interstate I-35 with State Highways 19 and 3 dissecting the community. Coupled with its proximity to Minneapolis/St. Paul and Rochester makes Northfield a strategically correct choice for new and expanding businesses seeking to benefit from the lower costs associated with conducting their business. Carleton and St. Olaf Colleges enjoy an outstanding scholastic reputation nationally and internationally. The Northfield Community School District is known within the State and the Midwest for an exemplary and balanced curricular and co-curricular program designed to meet the needs of all students. The local and regional recreational and cultural opportunities come together in Northfield to increase the quality of life for current residents while also serving as a powerful attraction for new families. Over the last decade there has been a wide range of positive events taking place in and around Northfield. The level of residential construction has created economic activity for the community while creating excellent housing opportunities for a skilled workforce that appeals to growing businesses. Existing businesses in Northfield are experiencing success due in large part to a readily available and qualified workforce coupled with logistical advantages in spite of national business trends. The potential for development activity surrounding the NW and SW proposed annexation areas brings the promise of economic growth to Northfield. Northfield EDA Comprehensive Economic Development Plan
June 2006
TIP took an asset-based approach to this work, focusing on strategies designed to maximize Northfield’s existing advantages. We began by conducting an economic assessment of the community, (published under separate cover). In addition to this quantitative analysis, our work was informed by interviews with local businesses and community leaders, as well as with developers and others in the Twin Cities region. The findings from this phase, refined based on input from stakeholder meetings held in November 2005 and January 2006, provided the foundation for this plan. The following table highlights Northfield’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, commonly referred to as a SWOT analysis. Broadly speaking, economic development strategies emerge directly from the SWOT analysis. Weaknesses – even if not directly related to economic development – must be addressed, and strengths must be supported and reinforced. Similarly, threats to the economic well-being of the community must be anticipated and responded to before they become crises. Opportunities, on the other hand, should be acted upon aggressively and, if possible, collaboratively.
Strengths Highly Educated Workforce Authentic Downtown Presence of St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges Growing Healthcare Sector Weaknesses Lack of Industrial Space and Land Resources Low Rates of Retention of Local College Graduates
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
Opportunities Riverfront Development Medical and Related Industries Business Expansion out Minneapolis/St. Paul Expansion of Existing Businesses
Threats “Suburbanization” of Northfield Loss of Independent Retail Downtown
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City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority 2009 Committee Assignments Infill and Redevelopment
Marketing
Business Park Development
Business Retention and Expansion
Programs, Processes, and Procedures
Jody Gunderson, Dir.
Fed/State/Cnty
Rick Estenson, Pres.
Member
Rhonda Pownell, S/T
Lead Member
Jim Pokorney Dave Van Wylen Marty Benson
NEC
Lead
Steve Engler, V.P.
Victor Summa
Additional Responsibility
Member
Lead
Member
Transportation CVB
Member
Member
NDDC
Member
Member
CVN
Lead
Member
Fiber Optic
Member
Member
Chamber
Support Organization NEC NDDC Chamber of Commerce
Blake Abdella Ross Currier
Julie Bixby
David Ludescher
Kathy Feldbrugge
Jeff Hasse
School District
Tom Stringer
Planning Commission
Alice Thomas
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
Blake Abdella Co-lead Ross Currier Co-lead Kathy Feldbrugge
Blake Abdella Ross Currier Jim Gleason
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Economic Development Authority (EDA) WORK PLAN 2009 INFILL AND REDEVELOPMENT Subcommittee
Dave Van Wylen (Lead), Victor Summa, Marty Benson
Support Organizations
Ross Currier, Kathy Feldbrugge, Blake Abdella
Description
Since its inception, the EDA has served as the lead agency responsible for redevelopment and/or infill of property that is located within the City of Northfield. This initiative focuses on both existing and new business development within currently established business zones. Infill and redevelopment will assist the City in its efforts to maximize existing infrastructure, and thus lowering development costs for businesses as well as maintenance and operating cost to the City. Infill and redevelopment initiatives help cities intensify development and limit expansion into open green space. Additionally, one key benefit to fostering new business expansion and development is that it will ultimately spread the tax burden amongst a larger tax base, thus lowering the tax burden for existing commercial, industrial, and residential properties. Working with its economic development partners, the infill and redevelopment committee will:
Strategy
Measurement
Build and maintain an inventory of Northfield’s infill and redevelopment land and buildings. The committee will gather information important for the development of the sites such as: access to and condition of infrastructure, surrounding land use, ability to assemble adjoining properties, proximity to flood plain, wild and scenic and shore land regulations, buildable areas analysis, economic and functional obsolescence, condition of property/building, lot platted status, access to fiber optic infrastructure, access management and traffic volumes, potential environmental issues, and valuation of property (land and building) Assist EDA’s marketing and public relations subcommittee with the development of a web based marketing platform for Northfield’s available lease space, infill, and redevelopment properties. This marketing resource will be developed for use by the EDA’s economic development partners Support development of the NDDC’s Downtown Master Plan initiative Evaluate the need for an Uptown Master Plan (South Highway 3) Provide recommendations to the EDA’s subcommittees on issues related to financial assistance programming, possible property acquisitions, potential development opportunities, and other issues that will assist the EDA carry out its infill and redevelopment initiative Identify obstacles to infill and redevelopment and recommend potential solutions to governing bodies and share with Programs, Processes, and Procedures subcommittee Seek input on a case by case basis from other organizations or professionals that will assist the EDA in advancing its infill and redevelopment initiatives Create and maintain inventory of infill and redevelopment sites and available lease space Assist in the development of an effective web based marketing platform for infill, redevelopment, and leasable space Identify obstacles and opportunities and seek out methods to remove development barriers and enhance opportunities Provide recommendations to EDA Board regarding potential funding mechanisms that would assist in advancing the infill and redevelopment initiative Provide recommendations to EDA’s subcommittees on issues related to financial assistance programming, possible property acquisitions and potential development opportunities Identify potential investors, developers, end-users
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Economic Development Authority (EDA) WORK PLAN 2009
MARKETING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS Subcommittee
Rhonda Pownell (Lead), Victor Summa, Jim Pokorney
Support Organizations
Julie Bixby (NDDC), Kathy Feldbrugge (Chamber), Blake Abdella (NEC)
Description
In order to effectively convey Northfield’s business advantages, it is essential that marketing materials be developed delineating those attributes that differentiate this community from others. This applies to both new and existing business development. It is especially important that the visual appearance and content convey a professional message which speaks to the issues important to companies and does not conflict with the desired message of Northfield’s elected officials and economic development partners. Site selectors for companies continue to emphasize the importance of accessing a wide array of useful information from a community’s website. The website has become the primary source of information for site selectors followed by collateral marketing literature. It is important to note that existing businesses often use the City’s marketing material to recruit employees and other companies that may enhance their local operations.
Strategy
Working with its economic development partners, the Marketing and Public Relations subcommittee will: Evaluate the Comprehensive Economic Development Plan (TIP Strategies, June 2006) to ensure that the assertions and conclusions made in the report are still appropriate for 2009 economic conditions. The Committee will use the Plan as the foundation of its marketing initiatives Make improvements to the City’s website that will serve a couple of important functions: (1) It will be the first source of information for those companies, site selectors, and economic development partners gathering information about Northfield; (2) The website will be monitored to evaluate the level of activity (unique visits) within the economic development area of the website, where the visit originated, and the time spent reviewing information Develop a detailed marketing plan as an addendum to the EDA’s 2009 Work Plan. The marketing plan will provide greater detail to the strategy that will be undertaken in order to achieve the EDA’s stated objectives. Additionally, the Director will develop a detailed budget for each marketing initiative, and the strategy which will be undertaken Seek out opportunities to network with St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges;’ staff and alumni organizations Meet and evaluate the credentials of the marketing firms/publishers which will produce the economic development brochure and other marketing materials Explore other local promotional opportunities
Measurement
Evaluation and potential changes to EDA’s 2006 Comprehensive Economic Development Plan Improvements made to City’s web site Develop community marketing brochure Begin targeted business recruitment program Continued attendance at CVN Forums Investigate other local promotional opportunities Meet regularly with Federal, State, and County officials
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Economic Development Authority (EDA) WORK PLAN 2009
BUSINESS PARK DEVELOPMENT– NW ANNEXATION TERRITORY Subcommittee
Rick Estenson (Lead), Jim Pokorney, Steve Engler
Support Organizations
Jeff Hasse (Chamber), Tom Stringer (School District)
Description
The EDA has been the lead organization exploring alternatives for the development of a third Business and Industrial Park for the City of Northfield. The development of a new business park will serve a number of functions: (1) provide adequate options to attract new and expanding companies; (2) provide a location for prospects requiring larger tracts of land; (3) create locations for expansion of existing companies; (4) create an opportunity for the City to better control its land use planning for certain business types (i.e. Light Industrial, Office Commercial, Research). Successful efforts to attract new or expanding businesses will broaden the tax base; reducing the overall tax burden for existing commercial, industrial, and residential properties. In 2008, the EDA enlisted the services of Dunbar Development to provide two separate scenarios for the future development of a third Northfield business park. The study concluded that the City should proceed with the annexation of property in the NW and SW quadrants of the City. Included in their analysis was the typical staging and costs associated with the preparation of potential site(s). In November of 2008, the City of Northfield tentatively reached an agreement with Greenvale Township to annex approximately 530 acres of land located NW of the City’s corporate limits. The annexation of this property is expected to be finalized by April of 2009. The goal of this initiative is to provide “shovel ready” sites for existing and new business expansion. Working with its economic development partners, the Business Park Development subcommittee will:
Strategy
Measurement
Assist the City in any manner appropriate to ensure the timely annexation of NW Territory Meet with Dunbar Development to discuss their remaining contractual obligations with the EDA (i.e. mutual rights agreements and meetings with petitioning property owners), and update the EDA Board Conduct meeting with Dunbar, affected landowners and representatives of the City to discuss aspects of a mutual rights agreement Develop a draft mutual rights agreement based upon the input provided by the landowners and their representatives. The agreement will delineate the expectations of the EDA and the property owners seeking to annex their property into the City. The draft agreement will be presented to the EDA Board for consideration prior to it being presented to the affected property owners Work with City staff and representatives of Planning Commission to identify potential consulting firms who will be asked to submit proposals to assist in preparing the master plan for the NW Territory Work with City staff and representatives of the Planning Commission to review consultant proposals and provide a recommendation to the EDA Board Will work with City staff and the consultant firm to advance all aspects of the master plan for the NW territory which will conclude with a recommendation to the EDA Board Will work with City staff and the consultant firm to produce an estimate of the costs associated with the development and a strategy for financing the infrastructure Meet with Dunbar Development to conclude remaining issues in their contract Develop and enter into agreement with affected property owners Develop request for proposal for the NW Territory Master Plan development Hire consultant to conduct master plan of NW Territory Complete master plan of NW Territory
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Economic Development Authority (EDA) WORK PLAN 2009
BUSINESS PARK DEVELOPMENT – OTHER AREAS Subcommittee:
Rick Estenson (Lead), Jim Pokorney, Steve Engler
Support Organizations:
Jeff Hasse (Chamber), Tom Stringer (School District)
Description
In September of 2008, a meeting was held at City Hall with representatives of the EDA, City staff, Mr. Robert Gill, Mr. Kenneth Prawer, and engineers representing the owners to discuss their interest in annexing property into the City. The property in question is located SW of Northfield adjacent to the city’s existing industrial development south of Armstrong Road. The property owners were aware of the City’s interest in identifying new business and industrial development property and believed both parties had a stake in the preparation of a concept plan. Properties seeking to be annexed into the City of Northfield are required to develop a concept plan in order to be considered for annexation by the Planning Commission and the City Council. Engineers representing the property owners estimated the cost of preparing the concept plan at about $12,000. The property owners requested financial assistance from the EDA for the preparation of the concept planning, and the EDA Board approved participating in the financing of the concept plan in an amount not to exceed $4,000. Northfield’s City staff and EDA representatives have attended a number of meetings with representatives of the property owners in an effort to assist the property owners prepare a concept plan for formal consideration. Working with its economic development partners, the Business Park Development subcommittee will:
Strategy
Measurement
Continue to work with landowners to determine whether and how to proceed Continue to work with property owners and City staff to ensure that any concept plan developed for the purpose of annexation is consistent with the desires of the property owners and the City Participate in meetings with the Township, City Council, Planning Commission, and neighboring properties to assist in the facilitation of annexation Interact with other State agencies including MnDOT and Mn DNR Assist City and property owners prepare for master plan development if and when appropriate Evaluate other areas along the Highway 3 corridor suitable for business park development Continue to work with Mr. Prawer and Gill to determine whether and how to proceed with annexation Attend and facilitate meetings with interested parties to engage them in the discussion of issues involving possible annexation Prepare information important to advancing annexation and business park development Work with property owners and City staff to prepare for master planning of property when appropriate
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Economic Development Authority (EDA) WORK PLAN 2009
BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION Subcommittee:
Ross Currier, NDDC; Kathy Feldbrugge, Chamber (Co-Lead)
Support Organizations:
Steve Engler, David Van Wylen, Marty Benson, EDA; Blake Abdella, NEC
Description
A healthy and vibrant local economy depends largely on the well-being of a community’s existing businesses. The growth and survival of those firms can be viewed as a measure of the community’s economic environment and the local support provided by its economic development partners. It is much easier and cost effective to retain a business than it is to recruit a new company. National statistics indicate 60-80% of job creation occurs within the existing business sector. When businesses stay and expand in a community, it speaks well of the political and economic environment, and will assist the City in its recruitment of new companies. It is imperative for the EDA to be aware of the financial condition of its existing businesses so that it can provide support, if necessary. The EDA and its economic development partners need to have a well developed Business Retention and Expansion program (BR&E) to respond quickly to the needs of Northfield’s business community. It is important to note that firms which are considering moving to a community often speak to existing firms about the level of support they’ve received from the community before making site specific decisions.
Strategy
The EDA will develop and/or expand existing data base information to track the economic condition and concerns of local employers The EDA will explore other potential growth opportunities during business visits as well as discuss issues which affect their day-to-day operations The EDA shall serve as a resource for local companies and a conduit to their business solutions Efforts will be undertaken to champion and acknowledge the positive impact local companies have on Northfield’s economic health As a part of its business retention and expansion program, the EDA will elicit information from local business leaders about what can be done to improve the overall quality of life for its employees The EDA and its economic development partners will seek out opportunities to network with St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges’ alumni, staff, and families.
Measurement
Enhance local business database to track local business conditions Coordinate and jointly attend business visits with Northfield Chamber of Commerce and NDDC Help solve immediate business concerns; connect appropriate City Staff to assist in understanding the needs of the company and attempt to provide solutions Demonstrate community support for local firms through the use of press and other publications
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Economic Development Authority (EDA) WORK PLAN 2009 PROGRAMS, PROCESSES, AND PROCEDURES Subcommittee :
Steve Engler (Lead), Victor Summa, Rhonda Pownell
Support Organizations:
NEC, NDDC, and Chamber of Commerce
Description
The Northfield City Council has assigned the EDA the responsibility of managing and promoting economic development activity for the City of Northfield. The EDA continues to serve as the lead agency reviewing financial assistance applications for the Downtown Revolving Loan Fund and the Micro Grant program. The Board also provides recommendations to the Northfield City Council on projects seeking to utilize funds from the Master Plan District. In recent years, it has become apparent that the current criteria used to qualify businesses for financial assistance may be too narrowly focused toward hard development costs, and an evaluation of the funding criteria might be warranted. The EDA has not had a clear policy as to when a project qualifies for financial consideration, and, if so, at what level. The development of a financial incentive “Tool Box” would assist the EDA make determinations on what type of assistance would be offered to a particular prospect and what criteria would be used to determine the amount of financial assistance. As a part of the City’s annual budgeting process, the EDA is required by state statute to submit a budget to the City Council for review and approval. Prior to submitting a budget request to the City Council, the EDA board examines its economic development programming, financial assistance programs, and makes adjustments if warranted. Working with its economic development partners, the Programs, Processes, and Procedure subcommittee will:
Strategy
Measurement
Review and evaluate the effectiveness of the EDA’s funding programs and recommend changes if necessary Examine and develop, as needed, new financial programs with criteria addressing the immediate needs of new and existing businesses Create a process to effectively navigate end users to appropriate programs Identify and delineate all local, state, regional, and federal programs and resources the EDA may employ to advance its economic development initiatives “Tool Box” Identify and pursue grants and other funding opportunities for EDA’s initiatives Develop a rolling 3 to 5 year funding plan for the Northfield Economic Development Authority Develop a Guide to Starting a Business in Northfield; a Guide for Locating a Business to Northfield Explore future programming initiatives for the EDA Identify obstacles to development and recommend potential solutions to governing bodies Meet regularly with Federal, State, County, and local officials to apprise them of the City’s economic development initiatives Review EDA’s current Board handbook and make appropriate changes Evaluate the EDA’s economic development programs and present proposed changes to the EDA Board Identify and delineate all local, state, regional, and federal programs and resources the EDA may employ to advance its economic development initiatives “Tool Box” Identify and pursue grants and other funding opportunities for EDA’s initiatives Meet with officials of both St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges and continue to work toward identifying areas of common interests Identify obstacles to development and recommend potential solutions to governing bodies The EDA will review its bylaws and processes to ensure that they comply with City and State statute Review and recommend 2010 Budget
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Northfield Economic Development Authority 2009 Operating Budget Northfield Economic Development Authority Board Members • Rick Estenson • Marty Benson • Victor Summa • Dave Van Wylen • Steve Engler • Jim Pokorney, City Council Representative • Rhonda Pownell, City Council Representative
HISTORY OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY The Northfield Economic Development Authority (EDA) was created in 1990 with the expressed intent of improving the economic conditions of Northfield’s business and residents. Its primary mission is to recruit, expand, and retain businesses that are appropriate for the community. One of the major goals of the EDA is the expansion of the City’s tax base and the creation and retention of job opportunities for the citizens of Northfield. The commission consists of seven members, appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. Each member serves a six-year term. There are no term limits. Members do not receive monetary compensation. BUDGET SUMMARY Projected Revenue Tax Levy Interest Earnings Application Fees Undesignated Reserve Fund Transfer
Projected Expenditures $238,500.00 $ 22,700.00 $ 450.00 $183,134.00
Personnel Supplies Other Services Other Charges • Dues, memberships • Business Park
$ 65,498.00 $ 780.00 $ 23,780.00 $ 4,500.00 $107,813.00
• Infill/Redevelopment,
$107,813.00
Marketing & Public Relations
Total
$444, 784.00
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
• Relationship, Communications NEC, NDDC, Chamber, SMIF
$104,600.00
• Micro Grant
$ 30,000.00 Total
$444, 784.00
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2009 Work Plan Timeline
Appendix A................................................................ Infill and Redevelopment Appendix B ...................................................... Marketing and Public Relations Appendix C............................... Businesses Park Development (NW Territory) Appendix D..................................Businesses Park Development (Other Areas) Appendix E .................................................. Business Retention and Expansion Appendix F .............................................. Programs, Processes, and Procedures
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2009 Work Plan Schedule INFILL AND REDEVELOPMENT Project Phase
starting
ending
Status
Issues
Recommendations
Build and maintain an inventory of Northfield’s infill and redevelopment land and buildings. The committee will gather information important for the development of the sites such as: access to and condition of infrastructure, surrounding land use, ability to assemble adjoining properties, proximity to flood plain, wild and scenic and shore land regulations, buildable areas analysis, economic and functional obsolescence, condition of property/building, lot platted status, access to fiber optic infrastructure, access management and traffic volumes, potential environmental issues, and valuation of property (land and building) Assist EDA’s marketing and public relations subcommittee with the development of a web based marketing platform for Northfield’s available lease space, infill, and redevelopment properties. This marketing resource will be developed for use by the EDA’s economic development partners Support development of the NDDC’s Downtown Master Plan initiative Evaluate the need for an Uptown Master Plan (South Highway 3) Provide recommendations to the EDA’s subcommittees on issues related to financial assistance programming, possible property acquisitions, potential development opportunities, and other issues that will assist the EDA carry out its infill and redevelopment initiative Identify obstacles to infill and redevelopment and recommend potential solutions to governing bodies and share with Programs, Processes, and Procedures subcommittee Seek input on a case by case basis from other organizations or professionals that will assist the EDA in advancing its infill and redevelopment initiatives
Jan
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Build and maintain an inventory of Northfield’s infill and redevelopment land and buildings. Assist EDA’s marketing and public relations subcommittee with the development of a web based marketing platform Support development of the NDDC’s Downtown Master Plan initiative Evaluate the need for an Uptown Master Plan (South Highway 3) Provide recommendations to the EDA’s subcommittees on issues related to financial assistance programming, Identify obstacles to infill and redevelopment and recommend potential solutions to governing bodies Seek input on a case by case basis from other organizations or professionals that will assist the EDA in advancing its infill and redevelopment initiatives
On schedule
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
On hold/stalled
Potential problem
Appendix
A
2009 Work Plan Schedule MARKETING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS Project Phase
starting
ending
Status
Issues
Recommendations
Evaluate the Comprehensive Economic Development Plan (TIP Strategies, June 2006) to ensure that the assertions and conclusions made in the report are still appropriate for 2009 economic conditions. The Committee will use the Plan as the foundation of its marketing initiatives Make improvements to the City’s website that will serve a couple of important functions: (1) It will be the first source of information for those companies, site selectors, and economic development partners gathering information about Northfield; (2) The website will be monitored to evaluate the level of activity (unique visits) within the economic development area of the website, where the visit originated, and the time spent reviewing information Develop a detailed marketing plan as an addendum to the EDA’s 2009 Work Plan. The marketing plan will provide greater detail to the strategy that will be undertaken in order to achieve the EDA’s stated objectives. Additionally, the Director will develop a detailed budget for each marketing initiative, and the strategy which will be undertaken Seek out opportunities to network with St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges’ staff and other alumni organizations Meet and evaluate the credentials of the marketing firms/publishers which will produce the economic development brochure Explore other local promotional opportunities
Jan
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Evaluation and potential changes to EDA’s 2006 Comprehensive Economic Development Plan Improvements made to City’s web site Develop community marketing brochure Begin targeted business recruitment program Continued attendance at CVN Forums Investigate other local promotional opportunities Meet regularly with Federal, State, and County officials
On schedule
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
On hold/stalled
Potential problem
Appendix
B
2009 Work Plan Schedule BUSINESS PARK DEVELOPMENT – NW TERRITORY Project Phase
starting
ending
Status
Issues
Recommendations
Assist the City in any manner appropriate to ensure the timely annexation of NW Territory Meet with Dunbar Development to discuss their remaining contractual obligations with the EDA (i.e. mutual rights agreement and meetings with petitioning property owners) and update the EDA Board Conduct meeting with Dunbar, affected landowners and representatives of the City to discuss aspects of a mutual rights agreement Develop a draft mutual rights agreement based upon the input provided by the landowners and their representatives. The agreement will delineate the expectations of the EDA and the property owners seeking to annex their property into the City. The draft agreement will be presented to the EDA Board for consideration prior to it being presented to the affected property owners Work with City staff and representatives of the Planning Commission to identify potential consulting firms who will be asked to submit proposals to assist in preparing the master plan for the NW Territory Work with City staff and representatives of the Planning Commission to review consultant proposals and provide a recommendation to the EDA Board Work with City staff and the consultant firm to advance all aspects of the master plan for the NW territory which will conclude with a recommendation to the EDA Board Work with City staff and the consultant firm to produce an estimate of the costs associated with the development and a strategy for financing the infrastructure
Jan
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Meet with Dunbar Development to conclude remaining issues in their contract Develop and enter into agreement with affected property owners Develop request for proposal for the NW Territory Master Plan development Hire consultant to conduct master plan of NW Territory Complete master plan of NW Territory
On schedule
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
On hold/stalled
Potential problem
Appendix
C
2009 Work Plan Schedule BUSINESS PARK DEVELOPMENT – OTHER AREAS Project Phase
starting
ending
Status
Issues
Recommendations
Continue to work with landowners to determine whether and how to proceed Continue to work with property owners and City staff to ensure that any concept plan developed for the purpose of annexation is consistent with the desires of the property owners and the City Participate in meetings with the Township, City Council, Planning Commission, and neighboring properties to assist in the facilitation of annexation Interact with other State agencies including MnDOT and Mn DNR Assist City and property owners prepare for master plan development if and when appropriate Evaluate other areas along the Highway 3 corridor suitable for business park development
Jan
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Continue to work with landowners to determine whether and how to proceed Continue to work with property owners and City staff to ensure that any concept plan developed for the purpose of annexation is consistent with the desires of the property owners and the City Participate in meetings with the Township, City Council, Planning Commission, and neighboring properties to assist in the facilitation of annexation Prepare information important to advancing annexation and business park development Evaluate other areas along the Highway 3 corridor suitable for business park development
On schedule
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
On hold/stalled
Potential problem
Appendix
D
2009 Work Plan Schedule BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION Project Phase
starting
ending
Status
Issues
Recommendations
The EDA will develop and/or expand existing data base information to track the economic condition and concerns of local employers The EDA will explore other potential growth opportunities during business visits as well as discuss issues which affect their day-to-day operations The EDA shall serve as a resource for local companies and a conduit to their business solutions Efforts will be undertaken to champion and acknowledge the positive impact local companies have on Northfield’s economic health As a part of its business retention and expansion program, the EDA will elicit information from local business leaders about what can be done to improve the overall quality of life for its employees The EDA and its economic development partners will seek out opportunities to network with St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges’ alumni, staff, and families.
Jan
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
The EDA will develop and/or expand existing data base information to track the economic condition and concerns of local employers The EDA will explore other potential growth opportunities during business visits as well as discuss issues which affect their day-today operations The EDA shall serve as a resource for local companies and a conduit to their business solutions Champion and acknowledge the positive impact local companies have on the Northfield’s economic health Elicit information from local business leaders about what can be done to improve the overall quality of life for its employees The EDA and its economic development partners will seek out opportunities to network with St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges’ alumni, staff, and families.
On schedule
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
On hold/stalled
Potential problem
Appendix
E
2009 Work Plan Schedule PROGRAMS, PROCESSES, & PROCEDURES Project Phase
starting
ending
Status
Issues
Recommendations
Review and evaluate the effectiveness of the EDA’s funding programs and recommend changes if necessary Examine and develop as needed new financial programs with criteria addressing the immediate needs of new and existing businesses Create a process to effectively navigate end users to appropriate programs Identify and delineate all local, state, regional, and federal programs and resources the EDA may employ to advance its economic development initiatives “Tool Box” Identify and pursue grants and other funding opportunities for EDA’s initiatives Develop a rolling 3 to 5 year funding plan for the Northfield Economic Development Authority Develop a Guide to Starting a Business in Northfield; a Guide for Locating a Business to Northfield Explore future programming initiatives for the EDA Identify obstacles to development and recommend potential solutions to governing bodies Meet regularly with Federal, State, County, and local officials to apprise them of the City’s economic development initiatives Review EDA’s current Board handbook and make appropriate changes
Jan
Feb
March
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Evaluate EDA economic development programs and present proposed changes to the EDA Board Identify and delineate all local, state, regional, and federal programs and resources the EDA may employ to advance its economic development initiatives “Tool Box” Identify and pursue grants and other funding opportunities for EDA’s initiatives Meet with officials of both St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges and continue work toward identifying areas of common interests Identify obstacles to development and recommend potential solutions to governing bodies The EDA will review its bylaws and processes to ensure that they comply with City and State statute Review and recommend 2010 Budget
On schedule
On hold/stalled
Potential problem
City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
Appendix
F
CITY OF NORTHFIELD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
WORK PLAN
Jody T. Gunderson, Director Northfield City Hall 801 Washington Street Northfield, MN 55057-2598 Direct .............507.645.3018 Mobile ............612.968.6407 Fax .................507-645.3055 City of Northfield | Economic Development Authority
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