07-02-2018 Council Work Session Packet

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WS – Item 6 WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT Work Session Item No. 6 Date: July 2, 2018 To: City Council From: Michael Grochala, Community Development Director Re: Anoka County Regional Economic Development Initiative Background In December of 2017 Anoka County, in partnership with Connexus Energy and the North Metro Chamber of Commerce, completed the “Economic Development Business Recruitment Roadmap”. The study was prepared by Ady Advantage, a national economic development and site selection consultant. The study included a broad range of research and survey information across Anoka County leading to compilation of a county wide action plan. The overall purpose of the project is to provide a cohesive, unified economic development strategy within Anoka County. As a result of the project, three areas of focus and goals were identified to be achieved: • Marketing and Differentiation: Address and work to change the perception of Anoka County, among stakeholders, partners, developers, and potential talent, etc. • Readiness: Ensure Anoka County is ready for development from both a talent and product (sites and buildings) perspective, etc. • Alignment/Regionalism: Clearly define roles within the county, as well as with regional partners, as it relates to marketing, incentives, business retention, and expansion, etc. Based on the recommendations of the plan a steering committee, executive team and subgroups, (comprised of representatives from cities, Anoka County, and Metro North Chamber and Connexus) have been created to implement the plan. Staff has been asked to serve on the executive committee and will have a direct role in the decision making process. Ady Advantage is assisting with the Marketing and Differentiation component of the project. The objectives of this phase are to: • Create a county-wide economic development brand/logo