10-22-2018 Council Meeting Packet

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CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM 6J STAFF ORIGINATOR: Michael Grochala, Community Development Director MEETING DATE: October 22, 2018 TOPIC: Consider Resolution No. 18-149, Approving Memorandum of Understanding, Anoka County Regional Economic Development Initiative VOTE REQUIRED: 3/5 INTRODUCTION Staff is requesting council consideration to approve the Memorandum of Understanding for participation in the 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 purpose of the study was to identify gain an objective understanding of Anoka County’s assets and competitive position for attracting new business to the area. The study included a broad range of research and survey information across Anoka County leading to compilation of a county wide action plan. In July of this year the City Council concurred with EDAC’s recommendation for the City to partner in the Anoka County Regional Economic Development Imitative. As part of the ongoing process development the group has drafted a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) to establish the organizational structure, goals, reporting and financial considerations. Funding for ongoing activities will be decided by a separate agreement based on a proposed annual budget. Services will include website, MnCAR access, broker events and other marketing activities approved by the Executive Committee. A voluntary cost sharing agreement will be distributed for approval by each community. The City’s initial contribution for 2018 was $1,134. EDAC reviewed the proposed MOU at its September 6 meeting was provided comments and recommended the City’s participation. Anoka County will be hosting a Local Government Officials meeting at the end of October 30th with a presentation and review of the proposed 2019 activities.