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Item No. 7F Type of Business: Council Business Meeting Date: October 8, 2007 Administrator Review: _____ City of Mounds View Staff Report To: Honorable Mayor and City Council From: Jim Ericson, Interim City Administrator Item Title/Subject: Resolution 7173 Appointing an Economic Development Specialist Background Former Economic Development Coordinator Aaron Backman resigned from his position in May of this year. On May 14, 2007, the City Council approved Resolution 7082, authorizing the advertisement to fill the Economic Development Coordinator position. Discussion Staff published the job opportunity in the Star Tribune, the Pioneer Press, the League of MN Cities website, our own website and online at the Economic Development Association of Minnesota. Six individuals were interviewed originally and staff extended an offer of employment to a candidate who would ultimately turn it down. Staff determined that no other candidates met our employment expectations thus the position was re-advertised with a slight revision to the posting to include the full range rather than just the starting salary. Staff interviewed two individuals on August 20th from the second pool of candidates. At this same time, former City Administrator Ulrich submitted his letter of resignation, which prompted staff to put the hiring process on hold pending further review of all positions in the community development and administration departments. Various scenarios were explored that could involve a restructuring of positions and responsibilities, but it was ultimately determined that it would not be feasible to combine the economic development position with another job. Staff contacted both interviewees to ensure they remained interested in the position despite the six week delay. The top candidate, Heidi Steinmetz, presently is employed by the City of Elk River as their Assistant Director of Economic Development. She has been employed with Elk River since September of 2001 and was interested in the Mounds View position because of the challenging redevelopment opportunities on County Road 10 and elsewhere within the community. Ms. Steinmetz is familiar with the City having grown up in the area and living less than six miles from City Hall. She is eager to build on our existing assets and to promote and further the Council’s economic goals and community vision.