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business to get over the hump so that they are sustainable and create long-term value to the community. The City of Mounds View has a Business Improvement Loan Program and we have had businesses that have asked for this loan. However, the program has been unfunded for several years and therefore, the City has not been able to use the business loan program to help our local businesses. Property acquisitions: The city keeps an inventory of vacant and distressed properties with the idea of purchasing these properties then packaging them together for redevelopment. Several opportunities have come up that the city has been forced to pass on because there hasn't been a funding mechanism to purchase the properties without issuing bonds to cover the debt. If Mounds View wishes to continue its growth, it must concentrate on purchasing and redeveloping properties with the cooperation of private developers. Surveys: When redeveloping property it is sometimes necessary to conduct surveys of the parcels. With limited funding, completing surveys is an added cost that puts a strain on the city's budget. Appraisals: When purchasing property, appraisals are sometimes required in order to negotiate a fair price. Appraisals are normally only good for 6 months and are an added tool in the negotiation process. Professional Fees: When redeveloping property to increase the long-term benefit to the community, attorneys must review the legal documents and be involved in the transactions. Financial consultants also review economic development projects and conduct their financial analysis to determine the feasibility of each project and if subsidies are appropriate and legal for each proposed development. An EDA levy could help cover these types of costs. Training & professional development: In order to stay current on state statues and economic development programs cities must continuously send their staff to training and professional development. Current training helps in preventing missteps and violations and ultimately law suits which can be costly to cities. Adequate training also helps staff stay abreast of the new economic development programs available and any changes to the policies of each program. A knowledgeable staff is good for business.