2012.07.09 EDA Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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tax base that will support the enhancement of the community's foundation and quality of life. Scott County, MN Strategic Priority: Create a supportive business environment that attracts and retains business across all of Scott County. (Scott County Association for Leadership and Efficiency (SCALE)) Vision: Develop and implement a county-wide economic development strategy and integrated land-use and transportation plan that helps achieve the vision of providing enough employment in Scott County by 2030 to support 50 percent of the county's labor force, while respecting the authority of the cities and townships within to make planning decisions on the local level. (SCALE Unified Plan Charter,July 17, 2009) CURRENT COUNTY ROLE/PHILOSOPHY Washington County's core functions foster an environment where commerce can develop and thrive. The county contributes to a robust business climate by: providing well-planned, essential infrastructure; maintaining a low tax rate; and assisting in creating an ample pool of skilled employees. The county strives to maintain the right blend of county services to support a vibrant business sector, be it transportation and transit services,public safety, health and human services, corrections services, workforce housing, or other public services. The county is committed to stewardship of cultural and natural amenities such as land and water resources,parks and opens spaces, and libraries which contribute to a high quality of life for business owners and their employees and families. The county's efforts in workforce development provide skilled employees that enable companies to be competitive and successful in the local,regional, and global economies. (Washington County 2030 Comprehensive Plan, emphasis added) Washington County is not the main engine powering economic development in the county. But the county, along with its city and state partners, are key in providing essential infrastructure, and services to ensure an environment in which economic development can flourish and when, in certain circumstances, the private sector and cities need an octane boost,the county makes available specific tools such as tax abatement and the resources of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority to help keep the economic development vehicle moving forward. (Paraphrased from a speech given by a county official to the Workforce Investment Board Forum on Economic Development, June 16, 2005). POTENTIAL COUNTY ROLES/.ACTIVITIES What can the county do that adds value to the whole, assists individuals in doing their job and is not a waste of time? Leadership • Adopt a county goal and guiding principles, such as: ✓ Attract new businesses, create jobs and support local businesses. 2