EDA Packet 03.21.17 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Draft 2/23/2017 To ensure that programs and services support and complement economic development programs initiated by cities, townships and the county. To provide financial and technical assistance to businesses and communities as requested to enhance economic development, expand the tax base and promote job creation opportunities in Washington County. 1. Promote and market the quality of life, rich diversity and assets of the county. 2. Provide resources to help entrepreneurs get started and existing businesses grow. 3. Be a value-added partner to other public and private entities. 4. Find ways to help our businesses attract and retain talent and find ways to keep our working residents here in the county. 5. Promote strong infrastructure, multi -modal transportation and highspeed broadband. On May 6, 2014, the Washington County Board of Commissioners approved the Washington County Economic Development Strategic Plan. Within the Economic Development Strategic Plan, a number of goals were identified. Many of these goals have since been completed, including: Analyzed various organizational structures to implement economic development initiatives on behalf of the county. In June of 2016, the Washington County Board of Commissioners approved the creation of the Washington County Community Development Agency (CDA) as recently authorized by the Minnesota State Legislature. Designated a county staff member to be the point of contact for economic development and implementation of the strategic plan. In June of 2016, the Washington County CDA hired a full time Economic Development Director to serve as the point of contact and coordinate the economic development efforts within the county including updating and implementing the 2014 Strategic Plan. Updated existing financial incentive policies including tax increment financing and tax abatement. The purpose of this document is to serve as an update to the 2014 Economic Development Strategic Plan with a planning horizon through 2019. A working group of township officials, city administrators, school district representatives, and economic development professionals was convened by the CDA in August 2016 and has been meeting monthly to assist in preparing the elements of this update, with a goal of producing a draft for public review, which will ultimately be adopted by the Washington County CDA Board and the County Board.