2014.09.09 EDA Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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step. The City should begin preparing an annual economic report of activity within the City. A new Economic Development page on the City's website should provide helpful data such as demographic information, community characteristics, information about the City's workforce, traffic counts, and listings of available land or buildings. The information should be distributed whenever possible. The City should cooperate and share information with partners such as the Hugo Business Association (HBA), the White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce, and the state Department of Employment and Economic Development. The City should continue to work with surrounding communities and with Washington County to encourage the creation of an east metro economic development strategy. Establish Financial Incentives to Attract New „Business Development The City should evaluate all incentives available for use by the City. Policies should be implemented for the use of incentives, including the use of the City's Tax Increment Financing Policy. The City should evaluate other costs associated with the development or operation of businesses within Hugo. Costs should be compared to other cities and the fee structures or other costs should be reformulated where possible to remain competitive. Ensure that Infrastructure is Provided to Meet Business Needs It is important for the City to implement the improvements identified on the City's infrastructure plans illustrated in Chapters 8, 9, 10 and 11 of this document. The important transportation connections and sewer and water improvements that are necessary to accommodate existing and future businesses have been taken into account and are shown in this comprehensive plan. The BNSF rail line serving the Bald Eagle Industrial Park is an important transportation element for existing businesses located there. The rail line should be maintained as long as the businesses rely on it. The City should encourage the eventual conversion of the rail line along TH 61 to a transit corridor that may accommodate both freight and passengers. Provisions for transit will provide businesses with expanded access to the area's workforce. Higher intensity mixed use development and retail development should be encouraged along the transit corridor. The City will cooperate with the Rush Line Corridor Task Force to implement recommended improvements along the corridor. Chapter 6 6-5 Economic Development Ran H,R 6