08-21-2023 TER MINSpecial Meeting of the Elk River
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Economic Development Authority
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Together Elk River Subcommittee
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Held at the Elk River City Hall
Monday, August 21, 2023
Members Present: Charlie Blesener, Debbi Rydberg, and Jennifer Wagner
Staff Present: Economic Development Director Brent O'Neil, Economic Development Specialist Joshua
Mollan, and Senior Communications Coordinator Starr Sorheim
Guests Present: Joanna Arbic
I . Call Meeting to Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting of the Elk River Economic Development Authority
Together Elk River Subcommittee was called to order at 4:35 p.m. by Jennifer.
2. Consider Agenda
Moved by Charlie and seconded by Debbi to approve the agenda. Motion carried 3-0.
3. Consent Agenda
Moved by Debbi and seconded by Charlie to approve:
3.1 July 17, 2023, Meeting Minutes
Motion carried 3-0.
4.1 Downtown Banners
Josh shared the updated concept art for downtown banners.
The committee narrowed down the potential banners which utilize color photos, "Downtown Riverfront",
and a variety of action statements. The committee also suggests that if historic photo is used, to expand the
photo, and utilize "Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow" or similar.
Josh advised that staff will be meeting with ERMU later this month to discuss logistics of the banners
including feasibility of all rectangle banners.
4.2 Billboard Content Feedback
Josh shared the final three draft billboards.
Debbi suggested adding "Remember to..." to the shop local billboard.
Jennifer suggested not using downtown specific language such as "Look local first."
Josh advised that he will connect with Franklin Outdoor to inquire about billboard space after the contract
end date of 9/30.
4.3 Orange Ball and 169 Construction Update
Josh advised that the 191" Ave access is now closed. He also mentioned that social posts generated by
Orange Ball Creative will continue through October.
Charlie suggested crafting a letter to the editor advising the local community to continue to support Elk
River businesses. He accepted the responsibility of writing the letter.
4.4 General Business and Upcoming Activities
Josh advised that Joanna's Together Elk River Committee membership is on the upcoming EDA agenda.
Jennifer advised that Molly was unable to attend tonight's meetings due to a work conflict.
Debbi advised that Chris was determined to not be the best candidate for this committee. Debbi said she
will connect with Cornerstone to see if anyone else would be interested in joining.
Joanna shared that Cub is down double digits. She advised that traffic is down at maurices 18% from last
year.
S. Motion to Adjourn
Moved by Charlie and seconded by Debbi to adjourn the meeting of the Elk River Economic
Development Authority Together Elk River Subcommittee.
The meeting adjourned at 5:31 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Joshua Mollan.
Tina Allard, City Clerk
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