HomeMy WebLinkAboutEDAC Report-4b (05-23-13)
4646 Dakota Street SE
Prior Lake, MN 55372
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT
MEETING DATE: May 23, 2013
AGENDA #: 4.b.
PREPARED BY: Casey McCabe, Community Development Specialist
AGENDA ITEM: CITY OF PRIOR LAKE OPEN HOUSE / GRAND OPENING POLICY DISCUSSION
DISCUSSION:
Introduction
While conducting business retention and expansion visits, EDAC member Mike Stout received a
comment that the City of Prior Lake can do more to support businesses and promote economic
development by providing greater support with grand opening events.
History
Mr. Stout suggested the EDAC discuss the developing a standard practice for grand opening
events to ensure ease-of-use, high participation rates and a high-value experience for the busi-
ness/organization and guests.
Mr. Stout added that City support should not just be ceremonial, but have real substance and
preferably represent the recognition of excellent collaborative planning and work. This is a great
opportunity to solidify relations and express our genuine appreciation for their company doing
business in Prior Lake.
Mike provided a few general thoughts and ideas, which may include the following elements:
Grand opening announcement templates
Grand opening Invitations templates with recommended timing
Standard speech templates
Public relations kit
Special signage waivers, if needed
Promotional concepts
Appropriate vendor listings
FREE access to our city's publicity forums
The city encourages employees to attend to reinforce this being a community-wide com-
mitment
Conclusion
EDAC members should discuss the value of having a policy related to grand opening events in
the community and the value added services the city may be able to provide to assist and pro-
mote these events.
ISSUES:
The EDA briefly discussed this topic during their May 20 meeting and would like to review the
th
recommendations for the promotion of small business prior to the EDAC taking any ac-
tion.
FINANCIAL
Possible staff time dedicated to the process.
IMPACT:
ALTERNATIVES:
Discussion Only.
RECOMMENDED
Discussion Only.
MOTION:
2