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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05 02 2013 EDAC rept 4a 4646 Dakota Street SE Prior Lake, MN 55372 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT MEETING DATE: May 2, 2013 AGENDA #: 4.a. 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 business/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 solid- ify 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 commitment Conclusion EDAC members should discuss the value of having a policy related to grand opening events in the com- munity and the value added services the city may be able to provide to assist and promote these events. ISSUES: None. FINANCIAL Possible staff time dedicated to the process. IMPACT: ALTERNATIVES: Discussion Only. RECOMMENDED Discussion Only. MOTION: