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AGENDA
REGULAR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING
January 24, 2019
6:30 PM
Room 170
Todd Larson, Chair; Geraldine Jolley, Vice-Chair
Robyn Craig, Steve Wilson, Hannah Simmons
Jake Cordes
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVE AGENDA
5. CITIZENS COMMENTS
6. CONSENT AGENDA
(a) Approve Meeting Minutes (December 20, 2018, Regular Meeting)
(b) Monthly Financial Statements
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. DISCUSSION ITEMS
(a) DRAFT 2019-2021 Strategic Plan for Economic Development
(b) Facade Improvement Grant Program Analysis
9. DIRECTOR'S REPORT
(a) January Director's Report
10. ADJOURN
AA. City of Farmington
/4„.,4 430 Third Street
Farmington, Minnesota
651.280.6800 -Fax 651.280.6899
,,►roar' www.ci.farmington.mn.us
TO: Economic Development Authority
FROM: Cynthia Muller,Administrative Assistant
SUBJECT: Approve Meeting Minutes (December 20, 2018, Regular Meeting)
DATE: January 24, 2019
INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION
Please find attached the draft meeting minutes from the December 20, 2018, EDA meeting.
ACTION REQUESTED
Approve the December 20, 2018, EDA minutes.
ATTACHMENTS:
Type Description
D Exhibit December 20, 2018 Minutes
MINUTES
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Regular Meeting
December 20, 2018
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Chair Larson at 6:30 p.m.
Members Present: Larson, Craig, Cordes, Jolley, Simmons, Wilson
Members Absent: Corraro
Also Present: Adam Kienberger, Community Development Director; Jeff and
Kristie Kerr, Homestead Community Church; Kara Hildreth
2. PLEDGE OFALLEGL4NCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVE AGENDA
MOTION by Jolley, second by Wilson to approve the Agenda. APIF,MOTION
CARRIED.
5. CITIZEN COMMENTS/PRESENTATIONS
6. CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION by Cordes, second by Simmons to approve the Consent Agenda as follows:
a) Approved Meeting Minutes (October 25, 2018, Regular Meeting)
b) Approved Meeting Minutes (November 29, 2018, Special Meeting)
c) Received Monthly Financial Statements
APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
8. DIRECTOR'S REPORT
a) December Director's Report
Riste Lot- In the past the EDA has discussed the Riste lot on Oak Street next to
the Exchange Bank building and whether to sell it or what to do with it. Jeff and
Kristie Kerr with Homestead Community Church have a purchase agreement to
purchase the Exchange Bank building. They have expressed an interest in the
Riste lot. Mr. Kerr stated their church has been using the Faith United Methodist
Church. They have been working with Mr. Hosmer Brown for the last few years
to purchase the Exchange Bank building. Regarding the Riste lot, there is no
intent right now to build on the lot. They would keep it green space and use it for
an outdoor church gathering space. For church services they would use on-street
parking and the Second Street parking lot. The downtown is quiet on Sunday
mornings so parking should not be an issue. They have 150 members.
Member Wilson asked if they would be looking to the city for help in restoring
the historical characteristics of the building. Ms. Kerr stated the building has
been inspected and they have obtained the costs for what they would need. They
EDA Minutes(Regular)
December 20,2018
Page 2
are currently obtaining financing. They do not want to change the character of the
building. The grant money will help to get it back to what it should be. In its
current state, the building does not have a certificate of occupancy due to a
number of deficiencies inside the building. Children classrooms would be
downstairs and the upstairs would be great for the main meeting space. Their
church enjoys throwing parties and inviting the community. The outdoor space
would also be used for church events.
Regarding the purchase of the Riste lot, it is owned by the EDA. In 2012 or 2013
Community Development Block Grant(CDBG) dollars were used to fund part of
the acquisition and demolition of the Riste building. There are some repayment
provisions upon the sale of the lot to a private entity. The price is determined by
an appraisal which came to $25,000. The EDA is obligated to repay to the CDBG
program 76.9% of the sale price. The funds go back into Farmington's block
grant dollars. Community Development Director Kienberger stated first we need
to determine if the EDA is interested in what the Kerr's have proposed for the lot.
The appraisal will need to be refreshed.
Member Jolley stated the EDA needs to know if it will be attractive and fit into
the neighborhood as it is the heart of downtown. Mr. Kerr stated their desire is to
add aesthetic value and bring new life to the downtown. Ms. Kerr stated they
have been given a six to nine month renovation timeline, so they hope to be done
by the fall. If they acquire the Riste lot as well, any work there would be done at
the same time.
Member Craig asked about the property to the back of the lot and whether it needs
to be fenced off. There are large boulders there now to keep vehicles off the lot.
Staff stated about four years ago the Planning Commission approved a conditional
use permit to operate a church within the downtown business district for the
Exchange Bank building. That piece remains in place. What has not been
explored is this as a stand alone use and whether the Riste lot would be an
accessory use. An agreement needs to be drawn up with any provisions and to
have things done within a certain amount of time. The EDA can accept less than
the appraised amount, however, the 76.9% is assessed against the appraised
market value. The EDA should receive an offer on the lot first, and then the
appraisal would be refreshed. Staff asked if the EDA had any contingencies they
would like included in the agreement. Chair Larson suggested having the lot
work completed by October 1, 2019. Member Wilson would like to see a sketch
plan for the outside area.
The steps would be to have this discussion first, get a general consensus of the
concept, move to the next formality of offering a price, negotiate any
improvements to be made by a specific date and then any applications for grant
programs. Ms. Kerr asked if the grant program is per person or per property.
Staff stated we have the Façade Improvement Grant Program which is for exterior
EDA Minutes(Regular)
December 20,2018
Page 3
façade improvements and dollars are controlled solely by the EDA. So there is
some discretion that can take place. The grant range is from $1,500 to $10,000.
The Block Grant Program is dollars received through HUD via the CDA and has a
maximum grant amount of$35,000. Our current balance in that program is
$21,038.50. The grant programs are focused on one per property. They can both
be applied for and could both be accepted at the EDA's discretion. The Façade
Improvement Grant Program is for building façade improvements and the CDBG
program is for code improvements, so the Riste lot would not be eligible. Staff
will continue to work with the Kerr's on procedural issues.
Highway 3 Corridor Plan—There was a joint work session with the city council
on December 10, 2018, to review public comments and provide direction to the
consultant. Staff is scheduling the next set of meetings for public input and
additional collaboration with the city council, EDA and planning commission.
The plan should be completed in April 2019.
Façade Grant Update—The improvements at 306 Oak Street are complete and a
grant payment of$10,000 has been authorized.
2019—2021 Strategic Plan for Economic Development—This will be discussed
at the January 2019 EDA meeting.
Member Simmons asked about the status of the sponsorship packages for the
Rambling River Center Plaza because we are going into another spring and people
are hoping to see some progress. She asked if that can be a standing item on EDA
agendas. Staff spoke with the city council at a recent work session to discuss
funding strategy and cost and how it relates to the 2019 budget. We will be using
2019 to raise the funds. Member Simmons stated so construction wouldn't start
until 2020 or 2021 and the plan was approved two years ago. Staff explained they
have been communicating between the city council and different agencies on
funding. Member Jolley noted the plaza is not an EDA project, but we were
asked to contribute dollars. Staff explained the project lives within community
development,parks and engineering.
7. DISCUSSION ITEMS
a) Community Development Block Grant Funds 2019
CDBG funds are received each year from the CDA. We are scheduled to receive
an estimated $39,703.50 in CDBG funds for program year 2019 (July 1, 2019—
June 30, 2020). Our task is to tell the CDA how we plan to spend those funds.
Staff proposed three activities:
$5,000 to Senior Services—Financial Support Program to support seniors in
attending programs and activities.
$13,961.50 to the Commercial Rehabilitation Grant Program—right now we have
$21,038.50 left and this addition would equal $35,000 which is the maximum
grant amount.
EDA Minutes(Regular)
December 20,2018
Page 4
$20,742 to the Residential Rehabilitation/Home Improvement Loan Program—
this is administered by the CDA for income qualified households within
Farmington to make eligible improvements to their properties. There is usually a
wait list for this program.
We are allowed the flexibility through CDA administrative approval to reallocate
funds within these three programs as long as it is within the same year.
MOTION by Wilson, second by Craig to recommend the city council approve a
resolution to allocate a total of$39,703.50 in CDBG funds for PY2019 as
outlined above. APIF,MOTION CARRIED.
9. ADJOURN
MOTION by Wilson, second by Cordes to adjourn at 7:23 p.m. APIF,MOTION
CARRIED.
Respectfully submitted,
Cynthia Muller
Administrative Assistant
o City of Farmington
430 Third Street
Farmington, Minnesota
leb 651.280.6800 - Fax 651.280.6899
r. PROO www.ci.farmington.mn.us
TO: Economic Development Authority
FROM: Adam Kienberger, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Monthly Financial Statements
DATE: January 24, 2019
INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION
Please find attached the monthly financial statements for the EDA.
ACTION REQUESTED
ATTACHMENTS:
Type Description
D Exhibit Financial Snapshot-January
Department Actual vs Budget-Generic Time Period
Business Object Account Cumulative 12 Cumulative 12 Cumulative 12 Cumulative 12
Unit Account Description Actual Budget Actual Budget
2019 2019 2018 2018
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1010 CASH 237,561.13
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1010 CASH-LGA ASSMNT RELIEF 35,000.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1505 PREPAID EXPENSES 595.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 3510 UNRESERVED FUND BALANCE -311,703.18
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 4404 FEDERAL GRANT -21,808.50
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 4955 INTEREST ON INVESTMENTS -2,300.00 -4,862.48 -3,100.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 5205 OPERATING TRANSFERS -50,000.00 0.00 0.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6401 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 11,680.00 10,893.41 11,680.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6403 LEGAL 4,000.00 911.00 4,000.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6404 IT SERVICES 8,317.00 8,297.00 8,297.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6422 ELECTRIC 300.00 239.95 300.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6426 INSURANCE 130.00 153.07 130.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6450 OUTSIDE PRINTING 500.00 0.00 500.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6460 SUBSCRIPTIONS&DUES 2,500.00 1,095.00 2,500.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6470 TRAINING&SUBSISTANCE 3,000.00 1,982.32 3,000.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6485 MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT 1,000.00 243.23 1,000.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6492 ADVERTISING 3,000.00 0.00 3,000.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6550 DEVELOPER PAYMENTS 25,977.86
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 6570 PROGRAMMING EXPENSE 17,000.00 12,575.19 17,000.00
2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 7310 OPERATING TRANSFERS 2,850.00 2,850.00 2,850.00
Total 2000-HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPM 1,977.00 0.00 51,157.00
1,977.00 0.00', 51,157.00
1,977.00', 0.00 51,157.00
1/17/2019 3:24:22 PM Page 1 of 1
Qt�F j ,� City of Farmington
viskps 430 Third Street
Farmington, Minnesota
651.280.6800 - Fax 651.280.6899
r,4 ,+ www.ci.farmington.mn.us
TO: Economic Development Authority
FROM: Adam Kienberger, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: DRAFT 2019-2021 Strategic Plan for Economic Development
DATE: January 24, 2019
INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION
Please find attached a cover memo and draft 2019-2021 Strategic Plan for Economic Development. This
document is the result of the EDA's planning workshop, relevant guiding documents, and staff input.
Rusty Fifield and Jessica Green with Northland Public Finance will be at the meeting to present this draft
plan and solicit feedback for a final version.
ACTION REQUESTED
Review the draft 2019-2021 Strategic Plan for Economic Development and provide any comments or
changes at the meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
Type Description
o Cover Memo Northland Cover Memo
o Exhibit DRAFT 2019-2021 Strategic Plan for
Economic Development
NORTHLAND
PUBLIC FINANCE
MEMORANDUM
To: Farmington EDA
From: Rusty Fifield and Jessica Green
Date: January 18,2019
Re: Strategic Plan Update
This memo presents the proposed update to the Farmington EDA Strategic Plan.The update is based
on the discussion at the November 29 workshop and input from staff.The proposed Strategic Plan
for 2019-2021 is divided into four elements:
1. Context.This section describes the framework for actions taken by the EDA.The powers of
the EDA come from both State Law and city enabling resolution.The actions of the EDA play
a role in implementing the city's comprehensive plan.The EDA operates within the broader
context of city government and with finite resources.All of these factors shape the Strategic
Plan.
2. Objectives.The Objectives attempt to state the broad public purpose of EDA actions.We
believe the objectives lie at the heart of the issues discussed at the workshop.The Strategic
Plan includes background information and discussion of each Objective.This information
helps to describe the relevance of the objective.
3. Tactics.Tactics represent strategies to achieve the Objectives.The Tactics are intended to be
ongoing and enduring guides to EDA actions.They form criteria for evaluating decisions.Is
the decision consistent with the Tactics and the Strategic Plan?
4. 2019 Action Plan.The final element of the Strategic Plan provides immediate and tangible
actions for the EDA.Including annual action plans promotes ongoing use of the Plan.It is
also means of structuring an annual review of actions taken by the EDA and consideration of
actions needed in the coming year.
Each previous version of the Strategic Plan has taken a different form.We believe that the proposed
Plan update is well-suited to the EDA in 2019.The Plan will help other parties understand the work
of the EDA.The Plan should also provide better context for future planning.The EDA in 2021 will
have a greater understanding of the basis for the 2019-2021 Plan update.
We will be at your January meeting to present and discuss the Strategic Plan update.
150 South 55 Street,Suite 3300,Minneapolis,MN 55402
Main:(612)851-5900/Direct(612)851-4992/Email:rfifield@northlandsecurities.com
Member FINRA and SIPC
Strategic Plan 2019 - 2®21
Farmington Economic Development Authority
amu: v. -
.a - ,+'"
January 2019
sa.
NORTHLAND
PUBLIC FINANCE
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021
CONTENTS
Contents 1
Introduction 2
Context 3
EDA Powers 3
Comprehensive Plan 3
City Government 4
EDA Resources 5
Strategic Plan 6
Objective: Expand and Diversify the Tax Base 6
Objective: Encourage development that brings additional goods and services to Farmington 11
Objective: Promote the economic and physical health of older sections of Farmington....12
Objective: Effectively communicate information about the EDA within City government,to the
community and to people and businesses outside of Farmington. 13
Objective: Conduct the business of the EDA to maximize its effectiveness 14
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 2
INTRODUCTION
This document presents the Strategic Plan for the Economic Development Authority(EDA) of
the City of Farmington. The EDA Strategic Plan serves several purposes:
• The plan articulates the vision,mission and fundamental principles that guide decision
making and actions for the EDA.
• The plan provides a framework for identifying potential roles for the EDA,prioritizing
use of resources and periodically reviewing actions taken by the EDA.
• The plan serves as a tool for communicating information about the EDA to the city
council,city departments and advisory boards,partner organizations in the economic
development community and Farmington residents and businesses.
The Strategic Plan focuses on the years 2019 through 2021.
Vision Statement
The Economic Development Authority's vision is to improve
the economic vitality of the City of Farmington and to enhance
the overall quality of life by creating partnerships,fostering
employment opportunities, promoting workforce housing, and
expanding the tax base through development and
redevelopment.
Mission Statement
Farmington is commerce friendly, responsive, and innovative
in the realm of economic development. The Economic
Development Authority's mission is to market Farmington as
one of Minnesota's most desirable cities to open a business.
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021
CONTEXT
The actions of the EDA do not occur in a vacuum,but within the context of city government
and development forces that affect Farmington and the region. Understanding this context is an
important element of creating and implementing the strategic plan.
EDA Powers
The powers of the EDA come from both State Law and city enabling resolution. The EDA can
exercise the powers set forth in Minnesota Statutes,Section 469.090 through 469.108 unless
otherwise limited by the city council.The Farmington EDA was established by Resolution R104-
05 (the"Enabling Resolution").The Enabling Resolution empowers the EDA to use all statutory
authority with the following exceptions:
• The sale of all bonds or other obligations issued by the EDA shall first be approved by
the city council.
• The EDA shall follow the budget process for city departments as may be provided by
the city and as implemented by the city council and Administrator.
• All official actions of the EDA shall be consistent with the city comprehensive plan and
official controls implementing the comprehensive plan.
The Enabling Resolution also transferred all activities,programs,operations and authority
relating to economic development from the Farmington Housing and Redevelopment Authority
(HRA). The EDA is authorized to exercise all of the powers granted to the HRA pursuant to
Minnesota Statutes,Sections 469.001 through 469.047.
No actions contemplated by the Strategic Plan are impaired by the limitations of State Law or
the Enabling Resolution.
Comprehensive Plan
The Economic Development chapter of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan provides a framework of
the activities of the EDA.
"The Economic Development Plan (Chapter 9 of the Comprehensive Plan)provides a high level and long-
term roadmap for the City of Farmington and its partners (public,private,and nonprofit sectors) to work
together to enhance employment, investment and quality of life opportunities that benefit the entire
community. The city recognizes that local government has a responsibility for creating an environment in
which economic development can occur. This plan also serves to examine and strengthen the city's ability
to compete effectively and prosper in both the regional and increasingly global economy."
The Comprehensive Plan contains eight(8) economic development goals. As part of the process
of creating this Strategic Plan,the EDA validated the importance of these goals for guiding the
actions of the EDA.The following list contains the economic development goals in order of the
ranking of the EDA Board:
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 4
1. A three-year Strategic Plan for Economic Development that provides a dynamic and
actionable tool for achieving the community's economic development vision.
2. Cultivation of strong relationships between existing businesses and the city to increase
business retention.
3. A desirable commercial environment for residents is created through growth from
existing and new businesses.
4. Healthy and diversified growth of existing and new businesses to achieve the
community's 2030 and 2040 employment projections.
5. Redevelopment of vacant and underutilized properties in older areas to revitalize these
vital community areas.
6. Public and private sector reinvestment in downtown to revitalize it as the community's
commercial,cultural,and recreational center.
7. Diverse housing options and quality of life amenities that support the needs and
preferences of the community's workforce into the future.
8. A well-trained and adaptable workforce is maintained within the community to support
the projected business and job growth.
These goals provide a useful tool for evaluating EDA activities.How does the activity help to
achieve the goals of the Comprehensive Plan?A consistent connection between these goals and
EDA activities ensures that the EDA meets its mandate of consistency with the Comprehensive
Plan.
City Government
An essential factor shaping the Strategic Plan is the EDA's fit within the overall structure of the
city. The EDA is one of five advisory boards and commissions established by the city council.
The EDA is different from any other board in that it has the power and resources to undertake
projects in a relatively autonomous manner.State Law designates EDAs as political
subdivisions.
Farmington Community Community
City Council City p
Develo ment
Residents Business Administrator Director
Economic
Development
Authority(EDA)
The EDA is governed by a 7-member board of commissioners appointed by the city council.
Members of the EDA board consist of two city council members,two Independent School
District 192 school board members,and three residents. Economic development staff is part of
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 5
the City's Community Development Department. The Community Development Director
serves as the Executive Director of the EDA.
This structure combines the dedicated focus on economic development and statutory powers of
the EDA with a day-to-day foundation in the core structure of the city.
EDA Resources
Creating and implementing the Strategic Plan must be done with an eye towards the resources
of the EDA.With limited resources,the effective use of resources should be a factor in
evaluating current and future activities. Do the potential benefits of the action merit the
allocations of EDA resources?
The most important resource of the EDA is city staff. The experience and technical skills of
economic and community development staff provide the capacity to successfully achieve EDA
objectives. The staff resource available to the EDA is a finite commodity. It is also a commodity
that serves other functions within city government.
January 2019 � '
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 6
STRATEGIC PLAN
The EDA Strategic Plan is based on the following Core Strategies:
• Attract new businesses that provide jobs,needed goods and services,and tax base
• Encourage the retention and expansion of existing business
• Encourage revitalization and redevelopment
• Manage EDA programs and projects
• Be the voice of economic development in city government
The Core Strategies guide EDA actions. All actions shall be consistent with one or more of the
Strategies.
Objective: Expand and Diversify the Tax Base
Economic development is not an end itself,but rather a means to achieve certain outcomes. An
important outcome in Farmington is to grow the property tax base. Preliminary tax rates for
taxes payable 2019 show Farmington with the fifth highest city tax rate for Dakota County cities
(over 1,000 population). When all other taxing jurisdictions are included,the total tax rate in
Farmington is the highest in Dakota County.
Preliminary 2019 Tax Rates
160.00
140.00
120.00 —
a
a) 100.00 — — — � �'�
80.00
t
X
I— 60.00 I I — ,
40.00 I ■ III
I111
20.00
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ese,
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■City Rate All Others Rate
Figure 1
Tax base is a key factor in a higher tax rate. A lower tax base means that the city must tax at a
higher rate to generate revenue needed to operate the city. A comparison with other Dakota
County cities provides some perspective on Farmington's tax base. Figure 2 shows total Pay
January 2019 �N s
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 7
2019 Taxable Market Value by property classification. Figure 3 compares the distribution of
Taxable Market Value among the property classifications.
Taxable Market Value
Taxes Payable 2019
8,000,000,000
aimmommisma
7,000,000,000
6,000,000,000
All Other
5,000,000,000
■Agriculture
4,000,000,000 Industrial
3,000,000,000 ■Commercial
2,000,000,000 ---- -- ■Apartments
1,000,000,000 ■ Residential
Farmington Lakeville Rosemount Hastings Apple
Valley
Figure 2
Taxable Market Value
Taxes Payable 2019
100% > st_ ,: ,:
90% ter
80%
70% U U U All Other
60% U U U U •Agriculture
50% ■ ■ ■ ■ Industrial
40% ■ 1111 ■ ■Commercial
30% ■ ■ ■ ■Apartments
20% - ■ ■ ■ • Residential
10% ■
0%
Farmington Lakeville Rosemount Hastings Apple Valley
Figure 3
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 8
• Hastings has less Taxable Value than Farmington($1.52 billion to$1.74 billion).
However,the portion of the total tax base in commercial and industrial property is more
than double in Hastings (11%)in comparison to Farmington(5%).
• The commercial/industrial share of the tax base in the comparison cities ranges from
9.66% in Apple Valley to 11.24% in Rosemount.
• Rosemount provides a good contrast to Farmington. The cities have similar populations
(Farmington 22,421 -Rosemount 23,956),but Farmington has 29% less tax base.Total
Taxable Market Value per capita in Farmington is$87,866 and$116,100 in Rosemount.
Growing and diversifying the tax base has a variety of benefits. A growing tax base gives the
city more flexibility in funding services and capital improvements. This flexibility would likely
extend to the EDA budget. The demands for operating revenues may limit the ability to lower
the tax rate,but a growing tax base lessens the need to raise rates. Growing the tax base is one
of the only means available to the city to promote reductions in other parts of the total tax rate.
A diversified tax base changes the impacts of economic downturns as value changes vary
among property types. Commercial and industrial development make different use of city
services than residential with the potential for comparably less pressure to increase services and
spending.
EDA efforts to grow the tax base must be done thoughtfully and strategically.The Minnesota
property tax system affects the ability of the city to realize growth in the tax base from new
development.40% of all new commercial-industrial value goes into the Fiscal Disparities Pool
and is not available for local taxation. The use of tax increment financing (TIF) or tax abatement
defers the benefits of new tax base until the financial assistance ends. Property class rates set by
the Legislature convert the Assessor's Estimated Market Value to Tax Capacity (taxable)value
at different rates.
Figure 4 illustrates these points.This chart compares the Tax Capacity value available to the city
(and other taxing jurisdictions)from alternative development of 100 acres.
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 9
Tax Capacity From Alternative Land Uses
Industrial Retail Single Townhome
Acres 100 100 100 100
Lot Coverage/Density 30% 30% 3 6
Development (SF or Units) 1,306,800 1,306,800 300 600
EMV per SF or Unit 65 125 330,000 330,000
EMV 84,942,000 163,350,000 99,000,000 198,000,000
Tax Capacity 1,698,090 3,266,250 990,000 1,980,000
Fiscal Disparities 40% 40% 0% 0%
Net Local Tax Capacity 1,018,854 1,959,750 990,000 1,980,000
2,500,000
2,000,000
a,
@ 1,500,000
l0
ris1,000,000
coH
500,000
0
Industrial Retail Single Townhome
Figure 4
Expansion of the tax base also comes from within. The Economic Development chapter of the
Comprehensive Plan notes that"research from numerous sources shows that existing
businesses create 60%-90% of all new economic growth in a community". A focus on local
businesses is a more efficient means of expanding the tax base. Resources applied to business
expansion are more likely to yield returns than using the same resources to compete with other
cities. Resources are applied to businesses already in Farmington rather than competing with
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 10
other cities. The use of financial incentives (if needed) is typically lower and more closely
aligned with project need.
Tactics
1. Create and maintain strong relationships and lines of communication with local business to
identify opportunities for the EDA to enhance success and encourage expansion.
2. Be prepared to receive and effectively respond to inquiries about locating businesses in
Farmington.
3. Make use of tax increment financing and tax abatement,pursuant to city policies,to achieve
the objectives of the Strategic Plan.
4. Use tax increment financing and tax abatement only when the benefits received from the
development outweigh the deferred tax base.
2019 Action Plan
1. Create and conduct a comprehensive business needs/assessment survey.
2. Review and update (as needed) economic development promotional materials.
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 11
Objective: Encourage development that brings additional goods and services
to Farmington
Building and maintaining a strong core of commercial development is important to Farmington.
When necessary goods and services are not available locally,residents travel to other cities to
shop.These trips often result in additional shopping that could have occurred in Farmington.
The EDA seeks to encourage commercial development that reduces this out-migration and
complements existing businesses.
The EDA has limited control over the type and pace of commercial development. Market forces
tend to be the primary force in commercial growth. In that regard,commercial development
and job growth are directly related. New,well-paying jobs located in Farmington may produce
the demand for new housing. These new"rooftops" create the market sought by commercial
development.
The EDA can facilitate commercial development by providing desirable business districts.
Farmington has a history of creating community plans for such business districts.Plans for
Vermillion River Crossing and Downtown Farmington provide the framework for public and
private investment. In 2019,the city will be completing a plan for development in the Highway
3 Corridor.The ongoing implementation of these plans is an important EDA objective.
Tactics
1. Attract new businesses that produce jobs that are likely to create or retain households and
expand the local market for new commercial development.
2. Prepare and implement plans that provide desirable locations for new commercial
development.
2019 Action Plan
1. Continue to work with brokers and land owners to attract developments to Vermillion River
Crossings area.
2. Create ongoing means of communicating actions related to the implementation of the
Downtown Redevelopment Plan to the EDA.
3. Play an active role in the completion of the Highway 3 Corridor Study and seek effective
implementation strategies.
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 12
Objective: Promote the economic and physical health of older sections of
Farmington.
One of the Economic Development Goals of the Comprehensive Plan is"redevelopment of
vacant and underutilized properties in older areas to revitalize these vital community areas". In
reality,there are two aspects to redevelopment.The most effective strategy is to promote the
economic and physical health of the community to avoid the need for redevelopment. If the
need for redevelopment exists,however,it is important to prevent blighting conditions to
spread to other properties.
The EDA has taken a proactive approach to redevelopment by creating plans for the Downtown
and the Highway 3 Corridor. These plans provide a framework for public and private
investment. Implementation of these plans is not the sole responsibility of the EDA. The EDA
must coordinate its efforts with the city council,planning commission and other stakeholders.
Tactics
1. Engage on a consistent basis with the planning commission to share goals and develop
strategies.
2. Support the outcomes and implementation of the Highway 3 Corridor Plan.
3. Review and promote existing programs that target key areas.
2019 Action Plan
1. Schedule quarterly joint work sessions with the planning commission to align priorities.
2. Complete and identify initial implementation steps of the Highway 3 Corridor Plan.
3. Meet with Dakota County CDA staff(or invite to EDA meeting) to discuss programs.
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 13
Objective: Effectively communicate information about the EDA within city
government, to the community and to people and businesses outside of
Farmington.
Communication is an essential function of the EDA. Communication with the city council
promotes collaboration on shared objectives and builds the foundation for the financial
resources required by the EDA. Communication with the community explains the work of the
EDA,highlights the positive impact on the community and offsets potential misinformation.
Communication informs the business community,both within and outside of the community,
about the opportunities to do business in Farmington and the assistance available from the
EDA.
The city's website is the most important communication tool for the EDA.The website is the
place people look for information about the EDA. Farmington's online presence for economic
development should be guided by several factors:
• Information about the EDA and economic development in Farmington must be easy to find
on the website.
• The information on the website must be useful.
• The form and content of the pages devoted to economic development should convey a
positive message that creates interest in Farmington.
Tactics
1. Utilize the city's website as the primary point of information about the EDA and economic
development in Farmington.
2. Ensure that the website contains useful information for businesses evaluating potential
development in Farmington.
3. Make use of the newsletter and other ongoing city communications to provide information
about the EDA.
2019 Action Plan
1. Review other websites to identify elements that could be incorporated into Farmington's
website.
2. Review and enhance the city's webpage(s) related to Economic Development.
3. Develop one or more new communications tools to relay the messages and work of the
EDA.
4. Shift the monthly"Director's Report" in the EDA packet to a more public-facing newsletter.
5. Develop a social media strategy to promote the work of the EDA.
January 2019
EDA Strategic Plan 2019-2021 14
Objective: Conduct the business of the EDA to maximize its effectiveness.
While this objective seems obvious,it is important to make it a stated objective of the Strategic
Plan. The EDA operates with limited resources in terms of funding,staff time and board
responsibilities. All decision-making must consider the effective use of these limited resources.
Tactics
1. Provide consistent information to the EDA about its financial condition and existing
obligations.
2. Provide the EDA with consistent updates on the status of the action plans for the Strategic
Plan and other ongoing initiatives of the EDA.
3. Annually update the action plans in the Strategic Plan.
2019 Action Plan
1. Provide annual comprehensive review of the EDA's finances in March.
2. Develop a standardized template for providing specific project updates.
3. Explore ways to enhance the effectiveness of monthly board meetings.
4. Create a process to annually review and update action plans in the Strategic Plan.
January 2019
41kRift, City of Farmington
( 430 Third Street
Farmington, Minnesota
651.280.6800 - Fax 651.280.6899
447..A Oli www ci.farmington.mn.us
TO: Economic Development Authority
FROM: Cynthia Mullet;Administrative Assistant
SUBJECT: Facade Improvement Grant Program Analysis
DATE: January 24, 2019
INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION
The Downtown Facade Improvement Grant Program started in October 2016. Since its inception through
2018 the following has occurred:
Six grants have been approved; the work completed and grant funding submitted
(two in 2017 and four in 2018)
$30,977.86 in grant funding has been paid out
$89,469.46 has been invested by building owners to improve their buildings
$120,447.32 is the total amount of all projects completed
In 2016/2017 the EDA budgeted $20,000 for grant funding; $5,000 was paid out. Allowed grant amounts
were$1,500 to $2,500.
In 2018 the EDA budgeted $20,000 for grant funding; increased the budgeted amount by$5,978, resulting in
$25,978 being paid out. Allowed grant amounts were$1,500 to $10,000.
Since inception, five grant applications have been submitted, but the projects did not take place.
ACTION REQUESTED
For information only.
4t City of Farmington
th ����� Gs 430 Third Street
zia
Farmington, Minnesota
blr 651.280.6800 - Fax 651.280.6899
. www.ci.farmington.mn.us
TO: Economic Development Authority
FROM: Adam Kienberger, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: January Director's Report
DATE: January 24, 2019
INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION
Farmington Expo
The 2019 Farmington Expo will be on Saturday, January 26th at the high school from 9-noon. Please make
an effort to attend and visit with the local businesses and residents in attendance.
Highway 3 Corridor Plan
Draft recommendations and project narrative are being developed by the consultant team as work on the
Highway 3 Corridor Plan progresses. The project team will have a booth at the Farmington Expo to solicit
additional public input and promote awareness of the project. Please stop by to see us if you are in
attendance.
Riste Lot Update
I will provide the EDA with an update on the potential sale of the Riste lot including progress made since our
meeting in December.
2019 CDBG Funding Availability
I was informed recently that with the federal government shutdown, the Dakota County CDA likely has
enough CDBG dollars to meet activities designated in the program year 2018, but 2019 funding may be
impacted as available dollars are spent down.
EDA Composition
Currently the EDA is comprised of two city councilmembers, two school board members and three
residents. EDA composition and board member terms are governed by both Minnesota State Statute and
local ordinance.
At the January 7, 2019 city council meeting, Mayor Larson brought up the possibility of stepping away from
his position on the EDA to get the two city council positions back on opposite election cycles. Currently
both Mayor Larson and Councilmember Craig serve on the EDA and their city council terms expire at the
end of 2020.
Mayor Larson asked Councilmembers Bernhjelm and Hoyt, who both have an interest in serving on the
EDA, to discuss amongst themselves who of the two of them would serve on the EDA since they share the
same election cycle. These two have determined that Councilmember Bernhjelm will serve on the EDA.
Also of note is that School Board Member Steve Corraro's seat on the EDA expired on December 315t,
2018. With the expiration of this term and no eligible applications received by the interview deadline, city
council is recommending changing the EDA composition to two city councilmembers, one school board
member and four residents effective February 4, 2019. An enabling resolution and ordinance will be
considered at a public hearing to be held on February 4, 2019, to change the composition.
Please thank both Mayor Larson and Steve Corraro for their service on the EDA.
Miscellaneous Articles
DEED Employment Report—January
NEXT MEETING
Our next regular meeting is February 28th at 6:30 p.m. This meeting is regularly designated as the EDA's
annual organizational meeting.
ACTION REQUESTED
None, this report is intended to be a monthly update on various development and industry related topics.
ATTACHMENTS:
Type Description
D Exhibit DEED Employment Report-January
Adam Kienberger
From: DEED Media <MNDEED@public.govdelivery.com>
Sent: Thursday,January 17, 2019 10:01 AM
To: Adam Kienberger
Subject: Unemployment Remains Steady; Four Straight Months at 2.8 Percent
For Immediate Release Contact: Shane Delaney, 651-259-7236
January 17, 2018 shane.m.delaneyOstate.mn.us
Steve Hine, 651-259-7396
steve.hine(astate.mn.us
Unemployment Remains Steady; Four
Straight Months at 2.8 Percent
ST. PAUL — Minnesota's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held at 2.8 percent
in December, according to data released today by the Minnesota Department of
Employment and Economic Development (DEED), marking the fourth straight month
with the same unemployment rate.
Minnesota's unemployment rate remains the lowest since May 1999 and is just above
the all-time low of 2.5 percent held in January and February 1999.
The state gained 500 jobs in December on a seasonally adjusted basis. November's
previously announced loss of 800 jobs was revised downward to 1,000 jobs lost. Over
the year, Minnesota has added 31,441 jobs for a 1.1 percent increase over last
December. Private sector gains stand at 28,960 or a 1.2 percent increase. Nationally,
the total non-farm and private sector growth rates were 1.8 percent and 2.0 percent
respectively.
Seven of the eleven major sectors gained jobs in December while four lost jobs.
Leisure and hospitality once again led the gains with 2,100 more jobs. Other sectors
with gains were, construction up (1,100), manufacturing (up 500), other services (up
500), information (up 300), trade, transportation and utilities (up 200), and logging
and mining (up 100).
1
Sectors measuring loses were; professional and business serves (down 2,600),
financial activities (down 900), education and health care services (down 700) and
government (down 100).
Mankato Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) once again had the highest over-the-
year unadjusted growth in employment at 4.0 percent. Following Mankato MSA was
Minneapolis-St. Paul MSA with 1.6 percent growth, Duluth-Superior MSA with 1.1
percent growth and St. Cloud MSA with 0.9 percent growth. Rochester MSA declined
0.2 percent since last December.
Use the link to see DEED's alternative measures of unemployment.
DEED is the state's principal economic development agency, promoting business
recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade
and community development. For more details about the agency and its services,
visit the DEED website or follow DEED on Twitter.
2