HomeMy WebLinkAbout08.18.25 EDA Packet
Meeting Location:
Farmington City Hall, Conf Room 170
430 Third Street
Farmington, MN 55024
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Monday, August 18, 2025
5:30 PM
Page
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVE AGENDA
5. CITIZEN COMMENTS
6. CONSENT AGENDA
6.1. Minutes of the July 21, 2025 Regular Economic Development Authority
Meeting
Approve the minutes of the July 21, 2025 Regular Economic
Development Authority Meeting.
Agenda Item: Minutes of the July 21, 2025 Regular Economic
Development Authority Meeting - Pdf
3 - 6
6.2. Monthly Financial Report
Accept the Monthly Financial Report.
Agenda Item: Monthly Financial Report - Pdf
7 - 8
6.3. Quarterly Report - Open to Business (Q2 2025)
No action requested. Report is provided for informational purposes.
Agenda Item: Quarterly Report - Open to Business (Q2 2025) - Pdf
9 - 15
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. DISCUSSION ITEMS
8.1. Preliminary EDA Levy - FY 2026 16 - 19
Page 1 of 31
Adopt Resolution 2025-02 Approving Preliminary Economic
Development Authority Levy Request for 2026.
Agenda Item: Preliminary EDA Levy - FY 2026 - Pdf
8.2. "Share Our Downtown" - Parking Campaign
Authorize Staff to proceed with launching the "Share Our Downtown"
campaign, utilizing programming funds.
Agenda Item: "Share Our Downtown" - Parking Campaign - Pdf
20 - 25
9. DIRECTOR'S REPORT
9.1. Director's Report
No action questions. This item is informational and is provided to
communicate how the EDA time and money resources are allocated and
to track and measure the impact of initiatives.
Agenda Item: Director's Report - Pdf
26 - 31
10. ADJOURN
Page 2 of 31
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Shirley Buecksler, City Clerk
Department: Administration
Subject: Minutes of the July 21, 2025 Regular Economic Development Authority Meeting
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Aug 18 2025
INTRODUCTION:
The minutes of the July 21, 2025 Regular Economic Development Authority Meeting are attached
for review.
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve the minutes of the July 21, 2025 Regular Economic Development Authority Meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
07.21.25 EDA Minutes
Page 3 of 31
EDA Minutes of July 21, 2025 Page 1 of 3
City of Farmington
Economic Development Authority
Regular Meeting Minutes
Monday, July 21, 2025
The Farmington Economic Development Authority met in regular session on Monday,
July 21, 2025, at Farmington City Hall, 430 Third Street, Farmington, Minnesota.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Hoyt called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chair Hoyt lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Chair Joshua Hoyt
Commissioners Holly Bernatz, Nick Lien, and Steve Wilson
Members Absent: Councilmember Cordes
Staff Present: David Chanski, Asst. City Administrator/HR Director
Deanna Kuennen, EDA Executive Director
Stephanie Aman, Economic Development Coordinator
Shirley Buecksler, City Clerk
Also Present: Jon Althoff, President and Chief Mission Officer, Dakota
County Regional Chamber of Commerce
Kara Hilger, Dakota County Tribune
4. APPROVE AGENDA
Motion was made by Commissioner Lien and seconded by Commissioner Wilson
to approve the agenda, as presented.
Motion carried: 4 ayes / 0 nays
5. CITIZEN COMMENTS
No one addressed the Commission to speak.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
6.1 Minutes of the June 16, 2025 Regular Economic Development Authority
Meeting
6.2 Monthly Financial Report
Page 4 of 31
EDA Minutes of July 21, 2025 Page 2 of 3
Motion was made by Commissioner Bernatz and seconded by Commissioner
Wilson to approve the Consent Agenda, as presented.
Motion carried: 4 ayes / 0 nays
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. DISCUSSION ITEMS
8.1 Partnership Presentation – Dakota County Regional Chamber (DCR)
Executive Director Kuennen introduced Jon Althoff, President and Chief
Mission Officer, Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce. The
Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce (DCR) has the mission of
being the voice of business and the vision of being the key connector and
catalyst for growth. They fulfill their mission and vision by hosting signature
events and regional programs, providing information to members,
conducting advocacy work, giving back to their communities, and being a
resource. This work extends to Farmington where the DCR has hosted /
co-hosted candidate forums, State of the City, coffee breaks, and more
recently – support for data center development within the region.
Mr. Althoff thanked the EDA for being the first City to ever ask the DCR to
come and explain what they do as a Chamber. The Dakota County Regional
Chamber of Commerce began in West St. Paul on January 1, 1957. Mr.
Althoff presented an overview of the current work, focus, and initiatives of
the DCR. He talked about how the work between and with the City of
Farmington can grow and strengthen, and he also discussed future DCR
initiatives. Mr. Althoff also mentioned that he would like to set up quarterly
meetings with the new City Administrator when this person comes on board.
Director Kuennen thanked Mr. Althoff for coming and for his and the
Chamber’s support of the City in regard to the data center. This is a great
reflection of how the Chamber supports its Cities. Our partners are important,
and we cannot do any of this alone.
Council thanked Mr. Althoff for being a huge advocate for Farmington,
saying that your engagement is very valuable and we appreciate
everything you’re doing.
9. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
9.1 Director’s Report
Page 5 of 31
EDA Minutes of July 21, 2025 Page 3 of 3
10. ADJOURNMENT
Motion was made by Commissioner Lien and seconded by Commissioner Bernatz
to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 pm.
Motion carried: 4 ayes / 0 nays
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley R Buecksler
City Clerk
Page 6 of 31
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Deanna Kuennen, Community & Economic Development Director
Department: EDA
Subject: Monthly Financial Report
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Aug 18 2025
INTRODUCTION:
Attached is the monthly Financial Report for August 2025.
DISCUSSION:
Attached is the monthly Finance Report for August 2025, including a summary of the approved
2025 budget.
ACTION REQUESTED:
Accept the Monthly Financial Report.
ATTACHMENTS:
08-2025 Financial Report YTD
Page 7 of 31
Business
Unit
Object
Account
Account
Description
Cumulative 12
Budget
2023
Cumulative 12
Budget
2024
Cumulative 12
Actual
2025
Cumulative 12
Budget
2025
NOTES
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT3510 UNRESERVED FUND BALANCE -411,501.80 UNAUDITED FUND BALANCE
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT4011 CURRENT PROPERTY TAX -150,000.00 -125,000.00 -250,000.00 Levy
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT4516 ADMINISTRATION FEES - PROJECTS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT4955 INTEREST ON INVESTMENTS -1,600.00 -1,000.00 -12,955.58 -2,600.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT4960 GAIN/LOSS INVEST MKT VALUE 0.00
-252,600.00 TOTAL REVENUE
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6210 OFFICE SUPPLIES 0.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6220 EQUIP SUPPLIES & PARTS 159.99
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6280 BOOKS & SUBSCRIPTIONS 150.00 1,426.51 150.00 CivicSend Newsletter Modual
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6401 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 1,000.00 5,000.00 21,004.35 25,000.00 Communications, GroceryAnalysis, MREJ Services
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6403 LEGAL 1,000.00 3,000.00 311.00 3,000.00 LAHA JPA
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6404 IT SERVICES 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6426 INSURANCE 560.00 600.00 236.04 600.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6445 POSTAGE/SHIPPING FEES 1,000.00 0.00 1,000.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6450 OUTSIDE PRINTING 250.00 2,500.00 610.87 3,000.00 Marketing Materials - Summer Networking Event
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6455 LEGAL NOTICES 100.00 500.00 0.00 500.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6460 MEMBER DUES & LICENSURE 2,500.00 3,500.00 7,865.00 8,500.00 MidAmerica EDC, DCR, EDAM, CVN Memberships
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6470 TRAINING & SUBSISTANCE 3,500.00 5,000.00 4,625.55 5,000.00 EDAM Winter (2), EDAM Summer (2), ULI, Next25, MAEDC (2)
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6480 MEETING EXPENSE 242.04 500.00 Business Summit
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6485 MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT 1,000.00 3,000.00 451.64 5,100.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6492 ADVERTISING 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6505 EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE 1,600.00 1,000.00 0.00 1,000.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6550 DEVELOPER PAYMENTS 60,000.00 50,000.00 0.00 50,000.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6570 PROGRAMMING EXPENSE 10,000.00 10,000.00 17,709.00 85,000.00 MREJ Contract, Open to Business
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT7310 OPERATING TRANSFERS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT7420 OTHER 0.00 64,750.00 0.00 0.00
54,641.99 188,350.00 YTD EXPENDITURES / 2025 BUDGET
-64,250.00 Unallocated Funds
133,708.01 YTD Remaining Unspent Balance
Total 2000 - HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 29,910.00 -51,000.00 0.00 -64,250.00
29,910.00 -51,000.00 0.00 -64,250.00
29,910.00 -51,000.00 0.00 -64,250.00
August Financial Report
Page 8 of 31
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Deanna Kuennen, Community & Economic Development Director
Department: EDA
Subject: Quarterly Report - Open to Business (Q2 2025)
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Aug 18 2025
INTRODUCTION:
The Open to Business Program provides technical assistance and access to capital to small
businesses and potential entrepreneurs, in Dakota County. As required in the Joint Powers
Agreement, quarterly reports are provided by the Business Advisor outlining client interactions and
statistics. Attached is the Q2 2025 Report.
DISCUSSION:
Open to Business provides technical assistance and access to capital to small businesses and
potential entrepreneurs in Dakota County. Through the Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota
County CDA, communities within the county agree to leverage their individual dollars for this
important service.
In addition to the technical assistance and access to capital that is provided directly to the clients,
the Business Advisor, Natalie Mouilso, meets monthly with City Staff. The purpose of these
meetings is to learn about upcoming events and resources that can be shared with interested
businesses (for example - "Access to Capital for Small Business" event), share referrals, and
discuss general trends/challenges/needs of the small business community. To better understand
the reach and impact of the program, Natalie Mouilso attended the April EDA meeting and provided
the Q1 2025 report in person.
BUDGET IMPACT:
$5,500 annually
ACTION REQUESTED:
No action requested. Report is provided for informational purposes.
ATTACHMENTS:
Open to Business Narrative Report - Dakota County - Q2 2025
Page 9 of 31
Natalie Mouilso, nmouilso@mccdmn.org, 952-451-6390
1/31/2025 – 6/30/2025
Clients Served YTD
Client Inquiry 1
Existing - Challenged 19
Existing - Opportunity 34
Pre-start planning 31
Start-up 25
Total 110
Business Owner Demographics YTD
# of Clients
Low-Income Owned 57
BIPOC or Immigrant Owned 67
Woman Owned 62
Financing & Access to Capital YTD
Loans & Grants
Approved (YRLY Total) $337,414.00
Equity (YRLY Total) $108,079.00
Facilitated (YRLY Total) $ 98,967.00
Total Investment $544,460.00
Program Hours
TA Program HRS
1st QTR 367 237
2nd QTR 462 185
Total 829 422
TA: Client Meetings, Providing Resources, Client Calls, Client Deliverables, Loan Packaging
Program HRS: City Initiatives, Program Outreach, Public Events, City Meetings, Research, Data/Admin, General Inquiries
Page 10 of 31
Open to Business Report
2
Industry Segment YTD
Construction / Real Estate 5
Food 19
Health/Fitness 11
Manufacturing 3
Consulting 6
Retail 28
Service 18
Wholesale / Distribution 2
Other 18
Total 110
Referral Source YTD
Bank Referral
10
Entrepreneur 4
Friends and Family 17
Municipality 13
MCCD Partner/staff 16
Other 21
Web 29
Total 110
City YTD Business Resident
Apple Valley 13 10
Burnsville 17 12
Eagan 11 11
Farmington 9 10
Hastings 3 4
Inver Grove Heights 6 8
Lakeville 11 16
Mendota Heights 2 2
Rosemount 8 9
South St. Paul 8 7
West St. Paul 5 4
Other Dakota Co. 2 3
Other/ No Data 6 14
“I just wanted to let you know that it was great speaking with you today - I learned a lot in our conversation!”
– Eagan Business Owner
Page 11 of 31
Open to Business Report
3
Direct Financing & Access to Capital
Business Type: Bubble Tea & Café
Business City: Eagan
Residence City: Savage & Farmington
Referred by: Website
MCCD Financing: $175,000*
Owner Equity: $65,443
Overview: This startup bubble tea shop was seeking funds for start up expenses, tenant improvements,
equipment, inventory, and working capital. The two business partners put their heads together on opening this
business and were approved for a $175,000 direct loan from MCCD in January 2025, contingent on an 80% loan
guaranty from MN DEED through the DEED Small Business Credit Initiative.
*As the DEED guaranty application was in progress the business owners received news of some unexpected
project costs from their contractor and decided to withdraw their application and tabled the business plan for
now.
Business Type: Natural Beauty & Wellness Products
Business City: Burnsville
Residence City: Burnsville
Referred by: TikTok Influencer
Microgrant Facilitated: $2,500
Owner Equity: $2,500
Overview: This early-stage home-based business was established in 2023 and sells handmade beauty and
wellness products to friends and family. After a referral from a TikTok influencer who provides
entrepreneurship advice, the Burnsville resident reached out to MCCD seeking funding to expand her business
and launch her website. The business owner is a low-income single mother and qualified for a microgrant which
MCCD facilitated, and the client received in January. The funding allowed the business owner to increase
operational efficiency, buy inventory and supplies, and launch a new product line. The entrepreneur is currently
working on rebuilding her credit so that she can apply for an MCCD loan for the remaining funding to build and
launch her website.
Business Type: Food Truck and Cookie Dough Wholesaler
Business City: Eagan (Home Based & mobile throughout Twin Cities region)
Residence City: Eagan
Referred by: LEDC
MCCD Financing: $50,000
Owner Equity: $7,000
Other Financing: $50,000
Overview: MCCD collaborated with nonprofit partner on this $107,000 project to support a growing BIPOC and
woman owned cookie dough business. The business was established in 2021 as a response to the lack of
organic cookie dough available in the market. Their dough offers all organic, non-GMO, fair trade ingredients
with no preservatives and comes in three flavors. There are two branches to their business: the business-to-
business, where they sell wholesale through a distributor to co-ops and grocery stores and a direct to customer
retail - selling both the dough and fresh-baked cookies at farmers markets and festivals. They had been selling
Page 12 of 31
Open to Business Report
4
via a pop-up tent and recently came across the opportunity to purchase a food trailer to streamline their
operations. The borrowers needed funding food trailer improvements, equipment, inventory, and working
capital to help them take advantage of the upcoming selling season.
Business Type: Fashion Optical Boutique
Business City: Savage
Residence City: Burnsville
Referred by: Municipality
MCCD Financing: $82,173.70
Owner Equity: $30,636
Other Financing/ funding: $35,217.30 & $11,250
Overview: This entrepreneur is a licensed optician operating in the optical industry for more than 20 years. He
has always dreamed of opening his own optical store near his home in Burnsville to start to build wealth for
himself. He found an ideal storefront in Savage and reached out to MCCD for assistance with the project
funding for inventory, equipment, startup expenses, and ~ 3 months of working capital for operations. Total
project costs are $159,227 including the equity investment of $30,636 and a $11,250 tenant improvement
budget from the landlord. The loan request was approved by MCCD’s loan committee on April 24th contingent
on 30% participation from MN DEED through the Small Business Credit Initiative, application is currently
pending, and approval is expected in early May.
Business Type: RV Tank Cleaning
Business City: Rosemount
Residence City: Rosemount
Referred by: Community Partner
MCCD Financing: $30,000
Owner Equity: $2,500
Overview: This husband-and-wife team have a combined professional background in customer service, custodial
cleaning, and mechanicals. They also love camping and the outdoors and have been avid RV'ers for years. As
they grow older and become empty nesters, they saw an opportunity to make a side business out of their
passion and have something that they could continue into retirement. Through their time spent at campgrounds
in the Midwest they became aware of the opportunity to become a licensed dealer for an RV Tank cleaning
franchise. The business owners see this as a promising opportunity to generate additional income now and into
retirement while doing something that they truly love.
“Thank you so much for your time & all your guidance!”
- Lakeville Business Owner
Page 13 of 31
Open to Business Report
5
Credit Builder Loans
In collaboration with nonprofit partners who provide credit building & financial awareness counseling, MCCD provides
$240 Credit Builder Loans (CBLs) to qualified applicants seeking to improve their personal credit. Credit Builder
applicants complete financial training through MCCD’s partners and are then referred to MCCD for a CBL. MCCD
generates and services the CBLs in-house.
Credit Builder Loans YTD
Resident City Loan Amount
West Saint Paul $240
TOTAL $240
Highlights, Networking, & Outreach
Programming, Partnerships, & Trainings
• April 8 – In partnership with UMN Law School MCCD hosted a virtual Q&A session on small business law. We
host this free virtual event twice annually and it is designed for business owners at any stage. Law student
panelists work with their supervising attorney to answer questions and provide legal resources and guidance to
help navigate law questions and concerns. 25 attendees joined and the event was a huge success.
• June 30 – Earlier this year, MCCD rolled out our hybrid lending information sessions every other Tuesday at noon
via zoom and in person at the MCCD office. This year to date our team has hosted 11 sessions with 30
attendees. The sessions are designed to give potential loan applicants a solid understanding of our loan
application process.
• July 30 – Join us for our upcoming webinar: Understanding Immigration Policy and Impacts on Small Businesses
hosted by MCCD with panelists including Kwame Osafo-Addo, Attorney and Owner at TruLegalBiz; Brenda
Pfahnl, Attorney and Owner at Colibri Legal PLLC; and Lisa Zamora and Diana Salas from the MN Department of
Labor and Industry. The discussion will include current updates and practical information for businesses
regarding Immigration Policy. Register here.
Advertising & Outreach
• Submit content to MCCD’s Business Resource Newsletter! MCCD community partners are invited to submit
their own events, trainings, and more to be included in MCCD’s Business Resource Newsletter. Information
should be relevant/tailored to local small business owners and entrepreneurs. Email your content to Mara
Brooks, MCCD's Communications & Data Coordinator, at mbrooks@mccdmn.org
• April 2 – MCCD launched its Lending E blast, a semiannual update on our loan program, loan products, and
lending team. The e blast went out to all lenders and financing partners in our network.
• April 17 – MCCD participated in a Small Business Resource Fair hosted by the Neighborhood Development
Center, Metro State University and Stearns Bank. The fair provided expert advice, networking opportunities,
and valuable resources to help small businesses grow and thrive.
• May 9 – MCCD staff joined over 300 attendees and 65 vendors at the St. Paul Small Business Summit & Expo,
presented by Wells Fargo during National Small Business Week. The event provided a platform for networking,
learning, and celebrating local entrepreneurs. MCCD client and consultant Britany Howard of Victory Business
Page 14 of 31
Open to Business Report
6
Solutions was honored as the 2025 Minnesota Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Small Business
Administration.
• May 22 – MCCD tabled with the Dakota County CDA at the Southeast Metro Development Summit which
discussed market insights, updates, and new approaches in residential, commercial, and experiential
development. Many connections were made with local businesses and commercial lenders.
• June 12 – MCCD participated in the Black Business Network's Business Fair and Silent Auction located at Allianz
Field which celebrated black-owned businesses throughout the region.
• June 16 – MCCD’s Howard Bailey spoke as a panelist at the University of St. Thomas’s Access to Capital event
highlighting financing opportunities for small businesses. Other panelists included Northeast Bank and US Bank.
• The advertisement library is up to date with the most recent ads and flyers for OTB. Access the library here.
• In the last quarter, banker and lender outreach occurred specifically with Frandsen Bank & Trust, Lakeview Bank,
Prime Security Bank, Royal Credit Union, Stearns Bank, US Bank, and Village Bank.
• In addition to lending outreach, written or in-person presentations were made and/or networking efforts were
made including with UMN Law School, Dakota County Library Adult Services, MN DEED, and MN Dept. of Labor
& Industry.
Quarterly Highlight
MCCD Advisors Tyler Hilsebeck and Natalie Mouilso visit Client Southeast Metro Development Summit, May 22,2025
Watson Fong’s (center) newly opened market in South Saint Paul
Page 15 of 31
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Deanna Kuennen, Community & Economic Development Director
Department: EDA
Subject: Preliminary EDA Levy - FY 2026
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Aug 18 2025
INTRODUCTION:
In 2024, the EDA passed a resolution requesting that an EDA levy be established to provide a
dedicated funding source for economic development purposes in the amount of $150,000. Now that
the levy is established, annually the EDA must pass a resolution requesting an EDA levy stating the
proposed maximum amount, which is submitted to City Council to be included with the City's
proposed levy. This must be done prior to the City adopting and certifying a proposed levy in
September. Similarly, a final levy request must also be requested via resolution, to be included in
the final levy that the City adopts and certifies in December.
DISCUSSION:
The EDA levy provides a dedicated funding source to be used for economic development purposes.
In 2024, the EDA levy was established in the amount of $150,000. Now that the levy is established,
the EDA annually is required to adopt a preliminary maximum levy request and submit the request
to City Council to be included with the City's proposed levy. State Statutes require the City to certify
its proposed property tax amounts to the County Auditor in September.
Per State Statues, the maximum EDA levy allowed is 0.01813% of the taxable market value. The
proposed maximum levy request for FY 2026 is $250,000 - which is well below the maximum levy
amount allowed:
These funds will be used to support broad economic development initiatives and the City's priority
of "quality business growth and retention."
Year 2024 - $150,000
Year 2025 - $250,000 net increase of $50,000 in levy due to elimination of General Fund transfer
Page 16 of 31
Year 2026 - $250,000
BUDGET IMPACT:
$250,000 to be included in the 2026 budget if approved by City Council.
ACTION REQUESTED:
Adopt Resolution 2025-02 Approving Preliminary Economic Development Authority Levy Request
for 2026.
ATTACHMENTS:
2025-02 Approving Preliminary EDA Levy Request for 2026
2026- Dakota County Estimated Market Value
Page 17 of 31
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
OF THE CITY OF FARMINGTON
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION 2025-02
A RESOLUTION APPROVING
PRELIMINARY EDA LEVY REQUEST FOR 2026
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 469.107, subdivision 1, provides that a City may,
at the request of its Economic Development Authority (“EDA”), levy a tax each year upon all
taxable property within the taxing district for the benefit of the EDA; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes section 469.107, subdivision 1, also limits this levy to no
more than 0.01813 percent of the estimated market value of the taxing district; and
WHEREAS, the EDA desires the City of Farmington to include a levy in the proposed
2026 budget.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Economic Development Authority of
the City of Farmington that it approves and recommends a 2026 preliminary tax levy of
$250,000.00 for EDA purposes.
Adopted by the Economic Development Authority of the City of Farmington, Minnesota, this 18th
day of August 2025.
ATTEST:
____________________________ ______________________________
Joshua Hoyt, Chair Deanna Kuennen, Executive Director
Page 18 of 31
Assessing Services
651-438-4200 or 1-800-247-1056 (Non-Metro)
Report Name: AA717DCO
Date: 07/29/2025 Job Number: 426854
Environment: PREMPDB1 Department of Information Technology Page 1 of 1
DAKOTA COUNTY
ESTIMATED AND TAXABLE MARKET VALUES - INCLUDES REAL ESTATE AND PERSONAL PROPERTY
Parameters: Tax Year: 2025 Payable Year: 2026
COUNTY TOTAL EXEMPT ESTIMATED TAXABLE MKT VALUE TAX CPC STATE TAX REFERNDA
DIST NAME MKT VALUE MKT VALUE MKT VALUE MKT VALUE NEW CONST NEW CONST TAX CPC MKT VALUE
01
02
Apple Valley
Burnsville
9,128,160,400
10,503,566,300
557,681,000
483,363,900
8,570,479,400
10,020,202,400
8,320,392,444
9,741,155,094
32,042,200
24,865,100
414,771
220,440
15,900,525
40,108,920
8,445,247,280
9,863,402,900
07 Castle Rock 478,834,600 7,475,000 471,359,600 461,705,892 3,092,400 49,614 665,786 284,272,600
08 Coates 39,012,100 716,400 38,295,700 36,761,862 132,600 2,652 267,850 30,726,400
09
10
12
13
Douglas
Eagan
Empire
Eureka
333,868,700
14,559,642,500
678,725,500
499,395,400
14,302,400
970,737,800
86,246,300
12,941,200
319,566,300
13,588,904,700
592,479,200
486,454,200
314,532,952
13,309,639,770
576,202,945
476,444,440
912,200
45,767,000
3,549,900
4,051,700
14,508
743,238
64,141
57,810
117,290
61,086,916
1,133,104
658,982
136,480,600
13,471,415,450
495,235,500
314,053,100
14
16
Farmington
Greenvale
3,630,218,300
310,497,900
226,448,900
1,083,500
3,403,769,400
309,414,400
3,247,200,827
301,996,529
77,168,000
2,247,800
807,939
25,319
4,698,979
152,744
3,278,915,886
162,247,200
17
18
19
20
22
Hampton Twnshp
Hampton City
Hastings
Inver Grv Hghts
Lakeville
393,614,900
86,495,600
3,558,962,100
6,419,323,900
14,562,949,600
1,740,400
2,886,800
423,143,800
289,580,400
622,454,900
391,874,500
83,608,800
3,135,818,300
6,129,743,500
13,940,494,700
384,108,493
78,403,543
2,993,892,041
5,945,491,074
13,652,220,750
961,000
191,600
36,961,000
81,710,100
257,157,100
12,340
2,188
439,379
1,016,745
2,925,190
330,390
66,188
5,286,053
15,240,650
30,983,194
198,697,400
77,351,100
3,059,861,500
5,999,883,850
13,734,397,625
24
25
Lilydale
Marshan
306,018,300
437,981,800
3,572,700
5,407,900
302,445,600
432,573,900
298,153,477
424,500,717
16,381,300
533,800
204,764
9,892
334,578
237,960
301,102,300
247,299,000
26
27
28
Mendota City
Mendota Hghts
Miesville
58,649,900
3,508,336,200
34,902,800
3,301,600
237,780,700
1,875,300
55,348,300
3,270,555,500
33,027,500
54,785,255
3,236,484,519
31,759,565
1,380,400
12,024,600
77,100
16,071
151,370
771
151,788
11,016,916
42,830
55,320,800
3,254,175,178
22,701,900
29 New Trier 12,406,800 1,471,500 10,935,300 9,969,390 0 0 6,698 10,098,400
30
31
32
33
Nininger
Randolph Twnshp
Randolph City
Ravenna
251,989,700
282,134,200
69,728,900
461,893,700
12,349,000
9,148,100
6,676,600
4,708,400
239,640,700
272,986,100
63,052,300
457,185,300
234,322,521
268,551,977
59,950,145
447,099,088
757,400
2,901,300
525,000
1,762,200
9,780
47,833
5,324
20,470
234,217
891,007
73,046
139,178
179,032,900
228,648,300
59,810,600
412,410,100
34 Rosemount 5,644,805,500 258,316,800 5,386,488,700 5,230,001,352 253,492,500 2,713,487 12,891,134 5,179,245,900
35 Sciota 165,379,600 1,305,100 164,074,500 159,967,651 1,893,700 19,974 52,228 80,858,800
36 South St. Paul 2,717,278,400 174,373,800 2,542,904,600 2,414,362,135 10,279,200 147,784 7,301,581 2,513,347,825
38 Sunfish Lake 307,572,000 9,284,000 298,288,000 297,961,640 7,298,300 91,227 33,842 297,988,000
39
40
41
Vermillion Twnshp
Vermillion City
Waterford
446,435,300
69,361,000
172,845,400
3,089,700
4,279,700
2,374,700
443,345,600
65,081,300
170,470,700
437,519,550
62,247,101
165,757,232
2,049,300
29,800
695,400
39,584
298
6,825
356,214
51,196
263,506
249,272,700
60,006,200
95,499,400
42 West St. Paul 3,054,416,600 220,246,400 2,834,170,200 2,730,082,656 12,987,600 148,248 6,843,942 2,673,948,486
43 Northfield 250,409,200 27,327,900 223,081,300 217,352,654 168,100 1,954 176,756 216,252,600
TOTALS 83,435,813,100 4,687,692,600 78,748,120,500 76,620,977,281 896,046,700 10,431,930 217,796,188 75,689,207,780
End of Report
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Deanna Kuennen, Community & Economic Development Director
Department: EDA
Subject: "Share Our Downtown" - Parking Campaign
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Aug 18 2025
INTRODUCTION:
Over the years, the City has received comments regarding the limited parking in the downtown.
Downtown Farmington, like most thriving downtown areas, have times when parking is scarce.
There is never one solution that will address these real and/or perceived parking issues - but
instead a multi-faceted, layered approach can help to inform and educate those who frequent the
downtown, hopefully modifying behaviors which ultimately support our downtown businesses. The
proposed "Share Our Downtown" campaign is aimed at acknowledging that there is limited parking
in the downtown, educating and informing business owners and visitors that off-street public
parking is available, and implementing signage that supports quick visits and identifies parking
areas.
DISCUSSION:
The downtown Farmington storefronts are full and investment continues to occur in the downtown
area. These are good things - but the increased activity also contributes to an increased demand
for close parking. Visitors, business owners, and employees want to be able to park near their
destination, especially when making just a quick stop. The same visitors, business owners, and
employees also want to have safe parking areas - that are easily identifiable and easily accessible.
Both the beauty of authentic and thriving downtowns and the challenge is that businesses are not
required to provide their own off-street parking, therefore the public parking on the street is at a
premium at certain times/days.
A few years ago, with the anticipated increase of traffic in the downtown with the addition of The
Emery - Staff completed an exercise to map all the downtown parking areas and spaces (300 total).
The map was shared and people were encouraged to use the public parking lots. However, it was
noted that the public parking lots are not easily identified. To address this, the Wayfinding Plan
included the recommendation for Parking Signs at key locations.
Fast-forward to today. The Emery is complete and additional investment has occurred in the
downtown. Multiple property/businesses owners have expressed their desire to see short-term
parking spots in the downtown. These spaces could be used for visitors making quick stops, could
be used for drop-off/pick-ups, and collectively would encourage parking turnover that would support
our businesses. The concept of designated 15-minute "courtesy" parking spots was discussed at
the City's Development Review Committee (DRC) meeting. It was agreed that responding to
individual business requests is not in the best interest of the downtown as a collective - having
Page 20 of 31
designated spots in consistent locations per block would be an acceptable option. These spaces
would be identified with signage and would support the downtown as a whole. Based on this
discussion, a "Share Our Downtown" campaign has been developed. The campaign would include
the following components:
1. 15-minute "Quick Stop Spots"
2. Parking Signs identifying Public Parking as recommended in the Wayfinding Plan
3. Page on the City's website with Downtown Parking information
4. Mailing(s) to downtown property owners and businesses
5. Window clings/posters - so businesses can outwardly show their support for the initiative
6. Downtown Identifier signage kick-starting the implementation of the Wayfinding Plan
Staff is seeking authorization to launch the "Share Our Downtown" campaign. This would involve
the acquisition and installation of signs, launch of the webpage, mailings, and opportunities to
receive feedback.
Attached please find the campaign plan with additional details.
BUDGET IMPACT:
Approximately $55,000 - from Programming Expenses and Unallocated Funds
ACTION REQUESTED:
Authorize Staff to proceed with launching the "Share Our Downtown" campaign, utilizing
programming funds.
ATTACHMENTS:
SHARE OUR DOWNTOWN logo and campaign
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SHARE OUR DOWNTOWN
Support our Shops.
Campaign Purpose:
Encourage residents, employees, "regulars", and visitors to preserve closer spots
for small business customers.
Core Message:
• Share Our Downtown.
• Save a Spot. Support our Shops.
• Every Spot Counts.
Engagement:
• Work with downtown champions to spread the message
• Use social media to build awareness and recognition - #ShareOurDowntown
hashtags, photo shoutouts, etc.
Implementation Plan:
1. Short Term Parking Spots
• One spot per block along 3rd St between Spruce and Elm (total 4 spots)
• Spots located near the corner and/or adjacent to existing ADA spaces
• These spaces would not be monitored and enforced by the Police
Department – courtesy spaces
• Standard Size sign (12x18-inches) – temporary installed at first to gather
feedback
• Cost - $25 per sign, plus post and installation
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2. Public Parking Signs
It is important to clearly identify public parking lots in conjunction with
implementing a campaign that encourages use of off-street parking.
• Easily identify public parking opportunities
• Cost - $25 per sign plus post and installation
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3. Communications
• Postcards for business and property owners announcing initiative
• Webpage with downtown parking map and additional information (QR Code
to be included on postcard)
• Posters/window clings provided to businesses who want to support the
initiative
• Use of social media
• Cost – printing
Text still under development
4. Downtown Identifier Signs
The Downtown Identifier Signs are part of the Wayfinding Plan.
• Installation of two signs
• Cost - $25,000 per sign *Staff has applied twice for a T-Mobile grant to fund
this component of the wayfinding plan. Unfortunately, the project has not been
awarded funding.*
Page 24 of 31
Page 25 of 31
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Deanna Kuennen, Community & Economic Development Director
Department: EDA
Subject: Director's Report
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Aug 18 2025
INTRODUCTION:
Attached please find a summary of recent economic development activities. Additional details
regarding some of the activity may be highlighted separately in the EDA packet.
DISCUSSION:
Attached please find a summary of recent economic development activities. Staff will be available
to answer questions.
ACTION REQUESTED:
No action questions. This item is informational and is provided to communicate how the EDA time
and money resources are allocated and to track and measure the impact of initiatives.
ATTACHMENTS:
08-2025 meeting
Page 26 of 31
Reporting
Period:
August 2025
DIRECTOR’S REPORT – providing project highlights and a summary of
economic development activity.
Projects &
Initiatives
• Rye Apartments Development
Staff met with the Property Manager for the new apartment. They are excited
about getting connected and involved with the community.
Follow along: https://youtu.be/b5M_hJyF-7o
**Please visit the Community Development “Development Project Updates” page to
watch the progress of various projects underway in the community. More information,
imagery, and projects are being added as they advance.**
Development Project Updates | Farmington, MN
• BRE
No update.
Prospects
• Request For Information (RFIs)
Project Kraken – DID NOT SUBMIT – medical equipment assembly and
manufacturing, seeking existing buildings only.
Canadian Company – DID NOT SUBMIT – manufacturing plant seeking existing
buildings only.
Project Sarek – DID NOT SUBMIT – rare earth magnet manufacturing facility seeking
existing buildings only.
Project Corona – DID NOT SUBMIT – food manufacturing/retail operation, seeking
acreage.
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Project Heart – DID NOT SUBMIT – seeking 60+ acres requiring rail access for
a heavy power user. Project lead from DEED and will require an NDA.
Project Blue – DID NOT SUBMIT – only considering existing buildings. Project
lead from GreaterMSP
Project Locksmith 2 – DID NOT SUBMIT – manufacturer of high-end dairy
products, only considering existing buildings previously used for dairy
production/food grade.
Project Black Sabill – DID NOT SUBMIT – seeking minimum 250-acre site for
heavy industrial user/manufacturing plant.
Project Duck – International company, seeking existing building (move-in
ready) for a manufacturing operation.
Project Gamma – DID NOT SUBMIT – seeking existing building, minimum,
250,ooo SF in size for AI and robotics company.
• Developer Meetings
Since the start of the year, Staff has met with the following developers and
real estate brokers who have expressed interest in working in Farmington.
Conversations continue and various opportunities continue to be explored
and vetted:
o Sever Commercial Construction
o MWF
o DBS
o Acumen
o DR Horton
o Synergy Land Co.
o Cushing Terrell
o CORE Real Estate Group
o Caughan Companies
o Obsidian
o Ozhi Development
o Bauer Design & Build
o Remain RE
o NEOO Partners
o CBRE
o Cushman & Wakefield
o NEOO Partners
o CERRON Commercial Properties, LLC
o G. M. / Acumen Business Solutions, LLC
o Upland Real Estate Group
Page 28 of 31
• Other Prospects
Initial conversations have occurred with existing and prospective businesses
looking to locate/relocate in Farmington. The types of projects that are
represented include entertainment, services, hospitality, manufacturing,
commercial/retail, daycare, and MF housing.
Other
• Grocery Initiative
At its February meeting, the EDA authorized staff to move forward with
completing a grocery market study for Farmington. The report, which was
shared with the EDA at their May meeting, is actively being used to market
Farmington to groceries, developers, wholesalers, etc. . **The report has been
provided to multiple parties allowing the grocery conversation to advance. Prior
to having the report, Staff was only able to provide anecdotal information. Now
the conversations focus on data.**
Staff will be building out a “public facing” component to the grocery
recruitment efforts. This will likely involve community surveys, a page on the
website with market information, etc. utilizing insights from the KState Rural
Grocery Initiative.
• Partner Meetings
Staff is prioritizing connecting and leveraging our economic development
partners – including the Minnesota Trade Office, DEED, Greater MSP, utility
providers, and other organizations. An example of this is Staff attended the
Greater MSP Partnership Next25 event in late February to learn about their
successes and goals and to better understand Farmington’s place in the
region.
Partners are being invited to attend upcoming EDA meetings, to share their
vision, role, and plans. This will provide an opportunity for the EDA to connect
with these partners, ask questions, gain a broader understanding of how our
work aligns, and learn how we can leverage these relationships. Invitations
have been made to the following:
DCTC/Inver Hills College - March
MCCD / Open to Business – April
Dakota County CDA – May
CVN/Brookshire - June
Dakota County Regional Chamber - July
GreaterMSP
DEED
Utility Partners – Xcel, Dakota Electric, Northern Natural Gas
Page 29 of 31
• MREJ – Summits/Conferences/Awards
Staff participated in the MREJ Summer Networking event on August 4th. This
event fosters deeper conversations and connections with
brokers/agents/developers who typically see Team Farmington presenting
and tabling at the MREJ Summits.
• Other Speaking/Presentation Invitations & Commitments
o August – Minnesota Shopping Center Association, Strategic Retail and
Development Growth: Perspectives and Collaboration with Community &
Economic Development Experts. This was a *new* invitation, expanding
the reach of Farmington’s story, vision, and opportunities.
o September – Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce –
Community & Economic Development Updates from Partner Cities
o October – Chicago Market Visit & FAM Tour with DEED, Greater MSP,
MMP, and the MN Trade Office. This will involve meetings with site
selectors, business developers, foreign consulates, and strategic
partners to promote investments in our communities.
• Economic Development Website
Over the next few months, Staff will be focusing on updating the economic
development content on the city’s website. The purpose will be to make
information easily accessible and build out content which is known to be
important to site selectors and business representatives. The 2025 “State of
the City Business” video has been added: Economic Development | Farmington,
MN
• Business Resources
Staff have and will continue to look for ways to advance dialogue and
leveraging strategic partnerships with our economic development and
community stakeholders.
o AI For Business
A collaboration with Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) and
Inver Hills Community College. Matt Boudinot from DCTC presented "AI
Essentials for Business" on Wednesday, August 13, from 2:00 to 4:00
PM at the Dakota County Library in Farmington. Approximately 20+
people/businesses attended, with great discussion!
Marketing efforts included flyers distributed at the small business
networking group in July and August. A LinkedIn post on the week of
July 14, followed by city social media posts, website updates, and
personal email invitations during the week of July 21. Follow-up
communication sent out the week of August 4.
Page 30 of 31
This was the first event in a series designed to provide valuable
resources and meet businesses where they are.
o Workforce Readiness/Business Skills in 4 Hours
Content planning for this “mini-series” is underway. Again, collaborating
with DCTC and Inver Hills Community College – the goal is to bring
forward training opportunities that the community can benefit from
(businesses and workforce):
Page 31 of 31