HomeMy WebLinkAbout07.20.26 EDA Packet
Meeting Location:
Farmington City Hall
430 Third Street
Farmington, MN 55024
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Monday, July 20, 2026
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 June 15, 2026 Regular Economic Development Authority
Meeting
Approve the minutes of the June 15, 2026 Regular Economic
Development Authority meeting.
Agenda Item: Minutes of the June 15, 2026 Regular Economic
Development Authority Meeting - Pdf
3 - 6
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. DISCUSSION ITEMS
8.1. Top Hat Services, LLC - MicroGrant Application
Approve Resolution 2026-08 awarding $10,000 in MicroGrant Funding
to Top Hat Services, LLC's updated vehicle wrapping and snowplow
expansion for their truck fleet.
Authorize the Executive Director to execute the MicroGrant Agreement
with Top Hat Services, LLC.
Agenda Item: Top Hat Services, LLC - MicroGrant Application - Pdf
7 - 24
8.2. Mid-Year Progress Report
25 - 43
Page 1 of 54
No action requested. This is provided for informational purposes only, to
help inform future budget discussions.
Agenda Item: Mid-Year Progress Report - Pdf
8.3. 2027 Preliminary Budget, Work Plan, and EDA Levy Discussion
No formal action is requested. The EDA is asked to discuss the
proposed budget and provide direction on the preliminary 2027 EDA
levy request.
Agenda Item: 2027 Preliminary Budget, Work Plan, and EDA Levy
Discussion - Pdf
44 - 46
9. DIRECTOR'S REPORT
9.1. Director's Report
No action requested. 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
47 - 54
10. ADJOURN
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Mayor, Councilmembers and City Administrator
From: Melissa Geis, City Clerk
Department: Administration
Subject: Minutes of the June 15, 2026 Regular Economic Development Authority
Meeting
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Jul 20 2026
INTRODUCTION:
For approval are the minutes of the June 15, 2026 Regular Economic Development
Authority meeting.
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve the minutes of the June 15, 2026 Regular Economic Development Authority
meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
06.15.26 EDA Minutes
Page 3 of 54
Page 1 of 3 EDA Minutes of June 15, 2026
City of Farmington
Economic Development Authority
Regular Meeting Minutes
Monday, June 15, 2026
The Farmington Economic Development Authority met in regular session on Monday,
June 15, 2026 at Farmington City Hall, 430 Third Street, Farmington, Minnesota.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Cordes called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner Cordes lead everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Commissioners Holly Bernatz, Jake Cordes, Nick Lien, and
Phil Windschitl
Members Absent: Commissioner Steve Wilson
Staff Present: Lynn Gorski, City Administrator
David Chanski, Assistant City Administrator
Deanna Kuennen, EDA Executive Director
Stephanie Aman, Economic Development Coordinator
Kim Sommerland, Finance Director
Melissa Geis, City Clerk
Also Present: Justin Miller, Farmington Greenhouse
Lynn Bauman, Farmington Gymnastics & Cheer
Keneni Ababulgu, Salaam Global Flavors
Farris Hassan, Salaam Global Flavors
4. APPROVE AGENDA
Motion was made by Commissioner Lien and seconded by Commissioner Bernatz
to approve the agenda as presented.
Motion carried: 4 ayes / 0 nays
5. CITIZEN COMMENTS
No one addressed the EDA to speak.
Page 4 of 54
Page 2 of 3 EDA Minutes of June 15, 2026
6. CONSENT AGENDA
6.1 Minutes of the May 18, 2026 Regular Economic Development Authority
Meeting
6.2 Monthly Financial Report
Motion was made by Commissioner Bernatz and seconded by Commissioner
Windschitl to approve the Consent Agenda, as presented.
Motion carried: 4 ayes / 0 nays
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. DISCUSSION ITEMS
8.1 Chill Studio – MicroGrant Application
Motion and was made by Commissioner Windschitl seconded by
Commissioner Bernatz to approve Resolution 2026-06 awarding $4,257.46 in
MicroGrant funding for Chill Studio’s dipper expansion and installation.
8.2 Farmington Greenhouse – MicroGrant Application
Motion was made by Commissioner Lien and seconded by Commissioner
Bernatz to approve Resolution 2026-04 awarding $10,000.00 in MicroGrant
funding for Farmington Greenhouse’s update and expansion.
8.3 Farmington Gymnastics & Cheer - MicroGrant Application
Motion was made by Commissioner Bernatz and seconded by Commissioner
Lien MicroGrant in $4,574.00 awarding 2026-05 approve to Resolution
funding for Farmington Gymnastics & Cheer for equipment upgrades.
8.4 Flavors of Nations LLC: DBA Salaam Global Flavors - MicroGrant Application
Motion seconded was made by Commissioner Windschitl and by
Commissioner Lien to approve Resolution 2026-07 awarding $10,000.00 in
MicroGrant funding for Salaam Glob Flavor’s purchase and installation of
critical commercial grocery business equipment.
8.5 Downtown Social Update and Discussion
Coordinator Aman shared an update on the Downtown Social request for
allowing alcohol to be served at these events.
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EDA Minutes of June 15, 2026 Page 3 of 3
Assistant City Administrator Chanski discussed potential options for the
Downtown Social to be allowed to have alcohol. One option would be to
have a non-profit hold the temporary on-sale permit (i.e.: Rotary) for their
next event(s). A different option would be for City Council to consider
allowing Downtown Social Events to operate as a Community Festival.
Following discussion, the EDA directed Staff to have the Downtown Social
present request(s) to Council for consideration.
9. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
9.1 Director’s Report
10. ADJOURNMENT
Motion was made by Commissioner Bernatz and seconded by Commissioner Lien
to adjourn the meeting at 6:37 pm.
Motion carried: 4 ayes / 0 nays
Respectfully submitted,
Melissa Geis
City Clerk
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Stephanie Aman, Economic Development Coordinator
Department: EDA
Subject: Top Hat Services, LLC - MicroGrant Application
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Jul 20 2026
INTRODUCTION:
The City of Farmington EDA launched a refreshed MicroGrant Program for 2026 which has
been designed to meet businesses where they are at. The program provides up to $10,000
in matching funds per business, with a total of $50,000 available community-wide. This
approach allows local businesses to leverage EDA support alongside their own investment,
helping them move forward with projects that strengthen operations, expand capacity,
and enhance the overall economic vitality of Farmington.
DISCUSSION:
Top Hat LLC is an exterior cleaning, holiday lighting, and snow-removal company based in
Farmington and serving the Twin Cities region. The business is experiencing steady growth
and has a need to invest in equipment and branding to expand service capacity and
improve efficiency. Their long-term vision is to become a premier provider in their sector by
prioritizing quality equipment, operational efficiency, and exceptional customer service.
Top Hat LLC is seeking EDA support as they work to enhance their fleet for the upcoming
winter season and continued year-round services. Their immediate needs include:
Updating a newly acquired truck with proper branding through a vehicle wrap.
The purchase of two commercial-grade snowplows for winter operations.
These investments directly support their 2026 core objective of Top Hat by preparing for
expansion and increasing winter revenue. Top Hat has also outlined multi-year expansion
goals in their business plan - growth planning is already underway.
Looking ahead, they anticipate that they will have continued investment in specialized
equipment to support business expansion and will have a need to add to their vehicle
fleet, including wrapped trucks, skids, and plows. As they look into the next few years, Top
Hat has a goal to explore a larger shop space in Farmington that could accommodate
more a illustrate efforts forward-looking equipment employees. and clear These
commitment to sustained growth, increased local service capacity, and long-term
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investment within the community.
Top Hat LLC’s current and future investments contribute positively to Farmington by:
Enhancing local snow-removal and exterior cleaning capacity.
Improving commercial branding and business visibility.
Increasing potential for job creation as the business expands.
Positioning the company for future facility expansion.
Top Hat LLC is an eligible business and has submitted all required application paperwork
including scope of the project, sufficient qualifying bids and a dialogue demonstrating the
project and the need for funding.
The owner of Top Hat LLC has met all the requirements set forth by the EDA to apply for the
grant and have provided quotes with the high quote being $26,846.12 and the lowest
quote being $25,609.40 which make them eligible to apply for the $10,000 maximum in
matching grant funding.
BUDGET IMPACT:
$10,000
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve Resolution 2026-08 awarding $10,000 in MicroGrant Funding to Top Hat Services,
LLC's updated vehicle wrapping and snowplow expansion for their truck fleet.
Authorize the Executive Director to execute the MicroGrant Agreement with Top Hat
Services, LLC.
ATTACHMENTS:
EDA Resolution 2026-08 - MicroGrant for Top Hat LLC - 10000
DOCS-#226645-v5-MicroGrant_Agreement - Top Hat Services LLC
Page 8 of 54
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
OF THE CITY OF FARMINGTON
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-08
A RESOLUTION APPROVING MICROGRANT FUNDING TO TOP HAT, LLC FOR
CERTAIN BUSINESS IMPROVEMENTS.
WHEREAS, the City of Farmington Economic Development Authority and City Council
has identified business growth as a priority pillar; and
WHEREAS, the City of Farmington Economic Development Authority has approved
funding for an updated MicroGrant program, allocating fifty-thousand dollars ($50,000.00) of their
budget, to support projects that enhance and expand small businesses; and
WHEREAS, the Farmington EDA has agreed to award grant funds up to half of the
estimated costs for eligible projects to businesses, not to exceed ten thousand and no dollars
($10,000.00); and
WHEREAS, on July 6, 2026, Justin Trapp of Top Hat, LLC (Grantee) applied for a
$10,000.00 Micro Grant through the Farmington Economic Development Authority MicroGrant
program; and
WHEREAS, the Grantee has presented eligible estimates or bids that will allow them to
upgrade their fleet of vehicles by matching branding through a vehicle wrap and upgrading
snowplows for the trucks to expand their business (Project) that total $25,609.40.00; and
WHEREAS, the Grantee agrees to obtain all required and necessary permits to perform
the work for which the MicroGrant funds were requested; and
WHEREAS, neither the City of Farmington nor the EDA shall in any event be liable to
Top Hat, LLC, nor to any of its agents, employees, guests, or invitees, for damages arising from
bodily injury, death, property damage, sickness, disease, or loss and expense resulting from or
alleged to result from Grantee’s operations under the Agreement.
WHEREAS, the Grantee shall indemnify, save, defend and hold harmless the City of
Farmington and the EDA from any claims, liability, causes of action, damages, losses, and costs
including attorney fees resulting directly or indirectly from any act or use of Grant Funds including
the defect or claimed defect of any of the Project of any such manner arriving from the Agreement.
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Farmington EDA hereby grant
Justin Trapp of Top Hat, LLC a MicroGrant in the amount of $10,000.00.
Adopted by the Farmington Economic Development Authority of the City of Farmington,
Minnesota, this 20th day of July, 2026.
ATTEST:
____________________________ ______________________________
Jake Cordes, Chair Deanna Kuennen,
Executive Director
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Farmington Economic Development Authority
Micro Grant Program
GRANT AGREEMENT
This MICRO GRANT AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into this
day of , 20 (“Effective Date”), by and between Justin Trapp, Top Hat Services,
LLC, a Minnesota expert cleaning exterior is business of place principal , whose at 21052
Chippendale Court, Farmington, Minnesota (“Grantee”), and the City of Farmington Economic
Development Authority, a public body, corporate and politic, and a political subdivision of the
State of Minnesota, having its principal business of place 430 Third Street, Farmington, at
Minnesota (the “Authority” or “Grantor”).
RECITALS
1. Grantor has established a Micro Grant Program (“Program”) to support small
City of Farmington, by providing financial of the municipal boundaries within the businesses
support intended to enhance the footprint of Farmington businesses, and to strengthen small or
emerging businesses for growth and expansion; and
2. According to Program guidelines, qualifying businesses may apply for grants of up
to $10,000 to be Program the of requirements the meet that projects used for , including
contributing matching funds equal to the amount granted from the Program; and
3. Grantee the of owner is LLC Services, Top Hat located at which , 21052
Chippendale Court in the City of Farmington, County of Dakota, State of Minnesota (PID:
142.110.000.091) (“Property”); and
4. Grantee has applied for Program funds for a combined expansion of their snowplow
fleet and updating the wrapping on the newer vehicles in the fleet to match branding, which is
described more fully in Section 2 of this Agreement (“Project”); and
5. Grantor has reviewed Grantee’s Program application, has determined that Grantee
and the Project meet the requirements of the Program; and
6. Grantee desires to participate in the Program, on the terms and conditions set forth
in this Agreement; and
7. Grantee acknowledges that the source of funding for this Agreement are City of
Farmington funds provided and approved for disbursement by the Authority grantsas in
accordance with the Authority’s powers under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 469, and the
Authority’s authorization of the Program pursuant to Resolution No. 2026-02 adopted by the
Authority on April 13, 2026.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises contained in this Agreement, the
Authority and Grantee agree as follows:
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1. Grant Terms.
A. Grant Amount. The Authority has approved Ten-Thousand and 0/100
Dollars ($10,000.00) in Program funds for the Project (the “Grant Funds”). The Grant Funds are
a grant and not a loan. As such, the Grant Funds are a grant of funds and no portion of the Grant
is to be repaid by Grantee to Authority unless mutually agreed to by the Authority and Grantee or
an Event of Default (as defined in Section 8 of this Agreement) occurs.
B. Matching Funds. As set forth in the Program guidelines, grantees are required to
contribute funds equal to the amount of grant funds provided under the Program (“Matching
Funds”). Regardless of the overall value or cost of a proposed project, the maximum grant amount
shall not exceed $10,000.
C. Disbursement of Grant Funds. Grant Funds with be disbursed based on the
Estimated Project Costs, as such is defined in Section 2 of this Agreement, and according to the
following processes, as applicable:
i. For Projects Less than $10,000.
(a) If the Project is estimated to cost less than $10,000, the Authority will disburse
the Grant Funds in a single lump sum upon execution of this Agreement, and
after Grantee has provided all documentation and Project bid information as
required by the Program application and Program guidelines, including, but not
limited to, proof of financial readiness and ability to contribute the required
Matching Funds.
(b) Upon completion of the Project, Grantee must close out the Grant pursuant to
the Grant Closeout Process, as such is defined in Section 3 of this Agreement.
ii. For Projects Over $10,000.
(a) If the Project is estimated to cost more than $10,000, the Authority will disburse
$5,000 of the Grant Funds (the “First Installment”) in a single lump sum upon
execution of this Agreement, and after Grantee has provided all documentation
and Project bid information as required by the Program application and Program
guidelines, including, but not limited to, proof of financial readiness and ability
to contribute the entire sum of the required Matching Funds.
(b) After Grantee has spent the First Installment and the entire sum of the Matching
Funds, Grantee may request the balance of the Grant Funds. The Authority will
disburse the balance of the Grant Funds upon proof from Grantee that the First
Installment and the entire sum of the Matching Funds have been spent on the
Project, and that the First Installment has been spent only on Permitted Uses, as
such is defined in this Section 1.
(c) Upon completion of the Project, Grantee must close out the Grant pursuant to
the Grant Closeout Process, as such is defined in Section 3 of this Agreement.
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D. Use of Grant Funds. Grant Funds may only be used for the Project as set forth in
Grantee’s application and as approved by the Authority (the “Permitted Uses”). Such Permitted
Uses are set forth in Exhibit A.
2. Project.
A. Grantee agrees and acknowledges that the approved Project that was outlined in the
Grantee’s original application is described as follows:
i. The project includes upgrading current vehicles by wrapping a truck to ensure
brand consistency and upgrading of the fleet of trucks with new snowplows.
ii. Estimated Project Costs. Grantee has estimated that the total costs for completion
of the Project is $25,609.40 (the “Estimated Project Costs”).
B. Grantee is not allowed to make any changes, revisions, or alterations to the Project
without the prior approval of the Authority. If Grantee wishes to modify the Project, Grantee must
submit an updated Project description to the Authority’s Executive Director to be reviewed by the
Authority. The Authority will approve or deny, in its sole discretion, the proposed revised Project
description at the next earliest regular Authority Meeting.
C. If applicable, Grantee agrees to apply for and receive all necessary permits and
approvals from the City of Farmington and from any other governing authority with jurisdiction
over the Property related to the construction of the Project prior to work beginning.
D. Grantee agrees to complete the Project in accordance with all applicable federal,
state, and local laws, rules, codes, and regulations, including but not limited to, the Farmington
City Code, State Building Code, and Fire Code.
E. Grantee is responsible for selecting the means, methods, and manner of performing
the Agreement requirements and completing the Project.
3. Grant Term; Grant Closeout. The Project shall be completed in a timely manner,
and all Grant Funds must be used within one (1) year of the initial disbursement of Grant Funds to
Grantee. The Grant Term will expire upon Grantee’s completion of the following Grant Closeout
process:
A. Grantee must notify the Authority when the Project is complete.
B. Grantee must submit a final report on the Project, which must include the following,
which are, collectively, the “Final Report”:
i. Receipts, invoices, and other relevant documentation of how the Grant Funds were
used;
ii. Documentation showing Grantee’s contribution of the required matching funds;
iii. Description of the impact of the Grant Funds on Grantee’s business; and
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iv. Photos of the completed Project (the “Final Report”).
C. The Grant Term may be extended one (1) time, with the length of the extension to
be determined based on the circumstances related to the completion of the Project. If Grantee
wishes to extend th Terme Grant to the a submit written extension request , Grantee must
Authority’s Executive Director at least thirty (30) days prior to the termination of the Grant Term.
Such extension request must describe the reason for the request and the circumstances that prevent
Grantee from completing the Project prior to the end of the Grant Term. The Authority, in its sole
discretion, will approve or deny the extension request at the next earliest regular meeting of the
Authority.
4. Obligations of Grantee. In addition to all other Grantee obligations set forth in
this Agreement, Grantee is also responsible for the following:
A. must and execute Agreement, Grantee Concurrent execution of with the this
provide to the Authority its personal guarantee for repayment of the Grant Funds in the form set
forth in Exhibit B to this Agreement.
B. the any involves Project Property, and the of owner the not is Grantee If fee
alterations to real property or structures that are not owned by Grantee, prior to commencement of
any work on Grantee must provide written consent from the owner in the form set forth in Exhibit
C to this Agreement.
5. Liability and Indemnification.
A. Neither the Authority nor the City of Farmington shall in any event be liable to the
Grantee, nor to any of its employees, agents, contactors, guests, or invitees, for damages arising
from bodily injury, death, property damage, sickness, disease, or loss and expense resulting from
or alleged to result from Grantee’s operations under this Agreement.
B. Grantee shall indemnify, save, defend and hold harmless the Authority and the City
of Farmington from any claims, liability, causes of action, damages, losses, and costs including
attorney fees resulting directly or indirectly from any act or use of Grant Funds including the defect
or claimed defect of any of the Project or any such manner arising from this Agreement.
C. section This 5 the terminationshall survive , expiration cancellationor this of
Agreement.
6. Notices. When written notice is required or permitted due to the Project, this
Agreement and/or Program, it must be addressed and delivered by hand or by the United States
Mail to the following addresses:
If to Grantor:
Farmington Economic
Development Authority
Attn: Executive Director
If to Grantee:
Top Hat Services, LLC
Attn: Justin Trapp
21052 Chippendale Ct.
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430 Third Street
Farmington, MN 55024
Farmington, MN 55024
7. Entire Agreement; Assignment; Modifications.
A. the between the complete agreement Agreement This constitutes Authority and
Grantee and supersedes any prior oral or written agreement(s) between the Authority and Grantee
regarding the subject matter contained in this Agreement. There are no verbal agreements that
change this Agreement.
B. Grantee is not allowed to assign or transfer any rights or obligations under this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the Authority.
C. Any alterations, revisions, variations, modifications, amendments, or waivers of the
provisions of the Agreement are valid only when they have been reduced to writing and signed by
the authorized representatives of the Authority and Grantee.
8. Termination/Cancellation; Events of Default.
A. Unless the Grant Term is extended as set forth in Section 3 of this Agreement, this
Agreement will terminate upon Grantee’s submission of the Final Report as required by Section 3
of this Agreement. Only those terms identified in this Agreement as surviving termination or
cancellation of this Agreement will continue after submission of the Final Report.
B. if be funding cannot Agreement this immediately terminate Authority may The
continued at a level sufficient to allow for the payment of the Grant Funds. Termination must be
by written notice to Grantee.
C. Prior to the disbursement of any Grant Funds, this Agreement may be cancelled by
the Authority or Grantee at any time, with or without cause, upon thirty (30) days written notice
to the other party.
9. Events of Default.
A. Event of Default Defined. Any and all of the following events shall constitute an
“Event of Default” under this Agreement:
i. Grantee uses any portion of the Grant Funds for purposes other than specified in
this Agreement.
ii. Grantee fails to comply with any of the terms, conditions, requirements,
representations, or provisions contained in its Program application, this Agreement,
or any other Authority document.
iii. Any of the information, documentation, or representations that Grantee supplied to
Authority in its Application, this Agreement, or any other Authority document to
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induce Authority to make the Grant is determined to be false, untrue, or misleading
in any material manner.
B. Remedies. Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Authority may
immediately, without notice to Grantee, suspend its performance under this Agreement. After
providing thirty (30) days written notice to Grantee of an Event of Default, but only if the alleged
Event of Default has not been fully cured within said thirty (30) days by Grantee, the Authority
may:
i. Refrain from disbursing any further Grant Funds;
ii. Demand that any amount of Grant Funds already disbursed to Grantee be
immediately returned to the Authority, and upon such demand, Grantee shall
immediately return such Grant Funds to the Authority;
iii. Terminate this Agreement by written notice;
iv. Prohibit Grantee from applying for or receiving any funding from the Micro Grant
Program or any other financial assistance program offered by the Authority; and
v. Pursue whatever action, including legal, equitable or administrative action, which
may costs reasonable (including all desirable to or necessary appear collect
attorneys’ fees) and any amounts due under this Agreement or to enforce the
performance and observance of any obligation, agreement, or covenant hereof.
C. No Remedy Exclusive. No remedy conferred by this Agreement upon or reserved
to the Authority is intended to be exclusive of any other available remedy or remedies, but each
and every such remedy shall be cumulative and shall be in addition to every other remedy given
under this Agreement or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or by statute. A delay or
omission to exercise any right or power accruing upon any Event of Default shall not impair any
such right or power, and shall not be construed to be a waiver of such right or power, but any such
right and power may be exercised from time to time and as often as may be deemed expedient by
the Authority. In order to entitle the Authority to exercise any remedy reserved to it, it shall not
be necessary to give notice, other than such notice as provided in this Section 9.
D. WaiverImplied by One Waiver No Additional . agreement any the event In
contained in this Agreement should be breached by Grantee and the Authority waives enforcement
of such a breach, such waiver shall be limited to the particular breach so waived and shall not be
deemed to waive any other concurrent, previous, or subsequent breach under this Agreement.
E. This Section 9 shall survive the termination, expiration, or cancellation of this
Agreement.
10. Records Availability and Access; Audit.
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A. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §16C.05, subd. 5, Grantee agrees that the Authority,
City of Farmington, the Minnesota State Auditor, or any of their duly authorized representatives
at any time during normal business hours and as often as they may reasonably deem necessary,
shall have access to and the right to examine, audit, excerpt and transcribe any books, documents,
papers, or records that are pertinent to the accounting practices and procedures of Grantee that
specifically involve the transactions relating to this Agreement. Grantee agrees to maintain these
records for a minimum of six (6) years from the termination of this Agreement.
B. All data in the application and this Agreement is subject to and will be classified
according to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13. The
Authority may use the Final Reports for Authority meetings, publicity regarding the Authority’s
economic development efforts, and any other use per the Authority’s discretion.
C. Grantee will be financially responsible (liable) for any audit exception that occurs
due to its negligence or failure to comply with the terms of the Agreement.
D. This Section 10 shall survive the termination, expiration, or cancellation of this
Agreement.
11. Conflict of Interest. No elected official, officer, or employee of the Authority or
the City of Farmington shall during his or her tenure or employment, and for one year thereafter,
have any interest, direct or indirect, in this Agreement or the Grant Funds.
12. Miscellaneous.
A. The laws of the state of Minnesota shall govern all questions and interpretations
concerning the validity and construction of this Agreement and the legal relations between the
parties and their performance. Venue for all legal proceedings out of this Agreement, or its breach,
must be in the appropriate state court within Dakota County, Minnesota.
B. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall
be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
C. Grantee affirms that all information that has been submitted or will be submitted
by the Grantee as part of the Micro Grant Application and verification process is true and correct.
D. Grantee acknowledges that the Grant Funds may be subject to federal and state
taxes, which shall be paid by Grantee.
E. Grantee certifies that it is in compliance with Minnesota Statutes §176.181, subd.
2, pertaining to workers’ compensation insurance coverage.
F. The Authority is allowed to promote the Project through informational pamphlets,
press releases, research, reports, websites, signs, and similar public notices prepared by or for the
Authority which may include photos and design elements.
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G. The Parties agree that the Grant is not a business subsidy as defined in Minnesota
Statutes, Sections 116.993 to 116.995, as amended (the “Business Subsidy Act”), because the
assistance is in an amount less than $150,000.
H. The Recitals at the beginning of this Agreement, and the Exhibits attached to this
Agreement, of part incorporated into and made are each one and correct, true this are and
Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Authority and Grantee have executed this Agreement to
be effective as of the Effective Date first written above.
[Remainder of page left blank intentionally. Signature page follows.]
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GRANTOR:
FARMINGTON ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
By:
Jake Cordes, Chair
By:
Deanna Kuennen, Executive Director
GRANTEE:
NAME
By: Justin Trapp
[printed name]
[printed title]
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Exhibit A
Permitted Uses
As described in the MicroGrant application, the project includes upgrading current vehicles by
wrapping a truck to ensure brand consistency and upgrading of the fleet of trucks with two new
snowplows.
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Exhibit B
Form of Personal Guarantee
PERSONAL GUARANTY
THIS PERSONAL GUARANTY (“Guaranty”) is made and entered into as of this ____
day of , 2026 (“Effective Date”) by and between Justin Trapp, whose address is
21052 Chippendale Ct, Farmington, Minnesota (“Guarantor”), and the City of Farmington
Economic Development Authority, a public body, corporate and politic, and a political subdivision
of the State of Minnesota, having its principal place of business at 430 Third Street, Farmington,
Minnesota (the “Authority”).
RECITALS
A. The Authority has established a Micro Grant Program (“Program”) to support small
businesses within the municipal boundaries of the City of Farmington, by providing financial
support intended to enhance the footprint of Farmington businesses, and to strengthen small or
emerging businesses for growth and expansion; and
B. Simultaneously with the execution and delivery of this Guaranty, the Authority is
providing Grant Funds in the amount of Ten Thousand and 0/100 Dollars ($10,000.00) (the “Grant
Funds”) to Top Hat Services, LLC (“Grantee”) pursuant to that certain Micro Grant
Program Agreement between the Authority and Grantee (the “Grant Agreement”); and
C. The undesigned has agreed to personally guarantee the Grant Funds in the event
that repayment of any or all Grant Funds must be repaid as a result of a default by Grantee under
the Grant Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained
in this Guaranty and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of
which is hereby acknowledged, the Authority and Guarantor agree as follows:
1. Guaranty Agreement. On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this
Guaranty, the Guarantor hereby, irrevocably and unconditionally, guarantees the full and timely
repayment of all or part of the Grant Funds when demanded by the Authority. This Agreement
shall remain fully enforceable regardless of any defenses that Guarantor may assert related to the
Grant Funds, including, but not limited to, failure of consideration, statute of frauds, statute of
limitations, and accord and satisfaction. The Obligations of the Guarantor set forth in this
Agreement shall extend to all amendments, supplements, modifications, renewals, replacements
or extensions of the Grant Agreement.
2. Representations and Warranties. Guarantor hereby represents and warrants that
(i) the execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement will not violate any law or any
other material contract, agreement or understanding which is binding on the Guarantor; and (ii)
this Guaranty is the valid and binding obligation of the Guarantor, enforceable in accordance with
Page 21 of 54
12
226645v5
its terms, subject to applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent
transfer, and other similar laws relating to or affecting creditors’ rights generally from time-to-
time in effect.
3. Default. As used in this Guaranty, the term “Event of Default” shall mean how
that term is defined in Section 8 of the Grant Agreement.
4. Governing Law; Venue. This Guaranty and all transactions contemplated by this
Guaranty shall be governed, construed, and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of
Minnesota. Any proceeding to enforce, interpret, challenge the validity of, or recover for the
breach of any provision of, this Guaranty shall be filed in Dakota County District Court. The
Authority shall and expenses, including costs all Guarantor entitled to recover from be the
attorneys’ fees, litigation expenses and court costs, incurred in enforcing its rights under this
Guaranty regardless of whether a lawsuit is commenced.
5. Successors and Assigns. This Guaranty shall be binding upon and shall inure to
the benefit of the Authority and the Guarantor, their successors and assigns; provided, however,
neither the Authority nor the Guarantor may assign its rights or obligations under this Guaranty
without the prior written consent of the other party.
6. Amendment. No amendment of or waiver under this Guaranty or any rights of the
Authority or the Guarantor shall be effective with respect to any party unless amended, waived or
consented to in writing by such party.
7. Presentment, Demand, Notice. Guarantor waives presentment, demand for
payment, notice of dishonor or nonpayment, and protest of any instrument evidencing the Grant
Funds. The Authority shall not be required first to resort for repayment of the Grant Funds, or first
to enforce, realize upon, or exhaust any collateral security for the Grant Funds, before enforcing
this Guaranty.
8. Cumulative Liability. The liability of Guarantor under this Guaranty is in addition
to and shall be cumulative with all other liabilities of the undersigned to the Authority as Guarantor
or otherwise, without any limitation as to amount, unless the instrument or agreement evidencing
or creating such other liability specifically provides to the contrary.
[Remainder of page left blank intentionally. Signature page follows.]
Page 22 of 54
13
226645v5
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Authority and Guarantor have executed this
Agreement to be effective as of the Effective Date first written above.
FARMINGTON ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
By:
Jake Cordes, Chair
By:
Deanna Kuennen, Executive Director
GUARANTOR:
NAME
By:
[printed name]
[printed title]
Page 23 of 54
14
226645v5
Exhibit C
Fee Owner Consent
FEE OWNER CONSENT
TO
PROPERTY IMPROVEMENTS PURSUANT TO
FARMINGTON EDA MICRO GRANT PROGRAM
, a [state and business type/individual/other], is the fee owner
of all or part of the Property defined in that certain Micro Grant Program Grant Agreement between
the Farmington Economic Development Authority as “Grantor” and as “Grantee”
(the “Agreement”). The Grantee is a tenant at the Property. The undersigned hereby affirms that I
understand that Grantee, my tenant, proposes to use the Grant Funds to make certain improvements
or modifications to the Property (the “Project”).
I hereby consent to such action by the Grantee, and waive any objection to the same. I agree to
indemnify and hold harmless the Grantor and the City of Farmington for any modifications made to
the Property, and from any claims, liability, causes of action, damages, losses, and costs including
attorneys’ fees resulting directly or indirectly from any act or use of funds provided to Grantee by
Grantor through its Micro Grant Program, including the defect or claimed defect of any of the
Project.
Dated this day of , 20 .
FEE OWNER:
NAME
By: [exhibit copy – not for execution]
[printed name]
[printed title]
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
) ss.
COUNTY OF ____________ )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this day of
, 20 , by [printed name], the [printed
title] of , a [state and business type], on behalf of said entity.
Notary Public
Page 24 of 54
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Deanna Kuennen, Community & Economic Development Director
Department: EDA
Subject: Mid-Year Progress Report
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Jul 20 2026
INTRODUCTION:
Prior to starting 2027 budget discussions, it is important to review economic development
activity, initiatives, and overall progress as it relates to the EDA's work plan. The following
report provides a high-level performance report.
DISCUSSION:
The EDA's work plan is a strategic guide "focused on proactively creating a strong, growing
local economy that supports businesses of all sizes today and into the future." The plan
recognizes that economic development activities are connected and inter-related, and
collectively the pieces come together to operate as a system. The plan also provides a
way to track activity, so that the work of the EDA can evolve to meet the needs of the
community and continue to be proactive, bold, and impactful.
The attached report provides a high-level summary of the work being done in the following
categories:
Business Attraction & Investment Readiness
Business Retention, Expansion, & Workforce Alignment
Strategic Partnerships & Marketing
EDA Programs & Investment Toolkit
Entrepreneurship & Small Business Ecosystem
Proactive Planning & Market Intelligence
ACTION REQUESTED:
No action requested. This is provided for informational purposes only, to help inform future
budget discussions.
ATTACHMENTS:
Progress Report - JUNE
2026 EDA WorkPlan
Page 25 of 54
Page 26 of 54
MID-YEAR PROGRESS REPORT – June 2026
Performance Measures & Accountability
The following are high-level performance measures that track progress and can be used to
inform future programs and policy decisions. These measures illustrate readiness, emphasize
responsiveness, and track Farmington’s ability to adapt over time.
Business Attraction & Investment Readiness
2026 RFIs & site search
requests responses
SUBMITTED RESPONSES
Project Germany
Project Opportunity
Project Pentagon
Project Sol
NO RESPONSE SUBMITTED
Project North Star
Semiconductor Project
The Sustainability Co.
New development projects
Building permit data YTD 88 new SF home permits ($21,519,100 valuation)
19 RES SF Attached permits ($3,949,400 valuation)
13 RES SF Detached permits ($3,114,430 valuation)
2 Certificate of Occupancy issuance –
Lucid Tattoo, Salaam Global Foods
1 Temporary Certificate of Occupancy issued –
KinderCare
3 Change of Occupancy
Total valuation of commercial activity - $1,576,579
Landowner & developer
meetings
Topics include:
• Spec building and pad-ready site in industrial park
• Multi-use development site
(retail/housing/entertainment)
• Housing – multiple sites
• Downtown expansion opportunities
• Building re-use in the industrial park
• Building redevelopment in the downtown area
• Hwy 3 commercial development opportunities
• Hwy 50 development opportunities
• Manufacturing / industrial park expansion
Other Land acquisition – 512 3rd Street
Expo 2031 – program site conversations
Opportunity Zones 2.0
Eureka Township – possible OAA
Page 27 of 54
Business Retention, Expansion & Workforce Alignment
Business visits & Ribbon
Cuttings
New ribbon cuttings videos launched in 2026
Workforce / training
connections
Dual Pipeline Training
AI for Business 2.0
Other Downtown “Quick Stop Spot” 15 Minute Parking
Social District / Community Festival / Liquor License Research
Strategic Partnerships & Marketing
Partner events MREJ
MREE
Farmington Networking Group
GreaterMSP
EDAM
Speaking engagements MREJ
Media engagements 2026 City of the Year
Micro Grant Program
Social media activity Ribbon Cuttings
2026 City of the Year
Downtown Social
Quick Stop Spots
Website updates Updates underway. Example of the new additions include:
• Awards, Rankings, & Accolades
• Business Strengths – location, infrastructure, WF
• Business Data and Demographics
• Link to Current Business Developments
• Strategic Plans and Initiatives – including links to the
Grocery Analysis, AUAR, 2050 Comprehensive Plan
update
Other Market Visit Planning – Chicago (FAM Tour)
EDGE Newsletter
Page 28 of 54
EDA Programs & Investment Toolkit
New EDA programs Micro Grant - $50,000
Funding leveraged to
support businesses
Downtown Social - $6000
Micro Grant - $50,000
Other
Entrepreneurship & Small Business Ecosystem
Entrepreneurial resources
identified
DEED searchable grants tool (Funding Options for
Startups and Small Businesses)
Dakota County Library Education Program
Participation in
entrepreneurial
programming
New business startups Mis Tortuguitas
Lucid Tatoo
Salaam Global Foods
Other Open to Business
Proactive Planning & Market Intelligence
Studies completed
Priority sites w/ pre-
development planning
Proactively marketed sites New maps –
New marketing collateral
Other Zoning Code Update – nearing completion
2050 Comprehensive Plan Update – underway
Data center education / training
AI for government / AI for economic development training
Page 29 of 54
City of Farmington
Economic Development
Authority
Economic Development
Annual Work Plan
Presented 2.17.26
Page 30 of 54
The City of Farmington Economic Development Authority (EDA) Economic
Development Work Plan is a strategic guide focused on proactively creating a strong,
growing local economy that supports businesses of all sizes today and into the future. This
work plan aligns economic development goals with budgetary resources to ensure that
funding is allocated effectively, maximizing impact and driving measurable results. It fosters
accountability, efficiency, and a proactive approach to growth.
The Economic Development Work Plan recognizes that economic development works best
when it is connected, data-informed, and relationship-driven. Collectively the work plan
serves as an integrated framework that aligns business attraction, retention, workforce
development, strategic partnerships, planning, marketing, and investment tools into a
unified operating system. The work plan emphasizes readiness and responsiveness to allow
action when opportunities arise.
The Economic Development Work Plan is intentionally designed to evolve. Performance
measures, market feedback, and ongoing engagement with businesses and partners will
inform future program and policy decisions. Refinements to the work plan should be
expected, allowing Farmington to remain agile while continuously working towards the city’s
long-term goals.
This work plan is about being unexpectedly BOLD to create an environment where business,
people, and investments can succeed.
The Economic Development Work Plan is divided into the following components:
• Continuous Operations Strategy & Resilience
• Strategic Partnerships & Priority Marketing Channels
• Program Advancement & Strategic Investment
• Performance Measures & Accountability
• Calendar of Events
• 2026 Approved Budget
Page 31 of 54
Business Attraction & Investment
Readiness
Business Retention, Expansion &
Workplace Alignment
Land, Property &
Market Intelligence
Community Visibility &
Economic Momentum
Relationship Building &
Strategic Partnerships
Business Advocacy &
Navigation
Incentives, Programs, &
Resource Leveraging
Continuous
Operations Strategy
& Resilience
Program Development &
Land Readiness & Strategic
Acquisition
Workforce & Education
Partnerships
Entrepreneurship & Small
Business Ecosystem
Development
Benchmarking & Best Practices
Targeted Studies & Proactive
Planning
Program
Advancement &
Strategic Investment
Economic Development Work Plan Ecosystem
Minnesota Real Estate Exchange
Retail Real Estate Network
Website
Storytelling
Marketing Assets
Minnesota Real Estate Journal
Strategic
Partnerships &
Priority Marketing
Channels
Pa
g
e
3
2
o
f
5
4
CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS STRATEGY & RESILIENCE
Ongoing operations encompass the daily activities and functions carried out by Staff
under the economic development framework. These efforts focus on maintaining a
constant state of readiness, strong relationships, and proactive systems that support
business investment, retention, and long-term resilience today and into tomorrow.
In 2026 –strategies associated with daily activities and ongoing functions include:
Business Attraction & Investment
Readiness
Ensuring Farmington is consistently
prepared to compete for and secure new
investment.
• Responding to RFIs and site searches
(DEED, Greater MSP, utilities, county,
etc.)
• Organizing and hosting site selection
visits
• Serving as an ombudsman through
permitting and entitlement
• Identifying and advancing strategic
development sites
Business Retention, Expansion, &
Workforce Alignment
Supporting existing businesses and
strengthening the local economy from
within because existing businesses are the
most reliable source of job growth. Meeting
businesses where they are at allows
Farmington to support them in their growth.
• Conducting business visits and
outreach
• Understanding industry composition
and growth needs
• Facilitating connections with local
community colleges
• Aligning programs and resources to
business needs
Land, Property, & Market Intelligence
Maintaining accurate and comprehensive
data to support informed, timely decision-
making because quality data reduces risk.
• Maintaining a database of available
land and buildings
• Analyzing market conditions and
strategic sites
• Meeting with landowners to
understand timing, constraints, and
opportunities
Relationship Building & Strategic
Partnerships
Leveraging regional, state, and private-
sector relationships to amplify impact.
Strong networks create collaboration,
access to opportunities, exposure, and
pathways forward.
• Attending business and economic
development events
• Working with regional and statewide
partners
• Serving on committees and holding
leadership roles
Page 33 of 54
Business Advocacy & Navigation
Helping business move efficiently through
processes and toward successful
outcomes. Positive experiences and good
customer service enhance reputation and
encourage open communication for future
interactions with businesses at critical
junctures.
• Acting as a liaison between
businesses and City departments
• Assisting with entitlement and start-
up coordination
• Connecting businesses to appropriate
internal and external resources
Incentives, Programs, & Resource
Leveraging
Maximizing available tools to support
business and economic growth.
Diversifying funding sources stretches
local levy funds.
• Staying current on state, federal, and
regional funding programs
• Connecting businesses to grants,
loans, and incentive programs
• Aligning external resources with local
priorities
Community Visibility & Economic
Momentum
Celebrating success and reinforcing
Farmington’s story. Momentum matters
and all business and investments are part
of the Farmington story.
• Coordinating enhanced ribbon
cuttings and groundbreakings
• Highlighting business investments and
expansions through social media and
other story telling opportunities
Page 34 of 54
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS & PRIORITY MARKETING CHANNELS
Economic development is most effective when it operates as a connected system rather than in
isolation. Advancing Farmington’s economic development goals requires the intentional
formation and cultivation of strategic partnerships that expand Farmington’s reach, credibility,
and access to decision-makers.
Strategic partnerships strengthen Farmington’s visibility and influence among site consultants,
brokers, developers, business leaders, and industry representatives – key audiences that shape
location decisions and investment outcomes. By maintaining consistent engagement with
these partners, Farmington’s unexpectedly BOLD vision is understood, recognized, and
effectively communicated at critical points in the business and site selection process.
Staff will continue to prioritize partnerships and marketing channels that deliver exposure,
meaningful relationships, and real investment outcomes, reinforcing both continuous
operations and long-term economic resilience.
In 2026 –strategic partnerships and priority marketing channels include:
Minnesota Real
Estate Journal
The Minnesota Real Estate Journal is a leading platform within the
commercial real estate industry, providing news, insights, and high-
value networking opportunities. Through this partnership, the City of
Farmington participates in MREJ-hosted events throughout the year,
including a minimum of four guaranteed speaking engagements.
These events attract brokers, developers, investors, real estate
professionals, and financial institutions. By consistently serving as
subject-matter experts on industry panels and maintaining a visible,
professional presence, staff elevate Farmington’s profile, build
credibility, and generate sustained interest in local investment
opportunities.
This partnership has already produced tangible results. Through
MREJ-facilitated connections, staff have secured meetings with
brokers, developers, business representatives, and financial
institutions. One such relationship resulted in a $40+ million private
investment in Farmington that would not have otherwise occurred,
while additional developers and site selectors continue to evaluate
future opportunities within the community.
An added benefit of this partnership is the ability to contribute
written content to MREJ publications. Farmington was featured in a
2024 article and will continue to pursue timely, informative
submissions that highlight development momentum, strategic sites,
and the City’s evolving economic narrative.
Page 35 of 54
Minnesota Real
Estate Exchange
Staff will continue to engage with the Minnesota Real Estate
Exchange to strengthen relationships within the brokerage and
development community, monitor market trends, and maintain
awareness of emerging opportunities that align with Farmington’s
economic development vision.
The Minnesota Real Estate Exchange (MREE) is a long-standing
networking organization focused on commercial real estate deal-
making and collaboration. Through this partnership, Farmington
engages with a diverse group of brokers, developers, investors,
lenders, and service providers at regular exchange meetings. These
sessions provide a platform to present available properties, learn
about market trends, and connect with decision-makers actively
seeking new opportunities.
Participation in MREE strengthens Farmington’s visibility within the
investment community and fosters relationships that lead to tangible
outcomes. By sharing development-ready sites and listening to
investor needs, staff position Farmington as a proactive partner in
regional growth. These connections often result in direct
conversations with developers and capital providers that create
opportunities that might not surface through traditional channels.
Retail Real Estate
Network Minnesota
Participation in the Retail Real Estate Network supports
Farmington’s retail recruitment and expansion efforts by connecting
staff with retail brokers, developers, and national site selectors.
These relationships provide early insight into retail trends and enable
proactive positioning of Farmington’s commercial opportunities.
The Retail Real Estate Network Minnesota (formerly MSCA) is a
premier hub for retail real estate professionals including developers,
owners, brokers, managers, and service providers. This professional
network focuses on building meaningful relationships, advancing
careers, and shaping Minnesota’s retail landscape.
Through regular networking and educational events, covering market
outlooks and leadership development, staff engage with key retail
industry stakeholders. These gatherings offer platforms to highlight
storefront opportunities, stay informed on market trends, and foster
connections with retail (and other) decision-makers.
Page 36 of 54
Marketing & Brand Strategy: Unexpectedly BOLD
Staff will continue to build on the momentum of the Unexpectedly Bold economic
development brand. When paired with authentic storytelling and layered marketing tactics, the
campaign has proven effective in generating conversation, curiosity, and results.
At a minimum, Unexpectedly Bold serves as a compelling entry point—prompting engagement
and dialogue (“Unexpectedly Bold? How so?”). More importantly, it reinforces Farmington’s
identity as a community that is proactive and willing to pursue opportunities in creative ways.
Staff will continue refining and expanding a flexible suite of marketing materials that can be
customized for specific events, audiences, and industries. This approach ensures relevance
while maintaining consistent messaging and brand integrity.
The 2026 Focus Areas:
Website Increase the visibility of Unexpectedly Bold
branding across economic development
sections of the city’s website to strengthen
internal and external alignment, ensure
brand consistency, and highlight outcome
Storytelling Expand the campaign’s reach through
enhanced multimedia storytelling, including
video content (such as drone footage) and
participation in relevant podcasts.
Marketing Collateral Pursue creative, “out-of-the-box” marketing
opportunities that elevate Farmington’s
profile and draw attention to available sites,
development momentum, and business
success stories
Page 37 of 54
PROGRAM ADVANCEMENT & STRATEGIC INVESTMENT (TOOLKIT)
The EDA plays a critical role in fostering a strong, diverse, and resilient local economy by offering
targeted programs and making strategic investments. Historically, the EDA has offered grant and
incentive programs designed to support Farmington’s valued small business community. These
programs have been intentionally structured to meet businesses where they are, reduce barriers to
growth, and support long-term success, all which continue to be priorities of the EDA.
As Farmington continues to position itself as a competitive and desirable location for business
investment, it is increasingly important to also leverage external resources alongside local initiative
when applicable, to maximize impact and drive results.
In 2026 the EDA will refine its’ toolkit to ensure the City remains responsive to market conditions,
aligned with business needs, and support both entrepreneurship and business attraction.
Program Development & Refinement
Using insights gained through business visits,
market analysis, and engagement with
economic development partners to identify
gaps and opportunities within the existing
program framework – new and refined
program concepts will be developed and
brought forward to the EDA as
implementation-ready recommendations,
allowing for efficient consideration and
timely deployment.
Potential Program Initiatives may include:
• Re-establishing the Micro Grant
Program with updated criteria to
better align with current business
needs and market conditions
• Developing a Local SAC Grant
Program to offset the City’s SAC
costs for select industries or
development areas aligned with
Farmington’s economic development
priorities
• Re-evaluating relocation incentives to
support business attraction and
reduce upfront costs associated with
locating or expanding in Farmington
Land Readiness & Strategic Acquisition
Understanding how the EDA can assist in
moving land through the shovel readiness
spectrum or adding land to the available
inventory to support long-term goals is
essential. The EDA is not a developer but is in
the unique position to understand what
developers need from a land perspective,
what reduces perceived risk, and how
strategic acquisition (with the ability to hold)
can serve a long-term vision for the city.
Potential Actions may include:
• Identifying strategic parcels for
potential acquisition based on
economic development goals
• Working with property owners for
enrollment in DEED’s shovel ready
program
• Environmental studies
• Concept plan development
Page 38 of 54
Workforce & Education Partnerships
A resilient economy depends on a strong and
adaptable workforce. Staff will collaborate
with local educational partners to strengthen
workforce pipelines that support Farmington
businesses. This effort will focus on
developing short-, mid-, and long-term
initiatives that connect employers to existing
educational and training resources and bring
innovative opportunities forward.
These collaborations may take multiple
forms but will emphasize:
• Improving awareness of available
workforce and training programs
• Enhancing connections between
businesses and educational
institutions
• Aligning workforce development
efforts with current and anticipated
industry needs
Entrepreneurship & Small Business
Ecosystem Development
Building on the 2025 work session
conducted with the University of Minnesota
Extension, targeted entrepreneurial
initiatives will be advanced designed to
strengthen Farmington’s local ecosystem.
Once established, staff will engage directly
with entrepreneurs and small business
owners to better understand where
additional support, programming, or
coordination could meaningfully enhance
the local business environment.
Initial efforts will focus on:
• Identifying, cataloging, and
coordinating existing entrepreneurial
resources and activities currently
available within the community and
region.
Benchmarking & Best Practices
To ensure Farmington remains competitive
and forward-looking, staff will research
economic development programs
implemented in peer and comparable
communities. This benchmarking effort will
evaluate program structure, eligibility
criteria, funding levels, and outcomes to
determine applicability and potential
adaptation for Farmington.
Page 39 of 54
Targeted Studies & Proactive Planning
Strategic studies and pre-development
planning are helpful tools for reducing
uncertainty and accelerating investment.
Building on the successful Grocery Market
Analysis completed in 2025, staff will pursue
additional studies that advance
Farmington’s economic development goals.
Potential initiatives may include:
• Conceptual site plans for priority
development or redevelopment
areas, developed in collaboration
with property owners
• Pre-entitlement or planning efforts
that elevate the shovel-readiness of a
site and allow sites to be proactively
marketed to developers and site
selectors
Page 40 of 54
Performance Measures & Accountability
To ensure accountability and continuous improvement, the following demonstrates high-level
performance measures that will be used to track progress and inform future program and policy
decisions. These measures emphasize readiness, responsiveness, and Farmington’s ability to
adapt over time.
Business Attraction & Investment Readiness
• Number of RFIs and site search requests responded to annually
o Follow-up engagements associated with RDI responses
• Number of new development projects initiated or advanced
• Building permit data & valuation
• Number of meetings with landowners
Business Retention, Expansion & Workforce Alignment
• Number of business visits conducted annually
• Number of workforce or training connections facilitated with educational partners
Strategic Partnerships & Marketing
• Number of strategic partner engagements and events attended
• Number of speaking engagements, panels, or leadership roles held
o Follow-up engagement associated with speaking engagements
• Tradition media engagement – articles, or features highlighting Farmington
• Social media posts specific to economic development activities and initiatives
• Website traction
EDA Programs & Investment Toolkit
• Number of EDA programs evaluated, refined, or launched
• Level of EDA funding deployed and/or leveraged with external resources to support
business
• Number of businesses assisted through grants or incentive programs
Entrepreneurship & Small Business Ecosystem
• Number of entrepreneurial resources identified and coordinated
• Number of entrepreneurs or small businesses engaged
• Participation in entrepreneurial programming or support initiatives
• New business startups or expansions supported
Proactive Planning & Market Intelligence
• Number of studies or analyses commissioned or completed
• Number of priority sites with pre-development planning completed
• Sites proactively marketed to developers or site selectors
Page 41 of 54
Calendar of Events
January July
• MREJ Apartment Summit
• EDAM Winter Conference
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
• Small Business Resource Fair - Tentative
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
February August
• Greater MSP Next 2025
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
• MREJ Golf Tournament Sponsor
• MAEDC Conference
• Chamber – State of the County
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
March September
• MREJ – Land Development Summit – speaker
• Greater MSP Next26
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
• MREE – CRE Purchase and Sales Agreements
• RRENM – Economic & Retail CRE Outlook
• CVN Discovery/Networking Event
• SLP – IMTS Trade Show Chicago
• 2nd Annual DCR Regional Cities
Economic Overview – Speaker
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
April October
• MREJ – Women in Real Estate Summit
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
• MREE – Marketing Session – Moderated
Packages
• City of Farmington hosted Chamber
Coffee Break
• Manufacturing Month
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
May November
• MREJ – Commercial Real Estate Awards
• MREJ Southeast Metro Development Summit –
Speaker
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
• MREE – State of the Market
• Small Business Month
• MREJ – Industrial Real Estate Summit –
speaker
• SLP Site Selector Visits
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
• RRENM – State of Retail
June December
• MREJ – Mid Year Commercial Real Estate
Forecast
• EDAM Summer Conference
• Chamber – Legislative Wrap-up Session
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
• Chamber Meeting – Year end
• Partner Presentation/Tour to EDA
The full calendars for MREE and RRENM are not built out yet; staff will attend events as appropriate
for the City of Farmington. As staff learn more about and join these organizations, we anticipate
having opportunities as speakers and sponsors providing the city with more exposure.
Page 42 of 54
Company Object
Account
Actual
2021
Actual
2022
Actual
2023
Actual
2024
Actual
2024
Actual
2025
Actual
2026 2026 Budget Comments
INCOME
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT4011 - CURRENT PROPERTY TAX 0 0 0 0 (150,000)(250,000)(250,000)maintains 2025 levy amount
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT4955 - INTEREST ON INVESTMENTS (3,136)(3,425)(6,929)(4,540)(1,000)(2,600)(5,200)
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT5205 - OPERATING TRANSFERS (40,000)(50,000)(86,969)(50,000)(50,000)0 0 eliminated in 2025 and levy increased to
eliminate transfer
(255,200)
EXPENSES
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6280 - BOOKS & SUBSCRIPTIONS 80 0 0 0 150 150 150 Misc. business publications
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6401 - PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 26,575 0 24,993 37,500 5,000 25,000 25,000 financial consultant, specific project
related (ex: property acquisition, property
analysis, site planning)
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6403 - LEGAL 2,287 0 9,245 831 3,000 3,000 3,000 legal support - complex issues, program
review, document prep, etc.
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6426 - INSURANCE 542 486 580 157 600 600 600
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6445 - POSTAGE/SHIPPING FEES 0 0 0 0 1,000 1,000 1,000 misc. mailings - program related, direct
mailings, etc.
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6450 - OUTSIDE PRINTING 4,572 0 2,042 422 2,500 3,000 3,000 SWAG for events, new banners, marketing
materials, program postcards, etc.
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6455 - LEGAL NOTICES 92 0 792 0 500 500 500
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6460 - MEMBER DUES & LICENSURE 1,250 1,790 2,989 8,260 3,500 8,500 8,500 Chamber, EDAM, MAEDA, MMP, other (in
2024 these were included in "other" line
item)
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6470 - TRAINING & SUBSISTANCE 1,638 2,589 2,828 1,320 5,000 5,000 5,000 Includes EDAM winter & summer (2),
CORENet, MAEDC, other specific econ dev
organizations
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6480 - MEETING EXPENSE 11 183 350 109 500 500 coffe/donuts for meetings and open
houses
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6485 - MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT 410 1,324 3,270 1,392 3,000 5,100 5,100
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6492 - ADVERTISING 0 0 8,715 0 0
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6505 - EQUIPMENT REPAIR/MAINTENANCE1,296 1,200 0 0 1,000 1,000 1,000
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6550 - DEVELOPER PAYMENTS 37,923 16,510 20,176 0 50,000 50,000 50,000 program development - new incentives
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6570 - PROGRAMMING EXPENSE 5,240 5,200 5,150 5,500 10,000 85,000 85,000 payment to outside organizations for
programming - ex: Open to Business;
Enhanced marketing, matching grant
funds, project implementation, site
readiness, land activity, etc.
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT6910 - LAND 0
HRA/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT7420 - OTHER 0 0 0 12,950 64,750 0 Enhanced marketing, matching grant
funds, project implementation, site
readiness, land activity, etc.; KS moved
$75K to 6570-Programming Expense in
2025 and that is continued188,350 TOTAL BUDGET
91,377 (47,141)(25,961)13,900 (51,000)(64,250)(66,850)REMAINING BALANCE - TBD/Build Fund
Balance for larger initiatives
2026 EDA BUDGET
Page 43 of 54
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY AGENDA MEMO
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Deanna Kuennen, Community & Economic Development Director
Department: EDA
Subject: 2027 Preliminary Budget, Work Plan, and EDA Levy Discussion
Meeting: Economic Development Authority - Jul 20 2026
INTRODUCTION:
The 2027 Budget process is underway. The EDA has a dedicated budget to advance the
City's economic development goals. The following report reviews the current budget and
includes proposed changes to the 2027 budget and the initial EDA levy request. Based on
input and discussion from the EDA, a more detailed budget proposal will be prepared to
support the preliminary EDA Levy request that the EDA will be asked to formally approve
and forward to the City Council as part of the city's overall 2027 budget.
DISCUSSION:
The EDA's budget has been organized to support the economic development goals of the
City as identified in the work plan. There is flexibility built into the budget, understanding
that the budget is based on the work plan and the work plan is intentionally designed to
evolve. With a dedicated funding source (EDA Levy), the EDA is able to fund initiatives and
activities that are impactful today while building fund reserves for larger and/or longer-
term initiatives (example: shovel readiness).
The attached report includes EDA budget trends, year-to-date spending, and proposed
2027 program partnerships, continuation the of budget The budget. supports
development, marketing, and new initiatives. Moving forward, it is anticipated that the
economic development work will continue at a similar cadence, and Staff will continue to
explore and and propose opportunities that support business growth development,
leverage public funds, and advance the City's pillars and vision.
To support these efforts, Staff is also recommending that the preliminary levy request
remain pursue ability Staff's enhanced significantly to levy EDA The same. the has
opportunities and implement components of a comprehensive work plan that includes;
Continuous Operations Strategy and Resilience, Strategic Partnership and Priority Marketing
Channels, and Program Advancement and Strategic Investment. The continuation of the
levy existing provides sufficient funding to implement and enhance the economic
development initiatives and contribute to a growing fund balance. The idea behind
growing the fund balance incrementally is to provide flexibility if/when opportunities arise
Page 44 of 54
and to allow the pursuit of larger programs and initiatives (yet to be determined but could
include the establishment of a revolving loan program, funding for land acquisition, etc.).
To note:
The EDA Levy amount remains unchanged at $250,000.
o State Statutes limit the levy amount of 0.01813% of the city taxable market
value, which is in excess of $500,000
Unprogrammed funding is $39,750. These dollars will help build the EDA fund balance
but can also be available if needed based on a specific opportunity or initiative
requested by the EDA.
The EDA is asked to review and discuss the proposed levy request and preliminary budget.
Based on input, Staff will prepare a Preliminary Levy Request resolution for consideration at
the August EDA meeting. Now that the EDA levy is established, annually the EDA is required
to request a preliminary and final levy as part of the City's budget.
ACTION REQUESTED:
No formal action is requested. The EDA is asked to discuss the proposed budget and
provide direction on the preliminary 2027 EDA levy request.
ATTACHMENTS:
July and 2027 Budget Report
Page 45 of 54
7/1612026
YTD BUDGET REPORT - and
2027 PROPOSED BUDGET
2025 2025 2026 2026 2027
Activity Amended Budget Activity /YTD Expenditures Amended Budget Proposed Budget
GL Number Description
Fund: 200 HRA/ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
Account Category: Estimated
Revenues
UNRESERVED FUND BALANCE 411,501.80
200-0000-4011-000 CURRENT PROPERTY TAX 250,000.00 250,000.00 0.00 250,000.00 250,000.00$
200-0000-4516-000 ADMINISTRATION FEES - PROJECTS 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 -$
200-0000-4955-000 INTEREST ON INVESTMENTS 25,546.57 2,600.00 0.00 5,200.00 5,200.00$
Estimated Revenues 275,546.57 252,600.00 0.00 255,200.00 255,200.00$
TOTAL REVENUE TOTAL REVENUE
Account Category: Appropriations
200-2000-6280-000 BOOKS & SUBSCRIPTIONS 1,755.51 150.00 245.00 150.00
Business Publications - The
Business Journal 250.00$
200-2000-6220-000 EQUIP SUPPLIES & PARTS 27.97
Supplies for installation of 15
min signs
200-2000-6254-000 SIGNS & STRIPING MATERIALS 1,022.19 15 min parking signs
200-2000-6401-000 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 37,260.60 25,000.00 1,040.00 25,000.00
Financial consultant, specific
project related expenses
(appraisal, property analysis,
site planning, etc.)25,000.00$
200-2000-6403-000 LEGAL 496.00 3,000.00 4,953.00 3,000.00
Legal support - legal review,
property acquisition,
downtown social agreement 5,000.00$
200-2000-6426-000 INSURANCE 404.63 600.00 0.00 600.00 600.00$
200-2000-6445-000 POSTAGE/SHIPPING FEES 0.00 1,000.00 0.00 1,000.00 1,000.00$
200-2000-6450-000 OUTSIDE PRINTING 2,148.54 3,000.00 2,023.93 3,000.00
Branded meterials for events,
program postcars, etc. -
banners, notebooks 4,000.00$
200-2000-6455-000 LEGAL NOTICES 0.00 500.00 0.00 500.00 500.00$
200-2000-6460-000 MEMBER DUES & LICENSURE 8,060.00 8,500.00 3,675.00 8,500.00 DCRC, MAEDC, MREE, EDAM 8,500.00$
200-2000-6470-000 TRAINING & SUBSISTANCE 5,940.28 5,000.00 2,918.73 5,000.00
EDAM, Fluence, Next26,
AFCOM 6,000.00$
200-2000-6480-000 MEETING EXPENSE 523.14 500.00 299.03 500.00
Meetings and open houses -
Items for MREJ SE Summit 600.00$
200-2000-6485-000 MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT 784.98 5,100.00 746.86 5,100.00 3,500.00$
200-2000-6492-000 ADVERTISING 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 -$
200-2000-6505-000
EQUIPMENT
REPAIR/MAINTENANCE 0.00 1,000.00 0.00 1,000.00 500.00$
200-2000-6550-000 DEVELOPER PAYMENTS 0.00 50,000.00 0.00 50,000.00 Program Development - NEW 75,000.00$
200-2000-6570-000 PROGRAMMING EXPENSE 18,709.00 85,000.00 18,750.00 85,000.00
Payment to outside
organizations for proramming -
Open to Bus, enhanced
marketing, project
implementation, site
readiness, - MREJ, CDA (Open
to Business)85,000.00$
200-2000-6570-000-20001
PROGRAMMING EXPENSE (DTOWN
SOCIAL)1987.37
Downtown Social expenses
(maximum $6000)
200-2000-6570-000-20002
PROGRAMMING EXPENSE (MICRO
GRANT)10000 Micro Grant (max $50,000)
200-2000-6910-000 LAND $56,009.13 Acquisition of 512 3rd St
76,242.67 188,350.00 103,698.21 188,350.00
YTD EXPENDITURES/2026
BUDGET 215,450.00$
Fund 200 - HRA/ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT:
TOTAL ESTIMATED REVENUES 275,546.57 252,600.00 0.00 255,200.00
TOTAL EDA FUNDS
(including unallocated
funds)255,200.00$
TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS 76,242.67 188,350.00 103,698.21 188,350.00 215,450.00$
NET OF REVENUES &
APPROPRIATIONS:199,303.90 64,250.00 (103,698.21)66,850.00 unallocated EDA FUNDS 39,750.00$
151,501.79
Remaining YTD Unspent Balance
Page 46 of 54
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 - Jul 20 2026
INTRODUCTION:
Attached please find a summary of 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 requested. 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:
07-2026 meeting 1
Page 47 of 54
Reporting
Period:
July 2026
DIRECTOR’S REPORT – providing project highlights and a summary of
economic development activity.
Projects &
Initiatives
Farmington Technology Park - Data Center (Farmington Technology Park) | Farmington,
MN
Information about the project including the project timeline, actions, official
documents (applications, staff reports, resolutions, and presentations) can be
found on the webpage. As more information becomes available, information will
be added and/or this page will be used to link to other sources.
The most recent action associated with this project is the application to divide the
Farmington Technology Park into two separate additions – Farmington
Technology Park 1st Addition and Farmington Technology Park 2nd Addition. On
April 20, 2026, the City Council approved the Final Plat and updated development
contract for both additions.
Tract has updated their own project website. The latest development updates
can be found at this location: Updates - Farmington Technology Park
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.
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.
Page 48 of 54
Project Gamma – DID NOT SUBMIT – seeking existing building, minimum, 250,ooo SF
in size for AI and robotics company.
Project X – SUBMITTED building for consideration – German manufacturing facility
that supports medical device and pharmaceutical packaging.
Project X – DID NOT SUBMIT – seeking 400+ acres, single ownership, for $10B
investment, heavy utility user project, with 5100 FTE projected.
Project Green – SUBMITTED sites for consideration – distribution hub seeking
industrial land for purchase. Site evaluation process is still underway, and all
submitted sites are still under consideration. Additional inquiries about due
diligence materials were fielded, answering questions and providing information
that was available.
Project SOL – SUBMITTED sites for consideration – manufacturing center of
excellence seeking land for purchase.
Project G – SUBMITTED site for consideration – international company
seeking land/building for purchase for injection molding and assembly.
Project Pentagon – SUBMITTED site for consideration – medical device
manufacturer evaluating locations in the MSP metro area as part of a
nationwide search for a new facility.
Project Opportunity – SUBMITTED building(s) for consideration –
manufacturing and assembly facility.
• Developer Meetings
Staff make a concerted effort to meet with developers and real estate brokers
who have expressed interest in working in Farmington. Conversations are
ongoing, circling back as opportunities present themselves 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
Page 49 of 54
o G. M. / Acumen Business Solutions, LLC
o Upland Real Estate Group
o Cushing Terrell
o Remain RE / APPRO
o CORE Real Estate Group – exploring small site multi-family
o Acumen Business Solutions, LLC – connected with local property owner
o T.G – discussed residential development
o Remain RE – connected with local business owner
o Onxy/Obsidian – discussed spec building and pad ready site
o Acumen Business Solutions – discussed multi-use development site
o CBRE – Wells Fargo land and Hwy 60
o Multiple housing developers regarding Wells Fargo land
o Noor Companies
o Local residents – initial inquires regarding redevelopment project
Follow up conversations were held with several developers that Staff have had
conversations with on various development topics and ideas. Meetings are being
scheduled for the summer.
• 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,
distribution, commercial/retail, quick-serve restaurants, daycare, and MF
housing. We anticipate that projects that have been talked about for a while
will move forward (more to come).
Other
• Micro Grant
At the April EDA meeting, the 2026 Micro Grant program was approved. A total
of $50,000 is available for this program, with matching grants available up to
$10,000 for qualifying project/qualifying businesses. Staff have updated the
online application and provided information about the program on the city’s
website. Information can be found here: Incentives & Grants | Farmington, MN
4 awards have been approved – June meeting
2 additional applications received
Multiple inquiries from businesses and property owners – eligible and ineligble
• Grocery Initiative
At its February 2025 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
Page 50 of 54
website with market information, etc. utilizing insights from the KState Rural
Grocery Initiative.
• Ribbon Cuttings/Open House
In 2026 Staff worked with the AV team to enhance the ribbon cutting
celebrations by creating videos that talk more about businesses and their
projects. These videos are housed on the City’s YouTube page. The videos
(shorts) will also be used to tell Farmington’s story and highlight the unique
businesses in our community and the investments that are being made.
City of Farmington MN - YouTube
o Trinity – celebrated on February 5, 2026
o Mis Tortuguitas – celebrated on February 19, 2026
o Lucid Tatoo – celebrated on April 1, 2026
o Quick Stop Spot Ribbon Cutting – celebrated on May 26, 2026
o Salaam Global Flavors – celebrated on June 25, 2026
• Downtown Social
Staff have been actively working with the organizers of the Downtown Social,
to support and promote the season-long event. Part of those efforts have
included researching how other communities “permit” monthly/weekly
community gatherings and understanding the city’s existing license and
permits. This has led to the identification of possible efficiencies that will
benefit this event but have a broader, positive community-wide impact as
well.
The dates of the 2026 Downtown Social include (all 4th Thursdays):
o May 28th
o June 25th
o July 23rd
o August 27th
o September 24th
• Partner Meetings
Staff is continuing to prioritize connecting and leveraging our economic
development partners – including the Minnesota Trade Office, DEED, Greater
MSP, utility providers, and other organizations. Partner presentations will be
scheduled throughout 2026, and Staff will continue to participate in regional
activities that provide exposure and access. An example of this is Staff
attended the Greater MSP Partnership Next26 event on March 3rd to learn
about the plans for the region and to better understand Farmington’s place in
the region.
The first partner meeting for 2026 has been scheduled. These meetings 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.
Page 51 of 54
2025 Partner Meetings:
DCTC/Inver Hills College - March
MCCD / Open to Business – April
Dakota County CDA – May
CVN/Brookshire - June
Dakota County Regional Chamber - July
University of Minnesota Extension Office – October
2026 Partner Meetings:
Dakota Electric – May 2026
GreaterMSP
DEED
Utility Partners – Xcel, Northern Natural Gas
Others, TBD
• Meetings with Local Lenders
Staff is scheduling meetings with the local lending institutions to explore ways
that the EDA might be able to collaborate to support local business growth
and expansion. These meetings allow information to be exchanged about
programs and tools. The EDA has expressed that they do not want to compete
with the lenders when it comes to programs/future programs. These
meetings allow an open dialogue to explore ideas on the types of programs
and tools that the EDA might consider in the future, that could supplement,
support, and/or compliment that resources provided by the lenders.
• Downtown “Quick Stop Spot” 15 Minute Parking
The City Council approved the parking plan and the 15-minute parking signs
(10 total) will be installed during the week of May 18th. Staff planned a ribbon-
cutting celebration for Tuesday, May 26 at 2pm as a fun way to draw attention
to the new convenient parking options downtown.
• MREE
Staff attended a “Deals” event in July and will be uploading sites and “wants”
(example: grocery store) on the MREE website. Staff will be more involved in
this organization during the second half of 2026. More information to come.
• MREJ – Summits/Conferences/Awards
Staff tabled at the MREJ Apartment Summit in January. These tabling and
networking events foster deeper conversations and connections with
brokers/agents/developers who typically see Team Farmington presenting
and tabling at the MREJ Summits.
Staff tabled at the MREJ Land Development Summit in March and spoke on
the “Municipal Collaboration in Minnesota: Making Public-Private Partnerships
Work” panel. At this summit staff reconnected with a developer interested in
talking about grocery, talked with a developer about affordable MF housing,
and heard from numerous developers interested in finding land in Farmington
for SF housing development.
Page 52 of 54
Staff tabled at the MREJ Women in Real Estate Summit in April and
moderated the panel “Women in Economic Development.” At this summit staff
connected/reconnected with several brokers who have done deals in
Farmington,
Staff tabled at the Retail and Restaurant Summit in April; several connections
from Farmington were in attendance and staff were updated on projects.
Several follow-up connections were made.
Staff participated in the MREJ Summer networking event /golf tournament;
multiple meetings have been scheduled based on conversations and
connections made at the event, and Staff will be following up with some of the
attendees that they did not visit with due to the rain.
MREJ Award Ceremony was held on May 7th. The city was a finalist in the
following categories:
▪ City/County of the Year - WINNER
▪ Rambling River Center – Government Building of the Year
▪ Rye Apartments – MF of the Year, Suburban
▪ Rye Apartments – People’s Choice - WINNER
Staff tabled at the SE Metro Summit in May, moderated the Multi-Family &
Residential: Growth, Demand & Development Strategy panel and participated as
a panelist on the Navigating Regional Planning & Development Processes.
Staff attended the EDAM Summer Conference – held June 3-5. Staff also
attended the DEED Metro Area Quarterly Meeting to learn about DEED’s small
business services, St. Paul Port Authority’s recent industrial land study, and
other metro topics.
• Other Speaking/Presentation Invitations & Commitments
o Regional Market-Visit – Chicago Market.
Farmington has been asked to participate and help plan a site selector
market visit to the Chicago region. The initial planning meeting has
taken place focusing on dates for the visit, site selectors and trade
offices to target, messaging and value proposition. Planning will
continue with the goal for Fall 2026.
• Economic Development Website
Staff have been implementing the Economic Development Website Revamp
as presented at the February EDA meeting. Several portions have been
updated and launched including the Business Support/incentives pages,
Awards, Rankings, and Accolades (which is ever evolving), wording has been
cleaned up across the pages to be consistent and inviting.
Page 53 of 54
• Strategic Land Acquisition/Shovel Readiness
Staff continue to explore opportunities to increase the available land supply
and/or the level of shovel readiness associated with existing land.
Conversations are underway with developers and property owners exploring
what this could mean for key opportunity sites. A new, more visually attractive
map asset has been produced, allowing staff to engage in broader
conversations. More information to come.
o EDA Authorized the acquisition of 512 3rd Street.
▪ Closing took place on May 15, 2026
▪ Asbestos remediation is complete
▪ Demolition will occur once the utilities have completed
disconnects
o Staff are participating in conversations regarding rezoning of key
parcels to support industrial development.
▪ Land on Pilot Knob – rezoned to Industrial (May 18, 2026)
• Legislative Session
Staff followed several economic development-related topics that were
moving through the legislature.
Page 54 of 54