6. a EDA Work Plan 11-8-2021 Draft -Word Doc/
SCANDIA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
WORK PLAN 2021-2030
(DRAFT)
Introduction
Since its formation, the Economic Development Authority (EDA) has accomplished several of the goals outlined in the initial work plan. The EDA launched and funded a tourism study, which
led to the establishment of a separate tourism committee. The EDA financially supports this tourism committee with EDA funds. This year, that financial support included Scandia’s
membership in the Shrpa.com website. This website promotes tourism in Scandia by highlighting things to see and do in our city. The EDA was an early advocate for the need to establish
an internet committee, which was subsequently established, and works toward the goal of the expansion of high-speed internet service throughout the city. The EDA has financially supported
this goal by funding Scandia’s membership in the Minnesota Rural Broadband Alliance, an information an advocacy resource for internet expansion.
This economic development work plan is intended to help provide guidance as to how the City and its EDA in the use of limited resources towards enhancing to the economic well-being of
our community within the framework of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
EDA Mission Statement
The Scandia Economic Development Authority strives to enhance Scandia’s long-term prosperity and enrich the quality of life of residents by retaining and growing existing businesses,
recruiting new businesses and expanding life-cycle housing opportunities for residents. (Existing unchanged)
Explore Agricultural Economic Development Opportunities
Action Step: Continue to identify agricultural businesses in Scandia
Action Step: Outreach to agricultural businesses in order to identify issues and needs, and follow up to provide potential resources
Action Step: Identify opportunities to increase awareness and promotion of Scandia agricultural businesses
Deliverables: Increase the market for local products
Continue to Support Tourism
Action Step: Continue to provide financial support for tourism committee
Action Step: Encourage Scandia businesses to be aware of potential market and tourism opportunities
Action Step: Support the reduction of regulatory barriers to agri-tourism.
Advocate For High-Speed Internet Service
Deliverables: Fund membership in Minnesota Broadband Alliance
Promote Housing Opportunities, Consistent with the 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Action Step: Review existing zoning and 2040 Comprehensive Plan, and work with other agencies to identify and explore any changes that could facilitate the development of life-cycle
housing.
Action Step: Fund infrastructure studies as needed.
Action Step: Build relationship with Metropolitan Council in order to maximize benefits and resources available to Scandia residents.
Explore Opportunities to Help Existing Businesses Thrive
Action Step: Raise awareness with government agencies about regulatory barriers to businesses as they arise.
Action Step: Evaluate façade improvement program viability.
Deliverable: Promote the façade improvement program or go to the city council for authorization to broaden the uses of this program.
Action Step: Make use of Business Retention and Expansion Program, including updating and maintaining list of businesses and creating relationships between those businesses.
Deliverable: quarterly business breakfast, sponsor business events
Actions Step: EDA board and staff will make site visits to existing businesses and use survey to gather data from individual businesses.
Explore Opportunities for New Businesses
Action Step: City staff will compile a list and information about potential sites.
Actions Step: The city and EDA staff will compile info on programs that can support new businesses.
Action Step: Explore infrastructure studies.
Action Step: The EDA will review existing zoning and 2040 Comprehensive Plan and make recommendations to the Planning Commission regarding changes that would facilitate the ability
to attract new businesses.
Scandia Agricultural Businesses
Rustic Roots Winery
Abrahamson’s Nurseries
Bone Lake Apiary
Twin Pines Farm
Willow Tree Farm
Salt and Peppa Farm
Poplar Hill Farm
Nutra Farm
Berglund Apple Orchard? – Not active.
Berry Patch
Redeemed Farm
Max Tree Farm
Newell Tree Farm