HomeMy Public PortalAbout10-12-2011 Task Force Minutes Advisory Task Force on Economic Development Meeting Minutes October 12, 2011 Southern Belle’s, 15051 S. Van Dyke Road Attendees: Tim Stetenfeld, Michael Blaylock, Greg Schaefer, Troy Strange, Steve Preze, Brian Davis, Harold Oliver, and Mike Paris. Also: Brian Murphy, Michael Garrigan, Jonathan Proulx, Rick Kaczanko, and Amy De Boni. The meeting was called to order at 7:35 a.m. Michael Konrad, Dan O’Donnell, and Pat Harbour were absent. Public Comments: None. Business Meeting Motion was made by Brian Davis, second by Harold Oliver, to approve the minutes of the July 13, 2011 Meeting. Motion passed (8 ‐0). Motion was made by Greg Schaefer, second by Mike Paris, to approve the 2012 Meeting Schedule. Motion passed (8 ‐0). Rick Kaczanko updated the Task Force on the Business License renewal process/application. He highlighted the new, shorter application form and the streamlined process. Amy De Boni provided the Task Force with a recap of the 10 ‐in ‐20 Business Consultation Program. The program was a follow ‐up to the “50 Tips to Improve Profits” program offered to local businesses in the spring. BDI reps visited local businesses to highlight 10 opportunities in 20 minutes. The Village subsidized the cost of the program. Two common themes emerged as part of the program – web sites and profits. The Village is currently looking into seminars that could assist local businesses with these topics. The Task Force discussed the results of the business retention visits. Common issues that arose were skilled labor and transportation. The Task Force also discussed working on retention visits with the large retailers. Michael Garrigan and Jon Proulx discussed the draft Business Attraction Plan. The Task Force provided feedback on the draft and discussed filling empty buildings. Brian Davis announced the Village resolution supporting the tax exempt status of hospitals. The meeting adjourned at 8:55 a.m.