At the meeting this Wednesday afternoon, Mayor Lois called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. starting with a roll call: Karen Schinke, Robin Vos, Ken Jaeger, Bill Phenicie, Matt Russell, Larry Dawley, Frank Cannella, David Torgler, Mayor Claude Lois and Jenny Trick. Absent: Paul Mueller and Pat Hoffman.

Official Oaths. All members according to Section 19.0 of the Wisconsin Statute must take an official oath. Therefore, Beverly Gill, City Clerk administered the official oath to all the members present.

Introduction. Mayor Lois and the committee members introduced themselves and indicated their general involvement within the community. Mayor Lois continued the introduction by reviewing Ordinance number 1645 (49), its purpose, intent and value to the committee.

Logistics. Mayor Lois suggested that the meeting dates continue on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month and asked the committee members if the meeting time was convenient. The committee members requested that the meeting times change from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. Discussion also occurred regarding the frequency of meetings and it was agreed that the topics described within the "Meeting Outline" document produced by RCEDC be somewhat compressed and accomplished over the next four meetings.

Roles and Responsibilities. Jenny Trick of RCEDC offered a brief introduction of the RCEDC and the various services provided by the Corporation. There was also discussion regarding the Economic Development Committee ordinance and the identified duties of the committee members. Business attraction and retention were discussed, with the introduction of the Retention Survey that will be completed during the 2^nd quarter of 2001. Jenny Trick also referred to the Economic Adjustment Strategy (EAS) that has been proposed for Racine County. A memorandum discussing the EAS by Gordon Kacala, Executive Director of the RCEDC, to Jean Jacobson, Racine County Executive was provided for the committee’s review. Robin Vos offered his concern regarding the potential lack of representation by parties west of Interstate 94. City Administrator Torgler indicated that he would contact Mr. Kacala and discuss this issue further.

Industrial Land Sale Application. Jenny Trick provided a copy of the land sale application form that has been used historically and asked for any comments by the committee members. No comments were offered, therefore the application will be provided to the private real estate company that will market the Burlington Manufacturing and Office Park (BMOP).

Assistance to Polacheck in Marketing the City’s BMOP. Jenny Trick explained the typical process of contacts considering relocation or expansion opportunities. A general package of information will be compiled by RCEDC staff and proper follow up will occur by RCEDC staff. Further information was offered regarding the synchronization necessary between the private real estate firm, RCEDC and the City officials.

Relating to the discussion of contacts, committee members recommended that an "Information Intake" document be developed and provided to the Chamber of Commerce for their completion and delivery to RCEDC for action. Jenny Trick will develop this document and provide it to the committee members for their review and comment. Subsequently, Karen Schinke will deliver the document to the Chamber for their use.

Additional discussion regarding the potential of expanding the City of Burlington web site was contemplated. Susan Johnston of the Blue Ribbon Committee will be engaged to discussed this topic further.

Implement a Local Ambassador Program. Jenny Trick referred to the proposed ambassador type luncheons that may occur as a result of an expansion or relocation opportunity. Noteworthy was the sequence that these luncheons typically occur. Generally, the time lapse between the initial contact and the luncheon is greater than all anticipate. Often, the company seeking information regarding a Burlington location want to remain anonymous until all details are resolved.

Relating to this subject, Frank Cannella recommended that a format or agenda be developed relating to an ambassador program. Mr. Cannella suggested that sub-committees be formed, perhaps specific to the proposed company’s interests in expanding/relocating to Burlington. This topic will need to be further developed and discussed at a near future meeting.

On-Going Input. Jenny Trick indicated that one of the greatest assets of this committee will be their contacts within the community; therein offering the added "eyes-and-ears" to further assist in the marketing of the business park and other potential commercial, manufacturing and retail opportunities.

Confidentiality, process for prospects, timing and equity are important factors. In the interest of time, Jenny Trick discussed these subject matters in a compressed fashion by discussing the issues in generality. She indicated that is critical in working with companies, both from within the community and not that confidentiality be maintained. Second, timing varies between prospects, but more times than not is slower than desired. Finally, it was noted that all prospects are treated with equity.

Adjournment. Alderman Cannella motioned and Robin Voss seconded to adjourn. All were in favor and the motion carried.

Adjourned at 5:00 p.m.

Recording Secretary – Jenny Trick, RCEDC