At the meeting this Wednesday afternoon Mayor Lois
called the meeting to order at 4:02 p.m. starting with a
roll call: Frank Cannella, Larry Dawley, Ken Jaeger,
Paul Mueller, Bill Phenicie, Matthew Russell, Karen
Schinke, David Torgler and Robin Vos. Excused: Mayor
Lois and Pat Hoffman. Also present were Gordon Kacala,
Matt Wagner and Jenny Trick of Racine County Economic
Development Corporation.
Approval of Minutes. Motion by Bill Phenicie,
seconded by Matt Russell the minutes of the September
19, 2001 EDC meeting were approved.
Old Business. None
New Business.
A Presentation by Gordon Kacala regarding Business
Attraction and Related Activities
Gordon Kacala presented a general overview of various
business attraction efforts that have been successful in
other communities, but concluded that the majority of
companies that are considering a particular location
typically want to meet with representatives from their
respective industry, with the potential of the RCEDC and
EDC members aiding where necessary.
Mr. Kacala also referred to the slowing economy and
lack of active parties considering an expansion or
relocation opportunity. This ongoing decline, coupled
with the phenomena of the New Economy has further
supported the need to complete the Racine County
"Economic Adjustment Study". Mr. Kacala provided an
update of the findings that have resulted from the
various task force groups.
Briefly, the discussions have focused around the
County’s overall image, land use planning, highest
potential of development areas, development of a "Center
for Excellence" type of facility and the need to enhance
an entrepreneurial spirit within the County and Region.
The final plan should be completed during the first
quarter of 2002.
Matt Wagner of the RCEDC staff was present at the
meeting and offered an overview of the proposed Center
for Advanced Technology and Innovation of Racine County.
Adjourn.
On a motion by Bill Phenicie, seconded by Ken Jaeger
the meeting was adjourned at 5:02 p.m.
Recording Secretary – Jenny Trick, RCEDC
