Fostering Economic Development in ENM
In his State of the City Address to Chamber members and guests, Elko New Market City Administrator Tom Terry shared the highlights of the 2012 community survey. The survey covered wide-ranging topics related quality of life and satisfaction with city services. Residents generally ranked the City very favorably, often on par or above other exurban and metro communities. Residents’ responses put Elko New Market’s quality of life in the top 10% of exurban cities and the top 25% of all metro communities. Bottom line: Elko New Market is a great place to live and work.
The most serious issue in the city, according to respondents, is the lack of businesses. For this reason, the Chamber and the City work together to foster an environment attractive to new and existing businesses. We all know that more businesses will increase and diversify the tax base, provide services to residents and bring jobs to town.
The City has taken several steps to help attract businesses to the area, including establishing an economic development authority and conducting feasibility studies for the development of the southeast quadrant of the Interstate 35/County Road 2 intersection.
While the City works to attract new businesses, let’s not forget that our best opportunities for economic development are in helping our existing businesses thrive. Many of our Chamber members and other local businesses will be greatly affected by the construction on Interstate 35 this summer. You can help them survive by spending your money locally whenever possible. From buying gifts and pet food, to dining out and getting your hair cut, it’s all right here. Think of the time you will save by buying milk at Fish Rock, attending church in town and enjoying an evening at Elko Speedway.
If you appreciate the businesses that are already here, do your part to make sure they stay.
State of the Schools Address (Public Event)
The Chamber is pleased to host the 2013 State of the Schools address, when Elko New Market residents will get a chance to learn about the priorities, finances, opportunities and challenges of the two school districts that serve the community – Lakeville Area Public Schools and New Prague Area Public Schools. Lakeville Superintendent Dr. Lisa Snyder, retiring New Prague Area Schools Superintendent Larry Kauzlarich and incoming Superintendent Tim Dittberner will share with residents how the districts strive to provide an excellent education despite challenging economic conditions. Following the superintendents’ presentations, there will be a Q&A period.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 21, 2013 -- 7-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Elko New Market Library, 110 J. Roberts Way
Starting Friday: Interstate 35 Closures
It starts this Friday. Road closures on I-35. About 45 Chamber members and community residents heard from representatives of the Minnesota Department of Transportation about the construction projects slated for Interstate 35 from May through November. If you missed the meeting, you can learn more and sign up for email updates at: http://www.dot.state.mn.us/metro/projects/i35eelkotoeagan/index.html
About the ENM Chamber of Commerce
The Elko New Market Chamber helps its member businesses become more successful through strong leadership, providing education and resources, and advocating for a healthy business climate. For more information, go to www.ENMChamber.org or Facebook.com/ENMChamber.
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