County EDA seeks to publicize its benefits

“I want to see people benefit from these programs,” stated Waseca County Economic Development Authority (EDA) member Patti Schuch. “How can we make sure they know they’re available?”

 

The programs Schuch is speaking about include low-interest loans, assistance learning about opportunities such as tax increment financing (TIF), and guidance and support for people looking to start or expand a business anywhere within Waseca County.

 

The county EDA has control of a revolving loan fund which businesses can access for nearly any type of improvement, from updating aging facades to creating whole new business plans.

 

Discussion during the Sept. 16 meeting of the EDA included brainstorming options to help notify everyday community members of the programs and services they could access. Publicity ideas included creating brochures to be set out in public places, or perhaps sending out information via either electronic or traditional mail.

 

EDA members discussed that, when most people think of borrowing money, they go to a bank. “Can we make sure someone at all the banks knows about these loans?” Schuch asked the group.

 

Along with the discussion about publicity, EDA members heard from Waseca County Zoning Administrator Tina Wilson about other area organizations promoting economic growth.

 

The regional organization Greenseam, Wilson reported, is holding an ag-focused forum in Mankato early in December. Greenseam also recently produced a report on the topic of local business retention and expansion based on what was learned by interviewing Waseca area business owners. 

 

Wilson also reported the local initiative for a food cooperative continues to work forward. 

She mentioned a groundbreaking ceremony for the planned Workforce Development Center will take place at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25. Congressman Brad Finstad will be a speaker.