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Harmony EDA hears updates on bike trail procurement, downtown revitalization grant proposals and industrial prospect
Summary
Staff reported that bike-trail bids are expected before Thanksgiving with awards in mid-December, three proposals were received for a $40,000 downtown revitalization grant to be reviewed in December, and a manufacturing prospect is interested in the industrial park; the small cities block grant decision remains delayed.
Chris Giesen, staff to the Harmony EDA, reported on several community and economic development items at the Nov. 3 meeting.
On the bike-trail project Giesen said there were no new updates since the last meeting; bids are scheduled to be let before Thanksgiving and awarded in mid-December. Board member Greg Schieber said the EDA should be prepared to call a special meeting if bids are delayed or deemed unacceptable, and he mentioned prior discussion about the city possibly assuming project management in coordination with the DNR. The board asked staff to monitor procurement progress and report any status changes.
Giesen also said three proposals were received for the EDA’s $40,000 downtown revitalization grant; he will work with applicants over the next month and present the proposed projects for board consideration at the December meeting.
On economic prospects Giesen reported a manufacturing-type prospect has expressed interest in locating in the industrial park; staff will continue discussions. He additionally reported that Harmony’s application for the small cities block grant remains under review by state and federal agencies and that an award decision has not been made; if awarded the grant would fund about 20–40 residential and commercial rehab projects.
Allison Whalen, representing the Harmony Area Chamber of Commerce, briefed the board on chamber activities including the annual membership drive, a strong turnout at Haunted Harmony despite a scheduling conflict, planning for Santa Day and Small Business Saturday, work on downtown directional signage and fundraising for that project, planned social-media training in spring 2023, and a chamber brand refresh. Chair Kerry Kingsley thanked Whalen for her work.
There was no other business and the meeting adjourned at 8:29 AM. The EDA’s next meeting is Dec. 1, 2022, at 7:30 AM at the Community Center.
