The Rushford Economic Development Authority (EDA) has worked double time in recent years to promote new and existing businesses through a number of grant opportunities. At the November 25 Rushford Council meeting, City Administrator Tony Chladek detailed the premise while Councilors and EDA members Sally Ryman and Leigh Volkman further clarified details.
Dubbed the Rushford Revitalization Program, the grant aims to provide support to new leases that fill vacant commercial sites and contribute to the local economy. Eligible and approved applicants will receive $2,500 in “Valley Doe,” a form of check issued by the Rushford Peterson Valley Chamber of Commerce that can only be used in Rushford. The grant can be renewed annually for up to four years.
“Like the commercial Revolving Loan Fund that’s there to fill vacant spaces, this one helps businesses if they intend to lease space,” explained Chladek. “It’s a compliment to other program.”
Both new and expanding existing businesses are eligible to apply for new property leases, but the grant is targeting vacancies in the commercial district. It was also noted that next month a business growth support program with Community Economic Development Associates is intended to kick off.
“One reason we came up with this is that if someone is leasing, they don’t have collateral, so they don’t qualify for funding,” added Ryman. “It’s a good way to help them through those first years, but also put money back into the community.”
“There is some discretion,” said Volkman. Intentionally small programs can unintentionally exclude various businesses. “We’re not trying to exclude anyone. We want people to apply, but we do have discretion. If it’s against what the city is trying to do, they don’t get the money.”
“We tried to think of a lot of those different things. We really want to encourage different business owners,” continued Ryman.
The low-risk grant does require applicant business to comply with all local ordinances, be current on all taxes, loans, services, and other financial obligations, and in compliance with state and federal licensing requirements. The grant is taxable business income.
“A lot of these little programs are to stop the risk,” added Volkman. “No one is going to be upset we let a business try for $2,500.”
In other news, the council approved the renewal of the annual Chamber of commerce agreement. The amount is $16,000 annually, plus $400 per quarter for special program expenses.
At the meeting, Chamber of Commerce director, Stephanie Eggert provided an update for the year. Eggert has been in the position for one year.
The website is currently under work and updates for all businesses will be included as both new and membership renewals roll in. The push for a social media presence also continues. The Chamber received a $4,000 non-matching Tourism Recovery Grant. The funding will be utilized for marketing. With the updated marketing, the Chamber is hosting a contest on their Facebook page for the public to submit new photos to be used in marketing campaigns. New pamphlets are also expected to be printed this year. Tourism signage at the school, airport and bottom of the bluff trail system have been removed for updating. All new ones will be in place by spring, funded by income from lodging tax dollars. The total cost is $2,800. Peterson will also be receiving a $200 sign, paid for by their city council. The signs at the school parking lot and historic depot are also slated for updating soon.
New resident packets, which typically include things from various businesses, may also grow. The Chamber is focusing on getting some additional items and gift cards from businesses.
The Talent Recruitment Program where local high school students meet with various local businesses was a success. Forty-two students from Rushford-Peterson High School participated. The Chamber may look at expanding the program to get students in from area cities as well. The Chamber is working with Bluff Country Collaborative to bolster the program.
The Open Doors Tour of local businesses and sites available for purchase was also a success, but Eggert sees even more opportunity for improvement next year. She and Chladek worked collaboratively at one site networking with realtors interested in properties. There were 13 in total from as far away as the twin cities. By advertising in City Sparks in the metro and in multiple newspapers, there was a good turnout and definite interest in sites.
There are two new programs with Bluff Country Collaborative (BCC). One is aimed at having a liaison between BCC and R-P Schools hosting mock interviews to prepare students for jobs. It’s been done previously and was very well received. The second is an entrepreneurship initiative for students where they’ll sit down and talk with businesses about a mix of everything from going straight into the workforce, trade school, and those careers needing degrees.
Eggert also participates in the Root River Trail Towns group. Holding their annual meeting last week, she noted the trail group is applying for a $150,000 grant aimed at hiring a director for three years. The goal is to redo the website and work on joining the towns together more collaboratively. She’s also been attending Community Education meetings and worked with Chladek on surveys regarding the Farmers Win property, as well as hosting information booths during Rushford Days, marketing for the upcoming Shop Small event, the Valley Doe program, ribbon cuttings, and other local events.
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