News Release from JSDC…

From Holly Miller

JSDC December BOD Meeting

Recently, a SRF Consulting Planning Contract was awarded to assist Jamestown and Stutsman County with continuing growth. SRF has been hired so that Jamestown and Stutsman County can be proactive with short-term and long-term planning to focus on and achieve goals. The SRF team, along with JSDC, the city of Jamestown, and Stutsman County will work toward establishing a growth plan, determining 3 specific areas of growth to focus on, and providing technical assistance to the city and county planning commissions and staff. There will be a final presentation with SRF in 4-6 months regarding the growth plan.

The JSDC Board of Directors had a full agenda at their latest meeting held on December 10th in the Lower Level Conference Room of the Economic Development Center.

Alex Schweitzer, Denny Ellefson, and Jim Boyd, all long-time members of the JSDC Board of Directors, were recognized for their years of service. Gary Riffe presented the awards. JSDC would like to thank them for their years of service and dedication!

During the meeting, Ted Hanson with KK Bold gave a presentation to the board regarding marketing. The board approved KK Bold to manage the JSDC marketing program and allocate budgeted dollars over a proposed 12 month period. KK Bold will meet with JSDC quarterly to analyze progress and results. Connie Ova explained that businesses that are looking to relocate will visit the JSDC website and relocating workforce will search for jobs online. JSDC is excited to work with a knowledgeable team to assist in the advancement of online media marketing and a growing Jamestown.

Also included in the agenda was Deb Kantrud, Director of the South Central Dakota Regional Council. Deb reviewed the SCDRC report and explained that the SCDRC will get more involved with housing and other areas of service needed in Stutsman County. There is a need for stronger communication between JSDC and SCDRC. The JSDC executive committee will meet with SCDRC executive committee quarterly to review projects and allow SCDRC to identify the areas they can help the JSDC. The JSDC Board recommended approval for SCDRC dues with the 5% increase totaling $33,810 for the 2012 year. The board also agreed to review SCDRC progress on addressing the concerns expressed in multiple separate meetings prior to the JSDC Board meeting on December 10th, 2012 in July of 2013. The recommendation will move forward to the City and County for final approval.

Lastly, the JSDC Board awarded an audit bid to Schauer and Associates for the 2013 and 2014 years.

The JSDC would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We are looking forward to Jamestown and Stutsman County bright future.

Earlier..

 

Jamestown, ND (KCSi-T.V. News) — The Jamestown/Stutsman Development Corporation Board voted unanimously Monday (Dec 11, 2012) to recommend continued membership in South Central Dakota Regional Council for 2013.

On Wednesday’ (Dec 12, 2012) Wayne Byers Show on CSi Cable 2, JSDC Business Development Coordinator, DeAnn Brunner said, the Jamestown City Council, and Stutsman County Commission will vote on the recommendation.

In October, the JSDC executive board recommended dropping the county’s membership in SCRDC.

The executive board unanimously reversed that action at its November meeting – with stipulations relative to possible membership in 2014 and beyond.

At the board meeting Jamestown Mayor Kate Andersen said,”We need to move forward for 2013, but with the intent they look for different revenue streams in the future.”

The JSDC Board also recommended entering into a $35,000 contract with KK Bold of Bismarck for Internet and social media marketing for JSDC.

The plan is to concentrate on connecting people and businesses looking to relocate with the JSDC website.

Ms. Brunner added that the SRF Consulting contract, for planning services has been unanimously approved by the Jamestown City Council, and Stutsman County Commission.

A growth plan will be developed, focusing on three specific areas, to be determined.

Technical assistance to the city and county Planning Commissions and staff will also be provided.

Ms. Brunner said that a plus of having a consultant is the availability of receiving public input on development issues.

She added the final plan will be ready in about four to six months, with a final presentation.

Funding comes from the Jamestown and Stutsman County economic development funds.

A steering committee will also be formed.

In other business, the JSDC Board, recognized outgoing board members.

Those included Jim Boyd and Denny Ellefson.

The Board thanked Alex Schweitzer for his service as JSDC President and the input he brought to the Board. He will now serve as Past-President.

Gary Rife will serve as JSDC President, starting in January of 2013.

Holly Miller

She also noted that Holly Miller of Jamestown has come on board with the JSDC as the Office Coordinator,  effective Nov. 26th, 2012. 

As the Office Coordinator Holly will handle administrative detail for all JSDC projects, and coordinate and facilitate JSDC meetings.

She will assist Connie Ova and DeAnn Brunner in business/jobs development, strategic planning, and the implementation of the JSCD strategic plan.

Holly has owned/operated and sold three businesses, including Jamestown’s Waggin’ Tails Doggy Daycare & Hotel.

DeAnn Brunner, JSDC Business Development Coordinator and Holly Miller, JSDC Office Coordinator attending Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC) grant training in Bismarck on December 5, 2012.

 The training was provided to all fiscal agents and grant advisers for APUC.

More information and updates at the JSDC web site.

www.growingjamestown.com  and includes updates with the Spiritwood Energy Park.