Northeast Metro Business VHEDC 2019 | Page 36

THE YEAR’S HIGHLIGHTS Strategic PARTNERSHIPS T he Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation (VHEDC) was founded in 1984 and is comprised of Northeast Metro business leaders who are focused on creating new job opportunities, retaining existing jobs, and expanding the tax base of our area. Businesses invest in the organization both with their financial commitment as well as service on committees. The VHEDC Board is comprised of local business leaders who have an interest in seeing the business climate thrive. Each month the VHEDC Board of Directors holds its meetings at an area business. The VHEDC has strategic partnerships with other organizations that assist us in carrying out our mission; these partners include: The City of Vadnais Heights, Ramsey County, White Bear Lake Area Schools, Century College and the White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce. Vital strategic initiatives include: • Business Retention & Expansion • Internships for Area Businesses • New Business Assistance As the economy emerges from several years of stagnation, it’s clear that economic development has become incredibly competitive. Cities, counties and regions that have business and elected leaders organized and working at the ground level will have a huge advantage in acquiring and maintaining good-paying jobs. Ramsey County looks forward to growing our already strong partnership with the VHEDC and aggressively build economic development tools to keep northern Ramsey County a job creation magnet. Blake Huffman, Ramsey County Commissioner 36 Northeast Metro Business