PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release Friday, September 25, 2009

Contact: Noel LaBine 763-477-3086

Wright County Partnership to coooperate with the St. Cloud Partnership to apply for a Regional Community Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) designation in the four County region (region 7W) of Central MN.

The Wright County Economic Development Partnership is cooperating with the St. Cloud Partnership to apply for Federal Regional Community Economic Development Strategy ( CEDS) approval for Region 7W. If this application is approved it could have significant impact on our region. Among other things it will help communities plan for and address barriers to economic development, including transportation, childcare, affordable housing and sustainable energy.

The Region 7W CEDS application process will include an in-depth analysis of the economic development problems and opportunities that identifies strengths and weaknesses in the regional makeup of human and economic assets, and problems and opportunities posed by external and internal forces affecting the regional economy. It will also contain a section setting forth goals and objectives necessary to solve the economic problems, or capitalize on the resources, of the region. Another section of the CEDS will discuss the relationship between the community in general and the private sector in the development and implementation of the CEDS. The CEDS report will also identify regional projects, programs and activities designed to implement the goals and objectives of the CEDS

It is also hoped the Regional Community Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) four County (region 7W) effort will allow the region to become eligible for Federal Stimulus dollars. These funds would target community projects and low-income populations.

The St. Cloud Partnership is taking the initiative with an initial $36,000 projected cost. Wright County will assume a share of that expense at $6,000. The Wright County Economic Development Partnership has identified funding sources for this effort. The Initiative Foundation agreed to help with a $3,000 grant. Another $2,700 in funding has been promised from a grant through MN DEED. In addition the Central MN Jobs & Training Services contributed $300 out of their resources.

During the application survey process, there will be group meetings to identify key areas of need in Wright County . Contact Noel LaBine at 763-477-3086 or register online at www.wrightpartnership.org . if you are interested in participating in this effort.

The Partnership exists to enhance the business climate of Wright County and to help create more jobs in Wright County . The strategies the Partnership uses to achieve its mission include being an information resource and finding technical assistance; aiding business development, providing financing resources, and providing business information and training through seminars and workshops. Also, the Partnership markets Wright County to business site locators, and maintains an excellent website, which includes a listing of commercial and industrial property available in Wright County (see www.wrightpartnership.org ). The Partnership also assists with Workforce Development and has gathered economic statistical information, which is available on its website.