October 19, 2015
And the Nominees Are...    
 
This week your Chamber was excited to announce the top three nominees in each of the seven categories for the Business Excellence Awards. The winner of each category will be announced at the Business Excellence Awards event on November 19. Join us at the event as we honor these local Chamber member businesses and professionals for their accomplishments in their industries and commitments to our communities. Hear the list of nominees via the exciting video message that was released last Tuesday. Please help us congratulate all the businesses and individuals that were nominated!  
Committed to Business... for YOU.
Eagan Businesses: Storm Water Drainage Utility Fees Increases - Learn More   
 
tranquil-lake.jpg
As an advocate for business, Dakota County Regional Chamber wanted to inform you of a proposal that Eagan City Council is considering that could substantially increase your company's utility fees for 2016. Several options have been discussed and Council has directed staff to begin the process of planning for significant capital improvements over the next five years. The improvements could increase your fees from 5% to nearly 50%, depending upon the size of your building and property lot; and this includes a Storm Water Drainage rate increase that could reach 66% in 2016. Please mark your calendars and register for a special meeting on this matter for Thursday, October 29 from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at Eagan City Hall. Read more
Workplace Fairness Coalition Wins First Battle But More to Come     
 
To protect businesses within the region, your Chamber lent its support as part of the Workplace Fairness Coalition. The Coalition was recently formed in response to proposals being discussed by the City of Minneapolis. While we applaud Minneapolis leaders for listening to the business community and pulling back on the proposed scheduling mandate, the Workplace Fairness Coalition still has concerns regarding the proposed mandatory paid leave laws. While these proposals don't directly affect businesses in Dakota County, we are concerned that these mandates not only cause harm for Minneapolis-based businesses but set precedence for other communities to follow. Watch the media for the latest headlines and find out more today.
 
Legislative Breakfast: Only 362 Days Until the Next Election
 
Join us to hear from Minnesota's Secretary of State Steve Simon. With only 362 days until the next election, Minnesota will undergo a fierce attack by political candidates. The balance of power at the state legislature and having swing districts at the congressional level put Minnesota on center stage. Secretary Simon will address these issues and also highlight how the Secretary's office can help small business owners and entrepreneurs. The Legislative Breakfast Series offers members eight programs, November 2015 - June 2016. Fees are $25 per event or purchase a Series pass for $160 and save! Register today  
 
Events Calendar
 
 
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
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12:00 Noon
 
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7:30 a.m.
8:00 a.m.

22

7:30 a.m.
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26
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8:00 a.m.
28

7:30 a.m.
8:00 a.m.
12:00 Noon 
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7:30 a.m.
30
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8:00 a.m.

4

4:00 p.m.
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7:30 a.m.
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8:00 a.m.
11

8:00 a.m.

Noon
12

8:00 a.m.
13

Did You Know?
Halloween is in 13 short days. Are you in need of costume ideas for yourself or your kids? Check out this list of the top Halloween costumes for 2015.
Business Education Partnership with District 196 Meeting
 
Your Chamber's Business Education Partnership with District 196 (Rosemount, Eagan, Apple Valley) will hold its first meeting of the school year on Thursday, October 29 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. The Partnership will focus its efforts on planning and sponsoring specific events related to supporting female students in STEM pathways. In addition to these events, there will be continued dialogue and energy on other innovative partnership opportunities that address the needs of learners, educators, and community.  Chamber members interested in participating in the 2015-16 Business Education Partnership with District 196 should contact Vicki Stute for further information. 
 

Local Focus: Find Out What's Happening In Your Community

 

Farmington City Council meets October 19 - see the agenda
Rosemount City Council meets October 20 - see the agenda 
Rosemount Port Authority meets October 20 - see the agenda
West St. Paul Planning Commission meets October 20 - see the agenda
Eagan City Council meets October 20 - see the agenda 
Mendota Heights City Council meets October 20 - see the agenda
Dakota County Board of Commissioners meets October 20 - see the agenda 
Member Spotlight: Thanks for Your Leadership
 
Michele Engdahl 
"The DCR Chamber of Commerce is a gem of our regional community and I'm thankful I've been able to serve in a leadership capacity on the board of directors. Thomson Reuters has been a member since moving our operations from St. Paul to Eagan and we benefit from the strong business community around our campus. The Chamber is the go-to for new and veteran businesses. From ribbon cuttings to advocacy work in the halls of the state capitol, the Chamber plays a key role in making sure businesses start and grow right here. Personally, I have sharpened my skills by serving on this board. I've met so many terrific, talented people who are passionate about not only their industry, but our greater community. I am currently chairing the WomEn's Circle and it is my pleasure to grow that energizing program for women by women. I encourage members to get more involved with the DCR Chamber. Join a committee. Host a networking event. Attend a program."
 
New Members
We welcome the following new members!
 

Investment Solutions
Quality Inn & Suites


Katapult Network
Primary Contact: Brian Johnson
1660 S. Highway 100, Suite 329
Minneapolis, MN 55416
View website HERE

Katapult Network is the only talent recruiting company in the Twin Cities built for millennials in 2015. If you are on track to graduate college, are a recent graduate or are in the early stages of your career and looking for a new opportunity, Katapult Network can help launch your career further!

Watch for more information about these fine companies in upcoming Weekly Updates.

Celebrate Business Success
News on what's happening with our members and in the community!
 
 
wrapped_presents.jpg Beyond the Yellow Ribbon-Eagan is partnering with Toys 4 Military Kids to collect toys this holiday season. If you are interested in donating to this cause your Chamber has a collection box at our offices, 3352 Sherman Ct, Suite 201, Eagan.

George Stone, Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) Minnesota Director, has joined the Board of Directors at Guild Incorporated. Stone has an extensive background in homelessness initiatives, direct service provision, tenant-landlord relations and child-care. Currently his focus is working to advance supportive housing as well as integrating housing and healthcare.
The City of Eagan is undertaking a fun and engaging community visioning exercise right now called Eagan Forward. As part of this effort, they are hosting four focus groups within the community to seek feedback and suggestions for the Eagan of today and the Eagan of the future (think 40 years from now!). Three of the four focus groups are open to members of the Eagan business community. Group size is limited so register today.
 
   
Congratulations to Bfit Challenge Studio on recently celebrating with a ribbon cutting! Bfit offers comprehensive health, fitness and wellness programs at their Eagan location on Pilot Knob Road.
 

Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce
3352 Sherman Court, Suite 201
Eagan, MN 55121
651.452.9872