Economic Development Authority Special Meeting Summary – March 9, 2026

The Northfield Economic Development Authority (EDA) held a special meeting on Monday, March 9, 2026, in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 801 Washington Street, Northfield, MN. Treasurer Enoch Blazis called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. and adjourned at 6:24 p.m. The EDA considered two resolutions: funding for the Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC) and a consultant contract with the Northfield Arts Guild for arts facilities feasibility work.

Agenda Approval

• The agenda was approved by a motion from Board Member Stager, seconded by Board Member Beumer. The motion carried 5–0.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comment was received.

Board Member and Commissioner Reports

• No reports were submitted.

Discussion Items

• EDA Resolution 2026-002 – LEDC Funding: Community Development Associate Emery John presented a resolution approving funding to the Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC) for a Northfield Designated Fund within the LEDC’s Latino & Immigrant Business Emergency Relief Fund. John, Community Development Director Scott Wopata, and LEDC Executive Director Alma Flores responded to EDA questions and comments.
• EDA Resolution 2026-003 – Northfield Arts Guild Contract: Community Development Associate Emery John presented a resolution approving a consultant service contract with the Northfield Arts Guild related to a feasibility study of arts facilities. John and Community Development Director Scott Wopata responded to questions. Kevin Do requested clarification on the purpose of the resolution.
• Staff Updates: Community Development Associate Emery John presented updates from City staff.

Key Outcomes

• Resolution 2026-002 approved: Motion by Board Member Beumer, seconded by Board Member Peterson-White. The motion carried 5–0 (Blazis, Peterson-White, Stager, Beumer, Thompson voting yes).
• Resolution 2026-003 approved: Motion by Board Member Peterson-White, seconded by Board Member Stager. The motion carried 5–0 (Blazis, Peterson-White, Stager, Beumer, Thompson voting yes).
• Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 6:24 p.m.

Note on Record Discrepancy

• The minutes list four members present (Blazis, Stager, Beumer, Thompson) and two absent (Yoder, Allen), but each recorded vote lists five yes votes, including Peterson-White. This inconsistency is noted from the minutes.