Economic Development Commission - 09 Sep 2026

The City of Burnsville Economic Development Commission held a meeting on September 9, 2026, primarily focused on organizational matters and updates on economic development initiatives. Key procurement-related discussions included a detailed presentation by Tyler Hilzebak from the Minnesota Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD) about the Open to Business program, which supports small business development in Dakota County, including Burnsville. The program provides technical assistance and financing options, including startup and gap loans, with a focus on underserved communities such as women-owned and BIPOC businesses. The commission also received a comprehensive report on a city-owned property study led by the community development staff, which inventoried 424 city properties, assessed maintenance needs, zoning alignment, and identified 22 potentially developable vacant parcels. The study outlined next steps including potential marketing and sale of properties, zoning updates, and policy considerations for property encroachments. No formal votes on procurement actions were taken, but the commission discussed the potential for future property sales and recommended city council involvement for any changes to meeting times or property management policies.