Shoreview Economic Development Commission adds new members to support mission of business growth

The Shoreview Economic Development Commission, or EDC, is building on its mission to support the business community in Shoreview. For 2025, three new board members – Jessica Daniels, Jim Deffley, and Denise Firkus –  have been installed to support an existing commission of  13 members plus 1 liaison. A new mission and vision have also been selected to better articulate the commission’s goals and focus areas through 2025 and beyond. 

New mission and vision for 2025

For 2025, the EDC established an economic vision for Shoreview as a “healthy, thriving, high-quality community,” and articulated a mission to enhance the business community. “We achieve this by building relationships with the business community, advocating for local interests, promoting networking between businesses and residents, and providing resources to promote and retain businesses in Shoreview. As ambassadors for the city, the EDC members provide recommendations and input to city staff and the city council on behalf of the businesses they support.”

Meet the members of the EDC

• Chairperson Megan Larson
• Vice Chair Ritesh Patel
• Partner Member Jessica Daniels (2025 appointee)
• Jim Diffley (2025 appointee)
• Denise Firkus (2025 appointee)
• Business Rep. Carly Gatzlaff
• Partner Member Mindy Handberg
• Dean Howard
• Rachel Japuntich
• Elizabeth Lovin
• Business Rep. Doug McCulloch
• Business Rep. Tony Rammer
• Business Rep. Rachel Resnick
• Business Rep. Mike Schoonover
• Exhilda Siame
• Staff Liason Tom Simonson
• Staff Liason Niki Hill

What does the EDC do for Shoreview businesses?

Advocating for business concerns with Shoreview officials

The Shoreview Economic Development Commission is a strong advocate for local businesses with government officials and throughout the community. As a recognized advisory group to the city council, the EDC brings forward business concerns when necessary and considers business needs when reviewing proposed ordinances and city plans. Likewise, the organization strives to present the community with examples of how city policies impact business. By learning city goals and the long-term vision behind decisions, companies can better prepare for new opportunities and meet potential challenges from a well-informed position.

Facilitating connections for Shoreview businesses

Creating connections within the business community is a natural continuation of the EDC’s advocacy within local government. In addition to providing an important link between local businesses and the city, the EDC creates opportunities for local businesses to network and build new connections, share growth strategies, and form lasting partnerships. Sharing resources and services is essential to strengthening the Shoreview economy, and the EDC partners with other organizations to raise awareness of continuing education programs, workforce training, and business development resources available in the community.

Soliciting feedback to shape future plans

A core mission of the EDC is developing long-range strategic plans for business growth, economic development, and redevelopment in Shoreview in partnership with the city council and economic development authority. Relationships developed with the local business community, personal investments in small businesses, and information-gathering sessions inform the recommendations EDC brings forward to these planning sessions.

To learn more about economic development in Shoreview, visit our website and dive into our business resources.