Arvada C o l o r a d o
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A n n u a l
R e p o r t
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Message From Our President
From the economic challenges faced by the public and private sectors to the threat of damaging legislative ballot initiatives, the Arvada Economic Development Association (AEDA) prevailed with many measurable successes in 2010. AEDA served as the City of Arvada’s business-to-government liaison, knowledge broker for business development, relationship builder for the community, and overall primary resource for business - both new and existing. The City of Arvada chose to replenish AEDA’s Revolving Loan and Incentive Fund enabling AEDA to continue its work to grow jobs and revenue in the community. The AEDA Board of Directors and Staff are proud to offer the following overview of our organization’s 2010 achievements. It is important to note that these accomplishments would not have been possible without the extraordinary working relationship with, and support of, many partners such as the City of Arvada, Arvada Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Arvada Partnership, Arvada Urban Renewal Authority, Jefferson Economic Council, Adams County Economic Development, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, real estate professionals, and Arvada businesses. We accomplished so much more together than could otherwise have been done individually. We look forward to 2011 as the year of recovery, reinvention, and reinvigoration and invite you to join us for the journey.
Frank Barone, President Arvada Economic Development Association
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Executive Summary
Commercial capital investment in the City of Arvada in 2010 totaled $18.3 million as a result of commercial development projects, business expansions, building upgrades, etc. This included 59 existing Arvada businesses, most of which invested over $15.3 million collectively. Thirty-eight of the 154 new businesses invested almost $3 million. The total year end capital investment figure reported in 2010 for Arvada’s two Enterprise Zones was $2,684,965 with a net total of 86 new jobs. 197 Arvada businesses received assistance through AEDA’s partnership with the Jefferson County Business Resource Center (JCBRC) – a 100% increase compared to 2009. JCBRC participated in three shopping center meetings for Arvada during the year and provided the monthly “Business Intelligence Report” e-newsletter which was distributed to over 550 businesses each month in 2010. Anew Medical Spa at Westside responded, “Thank you for your timely article; it’s just what we are working on right now! You’ve given us some good tips. Again, thanks!” AEDA’s business retention program remained a model used by other communities, both nationally and locally. Part of AEDA’s program incorporated economic gardening principles supplemented by tailored services for business. In fact, 11 communities requested information or counseling during the year regarding the “Arvada Way”1 of working with colleagues and businesses. One of the communities later wrote, “Thank you for taking time to let us peer into the world of economic development in Arvada. I am awestruck at the way economic development is a very real part of the organizational culture within the City. Accomplishing this takes a special brand of leadership.” At year end, 3,630 Arvada businesses were listed on www.aeda.biz, a keyword searchable website listing of all Arvada businesses. The greatest need during the year seemed to be resolution of business-related issues/ concerns, requests for general information on a wide variety of topics, training opportunities, or sources of financial assistance. An aggressive approach to attracting targeted retail for the City continued during the year through strategic relationship building, marketing outreach, and participation at International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) events. Initiatives for the year included promotion of the “Invest in Arvada! Shop Smart. Shop Local.” campaign, Business Education Series Training (BEST), and a shopping center specific marketing outreach/assistance program.
In collaboration with the Arvada Chamber of Commerce, the second annual Leadership Arvada program was launched with 24 participants who committed to a nine-month education series and class project. Jim Everson, County Assessor and 2010 Chair of Leadership Jefferson County wrote, “Everyone is saying you folks have done a great job with your leadership class.” Along with building or enhancing partnerships and strategic alliances, several new programs listed later in this report resulted in AEDA’s ability to leverage financial and staff resources during the year. AEDA staff served in key roles for organizations such as the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (MDEDC) Professionals Group, Colorado Lending Source, Jefferson Economic Council, Adams County Economic Development, International Economic Development Council, Downtown Arvada Partnership (a.k.a. Historic Olde Town Arvada), Arvada Chamber of Commerce, and many others. Real estate professionals continued to work collaboratively with AEDA to attract targeted and complementary businesses to the community, bringing additional jobs and revenue to the City. The total commercial investment for 2010, as reported by the City’s Building Division, was $24,503,993 (almost 7% increase over 2009). This figure included all commercial capital investment, repairs, and maintenance costs. For AEDA’s reporting purposes, only commercial capital investment (not repairs or maintenance) was included in the AEDA capital investment amount of $18.3 million. It should be noted that 2010 was the year that AEDA Director Hazel Hartbarger received the prestigious Pioneer Award from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce and the “Celebrating Women in Jefferson County” Award from the West Chamber of Commerce. Steve Camins received the 2010 Outstanding Community Service Award from AEDA and the Arvada Chamber. These recognitions demonstrated the strong collaborative partnership that AEDA enjoys with local business organizations. Finally, AEDA achieved its 2010 goals while coming in 8.5% under the approved operating budget of $722,890. A copy of AEDA’s Strategic Plan is available upon request. For more information or questions, call 720.898.7010.
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Term used by Castle Rock Economic Development Association
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Business Retention “Arvada Rent-Alls customer-friendly atmosphere and Luke Heesaker’s commitment to the community have been key ingredients in the company’s longevity. Luke has personally influenced generations of Arvadans and surrounding businesses by his gentle nature and quiet, giving attitude.” Luke Heesacker of Arvada Rent-Alls Lloyd J. King Entrepreneurial Spirit Award Recipient
As of year end 2010, there were 3,630 Arvada businesses listed on www.aeda.biz, which included 172 primary employers reporting 5,559 employees and 1,350 home-based businesses. In 2010, AEDA had 23,188 documented multiple contacts/communications with these businesses. All businesses were contacted at least once during the year (not including The Arvada Report) with relevant items of interest, distribution of materials, educational opportunities and information, invitations to events, website updates, communication outreach, promotions, programs, or through general inquiries. Fifty-nine existing Arvada retail, office, and industrial businesses expanded, upgraded space, or began an expansion process in 2010. Capital investments from existing businesses totaled $15,349,093. Most noteworthy was the King Soopers expansion project at W. 80th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard for a 127,547 sq. ft. store, as well as two new fuel stations in Arvada. Other investments were made by Able Wellness Center Wellspring Building, Bank of Choice, Exempla Lutheran, PeaceJam, Pridemark Paramedic, PrimeStar Solar, Target Store and The Wedding Seamstress. A representative of King Soopers wrote: “Thank you for your support and efforts; we really do appreciate it.” AEDA hosted its 16th Annual Business Appreciation event during which 13 awards were presented. Approximately 200 business people attended. The owners
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The Wedding Seamstress
Pridemark Paramedic
of Colchin Automotive & Diesel, Inc. later wrote, “We just wanted to thank you for recognizing our company at this year’s Business Appreciation Breakfast. We appreciate the award and also all the hard work that was put into the breakfast and award presentation.” Further, participation increased again this year at other AEDAsponsored events such as the Employment Law Seminar Employment Law Seminar as part of the BEST program and two CEO Forums. A “State of the City” business forum with resource fair was added to the business offerings in 2010. Relevant email distributions and various updates were included as part of the overall communication strategy. Promotion of the “Invest in Arvada” campaign, which began in 2009, continued during 2010. This was a collaborative effort with the City of Arvada, Arvada Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Arvada Partnership, and AEDA. AEDA facilitated five separate meetings with businesses in targeted shopping centers and engaged strategic partners to offer assistance and resources. The Business Education Series Training (BEST) program resulted in staff time and financial savings for all participating municipalities and associated partners while increasing exposure and educational opportunities for Arvada businesses. The monthly sessions, sponsored and/or hosted by various organizations, continued to be a proven success as evidenced by the usually sold out events each month. Based on input by many attendees, the 2011 series was planned by year end. AEDA was a founding member of the BEST program. The AEDA “business link” section of The Arvada Report, authored by AEDA staff, remained the main venue for the latest business information and news.
Able Wellness Center Wellspring Building
Business Appreciation Award Recipients Distinguished Service
Community Spirit
Community Partnership
Mayor Bob Frie and Mike Litzau of Sooper Credit Union
Roy Jackson of Roy Jackson Electric, Inc.
Mayor Bob Frie, Ereka O’Hara and Dot Wright of Arvada Chamber of Commerce, and Frank Barone
Outstanding Businesses of the Year
Applewood Seed Company— Mayor Bob Frie, Gene and Dee Milstein, and Frank Barone
Colchin Automotive & Diesel, D. Line Graphics— Inc.—Mayor Bob Frie, Todd Dennis Line Colchin, and Frank Barone
FirstBank of Arvada— Mayor Bob Frie, Emily Robinson, and Frank Barone
Mrs. K—Mayor Bob Frie and Peter Thron
Serenity Salon—Mayor Bob Frie, Amy King, Katy Serr, and Frank Barone
The Wedding Seamstress— Mayor Bob Frie, Deedee and Justin Vicory, and Frank Barone
Waste Quip of Arvada— Mayor Bob Frie, Stan Ankoviak, and Frank Barone
2010: A Winning Year Several Arvada businesses received awards in 2010 including PrimeStar Solar as a Jefferson Economic Council Outstanding Business in Jefferson County and Sooper Credit Union as the Arvada Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year. Charlie’s FlyBox was recognized by Governor Ritter in 2010 as the American Angler 2009 Retailer of the Year. Hereford Percy, AEDA Retention Chairman, received the Norma Anderson Life Achievement award from the Jefferson Foundation. Dot Wright of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce received a 2010 “Forty Under 40” award from The Denver Business Journal. Sundyne Corporation was recognized as a “STAR Site” within the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s (OSHA) Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), which recognizes worksites with comprehensive safety and health management systems that incorporate strong management commitment and meaningful, active employee involvement. Dave Thistlewood of Sundyne later wrote to AEDA staff, “We just wanted to send you a quick note and thank you for your help in inviting representatives from the City of Arvada to attend today. The response was overwhelming and we could not believe all of the people that attended. We really appreciate your support and cannot thank you enough!”
Milender White Construction Company—Mike Milender and Bryon White
AEDA partnered with the Arvada Chamber of Commerce to produce a printed directory of all businesses in Arvada wanting to be listed, which was distributed to every mail drop in the City. AEDA was an active partner with Downtown Arvada Partnership in 2010. The shopping district was reaccredited as a Colorado Main Street Downtown and orchestrated many successful programs and events during the year. For more information about the organization, visit www.historicarvada.org or call 303-420-6100.
bottom left: Sooper Credit Union top left: Charlie’s FlyBox above: Sundyne Corporation 5
Development Retail Development Sixty-one new retailers and restaurants arrived in, or planned to join, the Arvada community during 2010. New businesses included A Taste of Home Cooking, Edible Arrangements, El Tapatio Restaurant, Etta’s Place, FoxFish Photography, Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt, RockA-Billy’s, Scrumptious, and Tokyo Joe’s Restaurant with two adjacent food venues planning to open in 2011. $530,350 of capital investment was reported during 2010 for retail/restaurant tenant finish and capital improvements. AEDA’s aggressive approach to retail development resulted in “jump starting” renovation of the 11,000 sq. ft. historic commercial building at 5600 Olde Wadsworth Boulevard, the major expansion of King Soopers at W. 80th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard, two significant retail prospects, and three shopping centers targeted for rejuvenation.
According to Katy Press, Principal of K/P Consulting & Associates, “In what has been a stressful period for retail, AEDA continued to bring new ideas and solutions forward to assist all aspects of retail within the City, proving to be a meaningful ‘player’ in the Arvada retail landscape.”
Building Commercial and Industrial Development Ninety-three new office/industrial companies either located or began the building process to locate to Arvada during the year. $2,458,994 in tenant finish and capital expenditures was reported in 2010 by 24 of these businesses. Significant investments were made by Asana
Mark Auble of PrimeStar Solar noted, “We are very appreciative of all that you and the City of Arvada have done to support PrimeStar Solar…When we occupied our Arvada building in October 2008, the Company’s headquarters employment was 59. Today we are at more than 100 and growing.” PrimeStar Solar as Jefferson Economic Council Outstanding Business Award winner in Jefferson County 6
Studio & Wellness Center, Dale Long office building, Harmony Veterinary Center, Horan McConaty, Quest Product Development, Streets Fitness Center, and RT Welter & Associates. It was estimated that over 135 new non-retail jobs were created in Arvada through the new business activity. It should also be noted that Arvada experienced some job losses as a result of economic conditions. AEDA worked to minimize the impact to the community. County enterprise zone administrators reported the following in 2010 for Jefferson and Adams counties: capital investment in the Arvada/Jefferson County Enterprise Zones was $2,543,108 with 79 new jobs. Adams County Economic Development reported $141,857 in capital investment and 7 new jobs. The combined year end figure reported in 2010 for Arvada was $2,684,965 with a net total of 86 new jobs. New commercial projects in 2010 included the tenant finish completion of an 11,616 sq. ft. office building at 5945-5955 Ward Road, a new 17,467 sq. ft. office/ commercial building at 14982 W. 69th Avenue occupied by Quest Product Development, and the Horan McConaty 7,997 sq. ft. building.
Marketing
AEDA generated a total of 24,000 multiple marketing contacts (152 retail, 120 office/R&D/industrial, and 23,729 other contacts which included 19,691 recipients of AEDA’s monthly newsletter). AEDA’s targeted audiences included real estate professionals, specific industries, businesses, developers/consultants, and trade show attendees. Other leads were generated through AEDA’s partnership with the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, Jefferson Economic Council, and Adams County Economic Development, as well as through direct mailings and general marketing inquiries. At year end, AEDA had the following working prospects through various sources: 17 retail leads, 20 restaurant leads, 1 service lead, and 2 manufacturing leads. Each month AEDA authored and distributed its monthly commercial real estate newsletter, Arvada, Colorado Real Estate Review, to strategic partners in the commercial real estate industry. At year end, distribution of the newsletter was 1,523, mailed each month to real estate and community leaders (which included 96 distributed via email) for a total of 19,691 mailings for the year. At year end, 110 properties were listed on www.arvadapropertylink.com, an interactive commercial property database. The total records for the year were 192 properties retrieved 3,922 multiple times. AEDA and City officials participated in the 2010 International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) ReCon show and the ICSC Western Regional Conference resulting in relationship building and working leads throughout the year. Stronger relationships with retail real estate professionals continued to be a focus for the year in an effort to attract targeted retailers. The effort was enhanced and facilitated with the assistance of K/P Consulting & Associates. Other participation included the following: MDEDC Site Selection Conference, Rocky Mountain Commercial Real Estate Expo and Fall Forecast, and various other events orchestrated by our economic development partners. During the last several months in 2010, AEDA contracted with 20/20 Strategy for press release and public relations assistance to determine the value of this service. As a result, 5 press releases and a “shop local” feature were written and published 20 times (including AEDA and Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation websites) with 3 stories pending. Also during the later part of 2010, AEDA began an active social media campaign. At year end, AEDA had 105
followers on Twitter and AEDA staff was following 117 others. There were 314 followers on AEDA’s Facebook page. StatTrak database was implemented during 2010, offering AEDA the ability to better manage its contacts. AEDA is known for its quality products, services and events, as well as relationship building, attention to details, and exceptional customer service. This is measured by the increased interest and positive comments received from customers and partners. Materials in 2010 included the 2010 Community Profile, commercial real estate newsletter, 2009 AEDA Annual Report, and annual viewat-a-glance calendar. www.aeda.biz, AEDA’s comprehensive website, was continually updated and proved to be a valuable resource for businesses, citizens, and visitors. Media interviews were held in 2010 to include the following: The Denver Business Journal, Global Expansion Magazine, Arvada Press, and others. AEDA continues to be proud of its ability to leverage marketing resources through calculated alliances with other organizations such as the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, local economic development organizations, real estate professionals, Arvada business and community leaders, chambers of commerce, and national and local media representatives.
2010 Commercial Real Estate News, At-a-glance calendar, Community Profile, Arvada Report - BusinessLINK
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2010 AEDA Organization 2010 Board of Directors
2010 Business Retention Committee
AEDA President: Frank Barone, Barone, Inc. and City Council Appointed Representative
AEDA Retention Chairman: Hereford Percy
AEDA Vice President: C. Michael Litzau, Sooper Credit Union AEDA Secretary/Treasurer: Moni Piz Wilson, Grandma’s Frozen Pasta
Aaron Azari, Colorado State Bank and Trust Leann Canty, Canty’s Tax & Accounting Inc. Dave Easter, Easter Owens Richard Griffith, FirstBank North (partial year) Luke Heesacker, Arvada Rent-Alls
Lori Burns, Red Rocks Community College
Tom Jacobsen, Sportline, Inc.
Steve Camins, Financial Dimensions and City Council Appointed Representative
Jerry Marks, Custom Environmental Services
John Carpenter, Thunderbolt Media Services and AURA Representative
Maggie Weakley, Colorado Weakley Properties
Alan Parker, Citywide Bank of Arvada
Dave Doherty, Piper Electric Co., Inc. Bob Dyer, RCDyer Wealth Management, Inc. and Arvada City Council Representative
Arvada Economic Development Association Staff
Aaron Edwards, Colling Insurance and Arvada Chamber of Commerce Representative
Lila Nigh, Deputy Director
Fred Jacobsen, Sportline, Inc. Paul Heller, Sopheon Corporation Brett Haigler, Guaranty Bank and City Council Appointed Representative
Hazel Hartbarger, Director Peggy Moya, Marketing Specialist Lisa Kingston, Administrative Specialist Joan Chandler, Administrative Specialist (partial year)
Harry Mathews, Vintage Sales LLC and City Council Appointed Representative Bruce Nickerson, Nickerson Company LLC Ken Olsen, B2B CFO Emily Robinson, FirstBank of Arvada Dave Ten Eyck, CCW Products, Inc.
Aeda’s Mission Statement: To sustain a planned and balanced community served by a supportive government that provides quality, cost-effective service by facilitating industrial, business and retail development that enhances the community and creates new, well-paying jobs; helps existing businesses prosper and expand; and generates additional revenue to the City.
Photo Credits: Able Wellness Center, Arvada Rent-Alls, Arvada Chamber of Commerce, Firephotoz, L. Kingston, L. Nigh, Pridemark Paramedic, PrimeStar Solar, Sundyne Corporation, The Wedding Seamstress
8101 Ralston Road • Arvada, Colorado 80002 • 720 . 898 . 7010 • www.aeda.biz