PRAEDC spurring economic growth

By Tom Hintgen (Contact) | The Daily Journal

Published Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Gene Miller, who previously headed the revision of the Pelican Rapids comprehensive plan that was completed in 2004, now is involved with another endeavor for the betterment of the community and surrounding area. For the past several months he’s served as president of the Pelican Rapids Area Economic Development Corporation (PRAEDC).

“We administer a local loan pool and work closely with governmental agencies to bring together people and resources to spur economic growth,” Miller said.

The Pelican Rapids Area Economic Development Corporation has a partnership with West Central initiative (WCI) based in Fergus Falls. It’s a good partnership, said Miller, with WCI assisting Pelican Rapids in developing the capacities necessary to address priority needs and sustain economic and social viability.

“We’ve made some good strides, as a city, in recent months,” Miller said. “Examples include the new Cenex convenience store, McDonalds, and new eye clinic and fire station. We’re also making good progress with development of our river trail.”

The two-mile trail, when completed, will run from Prairie Lake north of Pelican Rapids, winding its way through downtown and ending southwest of the community near the wetlands overlook. The trail is designed for walkers and bike riders.

The PRAEDC, although not part of Pelican Rapids city government, does maintain strong communication and links with the Pelican Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Pelican Rapids, City of Erhard and surrounding townships. The non-profit corporation also maintains strong communication with area businesses in order to attract time, talent and financial support.

Miller heads a 12-member board of directors. The annual meeting of the PRAEDC will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 8, in the conference room at Lake Region Electric Cooperative, Pelican Rapids.