Economic Development Authority

The St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority (EDA) is committed to helping new and existing businesses thrive in St. Louis Park. It uses flexible business assistance and development programs within a strategic framework to encourage economic expansion that is complementary to the community.

Membership of the EDA is the same as the city council, although officers are different (i.e., the president of the EDA is not the mayor).

The EDA and city staff handle a variety of activities that promote economic development and revitalization in the city, including:

  • Small business assistance (technical and financial) and outreach.
  • Business retention, expansion, and recruitment.
  • Redevelopment assistance.
  • Business and property inquiry assistance.
  • Financial assistance (including grants, loans and tax increment financing).
  • Blight/brownfield/contamination removal and cleanup assistance.
  • Other related activities to foster business and housing growth and development.

Meetings

EDA meetings are held Monday evenings, as needed, when agenda items require consideration. Meetings are typically held at 6 p.m. at city hall, immediately prior to regularly scheduled city council meetings. 

Officers and commissioners

(Updated Jan. 6, 2026)

Name Role Term expires
Yolanda Farris President January 2027
Paul Baudhuin Vice president January 2027
Daniel Bashore Treasurer January 2027
Tim Brausen Commissioner January 2027
Sue Budd Commissioner January 2027
Jim Engelking Commissioner January 2027
Nadia Mohamed Commissioner January 2027