Economic Development Authority Meeting Date: January 26, 2026
To: Members of the Economic Development Authority
From: Emery John, Program Associate
Title
Northfield Arts Guild Presentation
Body
Action Requested:
None at this time. The Loan Committee will be processing a request from the Guild in the coming weeks.
Summary Report:
The Northfield Arts Guild, led by Executive Director Michael Johnson, is presenting to inform the EDA of the Guild’s upcoming capital campaign and redevelopment initiatives. The Guild is a nonprofit organization, currently exempt from property taxes at its multiple locations. The Guild’s 304 Division Street location is a critical asset to Northfield’s historic downtown and a gathering place for artists. The Guild is also the tenant in the 411 Water St. (Ameriprise) property, which is a city property and an EDA lease. Due to the scope of their planned capital project and alignment with other city initiatives, including downtown redevelopment, staff felt it appropriate for the Guild to provide context directly to the EDA.
The Guild is seeking financing with the EDA for assistance with their initial project scoping. That request will be primarily discussed with the loan subcommittee. This presentation provides context for that meeting, along with an introduction to what could be an opportunity for the EDA to facilitate additional support for this redevelopment initiative.
City Plans & Policies Relevance:
Comprehensive Plan: Chapter 4: Sustainable Economic Future,
Strategy 1: Strengthen Northfield’s Downtown Core (page 97)
Alternative Options:
N/A
Financial Impacts:
N/A
Tentative Timelines:
Date TBD - Loan Committee Discussion