DATE: May 25, 2017
TO: Members of the Economic Development Authority
FROM: Nate Carlson, Economic Development Coordinator
Chris Heineman, Community Planning & Development Director
Title
Northfield Film Incentive
Body
SUMMARY AND ACTION REQUESTED:
Review of Minnesota Film Rebate program and discuss potential of developing a new film production incentive program for projects that take place in the City of Northfield.
BACKGROUND:
In April, EDA President Bornhauser provided staff with local information related to the Film Rebate program created by the Austin, Minnesota Convention and Visitors Bureau. Staff reviewed this information and conducted additional research into three additional film production incentive programs that are currently available in the State of Minnesota. The basic features of these programs are provided below and additional information is included as an attachment to this report.
ANALYSIS:
The film industry can provide a significant economic impact to both state and local economies through local production of film, television, advertising and post-production activities. For example, the state of Georgia has seen a significant increase in the film production industry. In 2015, the film industry generated an economic impact of more than $7 billion, according to the Georgia state economic development department. This economic impact includes employment, development of infrastructure, and direct expenditures in the local economy as well as the expansion or relocation of 130 businesses directly related to the film industry.
Minnesota Film and TV was established as a non-profit professional service organization in 1983 to advance Minnesota’s economy by promoting and supporting the state’s production industry. One of the core services of Minnesota Film and TV is to attract production to Minnesota through the Snowbate incentive program appropriated by the Minnesota Legislature. This program provides a 20-25% rebate on eligible Minnesota expenditures.
The Snowbate incentive is available to qualified feature films, documentaries, TV pilots, programs or series, TV commercials, music videos, internet and post production. MN Film and TV also maintains an extensive statewide digital listing of prospective sites for film, television, and commercial production and facilitates location and scouting services for decision makers at major studios and networks nationwide.
In addition to the Snowbate program, there are three regional incentives in Minnesota. With the success of two recent film productions in the City of Northfield, creation of a local rebate program would provide an additional incentive to attract film, television or commercial film projects to the City of Northfield. An additional incentive such as a 10%-20% reimbursement of for qualified local production costs would make Northfield an even more attractive location for future film projects.
Development of an incentive program could be structured in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and NDDC and include a maximum reimbursement per production. Staff is seeking further input and direction from EDA Commissioners regarding how to proceed with this initiative.