Alex Eng recently completed an internship with Chisago County Housing and Redevelopment Authority/Economic Development Authority (HRA-EDA). This is what they had to say about the experience.
As my internship with the Chisago County Housing and Redevelopment Authority/Economic Development Authority (HRA-EDA) ends, I would like to reflect on the experience, knowledge, and professional growth I gained throughout this opportunity. This internship provided me with firsthand exposure to economic development, housing initiatives, strategic planning, community engagement, and local government operations. Most importantly, it strengthened my desire to pursue a career in the economic development field.
Throughout the summer, I contributed to three major projects: a Market Area Profile survey project in collaboration with the University of Minnesota Extension, data gathering for the Chisago County HRA-EDA Comprehensive Strategic Plan, and research and writing support for a DEED Redevelopment Grant application. Each project challenged me in different ways and helped me develop a broader understanding of the work that goes into supporting communities and encouraging economic growth.
The Market Area Profile survey project was designed to help communities better understand the wants and needs of residents, seasonal visitors, travelers passing through the area, and neighboring communities. Working alongside the University of Minnesota Extension gave me valuable insight into survey design and data collection. One of the biggest lessons I learned was how much thought goes into creating effective survey questions. The wording, order, and structure of questions can significantly impact the quality of responses received. This experience taught me the importance of collecting reliable data and ensuring that research methods are designed to produce meaningful results that can support future decision-making.
I also spent a significant amount of time gathering information for the Chisago County HRA EDA Comprehensive Strategic Plan. This project allowed me to work with staff from all ten cities in Chisago County, the County Assessor, and contracted consultants. Seeing so many individuals and organizations contribute to a common goal showed me just how collaborative economic development can be. Through collecting and organizing demographics, housing, and economic data, I learned how data serves as the foundation for identifying community needs and shaping long-term priorities.
My work on a DEED Redevelopment Grant application introduced me to another side of economic development. I gathered information from developers, public records, city staff, and potential end users of the property to help support the grant application. Through this process, I learned how much research, coordination, and documentation are required before a project can be considered for funding. It was rewarding to see how data and professional writing can help communicate the value and potential impact of redevelopment projects.
Beyond my individual projects, I learned that successful projects often depend on bringing together people with different perspectives and areas of expertise to work toward a shared objective.
One of the most interesting experiences during my internship was observing discussions involving Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and tax abatements. Prior to this internship, I had limited knowledge of these tools and how they are used to support development projects. Listening to conversations about project feasibility, financing structures, and term lengths gave me a much clearer understanding of what it takes to move large projects forward. Being able to witness those conversations firsthand was an invaluable learning experience.
I also had the opportunity to observe public board meetings and learn more about local government procedures. Watching the use of Robert’s Rules of Order, voting processes, and meeting minutes helped me better understand the structure and accountability involved in public decision-making. These experiences provided a perspective on local government that I had not fully been exposed to.
In addition to my project work, I was fortunate to see the day-to-day operations of the HRA EDA. From reviewing grant applications to attending networking and marketing events, I gained a much deeper appreciation for the wide range of responsibilities involved in economic development. I quickly learned that the work extends far beyond individual projects and involves continuously building relationships, identifying opportunities, and supporting communities throughout the county.
One lesson that surprised me was the importance of networking. I learned how valuable it is to build relationships with professionals in both similar and related fields. Whether learning from neighboring communities about successful initiatives or connecting with commercial real estate
professionals, strong relationships help create opportunities and solve problems more effectively. Seeing these connections in action demonstrated how important communication and professional networks are to successful economic development efforts.
I also came to appreciate the role that marketing plays in the work of an HRA-EDA. Even the best programs and resources cannot make a meaningful impact if people are unaware of their existence. Through observing outreach efforts and community engagement activities, I saw how important it is to communicate available resources to residents, businesses, developers, and local governments. Effective marketing helps ensure that communities can benefit from the services and opportunities available to them.
Overall, my experience with the Chisago County HRA-EDA has been both a tremendous blessing and an incredible learning opportunity. It has provided me with practical knowledge that cannot be replicated in a classroom and has strengthened my interest in pursuing a career in economic development.
I am especially grateful for the mentorship and guidance provided by the HRA-EDA staff. Their professionalism, experience, and dedication to serving Chisago County left a lasting impression on me. Throughout my internship, I came to understand why so many people speak highly of Nancy and Sara and appreciate the work they do. Their commitment to addressing housing and
economic development needs while building strong relationships throughout the county is evident in everything they do, and they have been outstanding role models throughout my internship experience.
I would like to sincerely thank everyone at the Chisago County HRA-EDA for providing me with this opportunity. The knowledge, experience, and relationships I gained this summer will continue to influence my education and future career goals for years to come.