Job Opportunity Building Zones (JOBZ) What is JOBZ? Eligible businesses in a JOBZ designated zone operate in an environment nearly free of state and local taxes. The Region Five Development Commission representing Crow Wing, Cass, Morrison, Todd, and Wadena counties applied to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and received JOBZ Zone status for the five counties and now serves as the Zone Administrator.

Can Other Communities and Properties Be Added To The JOBZ Program?

There is a process for making modifications in the JOBZ program. BLADC can provide more information and can assist communities in this process.

What Are The Initial Steps Interested Companies Must Take To Apply?

• Step 1: The company meets with BLADC staff to determine whether the proposed project meets the business assistance goals of the community in which they plan to operate. If so, BLADC will assist the company in completing a formal JOBZ application.
• Step 2: BLADC and a company representative present the application to the city council of the community in which the company wishes to locate.
• Step 3: If the city council approves the application, a public hearing is scheduled and notification of the hearing is publicized to area residents.
• Step 4: The public hearing is held and BLADC and representatives from the company present the business proposal to the community.
• Step 5: Based on public input at the meeting, the council will then decide whether to adopt a resolution in support of the project.
• Step 6: If the council adopts a resolution in support of the project, approval will be given to draft a Business Subsidy Agreement with the company.

The application process can vary from community to community. For example, some communities have specialized committees that address economic development issues and companies may need to make their initial presentation to this committee prior to receiving a city council hearing.