~ Committee will advise "Strengthening America's Communities" initiative ~

St. Paul -- Commissioner Matt Kramer of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has been appointed to serve on a federal advisory panel that will develop policy recommendations for implementing "Strengthening America's Communities," a new presidential initiative to help the nation's most needy communities.

"Strengthening America's Communities" seeks to build on existing economic and community development efforts while making better use of taxpayer dollars by reforming and restructuring federal programs. It consolidates 18 existing federal programs that offer grants, loans and tax incentives for community housing and economic development projects. And it establishes stronger accountability measures for communities that receive federal funding, but also offers more flexibility in their use of those funds.

Commissioner Kramer departs today for the first meeting of the Strengthening America's Communities advisory committee in Fresno, California.

"I'm honored to accept this appointment and take on the responsibility for helping to chart a new path for our nation's community and economic development efforts," Commissioner Kramer said.

Last month, Governor Tim Pawlenty nominated Commissioner Kramer for the advisory committee, and notification of the appointment arrived earlier this week.

"Communities can make the transition to vibrant and strong economies because of the entrepreneurial spirit, vision, and hard work of those who live there," Governor Pawlenty said. "This is the motivating force behind all of DEED's activities supporting the economic success of individuals, businesses, and communities. Commissioner Kramer will be an important member of the President's advisory committee."

By creating the Strengthening America's Communities initiative, the U.S. Department of Commerce hopes to reduce duplication and fragmentation among multiple federal economic development programs and encourage greater mission alignment among various cabinet agencies.

As a member of the Strengthening America's Communities advisory committee, Commissioner Kramer will help provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Commerce and develop a comprehensive written report of policy parameters to assist in implementing the initiative. Among other things, the initiative aims to:

· Clarify the purpose of federal development assistance to focus on the key drivers of economic growth and opportunity;

· Simplify the grant process so that communities and grantees no longer have to manage a fragmented array of programs;

· Target funding to communities most in need of assistance; and

· Hold grantees accountable for results.

Complete details of the initiative can be found at the U.S. Department of Commerce website: http://www.commerce.gov/SACI/.