Austin residents have a chance to get an inside look at Minnesota’s economy Friday, as a leader of Minnesota’s largest economic development agency will speak in Austin.

Commissioner Dan McElroy, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, will speak at a legislative forum titled “Minnesota’s Strategy for Economic Recovery” at 11:30 a.m. Friday at the Austin Country Club.

McElroy will open the meeting with a 20-minute presentation on the state of Minnesota’s economy and key questions facing the state. He plans to discuss opportunities and challenges of improving Minnesota’s economy, incentive programs for companies, and jobs and careers of the future.

The event is hosted by the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce, and will feature perspectives and updates on the 2010 Legislative Session from area legislators Sen. Dan Sparks, Rep. Jeanne Poppe and Rep. Robin Brown.

DEED is the state’s principal economic develop agency. Its programs are designed to promote business recruitment, expansion and retention, and assist with international trade, workforce development and community development.

Cost to attend the program is $15 for chamber members and $20 for non-members. Pre-registration is required by Thursday. People can call the chamber at 437-4561 to register.

McElroy was named to the Governor’s Cabinet in 2003 after serving eight years in the Minnesota House of Representatives. During his time at the Legislature, he served as assistant majority leader, chair of the Committee on Jobs and Economic Development Finance, and chair of the Legislative Audit Commission. He also has served as mayor of Burnsville. In the private sector, he worked in the travel and business consulting areas.