Economic development moves forward

Friday, February 15, 2013

An Economic Development Roundtable in Brookline generated dialogue and ideas for supporting current and future businesses in town.

The challenge now rests with the Economic Development Committee as well as business owners and town officials to identify near- and longer-term ways to guide, support and promote the town’s economic future.

In conjunction with the Brookline Board of Selectmen and Planning Board, the EDC hosted 28 Brookline businesses to obtain input from and to engage the local business community on Oct. 30, 2012, at the Brookline Event Center.

Following the roundtable, the EDC developed more than a dozen “action items” it is pursuing. These items include:

•Creating economic development content that will be on the town’s new website when it is launched in time for March’s town meeting.

•Researching approaches other towns have used to encourage and support economic development.

•Re-evaluating the town’s current sign ordinance.

•Developing a “Welcome to Brookline” packet to be provided to new residents that promotes Brookline-based businesses.

•Creating a packet of information that can be reviewed with and provided to individuals at Town Hall when they inquire about starting a business in Brookline.

•Working with the Recreation Commission to assist in using Old Home Days as a way to better promote Brookline businesses.

•Identifying regional and state resources that can assist Brookline on various economic development issues.

“The members of EDC were energized by the roundtable event and are now focused on delivering on a growing list of action items in support of Brookline’s businesses,” Town Administrator Tad Putney said. “We look forward to continuing our dialogue with our local business owners and residents as we move forward in ultimately developing a comprehensive plan for Brookline’s economic future.”

To build on the dialogue started at the roundtable, each EDC meeting begins with a discussion among EDC members and one or two business owners. These discussions allow EDC to gain further input and insight from businesses as well as an opportunity to test ideas.

The EDC is interested in adding additional members. Anyone who would like to attend an upcoming meeting or learn more about the group as a business or individual, should contact Putney at 673-8855, ext. 213, or Town Planner Valerie Maurer at 673-8855, ext. 215.