Commission debates whether to recommend a funded economic development director role

Jason (online) asked whether the commission had considered recommending that the council invest in an economic development director and whether that role would be justified and funded. "I don't see a need for an economic development person at this time," one commissioner said, adding that the city would need a revenue stream and clarity on the job's effectiveness.

Staff noted the city has not had a formal, funded economic development director in the past 21 years and that much of the work has been done by planning staff, brokers and partners like the Upper Valley Business Alliance. Commissioners and the presenter discussed models used in other towns (a titled Redevelopment or Economic Development planner at the municipal level) and weighed the benefits of a dedicated position against current practice of broker outreach and informal staff tracking of available properties.