NVCOG adopts five‑year Strategic Economic Development Strategy and will submit to EDA

NVCOG members voted to adopt the Naugatuck Valley Corridor Strategic Economic Development Strategy (SEDS) for 2026–2031, a document required by the Economic Development Administration for certain federal economic development programs.

The SEDS is intended to guide regional economic development priorities for the next five years. Staff highlighted the public engagement used to draft the plan, thanked contributors (particularly staff lead Mark Nielsen) and said four sets of public comments have been addressed; one set submitted the day before still needs to be folded in. The resolution (2026‑14) was moved, seconded and adopted by voice vote.

Why it matters: EDA endorsement is often a prerequisite for accessing certain federal economic development funds; NVCOG’s adoption begins the path to state and federal endorsement and eventual EDA submission.

Next steps: Staff will incorporate late public comments, seek endorsement from the state Department of Economic and Community Development, and submit to EDA before the deadline cited in the meeting materials.