The Tolland Economic Development Commission presented a concise plan to the Town Council on Oct. 28 that aims to identify practical strategies to attract desirable business types without large upfront public spending.

Commission members summarized market analysis sourced from Esri (market-segmentation data) and compared Tolland's profile with peer towns; staff and commissioners said residents fit a profile labeled by the vendor as "savvy suburbanites," with household preferences for home improvement, recreation and experiential retail. The plan recommends targeted outreach (including direct leadership outreach to vetted business prospects), modest incentives evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and a focus on quality-of-life businesses and smaller fitness/amenity operations rather than relying on large-format retail.

Councilors questioned whether sufficient market demand exists between larger regional retail centers and noted infrastructure and site constraints that can limit large development. Commissioners said they have met with area incubator managers and plan to continue outreach to universities and startups while pursuing immediate targets such as boutique gyms, childcare/sports programs and food/retail that could increase local daytime activity.

Several councilors urged adoption of implementation steps and identification of departmental owners for each strategy; some suggested restoring a part-time economic development coordinator role if funding permits. The council did not take formal action on the plan but directed staff and the EDC to continue outreach and to return with implementation assignments.