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Select Board discusses forming an economic development committee to coordinate local business strategy
Summary
Staff proposed creating a Select Board‑appointed economic development committee to advise on business recruitment, retention and master‑plan implementation; members discussed committee composition, staff support, Open Meeting Law implications and next steps to draft a charge and appointment process.
Stephanie (town staff) presented a draft outline for an economic development committee at the Nov. 24 Select Board meeting, proposing a 5–9 member advisory body composed of local business owners, commercial property representatives, residents with relevant expertise, and liaisons from planning and other town boards.
She said staff would support the committee and act as liaisons but would not necessarily serve as voting members. The board discussed residency or taxpayer requirements, whether to include representatives of existing groups (Industrial Development, Community Affairs) and the need to write a clear charge to avoid duplicating existing committee functions. Several members urged flexibility in appointment rules to allow the best candidate pool and recommended staggered terms for continuity.
Board members debated whether the committee should be strictly advisory or be subject to Open Meeting Law requirements; Stephanie said the legal status depends on the committee’s charge and delegated authorities. The board generally supported the idea and asked staff to draft a formal charge, recommended membership categories, and an appointment process (with Select Board subcommittee vetting), and to return with options for the board to refine and vote on.
