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Business development working group reports successes, urges more staff follow-up
Summary
The business development working group reviewed a pilot program that produced a mixer, an online business directory and window clings; members said the main shortcomings were inconsistent follow‑up and a lack of sustainability planning and asked the planning commission to convert key suggestions into implementable recommendations for council.
A commission member summarizing the business development working group on April 28 said the pilot delivered relationship‑building value (mixers and interviews) and produced tangible outputs — an online business directory and window clings — but that participants consistently sought better follow‑up and a sustainability plan.
The presenter said organizers conducted interviews with key participants and found participants appreciated opportunities to connect with each other and with council members. The group recommended clearer communications (a regular business column or monthly email), faster implementation of small fixes (for example, trash cans), and a sustainability plan before new tools are launched so resources remain up to date.
Speakers highlighted potential funding paths, including DCED and county Main Street grants (the transcript notes a $100,000 Main Street grant application had been submitted). The presenter suggested the planning commission package prioritized, technically‑assisted recommendations that council could adopt and track; staff offered to help pressure‑test draft recommendations for regulatory or zoning constraints.
Commissioners discussed whether business development should remain a borough committee task or become its own economic‑development entity; several members noted other municipalities had success when a dedicated organization or CDC drives sustained business programming.
The commission asked staff and interested commissioners to develop implementable recommendations that can be forwarded to council with technical checks for feasibility.
