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Office of Economic Development outlines business outreach, events and warns of state policy risks
Summary
Portsmouth's Office of Economic Development and chamber representatives updated the EDC on outreach, upcoming tourism and economic events, and warned commissioners that a state 'housing champion' incentive program faces legislative threats; staff encouraged local testimony and engagement.
Sean from the Office of Economic Development updated commissioners on business outreach and upcoming events, and flagged state policy activity that may affect local housing incentives.
"Portsmouth is one of the I think 11 maybe housing champion cities in the state of New Hampshire," Sean said, warning that the program — which provides incentives and grants intended to encourage housing — had cleared a House vote and was moving to the Senate with legislators proposing cuts. He urged the commission to monitor developments and consider public testimony where appropriate.
Sean described recent outreach to the business community via the office CRM and listed near‑term events: a tourism summit on the 11th, an economic outlook breakfast on the 17th featuring a Boston Fed economist, and a new 'Here and There' music weekend planned for early March to promote local venues.
The chamber reported on a recent luncheon honoring local women leaders and noted recognition for Portsmouth High School CTE students. Commissioners were urged to help amplify business and arts events and to engage on pending state policy affecting housing and childcare.
The commission took no formal vote on policy positions; staff offered to help members navigate testimony and legislative channels where members wished to engage.
