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Middlebury Economic Development Commission discusses larger advisory role after meeting with First Selectwoman
Summary
Commissioners reported that First Selectwoman Jennifer Mahr asked the Economic Development Commission to play a more active advisory role on developer and business inquiries. Members agreed to verify brownfield listings, consider a commercial property inventory, and noted capacity limits due to volunteer staffing.
Chairman Jesse Langer reported on an April meeting with First Selectwoman Jennifer Mahr, saying she expressed strong support for economic development and urged the Commission to help guide inquiries from developers and businesses. "Right kind of development," the minutes record her as saying, as she emphasized quality and fit for the town.
Commissioners discussed how inquiries currently land with the First Selectman’s office or the Zoning Enforcement Officer and noted that the Commission is volunteer-only and lacks staff, an office, and a dedicated intake point. Members said meaningful involvement would require ongoing record-keeping and possibly dedicated personnel.
The Commission agreed to verify whether any brownfield sites are formally designated by consulting state listings and to prioritize updating the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development and zoning regulations as foundational work for attracting appropriate projects. Commissioner John Gagas volunteered to lead the creation of a comprehensive list of commercial properties—vacant, for sale, and underutilized—to aid outreach and tracking of opportunities.
The Commission also discussed logistics for improved coordination with Town staff and the possibility of returning regular meetings to the Town Hall conference room beginning in May, subject to scheduling and public notice requirements.
