Old Lyme Economic Development Commission
July 28 Meeting Minutes (Special Meeting)
Meeting with the Connecticut Economic Resource Center (CERC)
Meeting commenced at 4:01 PM in the Old Lyme Town Hall.
Present |
Member |
X |
Heather Gagnon, Chair |
X |
Robert Jose |
X |
John Stratton |
X |
Howard Margules |
|
William O'Meara |
|
Joseph Camean |
|
Susan Howard Cihocki |
|
Gregory Symon |
X |
Justin Fuller |
Guest(s):
- Bonnie Reemsnyder, First Selectwoman
- BJ Burnblum, Halls Road Improvement Committee
- Courtney Hendricson, CERC Vice President of Municipal Services
- Kristiana (Kirsiti) Sullivan, CERC Vice President of Marketing
1601 - Meeting began with introductions
CERC provided a summary of their background and experience.
CERC explained that through research and data analysis, they can help define the town’s current economic condition and provide advice, guidance, and support to implement the town’s vision of where it would like to grow economically.
CERC explained that they can help the town identify commercial opportunities that are aligned with the town’s charm and character. CERC explained that this is their area of expertise and that they have considerable experience working with other towns across Connecticut to improve economic conditions while maintaining the town’s character. CERC also explained that every town is different and they will provide a custom analysis and plan tailored to the town of Old Lyme.
Bonnie explained why the town must use consultants because Old Lyme does not have the need for full-time staff with the expertise that CERC can provide. The EDC members agreed that the use of consultants is appropriate.
First Selectwoman, Bonnie Reemsnyder, provided a summary of the town’s budget process. Specifically, Bonnie and the EDC discussed the process and timing of going to the Board of Finance to request initial funding. Bonnie suggested that the EDC consider attending the October Board of Finance Meeting.
BJ discussed the Halls Road Improvement Committee’s experience with CERS so far and how the committee would like to work together with CERC and the EDC.
Bonnie offered the following for the EDC’s consideration: “How do we take our existing commercial areas and make them better while supporting existing business in the town?”
5:17pm: Meeting adjourned
Action Items:
1. EDC to reach out to the Board of Finance and let them know that we are working on a proposal and will attend the board’s October meeting.
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