City of Torrington Economic Development Commission
Minutes June 1, 2010
Members Present: Cindy Donaldson, Bill Battle, Greg Mele, Nancy Sieller, George Noujaim, Dawn Gutowski, Jim Thibault
Members Absent: Mayor Bingham, JoAnn Ryan, TJ Zappulla
Commissioner Donaldson called the meeting to order at 5:12pm
Commissioner Sieller made the motion to open the meeting to the public and Commissioner Mele seconded the motion. Motion carried
2. Approval of the Minutes
Commissioner Battle made the motion to approve May 4, 2010, minutes Commissioner Sieller seconded the motion.
3 Chris Leone, Superintendent of Schools
Mr. Leone was invited to address the group. He spoke about his vision for Torrington Schools and both his immediate plans as well as accomplishments that are needed to help the schools catch up. He also discussed the importance between schools and businesses. EDC can help Torrington schools by providing internships, and working together to promote success and a positive culture in town. He will continue to work towards sustainability in the district. This work will require that we not only look at items that have to be accomplished now but in 5 years as well. Mr. Leone asked that we invite him again so he can update the commission on the progress he is making.
4. SWOT
In order to combat the threats that were developed from the SWOT the commissioners felt that it is important to let the
community know the accomplishments that are being made. Suggestions included writing a monthly column in the local paper, having the Chamber activities linked to the City’s and improving the communication between business and community.
5. ACT Update:
Main Street Marketplace will be held every Thursday from 5-9 starting on July 1
August 26th. There is a new website discovertorrington.com that is listing all the cultural activities that are happening in town. The response has been very favorable for the Main Street MarketPlace.
6. New Business
Bill Battle continues to contact local restaurants to participate in this summer’s one night of outdoor dining. Restaurant owners have been very positive about this event. He will hold the event as part of the July 8th Main Street MarketPlace and it will be promoted as “Torrington Dines Out”.
7. Adjournment- At 6:30 PM Commissioner Mele made a motion to adjourn, Commissioner Battle seconded the motion. The motion carried.
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