Politics & Government
3 Questions for Economic Development Chair Eric Hodgson: April 2
Eric Hodgson, chair of the Economic Development Commission, discusses North Branford's future, the need for a charette and support at the Public Hearing.
North Branford Patch: What's new with the Economic Development Commission?
Eric Hodgson, EDC Chairman: The Economic Development Commission continues to be actively working to get approval from the Town Council to run a community "charette," which is a process that stakeholders (or any interested citizen!) can use to come to a consensus regarding a future economic vision for a particular location. As the redevelopment of the Route 80/139 corridor nears completion, we need to figure out the best way to develop the land that includes the current Rec center and the former Wall Field. We have met with the Town Council members on multiple occasions and we believe that they are interested in funding this initiative. We, the members of the Economic Development Commission, think that allocating $13,000 to help the town create a vision for this area is a smart investment that can reap many rewards into the future. Putting this amount of money in perspective, we could afford this charette if we put aside 2 pennies for every $10,000 in our $45 million town budget. We are also working to create more comprehensive marketing materials about North Branford so we can help potential developers see what a great place North Branford is to live and work.
North Branford Patch: What is something residents should know?
Eric Hodgson, EDC Chairman: Residents should know that there will be a public forum to discuss this part of the budget on Tuesday, April 2 at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall. Please come to this meeting to express your opinion (hopefully positive!) about allotting funds to hold the charette. Once we gain approval, there will be a call for interested citizens to participate, so you can get more actively involved at that time.
Find out what's happening in North Branfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
North Branford Patch: What is your favorite vacation spot?
Eric Hodgson, EDC Chairman: My favorite vacation spot is in my garden at home!
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Find out what's happening in North Branfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
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