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06/06/2017 12:00 AMHave an interest in small businesses? Love Chester and want to help it grow? The Chester Economic Development Commission (EDC) is looking for two to three new members to join them in their efforts to help businesses already established in the town, and those who wish to open in town.
The commission is appointed by the Board of Selectmen, and positions are unpaid. The commission meets once a month—every second Monday—and meetings are open to the public. At this time, the commission is accepting applications from people who might be interested in joining them. The commission will interview and recommend applicants to the Board of Selectmen.
“We try to retain and help grow businesses in the town and also work with new businesses that want to come to Chester,” said EDC Chair Susan Wright. “Helping them helps keep the Grand List healthy.
“We are looking to do a few things, such as a business fair that would include the home-based and the self-employed, and also make connections with other commissions in town. We already work with planning and zoning and the Board of Finance, but would like to work more with other commissions that could also affect businesses in Chester,” continued Wright. “We just need a few more people.”
Terms are three to four years and the goal is to stagger them so that the commission doesn’t have all members depart at once. According to Wright they also hope to encourage new people to apply and get involved, as there are many positions across town commissions that are looking for members to serve. As far as the EDC is concerned, a background in economic development or businesses is a plus, but not a necessity.
“I think the people who are on this commission truly care about Chester, about what is happening, and want to keep businesses here healthy and happy,” said Wright. “I love Chester, I want to see it stay the same way, and still grow.”
For more information, reach out to Wright at wrightbeantree@att.net or attend one of the public meetings, which take place on the second Monday of every month at Town Hall at 7:15 p.m. Those interested can verify the date and time of each month’s meeting by checking the town calendar at http://chesterct.org. Those interested in applying should email a letter of interest and any supporting materials to Susan Wright at wrightbeantree@att.net.