At the most recent Town Council meeting, an economic development proposal was introduced by Councilor Ted Combes during discussions surrounding the Strategic Plan, which the Council is currently reviewing.
Combes’ proposal focused on enhancing economic development opportunities to strengthen Londonderry’s economic identity.
A memo written by staff stated: “Add an action item and a KPI as follows: Priority Action Item: Create an economic development program and determine the necessary leadership structure to execute the plan. Key Performance Indicator: Roadmap the economic development plan to include roles and responsibilities by June 30, 2027”
One question raised during the meeting was whether the town should establish an economic development committee, an idea Combes did not support.
“A committee has no power and no money to spend to actually improve anything for the Town or even put together a plan for economic development,” Combes said, explaining that he believes the town needs actual staff members with the ability to allocate resources when needed, along with individuals who have experience in economic development.
Combes added that existing staff members could potentially take on the responsibility in addition to other duties.
“It’s up to the Town Manager to determine where that fits correctly with the staff that we have or with new staff who can also take on other responsibilities,” he said.
Councilor Deb Paul noted that other communities use committees for economic development purposes.
However, Combes pointed out that Londonderry previously had an economic development director for approximately 10 to 15 years before the salary funding was shifted to other areas of town government.
Under former Town Manager Mike Malaguti, then-Town Planner Kellie Caron was promoted to Assistant Town Manager/Director of Economic Development, a title she still holds today.
“We should have an economic development director for the size of our Town and where we are located within the state,” Combes said.
Councilor Dan Bouchard asked whether the town currently has the staff necessary to carry out such a plan or if additional hiring would be needed.
Town Manager Shaun Mulholland said the town first needs to determine what the program would entail before deciding how best to move forward.
“This is the first step,” Mulholland said, adding that once the responsibilities are identified, the town can determine the best approach.
Town Council Chair Ron Dunn said he supports the concept but expressed concern about potential costs.
“My only concern is if we have to hire somebody, that’s another expense on the town,” Dunn said. “That’s my only concern.”
Combes responded that if new businesses help generate additional revenue for the town, the position could potentially offset its own cost.
“In a way, it’s like a sales position,” he said.
The Council ultimately agreed to continue discussions on the proposal.
Mulholland said he needs more direction from the Council regarding how they would like him to proceed and noted that he, Combes, and the rest of the Town Council would continue discussions moving forward.