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Simsbury Economic Development Commission Hosts Business Roundtable Discussion

Posted on: June 19, 2019 - 9:30am

Last week, the Town of Simsbury Economic Development Commission (EDC) hosted a small business roundtable to discuss the challenges facing local business owners and better understand the issues that are important to them. 

On Wednesday, June 12, 2019, thirty business owners, Town officials, and members of the EDC gathered at Westminster School to engage in open dialogue to help Town staff and commission members understand what is working well, identify areas of concern, and discuss the changes that need to be made in order for businesses to grow and prosper in Simsbury.  From signage regulations to parking and traffic control, the group discussed the challenges facing current business owners and those seeking to open businesses here in Town.

 “The Board of Selectmen charged the new EDC with four specific focus areas, one of which is business recruitment, retention and outreach,” said Bob Crowther, Chair of the Economic Development Commission. “This roundtable is our first initiative in hearing directly from business owners so that we can more effectively make recommendations on existing policies, creating incentives and providing resources.” Town Manager Maria Capriola agreed. “We have been working hard to foster a customer service-oriented culture in Town Hall.  Connecting directly with local business owners provides us with a greater understanding of the challenges they face and how we can better serve their needs.”

The Commission plans to continue hosting the small business roundtable quarterly, with 25-30 businesses invited to each event on a rotating basis. 

The Economic Development Commission serves as an advisory board to the Board of Selectmen. The purpose of the Commission is to promote and develop the economic resources of the Town and to advance the Town’s economic development goals as defined by the Board of Selectmen.  The Commission consists of seven voting members appointed to three-year terms, and is staffed by the Town Manager’s Office and the Department of Planning and Community Development. For additional information, visit https://www.simsbury-ct.gov/edc.