Economic Development Committee — June 17, 2026
The meeting was characterized by casual social interaction and productive, cooperative discussions on economic development topics.
Public impact
Economic Revitalization via Maker Space
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Members brainstormed using the old Merrimack farm store as a maker space and identified a need for a small engine shop. There was a debate regarding whether the committee should actively advertise or simply act as a connector between landlords and business seekers.
The committee agreed that acting as a connector for interested parties is within their scope.
Follow up with the farm store owner and explore interest in the vacant garage property owned by Oona.
Jones Road Sand Pit Long-term Use
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The committee discussed the future of the Jones Road sand pit once current extraction activities are complete.
The committee intends to brainstorm potential uses for the site.
Coordinate brainstorming sessions with the planning board.
Decisions logged
Topics discussed
▶ 02:28 Approval of Minutes
The committee reviewed and approved the minutes from the previous week's meeting.
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a speaker asked if anyone had seen the minutes from the previous week. a speaker confirmed receipt and noted there were no errors.
The minutes were passed by unanimous verbal assent.
▶ 02:48 Theater Update
A report on the theater's recent usage, upcoming summer/fall schedule, and potential equipment upgrades.
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The committee discussed a successful recent production of 'World Play' which drew 50-60 people per show. Discussion turned to summer/fall planning, potential art shows, and the need for simplified, user-friendly lighting and audio equipment. There was also a discussion regarding whether to purchase existing equipment from Andrew or invest in new, specialized gear.
The theater is being used for corporate and community events, and plans for fall productions are in development.
The committee will meet to finalize summer and fall plans and continue discussions on equipment purchases.
▶ 10:23 Courier and Ives / Signage
Discussion regarding potential signage and contact information for a project involving Courier and Ives.
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a speaker is attempting to coordinate with Matt regarding signage. The discussion touched on the aesthetic requirements for signs, potentially incorporating local landmarks like the bridge and the pines.
a speaker is waiting for a response from Matt to secure the correct contact information.
a speaker to follow up with Matt.
▶ 11:40 Rail Trails
An update and historical discussion regarding the development and management of local rail trails.
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Members discussed state funding for rail trails and previous local efforts (Tillywell Rail Trail). There was a mention of past disagreements regarding the 'cutout' area and the involvement of Tim Blagelin in managing the trail.
The topic was noted as old business with no immediate local movement mentioned.
a speaker to follow up with Matt regarding state financing information.
▶ 13:47 Economic Revitalization: Maker Space and Small Business
Exploration of using the old Merrimack farm store for a maker space and attracting small businesses like engine shops to town.
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The committee discussed the potential for a 'maker space' in the old Merrimack farm store to draw visitors to town. They also brainstormed the need for a small engine shop in Bradford, noting several vacant or underutilized buildings that could serve this purpose. There was a debate on the committee's role in 'connecting' interested parties versus active advertising.
The committee agreed that connecting people (landlords and business seekers) is within their scope of economic development.
Potential follow-ups include talking to John (farm store owner) and exploring interest in the vacant garage property owned by Oona.
▶ 16:47 Brownfield and Property Development
Updates on Brownfield grants, the Jones Road sand pit, and local real estate activity.
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a speaker provided updates on Brownfield status and potential funding in July. Discussion also covered the long-term use of the Jones Road sand pit once extraction is complete, and reports on the status of local properties like the Bradford Junction and the Candlelight Inn.
The committee plans to brainstorm uses for the sand pit with the planning board in the future.
a speaker to check back regarding Brownfield funding in July.
▶ 25:56 BACC 501c3 Status
Discussion regarding the administrative hurdles in establishing the 501c3 status for the Bradford Area Community Center (BACC).
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a speaker expressed difficulty in accessing banking information for the former BACC due to not being a signatory. The committee discussed trying to identify the former treasurer to facilitate the process.
The committee suggested waiting until after the upcoming meeting on the 23rd to see if further clarity is gained.
Identify the former treasurer to assist with banking information.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Rail Trail Management and History
BACC 501c3 Status and Financial Access
Action items
Notable statements
Our place, if we can, is just to make connections. Put people in touch with each other. — Unidentified speaker · Discussing the committee's role in helping new businesses find available real estate in town. ▶ 30:28
Bringing people in... brings money to town. — Unidentified speaker · Arguing for the economic value of hosting craft shows and maker spaces in town buildings. ▶ 24:41
Public comment
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grok-4.3, gemma-4-26b, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning, grok-4-fast · analyzed 2026-06-22.