Economic Development Committee — September 17, 2026

The Fairhaven Economic Development Committee met on September 17, 2026, opening the meeting by voting to adjust the agenda to address item number 4, an update on ribbon cuttings. The committee reviewed upcoming ribbon cutting ceremonies, including Crave Poutinerie food truck on September 24, Indigo Spa on October 15, the Phoenix Bike Path sign celebration on October 17, and the opening of the Macomber's Field pump track. Members then discussed planning for the Old Time Holiday event scheduled for December 12 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, reviewing vendor sign-ups, musical entertainment, fire pits, logistics with the Department of Public Works, and the transport of event supplies from the Rogers School.

The committee proceeded to conduct annual reorganization. Kathy Melanson was re-elected as chair, Karen was elected as vice chair, and Keith was nominated and confirmed to represent the committee on the Rogers Reuse Committee. The committee also formally approved the meeting minutes from July 15th.

John presented several economic development updates, including drafting a clear process flow chart for town departments to assist residents and businesses, updates on the retail gap analysis with FXM utilizing $5,000 in town funding, and progress securing grants for a feasibility study on a ground lease property. Members also reviewed a successful business breakfast held in collaboration with State Representative Mark Sylvia and MassDevelopment, and received notice of an upcoming community session on incremental development hosted by South Coast Places for People at the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

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