At the second economic development meeting of the Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor selectmen, three special guests were invited to give insight into the process.

The guests were Scott Benson, Economic Development Director for the Midcoast Economic Development District, Bob Faunce, Lincoln County Regional Planning Commissioner, and Mary Ellen Barnes, also with the Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission.

Faunce spoke about the model for economic development used by Lewiston and Auburn, which started in the 1970s.

“The towns were in a very stressful situation — more so than the one that exists here now,” Faunce said. “There were too many seasonal residents, with the year-round population dwindling and few young people living there. The towns got together and developed three clear goals: create jobs, increase local investment and enlarge the tax base.”

The two towns shared costs and taxes to develop land, such as the large airfield located in Auburn. With both towns contributing and reaping benefits, it didn't matter that the field itself wasn't in Lewiston — the town still benefited. Many businesses moved to the air park which created jobs and attracted residents to both towns, which generated more revenue and tax dollars as well.

“The key to economic development is clarity, consistency and commitment,” Benson said. “What is starting here will not be a quick fix, you need to steel yourself for the commitment that lies ahead — which includes a financial commitment. It's not going to happen overnight, and there may be turnover in the town government. Future leaders need to be as committed to this project as you are all right now to maintain a consistent plan.

“And the third key, clarity, means you need to communicate to members of the community what is being done so they will become committed as well,” Benson said.

“Where is the beginning? What is the very first step?” Vice Chairman of Boothbay Dale Harmon asked.

Barnes said the first step was to speak with local businesses that already exist to seek out growth opportunities.

Faunce suggested that before that was even done, an official economic development committee should be created including the two town managers, a couple of selectmen, and local members of the business and community.

Boothbay Town Manager Jim Chaousis suggested that the selectmen look into revamping the Boothbay Region Economic Development committee that already exists but is “pretty much defunct,” Chaousis said.

“I think Steve Malcolm is still in charge, Chaousis said. “It is already a 501c3 so we wouldn't have to start from scratch. We could use a resource that's already there, not being used.”

The committee agreed to look into renewing BRED. They also asked the Regional Planning Commission if they would help craft a vision statement for the group, which they agreed to draft in time for the next meeting.

“Make sure the investment is not from imported smoke stacks,” Benson cautioned. “Investments should come from the people who have already chosen to live here and create businesses. They are the ones to look towards.”

The next meeting will take place on Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. at the Boothbay Harbor Town Office. The meetings are open and the public is welcome to attend.