Northwood Economic Development Committee
Meeting Minutes
June 2, 2010
7:00 p.m.

I. Call to Order and attendance

Chair Kristen Kiernan called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m.

Present: Kristen Kiernan, Chair; David Tousignant, Vice-chair; Judy Burke; Herb Johnson; Hal Kreider; Ken Rick; and Town Administrator David Stack.

Absent: Kevin Ash; Selectman Scott Bryer

II. Public Comment - none

III. Unfinished Business

1. Committee publicity report

No report.

2. Business After Hours status report

David Stack reported that the flyers for the next Business After Hours Program at Lake Shore Farm were printed and ready to go out. Herb Johnson is working on securing 4-6 door prizes. It was suggested that a list of program sponsors and door prize donors be put on a poster and mounted on an easel and a chart listing possible educational programs that attendees can check off. Ellis Ring, from Lake Shore Farm, was present and said that he will make sure that two flip chart easels are set up for the event. He also said that coffee, tea and hot water will be made available. The host business, Lake Shore Farm, will be asked to speak at the beginning of the program and they will be provided with the opportunity to speak about their operation and what they have to offer. 

3. CDBG Economic Development Grant proposal

David Stack reported that the Board of Selectmen recently held a public hearing to receive input on a proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application. The grant would provide funds to the Rockingham Economic Development Corporation (REDC) who would then in turn lend the funds to Douglas Dimes to be used toward the purchase of D.R. Dimes and Company, a manufacturer located in Northwood. The project will allow for the retainage of more than 17 jobs that are primarily occupied by low and moderate income persons. Mr. Stack stated that he will keep the Committee informed of the progress of the grant process.

4. Committee operating procedures and code of conduct

Hal Kreider presented and reviewed with the Committee a draft copy of the proposed by-laws. The draft will be placed on the 7/7/10 agenda for further review and discussion.

IV. Meetings

Rich Bojko - Route 4 Antique Alley Association

The Committee invited Rich Bojko to meet with them to find out more about the activities of the Antiques Alley Association and to find ways that the Association and Committee can work together to promote Northwood.

Mr. Bojko stated that Antique Alley is known around the country and around the world. Mr. Bojko discussed the history of the group and what they have done over the past several years to promote their shops and the whole Antique Alley. 

The Association prints 40,000 Antique Alley map/brochures per year and distributes them at state rest areas and on tourist brochure racks in parts of New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts. The group sells advertising on the brochures and they would be willing to put on an ad for the Town and the EDC. The Association also has an active website on the internet.

The Committee gave Mr. Bojko contact information for Rebecca Rule and her interview show “What’s News at The Forum” and suggested that the Antique Alley would be a good topic for the show. Members also discussed the possibility of asking the State to declare an “Antique Alley Day” in New Hampshire, shop hops, the need for an auction hall, etc. 

The Committee and Mr. Bojko discussed the possible creation of a on or two day event in the Town to help draw antiquers, tourists and visitors to the Town. It could be an Old Home Day type event, or an outdoor antiques market. Or a bunch of different programs/event at different locations on one day. Ideas included an antiques appraisal in one location, an antique and classic care show in another, crafts somewhere else, etc.

The Committee thanked Rick Bojko for meeting with them.

V. New Business

1. Acceptance of minutes - 5/5/10

Dave Tousignant moved to accept the minutes of 5/5/10. Herb Johnson seconded. Motion passed.

2. Economic Revitalization Zones (ERZ)

Kristen Kiernan reported that she has set will be meeting with the Board of Selectmen on 6/8/10 to discuss ERZs.

3. MicroCredit NH program

Kristen Kiernan announced that MicroCredit NH will be conducting an informational session at the Chesley Library the following week. She will be attending the session and will report back to the Committee at the next meeting on 7/7.

4. New and expanded business news

It was reported that the old Sleigh Bell Antiques building may be close to being sold. The building may possibly be converted into office space.

5. Master Plan update

The Committee asked David Stack to draft a letter to the Planning Board asking to be placed on the Board’s work session agenda in July or August in order to discus the updating of the Town Master Plan. 

VI. Adjournment

Action: Dave Tousignant moved to adjourn. Herb Johnson seconded. Motion passed
and the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m.