HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/09/2026
Economic Development Committee
Meeting Minutes – February 9, 2026
Present: Jack (Chairperson), Paul (Co-Chair), Brent, Lucine, Rich, Amanda, Liz (Secretary)
Absent: Brian, excused
Via Zoom: Heather, Jennifer, George
Call to Order
Chairperson Jack called the meeting to order at 4:03 PM (meeting moved to Annex Board Room to
accommodate movement of other committee meetings due to broken pipe in the Town Board Meeting
room. We had a hard close at 5PM to accommodate the Trustee’s meeting on the Board room)).
Community Event Calendar
The Committee identified the development of a centralized community event calendar as a top
Comprehensive Plan priority. Brent reported attending meetings with several organizations, including the
NoFo Promotional Council. Lisa Sannino offered to assist but will not manage the project. Rosemary
(Cutchogue Library) and Judy (Chamber of Commerce) also expressed willingness to participate.
Jennifer and Amanda will coordinate participating groups. The project will require funding, and the
Committee will develop a strategy to present to the Town Board.
Workforce Development / Youth Retention
The Committee discussed retaining younger residents and promoting trade training opportunities. Rich
suggested creating a basic business plan/program framework to guide the initiative. Potential trades
include woodworking/woodshop and cosmetology, with recruitment through the school system. Jennifer
recommended partnering with the Youth Bureau for outreach. Heather discussed the possibility of
creating an unpaid experience program to provide structure and exposure for students.
Business Resources
The Committee discussed the need for a comprehensive business directory. Paul suggested developing
a “How-To” guide outlining the requirements to start a business in the Town of Southold. Rich
recommended organizing the guide into clear sections. Jack, Paul, and Lucine agreed to work on this
project.
Coordination with Other Efforts
George reported that the Civics Association is developing a pamphlet titled “I’m New to Southold,” with
Margaret Steinbugler involved. Jack will reach out to coordinate efforts. George also noted that business
incubators already exist within the Town and should be identified and supported for growth. He will
provide a report at the next EDC meeting.
Strategic Focus
Rich emphasized the importance of focusing strategically on specific, actionable initiatives.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 4:55 PM.