New group to support town businesses

CORNWALL — The recently formed Economic Development Study Group has decided that the town does indeed require an economic development commission.The eight members of the study group signed and sent a petition to the Board of Selectmen May 12. It was reviewed at the June 7 board meeting, where the request to put the plan to a public vote was unanimously accepted. It is expected to be on the agenda of the annual town meeting this fall.Cornwall has never had an economic development commission, according to First Selectman Gordon Ridgway. “Its time has come. The business community needs a voice,” he said.The study group devised a set of goals that includes: “Cultivate, strengthen and sustain a vital and evolving business climate in all of Cornwall, ensuring the availability of varied goods, services and opportunities.” The plan includes monitoring existing and potential assets and being mindful of the town’s heritage.Suggested are no more than nine members, each appointed by the selectmen and serving a three-year term. One of the selectmen will serve as an ex-officio member.The commission will be able to make and implement decisions approved by a quorum of its members.