HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-01-06 Business and Economic Development Committee Minutes BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Monday, January 6, 2025 @ 5:15 PM
Penobscot Room, Lower Floor of Penquis CAP
MEETING MINUTES
City Councilors Present: Beck, Dean, Fournier, Hawes, Leonard, Mallar,
Pelletier, Tremble.
City Staff Present: Hernandez-Smith, Krieg.
Chair Fournier called the meeting to order at 5:15 P.M.
1. UPDATE ON THE COMMERCIAL KITCHEN DESIGN CONCEPTS
Economic Development Officer Biguita Hernandez-Smith presented to the
Committee and gave an update on the commercial kitchen design concepts.
Paul Lewandowski and Paul Bryant, Paul Designs Project, presented to the
committee via Zoom and provided an overview of the new design concepts.
Councilor Tremble expressed support for the construction of a new, pre-fabricated
building, but asked whether this is the best site given this change — Lewandowski
responded that the current site does seem like a favorable option still, but noted
that the building could be moved, if desired.
Councilor Dean asked how much time and money had already been spent on
previous design concept — Lewandowski responded that all existing design plans
are transferrable to this new concept, so he does not consider that any effort was
lost.
Member of the public, Curtis Ford, presented to the Committee via Zoom and
asked about why this project is being done. Development Director Anne Krieg
responded and gave information regarding the market analysis that was
completed, background on staff discussions, etc. Ford asked for additional
information regarding the design, as he did not feel it fit with the existing area.
Chair Fournier recommended that Ford follow up with City staff regarding this.
Councilor Beck asked if hypothetical case studies could be presented to the public
— Development Director Krieg confirmed that this could be done.
Councilor Mallar asked what this site might be used for if it does not end up being
used for the commercial kitchen project — Development Director Krieg suggested
that this discussion be placed on a future agenda. Mallar also asked about the cost
of demolition — Lewandowski responded and clarified.
Chair Fournier expressed support for Councilor Tremble's idea of looking at sites
closer to the airport. Development Director Krieg confirmed that staff can look into
this.
2. DOWNTOWN BANGOR PARTNERSHIP REPORT
Betsy Lundy, Downtown Bangor Partnership, presented to the Committee and
gave an overview of her written report.
Councilor Beck asked about feedback from business owners regarding
ambassador program — Lundy responded and provided additional details.
Chair Fournier asked if report on ambassador program could be provided to the
Committee monthly — Lundy responded that she will do so.
3. ORDERS FOR DEMOLITION REVIEW
Development Director Krieg presented the agenda item and gave an overview of
upcoming orders for demolition.
Councilor Tremble asked for additional details before approving demolition orders
— requested pictures, etc.
Council Chair Pelletier also asked for additional details regarding cost, any back
taxes owed, etc.
Councilor Mallar asked about other dilapidated properties in the City —
Development Director Krieg responded that she will get additional information for
the Committee.
Meeting adjourned at 5:52 P.M.
Meeting minutes respectfully submitted,
Sarah Maquillan
Admin. Asst.
C&ED
