The Barrington Business Association needs you.

To be more specific, the BBA is looking for a new committee members. Currently, about half of the committee seats are available, and BBA board of directors chairman Matthew Amaral is hoping that owners of the new and existing businesses in town will fill some of the vacancies. 

"It's not just brick and mortar businesses," said Mr. Amaral, who owns Grapes and Grains Fine Wine and Spirits. "We're also looking for people who work out of their homes."

Mr. Amaral said the local business association fills a number of important roles in Barrington. It offers a wide network for business owners to communicate with each other, and also allows businesses to coordinate their support for community events. Mr. Amaral said the BBA co-sponsors a concert at the town beach in the summer, a beach movie night event, school fund-raisers, the Barrington Glows tree-lighting, and works closely with Arts Alive! productions.

Mr. Amaral said the town government has done a nice job supporting local businesses. In addition to spearheading the recent downtown streetscape improvements, the town also hired Debra Page-Trim as the new economic development officer. 

"Phil (Hervey, town planner) and Debra have been great," said Mr. Amaral. "I think this is a very pro-business community."

Barrington has witnessed the addition of some new businesses recently, ranging from the Link Agency real estate firm to new restaurants and professional service companies. Mr. Amaral also recognized the important role long-time businesses play in Barrington.

Mr. Amaral hopes that some of the new and existing shop owners join the Barrington Business Association. He said that some of the current board members have been serving for more than a few years.

"I think it (the BBA) needs to exist. It's important," he said. "We need some more people, some new members to step forward." 

The Barrington Business Association's next meeting is Thursday, March 15 at 26 Bosworth St. Prospective members are welcome to attend. 

For more information, email info@barringtonba.com or visit www.barringtonba.com