There are over 600 local businesses in Tiverton. Without leaving our town, you can fix your car, landscape your garden, groom your pet, buy a work of art, enjoy a great meal, take care of your body, or mend your soul. These local businesses pay taxes and deserve our support.

The Economic Development Commission requested a 2018-2019 budget item of $800 for administrative costs, including the cost of sending a town wide survey to local businesses to get their input on how the EDC could help make Tiverton more business friendly. This budget request was included in the town council-approved Budget 1 but completely cut from the petitioner’s budget.

Over the past year, the newly appointed Economic Development Commission has worked on revising the economic development section of the town’s comprehensive plan. They have developed new goals and responsibilities for the EDC, to be included in the town charter. They have been meeting with local businesses and invited guest speakers to meetings, from local business owners to representatives of state agencies who can help better market the town.

The town has long hoped to diversify its tax base but has lacked a strategic plan to help bring that goal to fruition. The Economic Development Commission needs the citizens of Tiverton to support the town council-approved Budget 1 at the Financial Town Referendum (FTR) so it can continue working to support local businesses.

Voting is May 19, Tiverton High School, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. There is also the option for early voting at the Tiverton Town Hall, Thursday May 17, and Friday, May 18, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tiverton businesses need your support.

Renee Jones

Tiverton