Business and Economic Development Committee 8.3.26

The City of Bangor's Business and Economic Development Committee met on August 4, 2026, to discuss several key topics including an economic impact presentation on waterfront concerts by University of Maine researcher Todd Gabe, land development code updates regarding the keeping of chickens in residential zones, and a tax increment finance (TIF) district application by the Bangor Housing Authority for affordable housing. The economic impact study highlighted significant revenue generated by waterfront concerts, including hospitality sales and hotel room rate increases, supporting continued economic development efforts. The committee also deliberated on zoning regulations for urban chicken keeping, focusing on lot size, coop requirements, and enforcement capacity, with a preference emerging against strict minimum lot sizes but favoring limits on the number of hens per lot size. Lastly, the committee engaged in an in-depth discussion with Bangor Housing Authority representatives about the TIF district and credit enhancement agreement for a 30-unit supportive housing project, emphasizing funding sources, contractor selection, wage standards, and the program's success in reducing homelessness and related public service costs. No formal votes were taken during the meeting, but directions were given to refine recommendations and prepare for upcoming council decisions.