The town's economic health and growth is something that the selectmen must keep their fingers on the pulse of and work to enhance. I believe that the town has to take an active role in working with landowners and businesses in order for it to be a viable place for people to work and live.

I would plan to work closely with the Kent Chamber of Commerce, because it is a vital organization supporting the town’s businesses. However, I also want to form an Economic Development Council. This group would provide advice to me as first selectman and generate ideas and strategies for long-term economic growth. In my discussions with several business owners, it has become clear that interactions with the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Land Use Department are closely related to their perceptions of the town's business health. P&Z members give an enormous amount of their time and energy to the work of the commission and are to be applauded for their volunteerism as well as their close attention to details in the regulations. Their work on the Plan of Conservation and Development is vital and the recommendations and action items must be considered by all departments and commissions when making decisions that impact the town's future. While the first selectman does not control the P&Z commission in any way, it is vital that the first selectman keep the lines of communication open with those that are making decisions that impact economic development.