Accomplishments
• Sponsored Vision 2010 plan for economic development for the village. As a result of the Plan,
physical improvements were implemented through partnerships with the Vision 2010 Implementation
Team and the Freeport Community Improvement Association. On-going sidewalk improvements are
being made by the Town of Freeport. Additional funding for lighting, benches and landscaping has
been provided by the Town as well as private contributions. Modifications to the downtown
business district ordinances have been made. Click here to download a printable version of the
Vision 2010 plan
• Commissioned Route One South plan, providing direction for future growth; currently implementing
the Plan’s recommendations. Click Here to download a printable version of the plan.
• Supported revival of Lower Main Street as an expanded cluster area for dining and retail.
• Coordinated creation of new 118,000 sq. ft. retail and dining development with 500+ parking spaces.
The structure is under construction
• Developed Tax Increment Financing Guidelines for the community. Click Here to download
guidelines.
• Coordinated successful TIF application for new Berenson Associates village development, Freeport
Village Station.
• Assisted many new businesses who located or are locating to Freeport in a range as diverse as the
Hilton Garden Inn, Custom Convertibles, Cold River Vodka, Shaw’s Foods, Wilbur’s of Maine
Chocolate Confections, Buck’s Naked BBQ, Winter People, and Air and Water Quality.
Coordinated efforts among the Town Planner, Engineer, and Codes Enforcement Officer with new or
expanding businesses.
• Established Town of Freeport Project Development Team to proactively provide information
regarding upcoming commercial projects and address potential issues
• Facilitated the creation of a Village Mixed Use District ordinance
• Advocated the approval by Town Council of contract zoning.
• Promoted Freeport at national and local industry trade shows.
• Provided promotional opportunities to new businesses.
• Sponsored “Destination Freeport”, a catalyst among Freeport lodging properties, to proactively
attract more overnight stays in town, especially during non-peak periods.
• Motivated grass-roots efforts among businesses to create their own success by attracting weekend
groups, creating a calendar of local and regional events that affect business in town, recruiting
Brunswick Taxi Service to open a branch in Freeport, creating a new weekend event, Music &
Libations Festival.
• Supported development of green industrial park and medical and professional service buildings
• Partnered with the Freeport Merchants Association to enhance and implement Freeport’s Brand
Positioning Statement and evolving image
• Redesigned and implemented a more informative FEDC website.
• Compiled significant Maine and Freeport business data that is comprehensive, applicable, and
valuable; supplied to property owners, site locators, real estate brokers, and developers to assist in
recruitment efforts as well as to potential new business owners
• Regularly update available commercial property listing – available on FEDC web site
• Initiated and continue to support Creative and Innovative Economy movement in Freeport
2007 - 2008 Strategic Areas of Focus
Although the FEDC services much of its local business base on a per request basis, it is very focused on proactively implementing the following:
• Business retention, expansion and attraction: keep and attract new businesses that enhance the
Town and expand tax revenues
• Diversify and grow commercial tax base: improve financial and infrastructure sustainability;
re-establish Freeport’s brand; develop business clusters
• Community quality of life: strengthen community amenities and protect Freeport’s authenticity
• Business-friendly community: unify the business, government and school communities around a
common, shared vision that welcomes quality businesses
CONTACT US
Stephanie Slocum
Executive Director
Freeport Economic Development Corporation
30 Main Street
Freeport, ME 04032
207-865-4743 x117
