Google Small Business Seminars. The group had a discussion if the town/chamber should partner with Google to offer these seminars which focus on getting businesses listed in Google maps and other Google properties. The consensus was that it could be helpful but to schedule the seminars either in the morning or the evening (outside of regular operating hours). Alyssa Sandovel also discussed a workshop she attended that was sponsored by The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development Downtown Initiative program where there was great information about the median square footage for various commercial tenants. 

Depot Park Kiosk. This was not brought up at the last Bedford Depot Committee meeting. Bill Moonan will follow up with Bedford Depot Committee and/or DPW to see about getting the new map added.

Planning Board - The group continued a previous discussion on how the planning board is very busy with new development and does not have the bandwidth to work on updating the industrial zoning in the Crosby Drive and other areas. The concern is that these much needed updates keep getting pushed back and Bedford will no longer be competitive in attracting businesses. There was a general discussion on how can the Chamber advocate for more resources for the planning board to help keep these process moving.

A. Provide additional input in to future zoning decisions - for example if the planning board wanted to update the limited business zoning, having this information would be helpful in deciding the maximum square footage for retail.

B. Provide potential businesses with additional data for deciding where to locate.

C. Help spark discussion among town residents and existing businesses about the future direction of retail businesses in Bedford.