GROTON TO LAUNCH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WEBSITE

Groton — As part of a broader effort to target prospective developers, Groton has hired a company to develop an economic development website that would list the commercial properties available for sale or lease and the financial incentives available to business.

“It’s a very common practice in the industry right now, and if anything, it’s really a mandatory component of an economic development campaign,” said Sam Eisenbeiser, town economic development specialist.

The town contracted with Minnesota-based Golden Shovel Agency for $25,800 to design the website, expected to launch in early fall. Golden Shovel has worked in more than 140 communities.

The website would offer a quick view of workforce programs, demographic information, quality of life and financial incentives available to new and existing businesses in Groton, Eisenbeiser said. The site also would detail the commercial buildings and land for sale or lease, including contact information about the properties.

Town staff also are considering working with local brokers to input information and update property listings, Eisenbeiser said. The goal is to create a mobile-friendly website for business owners and entrepreneurs who rely on smartphones.

“Our target is site selectors, people looking for properties and development opportunities, but it’s also for the local business community,” Eisenbeiser said. “We’d like them to know what our services are, how we can support them.”