David Fisher: Woonsocket Says "No" to Economic Development

By David Fisher
Woonsocket

By the headline of this piece, you might guess that I’d be offering an opinion on the recent decision by Ardent Manufacturing to locate in East Providence rather than Woonsocket, but the egos and personal ideologies and agendas that drive Woonsocket are on the verge of forfeiting an even bigger economic development opportunity; an opportunity that would not only create jobs, but businesses, as well.

The plan by NeighborWorks Blackstone Valley to renovate the former Mulvey’s Hardware building at Market Square has been painted by the mayor and some members of the city council as just another affordable housing development in a city that is already bulging with it. I have seen the proposal for the renovations, and the plan is anything but ‘just another.’

First, the majority of square footage in the development would not be dedicated to affordable housing. In fact, less than 30 percent (2,500 SF) of the some 12,000 square feet would be dedicated six studio/loft style apartments. The remaining 9,800 square feet would be dedicated to:

• A 3,000 SF food business incubator for up to 25 businesses. Hobart Commercial Appliance will be furnishing the commercial kitchen, and their sales team would use the space as a regional training center and showcase for their equipment.
• A 2,600 SF of event and exhibition space for the Museum of Work and Culture for event and exhibit space with capacity for 400.
• A 4,200 SF open-air plaza to host public markets for small vendors and local entrepreneurs / artists that will bring regular activity to downtown.

Since taking office, the mayor has refused to disburse a $350,000 CDBG HOME Program grant that was applied for — and won — by NeighborWorks, and now that grant is in jeopardy of being forfeited to the federal government. NeighborWorks, by the way, is the only entity operating in the city that is eligible for these funds. The saddest part is this: I’m told by the folks at NeighborWorks that this money leveraged private funding to make the business incubator and function space truly top-notch as far as functionality and aesthetics; a place anyone would be proud to have their wedding reception.

I understand that Woonsocket is way over our state mandated affordable housing threshold, but to me, this seems like a more than fair trade. Some may see this as the city putting it’s foot down on affordable housing, but what — and who — are really saying no to?

“No,” to the budding young chef, fresh out of Beacon Charter School or Johnson & Wales, who has tremendous talent but lacks the capital to start a brick-and-mortar restaurant.

“No,” to our beloved Museum of Work and Culture on the opportunity to create a stable source of revenue and a destination brand.

“No,” to someone like me who — with 20 years of experience in the restaurant business and fine dining — might consider starting my own business.

“No,” to our local artists, artisans, farmers and the people who support them at fairs and markets because they understand the value of keeping their money close to home.

“No,” to one of the finest names in commercial kitchen equipment. Hobart’s products are sold the world over, and folks would have to come to Woonsocket to see and test them.

“No,” to the folks currently residing in affordable housing that may see a culinary incubator as a stepping stone to financial stability, and one in the pursuit of happiness.

Keep in mind, if this grant does become forfeit, it won’t stop the project from going forward. The affordable housing will still be built, but it will sit atop a second-rate incubator, function room, and open-air market.

The choice is yours, Mrs. Mayor. Disburse the funds and have a world-class entrepreneurial engine, or cut off our economic development nose to spite our affordable housing face. I’m anxiously awaiting your decision.

Dave Fisher is a former candidate for mayor in Woonsocket and the co-host of The Coalition airing Sundays at 10 a.m. on 790 AM – WPRV. You can read his blog at www.coalitionradio.us.