Blackstone’s EDC: A Key to Local Business Growth
Why Blackstone’s Business Future Depends on the EDC
When residents ask why Blackstone doesn’t attract more businesses, the town does in fact have a group meant to focus on that issue: the Blackstone Economic Development Committee (EDC). Since it first commenced in 2014, the EDC has been charged with promoting and developing business and industry, supporting existing local businesses, and attracting new ones to strengthen the local economy, generate jobs, and support the town’s long-term fiscal stability.
But today, the Blackstone Economic Development Committee is struggling — and without community members stepping up, its mission cannot move forward.
What the Blackstone Economic Development Committee Does
The EDC’s role is straightforward but vital:
- Act as an advisor to the Board of Selectmen and other town boards.
- Recommend and support economic development plans.
- Help recruit, retain and support local businesses so they can thrive.
- Strengthen the tax base to reduce the burden on homeowners.
When active, the committee gives residents a direct role in shaping the town’s future.
A Difficult Year
2025 has been a turbulent year for the EDC. Early in the year, Chair Anita Robinson resigned from her role. By mid-year, Jacob Edel was appointed as the new chair. A lifelong Blackstone resident with a background in economics and political science, Edel shared his vision in an article for the Blackstone Enlightener in June. He hoped to highlight the town’s industrial history, build relationships with local businesses, and foster a stronger identity for Blackstone.
But just two months later, in August, Board of Selectmen Chair Dan Keefe announced at a BOS meeting that Edel had resigned as chair. Following his resignation, Mary Bulso, who had been serving as the committee’s ex officio member, also stepped down.
These changes left the EDC with even fewer active members, adding to its ongoing struggle to maintain a full roster.
Where the EDC Stands Today
According to the town’s bylaws, “The EDC shall consist of no fewer than four and no more than eight members, including ex officio members, each of whom shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen, to serve staggered terms of three years.” Members can be reappointed indefinitely, and if a seat becomes vacant, it should be filled by the Board of Selectmen for the remainder of the term.
In practice, however, the EDC is far from full strength. The town website currently lists only two members, and those records have not been updated to reflect recent resignations. With several members stepping down this year and no meeting minutes or video recordings available to the public, it’s difficult for residents to understand what the committee has been working on — or how they might get involved.
This lack of clarity is especially concerning because the EDC’s work directly affects some of the biggest issues residents talk about: the lack of businesses in town, missed opportunities for growth, and the high tax burden on homeowners. When the EDC is active and supported, it has the potential to bring in business, expand the tax base, and reduce the strain on residents. But without enough people on the committee, progress is stalled before it can even begin.
Small Town Post reached out to recent chairs and town officials for input, but did not receive a response. This leaves some questions unanswered, underscoring how difficult it has been for the EDC to maintain continuity and engagement.
Why the EDC Still Matters
Despite its struggles, the Blackstone Economic Development Committee remains an important tool for the town. With a full membership, it can:
- Attract businesses, support existing ones, and create jobs.
- Strengthen the commercial tax base to stabilize local finances.
- Support a healthier balance between residential and business growth.
- Provide recommendations that influence major decisions for the town.
In short, the EDC gives Blackstone a way to move from conversation to action.
How You Can Get Involved
The committee is designed to include four to eight members, appointed by the Board of Selectmen, serving staggered three-year terms. You don’t need to be a business owner to join — backgrounds in planning, finance, real estate, community engagement, or simply an interest in local growth are all valuable.
If you want to volunteer, help out, or simply learn more about what the committee does, the best way to start is by contacting the Town of Blackstone or the Board of Selectmen’s office at 508-883-1500 ext. 102.
Moving Forward
The Blackstone Economic Development Committee was created to ensure that the town could actively plan for growth rather than leaving it to chance. Over the past year, it has faced resignations, vacancies, and questions about its future. But its mission is as important as ever — and it needs residents willing to step forward.
If you’ve ever wondered why businesses don’t come to Blackstone, this is your opportunity to help make it happen. The EDC doesn’t just need members; it needs community energy and commitment to succeed.
At Small Town Post, our mission is to share the stories that shape our community — from local businesses to town government, from history to the people working every day to make Blackstone a better place.
The story of the Blackstone Economic Development Committee is one of challenges, but also of opportunity. With more local voices at the table, this group could help shape the town’s future in powerful ways.
If you have information, updates, or stories to share, we’d love to hear from you anytime. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, where we post regular news, features, and spotlights for the community.
Together, we can keep Blackstone’s story moving forward.
