Who We Are

The Camden Area Futures Group organized in January, 2006. CAFG is a "project focused" umbrella group for people to come into and go out of. It draws from different groups to get things done that are consistent with the comprehensive plan. CAFG has embraced the following vision and strategy:

Vision

CAFG envisions vibrant and viable year round communities in the Camden area.

Strategy

CAFG brings together leaders from business, academia, the workforce and the broader community to spotlight issues, build consensus and work towards innovative solutions.

Mechanism

Blue Ribbon Report

In December, 2005 the Blue Ribbon Economic Development Task Force presented its final report to the Camden Select Board. That report contained numerous recommendations to help foster a "sustainable Camden economy."

The final report is available for viewing and/or downloading in pdf format:  (Click Here)

Summary - Report Recommendations

• The top recommendation was the formation of an independent, non-profit Camden Futures organization drawn from all parts of the town's population. Such an organization would serve as a forum for advocating policies and activities that are in the long-term interest of the town to achieve desired economic development. The Camden Area Futures Group has been formed and is now in operation. It currently has no official affiliation with the Town of Camden.
• The report also recommended the creation of a neighborhood-based development review process that would require future developers to meet with local residents in an open and collaborative manner before proposed plans are submitted to the Town for official evaluation and approval.
• The report recommended support for the protection and enhancement of Camden's harbor as a thriving working waterfront, and encouraged the Town's pursuit of assistance in this area from the proposed "Futures Group" as well as from the Island Institute
• The report recommended support for the re-development of the Knox Mill/MBNA properties. The Task Force felt strongly that the Town's economic development needs would be best served if use of these facilities could remain largely commercial. Existing proposals to convert selected properties to residential condominiums were not viewed with favor by the Task Force because of the possible permanent loss of a significant percentage of the commercially zoned space.