Economic & Community Development

We are here to help you with your decisions to invest in, move to, or work in our great City.

 

 About

The City of Old Town takes pride in its progressive and forward-thinking approach to economic development. Over the past several decades, Old Town has earned a reputation as a thriving hub for business, vibrant community events, and strong public–private partnerships.

Our mission moving forward is to build on that momentum by providing exceptional support to both existing and prospective businesses while creating meaningful, lasting opportunities for community engagement. Through strategic collaboration and thoughtful growth, we are committed to strengthening Old Town’s economic vitality and enhancing quality of life for all who live, work, and invest here.

 Business Services & Resources

 Old Town Development, LLC

The Old Town Development, LLC., is a group of business and industry leaders and local stakeholders tasked with understanding and monitoring the economic climate for the City of Old Town

 Community Development

The Downtown Coordinator oversees many of the City’s local events and community initiatives, fostering opportunities that support economic growth, strengthen partnerships, and enhance quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Please reach out to:

 

Food Truck Vendor Rules & Licensing Agreement

As of 2/4/2026, the City of Old Town has put forth new vendor agreements that will need to be signed and approved before attending any events and/or setting up throughout the city.

Rules for Vendor Food Trucks


Applications


Please download and return to Laura Engstrom at LEngstrom@old-town.org for approval.


Down Town Old Town (DTOT) <-- Learn More

Downtown Old Town is a committee dedicated to revitalizing and promoting the vibrant heart of Old Town, ME.  We work to enhance the economic vitality, cultural vibrancy, and overall quality of life in our downtown area through collaborative partnerships with businesses, property owners, residents and city officials.  DTOT is a recognized members of the Maine Downtown Affiliate Program since February of 2024.  Our mission aligns with the Main Street America, Four Points Approach.  While currently established as a committee within the municipality, our goal is to become a seperate entity and operate as a 501(c)(3) organization.

The Executive Committee plays a vital volunteer role in the strategic leadership and governance of Downtown Old Town.  This role requires a team of passionate and dedicated individuals with strong business acumen, leadership skills, and a commitment to the success of the downtown area.  The executive committee will be comprised of 5-6 individuals appointed for a two (2) - year term.  When first established in January of 2025, approximately 50% of the committee will be appointed to a 1 - year term.

Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Planning & Governance
  • Advocacy & Representation
  • Fundraising & Resource Development
  • Leadership & Collaboration
  • Other duties as identified

 

Main Street Village - Pop Up Shops

Modeled after the 300 Market Block in Tionesta, PA ,the Main Street Market Village allows for small business and local artisans the ability to enter into the downtown market without a huge financial investment. Brick and mortar space in any downtown can be expensive. This model allows each business to focus on product and/or service development before eventual moving to a larger and more permanent space.

*Currently at max capacity - if you would like to join the waitlist, please reach out to the Downtown coordinator.


Community Gardens

It's that time of year to start thinking about planting and gardening, and the Old Town Community Garden is once again offering beds for rent.  Located in a sunny location, behind the Public Safety Building, the Old Town Community Garden has 4' X 8' X 10" beds available for local gardeners. 

If you'd like to rent a bed, pick up an application at City Hall, or download a copy here.  

Completed applications and fees are to be submitted at City Hall.  Once you've completed your application and paid the fee, you will be given a bed assignment for the upcoming year.


 Penobscot County Commissioners

The Penobscot County Commissioners are the County's chief elected officials and are ultimately responsible for the fiscal operations and policy decisions affecting the County of Penobscot's government.  They have authority over all County offices, including elected and appointed officials.  They are also responsible for preparing and monitoring the County budget (although the final decision of the budget is performed by a Budget Committee process), the County's tax assessment, and various appeals and hearings.  ​ Each Commissioner is elected by the voters from within their respective district.  The County of Penobscot has three districts,s and each Commissioner serves a term of four years.

District 3's Commissioner is David Marshall.

If you would like to speak to Mr. Marshall, please contact Amy to schedule a meeting.