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Camden development director resigns [Bangor Daily News (ME)](Bangor Daily News (ME) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) CAMDEN, Maine -- Camden Development Director Brian Hodges is leaving the job he has held for more than three years. Town Manager Pat Finnigan announced the move in a news release issued Thursday morning. Hodges has accepted a position in the private sector, Finnigan said. Hodges was not immediately available for comment. An email message sent to Hodges and a telephone message for the town manager on Thursday morning were not immediately returned. The news release did not state the new job Hodges had accepted. Hodges came to Camden in March 2011 as its first development director. The position was created in early 2011 to stimulate business growth and community development. Prior to joining the town, Hodges had served as the deputy commissioner of the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development. "During his three-and-a-half years with the town, Brian has worked tirelessly with business people, citizens, and elected officials to strengthen Camden's business climate," Finnigan stated in the news release. "Brian's ability to forge working relationships with citizens and businesses has resulted in a long list of accomplishments that will bring long-term benefits to the community." During his tenure, Hodges secured more $1 million in grants to fund several significant community improvements, including the Route 1 sidewalk and the Public Landing project that includes a fishermen's hoist, the town manager stated. He advised numerous start-up businesses, as well as existing businesses regarding ways to increase their customer base. Finnigan specifically cited the example of when Tibbetts- Intricon was sold and its future was uncertain, Hodges worked with the new owner to keep the company in town. "I've greatly enjoyed the opportunity to serve the citizens and businesses of Camden these past three-and-a-half years and considered it a privilege to be Camden's development director," Hodges said in the town's news release. "Thanks to the enthusiastic response from elected officials, colleagues, committee members, business owners, and citizens we have been able to accomplish many community goals. This is a testament to what a remarkable community Camden is." His departure comes as the town considers selling commercial land along the Megunticook River to North East Mobile Health Services, a move opposed by some neighbors. A petition drive is also underway to allow some Route 1 bed and breakfast businesses to serve dinners to their overnight guests. (c) 2014 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |