Town Manager Jamie Smith presented an optimistic overview of Laurel’s economic development efforts Monday evening, telling members of the Laurel Mayor and Council that the town continues to make steady progress in attracting investment, supporting local businesses and positioning itself for long-term growth.

During her report, Smith emphasized that economic development extends far beyond recruiting new businesses. She described it as a comprehensive effort involving infrastructure improvements, redevelopment opportunities, partnerships with state agencies, and strategic planning designed to improve the quality of life for residents while expanding the town’s tax base.

“Our goal is to create opportunities that benefit both our residents and our business community,” Smith explained. “Economic development isn’t just about bringing in something new. It’s also about supporting the businesses that have already invested in Laurel and creating an environment where additional investment makes sense.”

Smith said Laurel has become increasingly attractive to prospective developers and businesses because of significant investments the town has made in its public infrastructure during recent years.

Major improvements to the town’s water and wastewater systems, along with upgrades to streets and other public facilities, have increased Laurel’s capacity to accommodate future commercial and residential growth.

Many of those improvements have been made possible through state and federal grant funding, allowing the town to modernize critical infrastructure without placing the full financial burden on local taxpayers.

Smith noted that infrastructure is often one of the first considerations for businesses evaluating potential locations. “Having the capacity to serve future development puts Laurel in a much stronger competitive position,” she said.

She also discussed the importance of maintaining strong relationships with Delaware’s economic development agencies, Sussex County officials and private developers. Those partnerships, Smith explained, provide valuable technical assistance, funding opportunities and marketing resources that help communities like Laurel compete for new investment.

In addition to recruiting new businesses, Smith stressed that retaining and supporting existing businesses remains one of the town’s highest priorities. She said local business owners are critical partners in Laurel’s economic success, providing employment opportunities, generating tax revenue and contributing to the community through civic involvement and charitable activities. “Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy,” Smith said. “When they succeed, the entire community benefits.”

Another area of focus involves the redevelopment of vacant and underutilized properties throughout town. Rather than allowing prominent buildings and commercial sites to remain unused, Smith said the town continues working with property owners and potential investors to identify redevelopment opportunities that complement Laurel’s historic downtown while meeting modern commercial needs. She explained that revitalizing existing properties not only improves the community’s appearance but also helps stimulate additional private investment nearby.

Council members agreed that maintaining attractive commercial corridors is essential to encouraging continued economic growth, saying that visitors often form lasting impressions of a community based on the condition of its business districts and public spaces.

Smith also highlighted the importance of promoting Laurel as a destination for both businesses and families. She noted that the town’s historic character, convenient location in western Sussex County, expanding recreational opportunities and ongoing public improvements create a strong foundation for future growth.

Rather than competing solely on tax incentives, Laurel seeks to market itself as a community offering a high quality of life, excellent public services and a welcoming environment for investment.

Council members praised Smith’s continued efforts to pursue economic development opportunities, while balancing growth with preservation of the town’s historic identity.

Mayor Carlos Oliveras said careful planning will be essential as Laurel continues experiencing renewed interest from developers and businesses looking to establish operations in western Sussex County.

Smith agreed, emphasizing that thoughtful growth requires patience, collaboration and long-term vision. “Economic development doesn’t happen overnight,” she said. “It’s the result of years of planning, building relationships and making investments that prepare the community for future opportunities.”

She concluded by reaffirming the town’s commitment to working with regional partners, state agencies, local businesses and residents to ensure that Laurel remains well positioned for continued success.

While many projects remain in various stages of planning and development, Smith said the work being done today is laying the foundation for sustained economic growth that will benefit Laurel residents for years to come.