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Official website of the Town of Lisbon, Maine

Town of Lisbon Launches New “Smart Start Sessions” to Support Smart Growth and Streamlined Development

The Town of Lisbon is pleased to announce “Smart Start Sessions” a new staff-level business review process designed to support incoming businesses, streamline project planning, and promote coordinated, efficient development within the community.

This new process provides an opportunity for prospective business owners and developers to meet directly with Town staff, including representatives from Economic and Community Development and Code Enforcement early in the planning stages of a project. The goal is to offer guidance, answer questions, and identify potential considerations before formal applications are submitted.

  “One of our goals as a community is to enhance our economic development strategy and make Lisbon a great place to run a business.” commented Town Council Chair, Chris Camire. This program represents a renewed commitment to our partners in the business community to help them thrive here”

 Through these informal review meetings, businesses can present their ideas and receive valuable feedback related to zoning, permitting requirements, site considerations, and local development priorities. This proactive approach is intended to reduce delays, improve communication, and help projects move forward more smoothly.

 Key benefits of the new business review process include:

 Early Engagement: Business owners can connect with Town staff at the outset of their project to better understand local requirements and expectations.

  • Coordinated Staff Input: Economic development and code enforcement perspectives are provided in a single conversation, saving time and reducing duplication.
  • Improved Project Readiness: Applicants gain clarity on next steps, necessary approvals, and potential challenges before entering the formal review process.
  • Enhanced Customer Service: The Town aims to create a more welcoming, supportive environment for new and expanding businesses.

 The business review meetings are informal and non-binding, and do not replace any required approvals or permitting processes. Instead, they serve as a valuable first step for businesses and developers looking to invest and grow in Lisbon.

 For more information or to schedule a business review meeting, please fill out the form below:

Smart Start Session application

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Page last updated September 24, 2026 · View this page on the current town website