GrowSmart Maine (GSM), an Augusta-based nonprofit organization, will host a convening in Rockland on October 29. Centered on the theme, “Building Community Strength: Connecting Local Vision to Shared Impacts,” the day-long program will feature speakers, spotlights on local smart growth initiatives, and walking tours. Attendees will include city planners, state and local leaders, nonprofit staff, and interested individuals from around Maine.

“Communities across Maine are facing similar complex challenges around housing, land use, and economic growth,” said Leigh Hallett, GSM’s CEO, in a news release. “Our Summit brings people together from across sectors for collaborative problem solving. It’s an opportunity for local visions to spark statewide momentum.”

Rockland Mayor Adam Lachman, who will participate in the event, highlighted the importance of active local planning.

“Strong communities don’t happen by accident,” said Lachman, in the release. “They’re built through proactive planning, thoughtful land use, and investments in affordable housing, safer streets, and accessible public spaces. In Rockland, we’re working to put these principles into practice for a more affordable and inclusive future, and we’re proud to welcome the Summit to share what we’re learning.” 

The Summit’s keynote speakers will be Luke Dyer, Town Manager of Van Buren, and Denise Smith, Executive Director of the Vermont Council on Rural Development. Moderated by Nick Battista, Chief Policy Officer at Island Institute, the speakers will explore “Bridging Funding, Capacity, and Local Action,” drawing on local, regional, and federal experiences. 

“Community Spotlights” are a popular part of the program. Organizations from around Maine will show off their real-world examples of smart growth. Through conversations around informal displays, Summit participants will learn about statewide initiatives as well as local projects in Rockland, Island Falls, and Stonington, taking away actionable ideas and new contacts. In the afternoon, participants can choose between screening a documentary film or one of three walking tours downtown before concluding the day at the networking reception.

For more information about program events, or to register, visit growsmartmaine.org.