The Caribou Office of Community Development's mission is to plan, direct and seek funding for a program of community development for the City of Caribou. Community development relates to the support and development of the community's infrastructure - that is public service facilities (fire, recreation, safety, cultural, etc), underground and above ground infrastructure (water/sewer, electrical, sidewalks, public parking, etc) and public housing improvements.

The Community Development Director works with State and Federal agencies to explore and initiate programs that will be of benefit to the community as a whole. These agencies include: Economic Development Administration (Public Works and Economic Development Program); Housing and Urban Development Administration (Rural Housing & Economic Development Program); U.S. Department of Agriculture (Rural Development Program); the Maine Office of Community Development (various Community Development Block Grant Programs that primarily benefit low to moderate income population); Maine Department of Transportation (funding for airport and roadway improvements); and other State agencies.

After several years of not having a Community Development Office, the City hired a director in August 2000. Since that time, the Community Development Office has worked on a variety of projects, including: funding for a business expansion and utility upgrade project, downtown revitalization planning, roadway issues with the Maine Department of Transportation, working with City departments and Caribou Focus on the Future on obtaining funding for various initiatives and development of the City's website. This office also oversees an emergency home repair grant/loan fund for those who meet the low-income guideline criteria and need assistance in addressing an immediate threat to the health and welfare of the occupants of the home.

For more information or to provide your input on matters pertaining to your community, please e-mail mwalton@cariboumaine.org or call 207-493-3324 this office.