Goff proves out-migration can be reversed
FORT FAIRFIELD, Maine — Tim Goff is proof that out-migration is reversible. Years after he left his hometown of Fort Fairfield, Goff has returned, assuming a variety of roles in the community.
The town of Fort Fairfield announced recently that Goff was hired as its new marketing and economic director. His duties will include providing critical insights and input, helping to market the town and enhance the economic climate for both new and existing businesses. Goff will be responsible for generating new investment in the community, attracting development and retaining businesses in the town.
Goff will also oversee the activities of the Fort Fairfield Chamber of Commerce as its executive director, including organizing the annual Agri-Business Trade Fair, and serving as director of the Maine Potato Blossom Festival.
He has an extensive background in communications, having spent the past two decades working in broadcasting, both in radio and television. He most recently worked as a multimedia journalist for WCSH-TV in Portland and sister station WLBZ-TV in Bangor. Goff has received numerous awards for his work, both for his reporting and photography, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience gained from his travels across the state, and throughout the country, to this position.
“I look forward to building upon the relationships I have developed over the years telling stories about the people and places that make Maine special,” said Goff. “When I was presented with this opportunity to return to my roots, be closer to family and friends, and to share the story of my hometown with people throughout the world, I jumped at the chance and look forward to the challenge.”
A 1994 graduate of Fort Fairfield High School, Goff was hired to fill the position left vacant when Michael Bosse was promoted to the position of town manager.
“We are excited to have someone with Tim’s experience and skill-set join the town staff,” stated Bosse. “It is always a great feeling to welcome someone home, especially someone who is as committed as Tim is to serving his community and is equally passionate about its people.”
As part of his efforts to reinvigorate the town’s Chamber, membership for the 2015 calendar year will be free for all business owners and residents of Fort Fairfield.
“The Chamber of Commerce is excited to be able to bring Tim and his family back to Fort Fairfield,” said Michael Woodman, president of the Fort Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. “His enthusiasm and energy are evident, and he has a love for this town. The past few weeks we have been meeting to discuss the focus of the Chamber of Commerce, and how to better assist our local businesses. Tim has brought many great ideas to the forefront. We always welcome input from our local businesses, so feel free to contact Tim as he would love to meet you, if he has not done so already.”
Goff said although it will take some planning and organizing, he’s looking forward to wearing multiple hats.
“It’s just a blending of positions, but they go hand-in-hand so well. My goal is to enhance the business community — sustain what we have and work at attracting more businesses,” said Goff. “To do that we are looking at ways to maintain the population and slow the traffic coming from Canada — attract them to the businesses here in town.”
Goff said he never really “moved away.”
“I worked away but have always maintained contact with the area, both personally and professionally,” he said.
Goff said one goal he has is to revamp the town’s website.
“It’s not accessible to mobile devices. We’ve become such a global society, it’s important to showcase the area internationally. Upgrading the website will help do that,” said Goff.
He’s been busy recently, attending public gatherings and meeting with citizens.
“Coming back has been a fantastic reminder of what a small-town community is all about. I helped organize an event with Santa and the community tree lighting in honor of J.R. McGillan. I attended the holiday luncheon with senior citizens this week. We’re offering free Chamber membership for 2015, and we’re looking for ideas and ways to help them with their businesses — asking them ‘what else do you want; what can we do to facilitate business,” said Goff. “I want to show others that you can come home again. Communities like Fort Fairfield are worth coming home to. It’s where I and my family want to be.”
For economic development or chamber information, call Goff at 472-3802.
