KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Taylor Caswell, Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs, joined Good Morning with Dan Mitchell on WKBK Radio this morning to discuss the state’s pressing economic and housing challenges.

Caswell’s department, established in 2017, oversees a broad range of initiatives, including workforce development, affordable housing, broadband expansion, tourism marketing, and business support.

A major focus of the interview was New Hampshire’s ongoing affordable housing crisis. With some of the lowest vacancy rates in the nation, the state has faced mounting pressure to address this issue. Caswell highlighted the state’s $100 million allocation from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to the “Invest New Hampshire” program, designed to expedite the construction of affordable housing units.

Instead of imposing mandates, the state is encouraging municipalities to identify and implement solutions that suit their unique needs while maintaining their local character. Caswell emphasized collaboration, explaining that the state offers resources and incentives through initiatives like the “Housing Champions” program to help communities with planning and zoning efforts.

Infrastructure barriers, such as inadequate water and sewer systems, also pose significant challenges to housing development. Caswell discussed how the state is working to address these obstacles and stressed the importance of a balanced housing approach that includes workforce, senior, and market-rate options, leveraging both public and private investments.

The commissioner acknowledged community concerns about the potential impact of new developments on local budgets and services, including schools. He urged municipalities to carefully evaluate these factors while planning for growth.

The conversation also touched on revitalizing New Hampshire’s economy, particularly through manufacturing and life sciences industries. Caswell described efforts to re-establish the state as a hub for precision optics and advanced manufacturing, harkening back to its history as a center for optical manufacturing. Companies are repurposing old mills in Manchester for cutting-edge activities like regenerative manufacturing and 3D organ printing.

These sectors, Caswell noted, hold significant potential for creating good-paying jobs, though challenges like housing and childcare must be addressed to support the workforce. The state is also working to broaden its marketing efforts, aiming to attract not only tourists but also new businesses and workers by showcasing New Hampshire’s natural assets, vibrant communities, and job opportunities.

International trade remains vital to the state’s economy, particularly its strong economic ties with Canada. Caswell expressed concerns about potential tariffs and their impact on this critical trade relationship.

Listen to the full interview: