After a grant-funded study helped the town discover its strength and weaknesses in attracting new businesses, officials are looking to expand economic development opportunities in Dartmouth.

The Planning Board presented findings from the Economic Development Self-Assessment Tool (EDSAT) to the Select Board on November 28. The board concluded that while the town's permitting application, a well-maintained website, and high quality of living are strengths for attracting growth, there are more opportunities to take advantage of.

"We're not going to survive on a fiscal basis with 30 to 50 new residential buildings a year," said Town Administrator David Cressman.

He explained that while growth in the town — including the addition of solar farms, medical facilities, and the expansions of three car dealerships — have added to the town's incoming revenue over the past six years, the town needs to keep attracting new businesses in order to continue balancing the budget.

"State aid hasn't been rising," said Cressman, explaining that that the town wants to avoid tax hikes, which would be necessary without additional growth.

Town Planner John Hansen says the town can do a better job at marketing itself.

Officials said some of the town's disadvantages include its proximity to major airports and Boston, and a lack of an economic development strategy.

Suggestions from the $5,000 study also include better networking and collaboration with both the Chamber of Commerce and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.

The Planning Board, Finance Committee, and Select Board debated how best to move forward with the new data.

"Is there an appetite for a lot more commercial growth in town?" asked members of the Finance Committee.

"[Route 6 is] our gateway to Dartmouth," said Planning Board member Lorri-Ann Miller. She said that because the town doesn't have money to beautify that area, it's important to invite businesses in that can make it attractive.

"Once those areas are done, the potential for growth is there," she said, referring to Route 6 and Tucker/Hathaway roads.

Board members did voice concerns over inviting more traffic to those areas, when traffic seems to be getting worse.

Board members also discussed the importance of attracting growth that could easily be updated and repurposed according to economic demands. For example, members explained that malls are losing business. Despite the success of the Dartmouth Mall, it is not wise to build another mall because of the national trend.

"It's important to keep looking, keep searching, and keep surveying," said Planning Board Vice Chairman Joseph Toomey.