Town-gown relations extend into business realm

Last year, the University pumped $1 million into the local economy, purchasing goods and services provided by small businesses in Medford and Somerville,

According to Director of Community Relations Barbara Rubel, the University makes an effort to incorporate local businesses when making purchasing decisions. Through her office, the University has a strong connection with the Medford and Somerville Chambers of Commerce. Rubel serves on the Board of Directors of both chambers.

Tufts has been directly involved in projects organized by the Somerville Chamber and has been particularly active with the New Group Committee. New Group is aimed at "generating additional funds for the purpose of raising the city's profile as an attractive address for business and development," Rubel said.

According to Somerville Chamber of Commerce Director Steve Mackey, the University has been instrumental in New Group's success. Recently, Tufts representatives hosted members of the Urban Land Institute, a non-profit organization that promotes efficient and environmentally safe use of land, in their full-day tour of the city.

President Larry Bacow has also attended several New Group events.

As Somerville faces large state funding cutbacks, Mackey sees potential in the relationship between the University and the city. "The city of Somerville is financially challenged, but this does not mean the solution has to be financial," he said. "It can be innovative."

Recently, Rubel and Vice President of University Relations Mary Jeka attended a discussion with Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone about transportation in Somerville, with proposed extensions of the Green Line and the Orange Line on the drawing board.

Tufts would benefit from the convenience of having T stops near campus, and local businesses would benefit from an influx of potential customers and employees. This involvement is indicative of mutually beneficial "town-gown" relations, Mackey said.

Additionally, Tufts helps in bringing media attention to the city and "dealing with Boston business media in order to position Somerville economically," Mackey said.

Both chambers of commerce are important for nurturing small businesses in the area. Chamber membership gives businesses a voice, Rubel said. As for the University, "Tufts' involvement in the chamber contributes to its financial health and creates contacts for us in the local business community," Rubel said.

"We also benefit from the events that the chamber sponsors, connecting elected officials and department heads with chamber members," she said.

Mackey and Rubel agreed their relationship is congenial, although Mackey stressed that "there is always room for improvement."

Some local businesses patronized by Tufts include Medford's AAA Electric, Cyr Sign and Banner, Joseph's Transportation, Sweetie's Candies, and Somerville's Carli Fence.



Rubel said that Tufts also tries to support Grafton and Boston businesses around the veterinary, medical and dental schools. "We make the same effort in our other host communities as well," she said.