Georgetown Mayor Jay Doyle defended his recent trip to Helsinki, Finland during a community forum Thursday night, saying the overseas visit was intended to build relationships and explore economic opportunities that could eventually benefit Georgetown.
Doyle said the trip focused heavily on wood-based products and innovations involving timber and wood fibers, including their use in construction materials and consumer products. He said he hopes connections made during the visit could eventually create opportunities for investment and job growth in Georgetown.
The city had originally estimated taxpayer costs for the trip at approximately $4,000. However, Doyle said the final city expense was closer to $2,500, with any additional costs paid out of his own pocket.
Reaction from the community appeared mixed. Some residents questioned whether economic efforts should remain focused closer to home, while others voiced support for a long-term strategy aimed at attracting future industry and redevelopment opportunities.
During the forum, Doyle also discussed broader concepts for Georgetown’s waterfront redevelopment, describing them as only the “tip of the iceberg.”