SACO — The Saco Economic Development director is asking the city to change the zoning in the B3 downtown zone to help entice a kayak and canoe manufacturing company.

Economic Development Director William Mann said at Monday night’s City Council meeting the business which “at this point I’d prefer not to name” is looking at different possible downtown locations along the Saco River. He said such a location would allow the business to use the river for product demonstrations.

The suggested locations along the river are located in the city’s B3 zone, which promotes retail businesses and services within walking distance of high density residential development. Manufacturing is currently not allowed in the zone.

Mann said if the kayak company were to open in Saco, it would employ initially “about half a dozen folks” and potentially more in the future.

Mann said the company’s interest in the city was contingent on a proposed zoning change to allow manufacturing in the B3 zone, and if Saco did not approve zoning changes, negotiations would end. The proposed zoning change has received approval from the Planning Board.

Councilor Eric Cote said he’d prefer a contract zone that would grant zoning for the kayak company and not for the whole district, as it would give the city more control.

Councilor Kevin Roche said he was concerned the potential locations along the Saco River might not be a safe area for kayak and canoe demonstrations.

The suggested zoning change will go before a public hearing on July 5.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.