SACO — A city councilor has suggested that Saco withdraw its membership from the local chamber of commerce in order to save money.

As part of its annual expenditures, the city funds $38,600 to local economic development organization Saco Spirit and gives $3,000 to the Biddeford+Saco Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Chamber Executive Director Craig Pendleton said both Biddeford and Saco give $3,000 annually as sponsoring members.

The chamber recently moved its office from the Saco train station to Water Street in Biddeford.

Saco Mayor Don Pilon said in a phone interview that at a recent city council workshop, Councilor Eric Cote suggested the city stop its membership with the chamber.

Pilon said he believes it’s important for the city to be a member of the chamber, and is concerned that Cote may get enough support on the council for his proposal to go forward.

“It’s just not good public policy,” he said.

Cote said Saco Spirit does “a great job” with the events like the annual Sidewalk Arts Festival and Pumpkin Harvest Festival, and the city doesn’t need to be a member of the chamber in addition to funding Saco Spirit.

“The reason is money,” said Cote.

Cote said this is one of a list of items he wants fellow councilors to consider in order to save money in the upcoming budget year.

He said the money could be used on paving projects. Cote said road conditions are the biggest complaint by far that he receives.

Pendleton said it would be unfortunate if Saco chose to end its membership with the chamber.

“This is a business decision,” said Pendleton. “We treat the City of Saco like a business, and if they choose to drop their membership, that’s their decision.”

If Saco should choose to end its membership with the chamber and then change its mind in the future, the chamber would welcome them back, said Pendleton.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].