2008-01-23-PB-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Page 2 Minutes for the Meeting of January 23, 2008 in then. Mr. Hornig responded saying no, the open space has to be uplands. Mr. Galaitsis asked whether the minimum useable open space is delected from both future cluster and conventional developments. Mr. Hornig clarified that it is. Mr. Frank Sandy said he felt with the Balanced Housing Development while the intent is laudable, having 50% below 4,700 square feet and 25% below 3,500 square feet would not work. He said that the numbers needed to change and required units should be considerably smaller. Mr. Ken Kreutziger asked if a prototype had been developed using four units with 32,000 square feet GFA, 10% affordable, and 33% open space. He said to make sure the numbers work if they want to achieve their objectives. Chair of the Board of Selectmen, Ms. Jeanne Krieger, asked if the Board is encouraging sustainable developments using green housing techniques? Mr. Hornig said at this time the Board is not prepared to put that in the regulations since the techniques are too new and the Board needs to research them. The Board may ask developers to incorporate LEEDS standards, but not at this time. Ms. Manz said the Board has made a commitment to address the standards and there will be considerable research and discussion when they revisit this issue in the near future. Ms. Gloria Bloom asked how the affordability of units would be maintained. Mr. Hornig said there would be a resale covenant that goes with the land in perpetuity. Mr. Fred Martin said he presumed developers find it more attractive to put more units in a cluster so what would the quid pro quo be? What restrictions would be put in place to protect the abutters? Mr. Hornig said there is 33% more open space and mix of unit sizes with smaller units. Mr. Joe Marino asked what would be the standards regarding the proof plan? Mr. Hornig said the Board is discussing changes, but nothing new right now. Mr. Frank Sandy stated affordable housing held in perpetuity is confusing. You could purchase an affordable unit when you qualify and then your earnings increase and you no longer qualify. A requirement should be added that they can only be rental and conveyed to LexHAB so when the resident no longer meets the income restrictions another qualifying person could have the same opportunity as the previous tenant. Mr. Hornig said there are standard requirements and it is important to offer both options.