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Minutes for the Meeting of September 10, 2008 Page 5 <br /> <br />basis for what ever we do so he advocated keeping the FAR at .15 and using a predetermined formula, <br />whether tied to the special permit or site plan review. The burden should fall on those getting the density <br />bonuses rather than the residents. <br /> <br />Ms. Manz said we don’t have to make a decision now and could use mitigation fees and betterments <br />together. While roadway improvements would benefit all the properties in the area. They could consider <br />adding a tier for developers who choose to expand. Mr. Henry said under State law only 50% of the <br />sidewalks and bike paths could be assessed to betterments. <br /> <br />Mr. Galaitsis asked who instituted betterments. The town cannot expect help from the State so should <br />look at betterments. The town should make some contribution as an incentive and the property owners <br />could sell at a higher value even if not redeveloped. Mr. Canale said the concept of what the Cecil report, <br />Buzz Constable and the Smart Growth toolbox recommended was infrastructure costs should be imposed <br />on those who benefit. Additional transportation demand management should be placed on those who <br />choose to expand. <br /> <br />Mr. Hornig said the use of impact fees legally was a gray area and betterments were clearly legal. To date <br />he was not aware of a good template presented for impact fees. Mr. Zurlo said he was uncomfortable <br />featuring betterments in the first public discussion of commercial development. Mr. Hornig said the <br />Board would be taking it to the Board of Selectmen as a possible tool for funding improvements. Mr. <br />Canale said it would be imprudent not to explore the option further. Ms. Manz favored the use of <br />betterment assessments on all those in a discreet area like Hartwell Avenue who benefit from <br />improvements, in combination with mitigation contributions from those individual parcels which chose to <br />expand. Ms. McCall-Taylor said she would put together a packet of financing options. <br /> <br />Mr. Zurlo said the Board needs time to discuss questions for the breakout session on October 4. <br />There will be a meeting October 1, 2008. <br /> <br />On a motion duly made and seconded, it was voted to adjourn the meeting at 10:55 p.m. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />Wendy Manz, Clerk <br /> <br />