2023-07-27-HPB-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ms. Hai asked for clarification as to the disposition of funds that are returned to the RHSO consortium funds. Ms. Pontes said she would follow up on that question. Ms. Pontes will also follow up on several other questions and reissue the memo requesting approval of the RHSO funds, including the questions that were raised at the meeting. Ms. Weiss moved recommendation of the RHSO proposed use of HOME funds to the Select Board. Ms. Cohen seconded the motion. In favor: Harriet Cohen, Jeri Foutter, Paul Linton, Wendy Manz, Bob Pressman, Melanie Thompson, Betsey Weiss Against: none Abstaining: Charles Hornig, John Zhao 5. Real Estate Transfer Fee (RETF) Working Group Ms. Cohen provided an overview of the RETF and a summary of Lexington’s home rule petitions regarding real estate surcharges. Mr. Linton presented a spreadsheet analysis to provide insight as to the revenue that might be raised from the RETF. The HPB asked questions of clarifications about the RETF and as to the impact of the RETF on rental fees and commercial properties. The impact will depend on whether and how the RETF is implemented. It is possible to have a different RETF for different types of properties. The HPB also pointed out that the bill could change in small or large ways before it is passed (if it is), so it is premature to recommend specifics of implementation. The HPB also noted that the Town is not required to implement the RETF. The HPB asked for clarification as to what information or recommendation is being requested by the Select Board. Ms. Foutter will follow up with Mr. Pato for clarification. 6. Vote on Highlights of HPB Accomplishments, 2003 to present Ms. Kowalski asked what the HPB has accomplished from its creation to present. Ms. Weiss has prepared and circulated a list. Please send any updates to Ms. Weiss by end of day Friday, July 28. Ms. Weiss will follow up with Mr. Pressman regarding his additions to the list. 7. Board Member/Liaison Updates CPC: CPC met July 13. The CPC voted to hold an executive session on potential acquisition of real property. The CPC exited executive session and reconvened. The first item on the Select Board July 24 agenda was “Exemption 6: Potential Land Acquisition”, with the discussion held in executive session. The agenda tracker indicates that the Town has been approached by a resident seeking the Town’s interest in purchasing a portion of their property. Planning Board: The Planning Board is working on site plan review and other regulations for the new special residential developments and village overlay districts. The zoning changes need Attorney General approval, which is expected soon.