2007-05-24-CPC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Community Preservation Committee Minutes May 24, 2007 Town Meeting Review – The Committee discussed the comments raised by John Rosenberg and Peter Enrich during the debate on Article 4 ( inclusionary housing.) They felt that the CPC should have a “plan” regarding the creation of affordable housing and should be more proactive in its support of affordable housing. The CPC disagrees with their position, believing that advocacy is not the role of the CPC, but rather the role of other groups to make proposals for CPC consideration. The many comments made during the Article 4 debate about the potential role of the CPC in supporting housing measures showed a basic misunderstanding of the CPC role. More education will be needed to clarify the actual role of the CPC, as set forth in the Community Preservation Statute. -The Committee also discussed deadline issues, as raised by some at Town Meeting. We continue to believe that November 1 is a reasonable deadline, considering the need for discussion, hearings and decisions to be made in time for Town Warrant inclusion. Outlined proposals without complete details could be submitted on time, with details added later, in time for CPC and Town Meeting discussion and votes. - Discussion of Kahtadin Woods indicated that price-controlled units could be coming up for sale soon, and should be considered by LexHab for purchase, with possible CPC assistance. Wendy stated her feeling that the CPC must insist on 40B criteria when considering housing for CPC support. Betsy will speak to Martha Wood and others at LexHab about the Kahtadin Woods units. Job Description for CPC staff person – There was discussion about new staff person approved by Town Meeting to be hired in support of CPC. The Finance Department wants a small amount of her/his time for the Assessor’s Office for work supporting the CPC. Suggestions were made to have the new HR person help Betsy in developing the job description. The new hire could be made as soon as July. Year-end Evaluation and Changes for Next Year – Betsy asked Sandy to review the application for any necessary updates. Dick Wolk discussed the Conservation Commission concerns about the large parcels being considered for purchase which will need CPC funds. He said that while other interests (such as Housing and Recreation) may be interested in sharing some of the land, the Commission considers open space as paramount in any Conservation purchase. Mention was made that although the cost of the land will be very high, CPC funds could be used as collateral on a loan. - All of the participating committees have been requested to appoint their CPC representatives for a 2-year term by June 30. Needs Assessment – Betsy reminded the Committee that the Needs Assessment draft needs to be finished and Richard and Wendy agreed to handle.