HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-08-03 Economic Development Committee Minutes'Economic Development Committee (EDC) RECEIVED
TOWN CLERK
August 3, 2011 MINUTES READING, MASS
Members in Attendance: Me han Youn Tafo a (Chair), Sheila Clarke (Vice- Chair), Jac Upsrft Yqh
Williams, Karl Weld and Ben Yoder met in the Berger Room, Town Hall.
Members Absent: George Rio, Michelle Ferullo and Maria Higgins.
Others Present: Erin Calvo -Bacci (Making Reading Better), Town Manager, Pete Hechenbleikner
Call to Order: There being a quorum the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:03 PM.
Other Business
On a motion by Ms. Clarke, seconded by Ms. Williams, the EDC voted to approve the minutes from July
20th as written by a vote of 4 -0 -0.
The Town Manager reviewed the reorganization of Community Services (Conservation, Elder Services, and
Public Health) all individuals that had previously worked for Reading had either retired or transitioned to other
towns. Currently there are three part -time individuals who are providing these services for the Community
Services department. In a couple of weeks the public health position will more than likely be regionalized serving
the towns of Reading, Melrose and Wakefield. With the reduction of the permits coordinator, Ms. McCabe is
largely responsible for providing these services. If additional hours are needed for these services, the Town may
draw from the inspection revolving funds to add manpower (service hours) to address needs. Mr.
Hechenbleikner has been monitoring these changes to ensure smooth transitions, and has received favorable
feedback.
Conservation Commission survey is drawing to a close. They'll be having a feedback session on Thursday,
August 4. The EDC is welcome to comment and the Conservation Commission is currently targeting the
September 28 Town Meeting submission date, if they have changes that need Town Meeting approval.
The Town Manager reviewed the sign enforcement tracking sheet and discussed the action plan for addressing
sign violations. The Community Services department have committed to spending two hours per week
specifically on enforcement. Working with the Town Manager they will create an action plan that will be focused
on new violations, prioritization of violations and consistent plan for violation escalation.
Plans for Phase 2 of the Downtown Redevelopment Project is in process. This project will be submitted through
MassWorks and would include Haven, Chute, High, Sanborn, and Linden Street. Application for construction
which would include reconstructing roads, street lighting, additional parking and trees. Pending Board of
Selectmen direction, an application may be submitted at the end of September.
The Town Manager also showed the EDC a product that we are trying out in 2 tree wells which is a composite of
shredded rubber, resin, and stone. He suggested that EDC members take a look at the 2 installations. The
"mulch substitute" allows better infiltration of water to the tree roots, and prevents weed growth. It also
enhances the sidewalk width as the product is installed flush with the sidewalk, and maintains access across the
product for handicapped accessibility. The cost for these blocks is $400 -500 (depending upon the quantity
purchased and size of the tree well). The EDC discussed adding these blocks into next year's Downtown
Improvement and Events Trust budget for the downtown.
Work Plan Highlights (See online spreadsheet for details):
Mr. Yoder reported that the five Reading Center directory signs (Phase One) have been delivered (and brought
a sample) he will coordinate with installation with the Reading DPW. Phase Two of the project will be adding
additional signage on West Street. Mr. Yoder will coordinate with the West Street Historic committee to discuss
options. Rex Ingram (local architect) has created an "after" rendering of a local business for the fagade
improvement project. The committee also received three applications from student architects to work with
Reading on this project. Ms. Young talked to Ms. Delios about the installation of the murals for 18 -20 Woburn
Street and will work with the town and the property owner to get these murals installed. Downtown Steering
reports are now with Brad Latham and will be sent to the Attorney General's office for dissolution of business;
Mr. Russell anticipates that $12,000 should be moved to the DIET by the end of the year. Farm stand press
release went out July 22. DHCD has approved the peer -to -peer grant for a review of the first five years and to
analyze the EDC and charter future possibilities.
Economic Development Activity:
CPDC approved Aine's signs (including a blade sign) People's Bank and Redesign by Melanie (on Brande
Court.) Oaktree had its groundbreaking ceremony this week. Mr. Russell and Ms. Young attended as did
members of the BOS and town staff.
On a motion by Ms. Clark, seconded by Mr. Yoder, the EDC voted to adjourn at 8:50 PM by a vote of 4 -0-
0.
The next meeting will be Wednesday, August 17th, 2011
Respectfully submitted,
Meghan Young- Tafoya