HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-11-07 Economic Development Committee MinutesEconomic Development Committee (EDC)
November 7, 2012 Minutes
Members in Attendance: Sheila Clarke (Chair), Ben Yoder (Vice- Chair), Meghan Young - Tafoya, Michele
Williams, and George Rio met in the Berger Room, Town Hall.
Members Absent: Karl Weld, Maria Higgins, Camille Anthony and Jack Russell.
Others Present: Jessie Wilson (Staff Planner).
Call to Order: There being a quorum the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.
Approval of EDC Minutes 10/17/2012
On a motion by Ms. Young - Tafoya, seconded by Mr. Rio, the EDC voted to approve the minutes from the
October 17, 2012 EDC meeting as presented. Motion carried 5-0-0.
Review of Downtown Idea Exchange
Ms. Young - Tafoya said there were about 10 items in the previous article which she found very interesting. She
suggested the EDC review the article so they can discuss at an upcoming meeting.
Review of Parking By -Law Amendments
Ms. Young - Tafoya expressed support for the proposed changed. She suggested that the presentation at Town
Meeting include photos and examples of the parking changes. Mr. Rio also expressed support, specifically the
phased parking. However, he was concerned about the ability for the Building Instpector to require the spaces
be constructed at any time.
On a motion by Ms. Young - Tafoya, seconded by Ms. Clarke, the EDC voted to support Article 16 for Off -
Street Parking and Loading Areas as presented for Town Meeting. Motion carried 5 -0 -0.
Peer to Peer Grant Update
Ms. Wilson told the Committee that the request for the Peer to Peer grant was not fundable and they should
consider an alternative request. The Committee discussed some ideas for which a peer could provide valuable
insight. The Committee agreed that they should request a Peer to evaluate a "marketing strategy" which will
evaluate branding and slogan ideas for the EDC. Ms. Wilson will solicit input from DHCD on this request.
Workplan Update
Mr. Yoder told the Committee he would like to shift about the Workplan layout. Items which are actively being
worked on will be up top and other items will be placed in other business. This is so the EDC can focus the
discussion on active items, but still keep tabs on other projects. Approximately $4,500 from the DIET was
previously allocated for Phase 2 of the Wayfinding Signage Project. The EDC agreed that they do not want to
pay to have additional signs fabricated and will reallocate those funds. The installation of the sign at Woburn
and West Street is being investigated by DPW. There was concern over installing it on the STOP sign since it is
knocked over several times a year. Ms. Young - Tafoya suggested that some of the funds be allowed for a map
which could be placed near the depot. It would be a map similar to what Mr. Weld is currently working on.
On a motion by Ms. Young - Tafoya, seconded by Mr. Yoder, the EDC voted to retain $1,000 for the
development of the maps and the remaining amount of the previously allocated funds to be placed back
into the DIET for general purposes. Motion carried 5 -0 -0.
Mr. Rio reported that he spoke with someone at Mr. Matteo Gallo's office and that they hope to have a timeline
for project commencement soon. Ms. Robyn Parker has indicated her sign will be very expensive to fabricate
and she is figuring out the financials. Ms. Parker is also working with Family Dental on preparing a plan for a
Development Review Team (DRT) meeting. The EDC working group for Social Media met and they have an
outline prepared. Each member will perform some independent research and will report back at their next
meeting. Ms. Young - Tafoya suggested that additional bows and wreaths be purchased for those poles that face
the train station.
On a motion by Ms. Young - Tafoya, seconded by Ms. Clarke, the EDC voted to allocated $1,200 from the
DIET for approximately 5-7 wreathes and bows to be placed on the poles that face the train station on
High Street. Motion carried 5-0-0.
Ms. Young - Tafoya reported on Retail Visioning. The EDC was very pleased with the Executive Report prepared
by Christine. It was said that 2 Haven Street cannot have blade signs because the co -op will not allow it. It was
suggested that a marketing person should be engaged to help with the implementation of some of the
suggestion. The EDC agreed that they will reach out to Chris to see if there are schools and /or resources that
could help carry out these implementation recommendations. Ms. Wilson told the EDC that Chris will be
attending the December 5t' meeting to discuss the project with RCN.
Economic Development Update
Walkers Brook Drive will be added to the list as well as the space next to Hot Spot which is for lease. In addition,
the Wine Shop is now for sale. The EDC asked about Jenny Boston. Ms. Wilson replied that she is not sure
why they have not submitted for their sign. Planet Fitness will return to the CPDC with additional traffic
information on November 262' and the Town expects and application from 95 Main Street for exterior
renovations to the commercial building.
Ms. Wilson also reported that RMLD has secured a contract with Next Step Living to perform free home energy
assessments. They will also be looking into other town -wide programs which may involve local businesses. She
felt the EDC may be a great resource once those programs move forward.
On a motion by Ms. Young- Tafoya, seconded by Ms. Williams, the EDC voted to adjourn at 9:00 PM.
Motion carried 4-0-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Jessie Wilson, Staff Planner