HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-04-15 Economic Development Committee MinutesG
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Economic Development Committee (EDC)
April 15, 2010 MINUTES 2g ~,AM 1
Members in Attendance: Meghan Young-Tafoya (Chair), Sheila Clarke (Vice-Chairman), Jack Russell,
Michele Williams, and George Rio met in the Berger Room, Town Hall at 7:30 P.M.
Members Absent: Michelle Ferullo, Russell Graham and Kara Fratto.
Others Present: Maria Higgins
Call to Order: There being a quorum the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM.
Other Business:
Meghan Young-Tafoya notified the committee that Kara Fratto (Associate) had decided to resign due to
not having enough time to attend meetings based on her schedule. Maria Higgins notified the committee
that she had submitted her nomination papers for an Associates position.
Meghan Young-Tafoya attended the Oak Tree Development "Open House" at the library. Approximately
45 people attended mostly neighbors and real estate agents. The presentation went well, there were
questions from the neighbors regarding building aesthetics which were addressed. Meghan met a
resident who is interested in possibly joining the EDC and will attend a future meeting. Oak Tree also
said they were in "talks" with a small grocer for the retail space.
On a motion made by Ms. Williams, seconded by Ms. Clarke, the EDC moved to approve the
minutes from March 17, 2010 as amended, by a vote of 4-0-0.
Sheila Clarke gave an overview of meetings she had with The Goddard School, The Venetian Moon, and
Sam's Bistro regarding the "Passport" project and the Reading Fall Street Faire. There was feedback that
the committee felt would be helpful to staff regarding customer service issue and the Development
Review Team process going forward. The EDC will put together recommendations regarding applicant
check lists, action items, etc. The EDC also requested that all CPDC meeting materials be forwarded to
them as well for educational purposes and synergy between both committees.
The committee discussed their concern regarding the town's sunset deadline for signage on South Main
Street. It was suggested that the July 1 t deadline be postponed until an organized plan to educate the
businesses of their options could be made. We also inquired about the pending permit tracking software
and when it was going to be in place. The questions of reporting capabilities, who was going to monitor it,
and if a demo could be given were raised.
EDC Workplan:
• Peter asked for content that the EDC would like discussed on "Ask the Town Manager"
• The Chamber of Commerce will be sponsoring the "Passport to Doing Business in Reading"
• Design Fagade Workshop - Abby will report at next meeting
• The Downtown Improvement Trust should be added to the work plan
Economic Development Activity Report:
• Encore Consignment Store opened on Ash Street (owner Mary DiDimenico)
• Awaiting update from Conservation Commission regarding Perfecto's Cafe
On a motion made by Mr. Rio and seconded by Ms. Williams, the Committee voted to adjourn at
9:30 P.M. on a unanimous vote, 4-0-0.
Next meeting is planned for Wednesday, May 5m, 2010
Respectfully submitted,
Sheila Clarke