HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-06-15 Economic Development Committee Minutes Economic Development Committee (EDC) T RE CLERK
� �t
June 15, 2011 MINUTES READING.VED
MASS.
Members in Attendance: Meghan Young-Tafoya(Chair), Sheila Clarke(Vice-Chair), Jack RusseRORAWL 2 1 P 5: 11
Graham, Michele Williams, Michelle Ferullo and Maria Higgins met in the Berger Room, Town Hall.
Members Absent: George Rio and Ben Yoder
Others Present: Jean Delios, Town Planner
Call to Order: There being a quorum the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
On a motion by Ms. Williams,seconded by Mr. Graham, the EDC voted to approve the minutes from
June 1 by a vote of 4-0-0.
Feedback/Survey:
Ms. Young-Tafoya discussed the survey, reporting that 5 members have completed it, and reminding others to
do so. Survey results will be discussed at the next meeting.
Economic Development Summit:
The members discussed the Summit, finding that many planned discussions items were not presented due to
the open discussion. The EDC appreciated Tina Brzezenski sharing her permitting experiences and especially
her suggestion to match businesses with each other to share advice and experiences. A suggestion was made
that the next Summit be hosted by the Town Moderator so the BOS can participate.
Work Plan Highlights(See online spreadsheet for details):
Updates to the Work Plan were reviewed. Ms. Delios reported on the Way-Finding/Branding project, including
the successful walk with four members of the CPDC to review actual placement of the wayfinding signs. Ms.
Young-Tafoya reported that color-coded parking signs are permitted with state approval if they are part of a
specific municipal plan. The Fagade Improvement program is progressing, and Ms. Williams is seeking
architects who may be willing to donate a block of time. Regarding the New Crossing Road project, Ms. Delios
will remind Mr. Hechenbleikner to schedule a meeting, and Mr. Graham will remain involved to assist with this
project. Ms. Clarke will thank the DPW for their efficient work in hanging the flower baskets. Ms. Clarke also
reported on a communication from a business owner at the intersection of Main and Franklin Streets that this
area would benefit from banners with multiple businesses at that location. The EDC discussed funding for
additional banners on Main Street at the entrance to Reading from Stoneham, and from North Reading (Franklin
Street), as well as the entrance to downtown from High Street.
On a motion by Ms. Clarke, seconded by Ms. Young-Tafoya, the EDC voted to allocate an additional
$1500 from the Downtown Improvement and Events Trust(DIET)for these additional banners.
Economic Development Activity:
Updates to the Economic Development Activity Spreadsheet were reviewed, including the move of Aine's
Boutique, and the relocation of Magic Cleaners into the former Aine's space on Haven Street.
Other Business:
Board Reorganization—Ms.Williams proposed delaying any reorganization until after the Fall Street Faire, and
the members concurred.
Retirement of Mr. Graham: The EDC recognized and thanked Russell Graham for his many years of
extraordinary service as he retires from the EDC. Ms.Young-Tafoya reminded the group that if any Associate
Members were interested in applying to be a full voting Member, they should apply via Paula Schena in Mr.
Hechenbleikner's office, and they will ultimately be interviewed and approved by the BOS.
There being no further business, on a motion by Ms_ Clarke, seconded by Mr. Graham, the EDC voted to
adjourn at 8:25 p.m. by a vote of 40-0.
The next meeting will be Wednesday,July 6,2011
Respectfully submitted, Maria Higgins(Associate Member, EDC)