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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - MPC - 10/17/2017 Master Plan Committee Minutes of 10/17/17 Meeting APPROVED MINUTES MASTER PLAN COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: Tuesday, October 17, 2017 TIME:7:00 PM LOCATION: Willcutt Center, Point Room IN ATTENDANCE: Clark Brewer, Chair Peter Hobson Katie Dugan Dr. Paul Schubert Kevin McCarthy Patrick Kennedy Lynn Schwandt Angela Geso, MPC Administrator Renato Costello, MAPC—Community Outreach Ralph Wilmer, MAPC - Project Manager ABSENT: John Donohue Eric Seuss Amy Glasmeier Charlie Higginson Meeting called to order at 7:00 by Chair Brewer The committee members introduced themselves to the MAPC consultants and discussed the mission of the MPC. Renato Costello and Ralph Wilmer of MAPC talked about expectations and the best approach. Vision Statement Workinq Group--Update The main focus to date is the town seal and what it represents. The four elements will be expanded upon with bullet points or other narrative to explain their significance. There should also be a concise summation of what the MPC has accomplished so far and what they expect to accomplish going forward. Ralph Willmer suggested a slogan or logo. Members should bring their ideas to the next meeting regarding the town seal. The possibility of a Kick Off event was discussed. Lynn Schwandt wants a kick-off meeting in January but others want to piggy-back with the March Health & Rec Fair. MAPC suggested a meeting during the week. Discussion ensued as to what would be more productive: evening or Saturday. MAPC recommended an online social media push to generate interest early and then feed people pertinent information on a regular basis. Ralph Willmer explained that the length of the project relies on the amount of involvement and time spent on reviews and upgrade. Katie Dugan said we need to be aware of the progress of other committees, boards and commissions involved with Master Plan and need to reflect pertinent findings into the final version. The committee feels there is currently good momentum to capitalize on and the Fall 2018 Town Meeting should continue to be our goal. However, more time will be taken if needed. Chapter Review: Transportation and Circulation: Dr. Schubert Train Service: The commuter rail has had a major effect on the residents including commuting options, social advantages(proximity to Boston), and increased commercial activity at Old Colony Plaza. While state grants alleviate some of the financial burden associated with maintenance, road repairs and snow removal the town needs to establish 5-yr. and 10-yr. plans to upgrade roads and address real structural issues.A town-wide shuttle to access the commuter rail station has been suggested. Pedestrian and Bike Traffic: We need to define areas accessible by sidewalks to stimulate both commercial and recreational activity. For example, sidewalks and pedestrian crossings could create access from Avalon to Master Plan Committee Minutes of 10/17/17 Meeting local businesses along the Route 3A corridor. In addition, bike paths and sidewalks could provide access to recreational and social locations. Katie Dugan wants input from residents to prioritize the areas that are most desirable to access. Electric Vehicles: The town needs more charger points to accommodate electric vehicles as they are definitely the way of the future. In addition, the increase it would involve road upgrades, signage and other considerations. Some members feel we should be prepared for rather than react to this when it happens but others felt why waste town resources and revenue on something that may not come to be. Dr. Schubert said we could attract high-end people to town with electric vehicle chargers but other members felt that while chargers aren't a bad idea it would be counter-productive to neglect larger needs for something with minimal impact. Summary of Findings: Transportation and Circulation priorities include access to the commuter rail, road maintenance, pedestrian and bike accessibility, and incorporating safety with accessibility. Lynn Schwandt feels it would be better if we could set our own priorities rather than let the state determines what happens regarding the 3A corridor. Katie Dugan feels it might be helpful to break down Rte 3A into south, middle and north and prioritize from there. Chair Brewer said that curb cuts and other upgrades will encourage commercial/business development and suggested working with developers to see if they would include sidewalk installation and other hardscaping as a part of their projects. apter Revi ew: Energy and Sustainabifity: Amy Glasmeier „ Array Glasmeier was not present at this meeting to present her updates and findings. This topic will be discussed at a future meeting. With no further business, motion to adjourn at 9.1 15 pm was made, seconded and unanimously approved. Meeting adjourned at 9:25 pm. DATE APPROVED BY MASTER PLAN COMMITTEE: SIGNATURE OF COMMITTE CHAIR: