pages: PlanningBoard/2005-09-12.pdf, 9
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PlanningBoard | 2005-09-12 | 9 | President Cunningham supported this kind of dialogue, but was concerned about potential circumnavigation of the public process. Ms. Kohlstrand thanked staff for the information, and noted that she believed that this kind of working group was important to understand the concerns. She recalled concerns expressed by Board members during the Bridgeside workgroups that they felt as if they had to buy into a decision before it came back to the full Board. She believed that a smaller group would be more doable. She believed it would be better without a Planning Board representative on the committee. Ms. Eliason noted that the full Board and public workshops and hearings would be still be held. Vice President Cook supported a workshop model that was more open and interactive. She had found the Bridgeside process to be very frustrating, and added that members of the public spoke in different capacities. She wanted to know who was accountable to whom. She was hesitant to start a new workgroup model without more information and consensus. Mr. Garrison did not anticipate this process to be a lengthy one. A discussion regarding time commitment and workgroup structure ensued. Mr. Piziali believed it was very important for the public to attend these workshops, but was not sure it was necessary for Board members to attend. He would be willing to have staff, the applicant, and representatives of the neighboring properties to attend these workgroups. Vice President Cook was concerned about the notion of participants believing they would be negotiating during these meetings, and added that there was no accountability. Mr. Lynch noted that these meetings dealt with the City Council' constituency, and that for the Board to take an active role at this stage would be problematic. Ms. Kohlstrand agreed with Mr. Lynch's concerns, and emphasized that while it was important for staff, the applicant and the public to meet, she did not believe the Planning Board needed to sanction it at this point. Vice President Cook requested more information about specific workshop details, such as number of workshops, accommodation for different schedules, and what kind of facilitator would be used. Mr. Piziali agreed that a neutral facilitator was crucial to the success of these workgroups. Ms. Kohlstrand suggested that staff also meet with the members of the Willows Homeowners Association to discuss their concerns. Mr. Lynch noted that it was important to redefine what the applicant wants, and added that not every Planning Board Minutes Page 9 September 12, 2005 | PlanningBoard/2005-09-12.pdf |