pages: PlanningBoard/2007-02-12.pdf, 11
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PlanningBoard | 2007-02-12 | 11 | Vice President Cook believed there should be discussions of continuity of waterfront access, and a discussion held whether there should be common themes or different design concepts. She would like to see more emphasis on pedestrian-friendly walkways. She expressed concern about the City's gateways, and would like to see more gateway planning efforts. She believed that uses such as food banks and the Salvation Army were essential to the community but may not be appropriate for gateways. She added that other uses such as auto uses and cigarette shops might not be appropriate gateway uses as well. Vice President Cook would like staff's reports to summarize status of developers' comments to follow up on and strengthen developer promises and commitments. Member Cunningham inquired about the breadth of subjects that could be covered by ordinances from a legal point of view. Ms. Mooney replied that it would depend on the topic, and noted that the City has legal enforcement available to deteriorated buildings. She noted that there were many factors to take into account, and that it would depend on the specific subject matter. President Lynch noted that the Health and Safety Code would address dilapidated buildings. Ms. Woodbury advised that the Planning Board typically addressed development regulations, and staff has occasionally approached the Board to amend development regulations for a certain purpose, such as K&L findings. She emphasized that she was committed to using the staff resources as efficiently as possible, and that some items were required to be performed by state law. President Lynch believed the public would like to see the Towne Centre and gas station on the same evening. The public hearing was opened. Mr. Adam Garfield agreed with Member Mariani's request to track developer commitments. Ms. Woodbury suggested that he speak with staff regarding any project-specific comments and questions. The public hearing was closed for Board discussion. President Lynch acknowledged that there was considerable frustration over the Blanding project, and that a Board member may ask for a scheduled revocation hearing if certain benchmarks were not met. He understood that the Board wished to avoid that, and that there were significant differences of opinion. He suggested a site visit where Board members could gain more information about signage and other items. Member Mariani noted her disappointment in how the project had developed, after the many hours of discussion and hearings by the Planning Board. She hoped the situation Planning Board Minutes Page 11 February 12, 2007 | PlanningBoard/2007-02-12.pdf |