11/29/1982 GROWTH STUDY COMMITTEE Minutes

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Growth Study Com. Page 2. Mr. Barber told the guests present that the Growth Study Committee had found #4 to be the most desirable concept. He continued that it leaves the existing shop- ping center as is, and adds a hotel/motel complex. All parking is off-street, and primarily behind the buildings. This makes a more attractive center:, and a safer one because there are fewer curb-cuts. Then, there would be townhouses clustered behind the commercial establishments - and undoubtedly more townhouses would spring up beyond those presently proposed. A link is provided to the Police/Fire Complex. The bike path presents an alternate, safer facility and could also be use for walking and jogging. As an example of the concept he is proposing, Mr. Barber mentioned Mystic Seaport Village in Connecticut, and reported that there is also a similar one in Plymouth, Massachusetts. They are pedestrian-orient-,d environments. He then showed slides of the Mystic Seaport Center, pointing out its use of New England architecture. Mr. Barber then invited comments from the landowners. He pointed out that there is one primary landholder, and that is an advantage. He stressed that the concept would be phased in over at least a fifteen year period. Mr. Barber was asked where would implementation of the plan start? Response: We would start with those landowners who are most interested, after the proper zoning is adopted. Mr. Barber acknowledged that the plan calls for higher density than the existing zoning allows - but some trading off could be done. It is possible to encourage development to go into the Center by relaxing the present density restrictions. This would require special permits to some extent. At the same time, you would be decreasing density in the peripheral areas,- so that the net result would be a wash. Chm. Terry explained the make=up of the Growth Study Committee, how it is composed of representatives of all town agencies. This is to get the input from everyone. The concept is intended to benefit EMr�oj2e. This is the only way for the town to succeed. Anything that improves the town, is better for everyone. This plan is intended to better the town. He asked the landowners and the citizens to have faith in this com- mittee, and its intentions. Selma Rollins asked if it is intended for the bike path to go over or under Routes 151 and 28? Mr. Barber explained that would depend on what the state would allow - they might be willing to help with the funding, even, and possibly permit a special crossing. * Selma responded that that is not good. She then asked, what is going to be done regarding the commercial zoning? Mr. Barber responded that it would mean pulling the commercial zone in a little, but allowing denser than usual residential surrounding the area. Mr. Marsters, stated that the concept could be maintained, but the boundaries expanded. Ellie Wasil said she did not like the concept. She stated that there is now enough commercially-zoned land in town as it is. Selma Rollins said that people who bought land for commercial purposes are being asked to give it up for residential use. Mr. Marstprs urged the questioners to think of the plan in terms of a Village Center concept. Selma Rollins objected, saying these plans have been shaping up for 1% years, and the landowners are just now being called in - after it is already a fait-accompli. Michell Stone corrected her, saying that this committee first saw these plans 2 weeks ago, and their immediate reaction was to invite the landowners in - that is why they are here. Earle Marsters explained that last year's work had nothing to do with this. Buff Chase said that maybe the planners should have talked to landowners before coming up with a plan. It seems they are being asked to construct buildings before it is known whether or not there are tenants available. The economy is too uncertain to -do that.