09/01/1982 GROWTH STUDY COMMITTEE Minutes

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Growth Study Com. Min. Page 2. 9/l/82 Col. McNamara pointed out that the Air Force has invested a lot of money in their air bases. They bring in 60 - 70 million dollars a year into a community; he implied some tolerance is expected for this. He acknowledged that test cell runs bring in the most complaints. Returning to the maps, Mike Makunas stated that the Quaker Run Development, as proposed, is not in the recommended area, that the density is above that recommended. It was also pointed out that the Pilgrim Pride Nursing Home is just barely inside the zone, but that was built before the zones were set. Col. McNamara pointed out that a community has the responsibility to protect its citizens >by observing these zones. Sel. Thomas said she understands that Falmouth has adopted sueh:"a protective plan. Col. McNamara confirmed this.. Col. McNamara noted that most people don't take the trouble to read the plan, unless they are directly involved. Falmouth has modified their zoning laws to comply with the plan's recommendations. Building permits issued for construction within the compatible zones may require extra soundproofing. Set. Thomas asked if there is any recourse for a person buying a house in a town where the officials are aware of the zones., but have taken no action to protect the land buyers? Col. .McNamara said certainly there is - those officials could be sued - they are like a corporate board of directors, and are responsible.for the town's activities. He ssaid that such suits have taken place in some areas. He said the U.S. Army is now using such zone plans. He said the government simply can't afford to buy up all the land around the bases, yet they make a huge investment in the bases. He pointed out that there is more money going into this community now than when the Air Force had Otis. He said they are constantly spending on installations, conservation, supplies, employees, etc. All this comes from the community. Mr. Richardson asked if the water on the base came from wells? Yes. -Col. McNamara said that rehabilitation of the sewer treatment plant on the base is being done. Otis is now owned by the Air Force, the state, and the Air National Guard. The Coast Guard has about 3,000 acres. The army has. about 14,000 acres in ranges, etc., which are licensed to the Army National Guard. He Conti-rued that the water wells have been tested and are being reworked to improve efficiency. The sewer is designed for 40,000 units, and is being taxed far below that now. Sel. Thomas asked if the zones areas might be revised? Col. McNamara said they are ehecking with the Coast Guard now regarding their future activities and equipment. But there would be no drastic revisions anticipated. He said the bulge in the Johns Pond area may be reduced. Chm. Terry asked if the plan takes into consideration future changes in air craft? Col McNamara said just the plans on fighters, not on tankers. Col. McNamara siad Mashpee has very little non compatible development now. He only real concern at this time is Quaker Run.. He offered to secure another 12 copies of the plan and provide them to the town within the next few days.. Col. McNamara said the landfill is of concern because of the seagulls. He said it had cost $32,000 to repair damage done to a plane engine by seagulls recently! Col. McNamarasa.id there has to be heavy flying.at Otis one week-end a month. Sel. Thomas thanked Col. McNamara for coming and doing an excellent job explaining the Compatible Use Zones. Col. McNamara said he was glad to - wanted to do it, and that if any questions occurred-to anyone in the future, please feel free to contact him.. Sel. Thomas said she would like to have consideration given to instituting protective measures for the Town of Mashpee. Chm. Terry, called for acceptance of the minutes of August 18, 1982. Unanimously approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:10. Res p tf lly spbmitted, „,