Recap of July 28, 2008 Town Council Meeting
Here’s the skinny from last night’s Town Council Meeting:
All Councilors were present.
Unfinished Business
1. Discuss/take action on Back Acres Lane.There was back and forth discussion on the merits of accepting the road at this time since only two houses are built and the road has seven lots. There was a motion to postpone acceptance until 100% of the lots are built out. There was discussion with Councilor Demetracopoulos questioning whether this would preclude it being accepted if a homeowner bought two lots and only build on one. Councilor Burke questioned whether this would be a hardship on lot owners who are paying taxes. Councilor Roberge feels that it would set a bad precedent to accept a road to a subdivision that is not fully built out. A motion to postpone acceptance until 100% of the lots are built out failed by a two to three margin with Councilors Kareckas, Burke and Demetracopoulos voting against. Councilor Burke then made a motion to accept the road as of October 30, 2008. There was further discussion that there are some road condition issues that the Interim Town Manager would like to have the Public Works Director look at. The motion to accept the road as of October 20, 2008 failed on a four to one margin with Councilor Burke voting for the motion. Further discussion ensued and the Council referred back to minutes from the last meeting where this was discussed. At that time the consensus had been to postpone the decision on this road and have the Planning Board develop guidelines for road acceptance along with its other recommendations regarding subdivisions. Town Planner Jim Fisk indicated that the Planning Board is waiting for some final information and will have the subdivision ordinance on its agenda as soon as possible. A motion was made to refer this matter to a workshop between the Town Council and the Planning Board. The motion passed unanimously.
2. Discuss/take action on rezoning request. There was a motion to request the Planning Board to hold a public hearing on expanding the B1 zone on Main St. from Dunkin Donuts to Sewall Road. There was discussion with Councilor Roberge questioning the procedure with which the Planning Board had moved on this matter, Council Chair Demetracopoulos questioning whether moving ahead on rezoning would undermine the deliberative process the Economic Development Committee has undertaken to develop consensus and a plan for economic development, and with Councilor Kareckas questioning whether design review should also be part of the discussion. Town Manager Orsini clarified that this is just a request for a public hearing that will result in community input and that it does not mean that the Council has to act on it right away. The motion to request the Planning Board to hold a public hearing on rezoning passed unanimously.
3. Discuss/take action on public hearing for ordinance updates. A motion was made to hold a public hearing on ordinance updates on August 25, 2008. The motion passed unanimously.
New Business
1. Discuss Vine Street parking. Town Manager Orsini explained that since the closure of the Vine Street bridge, the Police Chief asked if the Council was still in favor of the parking ban on the street by the pond. Citizen Richard Clough asked the Council to reconsider the street parking prohibition and allow parking in front of the Jersey barriers to allow citizens to have access to the pond for recreation. Councilors were in agreeement that the present parking ban seems to be working and lifting the ban might open the town to liability issues and create access and safety issues near the bridge. They also indicated that nearby residents are happy with the current level of use at the area. There was consensus to let the parking ban stand as is.
2. Take action on election of MMA officers & executive committee. There was a unanimous vote to vote on a slate of officers for the MMA.
July 29th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
I read that during Monday night’s Town Council meeting:
“The motion to request the Planning Board to hold a public hearing on rezoning passed unanimously. ”
Does anybody know why or what the Town Council is trying to rezone?
July 29th, 2008 at 6:37 pm
Paul– As I understand it the hearing will be about the possibility of rezoning Main St. from Dunkin Donuts to Sewall Road from R1 to B1 (only that side of the street). My understanding from the meeting is that at least two property owners in that area have requested the rezoning.
July 29th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
WOW! That switch from residential to Business would change the look of the entire downtown!
From my understanding a B1 zone means that a business can built wall to wall using up their entire property boundaries while a residential zone has setbacks to make sure there is open space within the boundary lines.
The property owners that get rezoned from residential to business stand to make a killing by building wall to wall.
Traffic is going to get really crazy around here!!!!
August 1st, 2008 at 10:21 am
On a different posting I saw the following comment:
It’s the heart of the town, so it deserves a lot more consideration.
B1 is not a good idea for the heart of our town.
I don’t understand why the town council would switch this from residential to flat out B1 (anything goes) when it was B2 (plenty of restrictions) before.
August 1st, 2008 at 10:32 am
Maybe because the property owners in that zone that had it changed under the cover of darkess years ago would now like to use their property how they see fit with out all of your utopian dreams of a quaint village…
August 1st, 2008 at 1:46 pm
Nick,
Your cynicism won’t get the town anywhere. Seems like you favor no zoning whatsoever. I live in a residential zone. I want protections against idiots building crap next to my property.
August 1st, 2008 at 1:57 pm
My brother lived on Agamenticus Road for about 20 years. Back then there was no teen center, ball fields or Aggie estates. Just cow pasture. He couldn’t live with the change so he sold his house (to a couple who work in Mass
and now lives in Florida.
Unlike my brother, I don’t have a house or land to sell. And I don’t mind seeing business growth. There are probably twice as many people in this town and there was when I was a kid. I was sorry to see the “South Berwick College” (Duchess Footwear) close. Now, I guess it’s some swanky condos for yuppies. Yawn. Bring on the box stores!!!!
August 1st, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Edward,
Your cynicism is like Nick’s. Duchess jobs went to South America and China, like every other low tech manufacturing job. Folks born in South Berwick loved the money the got building and selling hundreds of homes in Aggie and Old Mill in the 1980’s. I remember when that was all woods and pasture. We’re not going back, and it’s not Yuppies. Get real.
August 1st, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Nick and Ed Yore on the right tract again! Every blog is from the same village people. Thay fought to keep the doctors parks out WHY becouse it would change the fabric and not look good in our village ! Thay were very wrong and I am glad thay lost the temper tantrum’s The very thaought of things not looking good and not fitting in is much more then HIPE its &^)&* and all of the same thing, no elderly housing , no box stores , no D D. If thay had there way glad there were fewer back then! o by the way the new buildings all around sotuh Berwicks norton street were will managed by zoning and was the best facelift this this town ever saw. Now we are again looking to stop every improvement possible by a hand full. Main street to NH has reason to want change if it is managed like the norton street end was done. Gardens and greenhouses will not make south Berwick a thriving community! Proactive planing for all of us and not just a few . Thanks to all of you interested in making South Berwic better not Just keeping it old a worn out !!!!! New morden looking downtown will all us to be proud!!!! Traffic is another issue and no one yet can begin to solve the issue we face!!!
August 1st, 2008 at 3:40 pm
Anon2,
It’s not cynicism, it’s a legitimate belief that people have a reasonable right to do what they wish to their own property without having to worry about some “protect the village” idiots coming along and telling them what they can and cannot do.
It’s like the Colcord House fiasco when York Hospital first tried build the current medical building. All of the sudden this house that sat in obscurity on Portland Street for a hundred years or more was an overnight historical landmark. Most people in town didn’t even know the place existed, and few miss it. I can assure you these people will come out of the wood work every time one of these so-called Form Based Zoning cases comes up.
If it was a small business that tried building on the Colcord House site instead of York Hospital with it’s deep pockets, they would have given up very early on in the process. The Village People would have won, South Berwick would have lost.
August 1st, 2008 at 3:48 pm
Nick,
The example you cited is an example of the system working. The overall process achieved at York Hospital was not a fiaco, it resulted in a superior project that the Town can legitimately be proud of.
BUT:
“people have a reasonable right to do what they wish to their own property….”
That’s anarchy, and no zoning. The Town moved way ahead of that in the 1970’s when it adopted zoning. Cynical? I think so.
August 1st, 2008 at 4:29 pm
You missed my point, any business other than York Hospital (who had a lot at stake since they were replacing an existing practice) would have never made it through the “process” you obstructionists love so much.
I guess I’ll sit back and let the educated and cultured among us make all the decisions since my “cynical” views are far too simplistic to actually work. I’m tired of being told on here that I’m negative, my glass is half empty and I’m cynical simply because I present another opinion on the blog.
I’m not against zoning, I’m not against the village, I’m not against spotted turtles, tree hugging or preserving historic homes in the down town. I am AGAINST a group of people in this town (they know who they are) who feel their opinion is the only valid one. They feel rest of us are just dumb “nuke and pave” rednecks who have never left the confines of South Berwick and don’t understand economics. We could never possibly appreciate “quality of Place” of any of the other BS they put out there to prolong development.
These people talk about culture, the arts, coffee shops and other crap that won’t mean didly squat to 90% of the hard working 9-5 citizens in this town. As is the trend in politics these days, there seems to be no middle ground on this issue, and nothing gets acomplished except the forming of more committes, workshops and hoops for prospective business and residential projects. One word…. Stall Tactics
August 1st, 2008 at 4:59 pm
Nick,
You don’t seem interested. or offer, any middle ground
August 1st, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Nick, you work, I work, most people work. We’re all making a living as best we can. Even though I’m a worker, I want responsible zoning and an great downtown (and rest of town, for that matter). I’m not a “staller”, I’m a concerned citizen that doesn’t want to have a Town that makes mistakes.
August 1st, 2008 at 5:07 pm
I agree. Most South Berwick residents, when asked in survey after survey, reply that they would like the town stable, with as much of it intact as possible given that we are in the prime area for development and population growth in the northeastern US.
August 1st, 2008 at 5:24 pm
PS It also seems reasonable to wish that our town be protected as much as possible from the kind of developers, like chain stores, where profits all leave town. We don’t want South Berwick to be exploited, but rather should have zoning that favors the kind of independent local business owners we currently have, so the prosperity of their businesses stays here. That’s the kind of good planning we pretty much all want our town government to do. It just is common sense.
August 1st, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Max,
I wish more people like you, who think clearly, and articulate well would speak up (or write up).
August 1st, 2008 at 10:35 pm
Nick it could not be put forward any better !! You hit every point and then some I have seen it for years and the york project along with the whole norton street rehab is never going to be alowed by the village treehugers, that think green houses and gardens, will build the town to what . Not sure
August 1st, 2008 at 10:37 pm
annon 2 there is lots of middle groud open you eyes !!!
August 1st, 2008 at 10:44 pm
Max what are you talking about survey after survey !! that my point talk about the facts and articulate the point. there are no survey’s out there with any meaning or base and you know it. please lets move on to proactive development for the better of this community. you seem to be maxed out!!!
August 2nd, 2008 at 7:19 am
The issue with downtown zoning is whether typical commercial development — the kind we see in other downtowns and Miracle Miles, where gas stations, chain restaurants and strip malls replace traditional neighborhoods — is something we want.
We haven’t seen it yet, because for the past decade the town had zoning in place that kept it out. But during that decade, traffic has risen to close to 20,000 cars per day. If the zoning restrictions are lifted, is there any doubt that Pizza Huts will follow, lining up between Dunkin Donuts and Cumberland Farms? Lying in the cross-hairs of two state highways, South Berwick will be a target just as is every other suburb in the northeastern US. And our independent local stores and restaurants will be hard pressed to compete once the out-of-town chains hit.
Under pressure from the property owners seeking to take advantage of their marketable location, the town council in seeking expansion of the B1 zone is seriously considering lifting the protections that keep South Berwick one of the last intact, walkable, charming villages in our region.
Do residents want this? I don’t think so!
August 2nd, 2008 at 8:15 am
Are ther others that think like HF? If so, post a comment.
August 2nd, 2008 at 8:16 am
Looks like the start of a Blog Poll.
No.
I don’t think so! too.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:06 am
Hmmmm. I don’t get to check in as often as I’d like. Thank you, Anon2. I have appreciated Nick’s comments a lot. He seems like a smart, articulate guy who speaks from the heart. You compliment me by lumping me with him in calling us cynical. If holding the opinions we do make us cynical, I’m “wicked” glad I am. Cheers!
Nick, I’m with John C (me thinks he is a cynic too perhaps, the beast!)
Thanks for your posts. You speak the truth man! Keep it up.
The elite need to hear us. Oh, and as a side note, I read in the Foster’s that Richard Clough had the audacity to request notes from a council meeting? The nerve of this man! Who does he think he is by expecting our town government to be accountable to us? Hey, you know what? I’ll bet he is cynical too!
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:56 am
Hi Everyone
Wow here we are polarizing again, the good versus the bad, but who are the good and who are the bad?
Do we need to have change? YES.
Does that mean rezoning? YES.
But we need to be careful a on what we wish for and especially on how to go about changing.
Do we have charming a downtown? NO. It is a decrepit building falling apart, it is only the smart sings and painted store fronts that hide the real look of the building.
I am for change if done with careful consideration for the past and the future, a modern looking building built today will be historic in 100 years.
Traffic is killing the town, and most of it is through traffic, ( how many of those stop to shop? especially the truckers) 20,000 a day very charming. It is noisy, dirty and dangerous, try crossing the street, especially further down on Portland St. the speeders will make you jump.
There was mention of Mr. Clough who has the audacity to ask for notes scribbled by councilors. Well having a right and exercising it are two different strokes. (He can keep minutes of the meeting.)
Since the gentleman has been ousted as a councilor he has exercised every right possible to slow down and harass the council.
To ask for certain information on a subject at times to get clarification is ok, but to do so for everything????????…..Mr. Gagne does not keep notes, so how do you get info from him?
To ask to speak on every Agenda Item and then not to speak?
How about the Budget Meeting every Item was changed with no information given on how the new numbers were calculate.
How about a Ballot vote on every Item to slow the process down, was this done in the hope that most people would leave, changing the majority?
I go to a lot of town council meetings and enjoy the ability to participate, but there is a fine line between participation and harassment.
I do not always agree with council decisions, I have been trying, for over two years, to get the town to put up signs asking the truckers not to use the engine brakes in the Village area, so far to no avail. I even had a signature list with over 200 names asking for action. These signs are to be found all over the state.
Oh by the way I am a TREEHUGGER in the last 10 years I have somewhat successfully planted close to 30 trees on my property, fruit and shade given, and lots of oxygen.
George .
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:06 am
David Burke, Sue Roberge, Bob Gagne and Jean Demetrocoupolis are the four “leaders of the town” that are pushing for wall to wall construction in the heart of our town.
They have set the stage to go through the politically necessary “public hearings” and then they will rezone the downtown properties.
Only a couple property owners will benefit by this rezoning and the downtown will forever be in line to become a chain store strip zone.
These “leaders” have their minds made up.
The only way to possibly have any affect on their vote is to call them, write them or speak out at meetings.
This entire process is going to be fast. The deal could be written in stone by September.
If you care then let them know.
David Burke 384-4277
Jean Demetracopoulos 384-5030
Bob Gagne 384-2026
Suzanne Roberge 384-5278
Michelle Kareckas 384-2584
August 2nd, 2008 at 11:42 am
Anon2,
I do offer a middle ground. I think rezoning a 200 yard section of our down town isn’t too much to ask, especially if the people in that zone want it.
I hope everyone else on here can see through the “big box” scare tactics put forth by the villagers…. Let me tell you folks, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, Hannaford and Home Depot aren’t bulldozing those houses and clearing the corner of 236 and Main Street any time soon…. Don’t believe the crap.
August 2nd, 2008 at 12:25 pm
Not even Pizza Hut or Burger King? Come on, of course they’d want to be there on that corner if our leaders are dumb enough to let them in– and such chains would take customers and revenue from OUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT BUSINESS PEOPLE!
Zoning should benefit residents’ priorities. The proposed B1 zoning has no safeguards from the kind of development that takes dollars out of communities and sends profits to distant corporations.
August 2nd, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Sorry, I had to speak up on Mr. Clough’s behalf. I thank Richard Clough for doing what he does. It is because of the town councilors’ actions that I think Mr. Clough wants to send a message about transparency. No more decisions made in secret. One might disagree with his method, but I think his motives are right on and I think he probably does it because he loves this town and enjoys living here. And, there is one councilor who continually displays negative, aggressive and unprofessional behaviour. That should stop. Why isn’t everyone speaking out against her? I’ve been labeled a ‘cynic’ here on the board which I why I don’t post too much anymore, but I hate to see Richard’s name brought up so negatively when he is not here to speak for himself.
August 2nd, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Where do property owners rights fit in this discussion? I know if I owned let’s say the lot on the corner of Sewall Rd. and Main St. and Aubachans or Ace Hardware approached me with a generous offer and were dissuaded by the anti development people I’d be holding them liable for the money I’d be loosing.
August 2nd, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Ken, that’s a perfect illustration of how “design review” (or the “performance standards” someone recently mentioned) is the solution we need. Then you could put that Ace or Aubuchon Hardware right there, and it would be terrific.
We don’t need to be at each other’s throats here. Why be polarized? Think smart solutions! Zone for business, but put in limitations to keep developers from wrecking what we have. Let the property owners make money, let residents shop and spend, and let everybody enjoy the community atmosphere.
For the Town Council to ignore good planning and rush ahead with flat-out B1, without performance standards, is irresponsible. The solution — design review or whatever — is probably sitting in the files of the planning office. The council should adopt it first, and then get a business zone town that is stable and thriving. The whole community would rally behind it.
August 2nd, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Ken,
Nobody is saying No to a business. People are just saying that when the rezoning to business occurs please add to the zoning laws concepts like set back, percentage of lot coverage, parking lot placement regulations, etc. Added zoning requirements can make for a much better looking town and discourage demolition.
The councilors are being pressured. I say to David Burke and Jean Demetrocopolous, slow down, make some compromises and act responsibly.
August 2nd, 2008 at 2:39 pm
nick,im with you on the crap!!! these anti-everything people are always pushing the big box store scare onto all of us.
that will never happen.i no we can have resonable zoning rules to keep say a hardware store from becoming to big in the heart of town.
but,these people do not want a thing happening to the so called village. i totally agree with george,the downtown is in total disrepair.our own historical centerpiece is falling apart (jewett house).it looks terrible.
its all fancy signs and paint jobs.i cant imagine if someone wanted to say fix up a historical building in town,OMG!!!!!!you folks cant have everything your way everytime.
i also think nick is dead on when he says that he is tired of being painted as a cynic or any other name that you folks want to call us .
you have an opinion about the future of this town. we also have some vision of what this town could have.you talk about middle ground! maybe you folks should try standing on it some day!
August 2nd, 2008 at 2:42 pm
You know, it’s not necessarily what the current owners want to do. I hear rumored it’s a bunch of condos. (Funny, more residential… what business?) It’s what may happen 5, 10, or 15 years out with perhaps new owners. B1 would be awfully hard to get off of, with it’s limitless development potential. Pizza Hut? Taco Bell? Very certain possibilities with B1, and there would be no way to stop that with simplistic, no brains B1.
This is at the heart of our town– across from two churches, across from residential Academy Street. It frames the entrance to the community. This is a big deal. B1 is stupid, it reflects no thought or creativity, it’s short sighted. The Planning Board and Town Council can do much, much better, and they absolutely should do better.
August 2nd, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Well put, Sharon.
Not only that, from what I understand, there may be legal ramifications when towns do zoning in too piecemeal of a fashion– half a dozen properties here and there. If the zoning is done wrong here, there could be consequences elsewhere. Or, to put it positively, the Town Council and Planning Board should be planning comprehensively, following the goals laid out in the previous planning efforts that have gone on, including the Comprehensive Plan and even short-term events like the Vision 2020 evening of a few years ago. Both of those had widespread citizen input.
What the Council and Planning Board definitely shouldn’t do is give a knee-jerk response to a handful of property owners just because they ramp up the pressure. That is irresponsible.
August 2nd, 2008 at 3:25 pm
tim,
try using the shift key. it’s easier to read. and, what’s your idea? things are so bad that we just give up?
August 2nd, 2008 at 3:28 pm
and tim,
Actually, the Jewet hosue is being very well maintained. I don’t know why you would suggets otherwise. Have you noticed all te work that’s being done? Maybe it’s your gloomy outlook. Maybe you want that space available for commercial development, too.
August 2nd, 2008 at 4:03 pm
You know Anonymous you may be on to something. If the historical society could acquire the funds it might not be a bad idea to move the Jewett house down near the Hamilton house and create a walking village there. Sara had family ties with the Hamiltons, I think she would like that, and it would create space for business and or parking. Just a dream but it is not sacred it’s just a house. By the way So. Berwick had more business and industry when she or Gladys were alive.
August 2nd, 2008 at 7:14 pm
Ken, Nick, Edward,Tim and John c, and others,
I have a suggestion or request. You guys typically react to other posts, with reactions, sometimes witty, but always reactions to other peoples posts that you obviously don’t agree with.
Will you express what you think S. Berwick should do going into the future? Please do it without commenting or reacting to others posts. maybe you can comment on:
- Your ideas for what kind of business development we should have?
- Should zoning be changed? Where and to what?
- Should we have zoning at all?
- What kind of S. Berwick do you envision?
Or anything else that occurs to you.
Just offer your ideas, not reacting to others, or characterizing what kind of person makes these posts.
August 2nd, 2008 at 8:41 pm
Bill I hope you’re not insinuating that I’m a mudslinger and never bring my ideas to the table. I would have to disagree; I’ve brought many ideas to the diner table only to be dismissed as pessimistic, archaic and overly simple. But, fair enough, I’ll play.
I agree zoning is an integral part of any community. Where I get frustrated is when the zoning process allows for small groups of individuals to prolong the process needlessly because a particular project doesn’t suit THEIR wants, needs, visions or ideals. We “committee, workshop and process” things to death here, IMHO, it needs to stop. I’ve never felt the need to go voice my opinion on someone else’s development project, especially if their on the other side of town from where I live. As I see it, far too many people in South Berwick feel they have a right to meddle in other people’s affairs when it doesn’t affect them.
Last year the company I work for went under contract on some property in the industrial park in Dover out on 6th street. When it came time for meeting with the city, we got bogged down in green space, the amount of grass, the number of, and what type of trees we HAD to plant in order to get a permit, colors, materials styles and so on…. The demands of these groups drove the cost of the project up so high that we ultimately scrapped the whole plan and elected to remain in our old location (not in Dover). The city missed out on a $1 million project because a few environmentalists got in the way with THEIR visions of what OUR property should look like. Remember, this was in an industrial park, not down town, not a residential area, not a mixed use zone… an industrial park.
Why tell this long story? Because it’s one of the things that lead me to feel the way I do. I don’t want to see these same things continue to happen in South Berwick. I love our downtown, I love the atmosphere but we can’t keep this stigma of being anti-business. I wholeheartedly support well planned zoning that speaks for itself and keeps the special interests out of it. I look at towns like Freeport, who has a McDonald’s right in the heart of the downtown. Without the golden arches, you wouldn’t even know it was there. I think we can do the same thing, but by building it into the code, not leaving an entrepreneurs hopes and dreams lie in the hands of a few individuals. That’s all I ask.
I believe we should develop an industrial area on Route 236. I know it’s not a magic pill for tax relief, but it can produce some local jobs and diversity in the tax base. The conservative in me has a huge problem with the idea of stifling growth out of fear of losing state aid, but that’s the state we live in I guess.
The folks who own property in the area under discussion now had their zoning unceremoniously changed on them a couple of administrations ago. It’s the right thing to do to change it back, regardless of people’s personal preferences. For the record I wouldn’t be happy with a Rite-Aid, Burger King or Chili’s there either. I would love a place to get breakfast on a Saturday morning, and a hardware store would be very convenient, but it’s not up to me.
I have a huge problem with the way former managers and town councils handled previous development ideas. Why couldn’t they have just been up front and honest about the proposed park on 236 and Contract Zoning? Were these plans perfect? NO. But they were destined to fail from the beginning when even likely supporters (such as me) were turned off immediately by the perception that the town office was being shady about things. I’m all for open government and dialog as long as it’s not used as an obstruction tactic.
I hope I’ve been able to better articulate some of my thoughts and ideas. I really enjoy the exchange that takes place on this blog, here’s to many more “spirited” debates. Hey, with my new warm-fuzzy attitude I may even slow down at the next turtle crossing sign I see.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:23 pm
I second Bill’s motion — Ken, Nick, Edward, Tim and John c, I can’t find any constructive suggestions or ideas in your posts. I hear loud and clear your disdain for residents who favor a small town village with independent small shops. You completely dismiss the ideas of attracting visitors to town with culture, arts, reserved green park area and historic architecture. Well, exactly what kind of businesses and building would you like to see happen in town?
Most of us share some of your cynicism about the process of social change. But cynicism is a defensive reaction — an emotion. It’s not a philosophy, it’s not leadership, it has no vision, and not a means to an end. It’s just not getting us anywhere.
So far, I like the vision of town that you scoff at, the one put forth by the Treehuggers. If you want me to change my mind, you need to describe your alternative. Tell me some specific examples of businesses that you wish would come to this town, and how they’d fit in. Where? What kind of building? What traffic impact would it have? How many people might it employ? How many people in town would use the service? What would happen to the current businesses and looks of the present town? What would happen to my taxes?
And lastly, I disagree with the Tim’s viewpoint that the buildings downtown are decrepit and not worth preserving. It seems that every successive generation in America builds cheaper, less durable and less beautiful buildings than their predecessors. I think old buildings are worth saving just to honor the workmanship that went into them. The Europeans figured this out long ago. They manage to update buildings much older than ours, in small towns like ours, and they feel it is well worth it.
August 2nd, 2008 at 9:25 pm
Ooh, please don’t squash the herps! I’ve been toying with the idea of getting one of those new Honda’s powered by compressed natural gas (CNG). However, the closest places to get a fill-up (since our town doesn’t have natural gas) is Portland, Maine or Bow, NH. Northern Utilities could have a small spot here in South Berwick to provide fill-ups. It would encourage small business, provide a great product and encourage more people to drive more economical cars. The mileage is the same as a regular car, but the cost of the fuel is way less, as is the carbon footprint, for those that care about that. I’m calling Northern Utilities on Monday.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Thanks, Nick. I appreciate your earnest opinions.
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:21 pm
Nick and Tim you are causing problems here for the village people. No change in my town and I mean it . Can you imagine what sewall and main would look like if some one cleaned up that mess! wow lets not do that . MY CLOSE FRIEND HAD A HART ATTACK LAST WEEK!!!! SORT OF LIKE OUR RUNDOWN VILLAGE!!! THAY PUT IN TWO STENTS . Wow what a change, he looks great. Do you think the heart of South Berwick would look better with some rehab and good planing!!! or a couple of stents . I do. The village is very run down and the point was made above verry clear any thing we do today to better the town will be history in 100 years so lets clean up and rebuild the town properly! I will keep going back to Norton street and lower Main Street. It Did wonders for Downtown and wow no burgerking ,HD,walmart, or Pizza hut. Why , I bet It is somehow related to the State of N.H. No tax N.H. And yes People The Jewitt Home that very feww of you have ever entered is falling appart. Take a tour !!! Remember the chadborne house! what you have never heared of it . Thats great becouse it now makes our town look much better. Thank You york hospital. we are greatfull that you had the money to fight off the same people we see today not wanting change . George thank you very much for the extra trees It off sets all the CO from those big trucks. Please take a real hard look at what is really going on and lets make south berwick a better place to live, visit and have fun! I am also thankfull some did not try to stop the outlook. That to was once a historic farm, but I have to say It now is a place that people talk about and will create history in years! Have i said enough!
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:24 pm
I need my spell check fixed Sorry!!!!
August 2nd, 2008 at 10:42 pm
Fact: The Flynns and others bought their property knowing full well it was zoned RESIDENTIAL.
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:15 am
Paul,
Fact: All of the 4 current business owners in this area have owned their properties for many years. 3 owners over 25 years and myself the youngest 15 years(long before this zone was changed illegally from business zoning to residenial only zoning in the cloak of darkness 8 years ago). 50% of the property owners in this Sewall St. to Dunkin Donuts area have small businesses that employ local people and help the community and school system.
Fact: This area was always zoned for business since the 1970’s when zoning was made policy in this town.
Fact: Businesses have operated in this area for over 200 years. As the railroad ran down Rte 236 across Main St. and through Central St in front of Village Motors and Spray ME and down to Rollinsford.
Thank you Nick for your comments they are on the money.
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:23 am
anonymous- sorry u cant read and im not perfect! i dont recall asking to demo the jewett house. i love the history in this town,i have read all the books and visited all the homes in my town have you?
thanks for your concern though. i never said that we should do nothing.that is what others on here say.
i am all about doing something,i dont know where you got that out of my post. putting up a new fence is great,but waiting until it falls down first is not so great.my idea is to keep the buildings architecture to period. the hospital building fits in perfect with the others. dont you agree?
you folks always have to go to the extreme with how you disagree with others opinion!
yeah i really want the jewett house moved but better yet burned to the ground,to put say a greenhouse or a tree farm!!
give me a break!! i guess you are the only one who likes history.wrong,i happen to enjoy it. so keep going to the extreme when you post and i will keep laughing my @$% off!! again im sorry im not perfect with spacing. i will try to work on it just for you mr. anonymous.
August 3rd, 2008 at 11:13 am
tim,
So what’s your idea or vision for the town? Besides lampooning other people’s posts. (Witty as your responses may be).
What about zoning? Is it a good thing? What about change? What should we save? What can go? What kind of businesses do you see coming? How can we get them? What kind of mix of businesses would you see?
August 3rd, 2008 at 12:29 pm
To the Planning Board,
I don’t understand what’s happening: You declined the Town Council’s request in July to hold a hearing on B-1 for the central corner across from the churches, and cited the work the EDC is doing to determine the community’s ideas for economic development. You also cited the the PB is not “reactionary”. Both are reasoned and intelligent positions.
Now you are taking up the exact same question, less that a month later. I must wonder– who got to whom? What pressure, and who’s changed vote is the Council counting on? Are the PB flunkies for the Council? I guess we’ll see on Tuesday who’s been picked off by the Council, unless between now and then you remember your opinion of last month.
August 3rd, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Correct me if I’m wrong on this. Isn’t the main reason we don’t have a traffic light in the center of town because of the proximity to Sarah Orne Jewett house?
Driving through town is a nightmare, even with a patrolman directing traffic. Terrible.
If that is the case, then I wouldn’t mind seeing some town money going into moving it as Nick suggested. Seriously. Why not? If they can tear down mansions in Europe and rebuild them here, I don’t see why this shouldn’t be thought about.
Bill, are you moderating this forum? If you are, OK. If you are just appointing youself some kind of advisor on what others post, then you are out of line. This is a forum for discussion. There are going to be people who disagree with you. There are going be plenty of snarky comments and jabs. It goes with the territory whenever you have a public forum.
Let people submit their comments, whether they meet your definition of what is relevant. I have taken a few hits myself. As long as it’s not profane or threatening, people are going to have reactions that they want to express. Also, most of us who you listed have submitted good posts.
One of the things that is fun about a forum like this, is that there are going to be some posts that are opinions or reactions or just something to joke about.
LadyJane is not the only person who I have heard say that they don’t like to be talked down to on this thread. So, take the good with the bad.
I’ll shut up now. Have a good day people, maybe it won’t rain today!!!
Prescot Park hasn’t had too many shows yet this summer.
If you have a free night or afternoon, come see “Little Shop of Horrors” at Seacoast Rep. We close on August 24th.
Peace,
Ed
August 3rd, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Edward,
It was just a suggestion. Thought it might be useful. Guess you don’t think so. So far, I have not heard any ideas from you, just complaints.
August 3rd, 2008 at 4:56 pm
When a traffic light was brought up a number years ago it was opposed because it took parking space near the corner (for the turning lane) from the local businesses. As it is a state road, they had to be involved in the decision for a placement of a light on this corner. The entire idea was eventually dropped. It has nothing to do with the Jewett House.
August 3rd, 2008 at 5:36 pm
JCH,
The residential zoning has a lot of drawbacks, I think most of us would agree. But it was not done “illegally” in the “dead of night” because I remember attending a public hearing on it. At the time, many of us were wondering why they used residential zoning to accomplish what could be done better with performance standards (design review). But R1 zoning is the tool the town council of those days chose. Now maybe we can do what should have been done then, namely set up some kind of business zoning but also implement the performance standards. But blanket B1 is not what we should have.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:22 pm
Nick and Edward,
Are you serious when you suggest moving the Jewett House? If so please reconsider. The writings and therefore the reputation and literary importance of Sarah Orne Jewett are totally intertwined with that location. Her viewpoint, quite literally from those windows, is at the heart of her work. To remove the house to another location would be like, say, moving the Statue of Liberty and then just tell people that she used to be in New York harbor.
Now, the Jewett House is no Statue of Liberty, of course, yet it is the most important landmark in the town. You don’t have to be interested in literature to you realize that it’s one of the most important assets we have. It makes South Berwick a Destination. We should be capitalizing on it’s presence more than we do.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:28 pm
Max,
I would only assume that you are a lawyer well versed in town government or the fact that you attended the only public hearing on the zoning change that got railroaded through some 8 years ago makes you an authority on the matter.
My information runs deep as this zoning change affects one of my businesses and properties that I’ve owned for 15 years. I believe from the information that I have gathered over the years from 2 very good sources both legal and from a former town government official that proper procedure was not followed when this zoning change was done. If taken to court to challenge this zoning change the town would probably lose I was told. When approached by another property owner within this area to join lawsuit againest the town I respectively declined (that owner had done more homework then I had on the matter and had come to the same conclusion). I did not want to spend the money to fight the town and also the 6 year statute of limitations was in question when I first approached with this matter.
We can disagree on whether it was “legal” or “illegal” but it is irrelevant now. My feelings have always been that with proper restrictions placed on business development within this area ( such as building designs, footprint restrictions and etc.) the town could protect itself from the “big box” stores or development that everyone is afraid of. There are other ways to preserve the character of this town without cutting out more areas for small businesses to thrive, and especially an area that has had businesses operate for hundreds of years.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:40 pm
JHC,
You sound like someone who wants business in that area but also would be okay with restrictions that would not encourage “big box” stores. That is what I think everyone is trying to get across. Yes, to the business owners but with a few restrictions that would discourage demolition and big box stores. Am I correct in thinking you feel this way or am I off base here?
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:55 pm
Paul,
Yes you are correct.
August 3rd, 2008 at 9:52 pm
SueG,
I didn’t propose moving the Jewett House…. That’s a pretty impractical solution don’t you think?
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:22 pm
Big box stores, Big box stores that’s all we from you scared people that don’t think clearly and will not look at the big picture. Big Box Store What big box store would come to down town S.B. There’s a reason they call them BIG. There’s no room here for one. You need parking we have none. You need lots of room for the store. We have none of that either and you need lost of shoppers that want to spend money on things that don’t have 5% sales tax added on well I hate to tell you we don’t have that either.
Big box coming to South Berwick give me a brake
And they sky is falling too.
August 3rd, 2008 at 11:28 pm
This just gets better and better!!! The Jewett House is never going to be moved!! Enough said . Not the reason for no lights. LIGHTS WOULD CHANGE THE FABRIC. That was and is the reason for no lights. Parking was a conderation as we would loose 9 parking spaces in the lighted intersection. It was thought the downtown could not handle the losse of these spots. The state of main does not want to fight local politics and will not just install lights. However thay can and may in time. The town along with manager Brown to a strong stance toward creating parking to adress the losse of spots should we ever put in lights. Paul street lot was created when the town bought a old run down property and created approx 10 spots. The town bought another rundown home, the grant house at the now ocean bank lot and removed the historic fire house also . built that fine bank and created many parking spots. Then moved on to repair the back lot of our downtown business center to again create more off street parking . Norton street next ,More parking created to the tune of 20 pluss. We have over the years created many more then the 9 once everyone said we can not afford to loose. I forgot the 25 additional at town hall that state park and ride money was used. now if the downtown business owners would use thes lots insted of parking in the ristrected spots in front of there stores we will have ampel space for all that want to stop and shop. The town now spends approx 25,000 per year for the traffic control officer. this has been budgeted for the past 11 years . Add up that tax bill. The lights will cost between 20 and 30 thousand. NO we do not need to move that white hose but if we want to save tax dollars what needs to be done. If you look back to all those buildings that are no longer there you must agree the downtown looks much better. Lets not be so reluctent to let the people we elect to work for all of us let move forward. Many things can be managed like footprints of buildings, footage, hight restrictions ect. MY point is to many of you are banking on the method of stalling progress. Why I ask . The down town Looks today much better then it did when I moved here 27 years ago. Who remembers the gun play in town. Those clowns were run out and moved back to the woods. Remember the town manager lugging a gun along with chief Planche. Wow the good old days. Progress has occured and I hope many of you help it continue. Remember That there are many types living here. Our creative combat on this sight is not blind Bill. Your direction and mine may differ however we are both correct in expressing our thoughts It time some off you open your eyes and realize we cannot control what change So Berwick Needs or wants. WE CAN HOWEVER MANAGE THE DIRECTION! Lets manage ouur change not have small ,loud factions wanting to contron.
August 3rd, 2008 at 11:39 pm
I forgot to say the Town of South berwick Realized More positive change between the years 94 and 2000 then ever. We as a town have stalled any type of change . Why I ask. This blog or web site is clear example why SOBO will never move forward. Need I say More no. But I will continue too read the thoughts of all. Glad the water dist. and wastewater plant are not stuck behind the thoughts of the ones holding the community back.
August 3rd, 2008 at 11:58 pm
Nick, sorry if I made a mistake attributing that suggestion to you — something in Edward’s post misled me. I do think the idea (moving the Jewett House) is absurd and didn’t think anyone was seriously proposing it. But it doesn’t hurt to remind everyone what a valuable asset it is.
Mark, I agree with your post that it’s unlikely a Big Box on the Walmart scale would want to build here. Sales tax is very effective in keeping huge businesses on the other side of the state line.
But there are a few lots along the main streets in the village that are larger than most people realize. A Rite Aid, or a gas station/convenience, or some other kind of franchise might very well build there. It would only take one development with a steel shell building and a lit up parking lot in front to change the character of town drastically. For those of us who find that kind of development ugly, even repulsive, there is something to fear– the domino effect. And it’s more than just looks. I think about all those franchises in Somersworth, and I wonder just where does all that money go? Nothing about Somersworth seems to have improved in the the 20+ years I’ve been here. Lots of franchise boxes big and small, but where is the benefit to the community? It’s not in their schools, their downtown, their infrastructure, or their public facilities as far as I can tell.
I’m not sure I’m up for the backlash on this thought — but this town has a lot of creative entrepreneurs in it, artists, writers, musicians. Arts draw people. How could we tap into our cultural assets to encourage an arts aspect of our local economy? The timing isn’t great given the economy overall, but the raw materials are already here.
August 4th, 2008 at 12:43 am
SueG — You have nailed the issue– Thanks!
Everybody, please read this paragraph of SueG’s again– it says it all:
****”It would only take one development with a steel shell building and a lit up parking lot in front to change the character of town drastically. For those of us who find that kind of development ugly, even repulsive, there is something to fear– the domino effect. And it’s more than just looks. I think about all those franchises in Somersworth, and I wonder just where does all that money go? Nothing about Somersworth seems to have improved in the the 20+ years I’ve been here. Lots of franchise boxes big and small, but where is the benefit to the community? It’s not in their schools, their downtown, their infrastructure, or their public facilities as far as I can tell.”****
August 4th, 2008 at 1:05 am
JCH–
As I remember, the hearing on R1 was packed (it was in the town council chambers). Don’t recall that there were any irregularities about the process. But also just that a lot of us were puzzled, because R1 didn’t really seem to be the appropriate solution, for exactly the reasons you express. By seeking to stop big boxes, the R1 remedy shut out all business expansion entirely, and that didn’t seem to be called for.
So I will join Paul in pointing out that many of us here seem to agree with you that a solution is at hand. The Planning Board and Town Council simply need to:
(1) Draft zoning performance standards (dimensions, setbacks, design review, etc. matching what we now have)
(2) Then (but only then) rezone for business– but NOT with a blanket B1 “anything goes” designation.
This kind of policy is seen in many successful towns, and answers pretty much everyone’s concerns here I think.
August 4th, 2008 at 6:33 am
Well, as someone upthread mentioned, the Sarah Orne Jewett House is just a house. Sorry if I don’t have reverance for it.
Jess thank you for educating me on the street light thing. Too bad, I hope we can find a way of bypassing that downtown area someday.
Bill, sorry you don’t like my posts. I do my share of complaining, that’s for sure. I also ask questions, and share some of the experiences I have had. I was raised here. I have a lot of opinions. Some of them are probably pretty lame.
I enjoy coming to this forum because it’s one way of getting information, as well as entertainment. I wouldn’t be interested in checking it out if people only posted figures and proposals that needed everyone’s analysis on. I think it’s fun to get to hear voices that you might not hear at a town meeting (which, I think is a more serious venue).
Some people (including me) have said some strange stuff. It’s fun to read, and perhaps I am not taking it as seriously as I should.
I have been called cynical and ignorant on this blog. If I have offended anyone, please know that I am sorry. I am done posting.
For what it’s worth, even though we may not like what we read on this blog, It seems to me that everyone who has posted has had a lot of concern and respect for the town of SoBo. Cheers Molly, and thank you!
August 4th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
I will recap the facts of the proposed zoning change.
This change would affect about nine properties, at least seven of which are already businesses and as such are non-compliant with the current residential zoning that they are under. That is about 80% non-compliant.
Among that 80% there is a car dealership and Spray ME. Inc. The area is full of and surrounded by businesses. It also includes the major intersection of Rte 236 and Rte 4. It is currently inappropriately zoned.
The other business areas in the downtown are not residentially zoned. All dense business areas should be business zones. It seems so obvious. It doesn’t make sense to have gas stations, Dunkin Donuts, car dealerships and major thruway intersections in residential zones. What other residential zone has that density of business activity?
I am actually astonished at the controversy. It seems so unreasonable. But maybe some people don’t realize what is actually being discussed. This change would only affect a small area directly across from RTE 236 - a major intersection, not farmland, not side streets – but a downtown area that is already dense with existing businesses. With that being the case and once it is made clear, most thinking people will see the reasonableness of this change.
It makes sense to have zones with compliant properties. Why would anyone force residential zoning requirements on existing businesses? This causes unnecessary hardship for the people who live there and the small business owners. Ask any of them how they feel about it. How would you feel? How much do you think it would hurt you financially if it was your property? This is only for nine properties. You could easily speak with each home/business owner.
And in answer to the unrealistic fears that people will fill their properties with ugliness right up to the sidewalk, just for a buck… What kind of people do that? Why would anyone devalue their property and make it offensive like that? They would not benefit from that. Property owners are not out to destroy the town. They live there. They are just trying to make a living and have a good environment like anyone else.
I understand the hopes to keep South Berwick’s ‘look and feel’, and that the town administration may be looking for new ways to zone business areas. Be that as it may, when and if that has been completed and those plans are agreed upon – which we know can be a very lengthy process, then the entire downtown area can be rezoned as appropriate in accordance with whatever new ordinances are designed.
Until then, all business areas should have the same treatment and be appropriately zoned as business. This is why the public hearing is set to be scheduled on 8/19/08.
August 4th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
In response to a few of the bloggers.
1. Town council minutes are readily available - on-line and in the office. The Town is obligated by Maine Rules of Civil Procedure to keep this. This is public information. I have a big fat binder with minutes back to 1999 and a whole lot of other research so I can vouch for that. You can also ask for the recordings of the meetings. I have not done that though, so I can’t say how far back they have them or what the rule is on that.
2. I don’t think that the town council and planning board are bad folks. They don’t seem to be money hungry, thoughtless box store lovers. They seem to be reasonable, conscientous people that want to make improvements in the town without destroying it’s historic look. That is what everybody wants.
3. Everyone should be more polite during the public hearings. I went to one when they were discussing contract zoning and I was surprised at how disrespectful people were to one another. That is just not nice and it’s not necessary.
Thanks
August 4th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Jean,
I beg to differ. B1 is not right. Once it’s reinstated, anything can happen. Compliant, non-compliant. In the future the risks are verty evident. Be smart. Slow down. Get it right. Find teh “hybrid ” that should apply.
What’s the rush? If R1 was wrong for years, a few more months won’t hurt. Have the sense to see that B1 is wrong. It’s short-sighted, it’s just too convenient. Look at B1— it allows so much more than what you describe. B-1 shows no responsiveness to the whole picture.
August 4th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
No one has said the PB or TC are bad people. We just expect more sense out of the two groups. B1 does NOT preserve anything, as it is right now. You can drive a big, big truck through the provisions in B1. Can’t you see that? Why not? Fix it, don’t conveniently apply B1 and “hope for the best”. That’s not responsible.
August 4th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
And this little area (which you dscribe as unremarkable), is actually quite remarkable, at the heart of our town. That you don’t see that is astonishing.
August 4th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
I have to agree with the gist of what Anon says. The Rite-Aid scare of a few years ago spawned the B1 to R1 designation. Why? because that was the only zone that preclused Rite-Aid. Is it overkill? Probably. But if we went back to B1 with no design review, or no form based zoning, guess what? History might repeat itself.
This is not about what current owners would do, it is about what the zoning would allow of a future owner (perhaps a corporate entity that would’t care squat about the Town’s sensibilities. ) That’s why this area begs for an intelligent solution — not B1.
August 4th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Hi Anon2, Thank you for your opinion. Regarding that area, the big trucks drive through there now. As was mentioned by a previous blogger, it is the intersection of two state highways. Where else do you see major state highway intersections in an R1 zone? The fact is, R1 is wrong for that area.
What is the rest of the downtown area zoned as? It does not make sense to flip to R1 right after Dunkin Donuts. Think about it.
Property owners have been suffering and continue to do so because of the switch to residential of that very small area. The change to that specific area was voted on by the town council on 9/9/02 - see town council meeting minutes unfinished business item #1.
Research shows and many agree that it was arbitrary and capricious (a.k.a. spot zoned) and not in harmony with the comprehensive plan at the time. Many have spoken for and would welcome the undoing of that decision. But really, it seems fine not to re-hash old business. I prefer not to pursue that avenue. I do hope and expect that the majority of propery owners of S. Berwick see the sensibleness of allowing a dense business area to be under B1 zoning laws.
It would be very appropriate to extend the existing business zone back to where it was prior to 9/9/02.
August 4th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Oh, I never said the area was unremarkable. I think it is very nice.
August 4th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
R1, no, B1 no. There’s a better way.
August 4th, 2008 at 5:47 pm
Jean,
“This change would affect about nine properties”-THAT ARE IN THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY AND AT A MAJOR INTERSECTION (quite marketable).
“Why would anyone force residential zoning requirements on existing businesses?”…NOBODY IS DEMANDING RESIDENTIAL…PEOPLE ARE DEMANDING SOME CREATIVENESS TO ADD RESTRICTIONS THAT WOULD DISCOURAGE DEMOLITION AND PRESERVE STREETSCAPE.
“Property owners are not out to destroy the town. They live here.” CURRENTLY THE PROPERTY OWNERS LIVE HERE. PROPERTIES CHANGE HANDS.
“the town administration may be looking for new ways to zone business areas. Be that as it may, when and if that has been completed and those plans are agreed upon – which we know can be a very lengthy process,” - BE LEADERS…MAKE THE PROCESS OCCUR NOW….or disappoint all of us who had high hopes and take the easy way out, do the usual- table anything difficult and vote the immediate easy way out.
I believe you are unable to see the forest through the trees at this point.
August 4th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
To JHa2, Jean and all,
I am against B1 but I am FOR business zoning. It is a mistake to think that those of us opposed to rezoning B1 want it to stay R1. It is fine to make it a business zone. Just make it B2 or B3 with appropriate zoning to keep it in scale with the rest of the downtown.
The solution to this is not difficult. As somebody else said, the solutions have been under consideration by the planning board for years. The town council just needs to implement some of those good ideas. FIRST.
August 6th, 2008 at 8:38 am
A recap to go with your morning coffee
Last night’s Planning Board meeting was sparsely attended, but interesting for those of us who did go. At the very least, it’s always informative to see small town politics at work. The intricacies of procedure were apparent as we watched members struggle through revisiting, then voting on a previous motion (Old Business) to not have a Public Hearing. Due to one member’s comment that it would be “improper and premature” for the board to hold a hearing on August 19th, as many of us were hoping for (because he felt the board itself had not yet carefully enough considered the proposal), and also because the chair had a scheduling conflict, the Public Hearing is now scheduled for Tuesday September 16th, at 7PM. Prior to that, on September 9th, the Planning Board will hold a workshop session to which the public is invited. No pulic comment can be made at that time - the idea is scrutinization of the members’ process, and more importantly, an opportunity to receive information about the B1 proposal (maps, etc.) which they will disseminate to all interested attendees at that time.
Also, if any residents have additional related information they would like the board to review (particularly if lengthy), it was requested that it be given to them enough ahead of time to allow ample opportunity for them to review it. Jack K. reminded the board members that they already have been given some comprehensive info about B1 which includes Design Review. So - any and all of us who are concerned about each step in this important process as it moves forward should plan to attend. Become better informed, share your thoughts; mark your calendars!
August 6th, 2008 at 8:47 am
Linda–Thanks so much for the update about the meeting. I had a conflict and couldn’t attend. I’m glad the hearing is going to be put off. More people will be back from vacation and it gives more time for citizens to learn more about zoning. I will get some information about zoning to post here at the diner so readers have a chance to learn more about the issue.
August 6th, 2008 at 9:35 am
Molly,
Great to hear that you will put some zoning information out on the blog.
What is B1? What is B2? What is “Design Review”? Is Design Review easily enforceable? I would love to get good clear answers on questions like that.
Having all that information in a digestible and concise format would be very helpful to so many people.
I hope you can get it out there quickly.
August 6th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Town Council Chair Jean Demetracopoulos has asked me to clarify that the post by “Jean” is not by her. Since I can see the IP number of the poster, I can confirm that the post is by someone who is in fact named Jean, but is not Jean D. Perhaps next time Jean posts, he/she will use a last name initial to clarify, or another way of distinguishing posts from Jean D. (for example, like our friend “Dave Webster (not the ex-councilor)” has done).
August 6th, 2008 at 9:54 am
blog confusion
August 6th, 2008 at 10:14 am
I can confuse people enough with my posts, no need to add name confusion as well!