April 27, 2015
The April 27 meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by Chairman Connor with all members in attendance except Mr. Spencer.
Mr. Bobby Matthews and Mr. Richard Rosen appeared before the Board to discuss their project, owned by American Agriculture. Mr. Rosen explained he has been in the greenhouse business for much of his life and is involved in a greenhouse operation in Belgium, which is similar to the project he wants to build in Bellingham. Mr. Rosen stated he has an option on a 94 acre parcel located on Depot Street where he would like to build a large greenhouse facility which will grow organic vegetables and will be totally self-contained environmentally. He explained the first phase of the project will involve a 10 acre greenhouse which will cost in excess of 20 million to construct. Additionally, phases will be considered in future years.
Mr. Soter asked how many jobs the facility will hire. Mr. Rosen stated there will be 40 jobs, the majority of which will only require a high school diploma with salaries in the 30k-40k range. The remaining positions will require certain managerial and technical skills with salaries ranging in excess of 100k.
Mr. Soter asked about the number of trucks which will be running from the site on a daily bases. Mr. Rosen stated there will be two refrigerator trailer trucks on site and all vehicles associated with the project will be registered in Bellingham.
Mr. Martinis questioned whether the facility could potentially be used as a grow facility for medical marijuana. Mr. Rosen stated there is no consideration for that type of product. Mr. Martinis asked the hours of operation. Mr. Rosen stated there will be normal day time hours; however, there will be at least 12 employees on site at all times including overnight hours.
Mr. Martinis asked about the light pollution from the facility. Mr. Rosen stated there will be shades along the top of the structure to prevent any spillage of light during the evening.
Minutes of April 27, 2015
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Mr. Matthews explained American Agriculture would like to enter into a T.I.F. with the Town in order to gain tax relief during the first five years of operation. He explained his company would commit first preference of jobs to Bellingham residents and agree not to exempt personal property. He stated his company would like to have an annual tax bill of no more than $100,000 during the first few years.
The Board agreed to consider the request and advised Mr. Matthews and Mr. Rosen they would respond in the next week or two.
On a Mayhew/Martinis motion, the Board unanimously voted to approve Mr. DiMartino’s recommendation and approve Contract 2015-WRR (Roadway Improvements).
On a Mayhew/Soter motion, the Board unanimously voted to adjourn at 7 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Denis C. Fraine
Town Administrator
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