June 1, 2015
The June 1 meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order at 7 p.m. by Chairman Soter with all members in attendance.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to open the Fall Town Meeting warrant tonight and close it July 2 at 4:30 p.m.
On a Mayhew/Martinis motion, the Board unanimously voted to adopt the Housing Production Plan update as drafted by MAPC and presented to the Town. Under discussion, the Board expressed their interest to see an even greater emphasis on the production of housing suitable for the Town’s growing senior population. Additionally, the Board expressed concern with the provisions of the plan which suggest the Town consider converting in-law apartments into affordable housing units.
Cynthia Wall and Mark Racicot were in attendance to present their report relative to the New England Country Club zoning and housing production analysis. Mr. Racicot described the approach which was undertaken by MAPC and presented maps which included various alternatives to the residential development of the site. He further explained the site consisted of 317 acres of land, 125 of which is comprised of the golf course. Mr. Racicot stated the owner of the golf course had indicated to the Town a potential willingness to preserve the golf course and provide it to the Town at no cost in exchange for zoning concessions.
Mr. Spencer questioned the population projections and how they are determined. Mr. Racicot stated they are prepared utilizing historical trends. Mr. Spencer asked how much of the property is limited by wetlands. Mr. Racicot stated 10%-15% of the parcel is wetland.
Mr. Martinis expressed his concern with the rising senior population and the need to create accessible housing to accommodate this segment of the population.
Mr. Connor questioned the need for further traffic analysis and whether additional access points will be created. Mr. Racicot stated there are at least one and possibly two points of access onto Wrentham Road as well as access onto Paine Street.
Mr. Soter stated he sees many benefits with such a subdivision. Specifically, the developer will own and maintain their roadways and infrastructure much like a condominium development. The Town will not have the maintenence burden while the project will likely generate upwards of $3,000,000 in tax revenue. Additionally, this project will help with revitalization efforts along Pulaski Blvd.
Mr. Bill O’Connell asked what the loss in tax revenue will be if the Town were to take the golf course. Mr. Soter stated the golf course is taxed around $160,000 but the new development would generate close to $3,000,000 in tax revenue.
Minutes of June 1, 2015
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Mr. Ron Lussier expressed his support to the initiative and suggested repairs to Paine Street will need to be undertaken as part of the project.
Mr. John Murray questioned how long the build out of the project might take. Mr. Soter explained these are all matters which are up for discussion.
Mr. Mayhew recommended a Committee be formed to further review the possibilities of the NECC project.
On a Mayhew/Connors motion, the Board unanimously voted to appoint Mr. Martinis, Mr. Soter, Mr. O’Connell, Mr. Ranieri and Mr. Papas to the NECC study committee.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to adjourn at 8:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Denis C. Fraine
Town Administrator
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