Minutes of Meeting – June 17, 2008
The Hudson Planning Board met at the Town Hall, 78 Main Street, Hudson, Massachusetts.
At 7:00 p.m., Robert D’Amelio called the meeting to order.
Present: Robert D’Amelio, Tom Collins, Dirk Underwood, James Vereault, and Teresa Vickery, Clerk
MAPC Route 85 Corridor Study
Present was: Joan Blaustein, Land Resources Planner, MAPC
Jim Gallagher, Transportation Planner, MAPC
Mr. D’Amelio convened the Public Hearing.
Ms. Blaustein addressed the Board. She began her presentation by explaining what the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) does. The MAPC is an independent public body made up of 101 cities and towns in the metro Boston area. Its mandate is to provide technical and professional resources to improve conditions in the region. The Council fosters interlocal partnerships that help strengthen the effectiveness of local governments. The MAPC is funded by municipal, state, federal funds as well as private grants and contracts.
The purpose of the presentation is to provide zoning and transportation recommendations for the Route 85 corridor, which would include roadway improvements and bicycle and pedestrian amenities. The study proposes changes to the zoning along Washington Street. Ms. Blaustein noted that this might allow for the eventual redevelopment of sections of Route 85.
The MAPC developed a checklist for regulatory review. Some communities have outdated local codes and standards, which may discourage developers by requiring special permits or variances. Some simple modifications to these codes could encourage builders.
Adopting new provisions requiring landscape buffers, updating the sign by-law and requiring cross-connection between commercial properties were a few of the suggestions outlined in the study.
Ms. Blaustein stated that the MAPC will deliver a full report to Hudson and it will contain guidelines for design regulations and sign bylaws. The Town will determine the next step after reviewing the report.
Edward Clancy from the Marlboro City Council mentioned how dangerous Route 85 is along the exit to Assabet Valley High School because of the lack of sidewalks. He asked whether adding sidewalks along this stretch of Route 85 has been considered. Ms. Blaustein said this is being investigated as well as the option of cantilevered boardwalks across from the reservoir.
Bob D’Amelio, seconded by Dirk Underwood, made a motion to close the public hearing.
Vote: 4-0-0, Unanimous
Planner’s Report
-50 Central Street – Minor Modification
Present was: Tom DiPersio, Sr., Thomas Land Surveyors
Thomas Hamilton
Mr. DiPersio explained to the Board that Mr. Hamilton is proposing a connection through the existing parking lot, which would allow cars to exit via the church parking lot on Green Street.
Ms. Vickery informed the Board that Ms. Burke has met with Mr. DiPersio and agrees that this is a minor modification to the approved site plan. The Board agreed.
Tom Collins, seconded by Dirk Underwood, made a motion to accept the minor modification to the site plan at 50 Central Street.
Vote: 4-0-0, Unanimous
Lauren Heights
The Board discussed that Lauren Heights site approval expires on June 30, 2008 and they were unsure whether to grant another extension for the subdivision. Mr. Collins noted Mr. O’ Malley was not present, therefore, unable to inform the Board as to the status of the project. Mr. D’Amelio suggested extending the permit until August 30, 2008 and if the project is not complete the Town will pull his bond.
The Board would like input from Town Counsel before making a decision.
The Board took no action.
Cancel Meeting
Dirk Underwood, seconded by Bob D’Amelio, made a motion to cancel the Planning Board meeting for July 1, 2008.
Vote: 4-0-0, Unanimous
Minutes
Tom Collins, seconded by Dirk Underwood, moved to approve the minutes of May 20, 2008, as written.
Vote: 4-0-0, Unanimous
Adjournment
Bob D’Amelio, seconded by Dirk Underwood, moved to adjourn at 8:30 PM.
Vote: 4-0-0, Unanimous
Cc: Town Clerk
Department of Public Works
Jeff Wood, Building Commissioner
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