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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-01-11 Community Preservation Committee Minutes Community Preservation Committee Minutes of January 11, 2024 Present: Chairman William Callahan, John Simons, John Mabon, Terrance Holland, Rick Green. Tim Tschirhart, Adam Bagni, Ron Rudis. Absent: Tracy Watson Staff: Zach Melcher William Callahan called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Notice of Intent Applications - Applebrooke Farm. Al Manzi of 72 Foster Street is the owner of the property. He distributed an aerial photo of the property as well as a map showing property boundary lines and an existing condition survey plan. Mr. Manzi discussed the history and current use of the 9.75 acre property. He spoke about the connectivity of the trails to the Greenbelt and various options to keeping it open space and recreation. W. Callahan asked if Mr. Manzi has had discussions with Greenbelt. Not within the past three years. He's spoke to Jeremy Dick from the Trustees of the Reservation. They may be interested in taking it over. The biggest improvement has been the roadway coming in from Lancaster. Because the town has the right of first refusal under 61a, Mr. Manzi feels this is the best place to start. Mr. Manzi distributed a realtor's opinion of value. W. Callahan stated that an appraisal of the property would be required. J. Simons stated that this can only work if Mr. Manzi has a partner. Either Greenbelt or the Trustees were suggested. The CPC has a rule that people can not put forth an application where they are the primary and sole beneficiary, there has to be an immediate partner. It could be the Town, Greenbelt, Trustees or someone else. Mr. Manzi asked who would pay for the appraisal? The third party could do the appraisal on the town's behalf. Mr. Manzi will pursue the third party. W. Callahan will speak with Town Council and the Town Administrator to see how they can help facilitate the process. Mr. Manzi will try to get more information to the CPC before the next meeting. Mr. Manzi asked what are the requirements of the partner? The partner would hold the conservation restriction and facilitate the transaction. Update on CPC Financials— Nine projects that are finished were closed out at the last meeting. The projects now listed are in process. W. Callahan recommended that the committee look at the current financial position before looking at any new project proposals. February 2nd is the deadline for submissions. W. Callahan encourages anyone to submit an application. The application can always be revised and updated, but at least the Committee will know how many applications there are. This will help determine how to schedule additional meetings. The Housing Authority did not submit a notice of intent, but they said there would be a few projects that will come in from the town. The next agenda will include looking at the financial position and start to consider some applications that have already been received. Also, review if there are any projects that would need to be referred to another committee prior to CPC review. W. Callahan would like an update on the Schofield Mill for the next meeting. MOTION — R. Green made a motion to accept the December 14, 2023 Meeting Minutes. Seconded by T. Holland. All in favor, vote 8-0. MOTION - R. Green made a motion to adjourn, seconded by J. Mabon. All in favor,vote 8-0.