Westmoreland Planning Board

Draft Minutes

May 12, 2009

Present: R Kotfila, L Burt, J Starkey, L Bressett Excused: N Zeller, B Harcke

Lauren served as secretary in Lori’s absence, Lori Burt served as chair and called the meeting to order at 7:35. Minutes accepted as printed.

Pat Baker and Bettianne Sather addressed the board regarding sign ordinances. His focus is to fulfill the Town master plan by retaining town character while also being sensitive to the needs of businesses. Pat is especially concerned about the Rt 12 corridor. Current regulations seem sensible but are they adequate, enforceable? Are they enforced? How should they be enforced? Are definitions clear? Pat would like to do a tactful assessment with businesses. Would like to review needs and come up with suggestions. Topics include: product signs, company vehicles, flags, banners, etc. What is a directory sign? What is enforcement process? Pat also had questions about the Fed Ex boxes? While they are most likely a necessary service to the industrial park is there a better location for them? Is current signage adequate, how does it affect town character?

Board Discussion – if anything is done it should be done in conjunction with the Zoning Administrator. Pat would first ID all businesses, contact owners understanding permission is required to tour properties. Board does feel it would be helpful in adapting ordinances that are responsive to business needs but also respective of the Town character. Suggest Lauren touch base with Bob to get his perspective on this. Pat could do a draft letter for review. Jim moved that we thank Mr Baker for his offer to spend time on this and let Pat do background research but not do site visits until Planning Board discussion next month, Lauren seconded, motion passed.

Selectman update: Gary Hudson is compiling a list of shared driveways, Selectmen will then name them. County farm – checked with LGC if property leaves government hands, local zoning then is reinstated.

Workforce housing – hearing 5/21 for extension of HB 321 to extend implementation date of HB 342. Bob and Laurie plan to attend the SWRPC informational session on workforce housing.

The Board continued with ordinance review. Finished through 448 and will begin with 449 in June. Lauren will check for sample ordinances especially ones relating to mobile homes/manufactured housing.

Meeting adjourned at 9:25.

Respectfully submitted,

Lauren Bressett