January 21 2015 Community Preservation Committee Minutes.pdfNorthampton Community Preservation Committee Minutes 1
January 21, 2015
Northampton Community Preservation Committee Minutes
January 21, 2015
Time: 7:00 pm Place: City Council Chambers, 212 Main Street
Members Present: Downey Meyer, Glenn Connly, Brian Adams, Dave Rothstein, Debin
Bruce, Linda Morley, Toni Hochstadt, David Drake Staff Present: Sarah LaValley
Downey called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. General Public Comment
Clem Clay. New Executive Director of Grow Food Northampton introduced himself to the
Committee and provided an overview of the group’s mission and plans.
The CPC welcomed Clem and looks forward to working with him.
Approval of Minutes – November 19 and December 3, 2014
Tabled until next meeting. Chair’s Report
Downey informed the Committee that all of the CPC’s recommendations for funding passed City
Council except for the Lumberyard project, for which two readings will likely be held on
February 5. Valley CDC held the additional public meeting required by the CPC in its
recommendation; permits have also been received from both the Planning Board and Central
Business Architecture Committee.
Q and A For CPA Applicants
None
Funding Round Debriefing Brian stated that the round included a very long meeting during recommendation discussions
that was difficult. Glenn agreed.
David stated that the City Council’s concerns about the recommended Lumberyard affordable housing project are not related to City Ordinances or planning documents. Downey added that
the CPC’s process was unfortunately called into question and the recommendation was thought to
be not entirely supportive. He tried to communicate to Council the CPC’s enthusiasm and high level of support for the very important project, and would welcome any additional comments
from CPC members at the February 4 City Council meeting.
Round 1 2015 Application Review Schedule
Dave asked if the round will still move forward given the limited amount of funding that will be available.
Sarah noted that there will be approximately $180,000 available in reserve accounts.
The Committee finalized the review schedule, which will be posted online. Sarah will revise, send to the CPC and publish. A second public comment session was added March 4 following the
meetings with applicants/
Small Grants discussion will resume following the funding round in May.
Ongoing Items Small Grants Small Grants discussion will resume following the funding round in May.
Approve Template Contract
The Committee had a general discussion of the legal requirements of the City and the needs of the
CPC. Adjourn
On a motion and second, with unanimous vote, the meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM