Brownstone Exploration and
Discovery Park Advisory Committee
February 12, 2007
Minutes

Members Present: Robert Spencer, James Tripp, Don Bascom, MaryAnn Dolan

Members Absent: Norm Ward, Michael Susca

Others Present: Deanna Rhodes - Interim Planner
Frank Hayes, Hayes Brothers
Bruce Tyler (arrived late)

*** Bob McDougall has resigned from the Advisory Committee.

1. CALL TO ORDER

Deanna Rhodes called the meeting to order at 7:01 PM.

2. ACCEPT AGENDA

A motion was made by Bob Spencer and seconded by Don Bascom to accept the agenda dated February 12, 2007

All ayes. Motion passed.

3. APPROVE MINUTES

A motion was made by Bob Spencer and seconded by MaryAnn Dolan to approve the minutes of the November 13, 2006 meeting.

All ayes. Motion passed.

4. PUBLIC COMMENT

5. CORRESPONDENCE AND COMMUNICATION

None reported

6. GENERAL DISCUSSION/UPDATES

The following items were discussed:

Water/Sewer

Frank Hayes reported that there will be an internal meeting with Susan Bransfield, Rick Kelsey, Deanna Rhodes and Geoff Jacobson either 2/24/07 or 2/25/07 to go over all detailed plans. He will provide package to the Advisory Committee after that meeting.

Buildings

Frank Hayes stated that he will start pulling permits in early March.

Fencing

Frank Hayes reported tentatively there is fencing at the top of the promontory. The fencing he is proposing would be a metal wire that looks from the distance transparent. He will include pictures in the package to the Committee. Frank stated that he would like to stay away from chain link fencing; however the only problem he foresees is Silver Street. Frank mentioned having video cameras for security reasons on Silver Street.

Frank inquired about littering and trespassing, and what could be done. Frank stated that he would like to look into federal fines or fees for violating a National Historic Landmark. Deanna Rhodes indicated that signage is allowed in the regulations, which will allow you to do different type of signage on the property. Deanna Rhodes stated that Frank would have to look into the Town Ordinance for littering and trespassing.

Parking

Frank Hayes stated that paving won't be done on the promontory until after the buildings are done. Frank Hayes reported that "no parking" signs have been installed on the right hand side (east side) of Brownstone Avenue. Frank indicated that he is proposing a crosswalk /pedestrian walkway plan that he will present at his meeting with Susan Bransfield.

Campground

Deanna Rhodes stated that she has spoken with Don Mitchell who has not heard anything from the Hayes Brothers or the State regarding how the permitting is going for the Campground. Frank Hayes stated that he has not submitted a formal application with the State; however submission should be within two months. Frank commented that depending on the State, the campground may not open this summer. Frank indicated that a building shell will potentially house port-a-potties.

Lighting

Deanna Rhodes stated that she was concerned regarding use of spotlights for security. Frank Hayes indicated that there are two light fixtures at the campground and two light fixtures at the promontory, which are full cut off.

Traffic Plan

Frank Hayes stated that he is getting pricing for three different types of shuttles for transportation, but in the mean time he has a school bus that will be used for the opening. The hours of operation would be 9:00 am. to 5:00 pm., seven days per week, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Frank Hayes stated that if anything the hours might be switched in the summer to be open a little later, but still during daylight hours.

Other

Deanna Rhodes updated the members regarding potential for a RFP for a grant writer who could apply for grants on behalf of the Town. There is potential that the grant writer could get funding to complete Middlesex Avenue to Brownstone through a Small Cities Grant; however the Town would hold a public hearing to determine which projects would be the priority for grant applications.

Deanna Rhodes informed the members that Susan Bransfield went to a DOT meeting regarding the Arrogoni Bridge. She was informed that they have allocated approximately 3.1 million dollars to install electronic message signs on both ends of the bridge that would change as needed for traffic updates, install additional signage on Route 9 north and south, provide new lane control signage on the bridge, and install cameras on Route 9 north and south.

Deanna Rhodes indicated to Frank Hayes that Don Mitchell, Sanitarian with the Chatham Health District, would like Frank to contact him to address water testing for the upcoming season, food service permits, and the campground proposal.

7. PUBLIC COMMENT

Bruce Tyler and members discussed the number of vehicles per day, as well as traffic issues on Main Street and Route 66. Members voiced concern about impacts from any future development on the Elmcrest property, as well as the quarry project. They recommended that the Town require traffic studies for any development proposals in this area and requested that Town Staff work closely with the DOT and the engineering consultant for the Main Street Streetscape Project to address traffic, safety and signage issues.

8. ADJOURNMENT

A motion was made by Don Bascom and seconded by Jim Tripp to adjourn at 7:40 PM

All ayes. Motion passed.

The next meeting will be held on March 12, 2007.

Respectfully submitted,

Rosanne Darna
Recording Secretary