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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-07-21 Strategic Issues Committee MinutesStrategic Issues Committee July 21, 2003 Minutes Council Attendance: Rohman, Nealley, Farrington, Rohman, Palmer, Greene Allen Staff Attendance: Barrett, Ring, Weber, Perry, Daniels, McKay Others: Quimby, lambs, Endron 1. Bangor -Old Town Corridor Project Representatives of the Bangor Land Trust requested the opportunity to brief the Council an this project. Quimby provided updated information describing the project as well as a map. The advantages of preserving the area are public access, public recreation, wildlife habitat, sustainable forestry, educational opportunities, exercise, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, etc. Municipalides potentially Involved are Bangor, Veade, Orono, Old Town, Alton and Hudson. There are a large number of parcels of land which are publicly and privately owned that are not likely to be developed. The BLT wants to work with landowners and municipalities involved to incorporate the concept of preserving the open space into the municipality's planning process. Quimby said a management plan is needed to provide coordination and communication among the participants. BLT will accept gifts only from willing landowners. The financing will come from private fundraising and through the Bangor Land Trust, the Orono Land Trust, the Maine Outdoor Heritage Fund, antl the Land for Maine's Future Fund. There Is approximately 18,000 acres. The BLT doesn't intend to own the entire acreage but would like to be a coordination agency and planning tool for those who do own the land. The BLT asked the city for a letter of support. At some point, the BLT may came to the City for financial support. Ring applauded the efforts of the BLT. He talked about the trall connectivity. Rohman asked about the impact of this plan on potential development in the Bangor Mall area. Barrett talked about the appropriate dividing line between urbanized areas and preservation lands. He suggested that City staff and members of the BLT continue to work together to see haw their concept and the City's comprehensrre plan mesh or do not mesh and to further refine a boundary in the Mall area. The Idea of a connector and a trail system in open space has been a part of the City's comprehensive plan. Healley agreed in principle and concept to mark the corridor. The City's comprehensive plan will be updated in 2005. A letter of support will be provided. Jacobs talked about MDOT participation in trail projects with 80% from the state and matching funds to be provided by the BLT. Purchase of property can be considered as a local match. 2. Executive Session — land Disposition — Bangor Waterfront Due to a conflIM Rohman excused himself from participation. Palmer chaired the remainder of the meeting. A motion was made and s nded to go Into executive session.