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.