HomeMy Public PortalAboutVPC 07/18/22 Meeting PacketTown of Brewster
Vision Planning Committee
2198 Main St., Brewster, MA 02631
brewplan@brewster-ma.gov
(508) 896-3701
MEETING AGENDA
2198 Main Street, Room A
Monday, July 18, 2022 at 3:30 PM
Pursuant to Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021, this meeting will be conducted in person and via remote means, in accordance
with applicable law. This means that members of the public body may access this meeting in person, or via virtual means.
In person attendance will be at the meeting location listed above, and it is possible that any or all members of the public
body may attend remotely. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, and public participation
in any public hearing conducted during this meeting shall be by remote means only.
Members of the public who wish to access the meeting may do so in the following manner:
Meetings may be joined by:
1.Phone: Call (929) 436-2866 or (301) 715-8592. Zoom Meeting ID: 819 3038 8203 and Passcode 317154
To request to speak: Press *9 and wait to be recognized.
2.Zoom Webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81930388203?pwd=VHEvUURMM1ZFdUJNREJIbEN3SFdOZz09
and enter Passcode 317154
To request to speak: Tap Zoom “Raise Hand” button or type “Chat” comment with your name and address, then wait to
be recognized.
Additionally, the meeting will be broadcast live, in real time, via Live broadcast (Brewster Government TV Channel
18), Livestream (livestream.brewster-ma.gov), or Video recording (tv.brewster-ma.gov).
Vision Planning
Committee
Hal Minis
Chair
Sharon Tennstedt
Vice Chair
Amanda Bebrin
Andi Genser
Patricia Hess
Suzanne Kenney
Fran Schofield
Alex Wentworth
Town Planner
Jon Idman
Admistrative
Assistant
Ellen Murphy
Select Board
Liaison
Kari Hoffman
Finance Committee
Liaison
Honey Pivirotto
1.Call to Order
2.Declaration of a Quorum
3.Meeting Participation Statement
4.Review and Approval of July 5th meeting minutes
5.Review LCP draft summary for public engagement
6.Review timeline for preparation and submission of LCP
7.Review and discuss LCP draft outline
8.Communication and Outreach Update
a)Review LCP public hearing plan
9.Update on Sea Camps Planning
10.Items for next agenda
11.Review Action items from July 5th meeting
12.Next Meeting: Monday August 1st
13.Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair
14.Adjournment
Date Posted:Date Revised:Received by Town Clerk:
7/13/2022 7/13/2022
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TOWN OF BREWSTER VISION PLANNING COMMITTEE
MEETING MINUTES
Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at 3:30PM
Hybrid Meeting
Hal Minis, Chair, convened the Brewster Vision Planning Committee via remote participation with members: Sharon
Tennstedt, Vice Chair, Amanda Bebrin, Suzanne Kenney, and Patricia Hess were present. Fran Schofield was absent. A
quorum was determined.
Also present: Kari Hoffmann, Jon Idman and Ellen Murphy, Sharon Rooney, Clare O’Connor-Rice
The Chair read the Recording or Taping Notification: This meeting will be conducted by remote participation pursuant to
Chapter 20 of the Acts of 2021, this meeting will be conducted in person and via remote means, in accordance with
applicable law. This means that members of the public body may access this meeting in person, or via virtual means. In
person attendance will be at the meeting location listed above, and it is possible that any or all members of the public body
may attend remotely. No in-person attendance of members of the public will be permitted, and public participation in any
public hearing conducted during this meeting shall be by remote means only.
To submit public comment or questions to the Vision Planning Committee, please email: brewplan@brewster-ma.gov.
Review and Approval of June 6th meeting minutes:
Sharon made a motion to approve the June 6th meeting minutes, Suzanne seconded the motion, a roll call was
taken, and the June 6th meeting minutes were approved unanimously.
Discuss staff review of action plan, approve revisions:
Hal outlined the action plan review process indicating revisions submitted from the staff review were
incorporated into the draft for review and approval by the Committee. Hal congratulated the Committee for
their effort and hard work in making the process so successful. Sharon will make any edits on demand as the
Committee reviews the Building Block actions. Hal stepped through the purposes and actions for each of the
Building Blocks providing the Committee the opportunity to comment. Hal noted that Sharon Rooney and Kari
Hoffman joined the meeting and Clare O’Connor-Rice from the public.
Community Character
Purpose 1, 2nd bullet the Committee agreed to change the wording to diversity, equity, and inclusion. There
were no other comments or edits.
Open Space
No changes.
Housing
No changes.
Local Economy
No changes.
Coastal Management
Andi asked for clarification on the term retreat parking. Hal stated the term means finding another location
nearby. There were no changes.
Water Resources
No changes.
Governance
No changes.
Community Infrastructure
No changes.
Solid Waste Management
No changes.
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Climate Mitigation & Adaptation
No changes.
Hal noted the change under Community character and confirmed there are no other changes. He informed the
Committee that Peter Lombardi commented on the 100+ action items to address and noted it was very
aggressive for completion in 5 years. Hal agreed with Peter and indicated the Select Board will set the priorities
during their planning process. Jon suggested this should be included in the action plan. Hal asked the
Committee to vote to approve and accept the action item plan. Sharon made a motion to approve the action
item plan, Andi seconded the motion. Patricia asked if the action items will be changed going forward. Sharon
Rooney indicated that it is possible slight changes to the action items may be made. She informed the
Committee there is a requirement for a public hearing and there may be changes that come out of the process.
A vote was taken, and the Committee unanimously approved the action item plan.
Review Tighe & Bond LCP timeline and roadmap
Hal turned the meeting over to Sharon Rooney to discuss the LCP timeline. She highlighted some outstanding
items such as the capital facilities infrastructure component, and minor items from the proposed LCP format
that need to be decided. She informed the Committee a word document with the components they have so far
will be drafted and reviewed by the Committee at the next meeting. Once the Capital Facilities plan and an
updated Housing Production Plan summary is included a more formal document will be created. She indicated
that the Capital Facilities plan will be reviewed to determine land use goals and infrastructure needs and a
summary document will be drafted as a component of the LCP. Tighe & Bond will take the first cut of the
document to review with the Committee and Town Staff.
Discuss LCP format
Hal referred to the outline included in the meeting packet. Sharon Rooney suggested it will be structured
modeling the regional policy plan. The Committee discussed the format and suggested the order of the topics
be restructured to emphasize the Building Blocks, aligning with the Vision Plan. Hal suggested a one-page
diagram that displays the alignment of the Cape Cod Commission goals, and the Vision Plan goals using the
Vision Plan format. Andi stated that all the Building Blocks are interconnected and emphasized the importance.
Sharon Rooney agreed that the goal comparison table will provide clarification during the Cape Cod Commission
review of the LCP. She asked the Committee if they were comfortable with the general order of the format. The
Committee suggested re-ordering the sections of the draft outline. It was decided, under Section 9:
Performance Monitoring to title it “Implementation and Performance Monitoring and include the Select Board
strategic plan and prioritization of the actions. Hal suggested the monitoring process would be modeled from
the Vision Plan Implementation process to include an annual report. Jon suggested using metrics that could be
included in the annual report. Kari suggested wording recognizing the LCP is a very ambitious plan, but the
Select Board will work on it through the strategic planning process. Jon asked if there was a section for maps.
Sharon Rooney suggested the Committee decided how many maps and the location within the LCP. She pointed
out the one map that should be included is the Town Center map including the responses from the survey. This
should be incorporated in the LCP. She referred to the formats of the reports and different ways maps could be
included. Patricia asked about hardcopies of the report. Sharon Rooney looked to the Committee for the
number of hardcopies created. She informed the Committee it is very pricey to provide printouts of the report.
She suggested a PDF format that can be easily copied. Links can be provided on the Town website. Hal
suggested an executive summary would be very accessible with one or two maps included. The Housing analysis
map and summary will be updated by Tighe & Bond.
Communication Update:
a)Discuss Community Engagement next steps
Hal talked about a public hearing. Jon suggested the VPC organize the public hearing. It should be a
joint Select Board and Planning Board meeting. The Committee suggested one public hearing and talked
about how to prepare for the hearing. Clare O’Connor Rice asked the Committee if there would be an
opportunity for public outreach, specifically targeting arts and culture. Jon stressed that it is critical for a
public comment period to identify key stakeholder groups to make them aware that a draft of the action
items is available. Jon identified procedural steps prior to Town meeting. Kari asked how to get the
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information out to the public, what will be provided and who will it be provided to. Hal suggested a final
draft that can be presented to the public. Sharon Rooney suggested a formatted document with maps
that may still have some uncompleted areas, but the bulk of the material can be included. Hal
suggested 4-5 sub stakeholder groups to present the broad outline of the LCP prior to the public
hearing. Amanda suggested as soon as we have a draft, we should be sending it out to stakeholders. Hal
stated the main portion is the action plan which is already drafted and in final stage. It was suggested
that an executive summary be drafted and included with the action plan for the public comment period.
Jon suggested a process that includes public comment period, stakeholder meetings and compiling
comments for a draft of the final document prior to the public hearing. It was decided the review
document would include an intro, vision, goals, purposes, and action plan. Hal will provide the first draft
for review at the next meeting. Sharon Rooney will work on a draft LCP outline for review at the next
meeting.
Update on Sea Camps Planning:
Amanda provided an update on the Bay parcel. An RFI is due by mid-July. Town staff and committee members
will interview and hopefully have a consulting firm on board by mid-August. The Bay parcel plan is expected to
take approximately 2 years prior to presenting to the public. Short-term and long-term uses are being reviewed
and considered.
Hal provided an update on the Long Pond parcel. At the last meeting the chair was elected, a vice chair was
nominated but not presented so more to come. The chair of the Long Pond parcel will be included in the
consultant selection. Kari also commented that two subgroups have been identified to focus on an
informational video, a tour, and ideas for short-term uses.
Items for next agenda:
a)Review of the draft summary for public engagement
b)Final timeline
Review Action Items from July 5th meeting:
Request for pictures for the LCP is the only outstanding item from the last meeting. Sharon Rooney informed
the Committee she received pictures but has not had a chance to review.
Next Meeting: Monday, August 1st Room A person to person for Committee members
Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair:
Amanda informed the Committee at the last Planning Board meeting a newly elected member Alex Wentworth
volunteered to replace Paul Wallace on VPC. The Select Board will vote on the appointment on July 11th.
Suzanne made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Amanda seconded the motion, the meeting was unanimously
adjourned at 5:13 pm.
BREWSTER’S LOCAL
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2022
Draft Summary for Review and Comment
Prepared by: The Brewster Vision Panning Committee
July 2022
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1. Introduction and Overview
Brewster is in the process of preparing a Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP), which describes how
Brewster looks today and where it wants to go in the future. It is developed with general guidance from
the Cape Cod Commission, adapted to Brewster’s specific needs and circumstances. Once the final LCP
draft is completed, it will be subject to Town Meeting approval. The Cape Cod Commission will also
review the LCP to ensure that it is consistent with and not contrary to regional planning policies or
other towns’ interests.
The development of the LCP started with the 2018 Brewster Vision Plan. This Plan provides a vision for
the community’s future and a foundation for the LCP. It includes goals and actions for eight key issue
areas (called ‘building blocks’) to guide future decision-making involving Town government, community
organizations, and residents.
To develop the LCP, the Town is now refining the general principles of the Vision Plan, particularly the
aspects related to land use, to establish future actions regarding regulatory changes (such as zoning),
capital investments, and service delivery necessary to further the Town’s vision.
The LCP is structured along the same lines as the Vision Plan. It includes a Vision Statement and the
eight building blocks: Community Character, Water Resources, Open space, Housing, Coastal
Management, Local Economy, Governance, and Community Infrastructure. The goals for each of these
building blocks remain similar to those stated in the Vision Plan, with some slight modifications to
recognize changing conditions in Brewster and the goal statements in the Cape Cod Regional Policy
Plan.
In addition, two new building blocks have been included: Climate Mitigation and Adaptation and Solid
Waste Management. The Climate Mitigation and Adaptation building block recognizes the major threat
to the community posed by climate change and the efforts by the Town to mitigate or adapt to its
effects. The Solid Waste building block recognizes both the Town’s efforts to decrease and manage the
community’s waste stream and regional guidance from the Cape Cod Commission.
The heart of the LCP is the Action Plan – an ambitious list of actions that Town government and local
organizations plan to achieve over the next 5 to 10 years. The entire draft Action Plan is included in this
summary document. The other sections of the LCP are summarized below.
The Vision Planning Committee thanks all Town government staff, representatives of local
organizations, and residents who have participated in workshops, the public survey, and other
interviews and focus groups to inform the LCP. We appreciate everyone’s efforts to invest in Brewster’s
future.
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2. Brewster’s Vision
The vision for Brewster’s future was crafted as part of the Vision Planning process.
Brewster is a welcoming and inclusive community that celebrates our diversity and special
character. We preserve our historical setting and seek to protect its contribution to our town’s
character. We work to preserve the rural, small town feel of Brewster created by low density
development and open space, which contributes to protecting water resources and providing
scenic areas for recreation and contemplation. In the context of coastal change, we protect our
bayside coastline, which defines our sense of place and provides special recreational and
economic opportunities.
We honor our history as a working community and partner with Brewster businesses that
support residents and visitors by providing unique, high-quality products, services, and
experiences built on our unique character and environment.
We support growth that is appropriately scaled and sited. We seek to offer housing that is
affordable to residents of all ages and economic standing. We strive to provide the
infrastructure necessary to ensure that all citizens - particularly elders and families with
children - are safe, healthy, and supported, so they can work, learn, participate, and give back
to the community.
The methods and practices that we set in place encourage and promote public discourse and
collaboration. We look to successful models in other communities and organizations as
examples to manage and guide our approach to change in our Town.
We are committed as we move forward, through careful planning and coordination, to improve
our community and protect what we value about Brewster.
3. Community engagement in the planning process
Processes for developing both the Vision Plan and the Local Comprehensive Plan were highly
participatory. The Vision Planning process included three series of public workshops and a public
survey. These events were accompanied by broad public outreach, including newspaper coverage
and opinion pieces, postings on the Town website and through the Town email-list, distribution of
announcements through the e-mail lists of approximately 10 local not-for-profit organizations and
church groups, local public television interviews and announcements, and document distribution at
Town Hall, the Brewster Ladies Library, and the Council on Aging. A post card to all property owners
was also sent out for the public survey.
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The LCP planning effort began during the Covid pandemic, thus was constrained by restrictions on
public meetings. Nevertheless, the Planning Committee used many of the same outreach efforts to
inform the Brewster public about the planning effort and to solicit their ideas and feedback. Most
notable was the public survey to gage support for over 65 proposed actions, to which over 2,300
people, broadly representing the community’s demographic profile, responded. The Committee used
broad print and electronic media announcements, email lists, post cards to property owners, and
pop-up events at Town locations to publicize the survey. A summary of results is available on the
Town website at nextsteps.pdf (brewster-ma.gov)
In addition, the Committee partnered with the Town Administration to organize workshops of Town
staff and key local organizations to review and comment on the proposed Action Plan included in
Section 6 below.
4. Existing Conditions
The existing conditions for each of the building blocks are described in summary papers that can be
found on the Town website at …… Originally prepared for the Vision planning process in 2017, the
current versions have been updated to reflect changing conditions, evolving issues, and
implementation of actions to achieve Vision Plan goals. Abridged versions of these summary papers
will be included in the final LCP document.
5. Building Block Goals
The goals for the LCP are based on the Vision Plan goals. They have been slightly modified to reflect
changing conditions in Brewster and to make them consistent with the goals of the Cape Cod
Commission’s Regional Policy Plan.
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Vision Plan Goal Local Comprehensive Plan
Goal
Water resources - Protect Brewster’s freshwater
system to preserve high quality drinking water and
maintain or improve the health of our ponds and
marine watersheds
Water resources - Protect Brewster’s freshwater system
to preserve high quality drinking water and maintain or
improve the health of our ponds, wetlands and their
buffers, and marine watersheds
Open Space - Maintain and expand open space
assets to provide public recreation, protect fragile
natural habitat, and protect water resources
Open Space - Maintain and expand open space assets to
provide public recreation, protect fragile plant and
wildlife habitat, protect water resources, and contribute
to carbon sequestration
Community Character - Sustain and foster
Brewster’s historic setting, rural nature, small town
feel, and socially inclusive spirit
Community Character - Sustain and foster Brewster’s
historic and archeological values, rural nature, small
town feel, and socially inclusive spirit
Coastal Management - In the context of coastal
change, preserve and protect Brewster’s coastal
resources and expand public access
Coastal Management - In the context of coastal change,
preserve and protect Brewster’s coastal resources,
expand public access, and minimize the vulnerabilities
from coastal hazards due to climate change
Community Infrastructure - Maintain and expand
town infrastructure in ways that expand
opportunities for community interaction, supports
the development of a “green” economy, expands
recreation opportunities, and promotes public
safety.
Community Infrastructure - Maintain and enhance town
infrastructure in an environmentally and economically
sustainable way that supports government services,
opportunities for community interaction, the local
economy and culture, public health, multimodal
transportation options, and expanded recreation
opportunities
Waste Management - NA Waste management - To promote a sustainable solid
waste management system that protects public health,
safety, and the environment
Climate Mitigation - NA Climate Mitigation - Support and advance the
Commonwealth’s greenhouse gas reduction goals,
including promoting sustainable energy use and
renewable energy that protects the Town’s natural
resources
Local Economy - Promote a sustainable economy
that builds on Brewster’s natural and human assets,
addresses the needs of small businesses, and
provides year-round employment for Brewster’s
young families
Local Economy - Promote a sustainable economy that
builds on Brewster’s natural and human assets,
addresses the needs of small businesses, and provides
year-round employment for Brewster’s young families
Housing - Provide more affordable, safe, and
accessible rental and ownership housing options at
different price points, particularly for single people,
young families, and our older population. Achieve
the state’s 10% affordable goal by 2025
Housing – Provide more affordable, attainable, safe, and
fair housing and support residents to maintain and
preserve their current housing to remain in the
community
Governance - Create a more open and inclusive
town government that encourages participation by
all citizens by improving two-way communication,
expanding volunteer opportunities, and, encouraging
customer friendly service
Governance – Provide an inclusive town government
that encourages participation by all citizens by engaging
in two-way communication, expanding volunteer
opportunities, and, encouraging customer friendly
service
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6. Action Plan
The following Action Plan is proposed to achieve building block goals over the next 5 to 10 years. The
list of actions is not intended to be a complete list of all that the Town could do but does include the
most important actions. While a large and ambitious number of actions are presented, priorities for
implementation will be identified during the Select Board’s annual strategic planning exercise.
The list of actions has been drawn from numerous sources including the following:
Actions from the Vision Plan that have not yet been implemented,
Recommendations from implementing stakeholders about current needs,
Recommendations from the summary papers about trends and needs, and
Results of the public survey gaging public support for individual actions.
As the final phase of action plan development, the draft list of actions was reviewed and refined by
workshops of key Town departments and local organizations to assess the accuracy, relevancy, and
implement ability of each action. This vital part of the process helped ensure that the capacity and
commitment to implement the Action Plan will make the LCP a living plan.
Below, the Action Plan is presented by building block, including the building block goal, purpose, and
proposed actions.
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
GOAL: Sustain and foster Brewster's historic and archeological values, rural nature, small
town feel, and socially inclusive spirit and vitality
PURPOSE 1: Provide social opportunities and services for all
Actions:
Expand and enhance service programming for all, including recreational opportunities in a
multi-generational community center and at the former Sea Camps Bay and Long Pond
properties.
Identify, develop, and support new services as needed, building on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Ensure that school facilities and activities meet the needs of young families.
Increase accessibility to all Town activities and facilities.
Evaluate providing financial support for Pre-K to attract and retain young families.
PURPOSE 2: Maintain the Town’s historic heritage and style
Actions:
Support existing regulations and educate public on building design along Rt. 6A to
preserve historic character.
Consider sensitivity to historic nature in development of Town projects.
Investigate the need for a Demolition Delay Bylaw and implement if supported.
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PURPOSE 3: Maintain the Town’s small-town feel and scale through appropriate development
Actions:
Explore the establishment of a Town Center and/or activity centers (Village Business Zones)
and potential uses.
Consider land use tools to manage the development of a Town Center and/or activity centers.
Review mixed use potential in a Town Center and/or activity centers with parking
considerations and a plan for walkable and bike able use.
WATER RESOURCES
GOAL: Protect Brewster's freshwater system to preserve high quality drinking water and maintain
or improve the health of our ponds, wetlands and their buffers, and marine watersheds
OVERARCHING PURPOSE: Continue to up-date and implement the Integrated Water Resources
Management Plan.
PURPOSE 1: Protect town drinking water supply areas by continuing open space acquisition and
other measures
Actions:
Continue land purchases to protect the drinking water and limit further development around
land that protects the aquifer, coordinate with neighboring towns.
Consider further strengthening drinking water supply protection in industrial zones.
Evaluate other actions to protect drinking water from the impacts of other land uses.
PURPOSE 2: Improve pond water quality through public education, regulation, and
mitigation activities
Actions:
Promote and research, including through pilot programs, the use of innovative septic systems
and other non-traditional wastewater management models, develop financial management
assistance programs and/or non-financial incentives and evaluate management and
financing options.
Explore the feasibility of cluster sewage treatment systems for multifamily housing areas
and
neighborhoods that will impact pond water quality where supported by sufficient density.
Fully implement the stormwater bylaw and share further information with the public.
Continue to update pond water quality data and report to the public.
Educate the public on water quality issues and what people can do to make a difference in
their own homes.
Pursue land acquisition to protect pond water quality.
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PURPOSE 3: Protect water quality in marine watersheds through public education, regulation,
and mitigation activities
Actions:
Evaluate the maximum build-out in the Pleasant Bay and Herring River watersheds and its
impact on water quality; consider regulations to mitigate impacts.
Promote and research, including through pilot programs, the use of innovative septic
systems and other non-traditional wastewater management models, develop financial
management assistance programs and/or non-financial incentives, and evaluate
management and financing options.
Explore the feasibility of cluster sewage treatment systems for multifamily and neighborhoods
that will impact marine watershed water quality where supported by sufficient density.
Continue exploring nitrogen reduction practices on golf courses.
Pursue land acquisition to protect marine watersheds water quality.
OPEN SPACE
GOAL: Maintain and expand open space assets to provide passive recreation, protect fragile
plant and wildlife habitat, protect water resources, and contribute to carbon
sequestration
PURPOSE 1: Improve public access to and expand recreational area use of open space
Actions:
Continue to acquire open space, emphasizing the importance of recreation, the potential for
building trail networks, and the positive effect of woodlands in climate mitigation as criteria
for land acquisition.
Develop an integrated trail system for the Long Pond Woodlands and former Sea Camps
Long Pond property. Continue to improve public education and information, including
guides and signage, about access to and locations of municipal open space assets.
PURPOSE 2: Prioritize environmentally sensitive areas for preservation
Actions:
Continue to prioritize land acquisition in public drinking water supply areas.
Formalize the criteria to evaluate open space acquisitions.
Emphasize the importance of pond and fragile habitat protection as related to this Purpose.
PURPOSE 3: Maintain open space through density and development standards
Actions:
Revise regulations and bylaws to direct growth toward areas with public services,
economic activities, and transport, and away from environmentally sensitive areas.
Develop design standards to prevent fragmentation of environmentally sensitive areas.
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PURPOSE 4: Maintain open space assets for public resource values
Actions:
Develop and maintain an inventory of all Town-owned open space.
Develop an active management program for Town-owned open space.
HOUSING
GOAL: Provide more affordable, attainable, accessible, safe, and fair housing, and support
residents to maintain and preserve their current housing to remain in the community.
PURPOSE 1: Achieve the Commonwealth’s goal of 10% affordable housing by 2027
Actions:
Implement the 2022 Housing Production Plan (HPP) Update.
Collaborate with existing local and regional groups to conduct public forums educating
the general public on what affordable housing is and why it is important in the Town of
Brewster.
Work collaboratively with other towns to increase opportunities for affordable housing.
PURPOSE 2: Establish attainable housing by promoting housing choices to allow families,
single individuals, older adults, and seasonal workers to live, work, and prosper in the
community
Actions:
Review and consider revising, as appropriate, the zoning bylaw to clarify/allow mixed use
developments.
Evaluate ADU bylaw to improve efficacy, explore incentives for a greater number of ADUs,
and connect owners to community resources.
Support creative funding and collaborative partnerships (public/private) in the development
of community housing, including incentives for year-round rentals.
Work collaboratively with other towns to increase opportunities for attainable housing.
Review and evaluate the zoning bylaw with the aim of promoting more opportunities as
appropriate for various types and forms of housing, including two-family residential/ duplex;
multi-unit/ multi-family residential; and mixed-use residential development.
Prioritize the adaptive reuse of existing buildings for housing.
Evaluate the use of Town-owned properties and propose creative solutions, including reuse of
Town owned buildings for housing, such as the former Sea Camps dormitories on the Bay property.
Evaluate the acquisition of land by the Town for housing.
Encourage housing in areas near transportation, public services, and economic activities.
Explore potential housing programs, opportunities, and funding for those earning 80% to
120% of Area Median Income (AMI).
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PURPOSE 3: Preserve existing year-round housing
Actions:
Promote ability for residents to transition to different forms of housing and remain in
Brewster over a lifetime by providing a wide range of housing choices.
Explore solutions to allow residents to age in place including funding or subsidizing
building adaptations, co-housing, and a review of co-pairing situations.
Evaluate ADU bylaw to improve efficacy, explore incentives for a greater number of ADUs,
and connect owners to community resources.
Support creative funding and collaborative partnerships (public/private) in the preservation
of community housing, including incentives for year-round rentals.
COASTAL MANAGEMENT
GOAL: In the context of coastal change, preserve and protect Brewster’s coastal resources,
expand public access, and minimize the vulnerabilities from coastal hazards due to
climate change
PURPOSE 1: Protect coastal resources in ways that preserve coastal ecosystems and the
character of the Town and coastal neighborhoods
Actions:
Evaluate and implement local coastal resiliency by-laws and regulations to preserve the scale,
character, and resources in the Town’s coastal planning area.
Establish a uniform definition of the 100-year coastal floodplain for local regulations.
Increase public awareness of the importance of healthy coastal wetlands and natural
processes, and of the need to protect these resource areas.
PURPOSE 2: Maintain and expand public access for all through public consensus and explore
alternate modes of transport and access points
Actions:
Explore and evaluate the need for, and feasibility of, alternative transport and options for off-
site parking in general and for potential retreat parking for Paine’s Creek and Mant’s Landings.
Complete the permitting and construction of the Wing Island Boardwalk and the design
and construction of the Drummer Boy Park Master Plan, Phase 1.
Provide interim access and complete long-term planning for beach access at the First
Light Beach property.
Continue to explore opportunities to improve visibility and mobility access at beach landings.
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PURPOSE 3: Adapt to climate change projections and advance adaptation and resiliency
techniques that are financially and environmentally sustainable
Actions:
Periodically assess coastal resource conditions for comparison to baseline conditions and
on a regional scale, including sediment budget update, storm tide pathways, and a regional
framework for resilience.
Explore regulatory options for managed retreat from high-risk coastal areas.
PURPOSE 4: Provide access for coastal water dependent activities
Actions:
Provide access for commercial aquaculture by updating regulations, evaluating the
designation of an Aquaculture Development Area, and analyzing the costs and benefits of
expanding shell fishing and aquaculture.
Provide opportunities for commercial shellfish harvesting by up-dating regulations.
Expand propagation and other activities to support recreational shell fishing.
Manage competing uses at town landings and mooring areas.
LOCAL ECONOMY
GOAL: Promote a sustainable economy that builds on Brewster’s natural and human assets, addresses
the needs of small businesses, and provides year-round employment for Brewster’s young families
PURPOSE 1: Preserve and enhance Brewster’s economy based on the Town’s natural
and cultural resources
Actions:
Develop an economic development strategy that builds on Brewster’s natural, cultural, and
human resources and aims to maintain existing small businesses and attract new
small businesses.
Work proactively with the Brewster Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders to
refine a common marketing strategy.
Provide more information, including signage and online material, to help visitors find their
way to public resources, businesses, and other amenities in town.
Consider the impact of Town facilities in anchoring community activity centers in making
capital investment decisions.
PURPOSE 2: Maintain and attract small businesses compatible with the Town’s
character and promote year-round employment
Actions:
Review and revise bylaws and regulations to allow a greater variety of small business, including
in-home businesses, compatible with the Town’s character.
Build public awareness/understanding of the concept of form-based zoning. Consider form-based
zoning to focus on the physical form of development rather than on the type of business.
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Develop a guide to doing business for local businesses in Brewster.
Continue to implement online permitting to clarify and simplify the permitting process.
GOVERNANCE
GOAL: Provide an inclusive Town government that encourages participation by all residents
by engaging in two-way communication, expanding volunteer opportunities, and
providing customer friendly service
PURPOSE 1: Continue to communicate Town plans and activities to residents
Actions:
Develop a written Communications Plan to better inform residents about Town affairs.
Continue to provide news and announcements on the Town website and on social media.
Provide updated and relevant information on the Town website, including Town
finances, projects, permitting processes, and other initiatives.
PURPOSE 2: Expand the volunteer base to increase the use of citizen expertise and build
diversity in decision-making
Actions:
Develop and launch a Citizens Leadership Academy to help introduce residents to government
services and volunteer opportunities.
Continue the use of Town-wide activities and ad hoc committees to engage residents in
Town affairs.
Develop a central database of volunteers to assist with recruitment of qualified
volunteers across all Town Departments and appointed Committees.
Acknowledge contributions of active volunteers and recognize volunteers when they
complete their commitment in order to improve volunteer retention.
PURPOSE 3: Continue to strengthen the customer service approach to Town services
Actions:
Develop a resource section on the Town website that includes educational materials including
videos (e.g., by link to Vimeo, BGTV or LCTV files) and fact sheets on topics such as
responsibilities of Town Departments, zoning, permitting, ADUs, and other matters of
high interest.
Develop a ‘How to Do Business Guide’ for homeowners to explain permitting processes.
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COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE
GOAL: Maintain and enhance town infrastructure in an environmentally and economically
sustainable way that supports government services, opportunities for community
interaction, the local economy and culture, public health, multi-modal transportation
options, and expanded recreational opportunities.
OVERARCHING PURPOSE: This goal, the Town’s Capital Plan, and the Select Board’s Strategic
Plan shall inform one another and shall be applied in harmony and aligned with one another.
PURPOSE 1: Plan and design Town building and construction projects to benefit the broad
cross-section of all users and interests in the community
Actions:
Include enhanced universal accessibility where feasible on Town properties and projects.
Move forward on a needs assessment for a multi-generational community center, including
potential sites, users and, as applicable, next steps related to results of the School
Consolidation Feasibility Study and the Bay Property comprehensive planning process.
Implement the updated Master Plan for Drummer Boy Park.
Complete the comprehensive planning processes for, and begin implementation of, the plans
for the Bayside and Long Pond properties.
PURPOSE 2: Provide enhanced recreational opportunities, access and facilities for all
Actions:
Develop a town-wide plan for expanding bike and pedestrian paths and sidewalks, possibly
including road improvement priorities, reducing speed limits, a Complete Streets design which is
compatible with Brewster’s character, and/or non-road-based path opportunities.
Pursue the development of the CCRT extension from Nickerson State Park to Cape Cod
Bay including the consideration of alternatives for crossing Rte. 6A.
PURPOSE 3: Plan and design traditional infrastructure projects like road improvements and
maintenance to best serve the needs of the overall community, limit environmental impacts,
and balance fiscal impacts
Actions:
Factor, budget, and set aside long-term improvement and maintenance costs in the funding for
capital projects.
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SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
GOAL: To manage a municipal solid waste system that protects public health, safety, and the
environment, optimizes financial methods, communicates effectively with users, and employs
innovative strategies to reduce solid waste and related costs
PURPOSE 1: Reduce the waste stream
Actions:
Implement an ongoing multi-media public education campaign to reduce the waste stream
including re-purposing and re-using items and optimizing recycling.
Enhance and publicize regional waste collection initiatives such as hazardous waste collection.
Further investigate opportunities between Brewster and regional initiatives for solid
waste management.
PURPOSE 2: Improve the efficiency of the solid waste facility
Actions:
Improve communications with the public concerning Recycling Center operations, practices, and
policies using a variety of print and electronic media channels.
Conduct a Recycling Center study and site analysis including traffic circulation, optimal use
of space, safety, and potential re-use options.
CLIMATE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION
GOAL: Support and advance the Commonwealth’s greenhouse gas reduction goals, including
promoting sustainable energy use and renewable energy that protects the Town’s
natural resources
PURPOSE 1: Reduce the town’s contribution to and vulnerability to climate change
Actions:
Develop and implement a Net Zero Energy Plan for the Town’s assets and operations.
Implement the MEMA/FEMA approved 2021 Local Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Consider specific actions for reducing energy use, including completing energy audits in all
Town buildings; specifying actions regarding increased energy efficiency in existing and
newly constructed Town buildings; locating solar panels/arrays on Town buildings and
facilities; and purchasing alternative energy Town vehicles when due for replacement.
Encourage solar panels on commercial and residential buildings or parking lot
canopies/carports that maintain the Town character.
Work with private entities to install public charging stations at appropriate municipal or
publicly accessible locations.
Consider provision of financial incentives and/or assistance for installation of solar
panels on private homes.
Modify or re-locate town infrastructure and buildings to reduce the potential damage due
to climate change such as flooding.
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PURPOSE 2: Review and update Town bylaws and regulations to mitigate projected climate
change impacts
Actions:
Review zoning bylaws to consider and develop amendments for consistency with this
goal, including the existing solar bylaw and small-scale solar installations.
Clarify design guidelines for the Historic District regarding renewable energy.
Review and consider revising existing Town bylaws and regulations dealing with
fertilizer management.
Foster natural carbon sequestration by: amending Town bylaw to limit the clearing of
forested land, including for solar farms; and exploring opportunities to restore degraded
native plant communities.
Review zoning bylaws to determine if they promote efficient development patterns that
will encourage a walkable and bikeable community.
PURPOSE 3: Build awareness about the nature of climate change and Town efforts to mitigate
climate change
Actions:
Develop an Education and Preparedness Campaign for the general public and the business
sector that includes guidance and checklists for reducing fossil fuel use, as well as
recommendations to increase community resilience to the impacts
7. Capital Facilities Plan
In this section the LCP will align, and cross-reference capital investments contemplated in the action
plan with the Town’s on-going capital facilities planning. This analysis ensures that the capital
requirements necessary to implement the LCP are planned for and met.
8. Housing Production Plan Summary
The Town has recently completed an up-date of its Housing Production Plan, which principally deals
with provisions for affordable housing in Brewster. This section will include a summary of that plan. The
full plan can be accessed on the Town website at Final Housing Production Plan July 2022
(laserfiche.com)
9. Performance Monitoring
Monitoring the implementation of the Plan and reporting to the community are a core part of the
Vision Planning Committee’s charge. In 2021, the Committee produced a report on the implementation
of the Vision Plan, a simple report that was well received by citizens and Town government. The
Committee will continue to conduct annual assessments of LCP implementation. These reports will
include activities by Town government and local organizations to achieve LCP goals. It will include
qualitative and quantitative data about implementation as well as an analysis of factors that support
and constraint implementation.
DRAFT TIMELINE FOR PREPARATION AND SUBMISSION OF LCP
DATE TASK
7/18 VPC Mtg: Review and approve draft LCP Summary for Public Comment Period
7/20 Announce “Notice of Public Comment Period” for LCP Summary and Draft Action Plan
7/20-8/10 Public Comment Period
By 7/28 Tighe & Bond to prepare WORD version of Draft LCP for VPC review
8/1 VPC Mtg: Review Tighe & Bond’s WORD version of draft LCP
By 8/11 Tighe & Bond to revise Draft LCP if needed
8/15 VPC Mtg: Consider public comments and determine any necessary revisions to Action
Plan; Review any revisions to Draft LCP if needed
8/15-9/1 Tighe & Bond to prepare final Draft LCP for Public Hearing
By 9/1 Prepare slides for Public Hearing
9/6 VPC Mtg: Review and approve slides; Review and approve final Draft LCP
9/19 Public Hearing with Select Board and Planning Board
9/20-28 Tighe & Bond to revise final LCP as necessary
By 9/29 Prepare language for Town Meeting Article in Warrant
10/3 VPC Mtg: Review and approve final LCP if needed: Review and approve language for
Town Meeting Article
Mid-
October
Submit Article re LCP for Town Meeting Warrant
11/14 Present at Town Meeting for approval
December Town submits LCP to Cape Cod Commission for certification
Draft Outline for Brewster LCP – revised 7/11/22
Executive Summary
Section 1 Brewster’s Vision
Section 2 Existing Community Assets, Issues, and Needs (organized by Building Block)
Land Use
Community Character
Open Space
Housing
Local Economy
Coastal Management
Water Resources
Governance
Community Infrastructure
Solid Waste Management
Climate Mitigation and Adaptation
Section 3 Community Engagement in the LCP
Public Engagement
CCC Involvement
Participation by other Towns (if applicable)
Section 4 Community Goals and Purposes (organized by Building Block)
Community Character
Open Space
Housing
Local Economy
Coastal Management
Water Resources
Governance
Community Infrastructure
Solid Waste Management
Climate Mitigation and Adaptation
Section 5 Strategies and Actions
Implementation Schedule
Section 6 Capital Facilities Plan
Section 7 Housing Production Plan Summary
Section 8 Supporting Plans and Policies
Section 9 Performance Monitoring
Actions VPC Meeting Tuesday July 5, 2022
Reorganize LPC Draft Sharon R On going
Show how LCP and Vision Plan connect
through say a comparison table
Sharon R On going
Think about the number of hardcopies needed
and how maps can be displayed
All July 18
Think about what the Executive Summary
should cover
All July 18
Write first draft of Intro Statement Hal July 18
Draft a timeline for the Select board Sharon T and Sharon R July 18
Arrange to inform town admin re timeline Hal July 18
Send pop up pictures to Ellen All July 18
Next Meeting All July 18