HomeMy Public PortalAboutBay Property Meeting Packet 09.13.22Select Board FY23-24 Strategic Plan
FINAL APPROVED 08.22.22
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description Timeline Degree of
Complexity
Vision Plan / Local
Comprehensive Plan FY22-23 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Former Sea Camps Properties SC-1 Complete discovery phase, including building
inventories/ assessments, and continue to implement
interim property management plan
FY23 Medium X
Town Administration and Bay &
Pond Property Planning
Committees
Town Staff
SC-2 Continue to develop/refine and implement interim
public access/use plans FY23-24 Higher X X
Town Administration and Bay &
Pond Property Planning
Committees
Select Board; BPPC & PPPC Liaisons,
Representatives, and Town Staff
SC-3 Launch community planning process, engage residents
and stakeholders, determine support for constructing
new community center on bay property, and develop
long-term comprehensive plans for both properties
FY23-24 Higher X X
Town Administration and Bay &
Pond Property Planning
Committees
Select Board; BPPC & PPPC Liaisons,
Representatives, and Town Staff
SC-4 Continue to explore potential short- and long-term
partnerships that may mitigate acquisition costs or
operating expenses and may provide enhanced services,
programs, or amenities for residents
FY23-24 Medium X X
Town Administration and Bay &
Pond Property Planning
Committees
Select Board; BPPC & PPPC Liaisons and
Representatives, and Town Staff
Community Character CC-1 Adopt and implement 5-year Community Preservation
Plan and seek adoption of proposed bylaw amendments
to support maximum flexibility to fund projects to meet
community needs
FY23 Lower X Community Preservation
Committee
Town Administration; Select Board; Finance
Committee; Open Space Committee;
Affordable Housing Trust; Historical
Commission; Recreation Commission
CC-2 Identify and evaluate benefits of introducing/ expanding
targeted local tax relief options FY23 Medium X X Finance Team
Select Board; Finance Committee; Board of
Assessors; Brewster Association of Part-Time
Residents
CC-3 Complete sociodemographic study to inform next steps
in crafting and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion
initiatives
FY23 Lower X X Town Administration Select Board; Human Resources Dept; Town
Staff
Open Space OS-1 Complete design and implement updated Drummer Boy
Park Master Plan Phase I improvements in coordination
with Wing Island Boardwalk project FY23-24 Medium X X Town Administration
Select Board; Natural Resources Commission
& Dept; Department of Public Works;
Brewster Conservation Trust; Brewster
Historical Society
OS-2 Identify and resolve private party encroachments on
Town land FY23-24 Lower Town Administration & Natural
Resources Dept
Select Board; Conservation Commission;
Water Commission & Dept; Brewster
Conservation Trust
Housing H-1 Develop five-year financial plan for Affordable Housing
Trust and determine whether additional funding streams
should be explored to support housing initiatives at a
range of income levels
FY23 Medium X X Affordable Housing Trust &
Finance Team
Select Board; Finance Committee; Housing
Coordinator
H-2 Begin implementing updated Housing Production Plan
priority strategies FY23 Medium X X Affordable Housing Trust &
Housing Coordinator
Select Board; Planning Board; Housing
Partnership; Town Administration; Planner
H-3 Continue to provide support services to residents,
including CDBG housing rehabilitation and childcare
vouchers
FY23-24 Medium X Housing Coordinator
Select Board; Town Administration;
Affordable Housing Trust; Human Services
Committee; Council on Aging
H-4 Advance Millstone Road Community Housing project
FY23-24 Higher X X Town Administration & Housing
Coordinator
Select Board; Affordable Housing Trust;
Community Preservation Committee; Planning
Dept & Zoning Board of Appeals
1
Select Board FY23-24 Strategic Plan
FINAL APPROVED 08.22.22
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description Timeline Degree of
Complexity
Vision Plan / Local
Comprehensive Plan FY22-23 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Local Economy LE-1 Define and provide necessary supports to effectively
implement electronic permitting and invest in phased
digitization of Town records
FY23 Medium X X Town Administration Select Board; IT Director; Building Dept;
Health Dept; Planning Dept
LE-2 Continue to host semi-annual roundtable with Town
officials, Chamber of Commerce, and local business
community to build on increased outreach and
communication developed during pandemic
FY23-24 Lower X X Town Administration Select Board; Town Staff; Chamber of
Commerce
LE-3 Develop Guide to Doing Business in Brewster
FY24 Medium X Town Administration
Building Dept; Health Dept; Planning Dept;
Natural Resources Dept; Town Clerk; Chamber
of Commerce
Coastal Management CM-1 Complete design and permitting of Wing Island
boardwalk
FY23 Higher X X Town Administration
Select Board; Conservation Commission;
Natural Resources Commission & Dept;
Department of Public Works; Brewster
Conservation Trust; Cape Cod Museum of
Natural History
CM-2 Consider merits of Cape Cod Commission's model coastal
resiliency bylaws/regulations and potential
implementation FY23-24 Medium X Planning Dept
Planning Board; Town Administration; Board
of Health & Health Dept; Conservation
Commission & Natural Resources Dept;
Building Dept
Water Resources WR-1 Convene a new Water Resources Task Force and develop
updated plan and timeline for advancing integrated
water quality initiatives, to include addressing DEP’s
proposed changes to Title V regulations and continuing
collaboration with external stakeholders
FY23-24 Higher X X Water Resources Task Force
Town Administration; Select Board; Natural
Resources Commission & Dept; Water
Commission & Dept; Board of Health & Health
Dept; Planning Board & Dept; Finance
Committee; Brewster Ponds Coalition
WR-2 Continue to educate public about new stormwater
bylaw/regulations and consider refinements as needed FY23 Lower X X Planning Dept
Planning Board; Town Administration;
Conservation Commission & Natural
Resources Dept; Building Dept
Community Infrastructure CI-1 Determine support for advancing proposed Brewster
Ladies Library renovation project FY23 Lower Select Board Town Administration; Brewster Ladies Library
Association & Library Dept
CI-2 Conduct a needs assessment and develop FY24-28 COA
(Age Friendly) Community Action Plan FY23 Medium X Council on Aging Board & Dept Select Board; Town Administration; Bay
Property Planning Committee
CI-3 Work with Nauset School officials to clarify process and
timeline of next steps regarding results of Elementary
School Consolidation Feasibility Study, especially in
relation to other potential Town & School capital
investments
FY23 Medium X X Select Board & Town
Administration
Brewster School Committee & Nauset
Administration; Finance Committee
CI-4 Complete Millstone Road project final design/ permitting
and create Road Capital Prioritization Plan FY22-23 Higher X X DPW Director & Town
Administration Select Board; Finance Committee
CI-5 Develop policy to clarify provision of Town services on
private roads and consider potential amendments to
private road betterment bylaw
FY23-24 Medium DPW Director & Town
Administration
Select Board; Public Safety Team; Planning
Dept & Planning Board; Finance Team
2
Select Board FY23-24 Strategic Plan
FINAL APPROVED 08.22.22
Vision Building Block Goal #Goal Description Timeline Degree of
Complexity
Vision Plan / Local
Comprehensive Plan FY22-23 SB Plan Primary Responsible Party Other Key Stakeholders
Governance G-1 Establish and communicate budget capacity to Nauset
School officials based on the Town’s current and long-
term fiscal sustainability FY23 Medium X Select Board & Town
Administration
Finance Committee & Finance Team; Nauset
Regional School Committee; Brewster School
Committee; Nauset School Administration;
Nauset region Town officials
G-2 Launch new Town website and identify preferred
enhancements to current communications model FY23 Medium X X Town Administration Select Board; IT Dept; BGTV
G-3 Establish process to revise Brewster Town seal & draft
related use policy FY23-24 Medium Select Board Town Administration & Town Staff
G-4 Evaluate potential amendments to noise bylaw and/or
develop entertainment license regulations FY23 Lower Select Board & Town
Administration Town Staff
G-5 Finalize, adopt, and implement Local Comprehensive
Plan and monitor progress FY23-24 Medium X X
Vision Planning Committee,
Select Board, and Planning
Board
Planning Dept; Town Administration; Town
Staff
G-6 Develop and launch capital budget and other
transparency features of new online platform to
continue to improve accessibility of Town finances
FY23 Medium X X Finance Team Select Board; Finance Committee
G-7 Support Human Resource Department by: 1. Continuing
to implement findings from HR audit, including
development of employee handbook 2. Continuing to
monitor and support employee wellness 3. Creating
programs to recognize Town staff/volunteers for their
community service
FY23-24 Medium X X Town Administration Select Board; Human Resources
G-8 Identify priority areas to increase organizational capacity
to meet enhanced service needs and expanded project
demands and develop long-term financing plan to fund
necessary personnel
FY23-24 Medium X X Town Administration & Finance
Team Select Board; Finance Committee; Town Staff
G-9 Consider need for and structure of new Parks &
Recreation Department responsible for management of
Drummer Boy Park, former Sea Camps, Dog Park, and
other existing recreational amenities/programs
FY23-24 Higher X X Town Administration
Select Board; Finance Team; Human
Resources; Recreation Dept & Commission;
Natural Resources Dept; Department of Public
Works
G-10 Develop standard criteria and process to evaluate
potential land acquisitions and consider establishing
municipal land acquisition committee FY23 Medium X Select Board
Town Administration; Open Space
Committee; Affordable Housing Trust; Water
Commission
Climate Mitigation &
Adaptation
CA-1 Develop and implement updated staffing and committee
model that reflects the Town’s commitment to
comprehensively advancing energy, climate change, and
resiliency initiatives
FY23 Medium X Town Administration Select Board; Energy Committee & Manager
CA-2 Develop net zero energy roadmap FY24 Higher X X Town Administration Energy Committee & Manager; Select Board;
Facilities Manager
Solid Waste Management SW-1 Complete site assessment and determine next steps to
improve Department of Public Works and Recycling
Center property and facilities
FY23 Lower X DPW Director Town Administration; Select Board; Recycling
Commission
SW-2 Continue hydration station installation project
FY23-24 Lower X Water Superintendent
Town Administration; Select Board; Recycling
Committee; Water Commission; Facilities
Manager
3
Archive d: Friday, September 9, 2022 8:25:55 AM
From: Chris Miller
Se nt: Thu, 8 Sep 2022 12:59:08 +0000Authentication
To: Peter Lombardi
Subje ct: Please add to packet for next week's bay parcel planning committee
Se ns itivity: Normal
Attachme nts :
5 Protecting vulnerable infrastructure_090518.pdf;
The Bre wste r Coastal Commi ttee devel oped a Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan (CRMP) in 2019. Summary he re: http://re cords.bre wste r-
ma.gov/weblink/0/doc/104770/Page1.aspx
Fi nal CRMP here : http://records.brewster-ma.gov/we bl i nk/0/doc/108218/Page 1.aspx
The Coastal Committee also produced white papers on se veral i ssue s, including
Sustai ni ng our Publ i c Beaches http://records.brewster-ma.gov/weblink/0/doc/88381/Page 1.aspx
Providing Acce ss for Water-Dependent Activi ties http://records.brewster-ma.gov/weblink/0/doc/90881/Page1.aspx
Pre se rvi ng the Val ue s and Servi ces Provide d by He althy Coastal Wetl ands http://records.brewster-ma.gov/we bl i nk/0/doc/89742/Page1.aspx
Pre se rvi ng Publ i c Acce ss to Beaches and Landings During the Peak Season. http://re cords.brewster-ma.gov/weblink/0/doc/92328/Page 1.aspx
Protecti ng vulnerable i nfrastructure, visual access, cul tural & historical re sources (attached document, link unavai l able)
The Bre wste r Ope n Space Commi ttee and staff updated the Town of Bre wster Open Space & Recreation Plan in 2021
https://portal .l aserfiche.com/Portal /DocView.aspx ?id=168992&repo=r-153f9d98
“T he 2021 Brewster Open Space and Recreation Plan reflects the overall aspirations of this community as expressed by its residents in surveys, public
hearings, and town meetings from 1970 through 2021.
Residents wished to incorporate protection of water resources, open space , and recreational opportunities with the preservation of the Town’s rural
character and small coastal community identity.
T he Town of Brewster, through its Open Space Committee, and other Town departments, boards, and committees, has worked hard to preserve the
T own’s precious natural resources and to provide and
maintain a variety of public recreational facilities. T he Town has built strong partnerships with non-profit partners, such as the Brewster Conservation
T rust, The Compact of Cape Cod Conservation Trusts, Inc.,
and other government agencies, such as the Cape Cod Commission to further open space and recreation efforts.
F or this 2021 OSRP update, the Town conducted a comprehensive review of the 2014 Plan as well as other planning initiatives that support open space
and recreation planning, particularly the Brewster
Vision Plan. The update of the OSRP involved an extensive public engagement campaign, including a community survey and public forum. The town also
engaged its municipal, regional, and non-profit
partners to ensure that the plan is comprehensive, realistic, and achievable. The Plan includes an updated inventory of open space and recreation lands,
and an analysis of Brewster’s open space and recreation
needs. As a result of Brewster’s inclusive planning process, the five overarching goals of the 2021 OSRP are:
1. Protect the Town’s drinking water supply to meet the needs of residents and visitors today and in the future.
2. Provide open space and recreation opportunities that maintain Brewster’s rural character and small coastal community identity and support a
sustainable local economy as a center for ecotourism.
3. Preserve and enhance habitat diversity and protect marine and fresh surface water resources to maintain their important ecological functions
and values to the community.
4. Provide a variety of recreation and open space opportunities to promote healthy and active lifestyles for Brewster residents, ensuring equitable
accessible for all users and abilities .
5. Support coordination and communication of regional open space and recreation needs.
“
Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan September 2018
1
#5 Protecting vulnerable infrastructure, visual access and sense of
place
Introduction
The Town of Brewster Coastal Committee is charged with developing a management plan to
provide vision and direction for the future management of Brewster’s coastal resources. The
Brewster Coastal Resources Management Plan will build on the Coastal Adaptation Strategy
(CAS) developed by the Brewster Coastal Advisory Group and written by the Horsley Witten
Group. The CAS assessed impacts to town landings and beaches from sea level rise and storm
surge, and provided guiding principles for assessing future management actions.
This discussion paper is one of a series designed to highlight management issues that will be
addressed in the Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan. Each paper will be presented at
a community workshop to engage stakeholders in discussing management issues and trends, and
evaluating potential strategies and action items. The discussion paper topics and workshop dates
are:
1. Sustaining our public beaches and landings in the face changing shoreline conditions
Community workshop: May 17
2. Preserving the values and services provided by healthy coastal wetlands
Community workshop: June 14
3. Providing access for water-dependent activities
Community workshop: July 19
4. Preserving access to beach and landings for residents and visitors
Community workshop: August 16
5. Protecting vulnerable infrastructure, visual access, and sense of place
Community workshop: September 13
Each paper discusses current conditions and future trends, and explores a range of potential
management strategies and actions. Proposed strategies and actions could encompass physical
improvements, policies and regulations, management practices, technical studies/analyses, or
communications measures. All discussion papers may be downloaded from the
Brewster Coastal Committee web page.
This paper discusses the relationship between coastal resources and the built environment. Issues
explored in this paper include the direct and indirect impacts of land use on coastal resources and
sense of place, the need to protect vulnerable infrastructure threatened by sea level rise, and the
importance of preserving visual access to the water.
Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan September 2018
2
Coastal Resources and the Built Environment
The high value Brewster residents place on the health of coastal resources and on the
community’s rural character is reflected in this excerpt from the Brewster Vision Plan:
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.
The built environment near the coastline, including residences, businesses and infrastructure is
potentially affected by increased flooding and erosion caused by sea level rise and storm surge.
Brewster’s entire coast is currently in the FEMA VE flood zone and most or all of its tidal marsh and
creek system are mapped as AE. There are 1,138 land parcels within these zones. In the past five
years, extensive parts of coastal Brewster have been exposed to storm surge impacts, including
dune washover, flooding and significant erosion. In some areas, up to twenty feet of dune/coastal
bank have been lost in a single storm event.
Conversely, the built environment and the activities it supports also can have impacts on the health
of coastal resources, by encroaching on resources, causing erosion, and contributing nitrogen
pollution. This paper deals with the relationship between coastal resources and the built
environment.
Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan September 2018
3
Local Management of the Built Environment
The Town regulates land use and seeks to protect natural resources through local bylaws and
regulations, including regulations administered by the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals,
Conservation Commission and Board of Health.
Brewster’s zoning bylaw includes a floodplain overlay district (§179-7) that governs development in
designated flood zones, The overlay is intended to, among other things, prevent damage to public
and private property, protect public safety and prevent health emergencies resulting from
contamination caused by storm damage to structures. The zoning bylaw also contains a Wetlands
Conservancy District (§179-6) to prevent development in areas with poor draining soils. However,
in practice the bylaw is often overlooked.
In addition to the flood plain overlay, the Town is undertaking forward looking plans to guard
against flood damage to public and private property and natural resources. Earlier this year,
Brewster received a $20,000 grant from the state Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP)
Program for coastal resiliency planning. The grant will fund the development of a FEMA MVP plan,
and will provide the basis for a full-scale multi-hazard mitigation plan.
The Board of Health administers regulations (local and MA Title 5) governing wastewater
discharge, primarily through onsite septic systems, to prevent excessive nitrogen or pathogens
from reaching groundwater or surface waters. In addition, the Brewster Integrated Water
Resources Plan is looking at the impacts of nutrient loading on the quality of groundwater and fresh
and marine surface water, and developing a program of management actions to be implemented
over 40 years to protect groundwater, ponds, Cape Cod Bay and Pleasant Bay from the effects of
excess nutrients.
These regulatory and planning tools are currently available to help protect Brewster’s coastal
resources and the built environment that surrounds them. Among the questions to explore during
the development of the Coastal Resource Management Plan is whether modified or new tools are
needed to promote the Town’s vision of healthy coastal resources, rural character and quality of
life.
Management Issues
Direct and Secondary Impacts of Development in Coastal Areas
Like many communities on Cape Cod, Brewster’s near shore neighborhoods are moderately
densely developed.
Most of the land area surrounding Brewster’s coastline is zoned medium density residential. Under
current zoning, permitted uses include single-family dwellings and accessory dwellings, and
historical, cultural, museum or municipal activities, among other uses. Minimum lot size for new
development is 1.5 acres, height is limited to 30 feet and lot coverage is limited to 25%. Much of
the residential development is pre-existing non-conforming, which means that lots and buildings
existed before these zoning rules were put in place and may involve smaller lots or buildings that
cover more than 25% of the lot area, for example.
Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan September 2018
4
Expansion or redevelopment of existing dwellings is occurring in neighborhoods across Cape Cod,
and particularly in coastal neighborhoods. If homes are allowed to expand to a point where they
are out of scale with the surrounding neighborhood, this can significantly change community
character, or result in loss of public views. Expanded development can have other impacts on
coastal resources. For example, greater lot coverage and impervious surface area may increase
run off that causes erosion of coastal banks or conveys pollutants into nearby wetlands or water
bodies. Increased development may also lead to increased nutrient load from septic systems and
fertilizer use.
As discussed in session #1, increased hardening of the shoreline to protect homes built close to
shore can impede the movement of sand needed to feed dunes, beaches and marshes that are
important buffers to storm surges. Many of the original structures built along our beaches have
been renovated, expanded, or torn down and rebuilt by new owners unfamiliar with the potential for
storm damage and an eroding coastline. The Brewster Conservation Commission is under
pressure to allow hardening, beach fencing and other erosion control measures for coastal
properties. These measures protect the structures behind them for some period of time; however
the beach and other natural resources may be adversely impacted.
The Importance Of Preserving Visual Access
Views and vistas of coastal resource areas from roads and other public access points add
significantly to the community’s scenic beauty. Views of Paine’s Creek and Quivet Marsh from
Route 6A are prime examples. For people with limited mobility, views afford an important
opportunity to enjoy the Town’s coastal resources. The CAS points out the importance of
maintaining views of the water from beach and landing parking areas, to benefit people who are
unable to walk down to shore. Natural and restored dunes may impede visual access to the Bay;
however these dunes function as a buffer to storm damage. In such cases, any loss of visual
access from the dune is mitigated by an increase in coastal resiliency without the need for
hardened structures. The coastal resiliency measures employed at Breakwater are one example.
Paine’s Creek, Mant’s, Saints, Little Breakwater and Ellis Landing provide visual access to the bay.
The protection of viewscapes also should include consideration of landward views from the bay
and flats.
Vulnerability of low roads, groundwater, underground infrastructure
According to the CAS, “[a] combination of a storm surge with a rising sea level and/or a particularly
high tide may impact low-lying roads that provide access to the landings.” Areas particularly
susceptible to flood impacts include:
• Route 6A at the Dennis town line and east of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History near
Paine’s Creek would experience flooding under a Mean High Water (MHW) + 4 ft scenario,
with additional flooding at the intersections of Paine’s Creek Road, Lower Road and Route 6A
under a MHW + 8 ft scenario. This would impact access to Wing Island, Paine’s Creek and
Mant’s Landing;
• Lower Road around the intersection with Bloomer Path under a MHW + 8 ft scenario would
block access to Wing Island, Paine’s Creek and Mant’s Landing;
Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan September 2018
5
• Breakwater Road would flood at MHW + 4ft, and at MHW + 8 ft would impede access to
Breakwater Beach and Landing.
Flooding of Route 6A at the Dennis town line Photo courtesy of C Miller
In addition to preventing access to landings, flooding poses an access constraint for public safety
and utility repair vehicles. Stormwater infrastructure servicing these roads also is at risk of flooding.
As reported in the CAS, a recent study by the US Geological Survey (USGS) reports that six feet of
sea level rise could result in the groundwater table rising 0.3 to 5 feet in Brewster. Rising sea level
also and an elevated groundwater table could disrupt septic systems and underground water mains
and utilities. Many septic systems serving homes along Lower Road are already mounded
(elevated) and could be negatively impacted by a rising water table.
This image shows a depth of 4-5” between a leachfield and the groundwater table
(Image source: Horsley Witten Group)
Elevation of infrastructure is one alternate response to increased risk of flooding. As with any
management alternative there may be related issues. In the case of elevating roadways, related
issues include displacement or interruption of stormwater flow, coordination with driveway aprons,
and loss of shoulder, which can pose a danger for cars or bikes.
Brewster Coastal Resource Management Plan September 2018
6
Management Concepts:
• Elevate low-lying road segments and/or retrofit stormwater management systems to mitigate
flooding during storm surge conditions.
o Route 6A at Dennis town line and east of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
near Paine’s Creek
o Lower Road at Bloomer Path intersection
o Breakwater Road various locations
• Develop a plan to relocate or elevate sensitive infrastructure (water mains, underground
utilities) threatened by groundwater elevations resulting from sea level rise.
• Implement the stormwater retrofit for Breakwater Beach parking lot proposed in the Phase II
IWRMP report
• Complete the proposed Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Plan and develop a full-scale
multi-hazard mitigation plan.
• Consider changes to local zoning and regulations to preserve scale, character and resource
protection:
o Adopt a stormwater management/low impact development zoning bylaw
o Establish a Coastal Conservancy zoning district with enhanced protections
o Establish a site plan review process for enlargement of residential structures
o Consider establishing zoning controls on size of residential structures
o Consider revisions to the flood plain zoning bylaw to further limit development in
velocity zones
o Review the scope and administration of the Wetlands Conservancy District (§179-6) to
improve its effectiveness in preventing development in areas with poor draining soils
• Review Board of Health regulations in light of sea level rise impacts on the
groundwater table.
• Include viewing enhancements in the long-term maintenance plans at landings and beaches.
Discussion Questions
Suggested Discussion Questions:
• What aspects of the character of our coastal access ways are important to you?
• What do you think the Town can do to protect these characteristics and continue to provide
public access?
• What do you think about the elevation of roadways if it causes the roads to be wider or vary in
dimensions? What do you think should be the Town’s priority locations for road elevations?
• Are you concerned about increased development in coastal neighborhoods? Do you think
increased controls on development are warranted? If yes, what types of controls would you like
to see?
• What are your favorite coastal views?
• What do you think the Town can do to maintain/protect that view?
BPPC Interim Uses - voted (rolling)
1.One-day/standalone Rec events for fall ‘22 - spring ‘23:
a.Fall 2022:
i.Host a local Scout troop for a sleepover and complete any needed service
projects (date TBD)
ii.Soccer Jamboree, grades 3-6 Lower Cape rec soccer teams (10/22/22)
b.Winter 2022-2023:
i.Snowshoe hike around property - Rec can rent snowshoes (date TBD,
pending snow)
ii.DIY holiday craft project in arts building (date TBD)
c.Spring 2023:
i.Saturday morning Senior Striders - in partnership with COA, Striders to
walk the First Light Beach road
2.Explore feasibility of opening the pool for Summer 2023
3.Explore feasibility of seasonal housing to support opening the pool
Interim Uses for continued discussion:
The following are ideas generated by the committee in our last two meetings that we have not
discussed further and/or taken action on.
1.Collaboration with an afterschool program (such as NYA - Nauset Youth Alliance) that
might need space over the winter
2.Brewster in Bloom Craft Fair (spring 2023)
3.Moving Rec’s “playground program” to the Bay Parcel - logistics, constraints, timeline
4.Indoor/outdoor holiday market to highlight local artists
5.Celebration of Indigenous People’s Day - October 10th
6.Potential for rental/leasing of cabins for workforce housing (beyond housing to support
opening the pool)
7.Use of fields and amphitheater by local groups
8.Community event to highlight local businesses, restaurants, artists (Oysterfest but for
Brewster?)
BARNSTABLE AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
A Special Services Club
August 29, 2022
Mr. Peter Lombardi
Ms. Amanda Bebrin
Bay Property Planning Committee
Town Hall
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631
Dear Bay Property Planning Committee,
The Barnstable Amateur Radio Club (BARC) is interested in holding its 2023 “Field Day”
event at the Bay Property.
Field Day operations are held across the country and involve temporarily raising outdoor
antennas and setting up radio equipment and computers in an indoor location. BARC would
appreciate the use of a suitable small building (or large first-floor room in a building) Friday
through Sunday, June 23-25, 2023. BARC would leave no trace of the weekend’s activities
when the event concludes.
BARC, a local club, is part of the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL), an organization that
represents amateur (ham) radio in North America. Field Day’s purpose is to test temporary
transmitting stations in public places to demonstrate ham radio's science, skill, and service
to communities. Field Day has been an annual event since 1933 and is one way that
members exercise and hone their skills. The public and elected officials are invited to visit
Field Day operations each year to learn about amateur radio.
BARC is active in Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) activities that ensure
communications during disasters and other situations where cell and wired
communications are disrupted. ARES also ensures communications between local area
shelters and state and local emergency responders.
BARC has a number of Brewster members and holds its meetings at the Brewster Police
Department. As your Committee considers short-term, interim Bay parcel uses, we ask that
you consider providing BARC permission to use a site at the Bay parcel for Field Day 2023,
a valuable community-focused event.
Thank you for considering our request for this important community activity. I would be
happy to meet with you or the Committee to provide further information.
Sincerely,
Norman Cantin, President
Barnstable Amateur Radio Club
5 Cross Street
PO Box 845
Brewster, MA 02631
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
BPPC 08.16.2022 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 1 of 5
MINUTES OF THE BAY PROPERTY PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING
DATE: August 16, 2022
TIME: 4:00 PM
PLACE: Hybrid Participation – Zoom/2198 Main Street, Brewster, MA
PARTICIPANTS: Town Administrator Peter Lombardi, Chair Amanda Bebrin, Selectperson Mary Chaffee,
Selectperson Ned Chatelain, Karl Fryzel, Katie Jacobus, Peter Johnson, Caroline McCarley, Clare O’Connor-
Rice, Patricia Hughes, John Phillips, Thomas Wingard; Liaisons/Representatives, Maggie Spade, William
Meehan
Absent: Richard Perry, Kathleen Walker, Catherine Fyfe, Allyson Felix, Gary Christen
Call to Order, Declaration of a Quorum, Meeting Participation Statement and Recording Statement:
Amanda Bebrin called the meeting to order at 4:00pm and read the meeting participation and recording
statements. Ms. Bebrin announced all members of the committee who were present, a quorum was
declared. There were no public announcements or comments.
Public Announcements and Comments
None
Update on Solicitation for Consulting Services
Town Administrator Peter Lombardi provided an update on solicitation for consulting services. Mr. Lombardi
noted the proposals received were reviewed by Town staff, the Select Board Chair and by Amanda Bebrin, as
well as the Chair of the Pond Property Committee. Reed Hildebrand was invited in for an interview, which
went well. Mr. Lombardi is contacting references, and anticipates that this stage should be concluded by
August 26th.
Mr. Lombardi proceeded to answer questions from committee members. Mr. Lombardi noted that the
solicitation process was two parts – technical and price related – and the price part has not been looked at
yet. Reed Hildebrand is eager to get started on the work as soon as possible. If references are unfavorable,
there is no obligation on the Town to move forward and contract with Reed Hildebrand. Some of the
references are based on Cape Cod. Mr. Lombardi noted that, assuming the process goes well,
representatives from Reed Hildebrand would introduce themselves to committee members at the
September meeting.
Update on Beach Operations & Upcoming Summer Events
Mr. Lombardi noted that feedback has been positive, and the beach has been well received so far. The movie
night was slightly less attended than expected, and two more events (‘touch-a-truck’ and a performance of
the Town band) will occur before the end of the summer. The beach will also remain open on the weekends
from 9am-6pm through Columbus Day.
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
BPPC 08.16.2022 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 2 of 5
Update on Amended Bay Property Planning Committee Charge & New Liaisons/Representatives
Mr. Lombardi noted that the charge has been officially amended to focus this group’s efforts on the Bay
Property, and away from other properties.
Ms. Bebrin noted that, in terms of new liaisons/representatives, Sharon Tennstedt from the Council on
Aging, Steve McKenna from Brewster Conservation Trust, and Richard Perry from the Cultural Council will be
joining.
Update on Potential Recreation Uses – Mike Gradone, Recreation Director
In the fall, Mr. Gradone noted he would like to partner with a local Boy Scout group who could take
advantage of the property – they could possibly also do a service project while there. The Recreation
Department often has a fall soccer jamboree at Freeman’s Field, and this could be possibly moved to the
front lawn on the Bay property on October 22nd. In the winter, Mr. Gradone noted a snowshoe hike could be
possible – and also act as a way of people seeing the property. A Christmas craft/DIY project is another
opportunity that could be held at the Arts Center in the winter. In the spring, a walking club could be formed
(in partnership with the COA) for a four-week program on Saturdays. The Recreation Department also need
to start preparing for what opening the pool next summer would look like.
Mr. Gradone answered questions from the committee. Karl Fryzel asked if setting up an ice rink on the
property would be possible. Mr. Gradone noted that the Town has a portable ice skating rink, but setting this
up involves a lot of work and very specific weather conditions. Committee members discussed other possible
uses, such as Christmas markets and artists cottages.
Presentation on 2022-2027 Housing Production Plan, Update on Current Housing Initiatives, and Overview
of Potential Housing Opportunities – Jill Scalise, Housing Coordinator
Jill Scalise, Brewster Housing Coordinator, noted that the new update to the Housing Production Plan has
been approved by the state, and presented an accompanying slideshow to the committee. Ms. Scalise
discussed the Housing Production Plan update, elaborating on the following sections: Housing Needs
Assessment, Housing Goals, and Implementation Strategies.
Having recently toured the site, Ms. Scalise described her analysis of the Bay Parcel in relation to possible
uses for housing. Ms. Scalise discussed the housing context in Brewster, and noted the possibility of using the
site for: year-round housing, seasonal housing for the Town, and seasonal housing for the greater
community. It was noted in the presentation that there are many considerations for such uses, such as
building code requirements, property oversight and accessibility. Ms. Scalise concluded by summarizing the
most appropriate locations on the parcel for any interim uses.
Ms. Scalise proceeded to answer questions from committee members. Ms. Scalise noted that some of the
structures would not take more than a few months to get into livable condition.
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
BPPC 08.16.2022 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 3 of 5
Ms. Bebrin noted that Selectperson Chatelain had to leave at 5.00pm but that a quorum was still present.
Mr. Lombardi stated that, in terms of the Town being a potential rental agent, discussions with Town counsel
would be needed in order to understand what steps would be necessary for procurement and other
processes and approvals.
Committee members discussed the comparative benefits of both year-round and seasonal housing on the
site.
Discuss Potential Interim Uses
Ms. Bebrin introduced some potential interim uses of the property that have been discussed in previous
meetings. Ms. Bebrin asked committee members if anything needs to be added to this list, and what from
the current list needs to be focused on.
Pat Hughes noted that she liked many of Mr. Gradone’s ideas as a way of introducing people to the property.
Maggie Spade noted that a celebration of indigenous peoples would be appropriate on October 10th, if this is
realistic given the time constraints.
Selectperson Chaffee noted that she would like to prioritize the opening of the pool, given the appetite for
this among residents. Ms. Bebrin took a motion for shortlisting having the pool open for the 2023 season.
Ms. Jacobus moved, Thomas Wingard second. A roll call vote was taken. Selectperson Chaffee – yes, Pat
Hughes – yes, Thomas Wingard – yes, Karl Fryzel – yes, Caroline McCarley – yes, Katie Jacobus – yes, John
Phillips – yes, Clare O’Connor-Rice – yes, Amanda Bebrin – yes.
Ms. Bebrin noted that Peter Johnson had to leave at 5.20pm but that a quorum was still present.
Ms. O’Connor-Rice noted the importance of housing staff for the opening of the pool. Mr. Wingard stated
that the committee should wait for Reed Hildebrand’s discovery period to conclude before beginning to
discuss the use of structures on the site. Mr. Fryzel stated his belief that a shortlist, though conditional, can
still be developed before the committee waits for Reed Hildebrand’s analysis to conclude.
Ms. Jacobus asked Mr. Gradone about the benefits of moving the playground program to the Bay property.
Mr. Gradone responded with his opinion of the benefits of such a move, such as the open space available,
but noted that there are many logistics to consider.
Ms. O’Connor-Rice agreed with Mr. Gradone’s earlier suggestions from his presentation that the site should
be used for free one-time special events during this interim period.
Mr. Fryzel put forward a motion to proceed with the one-time events as outlined in Mr. Gradone’s
presentation for the fall, winter, and spring. Ms. McCarley second. A roll call vote was taken. Selectperson
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
BPPC 08.16.2022 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 4 of 5
Chaffee – yes, Pat Hughes – yes, Thomas Wingard – yes, Karl Fryzel – yes, Caroline McCarley – yes, Katie
Jacobus – yes, John Phillips – yes, Clare O’Connor-Rice – yes, Amanda Bebrin – yes.
Mr. Fryzel put forward a motion to explore the possibility of seasonal housing to support staffing the pool
and Town seasonal housing needs. Ms. McCarley second. A roll call vote was taken. Selectperson Chaffee –
yes, Pat Hughes – yes, Thomas Wingard – yes, Karl Fryzel – yes, Caroline McCarley – yes, Katie Jacobus – yes,
John Phillips – yes, Clare O’Connor-Rice – yes, Amanda Bebrin – yes.
Mr. Fryzel asked if a Christmas arts and crafts event could be discussed at a future meeting. Ms. Bebrin
agreed that it could be discussed.
Discuss Potential Bay Property Video
Mr. Lombardi explained that the Pond Property Committee is executing a video of their property to help
residents understand the parcel and make people familiar with it. Mr. Lombardi asked if members of the Bay
Property Committee would want to do something similar. Selectperson Chaffee and Mr. Wingard agreed this
would be beneficial.
Mr. Fryzel suggested members of the Pond Property Committee could come along to the next meeting to
explain their process for filming their video. Mr. Lombardi agreed that this could happen.
Vote on Meeting Minutes: June 29 & July 19, 2022
Ms. McCarley moved to approve the minutes for June 29 and July 19, 2022. Ms. O’Connor-Rice second. A roll
call vote was taken. Selectperson Chaffee – yes, Pat Hughes – yes, Thomas Wingard – yes, Karl Fryzel – yes,
Caroline McCarley – yes, Katie Jacobus – yes, John Phillips – yes, Clare O’Connor-Rice – yes, Amanda Bebrin –
yes.
Committee members agreed that future meeting minutes, transcribed by Conor Kenny (Project Manager),
should be abbreviated.
Discuss Future Meeting Agenda Items
Ms. Bebrin suggested that members of the Pond Property Committee could come along to the next meeting
to explain their process for filming their video. Ms. Bebrin also noted that interim uses would be discussed
again, in addition to exploring foundational Town documents. It was noted that Reed Hildebrand would be
present at one of the next two meetings. Mr. Lombardi suggested that discussions involving moving the
recreation program should probably be postponed, as discussions involving opening the pool for summer
2023 should be prioritized.
Next Meetings:
September 13, and September 27, 2022
Town of Brewster
2198 Main Street
Brewster, MA 02631-1898
Phone: (508) 896-3701
Fax: (508) 896-8089
BPPC 08.16.2022 www.brewster-ma.gov Page 5 of 5
Matters Not Reasonably Anticipated by the Chair:
None
Adjournment
Ms. Bebrin noted that Selectperson Chaffee had to leave but that a quorum was still present.
Mr. Fryzel moved to adjourn at 6.06pm. Ms. Hughes second. A roll call vote was taken. Pat Hughes – yes,
Thomas Wingard – yes, Karl Fryzel – yes, Caroline McCarley – yes, Katie Jacobus – yes, John Phillips – yes,
Clare O’Connor-Rice – yes, Amanda Bebrin – yes.
Respectfully submitted by Conor Kenny, Project Manager
Approved: __________________ Signed: _________________________________________
Date
Accompanying Documents in Packet: Agenda, Approved Bay Property Planning Committee Charge, New Representatives/Liaison Letters,
Mike Gradone Letter on Suggested Interim Uses, Memorandum on Sea Camps Planning Committees, Brewster Community Housing
Overview Slideshow, Brewster Housing Production Plan, BPPC 6.29.22 Minutes, BPPC 7.19.22 Minutes