HomeMy Public PortalAbout2017-04-25 Appts Planning and ZBAELECTED
OFFICIALS:
Mark S. Sideris,
Council President
Vincent J. Piccirilli, Jr.,
Vice President
Michael F. Dattoli,
Councilor At Large
Aaron P. Dushku,
Councilor At Large
Susan G. Falkoff,
Councilor At Large
Anthony Palomba,
Councilor At Large
Angeline B. Kounelis,
District A Councilor
Lisa J. Feltner,
District B Councilor
Kenneth M. Woodland,
District D Councilor
Watertown Town Council
Administration Building
149 Main Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: 617-972-6470
Committee on Economic Development and Planning
Meeting: April 13, 2017
Report: April 25, 2017
The Committee convened at 7:00 pm on Thursday, April 13, 2017 in the Louis P. Andrews
Upper Conference Room. Present were Susan Falkoff, chair; Kenneth Woodland, vice -
chair; and Vincent Piccirilli, secretary. Also present was resident Michelle Cokonougher.
The purpose of the meeting was to interview candidates for appointment to the Planning
Board and reappointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Payson Whitney III has more than 20 years experience as a civil and coastal engineer. As a
resident of Arsenal Street, living between Athenahealth and Arsenal Yards, he attended
many community and Planning Board meetings, and was impressed with the effort that went
into the development of both Master Plans. He knows firsthand the many challenges facing
the Arsenal corridor, and he feels his technical and professional expertise will be an asset on
the Planning Board in reviewing these projects.
John Gannon served on the ZBA from 2002 to 2004 and returned to the Board in 2012. His
work as an attorney specializing in municipal law provides him with insight into the zoning
issues that come before the Board. As a life-long resident, he understands the land use
challenges in Watertown, where most structures were built before zoning existed. In
approving projects, he always looks to make sure developers add appropriate amenities for
the public. He believes vigilant enforcement of the zoning laws brings better development.
The Committee thanked Mr. Whitney for volunteering to serve, and Mr. Gannon for his
continued service to the citizens of Watertown.
4 Action Item: Councilor Woodland made a motion, seconded by Councilor Piccirilli, to
recommend the Town Council confirm Payson Whitney III for appointment to the
Planning Board for a term that expires on February 15, 2020. Voted 3-0
4 Action Item: Councilor Woodland made a motion, seconded by Councilor Piccirilli, to
recommend the Town Council confirm John Gannon for reappointment to the Zoning
Board of Appeals for a term that expires on February 15, 2022. Voted 3-0
The meeting adjourned at 7:45 pm.
Report prepared by Vincent Piccirilli
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