The most critical discussion centered around the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) complexities and the need to expedite its completion. The authority expressed dissatisfaction with the current administrative process, which has delayed housing projects and urban renewal plans. There was a consensus on the necessity to simplify the EIR process, aligning it with the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) to advance urban renewal efforts swiftly. The meeting acknowledged that the extended environmental notification form had been completed, and guidance from MEPA was received to outline the next steps for the EIR. However, the authority recognized that past complications required a streamlined approach to eliminate unnecessary elements and reduce delays.

Collaboration with the housing department was emphasized to facilitate a quicker approval process for housing projects. This partnership aims to address concerns raised by the urban renewal plan, which has undergone modifications for simplification. The authority debated whether the changes in the urban renewal plan necessitated another public hearing, with most leaning toward the likelihood of one being required. Despite the potential for a quicker process, concerns about extended timelines persisted, especially regarding the outcomes of submitting the EIR. The possibility of a more NEPA certificate compared to a special review procedure was discussed.

The meeting also addressed the unsuccessful attempt to extend the TDI district, resulting in the termination of the TDI fellow’s position by the end of October. In response, a strategic plan was proposed. An upcoming community meeting scheduled at the Belmont Club aimed to discuss future strategies and engage residents in the planning process.

In addition to strategic planning, updates on community activities were shared. The Viva Fall River initiative, concluding in October, faced challenges in securing new tenants for its retail space. However, plans for summer events in the downtown area were discussed, focusing on outdoor movie screenings and food truck gatherings to foster community engagement.

The authority also deliberated on infrastructure challenges, particularly following a storm that caused significant damage to the Norton’s City Pier and other areas. The storm led to the destruction of a stage, disarray of port toilets and barrels, and damage to the tree line along the property. A contractor was engaged to address both storm damage and previously identified issues, with a cleanup effort coordinated with city officials. The cathodic protection project at Norton’s City Pier was nearing completion, with the final steps contingent on weather conditions.

Additionally, the invasive plant management project at Northfield Point was progressing, with bids due by January 31 after a pre-bid meeting attracted interest from several contractors. The authority also prepared for reventment work, with bids due in August and results expected at the next meeting.

The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session, approved unanimously. The session was designated to review prior meeting minutes and strategize potential real estate transactions related to specific Fall River properties. The public session ended with no further matters addressed in open session.