One of the most notable decisions made during the meeting was the approval of a $100,000 matching fund for a boating infrastructure grant. The total grant amount sought is $300,000, which aims to develop a dinghy dock and install 18 mooring fields, critical for supporting vessels traveling along the Eastern Seaboard. This initiative is expected to attract more visitors, especially with the ongoing development of Route 79. There was initial confusion regarding the matching fund amount, but it was clarified that the proposed $100,000 constituted a 33% match to the total $400,000 request. After some discussion, the motion to approve the matching funds was made, seconded, and received unanimous approval from the members present.

The members also discussed the ongoing operations and improvements at Norton City Pier. Project Manager Karen Martin highlighted recent developments, including the installation of posts for fire extinguishers on the dock, which are now designed to remain stable regardless of tidal changes. Upcoming events were also a focal point, with exercise classes hosted by “Females in Action” and a Narrows concert on August 24th expected to draw larger crowds due to a bigger stage and notable bands.

Food Truck Friday events were reviewed, revealing that while most vendors reported sell-outs, attendance varied and was possibly affected by the lack of entertainment. Suggestions were made to add entertainment next year and address the seating issue, as attendees often found themselves sitting on curbs or grass. The idea of the city providing tables and chairs was floated, though concerns about logistics and costs were noted. A debate ensued about whether the Redevelopment Authority should finance and organize events at the pier or hire an event planner to manage these activities, which could generate rental revenue while relieving the authority of direct management duties.

Environmental compliance and property management were also discussed. The state of the City Pier was described positively, with improvements and cleanliness noted, including the installation of dog waste stations. Environmental concerns were addressed, with updates indicating that issues with National Grid had been resolved. Additionally, preparations were underway to review bids for a cathodic protection project, following a pre-proposal site meeting that attracted three reliable vendors out of 17 that had initially shown interest.

Further discussions covered the progress at Northfield Point, where new gates were installed to control access and prevent unauthorized entry. A topographical survey was completed, and test pits were scheduled for later in the month.

Another topic was the Pleasant Street Flint project, which had recently prepared for a public open house following the submission of documentation for a MEPA certificate. Despite a virtual meeting seeing minimal attendance, the project received the MEPA certificate, and next steps include an environmental impact report (EIR). A meeting with consultants was scheduled to analyze the MEPA certificate in detail, though the team meeting was canceled due to a lack of substantial reports.

Community outreach for the Deval Street project was also on the agenda. A first public meeting had been anticipated, but uncertainty arose due to a late email suggesting the need to brief the city council and legislative delegation first. Some members advocated for a private session with council members before the public event to ensure they were adequately informed. Concerns were raised about delays in outreach efforts, with the original timeline aiming for completion by September. Issues of scheduling and the challenge of convening the legislative delegation were discussed, and it was proposed to extend the timeline for the outreach meeting to allow for a briefing of elected officials.

The design and effectiveness of outreach materials were scrutinized, with concerns about their visual appeal and suggestions to engage a graphic designer for more attractive promotional items. Ensuring the public was adequately informed about the project and outreach efforts was emphasized, as current materials were deemed insufficient.