A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the number of events permitted at North City Pier under a Chapter 91 license. The board considered the feasibility of hosting events like a proposed skating rink, taking into account the impact of inclement weather. A proposal emerged to cap the number of events at ten annually, without setting a strict monthly limit, to allow for flexibility. This approach aimed to balance the demand for events with the need to protect the pier’s structural integrity and manage maintenance costs.

Concerns were raised about the financial implications for event organizers, particularly the fees associated with setup days. For instance, South Coast Hospital was charged $2,000 for a four-day setup, prompting questions about the fairness of this fee structure. Suggestions were made to differentiate costs between setup and event days to avoid deterring potential events. The board acknowledged the need to maintain security during setup, which could incur additional costs, and debated ways to alleviate the financial burden on organizers.

The discussion also touched on the responsibilities for cleanup and the associated costs for private events, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines to ensure equitable treatment of all event organizers. The conversation underscored the broader goal of facilitating community engagement while safeguarding the pier’s condition.

Another topic was the board’s response to new regulations affecting urban renewal plans. The regulations require cities like Fall River to utilize a special review procedure rather than adopt the new rules directly, complicating the renewal process. The board expressed hope that these changes would eventually benefit housing and urban renewal efforts despite the initially cumbersome process. A decision on these regulations is expected in December, with the board preparing to adapt its plans accordingly.

In addition, the Authority has been working with the city to apply for the designation of the Pleasant Street corridor as a Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) district. Fall River’s previous TDI districts had spanned seven years, but the city now faces stiff competition, as only six districts will receive funding. Despite these challenges, local stakeholders, including Family First Health Center, have committed to supporting the initiative by acting as a fiscal intermediary.

The meeting also provided updates on local business developments. Additionally, the store BunBuds transitioned to a new owner, who plans to introduce a holiday popup featuring cheese, meats, and locally made products, with aspirations to obtain a retail wine license. The Viva Shop is set to become a vintage clothing store.