A primary focus of the meeting was an amendment to the employment agreement for Executive Director Sarah Page, proposing an extension of her contract until October 4, 2026. Concerns were voiced over the length of this extension, as it deviates from the typical three-year term with annual reviews. The unusual extension aims to align with the original contract start date. Despite initial hesitation, a motion was made to approve this amendment.

Environmental challenges also took center stage, particularly concerning the NEPA requirements for a project on Flint and Deval Streets. The Redevelopment Authority faced complications due to an environmental notification form requiring additional documentation, such as an environmental impact report. The discussion revealed that the Authority might have overstepped by providing more information than necessary about city programs. This led to a proposal to resubmit the urban renewal plan to potentially reduce these obligations. However, members expressed caution, acknowledging that significant alterations might necessitate refiling the original environmental notification form, which could further complicate the process.

The meeting also highlighted positive developments, including a recent tour with Congressman Aen Claus, who showed interest in the Deval Street corridor master plan. The public’s input from an open house was reviewed, with community members suggesting various enhancements such as building height adjustments, aesthetic improvements like shade trees, and the addition of historical materials such as Fall River Granite. There was also enthusiasm for a rooftop restaurant or bar and a fountain feature.

Another notable update involved the downtown urban renewal plan, particularly with the appointment of Nick Schonberger as the new TDI fellow at Mass Development. With a background in community development and business support, Schonberger is expected to play a role in advancing projects such as a proposed “food court” or communal kitchen on Troy Street. Concerns were raised about the location’s foot traffic, with one member questioning its viability for attracting enough visitors.

In parallel, discussions focused on enhancing partnerships within the dining district around Puras Street. Local restaurants are collaborating on events to boost community engagement, with plans for a meeting in December to explore new developments and community needs. The importance of involving local stakeholders in these conversations was stressed.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the audit for the 2023 fiscal year. Auditors recommended changing the recognition of revenue from a property on South Main Street. This advice, a departure from prior methods, led to deliberations on how to proceed, with the GASB standards set to come into effect in 2025.