04:54The primary focus of the meeting was the first reading of an ordinance related to the Western Edge redevelopment area. Although initially listed as a second and final reading, it was clarified during the meeting that this was indeed a first reading due to previous procedural errors. The ordinance seeks to affirm and incorporate all amendments to the redevelopment plan to date. A final reading and vote are scheduled for April 24th, following a planning board meeting on April 21st. Some members of the public expressed concerns about the transparency and public involvement in the redevelopment process, questioning if the ordinance fully covers all historical amendments and whether the process was designed to limit public participation.

10:50During the public comment period, questions arose about the virtual nature of the meeting and the clarity of the ordinance’s procedural status. There were requests for further clarification on the ordinance’s content and whether it had indeed been correctly published. Additionally, legal and procedural concerns were raised regarding the adequacy of public notice and the ordinance’s compliance with public engagement norms.

14:36A motion was made to reaffirm sending the ordinance to the planning board for consistency checks with the master plan and land use elements, despite a previous resolution already covering this action. This step was taken to ensure transparency and public understanding.