The Redevelopment study’s findings on the property, characterized by high vacancy rates and functional obsolescence, spurred a discussion among the board and community members. The property’s numerous buildings, particularly the executive office building labeled K1, were designed for specialized uses, making them challenging to repurpose without significant retrofitting. While the designation for redevelopment does not alter zoning or authorize new uses, it highlights the need to address specific issues impeding the property’s economic viability.

During the meeting, the complexities of the redevelopment process were laid bare, with particular attention to balancing economic development objectives with community interests. While the designation as an Area Redevelopment is pending a recommendation to the mayor and council, and subsequent state approval, the potential for revitalizing cities and towns, conserving resources, promoting growth, and environmental protection was underscored as part of the property’s appeal.

The presentation also touched upon the interconnectedness of the buildings on the site, which poses additional challenges to adapting them for conventional office use. Notably, the property’s condition and its capacity to meet various criteria were extensively detailed.

Questions from both board members and the public about site contamination, the board’s role in the redevelopment process, and the implications for zoning and permitted uses were fielded. It was clarified that the primary step involves establishing whether the property meets the statutory criteria for redevelopment. Afterward, it would be incumbent upon the mayor and council to formulate a redevelopment plan.

Insights from the fire department representative concerning the difficulty of leasing the buildings, given their state, were shared, further underscoring the property’s challenges. The engineer and planner agreed that the property qualifies under the Redevelopment law, leading the board to approve the presentation and the resolution unanimously. This approval sets the stage for future actions, including the mayor and council’s consideration of a redevelopment plan.

The board’s deliberations culminated in a vote to approve the resolution, with all members in attendance voting in favor. This vote marked a critical step in the redevelopment process, signaling readiness to advance discussions and planning. In addition, the board expressed appreciation for the guidance throughout the process and congratulated the Planning Board on its work.

As the meeting progressed, the board members deliberated on planning future meetings and a proposed field trip to the site.