At the heart of the discussions was the transfer of 12 city-owned properties to the Lawrence Redevelopment Authority (LRA). A representative from the LRA emphasized that this transfer would necessitate a minor amendment to the existing urban renewal plan. The need for an updated plan to address market dynamics, affordable housing, transit-oriented development, and sustainability was underscored. The representative also highlighted the national trend of declining downtowns post-pandemic, and the importance of creating a revitalized downtown that caters to the current demographic with a mixed-use walkable environment.

Community engagement and equitable development were central themes throughout the meeting. The LRA had issued a non-binding request for letters of interest to assess market interest in the properties and proposed the formation of a Citizens Advisory Council to review proposed uses. The council’s involvement in this planning process was projected to include public hearings and city council approval for any plan changes. The extensive experience of a speaker as a consultant and educator was underlined, with a focus on fairness, inclusivity, and empowerment in the planning process, and finding funding and financing for equitable economic development plans.

Further, a representative working with the Mass Housing Investment Corporation and the LRA presented on equitable development, mentioning the involvement of the firm Stantec in various urban renewal projects. The city attorney and the LRA’s representative engaged in a discussion about the definitions and processes for minor and major plan amendments, particularly regarding property transfers. The city attorney stressed that regardless of the classification of the change, city council approval and mayoral signature were required for property transfers. It was noted that the LRA had submitted a request for approval of a minor amendment to the state, but it was unclear if there had been any response.

The meeting also explored the issue of housing, especially affordable housing, with concerns raised about traffic and community needs. The executive office of Housing and Livable Communities presented a draft request for the transfer of properties within the existing urban renewal area for redevelopment, and there was a call for public outreach and input on the proposed projects.

Discrepancies arose surrounding the roles and responsibilities of the city council and the LRA. Some council members believed that the council should have ultimate authority in property transfer matters, while others pointed to the LRA’s expertise. The focus of the urban renewal plan on economic development and the effective implementation of the plan’s strategies were also discussed.

The council members emphasized the importance of representing the interests of their respective districts and the need for a balanced approach to development. One council member stressed the lack of affordable housing, noting that people were living in basements due to unavailability. The need to hold developers accountable for meeting affordable housing demands was debated, as well as Lawrence’s responsibility in addressing the regional housing issue.

The discussion also involved the citizen advisory committee and an executive order signed by the mayor. There was debate over the necessity of withdrawing the executive order before the council could proceed with certain matters. Correspondence to the state regarding the council’s opinion on property transfers was considered, with back-and-forth about the wording and relevance of such action. The formation of an ad hoc committee with representatives from various city entities was announced.