Town Council | Jan 9, 2025

Watch the meeting. AI generated summary of meeting video below. Corrections are welcome; see contact page.

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The meeting primarily focused on public comment and discussion regarding the future development of the Marstons Mills Elementary School property. A significant portion was also dedicated to routine town business, including budget updates and grant approvals.

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Key Points

• Marstons Mills School Property Redevelopment: The main discussion centered around three proposed concepts for the redevelopment of the former school property: a recreation-only option, a recreation and single-family housing option, and a recreation and townhouse/single-family housing option. Public comments were heavily divided, with some advocating for recreation-only use to preserve the village's character, and others strongly supporting the inclusion of affordable housing to address the Cape Cod housing crisis. Concerns were raised about traffic, parking, and the preservation of mature trees. See the presentation and an AI summary below.
• Public Comment: Numerous residents voiced their opinions, emphasizing the need for affordable housing, the importance of preserving the village's character, and the desire for recreational amenities. Data collected by the town regarding community preferences was presented and debated.
• Housing Crisis: The severe housing shortage on Cape Cod was repeatedly highlighted as a critical issue requiring immediate attention. Several speakers shared personal anecdotes illustrating the difficulties faced by residents in finding affordable housing.
• Chapter 40Y Program: The possibility of utilizing the state's Chapter 40Y program to incentivize the development of affordable starter homes was discussed as a potential solution.
• Town Council Response: The council members expressed their appreciation for the public input and acknowledged the need for a balanced approach that addresses both housing needs and community preservation. They indicated a need for further discussion and data analysis before making a final decision.
• Other Business: The meeting also included routine business such as approval of meeting minutes, town manager communications (including updates on budget, open meeting law compliance, and various town projects), and several grant approvals.

Highlights

• The passionate and diverse public comments provided a clear picture of the community's concerns and desires regarding the Marstons Mills property.
• The detailed presentation by the director of Planning and Development provided valuable historical context and outlined the process leading up to the current decision point.
• The discussion of the Chapter 40Y program offered a potential pathway for addressing the housing crisis while incorporating community preferences.
• The council's commitment to further discussion and data analysis before making a final decision demonstrated a responsible and thoughtful approach to this complex issue.

AI-generated sum of the Marstons Mills Property presentation:

Marstons Mills Elementary School Property Reuse Concept

The Town of Barnstable is seeking to redevelop the former Marstons Mills Elementary School property, a 15.29-acre site. The school was closed in 2009 due to declining enrollment and has been vacant since 2012.

The Town has conducted extensive community engagement efforts, including public workshops, site walks, and online crowdsourcing, to gather input on potential uses for the property.

Key community preferences

Outdoor recreation: Trails, shade trees, improved pedestrian circulation, and native plants were highly favored.

Housing: There was a desire for starter homes, ownership options, and housing that blends in with the village character.

Village meeting space: The community expressed a need for a space to gather for events and meetings.

Three conceptual plans were developed by a consultant based on community feedback:

1. Recreation Option: The Town retains the property and develops recreational amenities.
2. Recreation with Single-Family Housing Option: The Town subdivides the property, retains a recreational area, and sells portions for single-family housing development.
3. Recreation with Townhouses and Single-Family Housing Option: The Town subdivides the property, retains a recreational area, and sells portions for townhouse and single-family housing development.

The Town Council will discuss the preferred concept and process direction for the redevelopment of this important site.