Leicester Planning Commission Meeting Wednesday, November 8, 20176:03 P.M.*Unapproved*** See subsequent minutes for any changesMembers Present: Donna Swinington, Chair, Hannah Sessions, Peter Fjeld, Jeff McDonoughMembers Absent: Suki Fredericks, Bill ShouldiceOthers Present: Julie Delphia, Diane Benware, Jeremy Gildrien, Brad Lawes, Ron Fiske, Sandra Trombley, Secretary Donna called the meeting to order with roll call. Public Hearing: Chair opened the public hearing. Julie explained that tonight was the time to make comments known about the Plan. Julie spoke with Adam Lougee about the process, if changes were made. This meeting is the time to make changes; to avoid adding a 30-day delay. After tonight, a report accompanies the Plan when passed on to the Selectboard. Julie explained why the Plan was written the way it is, by statute. If changes or suggestions are made; take them, and close the hearing. Members may seek more information. If out of compliance, it means:
No zoning regulations can be changed
No Municipal Grants
No standing in Act 250 hearings
Ron said he didn’t have a problem with the solar part, but he has a problem with the first paragraph on page 27 of the Energy Plan. Brad shared his concern and read the phrase that he had a problem with. He would like to have certain language removed. Julie asked some clarifying questions because with the town survey that was done, showed the town was quite divided about the gas pipeline. Jeremy explained the two levels to the Energy Plan. Act 174 is just about siting. This Plan allows us to be in compliance with Act 174 and gives us substantial deference. What the town actually does, is another level. The purpose of this is to give us better legal standing and that it’s not an obligation to do anything. Jeremy stated he likes the Plan. In the forward-looking aspect, this is going to happen whether we like it or not and he feels the town could profit from if they are ahead of it. Ron and Brad suggested that the last sentence of the first paragraph on page 27 and the last paragraph on page 28, be removed. Discussion about the concerns; with recommendations. No further comments. Close Public Hearing:Chair closed public hearing at 6:56 p.m. and called the PC Meeting to order.Motion by Jeff and second by Hannah to accept the two deletion recommendations from the public hearing and forward Plan to the Selectboard. All in favor. So, approved.Adjourn:Motion by Jeff and second by Hannah to adjourn meeting at 7:00 p.m. All in favor. So, approved. Respectfully submitted, Sandra L. TrombleyPlanning Commission Secretary
