Manager Gerrish clarified that the value of the open space is placed with the taxable property. Therefore, the increased value is placed onto the taxable property. Thereby, the town does not lose out on any taxes. Thomas Farrell, Director of Parks and Recreation, explained that the current ordinance gives the developer an option to set aside land for recreation or conservation purposes. Based on past experiences, the Recreation Commission, because of the Comprehensive Plan, has been inclined not to accept the open space for recreation purposes.
Developers understand the incentives available.
However, even if the Recreation Commission determines that the acreage can be used for active recreation, the ordinance gives the opportunity to the developer to make an request to the Conservation Commission. Councilor Galloupe felt that guidelines should be developed so that the easement request would come to the Council earlier in the process. He also agreed with Councilor Gleason that there needs to be some consistency to what will be accepted. This is about those fees that are waived for giving open space which is otherwise required. Chair McCausland felt it was not necessary to reaffirm Council action that was taken in 1992.