The concept of sustainable development touches many different aspects of our lives, from pursuing economic prosperity, to utilizing natural resources, to enhancing the environment and to pursuing peace and social justice for people. The main challenge in actually pursuing sustainability is in learning how to integrate our various goals, aspirations and competing demands in ways that improve the economy, the environment, and society over the long term. The goal was to resolve chronic sewer overflows, while at the same time restoring and revitalizing the urban community and watershed. But in addition, monetary incentives could be provided for individual homeowners. Change and redevelopment are inevitable in Gloucester.
City needs a more proactive approach to open space identification, protection and management.
More citizen participation in open space planning and decision making. Open Space and Recreation Committee to regularly update and implement city's Open Space and Recreation Plan. Permanent committees to prepare and implement management plans for significant Gloucester properties such as Magnolia Woods, Dogtown, Stage Fort Park, and all the Gloucester beaches. Appoint study committee to investigate feasibility of adopting the Community Preservation Act and make recommendations to the City Council and Mayor's Office. Increase staffing at Conservation Commission Use sale of tax-titled land to fund or partially fund a Gloucester Land Bank.