To the Residents of East Longmeadow:

In the year 2003, the Planning Board presided over regular semi-monthly meetings, and held 18 Public Hearings reviewing plans and hearing proposals for twenty-five (25) non-sub plans, thirteen (13) Special Permits, numerous parking plans, twenty-eight (28) sign approvals, three (3) applications for Site Plan Review, twenty-four (24) requests for Waiver of Site Plan Review and Great Woods VI subdivision. As in previous years, It continues to be the goal of the Planning Board to protect the character of East Longmeadow by encouraging sound economic development while preserving the Town’s New England atmosphere.

The Planning Board, in conjunction with the Board of Selectmen, completed their review and approval of the relocation of the Historical House to the same property on which the Norcross House is located. It is the Board’s aspiration that this site will be an eminent tribute to a portion of the Town’s history. The Board also continues to work with Denis Superczynski of Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, utilizing the grant received from the state to complete the Community Development Plan for the Town, addressing Open Space, Housing, Economic Development and Transportation.

The Board met with members of the Chamber of Commerce and local business owners throughout the year and successfully completed the Design Review By-law which will be presented for vote at the annual Town meeting to be held on May 2, 2004. In addition, the Board completed the amendment to the Flood Plain Overlay District Regulations By-law as well as the amendments to the Zoning Map, both of which will be presented for vote at that meeting.

Under Executive Order 418, the Planning Board successfully obtained housing certification for fiscal year 2004. Said certification continues to provide the Town with “points” that will aid the Town when competing for grant money through the State. The Board continues to be involved in the implementation of the Geographical Information System to promote automation of the workings of our Town government. Robyn Macdonald, Planning Administrator, successfully implemented zoning districts in the GIS and has instituted an abutters tool software program. On behalf of the Planning Board she is currently working with GIS to complete the permitting portion of the software which will allow all Town departments to electronically track individual sites and projects, keeping updated on procedures of other departments through the system, thus enabling more precise permitting while creating electronic files for easy access and precise archiving.

As with every year, James T. Donahue, Esquire proves an essential resource to the Board by providing unparalleled legal services when requested by the Board.

After a very spirited campaign, Marilyn Richards was re-elected to serve a second term on the Board. the Board welcomes her back and looks forward to her continued dedication to the town.

2003 was a full year for the Town as well as the Planning Board. The Town continues to grow in business as well as residential development and the Board looks forward to working with the residents on the proposed projects that are anticipated to come to fruition in 2004. The members enjoy and encourage residents to attend their meetings and appreciate any input and/or comments regarding the development issues for the Town.

The Board continues to meet routinely on alternate Tuesdays and welcomes any and all comments, and reminds the community that its meetings are open to the public and all are welcome to attend. The public is also invited to visit the Town’s own website which is continually updated, at www.eastlongmeadow.org

Lastly, the Board recognizes and thanks Robyn D. Macdonald, Administrator, and Donna Rau, Secretary, for their dedication and hard work throughout the year. The Planning Board would like to offer its appreciation and special thanks to the Board of Selectmen, Board of Public Works, Police Department, Fire Department, Board of Assessors, Building Inspector, and all others for their cooperation, expertise and contributions at work sessions and hearings.

Respectfully submitted,

Sid M. Starks, Chairperson

Michael S. Przybylowicz, Vice-Chairman

Marilyn M. Richards, Clerk

Donald J. Anderson

Louis A. Calabrese