Planning Board

To the Residents of East Longmeadow:

In the year 2005, the Planning Board presided over 28 regular semi-monthly meetings, and held 16 Public Hearings reviewing plans and hearing proposals for twenty-eight (28) non-sub plans, five (5) Special Permits, numerous parking plans, twenty-nine (29) sign approvals, two (2) applications for Site Plan Review, twenty-four (24) requests for Waiver of Site Plan Review and seven (7) definitive subdivisions.   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 Board’s tenaciousness and thorough Planning came to fruition with the successful approval of the new Center Square project on the property surrounding the town hall.  This project allowed the Board to utilize the benefits of the town’s Planned Business Development by-law and although the project is ongoing, development progress is encouraging.  The Board is optimistic that the final result will be one that emulates a charismatic and enjoyable feel that -will enhance the hometown atmosphere.  The Board members will continue to oversee the project in efforts to make certain that the end result meets those aspirations. 

At a Special Town Meeting held on June 20, 2005, the Planning Board supported and the taxpayers voted favorably in support of a Petitioned Article to Amend the Zoning By-laws by creating a new district entitled Planned Adult Residential District.  This district will provide housing for people who are 55 years of age and over.  The Board worked diligently with the applicant and his attorney to provide the town’s residents with the best possible option for alternate housing. The members recognize the need for alternative housing in town and realize, in the present economic phase, many older citizens are looking to a more comfortable life style in a smaller home, a goal that now can be met with such housing opportunities. 

At a Special Town Meeting held on October 17, 2005, the Planning Board supported, and the taxpayers voted favorably in support of a Petitioned Article to Amend the Zoning By-laws by adding congregate elderly and handicapped housing to districts in town that presently allows for nursing homes.  This type of housing will provide our senior citizens the opportunity to live independently without the burdens that come with being a homeowner.  The Board members were pleased that this type of facility was specifically for those who are ambulatory, but in need of some support.  This type of housing affords the advantages of independent living while the services provide support, security and friendship.

Throughout the past year, the Planning Board has worked on by-law proposals for clearer Zoning definitions, specific dimensional regulations and lot coverage.  The Board presented these changes at the Special Town Meeting held on October 17, 2005 and the amendments were approved unanimously.  The new Zoning by-laws will be available to the public by the end of February. The Board is working with the Building Inspector to correct improper signage throughout the town with the goal of bringing all signage into compliance. 

Under Executive Order 418, the Planning Board successfully obtained housing certification for fiscal year 2006.  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 execution and maintenance of the Geographical Information System which promotes automation of the workings of our Town government.   On behalf of the Planning Board, Robyn Macdonald, Director of Planning, continues to work 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.

The Board was successful in obtaining a Forestry grant from the Bureau of Forestry – Urban Forest Program in the amount of $8,823.00 late in 2004 and Robyn Macdonald, together with Jessica Allen from Pioneer Valley Planning Commission; Franklin Miorandi, Tree Warden; Walter Seifert, Conservation Commission and Rochelle Stellato, a member at large were able to have trees planted at the entranceway to Heritage Park.  The Planning Board gives special thanks to Chris Graziano of Graziano Gardens who donated and planted trees at the Park and to Cub and Boy Scouts from Pack 179, Troop 179 and Troop 275.  Also, thanks and congratulations to Eagle Scout candidate Jeremy Markham and the leaders of these troops.

The Town continues to see and welcomes new businesses and residents to town. The members enjoy and encourage all residents to attend their meetings and they 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

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

The Planning Board, along with the Conservation Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals, recognizes and thanks Robyn D. Macdonald, Director, and Donna Rau, Administrative Assistant, 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,

Donald J. Anderson, Chairperson

Louis A. Calabrese, Vice-Chairman

Michael S. Przybylowicz, Clerk

Marilyn M. Richards

Thomas J. Morrissette