CONNECTICUT RIVER ESTUARY REGIONAL PLANNING AGENCY

MINUTES

May 4, 2009

Attendees:

Sally Murray, Chester

Robert Laundy, Essex

Jere Adametz, Killingworth

Pat Smulders, Killingworth

Ning Rich, Lyme

Frank Skwarek, Lyme

Jane Marsh, Old Lyme

Bill Neale, Westbrook

Linda Krause, Pat Anthony, CRERPA

1. The meeting was called to order by Jane Marsh at 7:35 p.m. at CRERPA Headquarters, Saybrook Junction, Old Saybrook, CT.

2. Approval of Minutes:

Motion to approve April minutes was made by Ning Rich and seconded by Pat Smulders. All were in favor.

3. Treasurer’s Report:

Jane Marsh made the motion to defer approval of Treasurer’s report until next month when the budget figures would be available. The motion was seconded by Bill Neale. All were in favor.

A Motion to add “Budget” to agenda was made by Jane Marsh and seconded by Bill Neale. All were in favor.

4. Budget: Linda noted that there will be a budget to adopt in June.

Linda said she was optimistic that there would be rollover funds.

The SGIA funding is predicted to be 20% of the $65,000 expected. There will therefore be a $50,000 shortage. Linda said that several of the selectmen indicated that they would be willing to make up some of the funding, if necessary.

DEMHS has approved $150,000 for transportation planning to be administered by CRERPA. Linda explained the scope of the ESF accountabilities. Jean and Margot will work on this project, possibly with a part time consultant.

Linda said that there are two other studies that CRERPA is interested in pursuing through DOT –

1. Counting boats on the Connecticut River. 2. Parking alternatives for commuters at train stations. The staff is continually looking for other funding endeavors.

4. Correspondence:

1. Maritime Commission: Linda discussed a memorandum regarding the need for the Connecticut River to be dredged. It was proposed that the dredged sand could be used in Niantic.

2. Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change: Linda was asked to be on committee; however, she suggested Jean serve on the committee based on her background and expertise. Her suggestion was accepted.

A discussion ensued on the effects of climate change in the estuary communities.

5. Staff Report:

Linda noted that Dorothy was in California, and Janice was in North Carolina.

6. Regionalism/RPOs

Legislation was passed (Bill #64-63) on RPOs. CEO (or designate) of each town shall be a representative on such agency. For CRERPA, it would mean a 27- member board. A designee could represent the CEO on the board.

In two years, a study will be completed concerning the new boundaries of the RPOs. CCM and COST are not recommending changes at this time.

The 17-town group is discussing how much time they are willing to invest in the CRVCEO.

Linda said the State Plan of Conservation and Developmenti will be delayed for another year until 2012.

7. Committees/Liaisons:

Referrals: There were no referrals.

ETD: Joe Cumerford is doing a fine job as the new Executive Director. Linda noted that the ETD staff will be receiving raises.

Gateway: There will be special meeting this month to discuss priorities. Creating a stewardship of the land that is presently out there will be another topic of discussion.

Shovel Ready Projects: The State is looking at the shovel ready projects. The $1million dollars allocated to this region will be spent on paving non-State roads.

Linda read an email from Jean concerning the DOT pricing and costs of the projects.

8. Old Business:

Regional Plan: Linda said the plan is coming along nicely. She is optimistic that the Plan will be completed next month.

9. New Business:

Linda asked if there was any new activity in the Estuary towns. A general discussion took place concerning the individual towns’ activities.

10. Adjournment:

Motion to adjourn was made by Bill Neale and seconded by Pat Smulders. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. All were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Pat M. Anthony, Clerk