Meeting Summary
1. Discussion on need for a CSHCA effort to create a “Vision” for the area bordered by Bay St, Dot Ave and Freeport St. That area will be the next development project and we should establish our position before development plans are issued.
2. Reviewing the Dorchester Bay City project was discussed. Consensus was to not push for more planning but to increase our advocacy for the 5 Priorities (Comprehensive Planning, Infrastructure, Beautification, Pedestrian Ways, Public Spaces) approved by the CSHCA membership and focused on disbursements of its Community Benefits Funds. Jake Wachman volunteered to lead an effort to create a strong Message on our position. Bill Walczak and Don Walsh volunteered to step up efforts to communicate with key city officials, particularly new BPDA Planning Director Aimee Chambers.
3. Update on our effort to secure an approved Non Profit Organization (NPO) status was provided. James Newton (a CPA) volunteered to join the sub committee working to resolve our NPO status. (Background we cannot accept the gift of $750k until we get an IRS 501C4 status.)
4. A preliminary list of possible uses of the $750k was provided. Discussion of this list (and any new ideas) will be a focus of our July meeting.
5. Discussion of a new name for the area in which 10k housing units and 7m sq ft of commercial space will lie. Reduced the candidates to Dorchester Bay and Dorchester North, Discussion will be continued in July.
The next Community Benefits Committee meeting is July 26 at 7pm at the Savin Hill Yacht Club (Morrissey Blvd).