In a recent government meeting, members of the Blue Ribbon Committee discussed the importance of community engagement in the development of new neighborhoods in Portsmouth. The committee emphasized that local residents have the best understanding of their community's needs, which should guide the planning process.

David, a committee member, highlighted the significance of retaining existing structures, such as schools, to foster community spaces that could enhance the neighborhood's appeal. He noted that comprehensive plans from developers Poa and PHA were more detailed in addressing community needs compared to proposals from Avesta and Pemrose.

Megan echoed the need for effective community engagement, urging that plans be shared with the public to ensure transparency and inclusivity. She stressed the importance of hosting meetings at accessible times and locations to encourage participation.

Assistant Mayor Byron raised concerns about the current proposals' ability to attract families, pointing out that the scoring rubric used to evaluate the plans did not adequately address this aspect. He called for more detailed information on how the developments would cater to families, particularly regarding the number of three-bedroom units.

Another committee member expressed concern over declining school enrollment and the need for more family-oriented housing options. He argued that increasing the number of available units could help retain families in the community, which is crucial for the local school system's health.

John, another council member, emphasized the importance of ensuring that new developments fit seamlessly into existing neighborhoods, maintaining a cohesive community feel. He also reminded the committee of their fiduciary responsibility to taxpayers, advocating for decisions that provide the best value for public funds.

The meeting concluded with discussions about the potential for interviews with developers to further clarify their proposals and ensure that community needs are prioritized in the planning process. The committee remains committed to fostering a collaborative approach to neighborhood development, aiming to create spaces that truly reflect the desires and needs of Portsmouth residents.