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CCRPC committee clarifies advisory role to municipalities, plans board training on liaison practices
Summary
Following public comments, the committee discussed CCRPC’s role in assisting—but not directing—municipal policy; staff clarified municipal plan review focuses on consistency with the Regional Plan and suggested upcoming Board trainings on communication and liaison expectations.
A discussion initiated by Chair Bard Hill clarified CCRPC’s role relative to member municipalities after public comments suggested the agency should take a more directive role on local housing policy.
Executive Director Charlie Baker reviewed CCRPC bylaws and statutory responsibilities, emphasizing that the organization assists, advises, and coordinates with municipalities rather than directing local policy decisions. Baker and Taylor Newton explained that municipal plan review focuses on compatibility with the Regional Plan and statutory criteria; regulatory authority for municipal regulations remains local.
Committee members discussed communication practices between CCRPC representatives and their appointing municipalities, noting varying experiences with selectboards and city councils and differing preferences on routine distribution of CCRPC minutes. The consensus was that direct communication by municipal representatives is the preferred approach and that staff will incorporate liaison and communication expectations into July Board training, which will also cover the Board Member Handbook.
