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Otis committee approves revised SWOT and plans to seek select-board approval for Master Plan update
Summary
The Town of Otis Revitalization Committee unanimously approved a revised SWOT document and agreed to ask the select board for authority to pursue grants to fund an update to the town Master Plan adopted in January 2016. Members emphasized collaboration with the planning board and community-focused "quick wins."
Stacey Silkey-Schultz, chair of the Town of Otis Revitalization Committee, called the meeting to order at 10:12 a.m. on March 24 and the committee unanimously approved the February minutes.
The committee reviewed a revised combined SWOT document that included two additional suggestions submitted by Cynthia Fletcher. "The SWOT document was unanimously approved with the understanding that items may be added in the future," Secretary Susan Ebitz recorded.
Dr. Tim Wighton summarized the Town of Otis Economic Strategy (1998), framing recurring priorities discussed by members: signage and roadways, making the town welcoming to children and adults, promoting year-round outdoor recreation such as skiing and hiking, and improving the appearance of the town center. The committee discussed how those long-standing goals intersect with current planning work.
During a discussion of next steps, Vice Chair Glenn Steinberg asked, "What's different this time?" Members responded that closer collaboration with the select board and planning board and stronger community involvement are critical to progress. Stacey Silkey-Schultz said the committee should coordinate with the planning board and "approach the select board and get approval to look for grant funds to pay for an update to the Master Plan of Otis, adopted in January of 2016." The committee agreed to pursue that path as a priority.
Committee members also identified short-term "quick wins" to build momentum, including organizing a community clean-up (with a plan for fee waivers), enforcing local speed limits, and sponsoring a town event. They discussed increasing visibility for events through local newspapers, social media and a community bulletin board.
Stacey announced that the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission would be invited to the committee's May meeting, One Berkshire to the June meeting, and a development meeting with local officials is planned for July. Glenn gave an overview of four draft workstreams in a PowerPoint presentation and emphasized the draft nature of the document.
The meeting adjourned at 11:45 a.m. The committee scheduled its next meeting for April 28 at 10:00 a.m. in Town Hall. Minutes were submitted by Secretary Susan Ebitz.
