Meeting Update - April 18

In addition to paying some bills, the NRA approved the Chamber of Commerce' request to host a beer tent on a small portion of the east lot, adjacent to Waterfront Park on July 7.

Audience members didn't take the opportunity to speak during public comment. Chairman James Shanley introduced a new policy that asks speakers to record their names and addresses on a sign up sheet prior to the start of the meeting. This will enable the NRA to keep better track of public comments. (The City Council employs an identical practice.)

Shanley gave a brief update on the NRA's work with Mass Development. Consultants Union Studio and Fort Point Associate continue to examine the properties and to gather pertinent information.

He anticipated the first public meetings over potential plans for the NRA lots would be held next month. Dates, times and locations to be determined. They'll be announced at an upcoming NRA meeting and, of course, on this blog.


Newburyport resident Bill Harris did address the NRA at the end of the meeting, asking the board to consider setting aside a portion of either lot for the construction of a US Parks Service Visitor Center. Harris suggested the city is having some discussions about the establishment of a National Historic Landmark District downtown. (For some background, go here.)

The discussion was merely informational, requiring no discussion or decision from the NRA.

Harris also suggested the NRA invite the Harbor Commission to a meeting to discuss the needs of Harbormaster. Shanley says he's invited the Harbor Commission several times and the invitation remains open.

The NRA also set their meeting schedule for the next two months. You'll see a list of meetings on the right. Location to be determined (either the Library or Police Station.).