On the
agenda for the evening was a review of information provided
by Don Meltz, one of the consultants, with respect to the recent
town survey, as well as a more detailed explanation of the role the
focus groups would be expected to fulfill.
THE SURVEY
A document was provided, which answered questions and clarified
information provided by the town survey. Don led the discussion, a
summary of which follows.
The term “multiple purpose," which is used in
both the survey and
the mission statement regarding businesses in Claverack was
clarified to mean the same as “multiple use�.
Don provided a 6-page list of the different types of businesses in
the town.
Although updated parcel data is almost complete, it is still of
great concern to all that outdated information is being used to
compile information. Some towns are spending their own money to
update to GIS data system. In order for the town to get this data,
a letter from the committee would need to be drafted. The committee
members asked to see a mock letter of this request. If this action
was taken, the town would own the information provided.
Don also provided the results of a cross path study. One
interesting finding of the study was that there was very little
differences in how newcomers to Claverack answered questions as
opposed to long time residents of Claverack. Newer residents did
however express the desire for more recreational activities such as
accessible bike paths.
FOCUS GROUPS
There will be six groups, each designated to explore an area of
interest/concern based on the Vision and Goals Statement. Each
committee member is to suggest two members of the community for each
group at the next CPC meeting on August 10.
There will be a one-day forum, consisting of 90-minute sessions for
brainstorming of strategies to achieve the stated goals. Consultants
Don Meltz and Nan Stolzenberg will each facilitate, so two groups
can work simultaneously. The sessions will not be open to the
public. At the end of the day, Don and Nan will prepare summaries
of the results and the CPC will plan a public review of the
summaries. CPC members will not participate, but may observe.
Caveat:
While the writer has endeavored to accurately represent what
transpired at this meeting, the foregoing “notes” have
not been, and are not expected to be, reviewed by the committee for
accuracy. However, the writer encourages anyone who was in attendance
at the meeting (committee members, audience members) to contact her
with suggested corrections.
S.Hoffman