MINUTES - Joint Public Hearing with Planning Board - 5/17/2001 CITY OF SALEM 111
MAY 17, 2001
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING WITH PLANNING BOARD
A Joint Public Hearing of the City Council and Planning Board was held in the
Council Chamber on Thursday, May 17, 2001 at 7.40 P.M. for the purpose of
discussing a proposed zoning amendment for Asphalt Plants and Asphalt Batching
Plants. Notice of this meeting was posted on April 27, 2001 at 2.36 P.M. and
advertised in the Salem Evening News on May 1 and 9, 2001.
Councillors Harvey, Driscoll and O'Keefe were absent.
Council President Joan B. Lovely presided.
President Lovely opened the hearing, and introduced Attorney James Gilbert,
Assistant City Solicitor, who explained what can be done and what cannot be done.
He referenced the opinion render by City Solicitor John Keenan.
Mr. Dennis Colbert of Clark Street spoke and expressed his concern about out-
right barring of a business. Controls should be with public health and safety issues.
Mr. Fred Hutchinson of Robinson Road stated that he was turned down when
he applied, due to the lack of a general contractor's license. He stated that asphalt
plants are highly regulated by the State and Federal Government.
Mr. Walter Power, Chairman of the Planning Board suggested that the City
Council establish a fact finding Committee with the City Engineer, to determine the
facts, and see what checks and balances can be placed on a plant.
Councillor LaCava stated that he would not be in favor of allowing this type of
business in industrial areas.
Councillor Flynn stated that truck traffic is already a major issue, and this would
further burden the neighborhoods.
Councillor O'Leary moved to continue the hearing until a date at the call of the
Chair. It was so voted.
On the motion of Councillor O'Leary, the hearing recessed at 8.00 P.M.
ATTEST: DEBORAH E. BURKINSHAW
CITY CLERK