| Nov. 3, 2004
| I met with Rick Shaklik on Oct. 29 to review the BRA's current thinking on a zoning amendment. They are planning a zoning overlay district in which they will attempt to capture runoff for recharge when currently permeable surfaces are covered and will impose restrictions on construction below the groundwater table. Such construction will be a conditional use, requiring approval by the Board of Appeals. They hope to have draft language complete in November, then circulate it to us and others for comment. A public meeting will follow before submission to the Zoning Commission. If measure is adopted, we will plan a meeting the Board of Appeal to educate them on the importance of enforcing the restrictions imposed. In addition to my meeting with Rick, I have been participating in the BRA scoping sessions under Article 80 for projects in the area of concern. |
| Nov. 3, 2004
| Attended the public meeting on the Copley Residences project. |
| November 30, 2004
| According to Rick Shaklik, zoning language is being reviewed internally. We should have something to look at soon. |
| March 22, 2005
| I attended a BRA session on the change in use for the planned project at Two Financial Center, which will now be residential rather than office. The project includes a five level underground garage. The developer has agreed to turn over existing observation well sites to us, consult with us on any new wells that we feel should be installed, and to certify on an annual basis no pumping or draining of groundwater from the building. |
| April 11, 2005
| We've received Project Notification Forms for an expansion of the Children's Museum and for a new project at 1330 Boylston Street in the Fenway. Both projects are in areas of groundwater concern, and I'll be commenting on them. |
| July 19, 2005
| The BRA has involved us in the drafting of groundwater related language on the Columbus Center and 700 Harrison Avenue projects. It appears that we will have more opportunities to have input (and see the results) at this most crucial final stage in which most commitments are finalized. |
| October 11, 2005
| In addition to several discussions about the language in the zoning amendment, I have met with the BRA to discuss standard language that can be used in cooperation agreements to assure that groundwater related commitments are met. |
| May 14, 2007
| I was invited to an update on the BRA’s new computer system for tracking projects. We will have access to the system to enter comments and to follow various aspects of the progress of the projects we’re concerned with. |
| February 27, 2008
| I had an excellent meeting with John Palmieri, the new Director of the BRA, to bring him up to speed on groundwater issues. He promises to continue the BRA’s strong support on the issue. |
| July 31, 2008
| I had a meeting with much of the BRA project management staff to go over in more detail the GCOD requirements and when in the process various actions are required. I expect this to be particularly helpful on those projects in the GCOD undergoing Article 80 Small Project Review. |
