If you want to apply for Chelsea’s new Human Rights Commission, the City Council set a closing date for applications of Jan. 11 at its meeting Tuesday night.
Currently, the city has received six applications for five available seats on the new commission and is expected to appoint members at its next meeting on Jan. 17. Susan Morrel-Samuels, Dan Kaminsky, Michael Patterson, Dave Gilbert, Lynn Fox and Anthony Shakeshaft have applied for appointment by the City Council.
The city passed its non-discrimination ordinance last January and several residents spoke during public comment imploring the council to appoint members to the commission. In addition, several council members expressed disappointment that more residents had not come forward to serve on this commission because the openings had been posted on the city’s website for a long time.
In other business, the City Council approved a public hearing date of Feb. 6 for an application from Chelsea Milling Company for an about $3.8 million Industrial Facilities Tax (IFT) exemption for construction of a new mix tower-packaging facility.
The new construction project in an industrial development district at 201 West North St., is expected to create 12 new jobs. The company requested a 12-year exemption.
The City Council also agreed to set a work session with Lima Township to discuss a potential development opportunity in the township on the Wolf Farm and a possible 425 agreement for the about 45 acres on Freer Road. The council suggested a date of Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. at a location of the township’s choosing.
In other business, the City Council directed the Planning Commission to draft an ordinance that would include all new developments or redevelopments include useable open space and connections to existing or planning pedestrian/bicycle paths.
And, finally, the City Council agreed to authorize up to $20,000 in park funds to hire a consultant to compile a grant application for a Transportation Alternative Program (TAP).
City Manager John Hanifan reminded residents to be sure to remove Christmas ornaments, anchors and tree stands from their Christmas trees before taking them to the curb for removal by city staff.
He said residents can expect to see bright red trucks checking manhole covers in the middle of the street as part of the work involved in the city’s recent award of a SAW grant, which will among other things, televise the city’s sewers.
If you would like to view the meeting, please click here then look on the top right for city meeting videos.
