The Gowanus Canal Community Advisory Group’s Land Use Committee met on Tuesday, January 3, 2017, in the offices of the Gowanus Canal Conservancy at 543 Union Street.
Committee Members present: David Briggs, Nathan Elbogen, Rafael Gomez de Luna, Katia Kelly, Louis Kleinman, Andrea Parker, Peter Reich, Buddy Scotto, Sue Wolfe, Maryann Young
Guests: Ben Margolis, Chris Reynolds, Brad Vogel
Item 1
Introductions were made. Nathan presented a history of the American Can Factory.
Action
None required.
Item 2
Dave updated everyone on the committee’s recent work.
Action
None required.
Item 3
Nathan suggested writing a mission statement. The committee will consider renaming the committee.
Action
Dave will distribute the two draft mission statements that were circulated early last year.
Item 4
Andrea met with a representative of the NRDA (Natural Resource Damage Assessment). The NRDA is responsible for funding and restoring the ecology of a Superfund site. Given the timeline of rezoning and imminent development, Andrea recommends that the CAG start addressing ecological issues as soon as possible.
Action
Andrea will reach out to Natalie Loney at EPA to see if NOAA can present to the CAG. The Water Quality Committee will discuss at its next meeting.
Item 5
The resolution to preserve trees at the Thomas Greene Playground was reviewed. Based on feedback at the CAG, further revisions were discussed.
Action
Dave will make revisions and distribute.
Item 6
Brad asked about the 5th Street turning basin extension beyond 3rd Avenue.
Action
Committee members will inquire about this at the next CAG meeting.