2008 Master Plan Annual Review

Jaffrey Master Plan Annual Review
 June 30, 2008

Regional Context
During the past year, Jaffrey adopted changes to the Zoning Ordinance which were deemed necessary to protect Mt Monadnock and environs. The major changes included a stand alone Mountain Zone and a revised Open Space Development plan.

A Downtown Master Plan to be incorporated into this Master Plan was started but has stalled. Social Capital is promoted as a desirable element of an enlivened Downtown. Steps in this direction include the ongoing fund raising effort for reopening the Park Theater, and the development of the Mill Buildings for residential and commercial use.

Dialog with surrounding communities has been minimal at best.

Population and Housing
The development of the West Side Mill Buildings with provision for moderate income households is a major step toward providing affordable housing. In addition an effort to provide temporary housing for homeless and distressed families/individuals has been started by interested citizens. Formal studies of housing for elderly and workforce needs has yet to be started.

Economic Development
This effort has undergone a setback with the resignation of the Economic Development Planner. A replacement has been recruited. Team Jaffrey is key to progress in this area.

Projects at the Jaffrey-Rindge Middle School and High School will enhance quality of the school environment_ It is hoped that physical and curriculum improvements will contribute to improved economic development and attraction of a skilled workforce. The intersection of routes 202,124,137 remain an obstacleto the proper develop ment of downtown Jaffrey.

Traffic and Transportation
The recent increase in gasoline prices has placed this issue in the forefront. Participation of Jaffrey in SWRP commission study of transportation needs should be championed.

The dogleg remains as a stubborn obstacle to development of downtown and traffic control.

Utilities
A citizen committee regarding energy conservation by the Town has made preliminary recommendations for street lighting.

The purchase of Verizon's assets in NH by FairPoint Communication should provide an impetus to the development of high speed communications in the community. This will allow Jaffrey to be competitive in attracting business.

Community Facilities
The replacement of the existing water treatment has finally been started. However, rates will be adversely impacted. Jaffrey will continue to have one of the highest rates in the state. An important sep forward in finding a location for a site for a new well has been taken. Its location is conducive to the goal of not expanding the current infrastructure.

The GIS mapping of town facilities is moving forward.

Multitown and regional solutions to mutual problems have not been implemented.

Fire protection for the Stonearch TIF district is undergoing formal planning.

Recreation
Community Field construction has been completed and is available for recreation use. The Community Building construction is in the planning stage and land has been purchased from the state.

The Conservation Commission is actively planning upgrades to the Rails to Trails and Childrens Woods.

The completion of GIS mapping will provide the basis for a recreational resource map.

The Planning Board has not completed studies of Class VI road development issues.

Historical and Cultural
The Planning Board has not incorporated a Historical District Commission review and comment process into site plan and subdivision regulations. Nor have Neighborhood Heritage Districts been established. Work has been performed to improve landscaping at Jaffrey cemeteries.

Natural Resources
A natural resource inventory is currently under way. Upon completion, consideration of ordinance changes cab be made

The new Open Space Development ordinance was developed with protection of openspace and natural resources in mind.

Land Use
Mandatory OSDP for parcels over 20 acres was developed to protect the rural character of Jaffrey as was the incorporation of a standalone Mountain Zone.

The creation of a Central Downtown District must await the completion of the Downtown Master Plan.

Amended and adopted unanimously Aug 12, 2008