HomeMy WebLinkAboutIndustrial Development Commission Minutes 10/28/2004MANSFIELD INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 28, 2004 O _i
Present: Jay Barrows, Tom Flanagan, Charles O'Regan, Tom Prestowich, Tom ;Stevet}s; 1.1,, 1 i
guests: Maria Correia, Mansfield Holiday Inn; Tricia White, Tri -Town Chamlie'•'of C;' 11 _ ( $
Commerce
Guest Tricia White provided information on regional transportation services. The IDC
has identified the creation of a shuttle transportation service from the commuter rail
station to the Cabot Business Park and other commercial locations in town as a desirable
addition to Mansfield's business - friendly profile. Ms. White spoke about the GATRA
bus service that serves the greater Attleboro area; it is currently encountering funding
problems. TransAction works with private companies primarily, to provide a similar
service. Members agreed that TransAction should be invited again to speak to the
commission on its services.
Members discussed the issue of Mansfield possibly moving from a single tax rate, back
to a dual tax rate. The current single tax rate puts Mansfield in a competitive position
with other communities who are trying to attract businesses from the area. Taunton, one
of Mansfield's chief competitors, maintains a single tax rate. A move to a dual tax rate
would entail an increase in the commercial /industrial tax rate, which would be a step
backwards in the town's effort to promote its business - friendly reputation around the
region.
Discussion on the topic included the point that the businesses in town aren't using nearly
the same level of services as the residential sector. An idea to impose a three tier tax rate
system that would not hit the small "mom and pop" stores on Main Street as hard is
possible, but Mr. Barrows mentioned that most of the Main Street shops wouldn't qualify
under such a third provision. The Selectmen will be addressing the tax rate issue shortly
and members will try to attend the meeting to voice these concerns on increasing taxes on
local businesses.
Mr. O'Regan advised that Statspin, a company that makes urinalysis equipment, is
looking for 20,000 square feet of space; it may consider moving to town from Norwood.
The need for an update on the available space at the industrial park was raised again; this
is to be addressed as soon as possible. Also, it was confirmed that Teleflex, which makes
surgical staples, is coming to Mansfield.
Mr. Flanagan confirmed that Eileen Ouelette will mail each IDC member a detailed
packet of information on the DIF program, so that all members, including those that have
been unable to attend recently, can take part in working on that issue in the future.
By agreement the next meeting was set for November 18, 2004 at 7:00 PM; by
unanimous vote the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 PM.