President Jack Moynihan called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.
The minutes for the May 22 meeting were unanimously approved on a motion and second by Sally Coulter and Judy Huber.
LPD Captain Matthew Penrose reported on police activity in the DTL area. On account of the cyber attack earlier this year, the statistical analysis was not available. The Captain commented that there was typical activity for the first part of summer with a slight uptick in nuisance related disturbances and cars break-ins. LPD continues to plead with the public to lock their cars. There were a few calls to the local bars with a limited number of arrests. LPD accordingly has stepped up weekend patrols. There were 2 burglaries, one at the Life Alive restaurant on Middle St with the cash register stolen. LPD continues to monitor nuisance bike and motor scooter activity in the downtown areas through video surveillance and coordination with school resource officers.
Captain Penrose also mentioned that LPD, in coordination with other agencies, had removed homeless encampments near downtown and described efforts to assist the displaced with transportation vouchers and shelter suggestions.
Treasurer Greene reported a balance of $2,122, which reflects $40 in deposits and no funds expended.
Joann Marcos from the National Park Service spoke next regarding the upcoming 2023 Lowell Folk Festival and other Park Service programs this summer:
Folk Festival : Four stages again: Boarding House Park, Arcand Drive, St. Anne’s and Market Street. The Marketplace, “Experience Lowell” will be moved to the Enterprise Bank parking lot on Middle St.; Volunteers still needed including an assistant transportation coordinator.
NPS news : A new interactive exhibit “Once City, Many Cultures” opens September 23; canal boat tours, trolley service and walking tours are operating two days/week with schedules available on NPS website.
Jack welcomed Allison Carter, Economic Development Director, and Elizabeth Oltman , City Transportation Director, to discuss Lowell’s forthcoming Open Streets pilot program for Fall, 2023. The program would involve creating a car free pedestrian zone on parts of Palmer, Shattuck and Middle Streets. Ali and Liz took several questions and suggestions from the membership to incorporate in their planning.
After a few announcements including news of a forthcoming grant for bridge replacements and repairs, the meeting adjourned following a vote on a motion to adjourn by Stephen Greene and Sally Coulter at 8:17PM
Respectfully submitted,
Robert Casey,
Secretary