News About Town: In 2021, two developers expressed interested in purchasing the last empty lot of the Matthews Station development (122 Matthews Station St) near town hall. The site appraised for $250,000 and both developers created a proposal for the property.

On January 24, the Board received a final presentation from Developer A (Brahm Investments, LLC). Developer B (Adam Shapiro and Frank Scibelli) withdrew interest. After the presentation, the board authorized staff to begin working on the development standards and conditions. As part of Matthews Station, the property has to meet certain requirements which were created during the original development. Staff will work with both the developer and the Town Attorney to create a development agreement.

In March or April (date TBD), the town will hold a Public Hearing to announce the sale of the property. Following the hearing, the council then votes on approval of the development agreement including elevations, site plan and conditions.

(Documents including the appraisal can be found in this packet, pages 166 through 242.)

News About Town continued: Brahm Investments presented a Market Hall mixed-use concept, featuring micro-retail with a green co-working rooftop and public use and events. The developer described the possible uses to include start-ups, incubators, culinary talents, artists, and antique shops with Instagrammable murals and design.

One Fun Thing: Reaching retirement age has its perks (sayonara 9-to-five) and senior shopping days is definitely one of them. Every Tuesday, Backporch Treasures at the HELP Center, 119 N. Ames St, shows some senior love by offering 10% off purchases by the more mature shopping set. Over 60? Bag it up!