APPENDIX B-8: NEIGHBORHOOD OUTREACH MEETINGS
Two dozen neighborhood outreach meetings were held between June and November of
2001 throughout the community. The Open Space & Recreation Task Force sought input
from citizens and organized groups. The intimate settings allowed for a free exchange
between residents and Task Force members. The Task Force met as well with groups
whose interest in open space or recreation is fundamental to their operation, such as:
Brunswick Area Chamber of Commerce, Merrymeeting Realtors, 55 Plus Center.
Meetings started with a brief explanation of the Task Force's work to that date. Solicited
discussion focused on what an open space and recreation plan should include, the needs
of various neighborhoods or groups, as well as challenges presented by costs and
regulations.
Dialogue was frank and revealing with each meeting being informative and enlightening.
Meeting notes were generally prepared by Task Force members and distributed
afterwards to the attendees. Feedback forms were also left at each meeting.
The outreach meetings served as a beacon to guide the Task Force's deliberations.
