The Town of Washington, Connecticut
Minutes: Conservation Commission, 2003
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www.WashingtonCT.org The Town of Washington, Connecticut Minutes: Conservation Commission, 2003 |
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Disclaimer: While we have attempted to reproduce them accurately, the electronic documents you see here are not the official public documents. Official copies may be obtained on paper from theTown Clerk . Also note that minutes of recent meetings are often not yet approved by the Commission, and are subject to correction.
Jump down to: General information about the Conservation Commission
December 3 •November 5 •October 15 •October 1 •September 17 •September 3 •August 20 •August 6 •July 16 •June 4 •May 21 •May 7 •April 16 •April 2 •March 19 •March 5 •February 19 •February 5 •January 15 •Meetings in 2002
December 3, 2003
Present: Chairperson Susan Payne* left at 5:45pm, Kelly Boling, Joe Gitterman* arrived at 5:30pm., Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis, Elaine Luckey
Guests: First Selectman Dick Sears
Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Alternates: Diane Dupuis and Elaine Luckey were seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the November 5, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Phil Markert made a motion to approve the minutes of the November 5th meeting, Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: none
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: no activity
Road Discontinuation 11/12 Town Meeting: The town meeting went well, all of the roads proposed for discontinuation except the Tinker Hill Road section became discontinued roads. Ms. Payne expressed her happiness with how responsive the town was in meeting the publics concerns. Kelly Boling has met with First Selectman Dick Sears; Mr. Sears would like to see these efforts continued. Members discussed the ability of the town to control activities on the discontinued roads. Mr. Markert pointed out that the laws are vague about activities on the discontinued roads. Kelly has been in contact with Hank Martin, Zoning Commission Chairman and has a proposed regulation for Section 12 of the Zoning Regulations pertaining to discontinued roads and abandoned highways. He will email it to members. Mr. Boling offered Elaine Luckey a spot on his subcommittee which she eagerly accepted. Congrats to Kelly for a fine job.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: Linda Frank has started her work reviewing the Town Owned Properties. There are several small pieces (land located on the Litchfield Boarder, Slaughterhouse Road and Bee Brook Road) that the town might look at giving up. There was once again much discussion on the proper monitoring of these parcels. Linda Frank and Elaine Luckey will walk and scope out the Town Owned Parcels, this is a good winter project.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: This work is stalled waiting for the grant.
School Connection (SVHS) and Gunnery/Environmental Club: no activity
Cell Tower: no activity Mr. Sears did mention that he noticed the tower on Route 109 at the Kimberly Farm, in New Milford is up.
Land Use Data Management: no activity
Flora & Fauna: no activity
Greenway: The committee met in the Connecticut Room of the Gunn Memorial Library and worked on points of interest for the Greenway.
Land Use Info/ Welcome Pamphlet Committee: Members had a good session in November and will meet again on December 17th.
Scenic Road: Work continues on the How-To packet for people applying for Scenic Road designation. Joe would like to make available an up-to-date set of the Assessors maps in the Land Use office for applicants to use, the cost would be about $150, Chairperson Susan Payne said that would be fine. Members also discussed sending a letter to residents along a newly designated Scenic Road with information on what it means to live on a Scenic Road. Elaine Luckey went on the say that it's a very murky area as to what you can and cannot do along a Scenic Road. Elaine will pursue information on clarification of the rules for scenic roads. Mr. Sears pointed out that the issues concerning the physical road maintenance need to be addressed also. Joe has a book on designating State Roads as Scenic. The secretary, Pam Osborne brought up the question of the application fee, which was left blank in the Scenic Road Ordinance. Joe Gitterman felt it was the Planning Commission's place to set the fee.
Water Resources: Phil Markert noted that testing of the river running from Route 63 through Rumsey Hall School showed that all was fine.
Other Business
MOTION: Kelly Boling made a motion to accept the 2004 meeting dates as submitted, Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
The terms for Kelly Boling and Diane Dupuis will expire on January 1st of 2004. Kelly and Diane are both willing to be reappointed and need to be sworn in before the January 7th meeting.
A reminder that at the January 7th meeting members also need to appoint a Chairman and Vice-Chairman.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is January 7, 2003 at 5:30pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
November 5, 2003
Present: Chairperson, Susan Payne, Elizabeth Corrigan,
Alternate: Linda Frank
Guests: First Selectman, Elaine Luckey, Natalie Dyer, PressSusan Payne, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Linda Frank was seated as an alternate.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the October 15, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the October 15th meeting with the following amendment; under Other Business "evasive" should be replaced with "invasive". Betsy Corrigan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other commissions: none
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: no new activity
Road Discontinuation: reminder Town Meeting November 12th @ 7:30pm.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: All members received a list with maps attached identifying town owned properties. Linda Frank will work on grouping together town parcels for monitoring purposes. Linda feels that the properties can easily be divided into (6) groups.
Town Plan of Conservation and Development/ Public Forum October 29th: Several Conservation Commission members attended the public forum. Members felt there was a good turn out. The Planning Commission is getting together to go over input they received at the public forum and then they hope to adopt the Town Plan of Conservation and Development at their December meeting.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: no activity
School Connection (SVHS) and Gunnery/ Environmental Club: Linda Frank has spoken to the Environmental Club at the Shepaug School. She was hoping they could start with monitoring the school property on South Street. Pam Osborne, Secretary will check on ownership of the property.
Cell Tower: no activity
Land Use Data Management: no activity
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan is working toward informing the public of basic steps for identifying and properly destroying invasive species, also putting together a list of state listed invasive species that are present in Washington. Betsy feels there will be more success controlling invasive species that are new to the state. Natalie Dyer has started to map knotweed in Washington. There needs to be a plan in place with a goal and then seek volunteers to help get the job done. There was discussion on obtaining the help of the town highway crew for eradication and control. Elaine Luckey felt it was unpractical to expect the town crew to do the work, but it doesn't hurt to communicate with them. Betsy closed by stating that the Giant Hog Weed in Warren is being treated.
Greenway: Susan Payne reported that they had a successful work day in the school yard and also worked on the section of Greenway from My Chef to the Firehouse. They will be doing addition planting at the school yard to help fill in the areas cleared. Bob Williams continues work on knotweed control on the Greenway.
Land Use Info/Welcome Packet and Proposals: Candace Korzenko is working on a mock up.
Scenic Road How to Packet and Proposals: The first application for a Scenic Road has come to the Planning Commission. People have been contacting Joe Gitterman about information. Chick Treadway is working on a how-to packet for the Scenic Road Ordinance. Linda Frank has put Joe Gitterman in contact with Betty Sutter about Scenic Road designation for state roads.
Water Resources: Tests have been completed at the Rumsey Hall site, all is OK.
Fill vacancy on Commission: tabled
Other Business
The Washington Garden Club is having a "water program" on November 13th at 1:30pm at St. Johns Church, all members are invited.
Members were given a notice about the annual meeting for the Northwest Conservation District which will take place on Monday November 17, 2003 from 6:00-9:00pm., at the Candlewood Valley Country Club in New Milford.
Meeting adjourned at 6:15pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is December 3, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
October 15, 2003
Present: Chairperson, Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Elizabeth Corrigan, Joseph Gitterman, Phillip MarkertThe Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
No alternates were seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the October 1, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Joe Gitterman made a motion to approve the minutes of the October 1st meeting with the following amendment; under Subcommittees, Canoe Brook the first sentence should reflect that Ms. Payne did not attend the meeting but made a request regarding grant funding. Phil Markert seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: There were no official referrals but members did discuss a few applications.
Ms. Payne had visited a site at 95 Nichols Hill Road. The applicant is building a driveway and home which crosses wetlands. Members briefly looked at the plans in the Inland/Wetland file.
Members also looked at the latest plans for the Erbs property at 51 Sunset Lane.
All members received copies of Phil's draft about the driveway application for Gunnery School on South Street. A new draft was circulated to members at tonight's meeting. Susan Payne will check with Elaine Luckey to see if the Gunnery is in fact sharing a master/long term plan with the town, then members will decide how to proceed with the draft.
Pam Osborne, secretary will remind Janet Hill, Planning Commission secretary about the April 3, 2003 memo asking for referrals for any project with conservation easement or gift in fee.
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: No new information.
Road Discontinuation & Greenway Potential:
Kelly Boling reported that the Planning Commission gave its blessing to their plans. Kelly's subcommittee will be meeting with adjoining property owners. Roads being discontinued are portions of Tinker Hill, West Mountain, Pot Ash, Curtis and Bantam River Road. The discontinuation of these roads will be on the Agenda for the November 12th Town Meeting. Kelly explained that the town's people will vote on each of the roads to be discontinued individually.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: Susan Payne would like to assign town owned parcels to Conservation members for monitoring. Pam Osborne will circulate a list of Town owned properties with a map to all conservation members. Management and monitoring will be discussed at the next conservation meeting after members have reviewed their information.
MOTION: Kelly Boling made a motion that starting with the November 5th meeting the Conservation Commission will meet once a month, on the first Wednesday of the month. Betsy Corrigan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: no new information
School Connection: no new information
Cell Tower: no new information
Data Management: Kelly will be setting up a meeting.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan continues to monitor the Giant Hog Weed site in Warren as well as the down stream areas. Natalie Dyer has written to the First Selectman's office about knotweed. Ms. Corrigan reminded members that early detection and monitoring are the best ways of keeping evasive plants under control. There was discussion about getting information to the public through the spring clean up sponsored by the Washington Environmental Council and also via the town's website.
Greenway: There will be a clean up day October 25th at 8:30am, meeting at My Chef. Members hope to work on a trail guide through the winter months.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet: no new information
Scenic Road Ordinance: The scenic road ordinance passed at the October 6th Town Meeting. Joe Gitterman would like to work on a standard packet and forms to be given to applicants. Joe also asked about designating state roads as scenic. It was suggested he contact Linda Frank, because the lake road is a state scenic road.
Water Resources:
Phil Markert states that samples have been taken starting in the river in Bantam and finishing below Rumsey Hall School.
TPOCD public forum scheduled for October 29th, 2003 at 7:30pm.
Other Business
Betsy Corrigan has been doing an evasive plant survey in Lake Waramaug and all looks good.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is November 5, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
October 1, 2003
Present: Chairperson, Susan Payne, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis
Susan Payne, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the September 3, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 17th meeting with the following amendment; under West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: .....Susan Payne once again encouraged members to drive by this property the driveway has been cleared..... Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: none
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: No new developments, Susan Payne will keep members informed.
Road Discontinuation & Greenway Potential: not discussed
Monitoring Town Properties: not discussed
Management Plan: not discussed
Subcommittees
Canoe Brook: Ms. Payne attended a special meeting with selectmen about grant funding and projects. She asked that they consider the Canoe Brook project for their grant process. The town is applying for a STEP grant that is to be considered for this project.
School Connection (SVHS) and Gunnery/Environmental Club: Linda Frank has been in touch with Ms. MacSweeney at SVMS. Ms. MacSweeeny has 16 children in her Environmental Club.
Cell Tower: Diane Dupuis stated that no new cell tower applications have been made. Ms. Dupuis did mention the imminence of a tower in the Gooseboro area. Discussion ensued about the likelihood of more cell tower applications. Phil Markert felt that if there were better cooperation between carriers there would be less of a need for multiple towers. Ms. Dupuis stated that cooperation has not happened in the past. Mr. Markert may contact Mr. Phelps with the Siting Council and speak to him on this subject.
Data Management: not discussed
Flora & Fauna: not discussed
Greenway: Susan Payne reported that they had a great work day at "The Falls" in New Preston. It was noted that the Greenway Committee has changed its meeting date to the 1st Monday of each month.
Land Use info/Welcome Pamphlet: This sub-committee is regrouping and Susan expects a first draft after the new year.
Scenic Road Ordinance: This ordinance is on the agenda for the Town Meeting on October 6th. Susan Payne as Chairperson for the Conservation Commission received a letter from George Bender; Chairman of the Planning Commission, Susan read the letter into record. The Planning Commission supports the general concept of the scenic road ordinance but had two thoughts about the language and emergency repair section of the ordinance.
Water Resources: Samples have not been taken at the Rumsey site, Phil thought that waiting till the school was back in session was the reason, Susan also felt that with all the rain/ground water lately it would be hard to get accurate readings for samples taken. It was mentioned that members from the Bantam Water Shed organization wanted to share information with the Washington Environmental Council; Dan Sherr of the Bantam Water Shed organization will reschedule his visit with the Conservation Commission.
TPOCD public forum scheduled for October 29th, 2003 at 7:30pm.
Other Business
Members received a memo from Elaine Luckey about the proposed ordinance authorizing Conservation and Planning Commissions to acquire open space land and the concerns raised at last months meeting.
Susan Payne raised discussion on a proposed driveway on South Street. The Gunnery School has made an application, to the Selectmen for a driveway on South Street. It is an 18'/ 2 lane driveway. Ms. Payne stated that the South Street Residents want the Selectmen to defer the driveway application decision until the Inland Wetland permit can be revisited. Reading from the minutes of the December 13th, 2000 Inland Wetlands meeting Ms. Payne stated that at that time the Inland Wetland commission approved the application for the driveway because the commission didn't feel the application was a significant activity or of public interest. After receiving driveway approval the Gunnery submitted a Zoning application for soccer fields on the property. At that Zoning meeting neighbors voiced concerns about the proposed soccer fields and the Gunnery withdrew their application. Ms. Payne also read a letter written by the Sterns voicing major concerns and the impact on neighbors. Susan asked if members felt the Conservation Commission should voice a concern for the natural resources on the property, should the commission get involved? Mr. Markert was hesitant to question the Inland/Wetland decision. Ms Dupuis voiced concerns for the wetlands. Ms. Frank felt it naive to think the Gunnery would not utilize their land and felt that playing fields would be less intrusive than dormitories or faculty housing. Ms. Payne felt that neighbors might be more apt to be for housing than soccer fields. Mr. Markert felt that perhaps the Gunnery has an overall plan for the school which would use the area where the existing playing fields are at the school. Discussion ended with Phil Markert offering to draft a letter from the Conservation Commission, this draft will be circulated to members for proofing. Phil will get the draft to Pam Osborne, secretary and she will email it to members for feedback.
Notices about CACIWC's annual meeting were handed out to members.
Meeting adjourned at 6:00pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is October 15th, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
September 17, 2003
Present: Chairperson Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Joe Gitterman
Alternate: Linda Frank
Guest: First Selectman Elaine LuckeyThe Chairperson Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Linda Frank was seated as an alternate.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the September 3, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 3rd meeting with the following amendment; under Referrals from other Commissions - Erbs/51 Sunset Lane - 4 lot subdivision; the first sentence should read Ms. Payne reported ... Chris Charles and Kelly Boling have approached the Erbs .... Joe Gitterman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other commissions:
Continued discussion of Sunset Lane Subdivision: Susan Payne informed members that the property owners are gifting the property to their children so by state statute they are not required to have open space set aside. A discussion ensued about opens space set aside and fees-in-lieu of open space. Joe Gitterman felt that the set aside requirement penalizes the town because most often the land set aside is of no use to the town and also comes off the tax roles, all benefits are for the property owner.
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: No new developments. Susan Payne once again encouraged members to drive by this property, it has been cleared and the easement has been flagged. There was continued discussion on the need to come up with a management plan for town properties. This plan needs to be forwarded to the Planning Commission. The Chairman will put this on the Agenda for the next meeting
Road Discontinuation & Greenway Potential: Kelly Boling reported that the Planning Commission had no objection to the list of roads submitted for discontinuation. His committee will meet next week with the town attorney in attendance after that meeting he will schedule a meeting with adjoining property owners. Kelly's goal is to get this to a town meeting as soon as possible. Ms. Payne suggested adding Nova Scotia Hill to their list.
Monitoring Town Properties: Linda Frank has met with Chip Miller from the Gunnery; he seems thrilled with the monitoring idea. Linda is also going to talk with the Devereux/Glenholm School. Ms. Frank is looking ahead to having a workshop on recording baseline documentation.
Subcommittee Reports:
Canoe Brook: Elaine Luckey reports that work is ongoing with this project.
School Connection (SVHS) and Gunnery/Environmental Club: see above
Cell Tower: no new information
Data Management: no new information
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan reported via Susan Payne that the giant hogweed plant is gone, Greenway is working on a knotweed eradication experiment, and the native lupines Betsy has been monitoring were able to go to seed before mowing.
Greenway: Susan Payne reminded members that there will be a work day at the New Preston Falls on Sunday September 21st at 9:00am. Pam Osborne, secretary inquired about the trail monitoring forms she has been receiving. Ms. Payne told Pam to forward the information to Bob Williams.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet: This committee meets again on Tuesday September 23rd.
Scenic Road Ordinance: The ordinance is posted on the town's web site. It is on the agenda for the September 25th selectmen's meeting and then will be put on the agenda for the October 6th town meeting.
Water Resources: no new information
TPOCD public forum scheduled for October 29th, 2003 at 7:30pm. Minutes will no longer be forwarded to Chris Woods at Planimetrics.
Other Business
"Ordinance Authorizing Acquisition of Open Space Land": This item is on the agenda for the October 6th town meeting. Joe Gitterman questioned the flexibility given to the Planning Commission in paragraph (2) as opposed to the limitation on the Conservation Commission in paragraph (1) for acquisitions. There was much discussion on this difference. Ms. Luckey, First Selectmen stated that this ordinance had been worded by Mike Zizka a land use attorney. She will check with him on the difference.
The chairperson and members were in agreement to submit the minutes on disc to be posted on the town's web site at the same time they are given to the town clerk for recording, which are (7) working days after the commission's meeting.
Linda Frank asked about cutting back the twice monthly meeting to once a month. Linda stated that with subcommittee activity this might be helpful. A special meeting could be called if so needed. Members were asked to give this some thought.
Meeting adjourned at 6:13pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is October 1, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
September 3, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Joseph Gitterman and Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane DupuisMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Susan Payne, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 5:05PM; seated the Regular Members and Alternates Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the August 20, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission. Joseph Gitterman made a motion to approve the minutes of the August 20th meeting. Linda Frank seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions
Erbs /51 Sunset Lane - 4 lot subdivision
Ms. Payne reported that Chris Charles and Kelly Boling have been working with the Erbs on how to configure the property. They may recuse themselves from any discussions on this project. Mr. Gitterman asked why this was before the Commission again. Ms. Payne replied that this proposal is before the Planning Commission - it is a sub-division. The members need to have another look at the plans and decide if there are any comments that need to be formally submitted to Planning. Also, there will be a big chunk of open space and the question has been - what use is it and how to access it.
The members studied and discussed the drawing. They agreed that, by law, they cannot demand public access, but thought the conservation easement should include a condition that the Commission have access to monitor the open space through lots 1, 3 and 4, since the Town has a right to monitor on an annual basis with proper notification to the property owner. In addition, the Commission would request (from the property owner) a full survey with metes and bounds, full baseline documentation and require that the lots be marked with metal stakes.
Mr. Gitterman wanted to know if it would be proper to request the open space lot be the one next to the road (lot#2) in order to have easier access and avoid having another house built next to the road. He added, the proposed open space is land locked and inaccessible, cannot be seen by anyone but the neighbors and does not benefit the town. Mr. Markert said if the open space remains where it is proposed on the plans, the town should insist on full access. Ms. Frank noted that there are a lot of preserved properties that do not have public access, such as some in Steep Rock.
Ms. Payne reiterated the preference of the Commission to have the open space land on Lot #2. She asked if the members would like to have someone from Planning come to the next CC meeting to discuss this project. They decided that would be a good idea before any formal comments are put in writing. Ms. Payne said she would speak with Mr. Bender.
The members all agreed they should go on record about their thoughts on this project. Ms. Frank commented that this project does not preserve the rural character of the area.
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement
Ms. Payne reported CL&P has responded to the request to move the pole. The cost would be billed to the property owner at a minimum of $3500. The owner will ask if CL&P could move only the support cable. If not, the owner will ask if the town could pay for moving the pole, or maybe move the driveway to the other side of the pole which would put it slightly in the conservation easement. Ms. Payne asked all the members to go and take a look so the Commission can work with the property owners to solve the problem. They discussed briefly the need to be consistent in their decisions.
Monitoring of Town Properties
Linda Frank reported she would be meeting with the teacher at the Middle School in the next couple of weeks. In addition, she will touch base with The Gunnery.
Subcommittees
Canoe Brook - Remove Linda Frank's name and replace with WEC. Susan Payne referred to a newspaper article about a Roxbury IWC meeting where they discussed a material similar to rip rap that keeps soil in place. Perhaps this could be useful along Canoe Brook.
Cell Tower Update - No new information.
Data Management - No new information.
Flora & Fauna - No new information.
Greenway - Susan Payne said a workday has been scheduled for Sunday, September 21st at New Preston falls. Will be working on a greenway loop in New Preston this winter.
Land Use - There will be a meeting later in September.
Road Discontinuation - Kelly Boling attended a meeting. Report later.
Scenic Roads - Susan Payne brought an article from the Republican-American on scenic roads. To be voted on at the October Town Meeting.
Water Resources - No new information.
TPOCD
TPOCD will be presented at a public meeting on October 29th. At the regular Planning Commission meeting in December it will probably be approved.
Ms. Payne handed out a paper on the acquisition of open space land which will be discussed at the next meeting on September 17th.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30PM.
Submitted subject to approval,
August 20, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Joseph Gitterman, and Phillip MarkertMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Susan Payne, Chairman, called the meeting to order at 5:00PM.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the August 6, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission. Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the August 6th meeting. Phillip Markert seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Regular member Joe Gitterman arrived at 5:05PM.
Referrals from other Commissions
Susan Payne had no update on the Sunset Lane property that the Erbs would like to subdivide. The Planning Commission had a site walk at the property a couple of weeks ago. According to the Planning Commission minutes for their August meeting, Planning intends to refer the Erbs proposal to Conservation - but nothing more on that at this time.
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement
The 121 West Church Hill Road conservation easement was discussed at the last meeting. Ms. Payne said the Board of Selectmen has written a letter to CL&P requesting they move the pole that is in the middle of the space that was left for driveway access. Ms. Payne has a copy of the conservation easement if anyone on the Commission would like to read it.
Discussion followed regarding markings for easements and how to make them more permanent. Mr. Gitterman and Mr. Markert agreed that metal stakes would make the best markers (metal can be detected with a magnet if necessary). Ms. Payne thought that was a good idea and will talk with Elaine Luckey to see if the Town will put in the stakes. Then the Commission would ask the property owner to provide a baseline documentation and a survey.
Road Discontinuation & Greenway Potential
Kelly Boling reported he is waiting for Planning to comment on the list of roads which have been proposed to them. The ones with significant Greenway potential are; Tinker Hill Road, West Mountain Road and Potash Hill Road. Referring to an earlier comment about giving up the rights of way entirely, Mr. Boling said the Road Committee thinks the right of way should be retained for potential use as passive recreation, even though it is never used, because what may not be suitable for greenway at this time, might be in 20, 50 or 100yrs. The members discussed whether this should be included in the Plan of Conservation and Development or possibly a Town Ordinance. Ms. Payne suggested Planning could include this in their regulations since they have enforcement, whereas Conservation is advisory.
Fritz Byerly and Dimitri Rimsky (Planning) are a committee of two to review Kelly's report on discontinued roads. The Commission agreed they should put together an inventory of all the old roads the Town wants to abandon. Susan Payne said Elaine Luckey has already done a lot of work on that for the Natural Resources Inventory Report.
Monitoring of Town Properties
Linda Frank met with Joan McSweeney at the Middle School, who is responsible for the Environmental Club, and she is very interested in the monitoring of town properties by the school students. She will speak to the principal and get back to Linda in the fall. Part of this would involve the students going into Town Hall, looking up maps, figuring out where things are, etc.
Susan Payne suggested in the fall, the Commission should check out the easements they have.
Subcommittees
Canoe Brook - Linda Frank was in contact with Randy Bernard. Linda thought perhaps the Washington Environmental Council might be interested in developing a plan and researching the options, and said Randy Bernard was amenable to that. Susan Payne said she is very concerned, is not sure what the Town's responsibility is but doesn't think it should be ignored.
Cell Tower Update - Phillip Markert tested with his own cell phone and Rabbit Hill Road has coverage. Everywhere they are proposing a tower already has coverage. Most of the coverage in Washington comes from the dump in Roxbury or New Milford. He will call Diane Dupuis and advise.
Data Management - No new information.
Flora & Fauna - The giant hogweed plant on Valley Road in Warren has been removed with permission of the property owner.
Greenway - No update other than talking with Mike Ajello about doing some trimming and clearing at the falls area. Mike said no permit needed for maintenance. Should organize a work day in the fall and ask Roger if his crew can clean up clippings.
Land Use Info/Welcome pamphlet - Did not meet in August.
Scenic Road Ordinance - Joe Gitterman received some comments from Elaine but needs to talk with her again. Planimetrics thinks the Commission should be looking into State Routes; they recommend 47,109 and 45. Phillip Markert said he thought every road in town should be a scenic road.
Water Resources - No new information.
TPOCD
Kelly Boling has copy of the POCD if anyone wants to read it. There are no substantive changes. It will go to Public Hearing on October 24th.
Meeting adjourned at 5:45PM.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is September 3, 2003 at 5:00PM.
Submitted subject to approval,
Martha T. Shade, Secretary
August 6, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Elizabeth Corrigan, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis
Guests: Jack Field, Elaine Luckey, First Selectman, Chris Charles, Planning Commission, PressMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Susan Payne, Chairman called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Alternates Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis were seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the July 16, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the July 16th meeting with the following correction; under TPOCD: the sixth sentence should read; Susan Payne was disappointed that under the auspices of Planimetrics the Conservation Commission did not have a public meeting as it was suppose to. Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Regular member Joe Gitterman arrived at 5:10pm.
Open Space Plan
Jack Field was present to discuss the latest developments with the Open Space Plan. Questions arose when the Planning Commission said that they would adopt the Open Space Plan into the Town Plan of Conservation and Development. Jack recapped the history of the Open Space Plan. Some members of the Open Space Steering Committee objected to parts of the Open Space Plan. Jack has since spoken with Chris Charles and Hank Martin and has rewritten the Open Space Plan. The newest August 6th version of the Open Space Plan went out via email to the Conservation Commission, Open Space Sub-committee and Open Space Steering Committee members. Jack Field was unable to contact Dick Dutton of the Open Space Steering Committee. Changes made to the plan were highlighted. Mr. Field is in hopes that the Conservation Commission will accept the revised plan. Kelly Boling questioned Chris Charles as to if the Planning Commission would make changes to the document. Mr. Charles indicated that no changes would be made; the Open Space Plan would be adopted into the Town Plan of Conservation and Development as is. Discussion continued on how to set up a fund for open space.
MOTION: Kelly Boling made the motion to accept the amended Open Space Plan dated (8/6). Joe Gitterman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Members asked Chris Charles about a timetable for completion of the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD). Chris stated that Chris Wood from Planimetrics and George Bender, Planning Commission Chairman are working on this timetable. Mr. Charles believes that the POCD will go to a Town Meeting in September or October with completion by the end of 2003. The next special meeting for the Planning Commission on the POCD is August 19th at 4:00pm. Discussion ensued on the subject of considering open space as part of PA-490. Elaine Luckey gave reference to State Statute Sec. 7-131b.
Referrals from Other Commissions
Elaine Luckey brought forward a request from Roger Cannavaro about property on River Road. The town holds ownership to part of the old railroad right-of-way along River Road. According to Elaine ownership differed according to land deeds for parcels along the railroad property and the town acquired ownership of this piece. Mr. Cannavaro has been approached about removing dead trees on this property. Mr. Cannavaro doesn't think the property benefits the town and asked if the town might give up ownership of this parcel. Members discussed future uses for this River Road parcel and it's proximity to the Elderly Housing Units.
MOTION: Joe Gitterman made a motion that the Town of Washington should keep possession of the railroad bed along River Road. Linda Frank seconded this motion and it passed unanimously.
Susan Payne had a request from a property owner on which there was a conservation easement created November 7, 2002 the land is located at 121 West Church Hill Road. The property owner has asked permission to install a driveway across the conservation easement. There is a utility pole located in the best spot for a driveway. In discussing this request members felt that the owner should pursue one of the following options: 1. move the utility pole 2. request a trade off of land to be used as the driveway for land elsewhere on the property. Kelly Boling also brought up the question of the Conservation Commission having the authority to allow activity within the easement. Betsy Corrigan added that there is no habitat value to the easement along the road. Members also agreed that allowing this request was not a good precedent to set for future situations. Susan Payne will respond accordingly to the property owner and Pam Osborne, secretary will forward a copy of the conservation easement to Ms. Payne.
Bantam River Watershed Coalition - Dan Sherr will reschedule in the fall
Road Discontinuation & Greenway Potential
Kelly Boling reported that a letter including a list of five or six roads to be discontinued has been sent to the Planning Commission. At their meeting they created a sub-committee to deal with this issue. Dimitri Rimsky and Fritz Byerly are on this sub-committee. Mr. Boling hopes to take this subject to a town meeting in the fall. Kelly's sub-committee will meet again next week. Joe Gitterman asked what would happen to this land if the town decided not to retain ownership. Kelly explained that by discontinuing the road the land would revert back to adjoining property owners or the town could retain use of the land for walkways, bike or bridle trails.
Monitoring of Town Properties
Linda Frank is waiting on communication from the Shepaug School, probably this fall when school is back in session.
Subcommittees
Canoe Brook - Elaine Luckey explained that work continues on obtaining grants. Linda Frank will check in with the Washington Environmental Council and their involvement in this project.
School Connection - addressed above
Cell Tower Update - no new information
Data Management - no new information
Flora & Fauna - Betsy Corrigan reported that she has found the giant hogweed plant on Valley Road just over the town line in Warren. The plant is located on the river bank and she would like to send notification to the property owner. Members agreed, Betsy will compose a letter and forward it to Susan Payne. Betsy will be able to put the property owner in contact with people who will help eradicate the plant. Ms. Corrigan states that Mike Klemmens is looking for funding for the bio-diversity study. Betsy also reported ongoing documentation of species in the eastern section of Meeker Swamp.
Greenway - no meeting in August
Land Use Info/Welcome pamphlet - meeting date changed to 4th Thursday of month.
Scenic Road Ordinance - A press release was done which appeared in local papers. The SRO is also on the Town's web site under "What's New" and "Conservation Commission". Joe Gitterman has not received any feed back as of yet.
Water Resources - no new information
TPOCD
Chris Charles told members that the 6th draft of the POCD should be ready by the August 19th special meeting. The most recent plan is available on the Town's website.
Other Business
Members briefly reviewed plans for a proposed sub-division on Sunset Lane. The Planning Commission is doing a site visit Saturday morning at 9:30pm. Susan encouraged any Conservation members who could, should participate.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is August 20, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
July 16, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Joseph Gitterman, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank
Guests: Elaine Luckey, First Selectman, Chris Charles, Planning Commission memberThe Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Linda Frank was seated as an alternate.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the June 4, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the June 4th meeting. Joe Gitterman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions:
Lloyd - this application has already been approved by the Inland Wetland Commission.
Monitoring of Town Properties:
Linda Frank has been in contact with Chick Treadway about monitoring. He has provided Linda with a format/outline for monitoring of the Town properties. Joe Gitterman commented that Steep Rock's monitoring program is very good but the problem is determining the boundary line for parcels when you're out in the field checking for the parcels. Susan Payne agreed and stated that this work will have to be done to the best of the commission's ability and it will be a challenge for the fall. For future parcels there needs to be requirements such as a survey when the town acquires land.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: Elaine Luckey reported that they are continuing work on the S.T.E.A.P. grant.
School Connection: no new info
Cell Tower Update: Phil Markert reports that everything remains quiet. Susan Payne added that the Board of Selectmen in Warren has gone on record as opposing the Cell Tower application on Rabbit Hill Road in their town.
Data Management: no report
Discontinuing Roads: Kelly Boling has sent a letter to George Bender, Chairman of the Planning Commission.
Flora & Fauna: no report
Greenway: The last meting was a site visit to New Preston Falls; members will be going back in the fall and would like to do some selective tidying up of the property. It was suggested that the New Preston Boys & Girls or the Boys Scouts might help. Greenway will not be meeting in August.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet: This team continues to meet once a month to get their work done.
Scenic Road Ordinance: Joe Gitterman had the July 16th / 10th draft of the Scenic Road Ordinance. Mr. Gitterman stated that the changes made by council were to change wording so the document was in line with the state statues. Joe feels the next step would be to post the proposed ordinance on the town's website and to forward copies to Commission Chairmen, Janet Hill and the Board of Selectmen. The final step is to get the "proposed scenic road ordinance" to the agenda of the next Town Meeting. Joe asked members about having a public forum before the town meeting. Members felt that he should wait to see the feed back from the website and publicity then decide.
MOTION: Susan Payne made a motion to accept the Scenic Road Ordinance work, to have the document posted on the Town of Washington website, to publish notice in the Voices about the Scenic Road Ordinance and to request the Board of Selectmen put it on the agenda for the next Town Meeting. Phil Markert seconded this motion and it passed unanimously.
Susan Payne offered to do the press release for the Voices and went on to commend the subcommittee for all their hard work. Joe Gitterman noted that members of the "Scenic Road Ordinance Subcommittee" were Rebecca Bent, Walter Andrew, Roger Cannavaro, Chick Treadway, Dimitri Rimsky, Bill Bader and himself. Mr. Markert asked what will become of this ordinance if it is passed at the Town Meeting. Joe answered that he hopes individuals will spearhead designation of scenic roads, there is plenty of interest.
Water Resources: no report Susan Payne asked Phil to look into testing the waters around Rumsey Hall School.
TPOCD: The Planning Commission held a special informational meeting for Commission Members on July 15th on the draft of the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD). This was a power point presentation of the latest POCD by Planimetrics. Chris Charles explained how information/input was gathered for the plan. The Planning Commission, a diverse group of individuals, have been working methodically through the plan. They have been having "special" monthly meetings.
Susan Payne voiced her disappointment that the Planning and Conservation Commissions had not had a joint meeting during this ongoing process to share information. Conservation members and Mr. Charles went on to discuss the open space plan.
Other Business
Two newspaper articles were submitted as interest to members. Pam will include them with the mailing.
Susan Payne asked that the commission's membership to the Connecticut Association of Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commissions be renewed. Pam will take care of this.
Meeting adjourned 6:35pm.
Next scheduled meeting of Conservation Commission is August 6th at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
June 4, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Kelly Boling
Alternates: Diane Dupuis
Guests: Jack Field, Elaine Luckey, First Selectperson, PressThe Chairperson, Ms. Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Diane Dupuis was seated as an alternate.
Referrals from other Commissions: none
Open Space Plan Interim Report March 2002:
Jack Field was present to go over the Open Space Plan with members. The Open Space Plan will be reissued with the term "interim" eliminated from its title and contents. The document will remain dated March 2002, because data will not be updated.
MOTION: Susan Payne made a motion to include the Open Space Steering Committee "Final Report" dated February 2000 and the Connecticut Ad Hoc Conservation Commission "Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations" dated November 2000 as an intricate part of the Open Space Plan and should be incorporated into the Open Space Plan as appendixes. Kelly Boling seconded this motion and it was passed unanimously.
Susan Payne went over Section V of the Open Space Plan which dealt with the work of the Open Space Inventory Subcommittee. Susan will add information pertaining to the point system that was used to rank parcels and a map will also be added. When Ms. Payne has rewritten this section she will forward it to Jack Field. Mr. Field wants to tidy up the original Open Space Plan for grammar and spelling and it will be reissued. Copies of the reissued plan will be given to Conservation Members, the (3) selectmen, Land Use chairmen and Planimetrics. Jack Field went on to review the Executive Summary of the Open Space Plan with Conservation members.
Land Management Discussion: no discussion
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook - no report
Cell Tower Update - Diane Dupuis stated that confirmation has been made of the existence of nesting sharp shinned hawks on Rabbit Hill Road, this information is being forwarded to the DEP. Ms. Dupuis informed the commission members that no application has come before the Connecticut Siting Council for the Warren cell tower site. Diane has heard of new legislation that gives towns more input for cell tower applications.
Data Management - no activity
Flora & Fauna - no report
Greenway - Susan Payne reported that there was no quorum for the June meeting. The next meeting will be a site visit on July 1 to the Falls in New Preston. Trail monitoring information will be kept in the Greenway files in the Land Use office.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Committee - no report
Scenic Road Ordinance - no report
Water Resources - Kirby Brook evaluation - no report
Candidates for alternate on Conservation Commission - still looking
Other Business:
Susan Payne submitted a copy of "An Act Concerning Invasive Species" for the files.
Meeting adjourned at 6:40pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is July 16th at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne Secretary
May 21, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Kelly Boling
Alternate: Linda FrankAt 5:00pm Conservation Commission members went on a bus tour of "town owned properties". The properties that members attempted to locate were:
- 56 River Road - old railroad bed
- 129 Lower Church Hill - bird sanctuary
- 121 West Church Hill - easement (Uruburu, Schneider & Nassar)
- 185 New Milford Trpk - New Preston Firehouse
- 5 East Shore Road - Joe Young Property
- 18 Church Street - recreational field
- 209/217 Bee Brook Road - Sheldon land/old road
- 38 Slaughter House Road - .05 acres
- 109 Bee Brook Road - Washington Firehouse
- 10 Blackville Road - new Town garage
- 46 Wykeham Road - 2.75 acres bird sanctuary
- 11 School Street - Washington Primary School grounds
- 16/9 Titus Park - Old Town garage/parking area
- 2 Bryan Hall Plaza - Town Hall/ old Firehouse
The tour concluded at 6:30pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Pamela L. Osborne
May 7, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairman, Kelly Boling, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis
Guests: Elaine Luckey, First SelectmanThe Chairman, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the April 16, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Phillip Markert made a motion to approve the minutes of the April 16th meeting. Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: none
Scenic Road Ordinance: Members have received the latest draft of the scenic road ordinance and are asked to get their comments and thoughts to Joe Gitterman by May 19th.
Land Acquisition Fund: Susan Payne reports that there is on going discussion on setting up a "Land Acquisition Fund". Ms. Payne feels the need for town council help and Elaine Luckey suggested that this topic be brought up at the Commission Chairs next meeting. Ms. Luckey will schedule the next chairs meeting for early June and will invite David Miles, Esq. There was continued discussion about establishing a fund and spending authorization. Members also discussed the issue of floating bonds.
Land Management Discussions: Members had no new information or thoughts to add to Kelly's outline. Susan Payne spoke with John Allen of the Building and Properties Committee about their interest in town owned properties without buildings. Mr. Allen informed Ms. Payne that they are targeting building maintenance and left the town owned properties in the care of the Conservation Commission. Linda Frank has been in touch with the school about curriculum and suggested asking the Garden Club and/or Washington Environmental Council for assistance with this monitoring and maintenance project. Susan has a list and maps of "Town Owned Properties" she will put together a tour route. Pam Osborne will check into getting the Senior Bus to use at the May 21st meeting to tour these properties.
Subcommittee Reports:
Canoe Brook: Linda Frank is in the process of contacting Dirk Sabin. Elaine Luckey informed commission members that the Steep Grant is still in the works.
Cell Tower: Phil Markert stated his thoughts about cell towers and the Siting Council. Mr. Markert feels that this has little to do with the Town because Cell Tower Communication is a national priority. He feels that the cell tower carriers are at fault and operating poorly. Ideally he would like to have the Siting Council talk with the FCC to put a moratorium on cell towers until carriers/companies get their acts together consolidate and share technologies. Phil will poke away at this. Ms. Luckey suggested speaking with local legislators.
Data Management: none
Flora/Fauna: Susan attended the meeting on April 28th with guest speaker Professor Pyle. Ms. Payne also shared information about a training program on May 17th at the Warren Congregational Church entitled "Planning for Nature: Preserving Ecological Integrity.
Greenway: Susan Payne submitted minutes from the May 6th meeting. Maintenance and monitoring are ongoing. The Boy Scout Troop will be helping in the Bee Brook area with the maintenance.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Subcommittee: This subcommittee is meeting monthly.
Water Resource:
Kirby Brook evaluation: Phil Markert had results from a sampling that Randy Bernard did on April 21st on Kirby Brook. The sample showed an increase in nitrates below the International College of Hospitality, but Randy felt these levels were not a major concern. Mr. Bernard also said it was too early/cold to test for bacteria.
Candidates for alternate on Conservation Commission: Continuing to look for candidates.
Other Business: Ms. Payne reports that at the May 6th Planning meeting it was decided that a small group of representatives from Planning and Planimetrics would meet on Friday to reorganize and edit the draft of the 2003 Plan of Conservation and Development. Kelly Boling commented that it would be great to get the full support of all commissions behind the new Plan of Conservation and Development.
Ms. Payne asked members if it would be OK to cancel the June 18th meeting, all members agreed. Pam Osborne will post notice.
Meeting adjourned at 6:20pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is May 21st at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
April 16, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Linda Frank
Guests: Elaine Luckey, Sarah Sparks, publicMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Susan Payne, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Linda Frank was seated as an alternate.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the April 2, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the April 2nd meeting with the following spelling corrections: under Referrals from other commissions; the fourth line "updated" replaces up dated and under Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet spelling name changes as follows Tony Bedini and Siggi Hildmann. Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals form other Commissions: none
Scenic Road Ordinance: Members are asked to submit comments to Joe Gitterman. Joe received a positive memo from the Zoning Chairman regarding signage.
Land Management Discussion:
Susan Payne has contacted the Building and Properties Committee about their jurisdiction/thoughts on town owned property without buildings. The commission is waiting for information from town attorney David Miles on acquiring land. Susan asked for volunteers to help with "checking out" town owned properties. Linda and Kelly agreed to help. Members reviewed Kelly Boling's Land Management memo and he offered to continue editing it and maintain it as a working document. Ms. Payne asked that agriculture be added to (1.a.) dedication preferred. There was discussion about the difference between conservation and preservation and the need to be clear with the definition of both. Linda Frank is searching for information and curriculum to help get Region 12 teachers and students involved in the monitoring and maintenance process. Mr. Boling shared information he had about criteria/evaluating open space from the city of Danbury.
Report from 4/15/03 TPOCD meeting:
At the Planning Commission's special meeting on April 15th the first draft of the Town Plan of Conservation and Development was ready. The draft will be discussed at the next regular Planning meeting on May 6th and the next special meeting on May 20th. The Planning Commission hopes to have a public meeting in the fall.
Subcommittee Reports:
Canoe Brook: Elaine Luckey reported that there was miscommunication between the engineer and Dirk Sabin about a proposed meeting. Linda Frank will keep on top of this now that Dirk is off of the Conservation Commission.
Cell Tower: no report
Data Management: Kelly's subcommittee met and will do so monthly. Margie Purnell from Inland Wetlands is interested in joining.
Flora/Fauna: no report
Greenway: Elaine Luckey needs clarification on the date for the walk to Mt. Tom; she will contact Bonnie Mathews who is co-coordinating the walk.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Subcommittee: no report
Water Resources: no report
Candidates for alternate on Conservation Commission: Conservation is looking for an alternate member from the Marbledale area would be great.
Other Business: none
Meeting adjourned at 5:55pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is May 7th at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Clerk
April 2, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Kelly Boling, Diane DupuisMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
The Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Susan Payne informed members that Ruth Alex and Dirk Sabin have resigned from the Conservation Commission. She welcomed Diane Dupuis as an alternate member and stated that Kelly Boling will become a regular member. There remains an alternate vacancy to be filled.
Kelly Boling and Diane Dupuis were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes of the March 19, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 19th meeting with the following amendments: under Referrals from other Commissions, the last sentence to read "Susan will speak ... Conservation Commission reviewed the project, ..."; on page (2) the fourth sentence to read "The proposed ...to create scenic roads but does ..."; under Other Business, "Susan Payne ... deadline of April 1st...". Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other commissions:
There were no official referrals from other commissions.
Susan Payne stated that the Inland Wetland public hearing regarding 67/79 Carmel Hill Road has been continued until April 23rd at 6:00pm.
The Conservation Commission has received up dated approved plans for the Washington Community Housing Trust plans for 16 Church Street in New Preston. These plans will be put in the Conservation files.
Ms. Payne has spoken with Dorothy Hill, Chairperson of the Inland Wetland Commission and will send a memo to George Bender, Chairman of the Planning Commission asking that the Conservation Commission be included in the beginning plans for any land easements, open space set aside, deed restrictions or fees-in-lieu of.
Scenic Road Ordinance:
Joe Gitterman reported that Janet Hill did a great job reviewing the proposed ordinance. Joe and his subcommittee will meet and go over changes; the Conservation Commission may see a new draft in May. Susan Payne spoke with George Bender about the commission's work on a scenic road ordinance.
Land Management Discussion:
Kelly Boling updated his memo for distribution. Members are asked to get their thoughts and ideas together for the April 16th meeting. There was discussion on easements.
Subcommittee Reports:
Canoe Brook: no report
Cell Tower Update: Diane Dupuis reports that an application has not yet be filed for the Rabbit Hill, Warren AT&T Cell Tower. Susan Payne reported that Steep Rock Association has voted to take a position on the above mentioned application.
Data Management: Kelly Boling has spoken with George Blake who agreed to attend the first meeting which will be on April 8th. Kelly also has Dimitri Rimsky from the Planning Commission and Fritz Byerly and Chris Charles are also interested.
Flora/Fauna: Betsy Corrigan will meet with her subcommittee on April 7th with guest speaker Dr. Pyle.
Greenway: Susan Payne reported that the Greenway committee met on April 1st and did a site visit to the Washington Park & Recreation walking path to view the proposed site of the Moody Bridge Foot Bridge. Members were in agreement that the proposed location would be too intrusive to the neighboring properties and will look to other possible locations. Bob Williams met with Paul Cullen to review plantings in the school area. There will be a walk to Mt. Tom from Romford Road on May 3rd. Interested people are asked to meet at Elaine Luckey's house at 9:00am. Greenway will be having a monitoring orientation meeting on April 8th at 5:30pm at the Primary School pavilion. Ms. Payne submitted the minutes of the April 1st meeting.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet: Susan Payne is happy to report that Toni Bedini will be Chairman for this subcommittee and Siggy Hildemann will be the secretary.
Water Resources:
Kirby Brook evaluation - Susan Payne has spoken to Randy Bernard and he will be starting the monitoring of Kirby Brook.
Other Business:
Arc View Data Update: The Arc View program has to be updated - Pam Osborne, secretary will contact George Blake to do this work before the end of this fiscal year.
Kelly Boling reported from the Unimproved Roads Committee - this committee is looking to discontinue (6) town roads but retain the rights for passive recreation. They hope to take this proposal to a town meeting in July. They will be sending notices to neighboring property owners.
The Zoning Commission is taking up the issue of "Ridge Line Preservation".
Meeting adjourned at 6:05pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is April 16th at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
Planning Comm. - Special Meeting - POCD - April 15th at 4:00pm.
March 19, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Betsy Corrigan, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Kelly Boling, Linda Frank
Guests: Elaine Luckey, First Selectman; Mark Daft, reporter from VoicesMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Susan Payne, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Kelly Boling and Linda Frank were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes of the March 5, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 5th meeting. Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other commissions:
There were no referrals from other commissions.
Susan Payne informed members that the Inland Wetland Commission has scheduled a site visit for the application at 67/69 Carmel Hill Road for Saturday March 22nd at 8:30am and also reminded members of the public hearing being held on March 26th at 6:30pm on this same property. Regarding the above mentioned application Ms. Payne referenced the minutes of the February 12th meeting of the Inland Wetland Commission in which Margie Purnell recommended referring the application for 67/69 Carmel Hill Road to the Conservation Commission. Susan will speak with Dorothy Hill, Chairperson of the Inland Wetland Commission to clarify that the Conservation Commission has already been presented with the project, on February 5th by Dirk Sabin, and have issued written comments to the Inland Wetland Commission on February 21st.
Scenic Road Ordinance:
Joe Gitterman was present to introduce his subcommittee's proposed "Scenic Road Ordinance". All Conservation Commission members were mailed Draft #4 dated 2/17/2003 which was the most recent draft by this subcommittee. Joe began by thanking his subcommittee: the "work horses" behind this committee were Rebecca Bent and Walter Andrew and other members who helped were Chick Treadway, Bill Bader, Roger Cannavaro and Dimitri Rimsky. Mr. Gitterman's subcommittee began by gathering ordinances from other towns, which ranged in length from three (3) to thirty (30) pages. Their goal was to pick language that was easy to understand, the hardest part was being in compliance with state statues. Their first draft was thirty to forty percent (30%-40%) larger than their final document. Joe feels the subcommittee has come up with a simple straight forward document. Susan Payne interjected that she felt having Roger Cannavaro on the subcommittee was very helpful. Joe went on to state that in the Town of Kent the First Selectman felt that having a "scenic road ordinance" created a lot of work for the town, but Joe felt that the communication between the community and the town was a positive thing. Mr. Gitterman feels that outside of neighbors roads have the greatest impact on people. The proposed "scenic road ordinance" creates the ability to create scenic roads and does not create the scenic roads. People in the community initiate the process. Joe walked members through the proposed ordinance. Section IV on Alterations, Maintenance and Reconstruction is very lengthy and wordy; Joe feels this is the section that would create the most misunderstandings and problems. Roger Cannavaro and Walter Andrew did the work on Section IV. Several members were concerned with the wording in Section IV / B / 2g about installation of reflectors and signs. Members felt they wanted signage held to a safe minimum. Joe will address this with Walter Andrew. Suggestions were also made to provide a map showing the area to be designated and a list of property owners. The next step will be to have the document reviewed by Janet Hill; Joe will make corrections and get a clean copy to her. After being reviewed by Ms. Hill if further review is needed the Conservation Commission will see it at its next meeting. Susan Payne will speak with George Bender, Chairman of the Planning Commission who is ultimately responsible for the ordinance. Members discussed when was the best time to bring the "scenic road ordinance" before the Town of Washington. Joe Gitterman doesn't want town's people to feel pushed/rushed into accepting this ordinance; members agreed that the fall Town Meeting would be a better opportunity to present the "scenic road ordinance". Elaine Luckey, First Selectman agreed with members because at the present time the Planning Commission is fully involved with the Plan of Conservation and Development. Kelly Boling interjected that creating a "scenic road ordinance" was suggested in both the 1993 Plan of Conservation and Development and the Natural Resource Inventory Report. Susan Payne added that the minutes from Conservation Commission meetings reflect the work that has been ongoing and are available to everyone via the Town website and through the Town Clerk's office.
Land Management Discussion:
Kelly Boling came prepared with an outline regarding land management criteria. Members felt that locations for open space designation should not be prioritized and added the following suggestions for open space parcels: land contiguous with existing open space and areas designated for open space corridors. Members realize that each designation is parcel specific and should be reviewed on a case by case basis. Joe Gitterman stated that the use of a bond needs more research for specifics. Pertaining to the area of monitoring and maintenance members asked that private schools in the Town of Washington be utilized also. Susan read a memo, dated March 17th, directed to Elaine Luckey, First Selectman from George Bender, Planning Commission Chairman. The memo pertained to establishing a fund for open space purposes and accepting gifts of land as open space. Mr. Bender has asked these issues be researched by David Miles, Esq. Ms. Luckey stated that the selectmen have requested a sum of $50,000 for a land acquisition fund from the Board of Finance.
Report from 3/18/03 TPOCD:
There was no meeting with Planimetrics. The Planning Commission expects to have the first draft of the Plan of Conservation and Development at its April special meeting.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: no new information
Cell Tower Update: no new information
Data Management: Kelly Boling has Sharon Morrissey on board and will be contacting George Blake.
Flora and Fauna: Betsy Corrigan reports that her subcommittee is moving ahead with their work on invasive species and Natalie Dyer is working on identifying bird areas.
Greenway: no new information
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Committee: Pam Osborne will update and correct the members list. Susan is hoping to have the first meeting on Tuesday March 25th.
Water Resources: no new information
Other Business:
Susan Payne mentioned the upcoming town newsletter deadline of May 1st; she will work on an article.
Susan also informed members that open space funding on the state level has been deleted from the budget.
The Chairman would like to start working on ridge line preservation. Pam Osborne, secretary will check with the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities for ridge line preservation recommendations.
Meeting adjourned at 6:55pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is April 2, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
The following opportunities are available to members - contact Pam if you are interested. March 29th - Land Trust Service Bureau - Twentieth Annual Convocation of Connecticut Land Trusts March 28th & 29th - Our Changing Coast - Private & Public Land Trusts
March 5, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Ruth Alex, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Kelly Boling, Linda FrankMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Kelly Boling and Linda Frank were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes of the February 19, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 19th meeting. Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other commissions:
There were no official referrals from other commissions. Susan Payne updated members on some recent activities with the Inland/Wetland Commission of interest to the Conservation Commission. The proposal for property at 67/69 Carmel Hill Road will have a public hearing on March 26th. The Cass/De Pecol property on 46 June Road received approval from Inland/Wetlands. The application for Rizzo/James at 129 Bee Brook Road was denied by Inland/Wetlands.
Scenic Road Ordinance:
This item was mistaking put on the agenda for tonight's meeting. Joe Gitterman and his sub-committee will attend the March 19th Conservation Commission meeting.
How to accept land as the Town of Washington:
Ruth Alex has been in contact with The Connecticut Association of Conservation and Inland Wetland Commissions (CACIWC), Tom O'Dell, Dan McGuiness, Atty. Miles and Atty. Zizka. After speaking with everyone it is still unclear how to legally and in the best interest of the town acquire easements/land. The statue is unclear as to whether acquisitions can be done through one town meeting by enacting an ordinance or each time land/easements are offered a town meeting is required; no one seems to have an answer. Ruth contacted Gary Steinman, of the Roxbury Planning Commission; he stated that their regulations only allow for the acceptance of a fee. They have established a land acquisition fund. Kelly Boling questioned the legality of this. Ms. Alex spoke to Elaine Luckey, First Selectman, letting her know that nobody knows the "right" answer and Ruth's suggestion would be to have the selectman accept the land/easement and transfer the administrative duties to the Conservation Commission. The Conservation Commission has requested a line item, of $5000, in their budget that would address the costs associated with these acquisitions. Ruth went on to state that the Planning commission needs to be discriminate about accepting land and can suggest fees-in-lieu of land. The land/easement need to benefit the town and not just the abutting landowner. A land acquisition fund needs to be established. Members felt that perhaps the Conservation Commission could set criteria for accepting land/easements. The Conservation Commission should be part of the process, on a case by case basis, to help the town manage easements/land acquisition. Susan Payne will speak to George Bender about this. Members should think about possible criteria for accepting land/easements and fees-in-lieu of land and bring their thoughts to the next Conservation meeting.
Report from Committee Chairs meeting 2/25/03:
Ms. Payne reported that at this meeting they discussed the need to establish a land acquisition fund and that the Board of Selectmen should speak with the Finance Board about this. Ms. Payne also stated that Willie Smith, Chairman of the Historical District Commission, spoke about having funds available to help preserve historic properties in the event that a property owner was unable to preserve a property. Susan mentioned at the February 25th meeting about the formation of a Data Management Subcommittee. There was an inquiry about creating a New Preston Historical District.
Subcommittee Reports:
Canoe Brook: Linda Frank stated that Dirk Sabin is working with the town engineer and they are patiently waiting for snow to melt.
Cell Tower Update: The balloon test for the proposed Warren, Rabbit Hill Road cell tower took place on February 24th. This test showed that the cell tower would be very visible from the Route 202 corridor and Meeker Swamp Preserve. Phil Markert stated that the tower does not need to be that tall if the company would use combining technology.
The Zoning Commission is voting on the proposal to amend their regulations to allow for a proposed cell tower in the New Preston Congregational Church on March 24th.
This commission received notice of a Public Hearing on March 25th at 1:00pm in Hearing Room 2 at the Office of the Connecticut Siting Council, 10 Franklin Square, New Britain, Connecticut regarding the cell tower at 399 Chestnut Land Road in New Milford.
Data Management: Kelly Boling has forwarded a memo to Pam Osborne, Secretary which she will distribute.
Flora/Fauna: no report
Greenway: Susan Payne submitted minutes from the March 4th meeting. They had discussion on the Moody Bridge Foot Bridge, neighbors attended to express concern and opposition to this project. Dorothy Wilson became a new committee member. Work continues on the East Aspetuck River Greenway. Sotheby's International Realty will sponsor publication of 2,000 Greenway postcards. Susan has put together a trail monitoring packet for Pam to distribute with the minutes to Greenway members.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Subcommittee: This committee is coming together. Rosanne Schaffner has been added to the subcommittee. ZBA and Zoning members still to be determined.
Water Resources: no report
Other Business: none
Meeting adjourned at 6:25pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is March 19, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
The following opportunities are available to members - contact Pam if you are interested. March 18th - Growing Greener - Conservation by Design March 20th - Litchfield Area Assessors Assoc. Meeting - Speaker: David Sutherland, Government Relations Director, The Nature Conservancy, will discuss legal components of conservation easements. March 29th - Land Trust Service Bureau - Twentieth Annual Convocation of Connecticut Land Trusts March 28th & 29th - Our Changing Coast - Private & Public Land Trusts
February 19, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Kelly Boling
Guests: Elaine Luckey, First SelectmanMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Susan Payne Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Kelly Boling was seated as an alternate.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes of the February 5, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 5th meeting, with several grammatical/punctuation changes which have been attached to the Town Clerk's copy of the above mentioned minutes. Joe Gitterman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Susan Payne informed members that she added a line item to the 2003/2004 budget of $5,000 for possible future expenses for consulting, legal or monitoring fees.
Referrals from other commissions
The Chairperson asked for questions or comments on the memo regarding the "Carmel Hill Development". Kelly Boling asked that the memo reference concerns about the impact of the proposed pond sites on the area. Susan will make this addition to the memo and submit the memo to be forwarded to the Inland/Wetland Commission. The Inland/Wetland Commission will hold a public hearing on this application on March 26th.
How to accept land as the Town of Washington
Ruth Alex was not present to address this issue, but Elaine Luckey had spoken with Ruth. Ruth has been in contact with The Connecticut Association of Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commissions (CACIWC), The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) and with Attorney David Miles, but has received little information. There was continued discussion on the handling/management of set-asides and the establishment of a fund for fees-in-lieu. Susan Payne referenced a memo from George Bender to Elaine Luckey about enacting an ordinance allowing the Conservation Commission to be the recipient of future open space set-a-sides. All members will receive copies of this correspondence. This matter will remain on the agenda for the March 5th meeting.
Land Management Discussion
Report from the 2/18/03 TPOCD meeting
Susan Payne reported that topics of discussion were gateways to the villages, streetscape and traffic issues. Susan reminded members that there is a Workbook located in the Land Use office with current information about the ongoing work on the 2003 Town Plan of Conservation and Development (TPOCD). The next Planning Commission special meeting to work on the TPOCD is March 18th.
Subcommittee Reports:
Canoe Brook - Elaine Luckey stated that Dirk Sabin will be meeting with an engineer about the erosion issue in Canoe Brook.
Cell Tower Update - Susan Payne read from a memo Phil Markert submitted about information on health issues relating to cell towers. Pam Osborne will send copies to all members. Diane Dupree has given Susan Payne a list of websites on this subject; if any members are interested please contact Susan. Discussion on the proposed AT&T New Preston cell tower and possible alternative sites ensued. Members received a memo from Janet Hill, Zoning Enforcement Officer about the balloon test at the proposed cell tower site on Rabbit Hill Road in Warren on February 24th.
Data Management - Kelly Boling will draft a memo to the other land use commissions about interest in this subcommittee, which Susan will address at the Commission Chairs meeting on February 25th. Ms. Payne gave the OK for the Natural Resource Inventory Report to be made available on CD at a cost of $25.00. Kelly Boling offered to burn the CDs; the commission will start with ten copies.
Flora/Fauna - no report
Greenway - no report
New-appoint committee to create Land use Info/Welcome Pamphlet - Kelly Boling has offered to represent the Conservation Commission.
Scenic Roads - Joe Gitterman submitted the most recent #4 draft of the proposed Scenic Road Ordinance. Copies will be given to all members and there will be discussion on the ordinance at the March 19th meeting of the Conservation Commission. Joe will invite his subcommittee to the March 19th meeting. Joe took this opportunity to thank his subcommittee members for all of their hard work. Ms. Payne also thanked Joe for all that he had done.
Water Resources - Kirby Brook evaluation - no report
Other Business - none
Meeting adjourned at 6:22pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is March 5, 2003 at 5:00pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
February 5, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Elizabeth Corrigan, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Kelly Boling, Linda Frank, Dirk Sabin
Guests: Elaine Luckey, First Selectmen; Candace Korzenko, Inland Wetland Representative; Ellen Tracy, Chris Charles, Charles LaMuniereMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
The Chairperson Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Kelly Boling and Linda Frank were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes of the January 15, 2002 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the January 15th meeting, with the following amendments; on page (3) under Planning Subdivision Regs & Set-Asides in the second sentences valve should be replaced with value; under Canoe Brook Status Report add the sentence, "The issue of the erosion problem behind the Washington Art Association in Canoe Brook should be a top priority on the town's "wish list"; under Subcommittee Reports, Flora/Fauna, the fourth and fifth sentence should be replaced by the following: Betsy also reported that through the Northwest Conservation District she will be pursuing a regional biodiversity study, Mike Klemens, a biologist from the Metropolitan Conservation Alliance which is affiliated with the Wildlife Conservation Society, is the contact person for this study. Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Budget 2003-2004
The Conservation Commission has a basic budget consisting of a clerk, education and postage. Susan Payne suggested that money be added for consulting, legal advice and monitoring. If the commission is to be responsible for monitoring open space monies will be needed to cover expenses. The town has two parcels of open space and baseline documentation for these easements needs to be done. Kelly Boling added that in the future this expense should be the applicants and not the town. Susan Payne will add a $5000 line item in the budget for future expenses. All members agreed.
Referrals from other Commissions
Dirk Sabin presented maps for 67/69 Carmel Hill Road on the Washington/Bethlehem town line. The property is now three parcels consisting of approximately 73 acres. Dirk used the Natural Resource Inventory Report to highlight the properties natural resources such as peaks, wetlands, critical habitats and vernal pools. Betsy Corrigan submitted a letter dated January 25, 1999 from Hank J. Gruner concerning the amphibian species on this property (filed with minutes). At this time the land is listed under 490 and has deed restrictions along some of the southern boundary line. Dirk will be submitting an application to the Inland/Wetland Commission to develop two home sites; the property will be changed from three parcels to two through lot line revisions. Mr. Sabin added that based on soils and slopes there is potential for three to six lots on this property. The applicant is proposing to place 45 acres under conservation easement. They also want to construct two ponds transforming wetland habitat into open water habitat. Linda Frank asked about the pond edges, will they be wetland like? Dirk responded by saying that the bulk of the buffer will be native meadow with some grasslands for access purposes. Dirk added that there will be maintained landscapes around the houses and tennis courts.
Betsy interjected that this property is a unique habitat area and when you change the water habitat a different type of species take over. In his plan Dirk has stayed away from the vernal pools and left the rock outcroppings in tack. Susan asked about the view from Carmel Hill, Dirk answered that only the driveways will be visible from the road the western lot will have a pervious driveway and the eastern lot may have an impervious surface to prevent ongoing erosion. Phil Markert and Linda Frank agreed that two home sites are better than more. Ms. Frank went on to say that she feels there needs to be a management plan in place to educate the new property owners. Kelly Boling agrees with Phil and Linda but is concerned with the ponds he feels he does not have enough expertise to voice opinion only a concern. Betsy is concerned about the upland review area and would like to see the project checked out by a "qualified" biologist. Ms. Corrigan felt that perhaps she should recluse herself from this application because she is a neighbor. She went on to state that she feels this is a big money project and doesn't agree with the development. Betsy read a letter she wrote dated February 4, 2003 (filed with minutes). Susan feels that maintenance is an issue with the proposed ponds there should be a management plan because of the sensitivity of the project. Ms. Payne also inquired as to the financial capability and commitment of the applicant. Mr. Sabin stated that the applicant needs two premium home sites with water; there will be large development disturbances which they hope to off set by the conservation easements. Susan added that development is a reality and feels that Dirk has presented a thoughtful application. Charles LaMuniere commented that there needs to be a site visit by the Inland/Wetland Commission, the Conservation Commission would like to be informed when the site visit will take place. Chris Charles asked Dirk about the difference in swamp and wetland. Dirk answered that a swamp is a specific type of wetland. Chris went on to comment on the following; in order to dredge the ponds or service the dry hydrant they would need access to the ponds and apply to Inland/Wetlands for activity in a regulated area. He feels there is a need to see the 100' buffer to the wetlands and it should be flagged. Mr. Charles also stated that zoning allows for 10% lot coverage but this doesn't prevent activities such as clear cutting and he's pushing for more control for the 90% that is not covered. Chris asked Dirk if at a future time the property could be subdivided. Dirk stated that that would not be possible because of the proposed conservation easements. Susan will draft a memo to the Inland/Wetland Commission stating views/opinions of the Conservation Commission.
Cell Tower Update
Phil Markert clarified the intention of the Cell Tower Subcommittee was to educate themselves about cell towers and was not to locate alternative sites. As the cell tower subcommittee's process was ongoing the applications came in for the two proposed sites. The shift of concern changed from views to health. Phil is educating himself on the health issues, trying to eliminate extremes. He will come back to the commission with information and added knowledge.
Ellen Tracy was present to thank the Conservation Commission for their help and letter. Susan read a letter of appreciation from Jean Chapin (filed with minutes). The Conservation Commission also received three letters from concerned residents about the AT&T proposal for a cell tower on Rabbit Hill Road in Warren (filed with minutes). Pam Osborne will forward copies of the letter to Janet Hill, Zoning secretary for her files.
How to accept land as the Town of Washington - no report
Land Management Discussion - tabled to next month
Map of Town Land - CE's
Pam Osborne created maps of the Town of Washington, using the Arc View program, and pinpointed town owned property.
Report from 1/28/03 Commission Chairs meeting
Susan reported that discussion centered on cell towers. The chairs will meet again on February 25th.
Collaboration with Washington Environmental Council
See water resources under subcommittee reports.
Canoe Brook Status
Linda Frank is going to pursue Nick Solley about this issue.
Subcommittee Reports:
Scenic Vistas/Roads - Joe Gitterman's subcommittee is circulating a draft of a scenic road ordinance.
Greenway - Susan Payne highlighted the minutes she submitted from the February 4th meeting.
Flora/Fauna - Betsy's subcommittee will meet on February 13th at 4:00pm at the Steep Rock office.
Water Resources - Kirby Brook Evaluation
Phil reports that samples have not yet been taken at the Kirby Brook site. Betsy inquired about adding an aquatic insect study to the water sampling. There was discussion on getting high school students involved through the senior project or community service areas. Betsy will bring in a model of a study.
New-appoint committee to create Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet - Candace Korzenko will represent the Inland Wetland Commission and Jane Boyer will represent the Historic District Commission.
Land Use/Town Info Pamphlets from other towns
Other Business
Kelly Boling has agreed to chair a data management subcommittee.
Privilege of the Floor
Meeting adjourned at 7:12pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is at 5:00pm February 19, 2003.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
January 15, 2003
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Ruth Alex, Elizabeth Corrigan
Alternates: Kelly Boling, Linda Frank, Dirk Sabin
Guest: Candace Korzenko, Inland/Wetland Commission, Rabbit Hill Road area residentsMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 7:00pm.
Kelly Boling and Dirk Sabin were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes of the December 18, 2002 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the December 18th meeting, Ruth Alex seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
MOTION: Dirk Sabin made a motion to elect Susan Payne as Chairperson and Ruth Alex as Vice-Chairperson, Kelly Boling seconded this motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions:
Cell Tower Update - Rabbit Hill Assoc.
Zoning Commission - AT&T application - 911 Rabbit Hill Road, Warren
Susan Payne referenced the "Cell Tower Subcommittee" report when reviewing the three pending applications for cell towers that impact the town of Washington. She informed members that there would be a balloon test at the Sprint site in New Milford at 399 Chestnut Land Road on Sunday January 19th from 10:00am till 4:00pm. Susan encouraged members to take a look and picture if possible. In regards to the proposed AT&T site at the New Preston Congregational Church the first step is a public hearing on January 27th with the Zoning Commission to amend the regulations. There has been some discussion of an alternate site located on town land at the New Preston Firehouse. And lastly the proposed AT&T site in Warren near Rabbit Hill Road in the Woodville section of Washington. Area residents have concerns on the health and ecological impact of this proposed tower. Ms. Payne asked members for comments or questions on the "Cell Tower Subcommittee" report. She would like the Conservation Commission to endorse this document, to be forwarded to the Zoning Commission.
MOTION: Dirk Sabin made a motion to endorse the "Cell Tower Sub-Committee's Report", this motion was seconded by Ruth Alex and passed unanimously.
Susan read a letter dated December 31, 2002 from Christopher Herrman and Joseph Lorino stating their concerns about the proposed cell tower for Rabbit Hill. (letter filed with secretary's minute) Ms. Payne asked that this letter be forwarded to the Zoning Commission. At this point Susan Payne opened the floor to the public. Jean Chapin circulated a letter addressed to the Conservation Commission, asking to amend the "Cell Tower Subcommittee Report" there was misconception that this report was a draft. Susan Payne clarified that the "Cell Tower Subcommittee Report" was a final report. Ms. Chapin read her letter dated January 16, 2003. (letter filed with secretary's minutes) Susan Payne stated that the Cell Tower Subcommittee has been meeting since August of 2002 and there has been a lot of publicity about this subcommittee. Alan Chapin praised the work done by the Cell Tower Subcommittee, adding that the Rabbit Hill Road application came to Warren in late November arousing interest and concern among area residents. Ms. Payne explained that concern about cell towers has been before the public since the proposal on Route 109, in New Milford in the summer of 2002. Mr. Chapin asked if Washington has held a cell tower forum opened to the public. Ms. Payne doesn't believe there has been a forum but suggested Mr. Chapin speak to the selectmen. Ellen Tracy a resident of Rabbit Hill Road stated that she has been involved with the cell tower subcommittee through Randy Bernard; she is discouraged that the Conservation Commission endorsed the cell tower subcommittee report. Ms. Tracy felt there should have been time for public input before the report was finalized. Ms. Tracy is concerned that the report states not much time was spent on health issues. She feels that the industries views on health risks have been accepted and she feels these views are bias. Ellen Tracy also feels that the statement in this report about there being no interest in Washington other than the Route 202 corridor is wrong based on information she heard at the Siting Council Forum in New Milford at which Sprint stated there was interest at the intersections of Route 109 and 47. Ms. Tracy sees the goals of the Conservation Commission as dealing with land use/environment protection, but states that recent data shows concern for human and habitat risks. Candace Korzenko spoke as a member of the Cell Tower Subcommittee stating that the report reflects the charge of the subcommittee adding that the FCC regulations do not allow for concerns of health issues. Ms. Korzenko feels that the report was not meant to be an end all but suggestions that other commissions could use. There was continued discussion on the charge, suggestions and work of the Cell Tower Subcommittee. Diane Dupuis spoke about concerns for the environment, making references to information in the Natural Resource Report. Ms. Dupuis stated that the proposed cell tower on Rabbit Hill is located in a critical habitat area with slopes greater than 25%, near a large aquifer, a red flag zone. She added that people need to protect this area and submitted a four page letter dated January 6, 2003. (letter filed with secretary's minutes) John Hart a resident whose house is 700' from the proposed Rabbit Hill cell tower stated that he spoke with Bob Fairbairn, the consultant hired by the Cell Tower Subcommittee, and asked Mr. Fairbairn what could be done. Mr. Fairbairn was quoted as saying "the town should take an aggressive stand against the proposed cell tower and come up with an alternative plan". Mr. Hart asked if the Conservation Commission would be willing to pass along comments with the Cell Tower Subcommittee Report. Susan Payne said they would consider it. Mr. Hart went on to speak about the nuclear age, effects of radiation and the relatively new age of cell towers and their effects on people. Mr. Chapin interjected his comments on dealing with the continual changes in federal laws. Mr. Chapin stated his view that the role of the Conservation Commission is to make recommendations on thoughts of protection in the area of conservation issues to other town entities. He asked that the Conservation Commission accept the comments and recommendations heard from residents at this meeting tonight and pass them on. John DeFeo spoke of his frustration of not being able to argue the health and safety of his children. Mr. DeFeo spoke of scientific evidence from Blake Leavitt, a consultant in Warren, that cell towers kill migratory birds. Diane Dupuis stated that Warren has requested a delay in siting the tower until spring to study migratory birds and spring count. Kelly Boling is personally frustrated by the fact that the telecommunication industry has created a legal framework so that local government can not confront these issues from a health perspective. He feels the commission should consider writing to Washington D.C. Kelly also feels the town could minimize the health impact by providing alternative locations in less densely populated areas, a cell tower over lay zone. Regarding the Rabbit Hill site a letter specifically addressing the critical habitat and ecological issues should be sent to the Zoning Commission and Selectmen. Linda Frank stated that she always felt her main concern was the visual aspect, but now feels this should be at the bottom of the list. Cell towers will not be part of the view for ever because of ever changing technology. Linda feels the health issues are critical; it would make common sense to locate cell towers in less populated areas. Ruth Alex stated that it's sad you can argue over the health of a hawk but not your children. Betsy is bothered by people not having a voice, corporate America is making our decisions. Betsy feels the whole issue is not right and she sides with the Rabbit Hill residents. Dirk Sabin started by stating that cell service is important to he and his business, despite his usage he doesn't know the health effects. Mr. Sabin feels that the Conservation Commission would be remiss if they did not forward a letter to all relevant parties addressing the residents concerns. Pam Osborne, secretary will write a draft memo using Dirk's notes and other members comments. She will email it to members and they are asked to forward comments to Susan Payne who will do a rewrite of the draft. After rewritten the memo will be circulated to all relevant parties.
Planning Subdivision Regs & Set-Asides:
Dirk Sabin explained that there are two set aside options. The first one being a fee-in-lieu, there is a defined valve regulated by state statutes. The second one is open space set aside, the amount of set aside takes into consideration density, and Planning uses the Natural Resource Report as a guide to open space. Kelly Boling asked where the fee-in-lieu goes. Ruth Alex answered that the town needs to set up a fund. The applicant is the one who chooses the set-aside option. There was further discussion on set-asides, easements and the referral of these to the Conservation Commission.
How to accept land as the Town of Washington: Ruth Alex is still waiting for information from Atty. David Miles. She will start to contact area towns for information on how they accept parcels. The state statutes seem to contradict each other in that the selectmen can accept land on behalf of the town but in order for the Conservation Commission to accept the land it needs to go to a town meeting.
Land Management Discussion: none
Canoe Brook Status Report: Linda Frank reported that there is a long wish list for the grant money and Canoe Brook is on that list. Dirk Sabin reported that the Washington Environmental Council is working on a biofiltration system for the plaza runoff into Canoe Brook.
Subcommittee Reports:
a. Scenic Road: no report
b. Greenway: Minutes from the January 7, 2003 were submitted.
c. Flora/Fauna: Betsy Corrigan reported that her committee is tentatively meeting on January 21st at 4:00pm, at Steep Rock. Betsy circulated a partial plants list (170 species) for the Meeker Swamp area. There were no endangered or state listed species on this list. Betsy also reported that through the Northwest Conservation District she will be assisting on a biodiversity study of Litchfield County and (8) surrounding towns. Mike Clements at the Northwest Conservation District is the contact person for this study. She will be looking for support on this important project as the time nears. The flora/fauna subcommittee continues to work on invasive species.
d. Water Resources: no report
Kirby Brook evaluation
e. New-appoint committee to create Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet - identify committee members: Dirk Sabin will represent the Planning Commission.
Land Use/Town Info Pamphlets from other Town of Washington
Other Business:
MOTION: Betsy Corrigan made a motion to change the meeting time of the Washington Conservation Commission to 5:00pm, Susan Payne seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Kelly Boling reported that the Road Discontinuation Committee had its first meeting. They discussed retaining the rights to use the abandoned roads as future Greenways. Ruth Alex brought up the issue of the towns liability in retaining use of these areas. Kelly stated that state statues protect the town. Members felt it would behoove the town to reserve these rights even if there were no immediate plans to use a particular area. Members passed the following motion and Susan Payne will also write a memo to the committee.
MOTION: Ruth Alex made the motion that the Washington Conservation Commission feels the Town of Washington should retain the rights for bridle, foot and bicycle paths for any town roads that are abandoned by the town, Betsy Corrigan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
The Chairman, Susan Payne reminded members of the following important dates: January 21st Planning Commission special meeting on the Town Plan of Conservation and Development.
January 27th Zoning Commission meeting - Cell Tower Application
February 21st Steep Rock meeting - Report of Meeker Swamp from the Yale School of Forestry.
Meeting adjourned at 9:20pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is 5:00pm February 5, 2003.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L Osborne, Secretary
Meetings in 2002