The Town of Washington, Connecticut
Minutes: Conservation Commission, 2004
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www.WashingtonCT.org The Town of Washington, Connecticut Minutes: Conservation Commission, 2004 |
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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.
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December 15, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Patti Doran, Phil Markert, Susan Payne, Chick Treadway, Dan Sherr, Diane Williams
Guests: Tom & Betsy BurkeChairman, Dan Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:05pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the October 20, 2004 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Chick Treadway and passed unanimously.
Dan Sherr welcomed Tom and Betsy Burke and asked if they had thoughts to share with the committee. Mr. and Mrs. Burke were concerned that on the Town survey the Housing Diversity Committee proposed bonding but not the Open Space Committee. Mr. and Mrs. Burke were at the Open Space Forum and the idea of bonding was brought up and well received. Mr. Sherr assured the Burkes that the survey was addressing the funding issue and in no way should they think the Open Space Committee was excluding the consideration of bonding. Mr. Burke went on to state that land may become available and the Town may want to act quickly. He asked if there could be a Town referendum held before hand on the bonding issue, a "prebonding" so the funding is already available. Susan Payne added that it was her belief that the Town had to vote on individual purchases. Discussion continued briefly about the forums, survey and what the towns people want to do and how to accomplish their goals. Mr. Sherr thanked the Burkes for coming and sharing their thoughts.
Dan Sherr circulated the poll results from the November 17, 2004 meeting. Dan touched on a few points: preserving open space is viewed highly, diversified housing is a close second and there appears to be limited support to minimizing tax increases. One concern Dan has is that there were responses from very few people with children in the school system so the results don't represent this population.
Patti Doran, also a member of the Housing Diversity Group, gave members a handout with a scenario which included both the housing and open space pieces; there are pros and cons to combining the two goals. Ms. Doran wanted to be sure that the Open Space Committee was receptive to the idea of combining the two; Mr. Sherr felt that members would have no problem with it. The Housing Diversity Committee has a report due to the Selectmen by March 2005; their goal is 96 affordable units in 8 years. Tentatively ideas such as housing units over businesses in town and tax breaks for accessory apartments have been brought up also. Susan Payne interjected as an example the Potter Farm property which is on the market could address both issues as well as farm preservation. Farming could be continued, affordable housing units, open space, as well as carving off a piece for sale could all be accomplished on the property. Phil Markert agreed it could work, he feels it is feasible to do without a bond. You would need a "manager". If you could identify a farmer to work with, get a trusted architect's input, you could put together a group of "local developers" and consultants then hire a builder. Patti Doran added that's the Selectmen's question to the Housing Group "Who is going to manage the project?" Mr. Markert answered that within the town there might be people willing to do the job. You would have to meet the affordable housing state mandates and perhaps make changes to the Zoning Regulations. Dan Sherr added you need an organized team to drive the initiative when the property becomes available. Dan went on to ask if this will happen on its own or does it need to be organized? Chick Treadway feels that the Selectman needs to meet with the chairmen of the Board of Finance, Open Space, Housing Diversity, Farm Preservation and the Housing Trust. Ms. Doran felt you need to work out the details before going to the Board of Finance. Mr. Sherr feels the community is committed to preserving open space; you have a land trust actively involved and have formed an Open Space Committee from the Conservation Commission. You need a similar structure for the housing picture, you can share space while maintaining individual goals, use the same process to move forward "endorse each other". Phil Markert will put together information including the financial aspect of combining several of the objectives such as open space and affordable housing. Susan Payne is anxious to see action. Dan Sherr will work with Patti Doran to outline a plan before the January meeting.
MOTION: to accept the Open Space Committee meeting dates for 2005 as submitted was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Chick Treadway and passed unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 6:40pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is January 19, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
December 1, 2004
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Elizabeth Corrigan, Joe Gitterman, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank, Dan Sherr
Guests: Dick Sears, First Selectman, PressMembers are asked to email (conservation@washingtonct.org) or call (868-0423) Pam if you can not attend.
Susan Payne Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Alternate Dan Sherr was seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the November 3, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Joe Gitterman made a motion to approve the minutes of the November 3rd meeting, Dan Sherr seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other commissions:
Status of Walker Brook development proposal: Susan Payne reports that the Mayor of the town of New Milford is asking for a King Mark environmental study on the property, Washington is co-signing this request.
Holly Hill Farm, 87 Whittlesey Road: Susan Payne and Betsy Corrigan did a site visit of this property. Betsy Corrigan has spent time in the Land Use Office going over the extensive planting plan, she is concerned with the proposed plan because they are landscaping right up to the river. Linda Frank inquired as to what is existing on the site; Ms. Corrigan replied a lot of lawn. Ms. Corrigan continued that she is concerned about removal of the natural buffer; there is already a lot of erosion going on. Ms. Frank asked if there were any plans for terracing, this would help the erosion. The answer was no, not in the pending proposal. The area near the river is historically a picnic area. Mr. Sherr confirmed that there are regulations to protect the area but that it is not off limits. Ms. Corrigan's concerns are that there is already a walking path parallel to the slope which breaks the first rule of landscaping; she feels this area needs regular monitoring. Susan Payne checked with Mike Ajello, Wetlands Enforcement Officer about specific regulations dealing with the Shepaug and Bantam Rivers. Zoning Regulation 12.1.3 addresses the issue of no excavation within 200 feet of the Shepaug River. Members feel that the Inland Wetlands Commission is on top of this application, the Conservation Commission will continue to monitor. Mr. Gitterman asked what if what is proposed is better than what is there now.
Matthews, 89 Lower Church Hill Road: Susan Payne began by expressing that this is an exceptional site which looks south over Steep Rock, they are looking at blasting the ridge. Ms. Payne added that a Cease and Desist Order has been issued for this property. The Wetlands Enforcement Officer, Mike Ajello visited the site today with Lucy Ann Lavin of the Institute For American Indian Studies, she is going to contact the state Archeologist, and Ms. Payne expects a visit from the State Archeologist by the end of the week. This property has an application before the Zoning Commission. Ms. Corrigan added that two DEP sensitive areas converge on this property and the ridge formations are extensive and deep, they are terraced. Susan Payne will ask for a balloon test be done for the house site.
Stiteler-Giddins, 198 Tinker Hill Road: This application is for a resubdivision of the property. Betsy Corrigan is concerned with the lawns and fertilization which is carried downhill through the intermittent watercourses and eventually ends up in the lake. Ms. Corrigan feels the seeps need buffering. Pam Osborne will check with Planning about a site visit. The Public Hearing for this application will be January 4th.
Beck, 129 Calhoun Street: Mr. Beck is resubmitting basically the same application that the Conservation Commission commented on at its June 2, 2004 meeting. At that time Conservation Commission members would like to see a fee-in-lieu of open space and they are still of the same opinion. This Public Hearing will also be on January 4th.
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: no new activity
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space Committee: Dan Sherr shared with members a handout to be mailed to townspeople requesting input on where money should be spent relating to the forums that were held recently on open space, housing, education, municipal/community projects and tax increases. Mr. Sherr spoke about the November 17th town meeting which was a wrap up of the forums, he mentioned that open space ranked very high, the educational aspect appears controversial and Dan added that he did not see any people present with school aged children. The challenge is to keep education from becoming separate from the town issues.
Canoe Brook: no activity
School Connection: Linda Frank has spoken to Chip Miller at Gunnery; he is hoping to visit the town owned parcel on Wykeham Road in the spring.
Cell Tower Update: Susan Payne noted that the cell tower is up at Gooseboro in Bantam.
Land Use Data Management: Linda Frank and Elisha Dyer will be working together on getting updated map information to George Blake. Linda has checked out the map recording system in the Town Clerk's vault.
Flora & Fauna: no report
Greenway: Trial Guide completion is the goal for spring.
Road Discontinuation: Susan Payne referenced Kelly Boling email that there was a concern from neighbors on Nettleton Hollow Road about the posting of a "Private Drive" sign on the section of West Mountain Road that had been discontinued. When the roads are discontinued the town retains the right to use the roadways as walking, bridle or bicycle paths and the neighbors are afraid that . Kelly Boling has submitted a draft of proposed additions to the Zoning Regulations addressing this issue. Members will discuss this at the January meeting; Dan Sherr will investigate and report back.
Scenic Road: Joe Gitterman is waiting on clarifying information on the town's ability on mandating scenic roads, what is legally doable.
Water Resources: no activity
Other Business:
MOTION: to accept the list of 2005 Meetings dates as submitted was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Linda Frank and passed unanimously.
First Selectman Dick Sears stopped by to commend the members of the Conservation Commission as well as the Open Space Committee on behalf of the town for their monthly work and day to day commitment, a thank you for all the good work!
Ridgeline Regulations: Susan Payne spoke to Zoning Chairman Hank Martin about ridgeline regulations. Zoning has spoken about preservation of ridgelines/view sheds in the past. Ms. Payne asked Mr. Martin if the Conservation Commission could assist with collecting information. Mr. Martin cautioned Ms. Payne that regulations need to be in the interest of the public along common roadways, we cannot protect everything. Linda Frank and Phil Markert agreed to work on this project.
Meeting adjourned at 6:55pm.
Next regular scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is January 5, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
November 3, 2004
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Elizabeth Corrigan, Joe Gitterman* arrived at 5:30pm
Alternates: Linda Frank, Dan SherrChairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm. Ms. Payne welcomed Dan Sherr as an Alternate to the Conservation Commission, Dan is taking over for Elaine Luckey who resigned his term expires on January 1, 2006.
Alternates seated were Linda Frank and Dan Sherr.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the October 6, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the October 6th meeting with the following addition: on page (1) under Referrals from other Commissions, the second sentence should read Kelly Boling attended a portion of the Public Hearing and .... . Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commission:
Status of Walker Brook development proposal: The New Milford public hearing was continued once again. The Town of Washington has submitted much documentation to New Milford voicing it's concerns with the proposal, at this point they have done all they can. Susan Payne did mention that there was a well written letter submitted to the newspaper from Tibbatts/Nichols residents on Walker Brook Road voicing there opposition to the proposal.
Holly Hill Farm, 87 Whittlesey Road: an extensive planting plan has been submitted to Inland/Wetlands for this Property, they have referred it to the Conservation Commission. Members received site visit reports and information from the landscape architect on this project. Betsy Corrigan needs to get clarification on setbacks from the river and is concerned with the plan to restore the area with native species. Betsy wants to be sure that they are native to this area. There was a question as to whether the lawn/grassy area goes down to the river now. Susan Payne believes the owners are well intentioned and are becoming educated. Betsy would also like to check for flat areas near the river for archeological sites. Ms. Payne feels that the Inland/Wetland Commission is on top of this application, but we should express our concerns to reinforce issues that have been brought up. Betsy will draft a letter to the Inland/Wetlands Commission and members will try to do a site visit by contacting the owners.
Halprin, 89 Lower Church Hill Road: Mike Ajello, Zoning Enforcement Officer alerted Susan Payne to an upcoming application for the above mentioned property. According to Mr. Ajello the property owners are going to blast away "Judson's Rock" which is located on this property. Betsy Corrigan will check to see if there is any historical significance to this site. Dan Sherr will also check with Bruce Reinhold at the Gunn Memorial Historical Museum for information. Joe Gitterman questioned the visual impact of the proposed house from Steep Rock and asked about doing a balloon test on the property. Susan Payne will contact the owner Bob Mathews to see if a site visit can be arranged.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties:
Linda Frank reports that monitoring is just about all done.
Subcommittee reports:
Open Space Committee: Dan Sherr spoke about the Open Space Forum which was held on October 26th, everyone was very pleased with the turn out and the forum itself. Dan informed people that on Saturday October 30th there was an abbreviated forum covering all (4) forum topics plus a 5th item about tax implications at the Gunn Memorial Library. About 20 people attended. Joe Gitterman asked how members felt the Open Space Forum went compared to the Municipal. Dan felt that the Open Space Forum was done in a different style and had different content. There was discussion on the mil rate increase for funding of the Open Space Fund. Joe Gitterman is concerned about property owners being taxed out of town. Kelly Boling feels that the reality is that education will be top priority.
Canoe Brook: no report
School Connection: Linda Frank has sent Chip Miller at the Gunnery a packet of information on the town owned Wykeham Road property and followed up with a phone call, she has not had any feedback yet.
Cell Tower Update: no report - Susan Payne did say that you can see a road site going in at the Gooseboro location.
Land Use Data Management: Kelly Boling will be getting help to search through the last (5) years of Planning Commission minutes to get maps for George Blake to complete his mapping work.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan disturbed a draft of "Invasive Plants of Washington". Betsy also shared some invasive species specimens with members.
Greenway: Susan Payne reports that work continues on the trail guide.
Road Discontinuation: Kelly Boling has been in contact with the First Selectman, Dick Sears.
Scenic Road: Joe Gitterman explained that New Milford designated (28) scenic roads at inception. At the rate Washington is designating Scenic Roads it will take 5-10 years to obtain their goal. It costs the applicant approximately $285 for the application process. Joe is looking into the town mandating scenic roads, do we have the luxury of waiting for individuals to apply. Joe will contact the Connecticut Council of Municipalities to get more information. He will also speak with the Planning Commission and return to the Selectmen with information
Water Resources: no report
Other Business:
Susan Payne gave members the following statistics about Washington in 1950 the population was 2227 which averages to 11.1 acres per person. In 2000 the population increased to 3596 and averages went down to 6.9 acres per person. Dan Sherr added that between 1990 and 2000 the population grew less than 1% a year but the amount of space lived on has doubled, this information is convincing evidence of sprawl. What people are learning is that large acre zoning seriously contributes to sprawl, which is making them think more toward cluster housing development.
Dan Sherr who is involved with the Bantam River Watershed Association which includes the towns of Goshen, Litchfield, Morris and Washington spoke about working on a three year strategic plan of what they should be looking at and doing to protect the watershed resources. Currently the BRWA has the go ahead from Northeast Utilities to open up the falls and dam in Bantam. Ms. Payne stated that Washington hasn't done much with the Bantam River she will put it on the agenda for discussion at a future meeting.
Pam will email the proposed 2005 list of meeting dates to members to be voted on at the December Conservation meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 7:00pm.
Next regular scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is December 1, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne
October 20, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Patti Doran, Phil Markert, Susan Payne, Chick Treadway, Dan Sherr, Colleen Weston, Diane Williams, Jack Field
Guests: Dick Sears, First SelectmanDan Sherr, Chairman called the meeting to order at 5:05pm and noted that there were only two items on the Agenda this evening, review and approval of the minutes and working on the presentation for the October 28th Forum.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the September 15, 2004 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Phil Markert and passed unanimously.
Dan Sherr emailed members a draft of the presentation for the October 28th forum. He provided members with an updated version of the draft at tonight's meeting. Phil Markert wanted to be sure that Dan would include recognition for prior work done on "open space". Members took time to go through the presentation slide by slide and did some minor tweaking. The forum will take place on October 28th, 2004 at 7:30pm in the Main Hall of the Town Hall. Diane Williams, Phil Markert and Colleen Weston offered to do note taking. Secretary Pamela Osborne will check her schedule to see if she will be available. In wrapping up discussion Susan Payne noted that she doesn't want conversation to get stuck up on numbers/the amount of open space to preserve, but whether people want to preserve more open space. Colleen Weston added that it would be nice to come away from the forum with something tangible, clarity on how people feel, even if it's only a show of hands. Finally members discussed what to expect at the November 17th, 2004 "All Town Meeting" which will summarize all the issues, process to prioritize and financial implications.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is November 17, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
October 6, 2004
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Kelly Boling
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis
Guests: Mr. & Mrs. Burke, Addie RobertsMembers 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 5:05pm.
Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis were seated as alternates.
Pam Osborne, secretary clarified the purposes for an "Executive Session". The Chairman, Susan Payne added that it might be a good idea at some future date to review procedures and policies.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the September 1, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 1st meeting with the following corrections: on page (2) the (8th) sentence should read "The memo to the Board of Selectman and the draft to New Milford will be emailed to Susan Payne, Chairman before distribution."; on page (2) under Cell Tower the (5th) sentence should read " Diane Dupuis interjected that she has stacks of documented evidence about risks to health, birds and the environment." . Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions:
An update on the New Milford Zoning Commission Proposed Cluster Conservation Subdivision/Walker Brook Road and Route 109: The Public Hearing was held in New Milford on September 28, 2004, a copy of the minutes from that meeting was submitted to the file. Kelly Boling attended the Public Hearing and stated that there was not much time for public comment and the hearing was recessed until October 12, 2004. A letter was submitted by the Washington Inland/Wetlands Commission which Pam will locate and email to members. Mr. & Mrs. Burke expressed concern with this proposed development in New Milford. Ms. Payne told Mr. & Mrs. Burke that several Land Use Commissions as well as the First Selectman submitted written correspondence to the New Milford Zoning Commission. The Burke's went on to ask about designating Scenic Roads. They questioned whether an interested party could initiate the process for designating a Scenic Road? Members answered that the "How-To-Packets" are available from Janet Hill, Planning Commission secretary. Anybody can start the designation process but a majority of properties owners need to approve the designation.
Susan Payne followed up on a couple of issues left from last month's meeting.
First she addressed Diane Dupuis's suggestion of getting information to developers and real estate agents concerning preservation/conservation/wildlife. Ms. Dupuis is doing research and Ms. Payne suggested contacting the Northwest Council of Governments, Paul Graney and Dan McGuiness. Ms. Dupuis thought perhaps this could be done in conjunction with neighboring towns.
Secondly Ms. Payne asked Kelly Boling if he had contacted George Blake about updating the Assessors maps on the Arc View program. Mr. Boling has been in contact with the Assessors office and they have decided to start at the point of the Natural Inventory Report in November of 2000.
TPOCD - Open Space Committee Report:
The Town Meeting was held on Monday October 4th, with 100+ people in attendance. Susan Payne did a presentation for the Open Space Committee's forum scheduled for October 28, 2004 at 7:30pm. The Open Space committee will meet on October 20th at 5:00pm; they will also do some prep work for the October 28th presentation on October 13th.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: Linda Frank states that things are moving along.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: no report.
School Connection: Linda Frank has a call into the Gunnery and will be sending an informational packet to them. There was continued discussion on utilizing the Senior Project or Community Service avenues at the Shepaug School, there needs to be a mentor for these programs.
Cell Tower Update: Diane Dupuis has been told that work is starting on the cell tower location at Gooseboro, but she hasn't seen any activity.
Land Use Data Management: discussed above.
Flora & Fauna: no report.
Greenway: Susan Payne reported that at the last Greenway meeting Dirk Sabin submitted a planting plan for the Town's parcel at the beginning of School Street along the driveway to the Washington Primary School. This property contains the septic system for the Bell residence on Green Hill, members will be cautious with planting. They have received estimates for this work and will use funds from their budget and fundraising. This area could be the "Gateway to the Greenway". Work is progressing on the Points of Interest Trail Guide.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet: This project is complete and will be removed from the agenda.
Road Discontinuation: Kelly Boling hopes to have a couple of road discontinuations on the agenda for the next Town Meeting.
Scenic Road: no report.
Water Resources: No report - Susan Payne has passed information on to Phil Markert.
Other Business
Addie Roberts invited members of the Conservation Commission to a Garden Club meeting on October 14, 2004 at 1:30pm at St. John's Parrish House. Frances H. Clark of Carex Associates will be speaking on Botany Stewardship.
Kelly Boling asked if next year the Conservation Commission would be interested in tackling the issue of light pollution. This suggestion met with positive response.
Members were given a brochure for the upcoming CACIWC Annual Meeting & Environmental Conference.
Meeting adjourned at 5:47pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is November 3, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
September 15, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE Present: Patti Doran, Rod Funston, Phil Markert, Susan Payne, Dan Sherr, Diane Williams
Guests: Carlos Canal, Chris Charles, PressChairman Dan Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the July 21, 2004 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Diane Williams and passed unanimously.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the August 18, 2004 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Diane Williams and passed unanimously.
The meeting began with the introduction of Carlos Canal from The Steep Rock Association. Mr. Canal is on Steep Rock's newly created Farmland Task Force which will work to preserve working farms and farmland in Washington. The Farmland Task Force is coordinating information using the Natural Resource Inventory Report and The Town Plan of Conservation and Development and will work in close coordination with the Open Space Committee. They are looking into fundraising which includes opportunities at the federal and state levels. This is a very competitive process and the farmer's informational package needs to be ready to go. At the town level Mr. Canal suggested that authority needs to be given to the Selectman to act, at present proposals need to go to a Town Meeting for a vote. They are forming an advisory group which includes farmers. Patti Doran asked about forming a consortium with other towns to preserve farmland. Susan Payne interjected that Weantinoge Heritage has formed a coalition of land trusts in the northeast. Mr. Canal went on to state that the problem is that the next generation in farming is not stepping up; you have an aging farmer population using the farmland as a nest egg. Dan Sherr asked about out of town farmers farming in Washington. Mr. Canal stated that there are 28 farmers listed with the assessor's office and not all names are familiar to him. There are 2300 acres of active farmland in Washington, 800 acres are owed by farmers and 1500 acres are owned by others and used by farmers. Mr. Canal went on to state that 2875 acres are under PA490 as of October 2003. Of these 2875 acres 1280 are owned by farmers and 1595 are owned by others leased to farmers. Included in the 1280 acres owned by farmers are Solley land eased to Steep Rock and land that the state has bought development rights to. Phil Markert noted that there appears to be more than 10% of the town being "farmed". Mr. Canal said that there are people who do not take advantage of the 490 tax break. He feels these are the vulnerable parcels. There was discussion about PA490 for open space and Chris Charles felt concern that property owners would chose PA490 for open space over PA490 for farming. Mr. Canal noted that the PA490 for open space would be at a higher tax level that the PA490 for farming. Members thanked Mr. Canal for sharing information about the Farmland Task Force and look forward to working together.
Members went on to look over the "white paper" on Open Space which will be in the special issue of the Town Times and the slides for the power point presentation on October 4th. Members decided to do a dry run on September 22nd for the October 4th Town Meeting presentation and have a work session on September 29th for the October 28th forum on Open Space. Chris Charles also suggested that there be a casual meeting of subcommittee members immediately following the October 4th Town Meeting. Members agreed to spend $300.00 on maps for the presentation. Members are concerned about enticing people to come to the 90 minutes Open Space presentation on October 28th, this forum needs to be personal with interactivity. Dan Sherr will work on the second draft of the power point presentation for the October 4th Town Meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 6:45pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is October 20, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L Osborne, Secretary
September 1, 2004
Present: Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis
Guests: Press
The Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:05pm.
Betsy Corrigan left word in the Land Use Office that she would not be attending tonight's meeting, she was going to the Bantam conference this evening at 7:00pm.
Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis were seated as alternates.
At the July meeting Susan Payne mentioned that it was Elaine Luckey's moving day and that she is now an honorary member, Elaine's name will be taken off the members list this should be added to the minutes of the July meeting.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the July 7, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes as amended of the July 7th meeting. Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Susan Payne will contact Elaine Luckey she needs to put her resignation in writing.
There will be a meeting of The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters held in Washington on September 18th members should contact Susan if they are interested.
Referrals from other Commissions
New Milford Zoning Commission - Proposed Cluster Conservation Subdivision/Walker Brook Road and Route 109. The New Milford Zoning Commission notified the Washington Town Clerk of the above mentioned application because the project is within 500' of the boundary of the Town of Washington. Kelly Boling is concerned with the possibility of this subdivision being serviced by Walker Brook Road in Washington. This portion of Walker Brook Road in Washington is a one lane dirt road and in Kelly's opinion improving this road is not in keeping with the Town Plan of Conservation and Development.
*** At 5:15pm Joe Gitterman asked that the Conservation Commission go into Executive Session. All members present were in agreement. The Executive Session ended at 5:20pm. ***
Susan Payne read letters attached to the plans from Janet Hill, Land Use Coordinator, Kathy Castagnetta, New Milford Zoning Enforcement Officer and Dan McGuiness, Northwest Connecticut Council of Governments. Kelly Boling expressed concern with the impact on Route 109 with its steep hills and bad site lines. Joe Gitterman added that part of the focus should be on impact to the stream, erosion and sediment problems that would be created by this subdivision. Mr. Boling suggested asking the Washington Environmental Council (WEC) to do base line documentation and on going monitoring. Linda Frank asked what the rights were of the adjoining town. Ms. Payne answered that we have the right to comment. Mr. Gitterman addressed concern with the plans showing building on wetlands and steep slopes, to what extend does New Milford regulate these areas? Mr. Boling also asked about commenting on the view shed. Susan Payne will contact Phil Markert about the WEC testing and monitoring. Kelly Boling offered to draft the letter to the Town of New Milford which will include all the concerns discussed by members. Mr. Boling will also draft a memo to the Board of Selectman asking that they make a resolution that they are not in favor of widening or paving Walker Brook Road or Wheaton Road because this is not in keeping with the Town Plan of Conservation and Development. The memo to the Board of Selectman will pass through Chairperson, Susan Payne and the draft to New Milford will be emailed to Conservation members for feed back before being sent out. The Public Hearing on this application will be on September 28, 2004 at 7:30pm in the Loretta Brickley Conference Room in the New Milford Town Hall at 10 Main Street in New Milford. Kelly Boling asked about sending notification of this upcoming Public Hearing to people on the Town web site email list. Diane Dupuis asked about distributing packets to developers about wildlife and conservation issues. Susan Payne responded that this has never been done that she knows of.
TPOCD - Open Space Committee report
Susan Payne reported that the Open Space Committee has been working hard, they will do a five minutes presentation at the Annual Town Meeting on October 4th. They have drafted an article for the Town Times and will present at their own meeting later in the fall. Dan Sherr is doing a fine job as the Chairman.
Farmland Preservation
Diane Dupuis asked about the acreage for Potter's Farm. Susan Payne said that the farm acreage is approximately 130 acres and they use about 1,000 additional acres which is not all in Washington. Ms. Payne said that this information is being analyzed. Members discussed briefly the future of this land.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties
Linda Frank circulated an email reminding members about their monitoring duties. She has received a few reports, things are moving along.
Susan Payne mentioned that Addie Roberts is now the Chairman for the Planning Commission and perhaps this committee could revisit the issue of set asides with her.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook - no report
School Connection - no activity
Cell Tower - Diane Dupuis informed members that the land on Rabbit Hill which was a possible cell tower site has been sold. Diane once again questioned getting information to developers and real estate agents about wildlife and preservation. Susan said that she would add this to next month agenda for discussion.
Joe Gitterman started giving information to members about how Europe installs cell towers in churches in England. Diane Dupuis interrupted him stating that she has stacks of documented evidence about risks to health, birds and the environment. Discussion was brief.
Land Use Data Management - no activity - Kelly Boling will get the assessors maps to George Blake.
Flora & Fauna no report - Diane Dupuis stated that leopard frogs have be spotted in Meeker Swamp, this is a good sign. Ms. Dupuis also stated that she was going to encourage purple loosestrife removal as a community service project for the high school students.
Greenway - The next meeting is September 13th - Cyndy Brisset will have a mock up of the trail guide for this meeting. Dirk Sabin is going to discuss planting suggestions for the Town's property next to the Greenway off of School Street.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet - The pamphlet is completed, Tony Bedini as Chairman did a great job with his committees help. Conservation members were asked to vote on green or blue for a color. All agreed on green. The pamphlet should go to the printers early next week. Great project a job well done! Copies of the completed pamphlet were given to members.
Scenic Road - Joe Gitterman reports that the How-To-Packets are in the Planning Office. He is now ready to move on to a master plan for designation of Scenic Roads. Using information from the Natural Resource Inventory Report might be a first step. Shinar Mountain Road was designated Scenic. Kelly Boling asked about designating state roads as scenic. Mr. Gitterman answered that he has the book.
Water Resources - no report
Other Business
Linda Frank reminded members of the Lake Waramaug Agreement vote on Thursday September 2nd at 7:30pm at the Town of Washington Special Meeting. There was a brief discussion on the history of the agreement.
Meeting adjourned at 6:25pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is October 6th, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
August 18, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEEPresent: Patti Doran, Susan Payne, Chick Treadway, Dan Sherr, Colleen Weston, Diane Williams
Guests: Dick Sears First SelectmanChairman Dan Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:05pm.
The Chairman had the following items on his agenda for tonight's meeting:
Approval of the minutes of the July 21, 2004 meeting
Proof of the "white paper"
Strategies for the October 4th Town Meeting
Mr. Sherr began by praising the combined efforts of members Susan Payne and Colleen Weston for there work creating the "edited version of the white paper" for the Town Newsletter. The draft was emailed to members of the Open Space Committee and Bill Fairbairn, Housing Committee member for comment. Members took time during the meeting to make a few changes to the draft. Ms. Weston will do a final edit and then email it to members for final comment. The "white paper" will be emailed to Dick Sears by September 1st.
Dan Sherr asked Dick Sears about the format for the October 4th Town Meeting, what materials were needed for the 5 minute presentation? First Selectman Sears agreed with Dan's suggestion of using both visual and audio statements, what ever entices the public to attend the up coming forums.
The four main bullets taken from the "white paper" were:
Open Space Key to Preserving Washington's Rural Character
Over-Development Risk Is Real
Leading the Way - The 2003 Town Plan of Conservation and Development
Balancing act - Conservation with Development
These bullets will be the basis for the October 4th presentation. Susan Payne added that she felt it was important to include the definition of Open Space as stated in the 2003 Plan of Conservation & Development, The Natural Resource Inventory Report and The Open Space Steering Committee Report which is:
Land permanently preserved for agriculture, forestry, recreation, wildlife habitat, natural resources conservation, maintenance of community character or as undeveloped land. Mr. Sears stated that he wants the Town's September newsletter to draw people into dialogue. He wants it to be a provocative invitation to getting information, get the public inside the issues. Members discussed adding questions, a quiz or even pictures to the "white paper".
Farming became the next topic of discussion; with the news of the Potter Farm up for sale members discussed the impact on Washington if the land the Potter's use is no longer farmed. The reality of what will happen if this land is no longer in 490 protection? Mr. Sears stated that the Gunn Museum will be doing an upcoming exhibit on the Grange and Farming. He feels that Washington can do a better at helping support farming, become a farm friendly town.
Pam Osborne, Secretary suggested postponing approval of the minutes for the July meeting. Ms. Osborne wanted to correct printing errors and distribute the minutes to members.
Dick Sears encouraged members to attend and vote at the Special Town Meeting on September 2nd on the Lake Waramaug Agreement.
Meeting adjourned at 6:10pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is September 15, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
July 21, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEEPresent: Patti Doran, Phil Gorrivan, Susan Payne, Chick Treadway, Dan Sherr, Colleen Weston, Diane Williams
Guests: Bill Fairbairn (Housing Committee Member), Chris Charles, PressDan Sherr, Chairman called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the June 16, 2004 meeting with the following amendments: The meeting was called to order at 5:00pm by Chairman Dan Sherr and the spelling of Colleen Weston's name to be corrected, was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Diane Williams and passed unanimously.
First Selectman Dick Sears has established a "Strategic Planning Committee". Members received copies of "Guidelines from the Strategic Planning Committee on Town Presentations". According to the guidelines each committee will present at its own meeting, but at the Town's October 4th Annual Meeting Mr. Sears would like each committee to give a five minutes presentation, prior to the October Town Meeting he would like a "white paper" with key points and brief discussion that can be included in the Town Newsletter leading up to the Annual Meeting.
Dan asked members if they could get everything together using Mr. Sears's timetable, he would like the Open Space Committee to identify four or five key initiatives. Bill Fairbairn from the housing committee explained that he was writing the document for their committee, they will edit it at their next meeting. Mr. Sherr asked if this would work for our committee. Susan Payne stated that the information is available you just need to build an outline, what will our key points be? Colleen Weston offered to edit the document and suggested keeping it simple. Ms. Payne will create a draft document and give it to Mr. Fairbairn to check and edit before it goes to Ms. Weston for final edit.
Bill Fairbairn stated that the Housing Committee has met three times and have concluded that Washington needs diversity in housing. There is a need for single family limited equity, assisted living and high end as well as affordable condos. The question is where it should be the public needs prodding to make it work. Mr. Fairbairn feels the Open Space and Housing Committees should work together, a large parcel could be used for both open space and housing. Ms. Doran added that open space is precious which makes it become expensive. Acquiring open space could include the housing piece, reducing the inventory of open space dives up the cost. The big issue with housing is to have diverse income groups while maintaining control. Bonding is an attractive way of doing this, it pays for itself. The town has limited resources and needs to set priorities.
Mr. Fairbairn stated growth is coming; does the town want to control it? Members went on to discuss the different types of housing needs. Mr. Fairbairn concluded by stating that the Washington Housing Trust has just completed an affordable housing project in New Preston and their next step should be a single family home.
Discussion came back to the open space issue. Patti Doran stated that 70% of the land is Washington is presumed open space and only 18% is permanently preserved. Ms. Doran feels that the public should be given the statistics and then wrestle with the issue. Chick Treadway suggested a more visual presentation with overlays showing what's permanently protected and what is temporarily protected, and then what does the public want to preserve? Mr. Treadway referenced the maps in the Natural Resource Inventory Report as being user friendly. Susan Payne cautioned members that too much information will be overwhelming. Mr. Sherr added that you want to engage the public in the decision making project. Chick Treadway asked if the Board of Finance was involved in this process, the answer was that they are present but not active.
Mr. Sherr asked about the economic part of the presentation. Susan mentioned that the Town has created an Open Space Fund.
It was decided that Chairman Sherr will correlate an outline to be forwarded to Ms. Payne and Mr. Treadway for additions. That draft will go to Bill Fairbairn and then onto Colleen Weston for final editing. It will be a two page "white Paper".
Meeting adjourned at 6:55pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is August 18, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
July 7, 2004
Present: Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis
Guests: Jack Field, Dick Sears First Selectman, Mr. & Mrs. BurkeMembers 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.
Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the June 2, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the June 2nd meeting. Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: There were no new referrals from other commissions. The Beck application that was referred to Conservation is still being continued with the Planning Commission.
TPOCD - Open Space Committee report: Susan Payne reports that Dan Sherr has taken the Chairmanship of the Open Space Committee. She feels this committee is at the point of joining with the Housing Committee. First Selectman Sears informed members he has put together a Planning Committee to help budget for the big picture including needs for municipality, renovating the primary school, open space and the housing pieces. He added that Jack Field is part of this committee and has been very helpful. Mr. Sears would like this to be an open public process and is trying to bring all the issues to the table. He would like to see the public invited to a meeting to explain the overall planning process and then have individual forums on each topic with a final meeting to assess all information. Jack Field added you need to find the tax capacity or financial position of the town and then prioritize. Ms. Payne asked if all meetings were to be held in the Town Hall. She asked how we communicate this to the entire public. Mr. Markert suggested checking with other towns to see what they are doing. Mr. Sears said this would be handled by the sub-groups. He also believes that most towns do a Plan of Conservation and Development and then put it on a shelf. Washington wants to implement the plan. Kelly added that land use regulations will also have to keep up with the changes. Mr. Field went on to state that you will not be able to do everything, you need to get a sense of priorities from the townspeople.
Members were given copies of the correspondence between Kelly Boling and Michael Zizka, Esq. regarding P.A. 490 for Open Space Classification. Jack Field explained that when Ruth Alex did her survey of P.A. 490 for Open Space it was concluded that this would be counter productive because the preservation is temporary not permanent. What they are looking for is tax abatement for permanent preservation. Mr. Field referred to State Statute Sec. 7-131b which allows for relief through written request with the Assessor or Board of Assessment Appeals, what would be the right mechanism for this relief? Kelly felt that the Planning Commission first needs to identify desirable land.
Farmland Preservation: Dick Sears recently attended a meeting at White Memorial Foundation about encouraging and welcoming farming in our communities. Mr. Sears also mentioned he had a conversation with a local farmer whose "historic house" assessment went through the roof. Members talked about abatement for farmers, there needs to be criteria established. Members also went on to talk about making farming viable in this area.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: nothing new to report
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: No new information.
School Connection (SVHS and Gunnery/Environmental Club): No activity.
Cell Tower Update: No new information
Land Use Data Management: Kelly Boling will check with George Blake about updating the Arc View information. Kelly also spoke about purchasing a projector to get the program up and usable for Land Use Commissions. Phil Markert suggested the Town and the Washington Environmental Counsel work together with funding. Kelly and Dick Sears will discuss this further.
Flora & Fauna: No report
Greenway: Susan Payne reports that Greenway continues to move along with monitoring, maintenance and their trail guide.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Committee: The committee is doing final work on the pamphlet and is looking into funding.
Scenic Road: No report. Dick Sears mentioned that Shinar Mountain Road will be on the agenda for the August Planning meeting for Scenic Road designation.
Water Resources: Phil Markert reports that Randy Bernard and Dan Sherr have been doing a lot of testing, with no startling results. Members briefly discussed air pollution.
Other Business
Chairperson Susan Payne suggested members forego the August meeting. She noted that if any referrals come in members could be contacted and a meeting could be arranged.
MOTION: Linda Frank made a motion to cancel the August 4th meeting of the Conservation Commission.
Meeting adjourned at 6:40pm.
Next meeting of the Conservation Commission is September 1, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
June 16, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE Present: Patti Doran, Elaine Luckey, Susan Payne, Chick Treadway, Dan Sherr, Colleen Weston, Diane Williams
Guests: First Selectman Dick Sears, PressThe meeting was called to order at 5:00pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the May 19, 2004 was made by Mr. Sherr, seconded by Ms. Doran and passed unanimously.
Dan Sherr began the meeting by summarizing the events to date of the Open Space Committee. Members have interviewed various townspeople; Mr. Sherr correlated the responses into summary form which all members have received. The last page of the summary was information that Mr. Sherr inserted about "Communication with the Community about Housing and Open Space". Mr. Sherr went on to say that the next step should be to identify (12) themes from the summary to drive focus groups. People need to know how open space becomes open space and how it remains open space. Susan Payne identified open space as: Open Space shall consist of land permanently preserved for agriculture, forestry, recreation, wildlife habitat, natural resources conservation, maintenance of community character or as undeveloped land. This is the definition used for The Open Space Steering Committee Final Report, Open Space Plan and The 2003 Plan of Conservation and Development. Mr. Sherr asked for feed back from his summary, everyone present was very pleased with his correlation of the responses to the questions. Mr. Sears brought up the point that the public has very different thoughts on open space; Chick Treadway added that people need to understand the effects of open space. Colleen Wesson interjected that you don't want economics to dictate where open space is; more open space where the wealthy live. Patti Doran agreed that open space should be woven throughout town. Smaller parcels can lead to larger tracks. Mr. Sears said the key is to manage growth; growth is coming you can't stop it but you can manage it.
Mr. Sherr's question is: who will do the work? There is a huge responsibility and cost to acquiring and maintaining open space. Elaine Luckey offered that state statute allows for a Housing Authority, perhaps we could create an Open Space Authority. Ms. Payne informed members that the statues allow the Conservation Commission to acquire open space and a fund has been set up to deposit funding into but she feels that before we get to the who and how we need to know if people want more open space.
At this point Mr. Sears mentioned that the Housing Subcommittee is beyond the question of "Do we need it?" He feels the Housing Committee is ready to move on.
Mr. Sherr offered to table the focus group idea and move ahead to putting together meetings that would cover the three main ideas 1) does the public care about open space 2) how much open space is enough 3) funding for open space. After much discussion it was decided that Mr. Sherr will contact the Salem Covenant Church about holding a meeting there and he will also contact organizations in town to spark interest in attending the meeting.
At the July meeting of the Open Space Committee members will work on the frame work for the presentation, which will be in the fall.
Meeting adjourned at 6:48pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space committee is July 21, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
June 2, 2004
Present: Kelly Boling, Joe Gitterman, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank (arrived at 5:30pm)
Guests: Dick Sears First Selectman, PressKelly Boling, Vice-Chairman called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
No Alternates were seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the May 5, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Joe Gitterman made a motion to approve the minutes of the May 5th meeting with the following correction; on page (2) the last line should read Susan Payne will be out of town for the June meeting, Kelly Boling will preside as Vice-Chairman. Phil Markert seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: Beck/129 Calhoun Street - 2 lot subdivision. Susan Payne spoke with Janet Hill, Planning Commission secretary informing her that Conservation Commission members would like to see a fee-in-lieu of open space for this parcel.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: No new activity
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space: no report
Canoe Brook: no new activity
School Connection (SVHS) and Gunnery/Environmental Club: no activity
Cell Tower Update: no new activity. First Selectmen Dick Sears asked where the town stands on the cell tower issue. He has been approached by a resident who wants more cell coverage. Phil Markert explained that in his opinion the cell companies were pushing for coverage as a national priority which is false. He feels the siting council's job is to look out for the best interests of the towns and until the cell companies come up with a long range strategic plan and agree to share towers things should be kept on hold.
Land Use Data Management: Kelly Boling has contacted George Blake to do an update on the Arc View program.
Road Discontinuation: Kelly Boling informed members that the ball was dropped on the (3) roads up for discontinuation. The proposal didn't go before the Planning Commission, so it was removed from the Town Meeting agenda. Mr. Sears told members that the selectman were going to forward the proposal for Bee Brook Road and West Mountain Road discontinuation to the Planning Commission. The section of Bantam River Road will not go ahead at this time there has been opposition from some residents. The proposal for discontinuation will be on the October Town Meeting agenda if not before.
Flora & Fauna: no report
Greenway: no report
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet: All members received copies of the final draft of this document and were asked to contact Candace Korzenko by June 11th with errors and omissions.
Scenic Road: Joe Gitterman has made final corrections on the How-To-Packet and will forward it to Janet Hill for distribution with the Scenic Road Ordinance.
MOTION: to accept the final draft of the How-To-Packet of steps to take to get your road designated as a scenic road was made by Kelly Boling, seconded by Phil Market and passed unanimously.
Mr. Gitterman reported that an application for Shinar Mountain Road has been submitted. Mr. Sears added that the Nettleton Hollow Road Association has been in contact with the selectmen about upcoming road work on Nettleton Hollow because they are interested in scenic road designation.
Water Resources: Phil Markert asked to remove Rumsey Hall & Rivers monitoring from the Agenda. This area has been tested and has shown no increase as a result of the new septic system installed by Rumsey Hall School.
Other Business
Joe Gitterman was upset by the clear cutting/destruction of trees at 53 Lower Church Hill Road. Some of the trees measured 2' in diameter and were 2'-3' from the edge of the road. Joe felt that the landowner should have the town's permission before doing such removal. Joe also felt that guardrails will be needed for safety reasons now that the trees are gone. Mr. Sears addressed this issue by stating that the trees did not act as guardrails and according to the survey they saw the trees were on the owner's property. Mr. Sears, Roger Cannavaro Town Road Forman and Bill Bader Tree Warden have visited the site and concluded that the town has no interest in the site; the removal doesn't affect the function of the road. In explaining the town's position Mr. Sears stated that the landowner in actuality owns to the center of the town road, the town maintains a right-of-way which runs 25' from the center of the road to both sides. Mr. Gitterman feels that the activity infringes on the town's right-of-way. Mr. Sears agrees that the activity is very close to the road. Phil Markert interjected that this raises issues about the cutting of trees and how the town determines it has no interest, should there be restrictions, a way to save a really nice tree? Mr. Gitterman felt there is a danger to the town's rural character if this kind of activity were to become common place. Linda Frank added that with the removal of these trees perhaps the road would get more sunlight and be less apt to freeze in the winter. It was suggested and Mr. Sears has thought about putting an article together for the town newsletter about this issue.
Meeting adjourned at 5:50pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is July 7, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
May 19, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Patti Doran, Elaine Luckey, Susan Payne, Dan Sherr, Colleen Weston, Diane Williams
Guests: Richard Sears First Selectman, Chris Charles, PressThe meeting was called to order at 5:10pm by Chairperson Susan Payne.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the April 21, 2004 meeting with the following amendments; page (1) fourth paragraph, fifth line should read Ms. Payne replied they have a Farm Lease Program. (delete Trust); page (2) second paragraph, third line should read these experiences could help them see ...; page (3), paragraph one should read Ms. Weston suggested .... Was made by Ms. Luckey, seconded by Ms. Doran and passed unanimously.
First Selectman Dick Sears mentioned that the questions and process which were circulated to members of the Open Space Committee were great and he was adapting them for his Housing Committee use.
At this point members went through the (6) questions they asked various townspeople, Mr. Sherr documents their responses and will type up a summary to be emailed to members of the Open Space Committee.
The questions were:
1. What does open space mean to you?
2. What value do you personally place on open space?
3. When you drive through town do you think Washington has a lot of open space?
4. How do you feel acquiring more open space would affect your neighborhood?
5. Do you believe the community should be actively involved in adding to Washington's open space?
6. Do you have any ideas about how we can acquire more open space?
Chris Charles made the observation that Washington has done a good job with land use management and has been able to protect a great deal of the environment. One of the things that has enabled this to happen is the tax deductions that are available for setting aside open space, but it is also available for gifting land for limited equity parcels. This would take the high land prices out of the housing component, the difference between a house in Washington and a house in New Milford is the price of the land. When people react against zoning because it impedes the ability for people to have affordable housing it's up to "us" to make sure that the conditions that allow open space also allow for limited equity parcels. Mr. Charles also encouraged members to utilize information in the Open Space Steering Committee Report and Open Space Plan.
Susan Payne added that people need to have a clear concept of what open space is and clarification on ways to acquire open space. They need to be aware of the many ways that have already been utilized to acquire open space. Do people know for instance that sections of both Averill and Seymour farms are already preserved? Mr. Sherr interjected that locations like Averill Farm are not obvious.
Mr. Sears stated that the Housing Committee is about a step behind the Open Space Committee and possibly by July the two groups could meet together.
Meeting adjourned at 6:55pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is June 16, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
May 5, 2004
Present: Susan Payne Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis, Elaine Luckey
Guests: First Selectman Dick SearsMembers 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 5:00pm.
Diane Dupuis and Elaine Luckey were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the April 7, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Elaine Luckey made a motion to approve the minutes of the April 7th meeting with the following corrections: on page (1) under Referrals from other Commissions, paragraph (1), sentence (1) should read Kelly Boling updated .....Kelly reported that there will be (2) fields under conservation easement ...., sentence (3) should read Mr. Boling replied that the conserved land could not be counted for density calculations but could be used when figuring lot coverage; on page (2) under Subcommittee Reports, Open Space, paragraph (2), sentence (2) should read Atty. Zizka did state that the town could pass an ordinance authorizing the Planning Commission to designate eased land as open space making it eligible for taxation at a reduced rate. Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Ms. Payne asked Kelly Boling if he had received Atty. Zizka's comments in writing about PA490 Open Space. Kelly has made the request of Atty. Zizka. Elaine Luckey asked about having Atty. Zizka create a template of an ordinance for thePA490 Open Space, members agreed but will wait for Atty. Zizka's comments in writing first.
Referrals from other Commissions:
Members reviewed a map for the Beck property at 129 Calhoun Street, for a (2) lot subdivision. The proposed conservation easement was noted on the map. Members discussed the proposed conservation easement as well as possible fee-in-lieu of. Pam Osborne, Secretary will check to see if the Planning Commission is doing a site visit so Conservation Commission members could join in.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties:
Linda Frank reported that all town owned properties have been assigned to Conservation members. Members are asked to complete a site visit by the June 2nd meeting. First Selectman Dick Sears mentioned that at the May Town Meeting the selectmen will propose to discontinue the old road located at 209 Bee Brook Road. Mr. Sears was asked to check into the fallen tree on the 46 Wykeham Road property. Susan Payne asked about the CL&P substation on Bee Brook Road across from My Chef. It appears that the CL&P has removed their substation from this area. Who will take ownership of this property; remove debris and old fencing from the area? Mr. Sears will check into this also.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space: Members received minutes from the April 21st meeting. Ms. Payne noted that the committee came up with (6) questions to ask townspeople about open space by their next meeting, Susan is hoping this information will help shape discussions with the public. First Selectman Sears went on to comment that open space and housing were just two of the values that the town wants, coming from the Town Plan of Conservation and Development. Other big ticket items include schools and municipal, during public conversations we'll have to wait and see how it all shakes out. Betsy Corrigan has resigned from this committee.
Canoe Brook: no activity
School Connection: Towards fall Linda Frank will contact the Gunnery about monitoring the Wykeham Road parcel. Diane Dupuis gave Linda a couple of names at the Shepaug School.
Cell Tower: no activity
Land Use Data Management: no activity
Road Discontinuation: Kelly Boling reports they will meet tomorrow (May 6th) to go over the draft motion for the May 20th Town Meeting. They are looking to discontinue sections of Bee Brook Road, Bantam River Road and West Mt. Road.
Flora & Fauna: no report
Greenway: Susan Payne reports this committee did Earth Day cleanup on May 2nd, they also met on May 3rd. They have changed their meeting time to 4:00pm. Minutes for the Greenway are incorporated into the Conservation Committee meeting minutes.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet: A draft of this pamphlet has gone to the Board of Selectmen for review. Susan will have Candy Korzenko email the draft to all members.
Scenic Road: Joe Gitterman distributed a draft of the How-To-Packet to members. He asked members to review it and give him comments by May 10th. At one point Joe had asked for monies for maps, he now feels this is an unnecessary expense and won't be needed.
Water Resources: no report
Other Business
Susan Payne asked Pam Osborne to report on the GIS workshop she attended with Janet Hill. Both Pam and Janet were very disappointed with the workshop. The workshop was not geared to beginners as advertised. The instructor worked at a rapid pace and had multiple server problems. Pam stated that she felt overwhelmed and totally lost at times. It was a very disappointing experience. Susan asked about the possibility of having George Blake come and do a one-on one with Pam & Janet. Kelly Boling will investigate through Barbara Johnson, Tax Assessor and George Blake to see about updating our Arc View data, there is monies in the 03-04 budget for updating the mapping.
Mr. Sears asked members for feed back on the recent Town Newsletter. Several members thought that the Church section should be consolidated or deleted. It was also suggested that there be a calendar of events listed. Dick would like to see the newsletter issued at least (3) times a year, to report civic and public life going on.
With great regret Susan Payne as Chairperson of the Conservation Commission accepted the resignation of Elaine Luckey as an alternate member of the committee. Elaine will not be at the June meeting and will be moving out of town. Members agreed that Elaine would be an honorary member.
Susan Payne will be out of town for the June meeting by Kelly Boling will preside as Vice-Chairman.
Meeting adjourned at 6:20pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is June 2, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
April 21, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Susan Payne, Elaine Luckey, Dimitri Rimsky, Dan Sherr, Patti Doran, Diane Williams, Phil Gorrivan, Colleen Weston, Chick Treadway
Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:10PM.
Ms. Payne informed the members that Betsy Corrigan has resigned from the Committee. She asked if anyone had any thoughts on whom to invite to take her place. Dimitri Rimsky asked if anyone from Inland-Wetlands was on the Committee. No, and no one has volunteered from that Commission nor from Zoning or ZBA.
Approval of the 3/17/04 minutes.
MOTION: To approve the 3/17/04 minutes as corrected:
Pg.2, Par.4, Line 2: ......which will elicit input......
By Mr. Sherr, seconded by Ms. Doran and passed 9-0.
Ms. Payne announced that WEC is sponsoring a clean-up along the Town Greenway on Sunday, May 2nd. The Town will be divided into sectors. Groups and individuals will be responsible to clean certain areas. Sign-up sheet will be available at the Town Hall the week before and also on Sunday, May 2 between 1 and 3PM. Denise Arturi sent a notice about recycling old sneakers. A collection barrel will be in the Town Hall the week of 4/26 - 4/30 and also on May 2 between 1 and 3PM.
Susan Payne reported the Housing Committee has met a couple of times. They have no Chairman yet, First Selectman Dick Sears has been convening the group. She will check to see if they are ready to meet with the Open Space Committee.
Patti Doran said she had just begun to research farming. She suggested it would be nice to have a brochure to hand out to those interested in organic farming. Dimitri Rimsky noted there is a website on organic farming. Ms. Doran said she has been trying to meet with someone in Roxbury to discuss the farming issue. Mr. Treadway asked how Roxbury attracts people to get into farming. Ms. Payne replied they have a Farm Lease Trust. Elaine Luckey and Dan Sherr both said they had met Michael Keilty who teaches a course in organic farming - he would be a good contact. Susan Payne referred to the Natural Resource Inventory Report, page 36, concerning farmland and thought the Committee should think about exploring the Town Farm concept as a way to create farm awareness.
Ms. Payne said the Committee needs to focus on how to talk about open space to the community; to create an awareness. It must be made clear that a lot of open space in town is unprotected. Ms. Doran commented that many people don't make the connection between open space and survival. Open space is a lifeline. Ms. Payne noted both forestland and water are as important as open space. Mr. Rimsky said the members need ready answers to give people as to why open space is important. Perhaps get them to see from an economic point of view that their property values will be enhanced. Ms. Payne said the members need to know what the key questions are going to be and how to answer them.
Colleen Weston said members need to think of specific items that will appeal to people such as her experience of seeing a small town exploited by a big developer and how the school system became overcrowded. Make them see that open space will help protect their quality of life. Patti Doran said that is hard to do in a simple way. Mr. Treadway asked if it would be possible to combine the Housing and Open Space Committees in order to control development and control the impact on the tax rate. But, he added, there must be some growth to have a balance. Ms. Doran agreed, the community must be diversified or it will be off balance. Mr. Rimsky said another component is a balance between land set aside and land available for housing. Developers should be encouraged to have open space and also have a mix of house values. Mr. Sherr said the context of how people talk about open space is all relative. Someone moving from the city to a housing development feels they are moving to the country. He spoke of "vest pocket parks" - small areas of open space. Quality of life is psychological as well as visual. Members should be careful how they define open space - does it renew your spirit? All agreed that was a good question.
Elaine Luckey suggested the members need to know first, where they are headed before involving others, such as a focus group. A guide is needed; points for people to discuss. Someone asked exactly what is a focus group. A cross section of people in town. Susan Payne said a positive argument could be made that open space has enhanced property values and the grand list. Patti Doran said, on the other hand, people might argue that's why it is so expensive only millionaires can live here. Dimitri Rimsky added many people are concerned that due to expense their children will not be able to afford a house in town. Ms. Payne said it will be a goal for all to work on together. Ms. Doran said it will be difficult. Mr. Rimsky said it is an issue where emotions run high.
Susan Payne asked Dan Sherr how to organize. Mr. Sherr said Elaine has it right. He said he could lead the Committee on a brain storming session and come up with 8 or 10 items. Mr. Treadway said the Housing Committee could do the same thing and then the two Committees could get together and consolidate their lists. Mr. Sherr suggested the members run their list through a focus group first (Housing can sit in if they wish) and then Housing can do the same thing. After that the two lists could be consolidated. Colleen said she likes Dan's plan. All agreed. Susan Payne asked Patti Doran if she would be liaison between Housing and Open Space and tell them at their next meeting how Open Space Committee is thinking of proceeding and invite them to come to the May meeting. Ms. Doran said she would do her best. Ms. Payne said all could be further refined at the June meeting and perhaps try a focus group in July. She asked Mr. Sherr if he could develop a presentation to take to community groups. Presentations should be informal and conversational with the audience. Mr. Sherr said he could.
Mr. Rimsky suggested each member contact three people before the next meeting to see what their thoughts are on open space. All members thought that was a good idea. A discussion followed and they decided upon six questions to ask.
1. What does open space mean to you?
2. What value do you put on open space?
3. How would acquiring more open space affect your neighborhood?
4. Do you believe the Committee should be actively involved in adding to Washington's open space?
5. When you drive through town, do you think of Washington as having a lot of open space?
6. Do you have any ideas about how we can acquire open space?
It was noted that these questions will open conversations on other aspects to open space. They will also help to identify misinformation.
Susan Payne ended the meeting by saying all the members will come back next time with all they have gleaned from their conversations with townspeople. Hope Dan Sherr can be at the next meeting. Patti Doran will share with Housing what the members are doing and they are welcome to sit it on the May meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30PM.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is May 19th at 5:00PM.
Submitted subject to approval,
Martha T. Shade, Secretary
April 7, 2004
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Betsy Corrigan (arrived at 5:10pm), Joe Gitterman, Phillip Markert
Alternates: Linda Frank, Elaine Luckey
Guests: PressMembers are asked to call Susan Payne at home (868-9348) if they are unable to attend a meeting.
The Chairman, Ms. Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Linda Frank and Elaine Luckey were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the March 3, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Elaine Luckey made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 3rd meeting. Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
The secretary, Pamela Osborne stated that it was brought to her attention that there was an error in the date for term of officers made at the January 2004 meeting of the Conservation Commission.
MOTION: Elaine Luckey made a motion to clarify that at the January 7, 2004 meeting of the Conservation Commission a motion was made for the election of officers for the Conservation Commission. It was incorrectly stated that the term of office was through January 2004, it should be stated that the term of office was to be through January of 2005. Joe Gitterman seconded this motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions
Kelly Boling updated members on the Taylor/ 38 New Preston Hill Road easement, Mr. Boling wanted it known for the record that he was working with the land owner in a business capacity, Kelly reported that there will be (2) fields and land under conservation easement which will contain approximately (6) acres of conserved land. Linda Frank questioned Kelly as to whether the land under conservation easement could be used for calculations in the future by the land owners. Mr. Boling replied that the conserved land could be counted for density calculations but could not be used when figuring lot coverage.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties
Elaine Luckey and Linda Frank walked the town owned parcels at 46 Wykeham Road and 38 Slaughterhouse Road. The parcel on Wykeham doesn't have clear boundaries. The parcel on Slaughterhouse has a stonewall boundary which leads Linda to believe it may be a burial spot. Ms. Frank will contact Bruce Reinhold at the Historical Society and check it out. Linda has monitoring forms and would like members to do a site visit to the various parcels in April/May. These parcels should be monitored once a year. Joe Gitterman felt that this was setting an unhealthy precedent; it should not be the responsibility of the volunteers to monitor the parcels. Susan Payne didn't feel this was a worry for members. Elaine Luckey felt that with the limited number of parcels members should start the monitoring process. Kelly Boling suggested getting an estimate on monitoring costs to submit to the selectman's office. Susan Payne added that somebody needs to learn about these parcels. Elaine Luckey stated that the parcels at 209/217 BeeBrook Road will be given to the selectmen's office for investigation. Members will pick parcels at the end of tonight's meeting.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space: Susan Payne reports that the Open Space Committee met on March 17th. Members thus far are: Betsy Corrigan, Patti Doran, Diane Dupuis, Rod Funston, Phil Gorrivan, Elaine Luckey, Phil Markert, Susan Payne, Dimitri Rimsky, Chick Treadway, Dan Sherr, Colleen & Jeff Weston, Bob & Diane Williams, Darcy Wright and Jack Field as an advisor. They will be meeting/coordinating with the Housing Committee. Kelly Boling asked if the Open Space Committee will be implementing the Open Space Plan. Ms. Payne stated that the first step of the committee is communication and input from the public.
Kelly Boling spoke with Atty. Zizka about PA490 for Open Space. Atty. Zizka told Kelly that the commission couldn't stipulate as a condition to PA490 Open Space that the land be permanently preserved. Atty. Zizka did state that the town could pass an ordinance authorizing the Planning Commission to designate open space taxed at a reduced rate designed for permanently eased land. At present the tax assessor doesn't give tax relief for conserved/eased land. Much discussion ensued about tax abatement for open space. Susan Payne will ask for feed back at the next Commission Chairman's meeting. Susan also asked Kelly to get Atty. Zizka's comments in writing.
Canoe Brook: no activity
School Connection (SVHS) and Gunnary/Envirnmental Club): Linda Frank will follow up with the Gunnery about their interest in monitoring the Wykeham Road town parcel.
Cell Tower Update: Phil Markert is going to contact Andrew Roraback and the Council of Governments about approaching the Siting Council from the direction that there is gross mismanagement within the cell tower companies.
Land Use Data Management: Kelly reported that this committee did meet but he was unable to attend due to illness and will schedule another meeting.
Road Discontinuation: Mr. Boling reports that they are researching sections of BeeBrook Road, Bantam River Road to Mt. Tom and West Mt. Road to be added to discontinued road status.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan and Natalie Dyer will be meeting with Roger Cannavaro, Town Road Forman about road side cutting.
Betsy is disappointed that the Washington Environmental Council is only doing their regular road side clean up and the Garden Club is not participating in the Earth Day Event on May 2nd. Betsy will look to next year for planning an invasive awareness program.
Greenway: Susan Payne reports that Greenway met on Monday April 5th. Work continues on their trail guide. They will do a clean up on Earth Day and will be working in the Washington Primary School yard.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Committee: Candace Korzenko is formatting the document; a draft should be ready for the next meeting. Members who are interested in the pamphlet should contact Ms. Korzenko and she will email it to you.
Scenic Road: Joe Gitterman reports that the How-To packet is in the works; it will be reviewed by the Scenic Road subcommittee, Conservation Commission and reviewed by an attorney before being distributed. Mr. Gitterman reports that applicants are eager for the packet.
Town Crew workers have been harassed by property owners along scenic roads, there seems to be a lack of knowledge about town right-of-ways and property lines. It would be beneficial to educate property owners. Joe suggested doing this through the First Selectman's office. Susan Payne thanked Joe for all of the hard work his committee has done and continues to do; this has been a bigger more time consuming project than anticipated.
Water Resources: No new activity. Phil Markert mentioned modernizing the regulations to protect water resources, Kelly suggested Phil speak with Bill Fairbairn about this subject.
Other Business
None
Meeting adjourned at 6:20pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is May 5, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
March 17, 2004
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Susan Payne, Patti Doran, Elaine Luckey, Diane Williams, Darcy Wright, Phil Markert, Chick Treadway, Dimitri Rimsky, Betsy Corrigan
Guest: First Selectman Dick Sears, arrived at 5:40pm
Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Ms. Payne welcomed and introduced members of the newly formed "Open Space Committee", which was a recommendation from the 2003 Plan of Conservation and Development. This committee was formed under the Conservation Commission. Dan Sherr, Phil Gorrivan and Diane Dupuis are also members of this Open Space Committee. Jack Field will be on board in an advisory capacity. Susan is looking for suggestions for a resident in the Marbledale area to serve on this committee.
Dimitri Rimsky voiced his concern about giving housing consideration; there is sensitivity in the community for the housing issue.
Susan Payne continued by stating that this committee was formed to get conversation flowing on the open space issue which was not done during the making of the 2003 Plan of Conservation and Development. Open Space needs its own focus. The selectmen are also forming housing and municipal committees. This committee needs to come up with a plan for holding public meetings preferably in different locations through out Washington, New Preston and Marbledale.
At the present time there is approximately 18-19% of permanently preserved land in the town of Washington. About 50% of land in Washington is in 490 which is not considered permanently preserved. Chick Treadway asked about unbuildable land in town. Ms. Payne referred to the Natural Resource Inventory Report which states the following areas subtracted from buildout consideration: permanently protected 3,666acres - 14.80%, wetlands 2,865acres - 11.60%, watercourses 524acres - 2.10% and slopes over 25% 1,916acres - 7.75% these categories do overlap but GIS indicates that the total acreage subtracted is 8,103acres - 32.77%.
Members were given packets which consisted of the following items: The Open Space Plan, Connecticut State Statute Chapter 97 Sec. 7-131a, the Open Space and Land Acquisition Fund Ordinance, pages 38-39 of the Natural Resource Inventory Report, Chapter 3 of the Town Plan of Conservation and Development and Jim Gibbons 10 Steps In Developing An Open Space Plan. Susan Payne asked members to read through these documents and familiarize themselves with them.
Susan stated that the first job for this committee is to assess public support for open space preservation and preservation of rural character. Elaine Luckey asked if this committee would be working in conjunction with the housing committee? Mr. Rimsky agreed that the two committees should form a unified front and work together. Ms. Payne believes that the housing committee is still in the planning stages. First Selectman Dick Sears interjected that the housing committee will first meet in April. Ms. Doran added that we need facts to enlighten the public. Mr. Treadway asked about getting people to attend the meetings. Mr. Rimsky suggested using local sponsors i.e. churches, New Preston Lady's Club.
Ms. Payne informed members that the Conservation Commission had an Open Space Inventory Subcommittee which assessed parcels in town based on natural resources.
Dimitri Rimsky asked about being proactive in the preservation of farmland. Utilizing other agricultural aspects for farmland such as garden plants, stock breeding and organic farming. Ms. Doran added that there is a demand in an upscale market for organic items. Ms. Payne encourages everybody to do their own research and gather information on their topics. A future issue to consider is water resources.
In closing Susan stated that the first step is to come up with a plan to present the question of open space preservation to the community in a way which will instigate input from the public.
This committee will continue to meet the third Wednesday of the month.
Meeting adjourned at 6:15pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is April 21st at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
March 3, 2004
Present: Susan Payne Chairperson, Betsy Corrigan, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis, Elaine Luckey
Guests: Dan Sherr, Michael Caroe, First Selectman Richard Sears The Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:05pm.Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis were seated as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the February 4, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Joe Gitterman made a motion to approve the minutes of the February 4th meeting with the following change: on page one under Greenway the sentence should read as follows - Susan Payne reports .... Cyndy Brisset has volunteered to do artistic design for the guide. Betsy Corrigan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commission: The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the Taylor/38 New Preston Hill Road application April 6th. Linda Frank reported on the site visit of this property which was on February 14th. Linda described the proposed easement as a strip of land on the east side of the property; visitors did not walk into the property. Ms. Frank mentioned that the horse ring has been dismantled and relocated elsewhere and that there are no immediate plans to build. The hillside appears to be very wet; there is a swale which directs the ground water. Comments were forwarded to the Planning Commission from our February meeting.
Bantam River Watershed Association: Dan Sherr
Dan Sherr who is with the Bantam River Watershed Association came as a guest to familiarize members with the Association. Mr. Sherr dispensed handouts and began by giving a brief history of the Bantam River Watershed Association (BRWA). BRWA was founded in May of 2003 with a grant from the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection and includes the towns of Goshen, Litchfield, Morris and Washington. The action plan for the Association is to provide preservation, restoration and recreation for the Bantam River Watershed area. They are concerned with urban sprawl and its effects on water quality. Water testing is done at (12) sites (4) times per year as well as (2) heavy flow events. The Association is also looking at developing a park with Bantam at the site of the Northeast Utilities station in Bantam Center which would be the first step to reignite interest in a Greenway. BRWA supports parks, trails and greenways with public access points. Mr. Sherr wants access to Washington commissions and encourages the commissions to keep the Bantam River Watershed Association informed, ask for help and get involved with the educational aspect. Their annual meeting will be held in April. Members thanked Dan for a very informative presentation.
TPOCD: Susan Payne has started to work on an "Open Space Committee". Members thus far include Betsy Corrigan, Patti Doran, Phil Market, Chick Treadway, Darcy Wright, Susan Payne and Dimitri Rimsky Planning Commission representative. Jack Field in an advisory role.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: Linda Frank & Elaine Luckey went to a Selectman's meeting to discuss some of the small parcels that the Town has ownership of. By the next Conservation meeting they should be ready to assign monitoring duties.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: no activity
School Connection (SVHS and Gunnery/Environmental Club): no activity
Cell Tower Update: Diane Dupuis reports that Sprint will be installing a cell tower in the Gooseboro area of Bantam which is (3) miles from the Rabbit Hill location and AT&T still has a hold on the Rabbit Hill location. Diane would like to work on being proactive in locating a site(s) in Washington. She feels there is a need for an RF specialist to assist with location. Joe Gitterman disagrees with the need for locating cell tower locations, using Europe as an example of a place where you don't see cell towers; Joe feels we should fight for different technology, i.e. satellite service. Ms. Dupuis added that Valerie Cooper, a Washington resident, has started up a satellite company. Mr. Sears commented that the people who want the service don't care about the cell tower locations.
Land Use Data Management: no report
Road Discontinuation: no report
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan circulated copies of (2) drafts A General Approach to Invasive Plant Eradication/Control and a Japanese Knotweed Reporting Form. Betsy stressed that these were drafts and not to be circulated/used. Natalie Dyer continues mapping the Japanese Knotweed. Earth Day has been moved to May 2nd.
Greenway: Work continues on the guide.
Land Use Info/ Welcome Pamphlet Committee: Susan Payne had the draft of this document interested members took copies. Their next step is to look into pricing.
Scenic Road: Joe Gitterman reports Buffum Road is a go for "Scenic Road" status. Gunn Hill Road will be on the Planning agenda in April. Joe also reports that the Planning Commission accepted the $150.00 application fee. The Planning Commission has asked for baseline photographs and "The Statements In Support of Approval of Scenic Road" be filed with the Town Clerk for all Scenic Road Applications.
Water Resources: see above Bantam River Watershed Assoc.
Other Business:
Susan Payne reported that the property at 121 West Church Hill has changed hands, but there was no update on the CL&P pole / easement situation.
Dick Sears reports that for the upcoming budget selectmen are suggesting that funds be allocated to start two acquisition funds one for housing and one for open space.
Mr. Sears has had conversation with State Senator Andrew Roraback about ongoing negotiations with the DEP and the Town of Washington regarding the Lake Waramaug boat ramp.
A letter was sent to Atty. Michael Zizka about the questions on P/A 490 for open space.
There are upcoming workshops available to members: Designed to Protect-Water Resource Friendly Development and Design Practices on March 16th and What's Legally Required on March 23rd. For more information contact Pam Osborne at the Land Use Office 868-0423.
Meeting adjourned at 6:40pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is April 7, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
February 4, 2004
Present: Susan Payne Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Elizabeth Corrigan, Joe Gitterman, Phillip MarkertAlternates: Diane Dupuis, Elaine Luckey
Guests: Jack Field, First Selectman Richard Sears
Members 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.
No Alternates were seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the January 7, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Betsy Corrigan made a motion to approve the minutes of the January 7th meeting, Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: The Conservation Commission received a referral from the Planning Commission on a two lot resubdivision for Taylor at 38 New Preston Hill Road. The Planning Commission will receive this application at its February 10, 2004 meeting and a public hearing will be set. The applicant is proposing a 4.1 acre conservation easement on the eastern boundary of the property. Ms. Payne is aware that Ms. Taylor, the property owner has been in contact with Steep Rock Association about this conservation easement. Kelly Boling explained the open space set aside requirements for the Planning Commission. After review of the map Betsy Corrigan commented that the proposed easement has habitat value as well as potential for aquifer protection. Mr. Boling noted the proximity of the Judea Water Company well to 38 New Preston Hill. Susan Payne referred to the 2003 Plan of Conservation and Development recommendations on protecting water quality. Phil Markert brought up the concern of the location of the large leaching fields for the proposed house near a public water supply. Members were in agreement that this property cannot be seen from the road so a site visit would be needed. Pam Osborne, secretary will check with Janet Hill Planning Commission secretary about coordinating with the Planning Commission on a site visit.
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: no update
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: no new information
Subcommittee Reports:
Canoe Brook - no activity
School Connection - no new information
Cell Tower - no activity
Land Use Data Management - Kelly has set a meeting for February 18th.
Road Discontinuation - Kelly reports that they will meet next Wednesday and continue work on a draft for possible additions to the Zoning Regulations for discontinued/abandoned public highways.
Flora & Fauna - Betsy Corrigan is meeting Friday with Natalie Dyer about ongoing knotweed eradication. Betsy has also spoken with Margie Purnell and Addie Roberts about Earth Day activities, the date for Earth Day is April 25th.
Greenway - Susan Payne reports that work on the guide is moving along, Cyndy Brisset has agreed to do artistic design for the guide.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet - no new information
Scenic Road - Joe Gitterman is having a work session this Saturday to continue work on the "How-To-Packet" for the Scenic Road Ordinance.
Water Resources - no activity
Other Business:
Susan Payne attended the January 27th meeting of Commission Chairmen. At this meeting it was determined that the Conservation Commission will establish an Open Space Subcommittee to handle the Open Space Plan/ Fund. It was Susan Payne's recommendation to invite a member from each land use commission and ask members of the former Open Space Inventory Subcommittee if they would be interested in serving on the Open Space Subcommittee. As Ms. Payne has stated in the past the first step should be to take the open space issue to the public. Jack Field guided members in a discussion on the 2003 Open Space Plan which recommended funding in the amount of 0.5 mills per year. This funding would be split between an Open Space Fund and Tax Abatement Program becoming an "Open Space Program". The two mechanisms for tax abatement are an easement granted to the town with the owner petitioning the town for tax abatement and secondly creating a 490 program for open space which would have conditions on permanent protection. The latter brought up questions of legality. Before further discussion Jack Field and Kelly Boling will draft a letter to Atty. Michael Zizka about the legality of having PA 490 open space with restrictions for permanent protection. Joe Gitterman noted that at present people gift their land to land trusts and those parcels come off the tax roles. Mr. Field agreed 490 open space without permanent preservation is not good for the town, is the town willing to spend money on tax abatement to get open space. First Selectman Richard Sears asked open space at what cost? Kelly added that you need dialog with the public before a vote at a town meeting. Phil Markert brought up the idea of added sales or conveyance tax to raise funds. Jack Field commented to members that you don't want to drive people out of town with taxes. Susan brought members back to the topic of an action plan for implementation of the open space plan. How to effectively educate people and create awareness. Mr. Sears agrees there needs to be dialog and education with townspeople; you need to find out people's thoughts not aimed at changing their minds. The town newsletter will be coming out in the spring, a good way to start? (The deadline line for submission to the newsletter will be 3/15/04) Susan Payne, Phil Markert and Betsy Corrigan conservation members who served on the open space inventory subcommittee were interested in helping with the "Open Space Committee". Susan Payne will contact members of the Open Space Inventory Subcommittee and other land use commissions looking for interested people. Ms. Payne asked members to continue review of the 2003 Open Space Plan.
Dick Sears mentioned to members a program on storm water runoff which was being aired on the weather channel (68) tonight at 8:00pm & 11:00pm, which might be of interest to members.
Susan Payne has information about an organization that Deb Avery is a member of called EMR Policy Institute, if anyone is interested.
Mr. Sears forwarded a letter from Keith D. Palmer, Chairman of the Barkhamsted Conservation Commission to the Conservation Commission regarding ridgeline preservation.
Meeting adjourned at 7:00pm.
Next Scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is March 3, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
January 7, 2004
Present: Chairperson Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Elizabeth Corrigan, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Linda Frank, Elaine Luckey
Guests: First Selectman Richard Sears *arrived at 5:30pm
The Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Alternate Linda Frank was seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the December 3, 2003 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Susan Payne made a motion to approve the minutes of the December 3rd meeting, Linda Frank seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
MOTION: Linda Frank made a motion to elect Susan Payne as Chairperson and Kelly Boling as Vice-chairman of the Conservation Commission through January 2004. Joe Gitterman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions: none
Susan Payne informed members of two preliminary discussions brought before the Planning Commission on January 6th. They were a two lot subdivision at 38 New Preston Hill Road and a subdivision proposed for the Beck property on Calhoun Street. Also from minutes of the Inland/Wetland Commission discussion of a deed restriction for the Randall property at 53 River Road and a conservation easement for Sheinfeld on Lower Church Hill Road. Discussion ensued about the concern of having several different commissions in charge of monitoring easements. Susan Payne spoke with Dorothy Hill, Chairperson of the Inland/Wetland Commission about her commission holding conservation easements. Ms. Hill has spoken to Land Use attorney Michael Zizka and was informed that the Inland/Wetland Commission can hold conservation easements. The monitoring would be done by the Inland/Wetland enforcement officer. Ms. Payne will bring up this topic at the January 27th meeting of the Commission Chairs.
West Church Hill Road Conservation Easement: No activity the property owner is still waiting for word from CL&P.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: Linda Frank and Elaine Luckey have been spending time going over the town owned properties, they are making great headway and will continue gathering information and evaluating these parcels.
Subcommittee Reports
Canoe Brook: no activity
School Connection (SVHS and Gunnery/Environmental Club): no activity
Cell Tower: All seems quite. Phil Markert and Diane Dupuis keep a check on applications. Mr. Sears asked if there was an official town stance on cell towers. Susan Payne briefed Mr. Sears on the Cell Tower Subcommittee and its work. There is no "official" view on cell towers.
Land Use Data Management: Kelly will schedule a meeting.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy is excited about working with Earth Day 2004 activities to educate the public on invasive species.
Greenway: The commission met on January 5th and will continue to meet the first Monday of every month at 4:30pm. Susan reports that work is going well with the trail guide and there was more discussion on Greenway links at the January 5th meeting. They have a new member Dan Sherr.
Land Use Info/Welcome Pamphlet Committee: This subcommittee continues to meet the third Wednesday of every month at 4:30pm. This month Ms. Payne stated that members will edit their document. She would like to set a goal of having the brochure ready for the town's 225th anniversary celebration.
Scenic Road: Elaine Luckey has written a draft of the first page of an introduction to landowners living on designated Scenic Roads. Joe Gitterman hopes to have it finalized by the next Conservation meeting and they will work on other documents for the how-to packet. First Selectman Richard Sears interjected his thoughts on people's interpretation of the Scenic Road Ordinance and problems arising from town crew and power company maintenance on Scenic Roads. Members discussed and felt that most landowners probably do not read the entire Scenic Road Ordinance and have many different opinions on what is and is not allowed on a designated Scenic Road. Joe is hoping that the how-to packet will address some of these issues. Susan Payne brought up the lack of an application fee for this ordinance. Joe Gitterman has spoken to the First Selectmen's office and they stated that fees for legal notice range from $75.00 to $150.00. Members feel that the fee should cover costs affiliated with the application.
MOTION: Susan Payne made a motion to request the fee for the Scenic Road Application be set at $150.00. Joe Gitterman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Water Resources: no activity
Other Business
Pam Osborne, secretary will send copies of Kelly Boling's draft of a proposed Zoning Regulation pertaining to Discontinued/Abandoned Public Highways to all Conservation Commission members.
Dick Sears mentioned that a Town newsletter should be published in the spring and encouraged the Conservation Commission to submit information on the Scenic Road Ordinance, Greenways, etc.
Mr. Sears also shared with members plans for the Town of Washington 225th celebration. There will be three main events a Talent Show, Historical Parade and New Years Eve Gala Ball.
Susan Payne has spoken with Andrew Roraback who stated that there is still no funding for the state's Open Space Acquisition Fund.
The Conservation Commission and Selectmen's office received a packet and maps from Northeast Utilities System regarding Evaluation of Certain Unimproved Lands of Northeast Utilities as Potential Future Candidates fro Municipal Open Space Acquisition. After reviewing the maps it was determined that there were no parcels of interest in Washington.
All Members who had not already received copies were given a black & white copy of the 2003 Town Plan of Conservation and Development.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is February 4, 2004 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
Meetings in 2003