The Town of Washington, Connecticut
Minutes: Conservation Commission, 2005
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www.WashingtonCT.org The Town of Washington, Connecticut Minutes: Conservation Commission, 2005 |
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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 7, 2005
Present: Susan Payne Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Linda Frank, Joe GittermanAlternates: Betsy Corrigan, Diane Dupuis, Dan Sherr
Members are asked to email (conservation@washingtonct.org) or call Pam at (868-0423) if you can not attend a meeting.
The Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Diane Dupuis was seated as an alternate.
MOTION: approval of the minutes from the November 2, 2005 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of November 2nd with the following amendments: page 2, paragraph two, the third line replace timer with timber, the fourth line add the following may be necessary. Betsy Corrigan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals or new projects: Members were set to review a conservation easement for the Myfield project at 7 Mygatt Road, but Kelly Boling stated that the conservation easement is not yet finalized, so members will look at this easement at a later date. Kelly Boling, Joe Gitterman and Betsy Corrigan will recuse themselves from discussion on the Myfield project as they are personally involved with the project.
There was preapplication discussion for a subdivision on Popple Swamp Road at the last Planning Commission meeting.
The Town of New Milford informed Washington that they have an application for a five lot single family subdivision located at 33 Church Hill Road, which is within 500' of the Washington town line. They will be forwarding copies of the application to the Washington Inland/Wetlands Commission.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space Committee: This committee is not meeting in December. After the New Year they will work on prioritizing parcels for open space preservation and are planning neighborhood conversations.
Ridgeline Protection: Linda Frank states that the Zoning Commission is still focused on ridgelines; they are looking at creating zones for preservation. This was not the sub-committees suggestion; they were looking more at elevation and slope restrictions. Linda has sent a note to new chairman David Owen offering help with these regulations. Susan Payne has spoken with Hank Martin as well; Mr. Martin stated that they will be requesting help from the Conservation Commission with zone regulations to protect views. Kelly Boling made the suggestion of requiring a view shed impact analysis for certain parcels.
Archaeological Resources Protection: Betsy Corrigan is keeping in touch will Bill Fairbairn of the Planning Commission.
Land Use Data Management/training of Town Land Use staff: Kelly Boling will be working on setting up the projector for the Arc View program in January.
Greenway: This committee has taken a couple of months off, but will meet in January. First Selectman Dick Sears has asked them to look at possibilities for passive recreation at the Old Town Garage site.
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: There are still a couple of monitoring reports due that are expected by January. A binder for Town of Washington Conservation Easements monitoring reports is now located in the Land Use office.
Scenic Road: Joe Gitterman has nothing new to report.
Canoe Brook: nothing new to report.
Cell Tower: The Town of Washington has been approached by Verizon to install a cell tower on town property at the New Preston firehouse. This proposal will be discussed at the December 15th Board of Selectmen meeting. Susan Payne has spoken to Dick Sears, First Selectman and has referred him to Phil Markert, who was on the cell tower subcommittee. Diane Dupuis is appalled that the First Selectman seems receptive to this proposal. Diane is very concerned with the RF exposure as the tower is in close proximity to the firehouse as well as Quarry Ridge condominiums. Susan Payne felt that Dick Sears was only responding to a request at this point. Ms. Dupuis went on to state that she felt the Cell Tower subcommittee report was faulty because it did not take into consideration health risks. Ms. Payne encourages members to attend the December 15th Board of Selectmen's meeting, which starts at 4:30pm.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan is continuing her work on the "forest under story pamphlet" and identifying areas for invasive species eradication.
Water Resources Monitoring and Protection: Dan Sherr reports that Randy Bernard continues his work with Gunnery students testing the waters of the Shepaug. The WEC (Washington Environmental Council) spring newsletter will highlight the Shepaug River.
Best Development Practices: Members looked over Kelly Boling's outline of potential content for the "Best Development Practices" brochure. Kelly Boling, Betsy Corrigan, Susan Payne, Patte Doran and Linda Frank are interested in being on this sub committee. Susan Payne will solicit other interested people form other Land Use committees.
Other Business
Members were given a memo and information on "Upland Review Area" from Janet Hill.
Janet Hill contacted Susan Payne about displaying some of the maps from the Natural Resource Inventory Report in the Land Use meeting room. They could be matted and framed; Joe Gitterman offered to get this done. Ms. Payne suggested looking through the maps we have and choosing some to display. Discussion went on to the need and process for updating these maps. It was also brought to the attention of members that there should be a map of "Scenic Roads" which is kept up to date. Joe Gitterman keeps track on a map of his own.
Members also briefly discussed historical structures, not within the Historical Districts and creating a basis for preservation.
Members were reminded that the terms for Susan Payne, Joe Gitterman and Dan Sherr are up in January. All expressed interest in staying on the Conservation Commission; Susan Payne will contact the Selectmen's office about reappointments.
Members were also reminded that election of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson need to be done at January's meeting.
A list of 2006 meeting dates were given to members.
Meeting adjourned at 6:25pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is January 4, 2006 at 5:00pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
November 16, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEEPresent: Dan Sherr Chairman, Patte Doran, Eileen Hearn, Charles LaMuniere, Susan Payne, Joann Caldara, Chick Treadway
Chairman Dan Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
MOTION: To accept the minutes of the October 19, 2005 meeting of the Open Space Committee as submitted was made by Chick Treadway, seconded by Patte Doran and passed unanimously.
Mr. Sherr circulated an agenda for tonight's meeting which included the following:
1- Brief review of the OS action items from the NRIR and POCD
2- Brief review of Map
3- Listing of "homework" ideas
4- Discussion and selection of 3-5 OSC projects for 2006
5- Merry Christmas - next meeting Jan 18, 2006
Members briefly discussed what tax relief for open space will do to the cost of taxes and what the long range cost of open space will be? Two points made were that tax revenue generated by farm, forest and open space are greater than the expenditures of the town to service the land and that open space enhances property values.
Pamela Osborne, secretary circulated meeting dates for 2006.
There will be no Open Space Committee meeting in December.
Dan Sherr mentioned that Sarah Gager, a member of the Planning Commission, will be a guest at the January 18, 2006 meeting of the Open Space Committee.
Brief review of the OS action items from the NRIR and POCD: Susan Payne began by noting the new DEP commissioner Gina McCarthy has the following agenda: no child left inside, making/doing the right thing the path of least resistance, landscape stewardship and I have met the enemy and it is I. Ms. Payne started her review with the Open Space Plan's definition of: "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" and the purpose of the Open Space Plan being to contribute to the direction and validity of the Town's land use and development polices and as such could be part of the Town's Plan of Conservation and Development, which it is. Susan went on to say that last year the Conservation Commission published a "Land Use" brochure and they have begun discussion on the creation of a brochure about "Best Development Practices". The list of resources to be protected is as follows: land used for farming and forestry, water resources, wildlife habitat, unique and significant natural features, connectivity, archaeological and historical and recreational areas. Susan brought forward the map of conceptual future land use. The overall goal is to permanently protect 30% open space by 2015. Susan estimates that by the end of 2005 the town will have close to 21%.The 30% goal is broken down into two goals 1) Open Space/Natural Resource Preservation at 25% and 2) Community (Rural) Character Goal of 5%. These two objectives are described on page 19 of the Open Space Plan. In the Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendation (NRIR) Susan focused on the "Open Space" section on pages 38 & 39. She touched on other areas of the NRIR such as ridgeline protection, managing forest land, habitat diversity etc. Other areas mentioned were the Town's gateways, the old town garage site and working with the Housing Committee.
Chick Treadway brought up the subject of the "flip Tax" he will check on updates for this possible legislation which could help get funding for projects.
Patte Doran brought up her concern about the criteria for parcel evaluation. She felt that giving land a score of 0-50 rather than a point per acre would be better. Quantity should not out weigh quality.
Listing of "homework" ideas 4/Discussion and selection of 3-5 OSC projects for 2006: Dan Sherr stated that this committee needs an action plan for 2006. Joann Caldara felt that a big issue is money. She was also concerned with co-coordinating with other various groups. Patte Doran reminded members of the idea of purchasing a parcel for open space while selling off a portion for high-end building lots. Charles LaMuniere added that in order to raise money you need a specific goal. Members continued their discussions on having community conversations to get feedback from the community, education of the public about tax abatement, the Open Space Committee developing its own goals etc. In conclusion to the discussion it was decided that the five projects for 2006 will be: 1) identify properties 2) raise funds 3) community conversations 4) conversations with real estate agencies 5) tax issues.
Meeting adjourned at 6:45pm
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is January 18, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Sincerely,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
October 19, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEEPresent: Dan Sherr Chairman, Patte Doran, Rod Funston, Eileen Hearn, Susan Payne
Guests: Valerie Anderson, Dick Sears First Selectman, Addie Roberts
Chairman Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the September 21, 2005 meeting of the Open Space Committee as submitted was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Eileen Hearn and passed unanimously.
Update on New Preston - 202 Parcel negotiations: Dan Sherr began by stating that at the end of discussion at last month's Open Space Committee meeting members concluded that this matter should be referred to the newly/soon to be formed town Housing Committee. Since last month's meeting a developer made an offer to Mr. Moore, the developer was proposing to build 30+ active adult housing units. Chris Charles and Kelly Boling made a counter offer which was accepted and should be closing the end of October.
Review of OS parcel vetting process: Susan Payne explained the role that the Open Space Inventory Committee played evaluating 25+ acre parcels as discussed in the Open Space Plan. The object was to have a way of evaluating parcels that was objective. The following was the point system assigned for criteria evaluation:
1. Size (quality of size rather than mass/small parcel could be critical) 1 point per acre
2. Agricultural (cleared, open farmland, rural character) 0-50 points
3. Natural state (unbuilt, undeveloped) meadow, field, woodlands mosaic 0-50 points
4. All water resources (wetlands, streams/rivers, lakes, swamps, vernal pools) 0-50 points
5. Habitats (flora and fauna) 0-50 points
6. Cultural (archaeological, historic) 0-50 points
7. Aesthetics (scenic/view sheds/ridgelines et.al.) 0-50 points
8. Contiguity to existing permanently preserved open space 0-50 pointsA maximum of 400 pints could be accumulated; the following is point totals for four farmland parcels: Potter 255 points, Whitehead 222 points, Ferrence 170 points and Larson 277 points. Ms. Payne went on to say that the Open Space Inventory Committee did not name properties, but did create a map showing desirable open space parcels. Susan Payne and Patte Doran (who were members of the Open Space Inventory Committee) along with Dan Sherr went through the criteria and evaluated the Moore property on Route 202:
1. Size 50 points
2. Agricultural 5 points
3. Natural State 20 points
4. All water resources 50 points
5. Habitats 40 points
6. Cultural 5 points
7. Aesthetics 40 points
8. Contiguity 0 pointsTotal 210 points
*Please be reminded that this was just an exercise and not official evaluation!
There was continued discussion about the evaluation process and Patte Doran expressed the view that a parcel may not be desirable for open space but could be for housing. Addie Roberts agreed that the town's Housing Committee should come up with its own criteria for parcels that open space qualities are not paramount. Patte and Addie both felt that the Housing Committee could be alerted to prospective properties with open space as a side. Patte Doran felt that the term "affordable housing" has become blurred with emotional baggage. She feels Washington needs a range of housing options to maintain its rural character. Addie Roberts commented that this is an evolving process which people feel is better handled from within the town it self as opposed to outside pressures. Valerie Anderson suggested that the ordinance creating the town's Housing Committee be amended so the town could be a land owner. Dan Sherr will have more discussion on the evaluation process on a future agenda.
Update on follow up with Planning Commission - next steps: Dan Sherr has spoken with Addie Roberts, Chris Charles, Sarah Gager and Bill Fairbairn as a follow up to his visit to the Planning Commission. Dan feels there has been a change in the point of view/ methodology in the commission over the last several years. Addie Roberts added that the minutes from the October Planning Commission meeting reflect the Planning Commission's role in the acquisition of open space. There was a lengthy discussion about how the proposed tax relief for open space could benefit the "land rich", less financially well off townspeople, which would help maintain the quality of small town life. PA 490 has a life of its own which doesn't mean permanent protection. Valerie Anderson asked about providing both permanent and non permanent PA 490 for open space with different degrees of tax relief. Ms. Anderson also suggested making an inventory of permanently preserved open space; we may have more than we know. Dan Sherr ended the discussion by asking two questions 1) what will the tax relief for open space do to the cost of taxes. 2) What is the long range cost of open space?
Committee revisit of PA 490 Open Space: The committee needs to know if they push forward with the proposed tax relief for open space. Dan circulated a hand out on Public Act 490 - The Basics for members to read.
Meeting adjourned at 6:35pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is November 16, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L Osborne, Secretary
October 5, 2005
Present: Susan Payne Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Joe GittermanAlternates: Betsy Corrigan
Guests: Addie Roberts, Valerie Anderson
Members are asked to email (conservation@washingtonct.org) or call Pam at (868-0423) if you can not attend a meeting.
The Chairperson Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:05pm. Ms. Payne noted a change in the members list, Betsy Corrigan is now an alternate and Linda Frank is a regular member.
Alternate Betsy Corrigan was seated.
MOTION: approval of the minutes from the September 7, 2005 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 7th meeting with the following three amendments: on page 1 in the second motion, line three should read Board of Selectmen spend up to $6,000 , per potential acquisition, for; on page 2 under Open Space Committee, line 10 should read Commission: 1) PA490 is inappropriate to provide permanent protection; it was, on page 2 under Ridgeline Protection, line 2 should read with Gary Fitzherbert, Zoning Commission, Phil Markert, Ric Sonder, Mike Ajello, Joe Gitterman seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals or new projects: There were no referrals or new projects for review. Susan Payne informed members that the Gunnery School driveway/classroom project on South Street received Zoning Commission approval last week. She went on to say that the Gunnery School offered to have as a condition of approval that the driveway be oil and stone, the Zoning Commission declined to make this a condition of approval, they felt it would be micromanaging. Ms. Payne felt that the Conservation Commission as environmental watch dogs might want to draft a letter to the Gunnery asking that they consider using the oil and stone surface for the driveway. Joe Gitterman felt that members should have more information before making such a suggestion. Kelly added that the oil and stone would be more in keeping with the town's rural character. Susan Payne stated that her motivation was toward environmental impact. From the audience Addie Roberts suggested that Conservation members direct The Gunnery to Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials (NEMO), who has done studies of this nature. It was decided that Susan will draft a letter and circulate it to members for comment.
The Depot Study: Addie Roberts the Chairperson of the Planning Commission told members that the report has not been received yet, they are not in a hurry, and it's not something to be rushed. Addie reminded members that this is a preliminary study just a start.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space Committee: no report
Ridgeline Protection: no report
Archeological Resources Protection: Betsy Corrigan hopes to make progress during the winter.
Land Use Data Management/ training of Town Land Use staff: Kelly Boling will ask Dick Sears about the projector and will see if George Blake is interested in training staff.
Greenway: Susan Payne did a press release for the "Points of Interest Trail Guide". Joe Gitterman asked about distributing the guides at other business establishments and perhaps the Mayflower. Susan will drop some guides off at the Mayflower and would love for someone to distribute to other businesses. Susan has the 55' flood high water plaque to be placed on the Washington Pharmacy. In closing Ms. Payne noted the Greenway work day on October 22nd.
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: Susan Payne reminded members of their monitoring reports which are due.
Scenic Road: Joe is discouraged in the low number of applications for Scenic Roads. Susan Payne will mention the application process and availability of the packets in the Land Use Office in her annual report. At the last Planning Commission meeting Wheaton Road was designated scenic. Dan Sherr has the State Scenic Road designation information.
Canoe Brook: no report
Cell Tower Update/Tanner Farm: Diane Dupuis stated that no application has come to Warren for the proposed cell tower on the Tanner farm property off of Rabbit Hill in Warren. Her concern with the cell towers location is distance from people and threat to endangered species. Joe Gitterman asked about removal of cell towers after their use is discontinued. Diane Dupuis answered that both Warren and Washington have regulations requiring cell tower removal. Members discussed camouflage of the cell towers; Diane noted that they are disguising cell towers as silos now.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan would like to see an invasive plant working group, consolidate volunteers into one invasive working group. Betsy, Natalie Dyer and Charles LaMuniere have been working together; Betsy would like to see the group working under the Conservation Commission. Betsy would like to use a general approach, do some out reach (literature/ brochure) which will require funding. Kelly Boling suggested information on both the town website and newsletter. Joe Gitterman questioned Betsy about using environmental friendly herbicides. Betsy concerns are with loosing native plants that might grow in the same area and would rather use volunteers and a learn as you go approach.
Water Resources: no report
Review of Natural Resource Inventory Report's recommendations to select projects for implementation: Members began discussing forest management, clear cutting and potential impact on water resources. A good winter project might be an informational / educational booklet perhaps entitled "Best Development Practices in Washington" which could be a follow up to the Land Use brochure. It could target forest issues, clearing to get a view without clear cutting. Joe Gitterman asked about opening up fields, which are good bird habitats, and locating an "old growth forests". From the audience Valerie Anderson stated that she observed "old growth forest" while trekking through the woods between South Street and Painter Ridge. Susan Payne asked members to look through the Natural Resource Inventory Report to pull together information.
Other Business
Susan Payne told members about two upcoming programs:
10/11 @ 6:30pm @ Gunn Library WEC is sponsoring a program on light pollution.
10/13 @11:00 am @ St. John's Church Garden Club sponsoring a program about the deer population.
Susan Payne is wrapping up the Annual Report for the Conservation Commission, if members have any thoughts they want to be included please email them to Susan.
Ms. Payne also distributed copies of CACIWC's The Habitat summer 2005 issue to members.
Meeting adjourned at 6:15pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is November 2, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
September 7, 2005
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Phillip MarkertAlternates: Linda Frank, Daniel Sherr
Guests: First Selectman Richard Sears
Members are asked to email (conservation@washingtonct.org) or call Pam at (868-0423) if you can not attend a meeting.
Susan Payne, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
Alternates Linda Frank and Dan Sherr were seated.
MOTION: approval of the minutes of the August 3, 2005 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commision, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the August 3rd meeting, Dan Sherr seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Susan Payne informed members that at a Town Meeting on August 30th it was approved to amend the Ordinance establishing an Open Space and Land Acquisition Fund to allow the Board of Selectmen, upon the recommendation of the Chairman of the Conservation Commission, the authority to spend up to $6,000, per potential acquisition for expenses incurred in investigation as to the suitability of land for acquisition by the Town of Washington.
MOTION: to allow the Chairman of the Conservation Commission, on behalf of the Conservation Commission, the authority to recommend that the Board of Selectmen spend up to 6,000, per potential acquisition, for expenses incurred in investigation as to the suitability of land for acquisition by the Town of Washington, was made by Linda Frank, seconded by Dan Sherr and passed unanimously.
Referrals or new projects:
Myfield/7 Mygatt Road: Members looked at the new Inland/Wetlands proposal which moved the proposed construct out of the wetlands area. The project proposes seven single-family houses, a barn containing three affordable apartments, a parking barn and supporting infrastructure. Dan Sherr read the project narrative. Members felt this plan was far better than the last application, an improvement.
Review of Natural Resource Inventory Report's recommendations to select projects for implementation: Susan Payne reminded members to review their NRIR.
Town-initiated Open Space Preservation: A memo from the Conservation Commission to Addie Roberts, Chairman of the Planning Commission, Mark Picton, Chairman of the Inland/Wetlands Commission, Mike Ajello, Zoning and Inland/Wetlands Enforcement Officer, Janet Hill, Land-Use Coordinator and the Board of Selectman about Town-Initiated Open Space has received no feed back. Susan Payne asked Dick Sears, First Selectman if this topic could be brought up at the next Chairman's meeting. Mr. Sears agreed. Phil Markert brought up the informational session that Susan Payne, George Bender and he had about this subject. Phil will send Dan Sherr a copy of his memo.
The Depot Study: The report is not in yet. Dick Sears told members that the upcoming Town Newsletter will have information in it and added that Phase I of this study will take a year to complete; there will be more opportunities for feed back.
Subcommittee Reports:
Open Space Committee: Dan Sherr reported that they were pushing forward to finalize the Ordinance which allowed for tax relief for permanently preserved open space and focused on bringing it to the Town Meeting in October. On Tuesday September 6th Dan presented the proposed ordinance to the Planning Commission and did not receive unanimity. Dan is going to report back to the Open Space Committee that there is a need for more lobbying and education before bringing the proposal to a Town Meeting, his goal is now the spring and not the October Town Meeting. Susan Payne felt part of the problem was that Jack Field's Open Space Plan was never vetted outside their own committee. Dan Sherr came away with three points of view from the Planning Commission: 1) PA490 is not inappropriate to provide permanent protection; it was intended for non-permanent protection. 2) The proposed ordinance is counter to the thrust to maintain active farming and encourages people not to keep farming. 3) People should put permanent easements on their property because it is the right thing to do and not for the tax benefit. Mr. Sherr also thought that the Planning Commission felt caught in the middle with the ordinance transferring applicants to the Open Space Committee. He also got the sense that some Planning members felt that the Open Space Steering Committee took liberties with their conclusions and there wasn't fair representation. Dan still feels that PA490 for open space with permanent protection is good and will continue his work. There needs to be more conversation with the Board of Selectman and the Planning Commission. First Selectman, Dick Sears felt there are unanswered questions, there is the need to weight the gains and losses, is this only for the rich and what about the middle income property owner? Dan will report back to the Open Space Committee and they will decide if they will go forward with the proposal.
Ridgeline Protection: Linda Frank circulated a memo from the meeting on August 31st with Gary Fitzherbert, Zoning Commission, Phil Markert, Ric Saunders, Mike Ajello, Zoning Enforcement Officer and herself that had suggested language for definition of areas that require protection of view-shed. Phil noted that he recollected that property over 850' would automatically require a site plan. The site plan triggers a review. During there conversation Linda felt that all were in agreement that it was better to tweak the existing Zoning Regulations rather than add ridgeline regulations. They will meet again and have more discussion. Ms. Frank reported that the Zoning Commission did amend their regulations to measure building heights from pre existing grade.
Archaeological Resources Protection: no reportLand Use Data Management: no report
Greenway: Susan Payne distributed the "Points of Interest Trail Guide" for the Greenway. There will be a notice in the upcoming Town Newsletter and Susan will work on a press release for the newspapers. Ms. Payne went on to say that 2000 guides were printed and will be available at the Town Hall, Hickory Stick Bookshop and Gunn Memorial Library. Greenway is having a work day on October 22nd. Susan once again praised Bob Williams for his work on the Greenway. Kudos to Bob!
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: Linda Frank passed out packets for monitoring to members present. Pam Osborne, Secretary will mail packets to members not present. Members are asked to monitor their properties this fall, by November and then get on schedule to monitor every spring. Linda Frank and Susan Payne will check out the new easements on the Davenport property on Dark Entry Road and the Sheinfeld property on Lower Churchill.
Scenic Road: no report
Canoe Brook: Pam Osborne, Secretary checked with the First Selectman about progress on Canoe Brook. First Selectman, Dick Sears told Pam that they have gone through the permit process with Inland/Wetlands and are working on the funds.
Cell Tower Update: no activity
Flora & Fauna: no report
Water Resources Monitoring and Protection: no activity
Other Business: none
Meeting adjourned at 6:40pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is October 5, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
August 17, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEEPresent: Dan Sherr Chairman, Patte Doran, Jack Field, Rod Funston, Eileen Hearn, Diane Williams, Charles LaMuniere, Susan Payne, Joann Caldara, Chick Treadway, Jeff Weston
Guests: Betsy & Ecton Manning, David Miles Esq.
Chairman, Dan Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:00pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the July 20, 2005 minutes of the Open Space Committee was made by Rod Funston, seconded by Chick Treadway and passed unanimously.
Review & Discussion on The Open Space Permanent Easement Tax Relief Ordinance: Dan Sherr began the review and discussion of The Open Space Permanent Easement Tax Relief Ordinance by stating that Washington's 2003 Plan of Conservation and Development strongly urged the town provide tax benefits to land owners who placed permanent protection easements on their property. Dan went on to say that the tax benefit would be for new easements/restriction and existing easements. Dan Sherr, Jack Field, Chick Treadway and David Miles, Esq. have worked on two drafts, which include "The Washington Open Space Preservation Ordinance" as well as a two page document which list the provisions for the restrictions. PA-490 allows towns the ability to give tax relief for open space as well as farm and forest. Dan noted that the review and approval for the open space tax benefit is done by the Planning Commission but in Washington this will be done by the Conservation Commission/Open Space Committee. Jack Field asked if the Planning Commission knows that the review and approval will be done by the Conservation Commission/Open Space Committee. Mr. Sherr answered that in his conversations with Planning Commission members they were reluctant but willing to hand over the review and approval process. Patte Doran is concerned with the applicant who doesn't meet the criteria of the town, will only receive the one time federal tax break and needs to find a willing land conservation organization. Chick Treadway explained that there are existing easements which have building envelopes, the land under easement is kept in its natural state. Dan Sherr added that the idea is not to prevent development but open space preservation. Dan wanted to make it clear to members that the Open Space Committee will be taking on this new responsibility.
At this point Dan asked for comments and questions on the drafts. Susan Payne questioned the need for eased property to be five acres or more. Susan felt there could be smaller pieces of value which would help preserve historical aspects of town as well as retaining green spaces in densely populated areas. Susan suggested omitting the acreage amount; the land must meet the specified criteria. Dan added that areas bordering the villages may want preservation but only have a few acres; the initiative is permanent preservation of open space not tax abatement.
Betsy Manning spoke to members about the loss of farmers farming other people's land. When farmers stop farming land there will be a tax increase to the land owner, you want to give this land owner the incentive to keep the land, there are critical pieces which don't fall under farm or forest. For "consideration" the land owner can be given a tax break. Ms. Manning feels this is critical to the situation in Washington today with farmers selling.
Chick Treadway suggested defining the land permanently preserved as being kept in its natural state. Ecton Manning described his situation of being able to retain agricultural uses on the eased land.
Chick Treadway asked about the wording under: ELIGIBILTY, 2), recreation which he felt should read passive recreation. There was much discussion about the definition of recreation, ATV, race tracks etc. David Miles addressed the definition for recreation in his two page list of provisions for the restrictions. Atty. Miles asked members if they are willing to live with any land preserve restriction. When the applicant and land preserve sit down to negotiate the easement restrictions vary.
Overall members were comfortable with the proposed ordinance accompanied by the two page document of restrictive provisions. Members were in agreement with the elimination of the five acre stipulation.
Charles LaMuniere was concerned with activity in wetlands; he thought some wording should be added to address wetlands issues. Mr. Treadway felt there wasn't a need to incorporate anything in the ordinance or application and added you don't want to make it complicated, keep it simple. Dan Sherr suggested adding a line that stated activities are not allowed that are not allowed under any other Washington regulations.
Chick Treadway suggested creating a brochure explaining the open space preservation ordinance which would be mailed to all property owners.
Patte Doran asked at what point does the criteria become too much for the applicant, you don't want to defeat the incentive. Betsy Manning added you want to keep the incentive for people who want to preserve their land for the future.
Jeff Weston added his approval of the proposed documents.
David Miles explained his interpretation of the state PA-490 for open space. He feels the State of Connecticut saw the Planning Commissions having a map designating open space areas, having the Assessor make a judgment that the property hasn't changed. This committee is proposing something different in having a third party deciding, in order to avoid argument you need to be specific with criteria. Jack Field suggested having the easement meet the requirements of a legitimate land trust. Dan Sherr was concerned on where to get started on coming up with criteria. Patte suggested getting a land preservation organization sign off.
Ecton Manning made two suggestions: the land should maintain existing use with conversion limitations and you need to address the recreation issue.
Meeting adjourned at 6:30pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is September 21, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
August 3, 2005
Present: Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Philip MarkertAlternates: Linda Frank, Dan Sherr
Chairperson, Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:00pm. Linda Frank and Dan Sherr were seated as alternates.
MOTION: approval of the minutes of the July 6, 2005 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of the July 6th meeting, Susan Payne seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals or new projects: Myfield, Frisbie Farm Estates, The Gunnery School, Stacy Matthews, any other new proposals.
Both Frisbie Farm Estates and the Stacey Matthews applications were denied with out prejudice by the Inland Wetlands Commission.
The Myfield project continues working its way through land use; members will keep an eye on it.
Members looked at The Gunnery School application before the Inland Wetlands Commission. They are applying for a driveway and science classroom. Their plan refers to three phases: one being the driveway and classroom, two being soccer fields and three being faculty housing. The Inland Wetlands Commission had previously approved the driveway which the permit expires for in December 2005. Susan Payne stated that she was concerned from a conservation standpoint about the wetlands crossing and runoff. Members discussed the high volume of traffic already on South Street because of the Shepaug Middle/High School. Kelly Boling shared his personal experience with having a soccer field next to his home and stated that the noise is deafening when activity is going on. Kelly suggested that schools and organizations in town get together and find a location that is good and share the space. Phil Markert and Linda Frank felt that school noise is OK. Susan Payne added that The Gunnery has stated that the fields will get minimal use but she is still concerned. Dan Sherr felt a problem with the fields would be the over fertilization and pesticides as well as runoff, the earth is cut down 20' deep to assure proper drainage and a level playing surface. Dan feels there could be a high level of contamination. Phil Markert added that the wants and needs of the school need to be addressed; having several schools use the same playing fields would save money. Phil also though having the school share long rage plans would be beneficial and questioned if they are denied will they develop the land? Susan Payne stated the both Rumsey Hall School and Devereux-Glenholme School have shared their long range plans. Members looked over the grading, drainage and sediment control plan for the driveway project. There was some discussion about access off of Route 47. The Gunnery no longer owns the ponds on Route 47 and the area appears to be too steep for access. Susan Payne mentioned that The Gunnery owns a 20 acre parcel off of Frisbie Road, which would be a good classroom site and they already have an existing road to their water sheds off of South Street. Members agreed that the Inland Wetlands Commission might look at these as feasible and prudent alternatives. Dan Sherr will draft an email of the Conservation Commissions observations. The Gunnery's applications are before the Inland Wetlands Commission on August 10th and the Zoning Commission on August 22nd. Members are encouraged to attend if possible.
The Planning Commission has an application for Johnson on West Mountain Road for a subdivision. There will be three lots sizes 26, 6 and 5+ acres. This subdivision is for family so they will not have to give open space set-aside. Members looked over the plan and gave positive comment. The Planning Commission public hearing is scheduled for September 6th.
The Depot Study The report should be coming in August.
Review of Natural Resources Inventory Report's recommendations to select projects for implementation. Not discussed.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties. Pam Osborne, secretary forwarding information to Linda Frank about a Conservation Easement on the Davenport property on Dark Entry Road. Susan Payne circulated to members a draft Re: Town-Initiated Open Space Preservation. Members reviewed the draft and made minor changes. Ms. Payne will make the corrections and email to members and Pam for distribution.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space Committee: Dan Sherr stated that the meeting on August 17th at 5:00pm will be devoted to the tax relief ordinance. He invited all members to attend. Susan Payne questioned members about a proposal brought forward by the Farm Task Force regarding tax abatement for farming machinery and buildings. This would be in the form of an ordinance to enable CT State Statute 12/91b. Members supported the idea.
Ridgeline Protection/meeting with Gary Fitzherbert: Linda Frank will get in touch with Gary Fitzherbert to set up a meeting time.
Archaeological Resources Protection: no report
Land Use Data Management/training of Town Land Use staff: Kelly Boling will check on the status of the projector for the Arc View program.
Greenway: Susan Payne reported that the Trail Guide is at the printers and she has permission to place a plaque on the Washington Pharmacy for a high water mark from the 1955 flood.
Scenic Road: Dan Sherr has met with Joe Gitterman and received information on State Scenic Road Designation. Dan is looking to strategically incorporate with the Depot Study the designation of state roads leading into the Depot as scenic. Dan feels this will be a laboring process and his goal is springtime.
Canoe Brook: Pam Osborne, Secretary will check the status of the STEAP grant for this project.
Cell Tower Update: no report
Flora & Fauna: no report
Water Resources Monitoring and Protection: no report
Other Business:
Phil Markert wanted to share with members that the Washington Environmental Council, communications committee is looking into putting together an annual State of the Environment report for the Town of Washington.
Meeting adjourned at 6:25pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is September 7, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
July 20, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Dan Sherr Chairman, Patte Doran, Eileen Hearn, Charles LaMuniere, Joann Caldara
Guest: Addy Roberts
Dan Sherr, Chairman called the meeting to order at 5:05pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the May 18, 2005 minutes was made by Patte Doran, seconded by Eileen Hearn and passed unanimously.
Dan Sherr started off the meeting by informing members that the Open Space Committee is on track to meet the goal of permanently preserved Open Space for this year. Washington has 25,000 acres. The Open Space Committee is committed to increasing the permanently protected open space to 20% by the year 2015. This would mean an increase of 250 per year to reach their goal.
Mr. Sherr also mentioned that at the August meeting Susan Payne will be discussing properties north of Meeker Swamp and the former Dibble property.
Tax Relief Ordinance: Dan has been working toward getting tax relief for property owners who give permanent easements on their properties; originally he was proposing an ordinance which would give tax relief for permanently eased property. There is enabling state legislation which permits towns to give tax relief for open space. This legislation states that the permanently protected open space has to be in the possession of the municipality. Atty. Federer researched for Dan could the definition of "municipality" include Steep Rock Association, unfortunately they do not qualify and it is not feasible to transfer the properties from Steep Rock to the Town. Atty. Federer suggested looking at PA 490 for open space with a requirement that the open space be permanently preserved. It's the understanding of members that the town is allowed to add the requirement of the PA 490 for open space be permanently restricted. Dan went on to explain how the Town of New Milford handles PA 490 for Open Space. The applicant has to prove to the Planning Commission that the land proposed for PA 490 is considered open space under the Town Plan of Conservation and Development, then they go on to the Town Council for approval and finally to the tax assessor who gives the new valuation. New Milford follows the State mandated process but does not have the requirement of the open space being permanent. Dan will be meeting with Atty. David Miles on Friday. Patte Doran stated that the key is permanence and questioned who would do the oversight. There was discussion on the degree of tax relief given open space, establishing criteria and size requirements. Dan went on to say the first step is to get tax relief for the easements already held by Steep Rock, Weantinoge and the Town. Dan's goal is to have the wording for the ordinance done for the August meeting; he has been keeping Steep Rock Association informed along the way.
The Depot Study: Members were given three hand outs by Dan Sherr. They were a Boundary Map, a Depot Study Option and a sheet with consolidated information on the survey results and recommendations. Dan Sherr walked members through the various future scenarios for the depot, these included realignment of River Road closer to the Shepaug River, expansion of the Washington Art Association with housing along Canoe Brook and a street that wrapped around the Town Hall, a foot bridge from River Road to the school property and a community in the old town garage area etc. Addy Roberts explained that there will be many drafts; this is an opportunity to give the Town choices. Charles LaMuniere added you can not control change but this can help direct change. Charles was still concerned about parking. The planners have assured townspeople that the parking will be there.
Dan asked Charles LaMuniere to speak about the possibility of doing an Annual Report on the State of the Environment; this would be done through the Washington Environmental Council (WEC). The report could document wetland and water shed issues, invasive plants, changes to open space, housing density, runoff, legislation etc. You would be able to see changes and after five years see what is happening in Town. The document would be simple, pragmatic and give indicators for the town. It will be a benchmark. There is a lot of information that needs to be put together, a lot of which is already available. There will need to be a paid editor to put the final yearly product together.
Meeting adjourned at 7:05pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is August 3, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
July 6, 2005
Present: Susan Payne, Kelly BolingAlternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis
Susan Payne, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:00pm. and seated Linda Frank and Diane Dupuis as alternates.
MOTION: approval of the minutes from the June 1, 2005 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Linda Frank made a motion to approve the minutes of June 1st with the following corrections and amendments; page 1 under Depot Study line 6 of the depot is. He asked, line 9 June 16th, 17th & 18th. This will, line 12 Depot?" Boundary wise, Kelly and page 2 line 19 Kelly stated that usage is limited by sewage/waste disposal issues but scale and structure may be a good model. Kelly Boling seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
The Depot Study
Susan Payne stated that there will be a meeting on July 11th of the Advisory Committee.
Review of Natural Resource Inventory Report's recommendations to select projects for implementation. Not discussed.
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: Linda Frank stated that there is a conservation easement to the Town via Inland/Wetlands on the Sheinfeld property on Lower Church Hill Road. Linda felt that there is a need for professional help to look at and document base line information on properties. Susan Payne stated that it will cost money which we don't have budgeted and suggested looking at the language of existing easements to see how difficult it is to define their boundaries. Ms. Payne went on to say that at the June Committee Chairman's meeting she did bring up the need for a survey, marked boundaries and baseline documentation when easements are given to the town. This information should be done by the applicant and not the Town. Susan will work up a proposal to submit to other Commissions. At present there are only three easements to the Town: Dark Entry Road, Lower Church Hill and West Church Hill. Secretary, Pamela Osborne will check the land records for the Davenport easement on Dark Entry Road.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space Committee: Susan Payne stated that Dan Sherr has met with Atty. Miles about the tax abatement issue.
Ridgeline Protection: Linda Frank reported that Zoning did adopt the 40' height change. She will follow up with Gary Fitzherbert on other issues.
Archeological Resources Protection: Susan Payne stated that Betsy Corrigan has information she will mail out to members. Diane Dupuis has contacted Betsy, she is willing to help Betsy on Archeological Resources.
Land Use Data Management: Kelly Boling stated that Dick Sears informed him that a projector is imminent. Once the station is set up in the Land Use Meeting Room, perhaps George Blake could be hired for a training program.
Greenway: Susan Payne is happy to report that the cover for the pamphlet is being delivered to J&J Printing. Susan encouraged people to look at the plantings done on the Town property by the Washington Primary School, Bob Williams has been doing lots of work there. Elisha Dyer has also done mowing along the Greenway. Lastly Ms. Payne is going to approach the Washington Park & recreation Commission to take on Greenway.
Scenic Roads: No Report
Canoe Brook: No Report
School Connection: Linda Frank is tracking down a new contact at the Gunnery to take on monitoring the Town owned property on Wykeham Road.
Cell Tower Update: No new information
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan continues to work on getting invasive species information on the Town's website.
Water resources: No Report
Referrals from other Commissions: There were no official referrals but members wanted to look at several projects before the Inland/Wetlands Commission.
Stiteler/Giddins- West Shore Road: The latest application was denied at the June 29, 2005 Special Meeting of the Inland Wetlands Commission.
Frisbie Farm- Frisbie Road: This is a proposed subdivision of 2 or 6 lots of a 32 acre parcel. There will be no visual impact. A letter on file dated June 22, 2005 asked for the matter to be tabled and requested a 30 day extension to schedule the Public Hearing while they pursue other alternatives that may affect the proposal.
Kelly Boling excused himself from further discussion and left the meeting.
Myfield LLC-Mygatt Road: This application has just started working it's way through the system. Inland/Wetlands will be the only commission to review it, because of the affordable housing aspect. The area has tricky terrain and access.
Other Business: None
Meeting adjourned at 6:00pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is August 3, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
June 1, 2005
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Elizabeth CorriganAlternates: Linda Frank, Dan Sherr
Guests: Open Space Committee Members Patte Doran, Eileen Hearn and Rod Funston, First Selectman Dick Sears
Members are asked to email (conservation@washingtonct.org) or call Pam at (868-0423) if you can not attend a meeting.
Chairperson Susan Payne called the meeting to order at 5:10pm and seated Linda Frank and Dan Sherr as alternates.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the May 4, 2005 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the May 4th meeting. Dan Sherr seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
The Depot Study
The Chairperson turned the meeting over to Dan Sherr, Chairman of the Open Space Committee for discussion on "The Depot Study". Mr. Sherr had emailed members information for discussion which included a map showing boundaries of the Depot, background information on "New Urbanism" and three questions to ponder. Dan began by stating that the Advisory Committee is used as a tool to pull information from the townspeople of what their visualization of the depot is? He asked members to give input to four questions: What is the Depot? What don't you like about the current Depot? What do you like about the current Depot? If you could wave a magic wand over the Depot what would it produce? Before discussion began Dan explained about the Charrette which will take place on June 16th, 17th & 18th, this will be an intense informational session to visualize for the consulting team. The firm doing the planning for the Depot Study is using the "new urbanism" approach. Discussion began on "What is the Depot?" boundary wise Kelly Boling felt the "gateway" should be included; Patte Doran suggested the "lit" area which extends up to Riverwoods on River Road. Dan asked about areas within the Depot available for development, Kelly Boling made the suggestion of going up with volume - building on existing footprints. Susan Payne asked members how they felt about building on hillsides. Kelly Boling answered you have to mindful of view scapes. Patte Doran felt there should be defined village lines. Discussion shifted to Cook Street and the Town Plan of Conservation and Development's suggestion that the business district be extended north. Linda Frank floated an idea used in Woodbury of when a house becomes a business the second floor is required to be residential. Members discussed whether or not businesses should be extended up Cook Street and felt because of the interesting terrain and narrow street it should be kept all residential. Next Mr. Sherr asked for input on the boundary going out Route 47, Linda Frank felt it should extend to the bridge at Hidden Valley. Dan noted that from the intersection of Blackville Road out to the bridge by Hidden Valley there is a different type of village center reflected and Kelly Boling felt you could have creative redevelopment in this area. The left side going out is preserved but on the right side is a good location for residential development. Dan asked about including the entrance of Bee Brook Crossing in the village center. Out past the bridge you have private uncontrolled land; Kelly interjected at some point it would be great to be able to connect the village centers (Washington, Marbledale) with greenways. Members went on to identify flat land in the Depot: Washington Primary School, River Road, Old Town Garage, Town Hall area, and Bee Brook corridor. Susan Payne ended the discussion by stating that a lot could evolve, tiny parcels of open space are critical. Patte Doran agreed you need beauty spots. What don't you like about the current Depot? The following were dislikes: the traffic pattern, lack of walking space, speed of traffic, the backside of all building face the river, old town garage site, character of architecture after the flood, water protection and accessibility. Patte Doran expressed the need of not wanting to loose what we have, don't want to become another Ridgefield. Dick Sears added the lack of public spaces; there are lots of private spaces. What do you like about the current Depot? Positives about the depot were the energy of the Depot, you can park and walk, pedestrian signs have slowed traffic, rebirth (new families moving in on Cook and School Streets), absence of chain stores, the variety of trees and the buffers along the Shepaug. Eileen Hearn ended discussing by expressing her favorite spot as the bridge and river. If you could wave a magic wand over the Depot what would it produce? Members felt that the state roads need work, a traffic calming agent is needed and more parking. There was discussion if architecturally the Depot should look more like New Preston. Kelly stated that you are limited by sewage/waste disposal issues. Do you really want a "look", at present it's organic, Dan closed by saying to keep in mind that the depot was "factory hollow". Members are asked to get their thoughts and comments to Janet Hill in the Land Use office at 868-0423 or her email is janet.hill@washingtonct.org .
First Selectman, Dick Sears took a moment to address the Conservation Commission about the Open Space Acquisition Fund and the ability to obtain money from the fund. At some point money may be needed to evaluate parcels, Dick had a proposal written by David Miles, town attorney where as the Chairperson of the Conservation Commission would authorize the Board of Selectman use of up to $6,000 from the fund. Members were in agreement with the proposal. Discussion ensued about the need for withdraw of larger amount of funds for actual purchasing of property. It was concluded that this was another process which needs to be resolved; Susan Payne would like to get it resolved before you're up against it.
Review of Natural Resource Inventory Report's recommendations to select projects for implementation: tabled till next month.
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: Linda will assign monitoring over the next few months. Susan Payne mentioned that there was an infringement on the easement for the property on 121 West Church Hill Road, by the new owners. Susan expressed the need for signage and documentation of properties when the town takes easements. There has to be a process which needs to be communicated with Planning and Inland Wetlands Commissions because these easements ultimately end up the responsibility of the Conservation Commission.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space Committee: covered above
Ridgeline Protection: Linda Frank reported that the Zoning Commission reviewed the recommendations presented; they were going to make changes in some of the language, but appreciated the work done by the Conservation Commission.
Archaeological Resources Protection: Betsy Corrigan has decided to give basic information to Conservation members.
Betsy Corrigan informed members of a vernal pool being destroyed on Carmel Hill Road. The present owner filled in the vernal pool and removed the forest under story on 3 acres. Betsy is concerned because this was a vernal pool which provided water for wildlife, the trees may die because their root systems were smothered and they imported soils which might grow invasives. Betsy was looking for input on putting together an informational packet for prospective and new property owners. Suggestions were information on the town web site and having an informational meeting in the Fall.
Land Use Data Management: Kelly Boling stated that discs are available with the Natural Resource Inventory GIS dated and funds have been allocated for a projector.
Greenway: no activity to report.
Scenic Road: no report
Canoe Brook: no report
School Connection: no report
Cell Tower Update: Members were in support of CT filing an Amicus Brief Case No. 04-1515 Diane Dupuis will respond on behalf of the Conservation Commission.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan handed out the final document "Invasive Plants of Washington".
Water Resources: no report
Referrals from other Commissions:
Myfield: Kelly Boling and Betsy Corrigan excused themselves and left for the evening. Dan Sherr, Linda Frank and Susan Payne went ahead and took a brief look at the Inland Wetland file on Myfield at 7 Mygatt Road. There is a potential conservation easement. The layout reflects the property. Members were concerned with the access to the affordable units, is it doable? In further investigation it was discovered that there would be deed restriction which would not need to come to the Conservation Commission for comment.
Meeting adjourned at 7:10pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is July 6, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
May 18, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Dan Sherr, Chairman, Patte Doran, Charles LaMuniere, Susan Payne, Joann Caldara, Chick Treadway, Colleen Weston
Guest: Kelly Boling, First Selectman, Dick Sears
Chairman Dan Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:07pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the April 20, 2005 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Joann Caldara and passed unanimously.
Brainstorming Open Space Guidance for Zoning and the Depot Study: Dan Sherr began by stating the job of the Open Space Committee is to be advocates of open space to groups focusing on open space. It is easy to recognize initiatives while riding on back roads through out town, but how about open space preservation in the villages? The job can be broken down into two phases offering guidance and defining boundaries for the villages. In the Depot you have the waterways: Canoe Brook, Mallory Brook, Bantam River and Shepaug River. There is a need to maintain access to the waterways as well as preservation.
There was brief discussion on the stabilization of Canoe Brook near the Washington Art Association and the knotweed problem. Charles LaMuniere noted that seeding of the knotweed has taking the plant further and further down stream. It was suggested to ask the selectman's office to handle the cutting process; they have an application before the Inland Wetland Commission for bridge repair and stabilization of Canoe Brook.
Patte Doran suggested before getting into recommendation for preservation of open space in the villages, members discuss an overall theme. Charles LaMuniere asked about the need to define what open space in the villages is? Dan Sherr defined the open space as being able to walk to a park with in half a mile of your home. Patte Doran sees conflict arising with the need for parking; Dan added possible conflict with increased pedestrian walkways. Dan went on to state that multi unit dwellings within the village centers will need ready access to services.
Dan invited Kelly Boling to discuss the transfer of development rights. Kelly stated that this is a way to preserve property in what is viewed as traditional open space areas outside the villages. Kelly elaborated that in the Natural Resource Inventory Report it stated that 2,000 more homes could be built in Washington. Kelly explained that transferring the development rights to another piece of land moves density requirements also.
Dick Sears, First Selectman interjected that Dan and Susan will be the voice for the Open Space Committee on the Depot Study and feels it's too early to give suggestions. Dan stated that it was not the intent to make statements but have discussion at today's and next month's meetings. Charles's suggestion was preserve the park from Titus Park to Washington Pharmacy. Chick added the "old town garage site" should be included. Dan also added preservation of the existing Greenway. Susan Payne noted that there is now a conservation easement on property behind the Washington Supply, and she's hopeful that there will eventually be access to the "Jones Bird Walk". Patte mentioned the role to preserve "rural character". Dan circulated a map that Zoning is using to identify the area where multi unit housing could be located in the village center. Kelly interjected that transferring development rights could be used as a tool to preserve open space outside the village. Dan mentioned that the firm involved with the Depot Study is using a "form bases" so it's not just density. Joann Caldara stated that density and development can change the demeanor of the village very quickly. An example being "The Green" used to be a functioning green not what you see today. Dick Sears expressed what's exciting is the public process of the study. Mr. Sherr asked if in our role as advocates do we want to make a statement of guidance? Kelly Boling stated that traditional villages have defining edges, preserve open space to define village edges and reuse land within the village. Dan asked again if the committee wants to make a statement or wait for the three day June charrette (June 16, 17, 18). Joann confirmed that the Depot Study group will be liaisons for getting information to the firm in charge. This role is separate from the Open Space. Dick Sears noted that they are looking for the positive not negative, what is your vision? In closing Dick mentioned the beauty of the pond area behind the Town Hall which is often over looked.
Members wavered on changing the next meeting date but decided to meet again on the regularly scheduled date of June 15th.
Meeting adjourned at 5:57pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is June 15, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L Osborne
May 4, 2005
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Kelly Boling, Phillip MarkertAlternates: Diane Dupuis, Daniel Sherr
Guests: Virginia Reynolds, First Selectman Richard Sears
Members are asked to email (conservation@washingtonct.org) or call Pam at (868-0423) if you can not attend a meeting.
Susan Payne, Chairperson called the meeting to order at 5:10pm.
Alternates Diane Dupuis and Daniel Sherr were seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the April, 6 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Kelly Boling made a motion to approve the minutes of the April 6th meeting with the following additions; page 3, under Other Business, paragraph 2, should read: Ms. Payne attended a meeting with Green Print which is working with HVA to develop maps showing ideas for preservation of resources in the north west corner that serves the Highland Region. Susan referred them to all our resources. Diane Dupuis seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Info on Organic Tick Control: Virginia Reynolds addressed members of the commission; she began by relating her personal experiences with lime disease. Several members of her immediate family are chronically ill with the disease. Ms. Reynolds has found a company "Natural Lawn of America" which sprays four times a year with a derivative of chrysanthemum, which is safe for the environment, birds, water etc. Their guarantee is that they will respray for free if you find a tic after they have sprayed. The company will answer any technical questions; Ms. Reynolds left information with members. Susan Payne will forward the information to Betsy Corrigan and the Garden Club. Kelly Boling added that the Litchfield County Times might be interested in doing an article.
Review of Natural Resource Inventory Report: Members started working through the list of recommendations located on page 33 of the Natural Resource Inventory Report. Work being done and discussed included the following: The Conservation Commission has forwarded information to the Zoning Commission on "ridgeline regulations" which will be discussed at their May meeting. The Greenway Committee will be looking at increased walking possibilities. With the Scenic Road Ordinance on the books designating scenic roads is on going. Members had discussion on "ambient lighting" and requirements for road/street lighting and the possibility of decommissioning some street lighting. Kelly Boling will draft a letter addressing the lighting issue. Phil Markert mentioned that The Washington Environmental Council will be having two guest speakers in June a herpetologist is coming and may discuss the Route 109 project and in October the topic will be ambient lighting. Susan Payne informed committee members that Bill Fairbairn and Steve Solley are working on restoring the farm house on Christian Street which is located on the Macricostas Preserve. Members also discussed Lake Waramaug preservation, getting the various entities to work together and creation of a three town committee (Washington, Warren & Kent). Lake preservation should include the ridgelines around the lake too. There was discussion on tree clearing and logging, which can affect aquifers. Kelly Boling mentioned transferring development rights as a tool to create preservation. Members discussed the Planning Commission's "Depot Study"; the discussion included encouraging open space preservation in other parts of town as well as not over building the village centers and the increased traffic volume. Dick Sears noted that zoning regulations are the best tool but the Conservation Commission should continue "raising the flag" on issues. There was also discussion on getting away from dimensional regulations and looking at drafting standards. Susan Payne suggested that a recommendation be made to the Planning Commission requiring sub-division applicants who are required to have set-asides, being responsible for permanently marking easements given to the Town.
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: no report
Subcommittee Reports:
Open Space Committee: Dan Sherr noted that $150,000 is in the Town Budget as seed money for Open Space. Dan has also been asked to be in on the Depot Study.
Ridgeline Protection: no report
Archaeological Resources Protection: no report
Land Use Data Management: Kelly Boling and George Blake are working on a disc.
Greenway: Susan Payne reported that the Trail Guide is going to print.
Scenic Road: no report
Canoe Brook: An Inland Wetland permit has been made for work along Canoe Brook.
School Connection: no report
Cell Tower Update: Rabbit Hill Road residents have been approached by AT&T, everyone has said no.
Flora & Fauna: no report
Water Resources: no new activity.
Meeting adjourned at 6:45pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission is June 1st at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
April 20, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Patte Doran, Eileen Hearn, Phil Markert, Susan Payne, Joann Caldara, Chick Treadway
Acting Chairman Chick Treadway called the meeting to order at 5:05pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the March 16, 2005 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Patte Doran and passed unanimously.
Discussion of the proposed Washington Rural Character Preservation (Tax Relief) Ordinance. Dan Sherr prepared a handout entitled "OS Tax Relief Sub-committee 041605" which was distributed to members. This handout was the information Dan Sherr submitted to the Board of Finance. It included information about proposed Open Space Tax Relief, property eligibility for the tax relief and the estimated revenue impact. The proposed "Washington Rural Character Preservation Ordinance" is to provide tax relief to Washington property owners who place permanent conservation easements on properties meeting defined criteria, the eligibility for these properties is: in the Villages properties over 3 acres and in other areas properties over 10 acres, the relief is based on assessment at 25% of "rear acreage" rate and only available on "developable/buildable property". Currently 7562.6 acres are covered by PA-490 in Washington. Steep Rock Association holds 1467 acres in easements, 857 under the towns PA-490. Large properties and properties under 10 acres not already in PA-490 adds up to 253 acres. If you include Steep Rocks annual addition of conservation easements of 175 acres the total "worst case" for year one would be 428 acres at $112 per acres the total impact of the tax relief is $48,000 for year one. Members felt these estimates were very reasonable. Joann Caldara gave members copies of an article from the Hartford Courant entitled "The Open Space Scam".
Key Selectman, Board of Finance and Town meeting dates. Chick Treadway gave members the following list of meeting dates and encouraged members to attend if they could.
May 5th at 7:30pm Board of Finance Budget Hearing
May 17th at 7:30pm Town Meeting
Board of Selectman meet every other Thursday (they are meeting tomorrow April 21st) check their agenda for discussion of the Open Space issue.
Chick shared with member's information on two proposed bills that Congressman Andrew Roraback spoke about. The first bill is increasing the state conveyance tax with the revenue going to open space, farm and land preservation. The second bill would provide 10,000,000 annually to purchase farms, also eliminating the need to wait for approval for bonding.
Review the application of the evaluation criteria to Potter Farm Property. Members were given an Evaluation of the Potter Farm. Susan Payne explained the point system and criteria for parcel evaluation. This evaluation system was used by the Open Space Inventory Subcommittee for it's evaluation of 25+ parcels.
Application of the evaluation criteria too the Dibble Property. Members gave the following evaluation for the Dibble Property:
1- Size 50 acres
2-Agriculture 25
3-Natural state 50
4-All water resources 0
5-Habitats 20
6-Cultural 35
7-Aesthetics 50
8-Contiguity to existing permanently protected open space 25
Total Points 255In describing the Dibble property as a "gateway" to Washington members began discussing the Route 202 corridor, which lead to discussion on the growth in New Milford and potential for increased traffic on Route 202. Members discussed the pros and cons of commercial and residential development and a need for protection beyond the boarder of Washington. Members would like to see different groups doing parallel work i.e. land trusts combining their efforts.
Members also discussed townspeople's feelings about affordable housing and open space conflicting with each other. It has always been made clear that affordable housing and open space are working together.
Review of Homework. This topic was tabled until next month's meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 6:20pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is May 18, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
March 16, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEEPresent: Patti Doran, Dan Sherr Chairman, Diane Williams, Charles LaMuniere, Susan Payne, Chick Treadway
Guest: George Blake
Chairman, Dan Sherr called the meeting to order at 5:05pm.
Review and discussion of the evaluation criteria to be used in ranking available OS parcels for permanent preservation. George Blake joined the committee with a large map showing land parcels in the Town of Washington. The map contained the map-block-lot for each parcel. George Blake explained that other information could be overlaid on to the parcel map, such as the mapping information in the Natural Resource Inventory Report. Members viewed and discussed the Conceptual Future Land Use Map in the 2003 Town Plan of Conservation and Development. This map has a "Desirable Open Space" corridor overlay for the Town of Washington. Susan Payne reminded members that in being proactive by identifying desirable areas; you need to be sure the Town is willing to accept ownership/easements of parcels if other land preserve agencies do not want them. Charles LaMuniere mentioned that the Inland Wetland Commission accepted a Conservation Easement as a trade off. The easement they accepted was located in an area which was probably of no interest to a land preservation agency. Charles asked if the Town was obligated to accept all land/small parcels? This brought up discussion on the Open Space Inventory Subcommittees work scoring parcels, 25 acres or bigger, criteria used and the need to keep updated. Members went on to discuss the Open Space Committees active involvement in creating an ordinance for tax relief for open space, becoming more precise about the goal of preserving 30% open space by 2015, having the "Open Space Plan" come alive and working on the open space inventory. Chick Treadway noted the importance of keeping George Blake's work up to date. Dan Sherr added that he expects to publish an annual progress report and keep the public and press informed.
Review of the March 21 presentation to Selectman and the Board of Finance. Dan Sherr circulated a handout out lining his presentation. One of the requests from the Open Space Committee is that the Selectman and Board of Finance consider reallocation of the real estate conveyance tax proceeds to the Open Space Acquisition Fund. Dan did some calculating and found that the following amount of conveyance tax were collected by the Town in the noted years 2002/2003 $190,000 - 2003/2004 $330,000 - 2004/February 2005 $152, 429. The rational is that the open space fund is an appropriate place for the conveyance tax because it comes form the sale of land. Additional requests to be made at the March 21st meeting are allocation of funds for the acquisitions of open space and establishment of an ordinance that provides tax relief to property owners who place permanent development restrictions on their property.
MOTION: to authorize Dan Sherr, on behalf of the Open Space Committee, to request from the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance that they consider reallocation of the real estate conveyance tax proceeds to the Open Space Acquisition Fund was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Diane Williams and passed unanimously.
MOTION: to authorize Dan Sherr, on behalf of the Open Space Committee, to request from the Board of Selectman and Board of Finance the allocation of funds for the "fee simple" acquisition of Open Space as approved by the Town and to establish an ordinance that provides tax relief to property owners who place permanent development restrictions on their properties was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Chick Treadway and passed unanimously.
Chick Treadway and Dan Sherr have spoken with Barbara Johnson, Tax Assessor about tax relief for permanent protection of open space. The goal is to have land in 490 farm/forest become permanently protected open space. Ms. Johnson appeared to be onboard she felt this was doable. There was discussion of "rear acreage" which is assessed at 25% of its appraised value. Dan Sherr circulated a copy of State Statutes Sec. 7-131b. relating to "Acquisition of open space land and easement. Revaluation of property subject to easement". There is enabling legislation; we need to build on the town ordinance.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the February 16, 2005 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Patti Doran and passed unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 6:50pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is April 20, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
March 2, 2005
Present: Chairman Susan Payne, Kelly Boling, Betsy Corrigan, Joe GittermanCall to Order: Susan called the meeting to order at 5:05p.m.
Minutes: Motion: To accept the minutes of the February 2, 2005 meeting of the Conservation Commission as submitted. By Susan Payne and unanimously approved.
Walker Brook Farm Development Discussion: Plans for this development and an application are presently with the New Milford Inland Wetlands Commission. A Public Hearing is tentatively scheduled for 4/14 in New Milford. Susan has been told they are awaiting the Kings Mark report (environmental study) which will then be reviewed by the law firm of Malone and McBroom (?). The Commissioners reviewed the new plans that show the development will use a "conservation cluster approach". The total acreage listed in one section of the specs is 210, (217 in another); the plans show 79 homes being constructed on 90 acres with the remaining acreage being open space. After some discussion, it was decided that Betsy and Kelly would compose a letter to the New Milford Inland Wetlands Commission expressing concerns of the Washington Conservation Commission (traffic, wetlands issues, etc.).
Annual Report: Susan asked that the minutes reflect a correction in the Annual Report - Conservation Commission article. The article states the Open Space Committee was established in March 2003, it should read March 2004.
Natural Resource Inventory Report: 100 more copies have been ordered at a cost of $15/each. Money received from purchases of the report is deposited into the Town's General Fund. Susan will do a press release letting the public know copies of the report are available in the Land Use Office.
SUB-COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Open Space: Susan reported for Dan Sherr that this sub-committee is working on an action plan regarding a tax abatement that would be given for a conservation easement on a local level. They would like to present this at a special Town Meeting in September.
Ridgeline Protection: Members of the Conservation Commission will attend the 3/28 Zoning Commission to discuss.
Archaeological Resource Protection: Betsy Corrigan is working on this with Nick Bellantoni, State Archaeologist. Regulations need to be in place in order to enforce archaeological investigations. The Town has an Archaeological Sensitivity Map (in the Natural Resource Inventory Report) however it does need to be updated.
Land Use Data Management: Kelly Boling reported that a Town Parcel map meeting will be held on 3/9 with Dick Sears and George Blake.
Greenways: Susan reported that the "Point of Interest" guide is in the works. Cindy Brissett is doing the artwork and the guide will hopefully be ready this spring.
Scenic Roads: Joe Gitterman reported that an application to designate Nettleton Hollow Road as a "Scenic Road" will be submitted to the Planning Commission. Joe also asked for volunteers to propose other roads that are listed in the Natural Resource Inventory.
Cell Towers: Diane Dupuis has emailed the Commissioners regarding a tentative cell tower site on the Tanner Farm in Warren. Flora and Fauna: Betsy Corrigan will get more information on invasive plants to Rex Swain for the Town website. She will also try to list sites where people can see examples of the various species.
Water Resources: No report.
NATURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY REPORT - RECOMMENDATIONS to select projects for implementation: Discussion followed as to what the Commissioners would like to approach next. Suggestions: Habitat Map needs to be updated. Could be modeled after the Archaeological Sensitivity map labeling areas with "potential significance". Information comes from aerial and/or topographical maps. Greenway in New Preston possibly linking Weantinogue holdings with Mt. Bushnell State Park area; also bike/walking path that could somehow link the village of New Preston with Lake Waramaug. Light Pollution - Susan explained it was her understanding that this is something that may be discussed at a Zoning Commission level. This Commission could offer to work with them on this issue.
Susan asked the Commissioners to review the NRI for recommendations that were made and that need to be followed up on.
Adjournment: There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:00p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Anne Greene for
Pamela Osborne
February 16, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEE
Present: Dan Sherr, Chairman, Patti Doran, Jack Field, Eileen Hearn Diane Williams, Phil Markert, Charles LaMuniere, Susan Payne, Joann Caldara, Chick Treadway
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the January 19, 2005 meeting with the following correction on page (2) line (13) 1,500 acres should replace 15,000, acres was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Patti Doran and passed unanimously.
Review of Open Space article for the Town Times: Members received copies of the article Dan Sherr submitted for publication in the next issue of the Town Times. Dan plucked key information from the 2003 Town Plan of Conservation and Development. The information submitted covered selection of open space parcels and funding.
Discussion of the OSC proposal to the First Selectman for inclusion in the FY05-06 budget: Dan is looking toward submitting recommendations to the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance, he feels three items need to be included in the 05/06 budget. These items need to be worked through by the Open Space Committee, then Dan needs to bring them before the Conservation Commission for approval, the Open Space Committee is a subcommittee of the Conservation Commission. The three items include establishment of the Open Space Committee, $150,000 for funding for 05/06 budget year and tax abatement. First Dan wants to be sure of the establishment of the Open Space Committee as a "standing committee". Dan wants this clear from both a technical and legal stand point. Susan Payne stated that the establishment of an Open Space Committee was passed by the commission Chairs. Pam Osborne, secretary will research minutes and forward information to Dan. Secondly Dan asked Jack Field about recommending to the Board of Finance that $150,000 be included in the 05/06 fiscal year budget to be put into the land acquisition fund. Jack Field began by stating that when you earmark money it needs to have a home. You can make a budget request which will then be held in a town fund. Jack went on to state that when the Open Space Fund was established it was to receive funds from the public fees-in-lieu, donations from the public etc. Jack explained the difference in the General Fund and the Non-recurring Capital Fund. Susan Payne stated that it's clear the Open Space Fund should be put in the non-recurring capital fund. The monies would not be used for the purchase of small parcels but saved up for a large purchase. Phil Markert interjected that there is a need to recognize the funds are set aside but it's not up to the Open Space Committee to say where the money is stored. Lastly Dan would like to present a plan for annual tax abatement for property owners who put permanent protect on their parcels. Charles LaMuniere asked about land that is already under conservation easement. Dan Sherr answered that these parcels will need to be picked up by the new proposal. Patti Doran stated that she assumes this abatement is to discourage people from developing their land. She questioned how this will work on property that is now farmed and is put on the market? Chick Treadway stated that the land can be put under conservation easement leaving a building envelope. Dan Sherr continued the discussion by stating that he wants to create understanding with the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance what the implications of the tax abatement are going to be, the tax abatement regulation needs to be written and approved at a Town Meeting. A subcommittee comprised of Dan Sherr, Jack Field and Chick Treadway will be working on wording for the tax abatement regulation at My Chef Saturday February 19th at 8:00am. Jack Field added that there are two unknowns; first what amount of abatement will you give landowners and secondly how much money are you talking about as a whole. You don't want to go with 490 for Open Space because that is only temporary you want permanent preservation from development as part of the criteria. Charles LaMuniere stated that you have to be clear with the public about the implications and probable tax increase. Phil Markert added that perhaps you could put an annual limit on the tax abatement. It was agreed that the Assessor needs to work with the Open Space Committee on the abatement issue. Lengthy discussion ensued. The goal is to add 10% more open space by the year 2015. Questions arose such as finding a home for the easements if private land trusts don't want them, can the town refuse an easement, the need for criteria when accepting an easement etc. Susan Payne reminded members that there is a lot of information available, don't reinvent the wheel, she offered information from the Town of Greenwich which has tax abatement for permanently preserved open space and she suggested they contact Carlos Canal. Charles LaMuniere will also see what information he can find from the Town of Kent. Dan Sherr will have an outline ready to present to the Conservation Commission at its March meeting.
Sub-Committee Action Plans: Dan Sherr would like to invite HVA and Planimetrics to do presentations for the Open Space Committee. Dan would like HVA to help members with identifying land to qualify for Open Space status and create a basis for desirability for preservation. He would like to ask Planimetrics to do a build out of Washington to show what could happen with development in town. For these presentations he would like to invite the housing diversity, planning and other land use commission/committee members. Dan would also like to create a data base for Open Space grant programs. Lastly he wants to have an Open Space communication program; he will circulate a list of groups and would like members to come up with a dialogue for addressing these groups.
Meeting adjourned at 6:46pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is March 16, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L Osborne, Secretary
February 2, 2005
Present: Susan Payne, ChairpersonAlternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis, Dan Sherr
Guests: Joe Mustich
Members are asked to email (conservation@washingtonct.org) or call Pam at (868-0423) if you can not attend a meeting.
The meeting was called to order at 5:00pm.
Alternates: Linda Frank, Diane Dupuis and Dan Sherr were seated.
The Conservation Commission is down to the last (6) copies of the Natural Resource Inventory Report and Recommendations, Pam Osborne; Secretary will look into reordering the report.
Susan Payne, Chairperson asked for input from members on the 2005/2006 budget. Susan asked Dan Sherr, Chairman for the Open Space Committee if he foresaw any need for money in the upcoming budget. The Open Space Committee falls under the Conservation Commission and doesn't have its own line item in the Town's budget. Dan felt that there would be the need for some mapping work. Mapping work would be needed for qualifying parcels for open space according to criteria and also to run a simulated build out of the town. Mr. Sherr felt that $3,500 should cover both projects. Susan Payne will talk with First Selectman Dick Sears about this request.
Referrals from other commissions
There were no new referrals.
Judson's Rock: Susan Payne reported that the Zoning Commission denied this application without prejudice and the Washington Environmental Council submitted a letter noting its concerns with the application.
Stiteler/Giddens Project: Dan Sherr and Linda Frank submitted a site visit report to the Inland-Wetland Commission on this application.
Susan Payne asked members to read the other commission's minutes on line to follow up on the various applications that Conservation has been involved with.
Review of Natural Resource Inventory Report's recommendations to select projects for implementation: Susan Payne is hoping that Betsy Corrigan will begin work on archaeological resource preservation.
Management and Monitoring of Town properties: Linda Frank will do some thinking on the subject of signage on Town owned properties.
Subcommittee Reports
Open Space: Dan Sherr submitted an article for the Town newsletter; he used information from the Open Space Plan. Dan has been recruiting new members for the Open Space Committee. Eileen Hearn has joined, Joann Caldera has been invited to the next meeting and Dan hopes Joann will be a representative from the Real Estate piece and Charles LaMuniere has joined as an advisor, his expertise is aquifers and the protection of aquifers. Dan Sherr, Chick Treadway and Jack Field are working on regulations for tax abatement for open space, which will be submitted to the Selectman by March 1st. Linda Frank asked if there was pending legislation that will make it harder to get tax breaks on Conservation Easements. Susan Payne was aware that legislators are looking into the amount of deduction taken and the appraisals done on the properties. They may cut back on the amount of deduction and review the qualifications. Dan Sherr went on to explain that there are two types of tax abatement. One is a federal one time write off and the other is a local annual abatement. Diane Dupuis asked Dan Sherr if the Open Space Committee was pursuing bonding as a way of obtaining funds to acquire open space. Dan answered that they have not talked about bonding yet. Diane asked about the link between the Housing Diversity and Open Space Committee. She wanted clarification on comments she heard from Bill Fairbairn about bonding. Dan went on to say that the Open Space Committee would work with/help the Housing Diversity Committee find or acquire land but not with bonding. Susan Payne added that the $300,000 budget figure was for open space only; the Open Space Committee is supportive of diversified housing but not bound to it.
Ridgeline Protection: Linda Frank reports that this subcommittee has been looking at and identifying ridgelines for protection. They are getting together tomorrow to write a report to be submitted to the Zoning Commission.
Archeological Resources Protection: no report
Land Use Data Management: no report
Greenway: This committee continues to work on their trail guide.
Scenic Road: The final Scenic Road Ordinance is now on the Town's website and plans are in the works to get the "How To Packet" posted on the website also.
Canoe Brook: All paperwork has been submitted to the State.
School Connection: nothing new
Cell Tower Update: Diane Dupuis informed members that two possible cell tower sites have been identified in Warren, the first site is at Mt. Lakes Camp off of Curtis Road and the second site is on Mt. Laurel Road which town is owned property. Washington has no legal standing in these two cases and can only communicate our view as a community. Diane will keep members posted. Dan asked Diane about the fact that companies not being obligated to remove cell towers when they become obsolete. Diane said this was true.
Flora & Fauna: no report
Water Resources: no report
Other Business
Joe Mustich was present as an observer, but did mention that he had been seeking to have the "Private Drive" sign removed from the section of West Mountain Road that was recently discontinued. The Selectman have agreed to remove the sign.
Susan Payne has submitted (4) items for the town newsletter and Kelly Boling submitted information on the road discontinuation process.
Meeting adjourned at 6:15pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Conservation Commission is March 2, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
January 19, 2005
OPEN SPACE COMMITTEEPresent: Dan Sherr, Chairman, Susan Payne, Chick Treadway, Jack Field, Advisor
Guests: Dick Sears, First Selectman, Charles LaMuniere
Dan Sherr Chairman called the meeting to order at 5:07pm.
MOTION: to accept the minutes of the December 15, 2005 meeting was made by Susan Payne, seconded by Chick Treadway and passed unanimously.
Straw Poll Results
Dan Sherr began by stating that he has been plagued with the question of whether the results were a true representation of the townspeople. Dan is encouraged because the response from parents with school aged children showed they are committed to preserving open space as well as the other respondents. Dan Sherr and Dick Sears presented the findings from the survey to the Board of Education. Chick Treadway asked why so few people responded to the survey, he was surprised that more townspeople didn't respond. Dan Sherr felt that the approximately 12% return was an excellent number, he was very happy with the range and response. Dan went on to say that while tallying the survey by hand you could tell that people took time with their responses. Dick Sears added that he felt the results were indicative of the townspeople. Jack Field agreed open space has become a high profile subject. Susan Payne added that with the decline in farming over the last 5-10 years people are concerned. Discussions lead to the topic of conveyance tax and the town's ability to pass an ordinance designating where these funds go. Mr. Sherr asked Mr. Sears what role the Open Space Committee could play to help. Mr. Sears hopes the Open Space Committee will be an advocate. Susan Payne added that the Conservation Commission has been discussing assembling local lawyers and real estate people and discussing pertinent land use issues. Chick Treadway commented that this would be beneficial to all.
Open Space & Housing - Open Space Committee March Recommendations to the Selectman
Dan Sherr feels the Housing Committee wants clarity of the relationship between the Housing and Open Space Committees; will the two committees be working together? It's Dan's view that the Open Space Committee will work with the Housing Committee on advocacy and locating parcels. The Open Space Committee would not be viewed as the owners of open space. Members present agreed with Dan, he will reassure the Housing Committee that the Open Space Committee would like to work together. At this point First Selectman Dick Sears questioned the future of the Open Space Committee. Dan Sherr referenced his "Proposed Action Plan" with roles defined as Advocate, Facilitator, Enabler and Manager. Dan went through and defined each role as represented on his had out. He feels that Advocate or Facilitator is a good role for the Open Space Committee. Chick Treadway asked what the Open Space Committee's role is with the Conservation Commission. Susan Payne felt the Open Space Committee would take on the responsibilities required by the State Statutes such as the open space inventory and the open space plan. The Conservation Commission has several other subcommittees such as greenways, land use brochure, invasive species, ridgeline preservation, cell towers etc. She feels that the Open Space Committee should remain under the Conservation Commission. Jack Field interjected that an Open Space Plan and criteria has been worked on and now need to be finalized. He went on to state that the Town's Plan of Conservation and Development has given general direction the Conservation Commission wants an action plan. The Open Space Plan has been adopted by the Planning Commission and the mechanical step of creating the Open Space Fund has been done, unfortunately the Planning Commission never presented the Town Plan of Conservation and Development at a Town Meeting for approval so the Open Space Plan hasn't been approved by the Town either. The Open Space Plan needs to be implemented, need an action plan who, what and when? Susan Payne stated that the Conservation Commission will allow the Open Space Committee to act on its behalf and feels the next step is tax abatement for permanent preservation of open space. Jack Field noted that extending PA490 to open space with the condition that it's permanently preserved, you would be looking for land not already in PA490 that meets the criteria. A proposal needs to be made to the Board of Selectman by March 1st. The committee needs to come up with a specific plan including the financial aspect. The Open Space Plan has all the information, figures need to be updated. Chick Treadway noted that 15,000 acres are already preserved with easements. Jack Field added that not having tax abatement for Open Space encourages people to sell to developers. With farming on the decline land that is now under PA490 for farming will become available. Much discussion ensued with questions such as the need for the town to accept land, if it meets the criteria, if a private land trust doesn't want it, who applies the criteria, if land is denied there needs to be an appeal process, monitoring etc. Jack Field, Chick Treadway and Dan Sherr will get together to come up with a recommendation to the Selectmen by March 1st.
Town Newsletter
Dan Sherr will also draft information for the Town Newsletter whose deadline is January 24th.
Meeting adjourned at 6:55pm.
Next scheduled meeting of the Open Space Committee is February 16, 2005 at 5:00pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
January 5, 2005
Present: Susan Payne, Chairperson, Betsy Corrigan, Joe Gitterman
Alternates: Linda Frank, Dan Sherr
Guests: Dick Sears, First SelectmanThe meeting was called to order at 5:00pm.
Alternates Linda Frank and Dan Sherr were seated.
MOTION: Approval of the minutes from the December 1, 2004 meeting of the Washington Conservation Commission, Joe Gitterman made a motion to approve the minutes of the December 1st meeting, Dan Sherr seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Susan Payne informed members that Betsy Corrigan, Phil Market and Linda Frank have all been reappointed to the Conservation Commission. Their reappointment will continue until January 1, 2008. Betsy and Linda have both been sworn in by the Town Clerk.
MOTION: Linda Frank made a motion to elect Susan Payne as Chairperson and Kelly Boling as Vice-Chairman of the Conservation Commission through January 2006. Betsy Corrigan seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Referrals from other Commissions:
Status of Walker Brook development proposal: Susan Payne reported that the New Milford Zoning Commission approved the proposal for cluster housing on this site. Betsy Corrigan added that the King's Mark Environmental Study will begin with a general meeting on January 11, 2005 the results of this study is public record.
Holly Hill Farm: Betsy Corrigan will be submitting a letter to the Inland Wetland Commission for their January 12th meeting.
Judson's Rock: Betsy Corrigan submitted a letter dated December 17, 2004 to the Zoning Commission. There is no new activity on this application. There was continued discussion on doing a balloon test on this property. Members felt that it would be beneficial for both the owner and potential buyers, it was decided that Joe Gitterman will contact Michael Jackson of Steep Rock Association on this matter.
Stiteler-Giddins, 198 Tinker Hill: Linda Frank and Dan Sherr went on the site visit with the Planning Commission. Ms. Frank is concerned with the substantial swath that will be cut when they install the 10' driveway and clear 15' on each side of the drive. She would like to see less tree removal. Dan Sherr believes they will be cutting down between 60-65% of the trees in this area. Linda Frank added that the engineer noted that the area is not defined as wetlands and the pathway is needed for construction purposes. Betsy Corrigan is concerned with the seeps and intermittent watercourses which are not taken into consideration. Mr. Sherr feel that there are two issues the first being the wetlands issue on the whole site and secondly pumping sewage up the hill to the proposed septic site. Linda Frank has spoken with an adjoining property owner who feels that her property has gotten wet over the last 3-5 years because of activity on the uphill side from her property. Betsy Corrigan interjected that the lake is ultimately affected from all this activity, you are working against nature. Joe Gitterman asked if there was any possibility of suggesting plantings, terracing or water control methods that would help. Susan Payne feels that the land owners would be receptive to suggestions. Dan Sherr will work on a draft letter for the Planning Commission; he will circulate it to members for comment. The Planning Commission has continued the Public Hearing until their February 1st meeting.
Beck, 129 Calhoun Street: This application has been withdrawn from the Planning Commission.
Management and Monitoring of Town Properties: no new activity
Subcommittee Reports
Road Discontinuance: Dan Sherr was present at the Selectman's meeting when they discussed Kelly Boling's possible addition to the Zoning Regulations to address discontinued or abandoned public highways. It was Dan's feeling that the Board of Selectman felt the proposed regulations were excessive.
Susan Payne mentioned the on going concern with the "Private Drive" sign on the Nettleton Hollow Road side of West Mountain Road, which was discontinued. Susan stated that Greenway was not interested in maintaining this area. This matter is in the hands of the Selectmen's office.
Open Space Committee: Dan Sherr stated that the recent survey mailed to all towns' people has been receiving a lot of attention. They received 330 responses which were about 13%, a good percentage. Open Space was a high priority. Dan reported that the survey responses included townspeople with school age children which had been a concern through out the forum. He will email the results from the survey to members.
Ridgeline Protection: A subcommittee has been formed which includes Linda Frank, Phil Markert, Susan Payne and Ric Saunders. This subcommittee will be doing the leg work for ridgeline regulations. Linda Frank mentioned that Kent is having preliminary discussion on ridge line regulations this month and will have a public hearing in February. The subject of ridgeline preservation is addressed in the 2003 Plan of Conservation and Development.
Land Use Data Management: First Selectman Dick Sears stated that the assessor's maps are in the process of updating. Looking ahead Mr. Sears would like to see a projector in the Land Use Meeting Room with access to the Arc View GIS data.
Greenway: Susan Payne has contacted Liz Dexheimer to help with the trail guide.
Scenic Road: There was discussion on the draft of the Scenic Road Ordinance which is posted on the town's web site. The ordinance is labeled draft #10, Pam Osborne, secretary will check into this to see if the document is the final ordinance and then contact Rex Swain to make changes if need be. Joe Gitterman told members that New Milford designated their scenic roads individually; it was done in the manor required by state statutes. Joe Gitterman brought up the topic of designating state roads scenic. Joe is reluctant to pursue the "Scenic Road" designation on state roads but on the other hand is concerned for the town's future development.
Canoe Brook: Ms. Osborne, secretary will check with the selectman's office on the status of the Steep Grant. (All paperwork has been filed - still in the waiting stage.)
School Connection: no new activity
Cell Tower Update: Diane Dupuis sent members an email about a study on cell phones and DNA.
Flora & Fauna: Betsy Corrigan has continued to work on her draft of invasive species for the Town's website. Joe Gitterman shared his invasive species removal plan, he's renting ponies!
Water Resources: no report
Other Business
Dick Sears mentioned that there will be an upcoming Town Newsletter; he will be seeking items for publication.
Susan Payne informed members that the Swiss Hospitality property has sold.
Meeting adjourned at 6:40pm.
Submitted subject to approval,
Pamela L. Osborne, Secretary
Meetings in 2004