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May 3rd, 2011
AGENDA
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2011


Convene Meeting: 6:00 p.m. – Conference Room #3 – Mashpee Town Hall
MINUTES
        Tuesday, April 5, 2011
APPOINTMENTS AND HEARINGS
  • Public Comment
  • Review of CPA Applications for October 2011 Town Meeting
  • Friends of Santuit Pond – Circulators for the Preservation of Santuit Pond
  • DPW – Santuit Pond Restoration
  • Jim Perrine – The Community Builders – Discussion of Phase II,  Mashpee Village
Rehabilitation Project

COMMUNICATIONS & CORRESPONDENCE

OLD BUSINESS

  • Approval of Invoices for Payment
NEW BUSINESS

  • Town Meeting Warrant Article to Set Aside 10% Reserves for FY12
LIAISION ASSIGNMENTS

NEXT SCHEDULED MEETING
        Tuesday, June 7, 2011
6:00 p.m.
Town Hall, Conference Room #3


Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

Present:        Wayne Taylor, Richard Halpern, Ed Larkin, Ralph Shaw, Frank Lord,
                Evelyn Buschenfeldt, Mary Waygan, Tom O’Hara

Absent: Diane Rommelmeyer

                Meeting Called to Order by Chairman Taylor at 6:03 p.m.
                Town Hall, Conference Room #1

                MINUTES:
                
                Tuesday, April 5, 2011:

                Motion made by Mr. Lord to approve the minutes of Tuesday,
                April 5, 2011 as presented.
                Motion seconded by Mr. Halpern.
                VOTE:  Unanimous.  5-0-3.

                Roll Call Vote:
                        Mr. Taylor, abstained           Mr. Halpern, yes
                        Mr. Larkin, abstained           Mr. Shaw, yes
                        Mr. Lord, yes                           Ms. Buschenfeldt, yes
                        Ms. Waygan, yes                 Mr. O’Hara, abstained
                        Opposed, none

                APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS:

                Public Comment: None at this time.










Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

                APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS:

                Review of CPA Applications for October 2011 Town Meeting:

                Friends of Santuit Pond – Circulators for the Preservation of Santuit Pond:

                Allen Waxman was in attendance of behalf of the Friends of Santuit Pond (FSP)
to alleviate the misunderstanding with respect to the multiple applications submitted to the Community Preservation Committee for the preservation of Santuit Pond.     

Mr. Waxman explained the initial application submitted by the FSP was intended as a draft.  After discussion with the Environmental Oversight Committee, the Town Manager and Director of Public Works, the application was edited and resubmitted by the DPW on behalf of the Town of Mashpee with the Friends of Santuit Pond and Mashpee Environmental Coalition serving as co-applicants.

CPC member Evelyn Buschenfeldt disclosed that she resides on Santuit Pond, and would recuse herself from the discussion to eliminate the perception of a perceived conflict of interest.

Motion made by Mr. Halpern to accept the withdrawal of the application entitled Solar Powered Long-Range Circulators for the Preservation of Santuit Pond; applicant John Kabat for the Friends of Santuit Pond.
Motion seconded by Mr. O’Hara.
VOTE:  Unanimous.  7-0-1.

Roll Call Vote:
        Mr. Taylor, yes         Mr. Halpern, yes
        Mr. Larkin, yes         Mr. Shaw, yes
        Mr. Lord, yes                   Mrs. Buschenfeldt, abstained
        Ms. Waygan, yes         Mr. O’Hara, yes
        Opposed, none









Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

APPOINTMENTS & HEARINGS:

DPW – Santuit Pond Restoration Project:

Catherine Laurent, Director of Public Works was in attendance to discuss the application submitted by the Mashpee DPW and co-applicants, the Friends of Santuit Pond and Mashpee Environmental Coalition (MEC) for the Santuit Pond Restoration project.

Attendees in support of the project included Joyce Mason, the Town Manager, Richard York, the Shellfish Constable and Mashpee resident Allen Waxman on behalf of the Friends of Santuit Pond.

The restoration project proposal includes the purchase of (6) floating, solar-powered circulators at a cost of $315,000.  Additional fees associated to the funding request include the required permitting to bring forth a total cost proposal of $357,200 for considered funding at the October 2011 Town Meeting.

In-kind services relative to monitoring and oversight of the units are intended to be provided by the Town of Mashpee Department of Public Works.  Additional assistance would be provided by the Shellfish Constable, Harbormaster, and volunteers from the FSP and MEC.

In 2009, a diagnostic study was completed by AECOM.  Results of the study recommended artificial circulation as one of the most viable options for treatment of the pond.  The project proponent was requested to expand the scope of work and the budget to include stormwater mitigation as identified in the AECOM report.

Ms. Laurent explained the goal of the project is to improve water quality and minimize algae bloom in Santuit Pond, a 170-acre great pond listed on the Massachusetts List of Impaired Waters due to high nutrient levels and the abundance of noxious aquatic plants.

The project proposes to reduce algae growth with the use of artificial circulation.  The six circulator units would circulate air from the surface to the bottom of the pond to introduce oxygen throughout.  Ms. Laurent indicated that although circulation occurs naturally, it is not sufficient to replenish the oxygen throughout the pond depth.
The circulators are empowered by the sun and anchored in place by mooring blocks.  The anticipated life of a unit is 25 years.
Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

        DPW – Santuit Pond Restoration Project: (continued)

The installation of the circulator units is proposed for the spring of 2012.  With approved funding, permitting includes an Order of Conditions from the Mashpee Conservation and the issuance of a Chapter 91 permit from the Army Corps of Engineers since Santuit Pond is a great pond.  The project may also require a Water Quality Certificate from the Department of Environmental Protection.

The project request includes a service program for the circulator units for the first year.  This consists of semi-annual preventative maintenance and repairs by the manufacturer.  The Town of Mashpee through its DPW operational budget proposes to fund the manufacturers’ service program after the first year.

It was noted that a solar circulator known as the SolarBee was installed at Skinequit Pond in Harwich approximately three seasons ago.  It is the only solar circulator device on Cape Cod to date.

For informational purposes, the Committee reviewed the email submitted by Quan Tobey of Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe dated April 7, 2011 relative to the CPA application.  In Mr. Tobey’s opinion, the solar powered circulator units are a temporary “Band-Aid” type of solution to the problem.  As noted, while water quality has shown some improvement, the circulators are not completely effective.  Mr. Tobey indicated that he prefers the dredging option to maintain the pond as natural looking as possible.  Mr. Tobey indicated that although he would not support the application with a letter, the Tribe would not oppose the application for CPA funding.

In response, Ms. Laurent explained the solar circulators would not eliminate the phosphorus, but assist in addressing the algae problem which has worsened for the past several years.  It is hopeful the circulators will improve the water quality and recreational uses that have been hampered by the algae.

Discussion followed with respect to the options; equipment purchase vs. lease purchase and the potential to rent the solar circulators.  It was noted the lease purchase option and/or rental possibility is eligible for CPA funding.








Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

DPW – Santuit Pond Restoration Project: (continued)

The outright purchase of six circulators is $274,560.  Delivery and installation fees are expected to cost $38,298 to bring forth a total investment of $312,858.  Year 1 of factory maintenance is projected to cost $7821.

For 6 circulators in lease option 1, the monthly lease purchase cost for 5 years is $7091 with Zero down.  In option 2, the 3 year lease purchase cost with $100,000 down is $7345 monthly.  The monthly rental is $7155 and the factory delivery, installation and start-up cost is $38,298 for the rental of the units.

In the lease program, pricing is based on 5 years, 60 monthly payments, and a $0 down payment in lease option 1 and 3 years, 36 monthly payments in lease option 2.  The rental period shall be for one month and continue automatically until the longer of (a) 12 months, or (b) 90 days after written notice is received by SolarBee, Inc. from the renter to terminate the rental.  The rental cost may be adjusted periodically by SolarBee, Inc. and the renter may convert the rental to a purchase.  In the rental program, when a conversion to a purchase is made, 50% of the prior rents paid are applied to the purchase price, up to a maximum of 50% of the equipment purchase price.

The above referenced quotation was secured from SolarBee for informational purposes.  It was disclosed the Town would be required to use the bid process in standard procedure to procure a bid for the solar circulators.

In support of the project, the Shellfish Constable indicated the EOC voted in favor of this alternative for Santuit Pond.  Mr. York added the Town is working on a bylaw to limit the sale of fertilizer with phosphorus.  It was noted that 15% of the nitrogen load derives from the land, and the solution is to keep the phosphorus out of the sediment.  To aerate the water is standard procedure.   When asked how the Town would measure the success of the circulators, Mr. York made note of state of the art monitoring devices through the Town of Mashpee, the Wampanoag Tribe, and UMass Dartmouth, and with monthly testing and visual detection.  Mr. York added the Town of Harwich has seen results.

It was agreed it is important to educate the voters at Town Meeting if the project is supported by the Community Preservation Committee.  




Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011
        
                DPW – Santuit Pond Restoration Project: (continued)

Upon review, there were questions with respect to permitting requirements, and if the State would restrict the number of units proposed for the pond.   Safety was also a concern as was the recreational use of the pond and possible restriction with six circulators placed throughout.  On a positive note, if the project is approved, Mashpee may become a demonstration blueprint for other communities.

As it is important to inform the voters of the intended project prior to Town Meeting, the project if supported by the CPC would as a result of the timeline be bid prior to Town Meeting, and then subject to the approval of Town Meeting.

Mr. York added that Santuit Pond is the only Mashpee Pond in need of the circulators.  He reported the blue/green algae are very toxic and in his opinion, this is an urgent public health issue.

The Committee agreed to conduct a site visit to Harwich to review the operation of the SolarBee circulator.

Jim Perrine – The Community Builders – Discussion of Phase II, Mashpee Village Rehabilitation Project:

Jim Perrine of The Community Builders (TCB) updated the Committee on the Mashpee Village renovation project.  Mashpee Village is the largest affordable housing development on Cape Cod having 145 units of rental housing on 38 acres of property.

The Town of Mashpee through its Community Preservation Committee contributed funds to assist with the renovation of the facility in Phase 1 which was completed in 2009.  The property has been enhanced considerably in its appearance and general operation and also in the area of energy efficiency.

Mr. Perrine discussed plans for Phase II to complete the work on the multifamily buildings by adding new roofs, high efficiency gas fired furnaces, and interior renovations.  The project also involves a new wastewater treatment system, accessibility improvements, site work and landscaping.

To assist TCB in their application for funding to the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the Community Preservation Committee was requested to remit a letter of support for this project while inviting TCB to apply for CPA funding.  However, there is no guarantee such funds may be awarded.

Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

Jim Perrine – The Community Builders – Discussion of Phase II, Mashpee Village Rehabilitation Project: (continued)

To confirm to the requirements of obtaining tax credits, TCB announced they would be applying for $75,000 in CPA funding from the Town of Mashpee as a local match this fall for consideration at the May 2012 Town Meeting.  It was noted the application deadline is November 1, 2011 for the May 2012 Town Meeting.

It was agreed Mashpee Village is a project the CPA has supported in the past.  The Committee agreed to remit a letter of support to DHCD.

Motion made by Ms. Waygan to remit a letter of support to DHCD in support of Phase II improvements planned for the Mashpee Village, and invite The Community Builders to apply for CPA funding although there is no guarantee to commit the award of CPA funding at any funding round.
Motion seconded by Mr. Halpern.
VOTE:  Unanimous.  8-0.

Roll Call Vote:
        Mr. Taylor, yes         Mr. Halpern, yes
        Mr. Larkin, yes         Mr. Shaw, yes
        Mr. Lord, yes                   Mrs. Buschenfeldt, yes
        Ms. Waygan, yes         Mr. O’Hara, yes
        Opposed, none

OLD BUSINESS:

Approval of Invoices for Payment: None at this time.

NEW BUSINESS:

Town Meeting Warrant Article to Set Aside 10% Reserves for FY12:

The CPC Committee reviewed the annual Town Meeting Article proposed to set aside the reserves for fiscal year 2012.  The Committee voted as follows;






Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

NEW BUSINESS:

Town Meeting Warrant Article to Set Aside 10% Reserves for FY12: (continued)

The CPC Committee reviewed the annual Town Meeting Article proposed to set aside the reserves for fiscal year 2012.  The Committee voted as follows;

Motion made by Mr. Halpern;

To see if the Town will vote to appropriate and transfer, pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 44B, §6 to reserve from the FY2012 estimated Community Preservation revenues, the following amounts;
                $134,988.55             10% for Historic purposes
                $134,988.55             10% for Affordable Community Housing purposes
                $1,079,908.41           To the FY2012 Community Preservation Fund
                                        Budgeted Reserve as recommended by the Community
Preservation Committee, or take any other action related thereto.

                                Submitted by the Community Preservation Committee

This article seeks to set aside 10% of the estimated Community Preservation Funds for Historic Resources and Affordable Community Housing purposes.

Motion seconded by Mr. Larkin.
VOTE:  5-3.

Roll Call Vote:
        Mr. Taylor, yes         Mr. Halpern, yes
        Mr. Larkin, yes         Mr. Lord, yes
        Mr. Shaw, no                    Mrs. Buschenfeldt, no
        Ms. Waygan, no          Mr. O’Hara, yes
        Opposed, (3)






Community Preservation Committee
Minutes
May 3, 2011

COMMUNICATIONS & CORRESPONDENCE:

Town Meeting Update:

A brief discussion followed with respect to the results of the May 2011 Town Meeting.  It was agreed the Pickerel Cove Recreation Area applicant will be invited to apply to the CPC for funding at the May 2012 Town Meeting.
Applicants will be encouraged prepare a Town Meeting presentation for their respective article if it is required.
NEXT SCHEDULED MEETING:
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
6:00 p.m. – Town Hall, Conference Room #3
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion made by Mr. Larkin to adjourn at 7:45 p.m.
Motion seconded by Mrs. Buschenfeldt.
VOTE:  Unanimous.  8-0.

Roll Call Vote:
        Mr. Taylor, yes         Mr. Halpern, yes
        Mr. Larkin, yes         Mr. Shaw, yes
        Mr. Lord, yes                   Mrs. Buschenfeldt, yes
        Ms. Waygan, yes         Mr. O’Hara, yes
        Opposed, none


                                        Respectfully submitted,


                                        Kathleen M. Soares
                                        CPC Committee Secretary