Conservation Commission Meeting
Christ the King Church
July 2, 2008, 7:30 pm
Members: Ted Crosby (ex-officio representing Gateway Commission)
Eleanor Czarnowski
Taffy Holland
George James
Janice Kraus
David McCulloch
Agnes O’Connor
Tom Sherer
Attending: Eleanor Czarnowski, Taffy Holland, George James, Dave McCulloch, Agnes O’Connor, Tom Sherer
Visitor: Francine Gumkowski
1. Francine Gumkowski
Francine visited the meeting and was introduced as a potential new member. At the end of the meeting she said she will become a member of the commission.
2. Ammendment to Old Lyme Zoning Regulations
A hearing is scheduled for August 11th 7:30 PGN Library to discuss a proposed amendment to the Old Lyme zoning regulations. The amendment would allow a developer to build both detached and attached dwellings. The amendment would affect the development of the Tooker property – 257 acres with a current proposal of 83 houses.
David said this is the perfect opportunity to introduce some conservation practices, such as house orientations, use of solar, etc.
George proposed a joint meeting between this commission and Open Space at their next scheduled meeting - 8:30 AM on July 11th to discuss the development. He will try to get Smith to come.
(The meeting has been set up, and members have been notified.)
3. Tom Sherer’s Letter
David proposed passing Tom’s letter on green building techniques to Planning, telling them that this is what the Conservation Commission wants to see considered for all future construction in the town.
Tom will update the original letter.
Ellie suggested putting a letter in the Events quarterly. Taffy suggested adding the cost savings benefits. Commission members should send Tom suggestions and/or information he can use for the letter.
Ellie said maybe we should write to Planning telling them how many new houses are in the works.
4. Pesticides and Playing Fields
Agnes asked what pesticides are being used on the high school grounds. David mentioned Roundup, Merit, and Dylox. Agnes will try to get a group together to take some action. David will send Agnes the pesticide DVD, the list of pesticides and their health effects, and the name of a good speaker.
Several people mentioned the use of pesticides on the Town Woods fields. Center and Middle School children – the soccer teams in particular – are using these fields almost every day.
5. POCD Questionnaire
Ellie will write a letter with the Conservation Commission’s suggestions. She will include a copy of Old Saybrook’s Plan of Conservation Development (POCD) as a good example of what we recommend doing for our town.
6. AOB
Ellie handed out copies of the 1997 POCD Questionnaire
For the next Conservation Commission promotion, Ellie suggested making a shopping bag. She brought an example – a bag that folds into a small compartment so that it will fit into a pocket or purse.
Assignments
· Someone will attend the August 11th meeting to discuss the changes to the zoning regulations.
· George will invite Smith to a joint meeting of the Conservation Commission and Open Space at 8:30 AM on July 11th to discuss the Tooker property development.
· Tom will update the letter on green building - CC members should send him suggestions.
· Dave will send Agnes the pesticide DVD, list of pesticides and health problems, and the name of a good speaker.
· Ellie will write a letter with suggestions for the Questionnaire and a copy of the Old Saybrook POCD.
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