Open Space Commission
Minutes
13 April 2018
Members Present: Co-Chair Amanda Blair, Co-Chair Bill Dunbar, Secretary Peter Cable, Evan Griswold, Bruce Baratz
Members Absent: Gary Gregory, Greg Futoma
Also present: George James, representing Old Lyme Land Trust and Conservation Commission, Claudio Denoya, Representing Old Lyme Land Trust
Welcome/Introductions
Co-Chair Amanda Blair called the meeting to order at 9:03am and members introduced themselves
Approval of Minutes
A motion was made by Bruce Baratz, seconded by Co-Chair Bill Dunbar, to approve minutes from February 9, 2018 and March 9, 2018 minutes.
Executive Session
A motion was made by Peter Cable, seconded by Evan Griswold, to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing subject of property acquisition at 9:05am
A motion was made by Co-Chari Bill Dunbar, seconded by Peter Cable, to come out of Executive Session at 9:28am
New Business
- Diana Atwood Johnson Photo Contest
Amanda introduced the subject of a photo contest for Diana and a discussion ensued. Evan suggested a naming opportunity in lieu of photo contest as it would be more permanent. Amanda suggested a bench and expressed concern for renaming anything pre-existing. Evan expressed concern for long-term maintenance of a bench, Bill agreed, and in discussion it was proposed adding “Diana Atwood Johnson Preserve at” to Champlain North near Old Lyme Inn. Amanda said Diana’s history in Old Lyme began at Old Lyme Inn. Bill proposed a plaque and said he would inquire with a business in Old Saybrook. Amanda later acknowledged Bill would be away for a few weeks and because she’d like to present the plaque at the reception following Diana’s memorial service, June 1st, she agreed to make the inquiry
and proposed a budget of $300-$500.
A motion to purchase the plaque was made by Co-Chair Bill Dunbar, seconded by Peter Cable.
- School, OL Garden Club, CT Audubon contact
Amanda suggested the commission work to raise its profile by communicating with CT Audubon, the conservation contact at the school, OL Land Trust, and others to coordinate events and activities. She further stated Greg would do computer and web related updates. Evan mentioned coordination of trip with CT Audubon in May. Peter said he would coordinate with OL Art Academy regarding the placement/monitoring of boxes in late April. There was also mention of the upcoming Earth Day event hosted by Lyme Land Conservation Trust.
- Clearing of downed trees on Open Space land
Bill has spoken with Jason Wilcox of Wilcox Tree. Jason confirmed trail clearing work will begin next week. Bill will be away and Amanda agreed to be the contact person for the work as it carries on.
A letter received by the Caron family indicates their intention to gift $1,000 to the Commission. Previously, there had been a suggestion by the family of placing the back portion of their property off Shore Road along Threemile River under conservation easement. They later decided they’d continue to protect and maintain the land themselves.
Claudio Denoya, a member of the OL Land Trust, was introduced. Claudio presented documentation from CT Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) about the effects of drones used over open space and waterways and their impact on wildlife, specifically birds. He asked if it might be possible to prohibit the use of drones in such areas in Old Lyme. He mentioned how drones have previously interfered with swallows on Goose Island and a discussion ensued. Bill recounted a personal experience near his home where the use of drones was disruptive to ospreys in the area. Claudio stated CT DEEP currently has areas where drones are prohibited and he hoped Old Lyme would consider a similar ordinance. Claudio left the documentation with the Commission and stated he would also forward other reference materials by email to Peter. Peter proposed taking up issue for further discussion and Bill agreed. Amanda asked what parts of OL land falls under CT DEEP jurisdiction and
suggested they coordinate. She further suggested appointing a designated place for residents to use drones. Claudio said he would reach out to CT DEEP and Amanda suggested they could go together to meet.
George James, a member of the OL Land Trust and Conservation Commission was introduced. George presented a map of conservation easements. He suggested Open Space consider hiring someone to document violations on conservation land. George also presented photos detailing the damage caused by a beaver near 44 Whippoorwill. The resident of that address has contact the Selectman’s office and assistance was declined. Several members acknowledged awareness of other beavers in the area and expressed concern for potential damage. George referenced an issued in 2005 when a beaver created a dam flooding the road at a culvert. On that occasion, the CT DEEP relocated the beaver. The damage, however, wasn’t addressed and subsequent flooding has eroded the area. George said he previously built a
temporary bridge structure which has also eroded over time and asks that a better solution be considered. Lastly, George acknowledged another resident at 17 Boughton Road, Dave Bergren, has significant flooding at the front of his property. Amanda said she would follow up with Bonnie regarding this.
Other Business
- Letter from Resident, Mr. Hogg
Amanda shared a letter received from resident, Russell Fogg, which posed several questions to the Commission. The letter was passed around for all members to review. Peter asked about the cost of a potential footbridge in response to part of Mr. Fogg’s letter. It was agreed future discussion was needed.
Other
Amanda raised subject of plans at Greybill Property, an affordable housing development by Hope Housing, LLC planned at 16 Neck Road which would include 8 buildings and 26 units. There was some discussion and she said she would look into plans and report back.
Going Forward/Assignments
Amanda said Greg will take on quarterly newsletter and suggested occasions such as Earth Day and Trails Day should be highlighted.
Adjournment
A motion to adjourn was made by Peter Cable, seconded by Co-Chair Bill Dunbar, at 10:46am
Amy Jensen
Meeting Clerk
4/14/18
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