Conservation Commission
Minutes of September 9, 2008
Vice Chairman Rich H. called the meeting to order at 8:05 am.
Present: Rich H., John L., Fred H., Sue E., Dana L., John C. and Don S. absent with notification, Joe C. absent Visitors: Ulla Hansen and Jack Quinn
Ulla explained her interest in conserving her piece of property on Bragdon Hill. She stated that a few years ago she came before the selectmen with a proposal of her donating her land for the right to live in her current home, which is part of the Poland Spring Health Institute, tax free. The board said it was not possible. She would still like to see if that is possible.
Ulla told the board that the Poland Spring Health Institute is in the process of dissolution and that another non-profit called “Omega Wellness” of Topsam is acquiring the property. She has discussed the issue with them and feels they would be interested. Ulla would like to be included as an associate member and would like to receive copies of the minutes. The board thought that John C. could look into the legality of the donation in lieu of taxes.
Jack Quinn attended and spoke about the land his family owns which abuts the Bragdon Hill road and town owned land. He said his daughters own the property but they have no plans to develop it and would be agreeable to some kind of easement.
Jack would like to be involved and receive minutes. The board again thought to ask John C. if he could get us a copy of a conservation easement.
Rich H. motion to approve the minutes of 8-13-08. Fred seconded. Vote unanimous.
Discussion followed about the Conservation Commission Forum in October. Sue felt it was important to appear before the Selectmen with our proposal so they would know what our long-range plans were for Bragdon Hill. The board agreed. Dana said he would put the Commission on the agenda for 9-16 and he would draft a letter to put into their packet.
Regarding the Community Day, Sue said she would sign the Commission up and request a location without wind, preferably with the school building at our back so displays would not blow over.
Associate members were discussed. Rich passed out a draft of associate member’s responsibilities. Students free, Corporations $30, Individual $10, family $20. Sue said she didn’t feel there should be a fee for those members. Dana and Rich felt there should be some charge, in the attempt to make our Commission financially neutral. Possibly have an annual meeting at which time the associate members would vote on the board officials (not the board electing the positions)
More discussion will follow at the next meeting.
Brief discussion about the Commission sending a letter to businesses asking for donations. To be continued.
Rich said he would like to work on grants. Dana said he has written many and would work with Rich on them.
Dana presented a draft budget for review and future discussion.
Professional Membership fees: $225, Symposiums (local) $300 To include advertising, refreshments, mailings and misc. expenses.
Seminar attend (in state) $200, Printing $100, Educational supplies $200,
Scholarships $0, Misc. 0$, Legal and Consulting fees $900
Total $2525. Budgets will be due by December 31.
John L. motion to adjourn, seconded by Fred.
Adjourned at 9:25 am.
Respectfully submitted
Sue Ellis
Member/Secretary
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