BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE
Meeting – Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Chair – Marcia Lambert
Minutes
Present: Marcia Lambert, Mary Ellen Halliwell, Bev Moustakis, Maryanne Piechocki, Sandra Power, Judith Wolfe. Absent: Sara Fiore , Ellen Talkowsky,
Meeting was called to order at 7:35 P.M.
Review of Minutes of the Meeting of March 15, 2011. The minutes were approved following the correction of the spelling of the name of Thomson’s Nursery as it appeared in paragraph six of the minutes.
- Clean Sweep Green Salem - Review of the DAY. The event co sponsored with Salem Recycles was deemed a success. Discussion followed suggesting that additional efforts should be made to get the word out about the event before its scheduled date. The need for more supplies necessary to the cleanup such as rakes, brooms, collection bags, etc. was emphasized. Better communication between cleanup sites and central command was suggested. There had been suggestions to Committee members that the event should be held twice a year.
- Plant Sale- Review of the Day. Maryanne sent a “Thank you” letter to those who volunteered and helped with the plant sale. She reported that the event netted $1, 037.50. Several suggestions regarding procedures for 2012 event included: pricing plants before they offered for sale, and providing a place to store purchased plants. The need to announce the time for the drawing of lottery tickets was expressed. A suggestion was made that the sales include indoor hanging plants. It was also noted that the “annuals” did not do as well as perennials.
- Traffic Islands Update. Sandi reported on the status of the renewal of sponsorships of previously sponsored islands. Not all previous sponsors have responded.
A Motion was offered, seconded and passed that authorizes an expenditure of up to $300.00 in Committee funds to maintain the appearance of unsponsored islands.
It was suggested that the island at Vinnin Square should be “hardscaped” rather than planted. The issue of having Beautification Committee cards for members to be able to distribute to potential partners who would be involved with Committee projects was raised. Marcia will look into it.
- Lady of Salem Update. Mary Ellen reported that the project has two sponsors. One of the sponsors is looking for a designer. The designers will be paid for their work. Placement of the figures is an ongoing search. The mayor has sent a letter of introduction and support to some 1800 people. Ways to further introduce the project were discussed.
5. Active Duty Service Island. The selected site is the Mill Hill Island. Plans for planting the island were discussed together with the related cost plus the contribution the City has offered to make. The wording for the sign is being developed. Salem State has offered to clean the island up. Plans to provide water for the island by the city were noted.
6. Artist Row. Beverly noted that children from the Cyberspace program worked enthusiastically on cleaning Artist Row up. RCG provided a grant of $500.00 to cover the cost of flowers and hanging baskets.
New Business
1. Hanging Baskets. The idea of hanging baskets of flowers on various streets in the downtown area was raised . The idea was well received. Beverly had talked with the city of Danvers as to its experience with the need to water. She was told that watering three times a week was necessary and four times a week if it is really hot. The idea of hanging flags was also considered. Discussion is to be continued.
A Motion to Adjourn was offered, seconded and passed.
The meeting adjourned at 9:02 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Judith Wolfe
Next Meeting: June 28, 2011
Chairperson: Marcia Lambert
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