HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-06-18 Town Forest Committee Minutes � OFR
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Board - Committee - Commission - ¢ouncil: `
Town Forest Committee
Date: 2024-06-15 Time: 7�.00 PM
Building: ReadingTownHall Location: BergerRoom
Address: i6 Lowell Street
Purpose: Town Forest Management Session:
Attendees: Members - Present:
Tim Kirwan, Tom Gardiner, Jeff Lamson, Bill Sullivan, Bill Hughes, Nancy
Docktor
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Mike Kessman, DPW
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Nancy Docktor
Topics of Discussion:
Meeting was held in-person and by video conference
• Reviewed the recent at Friends and Family Day.
• Discussed Phase 4 of the dead tree removal program. A request for funding will be
presented to TM in November. The committee voted unanimously to request $150,000 for
dead tree removal and invasive plant control. Certified Forester Phil Benjamin has marked
trees in Area 5, 12, and 13 for cutting and removal. Removal will not be possible in Area 5
due to the lack of equipment access. Trees will be cut and left in contact with the ground,
which will help provide habitat.
. Discussed design, material and cost for Area 7 closure signage. The committee voted on
3/20/24 to authorize $300 for these signs, which was found to be inadequate. TFC voted
unanimously to authorize all remaining FY24 funds (approx. $700-800) for the purchase of
metal signs and posts which will be generic enough for future reuse.
• Continued discussion of a sign for the new parking lot.
• Discussed how to establish an annual budget to continue dead tree removal and invasive
plant control. SB liaison will be asked for guidance. Possible to bid a multi-year contract?
• The committee expressed its appreciation to Tom Gardiner who is stepping down after many
years of service to the committee and community.
. Discussed the three committee vacancies and the open Vice Chair position.
• Meeting minutes for the May TFC meeting were approved unanimously.
. Next meeting was scheduled for 7/16/24
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