# open-space-committee — 9 documents, concatenated for reading and search # # This is a CONVENIENCE BUNDLE, not a source. Every document below is # published separately and byte-identically; cite the individual file, # whose path is given in each header, rather than this bundle. # Index of all boards: https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/minutes/INDEX.txt # The town's own scanned original is linked per document. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-08-20-agenda-3192.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-08-20 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-08-20-agenda-3192.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08202020-3192 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Brandon Kibbe 960 Massachusetts Avenue Bob Pease Lunenburg, MA 01462 Karin Menard 978-582-4147 extension 5 Paula Bertram Sarah Cammer Michael Toohill Lynne Man OPEN SPACE AD HOC COMMITTEE THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020 6:00 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over Lunenburg Public Access. The Town of Lunenburg, in response to the COVID-19 (Corona Virus) is currently following the guidance from the Lunenburg Board of Health, Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the CDC regarding the virus and steps communities can take to prevent the spread and all town facilities are open by appointment only, outside the open hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In accordance with the Governor’s Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G. L. c . 30A, § 20, all public meetings are being conducted remotely. This meeting will be broadcast live through local access cable, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be able to be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87279358680 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Meeting ID: Meeting ID: 872 7935 8680 If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. Welcome New Members 2. Review and Approve Minutes from 12/19/2019 3. Committee Administration 4. “General Municipal” Town-owned Property Disposition 5. Economic Development Committee Representation 6. 250 Howard Street- Discussion of Potential 61B Release 7. Bright Farms Access Request 8. Public Comment 9. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-08-20-minutes-3192.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-08-20 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-08-20-minutes-3192.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08202020-3192 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ===PAGE 2=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-09-22-agenda-3193.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-09-22 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-09-22-agenda-3193.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09222020-3193 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Brandon Kibbe 960 Massachusetts Avenue Bob Pease Lunenburg, MA 01462 Karin Menard 978-582-4147 extension 5 Paula Bertram Sarah Cammer Michael Toohill Lynne Man OPEN SPACE AD HOC COMMITTEE TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020 6:00 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over Lunenburg Public Access. The Town of Lunenburg, in response to the COVID-19 (Corona Virus) is currently following the guidance from the Lunenburg Board of Health, Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the CDC regarding the virus and steps communities can take to prevent the spread and all town facilities are open by appointment only, outside the open hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In accordance with the Governor’s Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G. L. c . 30A, § 20, all public meetings are being conducted remotely. This meeting will be broadcast live through local access cable, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be able to be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81533338479 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Meeting ID: 815 3333 8479 If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. Call to Order 2. Review and approve minutes from 8/20/2020 meeting 3. 250 Howard Street update and alternatives discussion with prospective buyers 4. 671 West Street parcel, other general municipal lands next steps 5. Bright Farms trail connection update 6. Call for Economic Development Committee nominations 7. Public Comment 8. REMINDER: Next meeting scheduled for 10/13/20, 6pm 9. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-09-22-minutes-3193.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-09-22 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-09-22-minutes-3193.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09222020-3193 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Open Space Minutes 9.22.2020 Page 1 of 3 Open Space Meeting Minutes September 22, 2020 Committee Members Present: Karin Menard, Paula Bertram, Brandon Kibbe, Mike Toohill, Sarah Cammer, Lynne Man, Bob Pease. 1. Call to Order - Meeting called to order by the Chairman at 6:03 p.m. Chairman read the notice regarding remote meetings which was included on the duly posted agenda. 2. Review and approve minutes from 8 /20 /2020 meeting - The minutes were unanimously accepted by roll call vote with the condition that the spelling of Lynne Man's name be corrected. 3. 250 Howard Street Update and Alternatives Discussion with Prospective Buyers - Previously the Open Space Committee had made a recommendation to the Board of Selectmen to exercise the Town's right of first refusal. Brandon Kibbe attended the Board of Selectmen meeting on 9/15/20 to discuss this property. At that time Cesira Newcomb and Joe Normandin, prospective owners, indicated they were amenable to a solution that would allow develo pment of the property and conveyance of a portion of the property to the Community. Brandon walked the property on Friday with the prospective owners. Records indicate that in 1833 the property was abandoned for agricultural use and became forested. Br andon shared a map with the Committee that included several possible property line delineations. If the Town were to acquire 100 feet from the Mulpus Brook, that would equate to 2.3 Acres, 200 feet would be 2.74 Acres and 250 ft would be 3.40 Acres. Follo wing discussion, Bob Pease made a motion to recommend to the Selectmen that they enter into an agreement with the prospective buyers to acquire by gift a portion of the property extending 200 feet beyond the Mulpus Brook. Paula Bertram seconded. Passed unanimously by roll call vote. The warrant for the special town meeting closes next week, therefore, a placeholder article for acquisition of this property has been placed on the warrant. In order to pass over the article an agreement with the prospective buyers must be reached as soon as possible. Bob Pease will reach out to the Town Manager and Town Counsel. Joe Normandin informed the Committee that they will have three of the bounds verified and develop an ANR plan. Granite markers are proposed to del ineate the property line following the gift of property to the Town. 4. 671 West Street Parcel - Other General Municipal Lands Next Steps – Committee received correspondence from the Town Manager regarding several parcels that abutters are interested in acquiring:  51 Parmenter Road: Corner lot about .3 acres that has access to Lake Shirley.  247 Highland Street Rear: 3.7 acres that was taken through tax title. A resident on Chestnut Street inquired about purchasing this property.  860 Reservoir Road: A n abutter inquired about purchasing this 6.7 acre parcel. This parcel was taken through tax title  690 Goodrich Street Rear: An abutter would like to purchase. This is a 3.7 acre parcel that was taken through tax title.  671 West Street: An abutter wishes to purchase a 100 x 150 foot section of this large parcel. The town voted many years ago to sell off pieces of this large parcel to make it more uniform. Bob Pease informed the Committee that the Conservation Committee would like to see two parcels ===PAGE 2=== Open Space Minutes 9.22.2020 Page 2 of 3 conveyed to the Conservation Commission; 111 Mulpus Road Rear which is a 6 acre landlocked parcel abutting conservation land and 970 NW Townsend Road Rear a 3.2 acre landlocked parcel surrounded by 166 acres of conservation land. Committee reviewed parcel s. Bob Pease made a motion to recommend that the Board of Selectmen convey said parcels, Lynne Man seconded. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote. The Committee reviewed the 671 West Street parcel request by an abutter for conveyance of 100 x 150 foot portion of the parcel, this conveyance would not affect frontage. Bob Pease noted that the Conservation Commission is interested in the remainder of the parcel. Brandon informed the Committee that there is an article that was voted several years ago to allow the Selectmen to convey portions of this parcel. Paula Bertram suggested that the Open Space Committee obtain a copy of the article. Lynne asked how land becomes “general municipal land”. Brandon explained that the bulk of the property is obtained through nonpayment of taxes, the 671 West Street parcel was purchased by the Town for a school which was never built. The Town has conveyed small portions of this parcel in the past. Bob Pease noted that it is not uncommon for abutters to come forward and the Town Manager forwards such requests to the Open Space Committee, Conservation and Parks for their recommendation. Dave Passios noted that the Highland Street property may allow access to other conservation land. Sarah Cammer commented that while it is key to preserve existing conservation land it is also important that we consider other areas of Town that do not have conservation land/open space. The general consensus of the committee was that we need to take a comprehensive look at land classified as “General Municipal Land (teal colored parcels in the Open Space Plan) and define a process to determine what land should be retained by the Town and what land could potentially be conveyed. Therefore, the consensus of the group was to a ct on the 671 West Street request but to delay action on others until such time as a process for such requests is developed. Bob Pease made a motion to recommend to the Board of Selectmen to convey the 100 x 150 foot portion of the parcel to the abutter a nd defer action on the other requests. Karin Menard seconded. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote. Bob Pease made a motion to recommend to the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board that they empower the Open Space Committee to work with var ious departments to examine all undesignated municipal lands in in order to make recommendations on their potential use or possible conveyance. Paula Bertram seconded. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote. Paula Bertram commented that she would l ike to visit the various parcels, other members agreed . Sarah Cammer noted that there is an undesignated parcel on Fairview Road that connects to 408 Lancaster which could offer access to the Catacunemaug Brook. Brandon noted that parcels that are owned by the Town can be visited, just inform neighbors/abutters if questioned that you are on the Open Space Committee reviewing Town owned land. Bob Pease left the meeting at 7:00 p.m. At the October meeting the Committee will review the list of undesigna ted municipal land and then extend an invitation to other Boards to discuss. ===PAGE 3=== Open Space Minutes 9.22.2020 Page 3 of 3 5. Bright Farms Connection Update – Brandon informed the Committee that he had walked the property with the developers representative and they are amenable to allowing continued trail access via conveyance of a portion of the parcel to the Town. The northeast corner of the parcel would allow connection of the Raino and Saliba conservation parcels via an existing skid path. Karin Menard made a motion that the Town Boards see acquisition of the northeast corner of the land by gift to provide connectivity between the Raino and Saliba parcels. Paula seconded. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote. 6. Call for Economic Development Committee Nominations – Lynne Man indicated she may have someone who would be interested in serving, she will reach out to them. Karin Menard indicated she may consider participating if we are unable to find another volunteer. Paula Bertram w ill send out the charge to Lynn and Karin. 7. Public Comment – Dave Passios informed the Committee that over the Fall/Winter the Parks Commission will be working on development of a master plan for Marshall Park. They plan on investigating grant opportunities and reaching out to the community. Brandon noted a couple of grant opportunities that may be of interested the PARC Grant, a 2 year grant, the 1st year devoted to planning and the second to implementation and the Fields Pond Grant. Members of the Comm ittee offered their assistance in putting together grant applications. Dave also stated that the Parks Commission will be investigating the possibility of community gardens. Sarah Cammer suggested the Town investigate grant opportunities for sidewalks. Paula noted that there are grant opportunities that may be available through MRPC for assistance with sidewalks. The next meeting of the Open Space Committee is scheduled for 10/13/20 at 6:00 p.m. (May change based on availability of Zoom license). At 7:32 p.m. Karin Menard made a motion to adjourn. Paula Bertram seconded. Motion passed unanimously by roll call vote. Respectfully submitted, Paula Bertram ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-10-13-agenda-3194.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-10-13 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-10-13-agenda-3194.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10132020-3194 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Brandon Kibbe, Chair 960 Massachusetts Avenue Paula Bertram, Vice Chair Lunenburg, MA 01462 Bob Pease 978-582-4147 extension 5 Karin Menard Sarah Cammer Michael Toohill Lynne Man OPEN SPACE AD HOC COMMITTEE TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2020 6:00 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over Lunenburg Public Access. The Town of Lunenburg, in response to the COVID-19 (Corona Virus) is currently following the guidance from the Lunenburg Board of Health, Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the CDC regarding the virus and steps communities can take to prevent the spread and all town facilities are open by appointment only, outside the open hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In accordance with the Governor’s Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G. L. c . 30A, § 20, all public meetings are being conducted remotely. This meeting will be broadcast live through local access cable, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be able to be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85154552907 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter Meeting ID: 85154552907 If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. Call to Order 2. Review/ Approve 09.22.2020 Minutes 3. Reschedule 11.17.2020 Committee Meeting due to conflict with Special Town Meeting 4. Old Stagecoach Road/ Table Rock Conservation Area Access 5. Marshall Park Master Planning – general discussion regarding PARC Grant timelines, Committee support for Parks Commission 6. Update on 250 Howard Street 7. Update on General Municipal properties planning. Specific update on 671 West Street, 111 Mulpus Road Rear, 970 New West Townsend Road Rear 8. Review Chapter 61A Withdrawal Notice, 360 Flat Hill Road . VOTE recommend ation to Planning/Select Boards 9. Public Comment 10. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-11-24-agenda-3195.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-11-24 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-11-24-agenda-3195.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11242020-3195 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Brandon Kibbe, Chair 960 Massachusetts Avenue Paula Bertram, Vice Chair Lunenburg, MA 01462 Bob Pease 978-582-4147 extension 5 Karin Menard Sarah Cammer Michael Toohill Lynne Man OPEN SPACE AD HOC COMMITTEE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2020 6:00 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over Lunenburg Public Access. The Town of Lunenburg, in response to the COVID-19 (Corona Virus) is currently following the guidance from the Lunenburg Board of Health, Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the CDC regarding the virus and steps communities can take to prevent the spread and all town facilities are open by appointment only, outside the open hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In accordance with the Governor’s Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G. L. c . 30A, § 20, all public meetings are being conducted remotely. This meeting will be broadcast live through local access cable, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be able to be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87983748196 from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter Meeting ID: 87983748196. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e -mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. Call to Order 2. Review/ Approve 10/13/2020 Minutes 3. Discussion with Nashua River Watershed Association re garding USDA Forest Legacy Program, possible regional application, ways Lunenburg can be involved 4. Adding layers to the CAI AxisGIS website, including a trails layer and a Town properties layer 5. Revision of Conservation Commission land use policy 6. Continuation of discussion regarding 360 Flat Hill Road Chapter 61A Withdrawal Notice ; vote on recommendation to the Select Board 7. Review updated Town -owned property list. Discuss prioritization for general municipal properties and proposed next steps 8. Public Comment 9. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-11-24-minutes-3195.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-11-24 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-11-24-minutes-3195.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11242020-3195 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Brandon Kibbe, Chair 960 Massachusetts Avenue Paula Bertram, Vice Chair Lunenburg, MA 01462 Bob Pease 978-582-4147 extension 5 Karin Menard Sarah Cammer Michael Toohill Lynne Man Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Minutes November 24, 2020 The Committee met via Zoom as scheduled with the following members present: Karin Menard, Bob Pease, Lynne Man, Mike Toohill, Brandon Kibbe and Paula Bertram. 1. Call to Order - Chairman opened the meeting at 6:03 and read the pandemic notice as posted on the agenda. 2. Review/Approve 10/13/2020 Minutes – Bob Pease made a motion to approve the minutes of 10/13/2020, seconded by Lynne Man. Approved unanimously by roll call vote. 3. Discussion with Nashua River Watershed Associated regarding USDA Forest Legacy Program, possible regional Application, ways Lunenburg can be involved – Al Futterman of Nashua River Watershed and the Wild and Scenic River Stewardship Project explained the Forest Legacy Program to the Committee. The purpose of the Forest Legacy Program is to identify and conserve environmentally important forest areas that are threatened by conversion to non- forest uses. The program focuses on threatened unprotected land that is an important natural resource and has strategic value. Land can be sold outright or landowners can enter into a conservation restriction with a governmental agency. Lunenburg has several tributaries to the Nashua River and Al requested that the Open Space Committee provide a single point of contact to assist with development of priority properties in Lunenburg that may be well suited for the program. Al will provide additional written information about the program to the Committee. 4. Adding Layers to the CAI AxisGIS website, including a trails layer and a Town properties layer – Bob Pease informed the Committee that he is investigating adding a trails layer and possibly a town properties layer to the Town’s GIS system with the Assessors and the Land Use Director. Groton currently utilized Open Street Maps and MRPC is using Mr. Mapper. Chris Menard, resident, suggested that whatever is done should be compatible with other hiking apps such as Open Street Maps. 5. Revision of Conservation Commission land use policy – Bob Pease informed the Committee that the Conservation Commission will be holding a public forum on December 2nd to discuss the conservation land use policy. Items to be discussed include hunting, snowmobile use and trail maintenance permission. The agenda will be posted and residents are encouraged to participate remotely. ===PAGE 2=== 6. Continuation of discussion regarding 360 Flat Hill Road Chapter 61A Withdrawal Notice; vote on recommendation to the Select Board – Brandon relayed that he met with the Board of Selectmen a couple of weeks ago regarding this property and had conversations with several people in Town and there is a donor who is willing to make a sizable donation to protect this property, he has not heard from North County Land Trust. The property owner is unable to negotiate or discuss a lease back program as the property is under agreement and it would be breach in contract. Committee discussed the feasibility of working with North County Land Trust on this parcel; North County may be able to assist with bridging the financing, but we would need to locate a buyer for farming rights and possibly subdivide the property to assist with cost. It is not feasible to bring all the pieces together to acquire necessary funding and agreements to purchase this property and meet the legal timeline. Following discussion Paula Bertram made a motion to recommend to the Selectmen that the Town waive its right of first refusal, Mike Toohill seconded, passed unanimously by roll call vote. Paula asked that the Committee hold an information sharing session so that members can learn about the various programs and funding sources that may be available to protect desirable land in the future. 7. Review updated Town-owned property list. Discuss prioritization for general municipal properties and proposed next steps – Committee members identified several parcels for future discussion including Fire Road 12, 380 West Street, 1162 Mass Ave, 247 Highland, 690 Goodrich Read, 860 Leominster Road, Parmenter Road and 0 Flynn Road. Committee members will research these properties further and review other parcels under general municipal ownership for further discussion at the next meeting. 8. Public Comment –  Paula Bertram asked about the status of 250 Howard Street. Brandon responded that an agreement has been signed and that Special Town Meeting voted to approve the acquisition and passed over exercising its right of 1st refusal. The buyer is in the process of putting together an ANR plan for approval.  Chris Menard suggested that the Town needs to take a proactive approach to protecting desirable open space such as 360 Flat Hill and that creation of a special stabilization fund should be considered so that a funding source is available when property becomes available. Chris will offer the suggestion to the Finance Committee and Paula will relay to Capital Planning. 9. Adjourn – Paula Bertram made a motion to adjourn at 8:23 p.m., Lynne Man seconded. Voted unanimously by roll call vote. Respectfully submitted, Paula Bertram ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-12-15-agenda-3196.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-12-15 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-12-15-agenda-3196.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12152020-3196 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Brandon Kibbe, Chair 960 Massachusetts Avenue Paula Bertram, Vice Chair Lunenburg, MA 01462 Bob Pease 978-582-4147 extension 5 Karin Menard Sarah Cammer Michael Toohill Lynne Man OPEN SPACE AD HOC COMMITTEE TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2020 6:00 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast over Lunenburg Public Access. The Town of Lunenburg, in response to the COVID-19 (Corona Virus) is currently following the guidance from the Lunenburg Board of Health, Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the CDC regarding the virus and steps communities can take to prevent the spread and all town facilities are open by appointment only, outside the open hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In accordance with the Governor’s Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G. L. c . 30A, § 20, all public meetings are being conducted remotely. This meeting will be broadcast live through local access cable, on FacebookLive on the Public Access Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Lunenburg-Public-Access-Cable-157427270975305/) and will be able to be found on the LunenburgAccess YouTube channel within 24 hours after the meeting. The following information is also provided for members of the public that would like to participate in the meeting remotely: To Participate Remotely: From a computer, please use the link below to join the public meeting webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85993751395 from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475 -4499 and enter Meeting ID: 859 9375 1395. If you have not registered with Zoom you will be asked for your name and an e-mail address. Note: No participant ID is needed, just press # when asked. Telephone users may dial *9 to request to speak after joining the meeting. Computer and app users may use the “raise hand” feature to request to speak. 1. Call to Order 2. Review/ Approve 11/24/2020 Minutes 3. Review member recommendations for landowner outreach for potential inclusion in a Forest Legacy “aggregation” application as presented by Nashua River Watershed Association at 11/24/2020 meeting. 4. Continuation of Gene ral Municipal Land discussion regarding parcels of interest for potential designation for conservation, open space, or recreation purposes. 5. Questions about the Assessor’s database 6. Parks update on Marshall Park master planning (if available) 7. Conservation update on rules revisions (if available) 8. Set next meeting date 9. Public Comment 10. Adjourn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2020-12-15-minutes-3196.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2020-12-15 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2020-12-15-minutes-3196.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_12152020-3196 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Minutes December 15, 2020 The Committee met via Zoom as scheduled with the following members present: Karin Menard, Bob Pease, Lynne Man, Mike Toohill (Mike left the meeting at 7:00 p.m.), Brandon Kibbe and Paula Bertram (Paula joined the meeting at 6:34 p.m.). 1. Call to Order - - Chairman opened the meeting at 6:04 p.m. and read the pandemic notice as posted on the agenda. 2. Review/ Approve 11/24/2020 Minutes – Bob Pease made a motion to approve the minutes, Mike Toohill seconded. Brandon suggested a minor change in #3 (Discussion with Nashua River Watershed Associated regarding USDA Forest Legacy Program, possible regional Application, ways Lunenburg can be involved) in minutes; striking a non-profit trust to conservation restriction with a governmental agency. Bob Pease amended his motion, Mike Toohill accepted amendment. Voted unanimously (Paula did not vote as she had not yet joined) 3. Review member recommendations for landowner outreach for potential inclusion in a Forest Legacy “aggregation” application as presented by Nashua River Watershed Association at 11/24/2020 meeting – Al had emailed additional information about the program and requested a list of properties that may be appropriate for the participation in the program. Brandon had explained to Al that we would have to cultivate a list by talking to residents etc. Al is on a tight timeline to get the application in. Committee reviewed the land inventory overview map and discussed properties that are in Chapter Land aand might be potential candidates. Mike Toohill suggested that we could send a letter to landowners to find out if any are interested in participating in the forest legacy program. Bob Pease expressed concern about the bandwidth of the Committee to undertake this task, our goal this year is to review Town properties and taking on new projects may not be feasible at this time. Lynn asked what the advantage is to the Town to participate; Brandon responded that the Forest Legacy Program is a funding source for Conservation Land. After discussion it was the consensus of the Committee that at this point in time we do not have any identified projects to include in the aggregation project. Brandon will inform Al Futterman. Paula joined the meeting at 6:34 p.m. 4. Continuation of General Municipal Land discussion regarding parcels of interest for potential designation for conservation, open space, or recreation purposes – Bob Pease had developed a list of properties that might be of interest; he noted that there was a great list in the open space plan that Brandon developed. It had a lot of information regarding various parcels. Bob compared the list from the open space plan to the information we received in the list from the Assessors for 2020 to determine what parcels were new and what were no longer town owned and merged the two, he then removed land is that already Conservation or Parks and/or in active use by the community and came up with a list that he believes Open Space should be analyzing which will be forwarded to the ===PAGE 2=== Committee. Paula explained that many of the properties that currently identified as being in tax title have not yet been taken by the Town as it has not gone through the entire land court process. Brandon noted that the Committee had suggested that regular “education” item be included in future agendas and having someone provide an overview of the entire tax title process would be helpful. In the Open Space plan the need for “pocket parks” or community gardens is identified and some of the parcels currently in tax title might be ideal for that. Paula said she will reach out to the Tax Collector, Myleen Mallari, and see if she would be willing to provide an overview. At the last meeting the Committee had identified several properties that may be of interest including Fire Road 12, 380 West Street, 1162 Mass Ave, 247 Highland, 690 Goodrich Read, 860 Leominster Road, Parmenter Road and 0 Flynn Road. Lynn Man said that many of the properties that were identified in November do not appear to be Town owned or in Tax title currently. Brandon reviewed the original list within the Open Space Plan and 1162 Mass Ave was in tax title then but may have been redeemed, Fire Road 12 is not on the list either, Bob commented that it should be as Conservation is dealing with a town owned land issue in this area, he determined it is listed as owner unknown on the current list it is identified as 0 Lake Shirley. 51 Parmenter – Committee discussed potential use of this 0.31 acre parcel. Property slopes away from the road not particularly attractive from development but could be developed. An interesting access point to the lake for canoes and kayaks; but there is not sufficient room for a boat dock etc. Committee discussed parked, the property may be able to accommodate 3 or 4 cars and there is a potential for on street parking. Lynn noted that the area is very residential and parking off street may not be desirable to the residents. Brandon pointed out that this may be a controversial access site as it is residential, we would have to take a measured approach and would have to involve the neighbors. Bob commented that it may appropriate for this property to be under the jurisdiction of Parks, he suggested that the committee look at property identified as 0 Lake Shirley Reservoir which is 3.3 acres. 0 Lake Shirley Reservoir (off Fire Road 12) – This 3.3 acre property is located in area that is called stump cove. Although there is a portion of the property that accesses the lake apparently it is being utilized by the adjacent property owner. This may be the parcel that was gifted to the Community when Lunenburg took control of the Dam to provide public access. 0 Fire Road 12 – There are two parcels currently identified as 0 Flynn Road, a 0.04 parcel and one that is 0.48 acres. Karin noted that the 0.04 parcel may have been paved by a neighbor. This could serve as rooftop access to the lake (canoes/kayaks etc.). Paula noted you may be able to put parking of the larger parcel and walk to the small one for lake access. Brandon questioned if making a public area on a private road would require the Town to provide road maintenance. If we decide to pursue, we will need to check with Town Counsel. 860 Reservoir – This 6.7 acre parcel is also owned by the Town and in the vicinity of 0 Fire Road 12, there is also a smaller town property that abuts. Currently this parcel is identified on the Assessors list as Cemetery Department, but the CAI database indicates Board of Selectmen, Town of Lunenburg. Need to verify that the taking process for this parcel has been completed. This is a valuable piece of property that may be useful to the Community. It may provide parking access to the lake, however crossing the road may be dangerous. Brandon noted that the State of Massachusetts has an Office of Fishing and Boating Access and their entire purpose is to provide public access to bodies of water and they have a dedicated funding source. When they develop new access on bodies of water, they have a fleet of capabilities engineering, etc. and usually what they look for in return is that the Town manages ===PAGE 3=== the access point. We may want to engage the office of fishing and boating access about land on a large great pond that does not have any developed access. Brandon will provide contact information to Paula so that she can reach out. They would fund the development parking etc. For the next meeting, people should prioritize their parcels of interest. 5. Questions about the Assessor’s database – Bob noted that the properties that are currently listed as owner’s unknown do not have consistency in the ownership naming; he will be reaching out the assessors to determine why and if there is a difference in where the parcel may be in the taking process. 6. Parks update on Marshall Park master planning (if available) – Parks is moving slow in the process. Each Commissioner developed a “wish list” which was compiled by the Recreation Director in a prioritized list. Planning funding was requested from the Capital Plan to begin the design process. The Skate Park Group is coming to meet with the Parks Commission to talk about potentially moving the skate park project into Marshall Park. Brandon recommended that Karin get in touch with PARC Grant Coordinator for advice and networking. Liz Murphy who works in Planning in Fitchburg may also be a great resource. 7. Conservation update on rules revisions (if available) – Bob informed the Committee that the Conservation Commission had a public comment forum on possible changes. There was limited feedback on the majority of potential changes to the rules, other than on hunting. The opportunity for additional public input will be provided. Town Counsel had indicated the Commission does not have the ability to make regulations, but rather they adopt policies. Rich Bursch, Commissioner, has found the Conservation Commissions does have the ability to adopt regulations; further clarification from Town Counsel will be sought. Bob noted that the Commission is reviewing the policy for volunteer work on conservation land. Due to limited staff, volunteer labor is crucial. Bob pointed out that currently the only group that does trail work is the Lunenburg Snow Riders. 8. Set next meeting date – For the next four months we will be meeting the third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. (rather than 6:00). 9. Public Comment – Paula informed the Committee that at the last Capital Planning Committee she had relayed the comment from Chris Menard about creating a funding source for land acquisition. Members of the Committee were intrigued by the idea but had questions/concerns on how it could be implemented due to the funding mechanism and required action by Town Meeting. Town Manager is going to investigate further. Brandon mentioned that participated in the Community Preservation Act would be ideal. 10. Adjourn – Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. by unanimous roll call vote. Respectfully submitted, Paula Bertram