# open-space-committee — 13 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 : 2023-01-11-agenda-126.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-01-11 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-01-11-agenda-126.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01112023-126 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Matthew Allison, Planning Board Lunenburg, MA 01462 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Ana Lockwood, Parks Commission Brandon Kibbe, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, January 11, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/9091740347 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 9091740347 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. I. Call to Order II. Minutes: Review & Approve 9/8/22 III. Choose Committee Vice Chair and Clerk IV. Town Counsel Report on Title Examination for 0 Lake Shirley Reservoir (Reservoir Road) V. Discussion- Parmenter Road VI. Annual Town Report for Fiscal Year 2022 VII. Massachusetts Open Space Conference VIII. Open Space Plan 2019 – 2026 https://www.lunenburgma.gov/boards-commissions-committees/open-space-ad-hoc-committee IX. Call for proposals for the 2023 MassTrails Grants https://www.mass.gov/guides/masstrails-grants X. Committee Comments/Concerns XI. Public Comment XII. Meeting Schedule – 2/8/23 XIII. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-01-11-minutes-126.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-01-11 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-01-11-minutes-126.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_01112023-126 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, January 11, 2023 – 7:30 PM Minutes Members Present: Brandon Kibbe, Ana Lockwood, Michael Toohill (Chair), Eric Hinds, Matthew Allison 1. Chairman Toohill called meeting to order at 7:32pm. 2. Review and Approve Minutes, 9/8/22: Tabled, minutes not available. Lockwood to revisit meeting recording and provide minutes for next meeting. 3. Select Vice Chair and Clerk: Toohill explained roles, Vice Chair to run meetings in Chairman’s absence, Clerk to take minutes. Vice Chair: Lockwood, Clerk: Kibbe. Unanimously voted. 4. Report on Title Examination of 0 Lake Shirley Reservoir: Title report inconclusive. Toohill to follow up with Town Counsel to review title examination and discuss next steps. 5. Discussion-Parmenter Road: Lockwood presented Parks Commission interest in development of cartop access for canoes and kayaks at Parmenter Road property, currently owned as “general municipal” land by the Town; could be converted to care and control of the Parks Commission. Parks Commission would like Open Space Committee to provide advice and guidance on process to be led by Parks Commission. Kibbe inquired about process and timing for when care and control should be pursued, earlier or later in the process, while such a project is being evaluated. 6. Annual Town Report: Toohill will be filing FY’22 town report. 7. Notice of the MA Open Space Conference. Toohill reports that the Open Space Conference is coming up in February, he has participated in the past and found it to be very helpful, and recommends others attend if they can. 8. Open Space Plan 2019-2026: Toohill reports that a link to the open space committee website provided on agenda for public information and access to the Open Space Plan. https://www.lunenburgma.gov/boards-commissions-committees/open-space-ad-hoc- committee 9. MassTrails Grant: https://www.mass.gov/guides/masstrails-grants. Toohill announced availability of MassTrails Grant. Kibbe reports that the program is one that has been effectively used by the Conservation Commission, with support from the Lunenburg Snowriders, to accomplish many successful access improvements on Lunenburg Conservation Lands. Parks Commission could also utilize such grants for improvements at Northfield Park (former Saliba property on south side of Northfield Road), possibly collaborative project with Conservation Commission. Lockwood mentioned interest in trail development at Marshall Park down to pond, with ADA accommodations. 10. Committee Comments/Concerns: No comments 11. Public Comment: a. Joel Swenson – Neighbor. Was under impression of a boat ramp not cartop access at Parmenter Road, but now understands. Town lot is corner lot at intersection of 3 roads, two of which are dead ends and serves as school bus turn around. Atypical to allow on- street parking on an outside turn/corner lot. Does not agree that this is “perfect lot” ===PAGE 2=== based on grade, could be very difficult to meet ADA requirements and comply with Lunenburg Wetlands Bylaw. b. Mary Perkins – Neighbor. Asked about role of Parks Commission, which was answered by Lockwood. Concerned about trailer access, particularly for jetskis. Concerned about invasive species, public safety and sanitation, assurance that users are Lunenburg residents. Lockwood answered that these are exactly the types of questions we need to be identifying to see if a project can be designed. Ms. Perkins continued to describe work of Lake Shirley Association, and the association’s fundraising, to keep the lake beautiful. “Millionaires Cove” once choked with weeds, cleaned up by Lake Shirley Association. Toohill interjected to remind participants that the Open Space Committee only serves an advisory role and cannot make any decisions about the future of this property; the committee is very interested in understanding the public’s interests and concerns to inform its participation in the process. c. Tracy Casavecchia – Neighbor. Concerned about trailer access at Parmenter Road parcel and on-street parking hindering resident and emergency access to the residential area. d. Gary & Maureen Stint – Neighbor. Concerned about parking at Parmenter Road parcel that could encroach on neighboring properties, cause damage, limit access by residents to their properties. Supports posting no parking in areas to limit on-street parking. e. Karin Menard – Former Parks Commission chair and former member of Open Space Committee. Encourages the participation of the public with Parks Commission. Clarifying comments by Lockwood regarding previous comments mentioning trailers were not intended to infer boat ramp at Parmenter Road site, but that some users may bring their light craft to such a cartop access site on a trailer for their ease of loading and unloading boats to then be carried to and from launch. Asked about former grants written and received to support Saliba acquisition; Kibbe wrote and will share those applications, as well as review and advise on other grant applications being pursued by Parks Commission. f. Joel Swenson – Former owner adjoining parcel had fence on property and was asked to remove. Concern about town liability for injury if area is not improved. Encouraged town to consider existing cartop access point on Reservoir Road. Chairman Toohill reminded the group of the earlier conversation during this meeting about that parcel and title constraints. g. Mary Perkins – Asked about grants for invasive species and lake management. Kibbe recommended looking into the Massachusetts Coalition of Lakes and Ponds (COLAP). Lake Shirley Association likely members. Most expertise and best resource for lake associations. Perkins continued to ask about property on Hickory Hills recently bequeathed to Conservation Commission. h. Matthew Allison – Hickory Hills parcel not owned by the town; the Conservation Commission will be the beneficiary of proceeds from the sale. Clarified that care and control is approved by Town Meeting, confirmed by Kibbe. Supports idea of cartop access at Parmenter Road parcel. Supports limiting Parmenter Road parcel to cartop/hand-carry access. Could increase police patrols. Could issue town permits (like Town Beach). Planning process has a long way to go. ===PAGE 3=== i. Kibbe – Site and design limitations can limit the total access pressure on a cartop access at Parmenter Road. Small parking areas at conservation areas, for instance, similarly limited, do not have paid attendants or permits. j. Lockwood – Asked that this topic be on future agendas for the Open Space Committee to make a recommendation. 12. Next Meeting Scheduled: 2/8/2023 13. Kibbe motion, Allison Seconded. Unanimously voted. Meeting adjourned at 8:51pm. Respectfully submitted, Brandon Kibbe ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-02-08-agenda-127.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-02-08 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-02-08-agenda-127.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02082023-127 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Ana Lockwood, Vice Chair, Parks Commission Lunenburg, MA 01462 Brandon Kibbe, Clerk, Community Member Matthew Allison, Planning Board Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, February 8, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/7927370353 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 7927370353 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. I. Call to Order II. Minutes: Review & Approve 9/8/22 and 1/11/23 III. Massachusetts Open Space Conference (2/9, 2/16, 2/23 – Noon to 1:30) IV. Follow-up on Town Counsel Report on Title Examination for 0 Lake Shirley Reservoir (Reservoir Road) V. Discussion- Parmenter Road, Reservoir Road Parcels VI. Committee Comments/Concerns VII. Public Comment VIII. Meeting Schedule – 3/8/23 and 4/12/23 IX. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-02-08-minutes-127.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-02-08 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-02-08-minutes-127.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_02082023-127 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, February 8, 2023 – 7:30 PM Minutes Members Present: Brandon Kibbe (Clerk), Ana Lockwood (Vice Chair), Michael Toohill (Chair), Eric Hinds, Mary Wilson (joined @ 7:34) 1. Chairman Toohill called meeting to order at 7:31pm. 2. Review and Approve Minutes, 9/8/22 and 1/11/23: Minutes not available for 9/8/22, approval tabled. Lockwood moved, seconded by Hinds to approve minutes of 1/11/23; approved unanimously. 3. Open Space Conference: Toohill encouraged committee members to attend sessions in the next couple of weeks. 4. Report on Title Examination of 0 Lake Shirley Reservoir: Toohill followed up with Town Counsel to review title examination and discuss next steps. 3 potential ways to clear title; Town Counsel to review options with Town Manager and Selectboard Chair. 5. Discussion-Parmenter Road and Reservoir Road Parcels: Toohill revisited Open Space Committee role as advisor to other town boards. For Parmenter Road parcel, as discussed at last meeting, should the town consider utilizing the Parmenter Road parcel for a car-top, hand-carry boating access to be held under the care and control of the parcel to be transferred to Parks Commission? Toohill presented a draft memo summarizing potential recommendations. Lockwood reported that she and Karin Menard (Parks Commission) discussed proposal with Police Chief. Discussed safety for non-motorized boating use of a lake with motorized access, which the Chief thought was generally accepted. Kibbe mentioned that limiting motorized access could inadvertently limit some car-top access (fishing john boats for example); Toohill rebutted that it is a slippery slope. Wilson suggested that not allowing trailered access may inadvertently limit car-top access by some users who need the trailer to accommodate their needs; hopes that Open Space Committee recommendation simply stick to recommendation regarding care and control. Bob Pease (Conservation Commission Chair) believes that decision on parking should be made by Parks and Rec, and that Open Space Committee should make its recommendations on parking/use to Parks and Rec for consideration if it takes care and control. a. Joel Swenson – Hears that committee’s power is limited to making recommendations. Opposes development of Parmenter property, recommends use of Reservoir Road parcel. Warns about ADA development requirements and costs. b. Mary Perkins – Shady Point owner offers an annual pass for $40 to launch there. Open to doing passes at the library like museums, etc. Parmenter Road parcel was purchased by the town to facilitate storm drain when Parmenter Road was laid out and built. Concerns about Whalom boat ramp usage, public vagrancy, afraid those types of concerns would happen on Parmenter Road parcel. Stump Cove (Reservoir Road) existing access already provides this type of access. c. Rich Pearson – Does not support development at Parmenter Road location. School bus turn around, on street parking would be a problem. d. Fionna & David King – Appreciates role of Open Space Committee. Strongly objects to Parmenter Road parcel for development for car top access. Traffic main concern, Shady ===PAGE 2=== Point already adds traffic to Reservoir Road. Narrow train overpass from the Shirley Road end, single lane. Large distribution center on Shirley Road will also be adding traffic. The town doesn’t contribute to the care of the lake. e. Virginia Wolfram – Traffic, narrow roads, pedestrian traffic, etc. all safety concerns. Urges committee to include the community concerns in its recommendations. Storm drain with 10-foot easement on either side severely limits the access at the shoreline. Understanding lot lines will be an important step before development can occur. Wetlands bylaws also will restrictive to development. Opposed to the use of the Parmenter Road parcel for cartop access. f. Lockwood clarified that Parks Commission did come to the Committee as suggested by B. Pease. Also clarified that all of the issues raised by the local residents are valid, and confirmed that all of those issues will need to be considered and addressed in the process. The town will not get a “free pass” with all rules and requirements. The Reservoir Road parcel also has its own challenges. g. Jerry Brown – the Parmenter Road parcel is very small and very tight for the type of access. h. Gary Spindt – “Extreme anxiety” about safety concerns, especially on-water safety for nonpowered boats due to powered boats. i. Joel Swenson – misnomer about stump cove, used to be called “lily land”; “coveted” access for small watercraft for fishing, wildlife viewing, etc. j. Virginia Wolfram – Shady Point provides public access with a $40 pass. The committee must consider safety/access of Parmenter Road parcel, not just because the parcel is available. k. Mary Perkins – likes it being called lily cove as destination for small watercraft rather than stump cove. l. Karin Menard – Member of Parks Commission. Lily cove (AKA stump cove) difficult to get into. Public body of water that does not have reasonable public access. Need to start somewhere to m. Committee Discussion: i. Mary Wilson believes that this committee should limit its actions to its powers, and would support recommending transfer of care and control of the parcel to Parks and Rec. ii. Eric Hinds concurs with M. Wilson, limit any recommendations on future use. iii. Ana Lockwood wishes to consider pursuing this option. State funded dam improvements in 1980’s included a provision for public access to Lake Shirley. This is a viable option for meeting this mandate. iv. Brandon Kibbe concurs with other committee members, with information about public comments forwarded to Parks and Rec. Questions whether care and control should be transferred before the site is adequately evaluated for the intended public access. Storm drain issue is very important and encourages Parks and Rec to discuss with DPW. v. Mike Toohill agrees with B. Kibbe, because transferring care and control to Parks and Rec will invoke Article 97 that will limit future uses (even if it isn’t developed for the use being discussed). Are there any “show stoppers” in terms ===PAGE 3=== of site constraints or other considerations? Is this the right time to make the recommendation? vi. B. Kibbe agreed that this might not be the right time. vii. A. Lockwood requested clarification on Article 97, provided by M. Toohill and B. Kibbe. viii. M. Toohill provided summary of wetlands restrictions, has consulted with Conservation Commission. Local 30-foot “no touch” zone regularly waived for residents on Lake Shirley. M. Toohill will draft letter to Town Manager and Board of Selectmen to summarize what the discussions have been. A. Lockwood will start investigating more answers on limitations, asks other committee members to outline the principle concerns. 6. Next meetings: March 8, 2023 and April 12, 2023 7. Committee Comments/Concerns: No comments 8. Lockwood motion, Wilson Seconded. Unanimously voted. Meeting adjourned at 9:04pm. Respectfully submitted, Brandon Kibbe ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-03-08-agenda-128.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-03-08 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-03-08-agenda-128.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03082023-128 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Ana Lockwood, Vice Chair, Parks Commission Lunenburg, MA 01462 Brandon Kibbe, Clerk, Community Member Matthew Allison, Planning Board Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, March 8, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/7927370353 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 7927370353 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. I. Call to Order II. Minutes: Review & Approve 9/8/22 and 2/8/23 III. Discussion – Parmenter Road, Reservoir Road parcels IV. Committee Comments/Concerns V. Public Comment VI. Meeting Schedule – 4/12/23 and 5/10/23 VII. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-04-12-agenda-129.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-04-12 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-04-12-agenda-129.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04122023-129 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Ana Lockwood, Vice Chair, Parks Commission Lunenburg, MA 01462 Brandon Kibbe, Clerk, Community Member Matthew Allison, Planning Board Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, April 12, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/7927370353 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 7927370353 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. I. Call to Order II. Minutes: Review & Approve 9/8/22 and 2/8/23 III. Discussion – Parmenter Road, Reservoir Road parcels IV. Committee Comments/Concerns V. Public Comment VI. Meeting Schedule – 5/10/23 VII. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-04-12-minutes-129.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-04-12 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-04-12-minutes-129.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04122023-129 ======================================================================================== Open Space MinutesApril 12, 2023 The Open Space Committee met remotely as posted. Following members were present: Michael Toohill, Ana Lockwood, Eric Hinds, and Mary Wilson I. The Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:32pm II. Minutes: Review & Approve 9/8/22 and 2/8/23 No vote could be taken on Meeting Minutes, as they have not yet been distributed. The Chairman will distribute to members via email afterwards. Mary Wilson volunteered to take Meeting Minutes for this evening. III. Discussion – Parmenter Road, Reservoir Road parcels The Chairman advocated a preference for the -0- Reservoir Rd over 51 Parmenter Rd. for public access. The Chairmen has met twice with Town Council & talked to the Town Manager. The town is still doing background research on the Reservoir Rd parcel and there are no updates on the research. The research has to do with clearing the title. The Chairman went on a site visit along with some neighbors, primarily at Parmenter Rd. Walked both parcels. The Chairman asked if attending members had done site walks on the parcels, and or, were familiar with the parcels. All attending members confirmed. The Chairman commented that the Reservoir Rd parcel holds a lot of promise: it is a large parcel, opportunity for many park spaces, enough space to afford the opportunity for picnic tables, minimal neighbor concerns, and a lot of lake cove frontage with would allow numerous opportunities for lake access. The Chairman is not as compelled by the opportunity of Parmenter for lake access. There are numerous challenges at Parmenter: relatively steep slope, at a difficult intersection, existing docks confining access, neighbor animosity. The Chairman acknowledge that there were 2 routes down the slope to the water. Ana Lockwood stated that she did not believe there was a reason to choose one over the other. Ana pointed out that the Parmenter parcel is town land and therefore accessible to the public now. People can go use that land now to access the lake, unless the town has reason to section-off access at that parcel. Sooner or later, people will begin to use that property. She recommended that it would be better for the town to have an access plan to ensure safe access for the public and reduce nuisance to neighbors. The alternative would be that people start using the land as-is, without parking controls, which would create a nuisance situation. Ana advocated that there are many good reasons for the town to have a strategy for the property vs allowing unmanaged usage. Ana recommends that we follow through with the process specific to Parmenter. Ana acknowledged that her other responsibilities as Parks Commission Chair and particularly the Marshall Park project have her bandwidth consumed for the next stretch of time. The Lake Shirley access is not her top priority, but she advocated that it stay on the list of routine topics. Mary Wilson commented that she also believed the desired outcome was not to choose one parcel over the other, but to construct an optimum strategy for both. The goal of the strategies was to reduce opportunities for chaos with public lake access and people just randomly parking. The Reservoir road parcel holds a lot of opportunity. It is a relatively large parcel. There is a lot of opportunity for parking and good lake access. The parcel is out of the way, so wouldn’t interfere with traffic. Maybe Parmenter might be a sooner access as the title is clear. If people just started accessing Parmenter and parking in that corner, it could quickly become a problem. Particularly that we may not be able to have clear title for the Reservoir Rd parcel immediately. The Chairman commented on the Reservoir Rd parcel is interesting due to the abutters. There is an abutter that has paved a couple of parking areas on the town land, across from his house. There is actually parking you can get maybe 5-6 cars in there with direct access down to the lake. The Chairman also stated that he is not recommending that we use that parking now. Between that and the old easement area, that runs around the corner away from the houses, there are a number of access areas with gentle slope. Not to say that Parmenter is not suitable, certainly it is much more clear where town ownership stands with regards to Parmenter than with Reservoir Rd right now. Ana Lockwood commented that the town carries a budget line item for Shirley Dam Maintenance. The Shirley residents that have commented on the public lake issue have noted that residents carry a big financial burden to maintain the lake and the town does not carry this financial burden. Ana has reviewed the budget and noticed that the town carries a Lake Shirley Dam Maintenance budget 2023 line item of $10000/annual. So the town does carry financial burden to maintain Lake Shirley. Ana stated that she did not believe everyone understands about this town budget support for Lake Shirley. Probably most residents are not aware of this. This budget for Lake Shirley Dam maintenance is very large compared to other town budget items. As example the Parks Budget is appx $35k for the maintenance of all Parks in town. The Chairman acknowledged that numerous residents have commented on the town not providing financial support for the lake, and that lake residents pay more in taxes. The Chairman acknowledged the town financial support for the lake and commented that all towns’ people pay the same tax rate. The lake residents do not have a higher tax rate. The lake residents pay more dollar amount in tax, as their properties are valued higher. These are not reasons that the town should not use town property. The Chairman noted that he observed what appears to be an encroachment on town land by an abutter. This neighbor has constructed a shed on this Reservoir Rd parcel. There is a town drain on that parcel, which may be the original reason for the purchase of the parcel. Ana also noticed the encroachment, and will talk to the town manager. Mary asked which organization is responsible for following up on encroachment issues, and was told by Ana and the Chairman that this is the responsibility of the town manager. The Chairman speculated that the encroachment was because the abutter did not realize that they were on town land. The shed is very close to the abutter’s house. Eric Hinds is interested that avenues be explored to enable the town to use these parcels, with appropriate planning, etc. No matter what is done, it will likely still cause some issues for neighbor creating complaints. Eric intends to take a longer walk on the Reservoir road parcel. IV. Committee Comments/Concerns 110 Burrage Potential Development (Chairman) The Chairman related information that a resident (77 Burrage) spoke to him regarding a concern for a proposed development on 110 Burrage. The resident identified that this historical usage for this parcel was a septic disposal area. It appears the parcel is no longer on the market, nor under consideration for development. The Chairman and Brandon Kibbe researched this to confirm, or dispute, the claim that the parcel, or portions of the parcel, are contaminated. The Chairman and Brandon confirmed historical septic disposal, buried hazardous waste drums (example Benzene, TCE etc), and all kinds of things. They found 4-5 release tracking numbers (RTNs, some closed and some open) on the Mass.gov EEA site regarding the hazardous substances. The Chairman noted that due to the hazardous dumping there he’s not incline to recommend purchase by the town, but commented perhaps some portions might be considered for a conservation easement or restrictions. The issue might be going away. The Chairman noted that wetlands from this parcel drain into Catacoonamug Brook, which drains into to Lake Shirley. Parks Commission (Ana Lockwood) Marshall Park Update – Parks Commissions is very excited that this is moving forward. They are kicking off the schematic phase this week, a site visit with the engineer and architect today. The goal is to have the Marshall Park Project fully funded by the 2024 Town Meeting, and able to break ground. The Parks Commission has good support from the Town Manager and Select Board. Hoping for substantial ARPA Funds & Grants are a potential opportunity of funding. The first applications will start going out this June-2023. It will be a multi-generational, multi-use project, with access to everyone that will be a great asset to the town. Conservation Commission (Mary Wilson) Conservation Meetings recently have only had 1 or 2 hearings each. Lunenburg Earth Days - collaborating with Parks (Ana Lockwood). Lunenburg Town wide Earth Days are a series of volunteer opportunities in Lunenburg throughout the month of April. Numerous town properties are benefiting from volunteers turning out to provide interest and labor sprucing up the parcels. There have already been approximately 130 Volunteer Man-Hours accumulated, and there are still 2 more weekends of project scheduled. The hope is that this becomes an Annual April Event. Ana added that this has been a great event. Open Space Committee Opening (Chairman) Still have an opening on the Open Space Committee for community member. Talent Bank forms have not yielded positive results. Mary Wilson volunteered to post the opportunity on FB, Stewards of Lunenburg Trails and misc Lunenburg FB pages. Meeting Mins distribution (Mary Wilson) The Chairman advised that the draft Meeting Minutes should be emailed to all committee members for review. V. Public Comment – N/A (no members of the public were present) VI. Meeting Schedule – 5/1 (Mike Toohill cannot attend, Ana Lockwood to Chair), June 14th (Mike Toohill cannot attend, Ana Lockwood to Chair) VII. Meeting Adjourned at 8:13 pm Motion by Mary Wilson, Second by Ana Lockwood, unanimous vote ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-10-agenda-130.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-05-10 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-05-10-agenda-130.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05102023-130 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Ana Lockwood, Vice Chair, Parks Commission Lunenburg, MA 01462 Brandon Kibbe, Clerk, Community Member Matthew Allison, Planning Board Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, May 10, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/7927370353 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 7927370353 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. I. Call to Order II. Minutes: Review & Approve- 9/8/22 2/8/23 4/12/23 III. 110 Burrage Street- Continued Discussion IV. Upcoming Town Master Plan Process V. Committee Comments/Concerns VI. Public Comment VII. Meeting Schedule: 6/14/23 7/12/23 VIII. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-05-10-minutes-130.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-05-10 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-05-10-minutes-130.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05102023-130 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, May 10, 2023 – 7:30 PM Minutes Members Present: Brandon Kibbe (Clerk), Ana Lockwood (Vice Chair), Eric Hinds, Matthew Allison, Mary Wilson. 1. Vice Chairman Lockwood called meeting to order at 7:30pm. 2. Review and Approve Minutes, 9/8/22, 2/8/23, 4/12/23: Kibbe moved as a slate, Wilson seconded. Approved unanimously. 3. 110 Burrage Street – Continued Discussion: Joined by Sharon Jordan, of 77 Burrage (across street from subject). Described contamination of industrial waste on subject. Forested, tributaries to the Catacoonamaug Brook. Owners want to develop the property for housing. Owner asking water district to extend water district to serve development (groundwater wells restricted). B. Kibbe recounted the open space criteria for consideration for acquisition, requiring 3 out of 6. The subject property may only meet 2 or 3. Lane and Saliba acquisitions each hit 5 out of 6; it may be difficult to get the limited resources of the town (money, volunteer effort). S. Jordan will provide a summary. M. Wilson confirmed that the property doesn’t meet the criteria. M. Allison asked about other sources of funding; B. Kibbe described several sources of grant funding and challenges surrounding those sources. 4. Upcoming Town Master Plan Process: M. Allison reports that master planning process will begin soon, 18-24 month process. $150k to hire 3 consultants. 10-year planning horizon, but will also look beyond. A. Lockwood praised the undertaking and encourages to make sure other town boards are made aware of the process and the ultimate plan. 5. Committee Comments/Concerns: M. Wilson gave update about Earth Days activities during month of April. Cleanups of parks, conservation lands, and library. Lots of outreach leading up to the efforts. 13 properties, 122 volunteers, 361 volunteer hours, more than $11,000 in benefit back to the community. B. Kibbe reminded the committee that these types of activities are important accomplishments to list in future updates to Open Space Plan. A. Lockwood reports that 50% design presentation on May 24th, final plan early June. Looking to submit PARC grant thereafter. Selectmen have approved utilizing ARPA funds towards renovations. 6. Public Comment: None. 7. Next meetings: June 14, 2023 and July 12, 2023 8. Allison motion, Wilson Seconded. Unanimously voted. Meeting adjourned at 8:16 pm. Respectfully submitted, Brandon Kibbe ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-06-14-agenda-125.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-06-14 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-06-14-agenda-125.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06142023-125 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Ana Lockwood, Vice Chair, Parks Commission Lunenburg, MA 01462 Brandon Kibbe, Clerk, Community Member Matthew Allison, Planning Board Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, June 14, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/7927370353 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 7927370353 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. I. Call to Order II. Minutes: Review & Approve- 5/10/23 III. Discussion: Parcel 4, Leominster Rd – see Notice of Intent to Convert to Residential Use; 0 Shirley Reservoir Lake, aka “Stump Road” and Parmenter Rd Parcels – Continued Discussion IV. Upcoming Town Master Plan Process V. Committee Comments/Concerns VI. Public Comment VII. Meeting Schedule: 7/12/23 8/9/23 VIII. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-07-12-agenda-391.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-07-12 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-07-12-agenda-391.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07122023-391 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Ana Lockwood, Vice Chair, Parks Commission Lunenburg, MA 01462 Brandon Kibbe, Clerk, Community Member Matthew Allison, Planning Board Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, July 12, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/9091740347 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 9091740347 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. I. Call to Order II. Minutes: Review & Approve- 5/10/23 III. Discussion: Parcel 4, Leominster Road – See Notice of Intent to Convert to Residential Use; 0 Shirley Reservoir Lake, aka “Stump Road” and Parmenter Rd Parcels – Continued Discussion IV. Committee Comments/Concerns V. Public Comment VI. Meeting Schedule: 8/9/23 9/13/23 VII. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-10-25-agenda-808.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-10-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-10-25-agenda-808.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10252023-808 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== TOWN OF LUNENBURG Michael Toohill, Chair, Community Member 960 Massachusetts Avenue Ana Lockwood, Vice Chair, Parks Commission Lunenburg, MA 01462 Brandon Kibbe, Clerk, Community Member Matthew Allison, Planning Board Tel: (978) 582-4147 ext 5 Mary Wilson, Conservation Commission Eric Hinds, Community Member Vacancy, Community Member NOTICE OF MEETING Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, October 25, 2023 – 7:30 PM AGENDA In accordance with the requirements of the Open Meeting Law, please be advised that this meeting is being recorded and broadcast live over the Lunenburg Public Access channel and 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/7663167607 or from a telephone, dial the toll free number (888) 475-4499 and enter Webinar ID: 7663167607 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. I. Call to Order II. Discussion: Parcel 4, Leominster Road – See Notice of Intent to Convert to Residential Use; 0 Shirley Reservoir Lake, aka “Stump Road” and Parmenter Rd Parcels – Continued Discussion III. Committee Comments/Concerns IV. Public Comment V. Meeting Schedule 11/08/2023 VI. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2023-10-25-minutes-808.txt BOARD : open-space-committee DATE : 2023-10-25 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/open-space-committee/2023-10-25-minutes-808.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10252023-808 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Open Space Ad Hoc Committee Wednesday, October 25, 2023 – 7:30 PM Minutes Members Present: Mike Toohill (Chair), Brandon Kibbe (Clerk), Ana Lockwood (Vice Chair), Mary Wilson, Matthew Allison (not participating due to technical issues), Eric Hinds. 1. Chairman Toohill called meeting to order at 7:32pm. 2. 0 Shirley Reservoir Lake (aka Stump Cove) and Parmenter Road – Continued Discussion: Report from Chair. Has visited both sites with M. Wilson, and several conversations with Town Counsel. Parmenter Road has clear title, and several encroachment issues. Numerous concerns raised by neighbors. Considered for hand-launch lake access. Some challenges with access; drainage easement, slopes. Stump cove parcel is larger, not good roadside parking. Several other good access points from elsewhere on the parcel, off fire road 12 there is an old road with access. Further down Fire Road 12 there is a small parking area built and used by an abutter where access could be gained. Town counsel is comfortable with town’s ownership of the parcel, without 100% clarity on title. B. Kibbe explained that, while pragmatically accurate, clarity of title could create a challenge for partnership with outside potential partners like state funding sources. A. Lockwood inquired about steps necessary to quiet title. M. Wilson supports care and control being conveyed to Parks Commission. Chairman suggests Open Space Committee make a recommendation to Selectboard. B. Kibbe motion: recommend Selectboard transfers care and control of 51 Parmenter Road Assessor Parcel 136-0006 and 0 Shirley Reservoir Lake Assessor Parcel 137-0012 to the Parks Commission, subject to Town Meeting Approval. Seconded by M. Wilson. Roll call vote. In favor: E. Hinds, B. Kibbe, A. Lockwood, M. Wilson, M. Toohill. M. Allison abstains due to technical difficulties. 3. Committee Comments/Concerns: Parcel 4 Leominster Road Chapter 61B Notice of Withdrawal, A. Lockwood shared plans regarding proposed development on the parcel into 5 lots, greater than the original plan, before planning board. Not yet in front of Conservation Commission. A. Lockwood made the case that acquisition criteria should be expanded. Town missed an opportunity to protect this important resource. M. Wilson provided updates on activities of conservation commission, busy season for routine committee work, volunteer activities, grant opportunities. Parks Commission has an article on Special Town Meeting regarding Marshall Park required by State Grant programs. 4. Public Comment: None. 5. Next meetings: December 13, 2023; January 10, 2024 6. B. Kibbe motion, M. Wilson Seconded. Unanimously voted. Meeting adjourned at 8:39 pm. Respectfully submitted, Brandon Kibbe