February 5, 2024
DRAFT Minutes of the Forest and Parks Commission
Chelsea Town Library
Start time 6:10 pm
Present: Linda Kuban, John Latham, Jen Chase, Andrew Pomerantz, Susan Elder, Kate Willard. Absent: Robin Amber, Peter Amber, Terry Libby, John Upham, Kri Gale. Efforts to zoom call with Marty Gratz failed.
Discussion was held concerning the Commission being under same rules as Selectboard on open meeting laws, conflict of interest, officers, setting of meeting, notice, etc. which had been circulated electronically to the group prior. Prior minutes approved with no objection.
Elected: Jen Chase, Chair; Kate Willard, Vice Chair; Susan Elder, Secretary. Voted and approved by majority.
Review of Kate’s drafted Mission Statement. After revision, all approved for use and to be sent to Selectboard member Jesse Kay for insertion on Town website under newly created heading of Forests and Parks Commission.
Jen Chase created a google group email that will be sent to Jesse Kay for use on the town website for contact information for the group.
Susan Elder will send tonight’s draft minutes and member names to Jesse Kay for adding to Town’s website. Susan will draft paper meeting notices and place them in three places as per the open meeting laws.
A discussion was held concerning sub-groups. It was decided that none will be created at this time. Since the group consists of only a few members and with a large cross over of interests it was decided that once we get into specific projects we can then divide up as needed.
Susan read the email from VNRC concerning available resources.
Susan reported on efforts to gather information concerning a pollinator garden on one of the FEMA properties; FEMA restrictions, grant options and low costs flowering trees through the conservation district.
Andy suggested a walk through the town forest. He will organize and notify members of date and time.
The group reviewed on-line and paper maps to identify town properties.
Adjourn. End at 7:25 p.m.