Beautification Committee Minutes
March 19, 2021
The Zoom meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM by Committee Chair, Mary Steiner.
The following members were in attendance: Joan Davis-Crowe, Maryann Ellsworth, Dorothy Hadley, Mary Hoffman, Karin Magala, Jeanine Mastrokalos, MJ Mitchell, Gary Mecca, Penny Mecca, Barbara Palombo, Robyn Palang, Sandy Pasola, Monica Post, Mary Lynn Ritchings, Alan Steiner, Karen Testa, Moises Vasquez, Lou Vassalotti, Chesla Wechsler, , Committee Chair Mary Steiner, and Council Liaison Arlene Testa.
Upon motion by M J, with second by Chesla, the minutes of the February 23, 2021 meeting were unanimously approved as read.
Committee Chair Mary Steiner announced that Jacqui Glass had resigned. She thanked Barbara Palombo for putting Shamrock fabric around barrels. Fallon also thanked Barbara for her help with the Shamrock event. Mary reported that gift cards were sent to Sue Dietz, whose husband had passed, and Dave Cavagnaro for his many years of service. She also thanked all for her “Get Well” flowers.
Danielle volunteered to take over 3 of Jacqui’s barrels on Broadway. Monica and Karin Magala volunteered to help with the other 3.
Regarding the balance of winter activities, the garland needs to come down. Council Members Arlene, Caryn and Andy will spearhead but will need help. Arlene spoke with Caryn and they will coordinate with DPW Superintendent John Trout regarding the truck. Chairperson Mary added that John can also provide the bags needed for garland storage.
Mary Lynn presented update on self watering planters. Applied for Fisher Family grant and was approved. Planters will be shipped April 5th and she has coordinated with Administrator Riehl and DPW Superintendent Trout about storing them for 4-5 weeks. Barrels have been marked for disposal as some will be retained. Trees in non-downtown barrels will remain. Should those trees need replacing, it should be done from downtown barrels as they will be disposed of. Barrels can be kept by cat trailers. Gary added that the soil from the barrels is depleted and not worth saving. Each new planter holds 15 gallons of water. Help will be needed to deliver planters and potting mix to their designated areas. Need more than one pick-up truck. Robyn volunteered another truck and Gary will arrange to get truck for Friday and Saturday. Chairperson Mary added that the planter flowers will be delivered after Mother’s Day. It was decided to place and fill planters on May 15th. Mary Lynn will coordinate and Arlene will touch base with her. Mary Lynn will speak with John Trout regarding how to remove the barrels that are being kept. Chairperson Mary Steiner will coordinate delivery of flowers and speak to Sue Dietz about taking delivery.
Chairperson Mary Steiner reported that the little flags are ready to go on the poles downtown and will not interfere with the banners. She asked if Maryann’s grandsons will be able to help (yes). Gary offered to coordinate with Andy using the town’s bucket truck.
Public participation was opened and closed with no member of the public participating.
Chesla asked what it entailed to care for a barrel or garden and Mary Steiner explained about the planting, weeding, feeding and watering processes. Beautification will purchase two 100’ hoses for watering by War Memorial. Mary will stay in contact via email regarding ongoing projects.
Borough Hall is tentatively set to reopen to the public on April 20th.
Meeting adjourned at 7:52 pm upon motion by Alan and second by Maryann.
Respectfully Submitted,
Maryann Ellsworth
Borough of Point Pleasant Beach 

