Borough of Point Pleasant Beach Pleasant Beach Shade Tree Commission
March 1, 2021 – Minutes
Present: Anne Lightburn, Louise Stillufsen, Pete Ritchings, Dave Smith, Dennis Mallazzo, Mary Ellin Malazzo, Don Rodgers and Councilwoman Caryn Byrnes
Guest; Clem Bremer, MJ Gradel and John Meehan, JCP&L
Anne Lightburn called the ZOOM meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Anne welcomed John Meehan and guest MJ Gradel.
John Meehan presented First Energy’s free bare root saplings to municipalities in Monmouth and Ocean County. The trees will be native, of short statue suitable for planting under wires and available for Arbor Day celebrations. MJ Gradel brought up the fact that trees, not necessarily bare root, should be planted in front of the JCP&L offices on New Jersey Ave. to have them blend in better with the adjacent residential properties and screen the yard and concertina wire visible from the street. The commission discussed possible borough locations including Newark Ave. Park, along the RR tracks at borough hall and Lake of the Lillies. Louise brought up holding a giveaway program to tie into the planting of a memorial tree for Elaine Hennessy. John will be getting back to the commission with species for the commission to select desired quantities.
Louise volunteered to handle the free tree giveaway for Arbor Day. Peter Ritchings is working with Dan on the selection and location for Elaine’s memorial tree for Arbor Day. MJ Gradel will be working with John Meehan on ideas for getting trees planted at the JC&L offices.
Don and Dave reported on the Big Beautiful Tree response. So far there are four plantings scheduled for spring.
Anne reported that “Nominate Your Block” is getting lots of nominations. Because property owner’s positive response for planting street trees, the commission decided to only plant at those opting-in for a tree. Pete Ritchings will check East Street as a possible location. If meeting requirements, Anne will send property owners letters informing them of their block’s nomination and whether they want to opt-in or out of the program.
The commission voted to plant a Northern Red Oak at the Newark Ave. Park. Mary will contact the home owner on the decision to plant.
Caryn Byrnes will be contacting DPW regarding a pruning workshop for employees. Pete will be contacting Bill Brash regarding school programs on behalf of the Environmental Commission.
The commission discussed the desirability of planting along the RR tracks at borough hall. Anne will send the proposal that was not adopted by the council several years ago for discussion at the April commission meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 8:28 pm
