October 5, 2020

Pleasant Beach Shade Tree Commission

October 5th, 2020 – Minutes

 

Present:           Anne Lightburn, Louise Stillufsen, Dave Smith, Pete Ritchings and Council liaison Caryn Byrnes

 

Absent:            Peter Renner, Don Rodgers, and Elaine Hennessy

 

Anne Lightburn called the ZOOM meeting to order at 7:00 pm.  The September 7 meeting minutes were approved as submitted.  Anne reported that the landscape contractor for Lake of the Lillies will be doing some maintenance work on November 6th.  Anne asked for a volunteer to do an inventory prior to their coming so we can inform Chris Riehl of any missing trees.  Anne will ask Clem and Pete Ritchings said he could handle if Clem was unable.

 

There was a discussion on the placement of the Tree city USA sign.  Caryn Byrnes said she would identify a location suitable to the town.

 

Anne reminded people of the deadline for registering for the annual shade tree conference.  Pete Ritchings and Caryn expressed interest.

 

Pete Ritchings said he would submit an educational article to the Ocean Star regarding the benefits to wildlife for leaving leaves in planting beds over winter.

 

Dave Smith reposted on installing the tree guards on the 500 block of Arnold and by the bagel store on Richmond by Stop ‘n Shop.  Pete said to wait on additional guards until the new bike racks have been installed.  Anne sent the pictures Dave took to the Ocean Star

 

Pete Ritchings identified Bill Brash as a consultant to conduct a pruning workshop.  Pete will handle seeing up an outdoor workshop for the year.

 

Caryn Byrnes discussed a volunteer project call “Walk with Purpose” for October 17th.  Volunteers will meet up at the Gull Island Park and weed and pick up litter walking from the park, down Channel and Inlet Drives.

 

The commission voted to fund one tree, if funds are needed, at the Arnold Avenue firehouse planting strip to be landscaped by the Environmental Commission.

 

No action has been taken regarding 308 Niblick violation.  Anne is trying to get approval to view the property and the replacement trees cited by the property owner.

 

In light of the failure of the council to move the tree protection ordinance on development lots, it was recommended that the commission invite Planning Board and Board of Adjustment Chairs separately to a meeting to discuss our position and solicit their support when reviewing development proposals.   All agreed and Anne will invite for an upcoming meeting.

 

Meeting adjourned 8:01 pm