Borough of Point Pleasant Beach Point Pleasant Beach Environmental Shade Tree Commission
September 1, 2022 Meeting Minutes
Meeting Attendees: Anne Lightburn, Dennis Mallazzo, Mary Ellin Mallazzo, Dave Smith, and Louise Stillufsen
Absent: Peter Renner, Pete Ritchings and Caryn Byrnes, liaison
Guest Attendance: Bill O’Shea and Mark O’Connell
Anne opened the meeting at 6:00 pm and welcomed Dennis back. The May and August meeting minutes were approved as submitted.
The Commission discussed candidates for the “Nominate Your Block” program. The approved the concept of black pines for yards for properties on the south side of the 100 block of Washington and red bud trees for the north side. Anne will be sending acceptance letters to 200 and 300 blocks of New York, 400 block of New Jersey, 600 block of Trenton, 100 block of Washington and East Street. Anne proposed trees for the JCP&L property on New York Ave. They will be sent a Big Beautiful Tree letter for trees on their property. Louise requested that the commission try to secure two cedars for Chef’s International that were not planted from the spring program. All agreed and Anne will check with Fernbrook if they are available..
Mark O’Connell, Garden Party Farms, shared his knowledge of the most commonly planted invasive plants by property owners. Mary Ellin and Louise will work with his list and expand as necessary on an article for the borough’s quarterly newsletter and the STC webpage
Mary Ellin reported that it is unlikely that the school will accept tree planting on the grounds at Antrim School. However, the Superintendent approved trees for the street tree planting strip along Chicago where ash trees had been removed this year. Bill O’Shea will evaluate the location and make a recommendation as to what to plant.
Anne reported that Pete Ritchings secured the OK for replacing the dying Oak at borough hall with the Salem Oak sapling. Dave recommended that the soil be tested. “Herbie” the heritage sapling was discussed for a fall planting at Lake of the Lillies.
The commission approved the tree tag sample submitted by Pete Ritchings and Bill O’Shea shared a sample tag from the NYC parks department. Anne will notify Pete to go ahead with securing and displaying tags n selected borough trees.
Anne reported that she has not received clarification from Caryn as to whether the borough has an ordinance for trees as it does unkempt yards. Anne reported on some preliminary research regarding other town’s requirements for street trees for new construction. Spring Lake and Manasquan do not have requirements. Manasquan does control street tree planting, selection and maintenance.
Meeting adjourned 6:58 pm.
