2014-11-06-CPC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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4.Lower Vine Brook Paved Recreation Path Reconstruction, $221,092 Ms. Mullins described this project which involved removing 4,600 feet of paved recreation path, regarding to correct drainage issues and repaving with macadam. She explained that the current eight foot wide path posed safety risks to the many who used it for walking, biking, running and cross country skiing. Ms. Mullins presented the Committee with an amended application, which included an updated project cost request. The Committee discussed the proposal, with members verifying the unsafe condition of the path, and questioning whether easements had been obtained in various locations. There was a discussion of the projects classification as an open space or recreation project. It was generally agreed that the project fell under the category of recreation, specifically as a restoration/rehabilitation project. Sandy Shaw expressed concern that the project would be interpreted as a Recreation Department submittal and might give the impression that Recreation is getting the lions share of CPA funds. She noted that the Recreation Department prioritizes projects according to its 5-Year Capital Plan. This conservation- sponsored project, she added, was not on the Plan. At David Kanters suggestion, the CPC discussed whether this project should be fully funded in FY16, rather than in FY16 and FY17. Mr. Kanter argued that it made no sense to separate the funding irrespective of whether it took two seasons to complete the work. The CPC discussed this alternative in light of the other FY16 claims against the CPF and requested Ms. Mullins to submit the project as a single request. After a duly stated and seconded motion, the Committee voted (7-0-2) in a straw vote to support the Lower Vine Brook Paved Path Reconstruction at the combined FY16 and FY17 cost of $369,813. The CPC will rely on Town Counsels opinion as to whether the project qualifies as an open space or recreation project. 5.Land Acquisition - Placeholder Ms.Mullins noted that there was a potential land acquisition presented to the CPC as a placeholder, but said she was unable to go into any detail about the project. 6.Photo for Town Report The CPC had its picture taken by David Tabling for the Town Report. 7.Needs Assessment Report Ms. Rice reported that she was compiling a draft of the Needs Assessment Report for review, and that she would distribute it for comment as soon as possible. The CPC decided upon a Public Hearing date of December 11, at 7:00 pm. It is anticipated that the hearing will be less than an hour. 8.Town Counsel Opinion on Project Eligibility The Committee asked Ms. Rice to send Mr. Batt, Town Counsel, the final list of project applications for his review and legal opinion. 2