2007-12-06-CPC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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2006, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts declared the Norway Maple an invasive species due to its vast amount of seed and high capacity to overrun a forest. Questions: 1. David Kanter, Capital Expenditures Committee, asked why they are eligible for CPA funding. Betsey Weiss offered that Town Counsel was currently in the process of determining eligibility and there was no determination yet. Marilyn Fenollosa commented on the importance of understanding the definition of preservation, which could include the notion of invasive species harming other species. 2. Gloria Bloom, TMM, Precinct 4, asked what it would look like when done. Per Ann Senning the area will be replaced with native trees as well as erosion control trees, shrubs and grass. 3. Gerry Paul, TMM, Precinct 4, asked if the $9,850 covers the total cost of work. “Yes” is the answer due to the fact that the Tree Committee already completed an extensive inventory study and has a current landscape plan. 3. Hancock-Clarke House Restoration (Historical Society) $600,000 – presented by Susan Bennett Susan Bennett described the project as a complete restoration, starting next year, to address a multitude of issues - structural problems, building envelope, historic fabric, systems, fire suppression, wiring and accessibility. With an estimated cost of $1.3M, they are currently in the th bidding process with bids due by January 15. They are seeking CPC funds and other funding sources. To date, they have received $50,000 from the State of Massachusetts and have submitted a number of grant requests. Susan shared her disappointment to having recently learned that their project would not qualify for grant funding from two previously hopeful sources. While they wait to hear about other potential grant sources, in the spirit of full disclosure, Susan shared that they will receive $850,000 in proceeds from the sale of an old Mobil Oil Corporation weathervane (through an auction house). While this amount clearly exceeds the Historical Society’s expectations for what they had hoped to receive for this item, Susan was very clear to state that the Society is responsible for six properties in town and that they have a full agenda of financial obligations. Susan outlined priorities for the $850,000 as established by the Historical Society Board: (1) to purchase outright, silver from the Follen Church – to remain in public trust; (2) to use $200,000 toward the Hancock- Clarke House Restoration project; and (3) to create a fund for other future projects as needed for the physical assets for which they have stewardship. Susan reminded everyone that the Hancock-Clarke House is a National Historic Landmark and emphasized to the CPC that their support cannot be overstated. She also stated that the Historical Society is likely to develop a capital campaign around Patriot’s Day, to raise funds beyond any they receive from the CPA. Questions: 1. Alan Levine, TMM, Precinct 8 and Chair of the Appropriations Committee, sought clarification of funds. If the project cost is $1.3M and the CPC funds $600,000 and the Historical Society funds $200,000, where is the remaining money coming from? Susan Public Meeting 12.6.07 Minutes – FINAL 1.16.08 3