2018-02-08-TREE-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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discussion ensued with the outcome indicating that the Tree Committee should plan for the use of the Lexington Tree Fund (mitigation funds). 10. Dense housing development and its effect on surrounding tree loss (e.g. Grove Street). Report of Feb 2 meeting with Aaron HenYy. John, Gerry, and Nancy met with Aaron Henry(Director of Planning). There are two types of development: By-right and Special Permit. By-Right must meet all state/local zoning laws. The Planning Department enforces the Tree Bylaw (mitigation required for trees removed in the setbacks of individual lots) in these cases. Special Permits must be approved by the Planning Board which can waive certain zoning laws in exchange for a design which provides public benefit. For Special Permits, the practice of the Planning Department is to consider the development as a whole and not enforce the Tree Bylaw for individual lots but rather sets certain requirements for where trees can be removed and where they must be preserved. This usually results in fewer trees removed. Sub-divisions have to plant trees every 27'-35' in a new development that is adjacent to the road. 11. Discuss potential projects using the Mitigation Fund First Step: Agree on philosophy/guidelines. Subcommittee: Gerry. All Discussion ensued to brainstorm how to use/cost out a project by the Tree Committee - spending the funds in the mitigation budget, i.e. "beautification of the town". The revolving/mitigation funds can be used augmenting the usual street tree planting in a designed manner, including features in a design, possibly in a design by John Frey, Landscape Architect. Consider adding this to the TREE BYLAW when the time is done(prior to the next Town Meeting). See C(2) of Lexington Tree Manual(Mitigation Funds go into the Tree Fund). Also see page 41 regarding the regulations. The current limit is 45K. A project would include planting, watering, pruning, and pavement cutting where necessary. We understand that the state does not allow planting along state owned roads. Jim will inquire about exemption from this rule. We noted that further discussion will be required relative to how contractors are managed. We brainstormed some initial ideas which included: Planting along main streets Entrances to schools/playgrounds Planting on highly visible sites on public areas