2023-01-12-TREE-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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5) 29 Barberry Rd Having been made aware by a neighbor of tree removals, Gerry Paul presented photos and video of large number of trees removed from 29 Barberry Rd, including approximately 10 6-8" hemlocks taken from the Right of Way. No hearing had been held, the trees had not been declared hazards, and there is no record of the Tree Warden visiting the site. The tree removal company has knowledge of the Bylaw and Chapter 87. Gerry indicated that he sent information about the site to the DPW for their action. To avoid situations like this, it was suggested that the new bylaw include permitting for tree companies. Information on this site was shared in anticipation of public questions being directed to the Tree Committee. 2) Dave Pinsonneault joined at 8:15 Draft of canopy assessment from University of Vermont has been received and UVM is "back on track." Final report is 2 weeks out. DPW will do a presentation to the Select Board. Dave stated that the data used is from 2021 with possibly as long as a 10-year history. Charlie Wyman suggested a public meeting at the library with Q&A; Dave P said he would consider a proposal to do that. Jim Wood initiated a discussion about the need irrigation for the plantings that will replace the removal of mature white pines at the tennis courts. Because tennis courts will be replaced, with associated reconstruction of the footpath, Dave P indicates the best option for watering new plantings will be to extend a line from public bathroom area and do a series of quick- coupling sprinklers opposite the path. He confirmed new trees are warrantied for 1 year. Gerry suggested using gator bags as a test case. Dave did not agree and will present research on these at next meeting. He also confirmed fencing will be erected to protect new plantings. Other discussions: •Dave will send list of replacement plant species for white pines site •Chris Filadoro is working on when tree inventory can be released to the public •Pruning of town trees is being added to the work plan this season per Dave •Nancy Sofen has communicated with Jessica from IT to implement improvements to current paper permitting and fee systems. In person meeting may be needed. •After review of tree removal request by Pam Lyons at 1684 Mass Ave, Dave indicated the DPW is not in favor of tree removal because of underground well structure. He also stated it is not feasible to transplant the tree within the new streetscape. Dave indicated that any request to move the tree would require the Chapter 87 process including a public hearing. 5) (cont.) It was pointed out that the developer did not follow the Bylaw because removals were done before a Tree Removal Permit was issued. We all agreed that the Bylaw should be enforced. 6) Tree Statement of Concern The Committee thanked Charlie Wyman for accomplishments to date regarding Lexington Tree Statement of Concern. To date there are 10 organizations and 436 individuals who have signed the statement. It was suggested that the Statement group present to the Planning Board jointly