2011-09-13 CONCOM-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Minutes – Lexington Conservation Commission Land Management Subcommittee September 13, 2011 Commissioners present: Duke Bitsko, Phil Hamilton Others present: Members of the Advisory Group to the Subcommittee Steven Hilzenrath, Maria LoConte, and Fran Ludwig; Emily Schadler, Conservation Assistant Phil Hamilton opened the meeting at 9:05 am in The Ellen Stone Room, Cary Hall The Subcommittee and Advisory Committee members discussed next steps on signage, community education, and regulations for Willard’s Woods in regards to usage by dogs. Topics discussed included: Proposed Regulations: Several ideas for implementing the proposed regulations were discussed. These included: requiring a permit for off-leash dog walking at all times, and not just during weekends; letting dog owners apply for a permit at the same time that they apply for or renew their dog licenses; and having less controversial regulations (such as the requirement to carry a leash and a poop bag) go into effect before the more controversial ones (such as the “voice and sight control” regulation). There was discussion of the “in sight” requirement of the “voice and sight control” regulation. Signage: There was general agreement that the new signs should be simple, bold and graphics-heavy, and that the language should be courteous and friendly, but clear. There was general agreement that most of the current signs are too small or too wordy. The committee examined sign examples from Boulder and from the Trustees of Reservations. There was discussion, but no agreement, on whether several of the dog rules should be on one sign. It was suggested that signs could be placed along Brent Road, asking people with dogs to leash their dogs on leaving their cars, even though the Commission cannot require such. It was agreed that signs should include (1) a welcome message, (2) the regulations, (3) a statement that by entering WW, the user agrees to these rules and that failure to comply can lead to fines. It was also agreed that signs should be concentrated at entrances, but some reminders should be placed at points in the interior of WW; however, “sign pollution” is also a concern to some. Phil, Duke, and Emily agreed to work on some sample signs for the next meeting. The Advisory Committee agreed to make a site visit to WW at the next meeting, to develop its recommendation for the depth of the “on-leash zones” at each of the major entrances. Community Education: Page 1 of 2