01/29/2024 ENVIRONMENTAL OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE Minutes

Home Browse Search

nuisance plant Elodea will also be treated due to its growth levels that are now becoming an issue within the pond. ■ Ashley also reported that the Town and Tribe plan on submit a grant under the Federal Clean Water Act—Section 319 for Santuit Pond Nutrient Inactivation. She explained that there are other non-Alum treatments out there that may be suitable for use pending state approval. Solitude Lake Management may be willing to partner with the Town and Tribe to conduct a pilot study using this less intrusive method (to shallow ponds) of nutrient inactivation. These treatments have already been approved in California and other parts of the county,but Massachusetts has yet to approve the product pending further analysis of its ecological effects. ■ Ashley updated the committee on received grants: Phase 3 of the Santuit Pond Stormwater Retrofit Designs through the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program (MVP) and Federal 604/b to enhance stormwater infrastructure at the Santuit Town Landing. Ashley explained there is a delay with receipt of funding through 604/b that is delaying the MVP project. This delay may cause some issues that may require a grant turn back. ➢ Committee Review: Review of EOC's Mission, Vision, and Values ■ Members of the EOC reviewed the drafted mission statement as drafted by the Chair David Weeden. Committee members made the following comments : o Section 1 bullet# 2: Recommended for deletion - o Section 1 bullet# 3: Add assess and ensure environmental policies o Section 2 bullet# 1:Delete"Latest scientific research" and replace with"Stay informed about local scientific research". Alex mentioned maybe adding "periodically inviting local professionals to future meetings". Keep informed about data, emerging trends, and local studies. o Paul fells like we need to be more involved with regulatory activates of various boards and committees,in particular Zoning Rules and Regulations.Maybe have members tend to a particular area of focus as far as regulations, and see how they fit with the Town's environmental initiatives. Paul wants to advise and elevate the issues we are seeing to the local regulatory boards and commissions operating within the Town. Paul would like to invite regulatory boards to the EOC for future discussions. Paul has particular concerns around sea-level rise and shoreline flooding and erosion. o Anne Malone would like to have the EOC be more involved with communications and engagement with the Towns people. Best Management Practices are needed to get the relevant information to the public.Decisions need to be made based on public knowledge and consideration of the data in front of us. She feels as though the Town is lacking in that regard.Ashley explained that the Town's website is very difficult to navigate and update for public viewing and user needs. Anne supplied a draft of her thoughts in relation to EOC mission and goals. Mission "To offer Mashpee a consolidated look at environmental issues in the Town and how/if/when they are being addressed." Goals: See below.