09/08/2022 CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes

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Mr. McManus explains his reasoning for concerns with both proposals at the spring Town meeting, noting the withdrawal request has been submitted. Mr. Lizardi-Rivera supports McManus's suggestions, citing concerns from construction/engineering/landscaping professionals and the public. • Update on Asst. Conservation Agent position—A candidate has been chosen, and the Commission will be informed accordingly. • General protocols for Executive Session criterion— The Town Council has given feedback on Executive Session criteria. They raised concerns about using Executive Sessions for discussing conflicts of interest, which isn't a criterion. If such discussions occur, it's advised to notify those involved to allow time for preparation. Additionally, it's suggested to revisit this discussion later. • Open Meeting Law Complaint Discussion—A complaint has been lodged against the Commission regarding a request for a roll call vote to discuss amendments to a proposed article for the Town Meeting Warrant. Following discussion, the Commission approved the discussion to proceed and aims to seek clarification from the Town Council. It's emphasized that there was no intention to endorse any vote or bypass public input, contrary to the complaint's allegations. The Commission will be briefed accordingly. Further deliberation among the Commissioners followed, with the Chair suggesting a motion to refer the matter to the Town Council. ■ Motion made by Mr. Weeden to remand the Open Meeting Law complaint to Town Council for review. Motion seconded by Ms. Clapprood. No further discussion. • ROLL CALL: Mr. O'Neil (Yes), Mr. Weeden (Yes), Ms. Clapprood (Yes), Mr. Dalton (Yes), Mr. Colombo (Yes) The motion passes unanimously. • Johns Pond and Santuit Pond Milfoil— The survey results are finished and will be shared with the Commissioners. Another survey is planned for winter. The Agent reports that Milfoil has been completely eradicated from John's Pond and plans to address the invasive species in Santuit Pond next. • Chop Chaque Bog— The project timeline, including plan updates and narratives, has been adjusted as it moves towards permitting and construction. The anticipated completion is Winter 2023. • Local Comprehensive Plan— The final stages are in process, and no further information has been provided. • Land Acquisition Sub-Committee—Mr. McManus details the intention for having a subcommittee. Ms. Copeland, Mr. O'Neil and Ms. Zollo have volunteered to join the subcommittee. PUBLIC COMMENT Mr. Fahad, a resident of Ashumet Road and a founding member of the Mashpee Community Garden Advisory Committee, seeks support from the Conservation Commission to become the volunteer Attaquin Area Land Steward. He has presented the Commission with completed projects in the area and his knowledge of local species. The proposal has been submitted to the Town Manager and DPW. 2