11/18/2020 MASHPEE COMMUNITY GARDEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE Minutes

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NEW BUSINESS: • Policy on out-of-town gardeners Ms. Scharfenberg thought it was important to have a policy stated regarding out-of-town gardeners. She spoke with other towns. Dennis only allows residents, Chatham allows residents and property owners, while Harwich allows both residents and non-residents. Harwich has over 100 plots and a lot of vacancies, so they are able to allow non-residents. Bill Nay said that given our size and that we currently have a waitlist, there is no rush to open to non-residents. Ms. Scharfenberg commented that perhaps we should not anyway. The garden is paid for with taxpayer dollars, it should just be open to Mashpee residents from that point of view. She just wants to have a policy in place in the event that someone asks about it. Ms. Harris said if we make changes to the renewal date, we should make this change at the same time. Ms. Scharfenberg reviewed some of the rules and regulations that should potentially be updated: #1 we should cross out the word "returning" #3 States plots should be cleared by November 1st each year. She suggested to extend that date as some are still gardening. Ms. Harris said if someone plans to renew the following year and over winter, they should turn in application and fee for renewal by November 1st. Ms. Scharfenberg will check with the town about collecting money in November. The plot size needs to be changed from 8x8 to 8x12. #11 States if there is no evidence that plot is being used by June 1st, it will be reassigned. Mr. Nay suggested extending that another week or so, as some people don't start planting until later. Ms. Scharfenberg said regarding the applications, it could be confusing to some because the dates all read "as of" 2018 or 2019, when things were last approved. Going forward she thinks they should have the current year printed on the applications. Ms. Harris suggested there be a rule that all liquids be removed from the shed. Ms. Scharfenberg said she would fit that in. Regarding a lock, Ms. Scharfenberg likes the idea of a combination padlock versus a key because no one needs to worry about losing keys. There should be a sign reminding people to make sure it is locked before they leave. Ms. Harris said there are two holes where a lock can fit, however, only one works. A lot of times people placed the lock in the wrong hole. She suggested placing a bolt in the ineffective hole. Ms. Scharfenberg said she will find out from the town about what changes they can make/if any need to be brought to the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Fand said he believes these types of changes fall under the purview of the Committee and that they do not need to go to the Board of Selectmen. Ms. Scharfenberg said she will double check just to be sure. 2