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Town of Henniker, New Hampshire Conservation Commission 2006 Minutes HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of MeetingJanuary 4, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Hall Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Martha Sunderland, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Terry Stamps, and Dawn Nelson. Also present were: Donald Blanchard and Jon Louie Nicknair 1. Nicknair Wetlands Permit Application: Conservation Board Member Denise Rico recused herself from this discussion. Messrs Blanchard and Nicknair came to Conservation meeting to explain their reasoning for the driveway access concerns raised by members of the Commission. Martha Sunderland suggested that they amend existing permit to include configuration of home site and apply for all at the same time. It was also advised that in order to stay with existing permit that the square footage of wetland being filled remain under the 3000 sqft otherwise a different permit would be needed. 2. Review December 7th and 21st Minutes: Both items approved with minor revision. 3. Mail: The Commission received two letters with regard to the Buckley-Smith and Bucksmith, LLC Wetlands Permit, one from the Colby Hill Inn with their concerns dated 12/29/05 and another from Deb Krentzer with her concerns dated 12/28/05. Conservation Board Member Denise Rico recused herself from this discussion. Holly to draft letter to both abutters letting them know the Commission has reviewed their letters and finds the permit addresses their concerns, a copy will be sent to builder also. It was also suggested by Martha Sunderland that we write a similar letter to the Wetlands Bureau stating the Commission has no comments with a copy to the builder. 4. PB Report: Terry Stamps said there is nothing to report at this time. 5. January 3 Selectmen’s Meeting Report: Mark Mitch gave a brief synopsis of how they relayed the Commission’s position on the matter. 6. Submittal for Town Report: Deadline for submittal is January 20, 2006. Chairman Green will draft a letter for next meeting 7. Planning for February 21 hearing on LUCT Warrant article: Discussed ensued by Commission member with regard to the proposal of this warrant article. 8. Update on web page: Mark Mitch has contacted Russ with regard to this and will follow up with Peter. 9. Other Business: Chase Brook goes before Board of Selectmen again on the 17th. Copy of Letter received from DES to Triers re: Notice of Incomplete Application dated 12/28/05. Denise Rico to talk with Town Office about the logging job done on Gulf & Depot Hill Roads. Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Dawn Nelson HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of MeetingJanuary 18, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Hall Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Martha Sunderland, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, and Dawn Nelson. 1. Review January 4, 2006 Minutes: Approved with minor revision. 2. Mail: The Commission received the following items: - Budget Committee Meeting Minutes for January 10, 2006. - Assorted pamphlets on workshops and seminars - Chairman Holly Green received a copy of an email from Christine Bowman of the Wetlands Bureau asking Joseph Trier questions and making suggestions relative to the original driveway proposal in 1999 on Lot 577-X2. - Bennett/Brown Subdivision Planning Board application The proposal is for three lots; Lot 540-X9/10.48 acres; Lot 540-X9B/6.67 acres and Lot 540-X9A;5.40 acres. Commission members felt more detailed plans were needed before they could comment. - Glover Subdivision Planning Board application. The proposal is for three lots; Lot 399/24, 310 sq.ft.; Lot 399-A/30,810 sq.ft.;Lot 399-B/71,579 sq.ft. Commission members felt that more detailed plans were needed as it was difficult to distinguish where the wetlands are actually located. 3. Review Submittal for Town Report: Commission members reviewed the draft article Chairman Green put together and approved it with noted revisions. 4. Review Letters on Buckley-Smith and Bucksmith, LLC: Commission member Denise Rico recused herself from the discussion. Commission members reviewed draft letters Chairman Green drafted and approved them with noted revisions. 5. Nicknair Wetlands Permit Application: Commission member Denise recused herself from the discussion. Commission members Holly Green, Martha Sunderland and Dawn Nelson will visit site on January 21, 2006. Chairman Holly Green will call Jean Luis to notify him of our visit. 6. Jan 17 Selectmen’s Meeting Report: Nothing to report at this time. - Chase Brook Warrant Article: Martha Sunderland will provide warrant sample wording and give to Peter Flynn. 7. Planning for Feb 7 Budget Hearing and Feb 21 Hearing on Warrant Article: Tabled till next meeting. 8. Update on web page: Mark Mitch reported that everything is up-to-date with regard to minutes and agendas and that he also forwarded some general information on the Commission to Russ to incorporate on website as well. 9. Wetlands Permit Information Packets: Chairman Green handed out the latest “Permit By Notification” application forms to members of the Commission present. 10. Other Business: An inquiry was made with regard to a possible easement on Cote Hill and Western Ave. Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Dawn Nelson HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of MeetingFebruary 1, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Hall Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Martha Sunderland, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, and Dawn Nelson. 1. Review January 18, 2006 Minutes: Approved with minor revision. 2. Mail: The Commission received the following items: - Board of Selectmen Meeting Agenda for January 31st.. - Copy of “The Source” Winter 2006 newsletter - Martha Sunderland to respond to Marjory Swope to confirm the Commission would like to continue to receive Wetlands Bureau decision reports. 3. Bennett/Brown Subdivision Planning Board Application: Chairperson Holly Green to let Stephanie Alexander, Planning Consultant of the for the Town that we too think a site visit is in order and we’d like to accompany them. 4. Glover Subdivision Planning Board Application: Chairperson Holly Green to email Stephanie Alexander with the Commission recommendation that Lot#399-B can be built upon without filling in any of the wetlands and that the Commission doesn’t have any problem with Lot# 399A. 5. Nicknair Wetlands Permit Application: Commission member Denise recused herself from the discussion. Commission members Holly Green and Martha Sunderland visited site on January 21, 2006. After visiting the site, it was noted that buried utility line to be added to application. The sewer line will need a separate wetlands permit. The plans were given back to Jean Luis to make the changes and then to resubmit. 6. Conservation Subcommittee: Denise Rico has offered to draft a “mission statement”. Other suggestions made regarding were Committee membership, i.e. planning board member, real estate agent, lawyer and someone with knowledge of land conservation. 7. Planning for Feb 7 Budget Hearing and Feb 21 Hearing on Warrant Article: Tabled till next meeting. 8. Update on web page: Nothing to report at this time. 9. Other Business: Commission member Denise Rico has spoken with Stephanie Alexander and Scott Osgood about the possible ArcView system for digitizing the town tax map and suggested to them that whatever system is decided upon to consider making it compatible with the system that NEC uses. Meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Dawn Nelson HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting February 15, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Hall Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Martha Sunderland, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Dawn Nelson. 1. Review February 1, 2006 Minutes: Approved with minor revision. 2. Mail: - Goss Lumber Site (589-D) Plan Review: More detail needed on topography ground preparation and any water areas. It was also noted that the site number was incorrect on the locator map. Holly Green will email Planning Board with Commission comments. - Parker Subdivision Planning Board Plans: Holly Green will email Planning Board with Commission comments on steep slopes driveway issue. Commission members commented on how well done the plans were. - NH DOT Wetlands Permit – Route 9, Hillsborough: Holly Green to email DOT and ask them to send us a quick note with start date. - Notice of Public Meeting from Planning Board on site visit conducted on 2/10 was received by the Commission. 3. Planning Board Report: - February 10 site walks for Bennett/Brown and Glover subdivisions: Commission members felt they could not grant variance for Bennett subdivision because of steep slope, drainage and erosion issues. Commission members suggested if they reconfigure plan from 3 lots to a 2 lot subdivision it would eliminate their concerns. - Commission members gave Commission members a brief overview on Glover subdivision. - Chairperson Holly Green received an email from Frank Tupper with regard to House Bill 1495 increasing setback road frontage from 100 feet to 1500 feet and Commission members agreed it was a good suggestion. 4. Conservation Subcommittee and outreach: Denise Rico drafted mission statement along with possible activities and Conservation Commission suggestions. One of Commission's first goals will be generate listing of potential contacts. 5. Update on web page: Mark Mitch to check with Russ on status and inquire about adding “Mission Statement”. 6. Other Business: Commission member Denise Rico reported on her attendance at the Weare Conservation Meeting with regard to a 600 acre parcel they are currently working on to preserve. Meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Dawn Nelson HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting March 1, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, and Martha Sunderland. Others Present: Terry Stamps 1. Minutes: Review of the February 15, 2006 minutes was tabled until the next meeting. 2. New Mail: - A site plan for a proposed building located at D & J Storage was reviewed. Holly will submit the following comments to the Planning Board: the area to be filled is in close proximity to poorly drained (possibly wetland) soil; erosion control methods should be in place during construction; and post construction stabilization (revegetation and/or riprap) should be required on the newly graded slopes. - The Commission unanimously agreed to support an amicus brief to be filed by the NH Assoc. of Conservation Commissions (NHACC) on behalf of local wetlands control in regard to the appeal of Motorsports Holdings, LLC to the NH Supreme Court. Holly will sign and send the letter to the NHACC. 3. Comments drafted by Holly concerning site plans for a proposed building at Goss Lumber (Lot 589-D), a proposed Parker subdivision (Lots 138-1, 138-2), and a proposed Bennett/Brown subdivision (Lots 540-X9, 540-X9A, 540-X9B) were reviewed and revised. Holly will contact Stephanie Alexander, Town Planning Consultant, to see if she has more information relating to the topography and drainage on the Goss Lumber lot. The comment on the Parker subdivision proposal will be to avoid wetlands impacts when the driveways are installed. The Bennett/Brown subdivision comments were revised to strengthen the Commission’s support of maintaining the requirement that slopes greater than 20% not be included when calculating buildable area for a subdivision. The Commission will recommend to the Planning Board that it not grant a variance for this application. It was noted that the lot may still be sub-dividable into 2 lots. 4. The Vision Statement of the Conservation Plan was reviewed. A Mission Statement for the Conservation Commission will be drafted by Denise and sent out by email for discussion at the next meeting. Holly will work on revisions to the Conservation Plan and timeline. 5. The draft document describing the Open Space sub-committee was accepted as final. Denise will submit the document to the Selectmen with an introductory memo. Commission members will speak to townspeople in an effort to recruit a variety of interested persons to the committee. 6. Issues that the Commission would address at Town Meeting were discussed. The discussion will continue at the next Commission meeting on March 15, 2006. The meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting March 15, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, and Martha Sunderland. Others Present: Terry Stamps, Walter Bohlin, and Ken Erikson. 1. Minutes: February 15, 2006 and March 1, 2006 minutes were approved with revisions. 2. New Mail: - N.H. Dept. of Environmental Services is requesting information about the previous West Henniker Dam impoundment. Holly will send photos. - Board of Selectmen’s draft minutes of Feb. 21, 2006 were reviewed. 3. Town Meeting Preparation: Warrant articles were reviewed that may require input from the Conservation Commission at Town Meeting. 4. Mission Statement: The document describing the mission, roles, and goals of the Henniker Conservation Commission was reviewed and revised. Denise will make corrections. 5. Conservation Plan: Bob and Terry will compare the goals section of the plan with the Town’s Master Plan and make suggestions for revisions. They will also update the page numbers that reference the Master Plan. 6. Conservation Subcommittee: Several townspeople have expressed interest in the committee. 7. Planning Board Report: Terry briefed the Commission on the items discussed at the March 8, 2006 Planning Board meeting. 8. Other business: - New England College (NEC) student, Walter Bohlin, representing the NEC radio station offered air time beginning in the fall for a once a month round table discussion on conservation issues. - Ken Erikson of the Paper Mill Restoration Committee briefed the Commission on the details of the warrant articles that pertain to the paper mill site. The Commission discussed the Selectmen’s request to consider “buying” the main parcel with conservation fund monies. All members present felt this was inappropriate because the town already owns the property and it would just be a transfer of money from the conservation fund to the general fund. - Mark reports the new NRCS soils data is available in digital form. This was missing when the Natural Resources Inventory was compiled. - NEC and the National Assoc of Natural Resource Scientists will be presenting a vernal pool workshop in May. The meeting adjourned at 9:30 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting April 5, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, and Martha Sunderland. Others Present: Terry Stamps. 1. Minutes: March 15, 2006 minutes were approved as written. 2. New Mail: - N.H. Dept. of Environmental Services is requesting a volunteer to represent Henniker on the Contoocook River Advisory Committee. - Planning Board Requests for Comments on Subdivision Proposals: - 2006-002 Parker Minor Subdivision – The revised plans were reviewed and there are no concerns with the project provided it is built as drawn. - 2005-022 Town of Henniker Minor Subdivision – The plan was reviewed and there are no concerns. - 2006-006 Tanner Minor Subdivision – The plans were reviewed and there were several concerns regarding slopes and extensive wetlands present on the site. The Planning Board will be notified the Commission would like to do a site visit. Denise relayed a concern from Joan O’Connor regarding the potential for wildlife habitat loss. - Letter from NH Dept of Environmental Services Wetlands Bureau regarding a wetlands permit application for Lots #398 E-1and E-2 was reviewed. Denise recused herself from the discussion. 3. Request from Oxbow Initiative: The Concord Regional Solid Waste/Resource Recovery Cooperative, of which Henniker is a member, is proposing a landfill on a Canterbury, NH site next to the Merrimack River. The Oxbow Initiative contacted the Commission to see if it could help persuade the Town to withdraw its support for the project. Denise will contact Bob Pennock, Henniker’s representative to the Cooperative, to see if he would provide the Commission with more information about the project. 4. Mission Statement: The statement was approved with revisions. 5. Conservation Plan: Bob and Terry will continue working on the goals section of the plan. 6. Open Space Subcommittee: Townspeople who have expressed interest in the subcommittee will be invited to the May 3, 2006 meeting. 7. Conservation Outreach: Holly presented some conservation information she received at a workshop. She will make copies for the next meeting. The Commission approved Holly be reimbursed for the fee to attend the workshop. There was discussion concerning an informational mailing to shoreland owners regarding the NH Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act. 8. Invasive Aquatic Plant Monitoring Workshop: Denise will contact Amy Smagula of NH Dept of Environmental Services to see if she can schedule the training workshop at 6 pm on June 21, 2006 at the French Pond boat ramp. 9. Planning Board Work List for 2006: Terry briefed the Commission on revisions to regulations the Planning Board will discuss. The Commission recommended they also consider a ridgetop ordinance, a source water protection ordinance, a local shoreland protection ordinance, and revisions to the noise ordinance. 10. Conservation Commission Website: Russ Roy, Town Webmaster, has indicated the Commission can create and maintain its own website. Denise will look into the cost of a hosting service. 11. Other business: Kris Blomback wants to speak to the Commission at the April 19, 2006 meeting concerning changes to the pump station at Craney Pond. The meeting adjourned at 9:30 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting April 19, 2006 6:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Dawn Nelson; Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Terry Stamps, and Martha Sunderland. Others Present: Kris Blomback. 1. Minutes: March 15, 2006 minutes were approved without revisions. 2. Planning Board site walk of Tanner property on April 18 was discussed. No issues of environmental concerns were observed. However, since wetland boundaries were not specifically looked at, it was decided that Holly should contact the Tanners and request a HCC site walk to take place at 7 pm on April 25. 3. Kris Blomback, representing Pat's Peak Ski Area, presented a plan to change the type of pump being used to withdraw water from Craney Pond for snow making operations. The current submerged pump keeps shutting off so they would like to install a pump which will be raised out of the water. A shed will be built around the pump so the noise level will not be increased from the current pump. The foot print of the pump house will not be increased and no digging into the bank of Craney Pond will occur. Holly will send a letter to DES that the Commission has no concerns relating to the pump described in the plans provided all local and state regulations, including shoreland protection, are complied with. Holly gave Kris a phone number for the DES Public information and Permitting Unit for guidance on whether permit modifications and/or additional permits would be required. Kris will cc the Commission on any correspondence he has with DES. 4. Bob and Terry handed out suggested edits to the Conservation Plan to incorporate the Town's Master Plan. The Commission will review these at its next meeting. 5. Mark handed out a draft fact sheet on "What to do if you suspect a possible conservation violation". The Commission will review it at its next meeting. The meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Holly Green HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting May 3, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, and Martha Sunderland. Others Present: Terry Stamps. 1. Minutes: April 19, 2006 minutes were approved with minor revisions. 2. New Mail: - The Contoocook River Advisory Committee seeks donations for water monitoring equipment. Holly will contact Marion Baker for more information. - Town Administrator, Peter Flynn, requests the Commission review the conservation potential for several lots that may be taken for back taxes. Holly will write Peter concerning which lots have potential. - Announcement for a UNH Cooperative Extension forestry and natural resources workshop was received. - Minutes of the last Selectmen’s meeting were reviewed. 3. Holly’s letter to Pats Peak regarding the proposed change to the Craney Pond pump station was reviewed and approved with minor revisions. 4. Proposed Canterbury Landfill: Holly recused herself from the discussion. Denise spoke with Bob Pennock, Henniker’s representative to the Concord Regional Solid Waste/Resource Recovery Cooperative, about speaking to the Commission concerning the proposed landfill. He recommended we contact Jim Presher, the coop’s director. Denise will write the Selectmen to inform them of the Commission’s plan to gather information from the coop and the Oxbow Initiative (a citizens’ group opposed to the landfill). 5. Conservation Complaint and Wetlands Application Procedures: Review of these documents was postponed until the next meeting. 6. Conservation Plan: Bob and Terry reviewed the work they did comparing the Conservation Plan with the Town’s Master Plan. Holly will make several changes to the document. 7. Holly briefed the Commission on the DOT meeting of April 19, 2006, the Tanner site walk, and the Ethics for Land Use Board Members presentation. There were no concerns with the wetlands’ flagging on the Tanner property. 8. New ordinances for Planning Board: It was decided the Commission would work on 2 ordinances for consideration at next town meeting – a ridgetop protection ordinance and a wetlands buffer ordinance. 9. Other business: - Denise briefed the Commission on the April 20, 2006 Regional Resource Conservation Committee meeting. - Denise spoke with Beth Allen who reports there is a large beaver dam under construction on Long Pond. Denise contacted the NH Dept of Environmental Services Wetlands Bureau to discuss options available to control the activity. She will contact the owners of the property where the dam is located to suggest what they would be allowed to do about the dam. - Martha noticed a possible wetlands violation on Old Hillsboro Rd. She will contact the town to see if a subsurface permit was issued. - Mark reported on a student water sampling project that tested the outflow from several lakes in town for chloride. There were unusually high readings recorded in the heron rookery off Mount Hunger Rd. in mid-April after rain. The meeting adjourned at 9:35 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting May 17, 2006 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, and Martha Sunderland. Others Present: Terry Stamps. 1. Minutes: May 3, 2006 minutes were approved with minor revisions. 2. New Mail: - Reviewed Habitat Newsletter - Reviewed copy of additional information submitted to NH Dept of Environmental Services (DES) for Lots 398-E1 and E2 dredge and fill application. DES File # 2006-00014 - Reviewed and discussed subdivision plans for Lots 651 and 651A. Denise recused herself from the discussion. The applicant seeks a waiver from the town’s subdivision regulation that requires 2 acres of contiguous buildable area of slopes less than 20% that are not wetland. The lots are steep and do not meet the requirement. There was much discussion regarding the importance of maintaining the requirement and not issuing waivers. It was noted that the Planning Board (PB) granted a waiver to a different applicant for the 2 acre contiguous builable area requirement at a recent meeting. Holly will draft a letter to the PB recommending a waiver not be granted for this application. Holly will draft another letter to the PB that explains why it is important to support the ordinance as it is written. Mark will contact Stephanie Alexander (Central NH Regional Planning Commission - Planning Consultant) to be placed on the Planning Board’s agenda to discuss the importance of protecting steep slopes. 3. Planning Board Report: Terry reported the PB conducted a site visit to Lots 723 and 723A on Mt Hunger Rd to view where a shared drive would be constructed for the 2 lots. 4. Conservation Prioritization Criteria and Mapping: The project was reviewed. Denise will present the project with a large format map to the Planning Board on July 26, 2006. Denise will email a pdf of the co-occurrence map to members. 5. Conservation Inquiry Fact Sheet: The document was reviewed. Mark and Holly will make corrections and additions. 6. Wetlands Application Procedures Fact Sheet: Review of this document was postponed until a later date. 7. Review memo to Selectmen re: proposed Canterbury landfill: The memo was reviewed. Denise will make changes and send to the Selectmen. 8. Conservation Plan and Timeline: Tabled until the next meeting. 9. Other business: - There was no other business. The meeting adjourned at 9:25 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting June 7, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Martha Sunderland, Rod Pimentel – Selectmen Ex-officio Others Present: Recycling Committee members: Barbara French, Lia Houk, Joan O’Connor, Concord Regional Solid Waste/Resource Recovery Cooperative (the Co-op)representatives: Bill Herman - Chairman, Jim Presher – Director, Bob Grillo - GMA Engineer 1. Canterbury Landfill Presentation: Jim Presher presented a slide show about solid waste disposal and the proposed Canterbury landfill. The landfill project is currently in the permitting process through the NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES), Waste Management Division. The landfill is being planned to dispose of the Co-op’s members’ solid waste after the contract with the Wheelabrator incinerator expires in 2014 or 2019. The landfill will be located on an approximately 300 acre parcel of land on the Merrimack River in Canterbury, NH. Concerns have been raised about river front erosion at the site. Several engineering studies have been completed or are in the process of completion to address the erosion issue. The NHDES will evaluate all the studies when making its final approval decision. The Conservation Commission will invite the Oxbow Initiative to give a presentation and will notify the Recycling Committee of the date. Discussion about the project will occur after that presentation. 2. Conservation Priorities: Joan O’Connor expressed concerns about the apparent lack of land conservation efforts in Henniker. She is particularly concerned about the Tanner Minor Subdivision (2006-006) which will create 2 house lots on Lot 54-C. She expressed worries about the loss of wildlife habitat and undeveloped land. Martha explained that the Commission’s approval of the subdivision plans was based on the Town’s regulations and the conditions on the site. Joan was informed of the recently created Open Space Subcommittee that will focus solely on land conservation efforts. The priority mapping project showing conservation values of the town’s parcels was discussed. Rod was briefed about the priority mapping project and the Selectmen will receive a full presentation about the project at their June 20, 2006 meeting. 3. New Mail: - Minimum Impact Expedited Application for Lot 154-U: Denise recused herself from the discussion. The project consists of installing 257 feet of 4 inch sewer pipe from Lot 154-I through 688 sq ft of seasonal wetland in Lot 154-U. It was reviewed and approved. Holly will sign the applications and submit them to Kim at Town Hall. - Notice of Intent to Cut for Lots 629 and 73. A site visit for both lots was scheduled for 9AM Sunday, June 11, 2006. - Request for Comment re: Planning Board Application 2004 -018 Bennett Mount Hunger Modification of Approval. There were no concerns or comments. 4. Planning Board Report: Postponed until next meeting. 5. May 17, 2006 Minutes: Review was postponed until next meeting. 6. Notice on Aquatic Weed Training Session on June 21, 2006: The flyer was reviewed and approved. Denise will mail out to lake front owners this week. 7. Conservation Inquiry Fact Sheet: Mark handed out the revised document for review. It will be discussed at a later meeting. 8. Other business: - A discussion of steep slopes will be held at the July 5, 2006 meeting. The meeting adjourned at 10:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting June 21, 2006 – 7:30 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland Others Present: Gail Beckett, Kristin Claire, Don Jones, Andra Jones, Sher Kamman, David Marshall, and Ray Panetta 1. Upper Pond’s Floating Island of Vegetation: Ray Panetta, who owns land on Upper Pond, expressed concern over a large island of floating vegetation that dislodged from the shore of Upper Pond and moved to the other side of the lake during the recent flooding. He also expressed concern that the outlet from the lake was inadequate to handle large volumes of water. He was advised to contact the Town Highway Dept. about the outflow. Someone from the Commission will look into the floating vegetation issue. 2. Minimum Impact Expedited Application: Don and Andra Jones were present to discuss their application to construct a 12’ x 25’ perched beach on Lot 110-C4 on Long Pond. The application was reviewed and approved unanimously. 3. Open Space Subcommittee: The formation of the new subcommittee was approved unanimously. The membership will include: Gail Beckett, Kristin Claire, Sher Kamman, David Marshall, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, and Ruth Zax. There was a discussion concerning the group’s responsibilities. Specific properties with conservation potential were discussed. Kristin will initiate contact with a landowner of one of the properties. Denise will mail copies of the Conservation Prioritization Project to the new members. Bob will set up a meeting space for the subcommittee’s next meeting on Tuesday, July 11, 2006, 7-8 PM. 4. Planning Board Report: Terry reported the Planning Board approvals of the redesigned driveway for the Bennett, Mt. Hunger Rd. subdivision and the Dias, Craney Hill Rd. subdivision with a variance for steep slopes. There was some discussion concerning steep slopes. Further discussion about the Town’s steep slopes regulations will take place at the Commission’s July 5, 2006 meeting. 5. May 17, 2006 and June 7, 2006 Minutes: The minutes were reviewed and approved with revisions. 6. Minimum Impact Expedited Application: The application proposes 2500 sq. ft. of wetlands impact to construct a 125 ft. driveway with adjacent buried cable on Lot 154-I. The application was reviewed and approved. Denise recused herself. The meeting adjourned at 9:40 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting July 5, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Stephany Lavallee, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland Others Present: Dave Simeone 1. Wetlands Impact Inquiry: Dave Simone asked the Commission if it would evaluate the area where he plans to build a shed on Lot 554-32 to see if he needs to file a wetlands application. Martha and Holly will do a site visit at 5:00 PM on July 6, 2006. 2. New Member: Stephany Lavallee informed the Commission that she had been appointed by the Selectmen to fill one of two vacancies. No one on the Commission was aware there were any vacancies or that Stephany had been appointed. Holly will look into the issue at Town Hall. 3. Minutes: The June 21, 2006 minutes were approved with revisions. 4. Cingular Co-location on Pats Peak’s Cell Tower: The plans were reviewed. Martha will contact Kris Blomback to arrange a site visit. 5. Conservation Commission’s Procedure re: Intents to Cut Timber: Martha will draft a letter to homeowners who have filed an Intent to Cut Timber application that will explain what to expect from the logger and what regulations apply. Terry will contact the District Ranger, Doug Miner, to see if he would be willing to attend a meeting to discuss how the Commission can work to minimize violations of the Best Management Practices for Timber Harvesting. 6. Wetlands Complaint on Old Hillsboro Rd: Martha will file a N H. Dept. of Environmental Services (DES) complaint form on behalf of the Commission concerning recent impacts to wetlands at a property on Old Hillsboro Rd. The Town’s building permit application will be reviewed to see if it could be improved to help prevent wetlands impacts. 7. French and Keyser Ponds Cyanobacteria Advisories: Advisories for cyanobacteria have now been issued for both Keyser and French Ponds. Town Health Officer, Jill Fournier, notified the residents around Keyser Pond. Holly and Denise notified the residents around French Pond. Holly has contacted Sara Sumner of DES to emphasize that DES’s notification to the Town was not sufficient. Mark will contact Jody Connor of DES to discuss: what other testing may have been done on the water (such as oxygen levels, toxicity); what is needed to finish the grant-funded French Pond study; and a future plan to address the issue. 8. Development on Steep Slopes: Terry suggested the Commission help the Planning Board to understand the potential risks associated with development on steep slopes and criteria for mitigation measures if exceptions are granted. Mark said a slopes threshold should be established and maintained. Discussion focused on developing a set of criteria that could be applied when considering a waiver for the slopes requirement as it applies to the buildable area of a lot in the subdivision regulations. Denise will send a link to a slopes study that can be found online. All members are required to read it before the next meeting. At the next meeting, there will be further discussion and development of a policy to present to the Planning Board. 9. Other business: - Amey Brook has been having periods of elevated turbidity just downstream of Henniker Crushed Stone. It will be monitored before further action is taken. - Holly received a bank statement for a Conservation Commission account that did not correspond to the amount expected to be in the Conservation Fund. Martha will look into it at Town Hall. The meeting adjourned at 9:30 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting July 19, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland Others Present: Rod Pimentel, Selectmen Ex-officio 1. Appointment of new members: Rod discussed the process the Selectmen use to appoint new members to the Commission. Several changes were suggested that would improve the process. A letter will be written to the Selectmen with recommendations. Holly briefed the Commission about the current membership. 2. Minutes: The July 5, 2006 minutes were approved with revisions. 3. French Pond: Mark outlined the state of the cyanobacteria infestation in French Pond. He will meet with the French Pond Association on Saturday, July 22, 2006. Jody Connor from the NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) will also attend. 4. Mail: - Complete Forestry Notification from NHDES for Lot 629-C, Peasley Rd. - Notice of Administrative Completeness for Minimum Impact Expedited Application from NHDES for Lot 154-I, 21 Juniper Ridge Rd. - Notice of Administrative Completeness for Minimum Impact Expedited Application from NHDES for Lot 110-C4, 7 Shore Dr. 5. Timber Harvesting Issues: Terry provided an outline of her conversation with Douglas Miner, Forest Ranger for the Dept. of Resources and Economic Development, Div. of Forests and Lands. He made several suggestions on how to “tighten up” the intent to cut process. Terry will follow up by contacting Karen Bennett of UNH Cooperative Extension to discuss the possibility of scheduling a forestry regulations workshop. The Commission would like the Town to require 3 copies of the “Intent to Cut” application be filed – one each to the Town, the Road Agent, and the Conservation Commission. Martha drafted a letter to landowners filing intents to cut. Denise will review and revise. 6. Conservation Plan and Timeline: The timeline was reviewed and revised. Holly will make the corrections to the document. 7. Conservation Violation Factsheet: Mark handed out the revised version of the document. There was a brief review and any further suggestions for revisions will be made via email. 8. Steep Slopes: The discussion was postponed until the next meeting. 9. Canterbury Landfill: Denise will contact the Oxbow Initiative to schedule a presentation as a follow-up to the presentation by the Concord Regional Solid Waste/Resource Recovery Cooperative 10. Other business: - Planning Board (PB) Report by Terry: The Cingular application for co-location on the Pats Peak tower was not accepted because it was incomplete. The PB is looking for volunteers for the Zoning Subcommittee. - Open Space Subcommittee report by Denise: The Sub-committee appointed Kristin Claire as Chairperson. They did a site visit to a parcel that has conservation potential. They will be evaluating town-owned parcels for conservation potential. - Conservation Priority Mapping: It was decided the Commission should re-evaluate the criteria used in the priority mapping. Denise will email the criteria list. The meeting adjourned at very close to 10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting August 2, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Stephany Lavallee, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland 1. Minutes: The July 19, 2006 minutes were approved with revisions. 2. Mail: - Notice of Incomplete Expedited Application from NH Dept of Environmental Services (File 2006-01473) for Lot 154-U, Juniper Ridge Rd. - Request for more information from NHDES (File 2006-01598) for Lot 110-C4, 7 Shore Dr. 3. Appointment of new members: Holly sent Selectman, Rod Pimentel, the RSAs that pertain to Conservation Commissions. Terry will draft a letter to the Selectmen with recommendations to improve the member appointment process. 4. Open Space Subcommittee: Bob reported on the site visit to several lots conducted by the subcommittee. The subcommittee will be discussing the conservation potential of these lots and methods to protect them at their August 7, 2006 meeting. Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, provided Bob with a list of town-owned properties that the subcommittee will be reviewing for conservation potential. A letter to a landowner regarding money available for easement expenses was reviewed and revised. Denise will revise the letter and Holly will sign and mail it. 5. Timber Harvesting Letter to Landowners: Martha and Denise’s letter to landowners was reviewed and revised. Denise will contact Selectman Rod Pimentel to discuss how best this letter could reach landowners when they file an intent to cut timber notification. Denise will also contact Cindy Marsland at Town Hall to discuss contact information. 6. Potential Conservation Violation Factsheet: Mark handed out the revised version of his document. There was a review and more revisions were suggested. 7. Conservation Timeline: The timeline was reviewed and revised. Holly will make the corrections to the document. 8. French Pond Update: Mark will speak with Michael French of the French Pond Association regarding the list of tasks that have been suggested to help determine whether there is phosphorus entering the pond in runoff. 9. Watershed/shoreland Protection Ordinance: At the suggestion of Jody Connor of NHDES, the Commission will submit a watershed/shoreland protection ordinance for consideration at the next town meeting. Members will read the sample ordinance that Jody sent and prepare comments for the next meeting. 10. Development on Steep Slopes: Denise will draft a summary of what the Conservation Commission would like to see in a steep slopes ordinance. Members will send her suggestions before she begins. 11. Other business: - Long Pond: A possible shoreland violation was observed at Long Pond. A complaint form will be submitted to NHDES. - Amey Brook: Further episodes of increased turbidity have been observed in Amey Brook. NHDES will be contacted. - Timber Harvesting Laws: Terry spoke with Karen Bennett of UNH Coop Extension about the possibility of hosting a forum on timber laws for municipal officials in Nov. 2006. Everyone agreed that it was a good idea. - Mark will chair the Aug. 16, 2006 meeting when the Oxbow Initiative will be presenting information concerning the proposed Canterbury Landfill. The meeting adjourned at 9:10 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting August 16, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Stephany Lavallee, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Terry Stamps 1. Minutes: The Aug 2, 2006 minutes were approved with revisions. 2. Mail: - Notice of Incomplete Expedited Application from NH Dept of Environmental Services (File # 2006-01661) for Lot 154-I, Juniper Ridge Rd. - Copy of letter from applicant to NHDES (File # 2006-01598) for Lot 110-C4, 7 Shore Dr. with additional information concerning beach construction application. - Copy of letter from NHDES Wetlands Compliance Inspector (File # 2006-1879) concerning a complaint filed about possible wetlands disturbance Lot 322, Old Hillsboro Rd. - Shoreland Waiver (File # 2006-01174) for New England College project to expand a non-conforming structure (dining hall deck) within primary building setback from the Contoocook River. - Wetlands and Non-Site Specific Permit for a driveway for Lot 398-E1, The Oaks (File # 00014). 3. Open Space Subcommittee: Bob briefed the Commission about the Open Space Sub-committee’s meeting of Aug. 8, 2006. They will be working on a proposal to present to the Commission regarding a group of lots they feel have significant conservation potential. There is approximately $205,000 in the Conservation Fund. The Sub-committee members will be visiting town-owned properties on Aug. 19, 2006 to evaluate their conservation value and will report back to the Commission. 4. Conservation Complaint Factsheet: Recent revisions were approved and Mark will bring the final version of the document to the next meeting. 5. French Pond Update: Mark has been working with Andy Chapman of NHDES reviewing historic sampling data from the tributaries that indicate high levels of phosphorus entering the pond. Mark will continue to work closely with NHDES to develop a strategy to address the water quality issues. 6. Watershed Protection Ordinance: Sutton, NH’s ordinance was reviewed and discussed. It was decided to develop a watershed ordinance instead of a ridgetop ordinance for presentation at 2007 town meeting. Mark will look into some of the provisions of the Sutton ordinance. 7. Development on Steep Slopes: The summary Denise prepared was discussed. It was decided not to pursue a slopes ordinance but to propose changes to the subdivision regulations that will address steep slopes issues. Terry will try to get a copy of Gilford, NH’s steep slopes subdivision regulations for review. Some steep slopes provisions will be added to the watershed ordinance. 8. Amey Brook: NHDES has been contacted concerning episodes of elevated turbidity in Amey Brook. They will be sending an inspector next week. 9. Other Business: - Timber Harvesting Law Forum: Terry spoke with Karen Bennett of UNH Coop Extension about scheduling the forum – a date has not been set. - Terry presented a draft of a letter to the Selectmen concerning member appointments. It was approved with revisions. - Denise spoke with Selectman, Rod Pimentel, and Cindy Marsland at Town Hall concerning the letter to landowners who file an intent to cut. They both felt it should be given to the landowner and logger at the time the intent is submitted. Town Administrator, Peter Flynn, will be contacted for his approval. - Long Pond: A complaint form concerning a possible shoreland violation was submitted to NHDES. The meeting adjourned at 9:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting September 6, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland 1. Minutes: The Aug 16, 2006 minutes were reviewed and approved. 2. Mail: - Copy of letter from NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) to landowner concerning a complaint filed regarding a possible shoreland protection violation on Long Pond at 29 Shore Dr (File # 2006-02168). - Intent to Cut Timber for Lot 83, Freeman Colby Rd. - Town of Henniker Summary of Financial Activity Year 2005. 3. Conservation Complaint Factsheet: Reviewed and revised. 4. Amey Brook: NHDES visited Henniker Crushed Stone and reports they appear to be complying with the management plan established to prevent impacts to Amey Brook. They suggested that if further episodes of turbidity are observed, they should be reported to NHDES immediately. The Commission agreed that a log be kept and samples taken whenever there is an episode of elevated turbidity. 5. French Pond Update: Mark continues to work with Andy Chapman of NHDES, Michael French of the French Pond Assoc., and Mike Lynch of the Natural Resources Conservation Service to address the issue of elevated phosphorous entering French Pond from the tributaries. Sampling of the tributaries will be set up to coincide with the spring snow melt. Mark reported the Environmental Protection Agency has been conducting extensive testing on the pond. 6. Open Space Subcommittee: Bob briefed the Commission about the Open Space Sub-committee’s site visits to town-owned properties for the purpose of evaluating their conservation potential. Four lots were visited and deemed of interest. The subcommittee’s next meeting is Sept. 18, 2006. 7. Other Business: - Holly clarified a communications issue regarding the hold-up of a building permit at Town Hall. - The newly revised slopes map for the Natural Resources Inventory was reviewed and approved with a condition the hideous colors be changed. - Denise was contacted by Jim McElroy, a member of the Planning Board, requesting map data combining Class V roads and tax parcels. It was decided the GIS data that is available is not well-suited to use for evaluating lots on Class V roads. Denise will contact Jim and suggest he contact the Town Road Agent for help identifying the Class V roads. - There was a concern the lot above the pond on Gulf Rd may have a wetlands violation. - There was a concern a large lot on Bear Hill Rd may have a violation of the Town’s soil excavation regulations and the State’s alteration of terrain regulations. - The annual lake sampling will take place on Saturday September 30, 2006. - Mark reported on several environmental initiatives and forums occurring at New England College. - Terry gave a brief Planning Board (PB) report. Denise had presented the Conservation Priority mapping project to the PB and they felt the results were very important. They were going to post the maps and make sure the Rte 114 Zoning subcommittee had copies of the maps. - It was agreed that the Commission would work on language for 3 zoning ordinances – steep slopes, ridgetop, and watershed/shoreland. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting September 20, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Stephany Lavalle, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland 1. Minutes: The Sept. 6, 2006 minutes were reviewed and approved. 2. Mail: - Copy of letter from NH Dept. of Environmental Services (NHDES) to landowner concerning a complaint filed regarding a possible shoreland protection violation on Long Pond at 29 Shore Dr (File # 2006-02168). NHDES requested proper erosion control be installed and plans for revegetation be submitted. - Minor Subdivision (2006-015) Lot 642 Aucoin Farms. It was agreed to recommend the Planning Board require wetlands delineation in the larger lot within 75 feet of proposed septic field area for the new lot. - Copy of a NHDES Wetlands and Non-site Specific Permit (2006-01598) for 7 Shore Dr Lot 110-C4 to install a perched beach and retaining wall. 3. Proposed Watershed Protection Ordinance: The first draft of the ordinance was reviewed and areas that need work were discussed. 4. Proposed Ridgetop/Hilltop Conservation Overlay District: The first draft of the ordinance was reviewed and areas that need work were discussed. 5. Proposed Steep Slopes Ordinance: Steep slopes regulations will be added to the watershed ordinance and to subdivision regulations. Language for an ordinance will be drafted. 6. Open Space Subcommittee: The briefing was postponed until the next meeting because several members left early. 7. Other Business: - Terry outlined the information she received from the NH Assoc. of Conservation Commissions concerning land protection scenarios and uses of the conservation fund. The meeting adjourned at 9:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting October 4, 2006 – 7:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland Others Present: Tony Caplan, Rebecca Egner, Dan Geiger, Dale Jennings, Dana Jennings, Doug Paul, Leslie Paul 1. Subdivision Conceptual Plan Lot 354-C: Daniel Geiger, Oak Hill Environmental NH Certified Wetlands Scientist, presented a conceptual plan for a conventional18 lot subdivision on Bacon Road. The developer is Landmark Development/Turner Group. They will need a variance from the Zoning Board for access as the lot does not have the required road frontage necessary for subdivision. They will be presenting the plan to the Zoning Board on Oct 18, 2006. Wetlands have been flagged on site and delineated on the plans. Steep slopes were also drawn but Mr. Geiger was unsure whether they were 20 or 25% slopes. He will verify. He asked the Conservation Commission for support for an open space development instead of the conventional 18 lot subdivision on the plans. Several abutters were present and Dale Jennings expressed concerns about impacts to neighboring wells and increased storm water runoff from the site. He also indicated the lot is a south facing slope used by deer in the winter. Mr. Geiger assured the abutters the runoff from the site would not increase. He said a Site Specific Permit with a storm water management plan would be submitted to the state for approval. Martha Sunderland said the Commission could not consider giving support for an open space development without at least a conceptual plan of what they had in mind. Mr. Geiger said he would pass that information along to the developer. A site visit was scheduled with Mr. Geiger for Monday, October 9, 2006 at 2PM. The abutters were told they are welcome to attend as it will be a public meeting. Holly will post an agenda. 2. Carbon Coalition Warrant Article: Tony Caplan, volunteer for the Carbon Coalition presented a petition to place a warrant article on the ballot. “New Hampshire Climate Change Resolution: To see if the town will go on record in support of effective actions by the President and the Congress to address the issue of climate change which is increasingly harmful to the environment and economy of New Hampshire and to the future well being of the people Henniker.” The members gave their support. 3. The Sept. 20, 2006 minutes were reviewed and approved. 4. Mail: - Intent to Cut timber for Totten Trails State Forest, Lot 483, on Butter Rd. - Request for comments from the Planning Board for Pats Peak’s plans to establish a summer day camp program. The plans showed several areas where grading would be done. Wetlands had not been delineated on the plans. The Commission would like to see the location of the wetlands shown on the plans and would like to conduct a site visit. 5. Recommendations for Selectmen's appointment procedures: Holly spoke with Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, about the letter the Commission had sent outlining the desired procedure for the appointment of Conservation Commission members. Peter indicated many of things requested were already part of the established procedure. He would like to see the other recommendations combined with the Selectmen’s official appointment procedure. Holly will work on it. 6. Open Space Subcommittee Report: Bob briefed the Commission on the subcommittee’s recommendations for the town-owned lots. Lots 47 and 50 on Warner Rd should be combined with the abutting town forest, Lot 48, to create a larger town forest. Lot 98 on Route 114 should be put into conservation because Amey Brook runs through it. All three of these lots are adjacent to larger parcels in the Mink Hills that are of high interest for conservation. Lot 660XX on Pasture Lane is of interest because it has Cascade Brook running through it and has great recreational opportunities for the town. Lot 569 on Western Ave. is across the street from river frontage of high conservation interest. A conservation easement should be placed on the property to protect the wildlife corridor and either keep it or sell the property for residential development for 1 single family home. The other small lots should be offered for sale to abutters. Denise presented the town forester’s report that assessed the timber management potential of these lots and also expressed many of the same ideas for conservation potential. Bob will revise the list of recommendations and send to Denise so she can incorporate some of the forester’s points. The next subcommittee meeting is on Monday October 9, 2006, 7PM at the Grange. 7. Proposed Ridgetop Ordinance: Bob presented the draft ordinance and a topo map with areas marked that would be in the overlay district. He will experiment with other elevations to see if more ridgetops could be added. 8. Proposed Steep Slopes Ordinance: Denise presented a first draft. She will look into a fact-based rationale for restrictions associated with steep slopes. 9. Proposed Watershed Ordinance: Martha and Mark will make some changes to the first draft and bring it to the next meeting. All 3 ordinances must be ready for the next meeting for a final review before presentation to the Planning Board. 7. Other Business: Terry reports the forest law workshop for town officials is scheduled for November 2, 2006, 8-2:30 at the Community Center. The meeting adjourned at 9:35 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting October 18, 2006 – 6:00 p.m. – Grange Members Present: Holly Green (Chair), Stephany Lavallee, Mark Mitch, Denise Rico, Bob Stamps, Terry Stamps, Martha Sunderland Others Present: Kristin Claire, Peter Flynn 1. Open Space Subcommittee Presentations: - Bob reviewed the subcommittee’s recommendations for the town-owned lots with newly added information from the town forester’s report and the conservation prioritization report. He will make changes and send to Holly for presentation at the Nov 7, 2006 Selectmen’s meeting. Denise will attend as a representative of the Open Space Subcommittee. - Kristin Claire, Open Space Subcommittee Chair, discussed a possible conservation project involving several lots with Contoocook River frontage. The Commission members offered support for the direction she proposed. She will submit a written proposal for conserving the lots at the next meeting. 2. Draft Ridgetop Ordinance – Bob presented the latest draft for discussion. Several suggestions were made and he will make corrections. Martha will present the draft ordinance to the Planning Board at their Oct 25, 2006 meeting. 3. Review Selectmen’s appointment procedure: Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, presented a draft of the Selectmen’s committee appointment procedures. The Conservation Commission’s suggestions for changes had been added to the current policy. Changes were suggested and Holly will discuss the issue with the Selectmen at their Nov 7, 2006 meeting. 4. Town Boundary Perambulation: Peter Flynn asked the Commission if anyone would be interested in doing a town boundary perambulation with the Weare Selectmen. The Commission will provide Peter with 2 names of members willing to complete it. 5. Decision Making Authority – Land Acquisition and CC Funds: Terry explained the reason for the document’s creation to Peter. He suggested Holly request permission from the Selectmen to have the Town Counsel confirm the facts presented in the document. 6. The Oct. 04, 2006 minutes were reviewed and approved. 7. Mail: - Annual lake sampling results from NH Dept of Environmental Services. 8. 2007 Budget: The 2006 budget was reviewed and several changes were suggested for the proposed 2007 budget. Martha will present it to the Selectmen on Nov. 4, 2006. 9. Draft Steep Slopes and Watershed Protection Ordinances: Both drafts were reviewed the changes suggested will be incorporated. Denise will present the Steep Slopes and Mark the Watershed Protection to the Planning Board at their Oct 25, 2006 meeting. 10. Other Business: - Bacon Rd Lot 354-C proposed subdivision site visit - Holly, Terry, and Martha conducted a site visit on Monday, October 9, 2006 at 2PM. Abutters, Rebecca and Mr. Egner, Dale Jennings, and Dana Jennings were present as well as Daniel Geiger of Oak Hill Environmental, and Ron Bourcier. They looked at the furthest northern extent of development for both a traditional and open space subdivision. They also looked at the wetlands present. The abutters expressed concern about increased storm-water runoff. - Terry wanted clarification of an OEP (NH Office of Energy and Planning) document concerning source and surface water protection plans. Holly will look into it. The meeting adjourned at 10:00 PM. Respectfully submitted, Denise Rico HENNIKER CONSERVATION COMMISSION Minutes of Meeting< |