Melville Park Minutes March 12, 2008 Meeting Called to Order at 7:00 by E.Rizy, Chairperson ************ The following members were present: P. Higgins, Co-Chair; T. Gray, A. Conti, G. Kinnunen, K. Ptak, J. RichardG. Williams & E. Rizy, Excused Absence: P. Botelho, L. Bryant K.Gleason Town Council Liaison, was also present Guest: James Garman Minutes: February minutes approved. T. Gray made motion, seconded by A. Conti; approved unanimously. Finance: A. Conti and G. Kinnunen reported that $1,873.27 was spent for tools and signs for park development. The major expense was for gas-powered chainsaw, two hedge trimmers, and safety equipment for trail and area clearance. Correspondence: T. Gray reported: a letter from Larry Oliver of the US Army Corps of Engineers indicating that little help could be expected for pond and dam work. Also Hope Leeson and Dave Gregg of the RINHS reported that they had done a biological survey for the Navy. This information may be of use in park restoration efforts, including removal of invasive species. E. Rizy reported an e-mail from R. Gilstein who contacted DEM and learned removing silt from the seven small ponds at Melville does require a permit from DEM.  A dam would definitely require an engineering plan. Removing silt depends on how much and how it is done, where the silt would go, etc.  They have a Water Quality Restoration Team to help with the permitting process.  They should have a map of the ponds and trails and a written description of the work to be done, what, how, etc., and especially any environmental damage that would occur without your activities. Are there fragmities or other invasive wetland plants taking hold, any fish to protect, etc.? He suggested members meet them at the site and show them the ponds and what the committee wants to do.  Old Business Bylaws: T. Gray met with Finance Director D. Faucher and updated the draft to include concerns of Council members L. Katzman and W. West. Motion by K. Ptak, seconded by G. Williams to have Mr. Gray put the final draft on an upcoming Council agenda, with a note to the Town Clerk to have R. Driscoll review the final draft before presentation to the Council. Passed unanimously. Park Sign: E. Rizy reported that the sign was installed in the northeast corner of the property, visible on West Main Road. Questions arose about relocation of the sign at the top of Bradford Avenue. However, that intersection will be reworked in the future. Relocation consideration was deferred. Winter Walk: K. Ptak reviewed this year’s success, two dozen or more attending, and presented the plan for a Winter Walk next year. It was noted that the Conservation Committee is having a walk at the Town Pond and suggested that the Melville Committee have a table at the site that day with brochures and maps. Open item. Pond Reclamation: P. Higgins talked to an NCRS representative in Tiverton who said the gating item is obtaining permits from DEM. The draft RFP from the engineering firm has not materialized. K.Ptak reported making contact with DEM and is attempting to set up a meeting with Ron Gagnon to discuss permitting requirements. K. Ptak, J. Garman and E. Rizy will finalize the package to DEM, with history, photos, and a statement of work to be done. Trail Status: The committee decided to hold a Cleanup Day March 29th to prepare the trails and fishing areas prior to opening day of fishing season. The effort will start at 9a.m. Mott Farm Road: The renting of an excavator, approved at the 5 March special meeting, will be used by P. Botelho shortly to clear the drainage ditch. Mr. Botelho also mentioned the possible use of crushed concrete from the Naval housing demolition as a stable roadbed in the wet stretches of the road. E. Rizy will talk to GMH about a cooperative agreement. Youth Programs: J. Richard contacted the Portsmouth librarian to get copies of Child in the Woods into circulation, to educate the public of the importance of contact with the natural world. He is still trying to get a program started at Melville School. A nature brochure adapted from an earlier edition, covering trees, plants, and animal life, to be used by science classes in tours of the Park is being developed by G. Williams. Tool Use, Maintenance and Storage: there is little room in Building 104 for storage, although it is secure. Alternatives included a separate storage shed or securing Building 106, by the waterfall. J. Richard volunteered to get a general contractor to estimate the cost of vandal-proofing Building 106 for tool storage. The alternative, a tool shed situated in the campground or abutting Building 104 remains an option. New Business “Friends of Melville” organization, modeled on the Glenn and Brown House “Friends” was briefly presented by J. Richard. This would be a private group that would pursue projects and grants independent of public financing. The idea will be discussed more fully at the next meeting. Elections and Expiring Terms/Reappointments will be discussed after the Council formally approves the Bylaws.. Motion to Adjourn: A. Conti. 2nd, P. Higgins, 8:40; unanimous Next Meeting: April 9 at Town Hall Respectfully Submitted, Edward Rizy Acting Secretary

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