Forestation Board Meeting
Prospect Forestation Board Virtual Meeting Minutes
February 15, 2022, 3:00 pm via Webex
Present: Mayor Evans, Lee Tucci, Linda Knox, Connie Kuhn, Sylvia Quaye, Herb Shulhafer, Don Gibson, Greg Huelsman, Sarah O’Dell, Ron Cundiff, Andrea Hanlon, Linda Wardell, Rick Grismer, Luca Wallace
The minutes from January 11th and 24th were approved.
Lee introduced Rick Grismer from LG&E. He presented a comprehensive overview of their work being done to improve the line transmission system with replacement poles. He noted that 19% of outages are caused by trees. There are two poles being replaced in Prospect. Both are located on 42, with one being near Starbucks, and the other near Rose Island Road. Trees will be available to replace those being removed due to the project. The various species are considered “compatible yard trees” with an expected maximum height of 15 feet. Trees will have a 1-year warranty but must be maintained by the owner. One concern is City staff would not be able to do watering. There were questions about the trees, and concerns about planting conditions in some areas (wet, amount of space). Rick will send a list of available trees to Lee.
Mayor Evans provided information on a revised budget now in the process due to the availability of American Rescue Funds. The police will be getting new radios and firearms. In addition, a new bridge was approved for Putney Pond Park.
The double trunk Oak on Sutherland Farm Road has been determined to be on Wallace Farm Property. Luca Wallace said the evaluation that he received determined that there were hazardous branches by the road, but the tree overall was not hazardous. Andrea felt the trunk nearest the fence being cut down to healthy tissue at 20-30 feet could be an option. Luca will get a proposal for trimming.
Andrea asked for the spring planting budget. Lee shared $3,000 for planting and $4,000 for maintenance. She also asked about the memorial tree in Little Hunting Creek Park that will need to be moved due to the parking lot expansion. Herb will provide an updated drawing for the area, and the group will meet on site to determine the new location.
The remediation of 7105 Windham has begun but has not been completed. 6804 Gunpowder Lane was identified as having a hazardous tree and should be notified. 7204 Fox Harbor Road and 7509 Hunting Creek Drive both have additional work needed and should be sent a new letter. No. 30 The Breakers were also approved to receive a letter.
Orders for the new canopy trees have started coming in. Ron will get marking flags and have them available at City Hall. There will be another eBlast done to encourage residents to take advantage of the new program.
Lee asked Linda to do an article on fall planting programs, and she agreed.
Lee also reminded the board that the Annual Tree Plan is due to City Council by the last Friday in April. He will send a copy of the current plan to board members.
Sylvia asked a question concerning a tree removed without approval at 5113 Old Creek Way. More information is needed on the exact location of the tree and whether it is a street tree. Depending on what is learned, the action could be subject to fine or may receive a letter requiring replanting a tree. It was suggested that the owner be invited to the next meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:28.
The next meeting will be on March 8th.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Knox