*Revised* Open Space, Natural Resources, and Trails Committee Meeting
Referrals from the Planning Board on the Meadowbrook Large Solar Array, including a Site Plan application and a Special Permit application, will be reviewed by the Open Space, Natural Resources, and Trails Committee.
The committee heard a presentation from Bill Geizentanner on the recently completed Battis Farm and Powow Conservation Area land-management report. Members discussed findings and public feedback from a December 2024 presentation, including updated Audubon guidance moving the recommended grassland mowing date from August 15 to July 24. The committee prioritized enforcement of a rotational mowing plan, seasonal signage to alert dog owners to nesting birds, public education, and seeking Conservation Commission endorsement of those priorities; the chair will compose a letter to the Conservation Commission and DPW. The committee also unanimously accepted the Battis Farm/Powow report.
The Meadowbrook/parcel 45-4 solar proposal was discussed: committee members reported on the applicant’s Special Permit application for a large solar array at Meadowbrook pond (parcel 45-4) and on revisions to the proposed solar overlay ordinance that now include wildlife plans, decommissioning plans, and limits on clearing near water resource areas. The committee unanimously approved two actions: to send an updated, positive recommendation to City Council on Ordinance 2024-096 given the recent changes and removal of parcel 45-4, and to send a negative recommendation to the Planning Board on the special permit application for parcel 45-4. There were no public comments. The meeting also noted the city’s new Conservation Agent, Amanda Armington, and that a new committee member appointment (Jena Jekums) is expected.