Summary
To: Town Commission
From: Eric Wahlbeck, Director, Parks and Recreation
Date: 5/9/2017
Subject: Hallett Park, Bluff Edge Maintenancey
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Summary:
The Master Landscape Plan (Adopted in 1997, Sec. 50-2 in code of ordinances), gives direction on how the bluff edge at Hallett Park should be maintained. The exact language is summarized below:
• The Grounds Maintenance Personnel shall mow the existing slope vegetation of the Hallett Park embankment with a 12 to 15 foot reach sickle bar mower. Mowing frequency will be as soon as the vegetation within the reach of the mower blade is 2 feet above the top of the slope. More frequent mowing may occur at the direction of the Town to maintain a clear "view shed" of the waterway. The mowing shall be at an angle of - 30 degrees to the top of the slope to minimize mowing frequency. Maintenance of the "view" shall include the full length of the linear park and any other peripheral areas as directed by the Town.
• Regular maintenance will be restricted to mowing or trimming vegetation other than desirable trees and shrubs or protected species at the top 12 - 15 feet of the embankment only. Trimming of any protected species shall be done at direction of the Town and only after all proper permits have been acquired. No work on the slope of the embankment, other than routine maintenance operations, shall be undertaken without the express direction from the Public Works Director, the Town Engineer and the Town Landscape Architect prior to any work being done.
Body
Previous Commission Action: The Master Landscape Plan was approved by the commission in 1997. Within Master Landscape Plan, Section XV. of the Grounds Maintenance Specifications, gives direction to maintenance of the Embankment/Slope Maintenance of Hallett Park.
Background/Problem Discussion: The maintenance requirements from the Master Landscape plan are no longer an option for the bluff edge. Due to tree growth and the instability of the bluff edge, it is no longer feasible to perform any of the listed options from the Master Landscape Plan. Other options need to be discussed in order to maintain the “view shed” of the bluff.
Expenditure Challenges: N/A
Financial Implications: Some expenditure will be needed based on recommendations.
Recommendation: Discussion only.
Proposed Motion: N/A