2007 Minutes of the Open Space Commission

 

CHARLESTOWN OPEN SPACE COMMISSION

 

Minutes January 18, 2007

 

NEXT MEETING:      Thursday, March 8, 2007, 7:30 PM, Great Valley Middle School

 

Commission Members Attending Meeting:

Sue Staas, Chair x, William Andersen x, Alexandra Coleman x, Bob Jones x,  Andy Motel _, Rosemary Philips x, John Pickering x, Marcia Solda _ .

 

Also Attending:  Paul Hogan, Carolyn deW. Caswell, David Greer

 

Minutes from the meeting of October 12, 2006 were reviewed and approved. 

 

Old Business:

1.              Chairperson Staas led a discussion of terms for the Members of the OSC.  It was agreed that the Open Space Commission would request of the Supervisors that they appoint the following Members to the Commission.

Carolyn deW. Caswell – at large
David Greer – at large
Robert F. Jones – representing Parks & Rec
Andrew Motel – representing Planning Commission
Marcia Solda – at large
Susanna Staas – at large

a.     After the meeting, Ms. Staas asked Ms. Caswell and Mr. Greer to send a brief Bio to Kevin Kuhn, Chair of the Supervisors,  (ccs to the OSC) to assist them in their appointment decisions.

2.              It was agreed, pending the appointment above, that officers for 2007 would be Ms. Staas, Chair, and John Pickering, Secretary.  The Secretary was asked to issue Minutes in a more timely fashion.

3.              Ms. Staas presented a number of handouts to help educate OSC members.  A member requested that our Director of Open Space lead a mock discussion with a large landowner, using plausible figures, to help all members understand the mechanics of donating and/or selling conservation easements.  Ms. Staas will ask Ms. Gerhard to do that, and will plan a time in a future meeting.

4.              The Mission of the OSC was reviewed and agreed to still be relevant.  Large landowners were defined for a proposed new member of the OSC.  The Commission reviewed a map of Charlestown, and considered roughly thirty properties that were considered especially important.


 

New Business:

1.              Congratulations and best wishes were offered to Ms. Gerhard on the birth of her son, Will.

2.              Several Members volunteered to take responsibility for trying to meet specific landowners, to help them understand the options available to them.  Before approaching any "assigned" landowner, the Member should understand from Ms. Gerhard whether the person has been approached before, and what is the status of each "case."  Any meetings should include Ms. Gerhard, who is available at least one day or evening each week for the next several weeks.  To protect the privacy of landowners, the follow-up list was provided to OSC members outside of these Minutes.

3.              One member suggested that we consider clusters of properties that together would form areas of exceptional value, for example, the properties on the corners of Merlin and Pikeland Rds.  An idea was to host a party for just those 4-6 families, at which OSC members and Supervisors would try to present a shared vision.

4.              In all of our work, it seems clear that the personal contacts we have with other landowners in the township, and the trust they place in us, will be critical to our success in preserving land.  Members were encouraged to find ways to reach out to our contacts.

5.              Bill Andersen's son is organizing an event at the Andersens' farm. The farming-related topic might be interesting to land owners who use or are considering using their land for farming.  We discussed what presence the OSC could have, in this non-threatening setting.  Bill will bring more information to the OSC at the March meeting.

6.              A member noted that an area to the left side of the driveway at Brightside Farm is owned by the Township and is not protected.  The OSC passed a motion to request that the Supervisors protect that strip of property in 2006.  Rosemary Philips will draft a reminder memo to the Board of Supervisors.

7.              For the March agenda:

a.     Update from Aliena

b.     OSC Report on contacts

c.     Determine maximum number of OSC members there should be.  Limit is currently 20.

d.     Determine how OSC should be involved in the Andeersen's event at the farm.

It was agreed that we would try to meet in alternate months, on the first Thursday (or second Thursday if a holiday intervenes), at 7:30 pm.  Tentative dates for the remainder of 2007 are: March 8, May 3, July 12, September 6, and November 1.

 

 

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

John Pickering

Secretary

 

 

 

 

To:       Charlestown Board of Supervisors

 

From:   Open Space Commission

 

Date:    January 24, 2006

 

Re:       Members of the Open Space Commission

 

Gentlemen:

 

We earnestly request the appointment of several new and returning members to the Open Space Commission:

 

Carolyn deW. Caswell
David Greer
Robert F. Jones
Andrew Motel
Marcia Solda
Susanna Staas, Chair

 

We believe you know of most of these candidates.  If it would be helpful to have us provide background on any of these individuals, we would be pleased to do so.  Thank you for your consideration.

 

 

 

 

John Pickering,  Secretary

2007 Minutes of the Open Space Commission

 

CHARLESTOWN OPEN SPACE COMMISSION

 

Minutes March 8, 2007

 

NEXT MEETING:      Thursday, May 3, 2007, 7:30 PM, Great Valley Middle School

 

Commission Members Attending Meeting:

Sue Staas, Chair x, William Andersen x, Carolyn Casswell x, Alexandra Coleman x, David Greer x,  Aliena Gerhart x, Bob Jones x,  Andy Motel _, Rosemary Philips x, John Pickering _, Marcia Solda _

 

Also Attending:  Anne Crowley, John and Will Gerhart

 

Minutes from the meeting of January 18, 2007 were reviewed and approved with corrections to the spelling of Carolyn De Wilde Casswell's name. 

 

CRITICAL DATES IN APRIL:  All of these events need representation from the OSC.  Please let Sue know which you can attend (and work!).

April 15.  Thank you Brunch for Horse Shoe Trail hosts at Great Valley Nature Center

April 21.  Earth Day Clean-up in the Township        

April 28.  Farm Workshops for Farmers and for Consumers

                       

Old Business:

1. Members' Update:
1. In Absentia, John Pickering reported a letter and contact which was favorably received and is under review.
2. Bob Jones reported on his deed search and will complete it by the May meeting.
3. Aliena Gerhart reported on the receipt by the township of  $570,000 in County grants for the acquisition of development rights. In total, in 2006/7 to date,  100 acres have been preserved through a combination of purchase of development rights and contributions by landowners.  An additional 100 acres are under active discussion.
4. Aliena briefly outlined process for putting easements into place.  Although there are many steps, the process usually takes less than a year – for less time than developing a property commercially.  Sue distributed an outline of the steps involved.  (Attached)
5. Portion of Brightside Farm that is not already under easement will be eased in the next year or so.  Timing will depend on how the township can use its easement as a match for future grants.
   
   

New Business

2. Farm Day at Charlestown Farm:  Bill Andersen briefly discussed the special program at the farm on Saturday, April 28, from 9AM to 2:30 PM. 
1. In the morning, Joel Salatin will present a workshop to large landowners and farmers about the profits and sustainability of small scale farming based on rotational grazing. There will be lunch for landowners and consumers featuring local pasture-raised meat and produce, followed by a workshop for consumers on the benefits of pasture-raised livestock.
2. OSC will send special invitations to large landowners not already on the Andersen's list.  Bill's son, Arne, will coordinate with Sue Staas.
3. OSC will have an exhibit at lunch.
   
   
3. Horse Shoe Trail Brunch:  Sunday, April 15.  Thirty five property owners permit the Horse Shoe Trail to cross their property.  An additional large number may notice hikers on the road in front of their property.  The Horse Shoe Trail Committee will be thanking these Trail Hosts at a brunch at the Great Valley Nature Center.  Brunch from 11 to 2, followed by a hike on the trail.  We need OSC representation at the Brunch.
   
   
4. Earth Day Cleanup:  Saturday, April 21.  This is the day we can safely clean the major roads in the township.  Safety vests, traffic cones, trash bags, etc., are provided.  OSC members are urged to organize a "gang" to do just that.  If your road is regularly maintained (by you, probably),  this is a good way to publicize OSC's interest in our township's beauty and quality of life.  Contact Linda Csete at the township office (admin1@charlestown.pa.us).
   
   
5. Discussion:  Commission discussed strategies for building on the momentum for preservation.
1. Commission recommended that next issue of Twp. Newsletter focus on open space and celebrate successes. 
2. Tax incentive for donating open space is due to expire at end of 2007, this should be emphasized in the newsletter.  Sue will send copies of explanation of tax incentive to members of OSC.  This has been sent to large landowners; but it would be a good idea to distribute again; and gives those of us who need an opening, a good excuse to send a copy with a brief note.  (Attached)
   
   

Respectfully submitted:

 

 

Alix Coleman for John Pickering

 

 

DRAFT

 

2007 Minutes of the Open Space Commission

CHARLESTOWN OPEN SPACE COMMISSION

Minutes May 10, 2007

 

 

 

 

NEXT MEETING:  September 6, 2007

 

Commission Members Attending Meeting:

Sue Staas, Chair x, William Andersen __, Carolyn Casswell x, Alexandra Coleman _, David Greer x, Aliena Gerhard x, Andy Motel _, Rosemary Phillips x, John Pickering _, Marcia Solda _,   Also attending:  Will Gerhard

 

Minutes from the meeting of March 8, 2007 were reviewed and approved as read.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

 

1. Members' Update:
1. Sue Staas reported on a very successful Horseshoe Trail Brunch. There were 60 people in attendance including 25 landowners.  OSC was well represented.
2. Sue Staas reported on the Farm Day at Charlestown Farm event in Bill Andersen's absence.  The day long program was well attended.  More to be reported by Bill at a future OSC meeting.
3. Aliena Gerhard reported that she submitted two grants for open space preservation. 
4. Aliena mentioned the State of Pennsylvania is giving Chester County a government leadership  award for its work and dedication to the preservation of  open space.  She also noted that a representative from the County told her how impressive were Charlestown's exemplary efforts and commitment towards preserving open space, especially its partnering with French and Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust to protect the Pigeon Run and its foresight in hiring a Director of Open Space.
5. Aliena reported that she is in discussion with two more landowners as a result of her postcard reminding them of the tax advantages for conservation easements.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

1. Election Day:  Sue Staas asked for OSC volunteers to staff the OSC table at the Election Day on May 15, 2007.  Sue would send out the schedule with assigned time slots.  Updated map showing conserved land will be the feature.  Handouts will include information on Tax Advantages of OS conservation, as well as information for taxpayers about the advantages of Open Space in the township.
   
   
2. Open Space Procedures and Guidelines Handouts: Sue Staas handed out the Open Space Procedures and Guidelines, which were originally adopted by the Commission in 2003..  As part of next meetings agenda, we will review and make any changes that seem necessary.  (See attached)
   
   
3. Question: Carolyn Casswell asked about the status of the Jenkins property..  Aliena will report at the next meeting.

 

 

Respectfully submitted:

 

Carolyn Casswell for John Pickering

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES FOR SELECTING SPACE TO SAVE

 

A)   Paramount is that the land for which we negotiate easements fill the criteria of land that we have determined ie:

       in heritage zones (see comprehensive plan)

       Proximity to other eased land

       View sheds,

       Current Use 

       Watersheds

       Woodlands

       Meets criteria for grants (grantable)

       Vulnerability to development

       Willingness of the owners to consider easement and to go through the process.

B)   The land must receive a certified appraisal – ratified by county and supervisors - to determine value of easement.

C)   Since land easement projects do not lend themselves to rigid application of a set of rules,  these are guidelines, whose purpose is to establish parameters and give some help to us as we struggle with prioritizing projects.

 

 

2/19/03

 

 

 

2007 Minutes of the Open Space Commission

 

CHARLESTOWN OPEN SPACE COMMISSION

 

Minutes September 13, 2007

 

NEXT MEETING:      Thursday, November 1, 2007, 7:30 PM, Great Valley Nature Center

 

Commission Members Attending Meeting:

Sue Staas, Chair x, William Andersen x, Carolyn Casswell x, Alexandra Coleman x, David Greer _, Bob Jones x,  Andy Motel _, Rosemary Philips x, John Pickering x, Marcia Solda x.

 

Also Attending:  Aliena Gerhard, Director of Open Space for Charlestown Twp  

 

Minutes from the meeting of May 10 were reviewed and approved. 

 

Old Business:

1.              Ms. Gerhard gave a complete update on her activities YTD.  She mentioned (without naming the properties or owners in order to maintain confidentiality) a number of properties whose owners are in the process of granting easements.  She believes part of their motivation has been the more-attractive tax treatment for easements that only is available through 12/31/07.  Among the most recent to complete the easement process is our own Alix Coleman, whose property is scheduled to be eased on 10/9/07.  Many other properties slated to be conserved contain the Pigeon Run and Pickering Creeks which will protect these important waters and surrounding fragile ecosystems.  Most also will contain trails on which the public can enjoy horseback riding or hiking.

2.              Charlestown has received a generous amount of funding from the State and the County to help fund conservation easements throughout the Township and will continue to apply for funding for future projects to enable our tax dollars to go further.

3.              Ms. Gerhard noted that we are basically full of projects for the remainder of 2007.  We have also earmarked much of the $4.7 million remaining from the proceeds of our first bond issue.

 

New Business:

1.              Chair Staas opened the subject of the 2008 Budget.  After some discussion, she asked WAndersen and JPickering to meet with Ms. Gerhard to prepare a detailed budget proposal. 

2.              AColeman was very kind to host a wonderful reception at her property.  The guest of honor was State Senator Andy Dinniman.  Ms. Coleman spent countless hours readying her property for the event, and was roundly commended.  It was noted that Senator Dinniman has been focused on issues important to conserving land, and continues to be a strong supporter of Charlestown Township.  He has recently been working with other legislators to permit farmers who desire to have trails on their properties, but whom are not permitted to do so because of receipt of funds from the Department of Agriculture, to be permitted to grant access to a trail along the perimeter of a working field, something that would help tie our trail network together and help farmers obtain additional funding through County agencies.

3.              It was suggested that Linda Csete send an OS brochure as part of her welcome packet to all new Charlestown residents.  This would help make what we do more visible, and increase support for any future referenda.

4.              AColeman is working with a video company to film parts of Middleburg, VA.  We discussed a similar video, or slide show, of Charlestown open space scenes, preserved properties, etc.  We could run a continuous Powerpoint show on Election Day, for example. CCasswell agreed to start on an outline of such a show, and it would be finished up by RPhillips, SStaas and AColeman.  Slides would come first, video later.

5.              Celebrities were mentioned to help draw attention to a future fund raiser.  The Bacon brothers were discussed – they were apparently among the first to donate land to the French & Pickering Creek Conservation Trust.  Michael Churchill or Stock Illoway could approach them.

6.              A discussion on slogans/logo was led by CCasswell.  The wording Charlestown Open Space Forever seemed to resonate with the crowd.  Ms. Casswell, with support from SStaas, RPhillips and AColeman, will work on a draft adaptation of our current logo.

 

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

 

John Pickering

Secretary

 

 

2007 Minutes of the Open Space Commission

 

CHARLESTOWN OPEN SPACE COMMISSION

 

Minutes November 1, 2007

 

NEXT MEETING: [TBA], 2008, 7:30 PM, Great Valley Middle School

 

Commission Members Attending Meeting:

Sue Staas, Chair x, William Andersen _ , Carolyn Casswell _, Alexandra Coleman x, David Greer _, Bob Jones _,  Andy Motel x, Rosemary Philips x, John Pickering x, Marcia Solda _.

 

Also Attending:  Aliena Gerhard, Director of Open Space for Charlestown Twp.; Kevin Kuhn, Charlestown Supervisor; Mike Harvell, Charlestown Hunt Resident  

 

Minutes from the meeting of September 13 were reviewed and approved. 

 

 

New Business:

1.              Chair Staas asked for OSC members to staff the OSC table at the upcoming Election. Members responded well.

2.              OSC finalized a handout to be used at the Election.  It reports on progress on one side and shows an updated township map on the other.

3.              OSC edited a powerpoint presentation prepared by CCaswell with photographic support from AColeman and AMotel.  The presentation will run continuously at the polls.  The text and photos could serve as an outline for a future OSC brochure.

4.              AGerhard reported that there is exciting news pending with regard to properties along two important greenways: the Pigeon Run and the Pickering Creek.  One of these successes was an easement placed on land owned by our own Alix Coleman; she received a hearty round of applause from the Commission.

5.              If we are successful in completing most of those in process, it will extinguish much of the cash remaining from our bond issue. KKuhn led a discussion on some of the issues we will need to address should that happen.  Though we often are reimbursed (at least in part) by Chester County if the county approves matching grants, if we run out of our own money, we will not be able to preserve any more property.  One outcome is that we might ask the electorate for approval of an open space EIT referendum, possibly next fall. With low current borrowing rates and a tough environment for developers, there could be an opportunity next year to conserve even more.

6.              AGerhard is working on five grant proposals, and had to leave early to finalize them.

7.              Chair Staas signed letters from the OSC to the Open Space Department of Chester County, expressing our review and approval of continuing to seek grant funds to preserve more properties along the Pigeon Run and Pickering Creek Greenways.

8.              In response to a question from Mike Harvell, KKuhn noted that Charlestown has preserved a higher percentage of our township than has any of our surrounding townships.

 

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

 

John Pickering

Secretary