Topsham Conservation Commission votes to use open space funds for Natural Areas Plan update

The Topsham Conservation Commission voted to proceed with updating the town's Natural Areas Plan using funds from the open space payment in lieu account, after failing to secure a state grant. Members discussed the scope of services for a consultant, emphasizing the need for updated GIS data and effective public engagement while keeping costs within the approved budget.

Key points

• The commission approved the August minutes and voted to move forward with the Natural Areas Plan update using up to $57,000 from the open space payment in lieu fund.
• Members noted that the town did not receive the anticipated Community Action grant due to high competition and limited funding availability.
• The group debated the scope of the consultant's work, agreeing to prioritize geospatial analysis and public outreach over other tasks like story map creation.
• Commissioners discussed the relationship between the Natural Areas Plan and the upcoming comprehensive plan update, deciding to keep the projects separate but coordinated.
• The commission reviewed the status of conservation easements at Sky High Drive and 300 Metal Crossroad, noting that some easement documents are still missing.

Next steps

• The chair will revise the Request for Proposals (RFP) based on recent town examples and input from members regarding scope and budget.
• Members will review the revised RFP and finalize the scope of services for the November 2 meeting agenda.
• The commission will monitor the status of the Sky High Drive project, which is awaiting rural housing funding approval.
• Members are encouraged to attend the Maine Association of Conservation Commissions meeting on October 24 in Brunswick.

Read the full transcript