Mashpee Planning Board
Notes of Site Visit
January 29, 2011 at 1 p.m.
Windchime Condominiums
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Waygan, Dennis Balzarini
ALSO PRESENT: Town Planner Tom Fudala
SITE VISIT
Prior to viewing the trees, Robert Slesinski of 8 Red Cedar Road expressed his support of creating a more simplified process for tree removal on behalf of his mother. Mr. Slesinski recounted a winter event from 2004/2005. A large tree behind the unit, located approximately 20 feet from the home, threatened to fall during multiple wind storms and his mother repeatedly requested to the Construction Manager and the Association Board that the tree be removed. Eventually, the tree fell and was caught by a second tree, but the residents were ordered to evacuate by the Police. The Construction Manager finally removed the tree, along with others. Chair of the Association Board, Marion Baker responded to Mr. Slesinski and assured him that the Board is concerned about the trees and are actively
monitoring the trees.
Planning Board members and staff, and Windchime Board members and residents began the tour.
Across from Clubhouse-Pine
The tree has been described as a dead pine. Windchime Board members noted that the tree is leaning and is ugly. Mr. Balzarini indicated that the tree is not in a dangerous location and that it has been used for habitat for animals. The tree is located in open space and is being used for animal habitat and does not present a danger of falling into the street or near a structure.
#3 Red Cedar
The tree has been described as an almost dead oak. The Chair and Mr. Balzarini stated that the tree is close to the home and would be recommended for removal to the Planning Board.
#68 Blue Spruce-Pine Tree
The tree has been described as a white pine exuding pitch on rear deck. Homeowner Jan Lyons shared photographs of pitch pine on her deck and stated that the sap had ruined furniture and that she was unable to use the deck. The tree is huge and located approximately 20 feet from the home. Mr. Balzarini indicated that the tree appears healthy but that the trunk divides into two branches. If the tree is removed, it was noted that it would need to be replaced. The Chair requested that the arborist be contacted regarding an approximate height and age of the tree, which appears to be healthy. It was noted that the arborist, who is also the landscaper, may be unable to provide the information in time for the next Planning Board meeting.
#68 Blue Spruce-Oak Tree
The tree has been described as a diseased, leaning oak. The Chair requested written documentation from the arborist regarding the type of disease and noted that the tree is leaning close to a home.
#26 Red Cedar
The tree has been described as an almost dead white pine tree in the retention area. The tree presents a danger being located near the road and Board members indicated that it would be a prime candidate for replacement because it is isolated. Board members recommended that the arborist be consulted in order to recommend the most resilient tree choice that will enhance the area.
#32 Red Cedar
The tree has been described as a dead pine near the dumpster. The tall tree is located in a forested area in open space and would likely not hit the nearest home due to other trees shielding the unit. Mr. Fudala suggested that the top would likely fall off. Mr. Fudala indicated that there was no sign of disease but that it was old. The Chair suggested that the arborist be contacted to find out if the tree is diseased.
#80 Gold Leaf-Not on Original List
Mr. Fudala noticed a skinny dead pitch pine that could fall on a car in the driveway. Mr. Balzarini agreed that the tree should be removed. It was noted that the tree would not require removal since it is located in forested open space.
#64 Gold Leaf-Pine Trees
There are two pine trees and three trunks at this location. The trees are located close to a parking lot and could be removed. The area is forested with juvenile trees so replacement would be unnecessary.
#64 Gold Leaf-Oak Tree
The dead oak is located too close to a home and should be removed. The area is forested with juvenile trees so replacement would be unnecessary.
#49 Gold Leaf
The tree has been described as a damaged oak located close to the front door. The tree is considered diseased and likely damaged by the retaining well. Three trees are in the pit and the arborist expects the other trees to also die. It was noted that the retention area was intended to save the trees but the rocks were likely placed on the roots. Board members were in agreement that the tree should be removed without a replacement, however, Mr. Fudala recommended that the tree be replaced in consultation with the arborist to identify a tree that would succeed in the area and coordinate with the surrounding landscape. The Chair inquired about the possibility of removing all of the trees and landscaping from scratch with trees recommended by the arborist. There was discussion about filling
in the pit since it has been unsuccessful in saving the trees and the Chair recommended asking the arborist about the possibility. Windchime Board members noted that other trees in the area have been planted as well as the discovery of water in the hole while planting the trees.
#35 Gold Leaf
The tree has been described as a dead oak. The dead tree has leaves and the Chair recommended replacement, but located further from the structure. It was suggested that the arborist be consulted regarding the location of another tree that matches the surrounding landscape. It was noted that utilities nearby may impact the location of the tree.
#14 Bob White Crescent
The tree has been described as a white pine growing into the oaks. There was no additional information regarding why the arborist recommended that the pine be removed. Mr. Balzarini recommended that the resident of the home be consulted since the pine provides screening for the home. There was agreement that the oak should be trimmed. It was recommended that the arborist be contacted to inquire whether the pine is negatively affecting the oak.
Underbrush Removal on Bob White Crescent
The underbrush has been removed on the circle and Ms. Baker reported that half of the residents prefer it and others do not like it. Mr. Balzarini and Mr. Fudala confirmed that the underbrush may not be removed as a condition of the permit. A member of the Windchime Board disagreed but Mr. Fudala clarified that the space has been set aside as open space and may not be cleared in any way. Ruth Robinson and Mary Scanlon have submitted letters voicing their support of the clearing and Ms. Baker expressed concern that the underbrush limits the flow of air, causing mold in the surrounding buildings. Mr. Fudala indicated that the structures are too far from the trees and would not be causing the mold. Chairman Waygan indicated that more discussion will be needed among the Planning Board.
Oak Near Bob White Crescent Dumpster
The tree has been described as a dead oak. The tree is located in a heavily wooded open space and Mr. Balzarini stated his support to remove the tree.
Pine Next to Old Post Office
The tree has been described as dead. The tree is located adjacent to a nice storage building and should be removed due to the potential for a dangerous situation. The area is heavily forested.
There was also conversation regarding the possibility of identifying a designated tree official from the Planning Board to conduct tree inspections along with either Mr. Fudala or Charlie Rowley. Should there be a disagreement with the tree official’s recommendation, the Planning Board may then be petitioned.
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