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What it means: The Ice Pond and Grist Mill Pond are owned by the Town, under the care and management of the Conservation Commission. The Commission believes that both ponds are significantly impaired, due to the rapid, uncontrolled growth of vegetation in the waters. Each year, as vegetation dies back, the dead plants fall to the bottom and add to the amount of silt. The more silt, the higher the bottom of the pond, the easier for sunlight to encourage even more growth the next year, and the cycle continues at an ever-increasing rate. Before developing a plan for restoration of the ponds, the Commission needs to have a clear understanding of the nature and scope of the impairments, as well as the options for improving the health of the ponds. This study will provide that information so the Commission can decide the best path forward.
Those in favor say: Left alone, the ponds will continue to get silted in and choked by the vegetation. If the issues are not addressed, both ponds will eventually fill in and become meadows. Residents will be better able to fish and ice skate if the vegetation is controlled. Many people used the outdoor spaces of the ponds during the pandemic shutdown, and there continues to be widespread use of the recreational aspects of the ponds. Approving Article 22 will help to maintain these beautiful resources and help improve the capacity of the ponds to contain excess water, thus mitigating against flooding.
Those against say: The suggestion was made that perhaps the town should be polled regarding what they want to use the pond for before any restoration work is planned or initiated.
Fiscal impact: Cost per thousand dollars of valuation is $0.025. A household valued at $400,000 will see a tax increase of $10.00 in 2023. Your decision on this Article affects this year’s taxes only.