20231212 - Shade Tree Commission Meeting Minutes

Ridgewood Shade Tree Commission

12/12/2023 Meeting Minutes

In attendance: Carolyn Jacoby, Neil Gallone, Nancy Bigos, Deborah Steinbaum, Vicky Van Dyke, Adam Brown, Nancy Brennan-Hill, George Wolfson, Mahmoud Hamza, Tim Graham, Cavan Sieczkowski, Andrew Lowry, Matt Chase, Grace Kim, Candy Hall.

--Meeting in the Senior Lounge called to order by Chair Carolyn Jacoby at 7:32 pm.

--November 2023 meeting minutes recorded by Mahmoud Hamza approved.

PRESENTATION

--Neil Gallone, Ridgewood Water Department, presented an overview of the street tree Inventory as it is now incorporated in the Village GIS software. The rich database promises to inform decision making pertaining to trees at many levels. Based on feedback, Neil will work to find a way for STC members to access the database. Please note that all STC requests for work on GIS data require approval from Nancy Bigos for overtime payment, as it is outside of Neil’s purview through the Water Dept.

PROGRESS REPORTS

--Siobhan Winograd said revisions to the Tree Ordinance continue be a priority among the Village Council and administration. The key stumbling block is figuring out how to enforce any regulations. More to come in 2024.

--Momentum is building in support of the Big/Heritage tree initiative following last month’s posting and promotion of the NJDEP nomination forms. Siobhan is gathering nominations and suggestions almost daily.

--Nancy Bigos said key decisions are expected on the proposed $580,000 2024 budget in mid-January.

NEW BUSINESS

--Mahmoud Hamza is stepping down, with much appreciation from his STC colleagues for his efforts and commitment to Village trees.

--Carolyn Jacoby and Siobhan Winograd introduced Deborah Steinbaum, who is joining the STC. She brings a valuable dimension to the STC as a physician and advocate for the health benefits of trees.

--Current members Cavan Sieczkowski, Adam Brown and Carolyn Jacoby are to be reappointed to new 3-year terms.

--An improved Village website, including updated STC pages, is being launched in January. It will be important for STC members to check the new pages and recommend edits to Tim ASAP.

--At the next meeting in January, per bylaws, election of STC officers will take place. Please consider officer/sub-committee positions and commitment for participating in training and CEU programs.  New members as of 2023 should be Core Trained within 2 years of appointment.  Everyone must accrue at least 2 CEUs per year.

--Holiday pizza party. Donation of $20 from each member.

--Meeting adjourned at 9:15 pm.

Minutes recorded by Tim Graham