The Town of Pompey Environmental Conservation Commission met on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at 7:00pm. A video of the full meeting can be viewed on the Town of Pompey Facebook Page.
No July 2023 Meeting
There will be no July 2023 meeting of the ECC unless a time-sensitive issue arises.
Tier 3 Solar Locations
ECC Deputy Chair Kathy Bertuch reported that Town Supervisor Renee Rotondo requested that the ECC form a committee to investigate properties within the Town of Pompey that could be potential “less objectionable” locations for Tier 3 solar arrays. She asked the ECC to eliminate certain soil types, forested areas, and prime farmland, and to consider issues of view sheds and neighboring homes. The ECC will look into GIS technology to assist with the identification of potential properties.
Earth Day Recap
The ECC held a brief recap discussion on the Earth Day event held in April. Adam Scalisi reported counting more than 170 people coming through the doors of the Town Hall that day. That number does not include all those who came to the Highway Department facility. It was also noted that the baby goat at the event was a big hit and it was suggested that they consider having additional animals at next year’s event. They will also look to improve directional signage for next year.
Pollinator Contest
There will be a community Pollinator Contest held now through the end of July. ECC Chair Phil George drafted text for a poster to advertise the contest, and Town of Pompey resident Nancy Furdock volunteered to help with the design of the poster, which will be posted online as well as throughout the community. Contestants are encouraged to use their creativity to create a “pollinator friendly” project such as planting a butterfly garden, building a bat house, or creating nesting places for insects. The public will vote via “likes” on Facebook, and the winner will receive a gift certificate for dessert at Heritage Hill.
Frank Long Road Solar Application
The ECC then briefly discussed the proposal for the Frank Long Road solar project. It was agreed that, until the Commission receives the full stormwater plan from the applicant, they cannot make formal comments. Member Adam Scalisi noted that the property mainly consists of moderately or highly erodible soils, and member Paulie Drexler commented that the plan will dramatically alter the land and she’d like to know about the vegetation plan for the project. Reference the May 9, 2023 Town Board Meeting Recap for more information on the Frank Long Road solar project.
