The City Meadow Committee focused its discussion on appearances when it met in special session Tuesday evening—the appearance of Robertson Plaza and of City Meadow.
Members noted that First Selectman Henry Tirrell is going to remove the Town Crier board on the front of the Hub and that he would like to relocate it to the plaza. Even though the committee is not in charge of the plaza, it overlooks City Meadow and he sought the opinion of the committee members.
Members were leery of this relocation, however, remarking that the bulletin board announcing town events often becomes unsightly even within days of being organized.
It was suggested that a kiosk be placed on the plaza that could display the Town Crier notices on one side and signage on the other describing why wetlands such as the City Meadow are important.
Some members commented that there are already two other sites in the town center where notices are posted and questioned whether another is needed on the plaza.
The rehabilitation of the City Meadow wetlands, which has been overrun by invasives, was reported to be “progressing appropriately” with more invasives being removed last week. The invasives must be eradicated before native plants can be installed.
Co-chair Libby Borden referred to the dead trees that have fallen in the meadow and the importance they have in wetlands. But she suggested that they are not attractive as currently situated and suggested that their straight boles could be arranged to spell out “Icebox,” the sobriquet applied to the town.
It was estimated that replacement of deteriorated boards in the meadow’s boardwalk will cost about $2,000.
The committee hopes to activate an independent website for the City Meadow within weeks.
The committee has received requests from groups who wish to visit the meadow, but have declined, saying “we are not yet ready for guests.”