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Commission backs Eagle Scout pollinator garden proposal, pending site sign‑off
Summary
The Park & Recreation Commission voted 5–0 to support an Eagle Scout proposal for a native-plant pollinator garden near the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, contingent on town approval of the location and a maintenance plan.
Brandon Ma of Scout Troop 61 presented an Eagle Scout project to install a native-plant pollinator garden along the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail consisting of two 48‑square‑foot raised beds planted with 48 native plugs and a 3–4 foot mulch access path.
Commissioners raised accessibility and location questions and stressed the need for coordination with the Conservation Commission and a clear maintenance plan. Sandra Duran asked about making the raised beds ADA accessible; Mara Huston suggested alternate locations such as Grinnell Park where the Thursday Garden Club could assist with upkeep. Victor Garofalo noted the town has not yet taken ownership of the rail trail, so site approval is required.
Commissioner Bobby Beagan moved to support the project “with the understanding that the location will be ok with the Town and that Brandon will follow up with Conservation.” Commissioner Laurie Eliason seconded the motion. The commission voted 5–0 in favor.
Next steps: the commission’s support is conditional on confirmation of an approved location and a maintenance plan; Brandon will follow up with the Conservation Commission and town staff before construction, which he estimated would begin in March. The commission did not formalize a maintenance agreement at the meeting.
