Dover Conservation Commission submits FY27 budget materials, approves 2025 annual report and expense invoices

The Dover Conservation Commission used its Jan. 21 meeting to finalize several administrative items: submitting FY27 budget materials to the Warrant Committee and Town Manager, approving the 2025 Annual Report and authorizing payment of regulatory review invoices.

Conservation Agent Janet Bowser confirmed the FY27 Conservation budget documentation had been submitted and said the total request for Conservation is $227,255; she emphasized the importance of submitting the narrative justifications requested by the Warrant Committee and Town Manager as soon as possible. Liaison Cam Hudson advocated for a level‑service budget to reflect the consulting agent’s non‑exclusive town work.

Commissioner Zaiga Alksnitis presented the Draft 2025 Conservation Annual Report; the commission approved the report by roll call vote 6-0. The commission also approved the Agent’s December 2025 Regulatory Review expense invoices in the amount of $11,687.25 by roll call vote 6-0. Bowser noted that her budget will be expended by the end of January and that a reserve fund transfer will be required; she suggested Paul McManus handle Enforcement Orders through the rest of FY26. The commission also approved the Agent’s comment letter on the 43 Strawberry Hill 40B application for submission to the Town Manager for forwarding to MA Housing (6-0). Bowser reviewed the Agent’s February newsletter article and a Feb. 24 webinar on managing invasive plants.