Epping commission approves up to $2,000 from trust fund to reinstall floodplain kiosk sign

The Town of Epping Conservation Commission voted on April 15 to direct the Town Administrator to obtain contractor estimates and proceed with installation of a kiosk sign at the Tilton/Lamprey River floodplain, authorizing expenses up to $2,000 to be paid from the Conservation Expendable Trust Fund.

Commission members reported that the bridges in the floodplain are secured and in good condition but that the information kiosk sign has been down for about a year. Commissioner Joe Trombley recommended hiring a contractor to install and permanently mount the sign; Trombley noted urgency given the duration the sign has been down.

"The sign has been down for about a year," Trombley said in explaining the need for prompt action. The commission approved Trombley's motion, seconded by Treasurer Dan McCombs; the motion carried 4-0. The commission discussed using the Operating Budget for materials and the trust fund for installation expenses.

The authorization covers solicitation of contractors and payment up to the $2,000 cap; the commission did not specify a contractor at the meeting. Administrator Roger will be asked to bring estimates back for administrative action and to obtain Select Board permission when posting signage on town- or partner-managed sites if required.

The commission also discussed bridge maintenance and a separately planned bridge installation on New Lane for which Commissioner Trombley has purchased materials.