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Community garden group asks Madison selectmen for letter of agreement, guidance on insurance and water testing
Summary
A volunteer group forming a nonprofit for a community garden asked the board for a letter of agreement, guidance on Primex insurance requirements (likely $1,000,000 liability), and help arranging water testing and limited site prep; the board directed staff to follow up on MOU/lease options and facilities-use procedures.
A group working to establish a community garden told the Board of Selectmen on April 28 that it has formed a nonprofit and needs a letter of agreement from the town to support fundraising and insurance procurement.
The group's representative asked whether the town would provide a one-dollar-per-year letter or MOU outlining permitted uses of a town parcel. Board members said the town will draft a letter and check whether Primex or the town's insurance pool has specific lease or MOU requirements. A town official advised that third-party users of town property must carry insurance and said Primex often requires $1,000,000 liability coverage and an additional $1,000,000 umbrella; the board asked staff to verify exact limits.
Participants also raised water-quality concerns for a hand pump on site. A volunteer said the DPW had tested nearby sources and found bacterial contamination in water used at the town garage; the group agreed it would arrange testing either through the state or the town's usual contractor (Summit Water) before using the source for edible plants.
The group discussed site prep and possible DPW assistance with light grading and trimming; DPW said it could help with minor work and recommended the group measure pump threads before buying a hand pump. The group also reviewed rules for community events and signage under the town's zoning ordinance and planned a seed-swap fundraiser on May 9, for which they will complete a facilities-use form if an MOU is not yet in place.
The board directed the administrator to: check with Primex on whether a lease or MOU is required, draft a letter of agreement, and provide the group with a facilities use form and guidance for insurance wording. The board did not commit town funds for the project at this meeting.
