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Sharon plans new Downer Forest kiosk and considers ski-connector to Annex parcel
Summary
The commission approved developing a 3'x3' kiosk for Downer Forest that will include a map, user ethics and a memorial blurb for John Sears; members also discussed adding the Annex Lot to maps and pursuing a VAST-linked ski connector to improve access.
Sam Brakeley presented a new kiosk sign template from Brian Renfro and the Sharon Conservation Commission agreed to develop a replacement kiosk for Downer Forest that would include updated maps, seasonal information and a memorial acknowledgement of the late John Sears.
Commissioners said the proposed 3'x3' sign should dedicate roughly half its area to a map that includes the newly acquired southern Annex Lot and all trails, and that the kiosk should display the E911 address and photos where space allows. Members discussed consulting John Sears’s family about wording for a memorial blurb and noted Scott Chestnut will consult with Mike and longtime volunteer Tim Morton to refine historical material for the sign.
Separately, Luis Bango proposed a connector ski trail using an existing VAST corridor to link the main Downer parcel with the Annex Block, which commissioners identified as a promising option to improve skier circulation without creating extensive new cuts. The commission also discussed signage durability and volunteer capacity for trail and kiosk work.
Next steps: Sam Brakeley will draft the proposed kiosk text and map and circulate it to the commission and to Sears’s family for input; Luis and others will explore feasibility of the VAST-linked connector trail. No formal vote or funding allocation was taken at the meeting.
