David Bitler

This document details various resilient forestry practices aimed at climate mitigation and enhancing forest resilience. It describes practices such as pre-commercial thinning, thinning for health and wildlife, creating small patch clearcuts, shrub planting, conifer seeding/hand planting, individual hardwood tree planting with shelters, tree/shrub regeneration with deer protection, restoration/conservation treatments following catastrophic events, chipping and hauling off-site, forest slash treatment, and different methods of invasive control. Each practice is presented with its goals for ecological functions, climate mitigation rationale, forest resilience rationale, evidence for impact, and additional considerations, with the overall objective of improving ecosystem health, carbon sequestration, and adaptability to environmental changes.

The agenda for this meeting includes a welcome and roll call, followed by public participation time. Key discussion and presentation topics involve updates from the CT Office of the State Comptroller, the CT GIS Office, and a Regional Safety Action Plan update from BETA Group LLC. Program and project updates will cover OPM Parcel/CAMA Grant, CPRG, and PROTECT initiatives. The Directors Report will cover Animal Control, Transit District, Regional Town Administrator, Outreach, NECCOG Programs, and Legislative updates. Discussion and action items include STIP Actions and Amendments.

The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for the Northeastern Connecticut Council of Governments outlines transportation planning activities and programs for fiscal years 2026-2027. It focuses on two main tasks: administration and management of the planning process, and providing planning and technical assistance to member towns. The program is guided by ten planning factors, including supporting economic vitality, increasing safety and security, protecting the environment, enhancing integration and connectivity, improving accessibility and mobility for people and freight, promoting efficient system management, preserving the existing system, improving reliability, and enhancing travel and tourism. The plan aims to ensure a comprehensive, cooperative, and inclusive transportation planning process for the region.

The meeting included program updates on the OPM Parcel/CAMA Grant, Safe Streets for ALL, and Town Administration support. The Director's Report covered Animal Control, Transit District updates including the appointment of a new Transit Director, Regional Town Administrator activities, and Outreach efforts. NECCOG programs were discussed, including the Regional Service Grant, the departure of Planner Cameron James, and a Regional Brownfield Event. A legislative update on the Housing Bill (HB5002) was provided. Action items included the ratification of the Drivers Union Contract, approval of a resolution authorizing an agreement with OPM for the RSG grant, and approval of the NECCOG budget for 2025-2026. Regional Referrals were reviewed for the Town of Plainfield and Killingly. The CEO Roundtable discussed pistol permits and knotweed removal challenges.

The meeting included welcoming remarks, a presentation and discussion regarding a regional paramedic intercept agreement, and an executive session. Further discussion and negotiations are planned for the agreement.