BERLIN LAND PURCHASE APPROVED! 11/16/05 

The Executive Council today voted 5-0 to approve the purchase of land in Berlin from the Dillons and receive the gift of land from the City of Berlin.

Councilor Debora Pignatelli, after the item was “removed from the table”, moved to approve the item, seconded by Councilor Peter Spaulding.  Councilor Spaulding expressed his remaining concerns about how the park will be managed and supervised, but he indicated that didn’t affect the actual purchase.  He also expressed concern over liability (injured riders) and asked that all measures be taken to secure the active gravel pit from riders, and lastly hoped DRED finds a way to keep riders from entering the National Forrest.  Councilor Ray Wieczorek responded by reminding the Councilors that there are subsequent public meetings for input and information. 

Councilor Burton, who opposed the tabling motion last week and has been an ardent supporter of this project in his district, requested the Commissioner of DRED appoint an advisory group to him relative to the park, to meet annually, listen to input from across the state to and advise him on the park.

Councilor Pignatelli summed up by saying the Council will be watching DRED closely to see that their concerns are addressed and the process continues to be open.

Rep. Peter Solomon, who represents Canaan, spoke in favor of the project.  It is not typical for the Council to accept outside testimony.

Details on the public meetings will be circulated as they become available; your input is still needed in the planning process for this area.

Congratulations to all who put in the effort over the past three weeks to express the position and knowledge of NHOHVA!