The Longmeadow Select Board’s recent meeting was marked by a significant outpouring of concern from residents regarding the state of Lawnwood Avenue. Frustration was voiced over the road’s condition, which was characterized by potholes and deteriorated pavement, and the perceived inaction by the town. Multiple residents, including Mike Kirby, highlighted the issues, referencing the Department of Public Works (DPW) trench repair policy and the street’s ranking in the pavement report. The impact on safety and property values was also a cause for concern among those present. Residents questioned the allocation of funds from Eversource and expressed disappointment in the town’s response to the condition of the street. In response, the Select Board chair assured the residents that their concerns would be thoroughly investigated and reported back to them.

The debate over the sidewalks and tree belt on Lawnwood Avenue further underscored the community’s distress. Residents discussed the challenging conditions for pedestrians and the need for restoration, including the replacement of trees. The discussions on infrastructure were not limited to Lawnwood Avenue; the board also engaged in a broader debate about the town’s plans for road resurfacing and the allocation of funds for the upcoming fiscal year. The timing of road resurfacing projects led to confusion, as some residents were unsure about the fiscal year in which the funding would be available and when the work would commence.

Additionally, the Select Board addressed the proposed Longmeadow public shade tree regulations, which sparked a separate but equally discussion. The board examined the proposed fine structure for unauthorized tree removal, with suggested penalties and the involvement of the tree Warden and the tree committee in determining appropriate fines. The proposed regulations aimed to formalize processes for hearings, appeals, waivers, and legal advertisements. The regulations, which were based on existing tree management manuals and regulations from other towns such as Northampton and Brooklyn, were debated in detail, with particular focus on the need for flexibility in certain scenarios, such as when tree removal is necessitated by failing sewer lines.

The discussion on tree regulations continued with debates over the adequacy of a proposed $500 fine for cutting a tree and what constitutes a public shade tree. The board grappled with the definition, suggesting that it should include trees on municipal properties, schools, and parks. Confusion about the requirements for obtaining a pruning permit and the conflicting information related to clearing trees for public passage was also addressed. The board highlighted the necessity of aligning the new regulations with existing bylaws and state laws to avoid legal implications and to ensure clarity for residents. In particular, the authority of the building department to enforce sidewalk clearance bylaws was clarified, with plans to address this at the upcoming town meeting.

The meeting also included updates on community events such as the walk and talk at Laurel Park, the joint public meeting of the planning board and the select board, and activities at the Adult Center. The challenge of providing age-friendly subsidized housing was discussed, and the board approved the March 4th select board minutes.

The Select Board’s meeting concluded with discussions on other matters, such as the approval of a block party road closure and one-day liquor licenses. A request from a member of the zoning board of appeals regarding the application process was addressed, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and adherence to guidelines.