Central to the meeting was the design and implementation of a public survey intended to solicit input from residents on the town’s open space and recreation needs. The committee deliberated on how to best formulate the survey, emphasizing clarity in questions to ensure high-quality feedback. Members expressed a preference for a concise survey format while acknowledging the vague state guidelines on open space plans. The committee underscored the importance of targeting specific demographics, including families and seniors, to ensure a representative sample. Various distribution strategies were proposed, including digital platforms, QR codes, and town mailings, to maximize participation.

The committee considered the potential of offering incentives, such as a walking trail map, to encourage survey completion. Additionally, there was a focus on the timing of releasing survey results, with a suggestion to share findings promptly to maintain public interest and engagement. The use of graphical representations of survey data was proposed as a strategy to enhance comprehension and appeal.

Another topic was the update on the Boston Border Trail, with particular attention to the segment from Byfield to Georgetown. The committee discussed the completion of 25% design plans, including necessary infrastructure developments like bridges. A public hearing is expected in April to gather community feedback on these plans. The committee also addressed the bureaucratic challenges involved in trail development, noting that the processes in Massachusetts have delayed progress compared to other states. The town received earmarked funds for a boardwalk project, now reallocated towards advancing trail design and development.

A recurring theme was the management of local trails and open spaces, including concerns about horseback riding access and the impact of environmental changes on trail usability. Discussions highlighted the complexities of negotiating access with utility companies and the need for collaboration with organizations like the Essex County Trail Association. The committee explored the potential of classifying and protecting town-owned parcels, emphasizing the importance of preserving open spaces in response to community interest.

The meeting also touched on coordination with other town committees, such as the Recreation Committee and the Council on Aging. Members discussed the need for alignment and collaboration to ensure comprehensive planning and address the diverse needs of the community. There was an acknowledgment of the importance of gathering feedback from all community segments, including seniors, to inform the open space plan effectively.