Trustees table Smithfield Plantation gate plan over parking and ordinance issues

Trustees seeking to install a gate near two hemlocks at Smithfield Plantation tabled the project after planners and selectboard members raised concerns about parking capacity and compliance with local ordinances. The group discussed whether reconfiguring the pocket parking area could meet ordinance setbacks and whether conservation-easement restrictions apply to the parcel.

A trustee recounted vendor pricing and logistics, saying it "would cost us around 3,300 bucks" to install a simple gate; planners warned the current parking configuration and required setbacks would make the gate work impractical without additional redesign and expense. The trustees agreed to revisit the plan, check conservation easement limits and funding sources, and explore design alternatives that would meet ordinance requirements before moving forward.

Board members also discussed long-term maintenance and liability considerations for trail access and whether private fundraising or separate forestry-account funds might cover small capital improvements. The gate proposal was not approved and will return to trustees with revised plans.