LVIS vows to plant 250 trees; board approves Whitmore's contract for Millstone Park plantings

At the May 15 meeting, Rachel Cooper, executive director of the Ladies Village Improvement Society (LVIS), announced a commitment to plant 250 trees across the village over the next decade, beginning with a commemorative tree for the nation''s upcoming 250th anniversary and a first wave of plantings at the newly reopened long-term parking lot and Herrick Park.

"Our tree canopy in the village is one of our greatest assets," Rachel Cooper said. She described LVIS''s partnership with village staff, the town''s new tree-management software, and the group''s plan to roll out multiple planting waves.

Earlier the board heard a Millstone Park proposal from Whitmore's (presenters identified themselves as Daniel and Dana Tripp) for panel-style tree cover intended to restore the park area without attaching vegetation to a privately owned adjacent wall. After discussion, trustees approved Resolution 203, a $28,365 proposal from Whitmore's for purchase and installation of trees at Millstone Park to be paid from the assigned and appropriated fund balance; the motion was moved, seconded and carried.

Trustees and LVIS representatives emphasized coordination with DPW and the village planner to ensure plantings use appropriate native species and to avoid repeating past problems with invasive growth attaching to buildings. The approved Whitmore's work was described as part of a larger, long-term plan for the park and village canopy maintenance.