Trustees finalize tree-RFP timeline, set Dec. 1 completion date and Aug. 12 proposal deadline

Trustees reviewed edits to a Tree Request for Proposals July 6, including the addition of a contractor completion deadline of Dec. 1, 2026. Nancy Birkrem summarized the RFP changes; Scott Johnston confirmed the Dec. 1 date was sensible for closing the town’s books. Trustees agreed that Lynne A. Murray, Bill Amaral and Nancy Birkrem would place signs marking the trees (including an email address for public comment) and that one of those three would escort arborists on their mandatory site visits.

The minutes note that arborists will conduct separate visits and that trustees set Aug. 12 as the deadline for arborist responses assuming the Secretary could send RFPs promptly; otherwise the deadline would be three weeks after mailing. Scott Johnston emphasized that arborists should secure permission forms from adjacent landowners to satisfy insurance requirements and that a copy of any permission form be submitted to the Town before cutting begins. Trustees also agreed to notify the Select Board (which will sign the eventual contract) when they meet with the Select Board on July 7, 2026.

No motions were recorded to award a contract at this meeting; trustees set timelines and responsibilities for marking trees, hosting site visits and receiving proposals.