For immediate release: August 30, 2004

For further information,

Contact - Leon A. Gaumond Jr., Executive Secretary 525-5400

SELECTMEN ANNOUNCE URBAN FOREST PLANNING GRANT TO THE TOWN

(East Longmeadow, MA) The Chairman of the East Longmeadow Board of Selectmen, Gary DeLisle, has announced that the Town has received an $8,820 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation for protecting urban forests. East Longmeadow was one of seven communities in the Commonwealth to be funded through this grant program.

This grant was submitted by the Town to address policy solutions to the pressures of high growth and development on the urban forest and to educate residents and school age children about the importance of a vibrant and healthy urban forest in their community. It is expected that sample tree ordinances and subdivision regulations may be developed as part of this grant.

In 2003, East Longmeadow was the third fastest growing community in the western Massachusetts region. “At last year’s Annual Town Meeting, the Town adopted a standing committee for Open Space Preservation to address the growth issues we have seen in our community," said Gary DeLisle, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen. “With this grant, we hope that we can take formal steps to protect our urban forest and protect the character of our Town.”

It is expected that the Town would begin working with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission on this project very soon.

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