Hollis Select Board Transparency Archive

Hi Dan (and everyone), I wanted to just address some questions/concerns regarding the bike path/course. I first want to say I know you’ve put a lot of thought and effort into it so I really appreciate that because it’s a nice idea for kids and adults to get out in the town. I have a few concerns myself though..

1- Pertaining to terry Walter’s comment about the land having multiple uses. I would like to see it be made clear that even with a bike course/path that we could still use the land to log if needed per forestry experts.

2- Do you have a total amount that this project would cost ? Including the contribution from the town along with the grant matching funds?

3- I am weary to make this a select board only vote as it’s very similar idea to the pickleball courts that were just voted down by the residents this month. If we were to “pass” anything I think it would be my suggestion we push this to the voters. I’m not sure if the grant runs that long but I feel since we just got a nay vote for the pickleball which was similar in fashion that it wouldn’t be right by the voters to appropriate the funds for a bike course without approval. Even with the sports complex saving money for said park.

4- Piggybacking off of #3 if the sports complex has a surplus I feel for us to do right by the town citizens we should be reevaluating the rec dept. budget. If there is a some sort of surplus maybe there is a possibility to lower the town budget/spending in this department.

5- I had a couple of residents reach out to me after the meeting that were also wondering liability issues. Like if someone is injured on the course could the town be opening itself up to a lawsuit? I’m unsure how that piece works but I figured I would mention it since a few residents were concerned.

6- Another resident also reached out to me today concerned about who would be making sure no ATV's, electric bikes, or dirtbikes are on said tracks. The concern would be damaging the track from the motorized vehicles vs the pump bikes.

Again thank you for devoting so much time and effort into this because I think it is a nice idea for kids and adults even to get outside. I just don't think this should only be a select board decision as I stated above. If anyone else has any thoughts please feel free to add !

Danielle