Darien Conservation Committee To Begin Review Of Possible New Conservation Commission

DARIEN, CT — Darien’s newly formed Advisory Conservation Committee is scheduled to hold its first meeting on Thursday, with members expected to begin discussions on whether the town should create a standalone Conservation Commission focused on natural resource protection and environmental oversight.

The special meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 28, at 3 p.m. in Room 206 at Darien Town Hall. The agenda lists the meeting as in person, though public comment also may be provided online if a Zoom option is available.

According to the committee’s mission and mandate adopted by the Board of Selectmen earlier this year, the committee was established to evaluate whether a new Conservation Commission should be created and how it could be structured to help protect, preserve and maintain Darien’s natural resources.

The committee’s charge includes reviewing how conservation-related issues currently are handled in Darien, identifying gaps or overlaps among existing boards and commissions, and evaluating whether the town would benefit from more coordinated oversight of land conservation, open space, water resources, coastal areas, habitat and related environmental issues.

Agenda items for the inaugural meeting on Thursday include the election of a chair and discussion of vice chair and secretary roles. Members also are expected to review meeting procedures and Freedom of Information Act compliance best practices.

The committee additionally is scheduled to discuss its overall mission and mandate, including why the committee was created, followed by a broader discussion among members.

Another agenda item involves discussion of the committee’s proposed work, including potential individual assignments and creation of a draft work schedule.

The agenda also calls for discussion of future meeting preferences, including possible meeting days, times and whether meetings should be held in person or via Zoom.

Public comment is listed on the agenda. Members of the public may speak for up to three minutes during the designated comment period or submit written comments to the committee before the meeting.

The full agenda for Thursday's meeting can be found here.