Board Meeting Minutes 10/29/2025

MCA Board Meeting 10/29/25
Thanks to Mick Foot for hosting the meeting at his home.
Attending:
Chris David Martin
Nick Sintros
Teresa Chirichella
Mark Meany
Rob Koning
Jeff Archibald
JC Woodward
Becky Barrett
Mick Foot
JC volunteered to take minutes, and discussion ensued about using AI to transcribe
minutes from a Zoom transcript or other recording.  Mick started a recorder.
Jeff reviewed the status of current projects:
  Hewes Hill -
    Rob, Becky, Chris, Kim and Jeff met with Cheri Domina on site.  The primary focus
    was on improvements to the existing trail, specifically erosion and water bars.
    The possibility of adding a second parking lot after logging operations complete
    in a couple of years was mentioned.  The Monadnock Conservancy owns an easement
    on that property so they must be consulted before any changes are made.

    Adding a switchback trail for descent from the far end of the cliff was
    discussed, which would open up a nice loop hike. Abutting landowners would
    have to agree.

    A work party will be scheduled for 9AM November 8.  Mick will post a notice to
    Facebook, and a notice will be sent to the MCA email list.

    Jeff spoke with the CROKA director Mathan Liczek to discuss Cheri Domina's stance
    about group size for events at Hewes Hill.
  Arrowhead -
    Jeff spoke with Matt at SPNHF who will discuss the new climbing are internally,
    and will stay in touch with Jeff.  The developers are willing to work on
    disguising the gear to reduce visual impact.

  Fall Mountain -
    Rob spoke with the new Access Fund northeast regional manager, Molly Mundy who
    recommended we consider one of the four typical tiers of site stewardship:
        handshake, memo of understanding, licensing agreement, or outright purchase.
    It is felt that gathering public support is the best way to get a favorable
    response from the property owner.  Jeff will try to schedule a follow-up
    presentation to the Walpole Conservation commission in an effort to get their
    signature on our support letter.  The North Walpole conservation commission has
    indicated that they will support the project if the landowner does.

The transfer of secretary duties and website management from Nick to Chris was
discussed. 

JC raised the issue that we do not have enough member revenue to pay our insurance
and other expenses.  We need to increase membership or raise donations through public
events like the self rescue and first aid clinics.  A lively discussion ensued.

  Membership ideas -
    . Rob mentioned that the "product" that we offer as membership has to be more appealing.
    . It is felt that social events could stimulate membership interest.
    . Becky pointed out that regular social media posts dramatically enhanced
      membership participation at another nonprofit.
    . Mick agreed to take over making regular posts to our Facebook page,
      but he needs regular content from the rest of us.
    . We need to post the Access fund joint LCO membership every time we post
      something.  The link is the same as on our website:
     https://www.accessfund.org/?form=jointmember

  Event ideas -
    . Becky will look into applying for a NH Gaming Commission grant.
    . JC will see if Will Houghton is willing to hold another first aid clinic.
    . Rob is willing to host with JC an outdoor climbing skills workshop(s?) this
      spring. Care must be taken to ensure that the fee is a voluntary donation.
    . The idea of "members only" events was offered.
    . We will see if Granite Roots is interested in hosting an MCA event, possibly
      with discounted admission for members (or those who sign up).

Submitted by
JC Woodward