In response to a recent letter to the editor regarding the motives of town Highway Departments, I would like to commend the Leyden Highway Department. Safety is a primary consideration, but other factors affect their decision-making process as well. At a meeting this week of the Leyden Conservation Commission, one of our guests was Bill Brooks, our highway superintendent. What had begun earlier in conversations with members of the commission about the growing problem of the invasive Japanese knotweed along our roadsides, particularly the unpaved roads, was discussed more formally and an action plan was developed.
Mr. Brooks displayed a sound knowledge of the environmental and safety aspects of the spread of knotweed along our roads. He also knew that highway department practices could either address the problem or worsen it. Working collaboratively and understanding the many aspects of town decisions promotes better outcomes. While I am not aware of the process in other towns, I applaud collaboration in making these decisions. Thank you, Leyden Highway Department.
Karen O’Neil
Leyden Conservation Commission member