In September of 2024, an ad hoc committee composed of members of the Trefethen-Evergreen Improvement Association (TEIA) Board of Governors, as well as general members of the association, was formed. The charge of this Resilience and Climate Change Committee is to examine the residual impacts of the January 2024 storm surge, as well as the future implications of climate change on the TEIA clubhouse and surrounding property. There is increasing concern that without significant investment and reinforcement, the clubhouse will be at risk from future weather events.
The ad hoc committee serves in an advisory/consultative capacity and will report findings and recommendations to the chair of the board. All decisions must be voted on by the Board of Governors given the board’s fiduciary responsibilities.
As of October 20, 2024, the ad hoc committee held two formal meetings and, along with the chair of the board, presented initial findings to membership during an October 13 end of season gathering at the clubhouse. Additionally, individuals have worked on assignments in between meetings to inform progress and recommendations.
Initial committee tasks included reviewing past storm damage and repairs, as well as assessments and recommendations by Walsh Engineering Associates and James G. Merry Building Movers. Additionally, the committee has collected data and information from public sources including FEMA. Background that contributed to committee work is available here.
At the current time, TEIA must consider one or more of the following options to preserve the historic TEIA clubhouse:
While there are cost estimates for planning and permitting for option 1 (the seawall), cost estimates for implementation and for options 2 and 3 are pending. As these costs become clear, they will be shared with membership. The association is in the process of finalizing an SBA loan for work needed most immediately. This initiative will most certainly require a significant capital campaign.
While work currently focuses on the clubhouse, the Seagull Cottage and the entirety of the property will be assessed as part of a Master Planning project.
All are encouraged to send feedback and questions. Members of the committee can be contacted at infoteiaclub@gmail.com.
FEMA Coastal Erosion Hazard Map
Gulf of Maine Research Institute Article on Storms & Coastal Flooding
