The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2009-09-01 Board of Selectmen Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting September 1, 2009 For ease of archiving, the order that items appear in these Minutes reflects the order in which the items appeared on the agenda for that meeting, and are not necessarily the order in which any item was taken up by the Board. The meeting convened at 7:08 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman James Bonazoli, Secretary Camille Anthony (arrived at 8:30 p.m.), Selectmen Stephen Goldy and Richard Schubert, Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director Bob LeLacheur, Town Engineer George Zambouras, Public Works Director Jeff Zager, Water Supply Supervisor Peter Tassi, Human Resources Administrator Carol Roberts, GIS Coordinator Kim Honetschlager, Police Chief Jim Cormier, Town Counsel Ellen Doucette, Office Manager Paula Schena and the following list of interested parties: State Representative Brad Jones, Fred Laskey, Lisa Marks, Mark Dickinson, Attorney Chris Latham, Attorney Paul Crochiere, Taylor Trone, Mary Ellen O'Neill, Alan Shiller, Marcia Lavita, Brian Van Magness, Garr Morse, Dan Busa, John Halsey, Dave Talbot, Vinna Patel, Wayne and Catherine Shale-Dwyer. Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments — Vice Chairman James Bonazoli noted that he had Office Hours this evening, and a gentleman from Summit Towers came in requesting to make Summit Drive a public way. Selectman Stephen Goldy gave an update on the Fall Street Faire, and he requested that this be an agenda item after the Fall Street Faire. He also noted that he will do the Collins Field dedication. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that Ben Nichols passed away last week, and he indicated that Mr. Nichols was a very dedicated person. He also noted that Senator Ted Kennedy passed away this week, and there will be a special election in January to fill his slot. He noted that a grid with the current parking requirements and land uses versus 40R options would be helpful for Town Meeting discussion. He further noted that the North Suburban Planning Council is meeting on September 9th to discuss the TIPS projects, and there is a Financial Forum on September 9th. Assistant Town Manager's Report The Assistant Town Manager gave the following report: • Downtown major construction is complete(striping,brick work left). • Franklin Street reclamation and repaving underway. • Sewer inflow Infiltration smoke tests being conducted this Summer/Fall. • Town staff o Jean Delios has joined our staff as Community Services Director and Town Planner. o Laura Gemme has joined our staff as Town Clerk. Board of Selectmen Meeting— September 1, 2009—Page 2 o Deborah Jackson, our Appraiser, has announced her resignation effective September 18th to take the Chief Assessor position in her home Town of Salem MA. • 128/I-93 — Fay Spofford & Thorndike selected as consultant for next phases of work — not clear as to what those phases and options are. • Preparation for September 29th Boards/Committees/Commissions training. • MMA student essay contest. • Children's Room closed 8/31-9/7, carpet in Library, costs covered by mfr. • Ben Nichols— service at Old South Church was well attended—especially Boy Scouts. Discussion/Action Items MWRA Water Storage — Fred Laskey and Lisa Marks from the MWRA were present. Also present were Town Engineer George Zambouras, Water Supply Supervisor Peter Tassi, Public Works Director Jeff Zager and State Representative Brad Jones. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that this is a follow up to the July 13, 2009 meeting with the MWRA and State Representatives. Fred Laskey, Executive Director of the MWRA, noted that when Reading joined the MWRA, the issue of redundancy and storage were important to the Town of Reading. The MWRA committed to increasing storage in the northern intermediate high area, and their goal is to create looping and laddering. They are still in discussion with Stoneham and Reading regarding the preferred route for looping. Mr. Laskey stated that the issue is lack of storage. He noted that the Stoneham location is too far south, and the I-93 clover was thought to be the ideal location. He also noted that they don't want to force it on the Town. He noted that the pipeline and tanks would amount to approximately $62 million, and they hope to get the final design done next year. He further noted that storage and redundancy was very important and if the Town or Stoneham had a big fire, there could be a problem. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli asked what our water storage is now, and Peter Tassi indicated it is 1.75 million gallons. He also asked why we should take the burden of water tanks for other communities when we have adequate storage. Peter Tassi noted that the 1.75 million is not useable because if we use it, then the pressure would drop. The tanks that the MWRA is proposing would be a useable water supply. He also noted that the Town can never have enough water storage, and we won't notice it until there's an issue. Chairman Ben Tafoya asked about the Bear Hill Tank, and Mr. Tassi noted that it was built in 1934, and is in fairly good condition but won't last forever. Selectman Richard Schubert noted that Town Meeting was a close vote when we joined the MWRA. He feels that if we had the graphics of the proposed storage, it would have gone the other way. He also noted that the Town had a lot of pressure from other communities because we were using water from the Ipswich River so we paid more money and joined the MWRA. We are also faced with the 128/93 Interchange Project. He noted that a signature storage tank is not desirable. Board of Selectmen Meeting— September 1, 2009—Page 3 Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that the size and height of the bowl is the problem. Mr. Laskey noted that to pump the water into the tank would be very costly due to the geography of the area. Mr. Tassi noted that the Town of Reading bears the brunt of it because of location but the rewards are huge. It's an insurance policy, and it would be a tremendous asset. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli asked how much water the other communities use. Mr. Laskey noted that Wilmington uses 4.3 million, Winchester uses 2.1, million and Stoneham uses 4.9 million and has no storage. Representative Brad Jones noted that they had a good meeting in July, and a decision will have to be made. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that Representative James Dwyer could not be here tonight but he has a similar viewpoint. Selectman Camille Anthony arrived at 8:30 p.m. Hearing—Personnel Policies—Vice Chairman James Bonazoli read the hearing notice. Human Resources Administrator Carol Roberts noted that an Employee Committee consisting of non-union employees and one union (all unions were invited) reviewed the policies. She also noted that the Town Manager made changes and Town Counsel reviewed and made changes. Selectman Stephen Goldy suggested adding to Article 2 the philosophy of the expectation to improve customer service levels. Chairman Ben Tafoya suggested adding that in the future. Selectman Richard Schubert noted that the Town's goal and visioning is a separate document but related, and thinks it's a good point to bring up. Selectman Stephen Goldy noted that he would like to set the standard and incorporate in the future. Selectman Camille Anthony indicated that the Mission, Values and Goals could be a Preface of the Personnel Policies. Selectman Camille Anthony asked if Town Counsel had any issues, and Carol Roberts indicated that the section on life threatening illnesses was removed, and the section on the military was updated. Town Engineer George Zambouras noted that he served on the Employee Committee and he has concerns regarding the language that is being added in Article 2 that states the Town may or may not adhere to this policy. Basically, the Town wants employees to adhere, but the Town doesn't have to adhere. This is not fair to employees. GIS Coordinator Kim Honetschlager noted that she also served on the Employee Committee. She also noted that language was added to Article 2 by Counsel at the end of the process, and indicated that this language nullifies the policy. She also noted that the committee spoke at great length with the Town Manager regarding the change in sick leave from 15 to 12 days per year. Board of Selectmen Meeting= September 1, 2009—Page 4 She stated that the sick time doesn't accrue fast enough for employees to join the Sick Bank right away, and this is an important safety measure for employees. Selectman Camille Anthony noted that she didn't realize the reduction on sick leave was a problem, and she didn't understand why the language is being added in Article 2. She requests that Labor Counsel come in to explain Article 2. Selectman Stephen Goldy asked why the sick time is being reduced, and the Assistant Town Manager noted that this was discussed with the employees as part of the Pay and Class Study last year. The unions are also reducing sick time. Chairman Ben Tafoya indicated that he would like Labor Counsel to come in for a brief discussion regarding Article 2. A motion by Goldy seconded by Schubert to continue the hearing on the Personnel Policies to October 6, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Hearing— Package Store License for Wine Nation — Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that the Town made an error in scheduling. Town Counsel advises that the applications should be heard as the date and time received. Reading Discount Liquors was received July 29, 2009 at 4:12 p.m. and the application for Wine Nation was received August 17, 2009 at 8:50 a.m. so the hearing for Reading Discount Liquors will take place first. Mark Dickinson, owner of the property at 40 Walkers Brook Drive, indicated that the Town should do what is legal. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli read the hearing notice for Wine Nation. A motion by Goldy seconded by Bonazoli to change the time of this hearing for Wine Nation to 9:30 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Town Counsel Ellen Doucette noted that the Board must open the hearing for both applications. She recommends holding the first hearing, continue that hearing to 10:00 p.m., then hear the second application, and then close and make a decision. The Board reopened the hearing for Wine Nation at 9:30 p.m. Attorney Chris Latham and Wine Nation Manager Taylor Trone were present. Attorney Latham stated that he visited the store in North Virginia that is owned by the Trone Family. He noted that it has an extensive selection, and they want to open a store in Reading because of the location on Walkers Brook Drive. This is a family business that will provide savings and will provide. items that are not available in Reading currently. He also noted that they have highly trained and knowledgeable full-time staff, and there will be no sale of tobacco or the lottery. Attorney Latham stated that they have a full set of policies, and they pay an incentive for identifying underage patrons. They will create 40-60 jobs with benefits. There is sufficient parking and the traffic is consistent with the former Linens `N Things. Mr. Trone will be the Manager to get the store up and running, and then will turn it over to another Manager. He noted Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 1, 2009—Page 5 OR that the petition that the Board received in opposition references citizens in Braintree, and asked the Board to consider the source of the petition. He also noted that this is not your typical package store. They specialize in wine from all over the world, and this location will also have a regional draw. Selectman Richard Schubert asked about the size of the establishment. Mr. Trone indicated that it is 20,000 square feet, and 2100 will be retail consisting of gourmet food, wine baskets, etc. Mary Ellen O'Neill of 125 Summer Avenue had concerns about the way that we view our Town. She noted that there is a substance abuse problem in Reading, and this is a highly visible area with quick access to the highway. She indicated that this proposal does not fit our Town, and also noted that we just redid our Downtown. Resident Allan Shiller reviewed the history of the John Street area. He noted that Mark Dickinson stepped up to the plate and made the gateway to Reading. All of the other improvements across the street were made after, and he supports the application for Wine Nation. Marcia Lavita of 9 Riverside Drive noted that she likes the idea of having a store with fine wines and is in favor of the Wine Nation. Brian Van Magness of 10 Grove Street noted that he is in favor of Wine Nation, and feels that it could be a destination point. Garr Morse, minor partner with Mark Dickinson, indicated that Wine Nation has 7000-8000 wine labels, and he would very much like for them to go into that location. Mark Dickinson noted that Wine Nation is a premier store, and he hopes that the Board approves their license. He also noted that Dan Busa of Busa's Liquors on 345 Main Street owns multiple stores, and he joined the lobbying against Wine Nation in Braintree. Dan Busa noted that he owns three package stores, and he did speak with Mr. Dickinson and Mr. Danis about their properties but he couldn't afford either. He is aware of the Trone operations, and he asked if Reading really needs or wants that. John Halsey of 75 Beaver Road indicated that he is a 20 year resident, and he selected Reading as a destination place to live because of the schools, youth programs, low crimes, etc. He noted that it was a pleasure to watch the dump go away, and to have good commerce brought in. He also noted that Reading is famous for our schools, sports and more Eagle Scouts than any other community, and it would be disappointing to make fine wine a destination point in Reading. He feels that the space will fill itself eventually. Dave Talbot of 75 Linden Street is opposed to a mega store in Reading. He finds that it is disturbing as a parent, and he would rather have a Trader Joe's store. Board of Selectmen Meeting— September 1, 2009—Page 6 Vinna Patel, owner of The Wine Shop, questioned whether we need five package stores in Reading. Attorney Chris Latham noted that the Town previously had five package stores and there is a need. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli thanked both applicants. He noted that the Town wants Reading's destination spot to be the new Downtown area. He feels that the Board shouldn't be eager to issue a license just because there are applicants. He also noted that the value of this license could make Downtown the destination point. Selectman Richard Schubert noted that the total square footage of the existing four licenses is less than both of these locations. He feels that the size is bigger than what the Town needs, and is a conflict to the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse. He also feels that these proposals are large and outweigh the needs of the community. Chairman Ben Tafoya indicated that he doesn't feel there is a need for another license in the community right now so he will vote against the licenses. Selectman Camille Anthony noted that neither proposals meet the needs, and she has concerns about the Downtown. Selectman Stephen Goldy indicated that he doesn't see a need for a fifth package store at this time. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Goldy to close the hearing on the All Alcoholic Package Store License for Wine Nation was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Anthony to deny the All Alcoholic Package Store Liquor License for Wine Nation MA, Inc. d/b/a Wine Nation at 40 Walkers Brook Drive, Reading, Massachusetts for reasons due to excessive size, location and perceived lack of public need was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Hearing — Package Store License for Reading Discount Liquors — Vice Chairman James Bonazoli read the hearing notice for Reading Discount Liquors. Attorney Paul Crochiere was present representing Reading Discount Liquors. Attorney Crochiere noted that George Danis owns and developed the site. Mr. Danis owns the Ship Restaurant and the Mediterranean. The location has access to Route 128 and Route 28. There are 800 parking spaces available, and they expect walk in customers from Stop & Shop and Market Basket, and he does not expect a significant increase in traffic. He also noted that the liquor store would be located between Market Basket and Children's Play Things. The size is just under 6000 square feet, there will be no appreciable noise issue, and the hours will be similar to the grocery stores. Selectman Richard Schubert asked if Mr. Danis will be the Manager, and also asked about the size of the store. It was noted that Mr. Danis will be the Manager at first, and then will come back with a new Manager. It was also noted that the size is 5860 square feet. Board of Selectmen Meeting— September 1, 2009—Page 7 Selectman Camille Anthony asked about TIPS training, and Attorney Crochiere noted that Mr. Danis has never had a problem with TIPS training at other businesses. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli noted that the plan shows three cashier lines, and the Town expects everyone to be trained in TIPS. Attorney Crochiere indicated that they will all be trained. Selectman Richard Schubert asked if they had a policy regarding identification, and it was noted that they do not. Brian Van Magness of 110 Grove Street noted that coming out of that property is very difficult, and he asked if there are any plans to rectify the issue that a left hand turn cannot be taken onto Walkers Brook Drive. Attorney Crochiere noted that he is not aware of any plans right now. Mary Ellen O'Neill ofl 25 Summer Avenue had concerns about the way we view our Town. She noted that there is a substance abuse problem in Reading, and this is a highly visible area with quick access to the highway. She indicated that this proposal does not fit our Town, and also noted that we just redid our Downtown. She is also shocked that they would put a liquor store next to a children's store. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Anthony to continue the hearing on the Package Store Liquor License for Reading Discount Liquors, Inc d/b/a Reading Discount Liquors until 10:00 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Goldy to close the hearing on the All Alcoholic Package Store Liquor License for Reading Discount Liquors, Inc. d/b/a Reading Discount Liquors was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Anthony to deny the All Alcoholic Package Store Liquor License for Reading Discount Liquors, Inc. d/b/a Reading Discount Liquors at One General Way, Reading, Massachusetts for reasons due to excessive size, location and lack of perceived public need,was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Hearing Parking Regulations on Ash Street between Main and Washington Streets — Vice Chairman James Bonazoli read the hearing notice. Police Chief Jim Cormier reviewed the amendments to the Traffic Rules and Regulations on Ash Street. Wayne Dwyer of 61 Ash Street asked if there will be a stop sign at Gould Street, and also noted that speed limits should be set. Chief Cormier noted that the speed limit is 30 mph and we are not proposing a stop sign on Ash Street at this time. Catherine Shale-Dwyer of 61 Ash Street noted that she had concerns regarding school children on the street every day and it is a narrow street. Chief Cormier noted that there are sidewalks on the westerly side of the street, and Engineering is satisfied with the width of the road. Board of Selectmen Meeting— September 1, 2009—Page 8 A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Anthony to close the hearing on parking regulations on Ash Street was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Schubert that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen on March 28, 1995 by adding to Article 5, Section A-2a, the following regulation(s). "PARKING PROHIBITED DURING CERTAIN HOURS ON CERTAIN STREETS Two Hour Parking All Day in the Business District 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday through Friday)" Street Location Regulation Ash Street—In the Between Green Street and "Two Hour Parking designated parking Washington Street on the 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., spaces west side Monday through Friday The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Schubert that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen on March 28, 1995 by adding to Article 5, Section 5.3, the following: Street Location Regulation Ash Street Between Main Street and Green "No Parking Anytime" Street on the Westside Ash Street Between Main Street and Green "No Parking Anytime" Street on the easterly side a distance of 88' west and south of Main Street The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Schubert that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen on March 28, 1995 by adding to Article 5, Section 5.3, the following: Street Location Regulation Ash Street 100 feet North of Green Street "No Parking" The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Board of Selectmen Meeting— September 1, 2009—Page 9 A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Anthony that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen on March 28, 1995 by rescinding from Article 6, Section 6.25.5, the following: Street Location Regulation Ash Street Ash Street at Gould Street "DO NOT ENTER" The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Schubert that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen on March 28, 1995 by rescinding from Article 8 the following: Street Location Regulation Ash Street From Haven Street "ONE WAY" southwesterly to Green Street The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Approval of Minutes A motion by Goldy seconded by Bonazoli to approve the Minutes of August 4, 2009 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldy seconded by Bonazoli to approve the Minutes of August 17, 2009 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldy seconded by Bonazoli to approve the Minutes of August 18, 2009 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldy seconded by Schubert to approve the Executive Session minutes of August 18, 2009, as written, was approved with Tafoya, Bonazoli, Goldy and Schubert voting in the affirmative. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Schubert to adiourn the meeting of September 1, 2009 at 11:00 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Respectfully submitted, ;Secreta[-},