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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1980-05-15 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting MInutes253 ADJOURNED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Auditorium May 15, 1980 The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, John W. Faria at 8:00 P.M. The invocation was given by the Rev. Fr. Arthur Johnson, OSA of Austin Preparatory School, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. ARTICLE 45. Motion for reconsideration of this Article was made on May 12,1980bySumner H. Weston. A further discussion of the motion continued. The motion for reconsideration was voted in the negative by a vote of 60 in the affirmative, 58 in the negative, a 2T3_ vote required. r.. ARTICLE 47. On motion of William C. Brown it was voted that the Board of Selectmen and /or the Board of Public Works be and hereby are authorized and instructed to sell at public auction the parcel of land formerly used by the Board of Public Works, said land being land on the southwest corner of John and Union Streets. Said auction to be held on or before December 30, 1980, a minimum bid of Fifteen Thousand ($15,000) dollars shall be set and the sum of One - hundred ($100) dollars be raised and appropriated to carry out the purpose of this vote. The motion was passed by a vote of 107 in the affirmative, 8 in the negative, a 2/3 vote required. ARTICLE 48. Motion by William C. Brown that the Board of Selectmen and /or the School Committee be and hereby are authorized and instructed to sell at public auction a parcel of land on the corner of Union and Middle Streets formerly known as the Union Street School. Said auction to be held on or before December 30, 1980, a minimum bid of Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000) shall be set and the sum of One Hundred Dollars ($100) be raised and appropriated to carry out the purpose of this vote. This motion did not pass. 67 voted in the affirmative, 53 voted in the negative, a 2/3 vote required. ARTICLE 49. On motion of Don B. DeHart it was unanimously voted that the sum of Forty -Nine Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty -Eight Dollars ($49,728) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for the purpose of improving, constructing and reconstructing town public ways in accordance with Chapter 480 of the Acts of 1979, such sums to be spent by "" and under the direction of the Board of Public Works. ARTICLE 50. On motion of John L. Fallon, Jr. it was voted that the sum of Sixty - Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Forty -Eight Dollars and Ninety -Two Cents ($68,748.92) be transferred from certain performance bonds executed by Terrace Trust to the benefit of the Town of Reading pursuant to the Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 41, such funds to be spent by and under the direction of the Board of Public Works. ARTICLE 2. On motion of John Zorabedian, Jr. it was voted to take Article 2 from the table. ARTICLE 2. The following report presented by John Zorabedian, Jr., Chairman of the Planning Board, was accepted as a report of progress. PLANNING BOARD REPORT ARTICLE 51 Report of the Reading Planning Board in conformance with Sections 5 and 11, Chapter 40A, General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the public hearing on the proposed amendment to the Town's Zoning By -Laws, Section 5.3.1.3.: In January 1980, the West Side Citizens Committee contacted the Planning Board with concerns they felt might be aggravated by further development in the Jacob Way complex. The committee cited specific complaints and violations, among them: "AW - questionable compliance of Addison - Wesley with a 1964 Board of Appeals decision; - noise, safety and lighting nuisances; - the potential devaluation of surrounding residential property on South and Curtis Streets. This committee suggested the establishment of a buffer zone between abutting residential and business properties, such as exists in the towns of Lexington, Concord and Acton. Thereafter, the West Side Citizens Committee drafted an Article and presented it by petition to this Town Meeting. On several occasions they met with the Planning Board to discuss 254 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 this Article. The Planning Board walked the property in question. The Article has been thoughtfully revised and has been presented to Town Counsel for his opinion. Town Counsel feels that the redrafted motion is within the scope of the published Article. A public hearing was held on April 10, 1980 at 8:30 P.M. in the Community Center Auditorium. About 80 people were present. The majority of those present favored the article as redrafted. Areas of concern expressed at the meeting were: - the depth of the buffer strip - the implementation of requiring fencing where an abutter does not desire it (Addison - Wesley owns some Residential property and the Article as redrafted would require that if this property fell within the 125 foot dimensional control, then a fence would have to be erected, thus dividing their own property. George and Barbara Ross are also property owners who feel that a fence on their property would be too restrictive.) - the requirement of the plantings for noise and privacy was also in question. After much deliberation, the Planning Board feels that there is merit to the requirement of a buffer strip area being established between abutting business and residential areas. READING PLANNING BOARD John Zorabedian, Jr., Chairman Barry J. Mitchel, Clerk Joseph C. Sturm Ellen C. Childress John Shaw ARTICLE 2. On motion of John Zorabedian, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 2 on the table. ARTICLE 51. On motion of Richard C. Rudolph it was voted that the Town amend the Zoning By -Laws by adding the following as Paragraph 5.3.1.3.: 5.3.1.3 As part of all new construction (any and all buildings, parking lots or structures) in a Business C district and where such construction abuts within one hundred twenty - five (125) feet of any Residential 5 -10, 5 -20 or 5 -40 District, a buffer strip is to be established subject to the following requirements: a) Said buffer strip shall have a twelve (12) foot minimum depth and shall contain a curb to prevent parking within the strip, a six (6) foot high fence which shall be located a maximum of two (2) feet from the abutting Residential /Business C lot line and shall contain an evergreen hedge on the Business C side of the fence which is to be at least three (3) feet in height at the time of planting and will provide a year -round dense visual screen and attain a height of at least seven (7) feet within five (5) years of planting; b) Said buffer strip shall be constructed along the full abutting length of any Residential S -10, 5 -20 or S -40 lots so affected and lie entirely within the Business C District; and c) Said buffer stripscreening, f encingand vegetation shall be maintained in good condition at all times by the owners of the Business C property. The motion was passed by a vote of 108 in the affirmative, 4 in the negative, a 2/3 vote required. ARTICLES 40, 41, 42, 43. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted to take Articles 40, 41, 42 and 43 from the table. ARTICLE 40. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that the Town delete the fee schedule following the words receipt of the permit of Section 104.5 of the Building Code of Reading and substitute the following: New Dwelling $35.00 min 3 -1000 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 Additions & Alterations 10.00 min Garages- Residential 3 -1000 1 Car 15.00 2 Car 20.00 3 Car 25.00 Commercial, New, Addition or Alteration 35.00 min 3 -1000 Industrial 35.00 min 3 -1000 Signs 10.00 min 3 -1000 Swimming Pools 15.00 min 3 -1000 Accessory or Temporary building, tool sheds 10.00 min 3 -1000 Foundation permit (if needed) 35.00 Raxing Permit (Residential) 10.00 min (Commercial) 35.00 min 3 -1000 Move Building 35.00 Index for Figuring Valuations 1 Story dwelling $35.00 sq. ft. 1 1/2 stories (expansion cape, split level, split entrance) 40.00 sq. ft. 2 Story garrison, straight Colonial, etc. 50.00 sq. ft. Basement garage 1000. Single add 1500. Double add Attached or Detached Garage Single add 4500. Double add 6500. Triple add 7500. Commercial & Industrial buildings 40.00 sq. ft. Apartment Buildings 25,000. per unit ARTICLE 41. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that the Town delete in its entirety the present Gas Fee Schedule and substitute the following: Dwellings $12.00 2.00 7.00 Commercial or for new installations, 1 or 2 fixtures. for each additional fixture for each additional or replacements Industrial 12.00 3.00 5.00 Re- inspections - -Not to exceed $15.00 or value of permit. Tanks 10.00 for new installations per each fixture for gas piping or replacement for 1 or 2 No. 100 tanks or smaller (if installed under same permit, & by same gas fitter as installation, & inspected at same time $1.00) ARTICLE 42. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that the Town amend Section 121.21 of the Reading Building Code by deleting the presently existing electrical fee schedule and substituting therefore the following: RESIDENTIAL New houses up to 60 outlets (add 25 cents for each $25.00 additional outlet) Additions or alterations to an existing structure 1 -3 outlets, (add 25 cents for each additional outlet), ranges, oil or gas burners, water heaters, 756 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting dryers, dishwashers, disposals, air conditioners, vent fans, miscellaneous repairs, electric heat (each additional unit 50 cents) Rewire old house and service change New service, service change, temporary service, change in trough, additional circuits Swimming Pools Central air conditioning COMMERCIAL New commercial single phase service or change up to 200 amp. (add 2.00 per 100 amp. additional) New commercial three phase service or change up to 200 amp. (add 2.00 per 100 amp. additional) Additions and alterations (plus 50 cents per outlet) New buildings (plus 50 cents per outlet) Air compressors, refrigeration, air conditioning, motors up to 5hp., dryers, outside lighting, temp. service, gas - pumps, fire alarm systems Electric Heat, Water Heaters, Oil or Gas Burners, Exit signs, (traffic lights) (add 1.00 for each additional unit) Apartments or office buildings (plus 10.00 per office or apartment) Industrial or commercial buildings that employ electricians for maintenance or repair per year Permits for which no fee is herein prescribed Each permit shall be good for a period not to exceed 3 months except when original new work for commercial or residential. May 15, 1980 3.00 15.00 5.00 15.00 15.00 10.00 12.00 5.00 50.00 7.00 5.00 100.00 100.00 5.00 ARTICLE 43. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that the Town delete in its entirety the present Plumbing Fee Schedule and substitute the following: Dwellings $12.00 for one to six fixtures 1.50 for each additional fixture 7.00 for hot water heaters 10.00 miscellaneous work 10.00 sewer connections Commercial & Industrial Per unit 15.00 Flat fee 5.00 each fixture Re- Inspections - -not to exceed $15.00 or value of permit ARTICLE 52. On motion of Mary S. Ziegler it was voted that Article 52 be indefinitely postponed. ARTICLE 54. On motion of Mary S. Ziegler it was voted that the Town vote to increase the appropriations limit established by Chapter 151 of the Acts of 1979 by $629,371 so that the appropriations limit as so increased will be $17,131,927. The motion was passed by a vote of 90 in the affirmative, 8 in the negative. ARTICLE 55. On motion of Mary S. Ziegler it was voted that the Town increase the Tax Levy limit established by Chapter 151 of the Acts of 1979 by not more than $1,000,000 so that the Tax Levy as so increased will not be more than $18,417,892. The motion was passed by a vote of 90 in the affirmative, 8 in the negative. ARTICLE 2. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted to take Article 2 from the table. ARTICLE 2. The following report presented by Maureen T. O'Brien was accepted as a final report. 257 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 "ANNUAL TOWN MEETING" April 14, 1980 On motion of Douglass L. Barker at the Fall Town Meeting, the Board of Selectmen were instructed to take certain actions with regard to the Police Department communications system. An examination of the Police Communications system was completed by the Board of Selectmen with the able assistance of John L. Pineau and TAC -2 Communications, Inc. Their recommendations were: OWN 1. Initially to locate a secondary temporary antenna just above the transmitter at the Water Tank. This was accomplished in December out of the existing Police budget. 2. Replace the defective part of the antenna system called the duplexer and associated cables and, 3. Move the location of the antenna at the side of the water tower to a more suitable location at the top center of the water tower. Both of these tasks will be accomplished when equipment parts have been obtained. Funds were obtained via a transfer from the reserve fund. A fourth recommendation was to house the transmitter in a protective building. An article was placed on the warrant for this building. The outcome of that action is history. Work will commence after Town Meeting in consultation with the Board of Public Works. Finally, a new portable high band radio has been obtained by the Police Department and replacement of a second one has been provided for in the Police Budget just passed by this Town Meeting. The Board of Selectmen plan to request funding for future replacement radios as needed. ARTICLE 2. The following report presented by Maureen T. O'Brien was accepted as a final report. "ANNUAL TOWN MEETING" r.. April 14, 1980 On June 14, 1979, on motion by Edward Fuller at the Annual Town Meeting, the Board of Selectmen were instructed to report to a subsequent Town Meeting on the status of the town's compliance with Chapter 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the architectural barriers law. There appears to be some confusion regarding the Handicapped Accessibility Laws. Chapter 502 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 deals with the physical accessibility of handicapped persons to public buildings. This law requires all newly constructed facilities using Federal funds be handicapped accessible. The Town of Reading has complied with the requirements of Chapter 502 when it constructed new facilities using federal funds. Both the Police Station Annex and the Senior Citizens Drop In Center are cases where federal funds were used and these facilities were made handicapped accessible. The State Architectural Barriers Law requires that if any facility is to be remodeled with more than $25,000 worth of improvements, such improvements must include measures to ensure handicapped accessibility. This has been also accomplished as stated previously. Chapter 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires that all programs provided by the Town be made accessible to those who are handicapped. It further requires a transition plan to be developed and submitted to the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board by June 2, 1980 if such accessibility requires the use of Federal funding. This act does not as stated in Subpart C of the Chapter 504 necessarily require a recipient (the Town """ Reading) "to make each of its existing facilities or every part of an existing facility accessible to and usable by a handicapped person." The Town of Reading may make its programs accessible by any of three methods: (1) redesign of equipment where necessary i.e. special telephone for a hard of hearing employee (2) alteration of existing facilities or construction of new facilities (3) any other methods that result in making the Town's programs or facilities accessible to handicapped persons Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 Sub Part C of Chapter 504, therefore, can be accomplished by bringing a program to a handicapped person in a handicapped accessible area. An example would be to arrange for the person from the Selectmen's Office who is responsible for coordinating the fuel assistance program to meet the applicant in a handicapped accessible area such as the Senior Citizen Drop -In Center. Or to have a person from the Public Works Dept. meet a handicapped person on the first floor of the Town Hall. Arrangements, of course, would have to be made ahead of time by the handicapped person for such a service and for assistance into Town Hall. Discrimination in employment for reasons of handicap is not allowed under Chapter 504 and this should be so stated in the Personnel By Laws. This would require an amendment to Section 2 "Applicability ". In employment practices for handicapped persons who apply for • position in the Town, the Town would be required to make reasonable accommodations for • handicapped employee. Meeting notices and employment opportunities notices must be made accessible to the handicapped. Usually this is done through newspaper ads but if any such notices are posted on bulletin boards, the bulletin boards should be in an area which is handicapped accessible such as at the entrance to the Senior Citizen Drop -In Center. This practice should not be a major problem to implement. Generally the Town of Reading through simple courtesy strives to accommodate all those who have a handicap. Fulfilling the requirements of Chapter 504 for this Town means putting in writing those practices already in existence and making plans for the inclusion in the Personnel By Laws of the necessary clauses for employment practices. ARTICLE 2. The following report presented by William C. Brown, Chairman of the Internal Combustion Committee was accepted as a final report. FINAL REPORT OF THE INTERNAL COMBUSTION COMMITTEE In our preliminary report, we indicated that substantial savings could be had from the erection of a central motor maintenance garage. While this fact still remains, the amount of savings would be diminished by the lack of participation of some departments not required by law to use such a facility. The town, since our last report, has found the need for a new fire station. This together with inflated interest rates, our original estimate of $150,000 for such a garage would also reduce the savings first indicated. We, therefore, do not recommend the construction of such a facility at this time. We suggest that The Board of Selectmen partition The Great and General Court for changes to laws that could make participation mandatory by vote of town meeting. This, we feel could be done without jeopardizing other authority needed by the various departments to carry out their mandated job. Respectfully, William C. Brown, Chairman Henry F. Adams Robert B. Carlson Wilbur S. Sias ARTICLE 2. The following report presented by Roberta M. Sullivan was accepted as a final report. FINAL REPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS LONG -RANGE PARK PLANNING May 1, 1980 This is the final report of the ad hoc Advisory Committee on Long -Range Park Planning, established according to John Russell's motion under Article 2, passed at the Subsequent Town Meeting of November 13, 1978. Adjourned Annual Town Meeting Structure and Goal 25 � May 15, 1980 We were initially fourteen in number - -one Town Meeting Member appointed by the Moderator from each of the eight precincts, and one designated representative from the Board of Public Works, Board of Selectmen, Conservation Commission, Planning Board, Recreation Committee, and School Committee, respectively. Our goal was to develop for the Board of Public Works a realistic long -range plan for future park development, a plan that would effectively balance the priorities of the town at large with the monies which seemed likely to become available for such expenditure within the next five to eight years. Impediments From the outset we have labored at a disadvantage. Lack of attendance at meetings frequently found us without a quorum and unable to conduct official business. Several of our members resigned or did not seek reelection to their Boards or to Town Meeting. Some replacements were made, but others were not. In January of this year, we accepted with regret the resignation of our capable Chairman, who found himself burdened with excessive job commitments. As we conclude our study, our membership numbers ten, of whom only four or five are actively participating. The Board of Public Works itself now contains but one of the members who were seated at the time of this committee's inception. But these are essentially organizational problems. Far more significant are the drastic changes that have occurred within our economy since November of 1978. The concept of a "Long -Range Park and Recreation Plan" as it might then have been presented to Town Meeting and incorporated into the budget seems now to be a bit of a pipe dream. Inflation and tax caps are causing us to cut back on essential services rather than expand desired programs. Findings Nevertheless, the committee moved ahead in two specific areas. One was to obtain a complete inventory of all existing facilities, both developed and undeveloped, and to determine inasmuch as possible exactly which town department is responsible for what. In the process of gathering this data, we acquired a number of aerial photographs that gave us a chance to study familiar park sites from a new perspective. The entire facilities inventory is being turned over to the Board of Public Works as a supplement to this report. Our second focus was on identification of needs. To accomplish this, we prepared a questionnaire that made its first appearance at last Spring's Town Meeting and latter was distributedamong a randomly selected sample of the general population. When the results were studied, two salient facts stood out: a) The town believes that Reading's greatest future needs lie in the category of more open areas. In fact, two types of open areas placed first and second on the list of citizen priorities: biking and jogging, number one; picnicking and walking, number two. An indoor pool placed third, and skating accommodations ranked fourth and fifth. (Curiously enough, additional outdoor skating areas received a small margin of preference over an indoor skating facility.) b) Although many favorable comments were offered about our current parks and programs, the list of unfavorable remarks was considerably longer. And here the overwhelming emphasis was directed at existing conditions and safety hazards. Poor upkeep, trash, and the constant presence of broken glass bother the average park user far more than not finding what they want in terms of space or equipment! The computerized tabulation of our survey findings will be given to the Board of Works as a further supplement to this report. Recommendations If we were in a position to make sweeping recommendations to the Board, it would seem logical to focus on the possible development of those facilities that emerged as most important to the community at large. It is our considered opinion, however, that economic conditions preclude large -scale development within the forseeable future. In view of the obvious level of public concern, a policy of maximum maintenance and minimum development seems essential until such time as the fiscal situation brightens. 260 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 Our investigation and discussion brought to light a few points that deserve special attention: 1. There exists some available land that would accommodate itself to the top priorities of the town. It is our recommendation that this land be retained for that purpose. 2. One way to effect real progress without any financial investment is through a spirited volunteer effort. We suggest to the Board of Public Works, the Conservation Commission- - in fact to any group or individual who could inspire such action - -that volunteer community effort might result in significant accomplishments toward fulfilling the town's obvious desire for expanded passive recreation facilities. 3. A great deal of attention was given to the proposed purchase of the so- called "Strip" linking Washington Park to the undeveloped Conservation land known as Pinevale. It was the consensus of this committee that such acquisition would be to the town's decided advantage. Due to a confusing misinterpretation of dates, however, the option to buy expired before funding could be requested. If in fact what is left of this "Strip" becomes available at any time, we strongly recommend that the town acquire it as open space. Meanwhile, bearing in mind the need for public access to Pinevale and linkage to Washington Park, the committee voted unanimously to "recommend that an investigation be pursued by the Board of Public Works, relative to acquiring an easement providing a walkway between Warren Avenue and Pinevale Park." 4. A majority of survey respondees answered in the affirmative a question proposing the establishment of a single independent citizens' group to coordinate the development, use, and maintenance of Reading's recreational facilities. Our research in this connection uncovered an interesting bit of history: On March 24, 1958, a motion to petition the General Court for a special Act enabling the establishment of such an elected commission was passed by the Reading Town Meeting. Chapter 138 of the Acts of 1959 granted such enactment, but records indicate that when the proposal appeared as Article 4 on the warrant for the Subsequent Town Meeting of 1959, it was indefinitely postponed. This committee feels that such an elected group would provide ongoing attention to the problems of park development and use, and allow for maximum citizen input on a continuing basis as future opportunities arise. Consequently we approved a motion to "recommend to the Board of Public Works that the by laws of the town once again be examined, relative to the establishment of an elected Park and Recreation Management Commission for the purpose of overseeing and coordinating the recreational facilities and activities of Reading." Conclusion The decision to submit this as a final report was not made without deliberation. In a more flexible economic climate, we would consider our findings merely the groundwork for a comprehensive plan. To actively plot and pursue its course at this time, however, clearly would be an exercise in futility. In requesting to be discharged from our responsibilities as a committee, we express hope that our basic disclosures will prove useful and that our efforts will be continued by others as soon as practicality permits. Respectfully submitted, Roberta M. Sullivan, Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Vice - Chairman Carol S. Beckwith, Secretary Marvin M. Rosenthal, Selectmen Gail F. Wood, Board of Public Works George B. Perry Duane B. Heineck Anthony V. Sarcone M. Clifton Proctor ARTICLE 2. The following report presented by James R. Valentine was accepted as a final report. FINAL REPORT OF THE VOCATIONAL SCHOOL OVERSEERS' COMMITTEE This Ad Hoc Committee was established by a motion under Article 3 at the Annual Town Meeting in May 1979. Its purpose was to attend meetings of the School Committee Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 of the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational District, to obtain other pertinent information and to present a report on its findings at the Annual Town Meeting in April 1980. Formation of this Overseers' Committee was prompted by events during 1977 to 1979 which involved alleged mal- administration of funds, questionable personnel practices and a general lack of information and responsiveness on the part of the Vocational School Committee. The Overseers' Committee, in conjunction with members of the Reading Citizens' Advisory Council and the Reading Finance Committee, has observed meetings of the Vocational School Committee and has met with Vocational School administration personnel in an effort to bring to Town Meeting information on some of the purposes and accomplishments of the School and Committee in the past year as well as prospects for the next year. Reading School Committee During the 1979 -1980 year, there has been some improvement in the working and deliberation of the School Committee. Mr. Pacino was elected Chairman for this term and was successful to a degree in leading the Committee to accomplish some of its stated goals. The tie vote (6 -6) situation which has so frequently resulted in stalemate and inaction in the past was avoided on many issues, thus enabling the Committee to go forward with its work. The process for selecting the permanent Superintendent- Director went smoothly and afforded a well - qualified group for final selection. Unfortunately, the final selection process appears to have been marred by the reappearance of the "old politics" in the School Committee. As a result, the first and second choice candidates have declined the position, and an alternative must be selected. Preparation of the budget for the next school year went more smoothly than in previous years, and seemingly provided more of the information needed by outsiders in order to evaluate the budget. The Overseers' Committee supports the budget proposal, and, in particular, supports the need for repair and replacement of capital equipment on a scheduled basis. Citizen involvement in both the School Committee and the School as a whole is still ° very limited in comparison with such interactions in the Town of Reading. After persistent prodding by some few interested citizens, the School Committee did institute a formal "Citizen Input" item on the Agenda. In fact, for a short time during the year, two "Citizen Input" times, one in the middle of the meeting and one at the end of the agenda, were recognized. However, this was short -lived and reduced to one "Citizen Input" time in the middle of the Agenda. It should be noted here, however, that attempts by citizenry to directly communicate with the School Committee are rather infrequent. It is not clear whether this seeming lack of input on the part of the citizens has resulted from a general lack of interest on the citizens' part or from the fact that this route simply was not available previously. The traditional and more formal approach to communications with the School Committee is still through a letter or note to the Town /City Representative. The Overseers' Committee notes somewhat cynically that such written communication often may be lost or placed on some future agenda at a point which may never be reached. While interactions within the Committee have improved to some degree, nevertheless the Committee does not operate as smoothly and efficiently as one might expect of a body which exercises substantial control over such a large budget and a large population of staff and students. The Overseers' Committee has noted that the Agenda was never completed at a large percentage of the meetings which its members observed, and there was no indication that such agendas which we interrupted by adjournment for one reason or another were ever completed at the next meeting. While the School Committee does not have direct day -to -day responsibility in the education of the students, the question of whether students' needs are being met adequately is impacted directly by the deliberations and decisions of the School Committee. In its investigations, the Overseers' Committee did attempt to gain some understanding of the variety and nature of programs which are offered to students from the member towns through talks with School Committee and Administration Personnel and a tour of the facilities. During such interactions with the school, it became apparent that the School Committee and the School itself receives very little input from parental and /or other citizen groups which might serve as a guide to the adequacy of their services. Both the Committee and the Administration imply, and in fact state, that the high placement rate for most categories of graduates, satisfaction expressed by employers of graduates and a lack of complaints by students and parents indicate that the School must be doing a good job. The Overseers' Committee in its rather brief investigation would agree that at least in some categories of trade and skill, the School is indeed doing a good job. However, it is still not clear whether a number of the programs which are offered in the various divisions Z62 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 (full -time, afternoon and evening) are really doing an adequate job for their students. The Overseers' Committee maintains that additional input from parents, students and other residents of the cities and towns who are funding the School is needed in order to insure that the overall community is being adequately served by this School. The Overseers' Committee requested and received a full tour of the facility in February of this year, and, during that tour, were extremely surprised, and in a way disappointed, to learn that this Committee was apparently the first citizen's group that had ever requested such a tour during the operating history of this School. Apparently very few people really care to see where all their tax money goes. Important Points for Coming Year loyalties witPfiinntthe ccTito °opo °mmittee suggestss °fthaftf soise b�h$t'golriI&qaru�q may again take place. If the new Chairman is able to muster seven votes on most issues, then it may be possible to avoid the stalemates which so badly ham - strung operations of the Committee in year previous to the current one. The Overseers' Committee recommends that the Finance Committee or some other designated body within the Town monitor the expenditures at the Vocational School with respect to the stated budget intentions. Transfers between accounts have occurred in the past and, on a budget as tight as this one, the result may be that programs will be short - changed. The question of how the new Superintendent- Director will interact with the Committee and School administration must await additional selection since both the first - choice and second choice candidates have declined the offer for the position. It seems likely that any permanent Superintendent- Director will be a person who can and likely is already on good terms with the slate of officers in the School Committee. The need for parental and citizen input in surveillance of the Committee will be greater this year than ever before. The State will be auditing the account books and the Committee has called for a separate audit by an independent CPA. While members of the local press generally attend most meetings, and are thus well -known and familiar to the School Committee members, it was the observation of the Overseers' Committee that their presence and the presence of other citizen groups, particularly when their presence was acknowledged publicly by one or more members of the School Committee itself, at least caused some of the Committee members to turn around and stare and thus, presumably, wonder what these citizens were up to. The Overseers' Committee strongly recommends establishment of some sort of formal or informal relationship with groups from other towns and cities such as local school committees, Leagues of Women Voters, or the like. This Overseers' Committee does not view itself as a proper permanent group for such interaction. Terms for all the city and town representatives expire within the next twelve months. Hence, there would seem to be some opportunity, given an immediate coordinated action, to at least challenge and hopefully replace certain of the Vocational School Committee representatives. This Overseers' Committee was appalled at the attitudes and behavior of some of the representatives on the Vocational School Committee, and feel certain that if citizens from those communities were to see their representatives in action, there might be a strong ground -swell for replacement. Points for Future Years This Overseers' Committee in its brief investigation and observations has had an opportunity to gain some insight into the operations of the School and question whether the needs of Reading's students are being met in the vocational education area. Questions have been raised in the minds of members of the Overseers' Committee regarding the total vocational needs of Reading students and whether these needs can be adequately met by a combination of regional and local school opportunities. In particular three points seem of foremost importance. 1. How can one monitor or judge whether Reading's total vocational school needs are being met? Are the number of spaces available for both the full -time programs and part - time programs adequate? How will the declining enrollment question affect these needs both in numbers and quality of programs? Are there objective methods available to test and to compare the adequacy of training being received by Reading youngsters both at the Regional Vocational School and at Reading Memorial High. 2. How will increased attention to special -needs students affect the offerings and curriculum at the Regional Vocational School? State - mandated requirements for increased participation in vocational training experiences may have a very marked effect on the composition of the student body and on the course offering which can be made at large vocational schools over the next few years. While the impacts of such changes on Reading students cannot be predicted at this time, the Overseers' Committee believes this is an 2 Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 area which must be watched very closely over the next few years in order to provide an adequate and realtively cost - effective vocational experience for at least a percentage of our students. 3. What other options are available to Reading for vocational training? The Overseer's Committee review suggests that the education being afforded at Northeast Regional School is apparently effective in affording the students the opportunity to gain the skills they need to enter the job market successfully. The questionable operations and alledged mal- administration that have occurred over the past few years do not appear to have permeated down to a level that affects the students directly in their day -to -day educational experience. While that previous observation is based only upon a limited number of discussions and observations, still there has been no loud outcry of parents, and the sum students appear to be able to obtain work. The Overseers' Committee does not suggest withdrawal from this current union and indeed that might be financially unwise. Nevertheless, there are other options that might be open to Reading including cooperative educational ventures and possibly placing students in other neighboring vocational high schools which are now currently below planned student enrollments. Deliberation on such questions might well be the subject for our own Reading School Committee to consider in formulating the Town's plans to meet the vocational educational needs of the student population. Meetings of the Vocational School Committee can be described as ranging from relatively well- ordered to absolutely chaotic. This is engendered in part by the substantial personality conflicts that exist among the members, and there are obviously diverse motives and backgrounds. For a group that meets very frequently with a single avowed purpose, many of them seem to operate with very little knowledge of the subject being debated. The Overseers' Committee expresses wonder that the Vocational School Committee are able to accomplish as much as they have in the past few years. Without attempting to slander or liable any individual, much of the business of the Committee which is needed for day -to -day operation of the School must have been conducted during non - meeting hours, or else the Committee meets about five times as often as they really need to. The Overseers' Committee wishes to express their appreciation to Mrs. Maureen Rich of the Citizens' Advisory Council who has been attending meetings of the Northeast Vocational School Committee faithfully for many years and who has shared here observations with the Overseers' group. `o` Respecfully submitted, James R. Valentine, Chairman George J. Shannon John Zorabedian, Jr. ARTICLE 2. The following report presented by Maureen T. O'Brien was accepted as a final report. REPORT OF THE YOUTH ACTIVITY COMMITTEE March 6, 1980 To The Board of Selectmen: As designated Chairman of the Youth Activity Committee, I felt you should be aware of the status of the group. After being formed last May, we met on different occasions to try to develop a strategy to implement the charge given by Town Meeting. It was an almost impossible task as the charge was too broad and did not specify what it hoped to have accomplished. We did, however, look into the various agencies involved in Youth activites and reported back to the group. After doing so, it was the opinion of each of the members that at this time we do not feel there is any function which the committee could fulfill. Therefore, it is our wish that the Committee be dissolved. Sincerely, Camille Anthony ARTICLE 2. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that Article 2 be indefinitely postponed. 26A Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 15, 1980 ARTICLE 3. Motion by William H. Diamond to instruct the Board of Selectmen as follows was voted in the negative. "Pursuant to the Vote of the Town Meeting under Article 46 authorizing and instructing the Board of Selectmen to sell at public auction land and building now or formerly known as Prospect Street School for a price of not less than $60,000.00: WHEREAS the residents of the neighborhood are apprehensive that unless reasonable restrictions and conditions are imposed upon the buyer or buyers at said sale, houses constructed on said property may not be of a kind, quality or design which is in keeping with the general character of the area, and WHEREAS the construction of inferior, unsuitable or architecturally inappropriate dwellings may have a serious adverse effect upon property values of existing residences in the area, NOW THEREFORE, the Board of Selectmen are instructed to sell said property subject to the following terms and conditions: 1. That all plans and specifications, including elevations and landscaping sketches for single family dwellings to be erected upon the site be first filed with the Building Inspector and by him submitted for approval to the Board of Selectmen which shall hold a public hearing thereon within twenty -one days of the filing and shall approve or disapprove said documents not later than ten days after the hearing. 2. That no Building Permit shall be issued until said plans and specifications have been so approved. 3. That the decision of the Board of Selectmen in this matter will be final and based upon reasonable input from the citizenry heard at that hearing and no appeal shall lie theref rom. It is the intention of these instructions that the Selectmen follow this procedure in order that the dwellings to be erected upon this site conform favorably in kind, quality and design with other dwellings in the general area so that the character of the neighborhood and its existing real estate values shall be preserved." ARTICLE 3. On motion of Douglass L. Barker it was voted to instruct the Board of Selectmen to take the necessary action and to proceed to dispose of a 1956 American LaFrance pumping fire engine formerly known as engine 2, now in storage and also to dispose of a 1961 Seagrave pumping fire engine, now known as engine 3 upon receipt of the new pumper approved under Article 27 of this town meeting. ARTICLE 3. On motion of Jean M. MacKilligan it was voted that the Board of Selectmen are instructed to take the following action: Publish the entirety town meeting membership in local newspaper for five days just prior to Town Election 1981, the names, attendance and precincts for 1980. ARTICLE 3. On motion of George A. Theophanis it was voted that the Board of Selectmen be instructed to make a study of the dangerous traffic situation on the so- colled "S curve" on West Street between the Woburn City line and the intersection of Woburn Street, such study to be made at its earliest opportunity and remedial action to be taken as expeditiously as possible. The Board of Selectmen is further instructed to report to the next November Subsequent Town 'Meeting on the results of this study and on actions taken and planned to alleviate the situation. ARTICLE 3. On motion of George P. Taylor it was voted that the Planning Board be instructed to provide a plan for the use of the parcel of land on the corner of Union and Middle Streets formerly known as the Union Street School and that said plan be contained in a report to Town Meeting at the subsequent Fall Town Meeting. ARTICLE 3. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that Article 3 be indefinitely postponed. die. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that this meeting stand adjourned sine Meeting adjourned at 12:03 A.M. 134 Town Meeting members were present. A true copy. Attest: Lawrence Drew Town Clerk