HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-06-24 Board of Selectmen HandoutDRAFT MOTIONS
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
JUNE 24, 2014
Arena, West, Ensminger, Halsey, Sexton LeLacheur
5a) Move that the Board of Selectmen appoint the firm of as Town
Counsel at a rate of $ for a term expiring June 30, 2015.
5b) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing on the proposed
four way stop at Sunnyside and Fairview Avenue.
Move that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic
Rules and Regulations approved on August 20, 2013 as follows:
Street to be amended: Sunnyside Ave
Location on Street: On both the northbound and southbound sides of
the intersection of Fairview Avenue
Regulation: Obedience to Isolated Stop Sign
Pursuant to Article: 6.12 and in accordance with MGL c.89 §9
5c) Move that the Board of Selectmen confirm the Volunteer Appointment
Subcommittee's recommendations to the Board of Selectmen for the
appointment and /or reappointment of the following members to various
Boards, Committees and Commissions for terms beginning July 1, 2014
as listed below:
Position Appointment Term ending
Animal Control Appeals Com. Tina Ohlson 6 -30 -17
Board of Appeals Kathleen Hackett 6 -30 -17
Damase Caouette 6 -30 -17
Board of Cemetery Trustees Olive Hecht 6 -30 -17
Janet Baronian 6 -30 -17
Board of Health Andrew Friedman 6 -30 -17
0
Board of Registrars Harry Simmons 6 -30 -17
Climate Advisory Committee
Climate Adv. Com. (Associates)
David Williams 6 -30 -17
Ronald D'Addario 6 -30 -17
Michele Benson 6 -30 -15
Gina Snyder 6 -30 -15
Commissioners of Trust Funds Elizabeth Klepeis 6 -30 -17
Marsie West 6 -30 -17
Conservation Commission Terrence Selle 6 -30 -17
Constable Sally M. Hoyt 6 -30 -17
Community Planning &
Development Commission
Charles Adams 6 -30 -17
David Tuttle 6 -30 -17
CPDC (Associate) George Katsoufis 6 -30 -15
Council on Aging Kevin Walsh 6 -30 -17
Sandra J. Shaffer 6 -30 -17
John Parsons 6 -30 -17
Cultural Council Margaret Caouette 6 -30 -17
Donna Schenkel 6 -30 -17
Custodian of Soldier and Francis Driscoll 6 -30 -19
Sailor Graves
Economic Development Comm. Maria Higgins 6 -30 -17
Sheila Clarke 6 -30 -17
rlp�
EDC (Associates) John Russell 6 -30 -15
Vacancy 6 -30 -15
Sandra Popaja
Fall Street Faire Committee Denise Benard 6 -30 -17
Historical Commission
Robert Mittnight
Roberta M. Sullivan
Historical Commission (Associate) Nancy Kohl
Virginia Adams
6 -30 -17
6 -30 -17
6 -30 -15
6 -30 -15
Housing Authority Timothy Kelley 6 -30 -19
Human Relation Adv. Com
Kyung Yu 6 -30 -17
Mark Segalla 6 -30 -16
Vacancy 6 -30 -15
HRAC (Associate) Camille Anthony 6 -30 -15
Sandra Popaja
Christine Hansen
Metropolitan Area Planning Steven Sadwick 6 -30 -17
Council (MAPC)
North Suburban Planning Alyssa Scaparotti 6 -30 -16
Council
Recreation Committee Adam Chase 6 -30 -17
Richard Hand 6 -30 -17
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Recreation Committee (Associate) John Winne 6 -30 -15
Reading Ice Arena Authority Carl McFadden 6 -30 -17
RMLD Citizen Advisory Board David Mancuso 6 -30 -17
Town Forest Committee Farrukh Najmi 6 -30 -17
Town Forest
Committee (Associate) Kurt Habel 6 -30 -15
Trails Committee Will Finch 6 -30 -17
Trails Committee (Associate) John Parsons 6 -30 -15
West Street Historic Ilene Bornstein 6 -30 -17
District Commission Alyssa Scaparotti 6 -30 -16
8a) Move that the Board of Selectmen go into Executive Session to discuss
strategy with respect to collective bargaining and to discuss strategy
with respect to the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property,
not to come back into Open Session.
JH _ DE _ JA _ MW _ KS
LEGAL NOTICE
TOWN OF READING
To the Inhabitants of the
Town,-of Reading:
Please take notice that the
B %Ara' of Selectmen of the
idwn of Reading will hold -a
p(iblic hearing on June 24,
2()1`4 `at 7:30 p.m. in the
Sdidotrhen's Meeting Room, 16
65W911 Street, Reading,
lfts�'achusetts on a proposed
1b6VWay stop at Sunnyside and
FifftrieW Avenues.
`A bbpy of the proposed doc-
ument regarding this topic is
dViAlabie in the- •Town
&G Aheder's office, 16 Lowell
Sire6r, Reading, -MA, M -W-
T11arS,from 7:30 a.m. - 5:30
p1ml, Tues from 7:30 a.m. -
7:011 ph, and is attached to the "
hearing notice on the w_ ebsite at
www.readingma gov
.--AU interested parties are
invited tq attend the hearing, or
may submit their comments in .
witting or by email prior to 6 :00
p'tn. on June 24, 2014 to town-
manager@ci.reading.ma.us
By order of
Robert W. LeLacheur
.Town Manager
6117
(5)
Sb1
Schena, Paula
From: LeLacheur, Bob
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 2:01 PM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: proposed 4 -way stop at Sunnyside and Fairview
For BOS packet
From: H. Hubik jmailto:voteinfoC@earthlink.net]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 1:59 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: proposed 4 -way stop at Sunnyside and Fairview
Dear Mr. LeLacheur,
I live on Sunnyside Avenue, and oppose the proposed 4 -way stop at Fairview and Sunnyside. I don't think it is needed for
safety reasons, and as a person concerned about the environment, I believe cars moving at a steady, reasonable(!) speed
cause less air pollution (and last longer) than if they stop and accelerate every 300 yards. (There is already a 4 -way stop
at Sunnyside and Melbourne.) I would be OK with lowering the speed limit on Sunnyside to 25 mph. If that is what the
speed limit is, perhaps a sign with the speed limit (and occasional cop car) would help alleviate any safety concerns.
Thank you for considering my input
Sincerely,
Hubert Hubik
hhubik0pobox.com
NO
Schena, Paula
From: LeLacheur, Bob
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 12:36 PM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Fairview /Sunnyside comments for the Selectmen
For BOS packet tonight
From: Tricia Conte [mailto:tconte5(@hotmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 12:35 PM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Subject: RE: Fairview /Sunnyside comments for the Selectmen
Dear Mr. LeLacheur,
I am a current resident of Sunnyside Ave and I do not feel the need to enforce a stop sign
at Fairview /Sunnyside Ave.
Living on the road and walking my dogs several times throughout the day, I do not see the increased speed of
cars traveling
on the road to warrant a stop sign.
I think the sign will ad pollution to the town, as well as potentially cause accidents to occur with the lack of a
complete stop
by cars traveling on the road.
Thank you for adding my comments.
Tricia Conte
0
Schena, Paula
From: LeLacheur, Bob
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 12:47 PM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Proposed Stop Sign Sunnyside and Fairview Avenues
From: eabarrett9@)amail.com fmailto:eabarrett9Calgmail.com] On Behalf Of EBarrett
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 12:23 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Proposed Stop Sign Sunnyside and Fairview Avenues
Good afternoon Mr. LeLacheur,
It is not necessary to have a stop sign at the intersection of Sunnyside and Fairview Avenues. Not only will
this increase air pollution with the constant stopping and starting of cars, but I wonder what the purpose is of
having a stop sign located there? There is not enough cross traffic to warren a stop sign. I drive down
Sunnyside 4 or 5 times a day at all hours, and I don't ever see anyone coming out of Fairview. I also walk along
this route quite frequently and do not come across cars in both directions. It may actually cause accidents to
have a stop sign on Sunnyside as there is no reason for one to be located there.
Currently there are stop signs on Fairview Avenue, which is more than sufficient.
Thank you for considering my concerns and comments.
Sincerely,
Eileen Barrett
90 Sunnyside Avenue
Reading MA 01867
0�7
Schena, Paula
From: LeLacheur, Bob
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 12:47 PM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: NO to 4 way stop at Sunnyside and Fairview
For BOS packet
From: kathy Rovnak [mailto:kathleen.rovnak@ verizon.net]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 12:37 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: NO to 4 way stop at Sunnyside and Fairview
Hello,
My name is Kathleen Rovnak and I live at 86 Sunnyside Ave. in Reading. I want to be put on record as opposing the 4-
way stop at Sunnyside and Fairview. That intersection is nothing like the Riverside and Sunnyside intersection where
drivers would rush around that corner as a cut - through to downtown or the train station. I don't think the amount of traffic
coming from Fairview warrants a stop sign on Sunnyside. Sunnyside is the primary road I use when I go to town and it is
not that busy and I rarely encounter cars at Fairview. I've never encountered more than 1 car on Fairview when I've
driven either way on Sunnyside. I think the two -way stops on Fairview are sufficient.
The real danger on Sunnyside is when cars are parked by the Prescott stop sign. That leaves only one lane for drivers to
use to come from Prescott to Sunnyside or to go from Sunnyside to Prescott. I've experienced and have seen near
collisions at that corner. It is similar on the corner of Melbourne and Summer. Cars parking on one side leave only one
lane for cars entering or leaving Melbourn. I think these intersections need more attention than Sunnyside and Fairview.
I am sorry I cannot attend this evenings meeting
Thank you for soliciting our input.
Kathleen Rovnak
86 Sunnyside Ave.
Reading, MA
01867
Schena, Paula
From:
LeLacheur, Bob
Sent:
Thursday, June 19, 2014 3:06 PM
To:
Schena, Paula; Cormier, James
Subject:
FW: Sunnyside /Fairview 4 way stop
for BOS packet
Jim - reminder we have Sunnyside & Fairview in next Tuesday night -- Bob
From: london1649(&comcast.net [iondon1649 @comcast.net]
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2014 10:35 AM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Sunnyside /Fairview 4 way stop
To whom it may concern,
Right now we have a 4 way stop at Sunnyside and Melbourne and it is quite frankly of
little use. At best people do a rolling stop but most of the time they drive right through
without slowing down! I live close by and have observed this on a regular basis.
Doing the same at Fairview will only add to the taxpayers expense but not much more.
Sincerely,
George Jakubowicz
85 Sunnyside Ave
Reading, Ma. 01867
1
to
sbl0
Schena. Paula
From: LeLacheur, Bob
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 6:06 PM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
Attachments: photo ljpg; ATTOOOOl.txt; photo 2jpg; ATT00002.txt; photo 3jpg; ATT00003.txt; photo
4jpg; ATT00004.txt
For BOS packet, including photos
Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
townmanaaer @ci.reading. ma. us
(P) 781 - 942 -9043
(F) 781 - 942 -9037
www. readinama. goy
Please fill out our brief customer service survey at:
http:/ /readinama- survey.virtualtownhall .net /survey /sid /ff5d3a5f03e8eb60/
Town Hall Hours:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday: CLOSED
From: Thomas G. Dolan [mailto:TDolan @hvs.com]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 6:01 PM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Cc: Reading - Selectmen; Cormier, James
Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
Bob and Selectman,
First, thank you for hearing our thoughts on this matter. Here are a few of our primary
points. Our concern was first voiced to The previous town manager in 2012, it's taken over 2
years just to get it to the town meeting. And several months after to even get any action
from the town.
The primary issue is that there are five families with children ranging from 4 to 13 years
old all within 2 houses of this intersection. We understand that the street is not a place
for our children's primary play activities, and therefore keep most of it confined to the
back and front yards. However, the kids do enjoy riding bikes scooters etc. We supervise very
closely when they are in the street, and we take every precaution on this level. Despite
these precautions not every driver turning onto Fairview from Sunnyside take the same care. A
stop sign would help alleviate this to some level.
I have been told by the town Manager that a 4 way stop would be "illegal" at this
intersection, which according to my research on the MUTCD manual, is not the case. The manual
is simply a guideline to follow. In fact there are several other 4 way stops around town
including one at the intersection of Sunnyside and Melbourne, which by the way ends in a
culdesac. Doesn't make sense to me why this one is here and not at Fairview where traffic is
a little heavier? We have asked several times, why can we not have a stop sign? No good
reason has been given, except that it is "illegal," which as we know is not the case.
According to section 2B.07 Multi Way Stop Applications,
05 Other criteria that may be considered in an engineering stud- include:
A. The need to control left -turn conflicts;
H. The need to control %•chicle /pedestrian conflicts near locations that generate high
C. Locations «•here a road user, after stopping, cannot see conflicting traffic and is
intersection unless conflicting cross traffic is also required to stop; and
1). An intersection of two residential neighborhood collector (through) streets of sin
characteristics «•here multi -way stop control would improve traffic operational c
the intersection.
Please reference Letters B, C and D
This is intersection offers many blinds spots including a bush at 57 fairview, the
engineering study conducted last year indicated that the bushes should be trimmed. Nothing
has been done to date. Nevertheless, the bushes are not the only problem, there are several
town trees along sunnyside that obstruct the view as well, and in the winter, the snowbanks
get piled up high. In fact this past winter a relatively bad accident occurred at the
intersection.
The only thing we ask, particularly those with young children, isn't it worth it to protect
them? Also, if there is good reason to not put a sign, then pleas just let us know. We have
waited for over 2 years to even get it to this point and the town has done nothing to date to
make the intersection safer for the pedestrians and the cars.
I have attached a couple pictures that show the issue.
Thank you for your time and keeping our children safe
Thomas Dolan
Managing Director
HVS Global Hospitality Services
Tel: +1 (617) 424 -8912
Fax: +1 (800) 866 -1468
Profile: http: / /www.hvs.com /Personnel /58 /Thomas.Dolan/
Superior results through unrivalled hospitality intelligence. Everywhere.
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: LeLacheur, Bob [ mailto :blelacheur(@ci.readine.ma.us]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 10:12 AM
To: Thomas G. Dolan
Cc: Reading - Selectmen; Cormier, James
Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
Yes correct - 7:30pm.
Thanks Tom
2
Iv
Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us
(P) 781 - 942 -9043
(F) 781 - 942 -9037
www.readingma.gov
Please fill out our brief customer service survey at: http://readingma -
survey.virtualtownhall. net /survey /sid /ff5d3a5fO3e8eb6O/
Town Hall Hours:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a•.m - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday: CLOSED
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: Thomas G. Dolan [mailto:TDolan @hvs.com]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 9:54 AM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Cc: Reading - Selectmen; Cormier, James
Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
Also, you have me scheduled for right at 7:30 correct?
Thomas Dolan
Managing Director
HVS Global Hospitality Services
Tel: +1 (617) 424 -8912
Fax: +1 (800) 866 -1468
Profile: http: / /www.hvs.com /Personnel /58 /Thomas.Dolan/
Superior results through unrivalled hospitality intelligence. Everywhere.
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: LeLacheur, Bob [ mailto :blelacheur@ci.reading.ma.us]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 9:36 AM
To: Thomas G. Dolan
Cc: Reading - Selectmen; Cormier, James
Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
I'm sorry Tom, we have advertised this as a Public Hearing and as a result we need to conduct
it this evening.
I'll note your comments to the Selectmen, and they will decide what next steps are best.
Thanks,
Bob
3
.3
Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us
(P) 781 - 942 -9043
(F) 781 - 942 -9037
www.readingma.gov
Please fill out our brief customer service survey at: http://readingma -
survey.virtualtownhall. net /survey /sid /ff5d3a5fO3e8eb6O/
Town Hall Hours:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday: CLOSED
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: Thomas G. Dolan [mailto:TDolan @hvs.com]
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2014 9:32 AM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Cc: Reading - Selectmen; Cormier, James
Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
Bob,
Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend this evening as I have had something come up last
minute.
Can we get this back on the schedule for July?
Tom
Thomas Dolan
Managing Director
HVS Global Hospitality Services
Tel: +1 (617) 424 -8912
Fax: +1 (800) 866 -1468
Profile: http: / /www.hvs.com /Personnel /58 /Thomas.Dolan/
Superior results through unrivalled hospitality intelligence. Everywhere.
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: LeLacheur, Bob [ mailto :blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us]
Sent: Tuesday, June 3, 2014 3:33 PM
To: Thomas G. Dolan
Cc: Reading - Selectmen; Cormier, James
Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
Importance: High
Hi Tom,
Did you have any questions or comments on the materials we sent?
4 a
* *We plan to have this issue raised at the Selectmen's meeting on June 24 at 7:30pm **
We will make sure to notify the residents in the area. I had hoped to get you on the agenda
for next week but the Board has some legal work come up that they need to do and it will take
up a few hours that night.
Thanks,
Bob
Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us
(P) 781 - 942 -9043
(F) 781 - 942 -9037
www.readingma.gov
Please fill out our brief customer service survey at: http://readingma -
survey.virtualtownhall. net /survey /sid /ff5d3a5fO3e8eb6O/
Town Hall Hours:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday: CLOSED
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: Thomas G. Dolan [mailto:TDolan @hvs.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 2:47 PM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Cc: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Re: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS [heur]
Bob
Still waiting on those reports.
Thanks
Thomas Dolan
Managing Director
HVS Global Hospitality Services
617 - 424 -8912 w
516 - 435 -4452 m
> On May 3, 2014, at 8:18 AM, "LeLacheur, Bob" <blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us> wrote:
> Hi Tom - will gather that info next week & send it along, and plan to see you on June 7th.
> Thanks,
> Bob
s �
> From: Thomas G. Dolan [TDolan @hvs.com]
> Sent: Saturday, May 03, 2014 7:59 AM
> To: LeLacheur, Bob
> Cc: Reading - Selectmen
> Subject: Re: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS
> [heur]
> Bob, thank you for the long awaited response.
> I cannot say things changed with construction on West at. My attitude toward the stop sign
has remained unchanged.
> As stated below, part of the issue is the line of vision approaching sunnyside.
> I would be happy to make a presentation at the selectman's meeting on June 10th at 7:30. In
order to be fully prepared, I would like to review the traffic study conducted last year,
please email to me this week.
> In terms of your other points, I read through the MUTCD regulations and found nothing
indicating that this intersection would constitute an "illegal" stop sign. They leave this up
to engineering judgment. Although, I will thoroughly review the criteria before June 10. BTW,
has an engineering study ever been conducted other than the simple traffic study? Please send
as well, if so.
> Also, please send dates of the safety and police officer visits and reports at the
location, I will be able to use this in my presentation. we rarely if ever have seen officers
sit and observe this intersection other than routine patrol.
> Thank you
> Tom
> 617 - 424 -8912 w
> 516 - 435 -4452 m
> On May 2, 2014, at 3:11 PM, "LeLacheur, Bob"
< blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us<mailto :blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us>> wrote:
> Hi Tom,
> Has anything changed in the last week or so because of the West Street and other area
projects?
> I know it is not the result you want, but placing a 4 -way stop sign at that location simply
is not legal. At the federal level criteria are established under MUTCD guidelines - and this
intersection does not meet the criteria established.
> Our Police department and our Safety Officer in particular have made numerous visits to
observe the location and to enforce the speed limit as needed.
> In terms of next steps, you are most welcome to attend an upcoming Selectman's meeting and
I'll add this to their Agenda (May 27th 10pm approx. or June 10th at 7:30pm sharp). We'll
bring in the Police and Engineering departments to give you a more thorough explanation.
> On the one hand under the Town Charter the Board of Selectmen are the Road Commissioners
and therefore the local 'last word' on public safety signs, but on the other hand the Police
department cannot enforce illegal public safety signs, so I could not support such a request.
b
> Thanks,
> Bob
> Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
> Town Manager
> Town of Reading
> 16 Lowell Street
> Reading, MA 01867
> townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us<mailto :townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us>
> (P) 781 - 942 -9043
> (F) 781 - 942 -9037
> www.readingma .gov<http: / /www.readingma.gov />
> Please fill out our brief customer service survey at:
> http:// readingma- survey.virtualtownhall .net /survey /sid /ff5d3a5f03e8eb6
> 0/
> Town Hall Hours:
> Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m.
> Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
> Friday: CLOSED
> From: Thomas G. Dolan [mailto:TDolan @hvs.com]
> Sent: Thursday, May 01, 2014 4:58 PM
> To: Thomas G. Dolan; LeLacheur, Bob
> Cc: Reading - Selectmen
> Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS
> Mr. Lelacheur, this is now my 3rd email, can you please respond into what my next recourse
is.
> Thank you
> From: Thomas G. Dolan
> Sent: Tuesday, April 1, 2014 3:15 PM
> To: Thomas G. Dolan;
> blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us<mailto :blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us>
> Cc: Selectmen @ci.reading.ma.us<mailto :Selectmen @ci.reading.ma.us>
> Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS
> Importance: High
> Bob, please see my email and chain below, which I never saw a response.
goes back to spring last year, we have voiced concerns since early 2012,
any action until the traffic study last year, and then no follow up.
> Thank you for your prompt attention.
> Tom
> From: Thomas G. Dolan
> Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2014 11:50 AM
> To: 'blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us< mailto :blelacheur @ci.reading.ma.us>'
> Subject: FW: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign CONCERNED RESIDENTS
7
While this only
we never even got
17
> Importance: High
> Bob, some time ago, I had communicated to the town about getting a 4 way stop sign put in
at the corner of Fairview and Sunnyside. The town conducted a traffic study and came back and
said that the intersection did not constitute having a four way stop, no reason other than
that. The email chain below explains some of the residents' concerns. I think I communicated
with you just after you took over as town manager. At that time, you had indicated that the
town would look into removing some of the bushes on the corner, for which I replied
indicating that the bushes were not the problem, it was more the trees that line the street.
I never heard a response from you, and the bushes were never trimmed. And of course, the town
wouldn't think of removing the trees that line the street.
> So now, as you may know, there was a relatively bad accident at this
> intersection. From my understanding, the person driving was moving
> fast and hit a car in the intersection. Airbags deployed This
> accident could have been avoided with a stop sign. It could have also
> easily been a person or a child hit rather than a car. At this point,
> I am not going to let up on this issue. It's too important to all the
> residents that live at the intersection and the safety of our
> children. We don't want to be ignored anymore, if we need to get a
> petition and take it to the selectman, I will take the steps
> necessary. This is not a major deal to add a stop sign and we just
> want a GOOD reason as to why we can't have a four way stop? This has
> never been given to us. We have just been told that traffic patterns
> don't warrant it. After all, there is a 4way stop at intersection of
> sunnyside and Melbourne where sunnyside ends in a cul de sac. Not sure
> why that makes sense
> Thank you in advance for you immediate attention, Tom
> From: Hechenbleikner, Peter [mailto: phechenbleikner @ci.reading.ma.us]
> Sent: Wednesday, March 27, 2013 1:01 PM
> To: Thomas G. Dolan
> Cc: Zambouras, George; LeLacheur, Bob
> Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign
> Tom
> Thanks for the email. I was waiting to respond until I had my monthly staff meeting on
traffic issues. Your recollection was correct of us doing an engineering study - I had
completely forgotten that.
> We will be doing the study between now and when school gets out - to make sure that we have
appropriate traffic counts, not summer counts.
> We will let you know the results and when this will be on the Board of Selectmen agenda.
> I am retiring in June but have made my successor aware of this.
> Peter I. Hechenbleikner
> Town Manager
> Town of Reading
> 16 Lowell Street
> Reading MA 01867
> Please note new Town Hall Hours effective June 7, 2010:
> Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m.
8 I�
> Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
> Friday: CLOSED
> phone: 781 - 942 -9043
> fax 781 - 942 -9071
> web www.readingma .gov<http: / /www.readingma.gov />
> email
> townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us<mailto :townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us>
> Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey
at http: // readingma- survey.virtualtownhall. net /survey /sid /19ab55aedO8fbc96/
> From: Thomas G. Dolan [mailto:TDolan @hvs.com]
> Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2013 6:04 PM
> To: Hechenbleikner, Peter
> Cc: Cormier, Jim; Delios, Jean; Martel, Justin; Robbins, Richard;
> Zager, Jeff; Zambouras, George
> Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign
> Thank you for getting back to me.
> You personally did get back to me last year, and indicated that a traffic /speed study would
be done in 30 to 60 days. This was well before the construction started. I followed up with
you several months later, yet never received a call in return.
> Anyway, as stated below, I realize that nothing can be done about the speed limit, we are
not asking for that change. We are asking for the safer intersection. We understand the stop
sign is not intended for use as a traffic
calming< http: / /en. wikipedia .org /wiki /Traffic_calming> device; it is meant to be installed
mainly for safety and /or to assign right -of -way for a certain direction. Nevertheless, stop
signs are commonly deployed as supposed safety measures in residential areas and near places
where children play or walk.
> Its important to all to keep our children safe, and we are not asking for a traffic light.
Plain and simple, it's a dangerous intersection, which drivers often speed through and we're
looking to make it a safer intersection. Can I ask why not have a 4 -way stop when it only
improves safety?
> Its my understanding that other neighbors have contacted you regarding
> this same issue
> Thank you,
> Tom
> Thomas Dolan
> Managing Director
> HVS Global Hospitality Services
> Tel: +1 (617) 424 -8912
> Profile: http: / /www.hvs.com /Personnel /58 /Thomas.Dolan/
> From: Hechenbleikner, Peter [mailto: phechenbleikner @ci.reading.ma.us]
> Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2013 4:51 PM
> To: Thomas G. Dolan
> Cc: Cormier, Jim; Delios, Jean; Hechenbleikner, Peter; Martel, Justin;
> Robbins, Richard; Zager, Jeff; Zambouras, George
> Subject: RE: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop Sign -
9 ( C
> Mr. Dolan
> I am sorry if nobody got back to re your initial request. We have had some shuffling of
staff and it may have fallen through the cracks.
> At the time of your initial request, staff reviewed the situation and did not recommend a 4
way stop. I believe that was when construction was going on regarding the sidewalks on
Sunnyside. We agreed that we would monitor the situation and determine whether the recommend
would change, and I will ask staff (copied) to review it at this time..
> I would note that 4 way stops are not intended or allowed as traffic calming measures, so
the fact that the speed limit is 30 MPH and one might feel that is too fast, is not a reason
under state law to institute a 4 way stop.
> Peter I. Hechenbleikner
> Town Manager
> Town of Reading
> 16 Lowell Street
> Reading MA 01867
> Please note new Town Hall Hours effective June 7, 2010:
> Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m.
> Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
> Friday: CLOSED
> phone: 781 - 942 -9043
> fax 781 - 942 -9071
> web www.readingma .gov<http: / /www.readingma.gov />
> email
> townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us<mailto :townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us>
> Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey
at http: // readingma- survey.virtualtownhall. net /survey /sid /19ab55aedO8fbc96/
> From: Thomas G. Dolan [mailto:TDolan @hvs.com)
> Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2013 10:12 AM
> To: Town Manager
> Cc: Karla Goodreau; Chris; Rina Angelou;
> catezannino @gmail. com <mailto:catezannino@gmail.com>; Ami Dolan;
> gesmundo@goldshamrock.com< mailto :gesmundo@goldshamrock.com>;
> Kenny.Goodreau @sunlife.com< mailto :Kenny.Goodreau @sunlife.com>; David
> Zannino
> Subject: Sunnyside and Fairview Stop SIgn
> Mr. Hechenbleikner<mailto :townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us>,
> Good morning, I had contacted you last summer regarding a 4 -way stop sign at the
intersection of Sunnyside and Fairview. I followed up with another call to you a number of
months back. At the time of my first correspondence, you indicated that you would commission
a traffic /speed study on Sunnyside within 30 -60 days. We often see cars exceeding the speed
limit on sunnyside, but also believe that the current speed limit is fast, yet is state law
and cannot be changed. The turns from each direction are blind with bushes and fences, so
even turning with a car can be challenging at times. I should also note that there is a 4 -way
stop at the intersection of Melbourne and Sunnyside, yet this intersection is less hazardous
as it ends in a cul -de -sac. Fairview is also a cut through to Riverside where young drivers
which are often less cautious, reside.
10
> The primary issue is that there are five families with children ranging from 2 to 11 years
old all within 2 houses of this intersection. We understand that the street is not a place
for our children's primary play activities, and therefore keep most of it confined to the
back and front yards. However, the kids do enjoy riding bikes scooters etc. We supervise very
closely when they are in the street, and we take every precaution on this level. Despite
these precautions not every driver turning onto Fairview from sunnyside take the same care. A
stop sign would help alleviate this to some level.
> The spring /summer is now around the corner, and to my knowledge no study has been
commissioned. My understanding is that the process can take several months, to get the stop
sign. If its a matter of cost, I would be willing in incur this cost in order to fast track
the process.
> We appreciate your timely response to this matter as it is very important to keep our
children safe at virtually no cost to our community.
> Thank you,
> Tom
> Thomas Dolan
> Managing Director
> HVS Global Hospitality Services
> Tel: +1 (617) 424 -8912
> Profile: http: / /www.hvs.com /Personnel /58 /Thomas.Dolan/
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Board of Selectmen
& Department Heads
"Reading 2020"
In 2006 the Town Department Heads held an off -site Retreat to plan for the future, and three
significant areas were identified as needing attention. First, the town's technology systems were older
than most dump trucks owned, and Town Meeting readily agreed to a funding request — Reading is
now on or near the cutting edge in use of public sector technology. Second, the buildings needed some
improvement, and a strong capital planning process by the School and Facilities department led to
outstanding building results. Now, preventative maintenance and proactive thinking have replaced
reacting to emergencies - most of the Town and School buildings are now the envy of many
communities. Finally, communication was also identified as needing improvements, and while the
Town has had much success in this area, the underlying technology changed more quickly and became
more affordable than anyone imagined, so more work is still needed.
The Board of Selectmen joined the Town Department Heads recently and held a Saturday Retreat to
discuss the future of Reading and to develop an action plan. Town government is a Services
organization — which is quite different than a business. Looked at through a corporate lens, most Town
departments could be said to be `loss leaders' based strictly on their relative revenues and costs.
Compared to many other communities, Reading offers more services (and a high level of quality) than
most do. Yet doing a `better job' than these other communities consumes revenues rather than produce
more.
In terms of how `outsiders' see the community, Standard and Poor's global bond rating organization
recently rewarded Reading with the AAA rating — their highest one available — as a result of the
Town's disciplined financial practices of spending money carefully. Coupled with the belief that
Reading provides more and high quality services, it is clear that Town government and the School
department, along with their various Boards and Committees, have done an admirable job producing
superior services within these revenue constraints.
All present at the Retreat agreed that the approximate +3% annual revenue growth compared to the
expectation of the community to provide many services at a high level of quality was the most
significant issue to be tackled. The key question for the community will soon be "What services should
be cut, and if you can't cut them, would you be willing to pay more ?"
The Retreat formally created four working groups, composed of members of the Board of Selectmen
(BOS) as well as the Town Department Heads. Together these groups might be said to be using perfect
hindsight to look ahead five or so years, an effort we call "Reading 2020 ". The four groups are as
follows:
1. Community Partners: Kevin Sexton (BOS), Dan Ensminger (BOS) and Bob LeLacheur
(Town Manager). Town government is one of many organizations that serve the Reading
residents and businesses. We regularly work with many other organizations — non - profits,
volunteer groups, and the private sector. This working group for the first time will compile a
comprehensive inventory of all such relationships, and where services overlap we will have
discussions as to ways to streamline our mutual efforts and share resources. r
2. Services & Performance Measurement: Marsie West (BOS) and Jean Delios (Assistant
Town Manager Community Services). This working group will create an inventory of all of the
services that are provided by Town government, and create ways to measure the results and the
quality of the service delivery. This measurement will include significant input from the
community. A few years ago the Finance Committee led a series of Financial Forums, and one
session was aimed at a study of services. Community members were asked to list a service that
they currently use that they would be willing to give up — and not a single anonymous response
was received. A few years later, we want to ensure that the services the Town provides are all
important ones, and to identify gaps where services may need to be added or modified.
3. Communication: Sharon Angstrom (Town Accountant) and Jeff Zager (Public Works
Director). The field of communication will always evolve, and in recent years the Town has
built significant technology infrastructure, with `future flexibility' being the most important
design consideration. What are the best ways to communicate with the Community and seek
their opinions? The World Cafe was very successful and drew a large number of residents
several years ago. Many Volunteer Boards hold public meetings, but usually attendance is
sparse unless the issue directly impacts a homeowner. Every year the Finance Committee meets
three or four times in joint session with the School Committee, Library Trustees and Board of
Selectmen to discuss financial planning, and community involvement in these meetings is
usually light. Perhaps there are better ways to conduct community meetings?
4. Strategic Planning: John Arena (BOS), John Halsey (BOS), Jim Cormier (Police Chief), Greg
Burns (Fire Chief) and Ruth Urell (Library Director). There are many short- and long -term
specific issues that the Town is currently facing that need attention. For example, efforts are
underway for an overhaul of the Zoning Bylaw, and revisions to the Town Charter. Town and
School space needs have been identified, but resources and locations are not readily apparent.
The downtown Post Office is for sale, and is in a vital location as a link between Main Street
and lower Haven Street, both areas of significant economic development in recent years. The
town has a deficit in recreational space needed. The list goes on ...
Reading is a community that has always had significant volunteer interest, and as a result is very open
to ideas and suggestions that come from the public. Your Town government as a service organization
is here for you. We can help provide insight and guidance, but we alone do not seek to decide
community values. The next Reading 2020 planning session will be towards the end of October. If you
would like to follow any or all of these working groups and have any opinions to offer or questions to
ask, please send an email to townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us.
I V