HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-07-15 Board of Selectmen HandoutDRAFT MOTIONS
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
JULY 15, 2014
Arena, West, Ensmineer, Halsey, Sexton LeLacheur
3a) Move that the Board of Selectmen proclaim July 26, 2014 as Americans
with Disabilities Act Day in the Town of Reading.
3b) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for John Miles who served six years on the Zoning Board
of Appeals.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for William Hecht who served 11 years on the
Conservation Commission.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for Carol Oniskey who served six years on the Council on
Aging.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for Margaret Caouette who served six years on the
Cultural Council.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for Lynne Cassinari who served six years on the Cultural
Council.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for Edward Smethurst who served six years on the RCTV
Board of Directors.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for Louis DeBrigard who served 12 years on the Town
Forest Committee.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for Barry Berman who served seven years on the Finance
Committee.
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Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for David Greenfield who served nine years on the
Finance Committee.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Certificate of
Appreciation for Roberta Sullivan who served 18 years on the Historical
Commission.
5a) Move that the Board of Selectmen accept Reading Youth Baseballs
proposal for enhancements to the Tennis court field as presented.
5c) Move that the Board of Selectmen extend the term of the Zoning
Advisory Committee to February 20, 2015.
5e) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the Warrant for the State
Primary on September 9, 2014.
6a) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of June 24, 2014
as amended.
Move that the Board of Selectmen adjourn the meeting at p.m.
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Office of the Town Manager
i0 16 Lowell Street
'6J9`fNCORP��P� Reading, MA 01867
To: Board of Selectmen
From: Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Date: July 9, 2014
RE: July 15 BOS Meeting
781 - 942 -9043
townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us
www.readingma.gov/town-manager
Agenda Items
Please note that your meeting next week will be held in the Sally Hoyt Great Room at the Pleasant Street
Center. We moved the meeting there in anticipation of higher attendance for the results of the EDSAT —
we will be advertising this to the community on Thursday.
On June 17`h I received an anonymous letter about RMLD, and a second hard copy that was meant for
the Board of Selectmen. Once I read through the contents I turned one copy over to Town Accountant
Sharon Angstrom to investigate the allegations. Once she had sufficient facts to justify that there was
some credibility to the letter, I gave Chair John Arena the other copy. Enclosed in your packet is some
additional material that Sharon will present next week. This Town Accountant report is meant to be an
overview of the issue and no more than 15 to 20 minutes, including time for questions from the BOS.
We have invited RMLD Board of Commissioners Chair David Talbot and General Manager Coleen O'Brien
to attend and expect them to be present. Once the Town Accountant has completed her investigation,
she will deliver the full results at a future Board of Selectmen meeting, and the RMLD will be advised in
advance.
Reading Youth Baseball will be in with a field request. Recreation Administrator John Feudo is unable to
be present, and has not been able to get much information in advance, but believes it involves fencing
on a field behind RMHS. In your packet are some notes from the last time a perhaps similar request was
presented to the Selectmen (June 2012).
Marsie West and Jean Delios will next update the Selectmen on the progress of the ad hoc Zoning
Advisory Committee. The ZAC has put in a heroic amount of time and effort thus far on the project. I will
ask that the Board vote to extend the term of the ZAC from August 20, 2014 (the one year term by
default for ad hoc) to February 20, 2015. The Charter Review Committee at their most recent meeting
embraced the idea of a January 2015 Special Town Meeting, which remains an option for the ZAC if they
need it. On that note, John Arena and I attended that Charter Committee meeting, and both of us
presented items for the group to discuss.
Professor Barry Bluestone from the Dukakis Center for Urban and Regional Policy at Northeastern
University will present the Economic Development Self- Assessment Tool results for the community,
based on extensive information the staff AND the public compiled and provided a few weeks ago. Please
see a copy of the results in your packet — I found it quite informative!
July 15, 2014 Board of Selectmen (5
A few quick items at the end of the lengthy agenda:
The BOS need to close the Warrant for the September 9th state primary election;
Enclosed in your packet are six months of customer service feedback. The results are quite
strong, about 95% are rated excellent (91 %) or good (4 %) service, which is above our informal
goal of 90 %. A quick summary of the 5% less perfect scores: one was a taxpayer complaining
about high taxes with no specific customer service issue; one customer received good service
but rated the courtesy as low — it turns out the person was (overly) multi- tasking on a busy day
and has been advised; one customer was not happy about employee /retiree benefits that are
beyond the Town's control; and in one case we couldn't identify the situation in the Human
Resources area because not enough information was provided. We will keep this format going
for a while until we test drive the new 'SeeClickFix' as mentioned in the FY14 goals review
(below);
Attached in the packet is my final summary to the Board on FY14 Town Manager Goals. Ideally
we should set aside an hour or two to discuss these, but we can blend that into one of your next
two meetings in conjunction with setting FY15 Town Manager Goals. Please take the time to
read through the rather lengthy report, and comments and suggestions are most welcome.
Other Notes:
The Town has some volunteer openings (a full list of BCCs is in your packet): ZBA (Associate- 2017); CPDC
(2017); Conservation Commission (two — 2015 & 2017); Cultural Council (two — 2015 & 2017); FINCOM
(2015); Historical Commission (2017); MAPC (Alternate- 2017); RCN Board of Directors (2017); and
School Committee (term ends at next local election April 2015).
Attached are some new Town Manager policies and procedures involving staff use of Town Counsel. I
have been in contact with all the law firms not selected and they were appreciative of the opportunity,
and all expressed an interest in providing whatever future services the Town may require. Jean Delios
and I met with new Town Counsel Miyares & Harrington and gave them quite a list to work from, and
they have already resolved some of the issues. I would like to thank the Board for selecting a firm that is
a very good 'fit' for the Town of Reading. They noted that in the interview they told the Board it would
take up to six months to get up to speed. After our meeting they cut that estimate significantly as
apparently we are relatively well organized (even if it doesn't always feel that way).
A preview of your July 29th meeting:
Amplified sound permit from Carl McFadden (repeat of last year)
Change of Manager's at Chili's
Hearing: Liquor Store violation (details to follow in the next meeting packet)
Continued Hearing: Sunnyside & Fairview 4 -way Stop
MAPC staff will present the Bike & Ped plan
Planning staff will review Complete Streets and the South Main Street DIET
Preview of DRAFT FY15 Town Manager goals
Discuss Reading 2020 working groups
Chair to discuss Town Manager evaluation process (complete by early Fall '14)
Reminder —July 301h Financial Forum at the Pleasant Street Center
Coming attraction: I will ask the Board to establish a method to review the Board of Selectmen policies
at their August 19th meeting. Similar efforts are underway in my office with Town Manager policies,
organization -wide with personnel policies, and in public with the Charter and Zoning. Here are the
current BOS policies: http: / /www.readingma.gov/ board -of- selectmen /pages /selectmens- policies
July 15, 2014 Board of Selectmen 9
July 15, 2014
Wakefield, MA 01880
Dear Mr.
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
James E. Bonazoli, Chairman
John Arena, Vice Chairman
Ben Tafoya, Secretary
Daniel Ensminger
Marsie West
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
(781) 942 -9043
FAX: (781) 942 -9071
Website: www.ci.reading.ma.us
On the evening of Thursday, July 3, 2014 a Reading Police Officer observed your son,
purchase alcoholic beverages from Ricky's Liquors, 214 Main Street, Reading, MA.
Shortly thereafter, the officer conducted a motor vehicle stop of the car in which your son was a
passenger. During the traffic stop, , who is not yet twenty -one years of age, admitted that
he purchased alcohol from Ricky's Liquors without being asked to provide any identification.
As a result of this incident, a hearing has been scheduled for Tuesday, July 29, 2014 at 7:30 p.m.
before this Board at which time the owner of Ricky's Liquors will have an opportunity to be
heard on the allegation that an employee sold alcoholic beverages to a person under twenty -one
years of age.
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 138 Section 64 requires this Board as the Town's
Licensing Authority to notify you of this action. Neither you nor is required to be present
at this hearing.
If you have any questions, please call Lieutenant Detective Richard Abate at 781 - 942 -6728.
Sincerely,
John Arena, Chairman
Reading Board of Selectmen
Schena, Paula
From: LeLacheur, Bob
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 1:23 PM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Public Safety Concern - Town of Reading
For BOS tonight, can replace the earlier memo to the BOS only
From: LeLacheur, Bob
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 1:21 PM
To: 'Walter Marshall'
Subject: RE: Public Safety Concern - Town of Reading
Thanks Walter,
I've reached out and have partial answers from Public Safety and from our land use folks. I should be able to assemble a
full response for you either later this week or early next week. The short answer is we are generally aware of the
situation happening on the private property parcel, and the Police have responded to a few calls in the area — I'll get you
more as soon as I can.
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.goy
Please fill out our brief customer service survey at:
http:// readingma- survey.virtualtownhall .net /survey /sid /ff5d3a5fO3e8eb60/
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: Walter Marshall fmailto :wfmarshall@)comcast.net]
Sent: Tuesday, July 15, 2014 12:34 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Public Safety Concern - Town of Reading
FYI, sent to selectmen earlier today.
1
r
MEMO
To: Selectmen, Town of Reading, MA
From: Walter and Dorothy Marshall, 88 Timberneck Drive, Reading, MA
Date: July 14, 2014
Subject: Public Safety Concern - Timberneck Swamp / Timberneck Drive /Charles Street
As abutters to Timberneck Swamp, open space enthusiasts, and Reading homeowners for 30 years, we are very concerned about
a situation that compromises public safety and which could potentially result in serious bodily injury/death, and have legal
consequences for the Town of Reading.
Did you know that....
Within Timberneck Swamp is a privately owned parcel of land that is used for hunting?
That's right. Abutters of Timbemeck Swamp and anyone walking through the swamp (children, hikers, birdwatchers) are at risk
of being shot at anytime.
That doesn't make sense. Hunting in Timberneck Swamp was banned many years ago - for public safety reasons.
Yes. For public safety reasons, the Town of Reading rightly banned (bow) hunting in Timberneck Swamp many years ago.
Then how can this happen?
We are talking about a little known parcel of private property within the swamp. Hunting on private property is allowed as long
as the property is not within 500 feet of a structure or 150 feet of a road.
Arrows can travel hundreds of yards, which means that they can travel into Timberneck Swamp, right?
Of course. For every point of draw weight on a bow, you can shoot 2 yards. So, for instance, a 50 pound bow can shoot an
arrow 100 yards.
Wow. In that case, are hunters monitored on this land to make sure that they stay 100 yards from the boundaries of this
parcel?
No. There is no monitoring and it's unrealistic to think that hunters remain in the center of the private parcel.
How do Reading's children, nature lovers and hikers know not to stray into this area?
They likely think it is safe ... as hunting was banned in Timbemeck Swamp years ago. Unaware, our son and friends innocently
wandered in there years back and were chased out by a "sketchy guy in camouflage carrying a knife, who hollered at us to get
out."
(We thought it was a chance encounter /isolated incident with a transient ... as we knew hunting to be illegal and were unaware of
the private property issue.)
I've often heard gunshot coming from the swamp. Is it really true that FIREARMS can be discharged from this private
parcel?
Incredibly, YES! Reading residents can be shot dead by a stray bullet as they walk through this town property or rake leaves in
their yard, for two reasons:
1. READING'S TOWN BYLAW 8.9.1 ALLOWS FIREARMS TO BE DISCHARGED FROM PRIVATE LAND -
FOR HUNTING AND SPORTING.
2. BULLETS CAN TRAVEL MILES. The .308 is advertised as having approximately a half of a mile (3,000 feet)
effective range and over a two mile (12,000 feet) maximum range. The 30.06 is similar.
8.9.1 FIREARMS
No person shall fire or discharge any fireworks, firearms, cannon or explosives of any kind on or within the limits of any
street, highway, park or other public property except with the written permission of the Board of Selectmen or its
designee, or on any private property except with the written consent of the owner or legal occupant thereof and the
written permission of the Board of Selectmen or its designee; provided, however, that this bylaw shall not apply to the
lawful defense of life or property, nor to any law enforcement officer acting in the discharge of his duties, nor to the use
0
of such weapon at any military exercises or any established rifle range, nor to the rights and privileges of an owner or
lessee of land as set forth in MGL Chapter 131 relative to hunting and sporting.
This must be a revenue generating thing, right? Do financial benefits to the town outweigh the risks to its constituents?
The Town of Reading annually collects $190.00 in property taxes from this out -of -town land owner. Perhaps it does generate
revenue for the out -of -town landowner who allows others to hunt there.
Think the Town of Reading is safe? Think again.
010
General Laws: CHAPTER 268A, Section 20 Page I of 3
M Print
PART IV CRIMES, PUNISHMENTS AND PROCEEDINGS IN CRIMINAL CASES
TITLE I CRIMES AND PUNISHMENTS
CHAPTER 268A CONDUCT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES
Section 20 Municipal employees, financial interest in contracts, holding one or more elected positions
Section 20. (a) A municipal employee who has a financial interest, directly or indirectly, in a
contract made by a municipal agency of the same city or town, in which the city or town is an
interested party of which financial interest he has knowledge or has reason to know, shall be
punished by a fine of not more than $10,000, or by imprisonment in the state prison for not
more than 5 years, or in a jail or house of correction for not more than 2 1/2 years, or both.
This section shall not apply if such financial interest consists of the ownership of less than
one per cent of the stock of a corporation.
This section shall not apply (a) to a municipal employee who in good faith and within thirty
days after he learns of an actual or prospective violation of this section makes full disclosure
of his financial interest to the contracting agency and terminates or disposes of the interest,
or (b) to a municipal employee who is not employed by the contracting agency or an agency
which regulates the activities of the contracting agency and who does not participate in or
have official responsibility for any of the activities of the contracting agency, if the contract is
made after public notice or where applicable, through competitive bidding, and if the
municipal employee files with the clerk of the city or town a statement making full disclosure
of his interest and the interest of his immediate family, and if in the case of a contract for
personal services (1) the services will be provided outside the normal working hours of the
municipal employee, (2) the services are not required as part of the municipal employee's
regular duties, the employee is compensated for not more than five hundred hours during a
calendar year, (3) the head of the contracting agency makes and files with the clerk of the city
or town a written certification that no employee of that agency is available to perform those
services as part of their regular duties, and (4) the city council, board of selectmen or board
of aldermen approve the exemption of his interest from this section, or (c) to a special
municipal employee who does not participate in or have official responsibility for any of the
activities of the contracting agency and who files with the clerk of the city or town a statement
making full disclosure of his interest and the interests of his immediate family in the contract,
or (d) to a special municipal employee who files with the clerk of the city, town or district a
statement making full disclosure of his interest and the interests of his immediate family in the
contract, if the city council or board of aldermen, if there is no city council, board of selectmen
or the district prudential committee, approve the exemption of his interest from this section, or
httnc• / /maleoi- Iature.eov/ Laws/ GeneralLaws/ PartIV /TitleI /Chapter268A /Section20 /Print 7/14/2014
General Laws: CHAPTER 268A, Section 20
Page 2 of 3
(e) to a municipal employee who receives benefits from programs funded by the United
States or any other source in connection with the rental, improvement, or rehabilitation of his
residence to the extent permitted by the funding agency, or (f) to a municipal employee if the
contract is for personal services in a part time, call or volunteer capacity with the police, fire,
rescue or ambulance department of a fire district, town or any city with a population of less
than thirty -five thousand inhabitants; provided, however, that the head of the contracting
agency makes and files with the clerk of the city, district or town a written certification that no
employee of said agency is available to perform such services as part of his regular duties,
and the city council, board of selectmen, board of aldermen or district prudential committee
approve the exemption of his interest from this section or (g) to a municipal employee who
has applied in the usual course and is otherwise eligible for a housing subsidy program
administered by a local housing authority, unless the employee is employed by the local
housing authority in a capacity in which he has responsibility for the administration of such
subsidy programs or (h) to a municipal employee who is the owner of residential rental
property and rents such property to a tenant receiving a rental subsidy administered by a
local housing authority, unless such employee is employed by such local housing authority in
a capacity in which he has responsibility for the administration of such subsidy programs.
This section shall not prohibit an employee or an official of a town from holding the position of
selectman in such town nor in any way prohibit such employee from performing the duties of
or receiving the compensation provided for such office; provided, however, that such
selectman shall not, except as hereinafter provided, receive compensation for more than one
office or position held in a town, but shall have the right to choose which compensation he
shall receive; provided, further, that no such selectman may vote or act on any matter which
is within the purview of the agency by which he is employed or over which he has official
responsibility; and, provided further, that no such selectman shall be eligible for appointment
to any such additional position while he is still a member of the board of selectmen or for six
months thereafter. Any violation of the provisions of this paragraph which has substantially
influenced the action taken by any municipal agency in any matter shall be grounds for
avoiding, rescinding or cancelling the action on such terms as the interest of the municipality
and innocent third parties may require.
This section shall not prohibit any elected official in a town, whether compensated or
uncompensated for such elected position, from holding one or more additional elected
positions, in such town, whether such additional elected positions are compensated or
uncompensated.
This section shall not prohibit an employee of a municipality with a city or town council form of
government from holding the elected office of councillor in such municipality, nor in any way
prohibit such an employee from performing the duties of or receiving the compensation
provided for such office; provided, however, that no such councillor may vote or act on any
V
httns- / /maleeislature.gov/ Laws/ GeneralLaws/ PartIV /Titlel /Char)ter268A /Section20 /Print 7/14/2014
General Laws: CHAPTER 268A, Section 20
Page 3 of 3
matter which is within the purview of the agency by which he is employed or over which he
has official responsibility; and provided, further, that no councillor shall be eligible for
appointment to such additional position while a member of said council or for six months
thereafter. Any violation of the provisions of this paragraph which has substantially influenced
the action taken by a municipal agency in any matter shall be grounds for avoiding,
rescinding or cancelling such action on such terms as the interest of the municipality and
innocent third parties require. No such elected councillor shall receive compensation for more
than one office or position held in a municipality, but shall have the right to choose which
compensation he shall receive.
This section shall not prohibit an employee of a housing authority in a municipality from
holding any elective office, other than the office of mayor, in such municipality nor in any way
prohibit such employee from performing the duties of or receiving the compensation provided
for such office; provided, however, that such elected officer shall not, except as otherwise
expressly provided, receive compensation for more than one office or position held in a
municipality, but shall have the right to choose which compensation he shall receive;
provided further that no such elected official may vote or act on any matter which is within the
purview of the housing authority by which he is employed; and provided further that no such
elected official shall be eligible for appointment to any such additional position while he is still
serving in such elective office or for six months thereafter. Any violation of the provisions of
this paragraph which has substantially influenced the action taken by the housing authority in
any matter shall be grounds for avoiding, rescinding, or cancelling the action on such terms
as the interest of the municipality and innocent third parties may require.
This section shall not prohibit an employee in a town having a population of less than three
thousand five hundred persons from holding more than one appointed position with said
town, provided that the board of selectmen approves the exemption of his interest from this
section.
[There is no subsection (b).]
G
httns- / /malegislature.gov/ Laws/ GeneralLaws/ PartIV /TitleI /Chapter268A/Section20 /Print 7/14/2014
Schena, Paula
From:
Feudo, John
Sent:
Thursday, July 10, 2014 12:32 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
This will provide a little background from the Rec Committee minutes back in
September 2013.
Reading Youth Baseball /Little League
Dan McGrath from RYB introduced himself. Dan stated he was coming before the Recreation Committee
to reintroduce the tennis court field project that was before the committee two years ago. The proposal is
similar but has been scaled back to reflect only the items that RLL believed to be necessary. The main
issue they would be addressing is to add a fence and raise the outfield depth. They are also proposing
enclosed on -deck areas for batters and netting to protect the tennis players from foul balls.
The proposal is as follows:
1. Provide fill and grade the outfield so that a level playing surface can beach ' ieved to a distance of 210'
from home plate throughout the field from left to right until the 210' interects the existing 8' fence in
right field between the high school and the baseball diamond. At present the field starts to slope down
just beyond 180' from home plate.
2. Install a black chain link fence, not to be taller than 5', starting at the left field line at the 210' distance
that maintains that distance from home plate thru centerfield until it intersects the aforementioned
right field fence. The fence would be distinguished by the following. Pictures are shown where
available the round.
• Installation of a warning track, both sides of the fence to promote player safety and removes
need to weed whack /trim, thus saving mowing time
• 6 foot foul pole in left field, foul pole should be not more than 10 ft from the ground
• Access gate sized to allow entry of maintenance equipment in the outfield (location up to
town) a 12ft gap versus a gate.
• Install a yellow safety border similar to the photo (right) at the top of the fence.
3. Protective fencing installed in front of stands at 3rd base. As current situated there are spectators are
at risk for a batted foul ball. 5ft black vinyl fencing to be consistent to the existing backstop and
wings. There shall be a gap for players to access the field and fencing shall protect existing
bleachers. The installation of small enclosed "on- deck" batters areas on each side near the dugouts
would be installed as well.
4. Small manual scoreboard in Left Field, this is for the fan experience since it's hard for them to know
what the score /inning.
M. Stolecki made a motion to accept Reading Youth Baseballs proposal (as adjusted above) for enhancements
to the Tennis court field including the recommendation that the Town includes funding particularly for the
safety netting in the Capital Improvement plan for FY15. N. Swain seconded the motion. Motion passed in
favor by a vote of 6 -0 -1.
1 S�a ( 5 7i
Board of Selectmen Minut — June 5.201 — page 5
The To-i n l 4anager noted he will try to get a ract with Patriot immediately.
The Finance
at 9:40 p.m.
Decision on Requested Modifications to "Tennis Court" Baseball Field — The Town
anager noted that the original presentation was in February and Recreation ld like a
Richard Schubert noted that this is not the first request to make changes and if all the
features are granted then the field will be limited to use as a baseball field. He also noted
that fences have an impact on the overall area and lessen the flexibility to use for
anything else.
James Bonazoli agreed with Richard Schubert and noted that this facility is already
fenced off and the field is still useable for T ball if the changes are not made.
Charlie Ehl reviewed the list of changes that Reading Youth Baseball is willing to make:
Grade the outfield to be "level" so that it is functionally level 210' — 225' from
home plate. The consensus of the Board agreed to this.
2. Install 4' high black vinyl coated chain link fence from the left field foul line to
the outfield fence near the high school cafeteria, 210' — 225' feet from home
plate. The Board asked if RYB would consider a walk through or gate and Mr.
Ehl they would. The Board had concerns that this is not what was envisioned in
the master plan. John Feudo noted that he wouldn't want to see a full fence. The
fence could be left open for safety equipment and Town equipment. Mr. Feudo
noted that if kids are hitting more runs then it is time to find another location for
them. Richard Schubert noted that the usage will change dramatically because all
of the travel leagues will want to play there. The consensus of the Board was
against this item.
3. Install a 6' - 10' foul pole on the lefty field line. The consensus of the Board
agreed to this item:
4. Install yellow safety border barrier on the top of the outfield fence. The
consensus of the Board was against this item.
5. Install an 18' high monofilament safety net the length of the playing surface along
the 3rd base line to provide protection for tennis players. The consensus of the
Board agreed to this as long as no new poles were installed. It was suggested that
the tennis court fence be used to hold the safety net.
6. Install a 4' x 8' maximum scoreboard in left field facing towards home plate. The
consensus of the Board agreed to this item.
sa�v
Board of Selectmen Minutes — June 5, 2012 — page 6
7. Install up to 2 sets of aluminum HC accessible spectator bleachers in the outfield
in locations determined by staff. The consensus of the Board agreed to this item
as long as they were not located in the outfield and the location was determined
by staff.
8. Install a 5' high black vinyl coated chain link fence to protect spectators in the 3`d
base bleachers. The consensus of the Board agreed to this item.
Charlie Ehl noted that if the fence in item #2 is not allowed then RYB will not extend the
field out or do bleachers; so if they don't have permission to do everything then they will
V% do nothing.
116 0�
p The Town Manager noted that the All Star Game is on Sunday at Hunt Park and they are
YXiL requesting to use amplified sound. Ben Tafoya asked if there have been any complaints
and John Feudo indicated there have not. The consensus of the Board was to allow this.
— The Town Manager
there three driveways on Edgemont that exceed 24.'
Kevin D uglas, 58 Edgemont Avenue, noted that the r idents of Stewart and Edgemont
are paying the curbing. He submitted a pe . on signed by all of the abutters
indicating they ve no problem with his drivew width. He noted this is a quality of
life issue and he of park on the street. H also noted that the Board had previously
approved a second veway for 51 Edgemont Avenue.
of 5 -0-0.
Michael Cashins, 66 Edger
remain at 32.' He noted this
Richard Schubert noted that 32
opposed.
Ave e, noted that he is also requesting a variance to
s guests a place to .park.
excessive.
Establish Town Mana 's Salary FY2013 — 174chard Schubert noted that he spoke with
Human Resources inistrator Carol Robe and she indicated that Burlington and
Winchester pay thei Town Manager $160,000.
Ben Tafoya noted t when the Board does a search for a n w Town Manager they will
have to start at a gher salary and suggested setting the sal at $147,000.
1
Policy establishing an ad hoc Zoning Bylaw Advisory Committee
There is hereby established an ad hoc Committee to review the Reading Zoning Bylaw
( "Zoning Advisory Committee) to prepare a comprehensive update with the help of a
consultant. The Committee will present the zoning update to the Board of Selectmen by
July 15, 2014 prior to an article that will be presented at the Fall 2014 Subsequent Town
Meeting.
The current zoning bylaw is outdated, confusing for the public to use, and difficult to
administer. The comprehensive update will be a full scale review of the zoning bylaw
which will result in a new zoning bylaw.
The Zoning Advisory Committee (ZAC) shall be comprised of seven (7) members and
will be a multiple member body as defined by the Town of Reading Home Rule Charter.
In selecting the ZAC the Board of Selectmen shall attempt to fill the positions as follows:
• One (1) member from the Board of Selectmen, appointed by the Board of
Selectmen;
• Two (2) members appointed by the Community Planning and Development
Commission;
• One (1) member appointed by the Zoning Board of Appeals;
• Three other members:
• One member from the Bylaw Committee;
• One member from another Board/Committee /Commission;
• One resident for the community who does not fall into any of the above
categories, and who preferably would have experience firsthand with
zoning or implications of zoning (e.g., owns or operates a business in
Reading).
The mission of the ZAC is to clarify and simplify the Reading Zoning Bylaw. A
consultant will be hired to provide technical assistance and expertise in zoning. The
recommendations will be developed in concert with an extensive public process.
In conducting its work, the ZAC will be bound by all of the rules and regulations of the
Town of Reading and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, including but not limited to
the Open Public Meetings law. Staff will be assigned by the Town Manager to work with
the ZAC. The ZAC will be considered to be part of the Department of Community
Services for administrative purposes.
Adopted August 20, 2013
Town of Reading Rezoning Project Executive Summary —July 15, 2014
The Town undertook a comprehensive update of the zoning bylaw over the past year. A zoning
consultant was hired (VHB) and a Zoning Advisory Committee was appointed by the Board of Selectmen.
The charge was to "Simplify, Modernize, and Clarify" the bylaw. The new draft zoning bylaw is
summarized below:
➢ Recodification
• Reorganized and reformatted to make it easier to follow
• Deleted Wetlands Protection District and Downtown Mixed Use Overlay District
• Added anew provision allowing the siting and permitting of a Registered Medical
Marijuana Dispensary
• Cross - referenced text to facilitate navigating the document
• Used tables and charts instead of large amount of text
• Inserted graphics, checklists, and permitting flow charts to clarify
➢ Definitions
• Added many new definitions; revised others to simplify and clarify
• Consolidated definitions into one section (or cross referenced elsewhere)
➢ Use Tables
o Updated to make them easier to use, created separate tables for residential and non-
residential, added new land use types not previously addressed in the bylaw
➢ Planned Unit Development /Planned Residential Development
• Rewrote to streamline the permitting process and clarify the requirements and
standards for approval
• Changed PRD eliminating need for Town Meeting approval and to better reflect the
intent of this provision as Open Space Residential Development (Cluster)
➢ Site Plan Review
o Clarified and streamlined the process and approval criteria
➢ Accessory Apartments
o Updated to clarify rules and simplify while preserving neighborhood character
➢ Aquifer Protection
o Increased flexibility and relaxed the standards, particularly for homeowners, while still
meeting requirements to preserve water quality
➢ Affordable Housing
o Consolidated and established consistent requirements throughout the bylaw
o Modified to reflect goals of the Housing Production Plan
➢ Nonconforming Uses and Structures
• Reduced Zoning Board of Appeals review of routine projects, defer more to staff
• Clarified existing vague language including what triggers a special permit
➢ Parking
o. Revised parking standards so they are consistent with those in the Use Table
➢ Signs
o Reorganized, expanded and modernized and updated sign design and size
o Clarified sign permitting process
➢ Administrative sections
o Expanded to clarify special permits, variances, and zoning amendment procedures
3'6 iii
September 9, 2014
State Primary Warrant
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, ss. Officer's Return, Reading:
By virtue of this Warrant, I, on July , 2014 notified and warned the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified
to vote on Town affairs, to meet at the place and at the time specified by posting attested copies of this Town Meeting
Warrant in the following public places within the Town of Reading:
Precinct 1
J. Warren Killam School, 333 Charles Street
Precinct 2
Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street
Precinct 3
Reading Municipal Light. Department, 230 Ash Street
Precinct 4
Joshua Eaton School, 365 Summer Avenue
Precinct 5
Reading Library, Local History Room, 64 Middlesex Avenue
Precinct 6
Barrows School, 16 Edgemont Avenue
Precinct 7
Birch Meadow School, 27 Arthur B Lord Drive
Precinct 8
Wood End School, 85 Sunset Rock Lane
Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street
The date of posting being not less than seven (7) days prior to September 9, 2014 the date set for the State Primary
Election in this Warrant.
I also caused an attested copy of this Warrant to be posted on the Town of Reading web site.
A true copy Attest:
Laura Gemme, Town Clerk
Constable
#,-,p , 1
107
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
WILLIAM FRANCIS GALVIN
SECRETARY OF THE COMMONWEALTH
STATE PRIMARY WARRANT
MIDDLESEX, SS.
To any of the Constables of the Town of Reading, Greetings:
In the name of the Commonwealth, you are hereby required to notify and warn the inhabitants of the Town of Reading
who are qualified to vote in the State Primary Election to vote at
Precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
Reading Memorial High School - Hawkes Field House - Oakland Road
on TUESDAY, THE NINTH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2014, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM for the following purpose:
To cast their votes in the State Primaries for the candidates of political parties for the following offices:
SENATOR IN CONGRESS ............................................ ...............................
FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH
GOVERNOR....................................... ............................... ............................FOR
THIS COMMONWEALTH
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR ........................................... ...............................
FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH
ATTORNEY GENERAL .................................................. ...............................
FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH
SECRETARY OF STATE ............................................... ...............................
FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH
TREASURER AND RECEIVER GENERAL ................... ...............................
FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH
AUDITOR .................:..................................................... ...............................
FOR THIS COMMONWEALTH
REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS ..................................................
............................... SIXTH DISTRICT
COUNCILLOR...............................:.....................................................
............................... SIXTH DISTRICT
SENATOR IN GENERAL COURT ................................. ...............................
FIFTH MIDDLESEX DISTRICT
REPRESENTATIVE IN GENERAL COURT ......... ............................... THIRTIETH MIDDLESEX DISTRICT
REPRESENTATIVE IN GENERAL COURT ................ ......................
TWENTIETH MIDDLESEX DISTRICT
DISTRICT ATTORNEY ....................................... ...............................
.......................NORTHERN DISTRICT
REGISTER OF PROBATE ..................................... ...............................
......................MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Hereof fail not and make return of this warrant with your doings thereon at
the time and place of said voting.
Given under our hands this 15th day of July, 2014
John J Arena, Chair
Marsie West, Vice Chair
Daniel Ensminger, Secretary
Kevin M. Sexton
John R. Halsey
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Constable
A true copy Attest:
Laura A Gemme, Town Clerk
Warrant must be posted by September 2, 2014, at least seven days prior to the September 9, 2014 State Primary. 2
se
F
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y
Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Board of Selectmen
Date: 2014 -06 -24
Building: Reading Town Hall
Address: 16 Lowell Street
Purpose: General Business
Attendees: Members - Present:
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Selectmen Meeting Room
Chairman John Arena, Vice Chairman Marsie West, Secretary Daniel
Ensminger, Selectmen John Halsey and Kevin Sexton
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Town Manager Robert LeLacheur, Police Chief James Cormier, Office
Manager Paula Schena, Bill Brown
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Daniel Ensminger
Topics of Discussion:
Reports and Comments
Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments - John Halsey noted that the Recreation
Department has taken on the project of replacing the benches at the High School varsity
baseball and softball fields. He indicated this is a very notable project.
Daniel Ensminger noted that the Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee met tonight and that
report is the subject of an agenda item.
Kevin Sexton noted that he met with the Cemetery Board of Trustees and there is still a
need for the Cemetery garage. They want the Forest Glen location for the garage. They
received a $7,500 state grant to repair the Civil War memorials.
John Arena noted that he attended the CPDC meeting regarding the Library and it was good
to see the compromise. The Finance Committee Appointment Committee interviewed and
appointed two applicants and reappointed an incumbent. The Bylaw Committee
Appointment Committee reappointed two incumbents.
Town Manager's Report - The Town Manager noted that there are still more vacancies - the
Conservation Commission has two vacancies and CPDC has a vacancy. He will bring DPW in
to discuss the Cemetery garage.
Discussion /Action Items
Anoint Town Counsel Counsel - The Town Manager noted that the three firms are Miyares &
Harrington, Deutsche Williams and Kopelman and Paige.
Kevin Sexton noted that Weston has Kopelman and Paige and they are happy with them.
They use special counsel for land use. Their response time is good and they like the size of
Kopelman and Paige.
Page 1 1 loci
Board of Selectmen Minutes - June 24. 2014 - page 2
Marsie West indicated she received a good reference on Deutsche Williams. She has
concerns about Kopelman and Paige regarding lack of experience in land use.
John Arena noted he contacted Wilmington who uses Deutsch Williams and they spoke
highly of them. He feels we need a generalist to address 80% of the issues and then bring
in specialists when needed.
Daniel Ensminger noted that Miyares and Harrington are the smallest with a ratio of seven
lawyers for five towns. He noted that they knew Reading and the issues. There are no
conflicts of interest with them. Deutsche Williams is a medium law firm and has the best
depth of experience and the highest cost structure. Their two references highly appraised
them. Kopelman and Paige has much experience and offers free seminars. The team leader
is inexperienced in land use though. He is in favor of Miyares and Harrington.
John Halsey apologized for not being able to be present. He did watch the proceedings
though. He received very high recommendations from Canton and Wilmington for Deutsche
Williams. They are a 24/7 firm and they are litigators. He feels they would be good for
special counsel. Deutsche Williams also represents Wilmington and that could create issues.
Miyares and Harrington are familiar with Reading. Hopkinton is similar to Reading and they
represent them. The fact that Miyares requires his employees to do volunteer work and the
fact that they won't represent any neighboring towns is a big factor to him.
John Arena noted that Miyares and Harrington is more informal in communication and John
Halsey indicated that he feels that Town Meeting will embrace that.
John Arena asked for a show of hands in favor of each firm. Kopelman and Paige received 0
votes; Deutsche Williams received 0 votes and Miyares and Harrington received five.
A motion by Ensminaer seconded by West to appoint the firm of Miyares and
Harrinaton as Town Counsel for a term expiring June 30, 2014 was approved by a
vote of 5 -0 -0.
Marsie West directed the Town Manager to negotiate a rate with Miyares and Harrington.
Hearing - Sunnyside /Fairview 4 Way Stop - The Secretary read the hearing notice. The
Town Manager noted that Mr. Dolan, the person requesting the four way stop, is unable to
be present tonight.
Marsie West noted that she goes through this intersection very often and rarely sees other
cars or pedestrians. She feels this request is overkill.
The Town Manager noted that he received a phone call from Mr. Conwell who is against it.
The Board has also received several emails in the handout from people opposed to it.
Kevin Sexton noted that he's familiar with the area and it doesn't seem necessary.
John Arena noted that Mr. Dolan expressed concerns for the children.
Police Chief James Cormier distributed a page from the Manual on Uniform Practice. He
informed the Board that they need to pay attention to the guidance or else they will end up
putting up stop signs at every intersection. Multi -way stops are sometimes used before
signalizing an intersection. Other requirements are a high accident rate and large volumes
of traffic. That route was recently designated a Safe Route to School and the sidewalks
were redone and new signage was put up. If the study had showed the need for a multi -
way stop, they wouldn't have done the work. Chief Cormier noted that the average speed is
Page 1 2
Board of Selectmen Minutes - June 24, 2014 - page 3
low to mid 20's on those roads. The bush on the corner is a concern though. Marsie West
noted that house has a new owner and they cut back the bush this past weekend.
Marsie West noted that cars are parked close to Prescott on the corner and Chief Cormier
indicated they could put up a sign saying do not park close to the corner.
Elizabeth Gesmundo, 34 Sunnyside Avenue noted that she was home when both accidents
happened. She noted that the site line is the problem. A commuter cannot see if they are
stopped at the sign. They have to pull out into the intersection. She indicated you can see
to the left but not to the right. She also noted that the sidewalk plan called for the bush to
be removed but it wasn't and that's a big concern. She also noted that the location of the
crosswalk is dangerous and no children cross there. She feels this intersection meets the
requirement of not being able to see oncoming traffic.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to close the hearing on the proposed
four way stop at Sunnvside and Fairview Avenue was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
John Halsey indicated that he understands Ms. Gesmundo's concern about the children but
he is struggling to find the answer in the guidelines to approve it. He feels the Board needs
to rely on Chief Cormier to give them guidance. He is also indicated he is bothered by the
fact that this took two years to be put on an agenda and the person who requested this was
unable to be present tonight.
John Arena noted there are also concerns with air pollution. He feels this is more of a site
line issue due to a tree and a bush.
Marsie West indicated that if they approve this sign then everyone is going to want a sign.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by Arena to reconsider the closing of the hearina
was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
The Town Manager suggested having Engineering do a study and Chief Cormier indicated if
Engineering did a study that would comply with the guidelines and the outcome will be
based on facts.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to continue the hearing to July 29 2014
at 8:00 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
Appointments of Boards, Committees and Commissions - Daniel Ensminger noted that he
and Kevin Sexton conducted interviews this evening and will be recommending Sandra
Popaja and Christine Hansen to positions. He also noted that he requested all incumbents
of the Historical Commission be present for an interview because he had concerns. He
recommends appointing those three who came in for an interview and to leave Roberta
Sullivan's position vacant because she did not. The Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee
will be happy to consider Roberta Sullivan if she comes in for an interview.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to recommend Robert Mittnight to a
term on the Historical Committee endina June 30, 2017 was approved by a vote of
5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminaer seconded by West to recommend Nancy Kohl and Virginia
Adams to Associate terms on the Historical Commission ending June 30, 2015 was
approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
0
Page 1 3
Board of Selectmen Minutes - June 24 2014 - page 4
A motion by Ensminaer seconded by West to recommend aDuointin
• Tina Ohison to the
Animal Control Appeals
Committee
with a term expiring
June 30, 2017•
• Kathleen Hackett and Damase Caouette to
the Board of Appeals with terms
expiring June 30. 2017:
• Olive Hecht and Janet
Baronian to the Board of
Cemetery Trustees
with
terms expiring June 30. 2017:
• Andrew Friedman
to the Board of Health
with a
term expiring June
30
2017:
• Harry Simmons to
the Board of Registrars with a
term expiring June
30,
2017•
• David Williams and
Ronald D'Addario to the
Climate
Advisory Committee
with terms expiring
June 30 2017 was approved
by
a vote of 5-0-0.
A motion by Ensminaer seconded by West to recommend appointing:
• Michele Benson and Gina Snyder as Associates to the Climate Advisory
Committee with terms expiring June 30 2015•
• Elizabeth Kleveis and Marsie West to the Commissioners of Trust Funds with
terms expiring June 30, 2017;
• Terrence Selle to the Conservation Commission with a term expiring June
30. 2017:
• Sally M. Hoyt to the position of Constable with a term expiring June 30
2017:
• Charles Adams and David Tuttle to the Community Plannina and
Development Commission with terms expiring June 30 2017•
• George Katsoufis as an Associate on the Community Plannina and
Development Commission with a term expiring June 30 2015 was
approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminaer seconded by West to recommend aDDointin
• Kevin Walsh Sandra J Shaffer and John Parsons to the Council on Aging
with terms expiring June 30. 2017:
• Margaret Caouette and Donna Schenkel to the Cultural Council with terms
expiring June 30, 2017;
• Francis Driscoll as the Custodian of Soldier and Sailor Graves with a term
expiring 3une 30. 2019:
• Maria Higgins and Shelia Clarke to the Economic Development Committee
with terms expiring June 30. 2017;
• John Russell and Sandra Pooaia as Associate members on the Economic
Development Committee with a term expiring June 30 2015•
• Denise Benard to the Fall Street Faire Committee with a term expiring June
30, 2017;
• Timothy Kelley to the Housina Authority with a term expiring June 30 2019
was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminaer seconded by West to recommend aDDointin
• Kvung Yu to the Human Relations Advisory Committee with a term expiring
June 30, 2017:
• Mark Segalla to the Human Relations Advisory Committee with a term
expiring June 30. 2016;
• Christine Hansen to a position on the Human Relations Advisory Committee
with a term expiring June 30, 2015:
• Camille Anthony as an Associate member of the Human Relations Advisory
Committee with a term expiring June 30. 2015:
• Steven Sadwick to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council with a term
expiring June 30, 2017:
Page 14
Board of Selectmen Minutes - June 24, 2014 - page 5
• Adam Chase and Richard Hand to the Recreation Committee with terms
expiring June 30, 2017;
• John Winne as an Associate member on the Recreation Committee with a
term expiring June 30 2015 was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to recommend appointing:
• Carl McFadden to the Reading Ice Arena Authority with a term expiring June
30, 2017;
• David Mancuso to the RMLD Citizen Advisory Board with a term expiring
June 30, 2017•
• Farrukh Naimi to the Town Forest Committee with a term expiring June 30,
2017•
• Kurt Habel as an Associate member to the Town Forest Committee with a
term expiring June 30, 2015;
• Will Finch to the Trails Committee with a term expiring June 30, 2017;
• John Parsons as an Associate member of the Trails Committee with a term
expiring June 30, 2015;
• Ilene Bornstein to the West Street Historic District Commission with a term
expiring June 30, 2017;
• Alyssa Scaparotti to the West Street Historic District Commission with a
term expiring June 30 2016 was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
Planning for Board of Selectmen Appointed Boards Committees and Commissions Workshop
- The Town Manager noted that past Boards talked about having summits but never
decided to hold one. The Selectmen indicated at the retreat that they would like to hold an
event in October so we should start spreading the word. The community partner topic
covers almost every Board, Committee and Commission. He suggests inviting all but ask
for at least two members from each committee.
John Arena indicated the priority will focus on how we work together. He also suggested
asking for a RSVP.
The Town Manager noted that a packet needs to be sent out ahead of time and the Board
needs to decide if they want a moderator.
Charter Committee - Board of Selectmen Input - John Arena noted that he and the Town
Manager will meet with the Charter Committee and pass along any comments. He noted
that there is no vehicle for removing an individual from a Board, Committee or Commission.
Daniel Ensminger asked if this was a Charter Commission or Committee and Bill Brown
indicated they are both the same. Town Clerk Laura Gemme disagreed and indicated that a
Charter Committee cannot change the form of government i.e. change elected Boards to be
appointed. Marsie West indicated this is a question for Town Counsel.
Daniel Ensminger noted that the purpose of the Committee was to make minor changes
without bringing it to the voters.
Marsie West asked why the paragraph indicating the Selectmen can appoint a standing
committee on page 12 is being deleted. Laura Gemme noted there was a question as to
what the term means. Alan Foulds noted that paragraph was moved to page 17. Marsie
West indicated she had concerns about allowing other Boards to set up standing
committees. John Arena noted that is a broadened intent and asked why. Bill Brown
responded because the Light Board does it. Marsie West indicated that was true but it is not
effective and it's a way to hide what is happening because they require no postings or public
input.
Page 1 5
Board of Selectmen Minutes - June 24 2014 - page 6
Marsie West asked why nomination papers must be picked up in person in section 2 -5 and
Laura Gemme indicated that's due to State law. Marsie West asked why the oath of law
was taken out and Laura Gemme indicated the MGL does not require it, it's just a tradition.
John Arena indicated he wants to see documentation of the reasons behind each change i.e.
state law and the Town Manager indicated that can be done in footnotes.
Marsie West noted that the language regarding vacancies is not consistent in 2 -3 and 2 -6.
Daniel Ensminger noted that he is in favor of adding in a process to remove a Board,
Committee or Commission member. Alan Foulds indicated he supports a removal process
also. The Town Manager noted that lack of attendance is one just cause.
John Arena noted that on page 11 regarding the circulation of a referendum petition.
Nowhere does it say a person could craft their own language.
The Town Manager noted that the Finance Committee has term limits and they are asking
that a partial term not count towards the term limit. Alan Foulds noted that they can
modify it for anything less than two years won't count.
John Arena directed the Board to send their comments to Alan Foulds with a copy to Laura
Gemme.
A motion
by Ensminger seconded by West
to go into Executive Session
to discuss
strategy
with respect to collective bargaining
and to
discuss strateav
with respect
to the
purchase exchange lease or
value of real
property and
that the
Chair
declares
that an Open Session may have
a detrimental
effect on
the bargaining
position of the Board and not to reconvene
in Open
Session The motion
was
approved
on a roll call vote with all five
members voting
in the affirmative.
Respectfully submitted,
Secretary
Page 1 6
G-�,
PLANNING AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT UPDATES
JULY 15, 2014
REZONING
Streamlining
Simplifying
Modernizing
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
PLAN
Visioning
Market
Analysis
Goals
Streamlining improves the permitting process.
Checklists will be used to guide applicants for various kinds of projects
Permitting flow chart is being developed
Special Permits and Site Plan Review administered by one board - CPDC
Plain language and common sense will replace confusing and
complicated formulas and requirements.
The new Zoning Bylaw will explain what is allowed and what
is not - clearly.
Graphics will enhance the bylaw and simplify
Better organization, more definitions, and easier to follow text with cross
references will make things better
Zoning will be transformed into a customer service tool.
Come to a ZAC meeting for more information -
www.vhb.com /readingzoning
ON
Recently awarded funds to create a Strategic Economic
Development Action Plan.
Builds on the Priority Development Plan completed and the
EDSAT and will include:
Visioning Process
Market Analysis
Goal Setting
Identifying strategies to Meet Goals
15, 2014
Dukakis Center for Urban & Regional Policy
Northeastern university
School of Public Policy & Urban Affairs
www. nortlicastern.edu /dukakiscentcr
A "Think and Do" Tank
First, a look at the Massachusetts
Economy
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Dukakis Cciilcr lOr i i-baii 8, Regimial Polio' ❖ www .northeastern.edu /dukakiscenter
Total Non -Farm Employment - Seasonally- Adjusted
3,400.0 r.
Massachusetts 2003 -2013 (December)
December 2013
By the end of 2013, Massachusetts had
3,350.0
recovered _all the lobs it had lost in 3,354.6
the Great Recession ... and is
April 2008 3,318.0
continuing to grow III 3I,I3I1
3,300.0 -_
11111t,- - - - - -- - 1tttitit
3,250.0
October 2003
=3 =�otl„ll ,.,...,,,,. 1. mllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllli "'..`_ °" „lili
3,150.0
3,100.0
3,050.0
3,161.
L W+ L Y L L
7 U 7 Y Q 3 6 L L . Y Y L _ Y Y 7 L 5 Y 5 7 Y
Q O Q _" O O QUO QUO O ¢ -'O
QUO QUO QUO
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Town of Reading Employment
600
595
590
585
580
575
570
565
560
555
Town of Reading
Number of Establishments
2001, 2007, 2013
2001 2007 2013
8,000
7,000
6,000
5,000
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
Town of Reading
Total Employment
2001 ,200712013
2001 2007 2013
Ile,
40
30
20
10
-30
Town of Reading
Change in Number of Establishments by Industry Sector
2001-2013
34
..............
17
. .....
.....
6
'0 <,
-60
�,d
lip
-26
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
-20A§
lb\ 01
-111& 4�
-600
-AV
-800
Town of Reading
Change in Employment by Industry Sector
2001-2013
1098
20
610
272
182
186
135
63
-88 -995 5
lee
CPO
016"
-468
-so"P
-612
O
Promoting Economic
Development in Reading
i
Economic Development is a collaborative
process that builds strong, adaptive
economies
and requires leadership
Companies move to municipalities, not states
Municipal Officials
must play a critical role in attracting business
investment, jobs, and a strong tax base
4�
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S d q x
Local Communities on their Own
With rising federal deficits and a
bipartisan drive to cut the federal debt
... and at the same time a call for tax
cuts, there will be little additional aid to
local communities from the federal
government
13
t
States in Crisis
With states facing structural budget
deficits, local aid from state
governments will be in short supply in
many states
Local Economic Development
In this new environment of fiscal
constraint, local communities will
prosper only if they are successful in
finding new sources of revenue ... and
the best wav to do this is to attract
business enterprise to town
13
Development
Municipal leaders must initiate and
support the development process
Begin by assessing your municipality's
strengths and weakness
Change what you have control over
Collaborate with others on what you
can influence
00 , a 1 x'x e ..�., v a
AM
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Fundamental Proposition
Cities and towns have the ability to create
their own destiny, and they can benefit from
having sophisticated partners who can help
them develop tools and information to
compete successfully.
k
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Development of EDSAT
We surveyed corporate real estate and
development professionals on location decisions
NAIOP (National and Massachusetts Chapter)
CoreNet Global
Based on the NAIOP /CoreNet survey the Economic
Development Self- Assessment Tool (EDSAT) for
municipal leaders was created
Sample
Project type selected
Geographic area in which do
most of work
NAIOP
General Industrial 40.0%
Commercial / Profess. 38.8%
Mixed -use
8.8%
R& D Facility
5.0%
Retail 5.0%
2.8%
Manufacturing2.5%
1.9%
Pacific 18.9%
38.3%
Middle Atlantic
18.9%
South Atlantic
18.9%
East North Central
8.8%
International
7.6%
East South Central
6.3%
West North Central
6.3%
New England
5.0%
West South Central
5.0%
Mountain
3.8%
CoreNet
Office / Headquarters 68.5%
Manufacturing10.4%
Retail 10.4%
Mixed -use
5.7%
R &D Facility
2.8%
Distribution / Warehouse
1.9%
International
38.3%
Pacific 32.7%
Middle Atlantic
28.0%
West South Central
21.4%
East North Central
20.5%
South Atlantic
19.6%
New England
19.6%
West North Central
15.8%
East South Central
15.8%
Mountain
11.2%
City
Deal Breakers
City Action
Deal Makers
`
m
Deal Breakers
Ignorance of Changing Market
Conditions — "Time to Market"
Uncorrected "Cognitive Maps"
Too Little Attention to Site Deficiencies
Slow Municipal Processes
Too much reliance on Tax Breaks
NA10PICoreNet Survey Categories
Permitting Processes
Labor
Development and Operating Costs
Business Environment
Transportation and Access
Quality of Life /Social Environment
11
The Self- Assessment Tool (EDSAT)
The self- assessment tool includes sections on:
1. Access to Customers /Markets
2. Concentration of Businesses and Services (Agglomeration)
3. Cost of Land (Implicit /Explicit)
4. Labor
5. Municipal Process
6. Quality of Life (Community)
7. Quality of Life (Site Amenities)
8. Business Incentives
9. Tax Rates
10. Access to Information
ey EDS
esults for
eading
How does Reading fare on the EDSAT questions
relative to Comparable Group Municipalities (CGMs)?
Reading's Strengths
• Highway Access: Reading has excellent highway access with 75 percent or more of all
available sites within two miles of a limited access major highway.
• Traffic: Traffic in Reading is comparable to the Comparison Group Municipalities (CGM), but
unlike the CGM, the town has regular access to a traffic engineer or transportation planner.
• Infrastructure: Not only does Reading have sufficient capacity for growth and reliable service
for all of its utilities, but the cost for electricity is roughly half the cost of CGM respondents.
• Rents: Reading's mix of office space includes more Class A and Class B space than the
CGM, indicating better overall quality office space.
• Workforce Composition: Reading has a much higher percentage of managerial and
professional workers than the CGM.
Reading's Strengths (Con't)
• Labor (available): More than half of Reading's available labor has earned at least a
bachelor's degree.
• Public Transit: Reading has a transit - oriented development strategy to attract new firms
within a quarter mile of public bus or rail rapid transit.
• Physical Attractiveness: Reading takes more vigorous measures to maintain the physical
attractiveness than the CGM, has a higher percentage of parks, and involves the arts
community in the design of open space.
• Quality of Office Space: Reading has a lower percentage of contaminated /brownfield sites
than the CGM and more experience with redevelopment of such sites.
• Sites Available: Reading has a readily - accessible, up -to -date list of sites that are available for
development.
Reading's Strengths (Con't)
Predictable Permits: Reading provides a development handbook to prospective developers.
• Citizen Participation in the Review Process: In Reading, organized neighborhood groups
slow the permitting process less than CGMs. In addition, elected officials expedite
development by facilitating community group dialogues and have stepped in to rescue
development proposals that were endangered by community opposition in the past 5 years.
• Cultural and Recreational Amenities: Unlike the CGM, Reading features a professional
repertory theater company and a symphony orchestra.
• Crime: Crime is lower for all categories in Reading than the CGM.
• Housing: The home ownership rate in Reading is higher than the CGM.
• Local Schools: Students in Reading have a higher percentage of English and Mathematics
proficiency and a higher percentage of high school graduates go on to attend a four -year
college. The town also uses assessment/proficiency tests as a measure of performance for
teacher assessments and evaluation.
Reading's Strengths (Con't)
• Local Tax Rates. Reading uses a local meals tax to pay for local services and has a flat tax
rate that is four percent lower than the CGM for commercial and industrial property.
• Airport: Reading features a local airport and is closer to its nearest regional and international
airports than the CGM.
• Rail: Reading has a commuter rail stop within its jurisdiction.
• Proximity to Universities and Research: Four major four -year institutions of higher
education are located within 10 miles of Reading.
• Permitting Ombudsman: Reading's town manager plays a significant role in facilitating the
permitting process, and the town features local licenses for specific businesses.
• Website: Reading's website includes more information related to economic development and
municipal process than the CGM.
Reading's Weaknesses
• Timeliness of Approvals: Site plan reviews, zoning variances, and the appeals process take
an average of four weeks longer in Reading than in the CGM.
• Rents: Rents in Reading for all asset types and classes other than the cost for Class A office
space is higher than the CGM.
• Parking: A smaller proportion of Reading's available sites for retail and office sites have
long -term on -site parking than do sites in the CGM.
• Critical Mass Firms: Reading lacks an up -to -date economic development plan or strategy,
has targeted no specific industry sectors, and does not have an industrial attraction policy.
• Cross Marketing: Reading does not have a cross - market strategy and, unlike the CGM, does
not at present engage regional planning and development organizations to participate in
marketing the town.
Reading Weaknesses (Con't)
• Quality of Available Space: Reading has a much smaller percentage of vacant /underutilized
shopping centers and open land (greenfield) sites than the CGM, which limits opportunities for
large developments.
• Land (space): Reading has very little land available for development, including a low
percentage of parcels over 5 acres than can be industrial or commercial.
• Predictable Permits: Reading does not have a checklist of permitting requirements for
prospective developers.
• State Business Incentives: Though the state of Massachusetts offers a variety of special tax
incentives, Reading does little to help firms take advantage of them.
• Local Business Incentives: Reading does not use Tax Increment Financing or other tax
breaks. It does not participate in or offer a brownfield revolving loan fund.
Reading Weaknesses (Con't)
• Housing: Reading's high cost of housing and low vacancy rates indicate housing challenges
for the workers of prospective firms.
• Amenities. Reading has a lower proportion of fast food restaurants, fine dining, day care
facilities, and retail shops than the CGM.
• Workforce Training: Reading does not support public - private partnerships or adult education
programs to provide workforce training.
• Website: Reading does not have a designated webmaster or staff person for maintaining its
website.
• Vocational Education: The town does not have a vocational /technical school within its
jurisdiction like the CGM.
• Rail: Reading does not have freight rail service available whereas most of the CGM does.
But What Really Matters?
Factors Correlated with Greater
Establishment Growth
CORRELATIONS BETWEEN
ESTABLISHMENT GROWTH
EDSAT VARIABLES
2001 -2011
ES -202 DATA
0.40
0.35
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.00
50 Massachusetts Municipalities - Factors Most Highly Correlated with
Increase in Establishments
2001 -2011
Economic Timeliness of Parking Public Transit Cross Marketing Low Traffic Fast Track Site Availability
Development Approvals Congestion Permitting
Marketing
0.40
0.35
0.30
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.00
50 Massachusetts Municipalities - Factors Most Highly Correlated with
Increase in Establishments
2001 -2011
0.37 Randinn'c Fr_nnnmir navainnmAnt Strpnnthc
Economic Timeliness of Parking Public Transit Cross Marketing Low Traffic Fast Track Site Availability
Development Approvals Congestion Permitting
Marketing
0.40
0.35
0.30
0.25
0.20
OJS
0.10
0.05
0.00
50 Massachusetts Municipalities - Factors Most Highly Correlated with
Increase in Establishments
2001 -2011
0.37 Reading's Economic Development Weaknesses
0.31
0.23 0.23 0.23
0.21
0.17
0.16
Economic Timeliness of Parking Public Transit Cross Marketing Low Traffic Fast Track Site Availability
Development Approvals Congestion Permitting
Marketing
onciusions
Things to Think About
• Economic Development - Reading has a lot of good things going for it:
• Low Traffic Congestion
• Available Development Sites
• But you could be better positioned to attract more business investment and jobs by:
• Developing a comprehensive economic development plan
• Improve timeliness of zoning process
• Work with business community to market Reading as a good place to live and
a good place to work
Dukakis Center for Urban & Regional Policy
Northeastern University
School of Public Policy & Urban Affairs
www .northeastem.edu /dukakiscenter
A "Think and Do" Tank