HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-04-14 Board of Selectmen Handout - Part 1DRAFT MOTIONS
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
APRIL 14, 2015
Arena, Ensminur, Berman, Halsey, Sexton LeLacheur
3a) Move that the Board of Selectmen proclaim the week of April 12 — 18,
2015 as Public Safety Telecommunications Week in Reading.
3b) Move that the Board of Selectmen proclaim April 24, 2015 as Arbor
Day in Reading.
5a) Move to place the name of into nomination as Chairman of
the Board of Selectmen.
Move to close nominations for Chairman of the Board of Selectmen.
Move to place the name of into nomination as Vice
Chairman of the Board of Selectmen.
Move to close nominations for Vice Chairman of the Board of
Selectmen.
Move to place the name of into nomination as Secretary of the
Board of Selectmen.
Move to close nominations for Secretary of the Board of Selectmen.
5c) Move to close the hearing on the driveway variance at 74 Edgemont
Avenue.
Move to approve the second curb cut at 74 Edgemont Avenue as
indicated on the site plan C1 prepared by Ranere Associates Inc.
6a) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of March 24,
2015 as amended.
8a) Move that the Board of Selectmen go into Executive Session to discuss
strategy with respect to litigation and that the Chair declares that an
open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of
the body, and not to reconvene in Open Session.
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Chair
Vice Chair
Secretary
Arena
West
Ensminger
Sexton
Halsey
Administrative Services
Boards and Committees
Board of Selectmen VASC
Ensminger
Sexton
School Committee
Arena
Ensminger
School Space Committee
Ensminger
Halsey
Regional School District
Arena
Ensminger
RMLD Commissioners
West
RMLD CAB
West
Bylaw Committee
Arena
Finance Committee
Arena
West
Library Building Committee
Permanent Building Committee
Community Groups /Communication
RCN Board of Directors
Ensminger
Cultural Council
Arena
Climate Advisory
Arena
Reading Ice Arena Authority
Halsey
Walkable Reading
Halsey
Celebration Committee
Other
Halsey
Ad Hoc Firearms Safety Comm.
Animal Controls Appeal Comm.
Ensminger
Moderator
Arena
Rules Committee
Arena
Board of Registrars
Arena
Constables
Public Services
Arena
Community Services
Council on Aging
Ensminger
Sexton
Mystic Valley Elder Services
Ensminger
Sexton
Board of Health
Halsey
Recreation Committee
Halsey
Fall Street Faire
Halsey
Cust. of Soldiers &Sailors Graves Sexton
0 6c-1
Chair
Vice Chair
Secretary
Arena
West
Ensminger
Sexton
Halsey
Public Services (continued)
Community Development
CPDC
Arena
Sexton
North Suburban Planning Council
Arena
Sexton
Metro Area Planning Council
Arena
Sexton
Economic Development Committee
Arena
Sexton
Zoning Board of Appeals
Arena
Sexton
Historical Commission
Ensminger
Historical District Commission
Ensminger
Conservation Commission
Arena
Reading Housing Authority
Finance
Ensminger
Sexton
Audit Committee
West
Retirement Board
West
Commissioners of Trust Funds
West
Veterans Memorial Trust Fund Comm.
Public Saferi
West
_
Fire department
Ensminger
Police department
Ensminger
Human Relations Advisory Committee
Ensminger
RCASA
Public Works
Halsey_
Board of Cemetery Trustees
Sexton
MWRA Advisory Board
Halsey
Trails Committee
Halsey
Town Forest Committee
Public Library
Halsey
Library Tr�u�steesF
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Schena, Paula
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Dear Paula Schena
Alex Trentini < atrentini @scrivanos.com>
Friday, February 20, 2015 3:08 PM
Schena, Paula
Hours of Operations- Dunkin Donuts
My name is Alex Trentini I'm the district mgr. for Dunkin Donuts in the Reading area, on of my stores
is 24 hours wich is located at 87 Walkers Brook drive, we want to change the hours of operations and
no longer be 24 hours, we are looking to open from 4 am to 10 pm daily.
What is the process we need to follow to get this done as quick as possible?
Thank you so much.
Have a great weekend.
Regards,
Alex Trentini
District Mgr.
NGP Management
3 Pluff Ave
N. Reading MA 01864
(978) 404 -6905
atrentini @scrivanos.com
Any information contained in or attached to this message is intended solely for the use of the intended recipient(s). If you are not the intended recipient of this
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Regular internet e-mail transmission cannot be guaranteed to be secure or error -free. Therefore, we do not represent that this information is complete or accurate,
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0 s6�
Board of Selectmen Minutes — July 30, 2013 — page 2
Administrative matters (* indicates additional material in tonight's packet)
♦ Sally Hoyt sent a very nice Thank You note to the Board for her recent honor of
having the Great Room of the Pleasant Street Center named after her. The honor is
well - deserved for all the work on behalf of the seniors she has done over many years
of public service.
♦ School Committee vacancy — Rob Spadafora has resigned because he will be
relocating. A joint meeting of the Selectmen and the School Committee will meet at
7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 26 at the Superintendent's Conference room at
Reading Memorial High School to select a replacement. We are accepting
applications for the position — please check the Town's website in the lower right -
hand side "Volunteer Opportunities: Boards & Commissions" for further details. The
appointment will fill out Mr. Spadafora's term until the next local election,
scheduled for April 2014.
♦ *The West Street Historic District is looking for volunteers to fill one full
membership on the Commission.
♦ Medford's Substance Abuse Prevention Team is designing a diversion program and
has sent Reading their thanks for RCASA's inspiration and help. They are using the
Reading model in their school system.
♦ RCASA will be working on a opioid grant collaboration with Stoneham, Melrose,
Wakefield, and Medford.
♦ *Finance — we added extra mailings in January 2009 after Town Meeting voted to
increase the demand fee from $5 to $25 to remind our customers that were not
making timely tax bill payments. Since that time, a combination of postage costs and
lost demand fees is estimated at about $250,000 for the general fund. A couple of
years ago we began to offer residents the opportunity to be reminded of bill
payments electronically — the difference being that if you sign up you are reminded
this way, even if you have already paid. During difficult economic tunes this was the
right thing to do for our residents. I recommend that we stop mailing out reminders
to residents as of January 1, 2014 — and we advertise that fact in upcoming mailings
of water /sewer/storm water bills (tax bills are often escrowed and the billings
ignored).
♦ *Finance — the House & Senate overrode the Governor's local aid veto. Reading's
state aid for FYI 4 will be a bit higher than we estimated.
♦ Finance — former Town Accountant Gail LaPointe has agreed to cover for the current
Town Accountant when she goes on medical leave. Last week FINCOM transferred
the funding necessary for this.
Community Services
♦ *The Reading Shell Station on Walker's Brook Drive has had permission to be open
24 hours since 2007. The owner has recently been permitted to incorporate a Dunkin
Donuts. Selectmen's Policy Section 3.9 suggests that this request should be granted.
Since the Selectmen's Policy indicates that 24 hour approval is for the entire site, the
Board agreed that it be granted.
♦ George Danis of 128 Marketplace off Walker's Brook Drive will make•a brief
presentation tonight concerning an investment he is making in his property. He will
ask the Board to consider changes to conditions on a liquor license. If the Board is
Board of Selectmen Meeting — December 17, 2013 — page 7
James Bonazoli asked if the dumpster issues related to JK's Market have been resolved and the
Town Manager indicated they have.
A motion by Tafova seconded by Arena to approve the application by:
♦ JK's Market, 212 Main Street
to open at 5:45 a.m., Monday through Friday, effective January 1. 2014, and excluding
State designated holidays. This approval will expire December 31, 2014. The Board of
Selectmen finds that in accordance with Section 5.10.4 of the General Bylaws:
• It is in the interest of the • public health, safety and welfare or that public
necessity or convenience will be served by permitting such operation: and
• All conditions of Site Plan approval. all other bylaws, licenses and
requirements of Town agencies and the requirements of Section 3.9 of the
Board of Selectmen Policies shall be met. Where there is a conflict anion¢
these bylaws, permits, approvals and licenses, the most restrictive shall be
met: and
• There is no detrimental effect of such operation on the Town or the
immediately abuttine neighbors.
The motion was approved by a vote of 54-0.
A motion by Tafova seconded by Ensmineer to approve the application for 24 hour sales by
87 Walkers Brook Drive. LLC and Leigb Enterprises, Ltd. d/b /a Reading Shell Station and
Dunidn Donuts at 87 Walkers Brook Drive. The Board finds that in accordance with
Section 5.10.4 of the General Bylaws:
• It is in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare, or that public
necessity or convenience will be served by permitting such operation: and
• There is no detrimental effect of such operation on the Town. or the immediately
abutting neighbors.
• The Board determined that in accordance with Section 5.10.5 that no public
hearing will be required for this application.
The approval of this application is subiect to the following conditions:
1. This approval expires at midnight, December 31, 2014:
2. All liens shall conform to the Zoning By -Laws of the Town of Reading:
3. The gasoline service station shall. in fact, be open 24 hours a day. seven days
a wee
4. The operator will ensure that there is a supply of gasoline available at the
station during all hours that the station is open:
5. The operator will provide gas cans for motorists who run out of easoline on
the road -
6. The operator will prepare and post a list of local towing and repair shops
that are open 24 hours a day for those who need it:
7. Restroom facilities shall be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The motion was approved by a vote of 540-0.
Town Manager Performance Evaluation — James Bonazoli noted that the Town Manager has
stuck to his 100 day plan and is doing a good job. The Town Manager noted things are doing
well and credited the employees.
Page 17
LeLacheur, Bob
From:
Wilson, Jessie
Sent:
Wednesday, April 01, 2015 3:46 PM
To:
LeLacheur, Bob " --
Cc:
Delios, Jea
Subject:
D in Donuts - Walkers Brook Drive
Bob,
I was going through my notes on this and wanted to add that a CPDC w nted to ensure that any signage for the Dunkin Donuts
should be turned off at the close of Business and not to be left Wing. They have a sign on the pylon sign, a wall sign and
menu board sign. All associated illumination with these signs should be turned off once closed for the evening. Other than that,
they had no concerns with reducing the hours.
Jessie
Jessie Wilson
Community Development Administrator
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
p: 781.942.6648
f: 781.942.9071
iwilson(a)ci.reading.ma.us
Town Hall Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 7:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 7:30am - 7:00pm & CLOSED on Fridays
r�) 36q
Legal Notice
OFR
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' SJ9r %XCOR��
Town of Reading
To the Inhabitants of the Town of.
Reading: ;
Please take notice that the:
Board of Selectmen of the Town.
of Reading will hold a public:
hearing on April 14, 2015 at 7:30:
p.m. In the Selectmen's Meefing:
.Room, 16 Lowell Str-eet,-
Reading, Massachusetts gn a:
driveway variance 'a!" 74.
Edgemont Avenue: r ;
A copy of the proposed docu' - -:
ment. regarding this- topic Is:
available In the Town Manager's:
office, 16 • Lowell Street,:
Reading, MA, M- W --Thurs from'
7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Tues from:
7:30 a.m.'- 7:00 p..m: and. is'
attached to the hearing fiottce:
on the website at www readino -%
Alt' interested parties are (nvked:
to attend the hearing, or.may:
submit their comments" in wiifing•
or by email prior to 6:00 p.m.'on
April 14, 2015.to
townmanager@ct.readind.maUs
By ordekf
Robert W LeLachaur"
Town Manager
_ _ Y
4.7.15 f
Ron Ranere
74 Edgemont Ave
Reading MA
617- 542 -2111 ron @rai- architects.com
3.11.15
Reading Selectmen
c/o Robert LeLacheur, Jr Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell ST
Reading MA 01867
Re: Driveway Variance from board of Selectmen Policy
Dear Selectmen:
I have lived at 74 Edgemont ave for 29 years and plan to stay here and age in place. My wife and I
decided to add a garage to our house to make life easier as we get older.
Our house is on the comer of Edgemont and Arcadia Ave (see plan attached). Since we have lived
here we have had a driveway entrance from each. street. With the addition of our garage onto the
Arcadia ave side of the house we need a new driveway to enter the garage. We do not plan to leave
the cars in this driveway, just use it as an entrance to the garage and still keep our cars in the existing
driveway during good weather.
I have had our plans approved by the building department, fire department and engineering. While at
engineering they explained to me the policy of not having 2 driveways less than 125' on the same lot
and advised me to seek a variance from the Selectmen to keep the existing Arcadia Ave driveway and
add the new driveway to Arcadia Ave. The new driveway will be less than 125' apart from the existing
driveway therefore we need relief from this policy.
As you probably know, the Barrows School is on Edgemont Ave. In the morning and afternoon the
corner of Edgemont and Arcadia are totally full with cars to bring the children to school (See the photos
attached). If we have to remove the driveway that currently exist on Arcadia Ave to accommodate the
driveway policy we will have to back onto Edgemont Ave when leaving for work. This poses a very
dangerous situation since there are many children walking by my driveway and a street full with cars.
As you can see from the attached photos, our lot is well landscaped and the driveways not very
obvious.
Please review all the attachments and I hope that you will understand the hardship removal of the
Arcadia Ave driveway poses. I respectfully request that you allow us to keep the existing driveway on
Arcadia after we complete the new driveway that is the entrance to the new garage on Arcadia.
I would be happy to appear at a meeting to further explain the issues surrounding removal of the
Arcadia ave driveway.
Sincerely
Ron Ranere
� SLR
Existin g EDGEMONTAVE •— Q
Driveway
Affill
Existing house
Proposed
Garage
74 Edpemont
Ave
ReadkV MA
Proposed _
Driveway
9G
C1
Site Diagram with addition and driveways shown
Driveway variance application
to Reading Selectmen driveway policy
Ron Ranere ron @rai- architects.com 617- 542 -2111
74 Edgemont Ave G61
In �
Schena, Paula
From:
John Arena at Home
Sent:
Sunday, April 12, 2015 4:19 PM
To:
Schena, Paula; LeLacheur, Bob
Subject:
Re: Selectmen's Packet and searchable minutes
Hi Bob- Some questions on this week's packet:
Page 21 - driveway variance - The drawing provided by the homeowner shows 2 driveways presently; the
photograph shows the second drive on Arcadia set as a walkway, but with no curb cut in the photo? Is the
request for a third driveway or relocation of the existing right - sorry, wasn't clear which.
Page 35 - associate members: the proposed friendly amendment is fine. I see two potential confusions as its
written, revolving around the logic that that associate members may vote in the absence of a quorum of
members.
By Roberts rules,(not sure about Town -Time) absent a quorum, a committee may make 4 motions only, to
adjourn, to fix adjournment time, to recess, or to take other measures to assemble a quorum- the latter the
friendly amendment.
For clarity's sake I'd suggest a process document with a standard worded motion be read immediately by any
chair in such cases for due process and awareness - otherwise I see the innocent potential for process
interpretation later ('All the associates can just vote, right -we don't need to do anything else' ).
Likewise in a circumstance of subsequent meetings where associates fill temporary vacancies, I can see the
natural desire to revert to those prior associates who voted if common material is considered in consecutive
meetings. I realize that's already comprehended in the amendment ( they'll be selected in order of the tenure of
those present) but worth clarifying in a process document for all boards with associate members.
Lastly - the last sentence of the friendly amendment is the only place where it becomes explicit that associate
votes replace the place of permanent members who are absent, and are not additive to the committee total. I'd
suggest the the process guidance document make that explicit early on.
On Thu, Apr 9, 2015 at 4:07 PM, Schena, Paula <pschenakci.reading.ma.us> wrote:
Paula Schena
Executive Assistant
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
0
N/F
MICHAEL & LISA
CASHINS
MAP 20 LOT 12
#66 EDGEMONT AVE,
TIFY THAT THE DWELLING ON LOT 51
SHOWN HEREON,
N/F
RICHARD & VIRGINIA
COHEN
MAP 19 LOT 5
#48 ARCADIA AVE.
N25'50'25 "W --
No.
;- 105.00'
Date
15 Side yard setback.
LOT 51'x'
21,4W80 Ff
3p,
0491AOMPS
0,
Garage Addition
\\
New cone walk
Remove part of existing
retaining wall. refer to PRO
ED 6,0
basement Mor plan OARAO a�
Proposed future
addition - -7 % i...
T6',
REFERENCE IS MADE TO THE FOLLOWING ALL RECORDED
AT THE MIDDLESEX SOUTH DISTRICT REGISTRY OF DEEDS:
CERTIFICATE OF TITLE 177136
BOOK 1015 PAGE 186
LAND COURT PLAN 24496 —D
slab
Exist Sidewalk elev
98.66 i
NOTE: PLAN SUBMITTEO FOR DRIVEWAY
LOCATION & GRADE
APPROVAL ONLY MUST CONFORM
TO ATTACHED STANDARD
DRIVEWAY RON CROSS - SECTION
DATE TOWN ENGINEER
U�
281' illSX7 i i�`` rin I t 3$5 j6•D —NOTE:
el ev 100'.0 \ _ Access for garage only. No intent for
-- = -- — + Remove _. '� parked vehicles to encroach into
EXISTING DWELLING YI existing can\ \f�tl'� �m sidewalk
Existing House t �,...,�....
_ UP�t A; t
FUTURE
BEDROOM Remove existing driveway
p t portion and curb cut to
ADDITION __. M
EXISTtMG DRIVEWAY eliminate circular drive.
n 0.�9'
�Q 00' v ASSESSOR'S NAP 20 LOT 13
130.55'
ZONING DISTRICT -- S-20
- /�
S2i5. 25'E_
00MONT AYEN1E
SITE WITH CURB CUTS
�1 0
_ Ranere Associates, Inc.
Architecture & Interiors
135 Massachusetts Ave
Boston MA 02115
p.617.542.2111
c`
Garage Addition to Ranere Residence
74 Edgemont Ave
No.
Description
--
Date
Site with curb cut removed
Date 7.25.14
Drawn by - - -- Autha�
C1 a
Scale �J- J 1" = 30 0"
LeLacheur, Bob
From: Zambouras, George
Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2015 12:13 PM
To: Delios, Jean; Cormier, James; Erickson, Greg; Zager, Jeff
Cc: LeLacheur, Bob
Subject: RE: Driveway Variance Request Before the Board of Selectmen
Attachments: Edgemont Ave 74 driveway.pdf
Jean,
In July of last year the homeowner was in our office inquiring about installing a driveway on Arcadia Ave. for the new garage he
wanted to install. At that time the property is being serviced by a driveway which loops from Edgemont Ave. to Arcadia
Ave. During the office visit Peter Reinhart explained that the new driveway which would enable access to the proposed garage
is not permissible based on the Town's driveway regulations because it is too close to the existing driveway curb cut on Arcadia
Ave. The homeowner was informed the only way to install a second driveway on Arcadia, without removing the existing
driveway access is to seek relief from the Board of Selectman. Following these meetings the homeowner submitted a plan
(identified as Edgemont Ave 74 driveway attached) which indicated the existing driveway on Arcadia Ave. was to be
discontinued and a new driveway access to the garage was to be installed. As this plan to eliminate one driveway access met the
Town's driveway regulations Peter stamped the driveway permit plan approved on August 4, 2014.
At some point during the winter the homeowner must have decided to seek relief from the Town's driveway regulations as
request for relief of our driveway regulations was submitted to Bob on about March 11, 2015. In this request the homeowner is
requesting to keep his existing driveway and the new driveway on Arcadia Ave.
As these two driveways have less than the regulated 125 foot separation, relief from our regulations is required.
If the Board approves the request the homeowner will be permitted to retain his loop through driveway from Edgemont Ave. to
Arcadia Ave. and install the new driveway to access the new garage. If the Board denies his request the property owner would
be required to remove the existing curb cut (for the driveway) on Arcadia Ave. If the homeowner and Board decide on any other
compromise the homeowner Must submit a new plan to Engineering, which will stamp approved as long as it meets the Boards
decision requirements.
George J. Zambouras, P.E.
Town Engineer
781- 942 -6683
781 - 942- 5441(fas)
Email: gzambouras(a-) ci. reading. ma. us
Please note 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: Delios, Jean
Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2015 11:05 AM
To: Cormier, James; Erickson, Greg; Zambouras, George; Zager, Jeff
Cc: LeLacheur, Bob
Subject: Driveway Variance Request Before the Board of Selectmen
0
Bob has asked me to verify the circumstances related to the request for the driveway variance at Edgemont that is
before the Board of Selectmen tonight A question arose as to whether or not this request is for a third driveway (and
another curb cut) or to relocate the existing driveway. The confusion lies in the photo that shows the second driveway
ending at the curb (no curb cut) and the plan showing that there is a curb cut there. Here is Peter's response and I have
attached the plan along with the packet:
In 2014, the homeowner at 74 Edgemont Avenue proposed to add a garage to his home and requested from the Town a new
driveway curb cut for this new garage. The attached plan, showing the new driveway, was approved with the note saying that
the existing middle curb cut would be removed. From what I understand, the applicant is seeking a variance to keep that middle
curb cut.
If you can assist with your understanding of this request before the Board meets tonight that would make this much clearer.
Best,
Jean
Jean J. Delios
Assistant Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867 -2685
(P) 781 - 942 -6612
(F) 781 - 942 -9071
Town Hall Hours - M, W, Th: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
FRIDAY: CLOSED
jdelios@ci.reading.ma.us
wwvv.readingma.gov
Please let us know how we are doing by filling out a brief customer service survey at http://readingma-
survey.virtualtownhall. net /survey /sid /8cebfd833a88cd3d/
Bylaw Committee Report: The Bylaw Committee recommends this Article by a vote of 4 -0 -0
at their meeting on March 24, 2015.
*Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen at their meeting on March 24, 2015
voted 5 -0 -0 to support this Article.
ARTICLE 12 To see if the Town will vote to amend the General Bylaw by inserting a
new Section 3.3.1.6 as follows:
3.3.1.6 Appointment of Associate Members
All appointed boards or committees authorized by Article 4 of the Charter
may have Associate Members. The provisions of this section shall be
applicable to all Associate Members of such bodies except to the extent
S another section defining the conduct of such board or committee provides
otherwise.
The number of Associate Members on a board or committee shall not
rv� exceed two- thirds (2/3) of the number of regular members on that board or
A �Cj committee. Associate Members shall serve for a one (1) year term In the
absence of a quorum of regular members, the chair of any board or
committee may designate one or more Associate Members to participate
and to vote on any matter before the board or committee. If more than one
Associate Member is available to fill a temporary vacancy, the chair shall
designate the Associate Member based on the length of time Associate
Members have served.
The Board of Selectmen shall be authorized to appoint associate members to
any board, committee or commission for which it is the appointing authority.
or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
Background: Special Town Meeting in January 2015 indicated a desire to defer further details
about Associate Membership to a future General Bylaw discussion, and to leave the language in
the Home Rule Charter broad on this topic. Without such a new General Bylaw all Associate
memberships will expire on June 30, 2015.
The proposed language above is meant to be a starting point for discussion at Annual Town
Meeting. While the Moderator will rule on individual amendments that are offered on the floor,
he has indicated that this beginning language should allow for a wide ranging discussion.
The Board of Selectmen will discuss this issue further at their meeting on April 14, 2015, and
may develop a motion for Town Meeting as a starting point in the discussions.
Finance Committee Report: No report.
Bylaw Committee Report: The Bylaw Committee recommends this Article by a vote of 4 -0 -0
at their meeting on March 24, 2015.
/a S1,1
LeLacheur, Bob
From: Jonathan E. Barnes
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2015 11:30 AM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Subject: New Bylaws Re Associate Members on Town Boards and Commissions
Hi Bob,
I'm writing to follow up the January Special Town Meeting approving the revised Town Charter, and to ask about the
status of an issue concerning Associate Members on Town Boards /Commissions that arose from that Town Meeting.
I am a Town Meeting Member and I'm a current Associate Member on the Reading Historical Commission (RHC). At our
Historical Commission meeting last night, I was asked by the Chair to follow up with Town officials about the status of
any effort to draft the new bylaws that are now required as a result of the new Charter provision (Article 4.15 Associate
Membership) regarding Asociate membership on Boards /Commissions and voting rights for such Associate Members.
Article 4.15 established that all appointed boards /commisions may have associate members if specified in the Charter,
Town Bylaw or Mass. General Laws. That Article also provided that Associate Members may vote if allowed by the
Charter, Town Bylaw or Mass. General Laws. The RHC is authorized by Mass. General Laws both, to have Associate
Members and to have voting rights for Associate Members as outlined in the statute. However, as was discussed at
length at the Special Town Meeting, Charter Article 4.15 also now requires that all rules and regulations relating to
associate membership on boards /commissions shall be set forth in the Bylaw or Charter provision defining the conduct
of such bodies. For the RHC and most other boards /commissions with Associate Members, there currently is no bylaw
or requisite language in the Charter. It's my understanding that Town Counsel confirmed at the Special Town Meeting
that unless such bylaws are crafted and established by July 1, 2015 to address this situation, Town boards /commissions
can no longer have associate members nor, obviously, may associate members vote.
Is any effort underway within the Town administration and /or in Town Counsel's office to draft these required bylaws? I
understood from that Town Meeting that the intention was to have such bylaw language drafted and ready for
consideration at the upcoming Spring Town Meeting. I appreciate any information you can provide on this. If we on the
RHC can or should be doing anything to resolve, address or assist this issue, I'd appreciate your letting me know as soon
as possible.
Thanks very much for any information or direction you can provide. I would certainly be happy to talk directly, by phone
or in person, if you prefer. My telephone number is 781/944 -7463.
Best,
Jonathan Barnes
OF
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Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Board of Selectmen
Date: 2015 -03 -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, John Halsey and Kevin Sexton
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Town Manager Bob LeLacheur, Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios,
Community Services Director John Feudo, Executive Assistant Paula Schena,
Bill Brown, Nancy Docktor, Carl McFadden, Tom Wise, Joe Dalessio, Karen
Herrick, David Traniello, Walter and Dorothy Marshall, Stephen Crook,
Jonathan Barnes, Tony Torra, Bryn Burkhart
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Daniel Ensminger
Topics of Discussion:
Reports and Comments
Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments - John Arena noted he was sorry to hear of the
passing of Brendon Hoyt. He noted that he attended the Historic District Commission
meeting regarding 186 Summer Avenue being in line with the Historic district. It was a
constructive meeting. Since this was Marsie West's last meeting, Mr. Arena thanked Ms.
West for her years of service. He thoroughly enjoyed her fun way and she will be missed.
Daniel Ensminger thanked Marsie West for her years of service and especially all of the work
on the Zoning Advisory Committee. He then noted:
• The Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee met on Tuesday, March 3 to recommend
candidates for appointment at tonight's meeting.
• He attended the Human Relations Advisory Committee on Thursday, March 5 and the
topics discussed included distribution of the Rob Surette paintings that were unveiled
on Martin Luther King Day. Two of the paintings will be reproduced in a smaller size
so they can be hung in the Selectmen's Meeting Room. The paintings are of Martin
Luther King, Abraham Lincoln, Lenny Zakam, Harvey Milk, Einstein and several other
humanitarian honorees. The group also discussed plans for the Stand Against
Racism with METCO Director Jason Cross.
• He attended .the Early Childhood Space Study Committee meeting on March 12. The
Committee's work will be suspended until fall 2015 to allow the School Committee to
focus on issues surrounding the deployment of the portable classrooms.
• He attended the Council on Aging meeting of March 10. The Trust Fund
Commissioners reviewed the status of all the trust funds that help fund council
initiatives. The Council will be sending the Selectmen a request for clarification on
which Board or Commission bears liability for the proper expenditures of these trust.
Page 1 1
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24, 2015 - page 2
funds. The Council also had a question about the status of associate membership
which he explained.
Last evening, March 23, Chairman Arena said he attended the Historic District
Commission hearing on 186 Summer Avenue which was continued to April 2. The
Commission grants a certificate of appropriateness to the applicant.
John Halsey thanked Marsie for her years of services and noted that he found it very
inspirational that she ran for Selectman. He noted that she was always watching out for the
residents.
Kevin Sexton echoed the. other comments regarding Marsie West and noted that she
brought everything down to detail level. Her work on the Zoning Bylaw Committee was
amazing. He visited the cemetery building and he could see where they are bulging but the
building is not that bad, just the set -up is bad.
Public Comment - Nancy Docktor thanked Marsie West for all of her hard work.
Town Manager's Report - The Town Manager noted that the candidates for the
Administrative Services Director were" impressed that a Selectman participated in the
Interviews. We had a high caliber of applicants who all had different skills and interest. He
attended a legislative breakfast and the state thinks they have a revenue problem. There
will be layoffs at the state level. In addition, the Town Manager noted that Marsie West also
served on the Finance Committee. He feels her time and effort was under appreciated and
he thanks Marsie for all of her hard work.
Personnel and Appointments
Mystic Valley Elder Services Board of Directors. Council on Aging, Economic Development
Committee Community Planning and Development Commission and the Town Forest
Committee - The Town Manager noted that the Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee held
off on appointing any associates until after Town Meeting.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West that the Board of Selectmen confirm the
Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee's recommendation to appoint the following:
• Brian Snell to the Council on Aging with a term expiring Tune 30, 2016;
• Karen Gonsalves -Dolan to the Community Planning and Development
Commission with a term expiring June 30, 2017;
• Sandra Popaia to the Economic Development Committee with a term
expiring June 30, 2017;
• Kurt Habel to the Town Forest Committee with a term expiring June 30,
2015;
• Brian Snell to the Mystic Vallev Elder Services Board of Directors with a term
expiring September 30, 2015;
the motion was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
Discussion /Action Items
Appoint Town Accountant - The Town Manager noted that the term is 15 months because
we have changed to a fiscal year. The Selectmen had high praise for Town Accountant
Sharon Angstrom.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to appoint Sharon Angstrom as Town
Accountant for a term April 1 2015 through June 30, 2016 was approved by a vote
of 5 -0 -0.
Reading Ice Arena Report - Carl McFadden noted that the Ice Arena Authority returned
$160,000 to the Town this year. That is the most it has ever returned. They have a
reserve fund of $200,000. The purchased an electric Zamboni which improves the air
quality and is quieter. They are trying to address North Reading's need for ice time- When
D I I & �O #-
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24, 2015 - page 3
Reading Youth Hockey is not using the ice then they are allowing North Reading to use it.
Mr. McFadden noted that the ice arena is very well run.
The Town Manager noted that Wilmington reached out to us for suggestions. The Town
Manager noted that not every town takes care of their facilities like we do. Carl McFadden
noted that Nelson Burbank inspects the rink every week.
John Arena asked if there was a reason why the Town received additional funding from the
Ice Arena this year and Mr. McFadden noted that they were able to give additional money
because they paid off capital and everyone wants to use our rink which generates income.
The Board thanked Mr. McFadden for this report.
Permission for Early /Increased Field Hours - John Feudo and Vice Chairman of the
Recreation Committee Richard Hand were present.
John Feudo noted that it will be three weeks
He noted that the before noon policy was
residential neighborhoods. He is requesting
Middle School, Birch Meadow, and Symonds
extra games in. This will be for games and
amplified sound will be allowed.
before the fields are ready due to the snow.
put in place because most fields are in a
9:00 a.m. start time on Sundays for Parker
Way Fields. This will allow them to get two
practices and he can put a condition that no
John Arena asked how long the 9:00 a.m. start will be needed and John Feudo indicated
until the end of June.
The Town Manager noted that this request has been made to prior Selectmen due to rain.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to approve increased field hours for the
Birch Meadow complex, the Symonds Way field and the Parker Middle School field
for a 9.00 a.m. start on Sunday mornings through the 2015 spring sports season
was aRRroved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
Birch Meadow Update - John Feudo noted that he has. an answer to add much needed
recreation space without building a new field. Activities are growing 10% each year. The
Master Plan is being reviewed but is not finalized. They will not shift fields because it is too
expensive. Adding lighting to the fields will add four to five extra hours in the fall and an
additional two to three hours in the spring and summer. It is cheaper to purchase more
than one combo rather than piecemeal. Increased sales will increase the revenues and all
surplus goes back to the general fund. All lights will be focused on the fields - the lighted
field, softball field, Morton field, turf 2 and the little league field. They had to rent lights last
year for the flag football.
John Arena asked if all the fields will . be connected and John Feudo indicated they will be all
on one website. He noted that the current capital plan has $23 million for recreation. He
proposes lighting everything now for $1. million and then start the other items with the
remaining $1.3 million. The quote from the vendor shows a significant savings if purchased
now and it includes a 25 year maintenance plan.
Daniel Ensminger asked what type of lights will be used and John Feudo noted metal halide.
There will be 26 fixtures with a $500,000 savings and 40% reduction in cot emissions.
John Feudo noted that the estimated field revenues are $55,000 for 2015 and they can rely
on a 105 growth. John Halsey noted that there would be additional revenue' if there are
additional hours. The Town Manager noted that he recommends not intending to create a
profit, just provide a service.
Paae 1 3
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24, 2015 - page 4
John Feudo noted that athletics and youth activities were high priorities at the Financial
Forum brainstorming session. The organizations who use the lights will pay for the use.
The Town Manager noted that removing the telephone poles from the middle of the fields is
a safety factor and saving $20,000 /year on operating costs is great. He feels it would be
terrific to reach out to the community to see what they want. If we end up turning back
$100,000 then it should be used to pay off debt service. He suggests that the Selectmen
hold neighborhood meetings.
John Feudo noted that the goal is to get the kids off the Ipads and Xboxes. John Arena
noted this pays huge dividends and he is strongly in favor of this.
John Arena asked if the conditions of the fields will be an issue and John Feudo noted that
they will do test borings first.
John Halsey noted that what was just presented is the subject matter of an Article on the
Special Town Meeting and he will recuse himself due to his involvement with_ the sports
organizations and leave the room while it is being discussed and voted on.
Close the Warrant -for the April 27, 2015 Special Town Meeting - John Halsey left the room.
John Arena noted Article 4 is to fund the lights; Article 5 is to fund the modular classrooms;
Article 6 funds the High School retaining wall and Article 7 is to settle potential litigation.
The Town Manager noted that John Feudo gave the presentation on Article 4. He
recommends going for all the money and do it all at once.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to recommend the subject matter of
Article 4 of the April 27, 2015 Special Town Meeting was approved by a vote of 4-
0-0.
John Halsey returned to the meeting.
The Town Manager noted that Article 5 might be tabled at Town Meeting. Superintendent of
Schools John Doherty noted that the bids for the modular classrooms came in slightly higher
than anticipated so we will go back out to bid and make changes to maximize the number of
bids. The bids will be due on April 15, 2015 and the School Committee will vote on April
17"' so they will definitely know by Town Meeting. He noted that the School Committee
does not want to ask for more than $1.2 million.
Daniel Ensminger asked if they proceed if there is a mechanism for rescinding the use of
free cash. The Town Manager noted that Town Counsel will put wording in the motion along
with the dollar amount.
The Town Manager noted that for Article 6, Town Meeting approved the money to do the
repairs to the retaining wall. This is a place holder. John Doherty noted that the cost will be
determined by how. much needs to be replaced and we won't know that until the snow
melts.
The Town Manager noted that Article7 is a place holder for settlement of litigation.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to close the Warrant consisting of seven
Articles for the April 27, 2015 Special Town meeting to take place at 8:00 p.m. at
the Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
The Board did not vote on the remaining articles because they are just place holders.
Dine 1A
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24, 2015 - page 5
Revisit Driveway Permit - 181 South Street - John Arena noted that the Board approved the
second driveway in March 2014.
Tom Wise, owner of 181 South Street, noted that due to the recent change in the Bylaw he
has to go back for approval. There are minor site changes.
The Town Manager noted that the Board of Selectmen does not need to re- approve. The
applicant needs to go before the ZBA and they will determine the use of the driveway.
There is no change to the driveway access and there is no change to the footprint. Mr. Wise
noted that was correct, the only change is the door is facing a different way.
Daniel Ensminger noted that there is a letter from Michael and Lee Anne Webb who are
opposed to this.
The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen can determine if they need to re- approve and
if so then notify abutters. The driveway opening has not changed. If the ZBA changes the
driveway then he would come back to the Board of Selectmen.
John Halsey noted this is a non -event at this time. The consensus of the Board was that the
curb cut has not been moved so the Selectmen do not need to take any action.
Draft ad hoc Committee on Firearms Safety - The Town Manager noted that the term will
expire next December but could be extended. The membership consists of two Selectmen,
the Police Chief or designee, one Town Meeting member, and three residents at large
Including a resident from the Timberneck Swamp neighborhood. Duties include suggesting
strategies to improve safety; investigate the history of Timberneck Swamp and how it was
designated conservation land; review the General Bylaw; and report to the Board of
Selectmen by August 2015.
Marsie West requested to change the wording ".do not fulfill" to "may not fulfill ".
The Town Manager noted that the Board will need to determine if the Volunteer
Appointment Subcommittee or the Board of Selectmen will interview the applicants.
Bryn Burkhart, 161 Belmont Street, indicated she is interested in participating.
Daniel Ensminger asked if the Police Chief will be a voting member and the Town Manager
indicated yes due to the subject matter. Daniel Ensminger requested adding to the policy
wording that "this committee is expected to meet twice a month."
John Arena noted that the committee is obligated to have a report in August but not
obligated to be done by August.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to adopt the policy establishing the ad
hoc Committee on Firearms Safety using the test as amended was approved by a
vote of 5 -0 -0.
Hearing - Water Sewer and Storm Water Rates for FY16 - The Secretary read the hearing
notice. The Town Manager noted that the local costs are fully within our control. The FY16
costs are low because the Capital Improvement Program has not been approved by Town
Meeting yet. The MWRA charges are not under local control but we can use reserves to
smooth MWRA costs. Other factors are new users and conservation hurts the rates. John
Arena noted that if we use less water, the rates increase.
D.- 1 S
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24, 2015 - page 6
The Town Manager noted that there is no true savings for the 10% discount for early
payment because we have to add 10% to the fee to account for it. If the discount is
eliminated then everyone saves. We would then add a late fee which will be lower than
10 %.
John Halsey noted that the discount brings more money into the system. The Town
Manager noted it builds up the reserves and we have a lot of reserves. The discount creates
a mad rush on deadline day and creates bad feelings. It is not the best use of employees'
time.
John Arena asked how much the late fee will be and the Town Manager noted 14% and
Town Meeting can set an additional fee.
The Town Manager noted that water and sewer have approximately $1 million in reserves.
We will use $150K of water reserves, but will not use the sewer reserves. The rates for
FY16 with the discount for will be +2.4% increase in water; +1.40% increase for sewer for a
combined total of 1.9 %. If everyone gets the discount, then the rates for FY16 will be at
-7.5% for water; -8.5% for sewer for a combined total of -8 %.
John Halsey asked if the 8% reduction will impact the reserves and the Town Manager noted
that it will affect the regeneration of reserves - future reserves will stop flowing. The Town
Manager noted that our rates are 10% higher than everyone else's. If we discontinue the
discount, we will be the same as everyone else.
John Arena noted that if we switch to everyone gets the discount then the reserves won't
get recharged and there will be less capacity to smooth out rates. He noted our reserves
are an insurance policy.
Daniel Ensminger noted he is in favor of eliminating the discount.
John Halsey suggested instead of saving 8% to make that 7% to help maintain the reserves
because the MWRA's ability to borrow will be impacted in the coming years. The Town
Manager noted that adding 9 cents and 7 cents will accomplish that.
The Town Manager noted that there are two large river projects and the Selectmen will need
to discuss if we want to do a study. Federal regulations are stricter than suggested and if
we want to do both projects, the rates will increase .$100 per family.
Bill Brown indicated the Board should be careful about increasing the storm water
management fees because it benefits the community so it is a tax not a fee.
Paul Sylvester, Precinct 3, 421 Summer Avenue, indicated the better approach is the carrot
(keep the discount) not the stick. He noted that we need to encourage folks to pay on time.
He asks to stay the same.
The Town Manager noted that with everyone gets the discount, the Storm Water
Management fees decreases 10% but he recommends keeping it at $40 instead of dropping
to $36 only because that is what it has always been.
The Town Manager noted that setting rates with the discount for everyone for water will be
$8.83 per 100 cubic feet and a minimum quarterly bill of $17.66. For sewer it would be
$9.76 per 100 cubic feet and a minimum quarterly bill of $19.52.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by Halsey to close the hearing on setting the
FY16 water, sewer and storm water rates was approved by a vote of -5 -0 -0.
`'7 & ,�, �-
Page 1 6
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24. 2015 - oaoe 7
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to set the FY2016 "water rate at $8.83
per 100 cubic feet with a minimum quarterly bill of $17.66 effective with the
December, 2015 billing was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to set the FY2016 sewer rate at $9.76
per 100 cubic feet with a minimum quarterly bill of $19.52 effective with the
December, 2015 billing was approved by vote of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to set the Storm Water Rate at $40 per
unit (3210 sguare feet) per year to be billed quarterly effective with the
December, 2015 billing was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
Vote and Sign Order Taking and Plan for Bus Shelter Easement at 25 Walkers Brook Drive -
The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town Manager noted that this is the last step
before adding the bus shelter.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to close hearing was approved by a vote
of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to approve the Order of Taking and Plan
for the Bus Shelter easement at 25 Walkers Brook Drive was approved by a vote of
5 -0 -0.
Vote Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles - The Town Manager reviewed the budget
changes as follows:
• Disability - When a Fire Fighter is out on disability, the department pays the wages
plus the overtime to cover the position. He recommends moving the cost of the
retiring Fire Fighters to Human Resources and this would only be for the ones that
we know to be retiring.
• There is a savings in health insurance;
• There are a couple of small capital expenses;
• Legal expenses one -time cost of $80,000;
• Charter cost of $20,000 to mail;
• Police software $15,000;
• DPW - vacation /sick leave retirement;
• Snow and Ice $900,000 over budget;.
• Rubbish and street lights savings this year;
• Library strategic plan;
• Natural gas expense $50,000;
• Using $700,000 from free cash;
• Using $140,000 from Inspections Revolving Fund and $600,000 from sewer
The Town Manager noted that the three foot storm has been filed with FEMA.
Article 12 is regarding the appointment of associate members. Marsie West asked if
associates vote then what is the difference? The Town Manager noted it depends on how
the voting rights are set up.
Bill Brown noted the he will indefinitely postpone Article 13.
Article 17 - Bill Brown noted the Cemetery Board is suggesting that the Cemetery building
project be funded and move to the Building Committee. The Town Manager noted that he
agrees with what Bill says but the same problem exists at the DPW garage. Bill Brown
noted that if the Building Committee looks at it they don't have to spend the money.
The Town Manager noted that the budget is being voted on by the Finance Committee
tomorrow night.
Page 1 7 0-2�- (, G`%
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24. 2015 - page 8
A _motion by Ensminger seconded by West to recommend the subiect matter of
Articles 4 through 12 of the April 27, 2015 Annual Town Meeting Warrant was
approved by a• vote of 5 -0 -0.
Amotion by Ensminger seconded by West to recommend the subiect matter of
Articles 14 through 16 of the April 27, 2015 Annual Town Meeting Warrant was
approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to recommend the subiect matter of
Articles 18, 19 and 21 of the April 27, 2015 Annual -Town Meeting Warrant was
approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
Approve Charter Changes Made by the MA Senate - The Town Manager noted that the
Senate has approved the Charter changes with a couple of recommendations. They
recommend in Section 1 to change January 1 to January 5 and in Section 8.11.3 they
recommend changing the numbers to line up with State law. If the Board of Selectmen
approves these changes then the House will approve this week.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to approve the changes to the Home
Rule Charter as presented, made during the legislative process and prior to its
final passage was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
John Arena noted that there have been emails and letters to the Editor regarding the
naming of a field and he wanted to get the sense of the Board.
John Halsey indicated he feels honoring Peter Moscariello is appropriate.. He feels that
naming facilities needs to be relevant.
Marsie West recommended creating a minimum standard for the naming of facilities.
Kevin Sexton recommended doing a very good background check first.
John Arena noted that they need to know who and why. He recommends the Selectmen
draft a standard. He and John Halsey will collaborate on that.
John Arena noted he would like to get the Reading 2020 group together again. The Town
Manager suggested waiting until MAPC comes in and he recommends six of the group not all
the Department Heads.
The Town Manager asked when the Board wants to have the associate member discussion
and Marsie West recommended some time before Town Meeting.
Approval of Minutes
A_motion by Ensminger seconded by Sexton to approve the minutes of January 21,
2015 was approved by a vote of 3 -0 -2 with Ensminger and West abstaining.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to approve the minutes of February 3,
2015 as amended was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to approve the minutes of February 10,
2015 was approved by a vote of 4 -0 -1 with Halsey abstaining.
A motion by Ensminger seconded by West to approve the minutes of February 24,
2015 was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
D.- 1 0
Board of Selectmen Minutes - March 24, 2015 - page 9
A motion by Ensminger seconded by Sexton to adiourn the meeting at 10.20 p.m.
was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0.
Respectfully submitted,
Secretary
Page 19
1K
MAPC
Reading 2020 —
Public Services Review and Inventory
Presentation to the Reading Board of Selectmen
April 7 4, 2015
1K
MA C
• Background and Methodology
o Building the inventory
o Survey questions
• Findings
o Themes across survey responses
o Reform ideas to explore
o Further opportunities
Agenda
• Municipal Innovation
o Online service and information provision
o Creative community partnerships
• Discussion and Next Steps
• Public engagement on service priorities
• Deeper dive on reform frontrunners, service areas
• Other ideas?
IK
MAPC
Project Background, Methodology
• Revenue forecasts indicate that current spending levels cannot be
sustained
• Need to consider how service delivery can be made more efficient and
less costly, determining what services are the least impactful or low
priority for Town residents
A survey was conducted with department heads, asking them to consider
which services:
• Were core services essential to their mission, and which were
discretionary services?
• Could be provided at lower cost and more efficiently, and if so, how?
• Should cease to be provided by the Town (e.g. services that could be
provided by other actors either wholly, through contract or in
partnership)?
• Could be targeted only to people most in need, or provided on a fee-
for - service basis?
• Could be improved by sharing with or consolidating with neighboring
communities or through some other type of community partnership?
MA � Findings: Themes
• Major record management pressures — from clerk to public works. Is the
information shareable across departments (e.g. when new business
licenses are issued), housed efficiently, accessible to outside parties?
• Enabling more payment and licensing to be done online — e.g. E-
Permitting, dog /marriage licenses
• Better utilization of applications such as SeeClickFix, recreation finder
• Town Day, holidays, summer concerts — could preparation be done by
outside parties, partners own more of the responsibility and cost — (e.g.
create a non - profit to run cultural events programming)
• A number of departments did not identify any discretionary, or very few
discretionary services, — e.g. Public Health, Library, Elder /Human
Services, Conservation
• There is an opportunity to follow up in these areas to consider what
services are real priorities — demand by residents, mandated by state
law
1K
MAPC
Services to Cease or Contract
• Police— outsource fingerprinting
Findings: Reform Ideas
• Coordinate elder volunteer service with the schools
• Partner with business groups on fagade/retail
visioning
• Contract out facilities planning
• Flood map advice I Services to Regionalize /Share
• Composting I • Zoning /building code enforcement
Services to Charge Fees For
• Building inspection site visits on feasibility
• Charge developers for reports on permitted
projects
• Elder van (possibly through donations)
• Tennis Court online registration fee
• Land delineations for property owners
• Field layouts for sports organizations
• Sharing vendors procurement on recreational
programs
• Consider forming a Veteran's Service district
• Traffic markings
• Animal control services
• Police share crossing guards with school department
IK
MAPC
Findings: Further Opportunities
Regionalization —
• Collaboration with neighboring communities — area to explore could be
public works repairs and maintenance (water /sewer /forestry /parks),
back office services, elder /human services, public health
Records /Permits /Licenses —
• Are there record keeping
efficiencies to be found — better
systems to oversee permits,
documents?
• Police do a lot of background
checks, parking, community access
stickers — is that most efficient?
Organizational Efficiencies —
• For example, potentially between Public Works and Public Services
(cross - government coordinating functions seems complementary)
• Better joined up public interface and permitting coordination to provide
more coordinated and easier -to -use services
1K MAPC
Municipal Innovatio
Enhancing online services, community partnerships
/.6. "1 *",*\
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SeeClickFix
Report a Pat Hole,
Street Light, Trash
Issue and More!
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There are numerous partnerships supporting services
in Reading — notably with Elder Services, Library
Services, Conservation, Recreation. Are there other
opportunities to enhance partnerships to improve
service delivery?
Reading has crea ted1pro cured online utilities
that are not being utilized sufficiently by Town
residents — are there best practices from other
communities that can enhance online services?
a
t=
1K
MAPC
/.a. *1 ',*\
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SeeClickFix
Report a Pot Hole,
Street Light, Trash
Issue and More!
Online Tools
MAPC is working with Northeastern Univ. to examine usage of SeeClickFix (see map
on next page) — why it is being utilized extensively in some communities and not in
others? One early finding: where it is used by town staff and incorporated into a
work order system overall resident utilization also increases. Examples include:
Randolph and Malden
Cambria, Pa. Putting Marriage
License Applications Online
(GovTech.Com, Digital Communities *)
• Range of licenses could be
explored for online services
ROOM Z.5
MARRIAGE LICFYSC RECORDS
*02015 The Tribune - Democrat (Johnstown, Pa.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC
Newton 31 1
(http: / /www.newtonma.gov/
_gov /311.asp) — example
of a comprehensive
online portal providing
residents with access to a
range of services and
channels to provide
information, request
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MA C
Partnerships
• With the business community to support "buy local" campaigns, cultural
events /sponsorships, provide career experience for youth
• With health care or social service providers to address public health
concerns, determine priorities and educate residents on good /risky
behaviors
• With the schools through mentoring programs, providing service learning
opportunities for students (e.g. elder services, sanitation, snow removal,
ecological preservation)
Beverly MA Chamber —
Arts and Culture District
Partnership
Braintree MA Community
Partnership
on Substance Abuse
Tyler TX Dept of Lowell, Michigan — Schools -
Volunteer Services Elder Services partnership
10
Host a public
forum on service
priorities
Survey or
competition to
capture feedback,
ideas
Select a
department: e.g.
elder /human
services
Explore a theme:
enhanced
partnerships,
online engagement
Ask department
heads to develop
their lead ideas
into formal
proposals
Reach out to
stakeholders,
neighbors on
regionalization and
partnership
approaches
1K
MAPC
Reading 2020 —
Public Services
Review and
Inventory
Mark Fine, Director, Municipal Collaboration
mfine(a-)-mapc.org - (617) 933 -0789
Discussion
Questions /comments about:
• The review and inventory
• Reform ideas and innovation examples
• Next steps
Greg Miao, Municipal Services Specialist
gmiao(CD-mapc.org - (617) 933 -0769
a