Press Alt + R to read the document text or Alt + P to download or print.

No preview available

The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2006 Annual Report June, 2007 TO: Residents of the Town of Reading Dear Resident: On top of a very active year in 2005, 2006 is every bit as busy for your local government. The following Annual Report for the Town of Reading for calendar year 2006 details the significant progress made during the year on a number of issues. Highlighting activities in 2006, the Town: Completed and occupied the new Reading Memorial High School; Made a decision to purchase all of our public water supply from the MWRA, and abandon our local water supply for all but emergency use; Completed additional water distribution improvements including the Auburn Street water line replacement; Completed major road projects; Worked on several fronts to help insure good financial strength for Reading. We formed an Economic Development Committee as an outgrowth of the work on our Master Plan, an ad hoc Community Preservation Act Study Committee, and an ad hoc Tax Classification Study Committee; Considered and rejected a major oversized retail mall project proposed for the Addison- Wesley/Pearson property on Jacob Way; Saw the sale of the TASC building on Walkers Brook Drive, and approval for re-use for a Hallmark Health medical office and laboratories, two restaurants and re-use of corporate office space; Approved the re-use of the former Boston Stove site as a Stop & Shop grocery store; Spent a significant amount of time advocating for protection of the interests of the Town and its residents relative to the I-95/I-93 Interchange modifications; Established a committee to review Downtown parking needs, and amended the parking regulations for municipal lots and on-street parking to a uniform two hour limit; Saw the completion and occupancy of the Archstone 40B Development and construction progress on the Johnson Woods Development, as well as completion of the Maplewood Village LIP project. These developments have significantly expanded the Town’s supply of affordable housing - we now have 7.6% of our housing stock as affordable, and continue to work towards the State mandated 10%. The Town also submitted its “Planned Production” plan for affordable housing; 2. With a State grant and donation by Nelson and Rita Burbank, reached agreement on the purchase of the property at 1481 Main Street for conservation and open space use. To help with the stewardship of this and other open space, we formed the Northern Area Greenway Committee to look at near and long-term plans for the area of open space that stretches across the Northern areas of our town, now almost continuously from border to border; Completed the purchase of Dividence Meadows that consists of 10 acres of land at the end of Kiernan Road. A State grant covered over ½ the cost of this acquisition; Approved the demolition of the Imagination Station Playground with the preservation of certain artifacts, and will proceed with a design process for the layout and construction of a new Imagination Station as part of a master planning process for the Birch Meadow area. For those who have need for detailed information, we hope this information will be complete and valuable for you. It provides a good historical record of what has happened in the Town of Reading in calendar year 2006. Any questions, suggestions or comments that you may have with regard to this report, or to the provision of the services within the community are very much appreciated. You can address them to me at townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us, or call at 781-942-9043. Sincerely, Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager PIH:lm ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE DEPARTMENTS Accounting Department: The Accounting Department, under the direction of the Town Accountant, is responsible for maintaining financial records. These records facilitate the preparation of financial reports and schedules that provide meaningful, accurate information for comparability and for management’s decision making process. The Accounting Department ensures that all financial transactions are in compliance with legal requirements and are properly recorded on a timely basis. The Town used the auditing firm of Melanson & Heath in FY 2006. Finance Department: The Finance Department, under the direction of the Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director, supports a wide variety of financial and administrative functions. The Department is divided into six divisions: Assessment, Collection, General Finance, Human Resources, Technology and Town Clerk. The latter division was shifted into the Department on July 1, 2006 from the Community Services Department. Assessment Division: Assessment of property is the first step in the process of tax revenue collection for the Town of Reading. The Assessment Division’s function is to provide for the fair and equitable assessment of all taxable real and personal property. The Assessors must annually determine market values for the Town. The Assessors determine the tax levy and obtain State approval of the tax rate so that bills can be issued in a timely manner. The tax rate for FY 2007 was set at $12.07 per thousand, a $0.01 per thousand decrease from the FY 2006 rate. The total assessed value of all 8,771 properties and accounts for FY 2007 is $3,785,159,436. The average house in Reading is now valued at $461,656 - a 2.8% increase of $12,924 over the FY 2006 value. The breakdown of Reading property for FY 2007 is as follows: Residential $ 3,509,857,100 92.7268% Commercial $ 236,516,816 6.2485% Industrial $ 21,073,300 0.5567% Personal $ 17,712,220 0.4680% TOTAL $ 3,785,159,436 100% The Board of Selectmen voted to keep the tax rate the same for all classes of property. At the classification hearing, the Board also decided not to shift the tax burden within the residential class to non-residential owners, or to adopt a small commercial property exemption. Collection Division: The Collection Division is responsible for collecting all taxes and other charges (including ambulance and water/sewer/storm water bills). This Division also receives and processes all deposits (such as schools and recreation). The Division added electronic payments via the internet as a convenient method of payment for real estate and excise tax bills in late 2005. The option to pay water/sewer/storm water bills electronically was added in 2006. At present, over 500 residents have used this payment option. Accounting/Finance Departments The Division is committed to facilitate resident interaction, and a new website later in 2006 will further improve this communication. Real estate collections increased from $42 million in FY 2005 to $43.5 million in FY 2006. Excise tax collections were $2.83 million in FY 2006, down slightly from $2.92 million in FY 2005. A total of 931 lien certificates were issued in FY 2006, netting $30,800 to the General Fund. These figures were essentially unchanged from FY 2005, when 991 certificates resulted in $28,327 taken in to the General Fund. General Finance – Overview Division: This Division is responsible for providing the cash for the operation of all Town and School functions on a timely basis. In addition, it conducts all borrowing and investing activities, including those on behalf of the Town’s Trust Funds (at the direction of the Trust Fund Commissioners). The Finance Department support staff are designed to be flexible and experienced in many functions (Assessments, Collections, Human Resources, Finance and Accounting) as work flows vary throughout the year. General Finance – Treasurer: Interest earnings for the General Fund during the year were $1,443,604, with interest rates ranging from 1.41% to 5.22%. As the year ended, interest rates were stable, with an unusual circumstance of higher rates for shorter maturities and lower rates for longer maturities. Typically, this so-called inverted yield curve suggests a slowing economy. The Finance Department anticipates and has budgeted for a slowdown in collections. In January 2006, the Town negotiated an arrangement with the Massachusetts School Building Authority to receive over $20.6 million towards RMHS construction costs. This unique arrangement avoided the need for the Town to borrow these funds, pass along the cost of this borrowing to residents, and then later recoup these costs from the MSBA once the project was completed. Also in January 2006, the Town borrowed $7.5 million in temporary short-term Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs). The BANs were for various purposes, including $5 million for school construction debt ($1.3 million for the Wood End School and $3.7 million for the Barrows School), $2 million for water main repairs, and $0.5 million for Water treatment Plant design. The borrowing was through September 2006, in which time a decision by Town Meeting on long-term water supply and an update on MSBA reimbursement for the school projects were expected. In April 2006, the Town borrowed additional $5.2 million BANs in order to finance the Summer ‘partial’ MWRA buy-in ($3.2 million) and further water main repair work ($2.0 million). The funds were also borrowed through September 2006 as the water supply decision loomed. In June 2006, Town Meeting voted to pursue full-membership with the MWRA as the sole source of water supply, therefore obviating any possible financing to build a new Water Treatment Plant. In September 2006 (FY 2007), the Town permanently financed most of the previously mentioned BAN debt. A total of $0.5 million in Water Treatment Plant design debt was repaid in full from water reserves and surplus operations, $2.5 million in water main repair debt was borrowed for a term of five years, and $3.2 ‘partial’ MWRA buy-in costs were permanently borrowed for a term of 20 years. Final audit results for the Barrows project were not available from the MSBA so the Town Accounting/Finance Departments extended the temporary financing of $3.7 million for Barrows until February of 2007. (The MSBA paid off this loan in full at maturity.) The remaining $1.3 million for Wood End was borrowed for 17 years, to be repaid concurrently with all previous debt incurred for that project. General Finance - Trust Funds: FY 2004 FY 2005 FY 2006 Beginning Balances $ 7,150,072 $ 7,299,885 $7,383,405 Contributions $ 86,492 $ 91,603 $ 118,112 Disbursements ($ 290,910) ($ 307,191) ($ 312,312) Interest $ 354,231 $ 299,108 $ 431,064 Ending Balances $ 7,299,885 $ 7,383,405 $7,620,268 The Trust Funds disbursed nearly $900,000 in the past three years as shown in the table above. The Hospital Trust Fund continued to provide aid through the Reading Response Program, which provides skilled health care services, respite care, medical transportation and Lifeline Emergency call systems to Reading residents who meet specific health and income guidelines. It disbursed $146,529 in FY 2004, $176,250 in FY 2005 and $162,368 in FY 2006. The next largest distributor of funding was the Cemetery Trust Funds ($105,000 in FY 2004, $81,000 in FY 2005 and $85,000 in FY 2006). Ending Balance 1 year change FY 2006 Cemetery $ 3,098,021 + $203,714 Hospital $ 3,820,566 + $ 54,342 Library $ 55,174 - $ 25,297 Scholarships and Awards $ 123,185 - $ 351 Veterans Memorial $ 96,775 + $ 5,801 Celebration $ 56,891 + $ 1,719 Historic Preservation $ 65,134 + $ 2,763 Elder Services $ 285,073 - $ 6,907 Loans $ 19,449 + $ 1,079 Human Resources Division: The Human Resources Division supports the Town (under the direction of the Town Manager), School (under the direction of the Superintendent), Light Department (under the direction of the RMLD General Manager) and Retiree benefit activities. Employee benefits administered through this Division include health and life insurance, deferred compensation, disability insurance, Worker’s Compensation, the sick-leave bank, cafeteria benefits, the Employee Assistance Program, personal leave and unemployment benefits. Health insurance and Worker’s Compensation are premium-based programs through the Massachusetts Inter-Local Insurance Association. Blue Cross/Blue Shield products offered to Town employees and retirees increased 18% on March 1, 2005. A task force was formed to attempt to ameliorate the recent increases in these costs. After an extensive RFP process, strong cooperation between the Town and all of its unions, and modest benefit changes, near-term future increases will be significantly lower. Accounting/Finance Departments Technology Division: The Technology Division regularly interacts with all aspects of Town government including the schools, the Library, the Senior Center, Police, Fire/Emergency Management, Public Works, Water and Sewer and the RMLD. It provides centralized computer network and telecommunications services as well as distributed internet, audio/video, software and personal computer support. The network and telecommunications services include telephone systems and a wide area network (under construction). These are designed to facilitate communication between all Town government entities as well as to provide for emergency management communication with Town residents. The distributed services are designed to improve communication between residents and Town government and to improve staff productivity. At present, the Division is overseeing a redesign of the Town’s website as well as a review of the basic financial and accounting system that is now over 20 years old. TOWN CLERK Elections: The year 2006 was a busy election year in Reading. On April 4, 2006, the Town of Reading held its Local Election. Voting was done at One Jacob Way (Addison-Wesley/Longman, Building E) due to continued construction at the High School. We had 2,040 ballots cast (12.5% turnout) at the Election. The State Primary Election was held on September 19, 2006. The location of this Election was moved to 55 Walkers Brook Drive (former TASC building). We had 4,355 ballots cast (26.7% turnout) at the Election. The State Election was held on November 7, 2006 at 55 Walkers Brook Drive with 10,248 ballots cast (62% turnout). There were four questions on the ballot. Question 1 – whether to sell beer and wine in food stores, Question 2 – to decide on allowing candidates to be nominated by more than one political party, Question 3 – regarding the State’s subsidized child care system to bargain collectively and Question 4 – to end the war in Iraq. Board of Registrars: There were two new Registrars appointed in 2006: Harry M. Simmons in March and Krissandra Holmes in October. Krissandra Holmes, Gloria Hulse, Harry Simmons, and Town Clerk Cheryl A. Johnson certified over 2,000 voter and household changes to the community for 2006, certified 2,355 signatures on petitions and nomination papers for 134 candidates, and offered assistance to voters on Election Day. Census: The Annual Town Census was conducted in January - entirely by mail - with a total of 9,200 forms mailed to residences. The local Census assists Town Clerks in putting together the Street List (resident book) and the Jury List. Major functions served by an annual local census are: Information collected for municipal purposes, School needs, Growth and planning needs, Resident identification for police and fire, Collection of dog information, Veteran information, Information for the Jury Commissioners and Determining inactive voter status for voter purge as required by the National Voter Registration Act. Accounting/Finance Departments Town Meeting: The Annual Town Meeting in April was completed in four sessions, approving a budget for Fiscal Year 2007 in the amount of $75,392,299. Town Meeting amended the General Bylaws regarding Historical Commission and Animal Control Bylaws. A Special Town Meeting in June was completed in two sessions. This Town Meeting voted for the Town of Reading to receive all of its water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, and voted to purchase 2.14 acres on North Main Street for open space and conservation purposes. The Subsequent Town Meeting in November was completed in two sessions adding a Construction Hours and Noise Limits section to the General Bylaws. Vital Statistics and Licensing: During the calendar year 2006, the following Vital Statistics were recorded in the Town Clerk's Office: Births – 251 Marriages – 74 Deaths – 352 The Town Clerk’s Office was busy issuing birth certificates and marriage licenses for those individuals trying to get passports for airline travel in 2007. This is a new requirement. Also issued were 1,919 dog licenses, 143 business certificates, 25 renewals for underground storage tanks and 49 cemetery deeds. A total of 374 Fish and Wildlife licenses and 106 stamps were issued during the year for a total of $8,817.05. Of these, the Town of Reading issued 81 licenses free of charges to those citizens over 70 years of age. The Town retained $160.05 in fees from the sale of licenses. Total receipts collected in the Town Clerk's Office for the calendar year 2006 amounted to $84,081.56. Respectfully submitted, Gail LaPointe Town Accountant Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr., CFA Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director TOWN OF READING REPORT OF THE COLLECTOR 12 MONTHS ENDING JUNE 30, 2006 2006 REAL ESTATE Committed 2005-2006 43,898,766.21 Refunds 195,621.30 Interest and Costs Collected 52,713.56 Abatements & Exemptions 133,477.58 Paid to Treasurer 43,376,874.39 Subsequent Tax Title 116,505.01 Deferred Taxes 24,047.40 Uncollected June 30, 2006 496,196.69 44,147,101.07 44,147,101.07 2005 REAL ESTATE Balance June 30, 2005 323,406.49 Refunds 102,884.62 Interest and Costs Collected 37,010.52 Abatements 1,236.89 Paid to Treasurer 417,016.63 Tax Title Taking 45,048.11 Uncollected June 30, 2006 0.00 463,301.63 463,301.63 2006 PERSONAL PROPERTY Committed 2005-2006 191,870.43 Refunds 66.55 Interest and Costs Collected 386.34 Abatements 8.70 Paid to Treasurer 189,894.55 Uncollected June 30, 2006 2,420.07 192,323.32 192,323.32 2005 PERSONAL PROPERTY Balance June 30, 2005 1,788.79 Refunds 475.12 Interest and Costs Collected 33.80 Abatements 0 Paid to Treasurer 191.38 Uncollected June 30, 2006 2,106.33 2,297.71 2,297.71 2006 MOTOR VEHICLE EXCISE Committed 2006 2,595,986.18 Refunds 12,643.99 Interest and Costs Collected 10,213.99 Abatements 102,207.05 Paid to Treasurer 2,402,434.63 Uncollected June 30, 2006 114,202.48 2,618,844.16 2,618,844.16 2005 MOTOR VEHICLE EXCISE Balance June 30, 2005 101,283.78 Committed 2005-2006 426,720.89 Refunds 33,743.32 Interest and Costs Collected 11,511.87 Abatements 47,959.56 Paid to Treasurer 495,303.46 Uncollected June 30, 2006 29,996.84 573,259.86 573,259.86 2004 MOTOR VEHICLE EXCISE Balance June 30, 2005 38,842.26 Committed 2005-2006 13,099.84 Refunds 27,562.58 Interest and Costs Collected 6,322.95 Abatements 29,417.06 Paid to Treasurer 34,013.03 Uncollected June 30, 2006 22,397.54 85,827.63 85,827.63 2003 MOTOR VEHICLE EXCISE Balance June 30, 2005 18,209.95 Committed 2005-2006 134.79 Refunds 1,801.47 Interest and Costs Collected 2,132.67 Abatements 2,228.01 Paid to Treasurer 5,809.38 Uncollected June 30, 2006 14.241.49 22,278.88 22,278.88 2002 MOTOR VEHICLE EXCISE Balance June 30, 2005 9,605.23 Committed 2005-2006 80.63 Refunds 0 Interest and Costs Collected 434.48 Abatements 9,081.58 Paid to Treasurer 1,038.76 Uncollected June 30, 2006 0 10,120.34 10,120.34 OLD EXCISE PRIOR TO 2002 Balance June 30, 2005 131,231.99 New Blanket Abatement 9,073.04 Interest and Costs Collected 1,697.82 Paid to Treasurer 3,674.29 Uncollected June 30, 2005 138,328.56 142,002.85 142,002.85 WATER CHARGES Balance June 30, 2005 669,343.24 Committed 2005-2006 3,679,283.04 Charges 125.00 Refunds 5,165.53 Abatements 11,528.84 Paid to Treasurer 3,174,744.22 Discount for Timely Payments 294,013.24 Added to 2006 Taxes 86,137.55 Uncollected June 30, 2006 787,492.96 4,353,916.81 4,353,916.81 SEWER CHARGES Balance June 30, 2005 725,215.33 Committed 2005-2006 4,317,152.86 Refunds 3,136.82 Abatements 15,924.95 Paid to Treasurer 3,672,798.78 Discount for Timely Payments 344,049.10 Added to 2006 Taxes 96,560.74 Uncollected June 30, 2006 916,171.44 5,045,505.01 5,045,505.01 ADDITIONAL WATER CHARGES (SPMS, SPCS-SPRINKLERS) Balance June 30, 2005 1,499.74 Committed 2005-2006 38,014.89 Refunds 0 Paid to Treasurer 36,222.98 Added To 2006 Taxes 0 Uncollected June 30, 2006 3,291.65 39,514.63 39,514.63 AMBULANCE FEES Balance June 30, 2005 200,994.72 Committed 2006 1,136,913.86 Refunds 4,960.21 Abatements 374,969.95 Paid to Treasurer 598,362.46 Uncollected June 30, 2006 369,536.38 1,342,868.79 1,342,868.79 CERTIFICATES OF MUNICIPAL LIENS Certificates Issued 30,800.39 Paid to Treasurer 30,800.39 30,800.39 30,800.39 BETTERMENTS ADDED TO TAXES Committed 2006 4,429.23 Paid to Treasurer 4,429.23 4,429.23 4,429.23 TOWN OF READING REAL ESTATE ABATEMENTS FOR PERIOD 01JAN2006 TO 31DEC2006 8746PIANIBRIANGREYCOACHRD281.5707Feb2006 2005ABATEMENTS:1AMOUNT:281.57 1563CARDONOMARKFBOSWELLRD740.5021Mar2006 1834CHINETTIPATRICIAANNEPLEASANTST397.4315Feb2006 2124CONNOLLYANNMARIECARRIAGELN401.0621Mar2006 2344CRAMPECHARLESLOVERLOOKRD93.0214Mar2006 2426CROTTYPAULDCROSSST7.2529Mar2006 2866DENNISRICHARDCMACINTOSHRD465.0827Apr2006 3426DYMENTWILLIAMESMALLLN131.6718Apr2006 3443EAGLESTONRICHARDWHIGHST229.5221Mar2006 3905FLATLEYKEVINMBLUEBERRYLN264.5511Apr2006 4102FULLERGRACEJWINTERST329.7811Apr2006 ST44.7014Mar2006 4271GENTILEANTHONYJPLEASANT 5187HOPKINSFRANCESSUMMERAVE106.3029Mar2006 5391INDIASZZYGMUNTWVANNORDENRD73.6914Mar2006 5544JOHNSONCHERYLAPINERIDGERD153.4206Mar2006 6214LATHAMKENNETHCHAVENST3,447.6324May2006 29Mar2006 6284LEASUREPATRICIAAJAMESRD129.26 6625LUSKDAVIDAGAVINCIR48.3218Apr2006 6801MAFFEILOUISFKINGST547.2229Mar2006 7215MCCULLEYRICHARDJCROSSST257.3027Apr2006 7274MCGONAGLEPATRICKJLONGWOODRD39.8606Mar2006 7802MOSSIANECHOAVE85.7727Apr2006 7944MURRAYROBINMLOCUSTST25.3729Mar2006 7982NAPOLISTEPHENJHIGHST123.2205Apr2006 8756PIANIBRIANGREYCOACHRD310.4615Feb2006 9324RILEYMAUREENMARLALN1,188.6706Mar2006 9981SHAPLEIGHMARILYNJOHNCARVERRD196.9027Apr2006 1,1383WEINERLAURIESCARNATIONCIR275.4221Mar2006 2006ABATEMENTS:27AMOUNT:10,113.37 5132HILLCRESTREALTYINCDIVIDENCEMEADOW201.5727Dec2006 6971MAPLEWOODVILLAGESALEMST1,943.2727Dec2006 2007ABATEMENTS:2AMOUNT:2,144.84 DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES BOARD OF SELECTMEN Selectman Camille Anthony was re-elected to another three year term. Stephen Goldy was elected to a one year term to fill the vacancy for Joseph Duffy who retired from office. Ben Tafoya was elected Chairman, James Bonazoli was elected Vice Chairman and Stephen Goldy was elected Secretary. Sadly, former Selectman Joseph Duffy passed away in December 2006. Personnel and Volunteers: Major changes in personnel included: Town Planner Chris Reilly left the employ of the Town; Tim Brennan was hired as Assistant Building Inspector; Carl Schloth was promoted from Clerk to Permits Coordinator; Ann Gentile was hired as Clerk. In addition, the Board of Selectmen: Established a process for the appointment of a Town Accountant; Established a policy regarding fraud; Reappointed the firm of Brackett & Lucas as Town Counsel. In the area of Boards, Committees and Commissions, the Board of Selectmen: Dissolved the Substance Abuse Prevention Advisory Committee in light of the creation of the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse; Established an ad hoc Downtown Parking Task Force to obtain information and work on a plan for the Downtown area; Established a policy for the Land Bank Committee giving it a mission to catalogue and maintain land records, research property and perambulation of Town boundaries; Established an ad hoc Community Preservation Act Study Committee; Established an ad hoc Committee to Plan for the Northern Area Greenway; Established an Animal Control Appeals Committee pursuant to the Animal Control Bylaw; Established an Economic Development Committee; Established the Advisory Committee on Cities for Climate Protection. The following individuals were either newly appointed or re-appointed by the Board of Selectmen to the following Boards, Committees and Commissions: David Singer and James Bonazoli to the Animal Control Appeals Committee; Lois Margeson to the Aquatics Advisory Committee; Robert A. Redfern, Paul Dustin, Peter Tedesco (Associate) and Clark W. Petschek (Associate) to the Board of Appeals; Mary Vincent and William C. Brown to the Board of Cemetery Trustees; Barbara Meade to the Board of Health; Gloria R. Hulse to the Board of Registrars; Kurt Habel to the Celebration Committee; Ronald D’Addario, Michele Benson, Gina Snyder, Tracy Sopchak, Stephanie Anderberg and Daniel Boldgett (Associate) to the Cities for Climate Protection Program Committee; Dana E. Hennigar to the Commissioners of Trust Funds; Community Services Department Brant Ballantyne, David B. Tuttle, George Katsoufis (Associate), Nicholas Safina (Associate) and Israel Maykut (Associate) to the Community Planning and Development Commission; Douglas N. Greene, Jamie T. Maughan, Annika Scanlon and Barbara Stewart to the Conservation Commission; Thomas H. Freeman as Constable; Margaret Havey, Marguerite Bosnian, Carol Patterson, Barbara Powers and Charles J. McDonald (Associate) to the Council on Aging; Lorraine Horne, Vicky Schubert, Jacqueline Steele and Kathleen Kelly to the Cultural Council; Russell Graham, John Russell, Sheila Clarke, Leslie McGonagle and Meghan Young-Tafoya to the Economic Development Committee; Kathryn Greenfield and Clayton Jones (Associate) to the Historical Commission; Elaine Webb, Paul Kelley and Charles McDonald to the Human Relations Advisory Committee; Edward G. Smethurst and Daniel Blodgett to the Land Bank Committee; Andrew Herlihy to the RMLD Citizens Advisory Board; Nancy Linn Swain, Mary Ellen Stolecki, John Winne and Beth Claroni (Associate) to the Recreation Committee; Bill Cowie and C. Pitt Crandlemire (Associate) to the Telecommunications and Technology Advisory Committee; George B. Perry, III and Joan Hoyt to the Town Forest Committee; Stephen L. Crook to the Water, Sewer and Storm Water Management Advisory Committee; David Kruh to the West Street Historic District Commission; Patty Chinetti and Marcia Dresser to the ad hoc Nurse Advocacy Task Force; Camille Anthony, Chuck Robinson, Bill Brown, Mary Ellen Stolecki, Clayton Jones, Patricia Lloyd, Mark Wetzel, Israel Maykut and Karen Flammia to the ad hoc Community Preservation Act Study Committee; Mark Rumizen, David Williams, Charles Donnelly Moran, Frederick Alexander, Marsie West, Brant Ballantyne, Will Finch, Joan Hoyt and Francis Driscoll to the ad hoc Committee to Plan for the Northern Area Greenway. Community Development: W/S Associates’ proposal for a Lifestyle Center at the former Addison-Wesley site continued to be debated with density and traffic impacts being the major issues for the community. In September 2006, the Board of Selectmen voted to not accept the developer’s proposal for a Lifestyle Center. The Route 128/I-93 Interchange Project remained suspended, and the State Route 128/I-93 Task Force continues to meet and do data gathering. Camille Anthony and Richard Schubert from the Board of Selectmen, CPDC Member Jonathan Barnes and resident George Katsoufis represent the Town, and are very active members and participants on the Task Force. In early 2006, the Town’s Master Plan was adopted and led to a great deal of activity, particularly in the areas of affordable housing and economic development. Community Services Department In March 2006, the Board of Selectmen approved an LIP application for four units of low income housing to be built at 75 Pleasant Street as proposed by the Reading Housing Authority. The Selectmen also approved the use of portions of the Housing Trust Fund, and the land swap between the Town and the Reading Housing Authority to accomplish the development of the units as proposed. In May 2006, the Board of Selectmen signed the deeds to transfer two lots on Governors Drive to Habitat for Humanity for affordable housing. An exorbitant amount of time was spent on regulating Downtown parking. The Board of Selectmen created an ad hoc Downtown Parking Task Force to explore options regarding regulating and creating more parking for the Downtown area. The Committee made a recommendation to the Board of Selectmen that they explore options for a parking structure in Downtown. The Board approved numerous parking regulations in the Downtown area. In April 2006, the Reading Co-Operative Bank purchased the property at 16 Sanborn Street with intentions of demolishing the house that was destroyed by a fire, and building a parking lot for their employees. This will require a change in zoning, and that zoning amendment took place in February 2007. Town Meeting approved a bylaw requiring the registration of Door-to-Door Solicitors, an Animal Control Bylaw, and a bylaw restricting the Hours of Construction. The Board of Selectmen directed the Town Manager to move ahead with the acquisition of the property at 1481 Main Street to be used as open space and recreation. The full acquisition cost is covered by a grant, and by a very generous donation from Nelson Burbank. The Board also approved the Purchase & Sales Agreement for acquisition of Dividence Meadows that consists of 10 acres of land at the end of Kiernan Road. A State grant covered over ½ the cost of this acquisition of this Conservation land. The Selectmen approved regulations to the Parks Rules and Regulations that no person or business can use the tennis courts, fields, etc. to derive a profit. They also added that a violation will be subject to a fine or arrest, and noted that the parks close at sundown. In an effort to maintain the character of the Town, the Board of Selectmen discussed their position regarding KENO in the Town. The consensus of the Selectmen was that the Town already had a problem with substance abuse, and KENO could also become a problem. The Board indicated that they were not interested in issuing any KENO licenses. In July 2006, the Board of Selectmen directed Town Counsel to move forward to take the necessary actions to prepare a cy pres petition for Memorial Park. This decision was due to the inability to find two heirs with residual property rights. In December 2006, the Board of Selectmen approved the demolition of Imagination Station with the preservation of certain artifacts including plaques, signs and artwork, and directed the Town Manager to proceed with a design process for the layout and construction of a new Imagination Station at that site. Community Services Department Infrastructure: In January 2006, the Board of Selectmen approved a license for Verizon to provide cable services to the Town of Reading. A part of the license included the contribution by Verizon of $245,000 to build Fiber I-Net infrastructure connecting Town and School buildings. Much of this work was completed in 2006. In March 2006, the Board of Selectmen held a public input session regarding buying 100% of the water from the MWRA. Staff continued the process of applying for purchasing 100% of the Town’s water from the MWRA. A Special Town Meeting in June 2006 approved the necessary debt authorization to proceed with this decision. In September 2006, the Town ceased using its local water supply and began purchasing all of its water from the MWRA subject to gaining all State approvals expected in the second or third quarter of 2007. Financial: The Board of Selectmen voted to increase building permit fees to bring our fees in line with surrounding communities, and to fund the Permits Coordinator’s position. In May 2006, Town Meeting created a Storm Water Enterprise Fund and in June 2006, the Board of Selectmen established the Storm Water Enterprise Fund rates that are based on the amount of impervious surface on the property. As a result of Town Meeting approving a bylaw regarding solicitors, the Board of Selectmen established a fee for a Certificate of Registration for solicitors in the amount of $25.00 per person. TOWN COUNSEL During 2006, Brackett & Lucas as Town Counsel addressed various and diverse issues on the Town’s behalf. We are pleased to say that at present, the Town is involved in only a minimal amount of litigation. Pending litigation matters involve a challenge to the Town’s adoption of a stormwater utility fee, construction litigation by a subcontractor regarding the Reading Memorial High School,and three (3) zoning appeals. There are pending appeals to the Appellate Tax Board for which we provide advice and representation to the Board of Assessors. A claim for arbitration against an engineering firm, and a dispute over an escrow account established by the CPDC to address drainage concerns have been successfully negotiated to a satisfactory resolution. Attorneys Judith A. Pickett, Donna Gorshel Cohen and I provided legal assistance to most Department Heads, Town Boards, Committees and Commissions including the Board of Selectmen. The legal services provided included the provision of advice and legal opinions in the areas of land use to the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Community Planning and Development Commission. We advised the School Department on various issues related to the construction of the Reading Memorial High School, reviewed contracts and provided advice on contract disputes. The firm also assisted in the preparation and review of bylaws, and the review and drafting of Warrant Articles for Town Meetings during the year. Community Services Department We attended all Town Meetings in order to address any legal issues or concerns raised by Town Meeting Members. Attorneys Judith Pickett and Donna Gorshel Cohen spent significant time advising the Conservation Commission on litigation matters and the negotiation of conservation restrictions. Brackett & Lucas also assisted the Town in the acquisition of 1481 Main Street which culminated in the recording of the Deed on April 9, 2007, and in the preparation of a cy pres petition which seeks to expand park and recreational uses for Reading Memorial Park. This past year also required our assistance in the preparation of documents pertaining to the release and/or acquisition of easements for sidewalks, drainage and utilities, and the drafting of new Petroleum Regulations which were recently adopted by the Board of Selectmen. We also assisted the Town in the negotiation of an agreement for the Town to receive its water supply from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA), and for the Town to be admitted as a member of the MWRA service area. It has been our pleasure to serve the legal needs of the Town of Reading this past year, and we look forward to continuing to do so in the future. Respectfully submitted, Ellen Callahan Doucette, Town Counsel CONSERVATION DIVISION The Conservation Commission was established in 1960 under Section 8C of Chapter 40 of the Massachusetts General Laws for the promotion and the development of the natural resources and for the protection of watershed resources in Reading. The Commission has worked since that time to acquire and maintain hundreds of acres of conservation land within the Town for public enjoyment and resource protection. In 1972, the Conservation Commission was given regulatory authority to administer the new Wetlands Protection Act, Section 40 of Chapter 131 of the Massachusetts General Laws. Over the years, the Commission’s role in the administration of the Wetlands Protection Act has been further defined through regulations and policies issued by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. In 1980, the Town adopted Section 5.7 of the Reading General Bylaws, the Wetlands Protection Bylaw. The Commission subsequently promulgated the Reading Wetlands Protection Regulations under the bylaw. From time to time, Town Meeting has amended the bylaw and the Commission has amended the regulations, most recently in July 2006. The amendments serve to clarify the language, to make it consistent with recent changes in the State law and regulations, and to assure revenues from filing fees. Wetlands Protection Activities: During 2006, the Conservation Commission reviewed 48 permit applications for proposed work and wetlands delineation. The Commission held 130 public hearings and public meetings, and performed 124 site inspections regarding the permit applications and construction. The Commission also issued 94 decisions including permits, resource area delineations, extensions and amendments. The Commission made final site inspections, and closed 63 project files in a concerted effort to Community Services Department update records. The Commission identified 25 violations and resolved most of them, and successfully defended its position in two appeals to DEP. The Administrator reviewed and signed off on 763 building permits and 38 minor projects, and performed 488 site inspections. The Commission collected $6,632.50 in filing fees under the Wetlands Protection Act, and $24,953.94 under the Wetlands Protection Bylaw. Major projects under permitting review and/or construction oversight by the Commission in 2006 included: Three multi-family developments that include affordable housing; Two single-family Habitat for Humanity houses; One subdivision approval, one subdivision under construction, and two subdivisions completed; Major construction and renovations on the Reading Memorial High School, including completion of the stream culvert replacement project; Completion of original work and addition of sidewalks and playground at the Wood End Elementary School, and final work at the Barrows Elementary School; Commercial property improvements off Walkers Brook Drive and New Crossing Road including a grocery store, a health care center, two restaurants, the car dealership, a gas station and other retail uses; Mitigation and wetlands restoration work to correct impacts of the hazardous materials releases at five commercial sites and one residential site; Town improvement projects including cable installations, sidewalk improvements, replacement of culverts under Pleasant Street, and new playground equipment on Bancroft Avenue; Permitting for drainage system maintenance activities by the DPW townwide; Closure of firing ranges and beginning of construction of a vehicle maintenance facility at Camp Curtis Guild. The Commission and Administrator worked with the Recreation Division playground improvements, with Health officials to resolve flooding problems caused by beavers at the Meadow Brook Golf Club and near Walkers Brook Drive, and with the Historical Commission on retention of historical homes. The Administrator worked with other Town staff on the implementation of the Petroleum Storage Bylaw. Natural Resources Conservation Activities: In 2006, the Commission completed purchase of the Dividence Meadows parcel abutting the Wood End School and the Town Forest with a MA Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant. We worked with the Recreation Division, Board of Selectmen, legislative representatives, and owners to assess and support the purchase of 1481 Main Street as an addition to Bare Meadow and headquarters for the Northern Area Greenway. We expect to complete this purchase in 2007 with the help of State funding and a generous private donation. We also worked to support a regional bike path connection on Haverhill Street. The Commission is grateful for the completion of a conservation restriction granted by the YMCA for land behind Coolidge Middle School. The Commission commends Dave Hanson and his Boy Scout Troop for completion of a new bridge and other trail improvements in Higgins Conservation Area. Maps of trails in Town Conservation areas, and regulations for use of these areas are available at Town Hall. Community Services Department Commissioner Mark Wetzel joined the Community Preservation Act Study Committee, and Will Finch joined both the Northern Area Greenway Study Committee and the Master Plan Study Committee. Membership and Office Management: During 2006, Becky Longley retired from the Commission, and Stephen Goldy left to serve on the Board of Selectmen. Doug Greene, Will Finch, Bill Hecht, Mark Wetzel and Jamie Maughan continued in service along with Leo Kenney, our consultant. Barbara Stewart and Annika Scanlon accepted appointments to complete our seven-member roster. Mark Wetzel became Chairman in July and Bill Hecht became Vice Chairman. Fran Fink continued in service as Conservation Administrator, and Maureen Knight began service as Recording Secretary. Commissioners and the Administrator attended various workshops and courses during the year to stay current with open space protection and wetland regulation practices. The Conservation Commission’s Office is located in the Community Services Department on the first floor of Town Hall. The phone number is (781) 942-6616. Respectfully submitted, Frances Fink, Conservation Administrator ELDER/HUMAN SERVICES DIVISION The Division of Elder/Human Services provides social services, activities, transportation, educational programs, and a meal site for Reading residents aged 60 and over. Home delivered meals are available for homebound elders through Mystic Valley Elder Services. In addition, the Division offers information, support and referrals to the adult children, friends and caregivers of elders about a variety of aging concerns. For those under age 60, the Division provides social services and holiday programs. The staff currently consists of an Administrator (37.5 hours/week), a Social Worker (37.5 hours/week), a Senior Center Coordinator (35 hours/week), a Coordinator of Volunteers (21 hours/week), a Van Driver (32.5 hours/week) and a Clerk (19 hours/week). This year, major undertakings for the Division included the following: Coordinated community wide jazz concert. Contracted with the Senior Citizen’s Publishing, Inc. to publish and print our monthly newsletter. The newsletter is also available online now. Coordinated our first Alternative Health Fair - 10 vendors participated. Received a generous grant from the Reading Superior Officer’s Association to purchase 1500 File of Life Kits. Approximately half the supply has been distributed to date. Developed two slide shows of Senior Center participants and activities. Worked with the Facilities Department to recover from extensive flood damage. Coordinated the Natural Disaster Committee. Completed the training and application process in anticipation of the new State issued 14 passenger mini-bus (delivery postponed until February 2007). Purchased and implemented new service tracking software. Community Services Department Social Service: Our Social Worker addresses the needs and concerns of Reading residents of all ages. Assistance for those under the age of 60 often involves crisis intervention, goal setting, information and referrals about financial, housing, mental health and disabilities-related concerns. For those age 60 and over, assistance includes crisis intervention, EAP-model of case management, addressing housing concerns, mediating intergenerational disputes, intervening in cases of neglect, loneliness or depression, coordinating appointments with area medical and social service agencies, as well as providing information and referrals with regard to nursing home placement and eligibility screening for State and Federal services. Assisting relatives and friends of seniors with all the above concerns is another important service of our Social Worker. During 2006, our Social Worker had over 3,457 contacts with approximately 1,336 people who required assistance of some kind. In addition, our Social Worker leads a monthly support/educational group for caregivers. Our Social Worker provides eligibility screening for, and assistance with, applications for Fuel Assistance and the Reading Food Pantry. In 2006, the Social Worker completed these tasks for 62 individuals/families to the Reading Food Pantry, and assisted 101 households with their Fuel Assistance applications. Having anticipated that this Winter’s higher fuel costs would increase the need for financial support, the Division developed guidelines to meet emergency home heating needs for Reading residents. Senior Center: The Senior Center Coordinator’s primary responsibility is to manage the daily operations of the Senior Center including the care of the facility and the coordination of activities. As can be seen from the chart below, our Senior Center is a hub of activity Monday through Friday. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Cribbage Bingo Billiards Blood Pressure Chess Clinic** Movies Visit with the* Bingo Book Discussion Strength Training Town Manager Open Computer Computer Lessons Computer Lessons Bridge Party Bridge Lab Tai Chi In-Town Walkers Quilting Congressman* Open Computer Tierney’s Office Lab Motion to Music Game Day In-Town Walkers Movies Knitters Scuttlebutt* Open Computer Low Vision* Motion to Music Lab Open Computer Open Computer Lab Lab Podiatry Clinic* * Meet monthly ** Provided by the Reading Health Department Support groups like Low Vision and Scuttlebutt provide participants with an opportunity to express their feelings, and gain insights from other participants’ experiences. Guest speakers are often invited to present differing views. Community Services Department Reading Elder/Human Services strives to provide Reading seniors with the tools and information that they need to self-advocate and make informed decisions about their lives. Accordingly, we have arranged for the following free consultations to be available at the Senior Center on a monthly basis: Financial – Edward Jones and Union Trust Mortgage Corp. Legal – Elder Law Attorney Karol Bisbee Hearing – Roger’s Hearing Solutions SHINE - Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders - Health Insurance We also coordinate a variety of educational and social programs throughout the year. The Division is committed to providing quality, up-to-date information to our residents on matters important to their lives. In 2006, Reading Elder/Human Services sponsored a variety of lectures and educational programs. Examples of the educational seminars and programs held at the Senior Center are: I Will Be Well sponsored by Lifeline Screening Heart Healthy Eating sponsored by Winchester Hospital Lunch/Learn Program Miracle Ear sponsored by REACH (Reach, Educate, And Communicate Hearing) Super Foods for a Super You sponsored by MVES Treating Back Pain sponsored by Winchester Hospital’s Pain Management Clinic Pizza and Prevention sponsored by Reading Police, Fire, DPW and Health Departments Probate Wills and Estates sponsored by The Registrar of Probate Health Plan Options for Seniors sponsored by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Mass. My Medicare Matters sponsored by National Council on Aging Sugar/Glucose Testing sponsored by Hallmark Health Personal Emergency Response Systems sponsored by Hallmark Health Home Care Medicaid Prescription Drug Coverage sponsored by Mass Medline Real Estate Tax Abatement for Seniors sponsored by Attorney Jon L. Kennedy Alternative Health Fair Peace of Mind sponsored by Professional Organizer, Jennifer Palm Container Gardening sponsored by Reading Garden Club Senior Living Options sponsored by Parkview Retirement Community Senior Advantage Seminar sponsored by ERA Andrew Realty, Stoneham Bank, Edward Jones and Attorney Karol Bisbee Identity Theft/Money Management sponsored by MVES/MASSBANK Reflexology sponsored by Wilmington Health Care Center Beat the Heat sponsored by Visiting Nurse and Community Health, Inc. of Arlington Alzheimer Disease-The Puzzle sponsored by Alzheimer Association Coping with Loss sponsored by Hospice Care, Stoneham Cholesterol: Good vs. Bad sponsored by Hallmark Health VNA Taking Care of Yourself Through Forgiveness sponsored by Hallmark Health Hospice New Medicaid Rules sponsored by Karol Bisbee, Elder Law Attorney Prescription Advantage sponsored by MVES SHINE Senior Seminar sponsored by Karol Bisbee, Edward Jones, Union Trust Mortgage, ERA Andrew Realty Community Services Department Elderhostel sponsored by Barsha and Jack Kantor Maintain Weight over the Holidays sponsored by Hallmark Health VNA Understanding Confusion and Dementia sponsored by Alzheimer’s Association Health Fair sponsored by Hallmark Health VNA New Medicaid Rules sponsored by Karol Bisbee, Elder Law Attorney How to Protect Your Heart by Eating Healthy sponsored by MVES Health Plan Options for Seniors sponsored by Blue Cross/Blue Shield Medicare Advantage sponsored by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Beating the Holiday Blues sponsored by Hallmark Health VNA Reverse Mortgage sponsored by Union Trust Mortgage Company Examples of social programs held at the Senior Center are: Monthly Special Lunch sponsored by Mystic Valley Elder Services Monthly Birthday Lunch sponsored by Reading Elder Services Red Hat Tea sponsored by The Red Hat Society Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Annual Lion’s Italian Dinner sponsored by Reading Lion’s Club Mason’s Annual Cookout sponsored by Reading Masons Annual Square Dancing with RMHS Students sponsored by RMHS Student Council Community Games Show Night sponsored by Reading Recreation Division Texas Hold’Em Style Poker sponsored by Reading Recreation Division Annual Ham and Bean Supper sponsored by Reading Police Department Halloween Party sponsored by Edward Jones Scarecrow Creations sponsored by Reading Elder Services Winter Solstice Celebration sponsored by Boardwalk Real Estate/Attorney Mary Milbur Annual Barbecue sponsored by MVES Jazz Night on Pleasant Street sponsored by Cultural Council/ Attorney Karol Bisbee Examples of programs held off-site are: Italian Dinner sponsored by Coolidge Middle School Peer Leaders – School Grandparents Day Special – Folk performer sponsored in part by the Cultural Council – Library Birthday Bash sponsored by The Red Hat Society – N. Reading Congregational Church thth Lunch With 4 and 5 Graders sponsored by Birch Meadow School - School Elk’s Summer Cookout sponsored by the Wakefield Elk’s – Wakefield Monthly Breakfast Out Club – Raphael’s, North Reading Senior Tea - sponsored by Joshua Easton School - School Cribbage Tournament - sponsored by Parker Middle School - School As suggested in the 2004 consultant’s report, the Division gave special attention this year to developing collaborations with other Town Departments. To that end, we provided joint programming for the seniors with the Veterans’ Agent, the Public Library, the Health, Fire, Police and DPW Departments, Coolidge Middle School, Joshua Easton School, Reading Memorial High School, RMLD and RCTV. We also collaborated with several civic clubs, scout troops, local businesses and social service agencies. Community Services Department Volunteers: The Division recognizes the importance of volunteers. Few of our programs would run smoothly without volunteers from the community. The volunteers themselves learn new skills, meet new people, and enjoy an increased sense of self-worth. For these reasons, the Division places great emphasis on offering a variety of volunteer opportunities for a diverse set of skills, abilities and interests. Our Coordinator of Volunteers matches volunteers to various community service positions, many of which specifically aid Reading’s older population. At our Annual Volunteer Reception, 70 volunteers were recognized for their 766 hours of service. Some of the positions filled by volunteers include: Senior Center Receptionist, Adopt-an- Island gardeners, book discussion leaders, bingo callers, income tax preparers, computer instructors, COA Board Members, repairman, friendly visitors, office workers, newsletter editor, kitchen helpers, shoppers for the homebound, shopping escorts and medical escorts. Intergenerational projects continue to be an important teaching tool for cooperation among the generations. Students served the seniors lunch, and helped with yard work and snow shoveling. They created a Pen Pal Program, performed at the Senior Center, and prepared dinner and entertainment for the seniors at their schools. They made cards, cookies and tray favors at holiday times. These events are becoming increasingly popular with the seniors and the middle school students. Lunchtime Meals: The Senior Center’s Daily Nutrition Program is provided by Mystic Valley Elder Services, Inc. (MVES). In an effort to increase attendance at lunch, we often offer concurrent programs and/or entertainment. There are 15 mealsite volunteers who help serve and clean up after the noontime meal at the Senior Center. Socialization is an important component of this program. In 2006, a total of 5,016 lunches were served at the Senior Center. In 2006, MVES’ Meals-on-Wheels Program delivered a total of 18,613 meals to 233 participants. The roster of participants changes as people become well enough to prepare their own meals or move to other levels of care. A variety of meals are delivered - lunch meals, evening meals, clinical diets and frozen meals for the weekend. A variety of “clinical diet” meals are provided - no concentrated sweets, diabetic, low fiber, high fiber, low lactose, renal or pureed. Van Transportation: The Van Transportation Program provides a vital service for those seniors who don’t drive. Transportation is provided in Town for the following purposes: Banking, grocery shopping, voting, medical appointments, personal appointments, pharmacy needs and visiting the Senior Center. For younger residents, the van services offers transportation to and from the Food Pantry and other vital destinations. In 2006, the van made 7,141 one-way trips transporting 161 (unduplicated count) passengers multiple times. The Division was awarded a grant from the Executive Office of Transportation for a new van. The grant will cover 80% of the cost of the new van ($44,233.60) and the Burbank Trust Fund, with the Council on Aging’s approval, will provide the remaining 20% ($11,593.40). Community Services Department The new van will seat 14 passengers and be equipped with a wheelchair lift. The delivery is expected in February 2007. Newsletter: In March 2006, we entered into a three year contract with Senior Citizen’s Publishing, Inc. (SCP). The Division will continue to provide the content for the newsletter and SCP will format the newsletter, print it and deliver it to our office. The Pleasantries Newsletter can also be viewed online. There is no cost to the Town for this arrangement. SCP’s revenue is derived from selling advertising space in the newsletter. The newsletters are delivered to 3,058 senior households in Reading three times a year. During the other nine months, seniors can obtain a copy of the newsletter at several locations in town. The goal of the newsletter is to increase awareness among Reading’s seniors of the programs and services that are available to them. Burbank Trust Fund: In 2006, the Council on Aging approved expenditures from the Dorothy L. Burbank Trust to pay for the following: Monthly entertainment, cake and Gift Certificates for the Senior Center’s monthly birthday lunch, three full-page advertisements of our programs in the Reading Recreation Community Guide, window treatments for the second floor of the Senior Center, two months printing costs for the Pleasantries Newsletter, and the postage cost for three bulk mailings of the newsletter. The Council on Aging also approved the expenditures of the Burbank Trust to fund the Senior Property Tax Program for Fiscal Year 2006 for a total of $15,750. As of FY 2007, the Town resumed responsibility for $10,500 of the program, and the Burbank’s contribution was reduced to $5,250. This program allows 21 seniors to work a total 111 hours annually, and to earn up to $750.00 which is applied directly towards the participants’ property taxes. Participants in this program provide important assistance to various municipal departments. Schroeder Trust Fund: In 2006, funds from the Schroeder Trust were used to purchase flowers for seniors who experienced an extended illness. Hot Thanksgiving and/or Christmas meals were also purchased for those seniors who were going to be alone for the holidays. Thirty meals were provided for each Thanksgiving and Christmas. All meals were delivered by COA Board Members. Donations: Many individuals and organizations have generously supported Elder/Human Services’ efforts by providing money, gifts and in-kind services. Some of the donations have included: Sponsorship of an event or programs, card tables, flowers, plants, games and playing cards, a fax machine, art work, canvas shopping bags, refreshments and more. In 2003, the Hitching Post published a cookbook entitled “Recipes to Remember.” Each year, they donate the yearly proceeds from the sales of this cookbook to Reading Elder/Human Services. This year, we received the final donation of $238.00. Community Services Department Holiday Program Adopt-A-Family: Each year, Elder/Human Services coordinates the Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program which matches low income Reading families with confidential donors of food and gifts for children. Reading residents, businesses, out-of-town businesses that employ Reading residents, youth organizations, school groups, nursery schools, churches and municipal departments join together to make this program a success. This past year, 89 donor groups, families and individuals made donations of food and gifts to the Adopt-A-Family Program. Recipients Households Adults/Children Thanksgiving Food 43 75+86 = 161 Christmas Food/Gifts 53 86+110 = 196 COA Hot Meals: The Social Worker supplies the Council on Aging with a list of 30 seniors who would welcome a Thanksgiving meal and a visitor, and another 30 for around Christmas time. (This task is more difficult than it sounds as many seniors are uncomfortable accepting assistance.) The meals are purchased from Boston Market using Schroeder Funds and are delivered by COA Board Members. Christmas Gifts: The Social Worker gathers gift wishes from 25 seniors. The Young Women’s League purchases and wraps the gifts, and the Elder/Human Services’ staff delivers the gifts. Christmas Baskets: The Social Worker supplies the Wakefield Elks with a list of 10 seniors who would welcome receiving a basket of uncooked holiday food. Emergency Funds: The Division has two revolving funds. The Elder Services Revolving Fund covers emergency situations for persons age 60 and older who lack financial resources to cover basic needs or emergencies, and the Human Services Revolving Fund for persons under age 60 who lack financial resources for emergency situations. Council on Aging: During 2006, the Council on Aging experienced some changes. Marguerite Bosnian and Margaret Havey joined us as Board Members, and Charlie McDonald joined us as an Associate member. Richard Anderson and Dorothy Foxon resigned. Respectfully submitted, Dawn Folopoulos, Elder/Human Services Administrator Community Services Department MYSTIC VALLEY ELDER SERVICES Listed below is a detailed inventory and value of services delivered to Reading’s older residents by Mystic Valley Elder Services during the past year. I believe this accounting demonstrates in a concrete way how your local contribution assists us in returning a substantial amount of direct support to Reading. Without Reading’s assistance and that of the other seven participating cities and towns, Mystic Valley Elder Services would be unable to continue to provide the level of crucial supportive services currently available. I want to personally thank the Town of Reading for their continued support of MVES’s programs and services through good and bad economic times. We will always be there for the residents of Reading who need help at home. Respectfully submitted, Daniel J. O’Leary, Executive Director MYSTIC VALLEY ELDER SERVICES, INC. 19 RIVERVIEW BUSINESS PARK 300 COMMERCIAL STREET MALDEN, MASSACHUSETTS 02148 Title III-B (Social Services) and Title III-C (Nutrition Services) provided to Reading elders in Fiscal Year 2006 Title III-C Meals Value of Nutrition Program Served Services Home Delivered Meals 19,608 $62,100 Congregate Meals 4,962 $30,806 Site Managers (Wages/Benefits) $8,370 Home Delivered Meals Drivers $23,770 (Wages/Benefits) TOTAL TITLE III-C VALUE $125,046 Title III-Supportive Services Clients Total Value of Legal Services Served Value Services Greater Boston Legal Services, Inc. Total Cases/Consults 207 Total Reading Residents Served 8 Budget 10/05-09/06 $55,000 % in Reading = 13.5% 3.86% Reading's Cost (Budget x 3.86%) $2,126 Community Services Department Clients Total Value of Medical Transportation Served Value Services Total Residents Served 80 Total Reading Residents Served 1 Amount Spent on Reading Elders $1,353 Services to Blind Elders Massachusetts Association for the Blind Total Residents Served 83 Total Reading Residents Served 25 Budget 10/05 - 9/06 $7,000 % IN Reading = 3.6 30.12% Reading's Cost (Budget x 30.12%) $2,108 Minority Outreach Greater Boston Chinese Golden Age Center Total Residents Served 205 Total Reading Residents Served 1 Budget 10/05 - 9/06 $14,000 % in Reading = 3.6 0.49% Reading's Cost (Budget x .49%) Title III E Family Caregiver Program MVES Caregiver Support and Eldercare Advice Cost 10/05-09/06 $180,972 % in Reading = 26.53% 6.12% Reading's Cost (Budget x 6.12%) $11,076 Title III Health Promotions Title III Health Promotions Funding Subgrants for managing Osteoporosis and Arthritis Cost 10/05-09/06 $5,874 % in Reading = 19% 10.73% Reading's Cost (Budget x 10.73%) $630 Friendly Visitor Grants Awarded to Council on Aging during FY' 06 $2,597 Community Services Department Clients Total Value of Money Management Program Served Value Services Total Residents Served 58 Total Reading Residents Served 3 Budget 10/05 - 9/06 $29,205 % in Reading = 20.6% 5.17% Reading's Cost (Budget x 5.17%) $1,511 SHINE Program Total Residents Served 1543 Total Reading Residents Served 123 Budget 10/05 - 9/06 $107,254 % in Reading = 7.2% 8.0% Reading's Cost (Budget x 8.0%) $8,550 TOTAL OF TITLE III AND COMMUNITY $155,064 PROGRAM SERVICES PROVIDED TO READING ELDERS STATE HOME CARE PROGRAM $1,092,641 221 Reading residents received home care services for the year ending June 30, 2006. These services included intake and referral, case management, chore, transportation, social day care, adult day health, personal care, home health aides, laundry, personal emergency response, companionship, homemaker and respite care TOTAL SERVICES PROVIDED TO READING ELDERS $1,247,705 HEALTH DIVISION Public health continues to employ multiple scientific disciplines to improve and protect the well being of Reading citizens, and to protect the environment from pollution and damage. The staff employs medical science, epidemiology, zoonotics and toxicology to control the spread of communicable disease, food science to prevent food borne illness, individual health and more to promote a healthy community. Enforcement through Federal, State and local regulations ensure protection of the citizens and environment. Emergency preparedness involves all public health knowledge to plan and prepare the community for pandemic influenza. Every day, the Reading . Health Division staff employs these theories and methods to promote a Healthy CommunityBy these methods, the staff meets the goals created by the mission of the Board of Health. Community Services Department The Health Division, under the direction of the Board, develops programs and services to respond to emerging health issues. The accomplishment of these programs is done in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Environmental Protection, and multiple local agencies and collaboration with other Town Departments. The Board of Health (BOH) continued with a stable membership operating under the leadership of Barbara Meade as Chairman, Colleen Seferian as Board Secretary and Dr. David Mitchell Singer. The Board’s 2006 work encompasses wide and varied programs. The members actively reviewed the progress of building plans for multiple new developments. As a governing board, they reviewed housing issues, and met with landlords and tenants to assist in the enforcement of housing orders (105 CMR 410.000) issued by the Health Administrator. They assisted in the development of Reading Medical Response Volunteers, reviewed and issued recommendations to the Board of Selectmen on the water supply, the issuing of liquor licenses to food establishments, and the development of the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse. Members of the Board continue to update their knowledge and responsibilities for public health emergency response. The Health Division discontinued its role as liaison to the Substance Abuse Prevention Advisory Council following a dissolution of the SAPAC by the Board of Selectmen in the hope to revitalize the issue through a new coalition. The Board of Health Chairman and the Health Administrator participate in this coalition to assist the group in their focus on this major public health issue. Substance abuse is a major public health issue which affects the Nation, State and community. This has been the first year of the Reading Public Health News column printed weekly in the Reading Daily Times Chronicle. The information varies with the emerging public health issues, season and service. The Health Division has received many positive comments from the community regarding this public issue. The second effort by the Division has been the development of a fully operational Public Health webpage. Grant Funded Programs: Emergency Preparedness and the response to bio-terrorism has become a National, State and local focus to prepare for any manmade or natural disaster. The preparation for the Health Division has been extensive and continues to be a plan in motion (Reading belongs to Region #3b of the public health section of the Planning Council with North Reading, Lynnfield, Andover, North Andover, Methuen and Lawrence). At the Spring Town Meeting, an affirmative vote enabled the Board of Health to formalize a mutual aid agreement with the other six towns in the coalition. This mutual aid agreement allows the limited public health infrastructure to call on other communities for professional public health assistance. The Health Director, in the most southerly sector of the coalition, responded to the public health needs of the coalition affected by the May 2006 floods. 3b Coalition meets monthly preparing for regional and local emergencies. All communities would respond for an infectious disease outbreak such as Hepatitis A, anthrax exposure, smallpox, large scale food contamination, or a large chemical spill to lend staff and public health expertise to be used for purposes of triage, medicine dispensing and other operations. The coalition entered into the second year CDC grant cycle. Community Services Department This year, the focus is to increase response time to infectious disease outbreak focusing on pandemic flu. With the evidence and concern of Avian flu and the potential for a flu pandemic, planning now for this potential event is a major role and responsibility for the Health Division. The Administrator has trained multiple groups in pandemic flu preparedness over this last year. Mercury Collection Program: The Health Division continues to participate in a Mercury Collection Program through a grant with Covanta. Thermostats and fever thermometers are collected at the Health Division’s Office during working hours. This year, over 100 thermometers and five thermostats were collected. The Covanta Coordinator also met with all small businesses in Reading to discuss the proper disposal of fluorescent bulbs. The Reading program has existed for six years. Tobacco Control Program: Tobacco use remains the major cause of preventable lung cancer in the United States. Over the last 10 years, Reading has worked diligently to change this public health issue. Many behavior changes have occurred – smoke free restaurants and workplaces, licensing of tobacco vendors and a focus on smoking cessation. Without continued public health efforts, tobacco controls will disappear and cancer and emphysema rates will increase. Reading continues its efforts as a member of the grant funded Tobacco Coalition along with Andover, North Andover, Middleton, Lynnfield, North Reading, Methuen, Haverhill, Dracut, Stoneham, Newburyport and Haverhill. The Tobacco Control Program operates within the guidelines of a Massachusetts Department of Public Health grant. Andover is the fiscal lead for the project. The coalition grant funds provide for a Program Coordinator who completes quarterly compliance checks at all tobacco vendors. Reading establishments have done extremely poor this past year - 9% of the 24 vendors have sold to minors in 2006. This is not a good compliance record. In response, the enforcement regulations have been reviewed to increase fines and fees. The decrease in the grant funds has diminished the ability of the program to do any effective education programs. There appears to be a direct link with training, education and enforcement in decreasing tobacco sales to minors. Heavy fining, revocation of license to sell tobacco, and court appearances do not seem to affect the vendors in their response to the sale of tobacco to minors. Enforcement and education is a goal of the Board of Health for 2007. Reading Memorial High School continues to have three Administrators as agents of the Board of Health giving them the legal authority to issue non-criminal disposition tickets for adults and/or students caught smoking on school grounds. Environmental Services: Inspectional Services has completed 1,121 inspections. The Inspector responds to housing, food establishments, schools, noise, trash complaints, rodents, keeping of animals and unique complaint issues. Food inspections are completed on a routine schedule for all retail and food service establishments. The minimum standards are according to the Federal Food Code. Restaurant plan review for temporary food establishments, new restaurants and renovations were completed by the Health Administrator and Board of Health for 11 establishments. Also, the continuous inspections of the school projects, and the Reading Memorial High School were extensive and demanding. The Health Inspector is a certified pool operator and inspects two public indoor swimming pools and eight seasonal swimming pools. Massage therapy establishments (10), tanning establishments (5), all churches, nursing homes and private clubs are inspected. Twelve animal inspections and two kennels have been inspected with proper documentation sent to the State Department of Agriculture. The local and State regulations dealing with inspectional issues keep the community healthy through this diligent effort. Community Services Department The Health Administrator, as a certified Title 5 Inspector, has the authority to inspect individual subsurface waste (septic ) systems. Twenty four systems were inspected for abandonment to be connected to the Town sewer or inspected for repair. Education, the real estate market, and the law have influenced this number of repairs or Town sewer connections. Septic hauler trucks are licensed and inspected by the staff. The Indoor Ice Arena is licensed and inspected for proper air quality. Indoor Air Quality complaints are on an increase, responding to both public and private entities. The Massachusetts Environmental Bureau has been very responsive to the Town assisting in these very complex investigations. Annual and Temporary Licenses/Permits Issued 4,263 Inspections 1,121 Re-inspections 991 Complaint Response Inspections 98 # Fines Issued 52 ( $1,325) Other environmental issues handled by the Division include the annual Rabies Immunization Programs with the support of the local Veterinarian. Sixty six dogs and cats were immunized on one Saturday afternoon. This rabies immunization clinic is the prevention offered for the 1,600 registered dogs in the Town. The Town Clerk’s Office provided dog license registration at the clinic. The Health Division immunized one person against rabies after an animal bite. Well permits for both drinking water wells and irrigation wells are issued by the Board of Health. The Health Division worked with the Department of Public Works on the educational materials for the community regarding the MWRA water supply. The Medical Waste Program continues. We offer an exchange program for residents to dispose of all medical sharps (needles), and properly dispose of the containers through a medical waste disposal contract. The Division issued 226 burial permits. Public Health Nursing Service: 2006 has been the first full year in three years that the position of Public Health Nurse has been filled. This professional addition to the staff brings many clinics and other services back into full operational capacity. Blood pressure clinics are now run six times per month, cholesterol and glucose screening twice a month, and tuberculosis screening every Tuesday. The re-establishment of the Health Division immunization clinics and full referral services are back in operation. Four days per week, having a Nurse available to investigate in a timely manner the increase of communicable disease reports through investigation and to initial controls when appropriate is a public health necessity. The annual flu clinics immunized 2,120 citizens. There were also 150 homebound immunizations given by the Public Health Nurse to total the flu immunization at 2,270 in comparison to 2005 with 2,235 individuals immunized against seasonal influenza. One of the seasonal public clinics operated as an Emergency Dispensing Site to exercise the emergency response of public health for a pandemic flu response. The Center for Disease Control exercise was a grant award of Community Services Department $3,000 to initiate and carry out this exercise within a functional clinic setting. The Public Health Nurse has been an essential part of licensing 28 recreational Summer camps for children by review staff and campers’ immunization schedules totaling nearly 6000 forms. Public Health Nursing Services Statistics: Clinics 812 Communicable Disease Investigations 172 Immunizations 6,978 Referrals 130 Home visits 165 Training Presentations 6 Contractual Services: The Board of Health is a member of East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project. This program provides mosquito wetland surveillance, larval and adult mosquito control and public education. The heavy early Spring rains caused an increase in the numbers of mosquitoes early in the season. The volume and species of mosquitoes trapped in the five monitoring locations are collected and identified by the State Lab. The risk of the mosquito borne illness - Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) - increased in late Summer in northeast Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire causing increased calls and questions for the Health Division. The project responded in Reading by collecting and identifying mosquito species that may cause West Nile Virus or EEE in five different traps in Reading 30 times on 10 different nights. The mosquitoes were tested by the Massachusetts State Department of Public Health. In August, one trap indicated a small number of mosquitoes positive for West Nile Virus. Adult mosquito spray took place and continued monitoring of the traps and public education for mosquito protection were carried out by the Health Division. The traps showed a largevolume of mosquitoes with no disease carrying species. The control of adult mosquitoes is through larvacide bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bto) which is classified by EPA as relatively non-toxic. In April, there was a helicopter application of Bti over 1.5 acres wetland. To control adult mosquitoes, resmethrin was applied at night by truck mounted sprayers at 2,379 acres only when traps were surveyed and the spraying was indicated. Riverside Mental Health offers mental health counseling and substance abuse care for children, adolescents, adults and families who have limited financial resources and residents of Reading. In FY 2006, the agency offered $20,000 of free care to Reading residents. 1,040 mental health visits were provided by the agency for Reading residents - this is an increase of 140 visits from 2005. The agency has responded by request of the Health Division to assist in managing difficult situational crisis, and is part of the Board of Health emergency preparedness response plan. Eastern Middlesex Association of Retarded Citizens: (ARC of Middlesex East) serves 15 Reading citizens. The regional program offers training for the individuals to work at local businesses. The Health Administrator participates in quarterly Board Meetings to ensure that the Town’s needs are met. Community Services Department Dead Animal Disposal continues through contractual services. This contractual service prevents the transfer of disease such as rabies. In 2006, a total of 389 animals were removed from public ways and disposed of properly preventing the growth and spread of disease. Sealer of Weights and Measures is now a contractual program with the State Department of Consumer Affairs following the retirement of the Reading Sealer of Weights and Measures in January 2006. The State now assumes the responsibility of sealing 362 devices and 248 gasoline pumps to insure accuracy of delivery and supply to the consumer. Revenues for Calendar Year 2006: Grants $19,000 CDC, BT regional, tobacco regional, mercury regional Licenses/Permits $67,431 Citations $ 1,325 TOTAL $ 87,756 Respectfully submitted, Jane M. Fiore, Health Division Administrator THE ARC OF EAST MIDDLESEX Enclosed for your review is a detailed analysis of the number of individuals serviced during FY 2006 by The Arc of East Middlesex in Reading as well as the surrounding cities and towns. Program Statistics for FY 2006: Program Reading Other Total EMI Vocational 15 97 112 Recreation 94 278 372 Residential Range Heights Road, Lynn 4 4 Clifford Commons, Malden 6 6 Lebanon Street, Melrose 8 8 Main Street, Melrose 8 8 Haven Street, Reading 10 10 Hopkins Street, Reading 4 4 Pitman Drive, Reading 4 4 Newcomb Avenue, Saugus 4 4 Albion Street, Wakefield 6 6 Nahant Street, Wakefield 7 7 Spruce Street, Wakefield 4 4 Water Street, Wakefield 5 5 Independent/Supported Living 7 16 23 Total Residents 25 68 93 Community Services Department Income: For FY 2006, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts contributed approximately 79% of program expenses. The remainder came from the following sources: Client Rents and Fees 10% City and Town Support 4% EMI Vocational Income 2% Grants 2% Donations and Gifts 2% Miscellaneous Income 1% Total expenses for this period accounted for 98.67% of income. EMI Vocational Programs: East Middlesex Industries (EMI) provides workshop services and training as well as follow- up case management to clients placed in gainful employment worksites within the area. The goal of EMI is to provide individuals with the vocational skills and training to become independent, tax- paying members of their communities. Additionally, EMI provides vocational opportunities through the Center for Emerging Artists (CEA). Products produced by many of the individuals attending CEA are featured in several exhibitions in the area each year. Many items produced are for sale and the artists receive commission income for each piece sold. Recreational Programs: The Arc of East Middlesex provides recreational services throughout the year for children and adults with developmental disabilities. The funding to run these programs is raised through fundraising efforts and individual attendance fees. Although these programs are staffed by employees, not all of them could be run without the assistance of volunteers. Several dances are held throughout the year, and it should be noted that approximately 50 Reading residents have volunteered to assist in these very successful programs. Journey to Independence Program has proven to be a very successful program that teaches teens and young adults with developmental disabilities necessary skills such as personal health care, money handling, cooking, cleaning, employment, leisure and personal safety at an offsite location called the Real World House. This program operates on weekends and school vacations and provides a safe, fun, overnight learning environment for individuals to learn the skills they will need to succeed in the future. Residential Services: Residential services are currently provided at several sites throughout the area to 93 adults who have developmental disabilities. Residential programs are funded primarily by the Department of Mental Retardation (DMR). Room and Board fees charged to the residents are used to offset DMR funding. The goal of residential services is to provide individuals with an opportunity to live and participate in the local communities that we serve. Community Services Department Additional Services: Advocacy services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families Parent Resource Counseling Information and Referral Services Internships and Work Study Programs for students Various Support Groups Resource Library Family Education and Training Individual Centered Planning Supported Living Sib-Shop groups for siblings of individuals with developmental disabilities Home Away from Home temporary living arrangements Respite Services Partners in Play Recreational Programs Host agency for the Northeast Chapter of Mass. Families Organizing for Change (FOFC) Host agency for Building Community Bridges Family Resource Center Provided below are the details of the number of individuals serviced and the financial support received from the cities and towns for FY07 and the amounts requested for FY08. All support from these cities and towns includes both EMI Vocational support and Recreational Program support. Wakefield Stoneham Reading Melrose EMI Vocational 23 8 15 16 Recreation 92 48 94 72 Family Support* 98 78 128 175 FY07 Actual VOC $10,800 $6,666 $10,993 $8,460 FY07 Actual REC $7,200 $3,200 $5,000 $3,600 FY08 Request VOC $10,800 $6,800 $11,275 $8,500 FY08 Request REC $7,200 $3,200 $5,000 $5,000 * Provided for informational, comparison purposes only. The Arc of East Middlesex is grateful for the continued support that the Town of Reading has provided to its residents with developmental disabilities. We will be happy to provide any additional information you may require in connection with this statement. Respectfully submitted, Daniel C. Sheridan, Chief Financial Officer Community Services Department INSPECTIONS DIVISION The Inspections Division is responsible for carrying out inspectional services on commercial and residential construction in the areas of building, gas, plumbing and wiring. In addition, the Division is responsible for enforcing the Town’s Zoning By-Laws and providing staff to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Statistics: Year End 2006 Previous Year End 2005 Building Building Permits issued 907 814 Inspections 2,026 1,703 Fees received $346,909.55* $274,302.80* Occupancy Permits 193 249 Fees received $6,890* $8,450* Wiring Wiring Permits issued 680 661 Inspections 1,330 1,232 Fees received $42,082* $50,279* Plumbing/Gas Gas Permits issued 295 294 Gas Fees received $10,653* $7,895* Plumbing Permits issued 467 446 Plumbing Fees received $18,230* $15,405* Combined Inspections 1,352 1,183 Gas/Plumbing TOTAL FEES $417,874.55* $347,881.80* * Totals do not include permit fees for Walkers Brook Crossing, Johnson Woods and Archstone-Reading deposited in revolving building account. ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS The Zoning Board of Appeals met 19 times in 2006. The ZBA voted on 30 petitions for Variances, Special Permits and appeals. ZBA Members are Chairman Robert Redfern, Full Members Susan Miller, John Jarema, Paul Dustin and Michael Conway. Associate Members are Peter Tedesco and Clark Petschek. The Town Planner and the Commissioner of Buildings Glen Redmond provide primary support to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Community Services Department VETERAN’S SERVICES DIVISION The Veteran’s Services Division is responsible for the needs of all the veterans in the Town of Reading. It is the Veteran’s Services Officer to whom the unemployed, the indigent, the disabled, the ill, or veterans otherwise in need first apply for assistance. The Veteran’s Services Officer interviews the applicants, determines their eligibility, and then assists in filing for all available benefits, including the Massachusetts Chapter 115 Program for indigent veterans and their dependents. The Town of Reading receives 75% reimbursement from the State for all the money expended by the Town of Reading under Chapter 115. In addition, the Veteran’s Services Officer also assists our Town’s veterans with all applications for other State benefits such as tuition waivers, grants, student loans, annuities, bonuses, outreach centers, counseling and veteran’s license plates. The Veteran’s Services Officer also assists in processing applications for federal benefits, including service-related compensation, disability pensions, personal aid pensions, social security benefits, medical, education, employment, medals, death benefits and the retrieval of military records. The Veteran’s Services Division also works with other committees and departments to coordinate important public events such as the Veteran’s Day ceremony annually held on the Reading Town Common. The Reading Veteran’s Services Division Office hours are: Monday-Friday 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the telephone number is (781) 942-6652. Respectfully submitted, Lou Cimaglia, Veteran’s Services Officer DOWNTOWN STEERING COMMITTEE The Downtown Steering Committee is happy to report that the Downtown revitalization has been funded by Mass Highway, and the project should be out to bid in the Summer of 2007. If all goes well with the process, the project should be underway in early Spring of 2008. The job is projected to last two construction seasons at a cost of over $5 million. The Downtown Steering Committee holds its annual meeting in August. Respectfully submitted, Peter Simms, Chairman HISTORICAL COMMISSION The Historical Commission met approximately 40 times in 2006 in order to perform its duty to preserve the historic assets of the Town. The Commission’s work included regular meetings, special meetings, hearings and attendance at numerous meetings of the CPDC, ZBA, Conservation Commission, Board of Selectmen and Town Meeting. Community Services Department Accomplishments included saving a historic home from demolition, strengthening the Demolition Delay Bylaw, and offering important input on a wide variety of projects in the Town of Reading. The Commission also continued its tireless effort to convert historically important Town records to formats that may be accessed electronically. An amendment to the Demolition Delay Bylaw was presented by the Historical Commission at the Annual Town Meeting. The amendment passed and increased the delay period from six months to one year. The change will allow the Commission more time to work with owners of historic structures to find alternatives to their demolition. Three demolition delays were imposed during 2006, two under the six month delay, and one after passage of the amendment under the 12 month delay. Demolition of structures at 420 Franklin Street, 30-32 Elliot Street and 75 Pleasant Street were all delayed. The Emerson Barn on Pearl Street, however, was dismantled and moved to New Hampshire. The c. 1711 First-Period half-house at 420 Franklin Street was not only saved from demolition during the delay but, through the combined efforts of the Historical Commission and Conservation Commission, has had preservation restrictions placed on its Deed in perpetuity. In 2006, the Commission was approached for advice and worked with the community on various issues from updates and conversions to recognizing citizens and remembering the past. They included: Pierce Organ Factory, Boston Stove, the Old Hose House, signage on the Common, the new Veterans’ Wall at RMHS, a cemetery marker for a world-renowned chess player buried at Laurel Hill, a half dozen or more residential properties, the Library’s digitized postcard collection, and the streetscape design for the Downtown. A representative from the Commission is also working on the ad hoc committee exploring the Community Preservation Act. Members of the Historical Commission continued its work in the Town archives to make records available electronically, both to aid in its own research, and also to make the records more accessible to the public. Much of the data-entry from the Town Valuation Books was done by a senior citizen working under the Senior Property Tax Work Program. The Commission purchased a new scanner and printer for the archives to assist in this endeavor. Wilbar Hoxie served his final term on the Historical Commission, and did not seek re- appointment in June. Kathryn Greenfield was appointed by the Board of Selectmen as a voting member. The Commission elected a slate of new officers in June as well. Members at year end 2006 Associates at year end 2006 Kathryn M. Greenfield, Chair Karen Herrick Sharlene Santo Reynolds, Secretary Clayton Jones Roberta Sullivan, Treasurer Susan Patterson Virginia Adams Linda Tuttle Mark Cardono Respectfully submitted, Kathryn Greenfield, Chairman Community Services Department LAND BANK COMMITTEE During 2006, the Land Bank Committee provided assistance with identifying and documenting Town-owned property. The Committee provided the historical documentation to the Town Manager, Board of Selectmen, the Town Planner and GIS Coordinator. We provided documentation for the Town-owned Oakland Road property, and participated in the Oakland Road Walk and Talk on September 16, 2006. All Land Bank records were reviewed and located in the Town Vault at Town Hall. We look forward to working with the GIS Coordinator and the Assessor’s Department to coordinate all Town records into a single database for all Town Departments to utilize. There is still a position available for appointment to the Land Bank Committee. Respectfully submitted, Edward G. Smethurst, Chairman Daniel Blodgett, Secretary METROPOLITAN AREA PLANNING COUNCIL Created in 1963, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) promotes interlocal cooperation and advocates for Smart Growth by working closely with cities and towns, State and Federal agencies, non-profit institutions, and community-based organizations in the 101 cities and towns of Metropolitan Boston. MAPC strives to provide leadership on emerging issues of regional significance by conducting research, building coalitions, and acting as a regional forum for action. MAPC provides technical assistance and specialized services in land use planning, water resources management, transportation, housing, environmental protection, economic development, public safety, geographic information systems (GIS), collective purchasing, data analysis and research, legislative and regulatory policy, and the facilitation and support of interlocal partnerships. More information about MAPC’s services and ongoing activities is available at www.mapc.org. MAPC is governed by 101 municipal government appointees, 21 gubernatorial appointees, and 13 appointees of State and City of Boston agencies. An Executive Committee comprising 25 elected members oversees agency operations. The agency employs approximately 40 professional staff under the leadership of an Executive Director. Funding for MAPC activities is derived from governmental contracts and foundation grants, and a per-capita assessment on member municipalities. To better serve the people who live and work in Metro Boston, MAPC has divided the region into eight subregions. Each subregion is overseen by a council of local leaders and stakeholders, and a staff Coordinator provides organizational and technical staff support. Community Services Department Smart Growth Across Municipal Boundaries: MetroFuture: Making a Greater Boston Region MAPC’s initiative is planning for Metro Boston’s growth and development through 2030. In 2006, the project involved nearly 2000 people. ,” At more than 50 briefings, participants analyzed “Scenario 1: Current Trends to 2030 MetroFuture’s “base case” of what the region might look like if current trends continue. We also hosted two working sessions in June 2006 where participants designed alternatives to the “base case,” and two in December 2006 where participants chose the scenario they liked the best. In 2007, after additional public input and a May 1, 2007 Boston College Citizens Seminar, the project will complete a regional strategy to achieve the preferred scenario. MAPC assisted cities and towns in a variety of ways throughout 2006. The agency helped over 70 cities and town to rewrite Zoning By-Laws, evaluate Smart Growth uses for key parcels, keep traffic under control and expand transit, deal with crime and prepare for natural disasters. Massachusetts Smart Growth Alliance, As a member of the MAPC worked with six allied organizations to advocate for sustainable development throughout the Commonwealth. MAPC participated in a successful Alliance campaign to recapitalize and reform the State’s Brownfields Tax Credit, researched, analyzed and reacted to significant State land use and transportation policy proposals including Governor Romney’s 20-year Transportation Plan, and advanced research about the impact of sprawling development in Massachusetts. In partnership with the 495/MetroWest Corridor Partnership, MAPC produced the Massachusetts Low Impact Development Tool Kit , which presents state-of-the-art practices for Once is managing stormwater and increasing the recharge of water to aquifers. MAPC also produced Not Enough: A Guide to Water Reuse in Massachusetts, a manual that describes techniques for non-potable reuse of treated wastewater and provides case studies of several successful water reuse projects in Massachusetts. In partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, MAPC began work on a hydrologic modeling projectthat simulates the impacts of future development on the water resources of the Charles River and Assabet River watersheds. Getting Around the Region: In March 2006, MAPC sponsored a conference on the impact of transportation emissions on public health. The workshop began a process to build connections, raise awareness and stimulate action around the issue of air pollution adjacent to major roadways and rail corridors. The content and results of this workshop are available at www.mapc.org/air_quality. MAPC developed a Regional Bicycle Planin 2006 to assess current conditions, and to guide future improvements to bicycle transportation in the region. The plan reviews goals set in previous plans, and proposes six general goals and strategies for the region including encouraging more trips by bicycle in each community, working with State and Federal agencies to simplify and coordinate funding programs, and increasing regional knowledge about bicycling. The plan can be accessed at www.mapc.org/transportation/transportation_alternatives.html. A consistent complaint of bicyclists is the lack of parking. To address this need, MAPC worked with the MPO and EOT to develop the Regional Bike Parking Program. Under this program, MAPC negotiated discount group purchasing contractswith three leading vendors of bicycle parking equipment, funded through federal transportation funds. More information about MAPC’s bicycle and pedestrian planning activities, and the bike parking program is available at www.mapc.org/transportation/transportation_alternatives.html. Community Services Department Collaboration to Address Shared Municipal Challenges: MAPC, through its Metro Mayors Coalition, played a leading role in developing legislation to create a Statewide anti-gang initiative known as the Senator Charles E. Shannon Jr. Community Safety Initiative,which supports regional and multi-disciplinary gang and youth violence prevention and law enforcement efforts. MAPC coordinated Shannon grants totaling $1.2 million for 10 Metro Boston communities and seven Essex County communities. These communities used the funds to enhance public safety through targeted workforce development, after-school mentoring, re-entry initiatives, gang-prevention education and collaborative community policing. MAPC facilitated the work of the Municipal Health Insurance Working Group, which drafted and proposed landmark legislation to let cities and towns purchase their health insurance through the Group Insurance Commission. Collaboration for Safety: MAPC carries out fiduciary, planning and project management duties for the Northeast Homeland Security Regional Advisory Council (NERAC), a network of 85 cities and towns north and west of Boston. In 2006, NERAC distributed more than $1.5 million in emergency equipment and supplies to member communities, and trained hundreds of first responders in various roles in the United States Department of Homeland Security incident command system. In 2006, MAPC advanced Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) plansfor cities and towns throughout the region. These plans are designed to help communities reduce their vulnerability to damages due to natural hazards. The plans include an inventory of critical facilities and infrastructure in each community, a vulnerability analysis, and a mitigation strategy with specific recommended actions and projects that will protect the communities from future damages. Collaboration for Savings: MAPC’s Consortiums Projectadministered 37 procurement contracts for 42 municipal clients in 2006 saving cities and towns up to 20% on the purchases. As the administrator of the more than 300 member Greater Boston Police Council(GBPC), MAPC concluded seven procurement contracts for public safety, public works and general use vehicles. In all, 142 municipalities purchased 180 vehicles. MAPC staff also collaborated on procurements that advanced MAPC’s environmental and transportation objectives helping communities to buy bicycle racks, hybrid vehicles, and water leak detection services at a favorable cost. Charting a Course to Regionwide Prosperity: MAPC developed its annual Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy(CEDS), an assessment of current regional economic trends and conditions. The report includes background about trends and conditions in the regional economy, including a discussion about the relationship between the economy and factors such as geography, population, labor force, resources, and the environment. MAPC’s 2006Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy report can be downloaded at www.mapc.org/economic_development/comprehensive_economic.html. Community Services Department Tools to Improve Planning and Decision-Making: MAPC’s Metro Data Centerpartnered with The Boston Foundation to develop the MetroBoston DataCommon, a new online data and mapping tool for residents and leaders in the region. The resource, which helps individuals to create customized maps and charts, is available at www.MetroBostonDataCommon.org. The Data Center partnered with MAPC’s Legislative Committee to advocate for the establishment of a Statewide population estimates programat the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute. The program, funded at $100,000 in the FY 2007 Budget, lays the foundation for the Commonwealth to analyze census estimates in a more robust way. MAPC's Geographic Information Systems(GIS) Lab provides professional services and products, and technical assistance in support of local and regional planning projects. In 2006, MAPC’s GIS team completed extensive projects for the Northeast Homeland Security Regional Advisory Council (NERAC) region, and maps associated with the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program, both of which are described above. The GIS Lab also made major contributions to the MetroBoston DataCommon and the MetroFuture planning project. The Lab also began mapping areas suitable for economic development throughout the region in accordance with smart growth principles. In 2006, MAPC transitioned from a paper to an electronic newsletter, the Regional Record which is distributed quarterly, provides updates on the latest regional projects and thinking, and provides opportunities for residents and communities to get involved in various events. People interested in receiving the e-newsletter can send their e-mail addresses to contactinfo@mapc.org. On Beacon Hill: 2005 – 2006 Legislative Session: Brownfields Redevelopment The Legislature recapitalized the Brownfields Redevelopment Fund with $30 million, and extended and enhanced the Brownfields Tax Credit so that non-profit development projects can raise equity by selling the credit to taxable entities. Expedited Permitting The Legislature passed a law to expedite permitting of commercial/industrial developments in “priority development sites” designated by cities and towns. In part as a result of MAPC’s advocacy, the new law includes funding for technical assistance to municipalities, development of a Statewide expedited permitting model, and criteria to steer priority development sites toward Smart Growth locations. GIS Data Layer MAPC successfully advocated for $400,000 in the FY 2007 Budget to update and improve the quality of Mass GIS data linking aerial photographs to land uses on the ground. Statewide Population Estimates Program MAPC led the advocacy effort to establish a Statewide population estimates program at the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute. The program was funded at $100,000 in the FY 2007 Budget. Shannon Community Safety Initiative The Legislature created a new $11 million grant program to encourage the creation of regional, multi-disciplinary initiatives to combat gang violence, youth violence and substance abuse. Sewer Rate Relief The Legislature included $25 million in the FY 2007 Budget for water and sewer rate relief, which will help lower costs for residential consumers and businesses served by sewer districts including the MWRA. Community Services Department Surplus Land Both the House and Senate passed legislation to reform the State’s surplus land disposition policy. Both bills included an assignable municipal right of first refusal to purchase the parcel at a discount, a professional Smart Growth review for larger parcels, a Surplus Land Coordinating Council to oversee disposition, and a municipal share of 10% - 25% of proceeds in instances where the municipal right of first refusal is not exercised. Unfortunately, the Conference Committee did not advance the bill to final passage but significant progress was made setting the foundation for the 2007-08 legislative session. North Suburban Planning Council (Burlington, Lynnfield, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, Wakefield, Wilmington, Winchester, Woburn) The North Suburban Planning Council began 2006 with a briefing on MetroFuture Scenario 1. This presentation gave the members an opportunity to react to the current trends scenario, and to become more knowledgeable about the MetroFuture project. During the course of the year, NSPC received regular briefings on the progress of the project and members helped to publicize the working sessions that were held in December. NSPC communities were represented at the Danvers working session as well. The major areas of concern in transportation planning were the annual review of the TIP and the UPWP as well as NSPC representation on the MPO. Members also had an opportunity to hear about MAPC’s work on creating a parking tool kit. NSPC was the “host” subregion for the May Council Meeting which was held in Burlington. Over the course of several months, NSPC developed a slideshow and two presentations for the Council meeting. The slideshow illustrated many of the development issues that the subregion faces, and the presentations by Burlington and Wilmington focused on creative solutions to these challenges with a Smart Growth approach. Two major development issues were also highlighted this year - mixed-use zoning and Chapter 40R. MAPC presented an overview of the mixed-use zoning toolkit that is available on the website. Based on member interest, the November meeting was a panel discussion of Chapter 40R that brought together consultants and communities to share their experiences with 40R. The two key environmental issues that were addressed were peak season water demand management, and the natural hazard mitigation planning grant. Seven NSPC communities chose to participate in the regional grant to develop natural hazard mitigation plans. This planning effort got underway in July. Respectfully submitted, Marc D. Draisen, Executive Director Metropolitan Area Planning Council READING HOUSING AUTHORITY “Equal Housing Opportunity” 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive Reading, MA 01867 (781-944-6755 From the Chair: It is with great pleasure that I share with you the activities and accomplishments of the Reading Housing Authority over the past year. The start of the new year has seen a continued growth in our economy and somewhat stabilized but nonetheless high values in real estate. The pressure on the real estate market has continued to create a critical challenge for poor and lower income families to find, keep and maintain their housing. As the real estate values escalated over the past few years, it was certainly felt most dramatically at the low-income levels. Rental units had been at a greater premium in this area; however, we continue to see an increase in availability. Previously, landlords had been able to ask for and receive high rents which historically prices the poor and lower income families out of the rental market. Again, we are beginning to see a slight change in the rental market area with increase inquiries from landlords who are experiencing more difficulty renting units. The Reading Housing Authority (Authority) strives to assist these families to seek and obtain housing that is decent, safe and sanitary. In an effort to ameliorate this impact, the Authority continues its efforts to develop new units and purchase affordable units when the opportunity arises. The Authority is moving forward with its plans to expand affordable housing by building a four-unit structure on a present site and possibly renovating a two family structure. That process has been extremely slow. We continue to support private developers and the Town in their efforts to set aside units for low/moderate income families in their proposed developments. We reach out to owners of multi-family units who would like to work with us to serve our clients. As always, the Authority goes beyond the bricks and mortar and provides assistance to families, elderly and handicapped persons to obtain the services they need. We work closely with Mystic Valley Elder Services and other home care agencies to meet the needs of the elderly residents as they strive to remain independent and age in place. With budget cuts affecting all of us, we strive to maintain our programs, work with other supportive agencies and still offer a safe and decent place for our seniors, disabled and families in need. On behalf of the Board, we want to thank Executive Director Lyn Whyte and her staff for their continued dedication, commitment and service to the Reading Housing Authority. We look forward to working with them as we meet the new challenges that lie ahead. Respectfully submitted, Diane Cohen, Chair Reading Housing Authority Organization: Organized in 1963 to address the housing needs of the Town’s low and moderate income residents, the Reading Housing Authority (Authority) is “a public body politic and corporate” duly organized and authorized by Massachusetts General Laws (MGL), Chapter 121B, s.3. The Authority receives it funds from the State and Federal government to assist our clients with their housing needs. Although the Authority does not receive any local funding, five unpaid Reading residents compose the Board of Commissioners. Four of these board members are appointed by the Board of Selectmen and one is the Governor’s appointee. Each member serves for a five year term. The Board is responsible for the overall operation of the Authority. The day to day responsibility is delegated to the Executive Director. The Board meets regularly and has scheduled their monthly meetings for the first Monday of each month. The Annual Meeting of the Board is currently scheduled for the month after the Selectmen make their annual appointment of a Board member. Currently, the Board Members and their term of office are as follows: Diane Cohen Chair and State Appointment 51 Redgate Lane Term expires 5/03/2011 Timothy J. Kelley Vice-Chair 84 Woburn Street Term expires 6/30/2009 Mary Connors Treasurer and Tenant Representative 52 Sanborn Street Term expires 6/30/2007 John A. Coote Assistant Treasurer 332 Summer Ave Term expires 6/30/2008 Karen L. Flammia Member 19 Vista Avenue Term expires 6/27/2010 Lyn E. Whyte Secretary and Executive Director 41 Shore Road, Saugus Administrative Staff: The Board contracts an Executive Director who manages the day-to-day operations of the Authority. Within State and Federal guidelines and other budgetary limits, the Executive Director hires the supporting staff necessary to achieve the goals and responsibilities of the Authority’s programs. The Executive Director Lyn Whyte is in a five-year contract that expires August 29, 2010. Reading Housing Authority Administration: Lyn E. Whyte Secretary and Executive Director Catherine Sutherland Office Manager Kathleen Rolli Federal Program Coordinator & Assistant Executive Director Michelle Hudzik State Program Coordinator Karin Keyser Family Resource Coordinator for Section 8 FSS Resident Service Coordinator for State Programs Maintenance: Frank Veglia Maintenance Supervisor Joseph Costello Maintenance Staff Kevin Boyle Maintenance Staff Supportive Services Affiliations: Home Care: Jacqueline Carson Sanborn Home Care Director Daniel J. O’Leary Director, Mystic Valley Elder Services Dawn Folopoulos Town of Reading, Elder Services Administrator Financial Institutions: Reading Cooperative Bank Massbank BankNorth Mass. Municipal Deposit and Trust – State Street Bank Affiliations: National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) Massachusetts Chapter of National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (MassNAHRO) New England Regional Council of National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NERC/NAHRO) Section 8 Administrators Association North Shore Housing Executive Directors’ Association (NSHEDA) Adult Literacy Committee of Reading/Wakefield YMCA Consultants: Accountants: Fenton, Ewald & Associates Legal: John L. Greco, Esq. & DHCD Legal Counsel, Lori McBride Reading Housing Authority Contractors: Hiltz Waste Disposal Woodbury Electrical Wilwerth Plumbing John’s Sewer & Pipe Cleaning Viking Oil Company Powers Plowing Service Roberto Bros. Landscaping Atlas Alarm Automatic Laundry Home Depot Maintenance: We do it all – from the beautiful paint job to the new appointments before you move into your new apartment. The maintenance staff meets the challenges on every occasion and has done an excellent job. With the four seasons here in New England, maintenance has to be ready to take it all in stride. They do the Spring clean-up and plantings, the Summer mowing, watering, weeding and trimming, the Fall leaf pick-up and Winter’s snow and ice removal. The maintenance staff works tirelessly to keep our developments looking beautiful. We have been lucky enough to have the assistance of the Work Release Program from the Middlesex Sheriff’s Department. They have been exceptional in the work that they have done with our landscaping and painting projects. These programs are cost effective and have become a critical component to maintaining our properties. During the course of this past year, this program enabled us to paint the interior of State elderly community room and administrative offices, and the interior of one of our additional homes that are part of our RHA owned properties. We also upgraded the kitchen, bathrooms and flooring in that home as well. This project changed the look of these properties and it greatly enhanced their appearances. Additional plans are already scheduled to refurbish the interior hallways within the elderly development fondly known as Tannerville as well as extend the kitchen area of the resident community room at Frank D. Tanner Drive in the Spring and Summer of 2007. The Authority is responsible for 108 individual units located on 10 different sites. It is no easy task to keep each one looking in its top form. The maintenance staff is also responsible for the daily work orders and any emergency work that has to be done. The Authority has an extensive preventative maintenance program for all major components and has a cyclical paint schedule for all units. 2006 Grants Received: Each year, the Authority applies for several grants to improve our properties and better serve our residents and the community. Included in this year’s awards were: Modernization of State Housing: No funding available. Supportive Services Grant – HUD: Funding for our Family Self-Sufficiency Program Coordinator unfortunately expired on March 31, 2005 with no additional funding presently available. We will, however, continue to apply for potential funding. Reading Housing Authority Supportive Services Grant – State: Funding of Resident Service Coordinator to address elderly/non-elderly needs for Frank D. Tanner Drive residents was approved; however, it is now categorized as an administrative expense. Audits: The Authority has a single audit of all programs by an independent auditor each year. Walsh & Associates, PC of Concord, MA were engaged to perform the latest review of the Authority’s programs for fiscal year end June 2006. The audit was completed in December 2006 and final submissions expected to be completed by mid-January 2007. The Authority had no findings or additional recommendations as a result of this latest audit. The Authority’s financial position is adequate to meet the needs of the operation and development of the programs and we are fortunate to maintain a retained revenue agency status. Management Review: The Authority has had a current Management Review done of all State programs. The Asset Managers from the State’s Department of Housing and Community Development reviewed all the operations of the State programs to insure compliance in the daily operation of the Authority’s budget, occupancy, administration, maintenance, services and tenant participation. The Authority received an excellent review with minor comments. In regard to our federal program, the Authority submitted its annual Section 8 Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) reports for fiscal year end June 2005 to HUD for review and subsequent scoring. The purpose of SEMAP is to measure public housing authority performance in key areas of the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program management. It is a tool used by HUD to effectively monitor and assist PHA’s. It is our pleasure to report that the Reading Housing Authority received an overall score of 86% for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2005. As a result of this score, the Authority is designated by HUD as a “standard performer” with credit going to Section 8 Program Coordinator Kathy Rolli for her continued efforts in administering an ever-changing federal program. We will not submit additional SEMAP reports until Fiscal Year June 2007. These assessments are now performed every two years for an agency of our size per latest HUD changes. State Programs: The Authority currently manages the three programs under the State’s Department of Housing and Community Development: 667 Housing (elderly/handicapped housing); 705 Housing (Family housing); 689 Housing (Special Needs Housing). All of our wait lists are open at the present time. We encourage applicants to apply for our elderly/handicapped (667) housing and our State family developments by contacting the Housing Authority at (781) 944-6755. Reading Housing Authority Housing for Elderly/Handicapped Persons (667): 80 units Frank D. Tanner Drive Complex Eligibility: 60 years of age or disabled Income: 1 person - $46,300 2 persons - $52,950 Housing for families (705): 6 units Waverly and Oakland Road (six 3BR units) 4 units Pleasant and Parker Street (two 2BR units, one 3BR unit, one 4BR unit) Eligibility: Family of two or more depending on bedroom size Income: 2 persons - $52,950 6 persons - $76,750 3 persons - $59,550 7 persons - $82,050 4 persons - $66,150 8 persons - $87,350 5 persons - $71,450 Federal Programs: The Authority manages 125 subsidies for persons of very low income under the Federal Section 8 Program. Currently, the RHA participates in a centralized waiting list administered by the MASSNAHRO organization. Applications for this wait list are available at the administration office building at 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive in Reading. The income limits are: Section 8 Rental Assistance: Income limits: 1 person – $29,450 5 persons - $45,400 2 persons - $33,650 6 persons - $48,800 3 persons - $37,850 7 persons - $52,150 4 persons - $42,050 8 persons - $55,500 RHA-Owned Properties: The Authority presently owns and manages 18 family units located in various locations throughout the Town of Reading. We continue to pursue opportunities to expand low income housing units within the Town whenever possible. Plans are now in development and bid stages to add four three-bedroom units to our present housing stock. Reading Housing Authority Applications Elderly/Handicapped Housing (667): The Authority manages 80 one-bedroom units of housing for elderly/handicapped persons at our Frank D. Tanner Drive complex in Reading. To qualify for this housing, a single person or couple must meet the eligibility guidelines and be 60 years of age or older or handicapped.The Authority sets aside 13.5% of these units for non-elderly handicapped persons. The wait list is currently open for all seniors 60 years of age and older. We encourage Reading residents to apply and are making special outreach efforts to elderly of minority representation. The 13.5% non-elderly handicapped requirement has been fulfilled but applications are still being accepted for our wait list. Non-elderly applicants will be served after the Authority has placed all qualified applicants if the 13.5% requirement has been met. You may obtain an application at the office of the Authority, 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive, Reading, MA 01867. Family Housing – State (705): The Authority operates the State’s Family Housing Program with two different developments. The first family housing development that was built by the Authority is located at Oakland and Waverly Roads and is called Waverly Oaks. There are six 3-bedroom units. This wait list is currently closed. Although, the wait list was officially closed as of December 31, 2006, we do plan to reopen the wait list in January, 2007. This opening would be advertised in the local paper, and we would notify area churches, human service agencies and any local veterans’ agencies. Section 8 Federal Housing Assistance Program: Currently, the wait list for our Section 8 Program is open. We now participate in the centralized wait list program initiated in December 2002 and administered by Mass NAHRO. Applications are available at our administrative office or online at www.mnahro.org. An application can be downloaded from that site and submitted to any agency participating in the centralized wait list program. There are currently over 50 member agencies taking part in that joint process. The State maintains a wait list for its programs through the Metropolitan Boston Housing Program (MBHP). Anyone seeking an emergency application should contact MBHP at (800) 272- 0990 to obtain an application. The local area service agency for emergency applicants is Community Service Network. You may contact them at (781) 438-1977. Summit Village First Time Homebuyers Program: The Authority continues to oversee the maintenance of the wait list for qualified and eligible applicants for the affordable units at Summit Village through the First Time Homebuyers Program. We presently have nine potential buyers on our wait list. During the past year, no affordable unit was made available and subsequently sold at an affordable price to a family on our wait list. The “affordable” owners must have a fair market appraisal done, the Authority reviews the appraisal and, if accepted, provides the owner with the maximum resale price for the affordable unit. If the owner has a friend who would be eligible and income-qualified, then the Authority reviews their qualifications and provides them with an “Eligible Purchaser Certificate.” If the owner wishes to select an applicant from the wait list, the Authority would send the next available and eligible buyer’s name to the owner to negotiate the sale. Reading Housing Authority Interested applicants may pick up applications packets at the Town Clerk’s Office at Town Hall, at the Reference Desk at the Reading Public Library, or at the office of the Reading Housing Authority, 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive. When making an application, a $10.00 fee made payable to the “Reading Housing Authority” must be included along with all pertinent documentation. If the family applying for the affordable unit is headed by two-persons, both parties must execute the application as applicant and co-applicant. Income from all family members age 18+ is included in family income for eligibility. However, if the income of one of these persons is from a dependent (not spouse) who is a full-time student, then a deduction for out of pocket expenses for books, tuition, fees and/or travel is allowed. Documentation from the school must be provided and verification for employment and expenses must be provided with the application. All persons must sign a “Release of Information” to have their documentation verified by the Authority. Highlights of the program are: First Time Homebuyer Cannot have owned a home within the last three years, divorced persons cannot currently own home but three year restriction is excused. Maximum Family Income Currently, the maximum family income cannot exceed 80% of FY 2006 Medium Family Income presently set at $84,100 (effective 3/08/06) for all persons in the family from all sources (wages, interest, dividends, etc.) Family Housing The two bedroom units must have a minimum family size of two persons. The maximum number of persons that can qualify for a two bedroom unit would be four persons. The three bedroom units must have a minimum of three persons with two being minor children living in the household. The maximum number of persons that would qualify for a three bedroom unit would be six persons. Affordable Price The affordable price is based on a 20% discount from the current fair market appraisal of the unit, which must be verified by the Authority. Deed Restriction Anyone wishing to purchase an “affordable” unit should be aware that a permanent deed restriction would be recorded with their deed. This restriction states that the unit must be sold to a qualified and eligible purchaser at a 20% discount from the fair market value as approved by the Reading Housing Authority. Reading Housing Authority Single Persons Applications are accepted from single family households but persons on the single person wait list will be chosen only after all the eligible family applicants have been served. Local Preference Applicants from the Town of Reading are given preference over other applicants if their application is made on the same day. This local preference is given if a person is employed in the Town of Reading, has a business or enterprise in Reading which has been established for one or more years, if they are parents of a school child in Reading, persons who were residents of Reading for five or more years. Conclusion: The Reading Housing Authority is proud to provide this information to you. Anyone interested in obtaining an application for elderly/handicapped housing should contact the authority at 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive or by calling the office at (781) 944-6755. Please look in the local papers for the opening of our family wait list for the State 705 Program and the Federal Section 8 Rental Assistance Program. READING PUBLIC LIBRARY In 2006, Reading citizens borrowed 380,293 books, magazines, CD’s, tapes and videos from the Library! That makes the Reading Public Library the busiest Library in its population group in the Northeast Region. Number of books circulated per capita 18 16.42 16 14 13.04 12.73 12.37 11.46 12 11.09 10 8.95 8.25 Signing up for Summer Reading 2006 8 6.07 5.35 6 4.84.81 3.35 We also set new records for children’s 4 2 program attendance and for teacher deposits. 0 ry sty ddnmgnm d t e r erld laonr l e aeee t rue o etis v idie fghbl f vab he Children's Program attendance naen ev o ne Sa ec neka E inW Be lmu yRa boD oP L rW lt aiSl W G M 16992 Data source: Mass. Board of Library Commissioners 15860 While circulation has increased 24% since 2001, the volume of interlibrary loan activity has quadrupled in the same five years, to 6762 6535 6455 6417 6105 5147 5090 49,886 books borrowed or loaned to Reading 3948 3904 2818 2305 residents. srt dmyy dngm dn t e r aerl lonld r eeee at u reo eti s i divel fghb fva eb h ae nn nevo e a ecS neka iE nW Be lmu y Ra boD oP LW rt l i aSl Interlibrary Loan Activity WG M Reading is first in the Region in the number of children coming to programs (16,992 in 2006) 49,866 45,339 and in the number of children participating in 40,206 the Summer Reading Club! 33,591 26,524 13,264 200120022003200420052006 Number of Books Children’s Services increased to meet greater demand in 2006 as 1,236 children signed up for the popular Summer Reading Club: Get a Clue @ The Library! Success with Gingerbread Houses! Reading Public Library Children’s Services Saturday chess and afterschool Dance Dance Revolution for Kids met the needs of busy parents and active students. The Summer Program, “Get a Clue @ the Library” motivated 1254 students to read over 18,000 hours and kept them busy solving a real-life Children’s Room mystery! 2006 was a great year for outreach from the Library. Children’s librarians frequently visited all the elementary schools, and signed up teachers for special “teacher cards.” This resulted in 149 deposit collections of RPL books at the schools to help students and augment school resources. The Public Library supported many school projects this year, including the Mass. Children’s Book Awards Program, numerous author visits and Read Across America, and hosted two elementary art displays to the delight of the students and their families. Reading Times Chronicle Photo Making space for materials (and people) was a big challenge this year. Librarians moved collections into halls and up and down stairs, added shelving, and worked with the Facilities Department to assist in remedial repairs resulting from flooding Spring rains. Some cozy new reading corners were created in the Children’s Room with upholstered chairs and creative tables generously donated by local businesses and friends. We added new programs to meet particular needs of parents and older elementary students. Extra lapsit programs for children under two and their parents brought the number of programs for pre-schoolers to 200. Storytimes and singalongs for this age group foster the love of language and stories in children from 0-six years of age. Especially in our Lapsits for ages 0-two, librarians helped caregivers learn the basics of early literacy and what they can do to best help their children develop good reading skills in the future. Reading Public Library Teen Services Young Adult librarians visited the middle schools again in June and introduced “We Got Game,” the teen Summer Reading Program to 1000 students. 142 teens participated in Summer activities including the Summer Reading Program, and the perennially popular Volunteen program which requires at least ten hours per teen of volunteer service to the Library. Noted Young Adult Author Doug Wilhem As a cooperative initiative between the Reading Public Library’s Young Adult Department and Reading Public Schools, author Terry Trueman visited the High School New this Summer were DDR (Dance Dance in March. Reading Public Library Young Revolution) evenings, and free movies with Doug Adult Librarians coordinated Author book tie-ins. Teens discovered more avenues Wilhelm ’s successful visit to Reading in for remote access to the Library this year as April. Mr. Wilhelm gave lectures and writing the Library made school reading lists and lots workshops at both middle schools and an of interesting news items available through the evening presentation at the Library. Teen Page on our website. As the year concluded, 23 young people applied to be “NetGuides” – volunteers who assist with computer classes and work individually with members of the public to help them learn to use computers and specific software programs at the library. We look forward to beginning their training and putting them to work in 2007! Reading Public Library Grants Live Wires : Libraries have always been centers for lifelong learning and discovery, and as baby boomers age, more emphasis is being placed on targeted LiveWires programs for people ages 55 and up. : for Boomers and Beyond was launched in November 2006 with grant funding and has been a huge success! Every month, there are informational programs, book and movie discussions, and special guest lecturers. The grant also provides funds to purchase books and audio visual materials designed to engage mid-life and older adults in creative and exciting exploration of their next life stage. Community Languages: In the final year of this grant, the Library finished acquiring ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) audiobooks, videos, CD’s, newspapers, magazines and books. Also included in the new collections are reading, listening and viewing materials in Chinese, Hindi and Spanish. The new additions are circulating well and are important to people who wish to continue to read things in Chinese, Hindi or Spanish; to share their first language with their families; or to learn English or improve their English LINKS Online @ the Library: Another federally pronunciation. The small but important funded grant is helping educators, students and collection also sends an important message to laypeople alike understand and appreciate all the members of the Reading community that the electronic resources available to them from a Library is here for all! computer anywhere just by using their Library card! Reference librarians are showing teachers, parents and groups of students how to look up and authenticate all kinds of information for every day use, and for classroom instruction, research and homework assignments. Online resources include everything from general interest magazines and newspapers to encyclopedia articles, corporate profiles and indexes, scientific and historical periodicals, to general health, parenting, consumer and topical subjects. WOW! Library has several MP3 players available for On the last Wednesday evening of June, the borrowing to listen to one of the 1700 Library celebrated the reopening on Wednesday audiobooks, including multiple copies of the WO evenings till 9:00 p.m. with a e’re pen latest bestsellers, complete language learning W ednesdays! Party. We scooped 300 cups of courses, and favorite children’s and young adult ice cream for sundaes, enjoyed music in the titles. main room, listened to Summer stories for all ages, and played several rounds of Book Bingo for fun. The Library Trustees appreciate the support of the Town in bringing back this important evening of service that resulted from budget cuts in 2001, and look forward to the reinstatement of service on Thursday mornings and Sunday afternoons. Local History: In 2006, with funding from the Celebration Trust Committee, the Henry “Spud” Murphy Postcard collection was digitized and added to the catalog. Rare and unique photos and hand-colored images of Reading are now readily accessible for the first time online from any location. Local History efforts continue into 2007 as we seek grant funding for additional digitization and cataloging projects. Listen Up Reading! The Library introduced a brand new service in November to make downloadable audiobooks available to Reading Public Library cardholders for the first time. Within the first three months, 280 audiobooks were checked out onto MP3 players. The Reading Public Library Dedications: In Spring, Summer and Fall 2006, we planted trees and dedicated a new bench in memory of Library friends. In Memory of Dorothy Stratton Williams, Teacher at Highland School Three Cherry Trees to honor Bruce Hitchcock, Library Friend Magnolia on the East Lawn in Memory of Sally McDonald, Reference Librarian Reading Public Library Reading Public Library Board of Trustees William Anthony David P. Hutchinson Susan Hopkins Axelson, Vice Chairman Karyn Storti, Chairman Karen Brown Victoria V. Yablonsky Reading Public Library Reading Public Library Personnel Director – Ruth S. Urell Assistant Director – Elizabeth Dickinson Technical Secretary – Nancy Smethurst Reference Division Division Head – Lorraine Barry Adult and Elder Services Librarian – Nancy Aberman Local History Librarian – Rachel Baumgartner Young Adult Librarians – Susan Beauregard, Amy Lannon Promotional Services Librarian – Kathleen Miksis Reference and Techie Librarian - Andrea Mercado Storyteller and Reference Librarian – Eileen Barrett Technical Services Division Head – Jamie Penney Senior Library Associate – Allison DaSilva Senior Technician – Candace Ralto Pages – Mary DeSisto Matthew O’Donnell Circulation Division Division Head – Michelle A. Filleul Carol Macomber Technicians – Dawn Didham Colford Patrice A. O’Donnell Maureen Conwell Christine Rutigliano Mary Ellen Downey Danielle Kimerer, Ann Skladany Madeleine Gillis Pages – Susan R. Haggerty Nancy Hunt Neftali Gonzalez Mary Kraft Amy Saw Lisa Li Children's Division Division Head – Corinne Fisher Children's Librarians – Brenda Wettergreen, Rachel Baumgartner, Ashley Waring Library Associate – Mary McIntire Pages – John Joyce Meaghan F. Kinton Judy A. Newton Stephen Penney Custodian – John Davis Reading Public Library Reading Public Library Foundation, Inc. Officers: John Brzezenski, President Neil Cohen, Vice-President Bill Hecht, Secretary Amy Coumounduros, Treasurer Friends of Reading Public Library Officers: President: Lynne Freeman Treasurer: Beth Klepeis Secretary: Shari Therrien Membership: Sharon Grottkau FIRE DEPARTMENT The Reading Fire Department is responsible for fire suppression, fire prevention, the emergency medical system and emergency management. The trend for an increased demand for our services has continued in the year 2006. This year, we experienced a significant increase in major structure fires. Of the 67 reportable fires we responded to, 10 were significant fires that required mutual aid assistance from neighboring communities. World events have impacted our Emergency Management System. The emergency management function identifies hazards to the community. Plans are then developed and tested to create a coordinated response to any type of disaster in the community. This Department is also responsible to coordinate and apply for all reimbursement for State and Federal disaster declarations. This year, the Town of Reading received a $171,369 reimbursement from FEMA for flood damage incurred to public buildings during the rainstorms of May 14, 2006 through May 16, 2006. The Reading Fire Department provides emergency medical care and treatment at the Advanced Life Support level (ALS) to sick and injured patients. This is the highest level of pre-hospital care available. This year, we completed our three year “start up phase” agreement with the Department of Public Health Office of Emergency Medical Services. In 2006, the high volume of construction continued and this has placed a strain on the administrative areas of the Department. This development is occurring in residential properties, commercial properties and the High School project. The Insurances Service Office (ISO) has completed an analysis of the Town of Reading’s structure fire suppression delivery system. Based upon that analysis, the ISO has raised the Town of Reading’s Fire Protection Rating from a Class 4 to a Class 3. The successful increase of the Town of Reading’s ISO rating completes a two year project. Emergency Activity: In 2006, this Department responded to 4,178 incidents. A brief overview of emergency activity reveals the following: 53 structure fires, 14 vehicle fires, 52 outside fires and 8 Hazardous Materials incidents. The Department responded to 1,997 requests for emergency medical treatment and transported 985 patients. Of the patients transported, approximately 50% required Advanced Life Support treatment. Below are some examples of the incidents that the Department responded to in 2006: On Monday, January 16, 2006, a structure fire broke out at 1349 Main Street at 2:20 a.m. When fire crews arrived on the scene, heavy fire was visible throughout 50% of the building. Three alarms were struck to bring in sufficient fire crews to extinguish the blaze. Firefighters from North Reading, Stoneham, Wilmington, Wakefield, Woburn and Winchester assisted. Due to the low temperatures and the icy conditions, this was a very difficult fire. On Tuesday, January 17, 2006, a structure fire was discovered at 20 Woburn Street at 6:25 a.m. When firefighters arrived on the scene, the second and third floors were involved in fire. Three alarms were struck to bring in sufficient fire crews to extinguish the blaze. Firefighters from North Reading, Lynnfield, Wakefield, Woburn, Stoneham and Burlington assisted. Fire Department On Wednesday, February 15, 2006 at 9:15 a.m., a structure fire was discovered at 287 Main Street. Two alarms were struck to bring in additional Firefighters from Stoneham and Wakefield. On Friday, March 10, 2006 at 11:38 p.m., a structure fire was reported for 93 Pine Ridge Road. When Firefighters arrived on the scene, fire was visible on the first floor, second floor and exterior wall of the home. Three alarms were struck to bring in sufficient fire crews to extinguish the blaze. Firefighters from Wakefield, Stoneham, Woburn, Wilmington and North Reading assisted. On Tuesday, July 11, 2006, a severe thunderstorm passed through Reading. Seven homes were struck by lightning, and two of the homes that were struck resulted in fires. The first structure fire occurred at 2:30 p.m. at 138 Wakefield Street. The second fire occurred at 3:30 p.m. at 350 Franklin Street. Reading Firefighters, with the assistance of neighboring communities, were able to contain both fires to the attic. On Friday, December 1, 2006 at 9:16 a.m., a structure fire was discovered at 52 Bancroft Avenue. When Firefighters arrived on the scene, fire had spread from the basement through the first and second floor to the third floor of the home. Due to the volume of the fire, four alarms were struck to bring in additional Firefighters from Stoneham, Wakefield, Lynnfield, Melrose, Winchester, Burlington, Saugus and Medford. Emergency Medical Services: The Reading Fire Department has provided high quality Emergency Medical Services to the community since 1971. November 24, 2006 marked the third year anniversary of our upgrade to the Advanced Life Support Level and completes our “start up phase.” The Advanced life Support Level is the highest level of pre-hospital emergency medical care available to sick and injured patients, and allows Reading Firefighters to treat patients with a wide variety of medications and sophisticated treatment techniques. This level of care is essential to patients who are experiencing a medical emergency that is an immediate threat to their lives. In 2006, the Reading Fire Department responded to 1,997 medical incidents and transported 985 patients. Approximately 50% of the patients transported required Advanced Life Support treatment. The five highest categories of medical conditions requiring A.L.S. treatment for the Town of Reading are: Cardiac events, respiratory emergencies, neurological emergencies, unable to ambulate and injury by trauma. On Thursday, September 28, 2006, we received our annual inspection from the Office of Emergency Medical Services. The full day inspection examined our ambulances, documentation, training and equipment storage. Our EMS system is in great shape due to the hard work of Firefighter Sean Devlin, our EMS Coordinator and Firefighter Eric Blackman, and our EMS Liaison. In September 2006, Firefighter David Gentile completed his Department sponsored paramedic training program and became a licensed Paramedic. Fire Department Fire Prevention: Lieutenant Paul Jackson is assigned the position of Day Officer. The Day Officer is responsible to ensure all life safety systems for new construction and renovations are designed and installed properly. This requires pre-construction meetings, plan review, code research and continual site visits to ensure proper installation. For existing buildings, the Day Officer is responsible to ensure all life safety systems are maintained properly. Other areas of responsibility include ensuring the safety and code compliance of flammable and combustible product storage, overseeing the maintenance of Department vehicles and equipment. New construction developments and other large-scale projects have been a considerable undertaking. This year, several major projects came online. Examples include: Archstone Development on West Street, portions of Johnson Woods, and the new High School project. SAFE and Community Education: Firefighter John Jenks coordinates the Reading Fire Department’s S.A.F.E. Program. This fire safety education program is delivered in the Reading Public School System, and continues to receive a high level of support from School Administrators and children. This program is funded by a $4,345 grant provided by the State. This program features an in-house developed age appropriate curriculum for each grade level Kindergarten through 5. Reading Firefighters trained as S.A.F.E educators visit each school classroom of Kindergarten through Grade 5 to deliver the fire prevention and anti-smoking message. Firefighters use a specially designed trailer provided by the Metrofire District to present a very real fire scenario to the students. Using this training aid, the children are taught life saving skills in a controlled setting that is not possible to duplicate in the classroom. The S.A.F.E. trailer is available to the Reading Fire Department and 33 other communities in the greater Boston area free of charge. Fire Alarm: The municipal fire alarm system in Reading is in excellent condition. This is a direct result of the planning, care and maintenance given to the system by our dedicated Fire Alarm Technicians Michael Holmes, Peter Vincent and Brian Ryan. When appropriate, we are connecting new and remodeled buildings to the municipal fire alarm system to ensure a rapid response to an incident. This year, Peter Vincent retired completing over 20 years of dedicated service to our fire alarm system. Reading Emergency Management Agency: As a result of recent world events, Emergency Management has become more active than ever before. Housed within Reading’s Emergency Management Agency are two separate functions, Emergency Management and the Local Emergency Planning Committee. The primary goal for Emergency Management is to identify threats to the community, and to prepare for all disasters whether natural or manmade, coordinate the response of a wide range of agencies and assist in the recovery phase. A secondary goal is to ensure that the Town of Reading is in compliance with all Federal and State requirements to enable the community to remain eligible to receive reimbursement for Federal and State disaster declarations. Fire Department The Town of Reading is and has always been in full compliance with all Federal and State requirements. For the Town of Reading, the Fire Chief is the Emergency Management Director. Federal and State legislation requires every community in the country to have a Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). The LEPC identifies areas where the population is most at risk from a hazardous materials release, facilities and transportation routes that contain hazardous materials and resources that would be used to mitigate an incident. The Reading Fire Department has developed a Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan to meet both Federal and State statutory planning requirements. For the Town of Reading, the Fire Chief is the Local Emergency Planning Committee Chairman. To pool resources, the Town of Reading has joined with 11 other communities and formed the Mystic Regional Local Emergency Planning Committee. This association permits each member community to share resources in the event of an emergency. We have been working hard as a committee to remain in compliance with all Federal requirements and to move through the certification requirements. On Tuesday, March 21, 2006, the Mystic Regional Local Emergency Planning Committee was informed that it was granted Full Certification Status by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. This is significant because we were able to pass the provisional status and move into Full Certification. This year, the Mystic REPC joined with the EPA and FEMA to design and deliver a table top exercise that featured a mass casualty incident involving the transportation infrastructure. The exercise was held on October 25, 2006, and was designed to provide an opportunity to consider possible challenges our communities must be prepared to confront. The exercise was structured to allow similar disciplines from all member communities to discuss response and recovery issues associated with a mass casualty incident involving a terrorism component and hazardous materials. The Town of Reading had representatives from Fire, Police, Public Works, Schools, Public Health and Reading Housing Agency participate. A significant rainfall occurred May 14, 2006 through May 16, 2006. During these storms, the High School, Library, Senior Center and Coolidge Middle School incurred flood damage. The damage to the buildings was significant and as a result was eligible for reimbursement from FEMA. After an extensive application and review process, the Town of Reading received a $171,369 reimbursement for the damage to these buildings. As a result of a State Local Preparedness Grant, we purchased and installed two new radios at Central Dispatch in an effort to improve our radio interoperability. The radios enable communication with the Reading Municipal Light Department, Department of Public Works, MEMA Region 1, MEMA Headquarters in Framingham and Wilmington Fire Department. Significant Events: Firefighter John Jenks was selected as the Reading Fire Department’s Firefighter of the year for 2006. Firefighter John Jenks was selected by Department members for his efforts in making the S.A.F.E. Program a success. He was recognized at the Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year Awards Dinner on Saturday, November 8, 2006. Fire Department Training: The President of the United States signed a Presidential Directive that required all cities and towns in the nation to train a significant portion of their staff in the in the National Incident Management System (NIMS). The purpose of the requirement is to provide a framework and system for all levels of government to work together in an emergency. This year, all command staff received the ICS 200 training program and this keeps Reading ahead of the Federal requirements. Two of our four groups participated in an extensive driver training program conducted by the Town’s insurance carrier MIIA. The training program featured the use of a sophisticated computer controlled driving simulator. Captain Philip Boisvert coordinated a joint training program with the Reading, Stoneham and Woburn Fire Departments on the hazards and operating features of Liquefied Natural Gas tank trucks. Trans Gas supplied an instructor and an LNG tank truck for the program. Conclusion: Over the last year, we have made significant advancements in all areas of the Department. This has been achieved through higher levels of training for our personnel, and the addition of new technology and equipment. Through the active pursuit of public safety grants, we have been able to upgrade and expand radio communications. The Advanced Life Support Program has continued to surpass our expectations on every level, and represents a significant upgrade in the quality of emergency medical services provided to the community. I would like to thank all Town Officers, Boards, Departments, members of the Reading Fire Department, and especially the citizens of Reading for their continued support and assistance. Respectfully submitted, Gregory J. Burns Chief of Fire Department FIRE DEPARTMENT ROSTER CHIEF: Gregory J. Burns FIRE PREVENTION: Lieutenant Paul D. Jackson CAPTAINS: Kenneth N. Campbell Jr. Paul F. Guarino Philip B. Boisvert Peter L. Marchetti Fire Department LIEUTENANTS: David T. Ballou Richard A. Puopolo Richard L. S. Nelson Dwyer Mark FIREFIGHTERS: Mathew McSheehy Stephen Pelrine Michael Belmonte Daniel Cahoon Robert Beck William VanHorn Michael Holmes Stephen Murphy Lisa Palermo David Roy Robert Jutras Michael Wood Robert McCarthy David Robidoux Scott Dole Patrick Wallace Anthony DelSignore John Jenks Brian Ryan David Gentile Eric Blackman Paul Roy SSeeaann DDeevvlliinn Ryan Buckley Derek Loftus Chris Finnegan Joseph Lapolla Dana Ballou Scott Myette Daniel Pouliot Linda Polcari Bruce Ayer Paul Damocogno Tom McCarthy Tricia Richard Paul Dalton Cynthia M. Keenan, Secretary Peter Vincent, Fire Alarm Technician (retired) Statistics for 2006: Permit Fees Collected $16,319 Ambulance Fees Collected $640,361 Bell Alarms 373 Still Alarms 1,120 Emergency Ambulance Calls 1,997 Inspections 688 POLICE DEPARTMENT Mission and Value Statement: The Reading Police Department is committed to providing the highest level of public safety and service to the citizens and business people within the community. The members of the Department are empowered to enforce the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and bylaws of the Town of Reading to ensure that the peace and tranquility of our neighborhoods are maintained, and that crime and the fear of crime are reduced. We emphasize and value integrity, honesty, impartiality and professionalism from our members in order to create an environment that values differences and fosters fairness and flexibility in our mission. We encourage citizen input and interaction that will assist us in developing sound partnerships between the community and police. Working together, we can protect our future and enhance the quality of life for everyone within the Town. The past year, in many ways, has been historical for the Reading Police Department and the community as a whole. We are experiencing unprecedented growth and in many ways transformation. The Police Department experienced another year of extensive personnel changes. The demand for service on the Department continues to grow with the added development in the community. This report summarizes the participation, activities, sponsorships, enhancements, accomplishments and other notable events of the Reading Police Department in calendar year 2006. Personnel Changes: The Police Department experienced significant personnel changes and adjustments in 2006. On January 13, 2006, Officers Sean Wilson, Ian Nelson and Richard Abate graduated from the Lowell Police Academy. In January, Officer Michelle Halloran was assigned to the position of Safety Officer replacing Officer Tom Murphy who was hired by the Mass. State Police. In February, Officer Mark Segalla was promoted to Detective and assigned to the Detective Division. In April of 2006, recruit officers Christine Agnone, Kristen Stasiak and Corey Santasky were hired and they attended the M.B.T.A. Police Academy beginning in April. On July 1, 2006, Officer Derek Holmes was assigned as the Community Service Officer replacing Officer Jack Kyle. On July 1, 2006, Officer Leone Sullivan retired from the Reading Police Department after 21 years. Officer Sullivan was our first female officer hired by the Reading Police Department, and served as the DARE Officer for six years. In July and August, four Officers gave their notices to retire in January and February of 2007. On September 1, 2006, Officer Richard Abate was appointed as the School Resource Officer. In September of 2006, Officers Christine Agnone, Corey Santasky and Kristen Stasiak graduated from MBTA Academy. Recruit Officers Robert MacHugh Jr. and Erik Drauschke were hired and entered the MBTA Police Academy, and are expected to graduate in February of 2007. In September 2006, after an extensive interview process, Andrew Scribner-MacLean was hired as the Police Department’s Business Manager. Police Department In 2006, two Reading Public Safety Dispatchers resigned, and Christopher Jones and Joseph Pagnotta were hired as their replacements. Awards and Recognitions: In November, Detective John McKenna was honored as the Reading Police Department’s Officer of the Year at the Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce Dinner. In April, the Board of Selectmen recognized the Public Safety Dispatchers during National 911 Telecommunications Week. In May, the Board of Selectmen recognized National Police Memorial Week. Community Policing: The Reading Police Department continues to work closely with the community and other Town Departments, as well as State and Federal Agencies. The Police Department strongly promotes the philosophy of “working with the community.” The Department sponsors or participates in a number of community events and/or programs which include the following: The Police Department is represented on the Substance Abuse Prevention Advisory Committee (SAPAC) - Officer Michael Saunders. During the year, the SAPAC was reconstituted into the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse. Its members are Chief Jim Cormier and School Resource Officer Richard Abate. The Police Department is represented on the Human Relations Advisory Committee (HRAC) - Chief Jim Cormier. The Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Program which is a self defense course designed specifically for women, has been and continues to be a very successful program - Sgt. David Clark, Officers Pat Iapicca, Michelle Halloran, Salvi Lavita, Ian Nelson and Richard Abate. The Citizens Police Academy has been very popular and will continue to be a base program for the Department - Sgt. David Stamatis. On April 10, 2006, Lt. Richard Robbins gave a Crime Prevention talk to the Unitarian Church. In May, the Police Department sponsored its annual Open House and welcomed the community to come and tour the Police Station, see our equipment and meet our Police Officers. In June, the Department’s Honor Guard as well as Police Officers and their families participated in the Challenger Softball game where they are afforded an opportunity to interact with children with special needs in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The Honor Guard also participated in the Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day celebrations. Also in June, the Department participated in Friends and Family Day held on the Town Common - Detective John McKenna, Officers Derek Holmes, Michelle Halloran. The Department participates annually in the Libraries’ Vehicle Day in August where children of all ages get to enjoy the vehicles of the community - Officer Derek Holmes. In collaboration with the Reading Adult Education Office, we were able to sponsor a parenting workshop that was very successful and received by 40 parents. Throughout the year, the Department participated in the Governors’ Highway Safety Bureau’s “Click-it or Ticket” Program - Lt. Michael Cloonan, Sgt. David Stamatis. The Police Department and the Public Schools received a grant from the Department of Justice for the funding of the School Resource Officer’s position in August of 2006. Police Department In October, the Department in conjunction with its labor unions organized its Annual Senior Ham and Bean Supper at the Senior Center - Officer Derek Holmes. On October 30, 2006, the Police Department successfully met the requirements for re- certification by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission. Certification is a self- initiated evaluation process by which a Police Department strives to meet and maintain standards that have been established for the profession, by the profession. These carefully selected standards reflect critical areas of police management, operations and technical support activities. They cover areas such as policy development, emergency response planning, training, communications, property and evidence handling, use of force, vehicular pursuit, prisoner transportation and holding facilities. The program not only sets standards for the law enforcement profession but also for the delivery of police services to the residents of Reading. Participation in the program is strictly voluntary. Reading is one of 16 certified police agencies in Massachusetts. Lt. Richard Robbins is the Certification Manager and attends the standards meetings on a continuous basis. In November, the Department participated with the Free Masons (Reading Lodge) to offer the Child Identification Program (CHIP) at the Old South Methodist Church. Over 80 children were provided with identification kits - Officer Kyle. In November, the Department participated in the Senior Health Fair at the Senior Center. Day shift officers distributed the “File of Life” material that was funded by the Superior Officers’ Association. The File of Life is a pouch with a magnet attached that holds a person’s medical information inside. The file is then placed on the refrigerator door and provides valuable, life saving information to rescue personnel on a medical call when the patient is unable to communicate this information. th In December, the Department in conjunction with its labor unions organized the 26 Annual Children’s Holiday Party at Austin Preparatory School. Again, collaborating with the Free Masons (Reading Lodge) to offer the Child Identification Program (CHIP) providing over 80 identification kits - Officer Derek Holmes. In December of 2006, the Woburn District Court presented to State and local officials the new H.E.A.T. Program developed by the Woburn Courts Probation Department and seven local Police Departments including Reading. The Heroin Education Awareness Task Force (H.E.A.T.) targets the growing problem of heroin abuse among youngsters in area communities. In addition to warning parents of the signs and symptoms of heroin abuse, the program is also focusing on getting youngsters the necessary help once it is determined they need help. Detective John McKenna is a member of this task force. The Department’s website www.ci.reading.ma.us/police is very successful, and offers a variety of information for the public - Sgt. David Stamatis. The Communication Center enhanced its abilities with a new enhanced E911 system. This improved technology allows Dispatchers to pinpoint the location of cell phone callers and residential callers as well as mapping capabilities. The Police Department certified its Command Staff in Incident Command Training. This was a two day course taught by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. The Police Department purchased an identification card system through grant and donation funds. The I.D. system will be used to provide photo identification cards to all Police Officers and Town employees as well as other agencies and solicitors doing business within the Town. Police Department Detective Division: The Detective Division of the Police Department is responsible for a number of investigative responsibilities. They possess advanced technical expertise and experience that enables them to investigate and solve a number of serious crimes. The Detective Division works very closely with a number of agencies to provide the best possible services and intelligence gathering abilities to the community. The Detective Division is the liaison of the Police Department with the Reading Public Schools. It is important to point out that at all levels of both the School Department and the Police Department, the degree of cooperation and unity to bring the absolute best level of services to the community has rarely been better. We applaud the School Department’s commitment to working with the Police Department in order to provide the best services possible to the community. Outlined below are a number of the Detective Division’s activities for 2006: Actively participate in the Criminal Based Justice System - this system brings together multiple Town agencies with the District Attorney’s Office to share information. Member organization of Project Alliance - this is a program sponsored by the District Attorney’s Office that provides educational opportunities for law enforcement, schools and other professionals in the areas relative to school and juvenile issues. Member organization of the Woburn Court Substance Abuse Initiative linking the seven communities that fall under the jurisdiction of Woburn District Court to combat the substance abuse issue in the area. Detective John McKenna worked diligently to institute the Heroin Education Awareness Task Force (H.E.A.T.) Program. Member of the NEMLEC Detective Group - a regional detective group incorporating over 40 cities and towns in the region that freely exchanges information of interest. Member of the NEMLEC Drug Task Force - a regional drug task force. Participating member of the Domestic Abuse Roundtable - a meeting of the District Attorney’s Office and the seven Woburn District Court agencies to exchange and update information regarding domestic violence. Participating member of the Juvenile Fire Setters - educational information regarding juvenile fire setters. Public Safety Dispatch: The Reading Public Safety Dispatchers provide through communications a lifeline for the community, Police Officers and Firefighters. Seven full-time Dispatchers and two part-time Dispatchers are under the direct supervision of the Head Dispatcher and under the command of the Night Division Commander. Dispatchers receive requests for information and services, they triage those request based on available resources, and disseminate those request to the emergency personnel in the field. Dispatchers greet the public entering the Police Station and provide a valuable service to our community. Dispatchers recorded 25,599 calls for service in 2006 and issued 3,955 Community Access Stickers. We are grateful for the professional service provided by the Reading Public Safety Dispatchers. Police Department The Communications Center has received upgraded “911” equipment. This improved technology is very exciting for those who handle emergency calls. It comes with all the benefits of the previous system but now has better information pertaining to the location of cell phone calls received by way of the new mapping capabilities. This aspect of the enhanced system should enable the Reading Public Safety Dispatchers to have a better opportunity to assist a distressed caller who is uncertain of their location. It will not always pinpoint the caller’s whereabouts but it may narrow the search area and that alone is a major advantage to emergency personnel and the person in distress. Our Dispatchers do an outstanding job and deserve recognition for a position that is extremely important and when done well is often overlooked. Crossing Guards: The School Crossing Guards are part-time civilian personnel. Currently, there are 17 permanent Crossing Guards and two spares that fill in when a regular Crossing Guard is unable to cover their post. They are under the direct supervision, coordination and control of Safety Officer Michelle Halloran. Each Crossing Guard plays an essential role in ensuring the safe commute of children to and from school. They also serve as an extra set of eyes and ears for the Police Department and the community as well. These Crossing Guards have proven to be devoted to their duties and are a great asset to the Town of Reading. Animal Control: The Animal Control Officer is Ronald Burns. He works 13 hours per week and is on call for emergency situations. There were more than 450 calls for service received by the Animal Control Officer. There were 13 dog bites over the year resulting in injuries to humans. There were 13 bites over the year resulting from animal of unknown origin to dogs and 10 cats. One tested positive for rabies and was quarantined for 45 days. Those that tested negative for rabies were quarantined for 10 days. There were three cat bites to humans reported. There was one bat bite to a dog reported. There were over 100 coyote sightings and cats missing calls reported. Over 300 fines and citations were issued to residents for failure to keep their dog on a leash, failure to license their dog and for biting. A majority of the calls were received for neighbors complaining about other dogs. One dog was euthanized and three dogs were killed by motor vehicles. A new Animal Control Bylaw was enacted this year which clearly delineates the responsibilities and authority of the Animal Control Officer. The Animal Control Officer is authorized to isolate and confine domestic animals suspected of being exposed to rabies. Acting according to State regulations and guidelines, the Animal Control Officer must: Investigate reports of domestic animals exposed to rabies. Determine if the domestic animal has or may have been exposed to a rabid animal, and if the domestic animal has been properly vaccinated. Make an evaluation of the exposure of the vaccinated animal and prescribe the appropriate action according to State regulations. Obtain permission to euthanasia exposed, unvaccinated animals from their owners or from the MDFA. Carry out euthanasia permitted by the owner of MDFA. Police Department Collect the head of the euthanized animal and deliver or send it to MDPH State Laboratory Institute, if the animal has bitten or otherwise exposed a human or domestic animal. Ensure that vaccinated domestic animals receive a booster vaccination if needed, and that the animal remains under appropriate strict confinement or isolation. Contact local officials when exposed domestic animals have exposed humans. Parking Enforcement Officer: The Parking Enforcement Officer is Ronald Burns. He works 18 hours per week, covering four days in the work week. The major responsibilities of the Parking Enforcement Officer are: Identify and cite motorists who violate Reading’s parking regulations and reduce opportunities for violations to be committed through preventive patrols of all parking areas. Tally and inventory tickets daily. Identify parking problem areas within the Town and forward this information to the Safety Officer. Perform related duties as required. Over the year, a new set of parking regulations were implemented. Total citations issued by the Parking Enforcement Officer in 2006 are 2,473. Total income from parking citations is $55,580.00. 83% of the citations were paid. 9% of the citations were marked for non-payment. The following is the Department Roster, a statistical analysis of our enforcement efforts and a record of revenues generated by our department. POLICE DEPARTMENT ROSTER CHIEF: James W. Cormier BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR: Andrew Scribner-MacLean LIEUTENTANTS: Lt.-Detective N. Kevin Patterson Executive Officer Michael P. Cloonan Night Commander Richard W. Robbins SERGEANTS: Bruce F. Russell David M. Stamatis Mark J. O’Brien Peter G. Garchinsky David J. Clark Francis G. Duclos Sgt.-Detective Patrick M. O’Brien Police Department DETECTIVE DIVISION: Patrol Officers: Robert F. Flynn Mark Segalla John McKenna SUPPORT SERVICES: Community Service Officer: Derek Holmes Safety Officer: Michelle Halloran Armorer: Michael Saunders School Resource Officer: Richard Abate PATROL OFFICERS: David Savio Larry E. Frederick Ian Nelson Sean Wilson Salvi Lavita James P. Collins Anthony F. Caturello Pasquale Iapicca Matthew C. Edson Richard Abate Mark D. Segalla Derek Holmes Christopher R. Picco Joseph Belmonte Michael Lee Michelle Halloran Michael Nickerson Keith Hurley Kevin Brown Michael Fitzgerald Christine Agnone Kristen Stasiak Corey Santasky 2006 Ancillary Personnel ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER: Ronald Burns CLERKS: Administrative Assistant Victoria Cummings Principal Clerk Joanne Power DISPATCHERS: Head Dispatcher Victoria Avery John Rawcliffe Susan Tapley Joseph Pagnotta Regina Benoit-Saunders Matthew Vatcher Ryan Mahoney Christopher Jones SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS: Cindy Ashi Edward Whitcomb Reggie Benoit Fred Dyment Cheri Costa Lucy Intonti Ernie Gisetto Gerry Intonti Robert DeWolfe Joseph Lopiccola Tina Lantz Edward Harradon Marsha Leighton Louann MacKinnon Linda Burns William Fisher Dick Stosez Matthew McNamara Mildred Barton Police Department Spare Crossing Guards: Arthur Dickinson Peggy Faulkner The following are the arrests and services performed in 2006: Arrests: 153 Persons held in Protective Custody: 39 Motor Vehicle Violations: 5,747 Parking Violations: 3,497 Detective Criminal Investigations: 172 Auto Accidents Investigated: 527 Fees Collected for Fiscal 2006: License to Carry: $2,525.00 Firearms Identification Cards: $687.50 Police Reports Copied: $1,899.00 Parking Fines: $77,805.00 Court Fines: $10,060.00 Administrative Fees for Details: $29,362.32 Commuter Parking Permits: $13,640.00 Community Access Stickers: $81,224.00 Parking Space Rentals: $8,685.00 Civil Infractions: $43,250.00 Rent for Community Room: $300.00 MV Lease or Surcharge: $2,194.80 Conclusion: To summarize our Mission Statement, we are empowered to enforce the laws of our land but in order to do this appropriately and adequately, we have to work with the community. Providing the community with the highest level of police service is a goal that will require dedication, hard work and a strong commitment to and from our community. The year 2006 presented many unique and difficult challenges for the Police Department. We experienced significant personnel changes and adjustments and operated understaffed due to retirements, injury and illness. Moving forward, the Department is anxious to continue working closely with our fellow Town employees and the citizenry to provide the highest quality of life in Reading. I want to thank the citizens of our community for their support and cooperation. Working with the community, your Police Department will accomplish its mission. Respectfully submitted, James W. Cormier, Chief of Police DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Director’s Comments: Department personnel were actively involved as members or liaisons of many Boards and Committees. We have also assisted other Departments throughout the year on many projects and programs, and have been fortunate to have the cooperation and support of the Town Manager and other Departments within the Town. The Department has developed long-term capital improvement plans to upgrade and maintain the important infrastructures in the community through local and State funding. This would include the water distribution system, roadway and sidewalk, and the sanitary sewer system. We have continued the development of GIS layers for the water distribution and sewer distribution system. The Town received approval to purchase up to 219,000,000 gallons of water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) to supplement our Ipswich River Basin supply from May through October. However, following Town Meeting approval to purchase 100% of our water from the MWRA and subsequent resignations of Water Treatment Plant operators, the Town entered into an Administrative Consent Order with the MA Department of Environmental Protection to cease operation of the Water Treatment Plant, and purchase 100% of our water from the MWRA on an emergency basis. Staff has been working with SEA Engineers in pursuing approval from State authorities and the MWRA Board of Directors to purchase 100% water. As highlighted in DPW Division reports, the Department had an extremely busy year in 2006 assisting other departments, and with our projects and maintenance work. Town Meeting also approved a Stormwater Enterprise Fund effective in Fiscal Year 2007. This was accomplished with a concerted effort of DPW and Finance Department staff. We have been fortunate to welcome the following employees to the Department: George Zambouras, Town Engineer in the Engineering Division; Scott Orsillo in the Forestry, Parks and Cemetery Division; Jane Kinsella, Business Administrator in the Administration Division; Robert DeMarco, Gregory Odin, Michael McKenna and Jonathan Reid in the Highway/Equipment Maintenance Division and Sandra Beninati in the Recreation Division. There continues to be a good cooperative effort on planned and emergency projects by the Divisions within the Department. Because of the efforts of the staff, we are able to provide good quality service to other Town Departments and to the general public. It is a pleasure working with the dedicated and devoted staff in the Department of Public Works and the appointed Committees, in particular the Water, Sewer and Stormwater Management Advisory Committee. I thank them all for their support and effort. Respectfully submitted, Edward D. McIntire, Jr., Director Public Works Department ADMINISTRATION DIVISION The Administration Division supported the Department with procurement administration, water and sewer billing, budget preparation and coordination, departmental personnel and payroll services, accounts payable processing, cemetery administration services and responses to public inquiries and concerns over all Public Works areas of responsibility. Significant projects included: Procurement and project support for various water and sewer main projects, including sewer system rehabilitation and construction and water main construction. 2006 was the first of a five (5) year contract for our Town-wide refuse collection and curbside recycling. Coordination of the acceptance and approval process to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority as a supplemental source of Town water. We have completed one year of our three year water meter and transponder replacement program. Coordination of cooperative Household Hazardous Waste Day collection events with the Town of Wakefield. Providing procurement assistance to other Town Departments and Divisions including contracts for new police sedans and a new Library carpet. Overall facilitation of the Water Conservation Rebate Program: Appointment scheduling, rebate processing and tracking of high-efficiency washing machines, low-flow toilets, rain barrels and irrigation system rain sensors. Coordination of the Street Sign Lottery – a unique opportunity to sponsor, purchase or take a chance on a piece of Reading memorabilia. Emphasis continued on providing public information, responding to inquiries and concerns, and improving all areas of public communications. CEMETERY DIVISION To the Board of Cemetery Trustees: The following is from office records for calendar year 2006. Interments – 147 Interments for all years – 13,770 Markers set – 36 Foundations – 37 Monuments re-set –28 Sale of Lots: Forest Glen – 3 lots, no single graves – Total for all years – 2039 lots, 796 single graves. Charles Lawn – 11 lots, 3 single and veterans’ graves – Total for all years – 466 lots, 228 single and veterans’ graves. Wood End – 33 lots and no single graves – Total for all years – 273 lots, 22 single graves. Public Works Department Cooperation from other divisions of Public Works was outstanding and much appreciated. The Board of Cemetery Trustees has been very supportive of all the numerous programs and goals of this Division. I thank them for all their assistance. Respectfully submitted, Robert L. Keating, Supervisor CUSTODIAN OF SOLDIERS’ AND SAILORS’ GRAVESCalendar year 2006 – Interments – WWII – 15 Korea – 4 Vietnam – 0 Peacetime - 0 Total of all veterans’ interred – 1657 As has been the custom for many years, all veterans’ graves were decorated with a flag and a potted flower for Memorial Day. Respectfully submitted, Frank Driscoll, Custodian of Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Graves. ENGINEERING DIVISION The Engineering Division provides engineering services to all departments within the Town of Reading. The Division is responsible for preparation of plans, specifications, estimates, survey layout, inspection and supervision of Town construction projects; review of subdivision plans and site plans for accuracy and conformance with the subdivision rules and regulations; review of conservation submittals, preparation of subdivision and conservation bond estimates, inspection of subdivision construction and the administration of the Chapter 90 roadway improvement program. The Division also provides technical assistance and guidance on various Town projects, performs traffic studies, regulates and inspects private construction activities within Town roadways, and is responsible for the maintenance of all records concerning the subdivision of land, roadway, water, sewer and drainage construction, Town maps and the issuance of various permits. Major construction projects the Division designed and performed construction management for in 2006 consisted of the water main replacements on High Street and Auburn Street, Franklin Terrace sewer extension, roadway reconstruction on Bancroft Avenue (Hartshorn Street to end), Cape Cod Avenue, Deering Street (Lowell Street to Middlesex Avenue), Eaton Street, Green Street (Main Street to High Street), Harriman Avenue, Middlesex Avenue and Wood End Lane, and roadway repaving on Arcadia Avenue, Deering Street (Middlesex Avenue to Dudley Street), Edgemont Avenue and West Street (Summer Avenue to Town Line). The Division also designed and performed construction management for the installation of sidewalks and curbing on Franklin Street (William Road to Fox Run Lane), Birch Meadow Drive at John Carver Road, Governors Drive (easterly side), John Street (Salem Street to Pleasant Street southerly side and Pleasant Street to Lakeview Avenue northerly side), Public Works Department South Street (West Street to Whitehall Lane), Green Street (Main Street to High Street), West Street (Longwood Road to Enos Circle), the installation of handicap ramps on John Carver Road at Intervale Terrace, Minot Street at Main Street and Lowell Street at Hanscom Avenue, and the installation of curbing at the driveway to the Town Library. Additional projects included the site design and layout for the installation of a new tot lot and sidewalks at the Wood End School, design of the Fairview and Sunnyside relief sewer, preparation of the base plan and establishment of the Reading/Woburn corporate boundary for the MWRA valve project, and the hydraulic analysis and design for the Hopkins Street/Summit Village drain project. The Engineering Division spent significant time on the inspection of private development projects including Archstone and Johnson Woods on West Street, Danis property on General Way, Stop & Shop on Walkers Brook Drive, Maplewood Village on Salem Street and Kylie Drive. Significant progress has been made on the planning and design of upcoming projects. The 100% design plans and specifications for the Downtown Improvement Project were submitted to and advertised by Mass. Highway. The bid opening date has been postponed by Mass. Highway several times, and bids are currently expected to be opened on June 5, 2007. Construction is expected to start in the Fall of 2007. The West Street Improvement Project 25% design plans prepared by Greenman- Pederson, Inc. are still under review by the Mass. Highway Department. It is expected that MHD will hold the 25% review hearing in the Fall of 2007 following the completion of their reviews. Contracts were awarded for the 2006 roadway construction projects, sidewalk and curb construction, and loam and seed projects. Design plans and specifications were prepared for the 2006 water main replacement projects on High Street and Auburn Street, and the Franklin Terrace sewer extension. The House to House Illicit Connection Program continued with Camp, Dresser & McKee performing additional field house inspections for the removal of illicit connections. The aggressive program resulted in the inspection of 91% of the properties within the Town. To date, the study identified 167 improper connections to the sewer system, and has resulted in the removal of 39 connections and 25 additional awaiting removal. The Engineering Division is responsible for the management of the program, and for the removal of connections performed by property owners. The Division worked with consultant Camp, Dresser & McKee in developing the water and sewer GIS mapping and database. The third annual report was submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency demonstrating compliance with the NPDES Phase II Stormwater permit issued to the Town in 2003. The Engineering Division, in conjunction with the Water, Sewer and Stormwater Management Advisory Committee, continued to develop the plan to implement a Stormwater Enterprise Fund which was approved at the Annual Town Meeting in April, 2006. The Division performed site reviews of properties for the issuance of stormwater abatement requests. Engineering reviews were performed for the Community Planning and Development Commission, Conservation Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals on several development projects. These included redevelopment of Danis property on General Way, site plan review for Stop Public Works Department & Shop and Hallmark Health on Walkers Brook Drive, Piper Glenn and 175 Franklin Street subdivisions, and modifications to the Johnson Woods and Archstone developments. Numerous other reviews were performed on lesser projects. The Engineering Division issued permits and inspected the construction of 33 new connections to the Town sewer system and 30 permits were for the disconnection, repair or reuse of existing sewer connections. One hundred and thirty three Street Opening Permits were issued to Keyspan Energy for repairs and new gas services. Thirty four Street Opening/Occupancy Permits were issued to private parties for underground utility work and construction within Town right-of-ways. Seven public hearings were held for new utility installations within Town owned rights-of-way. The Engineering Division underwent significant changes in staff with the departure of Town Engineer Joe Delaney following 11 years of service, and the retirement of Senior Civil Engineer Bill High following 44 years of service. Their knowledge and dedication to the Town will be missed. HIGHWAY DIVISION The Highway Division at the Public Works facility consists of 17 employees, four are Mechanics, one is a Dispatcher, and the 12 that are left maintain the infrastructure of the Town of Reading. The regular projects such as street sweeping, catch basin repair, roadside cutting, sidewalk and street maintenance, tree lawn repair, mixing and sifting loam and compost, traffic control, and cleaning of catch basins and ditches continued by priority and need. Street sweeping was started on March 28, 2006 and finished on May 19, 2006. Miscellaneous: The Division placed and filled planters for the Adopt-An-Island Program, placed mosquito control tablets in the catch basins and detention areas for the Health Department, held Hazardous Waste Day, and had an Adopt-A-Family in November and December. Vehicle Maintenance: The Division repaired and serviced the equipment from Police, Fire, School, Building Maintenance, Council on Aging and Public Works Departments. The Division continued to take waste oil from the public during the week and on Saturdays. Snow and Ice: During the Winter season of 2005-2006, the Division plowed four (4) storms and sanded eighteen (18) times. Special Projects: The Division filled, graded and compacted the new playground at Wood End School, paved walks at Wood End School, replaced the culvert at Pleasant Street, skim coated Wenda Street, Gilmore Avenue and Fielding Road and paved Auburn Street. Public Works Department TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE This year, the forest saw extensive use by citizens and civic groups for nature walks, road races, star gazing and camping. Again, this year, with the help of the Public Works Department, roadways were maintained, culverts cleaned and roadside brush cut back. Also, the fire access road to the forest at the Wood End School was completed this year. The Committee recommends that the Town purchase a skid mounted tank and pump to fit an all wheel drive pick up truck for forest fire suppression in the near future. The Committee wishes to thank the Public Works Department, the Fire and Police Departments, Conservation Commission, Boy Scouts and the citizens for their support. Respectfully submitted, George B. Perry II, Chairman Louis E. Debrigard, Jr., Vice Chairman Benjamin E. Nichols, Secretary FORESTRY-TREE WARDEN’S REPORT One hundred and thirty four shade trees were removed. These trees were dead or in a dangerous condition as to be a threat to public safety. Eighty two hazardous tree stumps were removed from the tree lawns, parks, schools and playgrounds for public safety. One hundred and forty trees were trimmed. Dead wood and low branches were removed from the public trees as requested or observed. Tree trimming has continued as aggressively as possible but a lack of personnel has continued to hinder this program. Twenty two trees were planted. There also were additions to school plantings as donations for dedications. Trees included Kwansan Cherry, Galaxy Magnolia, Dogwood, Locust and Maple. The Compost Center on Strout Avenue continues to accept brush and leaves from residents. 43,480 cars entered the Compost Center in 2006. Residents are required to purchase stickers for use of the Compost Center. The holiday lighting put up by the tree crew in the Town Square was once again very successful. There were 15,500 colored bulbs installed on the Common. The Town of Reading was awarded “Tree City, USA” for the 21st consecutive year by the National Arbor Day Foundation. Five hundred Colorado Spruce trees were purchased and distributed to all the fifth graders. Thanks to the Reading Rotary Club who have sponsored and assisted in this program to make “Arbor Day 2006” a success in Reading. A special thanks to all the committees and commissions working toward the preservation of Reading’s public shade trees. Public Works Department PARKS DIVISION The Parks Division continues to maintain 64 acres of grassed area throughout the Town, also the facilities within the parks and schools. This includes the renovation as well as continued maintenance of all the ball fields on school or parks grounds. The Division maintains 16 tennis and basketball courts, the tot lots and the skating rinks, and maintains the grounds for all municipal as well as school buildings. The Division also assists all Town departments, committees and commissions with tree maintenance, snow and ice removal and Election set-up. Respectfully submitted, Robert L. Keating, Supervisor-Tree Warden RECREATION DIVISION The mission of the Recreation Division is to provide the community with year round recreational activities. Recreation programs are broad based to meet the recreational needs of all segments of the population. The Division must continually update and modify its programming to meet the current needs of the community. As the community’s participation and awareness of local recreational programs increase, so does their expectation of Recreation Division programs. The Division must be ready to anticipate and adapt to these growing expectations and trends. The Division continues to look at trends and pop culture to produce programming that is innovative and exciting. The Division offers a variety of programs to residents of all ages. A direct programming emphasis has been placed on Reading Middle School and Elementary School aged youth. The Recreation Revolving Fund continues to fund all programs for 2006. The Recreation Committee, with nine members and three Associate members, provides guidance and support to the Recreation Division. The Division has also created a close working relationship with a non-profit organization Friends of Reading Recreation. FORR presents several programs throughout the year to supplement recreational offerings as well as co-promotes programming with the Recreation Division from time to time. Programming Winter/Spring: Reading Recreation held the following programs for the Winter/ Spring season: Spring Soccer Doctor Clinic “Spring Ball” Basketball Clinic with H.S. Basketball Coach Kim Penny Reading Baseball School – Pitching and Hitting with Coach Pete Moscariello Spring Tennis Clinics for Youths and Adults Challenger Biddy Basketball for Children with Special Needs Saturday Morning Sports Series Challenger All-Sports February Vacation “You Can’t do this in Gym Class” Public Works Department Kids Just Love Crafts Reading Recreation Egg Hunt Baby Sitting Course Crafts programs for Adults Winter/Spring is the lightest season for programming as it is the bridge between very busy Fall season with the facilitation of Travel Basketball scheduling and the planning of Summer programs. It is also the season where time is allocated to field scheduling for the many youth and adult sports organizations. Biddy Basketball 101 would prove to become one of the staples of our Fall and Winter/Spring line up. The Spring season saw many successful programs including the popular Reading Baseball School which is run by Peter Moscariello. The Egg Hunt was again a huge success with close to 200 kids on hand. The location of Memorial Park has worked very well for the past two years. The Division continues to offer programs such as a baby sitting class from the nurses of Winchester Hospital as well as the Sciensational Workshops for kids ages 8-12. The Division believes that recreation is more than just sports and can include enrichment type programs. We continue to explore other “art” activities and new programs that might be of interest to members of the community. Summer: The Summer of 2006 was one of the most successful in regard to attendance of the Recreation Summer Camp. The Regular Summer Camp program saw close to 97% capacity. Just four years ago, this percentage was down to as low as 78%. The continued use of Coolidge Middle School has made a significant difference on the perceived cleanliness of the program. Matthew Morrison returns as the Camp Director for his second year. Jamie Walsh did an outstanding job as Assistant Camp Director. This year’s camp staff saw approximately 75% returning staff. Also, a strong Summer Camp staff had kids coming back week after week. Despite the inability to utilize the RMHS Field House, Summer programs were very successful. Creative planning and flexibility by the clinic directors helped aid the programs success. Other successful clinics and programs included: Challenger Little League Baseball Volleyball Clinics Tiny Tot Soccer Basketball Clinics for Boys and Girls Reading Baseball Clinics Super Sports (3 Sessions) Kids Crafts Tennis Clinics Track and Field Clinic The Division also had some very successful trips in conjunction with several travel companies. The trips for Summer 2006 included Martha’s Vineyard, Red Sox vs. the Yankees at Yankee Stadium, NASCAR Nextel Cup Series in Loudon, N.H., Tanglewood and a trip to “Golden Pond.” The Division continues to run these trips through various travel companies at a very low profit. Public Works Department The Division was not able to run one of its best programs this past Summer, the All-Comers Track Meets on Wednesday Nights due to the High School track construction. The plans are in the works to offer the program again in the Summer of 2007. One of the great traditions in Reading continued this past Summer with the “Theater on the Green” and “Touch of Class” concert series. “Theater on the Green” had a successful turnout this Summer each Wednesday afternoon, five concerts highlighted by “Wayne from Maine,” a children’s sing-a-long and David Polansky’s interactive sing-a-long. These concerts are very well attended by anywhere between 75–125 people each Wednesday. The “Touch of Class” concerts included Reading’s staple “Bob Batchelor’s Totem Pole Orchestra,” “Overdrive” and Reading’s own “Steven Savio” among the seven concerts. Between donations that were collected during each of the concerts and sponsorships from local businesses and organizations, the Division is able to run these concerts at minimal cost. All of these concerts take place at what is believed to be the oldest park in Reading, Memorial Park. We will look into introducing a family movie series beginning next Summer. Finally, the Division held its 16th Annual Reading Tennis Open. The Tournament was a success once again this year with over 100 players participating. All proceeds go back to the RMHS Tennis Program and new equipment for the Town courts. Gregg Luongo again served as the Recreation Tennis Professional for the fourth year. He did an outstanding job working with kids and adults. Tennis enrollment was consistent with the numbers of the year before. Many kids enjoyed the clinics so much that they signed up for more than one week. Gregg also continued a Tennis Travel team in which Reading competed against other towns at the developmental level. Private lessons were also offered and conducted by Gregg or Matt Williams. The Division purchased a brand new shed for the Bancroft Avenue Tennis Courts. This shed will replace the current structure at the courts and will be placed in the Summer of 2007. Fall/Winter: The very busy Fall/Winter season for the Recreation Division produced many opportunities. The Division again offered a Jr./Sr. Volleyball Program for fourth to eighth grade students. The program had close to 35 participants and went very well in its second year. The program was run by Dan McGrath and Michelle Hopkinson along with some High School volunteers. We will continue to look for ways to enhance this program and possibly branch out into a travel program. The Division began offering a new Fencing Program with Olympic Coach Michael Tarascio. The program was open and populated by students from third grade to adults. The program is offered on Mondays and Fridays allowing students who own their own equipment to participate on both days. The Division continued the Fall sections of the Saturday Morning Sports Series. This program is a compilation of different introductory sports including T-Ball, Soccer, Basketball and “Unorganized Sports” (Dodge Ball, Pillow Polo, etc.). These programs are for four and five years olds, and the programs have been a huge success. The classes are run by Recreation Program Coordinator Dan McGrath and student workers from RMHS. Public Works Department Recreation again offered Field Hockey in the Fall. Once again, this program was very successful and was run by Christine Gallagher. Other successful programs included Challenger Soccer run by Ralph D’Amico, Kids Just Love Crafts and Recreation Sports and Games. One of the biggest changes to the Fall programming lineup was the unification of all of the Travel Basketball Programs in Reading. The Travel Basketball Program in 2006 featured close to 140 participants with 12 teams competing in three different leagues. These teams are selected by coaches with input from the Recreation staff after a two day competitive tryout. Teams are coached by volunteer parents and friends of the Recreation Division. Supplementing this program is the rebirth of the middle school in-town Basketball Program. This is an intramural program that features kids of all ability. The program featured a Coolidge vs. Parker game at each level, and the kids really enjoyed this idea. Sunday Basketball was tweaked a little as well. The program is now open to second grade players through fifth graders. Rachel Pothier and Michelle Hopkinson were hired to be the supervisors of Sunday Basketball. They have done an outstanding job showing the ability to run clinics, work with kids and supervise the referees. Over 20 High School basketball players were hired to work this program. The idea was to try to create a basketball community in Reading. Sunday Basketball has approximately 300 participants each year, and continues to be one of the most important programs for the Division. The After School Learn to Ski Program will be run again this Winter starting in January. The elementary program had 39 participants. Coolidge and Parker Middle School continue to be successful with the Middle School program. The Coolidge side of the program had 37 kids this year, and the Parker side had 17 kids participate. This program will most likely move to a four week program in 2007 versus a six week program in years past. The hope is with a lower price, participation will increase. Special Needs Programming: Special Needs programming this year was offered by The Arc of East Middlesex Recreation in conjunction with the Division. Programs such as aquatics, social club and social dances were offered. The Arc offered successful programs such as Special Olympic training, bowling, teen groups and social clubs to name a few. The participants are asked at the end of each session to fill out an evaluation form to give feedback. Margaret Veronelli ran the Challenger Little League and Bowling Programs this past Summer and Fall. The programs both did very well with participation. The Division also continued offering a Challenger All-Sports Program that has been a very big hit. The program is run by Lynn Mahoney and it is completely volunteer driven. The Division continues to look for other programming areas to expand into. Brochure And Advertising: Reading Recreation continues its mailing of the Community Guide to every household in Reading three times a year. The Division began working with a new publishing company called Turley Publications. With a new printing company, the Division was able to introduce a glossy full color cover at a lower price than in years past. The name of the community guide has been officially chanted to Reading Recreation Magazine. The magazine also features Adult Education programming in the back. Public Works Department Participating agencies include Recreation, Police Department, Fire Department, Library Services, Elder Services, YMCA, Creative Arts, and various in-town organizations. Reading Recreation continues to post all of its programming and important information on www.ci.reading.ma.us/recreation. There is information on all current programs as well as upcoming events, contact information including links to many of the sports organizations websites. The site is maintained by the Recreation Division Clerk and is updated on a weekly basis. The Division continues to have success with “Notes from the Reading Recreation Division” out to the schools bi-monthly. These flyers have received a positive response from the community. We will continue with this undertaking as well as continue to send Press Releases to our local media outlets. Personnel: Dan McGrath completed his fourth year as Program Coordinator. He has proven to be invaluable to the Division as he has helped with the administration of Summer Camp, Sunday and Travel Basketball and the Learn to Ski Program as well as the development of the Saturday Morning Sports Series and Recreation Sports and Games. Dan’s main responsibility of his position is to create, organize, and supervise recreational programs. With the assistance of the Program Coordinator, the Division was able to increase the amount of programs run by the Recreation Division staff. Sadly, Dan gave his notice and will be leaving the Town on February 23, 2007. Principal Clerk Carol Quinn left the Recreation Division in June 2006 to move to the West Coast. Sandra Beninati was hired as Clerk in July. Sandra has become proficient in a short time in many areas of the DPW operation, selling stickers, preparing bill roll and helping out where needed. She is responsible for most of the data input into the Recreation Database Rec. Trac, and is also responsible to reconciling receipts at the end of the day. Administration: John Feudo begins his fifth year as Recreation Administrator. John, under the direction of the Recreation Committee, continues to manage the scheduling of all Town fields. Permits are issued for every field in Town. Reading Recreation will continue to work with the local Youth and Adult sports organizations in maximizing field space. The new Tot Lot on Bancroft Avenue was completed in October. A neighborhood group known as Friend of the Tot Lot was formed and raised over $15,000. This effort was led by Shannon Fratto under the direction of the Recreation Administrator. The Tot Lot features new equipment and rubberized mulch. This was the second of two capital funded playgrounds created. The Wood End Elementary School completed the largest playground in Reading in October as well. After raising close to $80,000 privately, the group was supplemented by Fall Town Meeting with an additional $43,000 to make the playground at Wood End “boundless.” “Boundless” is a playground that is 100% handicap accessible. The group was led by Tina Brzenski, Monette Verrier and John Cataldo. Public Works Department In December, the Board of Selectmen voted to tear down Imagination Station due to insurmountable issues. With issues such as splintering, surfacing and protruding nails, the overall feeling was to look to recreate a new recreational facility based on the input from the community. Reading Recreation is continuously looking for available land for the development of new recreational facilities. A comprehensive capital plan has been developed to include tennis courts, basketball courts and backstop replacement over the next few years. There has been aggressive fund raising done by Friends of Reading Tennis to begin the process of complete replacement of six tennis courts on Bancroft Avenue. The issue of the use of Memorial Park has been sent to probate court for a ruling on clarification of the Deed. Currently, the Deed places restrictions on use for games of baseball, football and soccer. The Town should have clarification some time in early 2007. The Recreation Division and the Recreation Committee continue to develop policies that will increase the effectiveness and efficiency of each Reading Recreation program. Reading Recreation has been glad to offer the public over 180 recreational programs throughout the past year. The Division hopes to meet the communities changing recreational needs while providing them with a combination of safe, fun and educational programs. Suggestions of new programs are welcomed and encouraged. Respectfully submitted, John Feudo, Recreation Administrator WATER DISTRIBUTION DIVISION A total of 81 new water services were installed, the Water Division replaced 37 old water services, repaired 21 water service leaks, repaired 15 broken water mains, replaced 12 old fire hydrants, repaired 12 broken fire hydrants, rebuilt 41 fire hydrants, a total of approximately 7,200’ of new water mains and 10 new fire hydrants were added to the distribution system, replaced approximately 3,800' of old 8" water main with new 8" water main and 5 fire hydrants on High Street, replaced approximately 1,000’ of old 8” water main with new 16” water main and one fire hydrant on Auburn Street, disconnected 19 water services for house demolition, replaced six water main gate valves, replaced 25 old water services from the water main to the sidewalk shut off for Chapter 90 road reconstruction, inspected the installation of water mains at Kylie Drive, Johnson Woods, Archstone, Camp Curtis and # 237 Woburn Street projects, conducted water main flushing of the entire distribution system, continued cross connection control program, performed hydrant flow test for Johnson Woods project, all drinking fountains and Town irrigation systems turned on in Spring and turned off and winterized in Fall, installed one new drinking fountain on Symonds Way. Two seasonal laborers painted and lubricated hydrants over 1/4 of Town, completed annual water inventory, loam and seed on all water jobs, hot topped water and sewer trenches, checked and maintained two water booster stations daily, cleaned and maintained the grounds, cutting grass, etc. at the Auburn Street tank site, lowered and raised water gate boxes for construction jobs, conducted a leak detection survey, assisted with the Water Treatment Plant shut down, assisted Highway Division during snow plowing Public Works Department operations, removed snow from business district, churches and schools, shoveled snow from fire hydrants. The Town’s Water Conservation Program awarded rebates for 239 energy efficient washing machines, 27 water saving toilets, 16 rain barrels and four lawn irrigation rain sensors, The Water Distribution Division is developing a distribution system layer for the Town’s GIS system. Meter Room: The regular quarterly water meter reading cycle was supported, 677 work orders were received and completed, 264 bill to date readings were taken, five meters were removed, approximately 3,000 new outside radio units were installed, seven meters were reset, three meters tested correct, 0 meters tested incorrect . The Water Division will continue installing a new radio reading system and new water meters. SEWER DISTRIBUTION DIVISION Approximately 17,737’ of sewer mains were cleaned and T.V. inspected, 70 sewer manholes were sealed and lined, 1061 sewer main joints were tested and 763 sewer main joints were sealed, 163 cured in place spot repairs were installed to repair broken sections of sewer mains, replaced eight sewer manhole frames and covers, replaced 230’ of 6” sewer main on Deering Street, cleaned wet wells at all sewer stations, checked and maintained 12 sewer stations daily, cleaned approximately 1/4 of the sanitary sewer main system, cleaned and maintained the grounds, cutting grass, trimmed bushes etc. around the sewer stations, completed work orders regarding leaks, broken gates, etc., exercised emergency generator weekly, completed the annual sewer inventory. The Division assisted the Highway Division during snow plowing operations, removed snow from business district, churches and schools and shoveled snow from fire hydrants. The Sewer Distribution Division is developing a collection system layer for the Town’s GIS system. LOUANIS WATER TREATMENT PLANT General: A total of 640,648,000 gallons of water was delivered to the distribution system in 2006, of which 327,168,000 gallons was pumped from the Water Treatment Plant, and 313,490,000 gallons was purchased from the MWRA. The highest single day’s consumption was 2,676,000 gallons on August 2, 2006. The highest week’s consumption was for the period July 30, 2006 to August 5, 2006 an amount of 16,467,000 gallons, and the highest month was July with an amount of 65,010,000 gallons. Average daily pumpage for 2006 was 1,755,227 gallons. The average daily per capita use (use by each individual) for 2006 was 51 gallons per person per day. Public Works Department The operation of the residuals handling tank allowed the Water Treatment Plant to recycle 15 million gallons of water. The eighth annual drinking water report was mailed to all customers in May. On May 1st, the Town began receiving partial water supply from the MWRA as a result of the Town’s efforts to purchase a maximum of 219 million gallons per year from the MWRA to supplement the Summer supply to help protect the Ipswich River. As part of the agreement, withdrawals from the Ipswich River Basin were limited to 1 million gallons per day from May 1st through October 31st. On June 15, 2006, Town Meeting, on a reconsideration, approved Article 4 by a vote of 113- 34 to apply for admission to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) for the entirety of the Town of Reading’s public water supply. Town Meeting, by a previous vote of` 51-94, defeated Article 6 to fund completion of the design and construction of a new state of the art 3.75 million gallon per day membrane filtration Water Treatment facility. On August 6, 2006, the Town entered into an Administrative Consent Order (ACO) with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) allowing the purchase of 100% of the Town’s water supply from the MWRA, while the Town pursued the necessary approvals for permanent approval as a full member of the MWRA water supply system. The Town began purchasing 100% of its water supply from the MWRA on September 1, 2006. As a condition of the DEP ACO, the Water Treatment Plant was decommissioned with all treatment chemicals and water removed from the facility. The wells were placed in emergency standby mode. Both the Water Treatment Plant and wells were maintained to pump water to the distribution system with disinfection capabilities in the case of a dire emergency for fire protection. Upon all appropriate approvals, the plan is for the demolition of the Water Treatment Plant. The wells will continue to be maintained as stated above. CDM was hired to design plans and specifications for the construction of a control valve, instrumentation, and appurtances to automatically control drinking water flow from the MWRA into our distribution system and storage tanks. CDM and the Water Department continued the $1 million Water Conservation Program, which incorporated emphasis on rebates for low flow washing machines, toilets, irrigation rain sensors and added rain barrels to the program. There has been over $137,800.00 in rebates to residents since the program’s inception. The program’s school educational phase was implemented. Meg Tabasco, Education Coordinator for the MWRA, made presentations to all third grade classes in Town focusing on water supply and conservation. Supply: Production Wells #82-20, #15 and Revay were cleaned and redeveloped. Public Works Department Remedial efforts continued with consulting engineers, Weston & Sampson on the low levels of chlorinated volatile organic contaminants found in the Revay Well which have been attributed to the AGFA facility on Industrial Way in Wilmington. Revay Well was voluntarily taken out of service in 2001 when the contaminants were detected. Treatment: Lightning strikes occurred three times at the Bear Hill storage tank and two times at the Auburn Street elevated tank in a six week period causing damage to the water level monitoring equipment. The Water Treatment Plant emergency power generator was operated two days to help reduce RMLD’s high power demands. The Water Treatment Plant air exchange unit failed and was replaced. 2006 PUMPING RECORDS MWRA WTP PumpageAverage Day MonthDays Purchased January 52,416,000 0 31 1,690,839 February 46,261,000 0 28 1,652,179 March 53,384,000 0 31 1,722,065 April 53,685,000 120,000 30 1,793,500 May 30,362,000 28,140,000 31 1,887,161 June 29,768,000 28,650,000 30 1,947,267 July 30,690,000 34,320,000 31 2,097,097 August 30,602,000 33,990,000 31 2,083,613 September 0 52,340,000 30 1,744,667 October 0 47,390,000 31 1,528,710 November 0 44,100,000 30 1,470,000 December 0 44,440,000 31 1,433,548 TOTAL327,168,000 313,490,000 365 1,755,227 Public Works Department 2006 RAINFALL RECORDS http://www.mass.gov/dcr/waterSupply/rainfall/ PrecipitationAccumulatedDCR Normal Month InchesTotal PrecipitationPrecipitation January 4.34 4.34 3.62 February 2.44 6.78 3.23 March 0.54 7.32 4.03 April 3.02 10.34 3.72 May 12.24 22.58 3.45 June 9.93 32.51 3.48 July 5.29 37.80 3.42 August 4.18 41.98 3.59 September 2.74 44.72 3.60 October 5.18 49.90 3.54 November 6.26 56.16 4.08 December 1.59 57.75 3.81 TOTALS57.75 57.75 43.57 Total rainfall in 2006 as measured at the Louanis Water Treatment Plant was 57.75", which is 14.18" above the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) composite normal for the northeast region as posted on February 5, 2007. Monthly normal values computed by DCR are based on averages for the entire period of record for northeast region stations having the longest period of record and are located in Concord, Lawrence and Waltham. READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS Patrick A. Schettini, Jr. John Doherty Superintendent Assistant Superintendent Mary DeLai Director of Human Resources and Finance School Department This report represents the activities, accomplishments and events of note that occurred in the Reading Public Schools during the 2006 calendar year. Leadership Changes: Elaine L. Webb was elected Chair of the Reading School Committee for 2006-2007. Lisa F. Gibbs was elected Vice Chair of the Reading School Committee. Craig Martin was appointed Principal at the Coolidge Middle School. Marie Pink was appointed as Assistant Principal of the Coolidge Middle School. Jacqueline Orphanos was hired as the Special Education In-District Program Supervisor. Notable Events: In 2006, the Reading School Committee continued to move forward with the renovation and additions to Reading Memorial High School (RMHS). The RMHS construction has been proceeding on schedule with the Math/Science wing, and the locker room additions to the Field House completed for the start of school in September. Construction and renovation of the existing “C” building, new Library and Auditorium commenced. Construction also continued in the Field House. Reading Public Schools, in partnership with Danvers, North Reading and Lowell, was awarded a Federal Teaching of American History grant totaling $998,084 over a three year period. The grant provides a multitude of professional development opportunities for teachers. Professional Development in Reading Public Schools this year consisted of workshops in the John Collins Writing Process, Differentiated Instruction, Prentice Hall Algebra Training, Advanced Placement Vertical Teams, LINKS reading fluency training, “Open Circle:” Social awareness curriculum, History Alive!, and continued in Curriculum Mapping. Through a membership with Salem State College and the Collaborative Project for Mathematics, and Science Interdisciplinary Education (CPMSIE) and Primary Source, Reading Public Schools was able to provide additional professional development opportunities for teachers in the areas of Math, Science, Technology, the Arts and Social Studies. This year, Administrators and teacher representatives from all Reading schools were invited to give presentations at the Blue Ribbon Schools “Blueprint for Excellence” Conference in South Carolina. School Department The Reading Memorial High School Class of 2006 experienced an extraordinary level of success in their efforts to matriculate into our Nation’s most academically challenging programs. The following is a report on their plans: 80.4 % - Four Year Colleges, 11% - Two Year Colleges, 1.4% - Business/Technical/Prep Schools, 4.8% - work, 1% Armed Services and 1.4% - other. Once again, the Reading Memorial High School students have attained scores that place the school within the top echelon of all high schools in the Commonwealth. All of the seniors in the Class of 2006 met the MCAS graduation requirement. Coolidge Middle School was renewed as a New England League of Middle Schools (NELMS) Spotlight School, and also named as a Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School. Wellness instructors gave a presentation at the NELMS Unified Arts Conference. In the Spring 2006, Parker Middle School was awarded the Spotlight School designation, and received a recognition banner from NELMS. The Parker faculty is in their third year of focusing on the Core Values. This year, the values are kindness, community and personal best. Parker is also in its third year of membership in the National Turning Points Network located at the Center for Collaborative Education in Boston. The staff has been working with an Instructional Leadership Team to learn collaborative strategies. The elementary schools are focusing on three curriculum initiatives: Open Circle, Independent `Reading and Math Differentiation, and teachers have been involved in professional development workshops to enhance their skills in these areas. The Barrows students adopted a family during the holidays, contributed to the American Red Cross for victims of Hurricane Katrina, and held a Math-A-Thon for St. Jude’s Hospital as part of the community outreach initiative. At Birch Meadow School, the Wilson Language “Fundations” Phonics Program continues in all of our Kindergarten, first and second grade classrooms, and has been expanded to a pilot phase in one third grade class this Fall. The Joshua Eaton School formed its first Math Olympiad Team. They competed and finished in the top 20% of all teams in the country. The Killam School conducted Mathematics Workshops for parents designed to familiarize parents with the program. The Killam School was also designated as a Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School at the National Blue Ribbon Conference this past November. Wood End School worked to develop its own identity as the fifth elementary school in our district with many school meetings, planning sessions and open houses. The Wood End School continues to commit to enhancing the physical and mental health of all children, which includes the prevention of any type of bullying and teasing. The Special Education Department continues to work, in conjunction with regular education, in the creation of internal programs and supports to assist students with access to the curriculum, and on their goal of controlling out of district costs by developing new programs. School Department Reading School Committee Elaine L. Webb, Chair Leadership: There were several changes in leadership of the Reading School Committee. David Michaud and Chris Caruso were elected for a three year term. Committee Member John Carpenter decided not to run for re-election. At the Committee’s annual reorganization in April, Elaine Webb was elected Chair and Lisa Gibbs Vice Chair. Other members of the Committee are Harvey J. (Pete) Dahl, Chris Caruso, David Michaud and Carl McFadden. The School Committee along with the School Administration developed an aggressive Mission and District Improvement Plan for the Reading Public Schools. The Mission of the Reading Public Schools is “To Prepare Reading’s Youth to be Productive, Informed, Independent Citizens in a Global Society.” The District Improvement Plan sets the district-wide goals. Each school’s School Improvement Plan is aligned with and furthers the District Improvement Plan. This process makes our district goal driven. School Construction Projects: In 2006, the Reading School Committee continued to move forward with the renovation and additions to Reading Memorial High School (RMHS). The Reading Memorial High School construction has been proceeding on schedule with the Math/Science wing and the locker room additions to the Field House completed for the start of school in September. Construction and renovation of the existing “C” building, new Library and Auditorium commenced. Construction also continued in the Field House. Budget: The School Committee has developed a comprehensive process of establishing budget priorities for FY 2007. One of the priorities funded in FY 2007 was the funds to employ the consultant services of a grant writer. Reducing class size was another budget priority that was addressed in the FY 2007 Budget through the addition of two classroom teachers. The need to provide support to improve teaching and learning instruction resulted in the modest increases in curriculum/instruction initiatives, school materials and supplies, teacher induction and technology software. At the Annual Town Meeting that commenced on April 27, 2006, Town Meeting approved a Budget for the Reading Public Schools. School Department Reading Public Schools Budget Summary Fiscal Year 2007 Recommended Budget Administration $901,674 Regular Day $19,959,960 Special Needs $7,892,102 Other School Services $ 941,105 Custodial/Maintenance $3,568,361 TOTAL $33,263,201 Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS): Reading’s statewide prominence in the MCAS rankings continued in 2006 as Reading placed in the top 20% of all Massachusetts districts in MCAS performance. This represents a significant accomplishment for a system that continues to spend almost $1,400 below the State average on per pupil spending. This achievement continues to define Reading as a school system that gets more performance for less money. We continue to be a frugal district that sets high expectation, and works to achieve these goals through a collaborative effort of the administration, the teachers, the students, the parents and the community. Student Enrollment: As students returned to school in September of 2006, it is apparent that while trending upward, enrollment has begun leveling off. Student enrollment in the Fall of 2006 (FY 2007) stood at 4,264 students. See chart below. Reading Public Schools Student Enrollment FY 2007 Elementary Schools K-5 2,033 Middle Schools 6 – 8 988 High School 9 – 12 1,215 Special Education *28 TOTAL 4,264 *This is the number of enrollees in our “substantially separate” Special Education classrooms. Reading students who receive full- time Special Education services outside of Reading are not counted in this chart. School Department Achievements: Reading Memorial High School graduated 292 young men and women in 2006. While many of our graduating seniors are attending some of the most prestigious universities in the country, all are moving into the future with a solid portfolio of skills, which will help their success in any environment they choose. While we naturally point to acceptances at schools like Tufts and George Washington University as an indication of our system’s success, it is the goal of the School Committee and a better appropriate measure of success that we find placements for all of our students that will further prepare them to be productive, contributing citizens of our country. In addition to the success of our graduates, we can continue to take pride in the success of our students at all levels. Our athletic programs continue to be one of the best in Massachusetts with our student athletes demonstrating athleticism, intelligence and, above all, sportsmanship. Our students take part in a number of Statewide competitions including the Science Olympiad Program, National History Day, Drama Fest and numerous Band competitions. Our success at all levels is almost too numerous to repeat but continues to reflect on the efforts of the students, staff and parents. We are always indebted to those in the community who provide the additional support when the School Department cannot. It is this support from our PTO’s, the Boosters, the Band and Drama Parents support organizations, the Technology Fund, just to name a few, that provide that added support and encouragement that fosters a sense of community and promotes participation and success. Reading Memorial High School Principal Joseph L. Finigan Reading Memorial High School enjoys a strong reputation among high schools in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The richness of our curriculum, the preparation of our faculty, the achievement of our students at levels well above State and national averages on standardized tests, and the record of college admissions at the Nation’s leading universities confirm a pattern of excellence. Education has historically been the focus of our Reading community. The combination of highly motivated students, supportive parents, a talented faculty and the outstanding support of the community reflected in the construction of the new building suggest that Reading Memorial High School is a model of what quality public education can be. In addition to preparing students for college study and for productive adult lives, we emphasize student participation in the broader community. Our extensive roster of athletic opportunities, the drama program, music offerings, club activities, and service options promotes a commitment to others through teamwork and dedication to principle. There is a vitality of spirit at this High School that underpins all that we do, and we value community interest in our school. The culture at Reading Memorial High School makes it a special place. It is an incredibly exciting time to be at RMHS. We are setting the course for a future that will expand and increase the opportunities and resources for our students. School Department RMHS students continue to achieve above State averages on the MCAS with 100% passing rate. Our students also scored above the national average on the various SAT tests. Last Spring’s graduating class, as is expected, distinguished itself with many acceptances at outstanding colleges and universities. The professional development of RMHS has been focused on the incorporation of new technology into the instructional and administrative facets of the classroom; however, other opportunities for teachers supported the district’s instructional emphasis in delivering strong curriculum and creating small learning communities. Finally, with all the changes and challenges of an ambitious construction project, all parties to the educational process, including Town Departments, are to be commended for their understanding, cooperation and perseverance in making this past year a successful one for RMHS students. RMHS Building Project: January 2007 marked the “move-in” in the final phase of the building project. Work to be completed in the Spring and Summer of 2007 will focus on demolition, site work and the construction of parking areas and roadways. As the students, faculty and community moved into the new building, an overwhelming sense of excitement and promise for the future has been shared by young and old alike. While the move into the new building cannot be understated, we are most proud of how our students and faculty maintained a positive and constructive learning environment. Our students were extraordinary in their flexibility and understanding throughout this project. The RMHS custodial staff and the Reading Public Schools Maintenance Department were critical in the building project. Special thanks are extended to Director Joseph Huggins and Assistant Director Donald Johnson for their assistance in the management of “The Moves.” RMHS Technology Specialists Joe Cain and Matt Wilson coordinated the installation of computers and other technology in the classroom and office areas. We cannot emphasize enough the patience demonstrated on the part of students, faculty, staff and families on the traffic plan. The plan was developed by the RMHS administration, the Reading Police Department, the Town Engineers and the building project architects. Special recognition is warranted to thank Assistant Principals Gary Hart and Michael Scarpitto, Police Chief James Cormier, Safety Officer Michelle Halloran, School Resource Officer Richard Abate and Town Engineer George Zambouras for their extensive teamwork in developing this plan. The citizens of Reading have taken great strides to provide such an extraordinary facility for our youngsters. We will work with our students to develop common agreements with regard to the care and upkeep of our building. Building Overview: High School renovation and addition 1420 student capacity 151,000 square feet $54 million project cost School Department In the district’s largest project ever, the 1953 building and the 1970 addition received new construction and renovation to accommodate the school’s growing enrollment. Design centered around three public zones that make up the learning community - (1) Entrance Lobby: plaza and lobby defined by the Veteran’s Memorial, an inspirational celebration of liberty and opportunity, (2) Atrium or “Student Commons:” a connecting space that encourages openness and inclusion among different peoples and programs, (3) Main Street: a celebration of school spirit and links to the community. Sixty five classrooms exhibit flexible design for varied instructional approaches, all outfitted with SmartBoard technology, Internet and computers. University-quality science labs and a new Media Center, which serves as a hub for a variety of means for students to access technology, support the strong curriculum at RMHS. A new 900 seat performing arts center supports the RMHS drama and music programs with state of the art lighting and sound systems. Renovations to the second largest Field House in the State of Massachusetts incorporating a synthetic floor, climbing walls and a fitness center which will be utilized by all students to promote positive life-choices. Two synthetic turf athletic fields, running track and press box are additions to the exterior athletic facilities. Appropriate technology and safeguards for student safety and security are included in the new building. The new Reading Memorial High School reflects a building that is preparing our young people for the world in which they will live. Members of the community are encouraged to visit the school and share in the enthusiasm of the impressive atmosphere for learning. Staffing: There were 21 additions to the RMHS staff this year. Seventeen of the faculty positions are full-time teaching assignments and four are part-time. Some of these positions occurred because of retirements, some were due to staff personnel seeking other career pursuits, and some were created due to a new position budgeting to address the growing student population in the Humanities Program for ninth grade students. Violetta Archilla, Foreign Language; Dr. Suzanne Johnson, Science; Karla Montano, Math; Michelle Colantonio, English; *Kristin Killan, Music; Sarah Peterson, Guidance; Katherine Crosby, English; Veronique Latimer, Art; Adam Porro, Social Studies; Kathleen Dailey, Art; Nancy Leung, Foreign Language; Karin Swanson, Foreign Language; *Amy Dyment, Math; Danja Mahoney, Foreign Language; Dr. Jennifer Thomas, Science; Patrick Flaherty, English; Maura McCusker, English; Kevin Vendt, TV Production; Caroline Goddard, Social Studies; Tim McIntire, Science; Katie Zediana, Foreign Language, *Reading veteran teachers It should be noted that every department in the school had at least one addition to its department. It should also be stressed that veteran teachers have mentored each new teacher in order to help the protégés make the transition to RMHS as smoothly as possible. School Department Class of 2006: The Class of 2006 experienced a very successful year in their efforts to matriculate into some of the most academically challenging programs. Our top students were accepted at many institutions of higher learning, including Bowdoin College, Boston College, Boston University, College of the Holy Cross, College of William and Mary, Fordham University, Hamilton College, McGill University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Pomona College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Swarthmore College, Tufts University, University of Chicago and University of Virginia. A complete breakdown of post-graduate plans for the 292 graduates includes acceptances at the following institutions: (292 students in graduating class) Four-year Colleges (235) 80.4% Two-year Colleges (32) 11.0% Prep School (2) .7% Technical School (2) .7% Work (14) 4.8% Undecided (4) 1.4% Armed Forces/Service Academy (3) 1.0% RMHS School Improvement Initiatives: Complacency is not a characteristic valued at RMHS. As part of the Reading Public Schools involvement in the Blue Ribbon School Improvement Initiative, the High School faculty and staff are in the process of investigating and evaluating all facets of the RMHS program. The New England Association of Schools and Colleges (N.E.A.S.C.) Report did much to recognize the school’s strengths, and make specific recommendations to enhance future goals. Recently, receiving the coveted rating of “Continued Accreditation” from the N.E.A.S.C, we are integrating that body’s recommendations and standards with the Blue Ribbon School Improvement process. In the coming years, our focus will be on supporting our students on many levels as they mature as students and people during their years at RMHS. MCAS Testing: The sophomore class performed exceptionally well on both the English Language Arts and Mathematics tests compared with other sophomore students throughout the Commonwealth. In addition, it should be noted that every member of the Class of 2007, our senior class, has met the State requirements of passing both the MCAS English Language Arts and Mathematics tests either during their sophomore year or by means of the MCAS Retest format during their junior or senior year. Most assuredly, the commitment and dedication of the faculty and staff, the diligent, conscientious effort on the part of the students, and the high quality of the academic program both at the High School and throughout the Reading School District are all factors in helping the students surpass the goals for improvement established by the Massachusetts Department of Education. School Department 2006 MCAS Grade 10 Results MathEnglish State RMHS State RMHS Advanced 40% 61% 16% 26% Proficient 27% 26% 53% 61% Needs Improvement 21% 12% 24% 12% Failing 12% 1% 7% 1% Academics: The primary measure of success of any high school is the quality of the academic programs. We take great pride in the curriculum and instruction at RMHS. Yet, with a firm instructional belief of reaching for continuous improvement, we are in a constant mode of evaluation so that we can best meet the needs of our students. The following points are simply highlights of the year: Curriculum Mapping (2nd year commitment to mapping taking place in every department). 8th Grade/9th Grade Transition (Particular attention was placed in modifying and refining the transition of these students to provide avenues of support for academic and social confidence). Humanities Program (The program was expanded with more class sections to lower class size). Advance Placement courses (AP Statistics and AP History). University of Massachusetts-Lowell T.E.A.M.S. Academy (RMHS sophomores participated in one day pilot program consisting of workshops which emphasized Technology, Math, Science and Engineering). (Ms. Karla Montano and Mr. Dave Wininger served as representative instructors from RMHS.) Science Vertical Team. Math Vertical Team. Blue Ribbon Conference in North Carolina (four day conference for teachers and District Administrators). National History Day. National Latin Exam. Classical Association of New England (Mrs. Nancy Irons made a presentation on textbook series, Cantate cum Cornelia). Annual Institute of the American Classical League in Philadelphia (Mrs. Nancy Irons and Ms. Amanda White made a presentation called Ecce, Discimus!) Summer Institute for Teachers at Northeastern University (Mrs. Susan Hennessy, Spanish Immersion Class). French Exchange Program (Mr. Alec Porter, Mrs. Susan Fritz and Mrs. Susan Hennessy organized and chaperoned the trip in April 2006 to Rouen, France). Italian Trip (chaperoned by Mrs. Irons and Mr. Harrison during April vacation). Habitat for Humanity (chaperoned by Mr. Frank Buono and Mrs. Korey Barkley to New Orleans during February vacation). School Department Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School Principal Craig Martin A Learning Community: Continuing to Grow and Move Forward: The Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School is maintaining its overall goal of continuing to operate as a “professional learning community.” Such a school is often defined as having a shared mission and vision, valuing the collective inquiry that accompanies a constant striving to improve, working within the structure of collaborative teams that share a common purpose, maintaining a willingness to try new approaches and assessing efforts by examining results. As we continue to strive to be a school that successfully addresses the social, physical, intellectual and emotional needs of all its students, we look forward to accomplishing the new goals set forth in our School Improvement Plan—while at the same time, we celebrate our successes of the previous year. Listed below are a few of the highlights: Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence: Coolidge Middle School was proud to be featured again this year at the Blue Ribbon Schools “Blueprint for Excellence” Conference in South Carolina. As a national “Lighthouse School,” Coolidge was invited to present at the conference, and four staff members (Jenny DiMuzio, Janet Klein, Laura Warren and Cheryl Wing) accompanied Principal Craig Martin (as well as many other Reading representatives) to the national conference. Mr. Martin was invited to participate in the pre- conference sessions on “middle school reform,” and delivered a presentation titled “Shaping a School Culture of Continuous Improvement.” Later in the conference, Mr. Martin and staff presented “Helping the Young Adolescent Succeed.” In addition to their own presentations, Coolidge staff members had the opportunity to attend numerous workshops, to visit exemplary schools in the area, and to connect with professional colleagues from outstanding schools across the nation. New England League of Middle Schools (NELMS): After three years as a NELMS “Spotlight School” for New England, the Coolidge community was proud to have NELMS Board Members conduct a day-long site visit and subsequently “renew” its spotlight school designation to Coolidge Middle School this last year. Last Spring, Coolidge was also invited to participate in the NELMS Annual Conference in Providence, RI, and several staff members gave presentations: Principal Craig Martin presented “Leading the Journey to Excellence,” PTO Presidents Sheila Mulroy and Carla Pennacchio presented “Parents as Partners: A Key to Middle School Success,” Art teacher Sarah Doane presented “Art Across the Curriculum,” Social Studies teacher Ann Jacobsmeier presented “Travel Around the Mediterranean in Ancient Times,” and School Psychologist Mark Burton presented “Psychological Disorders of Adolescence: Strategies that Work.” Coolidge 8thgrader Kyle Coppola was also invited to represent Coolidge and to introduce the keynote speaker at the opening general session. Science Olympiad Team: Coolidge Middle School again was very proud of its Science Olympiad Team who won the Massachusetts State Championship and went on to place 9th in the Nation at the 2006 National Science Olympiad Tournament at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN. Gold medals in individual events School Department were awarded to students Alice Broadway and Mike Wang. Silver medals were awarded to Nasreen Kouki and Nicholas Werth, and Bronze medals went to Nasreen Kouki, Nicholas Werth, Sarah Mulroy and Eric Pratt. Medals in trial events were won by Tyler Ewing and Rachel McKie (Gold); Dylan Thomas, Virginia Perez, Connor Sullivan and Elaina Druid (Silver). In addition, Coolidge Head Coach Paul Guidetti presented at the 2006 National Science Olympiad Coaches Clinic in Hammond, IN in October. Music: At last Spring’s Junior District Music Festival, several Coolidge students were honored. From almost 2,000 auditions, only 550 students were chosen for the festival. For three days, students met to rehearse with a guest conductor and other ensemble members from throughout the Northeastern District. Congratulations to Patrick DeBenedetto, Stephen Gordon, Julia Hoffmann, Eric Pratt, Shailee Shah, Nicholas Werth and Ben Whippen who represented Coolidge Middle School. The middle school Jazz Band performed at the Northeast Jr. District Jazz Festival and received a Gold Medal. Coolidge student Amanda Doodlesack was also given an outstanding musicianship award. National History Day: Several Coolidge students competed in the State level National History Day. Kushaan Shah received Honorable Mention and Matt Connery, Nick Grimmer, Farid Najmi, Brad Porter, Mike Wang and Nicholas Werth moved on to represent Coolidge and Massachusetts at the National History Day competition in Washington, D.C., placing 9th overall in the Junior Division. Student Support: As part of our ongoing efforts to effectively address the social and emotional needs of our students, Coolidge Counselors Mark Burton and Marlene Lifshin expanded the 8thgrade student support program, and have begun piloting activities for the 6th and 7th grade during the advisory time. A focus of the program has been “hurtful behaviors” and how to create a school culture where every student can feel emotionally safe and secure. Students are responding very positively, and we are very pleased with the progress thus far. To provide struggling students with academic intervention, we re-established our “Program to Achieve Scholastic Success” (PASS). Small group classes in both Math and Language Arts are grant- funded and have begun meeting after school hours. Coolidge Quest: The Coolidge community, coordinated by the PTO, was proud to begin a new tradition. Presented as a “fun-raiser,” Coolidge Quest was a community competition in a game-show format. Teams of parents, community members, teachers and/or students competed against each other and were presented questions from all the middle school curricular areas. Each team logged in their answers by using a Classroom Performance System (CPS) remote. Principal Craig Martin was the Master of Ceremonies and audience members followed along on the big screen as questions were projected so that all could see. It was a great time, and the beginning of a fun new tradition. School Department Other Accomplishments and/or Recognition: Wellness Instructors Paula Graham and Ben Goodhue presented “Strength and Conditioning: A Unit for Middle and High School” at the NELMS Unified Arts Conference. 8th grader Nicholas Werth won the Coolidge Annual Geography Bee last January, and he went on to place 4th in the State level competition. Math/Science teacher Andrea Bruno and Technology Specialist Marcia Grant were STEM fellows. With the help of District Special Ed Program Director Jacqui Orphanos, Coolidge (together with Parker Middle School) began offering additional professional development to all Special Education Assistants. Coolidge held its Annual Community Spelling Bee last Spring. The event is sponsored by the PTO and has become a community tradition. It again was a very enjoyable and successful day, and this year’s winning team was comprised of Coolidge teacher Paul Guidetti and students Zach Hennings, Chris Morgan and Matt Whalen. Coolidge Student Council and Peer Leaders once again coordinated participation in the Boston “Walk for Hunger” and earned over $3,000 for Project Bread. To these Coolidge staff members who retired in the last year, we express our heartfelt thanks for their many years of dedicated service to the children of Reading: Louise DiCarlo, Mary Fuller, Nancy Powell, Stan Quinlan, Kay Regan and Ellen Svenson. Coolidge is proud to welcome several new faculty members to our team: Barry (Speech/Language), Melissa Fleet (Special Education), Sarah Maltzman (English Language Arts & Social Studies), Becky Mandell (Social Studies), Ruthann Reidt (Special Education), Jeremy Sprague (Spanish), Cindy Ventura (Nurse) and Marlene Yorkey (Special Education). Their talents and contributions will help us in all our future endeavors. W. S. Parker Middle School Principal Linda Darisse Introduction: The W. S. Parker Middle School continually works to improve through a process which addresses three main areas of need - curriculum, instruction and assessment, school climate and shared leadership. Staff, parents, students and community members are working together to build a school community which focuses on the needs of pre-adolescents and adolescents, educationally, socially and emotionally. Part of this process is to reach out to the Reading community and beyond as we continue the Parker tradition of being a school which values life-long learning and service to the community. School Improvement Plan: The School Improvement Plan (SIP) was written by the School Council in the Spring of 2006. The plan correlates to the District Improvement Plan (DIP) written in August of 2005, and revised and updated by the Administrative Council in 2006. The focus areas of the SIP are: Improving Learning, Teaching and Assessment for All Students, Building Leadership Capacity and Professional Collaborative Culture, and Creating a School Culture to Support High Achievement. The goals are to continue to develop and teach lessons/units that engage students and address the learning needs of all students, to continue to train staff in the use of effective teaming/collaboration strategies to support improved student achievement, and to continue to cultivate ‘Core Values’ among students and staff. School Department The School Council comprised of five parents, three teachers and the Principal meet regularly to provide the structure and direction for the accomplishment of the goals outlined in the School Improvement Plan. Turning Points and National School Reform Faculty: Turning Points 2000 (TP) is a report from the Carnegie Foundation that is a result of over 10 years of research done in middle schools on how pre-adolescents and adolescents learn best. The report has a list of recommendations that middle schools should adhere to if they are to address the needs, educational, social and emotional, of students who are “in the middle” between elementary school and high school. Parker Middle School is in its third year of membership in the National Turning Points Network located at the Center for Collaborative Education in Boston. The Turning Points work for this year was partly funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. We worked with two TP coaches, one to work with the Instructional Leadership Team to learn collaborative strategies, and make key decisions on how the school should address the recommendations in TP. Some of the changes that resulted from this work include addressing the needs in the areas of student achievement, school climate, classroom culture, communication and staff development. The second coach worked directly with teachers to train them in classroom and leadership strategies using an expanded peer observation model called Lab Classrooms. A third coach from Salem State College worked with the whole faculty to implement strategies developed by the National School Reform Faculty, a movement developed at Brown University with Annenberg monies. This coach is teaching collaborative skills to all faculty through the use of protocols. These structured conversations help increase skills in the areas of looking at student and teacher work, building relationships, examining research and data and solving dilemmas. Another focus for 2006 was to work with Coolidge Middle School to begin to correlate the TP Principles, the Recommendations outlined in NASSP’s Breaking Ranks in the Middle, and the NEASC standards for Accreditation. New England League of Middle Schools: As a member of NELMS, the Parker community has had many opportunities to go to conferences and workshops to increase the knowledge in the building around research pertaining to middle schools, and teaching and learning. In 2006, a group of teachers completed a self-study and sent it to NELMS to apply to be a NELMS Spotlight School. A team from NELMS visited the school and spoke to many stakeholders, visited classrooms and team meetings, and examined documents and artifacts. In the Spring of 2006, Parker was awarded the Spotlight School designation and received a recognition banner at a ceremony co-sponsored by NELMS and the Parker PTO. As a result, we have had many visitors come to our school to meet teachers and students and exchange ideas. Professional Development: There are many opportunities for staff to develop new skills in both new and existing initiatives. Besides the initiatives mentioned above, other areas of opportunity are: Inquiry math, differentiated instruction, engaged learning, data analysis, numeracy, History Alive!, Prentice Hall algebra and pre-algebra programs, technology, health and wellness and alternative assessment. School Department Specific training sessions include Lab Classrooms, Edline, Gradequick, Techno Mondays, integrating wellness, drug awareness, curriculum mapping, restraint, Junior Great Books, John Collins Writing Program, and Research for Better Teaching. Differentiated Instruction with Gerry Goldberg: Staff members are taking advantage of a course offered through the district. What teachers learn during these sessions is brought back to the school, implemented in the classroom and shared with other teachers. Ideas from this course are used to stratify standards so that all students are challenged at their own level around a particular concept. This work will continue throughout the year to develop teaching and management strategies to use in classrooms and on teams. Middle School Curriculum Development (Coolidge and Parker): District-wide, grade level department teachers have been working to coordinate curriculum. This is done through a procedure called “mapping.” After completing a chart which gives an overview of the content and skills covered monthly, teachers are completing curriculum maps that include key terms, essential skills, core knowledge, common assessments, and correlation to the state framework. Teachers have a chance to discuss their maps with their teams and administrators at key points throughout the year. In addition, departments from both middle schools have been meeting regularly with consultants to increase their knowledge base in pedagogy. Math teachers have been working in several areas including using Math manipulatives, understanding the new Prentice Hall Algebra and Pre- algebra programs, using Scanton as a diagnostic tool, and vertical teaming with the high school in both Math and Science. The Social Studies teachers have been trained in a newly adopted program called History Alive!, and have been taking advantage of programs and other offerings through the Byrd History grant. Other departments that meet regularly to improve pedagogy include Science, Art, PE, ELA, Music and Foreign Language teachers. A district-wide middle school Teacher Share Day was developed and implemented in April of 2006. This was run as a mini-conference where each teacher attended two workshops each, either as a presenter or attendee. Workshops included many different areas of interest including technology, health, Reading, Math, children’s literature, writing and many other subjects. Leadership Team: The Parker Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) is in its third year advising the school in areas of curriculum, instruction, assessment and collaborative work. Every working team in the school has a representative on the ILT. Seventeen staff members, including the coach, both Principals and teachers are on the team which meets monthly to deepen knowledge of the TP Principles, plan staff development, and come to consensus on school change. They have raised questions about current situations or practice, reviewed data to clarify situations and reframe questions, and identified problem areas or questions to be investigated. School Department They are currently learning many protocols for improving relationships, solving dilemmas, and looking at student and teacher work. They then bring this information back to their teams to facilitate sessions on a smaller scale. They also network with other schools, have difficult conversations with each other about change, do analytical work in the areas of curriculum, instruction and collaborative culture, and will present an overview of their work at the Annual NELMS Conference held in Providence, RI every Spring. The ILT has helped us reach our goal of increasing leadership capacity within the building. In addition to the ILT, we have a Team Leader for every team and department in the building. Team Leaders meet monthly and as needed to address issues of school and team management. Students are put into leadership roles by becoming peer leaders, School Counselors and Core Value advisors. The School Site Council, made up of parents, teachers and the Principal, has worked to implement goals pertaining to nutrition, physical activity, safety, communication, public relations and school climate. Core Values: We are in our third year of focusing on our Core Values of Kindness, Community and Personal Best. The 2006 goal was to create a year long curriculum that would be implemented during monthly school-wide sessions where we could discuss and practice our Core Values as a community using lessons designed to teach children the language of conflict resolution. The Core Value teams consist of teachers, counselors and students who develop activities, analyze data, make suggestions for speakers, and reflect and revise activities as needed. Special Education and Guidance Procedures and Services: Much work has been done analyzing data pertaining to our Special Education students in order to provide the best services possible. After all pullout programs were disbanded last year, teachers and assistants used data from MCAS and other standardized and diagnostic tests to address individual students’ needs. Additional classes and electives were scheduled and designed to impact learning in both Math and Reading. Service grids on Individual Education Plans were revised to further meet the needs of each student. All 6th grade Special Education faculty met with their counterparts at the elementary level several times to assure a smooth transition for incoming 5th graders. And finally, a plan was created and implemented to train Educational Assistants in Special Education research and strategies, and the use of technology in the classroom. The Guidance Program continues to offer the best services available for our students. The Student Support Center is in close proximity to the School Psychologists, and is staffed with an Educational Assistant who provides both scheduled and emergency services to students with social, behavioral and emotional issues. Using an inclusion model for these students has resulted in an increased amount of academic accountability. There are also scheduled group sessions for students with special issues such as recently divorced families, sickness and death and social issues. In addition, two part-time interns from Tufts University assist in the guidance suite to help students and families. School Department Technology Plan: A school-wide technology team, led by the school’s Technology Integration Specialist, makes key decisions about the purchase and use of technology at Parker. A prioritized list of needs was developed and shared with the district and the PTO. Faculty members have been integrating the use of the computers into the curriculum, and have created a curriculum document that outlines sequential skill development in Grades 6-8. We have also provided staff development in the use of new technologies, communicating effectively with parents and each other, and purchasing more hardware and software. We have obtained, through the regular school budget, RTEF grants and money from the PTO, four Smart Boards, a document camera and a COW (computer on wheels) which has a class set of laptops in a cart with airport access to the Internet. The PTO also purchased two midi set-ups for our music teachers and students. We continue to train teachers and students in the use of these new technologies. Staff and students have also learned other skills including computer research, databases, Microsoft Office, Inspiration, etc. Improved Home/School Communication: With the help of the Team Leaders, School Council and the PTO, we have improved communication within the school and with parents. The Parent Handbook was revised by the School Council and completed in time for it to be included in the Summer mailing. Parent coffees, a chance for teachers to talk informally with parents, were expanded from 6th grade to all grades, and included food provided by the PTO Hospitality volunteers. Student schedules were mailed to all homes and uploaded onto Edline during August. The PTO and School Council worked together to communicate safety issues to parents, particularly in the areas of pick-up, drop-off and speed limits. We have expanded our listserv to more than 85% of our parents who receive the school newsletter and other notifications by email. Edline, a piece of software that provides opportunities to communicate with parents, has been expanded to include daily homework assignments, monthly calendars, teacher webpages, mid-quarter progress reports, schedules, notices and report cards. Increased Educational and Enrichment Activities: Summer programs were held at Parker this Summer some created and implemented by Parker staff, others as part of the new Reading Summer Academy. One was Pragmatics Camp where students learned social skills for classroom use. Another was the Introduction to Parker, an activity based program where incoming 6th grade students learned about the school and its programs. Also, staff and parents met regularly to provide enrichment and health assemblies for students, and to plan and revise the annual overnight, science-based field trip for the Spring of 2006. The French teacher planned a trip to Montreal and Quebec with a teacher from Coolidge, and took the students during the Spring of 2006. Peer leaders and Student Council continued to work as key members of the school community who work to improve school climate and do community service. The After School Enrichment Program expanded this year and includes Anime Art, Art Studio, Basketball, Board Games, Clay Club, Color Guard, Crocheting Basics, Field Hockey, Flag Football, Flash Animation, Floor Hockey, French Club, Gymnastics, Hip Hop Jazz Club, Homework Club, Knitting, Math Team, Science Creativity Club, Scholastic Art Preparation, Science Club, Sim-City Science, Spanish Club, Stamping and Scrapbooking, Talent Show Preparation and Whiffleball. School Department New Staff: We would like to welcome Seam Musselman as our new 8th grade Science teacher, Jennifer Webster, 8th grade Math and Megan Rutenbeck as a one year, 8th grade English replacement for Jennifer Tracy who is out on maternity leave. Sean and Meg are newly graduated from college while Jennifer has previous experience teaching in public elementary schools. In the 7th grade, Renee Gelin is a new 7th grade Math teacher and comes to us with experience from other school districts. Beginning her first full year as the 6th grade LLD teacher is Julie McCarthy after starting late in the Fall last year in the same position. New teachers in the Foreign Language Department include Joanne Meziane who has years of experience in other districts and Karawan Kouki, a recent graduate and a product of the Reading Schools. Norah Connolly is the new Librarian replacing the current Librarian who is on maternity leave. Norah recently received her Masters’ Degree in Library Science. Meg Powers, a Reading resident and former Educational Assistant at the elementary level, is our new full- time Technology Integration Specialist. We also have two new Special Education Assistants who will be working in the classroom assisting teachers: Janice Sclafani who is working on her Masters Degree in Special Education, and Linda Zorzonello who worked as an Educational Assistant in another town. Carol Lane, a Reading resident, is working in the main office as an Educational Assistant. Alice M. Barrows Elementary School Principal Karen J. Callan 2006 continued to be a year of commitment, collaboration, and community at the Barrows School. The children were exposed to the highest of standards set forth in each of the 17 classrooms. They also experienced art, music and physical education classes in modern, state-of-the-art facilities. Facilities: The Barrows facility continues to be a source of pride for the community. We are grateful for the wonderful building in which we are able to teach our children. As a staff, we want to thank the community for the commitment they made to renovate our building and bring it into the 21st Century. It is wonderful place to work and learn! School Improvement Plan: Our 2006 School Improvement Plan aims at strengthening the curriculum, professional development, and health and safety of all our community. The establishment of core committees to move the SIP process has unified our staff and encouraged teacher involvement. Each committee has established goals and objectives that will enhance the teaching and learning of all our community members. Professional Development: Professional involvement in continued learning is a mark of a successful community. The teachers at Barrows were involved in a plethora of activities to improve their professional growth and ultimately their teaching. Many of our newer teachers are involved in advanced degree programs. This year, five teachers took part in the Differentiated Learning Course held in Reading which will help to meet individual needs of our students. Three teachers were co-chairs of the math mapping project which aligned our program with the State frameworks. School Department This Fall, 12 staff members accepted the challenge of becoming cooperating teachers for student teachers, interns and graduate students from Endicott College, Salem State and Tufts University. As cooperating teachers, they were able to reflect upon their own profession and guide students towards a career in education. “Cool to Care:” The “Cool to Care” initiative kicked off in September with a school-wide assembly. In keeping with our overall respect initiative, the students are being ‘caught’ caring about their school and their peers. Weekly awards, monthly assemblies, and Shining Star Banners encourage the “Cool to Care” attitude that permeates the Barrows School. The Shining Star Banner and rug that grace the lobby of Barrows emphasizes our motto of caring and respect for all. In order to give children a structured environment to communicate, develop self-control and solve problems, six teachers were trained and have implemented the Open Circle Program this past year. Open Circle is now used in Kindergarten and some grades one, two and three classrooms. Continued staff training in Open Circle is a goal for Barrows. Technology: The addition of Smart Technology in our media lab encouraged staff and students to embrace the Smart Board and all its capabilities. United Streaming Media has enhanced daily lessons in the lab as well as in the classrooms, and the continued use of email and Edline has improved communication between home and school. The Barrows’ staff Technology Committee is helping to pinpoint needed professional development for all staff members in the various areas of technology. Community Outreach: The Barrows community continued to help those in need in Reading and beyond. Our continued involvement in ‘Adopt-A-Family,’ St. Jude’s Hospital Math-A-Thon, Read-Across-America and local food drives allowed our students to become involved on a local and national level. When students within our school needed assistance, the fourth grade students sold “Cool to Care” bracelets and donated the money to two charity causes. Last Spring, the students, under the direction of the PTO Beautification Committee, held the first Barrows Beautification Day. The students assisted in cleaning, raking and planting on the grounds of the school. The pride of our building, the gardens and grounds was evident through every child as they worked last May. December marked our second entry into the Reading Technology “Festival of Trees” event. This year’s entry was aptly named ‘The Shining Star Tree’! Parent Teacher Organization and School Council: The tremendous involvement in curriculum, enrichment and family activities by the Barrows PTO enhances our school on a daily basis. The PTO supports programs including science programs, authors, the Star Lab, all school assemblies and field trips. All these activities are aligned with our curriculum and give our students varied experiences. The fifth grade school store provides our students with lessons in economics, as well as earning money for end-of-year activities. The Barrows Challenge held in May encourages physical activity by running in a one mile road race. It is an event looked forward to by all the third, fourth and fifth grade students. This year, the School Council has continued to write the School Improvement Plan, oversee health issues and review the budget. School Department As 2006 came to a close, the Barrows School looked back at a very successful year. Our commitment to learning and setting high standards for our students is an ongoing journey which is embraced by the entire Barrows community. In the next year, we will continue to grow and expand in all aspects of our school life. Birch Meadow Elementary School Principal Tom Daniels There are many exciting and important learning experiences that are available to all children at Birch Meadow School. Community members are urged to feel free to visit our school and talk with parents, staff and administration. Birch Meadow continues to be an outstanding elementary school! Students are greeted daily by enthusiastic and energetic teachers who truly care about them as people and students. Staff members consistently greet each other warmly and show they care about each other. The adults at Birch Meadow laugh together all the time. They also arrive early and stay late and work tirelessly to ensure that student’s academic and social needs are met. Grade level teams meet regularly to review student progress, plan the weeks and months ahead and problem solve. Audience members at the school’s Winter Chorus Concert can attest to the excellence of our music program. Our walls are adorned with captivating and thought provoking student art work made possible by our outstanding Art Teacher. Parents who have children who need some extra academic help know of the incredible skill and care of our Child Study and Special Education team. Visitors to the gym are treated to the sounds of music, and the image of health and wellness teachers with huge smiles leading children in engaging games and movement activities. We are all blessed with the best office team anywhere. They are cool, calm and kind even when things are hectic. The office staff has a well developed sense of camaraderie which they share daily as they pass the papers, take care of the students’ physical and emotional needs, arrange for substitutes, and address building and playground issues. Our custodians work extremely hard to make sure our school is clean and safe, and our cafeteria staff strives to bring your children tasty lunches in a short time so they have time for recess. Our fabulous Educational Assistants work extremely hard to cover the lunchroom, cover classrooms for teachers when they have meetings, do bus duty, and help teachers prepare curriculum materials. They are resourceful, flexible and have a terrific sense of humor and perspective. We have a truly terrific staff! Curriculum: Our literacy curriculum components are Scholastic’s Literacy Place, Junior Great Books, John Collins Writing, Fundations Phonics and Scholastic’s Guided Reading Program. The Fundations Phonics Program is now being fully implemented in Kindergarten, first and second grade, and is in a pilot phase in one third grade classroom. The result is that students are entering third grade with a much better foundation in phonics. Birch Meadow is also piloting an initiative in independent reading which involves matching students to “just right” books at their ability level. School Department This Fall, teachers listened to an interesting presenter from Tufts University on how independent reading functions as an important component of a total balanced literacy program. Our wonderful Library/Media Specialist led students and staff in a remarkably successful school wide America Reads celebration with a medieval theme. At the end of the six weeks, students had achieved their goal of reading over 4000 books! The school’s annual celebration of student writing through Young Authors’ Days continues to be a favorite event of students, staff and parents. In Mathematics, teachers at our school have joined with others across the district in mapping what they do in Math every month in order to maximize alignment and optimize pacing of curriculum. Birch Meadow teachers are also working on improving Math differentiation to address the needs of learners of a variety of abilities. This Winter, we will begin a Math Olympiad Team after school where students in Grades 3-5 will have an opportunity to challenge themselves, and compete with others in solving extremely challenging Math problems. Professional Development: This Fall, two Birch Meadow staff members joined educators from across the district and across the Nation in participating in the National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Conference in Charleston, SC. They saw powerful images from site visits to absolutely outstanding elementary schools. Outstanding teachers and Principals gave informative and inspiring hour long workshops, and each meal included beautiful music performed by excellent student music groups. Every educator left the conference with both ideas and visions of what excellence looks and sounds like in actual practice. The conference was also extremely validating in that many of the practices in place at Blue Ribbon Schools are now in place at Birch Meadow. Social Competency: Our extremely effective school wide Anti-Bullying Program is now being augmented by the pilot of a comprehensive social competency program called Open Circle. Some teachers at Grades K, 1, 2 and 3 are currently engaged in training to implement Open Circle in their classrooms. Open Circle, a program developed at Wellesley College, involves twice weekly class meetings in which students work to establish non-negotiable classroom rules, and compliment each other. They learn to breathe calmly, avoid teasing and deal with annoying behavior. Strong research supports the helpfulness of Open Circle in developing both emotional and academic intelligence. We look forward to more teachers being trained in the program in the coming years. Technology: Technology continues to be used as a tool for learning and instruction at the Birch Meadow Elementary School. Birch Meadow gratefully accepted the donation of a Smart Board, an interactive wipe board funded by the generous support of the PTO. The Smart Board is being put to good use by the Library Media Specialist in her work with classrooms on integrated Science, Social Studies, Language Arts and Technology projects. We also gratefully accepted 11 new computers for our computer lab given to us by Simmons College. This enabled many slightly older computers to be distributed into classrooms. School Department After School Activities Program (ASAP): Birch Meadow is now in its 11th year of offering after school enrichment programs for students. Courses are offered in six-week periods and range from active physical education games, to computers, to drama, to Science, to karate, to chess, and several experiences in the arts. Parent Involvement: One of the major strengths of Birch Meadow continues to be its extremely high level of parent involvement and support. The PTO is an outstanding organization, which contributes to the quality of Birch Meadow life in many ways. Parents raise large amounts of money for enrichment programs, field trips, Library enhancement, and they also enhance the instructional program by their involvement in their children’s classrooms. Parents readily help on committees such as fundraising for a new playground, keeping students safe, and offering to support teachers whenever the need arises. Some of the many community building and fundraising events held by the PTO include an annual pancake breakfast, the community favorite Spooky Fun Fair, and the incredibly successful Adult Social which raised over $10,000 last Spring. In addition, parents pitched in to paint much of the inside of the school and beautify the outside on two landscaping days last year. As a result of their efforts and stepped up building cleanliness efforts on the part of our Facilities Department, the inside of our building has never looked better! Parents also fund incredible enrichment opportunities for our students. These range from a visiting Native American man named Dan Cripps who leads second graders in constructing a full size tipi in the gymnasium to a short residency by a visiting dramatist who led fourth graders in writing and acting out original short plays. Perhaps the most wonderful enrichment opportunity of all happened this Fall and was given by a remarkable visiting dancer named Nikki Hu and her husband Guy Van Duser. They led fourth graders in learning a wonderful dance related to the theme of respect, which they then performed for the entire school. Both fourth graders and the entire student population were riveted by the performance. Open Invitation: Members of the Reading community are invited to Birch Meadow. Our Library Media Center continues to be a great place to volunteer and work with children. Please feel free to call Principal Tom Daniels at 781-944-2335 with any questions, comments or to arrange a visit. Thank you for your continued support. Joshua Eaton School Principal Patricia A. de Garavilla The 2005-2006 school year proved to be another exciting and productive year for the entire Joshua Eaton School community! Great gains were made in the area of technology to afford the students new learning opportunities. Teachers and other staff members contributed in many ways to promote a positive learning environment for the 500 students enrolled at Joshua Eaton. Parents were also very involved through the PTO and School Advisory Council. The following are some of the noteworthy accomplishments at Eaton. School Department Curriculum and Instruction: All teachers participated in a variety of professional development opportunities. Some completed the “Studying Skillful Teaching” graduate course that was offered within the district. Others completed graduate courses as part of their Master’s Degree Program at area colleges or to obtain specialty certifications, and many attended seminars on pertinent topics. These included several technology related topics such as using the Smart Board and videostreaming as well as data analysis and professional learning communities. All teachers were very involved in the district-wide Mathematics curriculum mapping project throughout the year. Teachers Marcia Gibbons and Lauren Fusco served as curriculum co-chairs for their respective grade levels. The literacy assessment tool DIBELS was expanded to use in grade1 after its successful implementation in Kindergarten the previous year. The information gained from this assessment allows classroom teachers and the reading specialist to design specific instruction to assist students at risk in the area of reading. Reading specialist Debra Kwiatek facilitated a study group on reading fluency. This provided teachers, Educational Assistants and parents with many strategies for supporting children in the area of reading fluency. The school was thrilled to receive funding from the Reading Technology and Education Foundation which funded the purchase of a class set of writers. These are word processors that assist students with the publishing phase of their own writing pieces as well as instruction with keyboarding. This project truly moved forward the integration of technology into the writing curriculum. Parent Lori Hodin introduced and coordinated the implementation of the National Math Olympiad Program at Joshua Eaton. Over 50 students participated in the weekly team meetings and competitions. Student Jessica Petersen was the first place winner for the school. Joshua Eaton finished in the top 20% of all schools participating in the country! Teachers Debi Kinton, Linda Lydecker and Bill Lewis served as coaches for the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade teams respectively. The “Open Circle” social awareness curriculum was introduced in the district. Teachers Anna Manna and Karen Feeney completed the training and implemented this curriculum in their classrooms. The goal is for all teachers to complete this same training over the next several years so it can be expanded school wide. Teachers Jennifer Mercer and Michelle (Wass) Callan introduced a new Summer program for students in Grades 3-5. This program offered students in regular and Special Education an opportunity to maintain academic skills within a camp-like atmosphere. The highlight of the Summer session was the completion of new student designed and painted wall murals for the Library illustrating the unique and special aspects of the school community. Community Outreach: Our 8th Annual Veterans’ Day Assembly was a wonderful success. Over 75 veterans enjoyed the performances of the Joshua Eaton students and singer Dan Clark. The students sang a variety of patriotic songs and recited poetry for the special guests. School Department Over 200 grandparents and local senior citizens attended the Annual Senior Tea. Almost 150 students performed for the audience with an entertaining selection of songs and skits organized by Mr. Al Mosier and Mrs. Alicia McKenney, our music teachers. Through the efforts of our PTO, students support the less fortunate in the community through contributions for Thanksgiving food baskets. The entire school community is proud of the wonderful spirit of giving present at Eaton. Parental Involvement: Joshua Eaton is most fortunate to have many dedicated parent volunteers. The PTO, under the leadership of President Michelle Hopkinson, raised thousands of dollars to support enrichment activities for student learning, and provided many fun social events for families. They sponsored family activities such as the Halloween Howl, the Pancake Breakfast and the Ice Cream Social which were all positively received by the many Eaton families who attended. Our dedicated PTO Board and members supported the Joshua Eaton School through their efforts in the area of fundraising. They were able to supplement the technology equipment at school with the purchase of new computers, printers and a Smart Board. They also were instrumental in moving forward with a Library/Media Center renovation that has transformed the use of this room through their generous funding. Mary Johnston, Library/Media Specialist, and Meg Powers, former Technology Assistant, devoted many hours to making this project so successful. The School Advisory Council (Principal, Parent and Teacher Representatives) focused on the importance of communication within the school community, technology, the school’s culture and professional development. The following members completed their terms: Parents Lori Vinciquerra (co-chair), Lori Hodin and Patricia Dababneh, and teachers Jennifer Vitarisi and Carla Ricci. A group of parents led by Chair Mary Richards established the Joshua Eaton Clock Tower Preservation Committee. The goal is to restore the clock tower to its original condition as well as to honor Joshua Eaton, Revolutionary War Veteran from Reading, with a special celebration in May of 2007. Custodian Walter “Whitie” Spaulding provided wonderful information about the history of the building and has taken an active lead in this project. Faculty and Staff: Joshua Eaton School bid farewell to Grade 5 teacher Jean Conley. We congratulate her on her retirement, and express our gratitude for her 34 years of teaching in the Reading schools. Parents were welcomed back to school at the Annual Curriculum Nights to meet their children’s teachers, and hear firsthand of the grade level curriculum and expectations. Teachers, staff and students proudly displayed their writing, art work and special projects to their families at the Annual Open House in the Spring. With wonderful students, a dedicated and talented staff and supportive families, the school community looks forward to continuous school improvement and educational excellence for all students. School Department J. W. Killam Elementary School Principal Paul A. Guerrette The 2006 school year was filled with change, improvements, professional growth and culminated with recognition. Change involved the hiring of Lauren Freese as a second grade teacher and Elizabeth Slater as a fifth grade teacher. Both teachers began their teaching in August of 2006. A reorganization of our Special Education team occurred during 2006, and has resulted in an improved model to both service students and to conduct team evaluations. This change was accomplished after careful study by the team and a decision to utilize available resources in a different manner. Implementation of this model to date has met our expectations. Two parent workshops were conducted by Killam School teachers for parents that focused on the teaching of Mathematics and ways parents can support their children. The workshops were well attended and parents went away with a greater understanding of elementary Mathematics, and the way teachers instruct their children. In addition, the Title 1 Program at Killam offered a Summer program for selected students. The program offered students the opportunity to spend a week in the Summer reviewing and practicing mathematical skills and concepts. The PTO has continued to support teaching and learning through the use of technology in the classroom by providing financial support for the purchase and installation of Smart Boards in classrooms. As of this year, we had five Smart Boards in use in upper grade classrooms. The Killam School is also grateful to the Reading Technology and Education Foundation for funding a grant request to purchase a set of Classroom Performance devices which allows teachers to get students immediate feedback on assessment questions. Killam teachers were very active in the area of professional growth and development by engaging in a variety of courses and workshops. Several Killam teachers played a leadership role in the mapping of the Mathematics curriculum which took place district wide. Training in the use of Open Circle, a program designed to teach students vital social and emotional skills, continued with four more teachers participating in a week long Summer training program that will continue into the school year. This Fall, seven teachers took the course Differentiated Instruction offered by the district. This course is designed to help teachers understand and reach the varied learning needs of their students by making instructional modifications in the classroom. In the Fall, the school participated in an assessment conducted by the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence, Inc. The assessment involved a representative group of parents and students as well as all faculty members. The assessment was based upon criteria selected by the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence, Inc., and based upon 20 years of research related to effective schools. At a National Blue Ribbon Conference held November 29 - December 3, 2006, the J. W. Killam School was one of 16 schools designated as a Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School. This designation indicates that the Killam School has met the criteria set forth by the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence in all nine categories, and is committed to continued growth and improvement in the years to come. School Department Killam teachers Karen Macari, Alison Currier, parent and Pillars of Character Coordinator Linda Snow Dockser along with Principal Paul A. Guerrette presented at the conference, and shared with participants an overview of the Pillars of Character Program in use at Killam. Wood End Elementary School Principal Richard E. Davidson Wood End Elementary School “officially” opened its doors in September 2005 for the first time as the fifth elementary school in Reading. We are very proud of and thankful for the very generous parent and community support that made this milestone accomplishment possible. Transition to New School: In preparation for the transition to our fifth elementary school, many meetings and detailed planning sessions were necessary to begin to provide parents and students with their own sense of identity. In order to reach this goal, a transition team was established of parents from both the former Birch Meadow and Killam districts. Teachers and administration also lead this transition team which focused on establishing specific activities that involved students, parents, staff and community. Essential procedures and schedules were written and established, giving safety and security the highest priority. All staff was oriented and trained with the school’s new emergency protocols and procedures. Bullying Prevention Program: As a school, we continue to be committed to enhancing the physical and mental health of all children, which includes the prevention of any type of bullying and teasing. In order to hold true to this commitment, we have formed a “Steering Committee” at our school with Principal, teacher, specialist, assistant and parent membership. Our goal is to develop and oversee a program that supports, educates and celebrates positive decision making by students in a climate that practices zero indifference to bullying and teasing. This year, we have expanded our focus by incorporating the use of the Open Circle Program in almost all of the classrooms. Our goal for next year is to provide training for all classroom teachers in order to provide a common language and a common set of expectations. This year, we have also moved from a “Steering Committee” that initiated the program to a “Sustainability Committee” whose responsibilities are to keep the focus fresh and meaningful for all who work and learn here at Wood End. Curriculum: As a district and as a school, we continue to be pleased about our continuing curriculum enhancements. This year at the K-2 level, we are entering our seventh year of the Language Arts Program, Scholastic’s Literacy Place, and our third year of the Wilson’s Fundation Phonics Program which has proven to be helpful to beginning readers. The John Collins Writing Program continues to provide consistency in terms of expectations and a common language and common framework for writing. Our Math Program continues to provide appropriate challenges for all students. It encourages students to think mathematically and recognize applications of Math concepts to every day life. It is also closely aligned with the Massachusetts State Frameworks. Two years ago, we implemented a new Social Studies Program from Harcourt School Publishers called Horizons at the fourth and fifth grade School Department level. It is a text-based program for these grade levels, and is rich with resources and supplemental materials that strongly recognize the importance of technology in everyday learning. Our Science Program is a hands on “kit” based curriculum which teaches important concepts of physical, earth and life sciences. The program, at all levels, stresses observations, measurement, journal writing, teaming and hands on experimentation. In an effort to continually review and improve our curriculum last year, we began a system of review through a mapping of our Math program and this year, we began a similar effort with the Language Arts Program. The district has also recently formed a K-12 Vertical Science Team that will review our current Science program and instructional practices. Library Media: As a new school last year, we were very excited about the start up of a new Library Media facility. It is beautiful and located in a central place in the school. Indeed, the Library Media Center is seen as the hub and heart of our school setting. Reading is fortunate in that each school has its own full-time Library Media Specialist and at Wood End, we have continued the use of flexible scheduling which allows all students and faculty access to the Library when they have the need. At any time of the day upon entering the Library, you will see students, library staff, teaching staff or parent volunteers interacting and supporting each other in various research projects, reading a story to children, completing supervised internet searches, children reading books, or simply checking books in or out. It is a very busy place, and has quickly become a central hub of learning at our school. Technology: In April of last year, Wood End received a very generous donation from The Pfizer Corporation of over 25 used computers, monitors and related peripherals. The computers were used to establish a much needed computer lab for students in our Library Media Center. In addition, we received a small grant from the Reading Technology Foundation which allowed us to purchase a digital camera and one Smart Board which was placed in a fifth grade classroom. At the end of last year, we also received funding from the district for technology which allowed us to add additional computer systems to the fourth and fifth grade classrooms. This year, we hope to increase additional funding to purchase additional Smart Boards for the upper grade classrooms. Professional Development: As a district and as a school, we are committed to the concept of continued learning. We are also committed to supporting our professional staff at all levels. Consequently, an enormous amount of energy, planning and in-service is provided for teachers in Reading. The mentor program, for example, provides support for new teachers and is an essential requirement if new teachers are to succeed in Reading. In-service is also provided in all areas of the curriculum to all teachers on a regular basis throughout the year and as well as during the Summer months. In November, over 20 K-12 members of the teaching staff and administration attended the Blue Ribbon Schools Conference in Charleston, SC. The purpose of participating in the conference was to visit other schools that have received that designation, and talk with teachers from many different parts of the country. Our district has set a goal of having all our schools go through the Blue Ribbon School Assessment Program, and also having the district named as a regional site for future Blue Ribbon School Conferences. School Department Parent Involvement: One of the major strengths of Wood End, as it is with all the schools in Reading, is the extremely high level of parent involvement and support. Our PTO is an outstanding organization which contributes to the quality of life in so many ways here at Wood End. While they do raise significant funds for enrichment programs, field trips, Library enhancements and technology, they also enhance our instructional program by their involvement in their children’s classrooms, and by volunteering to be a part of our School Council and other important school based committees. They readily offer support to teachers whenever the need arises. New Community Playground: This year, significant time and effort was put into the fundraising and planning for a new community playground here at Wood End. Through the wonderful generosity of parents, community and business, our planning committee raised close to $100,000 in less than a six month period. These efforts and contributions came to fruition on October 21st and 22nd when over 150 volunteer parents and community members came together to build the structure which, when completed this Spring, will be over 85% handicap accessible. It is one of only three playgrounds in the State that allows children with significant learning and physical disabilities to play alongside peers in a setting that is safe, challenging and fun. A Celebration of the Arts: Last May, Wood End celebrated our first Annual Art and Music Night. Together, over 300 children, staff, parents and School Committee enjoyed an evening of program, song and a display of student artwork that represented all the students in the school. Mr. Mosier, Ms. Durand and Mr. Bunting and a small army of volunteers began in February to collect and organize student artwork from across the school. It was a wonderful celebration and tribute to the importance the arts play in the education of young children. First Young Authors’ Day: Our first Annual Young Authors’ Day was held last June where students from all grade levels shared their original stories and poems that they had written during the year. Parents joined staff to create small groups of primary and intermediate age children in which the children shared their original and creative writings with peers. It was an outstanding event that contributed to the importance of writing and creativity. Open Invitation: In closing, I would like to extend an open invitation to members of the Reading community to visit our/your school. Please feel free to call me, Principal Richard E. Davidson, at 781-942-5420 with any questions, comments or to arrange a visit. Thank you for this wonderful school and for your continued support. School Department Special Education Stephen D. Gannon, Director The Special Education Department of the Reading Public Schools continued to meet the challenges presented by the diverse learning population of Reading while working to meet its mandate from the School Committee to be cost effective. The achievements of the Special Education Department are categorized below in the areas of budget, program and professional development. Budget: The Special Education Department Budget ended the year over budget in expenses by approximately $350,000 but was able to balance the overage with an increase of income from the Circuit Breaker Account. This is the sixth year in a row that the Special Education Department has been able to meet the unpredictable demands of the law without asking Town Meeting for additional funds. It should also be mentioned that the Special Education Department generated income of $300,000 over budget in Medicaid funds that went into the Town’s General Fund. The department remains dedicated to aggressive pursuit of funds to support both its services and the Town in general. Program Development: Last year was one of major transitional planning for students in district programs. The RISE pre-school, the DLC and ILP elementary programs had their largest classes of students with unique needs scheduled to move on to the next educational level this year. The year of planning and meetings resulted in all the students successfully transitioning and continuing in developmentally and educationally appropriate programs within the district. This more than anything shows the faith parents have developed over the years in the district programs. Today, more than 150 students participate in district Special Education programs compared to approximately 50 six years ago. This growth in programs has resulted in both cost savings (in Out-of-District tuition and transportation, estimated to be in the millions of dollars per year range), and more importantly improved educational quality and opportunity for students with special needs. Additionally, the districts emphasis on inclusionary specialized program has allowed special and regular education personnel to develop highly specialized skills to meet the unique needs of our students. Professional Development: Last year’s departmental professional development theme of “Communication” resulted in improved communication with all stakeholders in Special Education. It also pointed out the need for a new administrative position, that of “In-district Program Supervisor,” to improve the communication between parents, teachers and the district. This position was supported through the budget process last Spring, and is now a welcome addition to the Special Education district staff. This year’s theme is “Assess & Renew.” This will involve a review of current practices and programs, and a renewed commitment to striving towards excellence within the Special Education Department. NORTHEAST METROPOLITAN REGIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT 100 Hemlock Road - Wakefield, Massachusetts 01880-3597 Outstanding Student Award: Hipolito Cruz III from Chelsea, a senior in the Office Technology Program, was chosen as Northeast's nominee at the State Awards Dinner for Outstanding Vocational Technical Students. The event is co-sponsored by the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators and the Massachusetts Vocational Association. National Technical Honor Society: The Northeast Chapter of the National Technical Honor Society held its annual Induction Ceremony in March. At the ceremony, 14 seniors and 20 juniors were inducted. These students joined the previously inducted members to bring the Technical Honor Society Chapter to 50 members for the 2005-2006 school year. National Honor Society: The Annual Induction Ceremony to the Northeast Chapter of the National Honor Society "Artisans" was held in March. At the ceremony, seven seniors, 18 juniors and 11 sophomores were inducted for the 2005-2006 school year bringing the total membership to 47. Skills/USA Awards: At the State Skills/USA Competition, Northeast winners were Bridgett McLauglin from Woburn for Non-Traditional Portfolio; in Dental Assisting, Nicole Healy of Revere took 2nd place and Thayara Moura of Malden took 3rd place; in Welding, Brandon Rich of Methuen took 1st place, Peter Medeiros of Saugus took 2nd place and Chris Schrimpf took 4th place; in Advertising Design, Jessica Sterling of Winthrop took 1st place and Alaina DiBiasi of Saugus was President of the State Delegation and also received a Scholarship from the State Board of Directors at the State Meeting. Student Advisory Representative to the School Committee: Angelina Barrasso, a senior from Revere, was elected as the Student Representative to the School Committee for the 2005-06 school year. Scholarship Committee: The Northeast Awards and Scholarship Committee awarded individual scholarships to 89 deserving students at the Seventh Annual Senior Recognition Night. The total of $31,250 was given in scholarships and awards. Northeast students working in their vocational field or entering trade apprenticeship programs were included in the above awards. These awards provide students the opportunity to purchase tools and equipment as well as assisting with entry-level expenses toward trade education programs. SCORE Peer Mediation Program: In September, Northeast began its 11th year affiliated with SCORE, a Peer Mediation Program. The SCORE Program was developed by the Office of the Attorney General of Massachusetts to help reduce the violence in schools. The Mediation process is successful in resolving conflicts of all types. Northeast has a full-time Coordinator, 36 trained students and three trained staff members. School Department A trained mediator is a neutral person not involved in the dispute and, through the mediation process, helps people come to their own agreement about how they want to resolve their conflict. Professional Development: Professional Learning in 2005-06 focused on Creating a Positive Culture of High Student Expectations. To this end, the following activities took place: Raising Steven Barcley presented a full-faculty professional learning day in December on Student Expectations. Creating a Positive Culture within the School. Four half-day small group presentations on Identifying Learning Disabilities and A full-faculty professional learning day on Implementing Accommodations was held in April. The School Improvement Team attended two leadership series workshops in Atlanta focusing Literacy Across the Curriculum on . This resulted in the professional development program for 2006-2007. Quality Instruction- The Superintendent’s focus team attended a workshop in Hilton Head on Looking at Student Work. This resulted in refining the Senior Project requirements. Northeast sent 20 faculty members to the High Schools that Work Summer 2006 Conference in Orlando, FL. A report was made to the School Committee. Ten Career/Tech teachers received 20 hour OSHA training from Keene State College. Twenty teachers received training on the EduViser Portfolio Program. Eighteen Career/Tech teachers received training on the Skills Plus Competency Recording Program. Summer Enrichment Program: Two hundred and twenty students (220) participated in the Summer 2006 support program. Three categories were involved: Summer Transition: One hundred and fifty (150) incoming 9th graders were introduced to the school in a three- week support orientation program. This experience involved: Project-based Mathematics approach utilizing graphing calculators Integration of literacy skills in English Language Arts Hands-on experiences in the career/tech rotations of: Culinary/Baking Graphics/Drafting Cosmetology/Plumbing HVAC/Automotive All academic classes in this program were co-taught utilizing two teachers per class. Upper class students engaged in team-building activities through Physical Education, discrete Mathematics through Social Studies exploration, and Language Arts through literary applications. These students also visited the Lowell Mills, the Battlefields at Concord and Fenway Park. School Department English Language learners participated in an English Support Program. The 9th and 10th graders in this program collaborated with their peers in the career/technical activities and the field trips and, at the same time, concentrated on English, Reading and Writing skills. Support Services: The Northeast Guidance Department staff offers support counseling through individual and group counseling and specialized workshops and presentations. All faculty guidance counselors are certified as school adjustment counselors and have either social work or school psychology backgrounds to equip them to handle the wide range of student issues that come forth. One school adjustment counselor is bilingual (Spanish speaking). A School Psychologist supports the counseling staff, provides psychological testing, supports the Special Education Program, and maintains a small individual and group caseload. In addition, a Career Counselor and a non-traditional counselor (Spanish speaking) round out the support staff with their focus on career awareness and vocational development. Support groups are established each year based on student needs. Counselors may establish teen issues groups in each grade to support students who have difficulties with peer issues. An anger management group that is linked to the discipline system is offered after school in an effort to provide students with an understanding of their own anger, and an opportunity to develop new tools to use to manage anger more appropriately. Support groups for pregnant and parenting teens, substance abusers, grieving students, Latino students, Asian students, gay students and others have all been offered at different times depending on need and student interest. Individual counseling with students requires that counselors coordinate with doctors, psychiatrists, outside therapists, social workers and counselors, court personnel, police and others. The Peer Mentoring Program provides educational assistance to students having difficulty with one or more academic subjects. Students who have been successful in specific subject areas and who have participated in training volunteer their time to assist others in the Library two afternoons per week. The Mentoring Program is designed to supplement after school assistance provided by the academic and vocational teachers. The program benefits go beyond the student achievement as the relationships formed by the mentors and students help to break down barriers between different grade and age groups, and develop friendships that would not have had a chance to form. The Mentoring Program is coordinated by a Counselor and a Math teacher with other teachers offering support and assistance. Career counseling and the college application process are a large part of all of the counselors’ roles but specialized support is provided by a Career Counselor and a part-time non-traditional support counselor. The Career Counselor manages a Career Development Program for all students that prepares the students for chosen career paths. The curriculum focuses on career assessment, career information and requirements, interviewing skills, portfolios and resume preparation. By providing assessments to evaluate skills, interests and work values, the Career Counselor assists freshmen in their vocational selection process and upper class students with linkages to post-secondary education and employment opportunities. School Department The non-traditional support counselor provides specialized support to those students who are enrolled in career areas that are considered non-traditional for their gender. By providing support groups specialized presentations and field trips, students are prepared to understand the benefits of non-traditional choices, and to appropriately handle any difficulties that they might confront. Special workshops and presentations are offered through the year for different groups of students. Each year, all freshmen participate in group workshops focusing on harassment, bullying and gender equity issues. Large group assemblies and presentations have been offered focusing on substance abuse, drunk driving, teen dating violence, tolerance, character building and others. Grants: Title I – Economically Disadvantaged Districts – Funding from this grant provided for six Grade 9 and six Grade 10 English Language Arts classes for 180 students who exhibited Reading comprehension difficulty based on their Stanford 9 diagnostic testing, and Algebra/Geometry classes designed to address the needs of 180 students identified as “at risk” or not passing the State Assessment test. Instruction in both the English Language Arts and Mathematics curricula in Title I were enhanced by the use of Technology in the Title I rooms, as well as by support provided by the teaching assistants in these classes. Title 2A – Teacher Quality – This grant provided for the hiring of an MCAS Preparation Instructor, the implementation of a Teacher Mentoring Program whereby experienced teachers were assigned to work with non-professional status teachers as advisors, and the funding for the two workshops that the district provides as part of the two whole-staff professional development days in accordance with the teacher contract. Title 5 – New and Innovative Programs – Funds from this grant were used to hire two support staff members for the Summer Transition Program. These individuals worked with the incoming 9th graders to develop a publication that represented the efforts of the Summer program. The 72 page document is available upon request at the school. Perkins Occupational Education Grant – Funds from this Federal source provided for: Vocational Coordinator Staffing for the Summer Transition Program MCAS Remediation Teacher MCAS Tutors for Remediation 50 Computers for Drafting One MCAS Lab Specialist Non-traditional Support Counselor Contract for High Schools That Work Computers for Electronics One Behavior Modification Specialist Three ELL Teaching Assistants – Secondary School Reading Grant This grant established a school-wide Reading team to study the literacy needs of students at Northeast. A plan of action calling for two 30 minute periods of Reading and Writing to occur in Grade 9 Exploratory was developed. School Department Summer Programs: Northeast Metro Tech Summer Programs enjoyed another successful campaign since its inception in 1988. Over the years, both the Summer School and Computer Program have experienced remarkable growth. This year, the Summer programs serviced nearly 300 students combined. The Northeast Summer School serviced High School students in five different academic areas including Math, Science, English, Social Studies and Vocational Related, while continuing to expand into the vocational enrichment and certification program areas. The goals of promoting a positive learning atmosphere, retention and promotion, as well as providing skills to assist each student at the next grade level are paramount objectives behind the philosophical makeup of our Summer school. The popular Northeast Summer Computer Program completed a successful 18th year. Its objective of making learning fun had the counselors teach the participants skills that they can use during their school year while enjoying doing it. These programs can help strengthen Reading and Math skills, and expand their general knowledge of the computer. Continued use of “Smart Board” technology along with some outstanding Power Point presentations were an exciting part of this year’s computer program along with swimming and diving instruction. Adult Education X: Our goal is to provide as many educational services as possible to the 350,000 residents of the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District. In pursuing this goal, the Adult Education staff maximizes utilization of the Northeast facilities, offering an extensive selection of stimulating and practical programs Monday through Saturday during the school year, and Monday through Friday during the Summer months. Northeast offers a State Approved Auto Damage Appraisal Program, as well as Journeyman’s and Masters Programs in Electrical, Plumbing, Sheet Metal, Carpentry and Gas Fitting. As the Number One apprentice training center in New England, we guide hundreds of young men and women annually as they prepare for their journeyman or masters’ license in their trade. For the many senior citizens enrolled, we offer a wide variety of programs designed to satisfy their interest in crafts, hobbies, physical fitness, etc. During the 2006 school year, the Adult Education agenda is the focus on strengthening the core curriculum and frameworks of our trade based areas. This is being accomplished by the standardization of each of the trade area curriculum. Our intent is to guarantee that all of our adult education students are being exposed to identical high quality career tech education in each of our classes. 2005 Graduates: The 2005-2006 school year represents the 36th to matriculate at the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School. Northeast graduated 233 students in the Class of 2006. The breakdown of graduates’ status after graduation is as follows: Employed - 108 Attending 4 year college - 38 * Entering Military Service - 4 Attending 2 year college - 59 * Other - 2 Apprentice School - 22 * * It should be noted that 51% of the graduating class went on to further their education either in a two or four year college or in an apprentice program. 231 members of the graduating class either entered military service, are employed or seeking further education -- that figure represents 99% of the Class of 2006. School Department Special Needs Enrollment: Special Needs enrollment for the 2005-2006 school year continued to represent a fair share of the total school enrollment with students. The 320 Special Needs students represent 26% of the school population. Athletic Records: The Northeast Boys Varsity Soccer team qualified for both the MIAA State Tournament and the Mass. Vocational Tournament, finishing third. The Northeast Girls Varsity Soccer team recorded their best record in school history, missing the MIAA Tournament by one game. The Northeast Varsity Football team had their best record in 11 years. The Northeast Cross Country team had two members qualify for the State Meet. The Northeast Golf team qualified for both Mass. Vocational and State Tournaments. The Northeast Swim team qualified for the MIAA Tournament and won the State Vocational Championship for the third consecutive year. Boys Basketball won the C.A.C. Division Crown for the first time in 10 years. Northeast had two wrestlers qualify for State Competition. The Northeast Hockey team was eliminated from the tournament competition in the State semi-finals after two previous victories. The Outdoor Track team placed four participants in State Competition. The Northeast Lacrosse team were League Champions and qualified for State Competition. District School Committee: James Wallace of Winthrop resigned from the School Committee after years of dedicated and loyal service representing Winthrop and Northeast. He will be greatly missed by the Northeast School Committee, Administration, faculty and students. Winthrop appointed Robert J. Capezza on January 17, 2006 to serve the remainder of the term ending in 2008. Mr. Capezza’s first Northeast School Committee Meeting was February 9, 2006. District School Committee Election of Officers X: At the Annual Organizational Meeting of the District School Committee on January 12, 2006, the following members were elected Officers of the District School Committee: Chairman Deborah P. Davis of Woburn Vice Chairman Ronald J. Jannino of Revere Secretary Peter A. Rossetti, Jr. of Saugus Treasurer Henry S. Hooton of Melrose Assistant Treasurer Anthony E. DeTeso of Stoneham School Department Conclusion: As Northeast celebrates its 37th year of Vocational/Technical Excellence to its 12 member communities, its aim is to continue to offer the latest in vocational/technical and academic education by maintaining a high level of performance. This high level of performance also encompasses continued improvement in academic achievement with regard to MCAS. The Northeast Class of 2006 had a 99% pass rate of the MCAS Test by graduation. Northeast is continually updating curriculum, and continues to offer MCAS Enrichment classes for those students in need of additional preparation for the MCAS which will add Science for the Class of 2010. Northeast also provides a Summer Enrichment Program for the incoming freshmen. The school continues to offer students the finest education with which to build a successful career through the latest in equipment, software and technology offered in all vocational programs no matter which career path they have chosen. Evidence of our past success is reflected in the students who have graduated from Northeast Metro Tech. The Alumnus stories of success and their readiness and willingness to help school officials by speaking at recruiting sessions at the local schools as well as recruiting graduates for employment is proof of their dedication to Northeast. Currently, Northeast is organizing an Alumni Event for March 31, 2007 at the Colonial Sheraton. Information for this event can be accessed at Northeastalumni@comcast.net. Northeast currently has 22 alumni employed at the school. Testimonials as to the success of our graduates continue to be received which makes us proud to have contributed in some small way to their accomplishments. Once again, I am proud to have represented Reading as a member of the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational District School Committee not only to serve as the guardian of funds allocated from the community to this educational institution, but also to assist in and provide counsel to the school in maintaining the highest standards of educational excellence possible. Respectfully submitted, Maura A. Looney Northeast School Committee Reading Representative