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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-03-08 Board Of Selectmen Packetor REy� ♦ Office of the Town Manager see 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 To: Board of Selectmen From: Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA Date: March 3, 2016 RE: BOS Agenda for March 81h 781- 942 -9043 town ma naaer @ci.read i n¢. ma. us www.readingma.gov/town-manager Congratulations to Barry Berman and Dan Ensminger for being re- elected. The fact you both ran unopposed is a higher compliment than drawing more votes than an opponent! Also congratulations and thank you to all staff involved, led by the Town Clerk, for running a smooth election. A 52% turnout while school is in session was no easy feat to handle. Note that for the Presidential election next November that RMHS will not hold classes that day. I will begin the meeting next week by opening the floor for nominations for Chair and see that process through completion. The new Chair will then use the same process to select a Vice Chair and a Secretary. In your packet are the Liaison assignments which the new Chair will examine and reorganize at a future meeting. We have a small item to come in front of the Board regarding releasing a property on Van Norden from tax title, as we have a financial guarantee in place to recover the over $100,000+ owed in back taxes and other charges. I will preview the Annual Town Meeting Warrant, as at your next meeting you will be asked to vote on any Articles that you wish to. This item can wait until the end of the meeting as needed. At 7:30pm the Library Building Committee will be in to give the Board and community an update on the project. As you will hear it has gone well, but the amount of staff and volunteer time and effort involved is nothing short of heroic, and there have been many project challenges along the way. At about 8:15pm a couple of those LBC members will stay and be joined by their colleagues on the Permanent Building Committee. The PBC will first give you an update on their work on 'general process to date and they have some basic and important questions to the Board about how you envision their role. I expect some changes to the general bylaw that established the PBC will result and be in front of November 2016 Town Meeting. This is a great example of taking proactive steps to fix things before problems arise. They will also review their work to date on a cemetery garage site selection. At about 9:15pm we will have some time to discuss the Financial Overview. The previous outline suggested a brief reminder about past efforts to raise revenues and to reduce expenses which I will conduct. Note that at your next meeting we will move to the Pleasant Street Center in order to accommodate a large crowd including interested residents as well as elected boards plus the Finance Committee. Of interest is the ethical and legal outline of an override and Town Counsel Ray Miyares will be there to lead that discussion after a couple of liquor license issues that will come first. RAFT- BOARD UFSELECTMEN 2016 AGENDAS 2016 31312016 Staff Estimated Local elections March 1, 2016 Tuesday March 8, 2016 Office Hour Barry Berman 6:30 Board Reorganization LeLacheur 7:00 Board Liaison Assignments Chair 7:05 117 Van Norden Tax Title LeLacheur 7:20 Preview - Annual Town Meeting LeLacheur 7:25 Project update - Library Building Committee LeLacheur 7:30 Project update & committee overview - Permanent Building Committee LeLacheur 8:15 Town of Reading Financial Overview LeLacheur 9:15 March 22, 2016 location TBA Hearing Alteration of Premises - Liquor Junction LeLacheur 7:20 Hearing Amend Liquor License Policy Town Counsel 7:30 Town Accountant Quarterly Report Angstrom 8:00 Town of Reading Financial Overview Ethics - Rules for an Override; Joint Meeting with School Committee and Library Trustees Town Counsel 8:15 Past efforts to delay Override LeLacheur 9:00 Next steps LeLacheur 9:15 Hearing Water, Sewer and Storm Water Rates for FY17 (effective December 2016 billing) LeLacheur 9:30 Vote Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles LeLacheur 9:45 April 5, 2016 Office Hour 6:30 Board & Committee updates 7:30 Liaison Reports 7:30 Hearing Recreation Fees LeLacheur Bylaw Committee - November 2016 Town Meeting recommended Bylaw changes Board of Selectmen Policies: Article 1 General Operating Procedures LeLacheur 9:00 Board of Selectmen Policies: Article 2 Volunteer Boards /Committees /Commissions LeLacheur 9:30 Board of Selectmen Policies: Article 3 Licenses LeLacheur 9:30 Review Town Manager Goals LeLacheur 9:00 April 19, 2016 Board & Committee updates 7:30 Liaison Reports 7:30 Woburn Street 40B (St. Agnes) update 8:00 Bylaw Committee - November 1016 Town Meeting recommended Bylaw changes Town Meeting April 25, 2016 Monday Town Meeting April 28, 2016 Thursday Town Meeting May 2, 2016 Monday Town Meeting May 5, 2016 Thursday May 3, 2016 Office Hour 6:30 Board & Committee updates: Council on Aging; 7:30 May 17, 2016 Board & Committee updates 7:30 June 7, 2016 Office Hour 6:30 Board & Committee updates 7:30 June 21, 2016 July 12, 2016 July 26, 2016 August 16,2016 September 6, 2016 Preview Warrant for Subsequent Town Meeting State Election September 8, 2016 Thursday Special Town Meeting September 12, 2016 Monday September 20,2016 Close Warrant for Subsequent Town Meeting October 4, 2016 Close Warrant for Special Election 10/18/16 Vote Warrant Articles for Subsequent Town Meeting 11/14/16 Special Election October I8, 2016 Tuesday October 25, 2016 Close Warrant for Presidential and State Elections 11/8/16 Town Meeting November 14, 2016 Monday Town Meeting November 17, 2016 Thursday Town Meeting November 21, 2016 Monday Town Meeting November 28, 2016 Monday November 15, 2016 November 29, 2016 December 13, 2016 Future Agendas Multi Board /Committee Summit Reading 2020 Community Meeting Downtown Parking Joint Meeting with RMLD Commissioners Strout Avenue Master Plan Discuss forming Cable Advisory Committee - cable agreements expire 11/23/18 - 3yr formal process is allowed ITown Counsel Recurring Items Close Warrant: Nov TM by 9/27 Close Warrant: Presidential & State Elections by 11/1 (Elections are 11/8) Review BOS/TM Goals Mar & Sep Semi -ann Review Customer Service survey results Feb & Aug Semi -ann Review Regionalization efforts as needed Appointments of BCCs June Annual Approve Classification & Compensation June .Annual Appoint Town Counsel June Annual Tax Classification Hearing October Annual Approve licenses December Annual Reports to BOS Town Accountant Report Qtrly RCTV members Report Semi -ann CAB (RMLD) member Report Semi -ann MAPC member Report Semi -ann Reading Housing Authority Report Annual Reading Ice Arena Report Annual BOS Appointed Boards, Committees & Commissions NEW Annual 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 BOS 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 NEIGHBORHOOD MEETINGS 15 16 17 '18 1119 '20 '21 May NEIGHBORHOOD BOB 2016 MEETINGS 24 25 26 27 28 22 '23 NEIGHBORHOOD MEETINGS 29 30 !31 1 2 3 4 NEIGHBORHOOD HOLIDAY MEETINGS 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 NEIGHBORHOOD BOB MEETINGS 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 NEIGHBORHOOD Jun MEETINGS 2016 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 BOB 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 FINCyrmtl 3 4- 5 6 7 8 9 HOLIDAY 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 BOB 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Jul 2016 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 BOB 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 18 19 20 I�16 OS,1.9N2W Aug 23 24 25 26 27 2016 21 '22 28 29 30 31 1 1 1 2 3 6 7 8 9 10 4 5 NoLloav Bos FrIFmen State Election 11 12 13 '14 15 16 17 Spec Town No4ry Town Clink Sep � 24 2016 18 '19 20 21 22 BOS 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 BOS 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 HOLIDAY FINC requlm Oct 16 17 19 20 21 22 2016 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 SOS Fill Forum 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 „r 9 10 11. 12 ,3 FINC regular HOLIDAY ,15 13 14 16 17 18 19 Tom M np BOS Town Meeting Nov _ 2016 20 21 22 23 2425 26 Tom Mating HOLIDAY 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 Tom Mal BOS 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 BOS FINC regular Dec 2016 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 26 - 27 28 29 30 31 HOLIDAY Board of Selectmen Liaison Assignments May1015 Services Board of Selectmen VASC Sexton, Halsey School Committee Ensminger, Arena School Space Committee Berman, Halsey Regional School District Arena RMLD Commissioners Arena WILD CAB Arena Bylaw Committee Sexton Finance Committee Berman, Arena Library Building Committee Berman Permanent Building Committee Berman, Sexton RCN Board of Directors Arena Cultural Council Arena Climate Advisory Berman Reading Ice Arena Authority Halsey Walkable Reading Berman Celebration Committee Berman Ad Hoc Firearms Safety Comm. Halsey, Sexton Animal Controls Appeal Comm. Ensminger Moderator Ensminger Rules Committee Ensminger Board of Registrars Ensminger Services Council on Aging Sexton Mystic Valley Elder Services Sexton Board of Health Halsey Recreation Committee Halsey Fall Street Faire Halsey Cust. of Soldiers &Sailors Graves Sexton CPDC Berman North Suburban Planning Council Berman Metro Area Planning Council Berman Economic Development Committee Berman Zoning Board of Appeals Sexton Historical Commission Ensminger Historical District Commission Ensminger Conservation Commission Ensminger, Arena Sexton Public Safety I Fire department Berman Police department Berman Human Relations Advisory Committee Sexton RCASA Halsey Constables Ensminger I Public Library Library Trustees Berman Finance Audit Committee Halsey Retirement Board Halsey Commissioners of Trust Funds Halsey Veterans Memorial Trust Fund Comm. Sexton Public Works Board of Cemetery Trustees Sexton MWRA Advisory Board Halsey Trails Committee Halsey Town Forest Committee Halsey Consider Vote to Vacate Final Judgment Entered in tax Lien Foreclosure Case Town of Reading v. Frederick J. Boni As provided under MGL Chapter 60, Section 69, I hereby move to vacate the final judgment entered on February 24, 2014 in tax lien foreclosure case Town of Reading v. Frederick J. Boni, Case No. 13 TL 147026 covering the property located at 116 Van Norden Road, Reading, MA, Assessors' Map 39, Lot 72, formerly known as Map 155, Lot 1, upon payment by FREDERICK J. BONI on or before MARCH 31, 2016 of all amounts due to redeem the tax taking covering the property, which include, but are not limited to, taxes and interest to the date of payment, all charges and fees associated with the foreclosure case and any costs incurred by the Town in the care, custody and control of the property after the entry of the judgment. �C_ 2016 Annual Town Meeting Monday April 25, 2016 Art. Reports Mover/ Moderator # Article Description Sponsor Comment Notes 2 Reports Board of Selectmen ♦ "State of the Towel' report — Board of Selectmen Chair xxx ♦ FYI 7Budget Report & Financial Overview — Finance Committee Chair Mark Dockser ♦ Library Building Project — TBA ♦ Cemetery Garage Project Update - Permanent Building Committee Chair Greg Stepler ♦ Comprehensive Zoning Project update — CPDC Chair Jeff Hansen ♦ Motion to Table — " Selectmen xxx 3 Instructions Board of Selectmen ♦ Motion to Table — Selectman 4 Amend the Capital Improvement Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — Program FY 2016 -FY 2026 Town Manager Bob LeLacheur ♦ FINCOM report — 5 Amend the FY 2016 Budget FINCOM ♦ Presentation — Bob LeLacheur ♦ FINCOM report — 6 Fund OPEB Trust Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — Sharon Angstrom ♦ FINCOM re rt — 3/3/2016 1 10 11 12 13 14 2016 Annual Town Meeting Monday April 25, 2016 reneral Bylaw Changes - Animal Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — Bob Control Bylaw LeLacheur ♦ Bylaw Committee report — Chair Steve Crook .pprove Affordable Housing Trust Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — Fund Allocation Plan Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios ♦ FINCOM report — I ,pprove Revolving Funds Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — Sharon Angstrom ♦ FINCOM report — iispose of Surplus Tangible Property Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — Sharon Angstrom ♦ FINCOM report — ,pprove Payment of Prior Yew's Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — 9/10 vote Bills Sharon Angstrom ♦ FINCOM report — .dopt FY 2017 Budget FINCOM ♦ Presentation — Bob 2/3 vote for some LeLacheur and sections — and Superintendent Dr. therefore for the John Doherty entirety ♦ FINCOM report — see votes printed in uthorize FY 2017 Chapter 90 Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — Bob Expenditures LeLacheur ♦ FINCOM report — emove Town Meeting members Board of Selectmen ♦ Presentation — pursuant to Section 2.6 of the Precinct Chairs Readine Home Rule Charter 3/3/2016 2 �C� COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Middlesex, ss. Officer's Return, Reading: By virtue of this Warrant, I, on , 2016 notified and warned the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in Town elections and Town affairs, to meet at the place and at the time specified by posting attested copies of this Town Meeting Warrant in the following public places within the Town of Reading: Precinct 1 J. Warren Killam School, 333 Charles Street Precinct 2 Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street Precinct 3 Reading Municipal Light Department, 230 Ash Street Precinct 4 Joshua Eaton School, 365 Summer Avenue Precinct 5 Walter S. Parker Middle School, 45 Temple Street Precinct 6 Barrows School, 16 Edgemont Avenue Precinct 7 Birch Meadow School, 27 Arthur B Lord Drive Precinct 8 Wood End School, 85 Sunset Rock Lane Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street The date of posting being not less than fourteen (14) days prior to April 25, 2016, the date set for Town Meeting in this Warrant. I also caused a posting of this Warrant to be published on the Town of Reading website on ,2016. . Constable A true copy Attest: Laura Gemme, Town Clerk TOWN WARRANT � orq A COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Middlesex, as. To any of the Constables of the Town of Reading, Greetings: In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby required to notify and warn the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in the Local Elections and Town affairs, to meet in the following place designated for the eight precincts in said Town, namely: Precincts 1. 2. 3, 4. 5, 6. 7 and 8 Readina Memorial High School, Hawkes Field House, Oakland Road TUESDAY, the FIRST DAY OF MARCH, A.D., 2016 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to act on the following Articles, viz: ARTICLE 1 To elect by ballot the following Town Officers: A Moderator for one year; Two members of the Board of Selectmen for three years; Two members of the Board of Library Trustees for three years; Two members of the Municipal Light Board for three years; Two members of the School Committee for three years; and Sixty -Nine Town Meeting Members shall be elected to represent each of the following precincts: Precinct 1 Eight members for three years; Precinct 2 Eight members for three years; One member for two years; One member for one year; Precinct 3 Eight members for three years; Precinct 4 Eight members for three years; Precinct 5 Eight members for three years; Precinct 6 Eight members for three years; One member for two years; One member for one year; Precinct 7 Eight members for three years; One member for two years; and Precinct 8 Eight members for three years. i j and to meet at the Reading Memorial High School, 62 Oakland Road, in said Reading on MONDAY. the TWENTY -FIFTH DAY of APRIL A.D.. 2016 at seven -thirty o'clock in the evening, at which time and place the following Articles are to be acted upon and determined exclusively by Town Meeting Members in accordance with the provisions of the Reading Home Rule Charter. ARTICLE 2 To hear and act on the reports of the Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Library Trustees, Municipal Light Board, Finance Committee, Bylaw Committee, Town Manager, Town Accountant and any other Town Official, Board or Committee. Board of Selectmen Background: This article appears on the Warrant for all Town Meetings. At this Subsequent Town Meeting, the following reports are anticipated: ➢ Board of Selectman Chair "State of the Town" ➢ Finance Committee Chair "FY17 Budget Report & Financial Overview" ➢ TBA "Library Building Committee Project Update" D Permanent Building Committee Chair "Cemetery Garage Project Update" ➢ CPDC Chair "Comprehensive Zoning Project Update" ARTICLE 3 To choose all other necessary Town Officers and Boards or Committees and determine what instructions shall be given Town Officers and Boards or Committees, and to see what sum the Town will vote to appropriate by borrowing or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, for the purpose of funding Town Officers and Boards or Committees to carry out the instructions given to them, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: This Article appears on the Warrant of all Town Meetings. There are no known Instructional Motions at this time. The Town Moderator requires that all proposed Instructional Motions be submitted to the Town Clerk in advance so that Town Meeting Members may be "warned" as to the subject of an Instructional Motion in advance of the motion being made. Instructional Motions are normally held until the end of all other business at Town Meeting. Finance Committee Report: No report. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to amend the FY 2016 -26 Capital Improvements Program as provided for in Section 7 -7 of the Reading Home Rule Charter and as previously amended, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen .JAS Background: This Article is included in every Town Meeting Warrant. The Reading General Bylaw (section 6.1.3) states "... No funds may be appropriated for any capital item unless such item is included in the Capital Improvements Program, and is scheduled for funding in the Fiscal Year in which the appropriation is to be made." Bond ratings agencies also want to ensure that changes to a long -term CIP are adequately described. The following changes are proposed to the FY2016 — FY2026 CIP (current year plus ten years): General Fund FYI 6: 0 $65,000 DPW: Replace Dump Truck C3 (1999; moved up from FY17) $25,000 Fac: Replace batteries for emergency UPS units for schools & town buildings ($15,000) DPW: Dump Truck surplus ($25,000) Fac: Generator project surplus ($50,000) Fac: Town Hall roof project surplus FYI 7:- $85.000 ($20,000) Police AEDs pushed back two years to match Fire dept. replacement cycle ($65,000) DPW Dump Truck C3 (moved up to FY16) FY18+ Various other changes made Enter rise Funds - Water FY16: None FY17: +$610.000 $575,000 Grove Street water main (1500 ft) $ 30,000 Unidirectional Water Main flushing 4 -year program +$ 5,000 add to Car #2 Replacement (now $35,000) FY18+ Various rungs - FY16:None FYI 7: +$35.000 $35,000 Replace Car #1 (2006 — moved up from FY18) $3 million debt for Charles & Sturges sewer stations moved back to FY18 (reduces debt service for FYI by $420, 000) made Enterprise Funds — Storm Water FYI 6: None FY17: +$155.000 $150,000 Grove St. drainage repairs (new) $ 80,000 Bond St. outfall and drainage repairs (new) ($ 75,000) generic drainage projects reduced from $125k to $50k FY18+ Various changes made Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends the proposed amendments to the FY 2016 — FY 2026 Capital Improvements Program by a vote of x -0 -0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Placing items in the Capital Improvement Program is a prerequisite but in itself does not authorize spending funds towards these items. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. By Charter, both the Finance Committee and Bylaw Committee are advisory to Town Meeting and their votes must be reported to Town Meeting, preferably in writing in advance when possible. Other volunteer Boards and Committees also vote on Warrant Articles, and when possible those votes are noted herein with an asterisk (') next to their name. 'Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen on March 22, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. ARTICLE 5 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town's Operating Budget for the Fiscal Year commencing July 1, 2015, as adopted under Article 20 of the Annual Town Meeting of April 27, 2015 and amended under Article 5 of the Subsequent Town Meeting of November 9, 2015; and to see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow or transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to be added to the amounts appropriated under said Article, as amended, for the operation of the Town and its government, or take any other action with respect thereto. Finance Committee Backaround: General Fund —Wages and Expenses Account Line Descri tion Decrease Increase B91 — Benefits Disability Retirement (One Firefighter — $75,000 Wages cost shifted from department to central location ) $75,000 B99 — Benefits Health Insurance premiums - $100,000 $100,000 expenses C99 — Capital DPW: Replace Dump Truck C3 (1999; $0 Expenses moved up from FY17) $65,000 Fac: Replace batteries for emergency UPS. units for schools & town $25,000 5p Enter rise Funds -Wages and Expenses Account Line DPW: Highway Dump Truck - $15,000 Decrease Increase Fac: Generator project - $25,000 Water - expenses Specialty tools for utility truck #5 $45,000 H drants for new water mains $25,000 Fac: Town Hall roof project - $50,000 $70,000 E99 - Vocational Reduced for actual enrollment (Minuteman $100,000 1 $70,000 Education & Essex North ) - $100,000 F99 - FINCOM Not needed for modular classrooms $75,000 Reserves - $75,000 (remaining balance $150,000 G91 - Administrative Vacant positions during the year - $70,000 $70,000 Services Wages G92 - Administrative HR - Hiring Process expenses $21,500 $42,000 Services Expenses Technology - software for elder /human services to tie into state system $7,500 Technology - emergency repairs for engineering hardware $6,000 Technology - software for HR to streamline Personnel Reviews $4,000 Town Clerk - Vital Records project $3,000 G91 - Public Services Economic Development planner' $15,000 $15,000 Wages 191 - Finance Wages Finance Vacation /Sick buybacks $20,000 $20,000 J91 - Public Safety Police Vacation/Sick buybacks $75,000 $75,000 Wages K91 - Public Works DPW Vacation /Sick buybacks $30,000 $65,000 Wages Town Engineer overlap $35,000 K92 - Public Works Fuel - $50,000 $50,000 Expenses K93 - Public Works Snow & Ice Removal Snow & Ice K94 - Public Works Street Lights - $25,000 $25,000 Street Li hts K95 - Public Works Rubbish Disposal - $80,000 $100,000 Rubbish M91 -Core Facilities Consulting Services for Security System $125,000' Evaluation U99 - School First year funding for new K -12 Science $150,000 Department Curriculum materials $150,000 Subtotals $520,000 $567,000 Net Operating Ex enses $47,000 From Free Cash $32,000 *From Ins ections Revolving Fund $15,000 Enter rise Funds -Wages and Expenses Account Line Description Decrease Increase Water - expenses Specialty tools for utility truck #5 $45,000 H drants for new water mains $25,000 $70,000 Subtotals $0 1 $70,000 Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. *Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen on March 22, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. ARTICLE 6 To see what sum the Town will appropriate to the irrevocable trust for "Other Post - Employment Benefits Liabilities" or take any action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: As part of the FY16 budget the town voted $500,000 in the general fund, $50,000 in the water fund, $20,000 in the sewer fund and $6,000 in the storm water fund for the Other Post Employment Benefit (OPEB) contributions. This Article will therefore move the total $576,000 of all these OPEB contributions to the irrevocable trust for Other Post Employment Benefit liabilities. The most recent OPEB valuation shows the Town's OPEB liability at $67.2 million. The three Enterprise Funds and the Light Department are on an aggressive fully funding twenty year schedule, and the General Fund is on a partial funding schedule projected over thirty years. The latter will transition to a full funding schedule as soon as possible, as is required by law or after the Pension Fund is fully funded in FY29. Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. *Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen on March 22, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. ARTICLE 7 To see if the Town will vote to delete Section 8.8 Animal Control of the General Bylaw and insert the following in its place: 8.8 Animal Control Pursuant to the authority set forth in MGL Chapter 140 Sections 136A -174E, inclusive, and any other relevant statutes and regulations issued pursuant thereto, the following requirements are adopted for the regulation of dogs in the Town of Reading. 061, Net Operating Expenses $70,000 From Water Reserves $70,000 Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. *Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen on March 22, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. ARTICLE 6 To see what sum the Town will appropriate to the irrevocable trust for "Other Post - Employment Benefits Liabilities" or take any action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: As part of the FY16 budget the town voted $500,000 in the general fund, $50,000 in the water fund, $20,000 in the sewer fund and $6,000 in the storm water fund for the Other Post Employment Benefit (OPEB) contributions. This Article will therefore move the total $576,000 of all these OPEB contributions to the irrevocable trust for Other Post Employment Benefit liabilities. The most recent OPEB valuation shows the Town's OPEB liability at $67.2 million. The three Enterprise Funds and the Light Department are on an aggressive fully funding twenty year schedule, and the General Fund is on a partial funding schedule projected over thirty years. The latter will transition to a full funding schedule as soon as possible, as is required by law or after the Pension Fund is fully funded in FY29. Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. *Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen on March 22, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. ARTICLE 7 To see if the Town will vote to delete Section 8.8 Animal Control of the General Bylaw and insert the following in its place: 8.8 Animal Control Pursuant to the authority set forth in MGL Chapter 140 Sections 136A -174E, inclusive, and any other relevant statutes and regulations issued pursuant thereto, the following requirements are adopted for the regulation of dogs in the Town of Reading. 061, 8.8.1 Definitions The definitions of words and terms set forth in MGL. Chapter 140 Section 136A are incorporated into Section 8.8 and shall be applicable to the interpretation thereof. In addition, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the following words and terms, as used in Section 8.8, shall have the following meanings: 8.8.1.1 Animal Control Appeals Committee (ACAC) The "Hearing Authority," as that term is defined in MGL Chapter 140 Section 136A, charged with the responsibility of handling dog complaints for the Town of Reading, pursuant to MGL Chapter 140 Section 157. 8.8.1.2 Animal Control Officer(ACO) A person appointed by the Town Manager who is authorized to enforce this Bylaw and MGL Chapter 140 Sections 136A -174E. 8.8.1.3 Effective Voice Control An animal shall be deemed to be "under effective voice control" if it is within the owner's or keeper's sight, the owner or keeper is carrying a leash, and the animal refrains from illegal activities. 8.8.1.4 Running at Large A dog is running at large if it is not on the private property of its owner or keeper, or on private property with the express permission of that property's owner, or on a leash, or under effective voice control. 8.8.2 Licensing and Fees 8.8.2.1 License and Vaccination Requirements In accordance with MGL Chapter 140 Section 137, the owner or keeper of a dog(s) six months of age or older, while residing in the Town of Reading, shall obtain a license for the dog from the Town Clerk, which shall be affixed to the dog's collar. To obtain or renew a license, each dog owner or keeper shall annually present proof of a current rabies vaccination or a certification of exemption from the vaccination requirement, pursuant to MGL Chapter 140 Sections 137(b) and 1458. 8.8.2.1.1 New Dogs and Puppies Within thirty (30) days of either (a) acquiring a dog six (6) months of age or older or (b) a puppy's six -month birthday, each dog owner or keeper in Reading shall present proof of that dog's current rabies vaccination and obtain a license and dog tag from the Town Clerk. 8.8.2.1.2 Lost Tags and Replacement Tags Dog owners and keepers shall replace a lost tag within three (3) business days of the loss, by obtaining a replacement tag from the Town Clerk. 8.8.2.1.3 Tag Exemptions for Dog Events While actually participating in an official dog sporting or dog fancy event, a dog may, if the event sponsors do not allow participants to wear tags, be exempt from the requirement of section 8.8.2.1 that its license tag be 5(AiU affixed to its collar; provided, however, that the dog owner or keeper shall have the tag at the event and available for inspection by the ACO. 8.8.2.1.4 Tag Exemptions for Medical Reasons During any period when a veterinarian has determined that a dog cannot wear a collar for medical reasons, the dog shall be exempt from the requirement of section 8.8.2.1 that its license tag be affixed to its collar; provided, however, that its owner or keeper shall have the tag in his or her possession and available for inspection by the ACO. 8.8.2.1.5 Annual Renewal Dog owners and keepers shall renew each dog license annually. The annual licensing period runs from January 1 through December 31. 8.8.2.1.6 License due Date and Late Fee Application forms for obtaining, renewing or transferring a license shall be made available annually no later than December 31 each year. Dog owners and keepers shall return forms and fees to the Town Clerk by March 31 or, if such date is not a business day, by the first business day thereafter. Any license renewed after this date shall be deemed overdue, and the owner or keeper shall be required to pay a late fee as determined by the Town Meeting in addition to the license renewal fee. The license fee and the late fee may be secured through the imposition of a municipal charges lien on any property standing in the name of the dog owner or keeper, pursuant to MGL Chapter 40 Section 58. 8.8.2.1.7 License Fees Fees for licensing each dog shall be determined by the Town Meeting; provided, however, that the fee for neutered or spayed dogs shall be less than the fee for non - neutered or non - spayed dogs. No dog license fee shall be charged for any service dog as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act or regulations issued thereunder; or for a license for a dog owned by a person 70 years of age or older. 8.8.2.2 Kennel Licenses No person may own or board four or more dogs within the Town of Reading without first obtaining a Kennel License from the Town Clerk, in accordance with MGL Chaper 140 Section 137A; provided, however, that this requirement shall not apply to medical boarding by any licensed veterinarian practicing in the Town of Reading. To obtain or renew such kennel license, the owner or keeper of the dogs shall: (a) Present proof of current rabies vaccinations for each dog older than six months in the kennel or a certification of exemption from the vaccination requirement, pursuant to MGL Chapter 140 Sections 137(b) and 1456; and (b) Pass an inspection by the Animal Control Officer pursuant to MGL Chapter 140 Sections 137A and 137C. 8.8.2.2.1 New Dogs and New Puppies A kennel licensee who is also the owner or keeper of dogs shall report to the Town Clerk each new dog in the kennel within thirty (30) days of its �'A l l acquisition; shall show proof of current vaccination; and shall obtain a kennel tag for that dog. The kennel licensee shall show proof of current vaccination and obtain a tag for each puppy when it reaches six months old. 8.8.2.2.2 Periodic Inspections The Town may perform an inspection of any kennel at any time pursuant to MGL Chapter 140 Section 137C. 8.8.2.2.3 Annual Renewal Each kennel licensee shall renew the kennel license annually. The annual licensing period runs from January 1 to December 31. 8.8.2.2.4 License Due Date Application forms for obtaining, renewing or transferring a kennel license shall be made available annually no later than December 1 each year. Kennel licensees shall return forms and fees to the Town Clerk by January 15 or, if such date is not a business day, by the first business day thereafter. Any kennel license renewed after this date shall be deemed overdue, and the owner or keeper shall be required to pay a late fee as determined by the Town Meeting in addition to the license fee. The overdue license fee and the late fee may be secured through the imposition of a municipal charges lien on any property standing in the name of the kennel licensee, pursuant to MGL Chapter 40 Section 58, 8.8.2.2.5 Fees The fees for licensing each kennel shall be established by the Board of Selectmen. 8.8.2.2.6 Penalties Any person maintaining a kennel after the kennel license therefor has been denied, revoked or suspended shall be subject to the penalties set forth in Section 8.8.6. 8.8.3 Conduct of Dons 8.8.3.1 Nuisance and Dangerous Behavior No dog owner or keeper shall permit the dog to become or remain a nuisance dog or a dangerous dog, as those terms are defined and used in MGL. Chapter 140 Sections 136A and 157. 8.8.3.2 Leash Law When not on the private property of its owner or keeper, or on private property with the express permission of that property's owner, a dog shall be on a leash; provided, however, that it may be under effective voice control when within the Town Forest or on conservation lands. 8.8.3.2.1 Public Gatherings • Leash Control Only Except as otherwise specified in Section 8.8, a dog may be at any public gathering only if it is on a six -foot or shorter leash and refrains from illegal activities. - -J I 8.8.3.2.2 School Grounds Unless the School Principal gives permission in advance, no dog may be on school grounds from thirty (30) minutes before classes begin until thirty (30) minutes after classes end. At all other times, the dog may be on school grounds only if it is on a six -foot or shorter leash or remains within a vehicle. 8.8.3.2.3 Exception for Assistance Animals (service animals) The provisions of this Section 8.8.3.2 shall not apply to any properly trained assistance animal or service animal while performing its duties. 8.8.3.3 Dog Litter Every dog owner or keeper shall be responsible for expeditiously removing any feces that the dog deposits anywhere except on its owner's or keeper's private property, or on other private property with the property owner's permission 8.8.4 Animal Control Officer 8.8.4.1 Appointment The Town Manager shall appoint an ACO pursuant to MGL Chapter 140 Sections 151 and 151A to carry out the provisions of Section 8.8 and to perform such other duties and responsibilities as the Town Manager or its designee may determine. 8.8.4.2 Duties The ACO's duties shall include the enforcement of the provisions of Section 8.8 and of MGL Chapter 140 Sections 136A -174E and any relevant state or local regulations. 8.8.4.3 Issuance of Temporary Restraint Orders The ACO may issue a Temporary Restraint Order to the owner or keeper of any dog that is alleged to be a nuisance dog or a dangerous dog and is awaiting a decision under Section 8.8.5.2. A Temporary Restraint Order shall be in force for no more than thirty (30) days unless the ACO renews it in writing for subsequent thirty (30) day periods. The ACO may rescind or stop renewing the order when, in the ACO's judgment, restraint is no longer required. The ACO's order shall expire upon receipt of a decision from the ACAC on the nuisance dog or dangerous dog hearing. 8.8.4.4 Issuance of a Temporary Confinement Order The ACO may make arrangements for the temporary housing of any dog that requires such temporary housing, and may issue an Order of Temporary Confinement authorizing such temporary housing. The housing may be at local veterinary clinics, or at dog kennels within the Town or neighboring towns, and shall be at the dog owner's or keeper's expense. 8.8.4.5 Complaint Investigation The ACO shall make a written record of and shall investigate all complaints arising within the Town pertaining to violations of Section 8.8 or MGL Chapter 140 Sections 136A -174E and report its findings to the ACAC. 8.8.4.6 Recordkeeping The ACO shall keep accurate, detailed records of the confinement and disposition of all dogs held in custody, all bite cases reported, and the results of investigations. The AGO shall maintain a telephone log of all calls received regarding dogs and submit a monthly report summarizing the log to the ACAC. 8.8.5 Animal Control Appeals Committee 8.8.5.1 Composition of the ACAC The Animal Control Appeals Committee shall be composed of three Reading residents, none of whom shall otherwise be employees of the Town, appointed to three -year overlapping terms by the Board of Selectmen. The ACAC shall annually select a member to serve as the Chair. At least one of the three members must be a dog owner. 8.8.5.2 Nuisance or Dangerous Dog Hearings Any person may file a complaint in writing to the ACAC that a dog owned or kept in the Town is a nuisance dog or a dangerous dog. All such complaints shall be investigated and addressed in accordance with MGL Chapter 140 Section 157. 8.8.6 Penalties 8.8.6.1 Fines Any dog owner or keeper who maintains a kennel after the kennel license has been denied, revoked or suspended, or who fails to obtain a kennel license; and any dog owner or keeper who fails to comply with Section 8.8.3 shall be subject to penalties as determined by the ACAC, not exceeding Three Hundred ($300) Dollars per day for every day of the violation. 8.8.6.2 Reimbursement of Costs If the AGO confines a dog and the dog owner or keeper does not pay all fees directly to the kennel or veterinary clinic, then the dog's owner or keeper shall be required to reimburse the Town for any expenses incurred in boarding that dog. If the dog has not been licensed, the owner or keeper shall obtain a license and pay any applicable late fee before the dog can be released. 8.8.6.3 Penalties for Violating Temporary Restraint Orders The ACAC shall determine a schedule of penalties not exceeding Three Hundred ($300) Dollars per day for each and every violation of Temporary Restraint Orders. 8.8.6.4 Penalties for Non - Compliance with and Order of the ACAC An owner or keeper of a dog who fails to comply with an order of the ACAC shall be punished in accordance with MGL Chapter 140 Section 157A. 8.8.6.5 Enforcement In addition to any other means of enforcement, the provisions of Section 8.8 and the regulations adopted pursuant thereto may also be enforced by non - criminal disposition in accordance with the provisions of Section 1.8, and MGL Chapter 5G 40 Section 21D. The penalty for such violation shall be $300 for each offense. Each day or part thereof shall constitute a separate offense. Board of Selectmen Backaround: The Commonwealth's laws governing the licensing and control of dogs and kennels were substantially revised in 2012. The revised laws now: • require animal control officers to receive training; • create categories for kennel licensing; • require health certificates for dogs and cats brought into or sold in Massachusetts: and • provide a clear process for dangerous dog and nuisance dog hearings, including: • explicit criteria that a hearing authority either must consider and those that must not be considered; and • lists of actions that the hearing authority may take once it has concluded that a dog is indeed a nuisance dog or a dangerous dog. The proposed new Animal Control Bylaw would bring the Town into compliance with these changes. Any provisions that are inconsistent with the General Laws have been proposed for removal, and an appropriate statutory citation has been added. Definitions that are contained in the General Laws have been removed to avoid any ambiguity. The Town will retain its Animal Control Appeals Committee as its "Hearing Authority" for nuisance dog and dangerous dog hearings. Beyond these changes, the remainder of the bylaw would be streamlined and re- worded for clarity. Many existing provisions are proposed to be reorganized and, when logical, combined or omitted. The internal citations would be made accurate, and previously unnumbered paragraphs would have proper citations for ease in application of the bylaw. The proposed bylaw would also address several minor comments made by the Attorney General's Municipal Law Unit on its prior provisions. For those interested in a bold /cross out copy of the changes made, please visit the Town's website and look under the Town Clerk's division for 2016 Annual Town Meeting information. What follows is an executive summary of the specific amendments to the Animal Control Bylaw for you to use in your deliberation of the proposed new bylaw. (1) Definitions (a) The definitions of the following terms are contained in the General Laws and have therefore been deleted from the bylaw: • Dangerous Dog • Euthanize • Keeper • Kennel • License Transfer • License • Nuisance Dog (b) In addition, the definitions of the following terms have been deleted because they are adequately defined within the Bylaw or the General Laws and are therefore redundant: • Kennel License • License • License Transfer • License Period • Permanent Restraint • Restraint • Temporary Confinement Order • Temporary Restraint Order (c) The term "muzzling" has also been deleted, as it no longer appears in the bylaw. (2) Licensing. The requirements regarding licensing, vaccination and fees have been revised to consolidate the bylaws into a more clear and concise statement and to reference the General Laws where appropriate, rather than repeat everything from the statute. Most of the amendments are not substantive in nature, except for the following: The bylaw now states that license fees and late fees will be determined by Town Meeting, rather than the Board of Selectmen. This change brings the bylaw into compliance with M.G.L. c.140, §139(a). (3) Kennel Licenses. The provisions regarding kennel licensing have also been consolidated and streamlined to make them more clear and concise and to reduce duplication of the statute. The provisions regarding inspections, review hearings and penalties have been deleted and replaced with a reference to M.G.L. c.140, §137C, which governs inspection of kennels; revocation, suspension and reinstatement of licenses; and nuisance conditions in kennels. In addition, the provisions governing physical location of kennels have been deleted as they either directly conflict with or have the potential to conflict with corresponding provisions of the Zoning Bylaw. (4) Conduct of Dogs. The statutes regarding nuisance dogs and dangerous dogs describe the types of behavior that may be regarded by the Hearing Authority as "dangerous" or "nuisance" and provides a detailed procedure by which the Hearing Authority must conduct itself when presented with a dog complaint. To reduce any possibility of conflict between the bylaw and statute, the provisions in the bylaw that describe any prohibited behaviors have been deleted, since regulation of these behaviors is already covered by the statutes. The Town's leash requirements remain substantively intact, with minor revisions to make the bylaw more clear and concise. (5) Animal Control Officer. The bylaw provisions governing the authority and duties of the Animal Control Officer ( "ACO ") remain largely intact. The suggested amendments are intended to make the bylaw more clear and concise and to give the ACO added flexibility in carrying out his /her duties with respect to Temporary Restraint Orders and Temporary Confinement Orders. Also, to aid the Town in conducting nuisance and dangerous dog hearings, the ACID is now required to make a written record of all dog complaints. This �'�1L will ensure that the Town's records include all such complaints, even those made verbally. (6) Animal Control Appeals Committee. The statutes regarding nuisance and dangerous dogs provide detailed rules for the Hearing Authority (in Reading, the Animal Control Appeals Committee or "ACAC ") to apply when carrying out its duties. Therefore, substantially all of the bylaw regarding nuisance or dangerous dog complaints, hearings, exemptions, findings, declarations, remedies and appeals have been deleted to avoid any chance of conflict with state statutes. Instead, the bylaw now provides that any person may file a written complaint to the ACAC and that such complaints shall be investigated and addressed in accordance with M.G.L. c.140, §157. (7) Penalties. The penalties section remains largely unchanged. The only substantive amendment that has been made is to add a provision providing for penalties for non- compliance with an order of the ACAC. Finance Committee Report: No report. Bylaw Committee Report: The Bylaw Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x -0 -0 at their meeting on xxx. ARTICLE 8 To see if the Town will vote to approve an Affordable Housing Trust Fund Allocation Plan pursuant to Chapter 140 of the Acts of 2001 entitled "AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF READING TO ESTABLISH AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST FUND ", or lake any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: Chapter 140 of the Ads of 2001 authorized the Town of Reading to establish a separate fund known as the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF). The AHTF requires Town Meeting approval of an annual allocation plan submitted by the Board of Selectmen. AHTF expenditures require approval by a majority vote of the full combined membership of the Board of Selectmen and the Reading Housing Authority. AHTF uses include: • Create or preserve affordable housing; • Maintain or operate affordable housing; • Develop new or rehabilitate existing housing as affordable homeownership or rental units; The purpose of the Affordable Housing Allocation Plan is to provide a framework for the Town to expend funds on affordable housing. The current AHTF balance of $261,391.75 reflects revenue generated through the actions of the CPDC, as well as proceeds from the loss of an affordable unit. There are no Town tax generated funds in the AHTF. The only expenditure to date from the AHTF, in the amount of $200,000, was to assist Oaktree development with financing affordable housing at 30 Haven Street. At the 2012 Annual Town Meeting, approval was given for funding to hire a consultant to assist a staff initiative to update the Town's Housing Plan, including the five -year "Housing Production Plan ". This effort is important as a defense against unfriendly 40B developments in the community, and requires the Town to develop a phased plan to produce housing to reach the 10% threshold as required by MGL Ch. 40B. Reading's Housing Production Plan has been approved by the Board of Selectmen and by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Town commissioned and received a supplemental report on how the AHTF can best be used to support the "Planned Production' goals of the Housing Plan. This report was received in late winter 2012, and a presentation was made in April of 2013 to the Board of Selectmen and the Reading Housing Authority. The report recommends a significant restructuring of the Town's AHTF efforts. The Board of Selectmen considered these recommendations two years ago, but decided against any changes. Therefore, the current recommendation is to adopt the AHTF Allocation Plan as shown below as the framework for the use of Affordable Housing Trust Fund in FY 2017. Note that Reading as lead community is part of a regional effort (along with North Reading, Wilmington and Saugus) to share a Regional Housing Services Office (RHSO). The RHSO monitors and administers affordable housing requirements including tracking and updating the Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI) as well as maintaining ready buyer and ready renter lists. Affordable Housing Trust Fund Allocation Plan FY 2017 Pursuant to Article 8 of the 2016 Annual Town Meeting, an Affordable Housing Trust Fund Allocation Plan for the Fiscal Year 2017 in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 140 of the Acts of 2001 is as follows: Available Balance — Unrestricted Funds: $261,391.75 Available Balance — Restricted Funds $ 0 Unrestricted funds shall be used for the following purposes: 5% up to a maximum Of $10,000 for administration of Affordable Housing Remainder for constructing affordable housing (including loan and grant programs); or for maintaining and improving affordability of existing housing stock; or for the purchase of existing housing stock to add it to or maintain it as a part of the existing affordable Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. ARTICLE 9 To see if the Town will vote to authorize revolving funds for certain Town Departments under Section 53E '/2 of Chapter 44 of the Massachusetts General Laws for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2016 with the receipts, as specified, credited to each fund; the purposes, as listed, for which each fund may be spent, the maximum amount that may be spent from each fund for the fiscal year, and the disposition of the balance of each fund at fiscal year- end. Revolving Spending Revenue Allowed enditure p Ex Limits Year End Account Authority Source Expenses Balance Fees as Consulting and provided for in engineering services for Conservation Reading General the review of designs $25,000 Commission Bylaws Section and engineering work Available for Consulting Conservation 5.7, Wetlands for the protection of expenditure Fees Commission Protection wetlands. next year Legal, oversight and inspection, plan review, initial property Building, appraisals and appeals, Plumbing, Public Services Wiring, Gas and planning and general $200,000 other permits for management, curb he Oaktree, sidewalks and Addison-Wesley/ pedestrian safety Inspection Pearson and improvements, records Available for Revolving Town Johnson Woods archiving and other expenditure Fund developments project related costs. next year —Manager Clinic fees, Materials and costs Public Health charges and associated with clinics $25,000 Available for Clinics and Board of third party and public health expenditure Services Health reimbursements programs next year — Library D brary Charges for lost Acquire Library Available for Materials Director and or damaged materials to replace lost $15,000 expenditure Replacement Trustees Library materials or damaged items next year Facilities Matters Director Utilities and all other $10,000 Available for Cabin maintenance and expenditure Operating Rental Fees operating expenses next ear Director of Public Works uponthe recommends tion of the Sale of timber: Planning and Available for own Forest ees for use of Improvements to the $10,000 expenditure Town Forest Committee he Town Forest Town Forest next year or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: The revolving funds established in this article are subject to annual renewal by Town Meeting. -0/ I • Conservation Consultina Revolving Fund - These funds are used to receive payments from applicants, hire expert consultants where required, and return the balance to the applicant. The balance in the Conservation Consulting Revolving Fund as of February 2016 is $2,888. • Inspections Revolving Fund - Beginning in 2004, Town Meeting approved the Inspections Revolving Funds as a way to deposit building and other permit fees from three large projects (the Oaktree, Pulte Homes and Johnson Woods developments). The balance available as of February 2016 in this fund is $772,105, and of that total $200,000 is proposed by the Town Manager: $75,000 to be used to help offset some building division related activities in the FY16 Public Services budget, as has been the case for several years, plus upon the advice of the Board of Selectmen along with the support of a Financial Forum $125,000 is set aside to fund a new economic development planning position. The balance in this fund will allow four years of expenses at this pace at which point the results of the economic development efforts can be fairly judged and should be self- funding. • Health Clinic Revolving Fund - The Reading Health Division contracts for third party payments for a number of immunizations. The funds are used to augment the influenza vaccine supply from the State Department of Public Health to insure vaccine for the homebound clients and first responders. The Division also uses these funds for materials for other screening clinics. Clinic client fees are also deposited into this fund to offset vaccine and clinical supply costs. The balance available as of February 2016 this fund is $60,459. The State has been cutting back on the free flu and other vaccines to be distributed to cities and towns, and the Town therefore needs to purchase extra doses. The necessary amounts used for. clinic vaccine, supplies and staff salaries related to the clinics each year directly from the revolving fund is therefore approximately $25,000. • Library Materials Replacement Fund — During the course of a year, the Library recovers funds from patrons who have lost or damaged books or other materials. Previously, those funds went into the Town's General Fund and at the end of the year went into Free Cash. Once this Revolving Fund was adopted (beginning in FY 2010), those funds recovered from patrons for lost or damaged materials were available directly to the Library for expenditure to purchase replacement materials and processing supplies. The balance available as of February 2016 in this fund is $433. • Mattera Cabin Operating Fund — The log cabin on the Matters conservation land was purchased several years ago, and was renovated by the Vocational School. Some of the use is revenue generating, and it is anticipated that over time the site will generate enough funding to pay the operating costs of the cabin — primarily utilities. This Article allows those revenues that are generated to be used directly for the operating expenses of the cabin. The balance available as of February 2016 in this fund is $1,006. In response to an instructional motion by Town Meeting, the Town Manager has moved the responsibility for both the Matters Cabin and Cemetery garages to be moved to the Facilities department. • Town Forest Revolvina Fund was created in 2011. The purpose is to allow revenues from controlled timber harvesting and permit fees to then be spent by the DPW Director upon the recommendation of the Town Forest Committee, on improvements to the Town Forest, including planning efforts. The Town Forest Committee has had a forest stewardship plan created (through a grant) to make recommendations on forest management including controlled timber harvesting. The balance available as of February 2016 in this fund is $0. 5J�,6 It is anticipated that timber harvesting on a limited basis could begin at any time, and therefore there will be future proceeds which can be used for the purposes of the revolving fund. Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. ARTICLE 10 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to sell, exchange, or dispose of, various items of Town tangible property, upon such terms and conditions as they may determine; or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: The following equipment is scheduled for disposal: Department Item Year Est. Value ts DPW International 2554/Truck #8 2000 $20,000 frame DPWNVater Ford F550/Pickup #5 2002 $15,000 DPW Ford F450/Dump Truck #12 1997 $5,000 Nine DPW Ford F250 /Picku 2 1997 $3,000 body [44.31- DPW Chevy Blazer /Car#5 1997 $1,000 DPW Select Till Rototiller nil DPW Holder V -Plow 4150 nil DPW McConnel Boom Flail nil DPW D nahoe Bucket nil DPW Craftsman 10" Radial Saw 1980 nil DPW FMC John Bean Sprayer nil Motor missing arts DPW DMT Generator nil Does not run DPW Wayne Ray Backhoe Bucket nil Police Crown Vic/Car #2 2011 <$2,000 90k miles Police Crown Vic/Car#9 2004 <$2,000 80k miles Police Crown Vic/Car#11 2011 <$2,000 100k miles Police Crown Vic/Car#14 2011 <$2,000 100k miles Fire Frei htline Pumper/Engine #3 1995 $18,000 Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. *Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen at their meeting on March 22, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. y�21 ARTICLE 11 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to pay bills remaining unpaid from prior fiscal years for goods and services actually rendered to the Town, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: In December 2015 the town became aware of an outstanding invoice to Canon Financial Services in the amount of $328.65 that had been bundled into current balances due, while it was in fact for services rendered in April 2015. The services rendered were a copier lease managed through the Town Manager's office. Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends this Article by a vote of x- 0-0 at their meeting on March 23, 2016. This bill is an obligation that should be paid by the Town, with a source of Free Cash. Please note that a 9/10 majority vote by Town Meeting is required to make these payments. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. 'Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen on March 22, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. ARTICLE 12 To see if the Town will vote to determine how much money the Town will appropriate by borrowing, or from the tax levy, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, for the operation of the Town and its government for Fiscal Year 2017 - beginning July 1, 2016, or take any other action with respect thereto. Finance Committee Background: Please see the yellow pages of this document for the full details of the FY17 budget. Finance Committee Report: Please see the yellow pages — Spending Scorecard of this document for the votes of the Finance Committee online items in the FY17 budget. The Finance Committee recommends the subject matter of Article 12 as explained by these votes at their meeting on March 23, 2016. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. ARTICLE 13 To see what sum the Town will vote to appropriate by borrowing, whether in anticipation of reimbursement from the State under Section 6 of Chapter 44 of the Massachusetts General Laws, or pursuant to any other enabling authority or from the tax levy, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, for highway projects in accordance with Chapter 90 of the Massachusetts General Laws, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: After a one -time increase in FY15 to $900,000, Reading has settled back into the $600,000 range which is what is projected for FY17 for Chapter 90 (local road repairs). The motion made at Town Meeting will be to accept the Chapter 90 state assistance at whatever level is ultimately available, a trend in other communities in order to avoid this uncertainty of the timing of the stale budget process. Finance Committee Report: At their meeting on March 23, 2016 the Finance Committee voted x -0 -0 to recommend this Article. Bylaw Committee Report: No report. 'Board of Selectmen Report: The Board of Selectmen at their meeting on March xx, 2016 voted x -0 -0 to support this Article. ARTICLE 14 To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to Section 2 -6 of the Reading Home Rule Charter, to declare the seats of certain Town Meeting Members to be vacant and remove certain described persons from their position as Town Meeting Members for failure to take the oath of office within 30 days following the notice of election or for failure to attend one -half or more of the Town Meeting sessions during the previous year, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen Background: The Reading Home Rule Charter provides for the removal by Town Meeting of Town Meeting Members who did not attend at least half of the Town Meeting sessions during the previous year. Total of 2 Town Meetings resulting in 6 nights to attend Listed below are those who attended less than 3 nights 2 Walter J Carroll 2017 0 2 Carol Sampson 2017 0 5 Patrick P O'Sullivan ❑� 6 Jacqueline MK Petrillo Total Precinct First Name MI Last Name Term Attended 2 Walter J Carroll 2017 0 2 Carol Sampson 2017 0 5 Patrick P O'Sullivan 2018 2 6 Jacqueline MK Petrillo 2017 2 6 Dructla Wood- Beckwith 2018 2 and you are directed to serve this Warrant by posting an attested copy thereof in at least one (1) public place in each precinct of the Town not less than fourteen (14) days prior to April 27, 2015, or providing in a manner such as electronic submission, holding for pickup or mailing, an attested copy of said Warrant to each Town Meeting Member. Hereof fail not and make due return of this Warrant with your doings thereon to the Town Clerk at or before the time appointed for said meeting. Given under our hands this _" day of , 2016. . Constable Chairman Vice Chairman Secretary SELECTMEN OF READING pdate for Reading Board of Selectmen Presented by David Hutchinson, Building Committee FF Volt 1 p WORK IN PROGRESS i ■ Project is well managed ■ Full cross - functional collaboration ■ Budget is on target — but right on target (i.e. no surplus) ■ $18.4m - $13.3m from Reading, $5.1m from Massachusetts ■ Currently targeting opening in Q3 2016, within a few months of original plan 3 Project is tightly managed with full transparency and broad participation Oversight: Library Building Committee (with Fincom representative) Regular attendance by BoS and Library Trustee representatives Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners Execution: STV — Owner's Project Manager CBT — Architect Delphi — General Contractor Town Management /Facilities /Procurement Library Director and Staff n 1,1,16 Approved Budget $18.4m Current Forecast $18.4m Admin and Project Relocation FF &E Contingency Admin and $1.00 $1.10 $0.20 Relocation, 6% 6'% 1% $0.90 5% Fees and Professionals Fees and $1.70 Professional 9% $2.00 11% Constructn $14.40 78% Constructn��''��j /}�J� /jet \J \ \�\ $14.30 111YG_L�1 78% READING PUBLIC LIBRARY ■ Original Construction bid was favorable to initial estimate, providing additional contingency ■ Various processes and circumstances have pressed schedule and budget (details to follow) ■ Tight management should land us on budget: Consumption of extra contingency Careful and ongoing fiscal management ■ Schedule added several extra months READING 6 PUBLIC LIBRARY ■ No significant changes to design or scope other than reacting to discovered conditions (mostly accommodating). Library delivered will be as promised — no more, no less ■ Overall principle — "do it right" while we have things open ■ The following slides show the categories of unforeseen conditions or processes that consumed the contingencies and pressured the schedule, all of which occurred after the initial Town Meeting project approval .t I CA s f *Y 2:' ,s �4 w PORTE COCHERE Plan called fur cnClosure of Pork Cochere as usable space. Discoccrc of rubble 10LIlldilti011 Iuotlnes proved to be slruclurallc unsound. Required cntirc removal and replication ul the Porte Cochere to historical ❑CCLII'LICA j�r010 ., . . V- 40 J � f Il %I a a, FOUNDATION LEAKAGE Plan called for a drainage system and other measures to address tcater against the foundation and basement. During eacaNation. discoccry of more extens'icc porous stone xcork. and actual leakage experience. reyumed a substantialle more elaborate escacatiin and tcaterpr i ifin_. READING PUBLIC LIBRARY y Il %I a a, FOUNDATION LEAKAGE Plan called for a drainage system and other measures to address tcater against the foundation and basement. During eacaNation. discoccry of more extens'icc porous stone xcork. and actual leakage experience. reyumed a substantialle more elaborate escacatiin and tcaterpr i ifin_. READING PUBLIC LIBRARY Plan called for small repairs to Deering St. retaining wall as project manager originally deemed it structurally sound. After excavation of parking lot fill, Town /PM determined that full replacement while building was exposed, including wall, foundation and sidewalk, was in the Town's best interest 16 ■ Further discussion and design of site plan, particularly to accommodate additional parking and traffic flow ■ Bid protest delayed execution of the general contract by one month ■ Site work ran out of time before the winter: a mild spring should allow some parallel work ■ Note that schedule slips impact professional fees, design work and temporary space lease READING PUBLIC LIBRARY ■ Challenging project met by a fully engaged coalition of professionals, town and library employees, and volunteers ■ Honoring the budget approved by the Town and the State grant award ■ Delivering the library as promised — it is time to get excited! >► �iL1 18 19 Revenue Enhancement Ideas from Reading Financial Forum September 15, 2G1G Bucketed List Evaluation Criteria Opp Cost / Being Ease to Implement Ongoing Community Unintened Who should FmCOm Next at of Town Land (Oakland Rd- lastbieoarcell 25 High Medium None TBO Varies by lot Selectman ONGOING REVENUE 1 School and Town Land, Opportunities 49 Cell Towers 20 Yes Medium Low - Medium TBD TMgr /Selectman Adverticing/Biliboards 15 Yes Medium TBD Selectman/SC Wind /Solar Power Generation and Sell Back 9 No RMLD Sell Timber in Town Forest 5 Yes DPW/fown Forest Committee 2 School and Town Facilities: Opportunities 24 ones. for schools, Rental of existing space 15 Yes Low -Med. Medium Medium High Medium Medium Selectman /SC ID Town Bid, contact Naming Right 9 No Low Medium Low Low Medium Political Selectman /SC surems elsewhere? 3 Fees, Introduce New One 18 Pay as YOU Throw Trash Fee 6 No High Low Medium Medium High Incr, Recycling Selectman Preferred Parking Fees at RMHS 6 No Low Medium Low Low Low Incc nbad pkng Schools usefeesfor? Billing At Fault Accidents 5 No Med -low, No Medium -High StaHtime High Ins. CO. battles Public Safety Wireless air rights billing 1 No 4 Economic Development 17 Town Economic Development/PR 12 Yes Medium Requires$ Medium -High Yes Positive Selectman Tax Incentives for New Business 5 No Selectman 5 New initiatives 16 Grant Writers to Bring in $$ 5 No Selectman /SC Endowed Positions at Schools 5 No o cnmpsin MA- allanswersoreunknown Schools Road Races Program 3 No Low High Low Low Law Low Recreation Reading Branded Credit Card 2 No norompsln MA- all answers are unknown Selectman /SC Remove state gas tax on Town 1 No Legislators 6 Fees' Increase aiatii 12 Parking Fee at Depot 10 Yes Selectman Raise Parking Tickets it Fines /Parking Meters 1 Yes Selectman Increase RMLD annual In lieu of Tax Payment 1 Yes Selectman Increase Ice Arena payments 0 Yes Selectman T Girs /DOnations5o_/ p _.lonsmshii 12 Sponsoring Town Trees, Benches, Lights, etc. 7 Yes Selectman Focused Approach for Gifts /donations 5 No Selectman /Sc 8 Expand Service Offerings 6 Offer Ambulance Services to Other Towns 6 No Medium High High Medium none Selectman Total Votes 179 S� T Arrange MSBA early payments on RMHS T Refinance old School debt Impact on Of FY09 -FY13 Coolidge debt Facilities Department c nstmadd some election equipment, as purchase ONGOING EXPENSE Berths /Personnel Health Insurance - tiered program Change from social security to ICMA OBRA for those not in a retirement system Email direct deposit advices to staff (22% and increasing( to avoid printing costs Modification of non -union benents(sick leave, sick leave buyback) Offering early retirement to all school employees Collective Bargaining constrained salary increases and modification of benefits (sick leave. sick leave buy -back, vacation( Freezing salaries - non -union employees Reduced hours of work across the board Imposed unpaid furloughs Cut salaries Reduction of staff (attrition where possible to avoid unemployment expenses) a. Eliminate Coordinator of Volunteer It. Eliminate ASSktant Bldg Inspector Expense Management Evaluation Criteria Opp Cost/ Being Ease to Cost to Ongoing Community Unintened Who Should FINCOM Next Y Medium High effort None Yes(1) Yes(2) Finance (1) To reduce the omountof the override that we assess to the taxpayer. None (2) Additional interest expense on the MSBA portion of the $35 million debt if we donTre(nance in a few year. Y $2051, npv Easy Low None None None None investment +$552k choice Y Easy None None Finance y $2,100 Easy Low None None None benefits Re0 in None Refi in FY12 None Costs shift to Y $5901k/yr Coll Barg High effort None ee dr Less Less empire Y $I05k/yr Difficult Hlgheffort $20k/yr None investment choice Y Easy None None Less emp'ee Y Medium High effort benefits N y Coll Barg High effort Less empire benefits Less empire Y Medium High effort benefits N N N Y Medium Law Tasks done by y 3 depts. Y Re0 in None Refi in FY12 None g Exoenses /Personnel Reduction in professional development /increased use of y Easy Low None Less PD electronic webinam Retlutlion in curriculum and instructional materials -65% y reduction over last 2 yrs Reduction in professional development —65 %reduction y Easy Low None Less PD over last 2 yrs Eliminating professional development insomice time for N non - teaching staff Nest 8reus i Expense Management Evaluation Criteria Opp Cost/ Being Ease to Conto Ongoing Community Undaunted Who Should FINCOM Done Expenses Implement Imp Cost Imo.R Comenuence, CanDiFund Carl c. Eliminate Technology Librarian /Instructor y d. Eliminate one Firefighter N e. Eliminate Permits Coordinator N I, Eliminate Staff Planner N Real hours of staff where feasible IT Mgr office) y Reduce hours of seasonal Assessor N Reduce hours of seasonal DPW y Reduced staffing levels for library Sunday hours (skeleton y ew) Reduction in school department personnel: v a. Teachers - )O teachers over last two years y L Paraprofessionals — 18.1 paraprofessionals over y last 2 years C. Secretaries— 1.2 Secretaries this year y d. Custodians -5 0 custodians over last 6 yn y e. Administrator — Assistant Dir. of Faciliies y C Administrator — Assistant Superintendent N Outsourced custodial services at RMHS and one shift at y Coolidge Middle School Outsourcing custodial services at all buildings N Maximize the use of student teachers and volunteers y Increased volunteer hours and senior tax workers (Town y ac k's office) Use of parent volunteers to teach classes N Expanding online learning to replace existing reaching staff N Going to a 4 day school week N Reducing number of student days from 181 to 180 N Exoenses /Personnel Reduction in professional development /increased use of y Easy Low None Less PD electronic webinam Retlutlion in curriculum and instructional materials -65% y reduction over last 2 yrs Reduction in professional development —65 %reduction y Easy Low None Less PD over last 2 yrs Eliminating professional development insomice time for N non - teaching staff Nest 8reus i N T Eliminate out of state Professional Development T Reduce Assessors use ofautside consultants Exaenses /Financial MIIA Rewards seminar participation - earn credits on T/S insurances T Earn upgraded bond ratings Establishment of some revolving funds to tie expenses directly Into revenues (Inspections, Matters Cabin, Health T Clinic, Library Materials) Purchase hand -held scanners ($1600) to save annual lock box fee s, as well as improve accuracy of information and T speed of processing payments T Reduce library %materials budget - rely on gifts Exoemes /Oeerational Sch Performance Contracting to reduce energy expenses Amend hours at Town Hall to save operating costs, and T improve customer service Removal of small appliances (refrigerators, microwaves, Sch etc.) from all classrooms Use of computer software to automatically shut down all Sch computers each night Sch Use of automated software based on facility rentals Server and computer virtualization which reduces Sch hardware and energy costs Network virtualintion to reduce energy costs, improve T reliability and allow remote access T Slaw down PC replacement cycle T Cancelled PC repair and main contract w/ Noble T Conversion of fleet to hybrid to reduce fuel expense Anti vehicle idling to reduce fuel use (and improve the T/5 a virlonment Aggressive preventative maintenance to prevent costly Sch emergency repairs Use of parent volunteers to maintain PGs Or technology Sch infrastructure T Modifcation of rubbish and recycling program Expense Management Evaluation Criteria Opp Cost/ Being Ease to Cost to Ongoing Community Unintened Who Should FINCOM Next Done Expenses Implement Imp Cost In Pact Corseaue a C Fwd Contact steps y Easy Low None Less PD r Carry N y $351,11 High effort None None None All Staff y High effort None None None Finance y y $lOk/yr Easy None None None N y $335k/yr Higheffo0 Higheffort y $30k/yr High effort y y y y y Difficult $yoke N y $6k/yr y $5 -10k /vehicle y y N y High effort p Elimination (phase- out) of plowing cM1UrcM1 parking lots to reduce snow plowing expense (also to comply with State T Constdutum) PublWifinvate partnerships (tree watering, adopt an T island(( T In -house PBX phone system Sch Increased recycling T/S Active paper re-use and reduction efforts T/5 Elimination of ink jet printers T/S Networked photocopiers and printers Sch Setting photocopier settings to automatically duplex T Document storage Initiative to reduce paper Greater use of electronic communication to reduce printing/mailing costs(YCC, Board agendas, elettronic T/S forms to parents) Sch Use of electronic education tools(blogs, wilds, etc.) Expenses /Cooperative Efforts T Regional programs (Veterans Services) T Regional programs (Dispatch) T Regional programs (Assessors) T Regional programs(GIS) T Regional programs (Technology) Use of regional transportation collaborative for outof- Sth district special education Special education collaborative programs whenever possible for special education children who need special Sch programming not offered in Reading Schools Coordinate bulk shipping of ten and materials with other Sch districts Purchasing materials through Staples and WalMart when Sch they have sales Participate in joint purchasing collaborative with 65 other Sch communities for school, office, and custodial supplies Joint bldding/purchasing(Office supplies, sand and salt, T fuel) Ubrary saves on processing supplies by participating in T statewide purchasing cooperatives Expense Management Evaluation Criteria Opp COrt/ Being Ease to Cort to Ongoing Community Unintened Who Should FINCOM Next Done Expenses Im kmen Im lumen[ Cost Imi Conuni.e u Cain Fwd Contact Sys $1o,00o to y 515,000 per year Y High effort Y $30k/yr Medium None None None Y Easy Y Easy Y Easy Y Y Easy Y $50k+ Y V Y TEA Difficult TEA Difficult TBA Difficult TBA Difficult Y Y N N Y Y Easy Y Easy 5 Ex,ense Management Evaluation Criteria eels, Ease to Cost to Ongoing Community Unintened Who Sbould FINCOM Neat Done Expenses Imp Implanters Cost hom Consequence Carry, Fwd Coslalt Stex Resource sharing/Redprocal borrowing and lending exults in 33," books borrowed for Reading residents from other libraries in one year, savings = $664),M y Easy (purchase cost= $lo each) With the recent municipal reform an passed In July, we are now able to purchase from national collaborative; we y have, as a result Just joinerl National Joint powers Alliance. Use of state contracts whenever possible (technology purchases, photocopiers, maintenance supplies, y maintenance services, oil) Re- negotiation of maintenance contracts and equipment leases Creation of in- distrin special education programs to bring students back to Reading from costly put- of-disvico y placements In- sourcing of costly special education consultative and y therapeutic services In- sourcing of maintenance services (carpet shampooing, y exhaust fan maintenance, etc.) Spending Since the last Override 31312016 1 �� Pre - Override Actual Actual Budget Recommended FFY17 .03 .05 vs 06 Expenditures Expenditures (Revised) Budget FY -2003 FY -2004 FY -2005 FY -2006 TOWN 15,161804 16,386972 17,317,246 10,126,090 125,350,650 3.7% Schools 24,091,038 25,705.383 20,130,066 28,712,503 1411,697,666 3.6% Debt Service and Capital 3,922,129 4,620,241 8,260,140 7,691,796 "970"'0 4.2% .1.4% -0.9% Employee Benefits 6,839,667 7,421,349 8,044,049 9,178,809 15,9881 6.3% 5.9% 5.2% Far less debt is crowding out the operating budgets - prior school projects were One Debt Service and Capital made the tax levy Debt Service 3,897,129 4,178,178 6,790,140 6,898,508 A much better captal plan is in pace that reduces operating budget costs Capital Projects Total Capital Projects 25,000 442,063 1,470,000 793,288 This reduction of infrastructure costs have $ $ $ $ eflectivety paid for the increase in Benefit Total Debt and Capital 3,922,129 4,620,241 8,260,140 7,691,796 but there is little room for that to ocntinue,so 3 %opermag budgets are at risk in the future Employee Benefits Contributory Retirement 2,136600 2,186,300 2,407,094 2,463,851 3,673,000 3.9% 3.6% 3.7% Nan- Contrib. Retirement 99.183 93,745 97,625 99,257 0 -1000% 400.0% - 100,0% Unemployment Benefits 76167 47,685 75,000 60,000 100,000 1.8% 2.4% 4.0% Group Health l Life Ins. 3,080899 4,341,283 4,709,330 5,749,962 10,560,500 r 7.4% L0% &7% Medicare l Social Security 436,765 493,385 495,350 530,211 750,000 3.9% 3.5% 3.2% Workers Compensation 171,068 192,804 223,650 225,528 280,000 3.6% 1.9% 2.0% Police l Fire Indemnification 36,985 66,147 36,000 50,000 100,000 7.4% 8.9% 6.5% $ $ $ $ Total Employee Benefits 6039,667 7,421,349 0,044,049 9,1]8,809 15,463,500 Enterprise Funds Water Fund Total Water FUnd 2,746997 2,791,647 2,909,731 3,187,133 6,240,274 69% 66% 6.3% Sewer Fund Toral Sever FuM 3,883,379 3,942,101 4,066,823 3,975,905 5,706,390 2.8% 29% 33% Storm Water 530,430 100% 100% 100% TOTAL 6630,376 6,733,748 6,976554 7,163,039 12,477,094 31312016 1 �� 0 0 .1 �rR Town of Reading z Meeting Minutes '°',:,a�oaw''' Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Selectmen Date: 2016 -01 -19 Building: Reading Town Hall Address: 16 Lowell Street Purpose: General Business Attendees: Members - Present: Time: 7:00 PM Location: Selectmen Meeting Room Session: Open Session Version: Chairman Daniel Ensminger, Vice Chairman John Halsey, Secretary Kevin Sexton, John Arena and Barry Berman Members - Not Present: Others Present: Town Manager Bob Lelacheur, Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios, Fire Chief Greg Burns, Police Chief Mark Segalla, Library Director Ruth Urell, Public Works Director Jeff Zager, Jeanne Borawski, Nancy Docktor, Stephen Crook, Paula Schena Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Topics of Discussion: Reports and Comments The Town Manager announced that on Monday, January 18, 2016, there was an accident in front of 279 Lowell Street between a Town of Reading sidewalk plow and a resident. The resident was taken to the hospital and died of his injuries. The State Police are conducting an investigation and that is all of the information that is available at this time. Selectmen Liaison Reports and Comments Barry Berman noted that he attended the Martin Luther King Celebration and it was a fabulous event that was well attended. Kudos to the Human Relations Advisory Committee and thanks to Bagel World and Honey Dew Donuts for contributing. Town Manaaer's Report — Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios noted that she received a filing for Reading Village 40B. The ZBA will hold a hearing on February 40. The developer is showing a collaborative style and will have 77 units in a building taller than the Doucette building. It is a dense development. We will file a grant application with the state and the state will hire consultants and they will assist the ZBA. The ZBA can put conditions on the project. It is 63 feet high. Barry Berman noted that this will bypass zoning so what leverage does the ZBA have? Jean Delios noted that they could have one member meet with the developer to negotiate. John Arena noted there are public safety parking issues and Jean Delios noted that there Is but we cannot speak to density. Barry Berman noted that parking overflow hurt other businesses and Jean Delios noted that we have to discuss residential parking, visitor parking, etc. Page I 1 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 19 2016 - page 2 John Arena noted that 30 Haven Street is already there but we have to include it in that area because it is more developed now. John Arena asked how many spaces the project has and Jean Delios indicated they have 83 spaces for 77 units. We will need a parking consultant. John Halsey asked how many two bedroom units and Jean Delios noted she was not sure but there will be seven three bedroom units. She also noted that the state cited certain things that they must work out with the Town. Jean Delios noted that she is scheduling a joint meeting of the Board of Selectmen and CPDC to review this project. Discussion /Action Items Hearing - Alteration of Premises - Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza - The Secretary read the hearing notice. Attorney Caroline O'Connell and the Regional Manager for Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza were present. Attorney O'Connell noted that the verbiage was not on the license for the patio plan which shows four tables with 16 seats and four bar stools. She noted that CPDC has approved this plan. The Regional Manager gave an overview of their restaurant and the Board welcomed them. 4: FY17 Budget - Public Safety - Fire /EMS - Fire Chief Greg Burns noted that the department functions include fire suppression, fire prevention, EMS and emergency management. The Department responded to 3507 emergency calls and 2166 of those were medical. They also responded to 38 fires and treated 17 patients with Narcan. They collected $784,518 in ambulance fees and there has been an increase in storm events since 2001. The Safe Program is done in the schools and now includes seniors. Barry Berman asked if FEMA reimbursements go to free cash and the Town Manager indicated it does. John Arena suggested that next year it would be helpful to see the description of trending breakdown by category. Kevin Sexton noted that the ambulance fees were increased in 2014 to get closer to the average so where are we now? The Town Manager noted that we are at more than expected but still below the average. Kevin Sexton asked if the fees are sufficient and Chief Burns noted that he would have to look at other communities. Daniel Ensminger asked if the Fire Chief's salary was bumped up and the Town Manager noted yes, it was changed from 37.50 hours to 40 hours. Barry Berman asked if the revenue from running ALS could be used to ease out overtime costs or medical supply costs. Chief Burns noted that right now we are trending $2000 less in overtime than last year. We hired a new Fire Fighter because the trend was if a Fire Fighter was out on medical or vacations then more overtime. The Town Manager noted that there are costs that need to be covered. We only hire ALS Fire Fighters and they are more expensive. John Arena asked where ambulance billings go and Sharon Angstrom noted Into a miscellaneous account. 2 �J vage 1 2 W Board of Selectmen Min t s - January 19 2016 - pace 3 Mark Dockser asked if we could look at how we bill compared to other communities and Chief Burns noted that we could. Police Chief Budoet - Police Chief Mark Segalla reviewed the Department's vision and goal. He feels we could improve on Community Policing. We need to make the Honor Guard permanent. He wants to reinstitute the Police Academy and the RAD Program. We are hiring two new officers now. The Community Service Officer will be the liaison to the business community for such events like the Fall Street Faire. He wants to hold an Open House and Institute "Coffee with a Cop." Chief Segalla noted that calls for service are down a little bit. John Arena asked how long a typical investigation takes and Chief Segalla noted it could be 2 days or 30 days. Chief Segalla noted that the proposed budget has an increase of 4.4 %. Over 95% of the budget is spent on personnel. His request for an additional School Resource Officer was removed by the Town Manager even though there is an increase in requests from the schools, parents and students. There has been 173 documented incidents since September. Expenses have increased 7.4% over last year. We are negotiating with North Reading to regionalize an Animal Control Officer. John Arena asked If the Animal Control Officer was the only thing to regionalize and the Town Manager noted RCASA could if it wasn't grant funded. Kevin Sexton noted that the School Resource Officer began in 2006 and he asked if the responses increasing because there is more need or because they know us better? Chief Segalla said both. Barry Berman asked what he would do with another School Resource Officer and Chief Segalla noted he would use that Officer in the Middle Schools because we are triaging right now. John Arena noted it would be interesting If the School Resource Officer tracked the trends by category. John Halsey noted that there is an absence of proactivity without another School Resource Officer. The impact could be a life. We need to quantify the absence - this is not just a budget discussion. Mark Dockser asked if the RCASA grant is expiring and the Town Manager noted that not the whole grant, just the alcohol part. The Youth Coordinator position is eliminated next year because that part of the grant expires. Chief Segalla noted that the Dispatch budget has an increase of 5.3% and 95% of the budget is spent on personal. There is $500,000 In the FY21 capital budget for new Dispatch equipment. Li r - Library Director Ruth Urell, Assistant Library Director Amy Lannon, Library Trustees David Hutchinson, Alice Collins, Vicki Yablonsky and Cherrie Dubois were present. Vicki Yablonsky noted that they are facing going into a new Library and they just completed a five year planning process. They are trying to bring the budget back up. Ruth Urell reviewed the Executive Summary. She noted that 9000 children attended educational programs. They support lifelong education for adults. They held two Harry Potter events and winter warmers and held pints and pages for young adults. Page 1 3 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 19, 2016 - oaae 4 John Arena asked if the visits by youth were by group or with parents and Ruth Urell noted that was an actual head count. John Arena asked if they were 30 groups of 30 or 900 families. Ruth Urell indicated she didn't have that information but they keep a lot of statistics. John Arena asked the age of young adults and Ruth Urell noted 20 - 21 year old. Daniel Ensminger asked about their three year forecast. Ruth Urell noted they need to maintain the level of staffing. Updating the Librarians with MLS degrees cost $18,000. John Arena asked if we are at or below surrounding communities and are we doing a good job i.e. are we equivalent to others. Ruth Urell noted she will have to look that up. Ruth Urell noted that she is requesting a Digital Services Manager to do staff training and public classes. John Arena asked what kind of training and Ruth Urell noted Internet, software, etc. John Arena asked if that could be done by a third party and we could charge to cover it and Ruth Urell noted that the Library doesn't charge for services. Ruth Urell noted she is also requesting $5800 for substitutes when people are absent and there Is a $22,000 difference from what the Town Manager recommends for the books line. Daniel Ensminger noted that a budget increase of 8 - 10% each year is not sustainable. Ruth Urell noted that the reality is they are asking for a position to manager the move into the new Library. Daniel Ensminger asked how she reconciles or prioritizes and Ruth Urell noted that adding Thursday hours is pushed into the second year and Sunday hours the third year. John Arena asked if there are any costs Improved by virtue of what we just purchased and Ruth Urell noted in circulation services. John Arena asked why it drops in year 3 and Ruth Urell noted in year 1 we have more to learn and will have a three level building. In year 2 and 3 people are more comfortable and we could see savings. Barry Berman noted that the Town spent a lot of money on a new building and we need to staff it adequately. He suggests figuring out the minimum for this year and then come back next year. John Arena noted he is surprised with the amount spent on reference services when more is available electronically. Ruth Urell noted that it is more complicated now. Previously, encyclopedias were self - intuitive but people don't know which data base to go through electronically. She can't forecast when we will see a savings in circulation but she is sure by year three. Kevin Sexton asked if there is any game plan for rental of conference rooms and Ruth Urell noted they have discussed that. They currently use the Town rates. There Is a lot of tutoring done at the Library. A nominal fee is charged for use of the meeting room during hours. Alice Collins noted that they are looking at the same thing that the Schools do. John Halsey asked if the revenue could be used to offset expenses and Sharon Angstrom noted that it can but we have to decide what expenses and how to Identify it. It has to be identifiable costs such as custodian expenses, etc. John Halsey noted there are a whole series of things that could be used to create revenues. There Is a huge demand for meeting space. He thinks there could be ways to get Ruth what she needs. The Town Manager agreed. He noted that the schools are taking the professional approach and we're amateurs. We need to talk to the schools and now Is the time with the new Library coming onboard. John Arena noted that the meeting room holds 150 and we should be able to offset expenses. Vicki Yablonsky noted that the Library Trustees are open to discussion on anything but they don't charge for services. John Arena noted that circulations, etc. are Page 14 � � � Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 19. 201 free. Ruth Urell noted that their policy is not commercial events in the meeting rooms. She also noted that there is a fair amount of public ownership with this building. Barry Berman noted that we could charge a user fee for major authors and Ruth Urell noted that this discussion would be more useful in 10 months. Nancy Docktor asked how Boston Library manages to rent out for weddings and Ruth Urell said she did not know. John Arena noted that the new Library will have more potential and if someone wants to use it then take advantage of it. He feels 10 months is too long to wait and we should at least start now. DPW - Public Works Director Jeff Zager and Assistant Public Works Director Jane Kinsella were present. Jeff Zager noted that the budget has an increase of 1.7 %. They have 55 FfE and are down one Engineer position. The Intern in Engineering is being eliminated and that will leave five Engineers. The current Town Engineer is retiring in June. He has added $4000 in overtime in Engineering to cover Inspections on Fridays. Administration wages is increasing to 40 hours per week. There is a small increase in professional development and a small increase in traffic control to do maintenance. There is a small increase in Highway for parts. Snow and ice is level funded. Street lighting has a slight decrease and rubbish has a slight decrease. The current trash vendor proposed a 10 year contract but that is too long so we're looking for a proposal for 5 years. Kevin Sexton asked if we would consider manual recycling and Jeff Zager noted we could go to single source but automatic is expensive to buy containers. In 2012 we were awarded winning community for recycling. John Arena asked if there is any revenue source from old televisions and Jane Kinsella noted that we pay a nominal fee to take them away so there is no money to be made. Jeff Zager noted that there are three new supervisors in place. They have a strong professional development training going on and the Town receives benefits from MIIA for these. Since 2011 we have resurfaced 107 roads or sections of roads at a cost of $6.1 million. John Arena noted that it would be nice to have public index availability. The Town Manager noted that there is new legislation being offered to towns re: double poles and utilities digging up the roads. Jeff Zager noted that 35% of all trash is recycled. There were 557 issues reported on See Click Fix and 92 potholes fixed. There is online access to water and sewer cards. They will be starting capital projects in the spring. Barry Berman noted that in previous years the bids have come in out of sorts and Jeff Zager noted the estimates have been an issue for the past two to three years. The Town Manager noted that there is not a lot of competition. John Arena asked If there is any volatility In asphalt and Jeff Zager noted that there have been some reductions in other communities. Enterprise Funds - The Town Manager noted that one full time Engineer is paid out of water fund but not doing water all of the time. Sewer is a/. MWRA so sewer staff cost is smaller. Federal regulations have had an increased effect on storm water. There will be a series of infrastructure needs over the upcoming years including sewer station repairs. C 5 Page I 5 Board of Selectmen Minutes -January 19. 2016 - paoe Shared Costs - The Town Manager noted that health insurance has increased 8 %. Previously the schools were higher than the Town and that has reversed now. Debt and Capital - The Town Manager noted that our reliance on debt is far less than it was 10 years ago. John Arena asked if we have been reimbursed from the state for snow and ice and the Town Manager noted that we are still waiting they keep changing liaisons. The Town Manager noted that the overall budget is well behaved. If there are available funds he would fund the Economic Development Planner; $2000 for the Library; a Crossing Guard; the pay and class; Human Resource training and Public Safety training. The Town Manager noted that we will be making cuts in FY18. Daniel Ensminger asked if the Finance Committee can develop two budgets - one with override and one without. Barry Berman noted that we cannot ask for more unless adding services. John Arena asked if we can do three budgets. The Town Manager noted it is mostly a marketing tool and he would prefer a list of items. He also wants to discuss how the money Is split - 2/3 and 1/3. A motion by Sexton seconded by Berman to adiourn themeeting at tn.nS „ was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary Page 16 0� Orq Town of Reading 4 ��: Meeting Minutes sa Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Selectmen Date: 2016 -01 -26 Time: 7:00 PM Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Selectmen Meeting Room Address: 16 Lowell Street Session: Open Session Purpose: General Business Version: Attendees: Members - Present: Chair Dan Ensminger, Kevin Sexton, John Halsey, Barry Berman Members - Not Present: John Arena Others Present: Town Manager Bob Lel-acheur, Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios, Police Chief Segalla, Town Clerk Laura Gemme, Town Counsel Ray Miyares and Jenny Merrill, Administrative Assistant Caitlin Saunders, Stephen Crook, Jack Sullivan, Mike Sullivan, Sid Silveira, Elaine Webb Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Topics of Discussion: Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments - Mr. Halsey noted he attended Birch Meadow Committee meeting. They are moving field by field at the moment and they will probably have an Info session in the spring. Mr. Berman attended the Mass Municipal Meeting. He noted Reading Is doing a lot of things right. There was a lot on opiold use and attendees were impressed with RCASA. There was a section on what towns should do when building so we had a lot to offer with the new Permanent Building Committee that was just formed. He said overall they had a great turnout and it was a great learning experience. Mr. Ensminger said he watched the financial forum and said it was a very good turnout. Mr. Berman noted there were a lot of new faces in the room looking to help. Mr. Halsey noted a lot of people with ideas have been filling their inboxes. Mr. Berman suggested letting them know about the Selectmen's next meeting. Town Managers Report - Mr. LeLacheur just wanted to remind the BOS that Town Meeting is not necessary to get the override on the ballot. Mr. Halsey noted there seems to be a strong urgency to get this for the FY18 budget and people are looking to us to take a leadership role. Mr. LeLacheur suggested a joint meeting to see the boards you don't interact with on a regular basis. Discussion/ Action Items Animal Control Bylaw - Town Counsel Ray Miyares and Jenny Merrill were present. Page I 1 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 26 2016 - page 2 Ms. Merrill noted they changed the Bylaw to bring it up to date. It now cites to statue regarding hearings. They took out numerous repeated definitions and made it clear the Animal Control Committee was the authorizing board. Our Bylaw gives authority to the Animal Control Officer to give restraining orders. Mr. LeLacheur asked if a constable is necessary for that. Mr. Miyares said no the officer can do that. Mr. Berman asked what changes if we regionalize animal control. Mr. LeLacheur said we would hope all participating towns would just adopt our bylaw. Mr. Miyares said that would not even be necessary but It would make things easier. Mr. Ensminger asked for a quick summary of the major changes in the bylaw. Ms. Merrill noted the hearing process is slightly different, a lot of definitions were removed and there are four different categories of kennel licenses now. Mr. LeLacheur asked the best way to present this to Town Meeting so they understand it. Mr. Miyares said he could provide us with a bold and cross out version. Mr. Halsey also suggested doing a summary of new vs old. A summary would probably be best with the interest in time at Town Meeting. Mr. Berman asked when the last time we had a dangerous dog hearing was. Town Clerk Laura Gemme answered in 2012. Town Meeting Warrant Summaries Mr. LeLacheur noted Article 5 is changing the current years' budget. Article 6 closes the OPEB issue. He noted we fund about 25% of what we should be. Article 8 is to approve the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Allocation Plan which is something we do every year. Article 9 is the annual revolving fund authorization and there are no changes to that. Mr. Berman asked if we talked about creating one for the building committee for when they do studies. Mr. LeLacheur noted there was a conversation about funding them but not which avenue to take to actually do it. Article 10 is surplus. Article 11 is an unpaid bill. Article 12 is the budget. Article 13 is Chapter 90 funding and we accept whatever they give us. FY17 Budget Mr. LeLacheur noted there is $29,000 that did not get allocated. He prioritized what he thought the departments would want as follows: • $2,000 to the Library to average with all the other town departments. The library always wants more but it is hard to say what they will need because they will be moving to a new building. • Any amount towards the pay and class. • Any amount to technology but not more than $5,000. • Any amount for overtime for public safety. • Any amount for facilities. Page 12 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 26. 201 • Asking for more money for the Public Services Department. A planning position would cost upwards of $80,000. Mr. Halsey stated he would rather see us fund one meaningful project rather than allocate $29,000 to little things. He would like to see a planning position get funded to help with economic development. Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios noted she would like to sit down and come up with a job description with goals of what this person needs along with what type of economic development work they would be doing. Mr. Sexton said his thoughts are this person would be like a sales person to go out and market the town to businesses. Mr. Halsey commented we need to find the right person for this job and not just hire someone because we need someone. He suggested having a meeting to discuss this specific position. Woburn Street Housing Project Uodate - Mr. Ensminger wanted to announce that he is a parishioner at St. Agnes but is not involved in any decision making process so if no one has any objections he would like to stay on the quorum. There were no objections. Attorney Brad Latham, Applicant Mike Sullivan, Engineer Jack Sullivan and Mike Jacobs were present. Mr. Latham stated there was an applicant before this one for this location but that applicant wanted more units and CPDC shut it down so he dropped it. Mr. Latham noted the applicant plans on softening the front appearance and doing a lot of landscaping to make it attractive. There will be 20 units with affordable units. The parking exceeds the zoning requirements. The applicant would like to work with the town and make this a friendly 40B. Engineer Jack Sullivan, representing the developer, noted there will be no footprint change. They would make it a one way traffic flow. They may eliminate a few parking spaces along the entrance to make sure there is the 18 foot width for the fire truck. There were previous concerns from neighbors about drainage which will be looked at if the project moves forward. The applicant also plans on changing the fence In the back for the neighbors. Mike Jacobs noted 1 /4th of the units will be affordable, which will be 5 units. There will be a lottery to determine who gets the units. He also noted 70% would get local preference. Mr. Ensminger asked if this Is currently zoned residential and it was noted It is. Mr. Berman asked that if the recycling and trash are at the end of the property, does that mean residents will have to carry out their trash all the way out there. Mr. Latham noted as of right now, yes, but they are looking into a trash room in the building with internal recycling bins. Ms. Dellos asked if parking will be included in the rent and it was noted it will be and they will most likely assign specific spots to each tenant. Mr. Halsey asked the applicant to please Invite the Board of Selectmen to their neighborhood meetings when they have them. Attorney Miyares asked what their time frame was to get this permitted and Attorney Latham noted about a month. Attorney Mlyares asked if we could please work on having most of the Issues resolved before we go into hearings and Attorney Latham agreed. Page 1 3 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 6, 1016 - oaae 4 Mr. Sexton asked about snow storage and Mr. Sullivan noted they are thinking of doing a turf surface but in the event of a large snow storm they will most likely need to have snow trucked out. Mr. Ensminger asked what the next steps are for this project. Attorney Latham said a neighborhood meeting is next and then they will come back to the Board. Mr. Berman asked the applicant to please communicate a lot with the neighbors. Ms. Delios asked if this will actually be a friendly 40B and filed as a LIP or a normal 40B. Mr. Jacobs noted he does not think this can be formally a LIP but they want to work with the Town as much as possible as if it was. Ms. Delios asked if that means they will be filing with MassHousing and Mr. Jacobs said yes. The Board reconvened in Open Session at 9:10 PM. Hearing - Reouest for Zed driveway at 126 -128 High Street - The Secretary read the hearing notice. Applicant Robert Aiello was present. He noted the purpose of the circular drive is not for more parking but it is a safety concern so the tenants don't have to back out on High Street. Mr. Aiello is the new owner of the property and he is trying to make the property nice while updating and renovating it. He noted parking is on the left or right and there will be no cars parking in the circular drive. The Engineers suggest eliminating the parking spot in the front so no one has to back out onto High Street and make the arc wider so the cars can make the swing around. Mr. Berman asked if you cut that corner does the applicant still need both driveways. Mr. Aiello noted yes because it is a two family home. Mr. Halsey said the existing parking requires users to back onto High Street and he thinks this makes perfect sense to do. Jim Denardo, neighbor, noted there has never been parking there before until Mr. Aiello bought this property. This is such a tiny yard he would hate to see it paved over and does not think this is the right direction to go for the neighborhood. Mr. Ensminger noted the owner has a right to have as much parking as they want. Mr. Denardo commented their driveway is directly opposite of theirs and they have to back out and it is already tricky without having to now watch out for a driveway behind us. Mr. Ensminger noted the memo from Safety Officer Savio noting they have no objections from a public safety standpoint. Mr. Denardo disagreed and said there is a huge safety concern and they complain to the police all the time about it. Mr. Ensminger noted the owner has a right to do whatever they want with their property. Mr. Halsey noted this would help Mr. Denardo's safety concerns. Mr. Aiello commented It would be safer for this driveway because no one will be backing out they will be driving out. L Page 1 4 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 26 2016 - aaae 5 Mr. Denardo also wanted to point out the tree in the front of the house is very old and should be saved. Mr. Aiello noted he is not touching the tree. vote. Hearing - Request for second driveway at 315 Pearl Street - The Secretary read the hearing notice. Applicant Elaine Webb was present. She noted her and her husband recently purchased the 315 Pearl Street and they currently live next door. The driveway is in bad shape and it is a big struggle to get in and out of the driveway. They are renovating the house. The new proposed driveway would be the daily driveway but they would keep the current driveway to be able to use the garage. The Town Engineer wrote a memo expressing he has no objections and Public Safety also has no concerns. Mr. Sexton moved the Board of Selectmen approve the second driveway request at 315 Pearl Street, seconded by Mr. Halsey and approved with a 4 -0 -0 vote. I,WPIf�1191 Mr. Berman said at the MMA meeting he attended, they talked to the See, Click, Fix people and asked them how to get more residents to use it. He asked if the Board could ask for 5 minutes at Town Meeting to ask Town Meeting members to download the app on their phones. Mr. LeL.acheur noted the Selectmen can put it in their report but they cannot make it a separate report. Mr. Halsey suggested making a handout to give out. was approved with a 4 -0 -0 vote. Mr. Sexton moved that the Board of Selectmen adiourn at 10.00Om seconded by Mr. Berman and approved with a 4 -0 -0 vote. Respectfully submitted, Secretary Page 1 5 off. orgy 0 Town of Reading is Meeting Minutes �o Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Selectmen Date: 2016 -02 -23 Building: School - Parker Address: 45 Temple Street Purpose: General Business Attendees: Members - Present: Time: 7:00 PM Location: Multi- Purpose Room Session: Open Session Version: Chairman Daniel Ensminger, Secretary Kevin Sexton, Vice Chairman John Halsey, Barry Berman Members - Not Present: John Arena Others Present: Town Manager Bob LeLacheur, Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios, Community Development Director Julie Mercier, Administrative Assistant Caitlin Saunders, CPDC members Jeff Hansen, David Tuttle, John Weston and Nick Safina, Everette and Virginia Blodgett, Kevin Brown, Christine Hansen, Damase Caouette, Phil Pacino, Robert Redfern, Robert Mooney, Marianne Downing, Matthew Noman, Gregg Jones, Jackie Carson, Pamela Congdon, Gary Hylan, Christine Hylan, Mary Ellen O'Neill, AI Sylvia, David Traniello, Gina Snyder, Bo Garrison, Nancy Docktor, George Katsoufis, Megan Fidler- Carey, Nicole Barletta, Nichola Aiello, Lynn O'Brien, Denis Gagnon, Joan Cotter, Joe Gesmundo, Karen Stromm, Julie Aylward, Geoffrey Coran, Eric Burkhart, Kate Grant, Amy Hussey, Holly Gallant, Ashley Quinn, Amy Cole, Julie Joyce, Stephen Crook, Nick Pernice, Carolyn Whiting, Robert Ferrari, Ann Cruickshank, Dennis and Lorraine Lee, Jen Hillery, Robyn Ferrazzani, Colleen DeRosa, Jeff Barton, Amy Scicchitani, Jeanne Thomases, Vonda Gauthier, Denise Ewald, Dan McCarthy, Michele Sanphy. Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Topics of Discussion: Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments Mr. Berman said he attended the Library Building Committee meeting and it looks like the project will use all of its contingency but Is on schedule. Mr. Halsey noted he attended the Birch Meadow Committee. They are working on bringing a report to the Recreation Committee to then bring to Town Meeting to give them an update. The RFP for the lighting is due to go out in a couple weeks. Mr. Ensminger wanted to make it known there are a lot of open Town Meeting seats available. Mary Ellen O'Neill wanted to encourage the women of Reading to get involved with Town Meeting. Page 11 6C Board of Selectmen Minutes - February 23 2016 - pa_or�2 Mr. LeLacheur noted the Town expects a very large turnout for this election and to remember that there will be two ballots, one for the primary and one for the local election. Proclamations/ Certificates of Appreciation Gas Leak Resolutions Mr. LeLacheur noted there are two bills that came to the legislative that have not been acted upon. The Climate Advisory Committee is asking the Board to support it and voice an opinion to the legislation. Mr. Sexton moved that the Board support, (HOUSO Bill 2870 "An Act relative to Protecting Consumers of Gas and Electricity from paving for Leaked and Unaccounted for Gas") (House Bill 2871 "An Act Relative to Gas Leak Repairs During Road PrOfeas ") And that the Board through its designee notify the elected Reading delegation in the House and Senate second by Mr. Berman and approved with a 4 -0 -0 vote Mr. Halsey noted at first he did not think this was a good idea to poke our noses into this but Reading has a lot of leaks that affect Reading residents and we should be here to help them. Mr. Ensminger agreed and Mr. Berman agreed as well saying we need to do something to push them along. Discussion /Action Items Acknowledoe Withdrawal of Liauor License Transfer Mr. LeLacheur noted Ristorante Pavarottl's sale is falling through but the application is still in the ABCC so the Board needs to formally withdraw the application. Community Compact Mr. LeLacheur said this vote will make the chair the signatory on an application to be a compact community and to approve the list of best practices submitted as a part of the application. Personnel & Appointments Mr. Sexton noted they had six appointments total last week. He expressed how impressed he was with the applicants and encouraged more volunteers as we have many spots available. Mr. Halsey explained how volunteerism is very important and they had a great round of interviews. Mr. LeLacheur said he has been involved with volunteers for the past 20 years and most recently he has seen a lot of new residents to Reading starting to volunteer and It is a great thing to see happening. Page 12 Board of Selectmen Minutes - February 23 2016 - page Mr. Sexton moved and Mr. Berman seconded that the Board of Selectmen accept the recommendation of the Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee as follows, • Harry Curtis for a term on the Conservation Commission ending June 30 2018• • Amy Scicchitani for a term on the Conservation Commission ending June 30 2018 • Nick Pernice for an Associate Position on thg Zoning Board of Appeals through June 30. 2017: • Robert Beckman for an Associate position on the Fall Street Faire through June 30, 2017; 2016. The vote was approved 4 -0 -0. Joint Meeting with CPDC• Reading Village 40B Proiect CPDC called to order at 7:25 PM. Mr. Ensminger explained what exactly a 40B project is and the process the applicant must go through. The applicant, Matthew Zucker, from MKM Reading, LLC was present to take us through the project proposed at Lincoln and Prescott Street. He noted the next public hearing with the ZBA is March 17th. The Fire Chief was present at the most recent DRT meeting to hear the project meets all building and fire codes. He noted these types of projects encourage people to live, work and shop in the downtown. They are proposing 77 units with 70% of those units being one bedrooms. The applicant is starting to set up neighborhood meetings to hear their comments and concerns. Mr. Zucker believes this project will help advance the downtown. Mr. Zucker's business partner Ken Chase noted they are in the beginning stages of this project. The biggest question that seems to keep coming up Is in regards to the height of the building and the proximity to buildings around it. He noted the Certainly Wood building Is currently on the property line. The buildings that are being proposed do meet the building and fire codes and the height of the building Is actually under what the state allows for this type of building. The State does not require the applicant to provide fire truck access around the building but be able to get within 150 feet from each side, and that is doable. Every fire safety amenity is inside this building and there is an hour fire rating on the outside of the building. Architect Peter Bartash explained the primary vehicle access point is a two way circulation off of Prescott Street with a one way exit out onto Lincoln. The garage is technically considered 'S2' Storage by code. There is 170 foot frontage on Prescott and 90 feet on Lincoln. There will be stairs at each end with a corridor that runs down the middle of the building. They are proposing an elevated courtyard with landscaping that will be a common area to the residents. There will be an internal trash chute in the middle of Building A. The roof plan shows a roof with the lowest slope possible to help lower the perceived height of the building. The roof actually looks like it is set on the third Floor level. There will be deep overhanging awnings for pedestrians. Mr. Bartash then explained the results of the shadow studies at all different points of the year. Mr. Ensminger asked Mr. Bartash about the memo from the Fire Chief regarding the sprinkler system and the open garage. 7 Page 13 Board of Selectmen Minutes - February 3 2016 - oa Mr. Bartash explained, according to code, the garage and the building with the units are two different buildings which means the height for this project starts at the top of the garage or the first floor of units. The State allows 5 levels over a garage; this project is 4 levels above. The materials of the building are non - combustible giving a one hour fire rating both Inside and outside of the building while they are only required to provide half hour rating. The stairways, trash chute and elevator have two hour ratings. Mr. Tuttle asked what the applicant plans to do once the building is done, if they plan on turning over the building or having a management company run It. Mr. Zucker noted they plan to hold onto the building and have a professional management company come in and run the building. Mr. Safina commented that this building is not right for the area and doesn't address residential property lines on all sides. The front of the building is at 0 lot line, you should be concerned about the snow and Ice falling off that roof onto the pedestrians. Also, people walking by have to stare Into the parking garage, is there something that can be done to address that. Mr. Safina noted he thinks this building is going to isolate the whole block from the neighborhood. He then asked what the rating is between the garage and the building. Mr. Bartash noted depending what they use it will either be a 2 hour, which is the minimum allowed, or a 3 hour rating if they use steel. Mr. Berman mentioned a big concern is the parking. The site does not have enough parking on site to handle all your residents never mind their guests. The depot Is already jammed with commuters and this project will make that area even worse. He also noted if people start finding it hard to find parking to go to the businesses downtown they are going to start leaving and shopping elsewhere and that is not something the town wants. Mr. Berman noted parking is a huge issue that needs to seriously be worked on. Mr. Ensminger asked Ms. Delios if the applicant has to go through and justify asking for all these waivers. Ms. Delios noted she is going to let Town Counsel to advise us on how this legally will be permitted and processed. Town Counsel noted yes, the ZBA will look at each waiver request and look for the best support from the applicant. The ZBA will have the benefit of peer reviewers, who are outside experts, looking at the application as well to help the ZBA out. The applicant can request all kinds of waivers but it will all boil down to if the requests violate public/health safety that would render the project. Mr. Weston said the applicant keeps referring to this project as a 'transit oriented development' which he believes is somewhat right but also believes Reading is not completely at that point yet. The applicant has not shown how this is transit oriented; someone living in this development would still need a car to go to the grocery store. The development is near the train but that is not enough. Mr. Halsey asked who gets to decide who gets the affordable units and would you be willing to turn that power over to Reading. Mr. Zucker answered a company that is certified in 40B lottery would handle that but we have been talking about giving local preference and they are okay with that. Mr. Bartash noted Masshousing determines which apartments are affordable and how they are distributed. Mr. Sexton asked If these plans could change or if they are final. L Gr Page 1 4 Board of Selectmen Minutes February 23 2016 oao Mr. Zucker noted it's a process so we want to make this work and have people want to live there so there is a lot of fluidity in the plans. Yes, height Is a concern and we can still look at other options but the footprint looks like this is what it will be. Mr. Sexton asked where the number 77 for the amount of units came from and asked if the applicant acquired Brown's auto body, could you drop it down a level and still get the 77 units In there. Mr. Zucker noted they did not build a design including that parcel because they do not have It, so it is hard to say how that would change the project. Mr. Tuttle said the traffic analysis so far uses typical traffic patterns, not the exact type we have in the downtown. Mr. Ensminger suggested including the traffic flow in the morning for all the commuters that come into that area. The board opened the hearing up to public comment. Jackie Carson from Sanborn Place expressed they could be a part of the selection process on behalf of the Town to manage affordable units instead of doing a lottery. Marianne Downing of 13 Heather Drive noted how concerned she was about the density. This project is at 93 units per acre, there has to be another design that would not be better for this area. Christine Hansen of 30 Haven Street said there is a significant population of seniors that will increase over the years. She then asked what accessible features the project has. Mr. Bartash explained with all new construction, they have to follow Mass laws. The elevator will be handicap accessible; there will be accessible pathways along with adaptable and fully compliant units that will allow wheelchair access. Nancy Docktor of 371 Pearl Street asked if they will put a recycle chute with the trash chute and asked if the one bedroom units are truly one bedroom or one bedroom with a den. Mr. Bartash answered yes they do have a recycling chute going in with the trash chute. He also noted the one bedrooms are traditional one bedroom with a common space. Gregg Jones from 26 Avon Street asked what the actual number of parking spaces there are. Mr. Bartash answered 82. Mr. Jones expressed his concern that this project does not fit the neighborhood and agrees that Reading isn't quite a commuter community. The reality of some people in Reading using Uber is not realistic. Mary Ellen O'Neill of 125 Summer Ave asked what is going to happen to the trees behind Doucette's. Mr. Zucker indicated those are not on their property. Ms. O'Neill then agreed that this project does not fit the neighborhood and that there is no green space. Page 1 5 Board of Selectmen Minutes - February 23, 2016 Nick Aiello of 92 -94 Washington Street noted his backyard abuts this property. He is not opposed to a development going into this space however this project, is huge and within a couple feet of his property line. A project of this scale does not Flt the neighborhood. He also noted the neighborhood already has a drainage problem and asked how this will affect that. Mr. Chase replied saying legally they are not allowed to have any more runoff than is there now so the project will not make the drainage any worse. He also noted the roof runoff will be into their parking lot. Mr. Bartash also added they do have code requirements they have to meet when it comes to drainage as well. Caitlin Thomases of 21 Arlington Street asked if they can show the shadows at 8 in the morning to see how it affects her home. Jeanne Thomases of 21 Arlington Street noted Arlington Street has not been mentioned at all In these plans but the garage exits onto small Arlington Street. She said they have also not received any notices about meetings. She also wanted to know what the sounds are going to be like since they are so close to the garage and what the landscaping plans are. Mr. Bartash said they are not at that level of design yet but they are working to address safety concerns and landscaping. Virginia Blodgett of 99 Prescott wanted to know if the sewer system in place can handle all these new units going in. She also said it would be nice to see what the building will look like from different surrounding streets. Gina Snyder of 11 Jaden Terrace wanted to mention that no one has brought up the fact the town has been trying to plan what to do with the site before the applicant came forward. Ms. Delios noted the ZBA will continue their public hearing on March 17`h and encouraged everyone to come and speak up to help shape this project to make it fit this neighborhood. She explained 40B is a challenging process that is driven by state laws. The town will be hiring peer review consultants to help us and they will hopefully be with us at the next meeting. Joint Meeting with CPDC: 40R districts Ms. Delios explained unlike 40B, 40R allows the community to adopt an overlay district which would allow us to have options when zoning. Tonight the discussion will be focused on expanding the downtown. The town would like to expand to cover Haven Street. With a 40R the CPDC can really have a hand in shaping the project. It gives the town a measure of control and expertise which hopefully leads to projects suitable for Reading. For example, 30 Haven was such a successful project that really helped that area bloom. The town is currently in talks with a developer for the post office. The Economic Development Plan the town had done highly suggest expanding our 40R district and MAPC suggests really looking at 1A and 1B to expand to. Mr. Hansen noted the CPDC is putting together a subcommittee for the 40R and they would like the Board of Selectmen's opinion and maybe one of them to join the subcommittee. They want to get this on the warrant for November Town Meeting. Mr. Weston explained they have had a lot of discussion of where to expand to without affecting too many homes. We got to this point right here because it is the smallest area the state will allow us to expand and includes all commercial buildings. His thoughts are we really need to figure out what were really trying to accomplish for this area. � L'& Page 1 6 Board of Selectmen Minutes - February 23 2016 - an oe 7 Mr. Berman said he feels in the past we have done zoning for specific projects. Projects need to chase the zoning not the other way around. He agreed 30 Haven has been such a great addition to the downtown and would like to see that wrap around and create an extension of what we have there. History shows when we are proactive we get better results. Expanding the district will also show the community we are serious about economic development. We are not going to grow our way out of the economic problem but we can make It easier on the taxpayers. Mr. Sexton commented he feels expanding the district in this range is a great idea. The EDSAT results shows our demographic in the next couple years is going to be mostly seniors and 20 somethings who would be looking for housing /retail all In the same area. Mr. Tuttle noted the initial proposal for smart growth expansion was all of Business B which is a much larger area but there has been a lot of change for what could happen then and what could happen there now. It Is definitely time to expand our 40R greatly within mind that this is only an overlay and gives someone another choice on how to develop land; it doesn't mean it has to or will be done. Mr. Halsey agreed most people are afraid but this only creates options and opportunities for the town in the future. He also reminded the room that 1B was proposed for smart growth, was denied and now we have a 40B (Reading Village) going in there and residents do not want it. That is exactly the reason we need to do this and create our own destiny. Mr. Halsey personally believes the town should expand 4011 even more. A more expanded overlay only means more opportunities waiting to happen. It does not mean people aren't going to want to live there anymore; we need to take steps to protect ourselves. Mr. LeLacheur noted last night the CPDC put out priorities for November Town Meeting and 40R was one of them. With that being said, there Is a lot of work to be done in that time frame. The Board opened it up for public comment. Mary Ellen O'Neill noted she was at the CPDC meeting last night and is concerned for the people with homes on these streets and feels we need to start talking to these people sooner rather than later. Jeanne Thomases asked if there was any way to revert Reading Village if we expand the smart growth to 1B now. Mr. Tuttle responded with a no. Although the 40B is not a done deal per say yet, if the project continues to move forward, expanding at this point would not affect them. Mr. Safina noted the downtown smart growth can have subdivisions to craft the rules for different streets and sections. The CPDC adjourned at 9:37 PM. Financial Overview Mr. LeLacheur noted they will look at and discuss the timeline for an override, if current funds are managed correctly, are these temporary or permanent funds that we need, communication rules for government workers/volunteers, how much we need and what we are trying to solve. In the next 12 months we have three chances to get an override question on a ballot. September 8 - October 25 window would be the best time frame. We need to present a budget explaining position cuts to show the community but not lay out which specific positions would be cut. The Board would have to decide whether to call a Special Town Page 1 7 L&7 f Selectmen Minutes - February 23. 2 Meeting or not; they don't have to but it has always been good politics. We would need to start planning neighborhood meetings right away. The Town Manager and Superintendent of Schools both agree a fall vote would be best from a morale standpoint. Mr. Ensminger wanted to make it clear that this override would be for FY18. FY17 is already basically in the books and there will be cuts and it will hurt a little. Mr. LeLacheur noted we have to remember that there are plenty of people in town who cannot afford an override and we have to protect them somehow. Mr. Berman said he thinks it is better to pick the later fall date. It would give us more time to figure out exactly what we're going to be asking and really get good community feedback. Mr. Ensminger agreed the October option seems better. He also noted the Board of Selectmen appreciate all the emails /comments /phone calls they have been getting and they urge you to contact the School Committee to get them to communicate their opinions more. Mr. Sexton also agreed saying October would be best and not to show specific position cuts Mr. Halsey wanted to clear some miscommunications that may be coming from all the emails. Encouragement from the community to put this on a ballot is great but the ultimate decision is the Board of Selectmen's and they will be making that decision soon. The Board of Selectmen has to be careful not to take sides; they must be respectful to everyone. Their job is to assemble Information and present it so people understand the current state, the current state with an override and the current state without an override with ramifications, without being a cheerleader for one side. Once and If the vote happens we have to go forward with the results and deal with managing new taxes or figuring out how to continue without more money. Eric Burkhart of 161 Belmont Street wanted to make sure he was clear on the way an override gets on a ballot. The Board ultimately makes the decision but public input helps them make that decision. Mr. Burkhart asked the Board to elaborate on that decision making process. Mr. Ensminger stated the Board has made it clear they value public opinion. They then have a large decision with themselves and with Mr. LeLacheur's expertise. A resident asked If there was flexibility with the timing of the neighborhood meetings and the Board answered yes. Jeff Barton of 23 Thomas Drive asked if an override does go on a ballot and it is successful, what is the process for deciding where the money goes. Mr. LeLacheur noted that is one of the key things we need to answer when we ask for this override. He also noted the town has predetermined ways to allocate money. Once those things are subtracted, there is a formula to use on the leftover money to split between the departments. This will be a large discussion between boards and staff about our priorities. There is a budget process in place that is not taken lightly. Mr. LeLacheur also mentioned he looks at budgets as far out as 2030 to see where we may need money in the future to help make these decisions as well. Jackie Carson asked If the neighborhood meetings can be at different times and the Board stated they could be. L , Pape 18 Board of Selectmen Minutes - February 23 2016 - page 9 A resident commented he didn't like that Mr. Halsey said the Board shouldn't be a cheerleader for one side. He thinks if the Board feels one way, the town deserves to know that and know if there was an overwhelming amount of public comment towards one way or not. Mr. Ensminger explained the Board needs to be mindful of all residents. Legally the board cannot take sides; personally, they each can have their own opinion. Mr. Halsey stated they can inform the community on what the majority of the public comment has been. He said to look at it this way, if the Selectmen chose to put an override on a ballot that is the Board telling the residents they seriously need to consider this. The Board will guide you but they have to be on everyone's side. The Board cannot tell you what to think or what to do; they have to let the facts speak for themselves. Michelle Sanphy of 75 Glenmere Circle asked if she was sensing the Board is thinking of putting an override on the ballot with respect to people who can't afford it and small businesses. Mr. Sexton answered yes, it is a big balancing act and we have to take everything into consideration. Mr. Tuttle commented the budget is approved by Town Meeting which is a different set of individuals. Mr. Ensminger noted it has been an honor and a privilege to chair this board and he thanks you for giving him the opportunity. The Board of Selectmen will be reorganizing at their next meeting. Mr. Sexton moved and Mr. Berman seconded that the Board of Selectmen aoorove the minutes of January 20. 2016 and aooroved with a 4 -0 -0 vote. Ensminger- Yes Halsey - Yes Sexton - Yes Berman - Yes The motion carries with a 4 -0 -0 vote. ML. Sexton. second by Mr. Berman move that the Board of Selectmen adiourn the meeting at 10:26 PM, approved with a 4 -0 -0 vote Respectfully submitted, Secretary Page 19 Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 9:19 AM To: Schena, Paula Cc: Delios, Jean; Kraunelis, Matthew Subject: FW: 40B Development Paula —for the nerd BOS packet Jean, do you want these fora ZBA packet? From: Sarah McLaughlin p Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 9:18 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: 40B Development Good morning - I am writing to you to express my concerns about the proposed residential development for 39 Lincoln St and 2 -12 Prescott Street. This project would drastically impact the Reading landscape in many ways. Specifically my concerns about this project include: • Proposed height of the building is significantly greater than any other abutting homes or businesses ad also exceeds the height permitted by local fire code • There is zero setback of the building, which will great significant shadow on abutting properties and impact snow and ice build up on sidewalks • The proposed density is one of the highest ever proposed for a 40B project in Massachusetts and is certainly not within the character of a small suburban town. • Insufficient parking has been proposed - only 83 spots for 77 units, which will create significant parking challenges for the surrounding neighborhood, which is already impacted by commuter parking. As in many other towns throughout the Commonwealth, we me struggling to maintain our small town, historic character, while also supporting the commercial and residential development necessary. I urge you, as town leaders, to review this matter from all angles and the impact it will have across the town, not only on physical change, but on public safety, town services, school budgets, and many other aspects. I support appropriate and responsible development within Reading, and I hope you will too. Best wishes, Sarah McLaughlin 55 Temple St, Reading, MA 01867 CTS Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Thursday, March 03, 201610:43 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Reading MA Apt Building Proposal BOS packet From: amanda rotondo r - Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 10:41 AM To: Knight, Maureen; Reading - Selecbmen; James Dwver0mahouse clov; Bradley Jones@mahouse cloy; Jason Lewisftmasenate oov Subject: Reading MA Apt Building Proposal Dear Zoning Board, Selectmen, Representatives, and Senator: I recently learned about the 77 unit apartment complex proposed for the current site of Doucette Storage in downtown Reading. I have several specific concerns about this project, which I'd like taken into consideration. First, we have a serious school overcrowding problem here in Reading. We are using modular classrooms already, and a contentious proposed override is underway to get more funding for the schools. Adding 77 residential units would further exacerbate this problem and negatively affect both children already in the Reading schools and the children who would be moving in to these units. For the record, I do not have children in the Reading schools, but I am a homeowner and I recognize that property values are directly tied to the quality of our schools. I also love that Reading attracts young families who care about education, and know that might change if our schools' quality continues to decrease. Second, our tax base is a mess. We have so much residential and so little commercial property, that to take a commercial property and turn it into a residential property seems crazy. We need to focus on bringing businesses into town, and that space would be great for a business. Third, the parking in that area would become a nightmare. As it is, the inexpensive parking around the commuter rail is in higher demand than the space allows. I see the developer of the proposed apartment complex asserts that most residents of the apartments would not have cars, and that seems highly unlikely to me. The commuter rail is not a replacement for a car, especially because there is no grocery store in walking distance from the proposed complex. I'd strongly advise that this proposal be rejected, and a more appropriate commercial enterprise be brought in to this space. Thank you so much for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Amanda Rotondo 197 South St, Reading C !'