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Home My WebLink About2017-01-24 Board of Selectmen HandoutDRAFT MOTIONS BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING JANUARY 24, 2017 Halsey, Sexton, Berman, Arena, Ensminger LeLacheur 4a) Move that the Board of Selectmen accept the recommendations of the Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee as follows: • Kevin Briere as an Associate on the Commissioner of Trust Funds with a term expiring June 30, 2017; • Gretchen Latowsky to the Climate Advisory Committee with a term expiring June 30, 2018; • George Wetmore to the Council on Aging with a term expiring June 30, 2017; • Samantha Couture as an Associate member on the Historical Commission with a term expiring June 30, 2017; • Neil Cohen to the RMLD Citizen Advisory Board with a term expiring June 30, 2017 5b) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing on amending Article 3 of the Board of Selectmen Policies. Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the amendments to Article 3 of the Board of Selectmen Policies as presented. 6a) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of December 13, 2016 as amended. 6b) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of January 10, 2017 as amended. 6e) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of January 11, 2017 as amended. 6d) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of January 12, 2017 as amended. 6e) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the Executive Session minutes of October 13, 2016 as amended to correct typographical errors. Move that the Board of Selectmen adjourn the meeting at p.m. �(J] 112412017 Staff Estimated Office Hour Barry Berman 6:30 Appointments Boards and Committees VASC 7:10 Town Accountant Quarterly Report Angstrom 7:15 Board of Selectmen Policies: Article 3 Liquor Hearing (continued) Licenses (Goal #18) Miyares 7:30 FY18 Budget Discussion ILeLachcur 8:30 January 25, 2017 - Financial rorum i Office Hour John Arena Sadwick 6:30 Badge Pinning - Police romotions & new hires Segalla 7:20 Town procurement policy Jenkins 7:40 FY18 Non Union Classification and LeLacheur 9:30 Hearing Compensation LeLacheur 7:50 Town Personnel Policies (draft version) Perkins 8:00 Update - Cable Advisory working group (Goal #13) Kraunelis 8:30 Water, Sewer and Storm Water Rates for FY18 Hearing (effective December 2017 billing) LeLacheur 8:45 Preview - Annual Town Meeting LeLacheur 9:30 Proposed Resolution 7'20 Economic Development project update Wilson 7:30 Close Annual Town Meeting Warrant LeLacheur 9:00 Office Hour John Halsey 6:30 RMLD General Manager update O'Brien 7:20 Percy Avenue: improvements on a private way LeLacheur 8:00 Community Projects (Boards & Committees) LeLacheur 9:00 MAPC Member Report Sadwick 7:15 Economic Development update Corona 7:30 Economic Development project update Wilson 8:30 Vote Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles LeLacheur 9:30 Local elections April 4, 2017 ITuesday w Future Agendas Library Building Project update LeLacheur Board of Selectmen Policies: Article 1 General Operating Procedures LeLacheur Board of Selectmen Policies: Article 2 Volunteer Boards /Committees /Commissions LeLacheur Board of Selectmen Policies: Article 3 Licenses LeLacheur Review Inflow & Infiltration policy Percival Downtown Parking Segalla Recurring Items Close Warrant: Apr'17 TM by 2/28 Close Warrant: Nov '17 TM by 9/26 Review BOS /TM Goals Dec & June Semi -ann Hearing Hearing Appointments of Boards & Committees Approve Classification & Compensation Tax Classification Approve licenses June June October December Annual Annual Annual Annual Reports to BOS Town Accountant Report RCTV members Report Qtrly Semi -ann CAB (RMLD) member Report MAPC member Report Semi -ann Annual Reading Housing Authority Report Reading Ice Arena Report BOS Appointed Boards & Committees Annual Annual Annual Comparable Communities - Liquor Fee Survey 2017 All Alcohol Restaurant (14) Wine /Malt Restaurant (1) All Alcohol Package Store (6) All Alcohol Clubs (4) Belmont $4,000 $2,500 $4,000 $2,900 *North Reading $4,600 $2,800 $2,500 $2,000 Andover $4,500 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 *L nnfield $4,250 $2,800 $2,350 $1,710 Danvers $4,600 $2,100 $2,000 $1,150 Mansfield $4,000 $1,500 $1,500 $750 Bedford $3,500 $3,000 $2,250 $600 North Andover $3,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 Dedham $2,800 $1,800 $2,600 $1,550 Milton $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 $2,500 Natick $3,000 $1,750 $2,000 $500 Burlington $3,000 $1,500 $2,200 $250 Shrewsbury $2,500 $1,200 $2,500 $1,200 Westford $2,500 $1,500 $2,000 $1,500 Tewksbury $2,500 $1,200 $1,800 $1,000 Walpole $2,500 $1,100 $1,650 $900 *Stoneham $2,500 $3,500 $1,500 $350 Canton $2,000 $1,500 $2,000 $1,500 Westborough $2,000 $1,000 $2,000 $1,250 *Wilmington $2,000 N/A $1,750 $250 Marshfield $1,500 $500 $1,800 $1,000 Average $3,036 $1,888 $2,138 $1,279 Reading $3,700 $2,700 $2,500 $1,300 Reading rank (of 22) 7th 5th 4th tie 10th *neighboring communities Theoretical Revenue (25 licenses) $94,100 $90,200 $85,000 $83,240 $83,100 $69,500 $67,900 $64,000 $62,800 $62,500 $57,750 $57,700 $56,000 $54,500 $51,000 $49,600 $48,900 $47,500 $46,000 $39,500 $36,300 $62,332 $74,700 6th Schena, Paula From: Sent: To: Subject: BOS packet Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Monday, January 23, 2017 7:01 AM Schena, Paula Fwd: [Reading MA] April override From: <kmaccurtain5ggmail.com> Date: January 23, 2017 at 6:45:20 AM EST To: <selectmengci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] April override Hello Board of Selectmen, Kristin MacCurtain (kmaccurtain5kgmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at htip://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: Please consider another override attempt in April to save our schools from the devastating cuts that are being proposed. I voted yes in October, but I know many people who voted no because the amount was too high. I am optimistic that these same people would vote yes if they have the chance again. Please do this for the children of Reading and to keep our schools great. Thank you, Kristin MacCurtain Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2017 9:41 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: [Reading MAl Override BOS packet Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: From: <Monica.ackerkgmail.com> Date: January 22, 2017 at 9:39:39 PM EST To: <selectmenkci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Monica Acker (Monica.ackerkg_mail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma. gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Thank you all for participating in public service. I have strong concerns about the impact of the proposed budget cuts to our town and schools. I would like to see a new override on the ballot in the spring. Perhaps a smaller amount that will tide over for a shorter period of time. Also, I have gathered that the public wants details of how the money will be spent as specific as is possible. Thank you, Monica Acker Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2017 9:33 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: Please do a spring override! BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Octavia Brauner <octoberflowerggmail.com> Date: January 22, 2017 at 9:06:43 PM EST To: <selectmenAci.reading.ma,.us> Subject: Please do a spring override! Hello Town of Reading Selectmen, I am writing to encourage you to consider adding a town override vote to the spring ballot. We have three young children that will be deeply impacted by cuts in the elementary school and potentially be impacted once they reach middle school. We moved to Reading in June of 2016 and we chose Reading because of what a great community the town is as well as the wonderful things we heard about the schools. Our children could not be happier in their new schools!! After hearing about the dire consequences of not getting an override vote, I personally will work to get the information out about the importance of an override and work to get residents to the polls to vote "yes ". Sacrificing the quality of our schools is not only bad for our children, but bad for the future of the town. Lesser /mediocre schools will deter new families from moving to Reading in the future, which will play out over time in how the town thrives and what it offers to its residents. Thank you for taking the time to read my email, Octavia Brauner 240 Pearl St Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2017 7:26 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: Override vote Spring 2017 BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: mlugus <mwli02O8kgmail.com> Date: January 22, 2017 at 7:23:25 PM EST To: <selectmenAci.readin .ma.us> Subject: Override vote Spring 2017 Hi there I'm emailing because I am a resident of Reading & a concerned parent of a 5.5 year old and a 3.5 year old. My daughter is having a great experience with the public school system and we want our son to as well in a 2 years. Reading is an amazing town and we hate to see the school system suffer in the coming years from the unfortunate lack in funding. Please, please reconsider an override vote this spring. Without the extra funding, not only will our kids be affected but so will the town of Reading. Thank you, Michelle Lugus 9 Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2017 6:12 PM To: Schena, Paula; Saunders, Caitlin Subject: Fwd: Please call for another override vote BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Pamela Daskalakis <pamdask(a,gmail.com> Date: January 22, 2017 at 5:37:47 PM EST To: <selectmengci.reading_ma.us> Subject: Please call for another override vote Dear Board of Selectmen, I am a Reading resident, Town Meeting member and parent to two young children in the Reading Public Schools. I am going to keep this brief and ask that you strongly consider calling for another override vote this spring to help fund the FYI budget for the town and schools. The cuts that are proposed across both the town and the school are devastating, and without an increase in tax revenue, are unavoidable. While we may not be able to pass an override that will last for as many years as we had originally hoped, we owe it to our fellow citizens, and to our children, to try to support a level service budget at least for the next 1 -3 years until we can find longer term solutions. If there is anything I can do to help as a town meeting member, RP parent or just as a resident, please let me know. Thank you for your consideration. Pam Daskalakis Precinct 8 Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2017 4:43 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: Please Consider an Override Vote BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Michaela Walsh <carrollmml975kgmail.com> Date: January 22, 2017 at 4:19:50 PM EST To: <selectmen&ci.reading.ma.us> Subject: Please Consider an Override Vote Dear Board of Selectmen, I am writing to show support for another override vote in the Spring to support our public school system. We chose Reading 10 years ago because of the reputation for its strong public schools. We are disappointed that as our children have now entered into the school system, it appears they will erode and not give our children the education and classroom support they deserve. We are unable to attend the meeting on Wednesday night, but want to show our support on this important issue. Please consider giving our schools another chance to stay strong by allowing another override vote in the Spring. We would be supportive of the same dollar amount, but believe the $7M may have scared folks in an uncertain time. We would be supportive of a lower amount that will still give our schools and teachers the resources they need. Thank you for your consideration. Michaela and Mark Walsh 4 Manning St. Schena, Paula From: Sent: To: Subject: BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Sunday, January 22, 2017 2:54 PM Schena, Paula Fwd: [Reading MAI Override From: <damurdockjr(a�yahoo.com> Date: January 22, 2017 at 2:30:24 PM EST To: <selectmenkci.reading.ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, David Murdock (damurdockir(ayahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (hgp://www.readingma.gov/user/475/c�ontact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at htlp://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: Dear Selectmen, We are writing to you to express our concern about the financial situation our town is facing. We moved to Reading almost 8 years ago, right before the birth of our first daughter. After spending most of our 20s in Boston and New York, it was time to find a place to raise a family. We wanted to move back to Greater Boston, but neither of us grew up in the area. So we started doing some research online to find potential towns that would be a good fit, using criteria such as strong schools, low crime, commuting options, etc. After visiting many towns and looking at houses North, South, and West of the city, we began to zero in on Reading. It checked all the boxes for us and offered a lot more in terms of affordability versus say Winchester or Lexington. Shortly thereafter we found a house and made Reading our home. We felt at home almost instantly. The neighborhood and town was very welcoming and we found there was a great sense of community. Time went on and we had another baby, and soon our house started to feel a little tight. We came to another crossroads where we needed to find a bigger house, but our search wasn't going well and we started looking elsewhere. We found many houses in other towns that fit the bill, but we couldn't pull the trigger because we had grown to love Reading. In the end we stuck it out and our patience paid off, as we found a property where we were able to build a new house to raise our family in. At the time we couldn't have been happier. It was last year when we first became aware of the town's fiscal situation. We each went to a town info session and spent time reading up on it. We also spoke with neighbors, friends, and fellow parents. While no one likes tax increases, it was quite clear the town needed the override to sustain the excellent schools and town services that Reading is known for. We thought the town manager and elected officials did an outstanding job making things work for so long, but a reset was obviously needed. We headed to the polls in October fully expecting the override to pass, and we were shocked when it didn't. We couldn't fathom how someone could vote this measure down given the clear implications outlined by town officials. To say we were disappointed was an understatement. Having a daughter in first grade and another starting kindergarten next year, this has huge consequences for us. Both of us attended public schools growing up, and one of the main reasons we moved to this town was to do the same with our children. Another reason we moved to this town was safety, which is now threatened by the cuts and hiring freezes for our police and fire departments. Now we are second guessing our decision to stay in Reading, and wondering if we need to consider moving in the next few years to give our children the education we thought we would be getting here. The release of the school and town budget proposals for next year prompted us to reach out. The cuts are simply unacceptable. The school system is already underfunded and stretched to the limit. The superintendent and all of the teachers and administrators have done a tremendous job keeping the schools rated where they are with much less resources versus comparable towns. It won't last; morale will decrease, good teachers will leave, test scores will go down and the reputation of our district will falter. While we don't want to make this all about the schools, they are the fabric of a town. It is well known that property values are closely tied to school rankings, as well as many other quality of life factors such as crime. Given that the majority of Americans have most of their wealth tied up in their house, we would love to understand how people aren't willing to pay on average $1,000 a year extra in taxes versus the value of their property decreasing. Even a 5% decrease would equal $25,000 for the median household in Reading. The math is quite simple. If you look at the structural deficit, this town is getting an override at some point no matter what. Waiting just prolongs the inevitable, and every year that goes by will take a toll on the reputation of our schools and community. We should be trying to do the exact opposite, increasing services to make our town even more attractive. The combination of schools, train service to Boston, highway access, town spirit, etc. make this an outstanding place to live. Up until now people continue to want to move here, but we are on a slippery slope if we don't take action now. The bidding wars and houses going over the asking price of today can easily swing to houses sitting on the market for months at a time. We urge for you to call for another override vote this April. Maybe now that \3 people have seen what the lack of funding will do, they might make a different decision at the voting booth. We can't tell if people just weren't paying attention or don't understand finances, but this is an absolute no brainer. We need to fund our town and schools to continue making Reading the great community that it is. Please consider a new proposal to help save our town from these dreadful cuts. Sincerely, Dave and Johanna Murdock 46 County Rd. damurdocki r(,yahoo. com 508.269.7182 Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Saturday, January 21, 2017 6:59 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: Override BOS packet Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: From: Keri -Leigh Doiron <kd3532 gg_mail.com> Date: January 21, 2017 at 5:44:50 AM EST To: <selectmen(o ci.reading ma.us> Subject: Override Please consider another override to fund the Reading Public schools . The students are our future generation, they deserve opportunities and resources. An override is needed ! Please consider one for this Spring. Thank you, Rizzo Family C�S) Schena, Paula From: Lelacheur, Bob Sent: Thursday, January 19, 2017 9:26 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: [Reading MA] Override Attachments: overrideagain.pdf, ATT00001.htm BOS packet Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: From: <dailujonohuengmail.com> Date: January 19, 2017 at 9:03:43 PM EST To: <selectmen kci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Jo Donohue (dailujonohuekgmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: Hello, My name is Jo Donohue, a recent RMHS graduate, and I was concerned when I heard of the various cuts taking place in our Public Schools. I'm sure you have been bombarded by citizens about this but I believe you are doing the best you can. I have attached a letter signed by 500 people that asks for a new override, it continues to garner signatures. It is up to the tax payer to support the schools. Thank You, Jo Donohue Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 9:16 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] April Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of Nickersonsm @hotmail.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 9:13 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] April Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Sarah Bishop (Nickersonsm @hotmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: As a deeply concerned citizen and parent of two young children, I respectfully request that you consider another override vote in April so that our schools can deliver the highest quality education i Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 11:22 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override option Attachments: 2017_ budget_survey _ results_infographics -01 jpg; infographic_budget_20161 jpg BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of thewestons5 @gmail.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 9:55 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override option Hello Board of Selectmen, Lori Weston (thewestons5 @gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message I'm writing because I'd like to see another override vote during the April election. My family prides itself on Reading Public Schools and I'd hate to sacrifice the future of youth in Reading because residents may not understand the override process. While I feel that many residents are not in favor of increased taxes, I strongly believe the proper (easily understood) explanation has not been broadcasted. The cost of running a town, the rate of inflation and how a 10+ year override does not carry a town for infinite years. Many are confused that debt exclusions are overrides. Please delegate someone (citizen or town employed) to properly and SIMPLY explain the differences before we (hopefully) vote again. Please take a look at two different yet simple infographics that could be personalized for Reading and shown to residents that are overwhelmed by budget lingo. http: / /www.conestogavalley.org /board education.cfm ?subpage = 480017 http:// www. milton .ca /enAownhall /budgets.asp M Value for Tax Dollars I Very Poor Excellent 5.8% 11.9% ral Good 42.3% Areas Identified for Service Level Reductions Lup kj parking Entareemen t 18,B) )Transft W—OF A & 11 MOW" pubk Library U0, 116- Arts & Cuttural Programs %I-- VF Incremental 1 % dedicated tax increase.? 09 Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 11:23 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] April Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of icciulie @gmail.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 10:18 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] April Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Julie Ross (icciulie @gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: /Zwww.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message Dear Board of Selectmen, I am writing to request that you strongly consider another override vote for April. As a supporter of the October override, I have sadly heard many residents express shock at the proposed cuts as they did not realize how dire the budget situation was. Unfortunately, it took longer for people to become informed and understand that our schools face serious and long lasting consequences if we do not have a budget that supports our wonderful teachers, students and programs. I have heard voters suggest a smaller override amount but my concern is that we will then have to vote again in the near future for more funding. I implore you to look at the numbers and come to an amount that you feel can sustain our schools and town. If that amount is consistent with what you proposed in October then please use your voices as much as possible to help educate our residents as to why this is necessary. Many parents are now coming to the table, but there are many others who do not have children in the schools and don't see the correlation to schools and home values, and really the town as a whole if it is not properly funded. If an override is sent to the residents again, we have time between now and April to get the word out further, but we need your help to do it. Thank you for your time and efforts in continuing to make Reading a place we are proud to call home. Sincerely, Julie Ross D* ( Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 12:01 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: [Reading MA] "emergency" override BOS packet Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: From: <lmkienekverizon.net> Date: January 23, 2017 at 11:43:25 AM EST To: <selectmenkci.reading.ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] "emergency" override Hello Board of Selectmen, Linda Kiene (lmkienegverizon.net) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: Tto the board of selectmen - I am sure you realize the overwhelming support and dire need for an override as soon as possible. I find it almost insulting that we haven't had one in over 13 years, when the average is 7 -10 years in order to keep up with the rising costs and needs in most towns. The facts is that 2 1/2% is not enough and we (the residents) need to step up and realize the break we were given over the last couple of years and now pay our share. Most importantly, we need to make sound, justifiable and far reaching decisions regarding the use of the budget and not set our town and our schools backwards and on a course of demise. Our safety, success and financial stability (ie housing prices) require us to keep the standards and the success we have supported in the past. Keep Reading a place people want to live in and grow in. I am so saddened by the situation we face. Thank you for your time, hard work, and dedication to Reading. Regards, Linda Kiene L Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 12:59 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of ienniferlebovidge @yahoo.com_ Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 12:34 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Jennifer LeBovidge (jenniferlebovidge @vahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: I am writing to express my support for another override vote in April to allow for sufficient support for our schools and town, beyond the next year or two. I have two children, one in elementary school and one in middle school. Like many families, we moved to Reading in large part based on the strength of the public schools. I have been greatly impressed by the quality of the education my children have received thus far and the commitment and skills of their teachers. However, for the first time, with the proposed school budget, I am thinking seriously about whether to keep them in the Reading Public schools or consider private education. In addition to teacher losses as a result of the budget cuts, I worry greatly about teacher morale and the significant possibility of losing many of our educators to other towns. I was saddened to have to explain to my sixth grader that the rumors she heard about possibly not being able to take a foreign language until the 9th grade were true. I love Reading, and I do not want to leave the town. However, I am frightened about what is next in terms of cuts in future years, and am seriously concerned about my children's future if we continue down the current path. Please consider another override, with clear support from the Board of Selectmen. Sincerely, Jennifer LeBovidge Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 12:59 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of Phebe99 @vahoo.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 12:35 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Christie proctor (Phebe99 @vahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Hello Board of Selectman, I'm writing to you today to request that you have another override vote. When buying a house 5 years ago, I chose Reading because of the ratings of its school system. Today, I sit here in fear for my 4 and 1 year old who will be entering the school system in the next few years. I do not want to send my kids to private school but it is a choice now that I might have to make. We need to do something to save our schools or everyone will suffer, students and homeowners. Thank you, Christie Proctor (a� Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 1:17 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Spring Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of rhbik @yahoo.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 1:13 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Spring Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Reaghan Bik (rhbik @yahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Dear Board of Selectmen, As a fairly new resident to Reading, and parent to two small children (one who will be entering the Reading Public School system in the fall as a Kindergartner), I urge you to please consider an override vote in April to fund and support our school system and teachers. The town of Reading has not had an override in over 12 years, without this override I fear that our schools will suffer. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best, Reaghan Bilk Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 1:40 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] April Budget Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of orvisl8 @hotmail.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 1:27 PM To: Reading -Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] April Budget Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Kristen MacGlashing (orvisl8 @hotmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.goy /user /475 /edit. Message: Hello, I am writing with a request to please propose an override in April. I attended the school committee hearing last week and was so disheartened to learn about the cuts that will be coming to our schools without additional funding. As a parent of a soon -to -be Kindergartner, and as someone who moved to Reading for the reputation of "great schools ", the thought of my son being in a classroom with 26 -28 other students is unacceptable. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Kristen MacGlashing 265 Ash St Reading, MA 0 Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 1:51 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Budget Cuts & New Override Vote BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer vt- s.net] On Behalf Of meghan.carnahan@gmail.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 1:50 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Budget Cuts & New Override Vote Hello Board of Selectmen, Meghan Carnahan (meRhan.carnahan @RmaiLcom) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Hello, I am a Reading resident with 2 young children. My parents moved to Reading in 1991 and I graduated from Reading Memorial High School in 1998. When my husband and I were looking to buy our first house north of Boston 6 years ago we chose Reading because of the.school system and potential. Now, with the news of the budget shortfall and dramatic school cuts we are beginning to be concerned with our choice. We strongly urge the Board of Selectmen to put forward another more modest override vote this spring and this time specify what exactly what the money will go for (especially for schools). I have spoken to a number of people who voted against the override because of the amount, because how it would be used was too vague and lack of confidence in town spending. Many would support a smaller override with well- defined uses, especially for the schools. Please consider this as we need to continue support the education of Reading's children, and don't fall behind neighboring towns. Aside from the importance of education, lowering our educational standards will have a ripple effect on home values and all residents' well- being. Due to family issues we have been unable to attend meetings in person but want to express our feelings on this subject to the board. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Meghan Carnahan Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 3:10 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: Fwd: [Reading MA] April Override BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: <mcboucher2002kyahoo.com> Date: January 23, 2017 at 3:09:03 PM EST To: <selectmen@ci.readin ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] April Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Maria Morgan (mcboucher2002gyahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: Hello, Thank you very much for your public service. I apologize if you've received multiple messages from me. I tried from my phone but it did not seem to work so I'm trying again. Please consider having an override election in April. I realize that the Fall attempt failed, but I truly believe that a lot of people were so distracted by the presidential election that they did not realize that the override question was on its own ballot. The service cuts proposed for the schools are simply unacceptable. I expect my elected officials to do all that is in their power to take care of our town and I hope that you will thoughtfully consider this idea. Please do not move forward guided by the question, "What if it doesn't pass ?" and instead be guided by the question, "What more can we do to promote the well -being of our town ?" Thank you. Maria Morgan a� Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 5:47 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of LimicheII02 @gmail.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 5:23 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Lynda and Tim Michel (Limichell02@gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.goy /user /475 /edit. Message: I am writing to request that the BOS approve the much needed override for the schools of Reading. Without the reputation of a strong and competitive schools our town as a whole will be in jeopardy. Please consider the long term affects without this override. Best - Lynda Michel Parent and educator Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 5:47 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override BOS packet - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of christymagoon @vahoo.com Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 5:03 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Christy Magoon (christymagoon @yahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Dear John, Kevin, Barry, John, Daniel and Paula -- I am certain that you've received a plethora of phone call and emails over the past few weeks, since the override failed to pass and more recently, as the detailed news about cuts to the school budget were made public. I know that you are elected to support the voice of the towns people and need to make difficult decisions regarding budget and capital expenditures and cuts. I am hopeful that you can see the big picture here regarding the Reading public schools, the importance of its success both in terms of our individual children in town, as well as its impact on the financial well -being and rating of Reading as a town in which to live. All that being said, now that the many cuts will need to be made across the board at the schools, I respectfully encourage and ask you to attempt a second override to support our schools. In terms of many reasons, I do not believe I need to restate those. The many reasons that I believe people either didn't vote and /or voted no, are still something I believe we can overcome, with a second override attempt asking for less money and with a clearer purpose at this time. I respectfully ask you to consider this as you go forward with town meetings this week. Thank you for your time. Best regards, Christy & Scott Magoon 350 Franklin St. Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 5:48 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Supporting consideration of a smaller override and ideas for increases in parking fees (including peer data) BOS packet From: Marianne Downing [mailto:mariannedowning @comcast.net] Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 3:49 PM To: Reading - Selectmen; Town Manager Subject: Supporting consideration of a smaller override and ideas for increases in parking fees (including peer data) Dear Town Manager and Board of Selectman: I am writing to you on several points and will try to be brief where applicable and longer (with supporting information) where necessary. I think you in advance for your attention to my comments herein. I address two major areas: a smaller override and increasing parking fees. SMALLER OVERRIDE — PLEASE SUPPORT Please add my voice to the increasing chorus of voices respectfully requesting you consider a smaller override for the April 2017 ballot, at least to avoid the extreme school layoffs and utter decimation of the foreign language program in middle school, to avoid significant high school program cuts, and to ensure we have sufficient public safety officers (i.e. to restore the lost police officer). Regarding the schools: - School layoffs, as you now, result of elimination of gr. 7 foreign language and severely limit Gr. 8 foreign language access to just two Gr. 8 foreign language class sections, per language, at each middle school. - At 25 kids per class, this would mean that just 61% of current 7th graders (324 students over two schools per Mass DESE data) and just 56% of current 6th graders (totaling 356 student) would be able to have gr. 8 language. - Effectively this cut predetermines that nearly half of every grade, starting with next year's gr. 7, will never be able to take an Advanced Placement (AP) class in a foreign language, no matter how much aptitude a child may have, due to lack of having Gr. 8 language (4 years of language is a pre- requisite for AP, as best understood). - The schools have already reported that lack of access to AP classes has impacted college acceptance rates and competitiveness for the class of 2016 (see RPS FY18 budget here http: / /www. reading. kl2. ma .us/filesZ8414/8404/7241/FY18 Superintendents Budget Final.pdf at p. 9, third paragraph down from top). - Foreign language cut is unique versus the other school cuts in that it is the primary one to have an irreparable ripple effect on students who choose to remain in Reading's schools. Even if there is a later override to restore middle school language, there are now 2 -3 successive grades where nearly half the students in the grade are unfairly prevented from reaching the same proficiency levels and college competitive transcript as their "lottery winning" peers. 0;\ In contrast, the other cuts (elementary class size, elimination of the college prep HS track), while undesirable in that they result in larger class sizes, still permit all students to have access to elementary or high school classroom in the desired subject. The middle school language cuts cannot be made up for later. Regarding effective reduction of a Police officer - CRIME CONCERNS, INCREASE IN NEW RESIDENTS: The increase in downtown burglaries recently, the increase in drug arrests mentioned in your recent budget review meetings, and the increase in new and planned housing developments (with accompanying new residents) really does require that police force staffing be adequate to ensure public safety and avoid overworking existing officers. Note that my fee increase proposals below might help to at least partially support future funding for such a position, by providing more money to other budget areas and freeing up money on town side of budget. Regarding concerns about a second failed override: - I CONCUR WITH NEED TO GET AT ROOT CAUSES FOR FAILURE OF OCTOBER 2016 OVERRIDE: From watching your meetings, I have heard you express worries that having a second failed override will decrease odds of any further overrides passing, as well as concerns about whether the reasons for the override not passing were mostly related to its size and /or affordability, or due to anger over TLT, or instead might be related to an issue of trust (which in many degrees also relates to trust, as in trust in the judgement of school employees and school committee members who let the TLT situation arise and in the way it was handled) —or some other factor(s). - A SECOND OVERRIDE CAN SERVE A PURPOSE EVEN IF IT FAILS: A second failed override, if it should occur, might be the only way that you as a Board would know with much greater certainty whether or not there is a permeating issue of mistrust, in which case appropriate actions, whether at town or school end, will have to be taken in the best interest of the town. - SENIOR TAX RELIEF —A MITIGATOR: We now have senior tax relief in place as a sure thing, to help alleviate the concerns of many of those affected residents about affordability of a smaller override. - NEW AND VIGOUROUS PARENT INTEREST: The actuality of school cuts appears to have awakened a sleeping giant of parent awareness of, and displeasure with, the scope of the proposed school cuts. It appear that there is much greater public support for and interest in an override designed not to last 10 years, but more like 5 years. However, these school cuts also may have awakened further mistrust in the school priorities, especially regarding spending of professional development money, the high cost of living increases in the existing teacher contracts, and the seeming prioritization of certain school functions (e.g., sports) over academics (e.g., foreign language). You as a board cannot remedy these issues, but certainly may need to take them into account in any new override. - IMPROVING OUTREACH: I also feel that despite the admirable willingness of town boards to reach town voters in these financial forums, it is the same 100 or so faces every time. There are 18000 registered voters in this town, and the boards need to find a different way other than forums to get information out to residents about town finances. Maybe this information (in an unbiased and factual way, not in a way to promote an override but simply to present facts) can be included in RMLD bills sent to all households, even if the information is a flyer intended to direct folks to view more detailed information and /or surveys on a town website, in the library, at the senior center, and /or at town hall. Else, I fear you are not going to reach all voters. PARKING FEES — DEPOT AND RMHS: Finally, as you consider fees and whether or not to raise such fees, I urge the Board of Selectmen, in their purview as parking commissioners to consider a significant fee increase in resident parking fees for the train 3ti depot and for student parking at the High school. I view these fees as way of supplementing and offsetting town costs of maintaining these parking spots as well as all the streets around the depot and RMHS that provide safe access year round to all depot and RMHS users. The fees also can support the costs of paying town employees who do this work, any dispatchers who plan this work, supplies used for this work, and the like. Below I have listed some interesting data on what is done in other towns as a justification an example for such increases. READING'S OWN PARKING STUDY: Even before comparing with other commuter rail towns, I first refer you to the parking study that Reading itself commissioned in 2009. This study explicitly recommended that Reading RAISE its commuter rail parking sticker rate to $480 a year to be comparable to other towns with such fees, to use the annual money to maintain the streets around the depot. (See parking study here http://www.readingma.gov/sites/readingma/files/u281/parking study recommendations compressed.pdf at p 7 -24, where it states "If the Town sets a fair rate that is comparable to the cost of parking at other commuter rail stations in the area (which now charge at least $2 per day, or over $480 per year), it can use the revenues to make improvements to the station area and especially the residential streets where many commuters park today." And that is in 2009 dollars! Why is this not being considered further and immediately in these trying fiscal times? Even if it is not the three million dollar solution this town needs, every $50K here and there provides a significant benefit. COMPARATIVE TRAIN PARKING FEES: Next, consider the following comparison of yearly parking sticker rates to park at commuter rail stations for residents in various towns — do note that some of these towns have varying sticker levels based on parking location, provide senior discounts, and /or offer non - resident train parking stickers at even higher rates. But these are the most direct comparisons I could find: Reading $25 Sharon $540 (see here: http• / /www.townofsharon.net /home /pages /railroad - parking ) Natick $615 (see here: http: / /www.natickma.gov /166 /Transportation - Parking ) South Acton $100 (see here: htto: // www. acton- ma.gov /127 /South - Acton - Commuter -Lot ) Winchester $500 (see here: See https: // www .winchester.us /DocumentCenter /View /128 ) Wellesley $480 (see here: http: // www. wellesleyma .gov /Pages /WellesievMA Treasurer /parkrates ) As best as I can tell (and correct me if my info is wrong), but Wakefield, Melrose, Wilmington, and Andover offer no such discounted parking to residents at their rail stations. Their residents willingly park there and pay the MBTA daily rate, with all monies going to the MBTA. So we are giving a select group of Reading residents who park in the Reading Depot lot a benefit effectively worth $1000 a year per parking spot.(50 weeks x $4 a day * 5 days) — for the fire sale price of just $25 a year. I have heard the town manager tell the Board of Selectmen that the fees town collects only can go towards the services covered. I respectfully submit that he can take a wider and more generous view of the true costs in maintaining these parking lots, and easily see that $25 per sticker is not enough to cover such costs. For example, think about not only the costs of DPW workers and equipment at the town compost, but also the costs of plowing and maintaining the town owned lots near the depot, police patrols of same, any officers working detail to help with street crossings at certain times, etc., as well as town costs of maintaining the streets near the depot that these commuters use. At a minimum, Reading is paying contractors $80 per hour for plowing (see http °/ /www readinma.�ov/ sites /readin�ma /files /file /file /snowplow package fvl5.pdf ), and that is for a single vehicle. I have seen one municipality (Maynard) note to its residents that the hourly 3M costs of plowing in that town can reach $5000 per hour with all equipment in use at once (see httD://www.townofm,aynard-ma.Rov/dow/highwav/snow-plowing/ ). Thus, I feel there is a strong justification for some type of an increased cost for a parking pass for the commuter rail. How are these other municipalities justifying the significant parking costs? We could have these higher priced stickers just for the Depot and have separate sticker for compost only, still at the $25 rate, or possibly even a small increase to that to cover the increased costs associated with purchasing DPW equipment and also salary and benefits for DPW officers (this rate has not been raised in many years, even as benefits costs for DPW workers have gone up greatly). If there are 100 commuter rail spots that are resident only, going from, say $25.00 per sticker to the comparable rate of, say, $500 per sticker, for just 100 stickers, will not solve the school or town problems, but could raise $50K, which could pay a significant part of the salary of a police officer in town (or at least cover some overtime for existing officers). I would contend virtually any added public safety officer is a cost related to any parking anywhere in town. Or, such monies could go towards the DPW costs as noted above. This frees town budget money already allocated for these service, for other things. RMHS Parking: For similar reasons listed above as why depot parking cost increases are appropriate, I feel that instituting a parking fee for the High School (and I have heard the RMHS parking lot is town owned and /or town maintained), also should be considered. I have researched this, and many area HS in peer towns include such a fee, including but not limited to: Andover: $100 Tewksbury $150 Chelmsford: $200 Beverly: $100 Westford $50 Hingham: $60 Masconomet: $100 Lexington: $175 per semester Dartmouth: $60 Westwood: $25 Marshfield: $30 Bedford: $30 Framingham (two tier rate depending on location: $125 for closer lot, $75 for more distant) As noted above, parking charges for students similarly can help to offset town costs in maintaining, plowing, and repairing the RMHS parking lot and adjacent roads. In addition, it is simple matter for this Board to enact parking regulations along the nearby residential roads to limit the parking to residents or non - students, or to provide a 2 hour limit (e.g., to allow folks to park for the Y, etc.). Thanks for your consideration on the above ideas and requests. Best Regards Af'o'efm118 /y, aml y Home Phone: 781 - 944 -3447 Mobile: 508 - 265 -4214 Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 6:17 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: Fwd: Override BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Arlene Spezzaferro <lenebean7kgmail.com> Date: January 23, 2017 at 5:56:13 PM EST To: <selectme gci.reading ma.us> Subject: Override To Reading's Selectmen: Please consider putting the tax override for our schools to another vote this spring. It is crucial for both our children and the future of our town. Thank you, Arlene Spezzaferro Sent from my iPhone Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 6:17 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: Fwd: [Reading MA] Override BOS packet Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: From: <Eetl03kgmail.com> Date: January 23, 2017 at 6:11:48 PM EST To: <selectmenkci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Erin (Eet103Agmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at hqp://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: I'm writing to support of another override for April of 2017. Our schools need the override and our children deserve it! Erin Tierney 0 Saunders, Caitlin From: Sent: To: Subject: BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Monday, January 23, 2017 7:32 PM Saunders, Caitlin Fwd: [Reading MA] Resubmit and Support Override in Support of School From: <alex Serrano ,yahoo.com> Date: January 23, 2017 at 7:29:14 PM EST To: <selectmenga,ci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Resubmit and Support Override in Support of School Hello Board of Selectmen, Alex Serrano (alex serranogyahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: My name is Alex Serrano and I am a parent of two girls at Coolidge Middle School. I would urge you to move forward on a new override to bring before the public for a vote. I feel strongly that the cuts that are being made will have a significant affect on our schools and our home values. We chose Reading when we moved from Texas solely based on location and schools. It may take some time to affect our reputation, but it will and will have long -term ramifications. I would recommend that we put forth an override that will help us in the near -term, and then we can work on the longer -term strategy. I feel strongly that foreign language is a minimum requirement for a well - rounded student. Please move quickly on the override, as we need to affect the 2018 -19 school year. Regards, Alex Serrano Saunders, Caitlin From: Sent: To: Subject: BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Monday, January 23, 2017 8:10 PM Saunders, Caitlin Fwd: Request for spring override From: Gina Cinelli <gcinelli e,law.harvard.edu> Date: January 23, 2017 at 7:58:09 PM EST To: "selectmengci.reading ma.us" <selectmen(�,)ci.readin ma.us> Subject: Request for spring override To whom it may concern, I moved to Reading 3.5 years ago to be a part of a great community and to give my children a greater education within the Reading school system. I moved out of a town that was going through a similar situation and not only were the schools falling apart but the entire town was negatively impacted. We took a loss on the sale of our home as values were dropping, again to give our kids a better education here in Reading. I'd truly hate to see such a great town, a cohesive community and a remarkable school system fall apart due to these budget cuts currently on the table. I'm writing to request that another override be considered this spring. The education system, teachers, and our students/ our children are in dire need for this opportunity. Please do not deprive them of another chance for positive change. Thank you. Gina Cinelli a] Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 8:59 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: Fwd: [Reading MA] Another override! BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: <saraortins9gmail.com> Date: January 23, 2017 at 8:57:32 PM EST To: <selectmengci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Another override! Hello Board of Selectmen, Sara A Ortins (saraortinskg_mail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readin_gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at htlp://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: I am a parent of 2 kids - 3rd grade and 6th grade and I am in favor of trying for another override. Saunders, Caitlin From: Sent: To: Subject: BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Monday, January 23, 2017 10:07 PM Saunders, Caitlin Fwd: [Reading MA] April Override From: <stcarreirogyahoo.com> Date: January 23, 2017 at 10:02:48 PM EST To: <selectmenkci.reading ma.us> Subject: (Reading MA] April Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Samantha Carreiro (stcarreiro@yahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma. gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Dear Board of Selectman, I am writing to ask that you consider putting forth another override on the ballot in April 2017. As you are well aware, the level of services that the town and schools have been providing cannot be maintained with the current and projected revenues. Significant cuts are now required in order to "Live within our budget." These proposed cuts to the schools are not inconsequential. Student learning will be impacted. While I understand the rationale for putting forth a 7.5M override, it was clearly too high for residents to absorb. However- I feel the BOS should be FIGHTING to "do the right thing" in this case for all residents, especially those who are not able to vote. I am asking that you consider a smaller override to keep the schools at level service and help maintain the police and fire departments to the recommended standards. Furthermore, I ask that you publicly support this override, that you speak up about the mistrust issues, that you do all within your power to help this pass. My family has only lived in Reading for 2 years. We are very happy here but want to live in a community that values and supports education. If our elected officials are not willing to take a public stance on this, it will make it VERY difficult for an override to pass. Samantha Carreiro Middlesex Ave Ps- The Tax Work of Program is another program offered in Sudbury MA, which could help with an increase in taxes. Perhaps it could even be extended to other low - income groups. I would LOVE to see you incorporate a similar program WITH a passed override. Tax Work Off Program: Eligible Sudbury seniors and veterans may be able to work in a Town Department and "earn" a tax abatement for the following year. This year, there are seniors and veterans working at the Town Clerk's office, the Sudbury Senior Center, the IT Department, the DPW and the Sudbury Public Schools. They are particularly in need of workers at the Put `n' Take for next spring. Veterans should submit a copy of their discharge papers with their application. U,\ Saunders, Caitlin From: Lelacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 10:38 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Overide BOS packet From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] on behalf of Lrttcullen @yahoo.com [Lrttcullen @yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 10:36 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Overide Hello Board of Selectmen, Laurette Cullen (Lrttcullen @vahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message As a Reading Public School Teacher and parent, I am writing to request you support putting an override on the ballot in April. Saunders, Caitlin From: Sent: To: Subject: BOS packet Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Tuesday, January 24, 2017 8:06 AM Saunders, Caitlin Fwd: [Reading MA] Budget From: <Nckrehergyahoo.com> Date: January 24, 2017 at 8:03:50 AM EST To: <selectmenkci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Budget Hello Board of Selectmen, Nerissa Kreher (N ckrehergyahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma Gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Please propose another override vote for our schools and town in general. I have heard several say that they did not even know the date of the vote. Please give our town the opportunity to reconsider a smaller override. Sincerely, Nerissa Kreher, MD Saunders, Caitlin From: Sent: To: Subject: BOS packet Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Tuesday, January 24, 2017 8:30 AM Saunders, Caitlin Fwd: [Reading MAI School Budget From: < Julie e,ainesboutique.com> Date: January 24, 2017 at 8:15:46 AM EST To: <selectmenkci.reading ma_us> Subject: [Reading MA] School Budget Hello Board of Selectmen, Julie Centrella (Julienainesboutique.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: Hello I am writing to request the Town holds another override to provide funding only for the schools, the cuts that have been proposed are detrimental to our students and town Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 10:01 AM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of murray.elizabeth @ verizon.net Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 8:48 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Beth Murray (murray.elizabeth @verizon.net) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Please allow another override this April so our schools and children can get what they need. Thank you Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 10:01 AM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override Needed - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of Kellib352 @msn.com Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 9:03 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Needed Hello Board of Selectmen, Kelli Bacon (Kellib352 @msn.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Please place an override question in the April ballot, perhaps half of the figure from last time. The town cannot afford to suffer the consequences of inadequate funding. I am a lifelong resident and this is about more than schools. Please openly support an override. Thank you. Kelli Bacon 21 Copeland Ave $I Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 10:02 AM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] New over ride needed - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of kkileybrabeck@gmaii.com Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 9:48 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] New over ride needed Hello Board of Selectmen, Karen brabeck (kkilevbrabeck gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.goy /user /475 /edit. Message: Dear Reading BOS: As a concerned Reading resident I hope the BOS will put a new, smaller override proposal before the town in the spring of 2017. I voted against the October 2016 override because I felt there was not enough accountability for how money has been spent in the past, and how override funds would be used in the future. It was my opinion that the town asked for too much money with no accountability and no plan for how to prevent this fiscal situation in the future. We need better fiscal planning, more accountability, businesses to generate town income and to get rid of mismanagement. Still, the schools should not suffer. The cuts being proposed will devastate the schools, children's education and property values. I would support a smaller override to provide schools the necessary funding to at least maintain level services. The administration is mismanaging money and the school committee and upper level administrators need to be held accountable now and in the future. We can't keep paying lawsuits and millions of dollars to consultants for feasibility studies. Invest in our kids and teachers. Sincerely Karen brabeck Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 10:02 AM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailerC@vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer@vt- s.net] On Behalf Of bethskivingtonhall@gmail.com Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 10 :00 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Beth Hall (bethskivingtonhall gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.goy /user /475 /edit. Message: To whom it may concern, I have lived in Reading for just about 10 years. I have been disheartened over the last several years watching our once outstanding school district slide down the path we now find ourselves in. There has to be a way to fund our schools at a level that will serve our students in the outstanding manner Reading has been known for. I am writing to encourage support of an override that will help maintain funding for our schools and other imperative services that make Reading a great place to live and raise a family. Best Beth Hall Reading Resident Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 11:47 AM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: Fwd: [Reading MAl Override April Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: <Roberts4807(0gmail.com> Date: January 24, 2017 at 11:33:18 AM EST To: <selectmenAci.reading ma.us> Subject: [Reading MA] Override April Hello Board of Selectmen, Robert Clapp (Roberts4807ggmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at hqp://www.readingma.gov/user/475/edit. Message: Hi, my name is Robert Clapp Jr and we moved to Reading over two years ago. We came specifically because of the ratings of the school system. We have a 6th and an 8th grader. When the override did not pass it was definitely a huge let down, especially when the kids came home talking about who was going to be fired and what programs were going away. I fully and openly support an override or even a partial override to keep the level of education where it is at today. I hope you would do the same also. Sincerely, Robert Clapp Jr Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 12:44 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Request - April Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of lierrett @gmail.com Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 12:22 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Request - April Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Linda Jerrett (lierrett @gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: I am writing to express my disappointment in the current budget and the negative impact it will have on my son. My daughter is a senior at RMHS and the fact that my son will not have the same opportunities as she had are appallingly disappointing. We moved to this town for the school system and to watch the dismantling of programs that have made Reading students strong college applicants is unacceptable. We are surrounded by other towns that are investing in college readiness including the introduction of language studies as early as 4th grade. All middle school students should be in a foreign language program but we could tolerate a 7th grade start. Now, for this program that is crucial to create global citizens for a global society to be stripped from 7th grade and to not be assured that our children can even "get into" the program as an 8th grader is again, unacceptable and embarrassing. Your budget stated that your intention is to provide the best opportunities for students in their overall PreK -12 experience and to support our RMHS students in their Junior and Senior years access course work to be prepared for college and careers. How can this be achieved with these reductions? A major restructuring of the middle school interdisciplinary model, reduction or elimination of programs, the restructuring of of the middle school model? The reduction of English Language Arts in the sixth grade, the elimination of foreign language in grade 7, and limiting foreign language in Grade 8? The message is that we won't care about the success of these students until they get to high school. Reading has been an academic leader in our area and that is what helped build this community. It is imperative that the Board of Selectmen request another override in April that can support our schools for the next several years. What are other towns doing that Reading could learn from? How can we work together to make this happen? We voted for the override and I am truly sorry your work has been so difficult but we must work together even harder to find solutions that don't hurt the kids in this way and don't impact Reading's standing. Investing in the schools and in having the language program at least as good as it was, if not even stronger, has to be the top priority. If there is anything I can personally do to help, I would be more than happy to do research and help come up with a strategy. Please request another override and I will vote and fight for that one as I did for the last one and we can try to keep our schools in one piece. Let's get creative and try to save our schools. Thank you. Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 12:44 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: April Override Vote - - - -- Original Message---- - From: stacy weaver [ mailto :stacy.weaver @hotmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 12:23 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: April Override Vote Good afternoon, I am e- mailing to ask that you approve having an override vote on the April town ballot. The proposed budget cuts will have a lasting negative impact on our town. Thank you, Stacy Weaver 22 Latham Ln. Sent from my iPhone d Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:03 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Override From: P Burke [mailto:patsysburkeCagmaii.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 1:58 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Override Hello, I am a Reading resident that is very concerned about the direction our schools are heading. I would absolutely like to voice my support for another override vote in order to save our schools. Regards, Patsy Burke Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:07 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Smaller override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: Caroline Betcher [mailto :carolinecfoote @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:07 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Smaller override To whole it may concern, The October override was too high and too vague. But clearly, our children shouldn't suffer the way they would if all the proposed cuts went through. I would strongly urge you to support a smaller, more targeted override to keep our school at STANDARD state levels. Maybe someday we can strive for excellence... For now, I would vote YES for an override around the 3 -4 million dollar mark. Thank you, Caroline Betcher Sent from my iPhone Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:25 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override for our Schools - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of mchapman @mit.edu Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:23 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override for our Schools Hello Board of Selectmen, Melissa Chapman Gresh (mchapman @mit.edu) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Dear Sirs et Mesdames, I write as a concerned parent and Reading resident and property owner of almost 16 years. I urge you to strongly consider an override vote for April. For as long as we have lived here, and for many years prior, Reading has had the reputation of a great school system; it attracted us to settle and raise our family here. With the school cuts going into place, our children's education will be compromised and they will not be able to compete for college in an adequate manner. In particular, the loss of language instruction in middle school for 7th grade, and for most 8th graders, will hurt them in the long run and it an embarrassment in this global society of today. In addition, the reduction of time spent in ELA will have a horrible impact on their learning, their readiness for college and live beyond and will affect their everyday lives. -- Melissa Gresh 36 Lawrence Road 201, Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:28 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: Jody Donahue [mailto:iodvdonahue @icloud.coml Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:27 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Override Hi, I was directed to let you know that I would support a YES vote for a second override that would close the gap for the 2017/2018 school year. I would only vote YES for funds to go directly to the school budget. The amount was too large in the previous override and supported town related items that did not seem critical. On another note, it doesn't seem important to put in a new playground at Hunt Park where our town already has so many wonderful private and public school playgrounds. It seems like that money could have been used elsewhere. Thank you, Jody Donahue Sent from my iPhone NX Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:47 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Override From: Melissa Gentile [mailto:lbessentials @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:40 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Override Hi there, We voted no on the override but would vote for a smaller amount! Melissa and Paul Gentile Lel Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:48 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: in support of an override From: Shawn Brandt [mailto:shawn.brandt @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:41 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: in support of an override Hello, My wife and two children and I are Reading residents, and are deeply concerned about the town's funding issues. We voted in favor of October's override, and write today to encourage you to work to put a new override proposal up for a vote ASAP. I would also encourage the BOS to play a more active role in promoting the override to ensure that all town residents understand the impacts that those of us who are following finance committee meetings, school committee meetings, etc. are seeing. We sold our house in Reading in the summer, and had intended to rent for a year before buying a new home in Reading later this year. With the failed override and the drastic cuts to school services that will follow, we are now, for the first time, seriously considering moving to a neighboring town like Lynnfield or Andover. These towns already have arguably better schools, and Reading needs to show a commitment to not letting that gap grow if the town is to retain the same degree of desirability for current and future residents. Thanks, Shawn and Lauren Brandt 54 West Street Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:49 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Re: override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailerCa@vt- s.net] On Behalf Of Drkbacon @vahoo.com Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:48 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Re: override Hello Board of Selectmen, Kimberly Lentell (Drkbacon @vahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message To whom it may concern, I am writing to you as a concerned parent of two elementary school boys. My 4th grade son has one more year of Joshua Eaton school before heading to Parker middle school. Joshua Eaton has been a great experience for both of my boys and the teachers have been wonderful. I have heard such wonderful aspects of Parker from neighbors and fellow parents. Now, we can't help but be apprehensive about the years to come. Due to the proposed cutbacks, my husband and I are extremely worried about the potential decline in the Reading public schools. We would love to stay in Reading, but cannot rule out moving out of town if these cutbacks go forward. We were thinking of putting on addition to our home, but we on hold now. A weak school also means lower property values. Please consider an upcoming override proposal. Sincerely, Kimberly Lentell Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:50 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of Sapothier @gmail.com Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:49 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Stephanie Pothier (Sapothier @gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message:. I am writing to support a second (lower dollar) override. I do support several community suggestions to look at increase parking fees, sports /arts fees etc. to gain money in addition to an override. While I'm conservative in general in spending the current cuts been made to teachers (foreign language) police etc will have a huge negative on this community. I hope we can find a solution before the changes go into effect. Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:51 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Override From: Janine Perkins [mailto:J9perkinsC@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 2:47 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Override Hello, I would vote yes to a smaller override to avoid so many cuts to the schools. I voted no for the last override since it was too high. Sincerely, Janine Perkins 28 walnut Street Reading, MA Saunders, Caitlin From: Sent: To: Subject: Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: LeLacheur, Bob Tuesday, January 24, 2017 3:25 PM Saunders, Caitlin Fwd: Proposed smaller override vote From: <annemarieobrienga,aol.com> Date: January 24, 2017 at 3:23:06 PM EST To: <selectmengci.reading_ma.us> Subject: Proposed smaller override vote Hi there I voted no on the override on 10/18 but would vote yes to a smaller amount in order to save our schools. Anne Marie Anne Marie O'Brien 8 Grove Street Reading, MA 01867 781 - 944 -2857 (home) 781 - 281 -4651 (cell) annemarieobrien(c )- aol.com 0 Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 3:46 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: Fwd: Sent from my Whone Begin forwarded message: From: Jennifer Tesoro <jenhenaskkgmail.com> Date: January 24, 2017 at 3:34:53 PM EST To: <selectmenkci.readin .ma.us> To whom it may concern: My name is Jennifer Tesoro and I am the parent of three school -aged children. I am writing to you to ask that you put the Proposition 2 1/2 on an April ballot. I voted No back in October and would absolutely vote Yes this time, even if the dollar amount requested is the same. I feel that I was not fully educated on just how much the budget cuts would affect the schools. I respectfully request that you put this out to a vote in time to stop any impact that these cuts would have. Thank you- Jennifer Tesoro 6 Collins Avenue Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 3:46 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: Fwd: April Override Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: Heather Soracco <mhsoraccoggmail.com> Date: January 24, 2017 at 3 :37:16 PM EST To: <selectmengci.reading ma.us> Subject: April Override Dear Board of Selectmen, As parents of two Reading Memorial High School children, we are very concerned about the quality and reputation of the schools due to the failure of the override. Although we did not support the previous override due to the amount, we are in support of an override in April of a lesser amount. We both grew up in Reading and attended the Reading schools. My husband's business is in Reading and hopefully some day our children will make this town their home as well. This is such a wonderful and caring community. It would be very upsetting for everyone to see the quality of our schools fall apart. Please consider the lesser override for April. We would be happy to support it! Sincerely, Michael and Heather Soracco 235 Walnut Street mhsoraccokgmail.com Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:21 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Support an April Override From: Annika Scanlon [mailto:annika scanlon@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:08 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Support an April Override Dear Selectmen, With all of my children currently enrolled in the Reading Public Schools and seeing the current budget showing a reduction in teachers, I must strongly speak up and demand that you support our once strong public school system in Reading. The school system is the backbone of town strength and must be supported. I look forward to watching whether you support an April Override. Thank you, Annika Scanlon 3 Copeland Ave. Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:21 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: April Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: Natalie Cahill [mailto:nccahill @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:16 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: April Override Dear Board of Selectmen, Although I did not vote in the last election and I was not in support of the override, I am in support of a lesser override in April. I have been a resident of Reading for over 60 years. As an elderly resident on a fixed income, I could not support the last override. I do support a lesser override as I have grandchildren who attend Reading High School. I would like them to have the same quality education that my children were lucky to have but at the same time still make it affordable for me to live in Reading. A lesser override would have my support. Thank you. Natalie C. Cahill 462 Summer Ave. 61� Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:28 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override in April - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of Kgranara @comcast.net Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:26 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override in April Hello Board of Selectmen, Kristen Granara (Kgranara @comcast.net) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Please consider voting for an override in April. This town, especially schools, are really suffering Thank you, Kristen Granara 0 Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 5:02 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdma iler@vt-s. net] On Behalf Of tmcgilli2002 @vahoo.com Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:54 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override Hello Board of Selectmen, Tara Byrne (tmcgilli2002 @yahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.goy /user /475 /edit. Message: Hello - Please bring another override up for vote in April. Thank you! Tara Byrne 17 Lewis St Reading, MA 01867 Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 5:15 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Override - - - -- Original Message---- - From: FIORELLA SILVEIRA [mailto:silveirafamilv@me.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 5:14 PM To: Reading — Selectmen Subject: Override Please consider passing a smaller budget override so our schools don't have to make such drastic cuts. Thankyou Fiorella 14 Lindsay In 8 Saunders, Caitlin From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 6:06 PM To: Saunders, Caitlin Subject: FW: Owner at 432 Grove Street From: Mark A McCormick [mailto:mahk20690gmail.com1 Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 6:01 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Owner at 432 Grove Street I will vote No again if a vote is held once again to increase our taxes. Mark McCormick o'� F c4oi Town of Reading Meeting Minutes f 639P 1NCOR�¢r Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Selectmen Date: 2016 -12 -13 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 John Halsey, Vice Chairman Kevin Sexton, Secretary Barry Berman, John Arena, Daniel Ensminger Members - Not Present: Others Present: Town Manager Bob LeLacheur, Executive Assistant Paula Schena, Gregory Stepler, Patrick Tompkins, John Coote, Nancy Twomey, Bradford Congdon, Michael Bean, David Traniello, Bill Brown, Marcel Dubois, Stephen Crook, Jeff Struble, Paul Sylvester, John Coote, Tony D'Arezzo, A. J. Jemett Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Barry Berman Topics of Discussion: Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments - Daniel Ensminger noted that the legal notice was published in yesterday's Chronicle regarding the hearings on marijuana. The Town Manager noted that Wakefield and Lynnfield did something similar. Kevin Sexton noted that the ZBA final open meeting on the 40B at Lincoln and Prescott Streets is this Thursday. He is unable to attend, but Barry Berman will attend for him. He noted that the developer is requesting 30 compact spaces; a lesser number of units and they found room onsite for the loading zone. John Halsey noted that he's been waiting to write the letter to ZBA. Selectmen had an informal request leading to a formal request to grant space on the public way but they have not received any material on it. Kevin Sexton noted that it looks like they are trying to solve the problem onsite. ZBA Chairman David Traniello noted that the hearing will be closed on December 15th and a decision will be filed within 40 days. John Arena noted that the Selectmen were displeased with what they were asking for. He noted that the developer is also the Chairman of the ZBA in another community so he knows the drill - he's not an amateur. John Arena noted that he heard there was going to be tandem parking and David Traniello noted he has not seen the new plans yet or revised list of possible waivers. Daniel Ensminger noted that a compact space is 6" smaller so if a full size vehicle parks in one they will be hitting vehicles. John Arena thanked Town Meeting for the positive ending. 0%1 Page i 1 "' �� Board of Selectmen Minutes - December 13, 2016 - page 2 Barry Berman noted that there was a deteriorating trust of Town government in the air of Town Meeting. He feels it is important to go through all of the things that we have done to correct. We need to win back the trust. Public Comment - Bill Brown noted that Town Meeting members should get more involved too. Town Manager's Report - The Town Manager noted that Town Meeting members asked how they can participate in litigation but they can't. It would have been helpful if Town Meeting members had the agreement at the beginning of Town Meeting to look at for a couple of days. John Halsey noted that Town Meeting was advised of potential litigation and some Town Meeting members did their own research. Discussion /Action Items Approve Internal Borrowing for RMHS /TLT Settlement - John Halsey suggested that we move ahead with internal borrowing. The Town Manager noted that we want to press MSBA for reimbursement. We are prepared to pay by December 30th if they give us the wiring information. A motion by Berman seconded by Ensminger that the Board of Selectmen approve the internal borrowing in the amount of $3,000,000 for Reading Memorial High School Repairs and Additions (TLT Litigation) as authorized by Article 4 of the Special Town meeting on 12 -8 -16 was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Discuss Permanent Building Committee Bylaw - Joint Meeting with Permanent Building Committee and Bylaw Committee and Representatives from the Library Trustees and School Committee - Gregory Stepler called the Permanent Building Committee to order. The Bylaw Committee also called to order. The Town Manager noted that the Permanent Building Committee worked on the cemetery space needs and establishing a formal Permanent Building Committee Bylaw. The first section of the Bylaw is Assessment. The Bylaw needs to be changed so that only three elected Boards can bring them a project. In addition, the Permanent Building Committee can decline an application if timelines cannot be met. The evaluation process would include archive information, site visits, and stakeholder meetings. The formal evaluation would be measured against established metrics. The Town Manager noted that the findings would be reported to all Boards and the Town Manager. They would then get ready for Town Meeting approval. The Town Manager noted that the design phase is next and asked if this is when we appoint temporary members. Gregory Stepler noted that they need to evaluate and get costs, etc. to bring to Town Meeting. They will hire a design consultant, do traffic studies, noise mitigation, etc. to get a conceptual cost. The Town Manager noted that the budget will have $75k for the design period. Barry Berman noted that it is not a project until Town Meeting authorizes. Gregory Stepler noted that the Permanent Building Committee would ask for money to further the design. The Town Manager noted that once it is a real project and funded, the Permanent Building Committee will want to know their role during construction. The Library Building Committee was advisory to the DPW Director and he reported to the Town Manager. John Halsey noted that we can't ask volunteer Board, Committee and Commission members to take on tasks that they should be paid for. Barry Berman noted that they could vet and make sure we have the best project manager and that the project is iron clad. �v Page 1 2 Board of Selectmen Minutes - December 13, 2016 - page 3 The Town Manager asked how the Permanent Building Committee could have acted differently with the Library project and Daniel Ensminger noted a better upfront look at options would have helped. Nancy Twomey agreed. Barry Berman noted that the project was already underway when the Library Building Committee was formed. Gregory Stepler noted that they were already down the path of the grant application when the Library Building Committee was formed. They could have done more investigation by speaking with employees. The foundation leaked like a sieve but no waterproofing was incorporated in the plan originally.. John Arena noted that the process is the issue that could have disclosed that. Gregory Stepler noted that good record keeping and stakeholder interviews would have helped. Unforeseen conditions drove the budget higher. The Town Manager noted that Facilities had all of the records, but wasn't asked for any of them. John Halsey noted that the work up front never happened. He asked if the Permanent Building Committee will build a manual. Gregory Stepler noted in a sense. They have a flow chart. Every building is custom. It is critical to archive material for future members of the Permanent Building Committee. John Arena asked about the role of the Permanent Building Committee during construction and it was noted not full time management but more like oversight. Gregory Stepler noted that the bylaw requires at a certain value that an OPM be hired, but it needs to be a competent one like the Library project had. Brad Congdon noted that the Permanent Building Committee will want to be part of the prequalification and bid process. Any project over $10 million will be required; under $10 million is up to the Town. He noted that contractors are required to submit financial statements and credit references. The Town can also go outside of what they submit. Barry Berman asked if there is a database on contractors and Brad Congdon noted there is. The Town Manager noted that the Chairman of the Bylaw Committee met with the Permanent Building Committee. Gregory Stepler noted that they took the original language, moved it around and changed verbiage and sent it to the Bylaw Committee. The following issues need to be addressed: clarify associate membership; clarify their involvement; sponsoring agency; application process; establish when the project exists - when Town Meeting approves; when the project exists then have temporary members. The Town Manager asked for the reasoning on when temporary members are added. Gregory Stepler noted that the rationale is to have an objective observation of the project but if they have temporary members then they will not be objective. Nancy Twomey noted that all of the meetings are open and people can attend they just can't vote. The Committee does not want bias from pre- conceived notions. Kevin Sexton asked if designs will be shown at Town Meeting. Gregory Stepler noted that every circumstance has different options. There needs to be an evaluation of each design with conceptual and conceptual costs. If Town Meeting approves a project the designers will go further and they would want stakeholders at that point. Daniel Ensminger noted that he wants to see language added to the Bylaw on siting by @ adding ........... "along with siting recommendations of projects." Page 1 3 Board of Selectmen Minutes - December 13, 2016 - oaae 4 John Arena noted that they should clarify design money and discover money and where the pool of money is. Barry Berman noted that a financing mechanism needs to be added also. Jeffrey Struble suggested putting something in regarding money authorization. He noted that the Bylaw Committee will be meeting with the Permanent Building Committee next month and they will discuss that. Gregory Stepler noted that the Permanent Building Committee is meeting on January 9th so it would be helpful to have a draft from the Bylaw Committee. The Town Manager noted that Town Counsel will also need to approve the Bylaw and get it to April Town Meeting. The Town Manager noted that he will update the School Committee on what was discussed tonight. Both the Bylaw Committee and Permanent Building Committee adjourned at 8:20 p.m Records Officer - Administrative Services Director Matthew Kraunelis noted that the Public Records Law is changing on January 1, 2017. The Selectmen need to appoint Public Access Officers (PAO) and he recommends himself, the Town Clerk, Deputy Police Chief, Police Lt. Detective, Superintendent of Schools and the School Department Special Education Director. John Arena asked what the process will be and Matt Kraunelis noted that the PAO will look to see if the records are available and determine if we can release them or redact them. Clerical help will probably do the searching but the PAO will release the information. John Arena asked if there is a penalty if we don't produce and Matt Kraunelis noted that we can be sued. Barry Berman asked if the Fire Department needs a PAO and Matt Kraunelis noted that they can be added if need be. John Arena asked how long the appointment is for and it was noted until removed. A motion by Berman seconded by Ensminger that the Board of Selectmen appoint the following employees as Records Access Officers: Town Clerk Director of Administrative Services Deputy Police Chief Lieutenant Detective Superintendent of Schools School Department Special Education The motion was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Hearing - Driveway Variance Request - 154 - 156 Green Street - The Secretary read the hearing notice. Town Engineer Ryan Percival noted that Engineering reviews requests and if they adhere to the policy they approve. If not, then it goes to the Parking, Traffic and Transportation Task Force and then to the Board of Selectmen. He noted that Green Street is a unique situation. There are two condos with a utility pole in front. There are two separate garages so they are proposing two separate entrances of 18 feet. It seems like a reasonable request and the PTTTF recommends approval. �CL---, Page 1 4 Board of Selectmen Minutes - December 13 2016 - page 5 Tony D'Arezzo, 130 John Street, asked if a person has a duplex can they get two 24 foot driveways and it was noted that was not the request. Mr. D'Arezzo noted that he doesn't want people to think that they can get more than one driveway just because they have a multifamily. A motion by Berman seconded by Ensminger to close the hearing on the driveway variance for 154 - 156 Green Street was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. A motion by Berman seconded by Arena that the Board of Selectmen allow two adiacent driveway openings each 18 feet in width separated by a small grass plot at 154 - 156 Green Street was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Hearing - Driveway Variance Request - 61A Terrace Park - The Secretary read the hearing notice. Town Engineer Ryan Percival noted that this is a unique as built detached accessory apartment approved by the ZBA. The as built showed a driveway opening greater than 24 feet so it went to the PTJ7F and they recommend this go before the Board of Selectmen. John Halsey asked if the building is in the front of the property and Ryan Percival indicated it is. The contractor did not adhere to the plan and the driveway opening is greater than 24 feet. The Town Manager noted that the accessory apartment was built under the revised bylaw and this is not what was imagined. The Bylaw does not stipulate that it has to be in the backyard. There is conservation land and ledge in the rear. This is a legal structure. If the community does not want buildings in the front lawn then they need to create a Bylaw indicating that. Frank Wiggins, homeowner, noted there is also a carport on the other side. The ledge hugs the driveway. It would be a high cost to remove. The contractor made the decision to do this. John Arena reiterated that the contractor followed the ledge and asked how ledge leads to a larger driveway instead of a smaller one. Mr. Wiggins responded he wasn't sure. John Halsey asked why a retaining wall is necessary. The contractor made the decision to break the zoning code, but why is it wider? Mr. Wiggins noted the contractor said to swing into the second space. John Halsey noted that the request is to forgive. He has a problem with making accommodations after the fact. John Arena noted that there is an issue with setting a precedent. This is new construction and they were given permission for 24 feet but did 32 feet. John Halsey asked if Engineering had any concerns. Ryan Percival noted there are not any safety concerns. It is designed to make those swings. Engineering had recommended cutting the asphalt. Mr. Wiggins noted that there were challenges between the Building Inspector and the contractor. His parents were told to leave because of the certificate of occupancy. The Town Manager noted that his parents were told to leave because there was live wiring in the house. O--\Lk John Halsey asked how much needs to be cut at the street. Ryan Percival noted 8 feet at the street and then they can flare out on the property. Page 1 5 Board of Selectmen Minutes - December 13, 2016 - page 6 John Halsey noted that the contractor broke the code so the homeowner has recourse. The triangle piece is out of code. He suggests continuing the hearing and bring back a drawing of what it would look like. John Arena showed two options to correct the situation. John Halsey noted the driveway is wrong and should be denied. Mr. Wiggins noted that he will work with the contractor to fix it. The Town Manager noted that if the contractor says he can't do 24 but can do 26 then come back to the Board. John Arena noted that we try to enforce the laws as written and the guidance was ignored by the contractor. Ryan Percival noted that it is winter time so there is a time period. They will monitor in the spring and Engineering will not sign off on the certificate of occupancy until it is done. A motion by Berman seconded by Ensminger to close the hearing on the drivewav variance for 61A Terrace Park was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. A motion by Berman seconded by Ensminger that the Board of Selectmen approve the 32 foot drivewav at 61A Terrace Park failed by a vote of 0 -5 -0. Approval of Minutes A motion by Berman seconded by Ensminger that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of November 29, 2016 was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. A motion by Berman seconded by Arena that the Board of Selectmen adjourn the meeting at 9:30 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary Page 1 6 �5 Town of Reading Meeting Minutes Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Selectmen Date: 2017 -01 -10 Building: Pleasant Street Senior Center Address: 49 Pleasant Street Purpose: General Business Attendees: Members - Present: Time: 7:00 PM Location: Great Room Session: Open Session Version: Chairman John Halsey, Vice Chairman Kevin Sexton, Secretary Barry Berman, John Arena, Daniel Ensminger Members - Not Present: Others Present: Town Manager Bob LeLacheur, Fire Chief Greg Burns, Police Chief Mark Segalla, Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios, Facilities Director Joe Huggins, Human Resource Director Judi Perkins, Administrative Services Director Matthew Kraunelis, Deputy Chief Mark Dockser, Kevin Gerstner, Assistant DPW Director Jane Kinsella, DPW Director Jeff Zager, Stephen Crook, Nancy Heffernan, Tim Kirman, Neil Cohen, Andrew Friedman, Al Sylvia, Amy Cole, Kate Goldenst, Erin Gaffen,-Library Director Amy Lannon, Executive Assistant Paula Schena Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Barry Berman Topics of Discussion: Public Comment — Andrew Friedman spoke on behalf of the Budget Parents and read the following statement: Good Evening. My name is Andy Friedmann and I am speaking on behalf of myself, Becky Liberman and Alan Rosh. The three of us are part of the budget parent team for the high school. Last night the superintendent gave us a preview of the proposed budget cuts and what they will mean for the high. school. The three of us were very discouraged by what we' heard last evening. Although there are many proposed cuts, we feel the following proposed changes will have the greatest negative impacts on education at the high school: 1. Loss of approximately four full -time high school teachers, maybe more, depending upon contract negotiations; 2. Eliminating 'CollegePrep' from the curriculum, with a potential increase in class size for all of the English and Math Programs. This will make things more difficult for students who are placed into higher level classes, will require more of the teachers' time to assist these students, which will detract from the education of Strong College Prep students. Page I 1 p I Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 10, 2017 - page 2 Obviously, cuts to the middle and elementary schools will also, ultimately, have a negative impact on the high school, as well as elimination of funding for computer technology, such as replacing a server or router that breaks down. . We note that the projected school budget shortfall is small, about $1.8 million, compared to predicted total town revenue, $92 million. We would like to pose two questions to the Board this evening: 1. Are there options that can be taken to address the Fiscal Year 2018 Budget and the immediate challenge to close the $1.8 Million gap? 2. Long term, what steps are being taken to develop a more permanent solution to address repeated shortfalls in the school budget? As budget parents, we will work with the superintendent and the school committee to help see that our education dollars continue to be used as efficiently as possible. Almost universally, other residents we know say that the quality of the Reading School System was a driving factor to move this town. We all now know a number of families who are dissatisfied with our school system and have decided to send their children to private schools. We are deeply concerned that, in the near future, the effect of these budget cuts will be to cause more families to make the same decision. We are asking that the town leadership make it a priority to find a permanent long term solution to these consistent budget challenges. John Halsey noted that his comments are well taken. The Trust Fund Commissioners called to order. Budget Overview The Town Manager noted that the organizational chart is unchanged. The three elected boards are sovereign nations. The goal is to work closely with the School Department. We are sharing employees with technology, Human Resources, Facilities and Finance. During the summer listening sessions we found that our peer communities collect around 12% more from the commercial sector. Reading spends money on public safety and we share our income with the schools. We spend a little more on education but we have more students so we spend less per pupil than other communities. John Halsey noted that the average peer community has $11 million more than we do. The Town Manager noted that the average Reading tax bill is below peers — we are not high. The Town Manager noted that the schools found ways to save $200,000 on SPED out of district; we found $50k in fuel savings and $100k in pension savings. The Town Manager noted that fees do not fix the problem. We will honor the will of the voter and not increase if Prop 2 %2 doesn't pass. The only large fee is trash. The departments will discuss fees as they review their budgets. The Town Manager noted that the train depot and compost center stickers could be split but they are already selling them for this year. Page 1 2 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 10, 2017 - page 3 Daniel Ensminger noted that on January 24th he would like to discuss fees and a lower amount override. The Town Manager noted that all fees have to be justified, we can't make a profit. Barry Berman noted that the standard fees for services are clear and we should look at parking fees. John Halsey noted that when the Town takes in a fee it goes into the general fund and it gets shared with the schools. The Town Manager noted there are a few exceptions. John Arena asked if that is the same on the school side and John Halsey noted it is not. The schools take in fees and keep them. Mark Dockser noted that fees are important are to look at. Kevin Sexton noted that the State tells us it doesn't matter what the market will pay— the fee must be justified. Andrew Friedman noted that you can ask 10 Accountants to justify and they will all come up with 10 different numbers. John Halsey noted that the fee has to be fair. The Town Manager noted that the Board of Selectmen are advisory to the Town Manager regarding the budget. The budget has been reduced by 7.5 FTE's. The management team eliminated one position and with other reductions had a savings of $126,000. He noted that Reading only has eight Department Heads and they also do the everyday management. Barry Berman noted that when the Town Manager first came on he looked at redundancy and he. asked if he is sacrificing that with only eight Department Heads. The Town Manager noted there will be less hours of service, loss of Sunday hours and a reduction in staff participation in community events. Kevin Sexton asked if the Town Manager looked at the number of Boards, Committees and Commissions that we have and the Town Manager noted that he looked at other towns websites and they list groups of interested residents. The Town Manager noted that we are reducing one Patrol Officer, but if the override passed we were going to hire two more Officers. We are not at the staffing levels in Police that were recommended 15 years ago. In addition, there is a trend of unhappy residents. Reading is a high value Town and we cannot continue the level of services with the FY18 projections. He will try to minimize layoffs for employee morale. Administrative Services Administrative Service Director Matthew Kraunelis noted that Administrative Services consist of Operations, the Town Clerk, Town Manager, Human Resources and Technology. He noted it is a level funded budget. The Operations Specialist position is being cut from $40,000 to $20,000 which is equal to .50 FTE reduction. Pay and class is being cut $23,000 so there will be no pay and class raises in FYI and that could have an effect on morale. In addition, there is a 15% cut on the temporary help. The Town Manager's department has an increase of $20,000 in legal services. Human Resources - services the Town, School, RMLD and retirees and professional services will be cut from that budget. �r33 Page 1 3 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 10, 2017 - page 4 John Arena noted that previously labor counsel ran low and Matthew Kraunelis noted that Labor Counsel is looking at all of the contracts this year. John Halsey asked if the TLT number has increased and the Town Manager noted that he has not received the bills yet. He is hoping to get them before April Town Meeting. Mark Dockser asked if TLT and zoning is included in the Town Counsel budget line and the Town Manager noted they are. Mark Dockser asked if they will be trending down and the Town Manager noted there will always be zoning. He will share the analysis of legal services with the Finance Committee. Matthew Kraunelis reviewed Technology and noted that they need an increase of $40,000 for upgrade to Microsoft 16; $30,000 for rugged field tablets for DPW and a $10,000 upgrade to the firewall. In the Town Clerk's budget they are keeping $15,000 for electronic archiving but reducing $50,000 in election workers which is equal to 1.5 FTE. The wish list for this department is an admin for Town Clerk instead of sharing one with Finance; a Software Coordinator and a laserfiche upgrade for $80,000. Barry Berman noted that we had early voting this year and he asked how much we received from the state. Matthew Kraunelis noted that we only did early voting for the Presidential election. Sharon Angstrom noted that the difference in cost was about $4200. Andrew Friedman noted that some software upgrades are available on line for free and they work well. Matthew Kraunelis noted that we have licenses that we have to conform to. The Town Manager noted that the schools get deals that we are.not eligible for and we also have licenses. Mark Dockser noted that the budget for the Business Administrator has been up and down. Matthew Kraunelis noted that the previous person was from the Police Department, then the position was vacant and now it has been filled. Finance Town Accountant Sharon Angstrom noted that there is a 1.8% increase in the Finance budget. They have 12.3 FTE's in the Finance Department so that amount is for COLA's. The $100 in professional development is to renew her CPA license. There is a 3.1% increase in the Assessor's budget as required for the Assessor. The Finance Department is a shared service department so they charge funds back to enterprise funds. The volume of work is not going away. They do payroll for 1200 employees, collect all cash for the Town. They had 129,000 cash receipt transactions last year and the volume is consistent. They did not add staff for senior tax relief in FY18. John Halsey noted if the Board is going to discuss fees he wants Sharon at the January 24th meeting to discuss revenues and expenses. Benefits and Miscellaneous The Town Manager noted that we have an additional $150,000 in Retirement assessment. There is an increase in the unemployment budget to cover layoffs. Health insurance has increased 7.5 %. From 2007 to 2014 health insurance has increased 4.2 %. We saved $500,000 with the opt out program. Reading spends approximately 10% of the budget on health insurance and it is hard to predict year to year. They have pushed costs onto the employees with higher co -pays but those tools don't exist anymore. Health insurance is budgeted at $18,000,000 in FYI 8. The I�I]� Page 1 4 ` Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 10, 2017 - page 5 Town is not doing a good job of funding pensions - we are under funding. The question is do we layoff to fund. Mark Dockser noted that the PPO plan for health insurance is more expensive. The Town Manager noted that Blue Cross offered us a tiered plan and priced the HMO and PPO too close together but the tiered plan doesn't work. The Trust Fund Commissioners adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Facilities Facilities Director Joe Huggins noted that his department is responsible for eight schools and nine Town buildings. We have an electrician, plumber and carpenter along with 23 full time custodians. They contract out for cleaning. Included in his budget is the Maintenance Director, Facilities Director, GS automation, critical alarm automation, EMS and utility trac plus. John Arena asked if costs and fees are broken down for heating and venting and Joe Huggins noted they are broken down by the hour. John Arena asked if that was just for schools and Joe Huggins noted the Town buildings will brought online next year. The Town Manager noted that will have to be discussed with the three elected boards. Amy Lannon noted that Library rooms are used mostly while the building is open. Joe'Huggins noted that his department processed 2400 work orders and the summers are busy at the schools. Capital projects completed include UPS battery replacement; many flooring and carpet replacements; a new .DPW garage door and repaired the RMHS sidewalk. Remaining capital includes Wood End HVAC upgrades; Honeywell EMS and West Side fire Roof replacement. Special projects completed include faucet and water fountain repairs /replacements; painting and lighting. John Halsey asked what is missing and Joe Huggins noted that aesthetics is usually what we do when we have a little extra. He noted that all buildings are in high use and high demand. Kevin Sexton noted that results in more wear and tear on equipment. John Halsey noted that we need to keep the maintenance system strong. Mark Dockser asked if fuel costs are locked in and Joe Huggins noted they are until 2018 except for RMLD. Capital and Debt The Town Manager noted that TLT has a big impact on debt. The big. change is in facilities, it is substantially less and most projects in the future are roofs. The Permanent Building Committee has a fund of $150,000 for FY18 and FY19. The Voke School in Wakefield did not receive MSBA funding. TLT has moved out artificial turf at Parker Middle School and has also moved out a lot of field improvements to several years. Kevin Sexton asked about paving and the Town Manager noted that it has been moved out to 2024. A resident asked if Hunt Park is being done this year and John Halsey noted yes, the equipment has been scheduled. The same resident noted that the playground is fine why is it being replaced. John Halsey noted that the money was earmarked. If not Hunt Park then it would have been spent on something else. S/ Page 1 5 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 10, 2017 - page 6 Barry Berman asked if there is any foreseeable need to borrow within the levy and the Town Manager noted that Birch Meadow lighting is possible. A motion by Ensminger seconded by Sexton to adjourn the meeting at 10:40 p.m. Was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary Page 1 6 b�� ,. Town of Reading e Meeting Minutes 639 +tNCOR4� Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Selectmen Date: 2017 -01 -11 Building: Pleasant Street Senior Center Address: 49 Pleasant Street Purpose: General Business Attendees: Members - Present: Time: 7:00 PM Location: Great Room Session: Open Session Version: Chairman John Halsey, Vice Chairman Kevin Sexton, Secretary Barry Berman, John Arena and Daniel Ensminger Members - Not Present: Others Present: Town Manager Bob LeLacheur, Police Chief Mark Segalla, Deputy Police Chief David Clark, Fire Chief Greg Burns, Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios, Executive Assistant Paula Schena, Erica McNamera, Mark Dockser Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Barry Berman Topics of Discussion: Badge Pinning - Deauty Police Chief - Police Chief Mark Segalla introduced Deputy Chief David Clark who was pinned by his father Rufus Clark. FY18 Town Budget Public Safety - Police Police Chief Mark Segalla noted that 95% of the budget is spent on wages and he has 41 officers. Expenses are down 2.1% for FY18. Chief Segalla noted that there are two types of call for service: Part 1 is crimes - larceny, burglary, robbery and rape; Part 2 - family, vandalism, fraud and drugs. The detectives were involved in 145 cases in 2016. In addition they are involved in quality of life issues - protective custody and substance abuse and there were.13 opiod cases in December alone. It was noted that the police are seeing younger kids use opiods. Dispatch - Chief Segalla reviewed the Dispatch budget which has 1.8% growth. Dispatched logged 32,963 calls and issued 4429 access stickers. Support services include training, traffic controller, Armorer, Safety Officer and Community Service Officer. They had 360 public records request in 2016 and they can take several minutes to many hours. Barry Berman noted that next year they will have one less Officer but business is up. He asked if the override had passed they would have hired an additional officer, how will they address that now. Chief Segalla noted they had 150 calls at school in the past four months. Most of the calls were at RMHS and a lot of it is mental health issues. John Halsey noted that there are more opiate calls for younger ages and we don't have anyone at the middle schools. He asked how short we really are. Chief Segalla noted that in 1998, before Walkers Brook Drive, we had 44 Officers and we are at 41 now. He would like 44 Officers at a minimum. Page 1 1 �✓ Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 11, 2017 - aaae 2 John Arena asked if overtime is stretched when people are out and Chief Segalla noted it is, they have to force people to work it. John Arena asked if assessments are done by headcount. Chief Segalla noted they are done by ratio - they look at development. John Arena noted that he is sure that the majority of calls are drug related even though they are not categorized as that and Chief Segalla agreed. John Arena asked if there is any technology that would help and Chief Segalla noted all of the cars are up to date but body cameras might be an unfunded mandate in the future. John Halsey noted that demands on public safety go on. He would be interested in seeing the soft costs - Officers at committee meetings, Fall Street Faire, etc. Mark Dockser noted that he feels the cost of issuing licenses and permits are under estimated. Nancy Docktor noted that many communities are hiring licensed social workers to free up Officers and we should look at that. Jean Delios noted that Public Services has two social workers who work with Public Safety so we are providing that link. Barry Berman asked if community access stickers can be distributed elsewhere and the Town Manager noted that the Board of Selectmen wanted the Police to make sure they are Reading residents and they are the only ones to do that. Erica McNamara reviewed Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse ( RCASA). She noted that it falls under the Police budget and they have three executive partners - Police, Schools and the White House. The RCASA was created by the Board of Selectmen in 2006. The funding was a grant in the amount of $1.5 million. and then there was some time with no grants. The FY16 budget was $223,000 and they deal with underage drinking, mental health issues, and substance abuse prevention. The grant expires in 2019. Their annual budget is $125,000 for one grant. Grants increase work for the Finance Department and require staff services. Her staff consists of herself and a social worker doing 24 hours /week of outreach. Daniel Ensminger asked if they have regional partnerships and Erica McNamara noted that they are working together on opiod issues to get more funding - sometimes it is supplies, sometimes it is training. Erica McNamara noted that there is a significant lesser amount of prescription and alcohol access in local homes. They collected 1.1 million pills in the pill take back program. In addition, they dealt with 170 youth referrals and they deferred 167 who have not re- offended. John Arena asked if they do proactive work and Ms. McNamara noted that they draw themes from youth and do training. Barry Berman asked about Question 4 - recreational marijuana and Ms McNamara noted it will be a challenge. John Arena asked if they take students from other communities and Ms. McNamara noted that they do if they have space and they charge a fee. John Arena asked if they thought about going regional and Ms. McNamara noted that they have been asked but they say no because they cannot commit. Daniel Ensminger noted that we lost one School Resource Officer due to the override not passing and Ms. McNamara noted that she works with the School Resource Officer all day. John Arena asked if tobacco is still a problem and Ms. McNamara noted it is increasing due O�b to vaping. Page 1 2 ��C/ Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 11, 2017 - Aaae 3 John Halsey noted that the grants expire in 2019 and Ms. McNamara noted that when we reach the max in 2019 they will be all done and will not get anymore grant money. She noted that all grants require match funding from the Town. Nancy Docktor asked if she would consider going into the private sector and Ms. McNamara noted that the billing fees are much lower for the Town than private sector and they are not covered by insurance. Kevin Sexton asked if she had a wish list and Ms. McNamara noted that another School Resource Officer is what she would ask for to get the strategic services. John Halsey asked if there is any way to quantify the value of another School Resource Officer and Ms. McNamara noted that they offer the feeling of someone they can trust and reach out to. She also noted that the younger youth have poor coping skills. Fire Department Chief Burns noted that their duties include fire suppression and fire prevention. Ambulance billing show responses are trending upwards. Transports are increasing at same rates but not all responses are transports. Kevin Sexton asked if they are only billing for transports and not just calls and Chief Burns noted that is correct. He noted that ambulance revenue is trending up also. John Halsey asked how our rates compare with the market and Chief Burns noted that our rates are based on Medicare and 25 %. Ambulance billings charges 4% of what they collect. John Arena asked whether our rates are according to costs and should we evaluate and look at other communities. Chief Burns noted that when he did a previous study some communities were very high. Daniel Ensminger asked if revenues go to the general fund and not the Fire Department and gets distributed to all. Chief Burns noted that is correct. The Town Manager noted that when the Town started hiring paramedics only, that increased the cost. Some communities have a revolving fund. He can cost out the type of employee needed to do that job. Mark Dockser asked who determines who responds to calls. Chief Burns noted that when they get ambulance calls they send a fire apparatus with it to help carry people out. The Police do respond with them. They carry the same equipment in the fire truck as ambulances. Chief Segalla noted that the Police are mobile and the Fire Department is stationery. The Police are first responders and have equipment to deal with it. Chief Burns noted that all of their ladder trucks carry Narcan. Barry Berman asked if overtime is a challenge and if he anticipates more overtime. Chief Burns noted that the loss of a position will result in an increase of overtime. He doesn't order them in; they just don't let them go home. He did a restructure of command staff for flexibility. Chief Burns noted that he has employees going through steps; they are replacing radios and buying protection equipment for Fire Fighters. John Arena asked if they needed any technology and Chief Burns noted the thermal cameras are getting old and the new ones are lighter. They just added fire hydrant locators on the trucks. John Arena asked how many they are really short and Chief Burns noted they have two out now. He would like four more and that would reduce overtime. &o-r-3 Page 1 3 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 11, 2017 - page 4 Mark Dockser asked about the impact of having two locations. Chief Burns noted that it does not cost more money to staff. He needed them on the west side due to Archstone, Johnson Woods, Austin Prep and schools. He would not want to lose that because it would create a longer response time. Public Services Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios noted that she has 10 Boards in her department and they appreciate all of their work. Administrative Specialist is a new position created by the loss of the Community Services Director and the Office Manager going to part time. She has a strong team throughout. The Building Division is doing inspections five day a week including Friday by appointment. Mrs. Delios reviewed a list of community events and noted that they no longer do the orange highlighted events and the yellows are under discussion. John Feudo spent a lot of time running the yellow highlighted events. The cost of night time government for recording costs is approximately $10,000. Only the recording secretaries get paid for night time government. The Town Manager noted that labor counsel says our ability to not pay overtime is ebbing legally. Jean Delios noted that the time getting ready for meetings and following up from meetings is not taken into account. John Halsey noted that we need discussion with advisory committees to improve efficiencies. The Town Manager noted that the Economic Development Committees in other communities take care of themselves. The employees attend meetings and nothing else. The committees are self- sufficient on their own. Barry Berman noted that this is our government. Meetings have to be at night, this is our form of government so the money should be put in the budget. John Halsey noted that we are just looking at more efficient ways to do things. It's not so simple to add money to the budget when cutting Police. Mark Dockser noted this how we get a lot done. Jean Delios noted that we do not have a recording secretary for the Conservation Commission or Fall Street Faire Committee. Conservation Commission Chairman Anika Scanlon noted that since meetings are video recorded can that serve as minutes. The Town Manager noted that minutes do not have to be a transcript but they do have to have certain things ie. motions highlighted. Jean Delios noted that we have few resources for the nice to haves. Recreation does not run the Fall Street Faire. The Pleasant Street Center will be closing at 3:00 and we will reduce participation in community events. Jean Delios reviewed permits. She noted that they issue around 1000 per year Inspection fees are spiking; wiring and plumbing fees are low. Regarding turnaround time for permits, almost half of the building permits are issued the same day and others within two days. This happens because the Permits Coordinator is empowered to issue. Jean Delios noted that regarding regional housing we are hoping to get a hold on 40B's. Conservation works together to solve problems and fee are up in conservation. Human /Elder Services is doing a Master Plan and she told a story about a couple that the social worker was able to help. Elder contacts are getting more intense. Heath did 221 routine inspections and there has been a marked improvement with trash management. Recreation offers 450 programs and does field scheduling. The Veterans Division is in great shape. 'W'*A Page 1 4 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 11 2017 -,page S Jean Delios reviewed fees and permits and noted there has been an increase in alterations. Jean Delios noted that the overtime budget line has been reduced by $15,000. A motion by Ensminger seconded by Arena to adjourn the meeting at 10.30 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary Page 1 5 i �. i 6 F Town of Reading e Meeting Minutes fff3a,1t1COR�'�aP� Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Board of Selectmen Date: 2017 -01 -12 Time: 7:00 PM Building: Pleasant Street Senior Center Location: Great Room Address: 49 Pleasant Street Session: Open Session Purpose: General Business Version: Attendees: Members - Present: Chairman John Halsey, Vice Chairman Kevin Sexton, Secretary Barry Berman, John Arena and Daniel Ensminger Members - Not Present: Others Present: Town Manager Bob LeLacheur, Town. Accountant Sharon Angstrom, Library Director Amy Lannon, Library Trustees Vicki Yablonsky, Alice Collins, David Hutchinson, Public Works Director Jeff Zager, Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios, Assistant Public Works Director Jane Kinsells, Deputy Police Chief David Clark, Police Chief Mark Segalla, Facilities Director Joe Huggins, Deputy Fire Chief Paula Jackson, Bill Brown, Will Finch, Executive Assistant Paula Schena. Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Secretary Topics of Discussion: Public Comment - Bill Brown handed out a fact sheet from 1967 - 2017. He noted that the Town should go to the City form of government to cut back on night time government. FY18 Budget Public Library - Library Director Amy Lannon reviewed the Core Library Mission and Master Plan. She noted they host a homework center, maker programs, memory cafe and entrepreneurs series. In FY16 they were open 3063 hours; had 51,000+ reference and research, 22 volunteer hours /week and they provide home bound services to 25 residents. They have reading collections at Sanborn Place and other places. Over 400,000 items were checked out; 28,953 items were received from other libraries and 27,343 items were sent to other libraries. Some items go out and don't come back. Downloads do not come back. Their virtual library includes digital magazines, audiobooks, Ebooks, music tracks, ancestry, tutor and mago languages. Ebooks are leased and we have to renew every year. Their licensing is in flux with Ebooks. The library values in books, CD's, movies, etc. total $5,069,852. Amy Lannon noted that the building is complete. They have an increase of everything including patrons, room use, programs, research and reference and museum passes. She hopes to increase staffing. The budget has been increased 1.8% for salaries. They are eliminating Sunday hours, decreasing expenses 1% and decreasing material budget to 14 %. The municipal appropriation has to be at least 1.25% of the average of the last three years. Page 1 1 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 12, 2017 - oaae 2 Amy Lannon noted that the meeting room policy was updated in August 2016. They charge $10 for four hours for non - profits and $20 for Reading residents. The room use from October - December was 357 and they do not charge fees for Town departments. John Arena asked where the fees go to and Amy Lannon noted in the general fund. Jen Hillary asked if late fees are charged for late books and Amy Lannon noted they do not have late fees. John Arena asked about the loss ratio and Amy Lannon noted that they get everything back. John Halsey asked about historic documents and Amy Lannon noted that they like to digitize. We need to do a study to catalog and index. The Town Manager noted that we need to do an inventory. Department of Public Works - Public Works Director Jeff Zager noted that there are not a lot of changes. There is a 1.38% increase in wages. Cemetery Director Bob Keating attends Cemetery Board meetings. They are losing one long -term seasonal in Highway. They planned on asking for one full time person in Highway but the override did not pass. It's like losing two people. Expenses are down 2.49 %. John Arena asked why street lighting has increased when we are using more LED lights. The Town Manager noted that was due to the pricing change. We have decreased this budget three times over the past three years. Snow has a 0% change. Jeff Zager noted that equipment maintenance is okay. They outsource some repairs and parts are increasing 5 - 7% per year. We have additional vehicles and equipment is more specialized. Plows are being added to the pickup trucks. Capital projects include: Phase B water improvements on Salem and Linden Streets; MWRA pipeline; West Street is 90% complete; west Batchelder Road pump station replacement; the Bond Street drainage is under design; Grove Street water main and drainage; Main Street and Mille Street water main cleaning; and Phase 9 sewer I /I. The 2017 road improvements include 14 streets. Other projects include the Auburn Street water tank improvements; UN1 Directional flushing program and GIS implementation and integration. Jeff Zager noted that rubbish recycling is approximately 30% annually. We have the highest percentage of recycling of any non PAYT community. Expense cuts that are being thought about include: • Discontinue snow removal in downtown which costs $24,250 per 6 - 8" storm - he suggests looking at each individual storm. • Elimination of the Shade Tree Program - $5000. • Discontinue Saturday recycling - $8875. • Downtown Street Sweeping Program - $9153. • Holiday tree lighting - $15,174. • Friends and Family Day - $8550. Enterprise Funds - The Town Manager noted that the MWRA assessment is 1/3 of the budget and there is an 8.9% increase in FY18 which will be offset with reserves. Local costs include wages which are up. 2.7 %; maintenance, capital and debt. The second phase of water main improvements needs to wait. We have a bottleneck on how much we can do. It is difficult to forecast water rates. Sewer - The MWRA is 81% assessment and 4 - 4.5% is the target. Wages and expenses remain the same. Charles Street is half done. Big projects coming up include Sturges, Joseph Way, Brewer Lane and Collins Avenue. �J v Page 1 2 Board of Selectmen Minutes - January 12, 2017 - page 3 John Arena noted that the second water meters is a topic for discussion. The Town Manager noted that some communities give a senior discount. Rates are lower with higher use. Stormwater - Remains unchanged at $40 per household. Budget Summary - John Arena asked where are we now? The Board is receiving emails to have an override in April. There is also a trust problem. We need to discuss gives and takes and the fact that schools are 70% of the budget. The Town Manager noted that the school department is not done with their budget yet. John Halsey noted that the Board of Selectmen has no control over how the Library and Schools spend their money. We need to consider what the money will go to. Kevin Sexton noted that he would ask for a lower amount but not specify what for. The Town Manager noted that we do not have the authority to tell the School Department what to do with their money. We can say it is for schools but not specifics. John Arena noted that if we specify what it is for and it doesn't get done that is not good. John Halsey noted that he and Kevin Sexton will meet with the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the School Committee to discuss what to do. A motion by Sexton seconded by Berman to adjourn the meeting at 9:50 P.m. was approved by a vote of 5 -0 -0. Respectfully submitted, Secreta ry Page 1 3 &J3 Schena, Paula From: Daniel Ensminger at home Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 4:50 PM To: LeLacheur, Bob; Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Supporting consideration of a smaller override and ideas for increases in parking fees (including peer data) Bob, Paula — Can you please ensure that this letter is in tonight's Selectman handout? Thanks Dan From: Marianne Downing [mailto:mariannedowning @comcast.net] Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 3:49 PM To: selectmen @ci. read ing. ma. us; townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us Subject: Supporting consideration of a smaller override and ideas for increases in parking fees (including peer data) Dear Town Manager and Board of Selectman: I am writing to you on several points and will try to be brief where applicable and longer (with supporting information) where necessary. I think you in advance for your attention to my comments herein. I address two major areas: a smaller override and increasing parking fees. SMALLER OVERRIDE — PLEASE SUPPORT Please add my voice to the increasing chorus of voices respectfully requesting you consider a smaller override for the April 2017 ballot, at least to avoid the extreme school layoffs and utter decimation of the foreign language program in middle school, to avoid significant high school program cuts, and to ensure we have sufficient public safety officers (i.e. to restore the lost police officer). Regarding the schools: - School layoffs, as you now, result of elimination of gr. 7 foreign language and severely limit Gr. 8 foreign language access to just two Gr. 8 foreign language class sections, per language, at each middle school. - At 25 kids per class, this would mean that just 61% of current 7th graders (324 students over two schools per Mass DESE data) and just 56% of current 6th graders (totaling 356 student) would be able to have gr. 8 language. - Effectively this cut predetermines that nearly half of every grade, starting with next year's gr. 7, will never be able to take an Advanced Placement (AP) class in a foreign language, no matter how much aptitude a child may have, due to lack of having Gr. 8 language (4 years of language is a pre- requisite for AP, as best understood). - The schools have already reported that lack of access to AP classes has impacted college acceptance rates and competitiveness for the class of 2016 (see RPS FY18 budget here http: / /www. reading. kl2. ma.us /files/8414/8404/7241/FY18 Superintendents Budget Final.pdf at p. 9, third paragraph down from top). - Foreign language cut is unique versus the other school cuts in that it is the primary one to have an irreparable ripple effect on students who choose to remain in Reading's schools. Even if there is a later override to restore middle school language, there are now 2 -3 successive grades where nearly half the students in the grade are unfairly prevented from reaching the same proficiency levels and college competitive transcript as their "lottery winning" peers. In contrast, the other cuts (elementary class size, elimination of the college prep HS track), while undesirable in that they result in larger class sizes, still permit all students to have access to elementary or high school classroom in the desired subject. The middle school language cuts cannot be made up for later. Regarding effective reduction of a Police officer - CRIME CONCERNS, INCREASE IN NEW RESIDENTS: The increase in downtown burglaries recently, the increase in drug arrests mentioned in your recent budget review meetings, and the increase in new and planned housing developments (with accompanying new residents) really does require that police force staffing be adequate to ensure public safety and avoid overworking existing officers. Note that my fee increase proposals below might help to at least partially support future funding for such a position, by providing more money to other budget areas and freeing up money on town side of budget. Regarding concerns about a second failed override: - I CONCUR WITH NEED TO GET AT ROOT CAUSES FOR FAILURE OF OCTOBER 2016 OVERRIDE: From watching your meetings, I have heard you express worries that having a second failed override will decrease odds of any further overrides passing, as well as concerns about whether the reasons for the override not passing were mostly related to its size and /or affordability, or due to anger over TLT, or instead might be related to an issue of trust (which in many degrees also relates to trust, as in trust in the judgement of school employees and school committee members who let the TLT situation arise and in the way it was handled) —or some other factor(s). - A SECOND OVERRIDE CAN SERVE A PURPOSE EVEN IF IT FAILS: A second failed override, if it should occur, might be the only way that you as a Board would know with much greater certainty whether or not there is a permeating issue of mistrust, in which case appropriate actions, whether at town or school end, will have to be taken in the best interest of the town. - SENIOR TAX RELIEF —A MITIGATOR: We now have senior tax relief in place as a sure thing, to help alleviate the concerns of many of those affected residents about affordability of a smaller override. - NEW AND VIGOUROUS PARENT INTEREST: The actuality of school cuts appears to have awakened a sleeping giant of parent awareness of, and displeasure with, the scope of the proposed school cuts. It appear that there is much greater public support for and interest in an override designed not to last 10 years, but more like 5 years. However, these school cuts also may have awakened further mistrust in the school priorities, especially regarding spending of professional development money, the high cost of living increases in the existing teacher contracts, and the seeming prioritization of certain school functions (e.g., sports) over academics (e.g., foreign language). You as a board cannot remedy these issues, but certainly may need to take them into account in any new override. - IMPROVING OUTREACH: I also feel that despite the admirable willingness of town boards to reach town voters in these financial forums, it is the same 100 or so faces every time. There are 18000 registered voters in this town, and the boards need to find a different way other than forums to get information out to residents about town finances. Maybe this information (in an unbiased and factual way, not in a way to promote an override but simply to present facts) can be included in RMLD bills sent to all households, even if the information is a flyer intended to direct folks to view more detailed information and /or surveys on a town website, in the library, at the senior center, and /or at town hall. Else, I fear you are not going to reach all voters. PARKING FEES — DEPOT AND RMHS: 2 Finally, as you consider fees and whether or not to raise such fees, I urge the Board of Selectmen, in their purview as parking commissioners to consider a significant fee increase in resident parking fees for the train depot and for student parking at the High school. I view these fees as way of supplementing and offsetting town costs of maintaining these parking spots as well as all the streets around the depot and RMHS that provide safe access year round to all depot and RMHS users. The fees also can support the costs of paying town employees who do this work, any dispatchers who plan this work, supplies used for this work, and the like. Below I have listed some interesting data on what is done in other towns as a justification an example for such increases. READING'S OWN PARKING STUDY: Even before comparing with other commuterrail towns, I first refer you to the parking study that Reading itself commissioned in 2009. This study explicitly recommended that Reading RAISE its commuter rail parking sticker rate to $480 a year to be comparable to other towns with such fees, to use the annual money to maintain the streets around the depot. (See parking study here http://www.readingma.gov/sites/readingma/files/u281Zparking study recommendations compressed.pdf at p 7 -24, where it states "If the Town sets a fair rate that is comparable to the cost of parking at other commuter rail stations in the area (which now charge at least $2 per day, or over $480 per year), it can use the revenues to make improvements to the station area and especially the residential streets where many commuters park today." And that is in 2009 dollars! Why is this not being considered further and immediately in these trying fiscal times? Even if it is not the three million dollar solution this town needs, every $50K here and there provides a significant benefit. COMPARATIVE TRAIN PARKING FEES: Next, consider the following comparison of yearly parking sticker rates to park at commuter rail stations for residents in various towns — do note that some of these towns have varying sticker levels based on parking location, provide senior discounts, and /or offer non - resident train parking stickers at even higher rates. But these are the most direct comparisons I could find: Reading $25 Sharon $540 (see here: http• / /www.townofsharon. net /home /pages /railroad- parking ) Natick $615 (see here: http• / /www.natickma.gov /166 /Transportation - Parking ) South Acton $100 (see here: http: / /www.acton- ma.gov /127 /South - Acton - Commuter -Lot ) Winchester $500 (see here: See httt)s://www.winchester.us/DocumentCenter/View/128 ) Wellesley $480 (see here: http://www.welleslevma.gov/Pages/WellesleyMA Treasurer /parkrates ) As best as I can tell (and correct me if my info is wrong), but Wakefield, Melrose, Wilmington, and Andover offer no such discounted parking to residents at their rail stations. Their residents willingly park there and pay the MBTA daily rate, with all monies going to the MBTA. So we are giving a select group of Reading residents who park in the Reading Depot lot a benefit effectively worth $1000 a year per parking spot.(50 weeks x $4 a day * 5 days) — for the fire sale price of just $25 a year. I have heard the town manager tell the Board of Selectmen that the fees town collects only can go towards the services covered. I respectfully submit that he can take a wider and more generous view of the true costs in maintaining these parking lots, and easily see that $25 per sticker is not enough to cover such costs. For example, think about not only the costs of DPW workers and equipment at the town compost, but also the costs of plowing and maintaining the town owned lots near the depot, police patrols of same, any officers working detail to help with street crossings at certain times, etc., as well as town costs of maintaining the streets near the depot that these commuters use. At a minimum, Reading is paying contractors $80 per hour 3 for plowing (see http: / /www.readin ma.gov /sites /readingma /files /file /file /snowplow package fvl5.pdf ), and that is for a single vehicle. I have seen one municipality (Maynard) note to its residents that the hourly costs of plowing in that town can reach $5000 per hour with all equipment in use at once (see http://www.townofmaynard-ma.gov/dpw/highway/snow-plowing/). Thus, I feel there is a strong justification for some type of an increased cost for a parking pass for the commuter rail. How are these other municipalities justifying the significant parking costs? We could have these higher priced stickers just for the Depot and have separate sticker for compost only, still at the $25 rate, or possibly even a small increase to that to cover the increased costs associated with purchasing DPW equipment and also salary and benefits for DPW officers (this rate has not been raised in many years, even as benefits costs for DPW workers have gone up greatly). If there are 100 commuter rail spots that are resident only, going from, say $25.00 per sticker to the comparable rate of, say, $500 per sticker, for just 100 stickers, will not solve the school or town problems, but could raise $50K, which could pay a significant part of the salary of a police officer in town (or at least cover some overtime for existing officers). I would contend virtually any added public safety officer is a cost related to any parking anywhere in town. Or, such monies could go towards the DPW costs as noted above. This frees town budget money already allocated for these service, for other things. RMHS Parking: For similar reasons listed above as why depot parking cost increases are appropriate, I feel that instituting a parking fee for the High School (and I have heard the RMHS parking lot is town owned and /or town maintained), also should be considered. I have researched this, and many area HS in peer towns include such a fee, including but not limited to: Andover: $100 Tewksbury $150 Chelmsford: $200 Beverly: $100 Westford $50 Hingham: $60 Masconomet: $100 Lexington: $175 per semester Dartmouth: $60 Westwood: $25 Marshfield: $30 Bedford: $30 Framingham (two tier rate depending on location: $125 for closer lot, $75 for more distant) As noted above, parking charges for students similarly can help to offset town costs in maintaining, plowing, and repairing the RMHS parking lot and adjacent roads. In addition, it is simple matter for this Board to enact parking regulations along the nearby residential roads to limit the parking to residents or non - students, or to provide a 2 hour limit (e.g., to allow folks to park for the Y, etc.). Thanks for your consideration on the above ideas and requests. Best Regards Marianne ?CSI.06w 5F Home Phone: 781 - 944 -3447 Mobile: 508 - 265 -4214 Home Address: 13 Heather Drive — Reading MA Email: mariannedowning @comcast.net Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:39 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Please help the district prevent teacher cuts From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] on behalf of rfliberman @verizon.net [rfliberman @verizon.net] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 10:48 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Please help the district prevent teacher cuts Hello Board of Selectmen, Rebecca Liberman (rfliberman @verizon.net) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message Dear Members of the Board of Selectmen, I urge you to find a way to prevent the proposed classroom teacher cuts in the Reading Public Schools. I suggest that you offer the schools some more funds to help balance the FY18 budget, earmarking these funds for teacher positions. Meanwhile, I suggest that you seek other sources of funds, by increasing fees and commercial development taxes as a longer term solution to our funding problems, while demanding that the school district better manage their funds, prioritizing teacher positions above all other expenditures. I have previously suggested raising fees for compost /parking, charging for curbside leaf pickup, charging students for parking at the high school, and moving to a pay - per -throw trash system. I would add to this list increasing the tuition for full day kindergarten, raising the price of band and drama fees, raising the price of parking tickets, and charging library fines. I have been surprised at the lack of interest in raising fees. I think most people, if asked, would prefer to pay higher fees in order to keep teachers and police officers. It has been suggested that an override be put on the ballot for April. I am not at all sure that an override would pass, given that the funds cannot be earmarked beyond one year and given the impression many have that the town and school spending priorities do not match our own. If the proposed FY18 school budget is approved in its current form, with elimination of 13 classroom teaching positions, elimination of 7th grade foreign language, and the end of extra 6th grade English instruction, I would actually be LESS likely to support an override, because this budget does not prioritize teachers, as I feel it should. For example, I have suggested cuts to the athletic, extracurricular and technology budget, which totals over a million dollars in the current budget draft. To spend that kind of money on extracurriculars while cutting teachers is unacceptable. I know many people, including myself, were upset at some of the town's planned projects, like the DPW garage, field lighting, and cemetery garage, feeling that these types of projects are inappropriate at a time of tight budgets and teacher and public safety officer layoffs. Many are also upset about the TLT litigation, including the lack of transparency about this. Many residents would have felt and voted very differently on the library debt exclusion if we had known about the litigation and about the upcoming school budget shortfalls. The argument that we haven't had an override since 2003 is unconvincing, when there have been several increases to our tax bills since then resulting from the library, Wood End, and high school construction projects. Once again, I urge you to help the schools with enough funds to prevent teacher layoffs and the elimination of foreign language and other programs, while at the same time working toward a more permanent funding solution and demanding better management of our limited school funds that prioritizes teachers above everything else. Thank you. Sincerely, Rebecca Liberman Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:39 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Override From: pattersonceramics @ gmail.com [pattersonceramics @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 9:55 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Override Hello to everyone on the Board of Selectmen, I've recently moved to Reading with my husband and two children. Unfortunately I was unable to vote for the recent override, but I really thought it would pass, so I wasn't too upset about not voting ... until it didn't! I couldn't believe this, as I was under the impression that this town really valued its schools ... we were so disappointed, because we're looking for our forever home in a town with strong schools for our children. I've heard a rumor that another override might be proposed, and I thought I'd just throw my hat into the ring as a resident who WOULD NOT miss that opportunity to improve our town and schools! I'm deeply regretting my inability to vote back then, as I know many other residents are, and had I known it would have turned out this way I'd have tried to get out of work... Thanks for listening! Erin Patterson Reading resident and parent Sent from my iPhone Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:39 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] FY 18 budget From: vtsdmailer@vt-s.net [vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] on behalf of Tracymo410 2yahoo.com [Tracymo410 @yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 9:13 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] FY 18 budget Hello Board of Selectmen, Tracy Moloney (Tracymo410 @vahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Dear Members of the Board: I am a resident of Reading and a parent. I am deeply concerned about the proposed FY18 budget and the potential cuts to our schools and services. Our children will not thrive or excel in an environment that is short on teachers and instruction. Reading has a reputation for having great schools and we need to provide the financial resources to our schools to ensure our kids gain a strong education. I would be very interested in an override to help raise funds or other measures to help meet the deficit in the FY18 budget. Thank you for your consideration. Tracy Moloney Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:39 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Request to support another town override From: Julie Wall Oulescc3 @aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 9:00 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Request to support another town override Dear Reading Board of Selectmen, Hello! My name is Julie Wall, and I am a six -year resident of Reading, MA. My husband and I have two children, aged five and two; our oldest currently attends kindergarten in the Reading Public Schools. am disheartened to hear of the potential budget cuts for the 2017 -2018 school year, and respectfully request that you support and present another override to the town this April. My husband and I will adamantly support an override that will prevent the reductions in programs and teachers' positions as outlined in the Superintendent's proposed budget for the upcoming school year. Thank you so much for your time and consideration, and please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any help with this endeavor. Sincerely, Julie Wall Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:40 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MAI Override on Ballot April 2017 From: vtsdmailer@vt-s.net [vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] on behalf of jpe[edge@gmail.com [jpeledge @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 8:31 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override on Ballot April 2017 Hello Board of Selectmen, Jason Peledge (Ipeledge @gmail.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http• / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Dear Mr. Halsey et al, As a resident, I was very attentive to the prior override vote this past fall and very disappointed in the outcome. My wife and I moved our family from Malden to Reading back in 2006 because we both grew up in Malden and knew Reading's public schools had a more favorable reputation than Malden's. We chose to pay a higher price for a home and a higher rate of taxes to reap the benefits of these famed Reading schools. However, due to successive budget cuts, these schools do not seem to be able to hold onto this reputation for much longer and as a resident I feel betrayed. I realize not all of you have served throughout our time in Reading and do not own the responsibility of decisions of the past. But we are collectively as government representatives and citizens in a very tough spot right now, and I will not stand idly by and let the schools in particular suffer any longer. We are a JE family and have dealt with issues surrounding that school in recent years. Now one has moved onto Parker and the Superintendent is slashing middle school positions to meet his budget needs. This ongoing chipping away at the budget has been directly impacting my family and the schools my sons attend about as long as they have attended them. That's unacceptable. People do not move to Reading because we have wonderfully plowed streets and not because we have an awesome recycling program. They're not coming because of nearly any town service except the schools. They may come because of the safety and the town can take pride in that for now, but I came from the city. If we don't offer great schools, then people won't be moving here and it won't be safe much longer. People who can afford the taxes will move to where they can get higher quality public schools or they'll ship their kids to private schools. I'm a Malden Catholic grad in part for that very reason. I'm not an economist nor do I hold an MBA, so I don't have a ton of logistical solutions to offer you. I've attended the economic development meetings and offered my input. I've been currently serving on the budget parent committee and have offered my input. And now I offer my input to you: please put an override on the ballot this April. Perhaps asking for a lower amount that can get us through a fewer number of years will appease the naysayers a bit more and turn their votes in favor of the override. Perhaps more of us can do more to meet those who question it and can work to get a few of those to change their minds or even more of those just to vote in the first place. Regardless, I can no longer stand by and watch the public schools of this town get drained by ongoing cuts. I can't watch teachers lose their jobs and class sizes get larger and resources get pulled away and allow my children to suffer through that. That's why we moved here - -not to have to suffer through that. We need the Board of Selectmen to put this override on the ballot to show to us the leadership we need; we need the BOS to show that you too care about how badly our schools are being beaten up and that you won't stand any longer for it either. So I respectfully ask that you do so and prove to the residents that our town can't afford not to have an override. Prove that this problem really is dire and that we need to do something about it NOW. Sincerely yours, Jason Peledge 30 Center Avenue Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:40 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Override in April From: vtsdmailer@vt-s.net [vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] on behalf of kfpaulsen @gmal.com [kfpaulsen @gmal.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 8:11 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Override in April Hello Board of Selectmen, Katie Paulsen (kfpaulsen @gmal.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message Please give this community another chance at getting the override vote right in April. The proposed cuts will be devastating for this town. In this complicated world, we need as many positive role models as absolutely possible in our school system for children. Please don't fail them. Thank you for your consideration. Katie Paulsen Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:40 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] Over ride in April From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] on behalf of geofflaura@comcast.net [geofflaura @comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 8:07 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] Over ride in April Hello Board of Selectmen, Laura Forse (geofflaura @comcast.net) has sent you a message via your contact form (http : / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message: Please help support an override in our town. As a public school educator in Arlington, I have been a part of the challenge in gaining support for schools from families who do not have students in public school. Please help support and educate all residents on the need for our students in the need for quality education. I currently have two students at Parker and one at Barrows. We are a young family hoping to see our schools strengthen. Sincerely, Laura Forse 10 Wescroft Road Reading 1 Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:41 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Override vote From: Corin Gigler [crgbcl0 @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 7:57 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Override vote Hello, I would welcome another override vote, for a smaller amount, in support of our schools. Thank you, Corin Gigler 34 Putnam Rd Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:41 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Another Concerned Citizen From: Kerin Bakst [kerinbakst @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 7:28 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Another Concerned Citizen Dear Board of Selectmen, I am a concerned parent of 3 children, two of which attend Killam school, and am in favor of an override this Spring to support our schools! Please consider! Many Thanks, Kerin Bakst Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:41 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] In Support of Another Override Attempt From: vtsdmailer@vt-s.net [vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] on behalf of mgrimm2004 @yahoo.com [mgrimm2004 @yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 7:11 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] In Support of Another Override Attempt Hello Board of Selectmen, Mary Grimm (mgrimm2004 @vahoo.com) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message Dear Sirs, I am writing to express my support for the placement of another Proposition 2 1/2 Override ballot question to be voted on at the upcoming Town election in April. I am currently serving as a Budget Parent (from Barrows) for the FY 2018 Budget season, and am therefore well informed on the contents of the Superintendent's proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. I, along with my fellow Budget Parents, are very distressed by the scope of the cuts, and by the loss of educational opportunities for our children. What I personally find most distressing about the situation is the fact that, without passage of an override sometime before the FY'19 budget cycle, there will need to be even more cuts beyond those currently being contemplated in the FY'18 budget. This situation will be dire and I believe that the Town will find such cuts, and the corresponding level of services, to be unacceptable. I am therefore requesting that the BOS make every attempt possible to obtain passage of an override in the near term. I plan to attend the Financial Forum tomorrow evening with hopes that there will be a dialogue about how we can collectively educate fellow townspeople to make an upcoming override attempt successful. I believe that the BOS, Superintendent of Schools and Town Administrator will need to assuage voters that this override is necessary, not because of fiscal mismanagement or legal actions, but because of a systemic structural budget deficit (i.e., costs rising more sharply than revenues). I believe it would also be helpful to address current staffing levels at the Town and to explain the rationale for those levels (i.e., police, fire, DPW, etc.), and to explain the sources of funding for some of the capital projects that are apparent around Town (e.g., the library, the new street signs, the crosswalk pavers and granite blocks in the square, etc.) so that there is clarity and trust in how monies from our existing and past operating budgets have been allocated. Thank you for your consideration of this information and this request for placement of another Override question on the upcoming Town ballot. Sincerely, Mary Grimm 156 Prospect Street Reading, MA Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:41 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: school budget From: Emmy Dove [elbdove @gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 6:24 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: school budget Dear Selectmen, I was in touch with you about a month ago concerning the timing of the override vote last fall. I want to thank you for your responses. Upon reviewing the new school budget material, I'd like to request another override vote for the April election ballot. This matter is of great concern to me personally as I have a child in the public school system, but I feel it should concern other residents as well. I have seen the impact a neglected public school system can have on a community (Amesbury is a great example) and I don't want that for Reading. I moved here a few years ago for the schools and would seriously consider relocating if the town no longer prioritizes education. I hope my previous line of questioning regarding the timing of the vote made evident my belief that the electorate did not have proper access to the vote. The turnout was woefully low and cannot be deemed representative of the views of the registered voters in Reading. I am also concerned that the override from the fall included town budget items. In my previous town, school and town budget items were kept separate. This may have been in effort to encourage residents without school -aged children to vote in favor of the override, but I don't know that it actually served that purpose. I hope you will consider revisiting the override request from 2016. Thank you, Emmy Dove Schena, Paula From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 8:30 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: [Reading MA] School Cuts - - - -- Original Message---- - From: vtsdmailer @vt -s.net [mailto:vtsdmailer @vt- s.net] On Behalf Of Aisorge @comcast.net Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 8:29 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: [Reading MA] School Cuts Hello Board of Selectmen, Angela McColgan (Aisorge @comcast.net) has sent you a message via your contact form (http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /contact) at Reading MA. If you don't want to receive such e- mails, you can change your settings at http: / /www.readingma.gov /user /475 /edit. Message I am writing to you for a deep concern my family has about the proposed budget cuts to the Reading School system. We moved here 10 years ago and a big part of that was because of the well known schools. We now have 3 children just entering the school system (8, 5 and 2). 1 urge you to consider another override proposal so that we can sustain our school system. Thank you.