HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-09-25 SB HandoutSeptember 25, 2018
Department of Public Utilities
Gas Division
1 South Station
Boston, MA 02110
Dear Department of Public Utilities,
The Town of Reading Select Board wishes to express our concerns regarding the lockout of National Grid
union workers represented by United Steelworkers Locals 12003 and 12012 and the ongoing work being
performed by the replacement workers.
To date, over 50 complaints across 20 communities have been filed in regards to work performed by
these replacement workers. These complaints are all the more concerning in light of the recent and
catastrophic events that occurred to our neighbors in the Merrimac Valley. The highest standards of
safety need to be applied when working with a substance as dangerous as natural gas.
We respectfully request that the Department of Public Utilities increase its vigilance over gas work in the
communities affected by the lockout until National Grid and the Steelworkers Locals can reach an
agreement.
Town of Reading Public Safety Response to the Merrimac Valley Natural Gas Situation
Hi Bob,
Several Reading Firefighters along with hundreds of Firefighters responded to the gas leak and
fires in Andover, North Andover and Lawrence. There were two separate commands organized
for this incident one in Andover and one in Lawrence. There were two major staging areas
where fire equipment and in Lawrence ambulances were placed organized and then sent out to
respond to emergencies as needed.
I responded to the Andover Staging Area on Shawsheen Road. At this staging area 18 fire
engines and ladder trucks where sent to await an assignment. I believe 3 Tasks Forces consisting
of 6 engines and 2 ladder trucks each were assigned to this staging area. One of the task forces
was from our Fire District 13 and I responded as Fire District 13 Alternate Coordinator to assist
in organizing this staging area. An Andover Deputy Chief was assigned by Andover as the
Staging Area Manager and he was responsible to send equipment from this staging area out to
emergency calls as needed. There were a number of police officers in the staging area and they
escorted the fire apparatus to their assignment. Once a fire truck or trucks completed their
assignment they responded back to staging and waited for another assignment.
Our Engine 3 with Lt. Myette, FF McCarthy and FF Forsey responded to Andover on the 3rd
alarm. This was early in the incident and their initial assignment was to cover their Ballardvale
fire station. While they were responding into Andover they were dispatched to a church to
investigate a gas leak, from their they were sent to a reported structure fire and found a fire in the
basement of the home. The fire began at the gas meter and they were able to extinguish the fire
and shut off the gas supply. Once they cleared that response they were sent to the staging area
Shawsheen Road and then they became part of District 13 Structural Task Force 13E. They were
dispatched out of the staging area to investigate a gas leak in a home. The Andover staging area
was shut down at approximately 10:40 pm Thursday.
Firefighter Joe Lapolla works as a paramedic for Lawrence General Hospital. He had just
completed an EMS class with the Lawrence Fire Chief when these fires began. Firefighter
Lapolla was called back to work for Lawrence General Hospital. He was assigned by the
Lawrence Fire Chief as the Staging Area Manager 1. This Staging Area was for fire
apparatus. He was responsible to send equipment from this staging area out to emergency calls
as needed. This staging area was larger than the Andover Staging Area. FF Lapolla estimates
over 100 fire trucks were sent out to incidents from this staging area and he served as Staging
Area Manager until 2:00 AM Friday Morning.
Firefighter David Gentile also works as a paramedic for Lawrence General Hospital. He was
assigned to an ambulance that day. He responded to the call where the teenager was killed as a
result to the house explosion and resulting chimney collapse. He was involved in the initial
treatment. Another ambulance transported the patient and he and his partner then responded to 7
or 8 fires to see if there were victims that required treatment. He responded to a townhouse
complex fire that was widely seen on the news. One Lawrence engine company was on scene
with 3 Firefighters and they had to (by themselves) stretch a hoseline into the building, search
the building and the condo unit that was attached and try to extinguish the fire. Because all 3
Firefighters on scene had to go into the fire building there was no one left to operate the fire
pump. Firefighter Gentile assisted them by running the fire pump for them. While they were at
this location another fire broke out in another unit. Firefighter Gentile assisted Lawrence again
by shutting off some gas services in this complex. The gas heating appliances were located in
closets on the first floor and they would quickly spread fire in the unit.
Firefighter Gentile left this incident and responded to other fires. He was dispatched to the fires
to treat Firefighters who needed medical attention. Many of these Firefighters had responded to
fires with only 3 -5 other Firefighters and because of the workload they were collapsing because
of the heat and exhaustion. At the conclusion of these responses they were sent back to staging
to await another response.
Although we all had different experiences and perspective on the incident we all came away with
the same opinion that these incidents were handled exceptionally well by the communities of
Lawrence, Andover and all responding personnel. This is no small feat. To have this volume of
emergency personnel and equipment be needed and then arrive from communities at a
considerable distance and then go to work for a common purpose in such a seamless fashion was
amazing to see.
Greg
Chief Gregory J. Burns
Reading Fire Department
757 Main Street
Reading, MA 01867
(P) 781.944.3132
(F) 781.942.9114
ww?v.readin mY a.QOv
Reading Police had multiple officers respond throughout the incident in various capacities to
assist with the gas leak and fires in Andover, North Andover and Lawrence.
Sgt. Justin Martel who is a member of the NEMLEC (North Eastern Massachusetts Law
Enforcement Council) SWAT team responded with a Reading cruiser on multiple dates to assist
with evacuations, respond to calls and watch for looting. He was in Lawrence and Andover
throughout his call out.
He worked from 5:30pm to 7:30 am on September 13 into September 14.
On September 14 he was called in again at 11:00 pm until 9:30am.
On September 15 th he was called back in from 11:OOpm to 7:30am.
Officer Patrick Dawley who is a member of NEMLEC — RRT (Rapid Response Team) was
called to respond to Lawrence and Andover to patrol for looting and any other crimes. He took
a Reading Cruiser with him.
He worked on September 13th from 5:30pm to 7:00 am.
On September 14th from 11:00pm to 9:00 am.
On September 15th midnight to 9:00 am.
On September 15th from 11:00pm to 1:30pm.
Public Safety Dispatcher Joseph Pagnotta who is a member of NEMLEC- IMT (Incident
Management Team) was called to respond. He was stationed at the Command Center in
Lawrence.
He worked on September 13th from 11:00pm to 8:00am.
On September 14th a mutual aid request was sent to help with traffic control. Officers Zachary
Fontes and Joshua Graciale were sent with a Reading Cruiser to Lawrence from 7:00 am to
6:00pm.
On September 15th Lt. John McKenna, Officer Kaylyn Gooley and Officer Andrew Kirwan
responded with three Reading Cruisers to Lawrence for traffic control.
Lt. McKenna worked from 7:30am to 11:30pm. Officers Gooley and Kirwan worked from 7:30
am to 6:30pm.
The officers that responded were ready to perform any task assigned to them. It is clear that the
Incident Command worked exceptionally well.
David
David J. Clark
Deputy Chief of Police
Reading Police Department
15 Union Street
Reading, MA 01867
781 - 942 -6765
http: / /www.readingma.gov /police- department
of 1?e,
Office of the Town Manager
16 Lowell Street
J6J'�'7NCORp��P� Reading, MA 01867
To: John Halsey, Select Board
From: Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Date: September 23, 2018
RE: Capital Projects Overview
781 - 942 -9043
townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us
www.readingma.gov /town - manager
This memo is being created in response to a request by Select Board member John Halsey to summarize
large current capital projects.
There are effectively five different 'groups' of projects, listed below:
1. School and Town Building Security V A
The Board has previously seen a project overview in an Executive Session, along with representatives
from the School Committee, Library Trustees and Finance Committee. Please note that Executive
Session reviews past and present will be summary level only. The project details are protected under
Homeland Security and have been kept tightly controlled at the staff level.
Town Meeting approved $0.5 million for renovations to the Dispatch Center in April 2018. A remaining
$4.0 million of work, possibly divided into a high priority $2.5 million and another set of $1.5 million of
work, was shown to Town meeting as needing unspecified future funding on the capital plan.
There have been several developments since. First, further work on the Dispatch Center was halted after
preliminary staff work revealed the complexity of renovating the building and trying to provide ongoing
emergency services. At November 2018 Town Meeting we are going to request that this funding is
reclassified as School and Town Building Design Services so we can have a better project overview from
a construction standpoint. Second, the passage of the Override meant an increase in future capital &
debt capacity each year. November Town Meeting will see a revised capital plan that fully funds the $4.0
million of work needed inside the tax levy, starting in FY20 and funded with 10 -year debt. If Town
Meeting agrees with this approach they will be asked to approve debt at April 2019 Town Meeting and
this topic will receive careful overview during the FY20 budget process this winter. Third, a total of $3
million for this purpose has been placed in a bond bill and earmarked for Reading. We understand this
topic to be important on Beacon Hill, and with the repurposed $0.5 million to be project -wide, we
should be in a shovel -ready position to receive those funds as soon as they are released and available.
2. Elementary School Space Study
April 2018 Town Meeting approved the request that $207,500 (or 5% of the $4.15 million Override) be
directed to the Permanent Building Committee for the purpose of Elementary School space needs. This
brought the total allocation to the PBC to $357,500 for FY19. Discussion since at a PBC meeting that I did
not attend and at a meeting with the Superintendent, Facilities Director, and both the Chair and Vice
Chair of the PBC that I did attend concluded that a space study was not something that the PBC's
recently designed process would include, and that instead those funds should be directed to the project
sponsor, in this case the School Committee. Therefore at November 2018 Town Meeting, Town Meeting
will be asked to direct that $207,500 instead to a capital line called Elementary School Space Planning.
At a recent School Committee meeting, after some discussion they also agreed to request that an
additional $20,000 of capital be added to this total as it is not needed for two previously scheduled
school building improvements. Thus a total of $227,500 would be available if approved to start ground
work on this project. From my perspective, I support this approach that encourages a full scope of work
be studied early before final actions are decided. As part of this preliminary work, the School Committee
agreed to include an Enrollment Study, as one has not been conducted for several years.
It is anticipated that the scope of work will focus on the Killam School. At this time, a project of this size
will clearly fall under FINCOM's guidelines to be done outside the tax levy in other words a future
request to taxpayers for a debt exclusion of as yet indeterminate size. At April 2018 Town Meeting this
project was listed as "Killam Building project TBD ".
JA3. Community Center
The Board has previously heard a presentation from our Human /Elder Services staff about the
significant growth of this population segment in town, and the inadequate facility at the. Pleasant Street
Center. Their study indicated what types of space would be needed for current and projected future
population, which has been developed form some Economic Development work we have done in the
last three years. There has been less specific work done on the idea that a new or repurposed existing
facility could also serve other segments of the community. Function space and meeting space are clear
needs in the community — our recreation and athletic communities tell us about needing to meet
outside of town frequently, and ideally we would prefer to keep their business here in Reading. There
has been discussion about integrating school space needs here, but legally a clear separation would
need to segment the building, which could be too challenging. A solution could be from existing private
building owners that we have had discussions with, or possibly the town land at Oakland Road.
There are no current or proposed placeholders for funding in the capital plan for this project. As a
reminder, by FINCOM policy, anything over $5 million should be done outside the tax levy. It is possible
that solutions could be on either side of that figure. At April 2018 Town Meeting this project was listed
as "Community Center TBD ".
(V-- 4. Recreation /Athletic Repairs and Needs
This project consists of several pieces, and Town Meeting has previously authorized debt for some work
that was halted.
I have had extensive discussions with the Superintendent, Facilities Director and Recreation
Administrator and this topic will be discussed publicly at the October Financial Forum. From those
discussions and before public input, here are my listed priorities for this area:
Very High: Turf II repairs and renovation to slightly expand the field, and to fully light this field and the
remaining fields four other fields at Birch Meadow. We hold $0.9 million in debt authorization from a
previous Town Meeting for the field lighting work, and would need about $0.5 million to complete this
work (for a $1.4 million total). For the Turf II portion of the project we have a current estimated cost of
between $2.25 and $2.5 million. Again because of the additional capital /debt available from the
Override, we are able to schedule and fund a combined $3.9 million project starting in FY21 for these
purposes and November Town Meeting will be asked to approve a Capital Plan with these items. If they
do, we will then ask April 2019 Town Meeting for debt authorization for this amount. This authorization
a year early will give us flexibility should the School & Town Building Security project receive grant
funding from the state. Discussions with those listed above plus the Assistant Principal for Activities,
Clubs and Athletics as well as coaches have left me to conclude that Turf II will need to be closed for
safety issues within the next two years.
High: RMHS Stadium Turf and Track replacement. These are in better condition than Turf II and can wait
a few years, but will need to be addressed within the next five years or so. Ongoing maintenance will
help ameliorate the need for work done sooner. Our current estimated cost is $2.75 million for this
work, and no funding sources are planned to be identified in the capital plan.
Medium: RMHS Fieldhouse floors and bleachers. This is slightly less urgent that work on the Stadium,
but ongoing wear & tear could change this priority. Our current estimated cost is $1.4 million for this
work, and no funding sources are planned to be identified in the capital plan.
Low: Birch Meadow Improvements. A subcommittee of the recreation Committee is meeting to discuss.
Future $1 million for unspecified improvements are mentioned in the capital plan, although no funding
sources are planned to be identified.
Comment: For all of these projects, I would anticipate that the recreation and athletic community will
be partners in any work done, given their outstanding history of contributing financially as well as time -
wise. Also note that we have been in touch with some local real estate owners about some field
expansion opportunities and that may become a part of this larger project.
O�0 5. Department of Public Works Facility
The Board has heard previous discussion about the prospects of moving the DPW garage to another
location, in order to open up this land and other private parcels for significant Economic Development.
We have contacted the owners of those other parcels as well as possible developers, and there is
significant interest to have further discussions. Community discussions that have included Wakefield
previously now include Lynnfield after a change in management and Board support.
Reading has previously scoped out the size needed for staff and equipment, and generated a project
estimate. We have also done work to include Wakefield and do see economies of scale simply in the
construction. We have not yet done a preliminary design to include Lynnfield.
If Camp Curtis is the desired location that has always been a tricky proposition, but one that has
generated support after a full understanding of the entire proposal. The need for a DPW garage is less
critical than for example a solution to the Elementary School Space issue. Yet at the same time, the
future revenue possibilities of this project are attractive. It is possible after some start -up costs that a
combination of grant funding, development resulting in tax revenues, and costs shared with other towns
could pay for the project for several years and that after that the town could enjoy the additional
revenues. At April 2018 Town Meeting this project was listed as "DPW Bldg Project TBD ".
Reading Select Board
Re: Maillet Conservation Area on Willow Street
On August 7, we received a mailed notice from Kim Honetschlager, GIS administrator informing us that
the construction of a trail would begin in 8 days on Conservation land, close to our back yard property
line. We found it disturbing that no opportunity was ever given to abutters to express our concerns
regarding a loss of privacy, safety, and security. We are requesting your immediate oversight and
intervention in this matter that would delay or terminate this project until sufficient further review and
input is provided by all affected parties.
We understand the planning of this project began as early as last winter (2017 -2018) while application
for a grant was made in April 2018. After a delay in the initial starting date of 8/15/18 a second letter
was received informing abutters that we were encouraged to present "questions about the upcoming
projects" at the September12, 2018 Conservation Meeting. This "opportunity" to present our concerns,
objections and questions, proved to be meaningless in light of what was already an approved project.
A number of neighbors share common concerns about issues of safety, loss of privacy to abutters,
along with the unsuitability of this property for the project and the lack of parking which would
necessitate use of conservation land to meet that need. As abutters we have witnessed misuse of this
area with activity that included campfires, smoking, drinking, ATV use, and in one case indecent
exposure as well as trespassing. Years ago we learned from members of the Johnson chicken farm on
West Street, that the previous owner of this area used it as a dump for rubbish. Sharp glass from bottles
and containers along with metal objects continue to surface as leaves and ground cover decay.
We believe the Trails Committee misrepresents this area as an "established path" when in fact it is only
proposed path intended in an area that is often literally under water. Added to this we have yet to see
evidence of a path having ever existed from Hunt Street to Willow St., as this area is subject to much
water and greater flooding. At one point we had an issue with beavers and a dam in the same wetlands.
At the Wed. Sept. 12`h Conservation meeting, we felt the prevailing tone of committee response to our
concerns was dismissive with minimal regard for the concerns of residents and property owners along
the 3 path lines. Time allotted for public input would have been brief were it not for one attendee
persisting that she and others had not yet been given a chance to speak.
Many of us purchased our homes with the belief and confidence that the conservation land in question
would always remain untouched and afford us permanent privacy in our back yards. We feel strongly
that the homeowner needs for safety, privacy and security of those affected by this project should
outweigh the alleged "need" for optional recreational activity.
Since the proposed start date is scheduled for Sept. 29 2018, your prompt intervention by delaying or
cancelling this project is necessary if there is to be any effective relief for the abutters.
Gary & Linda Phillips, Willow Street representing concerned abutters.
(D
0
J
We, the undersigned are in agreement with and supportive of the described concerns and intended
purpose of the above letter presented to your committee by the Phillips:
C�A
IV
4
UL
Hitting Turtle Proposal
Reading Select Boarc' ' "
Friends of Reading High School Baseball
WHO WE ARE:
A non - profit organization developed to raise funds to support the HS baseball program.
Been in existence since 2014
Consist of community volunteers, alumni, and parents.
Our annual donations currently support the hiring of assistant coaches, conducting team
events like senior day and an end of the year banquet.
This proposal represents our first capital improvement as an organization
SPECIFICATIONS
Foldable aluminum construction
Collapsed dimensions:
20ft deep x 13.5 ft wide x 5 ft high
In use dimensions:
20 ft deep x 13.5 ft wide x 12 ft high
r Nylon and vinyl skirt and padding
3.5 mm weather treated netting
8.5 in wide x 18 in tall pneumatic tires
Dolly system for easy mobility
r Dual coaches observation platforms (Rear)
OUR PROPOSAL
To purchase and donate a
hitting turtle to the Town of
Reading.
It will be available for use at
Morton Field at Moscariello
Ballpark
RATIONALE:
• Helps to train hitters more safely
• Eliminates foul balls into wetlands
• Helps keep bystanders safe
-Allows coaches to have closer proximity to
hitters for instructional purposes
.9/25/2018
MOBILITY:
Can be easily moved
by one person
Handle located at
the rear pulls down
to engage the
wheels and for
steering.
gTnR4C;F-
The batting turtle does collapse to 5 ft high. Allows fans to
see field and eliminates climbing risk.
9/25/2018
r
. ... ...
3
�
RCASA
O �
b.A
o
o �
O
M
O
C�
C�
O
H
47
a�
s.
0
x
C�
PIZ
V
W
O
O
M
C�
P
We
O
W
M
'ZZ
C>C) O
N �
N �
�
P
E
' a
4d
u
C
awxwH�wxtiavc��ti
s.,
N
U
4--
O
N
� O
Ct
N
0
0
U
V
ap
0
N
O
N
N
4r
O
O �
bOA �
�v
0
0
U
O
0
U
w
0
an
P*
4,
�a O
O
N O
O
O �
� x
0 o
O �
O bA
z .
a�
.0
f".
O
0
c�
0
N
N
7s
O
G'
0
Z�8
M
N
O _
O
O V
O
� O
'
N
O
O
ti
s.,
O
o,
.x
c�
_
O
_
O v
a�
^O
x
U
U
V
N
4-+
O
s..
U
O =
w�
0
_
O
J.r
C�
03
0
4r
O
O
41
41
O
O
O U
� O
O � O
o
o
o �
o -d
N N
c
U
o
O �
O `n
� U
S�, N
N � r
b
H� 3
c�
'+•+ it
O �
O
O a
0 0
i
P� U
U
N
CA
O
U
O
0
0
0
0
U
Q�
a
U
U
O~
CA
0
U
bA �
• O vii
r., y
w +e
a�
•� O
a s�"•=
o
w
W 0
= O G
P., .5 s
0
Town of Reading Public Safety Response to the Merrimac Valley Natural Gas Situation
Hi Bob,
Several Reading Firefighters along with hundreds of Firefighters responded to the gas leak and
fires in Andover, North Andover and Lawrence. There were two separate commands organized
for this incident one in Andover and one in Lawrence. There were two major staging areas
where fire equipment and in Lawrence ambulances were placed organized and then sent out to
respond to emergencies as needed.
I responded to the Andover Staging Area on Shawsheen Road. At this staging area 18 fire
engines and ladder trucks where sent to await an assignment. I believe 3 Tasks Forces consisting
of 6 engines and 2 ladder trucks each were assigned to this staging area. One of the task forces
was from our Fire District 13 and I responded as Fire District 13 Alternate Coordinator to assist
in organizing this staging area. An Andover Deputy Chief was assigned by Andover as the
Staging Area Manager and he was responsible to send equipment from this staging area out to
emergency calls as needed. There were a number of police officers in the staging area and they
escorted the fire apparatus to their assignment. Once a fire truck or trucks completed their
assignment they responded back to staging and waited for another assignment.
Our Engine 3 with Lt. Myette, FF McCarthy and FF Forsey responded to Andover on the 3`d
alarm. This was early in the incident and their initial assignment was to cover their Ballardvale
fire station. While they were responding into Andover they were dispatched to a church to
investigate a gas leak, from their they were sent to a reported structure fire and found a fire in the
basement of the home. The fire began at the gas meter and they were able to extinguish the fire
and shut off the gas supply. Once they cleared that response they were sent to the staging area
Shawsheen Road and then they became part of District 13 Structural Task Force 13E. They were
dispatched out of the staging area to investigate a gas leak in a home. The Andover staging area
was shut down at approximately 10:40 pm Thursday.
Firefighter Joe Lapolla works as a paramedic for Lawrence General Hospital. He had just
completed an EMS class with the Lawrence Fire Chief when these fires began. Firefighter
Lapolla was called back to work for Lawrence General Hospital. He was assigned by the
Lawrence Fire Chief as the Staging Area Manager 1. This Staging Area was for fire
apparatus. He was responsible to send equipment from this staging area out to emergency calls
as needed. This staging area was larger than the Andover Staging Area. FF Lapolla estimates
over 100 fire trucks were sent out to incidents from this staging area and he served as Staging
Area Manager until 2:00 AM Friday Morning.
Firefighter David Gentile also works as a paramedic for Lawrence General Hospital. He was
assigned to an ambulance that day. He responded to the call where the teenager was killed as a
result to the house explosion and resulting chimney collapse. He was involved in the initial
treatment. Another ambulance transported the patient and he and his partner then responded to 7
or 8 fires to see if there were victims that required treatment. He responded to a townhouse
complex fire that was widely seen on the news. One Lawrence engine company was on scene
with 3 Firefighters and they had to (by themselves) stretch a hoseline into the building, search
(a)
the building and the condo unit that was attached and try to extinguish the fire. Because all 3
Firefighters on scene had to go into the fire building there was no one left to operate the fire
pump. Firefighter Gentile assisted them by running the fire pump for them. While they were at
this location another fire broke out in another unit. Firefighter Gentile assisted Lawrence again
by shutting off some gas services in this complex. The gas heating appliances were located in
closets on the first floor and they would quickly spread fire in the unit.
Firefighter Gentile left this incident and responded to other fires. He was dispatched to the fires
to treat Firefighters who needed medical attention. Many of these Firefighters had responded to
fires with only 3 -5 other Firefighters and because of the workload they were collapsing because
of the heat and exhaustion. At the conclusion of these responses they were sent back to staging
to await another response.
Although we all had different experiences and perspective on the incident we all came away with
the same opinion that these incidents were handled exceptionally well by the communities of
Lawrence, Andover and all responding personnel. This is no small feat. To have this volume of
emergency personnel and equipment be needed and then arrive from communities at a
considerable distance and then go to work for a common purpose in such a seamless fashion was
amazing to see.
Greg
Chief Gregory). Burns
Reading Fire Department
757 Main Street
Reading, NLk 01867
(P) 789.944.3132
(F) 781.942.9114
wwmreadin mu. op
Reading Police had multiple officers respond throughout the incident in various capacities to
assist with the gas leak and fires in Andover, North Andover and Lawrence.
Sgt. Justin Martel who is a member of the NEMLEC (North Eastern Massachusetts Law
Enforcement Council) SWAT team responded with a Reading cruiser on multiple dates to assist
with evacuations, respond to calls and watch for looting. He was in Lawrence and Andover
throughout his call out.
He worked from 5:30pm to 7:30 am on September 13 into September 14.
On September 14 he was called in again at 1.1:00 pm until 9:30am.
On September 15 th he was called back in from 11:OOpm to 7:30am.
D(D
Officer Patrick Dawley who is a member of NEMLEC — RRT (Rapid Response Team) was
called to respond to Lawrence and Andover to patrol for looting and any other crimes. He took
a Reading Cruiser with him.
He worked on September 13th from 5:30pm to 7:00 am.
On September 1.4th from 11:00pm to 9:00 am.
On September 15th midnight to 9:00 am.
On September 15th from 11:00pm to 1:30pm.
Public Safety Dispatcher Joseph Pagnotta who is a member of NEMLEC- IMT (Incident
Management Team) was called to respond. He was stationed at the Command Center in
Lawrence.
He worked on September 13th from 11:00pm to 8:00am.
On September 14th a mutual aid request was sent to help with traffic control. Officers Zachary
Fontes and Joshua Graciale were sent with a Reading Cruiser to Lawrence from 7:00 am to
6:00pm.
On September 15th Lt. John McKenna, Officer Kaylyn Gooley and Officer Andrew Kirwan
responded with three Reading Cruisers to Lawrence for traffic control.
Lt. McKenna worked from 7:30am to 11:30pm. Officers Gooley and Kirwan worked from 7:30
am to 6:30pm.
The officers that responded were ready to perform any task assigned to them. It is clear that the
Incident Command worked exceptionally well.
David
David J. Clark
Deputy Chief of Police
Reading Police Department
15 Union Street
Reading, MA 01867
781- 942 -6765
http• / /www.readingma.goV /police- department
0
i
N
O
0
r..y
N,
M
o�
O
v
0
v
n
eL
0�
0�
e�
O
v
Q
W
a
a�
v
CJ�
u
O
a
laax4S MIPIV
0
�o
im"',
i.r•i
di
N
Is
a
r
5
�U
M
N
0—
Wo
t
V3
O
�V
� �0u
P4
Vasa
Vax�
xx
����`�'
O
•
�
N
,4
N
M
4
Sri
00 O"
—
..q
im"',
i.r•i
di
N
Is
a
r
5
�U
M
N
0—
Wo
t
V3
O
LeLacheur, Bob
From: Linda M. Phillips
Sent: Monday, September 24, 2018 4:21 PM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Subject: Neighborhood concerns regarding new man made trails Maillet Conservation Area on Willow
Street
Attachments: Part_2.rtf, Reading Select Board.docx
We would ask you to please forward the above attachments to all members of the Select Board in advance
of tomorrow evening's meeting where we intend to bring this issue under Citizen's Input. We will bring the
second page of the above attachment with signatures as well as neighbors who plan to attend to request a
postponement of this man made project. Thank you for your assistance in this matter. Linda Phillips
1' � O
Reading Select Board
Re: Maillet Conservation Area on Willow Street
On August 7, we received a mailed notice from Kim Honetschlager, GIS administrator informing us that
the construction of a trail would begin in 8 days on Conservation land, close to our back yard property
line. We found it disturbing that no opportunity was ever given to abutters to express our concerns
regarding a loss of privacy, safety, and security. We are requesting your immediate oversight and
intervention in this matter that would delay or terminate this project until sufficient further review and
input is provided by all affected parties.
We understand the planning of this project began as early as last winter (2017 -2018) while application
for a grant was made in April 2018. After a delay in the initial starting date of 8/15/18 a second letter
was received informing abutters that we were encourage to present "questions about the upcoming
projects" at the September12, 2018 Conservation Meeting. This "opportunity" to present our concerns,
objections and questions, proved to be meaningless in light of what was already an approved project.
A number of neighbors share common concerns about issues of safety, loss of privacy to abutters,
along with the unsuitability of this property for the project and the lack of parking which would
necessitate use of conservation land to meet that need. As abutters we have witnessed misuse of this
area with activity that included campfires, smoking, drinking, ATV use, and in one case indecent
exposure as well as trespassing. Years ago we learned from members of the Johnson chicken farm on
West Street, that the previous owner of this area used it as a dump for rubbish. Sharp glass from bottles
and containers along with metal objects continue to surface as leaves and ground cover decay.
We believe the Trails Committee misrepresents this area as an "established path" when in fact it is only
proposed path intended in an area that is often literally under water. Added to this we have yet to see
evidence of a path having ever existed from Hunt Street to Willow St., as this area is subject to much
water and greater flooding. At one point we had an issue with beavers and a dam in the same wetlands.
At the Wed. Sept. 12th Conservation meeting, we felt the prevailing tone of committee response to our
concerns was dismissive with minimal regard for the concerns of residents and property owners along
the 3 path lines. Time allotted for public input would have been brief where it not for one attendee
persisting that she and others had not yet been given a chance to speak.
Many of us purchased our homes with the belief and confidence that the conservation land in question
would always remain untouched and afford us permanent privacy in our back yards. We feel strongly
that the homeowner needs for safety, privacy and security of those affected by this project should
outweigh the alleged "need" for optional recreational activity.
Since the proposed start date is scheduled for Sept. 29 2018, your prompt intervention by delaying or
cancelling this project is necessary if there is to be any effective relief for the abutters.
Gary & Linda Phillips, Willow Street representing concerned abutters.
�� 10
We, the undersigned are in agreement with and supportive of the described concerns and intended
purpose of the above letter presented to your committee by the Phillips:
Tuesday 8:00am - 7:OOpm & CLOSED on Fridays
From: Honetschlager, Kim
Sent: Monday, September 24, 2018 6:17 PM
To: LeLacheur, Bob
Cc: Tirone, Charles; Mercier, Julie; Delios, Jean; Kinsella, Jane
Subject: RE: Neighborhood concerns regarding new man made trails Maillet Conservation Area on Willow Street
BE
Here is a chronology and some background information:
1. A courtesy letter was sent to Willow Street abutters on July 24 (attached), not on August 7 as Ms. Phillips contends. She
related to me that she had been away on vacation hence, I assume, she didn't read the letter until early August. The
letter provided 2% weeks notice of the trail work originally scheduled for August 11.
2. 1 received an email and follow -up phone call with Ms. Phillips on August 8. We had a good conversation about her wide-
ranging concerns.
3. Upon hearing from Ms. Phillips and discussing with Matt, we postponed the project indefinitely and gave her a month to
document her initial complaint that she owned part of the Maillet Conservation Area.
4. Engineering researched deeds in the area and disproved her property claim. On September 5 1 emailed her all deeds and
plans found during research. I also notified her that we were rescheduling trail work for September 29 and that she
would receive an abutters letter. I also offered to halt trail work if she provided any additional information by
September 7 (the end of the one month window we offered her to provide documentation).
S. On September 5 abutters surrounding Maillet, including all of Hunt Street, were sent a courtesy letter including a map
(attached) inviting them to the September 12 Conservation Commission meeting. After consultation with Matt, I had
requested this agenda time in order to brief abutters and Cons Corn on the Willow Street trail work as well as the
proposed trail from Hunt Street to the Willow Street trail.
6. The Hunt Street portion of trail will be grant supported. It was not publicized until grant awards were announced. It has
not yet been permitted and abutters were informed that they will receive formal notice when the Trails Committee goes
before the Conservation Commission to seek a permit (likely in December or January).
7. The trail below Willow Street follows a sewer easement. It is heavily overgrown. In 1996 a Boy Scout improved — or
possibly created the original trail — and created a map of the trail. A Trails Committee member has birded along that
trail for the past 20 years. Hence, it is considered an existing trail and trail work was permitted under an existing town -
wide trail maintenance permit issued by Cons Corn.
8, The Trails Committee is not claiming that the proposed grant - supported trail from Hunt Street to the Willow Street
section is an existing trail. We have evidence of a past trail (in older Cons Corn minutes and by 2 neighborhood
residents), but we will proceed as if it is a new trail for purposes of getting a permit from Cons Cam because of the
extensive work required.
To sum up, Willow Street abutters to the trail work scheduled for September 29 have received two courtesy letters as well as a
chance to air their concerns at a Conservation Commission meeting. That meeting was held 2%z weeks prior to the rescheduled
project.
Thanks,
Kim
Kim Honetschlager, LISP
GIS Administrator
�a
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
July 24, 2018
Dear Maillet Conservation Area Neighbor,
The Reading Trails Committee plans to build a boardwalk and short bridge in the Maillet
Conservation Area this summer. A work day is scheduled on Saturday, August 11 starting at 10:00
AM. Work may continue Sunday, August 12 and /or at a later date. Parking will be within Maillet
(off Willow Street near the railroad tracks) and along Willow Street. The rehabilitated trail will be
known as the Abeijona River Headwaters Trail.
Feel free to stop by and say hello. Volunteers are welcome (email Readin Y`I,rails(cici.readin�.ma.us
to sign up). Please let me know if you have any questions and check the Trail Committee's
webpage for updates: www.reaciin�ma.�ov /trails - committee.
Thank you,
Kim Honetschlager
GIS Administrator
Town of Reading
781- 942 -6631
13
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
September 5, 2018
Dear Maillet Conservation Area Neighbor,
The Reading Trails Committee has two projects planned in the Maillet Conservation Area. I will
give a brief update to the Conservation Commission at their meeting on Wednesday, September
12 at 7:00 PM. You are encouraged to attend if you have any questions about the upcoming
projects.
The first project, happening this fall, is to re- establish a trail from Lowell Street to Willow Street
paralleling the Aberjona River (see map on reverse). The trail will be cleared, signs will be
refreshed, and a 45' boardwalk and a short bridge will be built. A work day is scheduled for
Saturday, September 29. All work will be between Lowell and Willow Streets north of the
Aberjona River.
The second project is to build a trail from the end of Hunt Street, crossing the Aberjona River,
and connecting to the trail described above. This project will be funded by a Recreation Trails
Grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Permitting for the project will occur this
winter. Work will likely begin in the spring of 2019 and will continue sporadically through
2020. Trail work will be done by Trails Committee members and volunteers. A trailhead kiosk
will be installed at the end of Hunt Street. Project updates and work dates will be posted at the
three trailheads: Hunt Street, Lowell Street, and Willow Street. The completed trail will be
known as the Aberjona River Headwaters Trail.
Volunteers are welcome (email ReadingTrails( xi.readin„.ma.us to sign up). Please let me know
if you have any questions and check the Trail Committee's webpage for updates on work dates:
wwvv rcadingrna.gov�`trails- committee.
Thank you,
Kim Honetschlager
GIS Administrator
Town of Reading
781- 942 -6631
LeLacheur, Bob
From:
Tirone, Charles
Sent:
Monday, September 24, 2018 7:26 PM
To:
Honetschlager, Kim; LeLacheur, Bob
Cc:
Mercier, Julie; Delios, Jean; Kinsella, Jane
Subject:
RE: Neighborhood concerns regarding new man made trails Maillet Conservation Area on
Willow Street
Hi Bob, et al
Conservation land creates a patchwork of forests, fields, and wetlands that provide important habitat for plants and wildlife and
adds to the quality of life for Reading residents. It also creates connectivity for both wildlife and trail users. The Commission
oversees the maintenance and use of these Conservation lands. In the 2013 Open Space Plan survey the question was asked
"which conservation & recreation facilities are most needed in Reading" bike trails was #1 and hiking trails #2 with 38% of the
vote.
The 9/29 trail work from Willow Street to Salem Street clears an existing trail as discussed at the 9/12 CC meeting. The question
about the existence of the trail came up at the meeting but was verified by Trails Committee and Dave Williams longtime
Reading resident and frequent user of the Maillet land.
The work on an existing trail is permitted under a town -wide trails permit similar to the one the DPW uses for water and sewer
and general maintenance throughout the Town. The Conservation Commission and Trail Committee will work with all abutters
to make sure their concerns are met so any trail work has the least amount of impact on abutters property, to the best of our
ability.
The trail work for the Hunt Street section is a different project altogether. This project slated for the spring of 2019 will need a
Notice of Intent to create a trail. The Hunt Street trail project will be advertised and discussed at a public conservation meeting.
We expect to get a lot of abutter input, but this hearing shouldn't happen until later on this year or early next year.
Thanks,
Chuck
Chuck Tirone
Coi,servation Administrator
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
p: 781.942.6616
f: 781.942.9071
ctirone@ci.reading.ma.us
Town Hall Hours: `, n
Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 8:OOam - 5:30pm
1
Reading Trails Committee added an event.
September 10 at 1:29 PM
The Trails Committee will be building a short bridge and a boardwalk in the Maillet
Conservation Area on Saturday, September 29. The underused Aberjona River Trail will be
reestablished between Lowell Street (across the street from P &S Variety) and Willow Street near
the railroad tracks. The trail will be cleared, signs will be installed, and a bridge and boardwalk
will be built.
We'll need help clearing the trail and carrying materials to the work sites at 10:00 AM and again
at 2:00 PM. High school students are encouraged, as are middle school and younger children
accompanied by an adult. Work gloves, long pants, and bug spray are advised. Hand clippers and
loppers are useful too. A handful of adult volunteers with building skills are needed as well.
Please bring a cordless drill. if you have one. Bring eye and hearing protection if you have it and
are planning to build.
Meet at the trailhead off Willow Street. Park along Willow Street and walk in or drive down the
narrow paved driveway adjacent and parallel to the railroad track (high - clearance vehicles only).
For more information see https://www.readin�ma.gov/ /volunteers- needed -to- build- aber...
\1
Develop a proposed implementation action plan identifying policies and
actions.
D Quantify and report benefits created.
J ake recommendations to the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, and other
bo ies of the Town on measures appropriate to implement such a program.
The Comm tee will be made up of five (5) members appointed for 3 year terms, so
appointed that as ven a number of terms shall expire in each year. In selecting the Committee
membership of 5 mbers, the Board of Selectmen shall appoint all members and shall give
consideration to mein rs representing the following interests within the community:
D Residents of t community who have expertise or interest in conservation,
environmental affa , energy, or other areas of expertise which, in the opinion of the
Board would be help in meeting the Committee's mission.
Subcommittees may be ere a el by a vote of the Committee. Members of Subcommittees do
not necessarily have to be member f the Committee.
The Committee shall be advisory all matters. Decisions as to whether or not to implement
measures shall rest with the Town M ger, the Board of Selectmen, or other body having
jurisdiction in the matter.
This Committee shall administratively fa within the Department of Community Services.
Staff as available will be assigned by the Town ager to work with the Committee.
This committee shall sunset on June 30, 2017 un s renewed by the Board of Selectmen.
Adopted 11- 22 -05, Revised 4 110112, Revised June 23, 2015
2.3.3 Poliel, Establishing a Reading Trails Committee (RTC)
Based on the recommendation of the Northern Area Greenway Committee, there is hereby
established a five (5) member Reading Trail Committee (RTC) which will. assume the
responsibilities of planning, developing, and maintaining present and future trails in the Town of
Reading. The goal is for the Town to create and maintain a connected, well coordinated system
of trails to serve the residents of the community. The RTC will undertake the following
responsibilities.
Make recommendations to the Conservation Commission, Town Forest Committee, and
Recreation Committee regarding development, operation, use, and maintenance of trails
crossing lands under thejuriseliction ofthese bodies. The RTC shall have no rule - making
authority itself.
D Act as a liaison between the Town of Reading and the Reading Open Land Trust, Friends
of Reading Recreation, Walkable Reading, Scout groups, and other youth and community
groups with respect to development, operation, use, and maintenance of trails.
Coordinate and manage an Adopt -a -Trail program, if appropriate, for the maintenance of
trails or portions there -of.
Set trail construction, maintenance, use, accessibility, and signage standards.
D Oversee production of trail maps and guides.
D Provide advice and recommendations on the development of the Ipswich River Greenway
and other trail initiatives arising from Town reports and studies.
2 - 6 Board of SelecOnen Policies
El Approve volunteer trail projects before the volunteers seek approval for projects from the
Conservation Commission, Town Forest Committee, or other Town or other cooperating
organizations.
Organize training, hikes, trail maintenance days, and trail construction projects.
ILI Foster working relationships with DPW, Police, Fire, Schools, or other agencies to carry
out the mission of the RTC.
El Encourage cooperation and address problems and conflicts in trail areas.
IE Identify grant opportunities to support trail initiatives.
0 Make recommendations to the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, and other bodies
of the Town on measures necessary and appropriate to implement the trails program.
The Committee will be made up of five (5) members appointed for 3 year terms, so
appointed that as even a number of terns shall expire in each year. Associate members may also
be appointed. In selecting the Committee membership of 5 members, the Board of Selectmen
shall appoint all members and shall give consideration to members representing the following
interests within the community:
M Recommendation of the Conservation Commission;
0 Recommendation of the Town Forest Committee;
El Recommendation of the Recreation Committee;
El one or more residents of the community who do not represent the above groups, and who
has expertise in, conservation, environmental affairs, trails operation and maintenance, or
other areas of expertise which, in the opinion of the Board would be helpful in meeting
the Committee's mission.
Subcommittees may be created by a vote of the Committee. Members of Subcommittee
members do not necessarily have to be members of the Committee.
This Committee shall administratively fall within the Department of Community Services.
Staff as available will be assigned by the'pown Manager to work with the Committee.
This Committee shall sunset on June 30, 2018 unless renewed by the Board of Selectmen.
Adopted 3- 25 -08, Revised 4 1/!1112, Rek,,d.htne 23, 2015
Town Meeting in 1930 established the "Committee on Re- forestation" which we now
refer to the Town Forest Committee. Article 4 -10 of the Reading Home Rule Chatter
provides fo e appointment by the Board of Selectmen of a Town Forest Committee. The
purpose of this cy is to establish the structure and purpose of the Town Forest Committee.
There is hereby es fished a 5 member Town Forest committee whose members shall be
terms
appointed for three (3) ye , so appointed that as close as possible to an even number of
terms shall expire each year. e Board of Selectmen shall give consideration to applicants with
the following credentials whe selecting and appointing members of the Town Forest
Committee:
ILI Knowledge of the community
0 Familiarity with and interest in th Town Forest
U Experience with open space presery 'on and /or land use management
Interest and knowledge in protection wildlife habitats, forest ecosystems, wetlands,
trails, outdoor recreation, and soil and wat resources.
2 - 7 Board ojSelectnten Policies
ry \�
Mgt Team
Scores
13 DPW Director hiring process
LeLacheur, Perkins
2.2
16 Building Security Study
Doherty, LeLacheur
2.6
20 Employee Retention
LeLacheur, Delios
4.8
19 Personnel Policies
Kraunelis, Perkins
S.4
17 Comprehensive Emergency Plan
Burns, Segalla
6.5
11 Capital Planning
LeLacheur, Doherty
6.9
2 Elementary School Space Needs
Schools, Huggins
9.1
4 Economic Development - Long Term Planning
LeLacheur, Delios
9.6
9 Senior Tax Relief
Santaniello, BoA
11.4
6 Cable Negotiations
Kraunelis, Miller
11.8
1 Senior /Community Center
Delios, Huggins
12.1
10 Tax Classification
Santaniello, BoA
12.4
8 Community Events & Outreach
Kraunelis, Miller
13.3
18 Review of General Bylaws
Kraunelis, LeLacheur
13.4
5 Master Plan Update
Mercier, Delios
13.9
3 Economic Development - Wayfinding /Parking
Delios, Segalla
14.0
12 FINCOM Policies
Angstrom, Kume
14.2
7 Historical Preservation /Archival
Lannon, Gemme
14.6
15 Finance Department Policies & Procedures
Angstrom, Kume
15.0
14 Public Works Policies & Procedures
Kinsella, Percival
16.8
Per Town Charter Section 5.2
The Town Manager's powers and duties shall include:
a To supervise and be responsible for the efficient administration of all functions under his
control, as may be authorized by the Charter, by Town Bylaw, by Town Meeting vote or by the
Board of Selectmen, including all officers appointed by him and their respective departments.
b To appoint and remove, subject to the civil service laws where applicable, the Police Chief,
Fire Chief, Appraiser and all employees for whom no other method of appointment is provided
in the Charter, except persons serving under the School Committee, Municipal Light Board of
Commissioners or Board of Library Trustees, and appointments made by the representatives of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Town Manager's appointment of the Police Chief
and Fire Chief shall be subject to confirmation by the Board of Selectmen. The Town Manager's
appointment of the Appraiser shall be subject to confirmation by the Board of Assessors.
c To administer all personnel policies, practices and related matters for all municipal employees
as established by any compensation plan, personnel policy guide or Town Bylaw, and all
collective bargaining agreements entered into by the Board of Selectmen on behalf of the Town.
d To fix the compensation of all Town officers and employees appointed by him within the
limits established by applicable appropriations and any compensation plan adopted by the Town
Meeting.
e To attend all regular and special meetings of the Board of Selectmen, unless excused at his
own request, and to have a voice, but no vote, in all discussions.
f To attend all sessions of Town Meetings and to answer all questions directed to him that are
related to his office.
g To see that all of the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws, of the Charter, of the
Town Bylaws, of Town Meeting votes, and of votes of the Board of Selectmen that require
enforcement by him or Town Officers and employees subject to his direction and supervision
are faithfully carried out.
h To prepare and submit a proposed Annual Operating Budget and a Capital Improvements
Program in accordance with Article 7.
i To ensure that a full and complete record of the financial and administrative activities of the
Town is kept, and to render a full report to the Board of Selectmen at the end of each fiscal year
and at such other times as may be required by the Board of Selectmen.
Page 1
j To keep the Board of Selectmen fully informed as to the financial condition and needs of the
Town and to make such recommendations to the Board of Selectmen as he may deem necessary
or appropriate.
k To have full responsibility for the rental and use of all Town facilities, except those under the
care, custody, management and control of the School Committee, the Board of Library
Trustees, the Municipal Light Board of Commissioners, or other boards or committees specified
by Town Bylaw or Town Meeting vote. He or his designee shall be responsible for the
maintenance and repair of all Town property under his control.
1 To inquire into the conduct of any Town Officer, employee or department under his control.
m To keep a full and complete inventory of all real and personal property of substantial value
belonging to the Town.
n To serve as Chief Procurement Officer pursuant to the provisions of Massachusetts General
Laws Chapter 30B and to be responsible for purchasing all supplies, materials, equipment,
goods and services, except those of the School Committee and the Municipal Light Board of
Commissioners; to negotiate and approve the award of all contracts for all departments and
activities of the Town except those of the School Committee and Municipal Light Board of
Commissioners; to examine the services performed for any Town Agency pursuant to any such
contract; and to examine and inspect, or cause to be examined and inspected, the quality,
quantity and conditions of materials, supplies, equipment or goods delivered to or received by
any Town Agency.
o To approve any warrants for the payment of Town funds prepared by the Accountant in
accordance with the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws; provided, however, that the
approval of any such warrant by the Town Manager shall be sufficient to authorize payment by
the Town Treasurer, and provided further that the Board of Selectmen shall approve such
warrants in the event of a vacancy in the office of Town Manager.
Page 2
Prioritized Projects
Charter
Section
5.2
Prioritized Projects in 9 -25 -18
Packet
Steps to be Taken
Timeline
c
DPW Director hiring process
a
Building Security Study
c
Employee Retention
c
Personnel Policies
a
Comprehensive Emergency Plan
hJ
Capital Planning
j
Elementary School Space Needs
a
Economic Development
i
Senior Tax Relief
a
Cable Negotiations
j
Senior /Community Center
j
Tax Classification
a
Community Events & Outreach
?
Review of General Bylaws
a,j
Master Plan Update
aJ
Economic Development
g?
FINCOM Policies
a
Historical Preservation /Archival
c,i
Finance Dept Policies & Procedures
c,k
Public Works Policies & Procedures
Page 3
Potential FY19 Goals
Charter
Goals from Select
Steps to be Taken
Timeline
Section 5.2
Board Evaluations
a
Customer Service
Provide customer service training for all town staff.
Spearhead a customer service training initiative.
Develop new "best practices" that are designed to
improve customer service and develop escalation
policy for unplanned situations.
Measure overall customer service. If necessary,
implement staff training
Take a more public role in communicating to the
public what the Town is doing.
a
Retention
Look at pay scales, benefit packages, and HR policies
to stay competitive.
Annual staff satisfaction survey
a
Communication
Best practices for timely communication with
residents. Tracking system for resident
communication with quarterly report to Board.
j
Communication with
Respond to member's request for information. If
Select Board members
unable to do so due to OML or other reasons,
explain rationale to the Board member.
Communicate a balanced picture of the state of
Town Hall
a
Managing Others
Present to the Select Board with a plan to
midyear
implement management style(s) that are most likely
to a) resolve interpersonal conflicts to a positive
outcome and b) improve employee retention.
Institute anonymous 360 reviews
midyear
k
Strategic Thinking
Expand relationships similar to that with Schools
(school space) to other entities such as RMLD.
a
Dependability &
Develop redundant sources of leadership within the
Reliability
organization.
Page 4
Q� 69
ti��N OFRFgOf/G
Office of the Town Manager
�o� 16 Lowell Street
0 63g
co Reading, MA 01867
To: John Halsey, Select Board
From: Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr. CFA
Date: September 23, 2018
RE: Capital Projects Overview
781 - 942 -9043
townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us
www.readingma.gov /town - manager
This memo is being created in response to a request by Select Board member John Halsey to summarize
large current capital projects.
There are effectively five different 'groups' of projects, listed below:
1. School and Town Building Security
The Board has previously seen a project overview in an Executive Session, along with representatives
from the School Committee, Library Trustees and Finance Committee. Please note that Executive
Session reviews past and present will be summary level only. The project details are protected under
Homeland Security and have been kept tightly controlled at the staff level.
Town Meeting approved $0.5 million for renovations to the Dispatch Center in April 2018. A remaining
$4.0 million of work, possibly divided into a high priority $2.5 million and another set of $1.5 million of
work, was shown to Town meeting as needing unspecified future funding on the capital plan.
There have been several developments since. First, further work on the Dispatch Center was halted after
preliminary staff work revealed the complexity of renovating the building and trying to provide ongoing
emergency services. At November 2018 Town Meeting we are going to request that this funding is
reclassified as School and Town Building Design Services so we can have a better project overview from
a construction standpoint. Second, the passage of the Override meant an increase in future capital &
debt capacity each year. November Town Meeting will see a revised capital plan that fully funds the $4.0
million of work needed inside the tax levy, starting in FY20 and funded with 10 -year debt. If Town
Meeting agrees with this approach they will be asked to approve debt at April 2019 Town Meeting and
this topic will receive careful overview during the FY20 budget process this winter. Third, a total of $3
million for this purpose has been placed in a bond bill and earmarked for Reading. We understand this
topic to be important on Beacon Hill, and with the repurposed $0.5 million to be project -wide, we
should be in a shovel -ready position to receive those funds as soon as they are released and available.
2. Elementary School Space Study
April 2018 Town Meeting approved the request that $207,500 (or 5% of the $4.15 million Override) be
directed to the Permanent Building Committee for the purpose of Elementary School space needs. This
brought the total allocation to the PBC to $357,500 for FY19. Discussion since at a PBC meeting that I did
not attend and at a meeting with the Superintendent, Facilities Director, and both the Chair and Vice
a5
Chair of the PBC that I did attend concluded that a space study was not something that the PBC's
recently designed process would include, and that instead those funds should be directed to the project
sponsor, in this case the School Committee. Therefore at November 2018 Town Meeting, Town Meeting
will be asked to direct that $207,500 instead to a capital line called Elementary School Space Planning.
At a recent School Committee meeting, after some discussion they also agreed to request that an
additional $20,000 of capital be added to this total as it is not needed for two previously scheduled
school building improvements. Thus a total of $227,500 would be available if approved to start ground
work on this project. From my perspective, I support this approach that encourages a full scope of work
be studied early before final actions are decided. As part of this preliminary work, the School Committee
agreed to include an Enrollment Study, as one has not been conducted for several years.
It is anticipated that the scope of work will focus on the Killam School. At this time, a project of this size
will clearly fall under FINCOM's guidelines to be done outside the tax levy — in other words a future
request to taxpayers for a debt exclusion of as yet indeterminate size. At April 2018 Town Meeting this
project was listed as "Killam Building project TBD ".
3. Community Center
The Board has previously heard a presentation from our Human /Elder Services staff about the
significant growth of this population segment in town, and the inadequate facility at the Pleasant Street
Center. Their study indicated what types of space would be needed for current and projected future
population, which has been developed form some Economic Development work we have done in the
last three years. There has been less specific work done on the idea that a new or repurposed existing
facility could also serve other segments of the community. Function space and meeting space are clear
needs in the community — our recreation and athletic communities tell us about needing to meet
outside of town frequently, and ideally we would prefer to keep their business here in Reading. There
has been discussion about integrating school space needs here, but legally a clear separation would
need to segment the building, which could be too challenging. A solution could be from existing private
building owners that we have had discussions with, or possibly the town land at Oakland Road.
There are no current or proposed placeholders for funding in the capital plan for this project. As a
reminder, by FINCOM policy, anything over $5 million should be done outside the tax levy. It is possible
that solutions could be on either side of that figure. At April 2018 Town Meeting this project was listed
as "Community Center TBD ".
4. Recreation /Athletic Repairs and Needs
This project consists of several pieces, and Town Meeting has previously authorized debt for some work
that was halted.
I have had extensive discussions with the Superintendent, Facilities Director and Recreation
Administrator and this topic will be discussed publicly at the October Financial Forum. From those
discussions and before public input, here are my listed priorities for this area:
Very High: Turf II repairs and renovation to slightly expand the field, and to fully light this field and the
remaining fields four other fields at Birch Meadow. We hold $0.9 million in debt authorization from a
previous Town Meeting for the field lighting work, and would need about $0.5 million to complete this
work (for a $1.4 million total). For the Turf II portion of the project we have a current estimated cost of
between $2.25 and $2.5 million. Again because of the additional capital /debt available from the
Override, we are able to schedule and fund a combined $3.9 million project starting in FY21 for these
purposes and November Town Meeting will be asked to approve a Capital Plan with these items. If they
do, we will then ask April 2019 Town Meeting for debt authorization for this amount. This authorization
a year early will give us flexibility should the School & Town Building Security project receive grant
funding from the state. Discussions with those listed above plus the Assistant Principal for Activities,
Clubs and Athletics as well as coaches have left me to conclude that Turf II will need to be closed for
safety issues within the next two years.
High: RMHS Stadium Turf and Track replacement. These are in better condition than Turf II and can wait
a few years, but will need to be addressed within the next five years or so. Ongoing maintenance will
help ameliorate the need for work done sooner. Our current estimated cost is $2.75 million for this
work, and no funding sources are planned to be identified in the capital plan.
Medium: RMHS Fieldhouse floors and bleachers. This is slightly less urgent that work on the Stadium,
but ongoing wear & tear could change this priority. Our current estimated cost is $1.4 million for this
work, and no funding sources are planned to be identified in the capital plan.
Low: Birch Meadow Improvements. A subcommittee of the recreation Committee is meeting to discuss.
Future $1 million for unspecified improvements are mentioned in the capital plan, although no funding
sources are planned to be identified.
Comment: For all of these projects, I would anticipate that the recreation and athletic community will
be partners in any work done, given their outstanding history of contributing financially as well as time -
wise. Also note that we have been in touch with some local real estate owners about some field
expansion opportunities and that may become a part of this larger project.
5. Department of Public Works Facility
The Board has heard previous discussion about the prospects of moving the DPW garage to another
location, in order to open up this land and other private parcels for significant Economic Development.
We have contacted the owners of those other parcels as well as possible developers, and there is
significant interest to have further discussions. Community discussions that have included Wakefield
previously now include Lynnfield after a change in management and Board support.
Reading has previously scoped out the size needed for staff and equipment, and generated a project
estimate. We have also done work to include Wakefield and do see economies of scale simply in the
construction. We have not yet done a preliminary design to include Lynnfield.
If Camp Curtis is the desired location that has always been a tricky proposition, but one that has
generated support after a full understanding of the entire proposal. The need for a DPW garage is less
critical than for example a solution to the Elementary School Space issue. Yet at the same time, the
future revenue possibilities of this project are attractive. It is possible after some start -up costs that a
combination of grant funding, development resulting in tax revenues, and costs shared with other towns
could pay for the project for several years and that after that the town could enjoy the additional
revenues. At April 2018 Town Meeting this project was listed as "DPW Bldg Project TBD ".
a�