HomeMy WebLinkAbout1976-03-22 Special Town Meeting Minutes COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, as. Officer's Return, Reading:
By virtue of this Warrant, I, on March 12, 1976, notified and warned the
inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in elections and town affairs
to meet at the place and at the time specified by posting attested copies of this
Warrant in the following public places within the Town of Reading:
Precinct 1. Convenient Food Mart, 1349 Main Street
Old Hose House, 1249 Main Street
St. Athanasius Church, 300 Haverhill Street
Precinct 2. Reading Police Station, 67 Pleasant Street
First National Store, 275 Salem Street
Anton Cleaners, 47 Harnden Street
Precinct 3. Friendly Variety Store, 245 Washington Street
Reading Liquors, 345 Main Street
Wayside Bazaar, 107 Main Street
Precinct 4. Hanson's Service Station, 4 West Street
Dragon Corner Store, 206 West Street
Spence Farm Market Gardens, 40 West Street
Precinct 5. Community Center, 52 Sanborn Street
B & M Railroad Station, High Street
Joshua Eaton School, 365 Sumer Avenue
Precinct 6. Fire Station, 267 Woburn Street
Housing for the Elderly, 1 Frank D. Tanner Drive
Prospect Street School, Prospect Street
Precinct 7. Austin Preparatory School, 101 Willow Street
Weston's Greenhouses, 9 Auburn Street
{r Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street
■ Precinct 8. Meadowbrook Golf Club, 292 Grove Street
Memorial High School, 62 Oakland Road
Arthur W. Coolidge Jr. High School, 89 Birch Meadow Drive
The date of posting being not less than seven days prior to March 22, 1976,
the date set for the meeting in this Warrant.
I also caused an attested copy of this Warrant to be published in the Reading
Chronicle in the issue of March 11, 1976, the same being more than seven days
prior to the date of said meeting.
(s) Sally M. Hoyt
Constable of Reading
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
Reading Memorial High School Auditorium March 22, 1976
The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Kenneth C. Latham, at
8:00 P. M.
The invocation was given by the Rev. Richard M. Woodman of the Unitarian
Universalist Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
The Warrant was partially read by the Town Clerk, when on motion of Robert
S. Cummings it was voted to dispense with further reading of the Warrant, except
the Constable's Return, which was then read by the Town Clerk.
ARTICLE 1. The following report was read by Elizabeth W. Klepeis, Chairman
of the Finance Committee:
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
REPORT OF PROGRESS UNDER ARTICLE I BY FINANCE COMMITTEE
I would like to explain the sources of funds recommended for the Articles
proposed this evening.
(1) ARTICLE 3: $60,414 for settlement of firefighters' salaries.
Proposed to transfer it from the $92,489.07 unencumbered funds
in the 1974-75 insurance appropriation.
(2) ARTICLE 4: $26,000 requested for Higgins property.
To be funded by anticipated federal or state grant.
(3) ARTICLE 5: $550 for Planning Board. J
To be transferred from available free cash.
(4). ARTICLE 6: $35,996.27 requested to rebuild bath house.
Proposed: to transfer $32,075.07 from unencumbered funds in
the 1974-75 insurance appropriation, and to transfer $3,921.20
from available free cash.
I would also like to report the state of the Town's finances at the present.
(1) Federal Revenue Sharing: expected by July 1 $200,000
(appropriated $253,693 to Fire &
Police salaries in last year's Annual
Town Meeting)
(2) Free Cash Figure: now $236,601.35
(amount proposed as transfer in
present Town Meeting) - $ 4,471.20
Total after this Town Meeting $232,130.15
(3) Finance Committee Reserve Fund:
Reserve Fund
7/1/75 - 6/30/76
7/1 Original Total $175,000.
7/1 Repair of boiler Town Hall $2,500. 172,500.
9/9 School Construction Acct.
Arbitration with Frasca 2,000. 170,500.
9/9 Town Hall boiler
Town Clerk's radiators 3,875. 166,625.
9/18 Selectmen's clerical salary -
Switchboard operator 10/1-11/30/75 1,246.50 165,378.50
9/18 Building Inspector clerical salary
1/1-6/30/76 3,453.06 161,925.44
9/18 Town Accountant's clerical salary
1/1-6/30/76 3,453.06 158,472.38
9/18 Personnel Ed. Administrative Ass 't
salary 1/1-6/30/76 4,602. 153,870.38
9/18 Building Maintenance Police
Custodian salary 10/1-11/30/75 1,000. 152,870.38
9/25 Accounting Machine - 3-year lease
Printing costs & supplies 4,000. 148,870.38
10/14 School Accounting Machine
(add to $6,000. budgeted) 3,420. 145,450.38
11/14 Building Maintenance - moving Trees. ,
Acc't. , Cemetery Dept. 1,970. 143,480.38
1/13 Board of Health - Salaries Acct.
(Polychrones' vacation) 93.75 143,386.63
1/13 Board of Health - Fluoridation Acct. 2,060. 141,326.63
2/17 Selectmen - Xerox Expense - Balance
of FY '76 3,000. 138,326.63
2/17 Selectmen - Police salaries 25,000. 113,326.63
2/17 Law Committee - labor negotiations 4,500. 108,826.63
2/28 Recreation Committee - prepare
design and bid for bath house 3,000. 105,826.63
3/4 Charter Commission - "Final" expenses 225. 105,601.63
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
ARTICLE 1. The following report was read by Barry J. Mitchel, Chairman of
the Site Selection and Police Station Building Study Committee:
REPORT OF THE SITE SELECTION AND POLICE STATION BUILDING STUDY COMMITTEE
Introduction
The Site Selection and Police Station Building Study Committee was established
by Town Meeting, under Article 2, on November 10, 1975. The Committee was instructed
to study the need for a new police station as proposed by the Selectmen, to investi-
gate the cost and means of funding, and to study the alternative of remodeling the
existing building.
Prior to that time, the Selectmen and Executive Secretary had initiated a Federal
Grant Application, obtained consultation from the Law Enforcement Assistance Adminis-
tration (LEAA) , and engaged an architect/planner under the Comprehensive Employment
and Training Act (CETA) funding. Receipt of the grant seemed imminent, and several
sites were being actively considered.
Since its inception, this committee has met twenty times, and has interpreted
its purposes as twofold:
1. To assist the Selectmen in pursuing their original course of action, as
well as all alternatives.
2. To insure that Town Meeting is represented at all stages of the decision-
making process.
The Site Selection and Police Station Building Study Committee presents this
report of its findings and recommendations to Town Meeting. The report focuses on
matters which have been brought into prominence by the possibility of Federal Funding.
Although the urgency of the police station planning effort has been reduced
momentarily, by lack of available funds, a second application for federal funding has
been initiated, and the information obtained during this study should remain pertinent.
If such funding fails, or no site acceptable to Town Meeting is found at this time,
the Committee still feels that the need for improved police facilities warrants
continuing consideration.
This report is organized into four main topics. Section I defines the problem
with the present station, as applied to police service, and points out specific
areas which are most in need of improvement. Section II examines the feasibility
of renovation and expansion of the existing building for police use, Section III
summarizes our search for the elusive ideal building site, and Section IV explores
potential sources of necessary funding.
Summary
The existing police station is inadequate for present, as well as future,
service to this community. Both the functional arrangement of work spaces and the
proportioning of space to the various functions are outdated. As a result, work
efficiency is reduced, and security, privacy and confidentiality are compromised.
Renovation, with or without expansion, is not a feasible solution to these
problems. In reaching this judgment, rearrangements of existing space and both
horizontal and vertical expansion schemes have been explored. Alteration of the
existing load-bearing masonry walls would be prohibitively expensive. Expansion
would require purchase of an adjoining private property and razing of dwellings.
The present site is not well suited for construction of a new modern facility,
ince this would require even more demolition and additional property than would
expansion. The existing structure can give excellent service to the Town in other
apacities, such as providing sorely needed office and storage space.
The Committee recommends two sites for construction of a new station, if
federal funding is received. The first of these, Reading Supply Company located on
North Main Street, though preferred on the basis of location, is contingent on a
favorable purchase and sale agreement with the owner. The second is a Town-owned
parcel located on John Street, currently under the jurisdiction of the Board of
Public Works.
SECTION I
THE NEED FOR IMPROVED POLICE FACILITIES
The Committee confirmed the need for new or improved facilities by visits to
the present station, interviews with the Chief and his staff, and a study of current
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
requirements for police functions and security. The following are the major factors
leading to our unanimous opinion that substantial improvements are needed.
The most apparent fault is lack of space. Most rooms are serving dual purposes,
which compromise confidentiality, security of evidence and prisoners, and courtesy to
the public. For example, evidence is stored in locker rooms, photographing of persons
in custody is done in the detectives' office, and conferences are held in the
women's cells, when vacant. No classrooms or briefing rooms are available. The
lieutenants and sergeants have no office space, the detectives too little, and
there is no quiet area for report writing. Outside, the parking lot is too small
to accomodate a change of shifts.
The 1930 design is not balanced in space allocation for the present or
future police needs. To much space is devoted to detention at a time when swift
bail or transfer to another facility is the rule, and the present detention facility
fails to meet Govennment requirements. The arrangement of rooms and passageways
fails to isolate the major police station activities, such as coordination of mobile
units, prisoner processing and detention, and service to the public. For example,
a citizen who wishes to see the Chief or Clerk must pass through the dispatch area
adjacent to the men's cells, and can overhear whatever may be said in either place.
Reading's police force has grown with the Town, and this trend will continue.
A growth by 1/3 over the next 20 years is projected. Thus, space and functional
shortages of the present station will become more acute as time passes.
SECTION II
MODIFICATION OF EXISTING BUILDING
Two renovation/expansion schemes were considered for adapting the present
station to better serve police and public needs. Each plan required some modifica-
tion of the space arrangement within the existing structure, partly to correct faults
discussed in Section I, Partly to interface with the addition, and partly to comply
with State regulations for access by handicapped persons and detention of juveniles.
Both plans were developed by Committee members and estimated by the Planning
Staff architect. Due to time and funding limits, no outside estimate or bid could
be obtained during this study. Consequently these plans are presented only as
examples of what can be done with moving to a new site. Any further study of
renovation depends on direction by Town Meeting.
Police experience with the present station has shown that there are certain
faults which should be corrected as a first step in any renovation scheme. The
following changes were considered to be essential:
1. Unification of prisoner entry, booking, and confinement.
2. Consolidation of public entry, business area, rest rooms, and other public
access areas.
3. Privacy of dispatch/communications area.
4. Reduced vulnerability of dispatcher to surprise entry.
5. Ease of access by handicapped and elderly persons.
RENOVATION AND VERTICAL EXPANSION
The load-bearing masonary walls of the present station are capable of supporting
another floor. The new roof line would remain below those of adjacent buildings, and
it would not be necessary to acquire any abutting property. a
In this plan, about half of the new space is devoted to enlarged facilities J
for functions which are displaced by the renovation, namely:
. Consolidated evidence storage rooms.
Detectives' office.
Staff locker rooms.
The remaining space is devoted to functions for which no provision now exists:
Interview area
Classroom/briefing room.
Lieutenants' office.
Report writing room.
Evidence processing room.
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
The planned new floor increases the total floor space from 5400 to 8100
square feet. Since this falls about 2000 short of that proposed for a new building,
certain desirable improvements had to be left out, including a sergeants' office,
additional garage space, and a secure prisoner entry bay. The present combined
staff and prisoner entrance is retained. This scheme also retains the present
inadequate staff parking lot, and still requires private citizens to find off-site
parking.
The cost of this scheme, exclusive of land and buildings, has been estimated
at $680,904.00. Details of this estimate are included in the appendix.
RENOVATION AND HORIZONTAL EXPANSION
Extension of the two existing floors is feasible only toward the rear, into
the present parking lot. A single abutting property would have to be acquired to
obtain room for parking spaces displaced by the addition.
In this plan, renovation of the lower floor converts the present three-stall
garage to detention cells and passageway. Consequently, the new area is devoted
to the displaced garage and a secure prisoner entry bay. The bay is adjacent to
the booking and detention areas, freeing the side entrance and stairway for staff
use only.
The main floor extension provides room for lieutenants' and sergeants' offices,
a flexible area for use by the detectives, and evidence storage and processing
rooms. The resulting single-floor arrangement of all staff offices allows more
effective communication and coordination of activities.
This expansion plan adds 2400 square feet on each level, and increases the
total area from the present 5400 to 10,200, which is comparable to the proposed new
building. The cost of this scheme, exclusive of existing land and building and not
including acquisition of abutting property, has been estimated at $1,416,885.00.
Details of this estimate are included in the appendix.
COMPARISON WITH PROPOSED NEW BUILDING
The above estimates of cost and space allocation do not compare favorably with
what could be obtained through new construction.
The Planning Staff made available to the Committee its preliminary layouts of
land and building for two candidate sites. These two plans, though quite different
due to site and access peculiarities, are both single-floor slab structures with
about 10,000 square feet of floor area. Details of the allocation of interior and
exterior space are given in the appendix. The construction cost of either building,
exclusive of site acquisition and preparation, is estimated at $490,000.00.
Although These estimates are subject to final site and plan variations, the
Committee is convinced that new construction is the preferable course for improve-
ment of Reading's police facilities.
SECTION III
SITE SELECTION
The Committee compiled a list of 19 potential sites for a new police station,
with the assistance of the Planning Office and the Land Bank Committee. These sites
are identified by the numbers outlined below, and are shown in the appendix. Of
these, ten were eliminated early because of definite problems with access, remoteness
from Reading Center, site size, conflict with planned future uses, or cost of
acquisition or preparation:
1. Plat 47, Lot 5 - Behind 91 Arcadia Avenue.
2. Plat 68, Lots 7 and 8 - Back of Norman Road.
3. Plat 79, Lots 114-120, 133-143 - Both sides of Torre Street.
4. Plat 154, Lots 4,7,21,24-29 - Colburn and Dunbar Roads.
5. Plat 207, Lots 3 and 4 - Dividence Road.
6. Former Nike Site on Bear Hill.
7. Plat 66, Lot 51 - Pleasant Street, next to Little League Field.
8. Plat 53, Lots 25, 26, 35 - Main and Ash Streets (Christiansen's) .
9. Plat 63, Lots 8-10 and 52 - Woburn and Chute Streets.
10. Plat 122, Lot 37 - Birchmeadow Drive, Henzie Street (Higgins).
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
Of the remaining 9 sites explored in depth, the following 7, although having
positive features, were not recommended for the reasons listed:
11. Plat 123, Lots 16-32,34,48-55,58-62 - Between Oakland and Grandview Roads.
a. High cost of construction on ledge rock and uneven terrain.
b. Access problems, remote from public transportation.
c. Impact on residential/recreational/educational area.
12. Plat 123, Lots 103-110, part of 128-133 - Waverly Road.
a. Uneven topography, steep hill, swamp areas.
b. Periodic congestion of traffic and parking on Oakland Road and Birch
Meadow Drive.
c. Impact on residential/recreational/educational area.
13. Plat 62, Lots 1,6-11,7a - Vine Street behind Parker Jr. High.
a. High cost of site preparation and drainage.
b. Uncertainty of access permission across B & M/META tracks.
14. Plat 171, Lot 1, Plat 170, Lots 1 and 2 - Former Nike Site off Haverhill Street.
a. Remotemess from Center, poor visibility to public.
b. No public transportation near site.
15. Plat 76, Lots 4,7-10, 8a and 8b - Harnden and Union Streets.
a. High cost of property acquisition in business area.
b. Access problems on one-way and narrow streets.
16. Plat 65, Lots 6-8 - Present site plus abutting lots.
a. High total cost of purchase, razing buildings, filling.
b. Existing building can serve other Town functions.
17. Plat 57, Lot 21, part of Lots 20 and 22 - Former Tree and Moth Department
Site, plus part of Town Dump.
a. Cost of removal of overfill and subsoil.
b. Shortens lifetime of dump operation 3-6 months.
c. Drainage problems due to elevation of adjacent dump.
d. Construction delay 12 months pending Mass. Board of Health inspection.
e. Loss of tax revenue from potential industrial site.
f. Short line-of-sight on John Street curve; cost to correct.
The remaining two sites are recommended by this committee:
18. Plat 46, part of Lot 2 - John Street in front of DPW garage.
19. Plat 158, Lot 3 - North Main Street site of Reading Supply Company.
The two recommended sites are discussed below.
PUBLIC WORKS GARAGE SITE
The Committee recommends the John Street D.P.W. site on the basis of the following
advantages which are not found together in any other potential site.
1. Town-owned land.
2. Low site preparation cost; flat land, firm soil.
3. Utilities and paved drives already available.
4. Shared use of vehicle maintenance and emergency power.
5. Provides active security for D.P.W. facilities and future industrial develop•
ment of present dump site.
6. Potential heat from the incinerator.
7. Reasonably accessible (ten minute walk from Center, on bus route, linked to
remote parts of town by Route 128) .
8. Good line-of-sight for safe exit onto roadway.
9. Minimal impact on character of local area.
The specific site is that area lying between the present driveways from John St.
to the municipal garage and to the incinerator, having a 210 foot frontage and 250
foot depth, more or less. The existing Recycling Center is not included, nor is a
similar area on the opposite side of the municipal garage driveway.
This site was discussed in depth in two meetings with the B.P.W. and the D.P.W.
Superintendent. The Board expressed the opinion that equivalent advantages could be
realized on Site 17. The Committee believes that Site 17 is inferior with respect
to items 2,3,4,6 and 8 on previous list. The Board raised the following specific
objections to Site 18:
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
This site was discussed in depth in two meetings with the B.P.W. and the D.P.W.
Superintendent. The Board expressed the opinion that Equivalent advantages could be
realized on Site 17. The Committee believes that Site 17 is inferior with respect
to items 2,3,4,6 and 8 on previous page. The Board raised the following specific
objections to Site 18:
a. Truck traffic.
b. Limits future expansion of office/barn area as opposed to loss of three
months dumping space.
C. No compelling reasons for this site vs. dump side relative to the potential
loss of the area for future use.
d. Periodic seasonal needs of the front yard.
e. Snow dump.
I. Cold storage.
g. Future garage expansion.
h. Need for separation of facilities - need for fencing.
The Board also was concerned that its option to erect an Engineering Building at
some future date would be lost; however, the Committee points out that the proposed
station plans leave a 0.98 acre tract on John Street for this D.P.W. option, which
of exercised, would strengthen advantages 4 and 5 for mutual benefit.
READING SUPPLY COMPANY SITE
This site, on North Main Street, just north of Forest, was consistently ranked
highest by the Committee on the basis of merit as a police station location. Its
major advantages are:
1. Low site preparation cost; flat land, firm soil.
2. Near geographic center and projected population center of town.
3. Easy access by private or public transportation (bus).
4. Vehicle exit visibility is good; nearby traffic lights can be controlled
in emergency.
5. Municipal services and utilities already available.
The site is privately owned and operated as a going business. Preliminary talks
have indicated that the owner expects substantial compensation for relocation costs,
in addition to land and building value, but is willing to negotiate. No mutual
agreement concerning Town acquisition has been reached at this writing.
SECTION IV
FUNDING
The Committee investigated sources of funds at the Federal and local levels.
Federal funds could be used to build a new police station, with the Town paying
related expenses. Renovation or expansion of the present station for police use
would be completely at Town expense. However, renovations for other uses might
be supported by Federal Funds.
FEDERAL
It is the Committee's understanding that Department of Commerce (DOC) grants
are available for new construction with specific purposes, including police
protection, but not for renovation or expansion of existing buildings. The express
purpose of these grants is to stimulate the construction industry. To obtain a
grant, a preliminary application is required to show both need for the proposed
building and high local unemployment. Upon approval, a detailed application is
prepared showing the site and complete plans. An awarded grant covers construction
costa only, while related costs such as land acquisition, site preparation,
furnishings, must be paid by the Town. Consequently, the latter costs are an
important factor in site selection. Funds for technical equipment are available
under separate grants. Federal funds are also available for renovation, but these are
intended for Human Services facilities. If Reading moves its police force from the
present station, then funds might be obtained for renovation to Human Services use.
LOCAL
Although a Bond Issue would spread Town costs over several years, funds would
have to be scheduled into the Capital Budget first. For a near-term construction
program, therefore, the only local source is the tax levy. Using 1975 figures, each
$186,000.00 of expense raises the property tax rate by $1.00.
In summary, Reading will bear some of the costs of updating its police
facilities. By taking advantage of federal grants, these costs can be kept down and
the existing building can be recycled for other uses.
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. The Committee recommends that the Board of Selectmen continue negotiations with
the Reading Supply Company and Board of Public Works for acquisition of Sites
Nos. 18 and 19 and, depending upon the outcome of such negotiations, budget
appropriate funds for purchase of land as indicated.
2. Based on the Committee's survey of present police station facilities, the Commi-
ttee recommends, pending on the outcome of applications for Federal Funds, that
the Board of Selectmen consider appropriation of funds necessary to relieve obvious
and critical deficiencies in its present facility.
APPENDIX
A. Report of Planning Staff dated 2/27/76.
B. Map of site locations considered.
C. Memo from Planning Staff dated 12/22/75.
D. Report of Planning Staff dated 3/16/75.
PLANNING STAFF, ROOM 9
COMMUNITY CENTER
52 SANBORN ST.
READING, MASS. 01867
February 27, 1976
SITE SELECTION AND POLICE STATION
BUILDING STUDY COMMITTEE
RE: EXISTING POLICE STATION PRELIMINARY COST ANALYSIS
OF ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS BY THE BUILDING STUDY
COMMITTEE, AS SHOWN ON THEIR SKETCHES,
Gentlemen:
The enclosed Preliminary Estimates must not be construed as final or complete, but
rather, approximate. The purpose, as we discussed, is to establish a broad "overlook"
for decision making purposes.
Many factors could easily increase these estimates, a few of which are:
1. Removal of existing rood
2. Extending plumbing vents
3. Break through existing bearing wall at elevator
and provide new lintels for three floors
4. Extend chimney through third floor
5. Provide and install new electric services switchbox, etc. and
remove existing
6. Provide new stairway from Main floor to new floor above
7. Site work
8. Purchase of Hoyt land and house for necessary parking space
These are some of the costs not specifically included in these Preliminary Estimates,
and should be kept in mind if either of these Schemes were to be undertaken.
It has been customary in many of the larger Architectural offices in Boston to miltiply
direct costs by a factor of 2.5 +- depending on experience and judgment where
alteration and addition projects are contemplated. These estimates do not include
this factor, and may be considered "on the conservative side" of actual costs.
The planning of police operations, as you know, determine the architectural needs.
These figures are based on what might be done through renovation, but not necessarily
what should be done for an optimum police operation. In short, they should be
considered a "ball park indicator" of what may be involved.
Respectfully submitted
Robert S. Parsons
Planner/Architect
February 20, 1976
SITE SELECTION AND POLICE STATION
BUILDING STUDY COMMITTEE
RE: EXISTING POLICE STATION PRELIMINARY COST ANALYSIS OF ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS
PROPOSED BY THE BUILDING STUDY COMMITTEE, AS SHOWN ON THEIR SKETCHES
VERTICAL SCHEME (8100 Sq. ft.)
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Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
COST SUMMARY:
EXISTING BUILDING ALTERATIONS:
FIRST FLOOR $ 9,541.00 $ 9,541.00
MAIN FLOOR $41,602.00
Expoxy Floor in Detention 705.00
Carpeting 17,586.00 $ 59,893.00
ELEVATOR
Three floors plus elevator enclosure $ 36,000.00
FIRE ESCAPE
Three floors with first floor cable counter weighted $ 6,400.00
OLD CELLS
Remove and dispose of existing cells $ 5,000.00
THIRD FLOOR (New)
2700 sq. ft. x $55.30 - $149,310.00 $149,310.00
$266,144.00
PLUMBING
8% of 266,144.00 $ 21,292.00
ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL
29% of 26,144.00 $ 77,181.00
Sub-Total $364,617.00
FURNISHINGS
Equipment, desks, files, etc. $ 40,000.00
INSURANCE
22% on labor = $16,043.00 $ 16,043.00
PROFIT
General Contractor, overhead and profit
10 & 5% (Includes Subs, 0. & P.) $ 54,693.00
INFLATION
7% x $364,617.00 = $25,523.00 $ 25,523.00
BOND
1% x $364,617.00 = $3,646.00 $ 32646.00
TAXES
State taxes on material - 5% = $14,585.00 $ 14,585.00
CONTINGENCY
20% x $364,617.00 = $72,923.00 $ 72,923.00
Sub-Total $592,090.00
ARCHITECT'S FEE
15% x $592,090.00 = $88,814.00 $ 88,814.00
$680,904.00
EXISTING LAND AND BUILDING
(In kind contribution by Town) $ 70,600.00
NOTE: This is not at new 100% valuation
GRAND TOTAL $751,504.00
HORIZONTAL SCHEME (10,200 sq. ft.)
COST SUMMARY:
Two new floors at rear of present building
40' x 60' = 2400 sq. ft. ea. x 2 = 4800 sq. ft.
4800 sq. ft. x $55.30 - $2652440.00 $265,440.00
FIRE ESCAPE
First story cable counter weighted system - $12600.00
Second story - $1,600.00 $ 32200.00
EXISTING BUILDING ALTERATIONS:
Includes new elevator required by Architectural Barriers Code
for the Handicapped. $10,000.00 per floor, for a 4'x 4'6" cab
with entrances on front and end. Enclosure against outside of
existing building of conc. block and brick veneer to match
existing, $4,429. _ $24,429.00 min.
OLD CELLS
Remove and dispose of existing $ 5,000.00
TOTAL for Alterations (Approx) $311,626.00
PLUMBING
8% of $585,266.00 = $46,821.00 $ 46,821.00
ELECTRICAL/MECHANICAL
29% of $585,266.00 = $169,727.00 $169,727.00
$801,814.00
FURNISHINGS
Equipment, desks, files, etc. $ 20,000.00
INSURANCE
22% on labor = $35,280.00 $ 35,280.00
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
PROFIT
General Contractor, overhead and profit
10 & 5% (Includes Subs. 0. & P.) $120,272.00
INFLATION FACTOR
7% of 801,814.00 = $56,127.00 $ 56,127.00
BOND
1% of 801,814.00 = $8,018.00 $ 8,018.00
TAXES (State)
5% on material $ 30,200.00
CONTINGENCY
20% of 801,814.00 = $160,363.00 $160,363.00
ARCHITECT'S FEE Sub-Total $1,232,074.00
15% of $1,232,074.00 = $184,811.00 $ 184,811.00
$1,416,885.00
EXISTING LAND AND BUILDING
(In kind contribution by Town) $ 70,600.00
NOTE: This is not at new 100% valuation
GRAND TOTAL $1,4873485.00
DIAGRAM - See attached sheet
PLANNING STAFF MEMO December 22, 1975
RE: APPROXIMATE AREAS OF MAJOR FUNCTIONAL SPACES FOR NEW READING POLICE STATION
PUBLIC (Lobby, waiting, Handicapped toilets, etc.) 720 sq, ft.
MULTIPURPOSE RM. (Squad day rm. , Class rm. , Public Meet.) 870
GARAGE (Prisoner Intake, Mugging, Evidence Stor.) 3500
DETENTION (Juvenile, Female, Adult male) 800
OPERATIONS (Offices, Conference, Locker rms. , etc.) 3800
DISPATCH (Communications) 250
TOTAL 9940 sq. ft.
Say 10,000 sq. ft. +-
VEHICLE PARKING
20 Vehicles ea. shift (max.) plus 10 Visitors 9400 sq. ft.
40 Vehicles at once plus 10 Visitors 22,000 sq. ft.
NOTE: Vehicle access roads not included
One acre = 43,560 sq. ft.
Safe entrance and egress into traffic flow MUST be given top priority
in building design, and location for any site being considered.
Pedestrian and Vehicular VISIBILITY must be given prime consideration in
building design and location.
March 17, 1976
SITE SELECTION AND POLICE STATION BUILDING STUDY COMMITTEE
RE: PRELIMINARY COST ANALYSIS OF PROPOSED NEW POLICE FACILITY FOR READING
COST SUMMARY:
MAIN FLOOR (7,725 sq, ft. x $41.00/sq. ft.)
Administration
Operations
Detention
Circulation $316,725.00
GARAGE (2,400 sq, ft. @ $15.00 sq. ft. $ 36,000.00
MECHANICAL ROOM (840 sq. ft. @ $25.00/sq. ft.) $ 21,000.00
(Below grade) $373,725.00
FURNISHINGS $ 30,000.00
$403,725.00
CONTINGENCY 5% $ 20,186.00
$4233911.00
INFLATION 7% $ 29,674.00
Sub Total $453,585.00
ARCHITECT'S FEE 10%
(Includes all engineer's fees) $ 45,359.00
GRAND TOTAL $489,944.00
NOTE: Contractor's overhead, profit, insurance, Bond, etc, are included.
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Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
SITE:
Site is to be provided by the Town of Reading as "In Kind Contribution" to
Federal Funds.
Costs of site borings, access roads, grading, drainage, planting, etc. by the Town.
PISTOL RANGE:
No pistol range has been included here, and was not included in the Birch Meadow,
Horizontal or Vertical Alteration Schemes. However, I suggest that it could be
added in the"bidding phase" and could be either accepted or rejected, depending on
"base bid" prices.
VAULT:
There is adequate space in the Mechanical Room to build a storage vault, but
decisions have yet to be made regarding type, size, fireproofing and purpose. Again,
I would suggest that this be included as an alternate in the "bidding phase".
STORAGE:
Storage is adequate on the "Main Floor", but additional storage may be added in the
basement as an alternate.
SOLAR HEAT:
Interest has been shown by State officials in assisting our Town in obtaining Federal
Grant dollars to pay for a complete solar heat demonstration system for the new
Police Station. I am actively pursuing this possibility, and if approved, Reading
will have the first new solar energy heated police station in the State. This
should be added as an alternate price during bidding.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert S. Parsons
Architect/Planner
COMMITTEE:
Barry J. Mitchel, Chairman
Douglass L. Barker, Secretary
John B. Miller
Anthony L. Rickley
Ralph E. Snyder, Jr.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 1. The following report was read by George A. Theophanis, Chairman
of the Charter Commission:
REPORT OF THE CHARTER COMMISSION
The Charter Commission submitted its final report to the selectmen and has
acted as the selectmen's agent in having the report printed and mailed to every
household in the town. The Charter Commission has also submitted a summary of the
charter for inclusion in the annual town warrant to be acted on by the voters at
the April 12 town elections.
The charter reaffirms the selectmen-representative town meeting form of
goverment. It establishes a town meeting standing committee structure and other
town meeting reforms. It increases the number of selectmen from three to five and
gives the selectmen broader appointive powers. It establishes an executive budget
with selectmen review. It establishes procedures for reorganizing government which
consist of initiation by the selectmen and ratification by town meeting. It
places administrative operations except for the school, housing, and light departments
under a town administrator, who is appointed by the selectmen. The selectmen appoint
department heads under the supervision of the town administrator only upon his
recommendation. All other boards and officials appoint their operating personnel.
It provides for election of the Town Meeting members, Moderator, Board of Selectmen,
School Committee, Municipal Light Board, Housing Authority, and Regional Vocational
School Representative. It increases the Municipal Light Board from three to five
members. It incorporates the duties of the Board of Public Works and Board of
Cemetery Trustees with those of the Board of Selectmen. It includes a recall provision
for all elected officials. It takes effect on July 4, 1976.
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
The Charter Commission wishes to acknowledge and thank the many citizens,
town employees, and town officials who contributed their thoughts and advice during
the drafting of this charter. These contributions have resulted in a charter which
reflects the thinking of a broad segment of the community.
(s) George A. Theophanis
Chairman - Reading
Charter Commission
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 1. Carl H. Amon, Jr. gave a Citizen's Report on the proposed charter.
This report was accepted with thanks.
ARTICLE 1. The following report was read by Richard J. Ogden for the Board
of Selectmen:
REPORT ON LITTERING
1. The state's statute concerning littering is Chapter 272, Section 60 of the
General Laws.
This statute does not cite specific penalties. However, our experience has been
that the penalty is usually a $50 fine. The local regulations concerning littering
are found in Article XV of the By-Laws revised as or October, 1974. Article XXVII,
'%nforcement of By-Laws", provides a penalty of "A FINE NO MORE THAN $50."
2. During the years 1972, 1973, 1974, and 1975 approximately a half a dozen
citations per year were mailed to the registry of motor vehicles regarding the
throwing of rubbish from moving vehicles onto public ways. During this same time
period about 8 persons were taken to court for throwing rubbish from moving vehicles
and were found guilty.
Approximately 6 to 8 complaints a year of rubbish being left on public ways
are referred to the Police Department by the Board of Public Works or as a result
of citizen complaints. In these instances an effort is made to ascertain whose
rubbish has been left and the person responsible is notified to remove it immediately.
In almost all instances the rubbish is removed promptly.
3. Most of the positive actions taken regarding littering have been taken by
the Board of Public Works working in cooperation with the Selectmen or other Boards.
For example, rubbish barrels have been left in various park areas and at the railroad
stations for littering. In addition, many citizen groups conducted clean-up
campaigns and the Selectmen feel that a partial solution to the problem lies in such
citizens' awareness and efforts.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
On motion of Robert S. Cumming it was voted to lay Article I on the table.
ARTICLE 2. On motion of Douglass L. Barker it was voted that the Board of
Selectmen be instructed to compile a summary of the cost reduction programs instituted
by Town Boards and Committees during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976 and to
deliver a report to the subsequent Town Meeting in the fall of 1976.
The report should describe the titles of major projects, the dollar savings
on an annual basis, and the Board or Committee responsible for instituting the
savings program.
On motion of Robert S. Cummings it was voted to lay Article 2 on the table.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. , it was voted that the sum of
sixty thousand four hundred and fourteen dollars ($60,414) be transferred from the
unencumbered insurance 1974 - 1975 appropriation and appropriated to the Fire
Department Salary Account.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Robert S. Cummings it was voted that the Town
authorize the Board of Selectmen to purchase or take the following described land, or
any part thereof, in fee or rights of easement therein by eminent domain under the
provisions of Chapter 79 of the General Laws for conservation and/or recreation
purposes, and to appropriate the sum of Twenty-six Thousand Dollars ($26,000.), and
to meet the appropriation, that said sum be transferred from funds to be received by
the Town pursuant to a Community Development Block Grant, as awarded in the letter
`l,G^
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
dated November 28, 1975 from the Director of the H.U.D. Area Office to Mr. Robert
S. Cummings:
The parcel of land East of Grove Street,
North of Intervale Terrace, and West of John
Carver Road and shown entirely as Lot 37 on the
Reading Assessor's Plat 122, containing 8.7 acres
more or less,
and the Board is authorized to enter into agreements with Federal agencies for
the purpose.
88 voted in the affirmative
14 voted in the negative
(two-thirds vote required)
Carl H. Amon, Jr. moved for Reconsideration of Article 4. This motion did
not pass.
56 voted in the affirmative
70 voted in the negative
(two-thirds vote required)
On a point of personal privilege, Carl H. Amon, Jr. requested that the records
of this meeting reflect that he voted in the negative for motion made by Robert S.
Cummings under Article 4.
ARTICLE 5. On motion of Curt E. Nitzsche it was voted that the sum of five
hundred and fifty dollars ($550.00) be transferred from certified free cash and
appropriated to the Planning Board account for the purpose of up-dating the
zoning map and the printing of same.
ARTICLE 6. On motion of Duane B. Heineck it was voted that the sum of
Thirty-Two Thousand Seventy-Five and seven hundredths Dollars ($32,075.07) be
transferred from unencumbered funds in the 1974-75 insurance appropriation, and
Three Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-One and twenty hundredths Dollars ($3,921.20)
be transferred from certified free cash for a total of Thirty Five Thousand Nine
Hundred Ninety-Six and twenty-seven hundredths Dollars ($35,996.27) for the purpose
of repairing, reconstructing and equipping the municipal pool bathhouse. Such sums
to be expended by and under the direction of the Recreation Committee.
ARTICLE 7. James J. Fandel moved that the Town vote to amend Article XXIV of
the Town By-Laws
(a) By adding to "Section 7, Benefits and Working Conditions" a new Paragraph:
(I) - Longevity.
Effective January 1, 1976, all permanent employees shall, in
addition to other compensation, be entitled to a payment for continuous
length of service to the Town as follows:
$100 annually upon completion of five years of service.
$200 annually upon completion of ten years of service.
$300 annually upon completion of fifteen years of service.
$400 annually upon completion of twenty years of service.
Amounts payable on the first pay-day of December annually.
and
(b) By Amending "Schedule A - Classification Plan":
1. Exempt Positions
C. Inspection Class
Building Inspector - delete: Pay Grade 18 and
insert: Pay Grade 20.
2. Non-Exempt Positions
3. Public Safety Class
Dog Officer - delete: Pay Grade 9 and
insert: Pay Grade 10.
On amendment by Robert H. Soli it was voted that this Article be indefinitely
postponed.
On motion of Robert S. Comings it was voted to take Article 2 from the table.
On motion of Robert S. Cummings it was voted that Article 2 be indefinitely
postponed.
On motion of Robert S. Cummings it was voted to take Article 1 from the table.
Special Town Meeting March 22, 1976
On motion of Robert S. Cummings it was voted that Article 1 be indefinitely
postponed.
On motion of Robert S. Comings it was voted that this meeting stand adjourned,
sine die, at 10:55 P. M.
141 Town Meeting Members were present.
A true copy. Attest:
Lawrence Drew
Town Clerk
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