HomeMy WebLinkAbout1976-05-03 Annual Town Meeting Minutes Town Election - April 12, 1976
PRECINCT 8
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS - Vote for Not More Than Twenty-Four (Cont'd)
Philip T. Brady 154
Robert E. Coyne 187
Joseph Digiovanni 175
Michael J. Driscoll 170
Maxine R. Gilvey 197
Robert G. Mallion 152
Richard E. McDonald 173
Ronald V. O'Connell 154
M. Frances Osborn 206
George B. Perry II 206
Maria E. Silvaggi 209
Blanks 5,918
Total 12,408
The polls were closed at 8:00 P.M. with the following results:
Whole number of votes cast 4,071.
The votes were declared in Open Town Meeting, sealed in ballot envelopes
and transmitted to the Town Clerk to be placed in the vault for safe keeping.
Voted to adjourn 9:45 P. M. , April 12, 1976.
A true record. Attest:
awrence Drew
Town Clerk
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING '
May 3, 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. P. Reidar Lindland of the First Baptist
Church, and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
The Warrant was partially read by the Town Clerk, when, on motion of James
J. Sullivan, Jr. , it was voted to dispense with further reading of the Warrant,
except the Constable's Return, which was then read by the Town Clerk.
The newly elected Town Meeting Members were sworn in by the Moderator.
The Moderator asked if there were objections to certain specified non-town
meeting members meeting with their respective Boards. Upon receipt of objection,
the Moderator received motions from Town Meeting members as follows, to allow
specific persons to sit with their respective Boards, with the assurance the persons
so allowed would not vote.
On motion of John H. Crocker it was voted that Norbert D. Rhinerson be allowed
to sit with the Municipal Light Department.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. , it was voted that John W. Agnew, Jr. ,
Executive Secretary; Richard E. Gould, Town Accountant and Donald L. Connors, Town
Counsel be allowed to sit with the Board of Selectmen.
On motion of James R. Boucher it was voted that David V. Galvin and Thomas
M. Riley be allowed to sit with the Conservation Commission.
On motion of John H. Russell it was voted that E. Roger Louanis and John W.
Price be allowed to sit with the Board of Public Works.
On motion of Leo R. Campbell, Jr. it was voted that James H. Morley be allowed
to sit with the Personnel Board.
? ; ti
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Lawrence R. Blood for the
Board of Public Works:
PROGRESS REPORT ON SANITARY LANDFILL
OPERATIONS
The existing sanitary landfill site consists of 34.78 acres of industrial
zoned Town owned property which is located on John Street in the southerly part
of the Town. The land around the site is fairly well developed. Apartments
and residential homes are to the immediate north of the site and industrial usage
to the southeast and to the southwest across John Street. The only undeveloped
area is the generally low wooded area to the east of the existing site. The
southeast boundary of the property is the Reading-Wakefield Town Line which runs
approximately parallel to and about 250 feet from the right of way line of
Massachusetts Route 128.
The sanitary fill area is located directly across the street from the Public
Works Garage, Municipal Incinerator and the Recycling Area. This allows supervision
and equipment to be readily available to the site at all times, as well as
allowing proper control of the operation to assure compliance with the regulations
of the State Department of Public Health.
The sanitary landfill site is currently being filled by an approved method
from the Department of Environmental Quality Engineering Division of General
Environmental Control. Plan #1 shows the three distinct areas of operation along
with the maximum fill elevations for each of the areas. Area I was used as a
burned dump from 1930 to 1958. Area II was used as an open face dump with top
Cover once a week from 1958 to 1970.
Area III has been used since 1970 and is currently at capacity. It has been
filled by an approved method for sanitary landfill operations. The actual filling
procedure requires the site to be built up by a cell method. Each cell consists
of a 30-inch high berm constructed of clean impervious fill, 50 feet long and 30
feet apart within which a maximum of 2 feet of refuse may be deposited and covered
with a 4-inch layer of incinerator residue ash. This is then covered with a 6-
inch layer of clean gravel. The procedure is repeated until a height of 2 feet
below the maximum allowable elevation for the area is reached. The top two feet
is then filled with clean impervious material which will support vegetation.
The filling procedure if analyzed on a volume basis (excluding the top 2
feet which is lost from storage) yields the following percentages of usable
volume:
66.6% of the usable volume is available for refuse
11.4% of the usable volume is available for ash
17.0% of the usable volume is required for gravel
5.0% of the usable volume is required for berms
The existing Area III in the landfill site is currently at capacity and
Area I is being prepared for sanitary landfill use. There is a further require-
ment from the Department of Environmental Quality Engineering Division of General
Environmental Control which states that the sanitary landfill operation may not
be located within 60 feet of any drainage, open or piped.
In accordance with the approved filling plan it is estimated that there is
approximately 151,000 C. Y. of usable storage volume remaining in areas I and II.
Area III fill operations were monitored by topographical surveys dated from
April 7, 1974 to the last survey dated February 20, 1976 when the site was
virtually at capacity. The results indicate that the average weekly filling
rate over the stated time span was approximately 610 cubic yards per week. Based
upon this fact and assuming that refuse volume will experience a growth rate of
3% per year due to increased population and waste per household the existing site
will be at capacity in 4� years or by the fall of 1980.
In order to utilize the site to its maximum potential it will be necessary
to relocate the man-made ditches to the side property lines.
This would allow the existing ditch area to be used for valuable sanitary
landfill purposes since the 60 foot restriction will no longer be applicable. The
new usable core volume available after the ditch relocation would be approximately
510,500 cubic yards for cell type sanitary landfill operations.
1
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
Assuming the 3% growth rate in refuse per year the new volume would allow
the sanitary landfill operations to continue for approximately 14 years or until
1990. At that time the site will have approximately 25 acres of flat land. The
proposed plan of the ditch relocation along with the new maximum fill elevations
is shown on Plan /l2.
The proposed ditch as shown on the plan will also intercept the natural
runoff and divert the existing ditch flow around the sanitary landfill site.
This will greatly reduce the possibility of contamination from leachants in the
landfill area. The new proposed ditches will also have an impervious lining
which will act as a further safeguard from the detrimental leachant action.
The diversion of the existing man-made ditches to the property lines is
also consistant with the results of the Comprehensive Plan Study for the Dump
Site Re-Use Analysis prepared for the Reading Planning Board by Sasaki Associates,
Incorporated, which indicates that the relocation will allow more flexibility in
future development potentials.
It is planned to fill the site from the John Street side and work progress-
ively towards the back of the property. This will allow the filled sections to
be available for other Town uses when they become available.
A phased program is being planned to accomplish the necessary drainage
construction and to obtain the required permits for the site modification.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Carl H. Amon, Jr, for the
By-Law Committee:
By vote of the Town Meeting held on March 21, 1970 a By-Law Committee was
appointed by the Board of Selectmen to review, revise and codify the town by-laws
and to collect and compile the General Acts accepted by the Town.
The Committee has submitted its report to review, revise and codify the
town by-laws, and the collection and compilation of the General Acts accepted
by the Town has been completed by the Town Clerk.
The By-Law Committee therefore submits this report as its final report.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert L. Dancy
Carl H. Amon, Jr.
By-Law Committee
This report was accepted with thanks as a final report.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Curt E. Nitzsche for the Growth
and Development Policy Committee:
Report of Progress on Reading's Local Growth Policy Committee
The Massachusetts Growth Policy Development Act, Chapter 807, has required
participating cities and towns to initiate a locally oriented planning committee
representative of the various interest groups within each community.
This committee is charged with the responsibility of preparing a statement,
within a prescribed time frame, of local priorities.
The office of State Planning prepared a questionnaire to assist local
growth committees in the preparation of these statements.
Reading's Growth Committee is presently utilizing this questionnaire as
a vehicle to open discussions.
These discussions will lead to a concensus in formulating our future
growth and development policy statement.
Also, in accordance with Chapter 807, our first public hearing was held
on April 8, 1976, with subjects such as a broader tax base, housing, and Reading's
desired future being discussed. Presently we are preparing to draft a tentative
growth statement which will be presented at another public hearing towards the
end of June.
In view of the significant potential impact of this forthcoming statement,
27 '?
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
I would, on behalf of Reading's Growth Committee, like to extend an invitation
to any interested parties to participate in these very important planning
discussions.
We will be meeting every Wednesday night at 7:30 in the Community Center,
commencing May 19, 1976.
Curt E. Nitzsche
Vice Chairman
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Joyce K. Miller, Chairman
of the Reading Bicentennial Commission:
The projects undertaken or endorsed by the Reading Bicentennial Commission
are progressing as planned. Repairs to the Parker Tavern are completed and the
Tavern will be open as usual this season. All houses and sites on the Heritage
Trail have been marked. The accompaning map and guidebook should be available
in a few weeks. (Not attached) The new edition of History of Reading's
Government is nearly complete. Understandably the League of Women Voters
elected to postpone publication until after the recent election, but the book
should be available this summer. The College Club hopes to have their booklet
for elementary children completed by fall, and Mrs. Bishop expects to complete
the new edition of Colonial Roof Trees within the year. The Oral History
committee has recorded 13 interviews, which are now in various stages of being
typed, edited and indexed. Rubbings have been taken of approximately 1/2 of the
early gravestones and the project will be completed this summer. The slide-tape
show on Tavern Life in Early New England has been completed and has already been
used by several groups.
The Jaycees and Reading Minute Men are planning and coordinating our
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
On motion of Nancy E. Elgart it was voted that Eugene R. Nigro, Louis H.
Martinage and W. Bruce MacDonald be allowed to sit with the School Committee.
On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that Joseph C. Sturm and
Charles J. Keller be allowed to sit with the Planning Board.
On motion of John D. Cafazzo it was voted that James J. Nugent, Jr. be
allowed to sit with the Board of Health.
ARTICLE 2. In compliance with motion under Article 2 of the Adjourned
Subsequent Town Meeting, November 17, 1975, Moderator Kenneth C. Latham presented
a short discussion and instruction on procedures for all Town Meeting members.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by James J. Sullivan, Jr. , for the
Board of Selectmen:
STATE OF THE TOWN
In the fall of 1974, a By-Law change required that the Selectmen report at
each annual meeting on the State of the Town. For a proper perspective, we must
review the past year as well as look to the future.
1975 was an eventful year for Reading, one in which there were many accomplish-
ments, some of which will have long and lasting beneficial effects. There were
also some disappointments.
Looking at some of the plusses, our central telephone system was fully
implemented and happily it would seem, within our earlier budget expectations.
It was the first full year of operating our Building Maintenance Department.
This, combined with some central buying, has proven to be most efficient.
The ticket system was established for the use of the Dog Officer. There is
every indication that this new tool will enable that department to more efficiently
carry out its responsibilities in the future.
)a< Federal funding played a major role in Reading in 1975. Although we are all
-- aware that federal funds are "Quote" our funds, it is important to bear in mind that
we are talking about monies already set aside by the government, already taken from
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
ARTICLE 56. On motion of Leo R. Campbell, Jr. , as amended by Elizabeth W.
Klepeis, it was voted to amend the official classification plan, schedules and
regulations in accord with Article XXIV of the By-Laws of the Town as follows:
SECTION I. By amending Schedule B. : Compensation Plan Fiscal Year 1977
by adding 5% to the dollar ranges as follows:
Full-time positions assigned in Schedule A to specific pay grades shall be
compensated within dollar ranges as follows: (Part-time positions shall be
compensated at an hourly rate to that of an equivalent full-time position) . All
changes in the structure are effective July 1, 1976.
PAY QUALIFICATION WEEKLY 37} Hr. POSITIONS 40 Hr. POSITIONS
GRADE POINTS MIN. MAX. MIN. - MAX. MIN. - MAX.
1 159 87.76 114.47 2.34 3.05 2.20 2.87
2 160-174 93.90 122.48 2.50 3.26 2.35 3.07
3 175-189 100.47 131.04 2.68 3.50 2.51 3.28
4 190-204 107.32 140.24 2.86 3.74 2.69 3.51
5 205-219 113.68 148.24 3.03 3.95 2.85 3.71
6 220-234 120.16 156.73 3.20 4.18 3.00 3.92
7 235-249 127.03 165.70 3.39 4.42 3.17 4.15
8 250-264 134.30 175.15 3.58 4.67 3.36 4.38
9 265-279 139.37 185.17 3.72 4.94 3.49 4.63
10 280-294 146.61 195.77 3.91 5.22 3.66 4.89
11 295-309 158.66 206.93 4.23 5.52 3.97 5.18
12 310-324 167.75 218.76 4.47 5.84 4.19 5.47
13 325-339 177.34 231.30 4.73 6.16 4.43 5.78
14 340-354 187.57 245.18 5.00 6.54 4.69 6.05
15 355-369 198.20 258.52 5.28 6.90 4.96 6.47
16 370-384 209.55 273.29 5.59 7.29 5.24 6.84
17 385-399 221.51 290.00 5.91 7.73 5.53 7.25
18 400-414 234.20 305.48 6.24 8.15 5.86 7.63
19 415-429 247.55 322.94 6.60 8.62 6.18 8.07
20 430-444 261.74 341.60 6.98 9.11 6.54 8.54
21 445-459 276.68 360.88 7.38 9.62 6.92 9.02 -
22 460-474 292.53 381.50 7.80 10.17 7.32 9.53
23 475-489 309.26 403.36 8.24 10.75 7.73 10.08
24 490-504 326.94 426.40 8.72 11.37 8.17 10.66
25 505-519 345.64 450.82 9.22 12.02 8.64 11.27
26 520-534 365.43 476.62 9.74 12.70 9.14 11.92
27 535-549 387.03 504.83 10.32 13.46 9.68 12.62
SECTION II. Benefit Change
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 one of the following payments 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 annually on the first pay-day of December.
SECTION IV. By amending Schedule A. : Classification Plan
1. Exempt Positions.
Building Inspector upgrade from 18 to 20
SECTION V. By amending Schedule A. : Classification Plan
2. Non-exempt Positions.
Selectmen Senior Clerk A, Grade 6 to Secretary Grade 7
Police Senior Clerk A, Grade 6 to Police Administrative
Secretary, Grade 11.
P
i
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Lawrence R. Blood for the
Board of Public Works :
PROGRESS REPORT ON SANITARY LANDFILL
OPERATIONS
The existing sanitary landfill site consists of 34.78 acres of industrial
zoned Town owned property which is located on Sohn Street in the southerly part
of the Town. The land around the site is fairly well developed. Apar[meats
and residential homes are to the immediate north of the site and industrial usage
to the southeast and to the southwest across Sohn Street. The only undeveloped
area is the generally low wooded area to the east of the existing site. The
southeast boundary of the property is the Reading-Wakefield Town Line which runs
approximately parallel to and about 250 feet from the right of way line of
Massachusetts Route 128.
The sanitary fill area is located directly across the street from the Public
Works Garage, Municipal Incinerator and the Recycling Area. This allows supervision
and equipment to be readily available to the site at all times, as well as
allowing proper control of the operation to assure compliance with the regulations
of the State Department of Public Health.
The sanitary landfill site is currently being filled by an approved method
from the Department of Environmental Quality Engineering Division of General
Environmental Control. Plan IPI shows the three distinct areas of operation along
with the maximum fill elevations for each of the areas. Area I was used as a
burned dump from 1930 to 1958. Area II was used as an open face dump with top
Cover once a week from 1958 to 1970.
Area III has been used since 1970 and is currently at capacity. It has been
filled by an approved method for sanitary landfill operations. The actual filling
procedure requires the site to be built up by a cell method. Each cell consists
of a 30-inch high berm constructed of clean impervious fill, 50 feet long and 30
feet apart within which a maximum of 2 feet of refuse may be deposited and covered
with a 4-inch layer of incinerator residue ash. This is then covered with a 6-
inch layer of clean gravel. The procedure is repeated until a height of 2 feet
below the maximum allowable elevation for the area is reached. The top two feet
is then filled with clean impervious material which will support vegetation.
The filling procedure if analyzed on a volume basis (excluding the top 2
feet which is lost from storage) yields the following percentages of usable
volume:
66.6% of the usable volume is available for refuse
11.4% of the usable volume is available for ash
17.0% of the usable volume is required for gravel
5.0% of the usable volume is required for berms
The existing Area III in the landfill site is currently at capacity and
Area I is being prepared for sanitary landfill use. There is a further require-
ment from the Department of Environmental Quality Engineering Division of General
Environmental Control which states that the sanitary landfill operation may not
be located within 60 feet of any drainage, open or piped.
In accordance with the approved filling plan it is estimated that there is
approximately 151,000 C. Y. of usable storage volume remaining in areas I and II.
Area III fill operations were monitored by topographical surveys dated from
April 7, 1974 to the last survey dated February 20, 1976 when the site was
virtually at capacity. The results indicate that the average weekly filling
rate over the stated time span was approximately 610 cubic yards per week. Based
upon this fact and assuming that refuse volume will experience a growth rate of
3% per year due to increased population and waste per household the existing site
will be at capacity in 4� years or by the fall of 1980.
In order to utilize the site to its maximum potential it will be necessary
to relocate the man-made ditches to the side property lines.
This would allow the existing ditch area to be used for valuable sanitary
landfill purposes since the 60 foot restriction will no longer be applicable. The
new usable core volume available after the ditch relocation would be approximately
510,500 cubic yards for cell type sanitary landfill operations.
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
Assuming the 3% growth rate in refuse per year the new volume would allow
the sanitary landfill operations to continue for approximately 14 years or until
1990. At that time the site will have approximately 25 acres of flat land. The
proposed plan of the ditch relocation along with the new maximum fill elevations
is shown on Plan #2.
The proposed ditch as shown on the plan will also intercept the natural
runoff and divert the existing ditch flow around the sanitary landfill site.
This will greatly reduce the possibility of contamination from leachants in the
landfill area. The new proposed ditches will also have an impervious lining
which will act as a further safeguard from the detrimental leachant action.
The diversion of the existing man-made ditches to the property lines is
also consistant with the results of the Comprehensive Plan Study for the Dump
Site Re-Use Analysis prepared for the Reading Planning Board by Sasaki Associates,
Incorporated, which indicates that the relocation will allow more flexibility in
future development potentials.
It is planned to fill the site from the John Street side and work progress-
ively towards the back of the property. This will allow the filled sections to
be available for other Town uses when they become available.
A phased program is being planned to accomplish the necessary drainage
construction and to obtain the required permits for the site modification.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Carl H. Amon, Jr. for the
By-Law Committee:
By vote of the Town Meeting held on March 21, 1970 a By-Law Committee was
appointed by the Board of Selectmen to review, revise and codify the town by-laws
and to collect and compile the General Acts accepted by the Town.
The Committee has submitted its report to review, revise and codify the
town by-laws, and the collection and compilation of the General Acts accepted
by the Town has been completed by the Town Clerk.
The By-Law Committee therefore submits this report as its final report.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert L. Dancy
Carl H. Amon, Jr.
By-Law Committee
This report was accepted with thanks as a final report.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Curt E. Nitzsche for the Growth
and Development Policy Committee:
Report of Progress on Reading's Local Growth Policy Committee
The Massachusetts Growth Policy Development Act, Chapter 807, has required
participating cities and towns to initiate a locally oriented planning committee
representative of the various interest groups within each community.
This committee is charged with the responsibility of preparing a statement,
within a prescribed time frame, of local priorities.
The office of State Planning prepared a questionnaire to assist local
growth committees in the preparation of these statements.
Reading's Growth Committee is presently utilizing this questionnaire as
a vehicle to open discussions.
These discussions will lead to a concensus in formulating our future
growth and development policy statement.
Also, in accordance with Chapter 807, our first public hearing was held
on April 8, 1976, with subjects such as a broader tax base, housing, and Reading's
desired future being discussed. Presently we are preparing to draft a tentative
growth statement which will be presented at another public hearing towards the
end of June.
In view of the significant potential impact of this forthcoming statement,
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
On motion of Nancy E. Elgart it was voted that Eugene R. Nigro, Louis H.
Martinage and W. Bruce MacDonald be allowed to sit with the School Committee.
On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted that Joseph C. Sturm and
Charles J. Keller be allowed to sit with the Planning Board.
On motion of John D. Cafazzo it was voted that James J. Nugent, Jr. be
allowed to sit with the Board of Health.
ARTICLE 2. In compliance with motion under Article 2 of the Adjourned
Subsequent Town Meeting, November 17, 1975, Moderator Kenneth C. Latham presented
a short discussion and instruction on procedures for all Town Meeting members.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by James J. Sullivan, Jr. , for the
Board of Selectmen:
STATE OF THE TOWN
In the fall of 1974, a By-Law change required that the Selectmen report at
each annual meeting on the State of the Town. For a proper perspective, we must
review the past year as well as look to the future.
1975 was an eventful year for Reading, one in which there were many accomplish-
ments, some of which will have long and lasting beneficial effects. There were
also some disappointments.
Looking at some of the plusses, our central telephone system was fully
implemented and happily it would seem, within our earlier budget expectations.
It was the first full year of operating our Building Maintenance Department.
This, combined with some central buying, has proven to be most efficient.
The ticket system was established for the use of the Dog Officer. There is
every indication that this new tool will enable that department to more efficiently
carry out its responsibilities in the future.
Federal funding played a major role in Reading in 1975. Although we are all
aware that federal funds are "Quote" our funds, it is important to bear in mind that
we are talking about monies already set aside by the government, already taken from
our taxes. If not spent in Reading then some other successful applicant will be
the recipient. Our objective has, and I hope will continue to be, to seek out
such funds only for those projects desirable and needed by Reading and without
locking the town in on future commitments.
Some of the uses for which federal funding has been granted are:
Establishment of a Housing Program wherein many of our friends and neighbors
can continue to live in dignity in their present surroundings while adjusting to
changing circumstances.
A Youth Office providing many services to young people not the least of which
was employing seventy young people this past summer, fifteen during the winter and
running the now popular "Rent-A-Kid" program. Many other services are provided
by this office such as counseling.
Another program provided at its peak thirty-four full time positions within
various Town departments. Helping the local economy, while at the same time
providing a much needed work force.
Federal funding provided the necessary funds for acquisition of the Higgins
property, which will be used for Conservation and Recreation.
Assistance to the Assessing Department in their recently completed revaluation
as well as funds for the renovation of the Depot and a new ambulance.
During the past year approximately five hundred thousand dollars have been
placed into Reading's economy for worthwhile projects without committing the
community in the future.
Recently the Town appointed a Growth and Development Committee. Its basic
purpose is to analyze our Town, what we are, where we hope to go and how do we get
there. Similar committees have been established throughout the Commonwealth.
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
Each committee will report to its region and they in turn to the Commonwealth.
This could be the forerunner to a master plan for the entire state. Its an
important committee which I am sure you will be bearing more about in the future.
Perhaps the biggest single disappointment we were and are still faced with
is the potential loss of revenue sharing and the impact it will have on our tax
rate. White it is hard to believe that at the last moment it will not be passed
this being an election year. The fact is, to date, it has not been renewed.
Our first application for funding to construct a new police station was not
granted as the funds were exhausted on other projects. We are, however, the
beneficiaries of an excellent study prepared by the Police Site Study Committee
which will assist us in our new application under different funding which we are J
hopeful will be granted.
We continue to have our problems with vandalism and disorder. Overall no
worse than before and perhaps better than many of our neighboring communities.
Looking to the future there are problems and opportunities we must address
ourselves to.
In the area of vandalism and disorder, there are additional steps that can
and will be taken by town government, but for the long range the real solution
is an educational one. A recognition by everyone, parents, teachers, officials,
the entire community, of their responsibilities towards one another will eventually
bring about an easing of a deplorable situation.
The town recently rejected the Charter Commission's commendable efforts, this
not to be construed as a defeat in its entirety but merely a rejection of certain
items. The By-Laws Committee should examine these areas that could be presented
to a future Town Meeting item by item for their consideration. Such a presentation
could strengthen town government through the much mentioned process of evolution
rather than revolution.
There is an ever growing need for a Human Services Department, one that will ■■■
coordinate various services now available and provide those services not available ,
to insure that all citizens of all ages will have equal opportunities.
Space requirements at all levels of general government are becoming acute.
If not corrected soon, inefficiency will set in and costs will escalate.
Our Public Library has, over the years, proven the need for additional space.
Eventually this most be met if we hope to maintain at its present level this most
important resource center's capabilities of meeting the community's needs.
Our traffic flow and parking needs must be studied if we are to provide for
present and future requirements.
Housing needs or some subsidy programs must be examined if we are to meet
the requirements of needy citizens and avoid the ultimate mandate of the State
which may well be much Less desirable.
Long range planning is an absolute must if we are to avoid many of the
problems facing us, such as increased property taxes, etc. We have seen nothing
in the past decade or so to indicate costs will be lower, in fact they continue to
increase as the demands of the community intensify.
The Selectmen intend, along with the help of officials and citizens alike,
to use all the resources of their office to address themselves to the problems
and opportunities of today and tomorrow.
To paraphrase Henry Thoreau --- "As long as we march in the same parade
our progress will not be deterred despite the fact that we march to the beat
of a different drummer."
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. Elizabeth W. Klepeis submitted "Addendum to Finance Committee
Report" (separate sheet) , and outlined in detail specifics as to the 1976 tax
rate and new assessment. This was accepted as a report of progress.
ADDENDUM TO FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
July 1, 1976 - June 30, 1977
page 10 TRANSFERS FROM AVAILABLE FUNDS TO: FY 177
Overlay Reserve to Reserve Fund $115,782
Surplus Revenue & Available Free Cash 346,880
Federal Revenue Sharing to Fire Salaries 200,000
Federal Revenue Sharing to Police Salaries 200,000
METCO Funding to METCO 144 ,029
Municipal Light Board to Town Treasurer Salaries 3,000
Sale of Real Estate to Land Purchase and
School Remodeling 38,675
TOTAL TRANSFERS $1, 195, 459
page 14 TAX RATE CALCULATIONS
TOTALS TO BE RAISED BY VOTE OF TOWN MEETING
(PROJECTION) 16 ,140,948
EST. STATE AND COUNTY ASSESSMENTS AND OVERLAY 1,620,797
TOTAL RECOMMENDATIONS AND ESTIMATES $17,761,745
Deductions to Compute Estimated Tax Rate:
Est. Receipts and Available Funds $5,123,195
Transfers and Surplus Revenue 1,195,459 -6,318,654
Net to be Raised by Taxation $11,443,091
As Fixed FY' 75 As Fixed FY' 76 EST. FY'77
!! Net to be Raised by Taxation $ 9,184,295 $ 10,657,762 $ 11,443,091
Total Valuation 184,000,000 185, 352,225 280,000 ,000
Tax Rate (per Thousand) $50.00 $57.50 $40.90
Finance Committee
page 15 line 19 Recommendation
11,300
TOTAL 50 ,795
page 16 General Government Subtotal 490,503
. page 17 line 77 8,000
line 78 2 ,600
line 79 4 ,750
Total X50
Protection of Persons & Property Sub Total 1,909,487
page 18 line 95 2 ,000
line 98 - 1,800
Total 104,351
line 111 68,172
Total 233,996
General Services Sub Total 599 ,283
page 19 line 127 $6,304,038
line 128 1,088,595
line 129 30,726
line 130 57,641
line 131 13,500
line 132 193,679
line 133 144,029
Sub Total Education $7,832,208
GRAND TOTAL EDUCATION 7,997,494
line 163a Union Salary Increases 28,180
page 20 line 180 59,987
line 198 Longevity 8,450
line 199 Sick Leave Buy Back
page 21 Article 8 Indefinitely Postponed
Article 12 Indefinitely Postponed
page 22 Article 15 Recommend $459.
page 24 Article 24 Recommend $800,000.
page 25 Article 29 Recommend $15,000.
page 26 Article 35 Indefinitely Postponed
page 27 Article 42 Recommend $9,000.
page 28 Article 43 Do Not Recommend $3,500.
Article 44 Indefinitely postponed
Article 45 Recommend $200.
page 31 Article 56
Sect. I Recommend
Sect. II Recommend
Sect. III Do Not Recommend
Sect. IV Recommend
Sect. V Dog Officer - Do Not Recommend
Selectmen Senior Clerk A - Recommend
Police Senior Clerk A - Action Pending
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Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
I would, on behalf of Reading's Growth Committee, like to extend an invitation
to any interested parties to participate in these very important planning
discussions.
We will be meeting every Wednesday night at 7:30 in the Community Center,
commiencing May 19, 1976.
Curt E. Nitzsche
Vice Chairman
/� This report was accepted as a report of progress.
■L ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Joyce K. Miller, Chairman
of the Reading Bicentennial Commission:
The projects undertaken or endorsed by the Reading Bicentennial Commission
are progressing as planned. Repairs to the Parker Tavern are completed and the
Tavern will be open as usual this season. All houses and sites on the Heritage
Trail have been marked. The accompaning map and guidebook should be available
in a few weeks. (Not attached) The new edition of History of Reading's
Government is nearly complete. Understandably the League of Women Voters
elected to postpone publication until after the recent election, but the book
should be available this summer. The College Club hopes to have their booklet
for elementary children completed by fall, and Mrs. Bishop expects to complete
the new edition of Colonial Roof Trees within the year. The Oral History
committee has recorded 13 interviews, which are now in various stages of being
typed, edited and indexed. Rubbings have been taken of approximately 1/2 of the
early gravestones and the project will be completed this summer. The slide-tape
show on Tavern Life in Early New England has been completed and has already been
used by several groups.
The Jaycees and Reading Minute Men are planning and coordinating our
Festival Weekend of May 21-22. Plans are well under way for numerous activities,
including a Bicentennial Ball, a morning of outdoor activities followed by a
Minute Man Parade, and the appearance of the British 10th Regiment of Foot. The
Garden Club plans a flower show and the High School Glee Club and Bank will
L present a special program of American Music. There should be something to
appeal to everyone, and we look forward to one of the biggest community festivals
ever held in Reading.
I cannot make a Report of Progress without emphasizing that all progress
has been the result of enthusiastic participation by volunteer workers. Only
materials and direct costs of lasting projects are being paid for by the Town,
and even some of these have been donated. The costs of the entire Festival
Weekend are being covered by fund-raising activities handled by the Jaycees and
Minute Men. Donations of time and money have been generous and made the whole
Bicentennial program truly a community undertaking.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 2 on the
table.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that a
Standing Town Meeting By-Law Committee of five members be appointed by the
Moderator and that said Committee be charged to bring By-Law reforms and
updates to the next Town Meeting and to subsequent Town Meetings; that said
Committee be instructed to consult with Town Boards, Departments, Committees,
and officers prior to compiling said reforms and updates.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that the
Board of Selectmen be instructed to dispose of the Cadillac Town Ambulance in
the Fire Department upon such terms and conditions including competitive
bidding as it may deem to the best advantage of the Town.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 3 on the
table.
On motion of Leo R. Campbell, Jr. it was voted to take up Article 56
in advance of its order.
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
ARTICLE 56. On motion of Leo R. Campbell, Jr. , as amended by Elizabeth W.
Klepeis, it was voted to amend the official classification plan, schedules and
regulations in accord with Article XXIV of the By-Laws of the Town as follows:
SECTION I. By amending Schedule B. : Compensation Plan Fiscal Year 1977
by adding 5% to the dollar ranges as follows:
Full-time positions assigned in Schedule A to specific pay grades shall be
compensated within dollar ranges as follows: (Part-time positions shall be
compensated at an hourly rate to that of an equivalent full-time position) . All
changes in the structure are effective July 1, 1976.
PAY QUALIFICATION WEEKLY 37y Hr. POSITIONS 40 Hr. POSITIONS
GRADE POINTS MIN. MAX. MIN. - MAX. MIN. - MAX.
1 159 87.76 114.47 2.34 3.05 2.20 2.87
2 160-174 93.90 122.48 2.50 3.26 2.35 3.07
3 175-189 100.47 131.04 2.68 3.50 2.51 3.28
4 190-204 107.32 140.24 2.86 3.74 2.69 3.51
5 205-219 113.68 148.24 3.03 3.95 2.85 3.71
6 220-234 120.16 156.73 3.20 4.18 3.00 3.92
7 235-249 127.03 165.70 3.39 4.42 3.17 4.15
8 250-264 134.30 175.15 3.58 4.67 3.36 4.38
9 265-279 139.37 185.17 3.72 4.94 3.49 4.63
10 280-294 146.61 195.77 3.91 5.22 3.66 4.89
11 295-309 158.66 206.93 4.23 5.52 3.97 5.18
12 310-324 167.75 218.76 4.47 5.84 4.19 5.47
13 325-339 177.34 231.30 4.73 6.16 4.43 5.78
14 340-354 187.57 245.18 5.00 6.54 4.69 6.05
15 355-369 198.20 258.52 5.28 6.90 4.96 6.47
16 370-384 209.55 273.29 5.59 7.29 5.24 6.84
17 385-399 221.51 290.00 5.91 7.73 5.53 7.25
18 400-414 234.20 305.48 6.24 8.15 5.86 7.63
19 415-429 247.55 322.94 6.60 8.62 6.18 8.07
20 430-444 261.74 341.60 6.98 9.11 6.54 8.54
21 445-459 276.68 360.88 7.38 9.62 6.92 9.02
22 460-474 292.53 381.50 7.80 10.17 7.32 9.53
23 475-489 309.26 403.36 8.24 10.75 7.73 10.08
24 490-504 326.94 426.40 8.72 11.37 8.17 10.66
25 505-519 345.64 450.82 9.22 12.02 8.64 11.27
26 520-534 365.43 476.62 9.74 12.70 9.14 11.92
27 535-549 387.03 504.83 10.32 13.46 9.68 12.62
SECTION II. Benefit Change
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 one of the following payments 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 annually on the first pay-day of December.
SECTION IV. By amending Schedule A. : Classification Plan
1. Exempt Positions.
Building Inspector upgrade from 18 to 20
SECTION V. By amending Schedule A. : Classification Plan
2. Non-exempt Positions.
Selectmen Senior Clerk A, Grade 6 to Secretary Grade 7
Police Senior Clerk A, Grade 6 to Police Administrative
Secretary, Grade 11.
Annual Town Meeting May 3, 1976
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that this meeting stand
adjourned until Thursday, May 6, 1976, at 8:00 P. M. , to meet in Memorial
High School Auditorium.
Meeting adjourned at 11:40 P. M.
178 Town Meeting Members were present.
A true copy. Attest:
Lawrence Drew
Town Clerk
ADJOURNED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Reading Memorial High School Auditorium May 6, 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. J. Gary Campbell of the Old South
Methodist Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
The Moderator gave a second series of instructions on Parliamentary Law
in accordance with vote under Article 2 of Subsequent Town Meeting, November 17,
1975.
The Town Clerk read the Notice of Proposed Reconsideration of vote under
Article 3, voted at the Annual Town Meeting on May 3, 1976, and the Officer's
Return thereto, in accordance with Article II, Section 4 of the General By-Laws
of the Town.
It was moved by Beverly B. Seavey that the following vote under Article 3
passed at the Annual Town Meeting held on May 3, 1976, be reconsidered:
ARTICLE 3. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. , it was voted that a
Standing Town Meeting By-Law Committee of five members be appointed by the
Moderator and that said Committee be charged to bring By-Law reforms and updates
to the next Town Meeting and to subsequent Town Meetings; that said Committee
be instructed to consult with Town Boards, Departments, Coamittees, and Officers
prior to compiling said reforms and updates.
vote under
This motion to reconsider^Article 3 failed to pass.
87 voted in the affirmative
59 voted in the negative
(2/3 vote required)
On motion of Carl H. Amon, Jr. it was voted to take Article 2 from the table.
On motion of Carl H. Amon, Jr. it was voted that the Board of Public Works,
School Department and Board of Selectmen be instructed to provide the following
information in regard to the School, Public Works, Fire and Police Departments:
1. Name of person or persons representing the Town in the negotiations.
2. Date when negotiations commenced.
3. Number of negotiating sessions held to date.
4. Date of last negotiating session.
5. Current status of negotiations.
6. If negotiations have not been completed, the demands made by the Union.
7. The percentage increase in salaries under the current contract as compared
with the previous contract.
8. All fringe benefits presently in effect.
9. The total amount of overtime compensation paid to the Union members to
date in the current fiscal year.
10. Basis for overtime payments.
11. Employees entitled to overtime pay.
l
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 6, 1976
On motion of Carl H. Amon, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 2 on the table.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 4
on the table.
ARTICLE 5. On motion of Frank A. Smith, Jr. it was voted that the Town raise
from tax levy and appropriate the sum of Nine Thousand Dollars ($9,000.) for the
purchase of uniforms for the members of the Police Department.
ARTICLE 6. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the Town
authorize the Selectmen to sell or exchange or otherwise dispose of, upon such
terms and conditions as they may determine, three cars in the use of the Police
Department, and that the sum of Twelve Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($12,500.)
be raised from the tax levy and appropriated together with the receipts, if any
from the sale, exchange or disposal of the three vehicles for the purposes of
purchasing three new cars for the Police Department.
On motion of Nils L. Nordberg it was voted to take Article 4 from the table.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Frank A. Smith, Jr. it was voted that the sum of
Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated
for the care and lighting of Old South Clock.
On motion of Frank A.Smith, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 4 on the table.
ARTICLE 7. On motion of Frank A. Smith, Jr. it was voted that the Town
raise from the tax levy and appropriate Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.) for said
purpose to see if the Town will vote to indemnify certain Police Officers and
Firemen for expense actually incurred as a result of injury in the line of duty,
under the provisions of the General Laws, Chapter 41, Section 100, as amended,
said funds to be expended by the Board of Selectmen.
ARTICLE 8. To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing or from the
tax levy or transfer from available funds or otherwise and appropriate for the
purchase of a traffic signal controller at Main and Washington Street or take
any other action with respect thereto.
On motion of Frank A. Smith, Jr. it was voted that this article be indefinitely
postponed.
ARTICLE 9. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the Town raise
from the tax levy and appropriate the sum of Seven Hundred Dollars ($700.00) for
the purchase of protective clothing for members of the Auxiliary Fire Service.
ARTICLE 10. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the Town raise
from the tax levy and appropriate the sum of Four Thousand Eight Hundred ($4,800. )
Dollars for the purchase of uniforms for members of the Fire Department.
ARTICLE 11. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. , it was voted that the Town
raise from the tax levy and appropriate the sum of Thirty Thousand Dollars
($30,000.) for the purchase and installation of a Fire Alarm repeater and
related equipment.
ARTICLE 12. To see if the Town will vote to authorize the payment during
the year 1976 of bills remaining unpaid for previous fiscal years, for goods and
services actually rendered to the Town, or take any other action with respect
thereto.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that this article be
indefinitely postponed.
ARTICLE 13. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the Town raise
from the tax levy and appropriate the sum of Twenty-Four Thousand Dollars
($24,000.) for the purpose of coordinating or conducting programs dealing with
the problems of the aging ands°promote facilities, education, welfare and
recreation of the aging.
LL :
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 6, 1976
ARTICLE 14. Moved that the Town raise from the tax levy and appropriate the
sum of Four Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Five Dollars ($4,675.) for the obser-
vance of the Christmas Season, 1976, by the decoration and illumination of public
buildings and public streets and the decoration and illumination of Christmas
Trees upon municipal land.
This motion did not pass.
ARTICLE 15. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the Town
appropriate the sum of Four Hundred Fifty-Nine Dollars ($459.) for the purpose
of cleaning, illuminating and inscribing the large Veterans' Memorial that stands
opposite the Town Hall, said sum to be transferred from the Salvage Fund Account.
ARTICLE 16. To see if the Town will vote to accept the report of the Law
Committee regarding settlement of the litigation concerning the new Reading High
School, or take any other action with respect thereto.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that Article 16 be laid on
the table.
ARTICLE 17. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the Town authorize,
empower and instruct the Board of Selectmen to execute a Deed in confirmation of
the prior deed of the Town to Edouard J. Morand, dated July 31, 1934, recorded
at Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds in Book 5848, Page 255, which
deed was authorized by vote of the Town at the Adjourned Town Meeting of 1934.
ARTICLE 18. On motion of Elizabeth W. Klepeis it was voted that the Town
raise from the tax levy and appropriate Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000. ) for
the purpose of engaging a firm of independent certified public accountants to
perform an examination of the accounts of the Town, said funds to be expended
under the direction of the Finance Committee.
ARTICLE 19. On motion of Richard J. Ogden, as amended by Marvin M. Rosenthal,
it was voted that the Town amend Section 121.21 of the Reading Building Code by
deleting the fee schedule following the words "receipt of the permit" and substituting
therefore the following:
Fees For Electrical Permits
Residential
Additions or alterations to existing structures 1-3 outlets
add .25 for each additional outlet $ 2.00
New houses up to 60 outlets, .25 each additional outlet 12.00
New house with electric heat 12.00
Electric heat $3.00 first unit each additional unit .50
Rewire old house (Service Extra) 10.00
New Service 3.00
Temporary Service 3.00
Service Change 3.00
Change in Meter Trough 3.00
Range 3.00
Built-in Range 3.00
Oil or Gas Burners - .50 each Additional motor 2.00
Replacement 2.00
Air Conditioning per unit 2.00
Central Air Conditioning 10.00
Water Heater 2.00
Vent Fans 2.00
Drier 2.00
Disposal 3.00
1 Dishwasher 3.00
Swimming Pools 10.00
Misc. Repairs 3.00
Commercial
Additions or Alterations 1-3 outlets, additional .50 for each
additional outlet $ 5.00
New Commercial or Industrial sing. phase service or change up
to 200 ampere, add $1.50 6.00
New Commercial or Industrial 3 Phase service or change up to
200 ampere, add $1.50 for each additional 100 ampere 8.00
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 6, 1976
Air Compressor or Commercial Refrigeration $ 5.00
Air Conditioning 5.00
Signs - add .50 for each transformer 5.00
Outside Lighting 3.00
Christmas Lighting 0
1/6 H.P. Motors to 5 H.P. 5.00
1.6 H.P. Motors to 1 H.P. under vent fans 3.00
Electric Heat - New Building for first unit $3.00
each additional unit .75 extra
Apartments or Offices per unit 7.00
Industrial or Commercial concerns that employ licensed
Elect. for maintenance or repair - per year 50.00
ARTICLE 20. On motion of Frank A. Smith, Jr. it was voted that the Town
raise from the tax levy and appropriate the sum of One Hundred Fifty Dollars
($150.) for Aid to Agriculture and work of the Middlesex County Extension Service
and the 4-H Club under General Laws Chapter 12B, Sections 40 and 45 as amended,
sum to be expended under the direction of a Director appointed by the Selectmen,
such Director to cooperate with the Middlesex County Trustees.
ARTICLE 21. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that the Town
authorize, empower and instruct the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the
Selectmen, to borrow money from time to time in anticipation of the revenue of the
financial year beginning July 1, 1976 in accordance with the provisions of the
General Laws, Chapter 44, Section 4, and to issue a note or notes therefore,
payable within one year, and to renew any note or notes as may be given for a
period of less than one year in accordance with General Laws, Chapter 44, Section 17.
ARTICLE 22. To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing, or from the
tax levy, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for
the purpose of improving and reconstructing Town Public Ways, such sums to be spent
by and under the direction of the Board of Public Works and in such locations as
the Board of Public Works may deem advisable, or take any other action with
respect thereto.
On motion of Alexander T. Botka it was voted that this article be indefinitely
postponed.
ARTICLE 23. To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing, or from the
tax levy, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for
the purpose of improving and constructing Chapter 90 Highway, . together with such
sums as may be provided by the State and County under Section 34 of Chapter 90
of the General Laws, or take any other action with respect thereto.
On motion of Alexander T. Botka it was voted that this article be indefinitely
postponed.
ARTICLE 24. On motion of Lawrence R. Blood it was voted that the sum of
Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800,000.) be raised and appropriated for the
construction of sanitary sewers, sewerage work and other sewer facilities, such
sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Board of Public Works and to
meet said appropriation, that the sum of Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800.,000. )
be raised by borrowing, and that the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Board
of Selectmen, be and he hereby is, authorized to borrow said Eight Hundred Thousand
Dollars ($800,000.) payable in accordance with Section 7 of Chapter 44 of the General
Laws so that each issue shall be paid in not more than thirty (30)years from its date
or at such earlier time as the Treasurer and Selectmen may determine, said bonds
or notes shall be signed by the Treasurer and countersigned by the Selectmen
provided that the am herein appropriated shall be used for the construction of
sanitary sewers, sewerage work and other sewer facilities and that any surplus
therefrom together with any grant or grants from Federal or State funds or both,
shall be used to construct the balance of the project herein authorized and the
Board of Public Works be, and it hereby is, authorized, empowered and instructed
to file in the name of, and in behalf of the Town, an application in form and
manner required by the United States of America, and in conformity with the Public
Laws of the United States of America and to do whatever else may be required to
obtain a grant to be made by the United States of America to the Town of Reading,
Massachusetts to be used to defray part of the cost of the construction of said
sewers, sewerage work and other sewer facilities and enter into all contracts and
agreements with respect thereto and to do all other Acts and things necessary or
proper for carrying out the provisions of this vote.
178 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3 vote required)
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 6, 1976
ARTICLE 25. On motion of Lawrence R. Blood it was voted that the sum of
Three Thousand Eight Hundred and One Dollars ($3,801.00) be transferred from the
High Velocity Sewer Machine Account and the sum of Eleven Thousand One Hundred
Twenty-seven and 90/100 Dollars ($11,127.90) be transferred from the New
Equipment Account and the sum of Thirty-five Thousand Seventy-one and 10/100
Dollars ($35,071.10) be raised from tax levy and that sums totalling Fifty
Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) be appropriated for the purchase by the Board of
Public Works of the following:
One (1) New Carryall Truck
One (1) New Truck G.V.W. 35,000 lbs.
One (1) New Loader
and that the Board of Public Works be, and it hereby is authorized and empowered
to sell, or transfer, or exchange upon such terms and conditions as it may
determine,
One 1969 Chevrolet Carryall Truck
One 1963 White Truck
One 1971 Bobcat Loader
and the proceeds from such sales, exchanges or transfers are to be appropriated
in addition to aforementioned Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) for the
purchase of the aforesaid equipment such sum to be expended by and under the
direction of the Board of Public Works.
ARTICLE 26. On motion of Alexander T. Botka it was voted that the sum of
Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated
for the purpose of maintaining, improving and constructing facilities in the
Parks and Playgrounds, such sum to be expended by and under the direction of
the Board of Public Works.
ARTICLE 27. On motion of Paul C. Dustin it was voted that the sum of
Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated
for expenses of the Board of Public Works, including consulting engineering
service, surveys, preliminary plans, designs, final plans and estimates for a
Master Drainage Plan of the Town, such funds to be spent by and under the
direction of the Board of Public Works.
ARTICLE 28. On motion of Paul C. Dustin it was voted that the sum of
Twenty-five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.00) be transferred from Water Available
Surplus and appropriated for expenses of the Board of Public Works, including
consulting engineering services surveys, preliminary plans, designs, final plans
and estimates for a Comprehensive Water Study of the Town, such funds to be spent
by and under the direction of the Board of Public Works.
ARTICLE 29. On motion of Lawrence R. Blood it was voted that the Board of
Selectmen, upon written request of the Board of Public Works, to take land in
fee or rights of easement therein by eminent domain under Chapter Seventy-nine of
the General Laws, as amended, and Chapter 822 of the Acts of 1975, or acquire such
land in fee or rights of easement therein by purchase gift or otherwise, for
purposes of constructing, maintaining, repairing, using and doing any other and
all acts incidental to the construction of an interceptor sewer in the City of
Woburn and the Town of Reading, said land in Woburn bounded and described as
follows:
Bounded on the North by the Woburn and Wilmington boundary line, on the East
by the Woburn and Reading boundary line, on the South by Washington Street and
Mishawum Road and on the West by a railroad track now or formerly of the Boston
and Maine Corporation, and consisting of such lands or easements, of two hundred
feet in width, more or less, such as will establish a route beginning at a
36/30 stub in the Metropolitan District Coamiission interceptor sewer located by
the intersection of Hall's Brook and running by said railroad in a northerly
direction for five hundred feet more or less to a point, then turning and running
in a general Easterly direction through the culvert No. 43-33 of Station 174+00
on relocation base by which the Aberjona River passes under Interstate Highway
Route 93; and thence continuing to the Reading Town Line at Arnold Avenue; and
to make entry for the purpose of construction before all claims for damages by
reason thereof have been finally adjusted or determined, and that the sum of
Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000.00) be transferred from the previously
appropriated funds under Article 38 of the adjourned Annual Town Meeting of
May 1974 for the cost of such acquisition, such sum to be expended by and under
the direction of the Board of Public Works.
178 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3 vote required)
.. Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 6, 1976
ARTICLE 30. On motion of Lawrence R. Blood it was voted that the Town
accept the layout as a Public Way of a Private Way known as Norman Road as laid
out by the Board of Public Works in its report and plan, both of which are filed
in the Town Clerk's office, and adopt the recommendations contained therein, and
that the Town authorize the Board of Public Works to take land in fee or rights
of easement therein by eminent domain, purchase, gift or otherwise, and to assess
betterments therefore, and that the sum of Six Thousand Five Hundred Dollars
($6,500.00) Dollars be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for the purpose.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ON THE LAYING OUT OF
NORMAN ROAD
The Board of Public Works of the Town of Reading having determined and
adjudged that common convenience and necessity require the laying out of a town
way under the provisions of law authorizing the assessment of betterments, sub-
stantially in the location hereinafter described, having complied with all
requirements of law relating to notice to the owners of land thereof and of a
hearing thereon, and having met at the time and place appointed for such hearing
and then and there heard all persons present who desired to be heard, have laid
out as a town way for the use of the town running westerly off Track (Public) Road
substantially as and in the Location of a private way known as Norman Road. The
boundaries and measurements of said way as so laid out are as follows:
Beginning at a point, said point being on the westerly sideline of an
existing public way known as Track Road, said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 30.22 feet, a
distance of 55.83 feet to a point;
Thence S 750-02'-45" W. , a distance of 91.03 feet to a point;
Thence N 140-57'-09" W. , a distance of 39.46 feet to a point;
Thence N 750-03'-07" E. , a distance of 134.82 feet to a point, said point
being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 283.76 feet, a
distance of 105.49 feet to a point, said point being the point of beginning of
this description.
The above described lines being more fully described on a plan entitled
"Street Acceptance Plan - Norman Road", dated April 1976, E. Roger Louanis,
Superintendent, said plan being a part of this description.
We determine that no damages will be sustained by any person or persons in
their property by reason of the taking to be made for this improvement. All
acts in connection with said laying out are done under the provision of law
authorizing the assessment of betterments, and betterments are to be assessed
therefor.
This laying out so made by us we hereby report to the Town for acceptance
and recommend that said way shall thereafter be known as a public town way and
named Norman Road and that the sum of Six Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($6,500.00)
be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for construction of said way.
Sohn H. Russell, Chairman
Paul C. Dustin, Secretary
Lawrence R. Blood
Alexander T. Bucks,
178 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3 vote required)
ARTICLE 31. On motion of Sohn H. Russell it was voted that the Town accept
the layout as a Public Way of a Private Way known as Twin Oaks Road as laid out i
by the Board of Public Works in its report and plan, both of which are filed in +l]
the Town Clerk's Office, and adopt the recommendations contained therein, and
that the Town authorize the Board of Public Works to take land in fee or rights of
easement therein by eminent domain, purchase, gift or otherwise, and to assess
betterments therefor, and that the sum of Seven Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty
Dollars ($7,850.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for the purpose.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ON THE LAYING OUT OF
TWIN OAKS ROAD
The Board of Public Works of the Town of Reading having determined and
adjudged that common convenience and necessity require the Laying out of a town
way under the provisions of law authorizing the assessment of betterments,
substantially in the location hereinafter described, having complied with all
requirements of law relating to notice to the owners of land thereof and of a
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 6, 1976
hearing thereon, and having met at the time and place appointed for such hearing
and then and there heard all persons present who desired to be heard, have laid
out as a town way for the use of the town running south off Spruce (Public) Road
substantially as and in the location of a private way known as Twin Oaks Road.
The boundaries and measurements of said way as so laid out are as follows:
Beginning at a point, said point being on the southerly sideline of
an existing public way known as Spruce Road;
Thence S 40-44'-30" E. , a distance of 240.43 feet, to a point;
Thence S 860-47'-30" W. , a distance of 40.01 feet, to a point;
Thence N 40-44'-30" W. , a distance of 241.86 feet to a point, said point
being on the southerly sideline of Spruce Road;
Thence N' 880-50'-30" E. , a distance of 40.08 feet to the point of
beginning of this description.
The above described lines being more fully described on a plan entitled
"Street Acceptance Plan, Twin Oaks Road", dated April, 1976, E. Roger Louanis,
Superintendent, said plan being a part of this description.
We determine that no damages will be sustained by any person or persons in
their property by reason of the taking to be made for this improvement. All
acts in connection with said laying out are done under the provision of law
authorizing the assessment of betterments, and betterments are to be assessed
therefor.
This laying out so made by us we hereby report to the Town for acceptance
and recommend that said way shall thereafter be known as a public town way
and named Twin Oaks Road and that the sum of Seven Thousand Eight Hundred and
Fifty Dollars ($7,850.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for con-
struction of said way.
John H. Russell, Chairman
Paul C. Dustin, Secretary
Lawrence R. Blood
Alexander T. Botka
178 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3 vote required)
ARTICLE 32. On motion of Alexander T. Botka it was voted that the Town
accept the layout as a Public Way of a Private Way known as Johanna Drive as
laid out by the Board of Public Works in its report and plan, both of which are
filed in the Town Clerk's office, and adopt the recommendations contained
therein, and that the Town authorize the Board of Public Works to take land in
fee or rights of easement therein by eminent domain, purchase, gift or otherwise,
and to assess betterments therefore, and that the sum of Nine Hundred and
Eighty Dollars ($980.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for the
purpose.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ON THE LAYING OUT OF
JOHANNA DRIVE
The Board of Public Works of the Town of Reading having determined and
adjudged that common convenience and necessity require the laying out of a
town way under the provisions of law authorizing the assessment of betterments,
substantially in the location hereinafter described, having complied with all
requirements of law relating to notice to the owners of land thereof and of a
hearing thereon, and having met at the time and place appointed for such hearing
and then and there heard all persons present who desired to be heard, have laid
out as a town way for the use of the town running southerly off Salem (Public)
Street, substantially as and in the location of a private way known as Johanna
Drive. The boundaries and measurements of said way as so laid out are as follows:
Beginning at a point, said point being on the southerly sideline of a
public way known as Salem Street;
Thence S 50-52'-30" W. , a distance of 127.00 feet to a point;
Thence N 840-07'-30" W. , a distance of 5.00 feet to a granite stone bound,
said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 125.00 feet, a
distance of 99.57 feet to a Granite stone bound;
Thence S 390-46'-00" E. , a distance of 203.00 feet to a granite stone
bound, said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the right, having a radius of 225.00 feet, a
distance of 105.11 feet to a granite stone bound; said point being a point of
curvature;
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 6, 1976
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 75.00 feet, a
distance of 147.92 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence N 540-00'-00" E. , a distance of 39.89 feet to a granite stone
bound, said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 25.00 feet, a
distance of 21.03 feet to a granite stone bound, said point being a point of
curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the right having a radius of 50.00 feet, a
distance of 241.18 feet to a granite stone bound, said point being a point of
curvature.
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 25.00 feet, a
distance of 21.03 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence S 540-00'-00" W. , a distance of 39.89 feet to a granite stone
bound, said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the right, having a radius of 125 feet, a
distance of 246.53 feet to a granite stone bound, said point being a point of
curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 175.00 feet, a
distance of 81.75 feet to a granite stone bound.
Thence N 390-46'-00" W. , a distance of 203.00 feet to a point, said point
being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the right, having a radius of 175.00 feet, a
distance of 114.78 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence N 840-08'-25" W. , a distance of 5.54 feet to a point;
Thence N 30-32'-05" E. , a distance of 151.66 feet to a point, said point
being on the southerly sideline of Salem Street;
Thence S 840-07'-30" E. , a distance of 65.00 feet to the point said point
being the point of beginning of this description.
The above described lines being more fully described on a plan entitled
"Street Acceptance Plan - Johanna Drive", dated March 1976, E. Roger Louanis,
Superintendent, said plan being a part of this description.
We determine that no damages will be sustained by any person or persons in
their property by reason of the taking to be made for this improvement. All acts
in connection with said laying out are done under the provision of law authorizing
the assessment of betterments, and betterments are to be assessed therefor.
This laying out so made by us we hereby report to the Town for acceptance
and recomoend that said way shall thereafter be known as a public town way and
named Johanna Drive and that the sum of Nine Hundred and Eighty Dollars ($980.00)
be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for construction of said way.
John H. Russell, Chairman
Paul C. Dustin, Secretary
Lawrence R. Blodd
Alexander T. Botka
128 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3 vote required)
On motion of Marvin M. Rosenthal it was voted to take Article 3 from the table.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Marvin M. Rosenthal it was voted to direct the Law
Committee to immediately look into the feasibility of acquiring a full time town
counsel and legal secretary, and to report back before the conclusion of this
current Town Meeting.
On motion of Thomas J. Ryan it was voted to lay Article 3 on the table.
On motion of Thomas J. Ryan it was voted that this meeting stand adjourned
until Monday, May 10, 1976 at 8:00 P.M. , to meet in Memorial High School Auditorium.
Meeting adjourned at 10:55 P. M.
182 Town Meeting Members were present.
A true copy. Attest:
Lawrence Drew
Town Clerk
ADJOURNED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Reading Memorial High School Auditorium May 10, 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. Gregory McDermott of St. Athanasius
Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
ARTICLE 33. On motion of Paul C. Dustin it was voted that the Town accept
the layout as a Public Way of a Private Way known as Arrow Circle as laid out by
the Board of Public Works in its report and plan, both of which are filed in
the Town Clerk's office, and adopt the recommendations contained therein, and
that the Town authorize the Board of Public Works to take land in fee or rights
of easement therein by eminent domain, purchase, gift or otherwise, and to assess
betterments therefore, and that the sum of Six Hundred and Seventy ($670.00) Dollars
be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for the purpose.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ON THE LAYING OUT OF
ARROW CIRCLE
The Board of Public Works of the Town of Reading having determined and
adjudged that common convenience and necessity require the laying out of a town
way under the provisions of law authorizing the assessment of betterments,
substantially in the location hereinafter described, having complied with all
requirements of law relating to notice to the owners of land thereof and of a
hearing thereon, and having met at the time and place appointed for such hearing
and then and there heard all persons present who desired to be heard, have laid
out as a town way for the use of the town running south westerly off Johanna
Drive a proposed (Public) road, substantially as and in the location of a private
way known as Arrow Circle. The boundaries and measurements of said way as so
laid out are as follows:
Beginning at a granite stone bound, said point being on the south westerly
sideline of Johanna Drive; said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 25.00 feet, a
distance of 35.38 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence S 590-08'-50" W. , a distance of 168.48 feet to a granite stone
bound, said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 150.00 feet, a distance
of 102.54 feet to a granite stone bound, said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 20.00 feet, a
distance of 25.62 feet to a granite stone bound, said point being a point of curvature.
Thence by a curved line to the right, having a radius of 50.00 feet, a
distance of 82.03 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence S 520-07'-11" W. , a distance of 60.00 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence N 370-52 -49" W. , a distance of 48.99 feet to a granite stone bound,
said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the right, having a radius of 50.00 feet, a
distance of 50.49 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence N 190-58'-50" E. , a distance of 67.08 feet to a granite stone bound,
said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the right, having a radius of 200 feet, a
distance of 136.72 feet to a granite stone bound;
Thence N 590-08'-50" E. , a distance of 163.01 feet to a granite stone bound,
said point being a point of curvature;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 25.00 feet, a
distance of 35. 18 feet to a granite stone bound, said point being a point of
curvature on the south westerly sideline of Johanna Drive;
Thence by a curved line to the left, having a radius of 175.00 feet, a
distance of 55.83 feet, to a point;
Thence S 390- 46'-00" E. , a distance of 36.89 feet to a granite stone bound,
said point being the point of beginning of this description.
The above described lines being more fully described on a plan entitled
"Street Acceptance Plan - Arrow Circle", dated March 1976, E. Roger Louanis,
Superintendent, said plan being a part of this description.
We determine that no damages will be sustained by any person or persons in
their property by reason of the taking to be made for this improvement. All
acts in connection with said laying out are done under the provision of law authoriz-
ing the assessment of betterments, and betterments are to be assessed therefor.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 10, 1976
This laying out so made by us, we hereby report to the Town for acceptance
and recommend that said way shall thereafter be known as a public town way
and named Arrow Circle and that the sum of Six Hundred and Seventy Dollars
($670.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for construction of said
way.
John H. Russell, Chairman
Paul C. Dustin, Secretary
Lawrence R. Blood
Alexander T. Botka
Voted unanimously in the affirmative
(2/3rds vote required)
ARTICLE 34. On motion of Paul C. Dustin it was voted that the Town accept
the layout as a Public Way of a Private Way known as Randall Road as laid out
by the Board of Public Works in its report and plan, both of which are filed in
the Town Clerk's office, and adopt the recommendations contained therein, and
that the Town authorize the Board of Public Works to take land in fee or rights
of easement therein by eminent domain, purchase, gift or otherwise, and to
assess betterments therefore, and that the sum of One Thousand One Hundred and
Ten Dollars ($1,110.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for the
purpose.
REPORT OF THE BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ON THE LAYING OUT OF
RANDALL ROAD
The Board of Public Works of the Town of Reading having determined and
adjudged that common convenience and necessity require the laying out of a town
way under the provisions of law authorizing the assessment of betterments,
substantially in the location hereinafter described, having complied with all
requirements of law relating to notice to the owners of land thereof and of a
hearing thereon, and having met at the time and place appointed for such hearing
and then and there heard all persons present who desired to be heard, have laid
out as a town way for the use of the town running north easterly off Overlook
(Public) Road, substantially as and in the location of a private way known as
Randall Road. The boundaries and measurements of said way as so laid out are as
follows:
Beginning at a point said point being located S 680-32'-40" W. , a distance
of 113.98 feet from the north westerly terminous of a public way known as Overlook
Road;
Thence N 680-32'40" E. , a distance of 733.98 feet, to a point;
Thence N 210-27'-20" W. , a distance of 40.00 feet to a point;
Thence S 680-32'-40" W. , a distance of 732.85 feet to a point;
Thence S 190-50'-50" E. , a distance of 40.02 feet to the point of beginning
of this description.
The above described lines being more fully described on a plan entitled
"Street Acceptance Plan - Randall Road", dated March 1976, E. Roger Louanis
Superintendent, said plan being a part of this description.
We determine that no damages will be sustained by any person or persons
in their property by reason of the taking to be made for this improvement. All
acts in connection with said laying out are done under the provision of law
authorizing the assessment of betterments, and betterments are to be assessed
therefor.
This laying out so made by us we hereby report to the Town for acceptance
and recommend that said way shall thereafter be known as a public town way and
named Randall Road and that the sum of One Thousand One Hundred and Ten Dollars
($1,110.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for construction of said
way.
John H. Russell, Chairman
Paul C. Dustin, Secretary
Lawrence R. Blood
Alexander T. Botka
Voted unanimously in the affirmative
(2/3rds vote required)
On motion of Malcolm E. Reed it was voted to take Article 3 from the table.
9 .
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 10, 1976
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Malcolm E. Reed it was voted that the Town of
Reading Town Meeting Members instruct the Town Clerk to dispatch a letter to
the State Representative of the 32nd Middlesex District, Nils L. Nordberg, and
to the Senator for the first Essex and Middlesex District, William L. Saltonstall,
to convey the following message:
The Town Meeting Members of the Town of Reading strongly urge you to
initiate appropriate legislation and to support any legislation which will
allow this town to control its own affairs and specifically to allow the state
law which requires Massachusetts towns to submit to final and binding arbitration
the negotiations of union contracts to expire when the present Law terminates on
June 30, 1977.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 3 on the table.
ARTICLE 35. To see if the Town will vote to authorize the School Committee
to sell or exchange upon such terms or conditions as it may determine the 1972
Ford Station Wagon now in the School Department and to see what sum the Town
will raise by borrowing or from the tax levy or transfer from available funds or
otherwise and appropriate for the purchase of a new 12 passenger van type vehicle
or what it will do in relations thereto.
On motion of Nancy E. Elgart it was voted that this article be indefinitely
postponed.
ARTICLE 36. On motion of Robert I. Nordstrand it was voted that the sum of
One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($1,500.00) be raised from the tax levy and
appropriated for publishing for general circulation the Board of Assessors 1976
valuation list for real estate in compliance with Article XIII, Section 4 of the
By-Laws of the Town of Reading, such sum to be expended by and under the
direction of the Assessors.
On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien it was voted to take Article 2 from the table.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Maureen T. O'Brien, Chairman
oI the Planning Board:
In accordance with Chapter 40A, Section 6, of the General Laws, a Public
Hearing was held on Tuesday, April 20, 1976 at 7:30 P.M. in the Auditorium of
the Community Center, regarding a proposed change in the Zoning of Jacob Way,
Lots 5 and 17 to Business C.
The Hearing was orderly although poorly attended by only 13 people. All
those in attendance lived in the area of the proposed rezoning and were not in
favor of the proposal. The Planning Board recognizes the concerns of the abutters.
However, the Planning Board does recommend this Zoning change because it is the
logical extension of Business C.
Respectfully submitted,
Maureen T. O'Brien, Chairman
George V. Hines, Clerk
Curt E. Nitzsche
Joseph C. Sturm
Charles J. Keller
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 2 on the table.
ARTICLE 37. William H. Diamond moved that the Zoning By-Laws and Zoning
Map of the Town of Reading be amended by extending the Business C Zone on Jacob
Way to include the following described parcels of land:
The land in Reading, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, being shown as Lots
5 and 17 on a plan entitled "Plan of Lots in Reading, Mass. belonging to
Donald F. Johnston and Nancy A. Johnston", dated February, 1975, W. E. MacBrien,
Reg. Surveyor, and bounded and described as follows:
SOUTHEASTERLY by Jacob Way in two courses measuring respectively seventy j
(70) feet, and eighty and 98/100 (80.98) feet;
WESTERLY by land of Addison-Wesley Publishing Co. , Inc. , as shown on
said plan, one hundred eighty (180) feet;
NORTHEASTERLY by land of Carl R. Carlson, as shown on said plan, eighty and
56/100 (80.56) feet;
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 10, 1976
NORTHERLY by land of Charles N. Chase, as shown on said plan, sixty-nine
and 82/100 (69.82) feet; and
EASTERLY by land of Redstone Realty Trust, as shown on said plan, one
hundred sixty (160) feet.
Containing together 25,204 square feet of land, more or less, according to
said plan.
This motion did not pass.
22 voted in the affirmative
137 voted in the negative
(2/3 rds vote required)
ARTICLE 38. On motion of John H. Crooker it was voted that the Town is
hereby authorized to become a member of the Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale
Electric Company under Chapter 775 of the Acts of 1975.
ARTICLE 39. On motion of John H. Crooker it was voted that the Town vote to
recind the vote adopted under Article 1 of the warrant for the Special Town
Meeting of September 24, 1973 dealing with the construction of a new substation
and other facilities, since no action has been taken in reliance upon that vote.
159 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3rds vote required)
ARTICLE 40. To see what action the Town will take regarding the installation
of additional street lights on the public streets during the fiscal year 1977 or
what it will do in relation thereto.
On motion of John H. Crooker it was voted that the subject matter of Article
40 be referred to the Municipal Light Board, and that said Board be, and hereby
is, authorized to install such additional street lights as in its judgement are
required and to make such changes in the size, type and location of existing
street lights as it may deem advisable, the expense of the same to be paid
from the income of the Plant.
ARTICLE 41. On motion of Duane B. Heineck it was voted that the Town raise
from the tax levy and appropriate Twelve Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars ($12,800.00)
for the purpose of operating a youth program and/or youth center at the Reading
Community Center under the direction of the Recreation Committee.
ARTICLE 42. On motion of Benjamin E. Nichols it was voted that the Town
vote to acquire by purchase, eminent domain, gift or otherwise, the land bounded
and described below for the Town Forest under Chapter 45, Section 19 of the
General Laws, and that the Town raise and appropriate from funds in the Treasury
the sum of Nine Thousand Dollars ($9,000.00) for the cost of such acquisition,
such sum to be transferred from the "Sale of Real Estate" Account for such
purpose; the land being shown on a "Plan of land in Reading, Mass. , Scale 1" _
60' , April 26, 1976 Hayes Engineering, Inc. , 828 Lynn Fells Parkway, Melrose,
Mass." being bounded and described as follows:
Beginning at a stone bound at the south easterly corner of the granted
premises at land of Harry K. Kurchian and land of Town of Reading, formerly of
Ernest T. Wakefield.
Thence, the line runs N 740-44'-02" W. 779.00' by land of said Town,
formerly of said Wakefield to t} e meadow.
Thence, the line runs N 13 -46'-38" E. 105.10' by other land of the Town
of Reading and said meadow.
Thence, the line runs N 050-11'-58" E. 67.27' by said Town and meadow.
Thence, the line runs N 190-19'-42" E. 102.32' by said Town and meadow.
Thence, the line runs N 220-45'-58" E. 77.43' by said Town and meadow.
Thence, the line runs N 360-08'-03" E. 149.82' by said Town and meadow
to land now or formerly of Alonzo P. MacMillan.
Thence, the line runs S 770-19'-30" E. 356.56' by said MacMillan to an
angle.
Thence, the line runs S 770-39'-54" E 337.48 by said MacMillan to land of
said Harry K. Kurchian and an iron pipe in stones.
Thence, the line runs S 120-37'-26" W. 180.28' by land of said Kurchian to
an iron pipe in stones.
Thence, the line runs S 100-08'-47" W. 173.07' by land of said Kurchian
to an iron pipe in stones.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 10, 1976
Thence, the line runs S 130-19'-53" W. 171.24' by land of said F.urchian
to a stone bound at the point of beginning.
Containing 8.827 acres, according to said plan and being the same
appearing on Assessors Plat No. 221 as Lots 4, 5 and 6.
139 voted in the affirmative
17 voted in the negative
�^ (2/3rds vote required)
■ ARTICLE 43. James R. Boucher moved that the Town acquire the following
Ldescribed land by purchase, right of eminent domain, deed of gift, or otherwise
for Conservation purposes under General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8C, as amended,
and that the Town raise from the tax levy the sum of Two Thousand Three Hundred
and Five Dollars and fifty-two cents ($2,305.52) and that the Town transfer the
sum of One Thousand One Hundred and Ninety-Four Dollars and forty-eight cents
($1,194.48) from funds previously appropriated under the following articles:
Article 27 - Annual Town Meeting, March 17, 1973 $ 178.25
Article 28 - Annual Town Meeting, March 17, 1973 12.94
Article 13 - Special Town Meeting, September 24, 1973 1.00
Article 53 - Annual Town Meeting, March 21, 1974 250.00
Article 54 - Annual Town Meeting, March 21, 1974 552.29
Article 56 - Annual Town Meeting, March 21, 1974 200.00
and that said sums totalling Three Thousand Five Hundred ($3,500.00) Dollars
be appropriated for the purposes of such acquisition:
That parcel of land on Haverhill Street bounded and described as follows:
Beginning at a point on the Easterly side of Haverhill Street at the
Northwesterly corner of land of Patrick M. Procipio at the Southwesterly corner of
the premises.
Thence by said Haverhill Street Northerly on an arc a distance of 310 feet,
more or less, to land of Albert W. and Pearl E. Malphrus;
Thence by said Albert W. and Pearl E. Malphrus land Easterly a distance
of 716 feet, more or less;
Thence by said Albert W. and Pearl E. Malphrus land Northerly a distance
of 85 feet, more or less, to land of Francis M. and Mary L. McDermott;
Thence by said Francis M. and Mary L. McDermott land Northerly a distance
of 40 feet, more or less, to land of the Town of Reading;
Thence by land of the Town of Reading Easterly a distance of 74.25 feet,
more or less;
Thence by land of the Town of Reading Southerly a distance of 146.50 feet,
more or less;
Thence by land of the Town of Reading still Southerly a distance of 288.91
feet, more or less, to land of said Patrick M. Procopio;
Thence by said Patrick M. Procopio land Westerly a distance of 277.72 feet,
more or less;
Thence by said Patrick M. Procopio land still Westerly a distance of 549.65
feet, more or less, to Haverhill Street at the point of beginning.
Containing about 6.5 acres of land, more or less, and being shown as Lot #1
on Assessor's Plat 1/214 of the Town of Reading.
This motion did not pass.
27 Voted in the affirmative
126 voted in the negative
(2/3rds vote required)
ARTICLE 44. To see if the Town will vote to acquire by purchase, right of
eminent domain, deed of gift, or otherwise for conservation purposes under General
Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8C, as amended, the following described parcel of land
and to see what sum the Town will raise from the tax levy, by borrowing or transfer
from available funds or otherwise and appropriate for acquisition of said parcel
described as follows:
The parcel of land lying Westerly from West Street and shown as Lot No. 11
on the Assessor's Plat No. 96 of the Town of Reading, containing 17.74 acre;
more or less.
On motion of James R. Boucher it was voted that this article be indefinitely
postponed.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 10, 1976
ARTICLE 45. Lynn G. Stasz moved that the Town acquire the following described
land by purchase, right of eminent domain, deed of gift, or otherwise for
Conservation purposes under General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8C, as amended,
and that a gift of Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) from the Reading Greenbelt
Association be accepted with the gratitude of the town and be appropriated for
this acquisition:
That parcel of land off Curtis Street bounded and described as follows:
Beginning at a point on the Northerly side of the Circumferential Highway -
Route 128 at the Southeasterly corner of the premises;
Thence by said Circumferential Highway - Route 128 Westerly on an arc a
distance of 250 feet, more or less, to land of Mary S. and Norman H. Jewett;
Thence by said Mary S. and Norman H. Jewett land Northerly a distance of
51 feet, more or less;
Thence by said Mary S. and Norman H. Jewett land Easterly a distance of
116 feet, more or less, to land of William J. and Elizabeth Butt;
Thence by said William J. and Elizabeth Butt land Easterly a distance of
134.78 feet, more or less;
Thence by said William J. and Elizabeth Butt land Southerly a distance of
25 feet, more or less, to the Circumferential Highway - Route 128 at the point
of beginning.
Containing about 9,550 square feet of land, more or less, and being shown
as Lot #33 on Assessor's Plat #3 of the Town of Reading.
On motion of George A. Theophanis it was voted that this article be
indefinitely postponed.
ARTICLE 46. On motion of Nancy Wilson Anderson it was voted that the Town
raise from the tax levy, and appropriate from the tax levy, the sum of Five
Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) for the Conservation Fund for conservation purposes
under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8C, as amended.
ARTICLE 47. On motion of Nancy Wilson Anderson it was voted that the Town
grant to New England Power Company, an electric company organized and existing
under the laws of the Commonwealth, an easement for the construction, maintenance
and operation of towers, poles and wires for the transmission of electricity over,
across and upon certain portions of land in the Town of Reading held by it for
conservation purposes. Said land in the easement area consists of two certain
parcels of land.
The first parcel of land contains 1.8 acres of land more or less and is
bounded and described as follows:
Beginning at the northeasterly corner of said parcel at a paint on the
division line between land of the Town of Reading and land of the Town of North
Reading, said point also being on the Reading-North Reading Town Line;
Thence running in a southeasterly direction by said land of the Town of
Reading, 210 feet more or less to land of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts;
Thence running in a general westerly direction by said land of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 480 feet more or less to a point at land of
the Town of Reading;
Thence turning and running in a general northwesterly direction by said land
of the Town of Reading, 440 feet more or less to a point at land of the Town
of North Reading, said point also being on the Reading-North Reading Town Line;
Thence turning and running in a general easterly direction b7 said land of
the Town of North Reading, by land of New England Power Company, by land now or
formerly of owners unknown and by other land of the Town of North Reading, 700
feet more or less to the point of beginning - said last course and distance also
being by the Reading-North Reading Town Line.
The second parcel of land contains 1.5 acres of land more or less and is
bounded and described as follows:
Beginning at the northeasterly corner of said parcel at a point on the
division line between land of the New England Power Company and land of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts;
Thence running in a general southerly direction by said land of New England
Power Company, 280 feet more or less to a point at land of the Town of Reading;
L
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 10, 1976
Thence turning and running in a general westerly direction by said land
of the Town of Reading, 580 feet more or less to a point at land of the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts;
Thence turning and running in a general easterly direction by said land of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 460 feet more or less to the point of
beginning.
And that the Town authorize, empower and direct the Selectmen upon written
request of the Conservation Commission, to execute, acknowledge and deliver in
the name and on behalf of said Town such deeds or other instruments as may be
necessary or proper in connection therewith; such deeds or other instruments to
be in such form and upon such terms as the Selectmen and the Conservation
Commission may deem proper, and that the Town request the General Court to adopt
such legislation as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this vote,
or take any other action with respect thereto.
153 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3rds vote required)
ARTICLE 48. On motion of James R. Boucher it was voted that the Town grant
to New England Power Company, an electric company organized and existing under
the laws of the Commonwealth, an easement for the construction, maintenance and
operation of towers, poles and wires, for the transmission of electricity over,
across and upon a certain portion of land in the Town of Reading held by it for
conservation purposes. Said land in the easement area consists of a certain
parcel of land containing 0.30 acres of land more or less and is bounded and
described as follows:
Beginning at the northeasterly corner of said parcel at a point on the
division line between land of the Town of Reading and land of the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts, said point also being on the Reading-North Reading Town Line;
Thence running in a general southerly direction by said land of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 57 feet more or less to a cedar post;
Thence turning and running in a general westerly direction by said land of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 90 feet more or less to a point at land of
the Town of Reading;
Thence turning and running in a general northwesterly direction by said land
of the Town of Reading, 210 feet more or less to a point at land of the Town of
North Reading, said point also being on the Reading-North Reading Town Line;
Thence turning and running in a general easterly direction by said land
of the Town of North Reading, 280 feet more or less to the point of beginning -
said last course and distance also being by the Reading-North Reading Town Line;
And that the Town authorize, empower and direct the Selectmen upon written
request of the Conservation Commission to execute, acknowledge and deliver in
the name and on behalf of said Town such deeds or other instruments as may be
necessary or proper in connection therewith; such deeds or other instruments to
be in such form and upon such terms as the Selectmen and the Conservation
Commission may deem proper, and that the Town request the General Court to adopt
such legislation as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this vote, or
take any other action with respect thereto.
138 voted in the affirmative
2 voted in the negative
(2/3rds vote required)
ARTICLE 49. On motion of Clifford P. Wadman it was voted that the Town
raise from the tax levy and appropriate the sum of One Thousand Six Hundred
Dollars ($1,600.00) for salaries, maintenance and care of Veterans' Graves.
ARTICLE 50. On motion of Clifford P. Wadman it was voted that the Town
recind action taken under Article 6 of the Special Town Meeting held on
November 30, 1936.
140 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3rds vote required)
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 10, 1976
ARTICLE 51. On motion of Clifford P. Wadman it was voted that the sum
of Twenty-Five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.00) be appropriated from the tax
levy and that Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) be transferred from the Cemetery
Reserve Fund, said sum of Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000.00) to be expended
for the continued development of Forest Glen and Charles Street Cemeteries,
including site clearing, the construction of drainage, the extension of the
road systems, the water systems and the preparation of lots for sale, such
sums to be expended under the direction of the Board of Cemetery Trustees.
ARTICLE 52. On motion of Herbert F. Gent, Jr. it was voted that the Town
authorize the Board of Cemetery Trustees to sell or exchange or otherwise i
dispose of, upon such terms and conditions as they may determine, one dump truck J
in the use of the Cemetery Department, and the sum of Eight Thousand Two Hundred
Twenty-Five Dollars ($8,225.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated
together with the receipts, if any, from the sale, exchange or disposal of the
dump truck for the purpose of purchasing a One Ton Four Wheel Drive Hydraulic
Lift Dump Truck for the Cemetery Department.
ARTICLE 53. On motion of Herbert F. Gent, Jr. it was voted that the Town
authorize the Board of Cemetery Trustees to sell or exchange or otherwise
dispose of, upon such terms and conditions as they may determine, one mower
in the use of the Cemetery Department, and that the sum of Two Thousand Dollars
($2,000.00) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated together with the
receipts, if any, from the sale, exchange or disposal of the mower for the
purpose of purchasing one 70" Trip;ex Mower for the Cemetery Department.
ARTICLE 54. On motion of Clifford P. Wadman it was voted that the Town
authorize, empower and instruct the Board of Selectmen on the written request
of the Board of Cemetery Trustees to convey to Arthur L. Maguire of 33 Highland
Street, a strip of land now part of Laurel Hill Cemetery adjacent to the common
line; area of said strip being about 212 square feet more or less and shown on
a plan of land entitled 'Revision of Property Line in Reading, Massachusetts,
dated February, 1976',' upon such terms and conditions as they may deem in the
best interest of the town.
140 voted in the affirmative
0 voted in the negative
(2/3rds vote required)
ARTICLE 55. Clifford P. Wadman moved that the Town Treasurer through the
Investment Committee be instructed and hereby is authorized to re-invest 30%
of the yearly interest of the principals of the Forest Glen and Laurel Hill
Cemeteries bequest funds; said authorization to run for a period of ten years
unless otherwise terminated by Town Meeting action.
On motion of Malcolm E. Reed it was voted that this article be indefinitely
postponed.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that this meeting stand
adjourned until Monday, May 17, 1976 at 8:00 P.M. , to meet in Memorial High
School Auditorium.
Meeting adjourned at 10:59 P. M.
177 Town Meeting Members were present.
A true copy. Attest:
Lawrence Drew
Town Clerk
ADJOURNED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Reading Memorial High School Auditorium May 17, 1976
The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Kenneth C. Latham, at
8:00 P. M.
The invocation was given by Rabbi Mordecai Y. Scharf of Temple Emmanuel in
Wakefield, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. , it was voted to take Article 2 from
the table.
CARTICLE 2. The following report was read by James J. Sullivan, Jr. , Chairman
Lof the Law Committee:
The Law Committee has, at the request of this body and as part of its annual
deliberations, reexamined the feasibility of an in house counsel with secretary
versus the corporate concept.
Needless to say, times have changed and continue to change at a rapid pace.
Today's exposures and penalties of error and or omission are greater than ever.
The legal needs of our School Department, Board of Public Works, Assessors,
Building Inspector, Conservation and General Government require counsel with
expertise in many areas of law.
Indications are that no one person, at rates we could afford, can provide
the town with this expertise, nor be in several places at one time, which is
occasionally required. Time and time again he or she would be required to
consult with experts outside their own specialty at substantial costs to the town,
and, possibly, delays; or perhaps expose the town to unnecessary risks by not
seeking expert advice in those many gray areas because it may not be handy or
in an effort to keep the costs down.
Law, like the medical profession, has become so complex that numerous
specialty fields have been generated to insure the highest level of competence
for the client's protection.
After much discussion it is the opinion of the Law Committee that while
the Town could engage a full time counsel and secretary that the budget required
to meet these expenditures plus the additional sum required for outside counsel
would equal or exceed our present costs with no benefit to the Town and
therefore is not considered feasible at this time.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. James J. Sullivan, Jr. made an oral report pertaining to
negotiations with the Fire Department, Police Department and Public Works as
per request of Carl H. Amon, Jr., under Article 2 on May 6, 1976.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Nancy E. Elgart, Chairperson
of the Reading School Committee, pertaining to negotiations as per request of
Carl H. Amon, Jr., under Article 2 on May 6, 1976.
Question #1. Name of person or persons representing the Town in the negotiations.
Answer: Allan Drachman, Arty. with the law firm Holtz & Drachman, 185
Devonshire Street, Boston.
Question #2. Date when negotiations commenced.
Answer: Formal negotiations commenced on November 6th. On September 4, 10,
and 17th a Task Force made up of School Committee Members and Administration met
to plan strategy for the formal sessions. The "Straw Man" of this Task Force was
discussed with the entire School Committee on September 21st. A meeting was then
held with Mr. Allan Drachman on October 27, 1975.
Question #3. Number of negotiating sessions held to date.
Answer: Thirteen (13) sessions total - the first on November 6 - tentative
agreement reached on April 21 in a mediation session, and a final session to
clear up minor details on Wednesday, April 28th.
Question #4. Date of last negotiation session.
Answer: April 28, 1976.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 17, 1976
Question §5. Current status of negotiations.
Answer: Both parties have voted ratification of a 2-year contract - September
1, 1976 to August 31, 1978. The contract is now being prepared for the official
signing by officials of the Reading Teachers' Association and the Reading School
Committee.
Question 116. If negotiations have not been completed, the demands made by
the Union.
Answer: Does not apply to Teachers.
Question #7. The percentage increase in salaries under the current contract
as compared with the previous contract.
Answer: 5% 1976-1977 -- 6% 1977-1978
Question #8. All fringe benefits presently in effect.
Answer: ARTICLE XI - SICK LEAVE
A. Teachers will be entitled to fifteen (15) days of sick leave for personal
illness or illness in the employee's household each school year, effective the
first official day of said school year. Unused sick leave may be accumulated from
year to year to a total of 150 days. The total number of accrued days of sick
leave will be reported to each teacher by October 1.
B. Any teacher who has been absent because of illness for ten (10) consecutive
school days shall return to his duties only with the approval of the Superintendent
or his designee, and after presentation of a certificate from his attending
physician indicating satisfactory recovery and ability to perform his duties. A
teacher who has been absent five (5) consecutive school days may be required to
present such a certificate.
C. Sick leave benefits shall be voided upon date of resignation and no payments
shall be made for unused days of sick leave.
D. Sick Leave Bank: The Committee agrees to assist the Association in
maintaining a sick leave "bank", to be used only in cases of personal illness.
1. The Association will, by October 1 of each year, notify the Superintendent's
office of the names of those teachers who wish to participate in the bank so
that one day of the annual sick leave of those teachers can be subtracted 1
and credited to the "bank" account. +■j
2. The Association, through its president, shall establish its own
administrative regulations for deciding membership requirements, for
deciding who shall receive sick leave "bank" nenefits, and for explaining
the operation of the "bank" to its membership. In cases where confusion
between salary deductions and sick "bank" benefits arises, the Association
shall be responsible for gaining clarification.
3. The President of the Association shall notify the Superintendent's office when
credits from the "bank" are to be awarded by listing in writing the names
of the teachers and the amount of days for which salary days should be paid
from the "bank" to the teacher.
4. All sick bank days in excess of 200, not used at the end of the school year
shall expire.
ARTICLE XII TEMPORARY LEAVES OF ABSENCE WITH PAY
Teachers shall be entitled to the following temporary, non-accumulative
leaves of absence with pay each year.
A. PERSONAL LEAVE
Recognizing that occasionally there arises an unusual situation necessitating
the unexpected absence of a teacher for personal reasons, the parties hereby
agree to the following:
1. A personal leave day is designed for personal matters that normally
cannot be accomplished outside regular school hours and normally shall not
be taken on the day immediately preceding or following vacations, holidays or
long weekends. The parties agree that such leave must be taken for
important personal or business reasons and not as vacations or recreation.
Personal days will not be taken or granted for travel time in connection
with a vacation, holiday or weekend.
2. Each teacher may be granted not more than two (2) personal days with
pay per school year. The first such day shall be granted by the principal
without a reason being stated upon at least 48 hours' notice unless an
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 17, 1976
emergency situation precludes such notice being given. The second such
day may be granted at the discretion of the Superintendent or his designee.
A request for such day shall be submitted in writing at least 48 hours in
advance unless an emergency situation precludes giving such advance notice,
in which case the request with the accompanying reason shall be presented
to the Superintendent as soon as possible after such leave.
3. In the event that it is necessary to utilize a personal day immediately
preceding or following a vacation, holiday or long weekend, such day may be
granted in the manner provided for the second day requiring the reasons and the
Superintendent's approval. In such event the teacher retains the first personal
day to be granted by the principal without reason required unless previously
utilized except as provided above.
4. In the event the Committee has valid reason to believe that a personal
day had been taken for a reason inconsistent with the above provision, the
Committee reserves the right to deny pay or take other appropriate action
for that day, and the individual and/or Association reserves the right to file
a grievance.
B. DEATH IN THE IMMEDIATE FAMILY
In case of a death in the immediate family of a teacher, such teacher shall
be granted up to three days ' leave with pay for the purpose of attending the
funeral and/or to attend to family or personal matters arising as a result of such
death. The term "immediate family" shall include only the teacher's spouse, child,
mother, father, brother, sister, mother-in-Law, father-in-law, or relative living in
the employee's household. Other relatives may be included in this category at the
discretion of the Superintendent or his designee. Additional days off with pay
may be granted for such purpose in the discretion of the Superintendent.
C. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Time necessary for appearance in any legal proceeding connected with the
teacher's employment or with the school system will be allowed if the teacher is
legally required to attend.
D. OTHER LEAVES UNDER THIS ARTICLE
Temporary leaves of absence with pay for reasons other than those listed above
may be granted for good reason by the Committee upon the recommendation of the
Superintendent.
ARTICLE XIV EXTENDED LEAVES OF ABSENCE WITHOUT PAY
A. ASSOCIATION LEAVE:
The Committee agrees that one teacher designated by the Association may be
granted, upon request normally by April 1 of the prior school year, a Leave-of-
absence for a full school year without pay, for the purpose of engaging in State
or National Association activities. Upon return from such leave, a teacher will be
considered as if he were actively employed by the Committee during the leave and
will be placed on the salary schedule at the level he would have achieved if he
had not been absent.
B. EXCHANGE TEACHER OR ACTION PROGRAM LEAVE:
A Leave-of-absence without pay of up to two years may be granted, upon request
by April 1 of the prior school year, to any teacher on tenure who joins an action
program as a teacher or serves as an exchange teacher, and is a full-time participant
for the duration of the leave-of-absence in either program. Upon return from such
leave, a teacher will be considered as if he were actively employed by the
committee during the leave and will be placed on the salary schedule at the level
he would have achieved if he had not been absent. Notice of intent to return must
be given by the teacher by April 1 of the school year preceding the year of return.
D. CHILD-READING LEAVE:
A teacher on tenure may be granted child-reading leave, without pay or
increment, for a period of up to two (2) years. Return to service normally will
be at the beginning of a school year unless otherwise requested by the Superintendent.
Notice of intent to return must be given by the teacher by April 1 of the school
year preceding the year of return. Failure to submit timely notice may be
treated by the committee in its discretion as a voluntary resignation. All requests
for such leave are to be submitted to the Superintendent not less than 30 days
before said leave commences.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 17, 1976
E. FAMILY SICKNESS :
Leave-of-absence without pay of up to one year may be granted for the purpose
of caring for such a member of a teacher's immediate family as defined in Article
XII, Section B. In the event the teacher taking such leave works more than half of
the school year in the year in which such leave is granted, said teacher will be
eligible for an increment.
F. PERSONAL HEALTH:
After four (4) years of continuous employment in the Reading School System, a
teacher may be granted a leave-of-absence, without pay or increments, for up to one
full year for personal health reasons. Requests for such Leave will be supported S
by appropriate medical evidence. +1i
G. EDUCATIONAL LEAVE:
A teacher in the Reading School System may apply for and, upon the recommendation
of the Superintendent, may be granted a leave-of absence without pay for educational
purposes. Normally such leave-of-absence will be granted only to tenure teachers.
Application for Educational Leave must be made in writing to the Superintendent of
Schools no later than April 15 of the year preceding the school year for which leave
is requested. The application must be accompanied by a detailed statement of plans
for spending the leave. Notification of action on such requests shall be given
in writing to each applicant by May 15 of the year preceding the school year for
which leave is requested.
H. OTHER LEAVES-OF-ABSENCE:
Other leaves-of-absence without pay may be granted by the Committee.
ARTICLE XV. SABATICAL LEAVE
Upon recommendation of the Superintendent, a Sabbatical Leave may be granted
to a member of the teaching staff by the Committee subject to the following conditions:
A. Sabatical Leave is to be granted as a form of recognition of notable service as
a teacher.
B. The applicant has completed at least seven (7) consecutive, full school years
of service in the Reading School System, at the time leave commences.
C. No more than three (3) members of the teaching staff may be absent on Sabbatical
Leave at any one time, and such leaves shall be granted only when the condition of
the department or area of teaching of the teacher in question is such that the
teacher's absence will not seriously impair the interests of the Reading School System.
D. Application for Sabbatical Leave must be made in writing to the Superintendent
of Schools no later than November 15 of the year preceding the year for which leave
is requested. The application must contain recommendations of the teacher's
supervisors and shall be accompanied by a detailed statement of plans for spending
the leave in a manner clearly calculated to contribute to the professional advantage
of the candidate and in the best interests of the Reading School System.
Notification of action on such applications shall be given in writing to each
applicant by April 1 of the year preceding the year for which leave is requested.
E. Upon return from such leave, a written report of activities during the leave
shall be transmitted to the Superintendent.
F. Teachers on Sabbatical Leave will be paid at the rate of full pay for a half-
year's leave, or half-pay for a full year's leave, provided that such pay when
added to any program grant will not exceed the teacher's regular salary rate. Normal
increments and other benefits will also be guaranteed.
G. Teachers will agree in writing to return to employment in the Reading School
System for one full year in the event of a half school year's leave or two full
years in the event of a full school year's leave. Failure to fulfill this agreement
shall result in return to Reading all monies paid during the Sabbatical Leave in
accordance with provisions of Chapter 71, Section 41A of the General Laws of
Massachusetts, unless such failure is a result of such teacher's death or permanent
disability.
ARTICLE XX GENERAL
F. There shall be ten (10) person-days available for the Association business,
conference, legislative hearings, and conventions. The Association shall give 24
hours' notice on intention to take an Association day to the appropriate principal.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 17, 1976
The use of the days shall be determined by the Association President. The
Association agrees to pay the cost of hiring a substitute.
Questions #9, #10, 411. Do not apply to Professional Staff.
Response to instructions voted at Town Meeting concerning Custodial Contract
and Current Negotiations:
1. Person representing the Town of Reading in School Custodial Negotiations:
Negotiator - Donald Connors
Resource Person - Ronald A. Winslow
2. Date Negotiations commenced - February 18, 1976
3. Number of Negotiation Sessions held to date - 5
4. Date of last session - May 5, 1976
5. Current Status - Partial agreements on minor issues
Major Issues - Salary - not resolved
6. List of Demands - Under Discussion - not available at this time.
7. The percentage increase in salaries under the present contract as compared
with previous contracts is 8%.
B. Fringe Benefits presently in effect:
Sick Leave - 120 days accumulative at the rate of 15 days per year -
30 days extension on approval of School Committee
Funeral Leave - 3 days pay - immediate family
1 day pay - other family members
Holidays - 11 paid holidays
1/2 day before Christman
Day after Thanksgiving
Vacation - 2 weeks after 30 weeks )
3 weeks after 5 years ) non-cumulative
4 weeks after 10 years )
Longevity - after completion of 5 years - $100
after completion of 10 years - $200
after completion of 15 years - $300
after completion of 30 years - $400
Personal Leave - one day each year
Retirement - 50% participation in cost with Town
Health Insurance - 50% participation in cost with Town
Life Insurance - 50% participation in cost with Town
9. Total amount of overtime compensation paid to Union Members to date in
current fiscal year:
Regular Overtime $ 9,374.31
Agent Rate 22,881.92
Total $32,256.23
Amount reimbursable to Town
by outside groups using
schools $19,606.00
10. Basis of overtime payment - rate of one and one-half times regular rate of
pay for all hours worked in excess of eight hours in any one work day or
in excess of forty hours in any one work week - which ever is greater.
Source of overtime - Weekend building checks - minimum 1� hours - 2' hours
Call back for emergencies - 2 hours
To cover for absent employee
Snow Removal
When acting as "Agent" for School Department when
facilities are used by others - flat rate of $20
Monday thru Saturday until 6:00 p.m. ; after 6:00 p.m. ,
Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays $27.50.This is up to
three hours for minimum rate.
11. Employees entitled to overtime pay - all members of the bargaining unit.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 17, 1976
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Leo R. Campbell, Jr. , Chairman
of the Personnel Board:
SALARIES OF EMPLOYEES ELIGIBLE FOR MERIT INCREASES
Total Salaries Last Week June, 1976 $13,853
Total Salaries First Week July, 1975 12,885
Total Difference $ 968
Total impact of Merit Increases of 1976 Base Budget if projected for 12
months 7.51%.
Actual total impact of Merit Increases 2.47
No Increase 15
Acceptable 12
Good 47
Superior 17
91
This report was received as a report of progress.
On motion of Carl H. Amon, Jr. it was voted to take Article 3 from the table.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Herbert F. Gent, Jr. , it was voted that all Boards
are hereby instructed that salary budgets for the next fiscal year starting July
1976 may not exceed a maximum increase of 5% over last year. All boards must
stay within that figure - cutting back services if necessary to do so.
131 voted in the affirmative
38 voted in the negative
(roll call vote)
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Nathan C. White it was voted that the Board of
Selectmen be, and hereby is, directed to simplify the warrant for the 1977 Annual
Town Meeting as follows:
1. Insofar as possible and feasible, all recurring annual appropriation
items shall be incorporated into the appropriate departmental appropriation
recommmendation in Article 4.
2. Any such consolidations shall recognize limitations imposed by
applicable Commonwealth of Massachusetts statutes, rulings of the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts Bureau of Accounts, and Town of Reading by-laws.
3. Such changes shall be made with the advice of the Finance Board, Town
Accountant, and Town Counsel.
ARTICLE 3. Maureen T. O'Brien moved that the 1976 Annual Town Meeting
establish the Reading Economic Development Committee.
To assist in the development of present and the establishment of new industrial
and commercial enterprises, for the purpose of broadening the tax base, consistant
with the residential character of the Town of Reading.
This committee is specifically directed to address development in the Town
Dump site area and shall be composed of the Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, or
his designee, the Chairman of the Board of Public Works or his designee,
Planning Board members, and not less than two (2) citizens from the Town of Reading.
On motion of Nils L. Nordberg it was voted to lay this motion on the table.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Lawrence W. Leonard it was voted to give the Selectmen
an extension of time to act on instructions voted under Article 3 on June 5, 1975.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 3 on the table.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take Article 4 from the
table.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Marvin M. Rosenthal it was voted to take up Item 38
in advance (Law Committee: Legal Services - Salary) .
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 17, 1976 2 41
ARTICLE 4. James J. Sullivan, Jr. moved that the sum of Forty-four
Thousand Dollars ($44,000. ) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated to
the Law Committee as follows, each item being considered a separate appropriation.
Legal Services Salary $35,000.
Legal Services Expense $ 3,500.
Labor Negotiations $ 5,500.
ARTICLE 4. Marvin M. Rosenthal moved to amend Mr. Sullivan's motion, to
reduce the Legal Services Salary to read $27,500. and $7,500 for Expense.
On motion of Marvin M. Rosenthal it was voted to lay this motion and
amendment on the table.
On motion of Marvin M. Rosenthal it was voted to lay Article 4 on the table.
On motion of Marvin M. Rosenthal it was voted to take Article 3 from the
table.
ARTICLE 3. Marvin M. Rosenthal moved to instruct the Law Committee not to
engage any part-time Town Counsel at the end of the current contract, and further
to immediately advertise and interview for a full-time Town Counsel at a salary
not to exceed $27,500 a year, and to further advertise and interview for a legal
secretary for a salary not to exceed $7,500 a year.
This motion did not pass.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 3 on the table.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take Article 4 from
the table.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take previous motion
under Article 4 and amendment by Marvin M. Rosenthal from the table.
ARTICLE 4. Amendment by Marvin M. Rosenthal did not pass.
ARTICLE 4. Motion as presented by James J. Sullivan (that the sum of
Forty-four Thousand Dollars[$44,0007 be raised from the tax levy and appro-
priated to the Law Committee as follows, each item being considered a separate
appropriation. Legal Services Salary $35,000
Legal Services Expense $ 3,500
Labor Negotiations $ 5,500)
was voted in the affirmative.
On motion of John H. Crooker it was voted that this meeting stand adjourned
until Thursday, May 20, 1976 at 8:00 P.M. , to meet in Memorial High School
Auditorium.
Meeting adjourned at 10:45 P. M.
179 Town Meeting Members were present.
A true copy. Attest:
Lawrence Drew
Town Clerk
242
ADJOURNED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Reading Memorial High School Auditorium May 20, 1976
The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Kenneth C. Latham, at
8:00 P. M.
The invocation was given by Kenneth C. Latham, followed by the Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag.
On motion of Lynn G. Stasz it was voted to lay Article 4 on the table.
On motion of Lynn G. Stasz it was voted to take Article 2 from the table.
ARTICLE 2. The following was read by Lynn G. Stasz for the Conservation
Commission:
The 1975 Annual Town Meeting appropriated funds to the Conservation Commission
for publishing a Conservation Plan for the Town of Reading. The Commission
members; Conservation Assistant and consultant Charles Downs are in the process
of reviewing a final draft of the Plan at this time. It was the Commission's
hope to be able to present the Plan to this Annual Town Meeting. However, because
of other paramount concerns and the work load of the Commission, we were unable
to have it completed for printing in time for this Town Meeting. The final
draft will be completed and printed in June and specifics of the Plan presented
to the Special Fall Town Meeting of this year.
However, we would like to present the following report to inform you of our
progress and to establish the goals and objectives of the Conservation Commission
which serve as the basis for the Conservation Plan.
The following report was read by David V. Galvin, Conservation Assistant:
The Annual Town Meeting of 1960 voted to establish a Conservation Commission
under the enabling legislation of Chapter 40, Section 8C ". . .for the promotion
and development of the natural resources and for the protection of watershed
resources. . ." of Reading. This quotation from both the enabling Legislation and
the town meeting vote, serves as the general goal of the Commission: to protect
the significant natural resources of the town. This major challenge includes
the following 6 tasks or specific goals:
1. Protection of water quality and quantity of the Ipswich, Saugus and
Aberjona Rivers for municipal water supplies and water-related recreation;
2. Protection of the health and safety of the inhabitants of Reading and
downstream communities against the hazards of flood inundation;
3. Prevention of air, water, and noise pollution and other forms of environ-
mental degradation;
4. Establishment of public areas for passive outdoor recreation;
5. Maintenance of ecologically-important wildlife habitat and identifiable
"critical areas",
6. Establishment of open space and greenbelts to preserve Reading's natural
beauty and character and thereby to preserve Reading's quality of life.
In its early days the Conservation Commission, working with the Town Forest
Committee, concentrated an the acquisition of land for the Town Forest and on
formulating a conservation plan for the protection of the key flood plains and
valuable water resource lands along the Ipswich and Aberjona Rivers, Bare Meadow,
and Cedar, Timberneck and Nichols Swamps. Transfers "for conservation purposes"
of tax title and other town-owned lands situated in these areas, as well as
acquisition of owner unknown parcels, established the first Reading Conservation
Lands in the late 1960's.
In 1970 the Town Meeting voted to amend the zoning by-laws with the establishment
of a Flood Plain District ". . .to provide that lands in the Town of Reading subject
to seasonal or periodic flooding. . . shall not be used for residence or other purposes
in such a manner as to endanger the health or safety of the occupants thereof."
The Flood Plain Zone protects the lowlands of the Ipswich and Aberjona Rivers, Bare
Meadow, and Cedar and Timberneck Swamps for flood control and water supply. In
1974 the Revay Brook area which contains some of the town's wells, was added to the
Flood Plain District.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 20, 1976
These previous pictures were from the Concord River Basin and show severe
conditions that Reading is fortunate in not having, although this house is
located on Haverhill Street. It was built before the enactment of this Flood
Plain zone by-law. The citizens of Reading showed foresight and concern in
enacting protective zoning for the flood prone areas in the town as early as they
did.
The Annual Town Meeting of 1975 established a Wetlands Protection District
of the zoning by-laws to compliment the Flood Plain District in protecting the
most important stream and wetland areas in the town ". . .to maintain the water
table and water recharge areas. . .so as to preserve present and potential water
supplies. . . , to assure the continuation of the natural flow pattern of the water
courses within Reading and to preserve natural flood water storage areas. . ."
The Hatch Act, a state law establishing permit requirements for filling
inland wetlands, was substantially changed in 1972 into the Wetlands Protection
Act (G.L. Chapter 131 Section 40), charging the local Conservation Commission
with the responsibility of administering and enforcing its provisions. The Act
requires a public hearing and issuance of an Order of Conditions by the Conservation
Commission regulating any removing, filling, dredging or altering of any wetlands
or land bordering wetlands in the community.
Reading has a critical position at the headwater drainage divides of three
river systems - the Ipswich, the Saugus and the Aberjona/Mystic Rivers. Filling
of the remaining wetlands in the town most be carefully controlled to ensure
protection of the water resources of these river systems and to prevent adverse
effects on the future inhabitants of filled land or the abutting and downstream'
property owners.
Between 1970 and 1975 the Conservation Commission began an active land
acquisition program aimed at ensuring the protection of the key water resource
lands in the town and open space lands for outdoor recreation. The Town Meetings
voted to acquire "for conservation purposes" parcels of land in and bordering Bare
Meadow, North Cedar Swamp, South Cedar Swamp, Timberneck Swamp, the Aberjona
River headwaters and Nichols Swamp. The total area of Reading Conservation Lands
in 1976 is 792+ acres, of which 716+ acres (90%) are in the Flood Plain or
Wetlands Protection Districts.
The town has expended $269,000 for the purchase of these 792 acres and has
been reimbursed $105,000 to date. With the additional $36,000 reimbursement
expected by this summer, the net cost to the town for the preservation of these
key water resource and open space lands will come to $161.67 per acre. We know
of no other town in the state that can boast such a low cost for such a significant
amount of conservation land.
The Conservation Plan is based on this significant record and strives to
continue these programs to meet the Commission's goal for the protection of
Reading's natural resources.
One of the key elements in the plan is this view of existing protected
space in Reading - town-owned land and "semi-public" reserved areas.
One of the top priorities in the plan under the category of open space is
the recommendation that the town - and not necessarily conservation, but possibly
Recreation, Parks Department, Selectmen, or a combined effort - acquire some
additional open land in the southern half of the town for outdoor recreation and
open space. (Residents of this part of town will understand this need, seeing
the bulldozers begin last week on Hopkins Farm, among the last large open space
areas in the "south end".)
Under water resource protection the Commission believes as it always has,
that the only way to guarantee protection of the key resource areas is through
town ownership. The remaining sections of Bare Meadow, Revay Brook and other
areas of significance to the water supply of this and other communities are
identified for acquisition by the town, although the time frame and priorities
for these purchases have not been settled.
The Commission intends to confer with other town boards - namely the
Selectmen, the Planning Board, the Recreation Committee, the School Committee,
and the Board of Public Works - to review our plan. It is our goad to have an
ongoing working relationship with these other boards and committees of the town to
ensure that Reading's needs are properly accessed, that plans are established to
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 20, 1976
meet these needs, and that the actions taken by the boards and Town Meeting to
implement these plans are truly in the best interest of the town of Reading.
This report was received as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. Joyce K. Miller gave a verbal regort for the Bicentennial
Commission on activities scheduled for May 22, 197E.
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
ARTICLE 2. The following report was read by Elizabeth W. Kelpeis for the
Finance Committee: J
ADDENDUM SHEET TO FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
FOR FISCAL YEAR 1976 - 1977
To provide salary figures including a 5% increase over present base pay,
the following changes are made. Motions will be based on the salary totals in
the right hand column.
DOLLAR INCL. 57 Inc.
PAGE ITEM NOS. AMT. OF 5% SALARY TOTAL LONGEVITY TOTAL
15 Selectmen 1,2 $ 1,703 $ 36,474 --- $ 36,474
15 Town Acct.10,11,12 $ 1,469 $ 31,743 $ 100 $ 31,843
15 Town Treas.14,15 $ 1,191 $ 34,191 --- $ 34,191
15 Town Collector 17,18 $ 1,550 $ 39,960 $ 600 $ 405560
15 Town Clerk 20,21 $ 947 $ 27,294 $ 250 $ 27,544
15 Assessors 23,24,25 $ 2,133 $ 52,964 $ 500 $ 53,464
16 Personnel Board 36 $ 503 $ 11,269 --- $ 11,269
16 Bldg. Maint.41,42 $ 1,794 $ 41,413 $ 100 $ 41,513
17 Bldg. Insp.65-69 $ 1,141 $ 29,611 --- $ 29,611
17 Dog Officer 73,74 $ 516 $ 10,751 --- $ 103751
18 Health 94,96 $ 1,138 $ 24,228 $ 200 $ 24,428
18 Veterans 104,105 $ 835 $ 17,529 --- $ 17,529
18 Cemeteries 108 $ 3,537 $ 74,283 $ 250 $ 74,533
18 Library 110 $ 7,424 $165,428 $1,300 $166,728
19 Public Works 163a,
164 $42,410 037,644 $2,900 $840,544
20 Water Dept.166 $10,641 $213,458 $1,100 $214,558
This report was accepted as a report of progress.
On motion of Elizabeth W. Klepeis it was voted to lay Article 2 on the table.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take Article 4 from the
table.
ARTICLE 4. Motion by James J. SullivanA,was discussed, and further discussion
is pending.
On motion of Carl H. Amon, Jr. it was voted that this meeting stand adjourned
until Monday, May 24, 1976 at 8:00 P. M. , to meet in Parker Junior High School
Auditorium.
Meeting adjourned at 10:45 P. M.
161 Town Meeting Members were (\prreesent.
A true copy. Attest:
t i
Lawrence Drew J
Town Clerk
ADJOURNED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Parker Junior High School Auditorium May 24, 1976
The meetingwas called to order by the Moderator, Kenneth C. Latham at 8:00 PM.
The invocation was given by the Rev. Richard M. Woodman of the Unitarian
Universalist Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. , as amended by Elizabeth
W. Klepeis, it was voted that the sum of Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000.) be
transferred from the Municipal Light Department Operating and Maintenance Account
—I and be transferred to the Town Treasurer's Salary Account and that the sum of
Four Hundred Forty-five Thousand One Hundred Eighty Dollars ($445,180.) be raised
from the tax levy and that said sums totalling Four Hundred Forty-eight Thousand
One hundred Eighty Dollars ($448,180.) be appropriated as follows, each one being
considered a separate appropriation:
Selectmen
Salaries $36,474.
Expense (including out of State travel
not to exceed $250.) $ 4,800.
Miscellaneous
including Special Committees
Town Report
Telephone
Memorial Day Observance
Duplicating Costs $29,912.
Town Accountant
Salaries $31,843.
Expense (including out of State travel
not to exceed $400.) $ 1,800.
Town Treasurer
Salaries $34,191.
Expense (including out of State travel
not to exceed $400.) $16,070.
Tax Collector: (all fees collected to be
paid to the Town Treasurer)
Salaries $40,560.
Expense $11,300.
Town Clerk: (all fees collected to be paid
to Town Treasurer)
Salaries $27,544.
Expense (including out of State travel
not to exceed $250.) $ 5,030.
Assessors
Salaries $53,464.
Expense (including out of State travel
not to exceed $250.) $ 8,000.
Board of Registration
Salaries $ 960.
Expense $ 200.
Election and Registration
Expense $35,400.
Board of Appeals
Salary and Expense $ 1,800.
Finance Committee
Clerk $ 1,200.
Expense $ 300.
Personnel Board
Salary $11,269.
Expense $ 550.
Building Maintenance
Salary $41,513.
Expense $575000.
T n
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 24, 1976
and in accordance with Chapter 41, Section 108 of General Laws the following
elected officials annual salaries are hereby set effective as of July 1, 1976
as follows:
Town Treasurer $ 9,200. -
Town Collector $ 7,008.
Town Clerk $ 7,008.
Board of Assessors
Chairman $ 2,185.
Other Assessors $ 1,700.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Maureen T. O'Brien, as amended by Charles W.
Hewitt it was voted that the sum of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.) be raised
from the tax levy and appropriated for the Planning Board for expenses.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Frank C. Graupner it was voted that there be included
in the tax levy for electricity used for street lights the sum of Eighty Thousand,
Six Hundred and Thirty-six Dollars ($80,636.00) and that said sum and the income
from sales of electricity to private consumers and for electricity supplied to
municipal buildings and for municipal power, and from service of appliances and
jobbing during the current fiscal year to be appropriated for the Municipal Light
Plant and that the sum of Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.) be appropriated from
the said receipts of the Department for the service of merchandise, equipment
and utensils as provided in Section 34 of Chapter 164 of the General Laws, said
appropriation to be expended by the Manager of the Municipal Lighting Plant under
the direction and control of the Municipal Light Board for the expense of plant,
including payment of Bonds and Notes, servicing of merchandise, equipment, utensils
as defined in Chapter 164, Section 57 of the General Laws, or any amendments
thereof or additions thereto and that if said sum of Eighty Thousand, Six Hundred
and Thirty-six Dollars ($80,636.00) and said income shall exceed said expense
for said fiscal year, such excess up to the amount of 50% of the net profit from
operations as of December 31 of the preceding year as defined in Chapter 164 of
the General Laws, such amount shall be paid 5011. in June and 50% in December of
the current year into the Town Treasury and the balance if any shall be trans-
ferred to the Construction Fund of said Plant and appropriated and used for such
additions thereto as may thereafter be authorized by the Municipal Light Department.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that the sum
of Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000.) be transferred from the Federal
Revenue Sharing Fund (P.L. 92-512) to the Police Department Salaries and that the
sum of Six Hundred Forty-six Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-six Dollars ($646,296.)
be raised from the tax levy and that said sums totaling Eight Hundred Forty-six
Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-six Dollars ($846,296.) be appropriated to the Police
Department as follows, each item being considered a separate appropriation:
Salaries (P.L. 92-512) Authorized $200,000.
Salaries $549,472. -
Expense $ 53,924.
School Traffic Control $ 42,900.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the sum of
Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000.) be transferred from the Federal Revenue
Sharing Fund (P.L. 92-512) to the Fire Department Salaries and that the sum of
Six Hundred Forty-eight Thousand Five Hundred and Four Dollars ($648,504.) be
raised from the tax levy and that the total of Eight Hundred Forty-eight Thousand
Five Hundred and Four Dollars ($848,504.) be appropriated to the Fire Department
as follows, each item being considered a separate appropriation:
Salaries (P.L. 92-512) Authorized $200,000.,
Salaries $619,954.'
Expense $ 28,550.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that the sum
of One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-four Dollars ($104,874.) be
raised from the tax levy and appropriated for Protection of Persons and Property
as follows, each item being considered as a separate appropriation:
Fire Alarm
Salaries $ 7,650.
Expense $ 4,000.
Hydrant Rental $39,360.
2,17
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 24, 1976
Building Inspector
Salaries $29,611.
Expense $ 3,250.
Sealer of Weights & Measures
Salary $ 1,457.
Expense $ 405.
Dog Officer
Salaries $12,741
Expense $ 3,435.
Civil Defense
Salaries & Expense $ 2,965.
ARTICLE 4. on motion of James R. Boucher it was voted that the sum of
Fourteen Thousand One Hundred Fifty-five Dollars and fifty-two cents ($14,155.52)
be raised from the tax levy and that the sum of One Thousand One Hundred and
Ninety-four Dollars and forty-eight cents ($1,194.48) be transferred from funds
previously appropriated under the following articles:
Article 27 - Annual Town Meeting, March 17, 1973 $178.25
Article 28 - Annual Town Meeting, March 17, 1973 12.94
Article 13 - Special Town Meeting, September 24, 1973 1.00
Article 53 - Annual Town Meeting, March 21, 1974 250.00
Article 54 - Annual Town Meeting, March 21, 1974 552.29
Article 56 - Annual Town Meeting, March 21, 1974 200.00
and that said sums totalling Fifteen Thousand Three Hundred and Fifty Dollars
($15,350.00) be appropriated for the Conservation Commission as follows, each
item being considered as a separate appropriation:
Salaries: $10,600.00
Expense: 4,750.00
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Sandra J. Trainor it was voted that the sum of
One Hundred Four Thousand Eight Hundred Ninety-two Dollars ($104,892.) be raised
from the tax levy and appropriated for Health and Sanitation as follows, each
item being considered a separate appropriation:
Board of Health Salaries $24,428.
Board of Health Expense $ 2,000.
Animal Inspector Salary & Expense $ 550.
Care of Cantagious Diseases $ 1,800.
Fluoridation $ 6,045.
Mosquito Control $ 7,300.
Child Welfare $ 2,570.
Eastern Middlesex Mental Health Care $30,000.
735 Program $30,199.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the sum of
Six Thousand Two Hundred and Thirteen Dollars and three cents ($6,213.03) he
transferred from the Salvage Funds account and that the sum of One Hundred
Sixteen Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty Dollars and ninety-seven cents ($116,760.97)
be raised from the tax levy and that such sums totaling One Hundred Twenty-two
Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy-four Dollars ($122,974.) be appropriated to the
Veterans Services Department as follows, each item being considered a separate
appropriation:
Administrative Salaries $ 17,529.
Administrative Expense $ 1,847.
Veterans Aid $103,598.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Frank A. Smith,Jr. it was voted that the sum of
One Hundred Thirty Dollars ($130.00) he raised from the tax levy and appropriated
for the operation of Drinking Fountains of the Town.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 24, 1976
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Clifford P. Wadman it was voted that the sum of
Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.) be transferred from the Cemetery Reserve and
the sum of Twenty-five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.) be transferred from the
Cemetery Bequest Fund Interest and that the sum of Fifty-three Thousand Eight
Hundred Thirty-three ($53,833.) Dollars be raised from the tax levy, and that
such sums totaling Eighty Three Thousand Eight Hundred Thirty-three Dollars
($83,833.) be appropriated for the Cemetery Department as follows, each item
being considered a separate appropriation:
Salaries $74,533.
Maintenance $ 9,300.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Edward F. Fuller, Jr. it was voted that the sum
of Two Hundred Twenty-six Thousand Three Hundred Forty Dollars and forty cents
($226,340.40) be raised from the tax levy and that the sum of Eight Thousand
Four Hundred Fifty-two Dollars and thirteen cents ($8,452.13) be transferred
from State Aid for Libraries Reserved, and that the sum of Three Thousand Three
Hundred Fifty-seven Dollars and forty-seven cents ($3,357.47) be transferred
from the County Dog License Account and that said sums totaling Two Hundred
Thirty-eight Thousand One Hundred Fifty Dollars ($238,150.) be appropriated
for library purposes including travel outside of state not to exceed $350, as
follows:
Salaries $166,728.
Maintenance $ 68,172.
Copy Service $ 3,250.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Duane B. Heineck it was voted that the sum of
Fifty-four Thousand Four Hundred Dollars ($54,400.) be raised from the tax
levy and appropriated for the Recreation Committee as follows, each item being
considered as a separate appropriation:
Salaries $ 34,000.
Expense $ 20,400.
On motion of George R. Larson it was voted that this meeting stand adjourned
until Thursday, May 27, 1976 at 8:00 P. M. , to meet in Parker Junior High School
Auditorium.
Meeting adjourned at 10:55 P. M.
171 Town Meeting Members were present.
A true copy. Attest:
Lawrence Drew
Town Clerk
ADJOURNED ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Parker Junior High School Auditorium May 27, 1976
The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Kenneth C. Latham, at 8:00
P.M.
The invocation was given by the Moderator, Kenneth C. Latham, followed by
the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
ARTICLE 4. The following motion was presented by Nancy E. Elgart:
Moved that the sum of Seven Million Six Hundred Thirty-three Thousand Five
Hundred Four Dollars ($7,633,504.) be raised from the tax Levy and appropriated
for the School Department, and that the sum of Twenty-nine Thousand Six Hundred
Seventy-five Dollars ($29,675.) be transferred from the sale of real estate account,
and that the expenditure of Twenty-five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.) received or
to be received under public law #874, and the sum of One Hundred Forty-four
Thousand Twenty-nine Dollars ($144,029.) received or to be received from Chapter
506 METCO Funds, so called, and that the said sums totalling Seven Million Eight
Hundred Thirty-two Thousand Two Hundred and Eight Dollars ($7,832,208.) be
authorized and appropriated as follows:
General Salaries $63369,288.
Less: Chapter 506 Funds 65,250. $63304,038.
General Expense (including travel
outside state not to exceed $4,270. ) $1,167,374.
Less: PL 874 Funds $25,000.
METCO Funds $78,779. $ 103,779. $1,063,595.
Special Needs Expense $ 193,679.
Cafeteria Salaries $ 57,641.
Adult Education Salaries $ 13,500.
Athletics Expense $ 30,726.
$7,663,179.
The above motion was voted in the affirmative, as amended by H. William
Harlow, Jr. which reduces the total amount to be raised and appropriated from tax
levy and transferred from the sale of real estate account by $76,643.00, to a new
total of $7,586,536.00. (Tax Levy - $7,556,861.00; transferred from sale of real
estatXRff8E}n - 8529,67$.00)
n motion of John B. Pacino it was voted that the sum of One
Hundred Sixty-five Thousand Two Hundred Eighty-six Dollars ($165,286.) be raised
from the tax levy and appropriated for the Town's share of the costs of Operation
and Maintenance of the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of John H. Russell it was voted that the sum of One
Million Three Hundred Forty-one Thousand Four Hundred Fifty-four Dollars ($1,341,454.)
be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for the Board of Public Works as
follows, each item to be considered as a separate appropriation:
Public Works Salaries $840,544.
Expenses (including out of
State travel not to exceed
$200. ) $362,910.
Snow & Ice Removal Salaries
and Expenses $138,000.
and in accordance with Chapter 41, Section 108 of the General Laws, the annual
elected officer's salary of the Tree Warden is hereby set at Four Hundred Twenty
Dollars ($420.) effective as of July 1, 1976.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of John H. Russell it was voted that the sum of
Twenty-one Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-eight Dollars and seventy cents ($21,578.70)
be transferred from the Water Available Surplus and that the sum of Five Hundred
Seventy-two Thousand Five Hundred Seventy-nine Dollars and thirty cents ($572,579.30)
be raised from the tax levy and that such sums totaling Five Hundred Ninety-four
Thousand One Hundred Fifty-eight Dollars ($594,158.) be appropriated for the Board
of Public Works as follows, each item being considered as a separate appropriation:
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 27, 1976
Salaries for Construction, Maintenance and
Operation of Water Works $214,558.
Expenses for Construction, Maintenance and
Operation of Water Works (including travel
outside of the State, not to exceed $200.) $379,600.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Frank A. Smith, Jr. it was voted that the sum of
One Hundred Forty-two Thousand Dollars ($142,000.) be raised from the tax levy,
and that the sum of Forty-six Thousand Dollars ($46,000.) be transferred from
the Municipal Light Department Operating and Maintenance Account, and that the
sum of Ten Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($10,500.) be transferred from the
Public Works Water Construction and Maintenance Appropriation Account, and that
the sum of Eight Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($8,500.) be transferred from the
Sewer Maintenance and Operation Expense Appropriation and that such sums totaling
Two Hundred Seven Thousand Dollars ($207,000.) be appropriated for all insurance
except Group Insurance for Town Employees.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Frank A. Smith, Jr. it was voted that the sum of
Two Hundred Eighty Thousand One Hundred Thirty-one Dollars ($280,131.) be raised
from the tax levy, and that the sum of Twenty-six Thousand Four Hundred Dollars
($26,400.) be transferred from the Municipal Light Department Operating and
Maintenance Account, and that the sum of Seven Thousand Three Hundred Thirty-
three Dollars ($7,333.) be transferred from the Group Insurance Dividend Account,
and that said sums totaling Three Hundred Thirteen Thousand Eight Hundred Sixty-
four Dollars ($313,864.) be appropriated for group life insurance, group accidental
death and dismemberment insurance for Town employees, in accordance with the
provisions of Chapter 32B of the General Laws and that said sum be expended by and
under the direction of the Board of Selectmen.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the sum of One
Hundred Seventy-two Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty-four Dollars and eight cents
($172,724.08) be raised from the tax levy and that the sum of Three Hundred Forty-
six Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty Dollars ($346,880.) be transferred from
available free cash, and that the sum of Ninety Thousand Eight Hundred Forty-
five Dollars and six cents ($90,845.06) be transferred from the Municipal Light
Department Operating and Maintenance Account and that said sums totaling Six
Hundred Ten Thousand Four Hundred Forty-nine Dollars and fourteen cents ($610,449.14)
be appropriated for the Contributory Retirement System, itemized as follows:
Pension Fund $597,300.00
Salaries and Expense $ 13,000.00
Workman's Compensation Credit $ 149.14
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Richard J. Ogden it was voted that the sum of
Fifty-nine Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-six Dollars and fifty-eight cents ($59,986.58)
be raised from the tax levy and that the sum of Forty-two Thousand Seven Hundred
Twenty-four Dollars and sixty-eight cents ($42,724.68) be transferred from the
Municipal Light Department Operation and Maintenance Account and said sums
totaling One Hundred Two Thousand Seven Hundred Eleven Dollars and twenty-six
cents ($102,711.26) be appropriated fro non-contributory pensions and annuities.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that the sum
of One Million Seven Hundred Forty Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-two Dollars
($1,740,672.) be raised from the tax levy and appropriated for maturing debt and
interest as follows:
Maturing Debt Interest
Schools $ 565,000. $332,287.
Water $ 100,000. $ 24,278.
Sewer $ 339,000. $172,562.
Incinerator $ 75,000. $ 62,250.
Planning Bonds $ 15,000. $ 2,755.
Garage Addition $ 20,000. $ 7,540.
Anticipation Loans $ 25,000.
$1,114,000. $626,672.
n 1 I
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 27, 1976
ARTICLE 4. On motion of Elizabeth W. Klepeis it was voted that the sum
of One Hundred Fifteen Thousand Seven Hundred Eighty-two Dollars and eighteen
cents ($115,782.18) be transferred from Overlay Surplus Revenue and that the
sum of Thirty-four Thousand Two Hundred Seventeen Dollars and eighty-two cents
($34,217.82) be raised from the tax rate and that said sums totalling One
Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000.) be appropriated to the Reserve Fund
for expenditures under the direction of the Finance Committee.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to lay Article 4 on the
table.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take Article 16 from
the table.
ARTICLE 16. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that the
Town accept the report and recommendation of the Law Committee regarding settlement
of the litigation concerning the new Reading High School between the School
Construction Committee and Itasca Construction Corp. and authorize the Law
Committee to enter into such agreements as are necessary to effect such settlement.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take Article 4 from
the table.
ARTICLE 4. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that the sum
of Twenty-five Thousand Dollars ($25,000.) be appropriated for repair of the
new High School in accordance with the report of the Law Committee and that to
meet said appropriation Nine Hundred Dollars ($900.) be transferred from the
account entitled "Preliminary School Construction, Plans and Surveys Elementary
and Junior High Middle Schools Article 8" and that Two Hundred Forty-six Dollars
and forty-two cents ($246.42) be transferred from the High School Addition
Construction Project 1623 Article 11, and that the balance of Twenty-three
Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-three Dollars and fifty-eight cents ($23,853.58) be
raised from the tax levy such sums to be expended by and under the direction
of the School Construction Committee, and that the School Construction Committee
be authorized to apply for and enter into agreements with the Commonwealth and or
the Federal Government for reimbursement of the costs of such repairs.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that Article 4 be
indefinitely postponed.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take Article 3 from
the table.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Douglass L. Barker it was voted that a committee
of five (5), consisting of three (3) Town Meeting members appointed by the
Moderator, and two (2) members of the Finance Committee, appointed by it, study
ways of changing the format of the Finance Committee Report to make it more
useful to Town Meeting members.
The committee shall also make recommendations on ways of combining recurring
special articles into regular departmental budgets and make recommendations on
the grouping of motions under the present Article #4.
The committee should try and make a final report at the subsequent Town
Meeting in the Fall of 1976.
ARTICLE 3. Virginia M. Adams moved that the Selectmen be instructed to
provide designated seating areas for each precinct at Town Meetings and that
the Town Meeting members have the option of sitting in the designated areas or
where they choose.
This motion did not pass.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of David F. Ham it was voted that the Personnel
Board be instructed:
To prepare for Annual Town Meeting, 1977, a revised edition of Article XXIV
of the General By-Laws, to be distributed to all Town Meeting Members seven days
prior to the start of Annual Town Meeting, and
To present to Annual Town Meeting in 1977 a 'report of progress" on the
further development of a system for preparing Standard Job Descriptions and for
performing job classification.
Adjourned Annual Town Meeting May 27, 1976
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Ara A. Karakashian it was voted that the Board of
Health be instructed to obtain and have printed in the 1976 Reading Annual Report
a financial accounting of the funds provided by the Town to the Eastern
Middlesex Mental Health Association in Fiscal Year 1976, such accounting to
include not only the funds raised from the tax levy but also any fees collected
from Reading residents or public and private institutions thereof.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of Jean M. MacKilligan it was voted to direct the
Director of the Reading Civil Defense Agency to submit an Annual Report for the
year 1976 and every year thereafter.
In your report tell your duties, how often you and your staff meet; also
list the materials you purchase at the State Surplus Warehouse and the savings
you obtain for the Town of Reading.
ARTICLE 3. On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr, it was voted that
Harold B. Correll
and
Irving E. Dickey, Jr.
be appointed Measurers of Lumber and Measurers of Wood and Bark.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr, it was voted that Article 3 be indefinitely
postponed.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted to take Article 2 from
the table.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr, it was voted that Article 2 be
indefinitely postponed.
On motion of James J. Sullivan, Jr. it was voted that this meeting stand
adjourned, sine die, at 12:05 A. M. , May 28, 1976.
148 Town Meeting Members were present. J
A true copy. Attest: y� i
�_- Lawrence Drew
Town Clerk