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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2022-11-17 Subsequent Town Meeting MinutesSUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Alan E. Foulds, at 7:32 PM, there being a quorum present. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was said by all. Motion made by Mark Dockser, Select Board to dispense of the reading of the warrant and all motions in their entirety. Motion Carried ARTICLE 7: Motion made by the Select Board and School Committee that the Town appropriate the amount of Two Million Two Hundred Thousand ($2,200,000) Dollars from Certified Free Cash for the purpose of paying costs of a feasibility study to consider a repair, addition, and renovation, or replacement of the J. Warren Killam Elementary School, located at 333 Charles Street, assessors' parcel 41-19, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto, and for which feasibility study the Town may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority ("MSBA"), said amount to be expended under the direction of the Killam School Building Committee, and further, the Town acknowledges that the MSBA's grant program is a non -entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA, and any costs the Town incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the Town. Presentation given by: • Thomas Milaschewski - See Attached • David Clark • Gregory Burns • Joseph Huggins • Shawn Brandt • Carla Nazzaro • Susan Bottan • Sarah Leveque • Sharon Angstrom Background: The Killam Elementary School opened in 1969 and has not undergone any significant renovations since opening. While the facility has been well-maintained, it is now 53 years old and has a number of deficiencies. The building is not fully ADA -compliant, including bathrooms and entry points to some classrooms and common areas. The water fountains have been unusable for years due to lead levels, requiring the district to provide drinking water through expensive and wasteful water bottles. Many of the windows and doors are original to the school, so they are not energy efficient and create challenges with maintaining comfort levels. There is a fire alarm system, but no fire suppression system. Sightlines to the main doors are poor, presenting a security concern. Due to the age of the foundation, there have been some issues with water infiltration. Programmatically, the building's configuration also presents many challenges. Some classrooms and common spaces are only accessible through other classrooms. The library / media center is an open space located at the "crossroads" of the building, which makes it difficult to maintain a quiet environment or use the space for special education or other services that may call for a degree of privacy. The needs of students and our understanding of how to provide appropriate interventions have changed over the many decades since Killam was built, and the building doesn't adequately support the space requirements for these needs. Tier 2 supports (such as small reading groups) are taking place in open settings, including hallways. Spaces originally intended for storage have been converted to offices and even learning spaces in some cases. The 1 I P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 accessibility challenges of many of the building's spaces significantly limit the staff's ability to creatively use the building's footprint. It could be possible to address some of these deficiencies through smaller renovation projects, but given the scope of the needs, it is likely that any significant renovations would reach a threshold of 20% of the building's assessed value. This would trigger a number of compliance requirements that are currently grandfathered in (including ADA compliance). As a result, while renovations are a possible outcome of the MSBA process, a new building may be the more likely outcome. In March, Reading was fortunate to be invited by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to the Eligibility Period, opening the door to significant MSBA financial support for a renovation or rebuild of Killam. While the precise figures are to be determined, this program may provide reimbursement to the town for nearly half of the cost of any project. RPS and town staff have been working diligently over the last several months to meet the numerous requirements to graduate from the Eligibility Period into Modules 2- 5, which will allow us to form a project team, conduct a feasibility study, develop a schematic design, and pursue town and MSBA approval to enter into an agreement around project scoping and funding. This warrant article is among the final requirements for advancing beyond the Eligibility Period - specifically the "community authorization" requirement. It a) provides an affirmative vote from Town Meeting as an indication to the MSBA that the town is likely to support a project that emerges from the design phase, and b) provides the funding required to proceed through Modules 2-5, including hiring an Owner's Project Manager (OPM), a designer, and paying for a number of analyses and studies related to the site that may be required. Finance Committee Report - given by Marianne McLaughlin -Downing: Before I give the FINCOM vote on Article 7, FINCOM chair Ed Ross asked me to make a few notes to town meeting about FINCOM's long consideration of this article prior to taking a vote that recommends to town meeting members to take 2.2 million of free cash towards the feasibility study for Killam. First, FINCOM has been involved for over a year in attending school committee meetings relating to the significant space concerns that exist in Reading Public schools generally and with the Killam School in particular. We held two financial forums this year, one on September 28, 2022, the other on October 26, 2022, both of which included agenda items discussing at great length the need for the Killam project, the scope of the Killam project, the projected costs of the Killam project, and how financing works for the Killam project. We also had several meetings where the town accountant went over current and projected free cash balances, other expected needs coming up, and the state of our long-term debt. The town accountant shared with us free cash estimates that were not yet certified, but which showed, as of September 2022, an estimated free cash balance of $19.693 million. As all of you saw in Monday's town meeting, the certified free cash balance is even larger than that, I believe now around 19. 9 million dollars. She presented to FINCOM an analysis showing what the free cash balance would be if all the articles requesting free cash are voted on in this town meeting, like article 4 which this board voted on already and others coming up, and that still reflected a healthy balance of over 18 million dollars. With the increased certified free cash we learned of this week, that would leave $18.94 million dollars. Based on all this information, at our meeting on October 19, 2022, the finance committee voted 8-0 to recommend article 7 to town meeting. Bylaw Committee Report: No Report Motion Carried 2 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 ARTICLE 8: Motion made by the Select Board that Town Meeting authorize the Select Board to execute one or more leases of space on the water tank located on Town -owned property located at 0 Auburn Street, and shown as Assessor's Map Parcel 27-362, for the purpose constructing, installing, maintaining and operating wireless telecommunication facilities thereon for a term not to exceed twenty years on such terms and conditions as the Select Board deem appropriate, and further, to authorize the Select Board to relocate the Town's emergency communications equipment from the temporary tower located on said Town - owned property to the water tank. Presentation given by: • Fidel Maltez - See Attached Background: Town Meeting authorized the replacement of the Auburn Water Tank. Replacement of the water tank is underway, with the project being on schedule and on budget. The tank is designed to host 4 cellular carriers. In accordance with Massachusetts procurement law, the Town will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to lease space for carriers that would like to install their equipment on our water tank. The RFP makes for a competitive process that will result in the Town obtaining the best financial benefit possible. While we cannot mandate any carrier to respond to the RFP, we have been meeting with all carriers to ensure they are aware of when it will be published. We are requesting the ability to execute long term leases with these carriers, up to twenty years. This will further incentivize the carriers to respond and will provide long term benefits to our Town and our residents. Finance Committee Report: No Report Bylaw Committee Report: No Report After some discussion a vote was taken Motion Carried ARTICLE 9: Motion made by the Select Board that the Town authorize the Select Board, on behalf of the Town, to petition the General Court for passage of a special law, as set forth below; provided, however, that the General Court may make clerical or editorial changes in form only to the bill, unless the Select Board approves amendments to the bill before enactment by the General Court; and provided further that the Select Board is hereby authorized to approve amendments that shall be within the scope of the general public objectives of this petition. AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF READING TO ESTABLISH A MEANS TESTED SENIOR CITIZEN PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows: SECTION 1. There shall be an exemption from the property tax for each qualifying parcel of real property classified as class 1 residential in the town of Reading in an amount to be set annually by the select board as provided in section 3. The exemption shall be applied only to the domicile of the taxpayer; provided, however, that for the purposes of this act, "parcel" shall mean a unit of real property as defined by the Board of Assessors under the deed for the property and shall include a condominium unit. The exemption provided for in this act shall be in addition to any and all other exemptions allowed by the General Laws. 3 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 SECTION 2. The Board of Assessors in the town of Reading may deny an application if they find the applicant has excessive assets that place the applicant outside of the intended recipients of the exemption under this act. Real property shall qualify for the exemption under section 1 if: (i) the qualifying real property is owned and occupied by a person whose prior year's income would make the person eligible for the circuit breaker income tax credit under subsection (k) of section 6 of chapter 62 of the General Laws; (ii) the qualifying real property is owned by a single applicant not less than 65 years old at the close of the previous year or jointly by persons either of whom is not less than 65 years old at the close of the previous year and the other joint applicant is not less than 60 years old; (iii) the qualifying real property is owned and occupied by the applicant or joint applicants as their domicile; (iv) the applicant or at least 1 of the joint applicants has been domiciled and owned a home in the town for not less than 10 consecutive years before filing an application for the exemption; (v) the maximum assessed value of the qualifying real property is no greater than the prior year's maximum assessed value for qualification for the circuit breaker income tax credit under subsection (k) of section 6 of chapter 62 of the General Laws as adjusted annually by the department of revenue; and (vi) the Board of Assessors has approved the application. SECTION 3. The Select Board of the Town of Reading, shall annually set the exemption amount under section 1 between 100 per cent and 150 per cent of the amount of the circuit breaker income tax credit under subsection (k) of section 6 of chapter 62 of the General Laws for which the applicant qualified in the previous year, set annually by the Board of Assessors. The total amount exempted by this act shall be allocated proportionally within the tax levy on all residential taxpayers. SECTION 4. A person who seeks to qualify for the exemption under section 1 shall, before the deadline established by the Board of Assessors of the town of Reading, file an application, on a form to be adopted by the board, with supporting documentation relative to the applicant's income and assets as described in the application. The application shall be filed each year for which the applicant seeks the exemption. SECTION 5. No exemption shall be granted under this act until the department of revenue certifies a residential tax rate for the applicable tax year where the total exemption amount is raised by a burden shift within the residential tax levy. SECTION 6. This act shall expire 3 years after implementation of the exemption under this act. Presentation given by: Victor Santaniello — See Attached Background: This article is to petition the General Court for a 3 -year extension of our current Senior Property Tax Exemption. The Senior Property Tax Exemption was first approved at a Special Town Meeting on September 12, 2016. The Senior Property Tax Exemption was renewed at Subsequent Town Meeting in 2019. At this Town Meeting, we are asking to allow the Select Board to submit a Home Rule Petition to renew our exemption for another 3 years. Reading has been a model community for Senior Property Tax Exemption; our Assessor will present to Town Meeting his ongoing advocacy to make this exemption part of permanent law. To be eligible for the Reading property tax exemption, the senior: (1) has filed and been deemed eligible for a prior year Schedule CB (Circuit Breaker) for the purpose of state income taxes; and (2) has owned property in Reading for at least ten previous consecutive years; and (3) applies annually to the Board of Assessors for the exemption; and 4 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center (4) the co -applicant must be at least 60 years of age November 17, 2022 2016-2019 The CB state income tax break serves as the basis for determining the local property tax relief. In the first iteration of the Senior Property Tax Exemption program, the Select Board annually, at their Tax Classification Hearing (usually in October, to be effective the following July), set the exemption between 50% and 200% of the Schedule CB income tax relief. The exact % multiplier was determined by how many seniors qualify for the exemption, and the total amount of senior tax relief desired by the Board. Over the first three years of the program, an average of 180 applicants received a total tax break of $4,900 (over $1,600 annually). The default cost of these tax savings fell entirely to the remainder of the residential class. The Select Board split the commercial/industrial/personal property tax rate from the residential one for the first time in Reading, so that all classes of taxpayers shared in the cost of this Senior Tax Relief program. 2019-2022 In the second iteration of the Senior Property Tax Exemption Program, the Home Rule Petition changed the 50% to 200% annual range to be voted by the Select Board and fixed it at 150%. The Board agreed to request this change, as a higher % had the undesirable effect of making some taxpayers ineligible in the following year, and a lower % was simply not enough financial assistance. No other changes were requested to the original program. 2023-2026 In this third iteration of the Senior Property Tax Exemption, we originally requested that the Home Rule Petition submitted in 2019 be fixed at 100%, originally fixed at 150% (section 3 above). This request was due to the impending passage of the Economic Development Bill which proposed to boost the maximum credit Senior circuit breaker, designed for seniors whose property taxes exceed a certain portion of their yearly income, from $1,170 to $2,340. Our State Delegation remains confident that the Economic Development Bill will pass in 2022. Lawmakers say this change would affect more than 100,000 taxpayers at a cost of $60 million across the Commonwealth. This increase in the Senior circuit breaker, while having a significant impact on seniors, would be better accommodated with a 100% annual range on Reading's Senior Property Tax Exemption. The 2019 Home Rule Petition request fixed at 150% would have the undesirable effect of making some taxpayers ineligible in the following year. No other changes were requested to the original program. Finance Committee Report: - given by Jeanne Borawski: At their meeting on October 19, 2022 the Finance Committee voted 8 - 0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. Bylaw Committee Report — given by Jeff Struble: At their meeting on October 11, 2022, the Bylaw Committee voted 5 - 0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. After some discussion a vote was taken Motion Carried 5 1 P a g e Applicants Granted Factor Max Amt Shifted FY 2022 188 176 1.5x $1,695 $270,300 FY 2021 238 229 1.5x $1,725 $352,255.50 FY 2020 186 182 1.5x $1,650 $259,409 TOTAL 612 587 $881964.50 Finance Committee Report: - given by Jeanne Borawski: At their meeting on October 19, 2022 the Finance Committee voted 8 - 0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. Bylaw Committee Report — given by Jeff Struble: At their meeting on October 11, 2022, the Bylaw Committee voted 5 - 0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. After some discussion a vote was taken Motion Carried 5 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 ARTICLE 10: Motion made by Select Board that the Town accept the provisions of Clause 56 of Section 5 of Chapter 59 of the Massachusetts General Laws, which authorizes the Board of Assessors to grant real and personal property tax abatements up to 100 percent of the total tax assessed to members of the Massachusetts National Guard and to reservists on active duty in foreign countries for the fiscal year they performed such service subject to eligibility criteria to be established by the Board. Presentation given by: Victor Santaniello - See Attached Background: Passage of this article would allow the Board of Assessors to provide tax relief for Members of the Massachusetts National Guard and to reservists called to active duty. As allowed by Massachusetts General Law, the Board of Assessors will establish an application process along with criteria to approve these exceptions. The Board of Assessors will establish a three-year sunset clause for these exceptions. Finance Committee Report: No Report Bylaw Committee Report - given by Jeff Struble: At their meeting on October 11, 2022, the Bylaw Committee voted 5-0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. After some discussion a vote was taken Motion Carried ARTICLE 11: Motion made by the Select Board that the Town authorize the Select Board, on behalf of the Town, to petition the General Court for passage of a special law, as set forth below; provided, however, that the General Court may make clerical or editorial changes in form only to the bill, unless the Select Board approves amendments to the bill before enactment by the General Court; and provided further that the Select Board is hereby authorized to approve amendments that shall be within the scope of the general public objectives of this petition. AN ACT RELATIVE TO THE BOARD OF HEALTH IN THE TOWN OF READING Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows: Section 1. Article 4.4 of the town of Reading home rule charter is hereby amended by striking out the first paragraph and inserting, in place thereof, the following: There shall be a Board of Health consisting of five (5) members appointed by the Board of Selectmen for three (3) year terms so arranged that at least one (1) term shall expire each year. Section 2. Within 30 days of passage of this act, the Board of Selectmen shall appoint two individuals to the Board of Health in accordance with Article 4.4 of the Charter and Section 1 of this act, provided, however, that one (1) member shall have an initial term of two (2) years. After that initial two (2) year term, all terms shall be for three (3) years. Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately upon its passage. 6 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center Presentation given by: • Richard Lopez - See Attached November 17, 2022 Background: Chapter 111 of the Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) directs towns to create a 3 - member Board of Health to oversee the health of the community. MGL 30A is the basis for what is called the Open Meeting Law (OML) and regulates the appropriate legal behavior for local and state public bodies to ensure transparency of government. It is at the intersection of these two laws that issues have arisen in the efficient and collaborative work of the Board of Health in Reading that Article 11 attempts to address. Article 11 directs the Select Board to appeal to the state legislature for a special act petition to change the Town Charter to enable the Board of Health to have five full voting members instead of the current three members (and two associate non-voting members). Why change the composition of the Board of Health to five members? The Board has been discussing this potential change for the past year as a result of the stresses that the Board has endured in managing the COVID pandemic in the town. An assessment report by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council authorized by the Board last winter to evaluate the Board's function and that of the Health Department came to the same conclusion that a five -member board would be preferable. There are three reasons to effectuate this change: 1. Better collaboration between the Board and other town processes. Currently, the Board can have only one member represented in a Town task force, committee, etc. because appointing two members requires posting the meeting as a Board of Health meeting (2 members meets the quorum requirement of the OML). This reduces the effectiveness and participation of the Board in matters where its expertise/input is required and where more than one -member participation would be preferable. 2. Better communication between Board members. For the same quorum issue as it relates to the OML, two Board members cannot have substantive communication - phone, email - outside of a formal Board meeting. This reduces the efficiency and efficacy of the Board as all communication between two Board members, other than simple one-way information sharing or agenda/meeting logistics, is not allowed, as two members involved in any conversation meets the definition of a Board quorum. Feedback, inquiries, exploration of topics, clarifications, etc. must either be discussed at a Board meeting or awkwardly managed through a third party such as the Health Director outside of the meeting. The intent is not to do Board business "behind closed doors" but simply to share ideas and facilitate good decision-making at Board meetings. 3. Fairness to volunteer Board members and Board member recruitment. Associate members who serve on the Board put in as much time and effort as voting Board members yet are unable to vote on issues important to them. As engaged volunteers from the community, this simply feels unfair to the associate members. It may also have a negative effect on the interest of qualified volunteers to serve on the Board as associate members. Other towns have increased Board of Health membership to five members including Needham, Bedford, Plymouth, North Andover, and Framingham and the Winchester Board chair is exploring this option. The Reading Board of Health strongly endorses Article 11 Submitted by the Board of Health Finance Committee Report: No report Bylaw Committee Report - given by Jeff Struble: At their meeting on October 11, 2022, the Bylaw Committee voted 5-0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. Motion Carried 7 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 ARTICLE 12: Motion made by the Board of Cemetery Trustees that the Town vote to amend Section 8.8.3.2 of the Town's General Bylaws by: and (1) inserting a new Section 8.8.3.2.3, as follows: Cemetery Grounds Except with the permission of the Board of Cemetery Trustees or its designee, no dog may be on the grounds of Charles Lawn, Forest Glen, Laurel Hill, or Wood End cemeteries. (2) Renumbering the remaining sections accordingly. Presentation given by: Bill Brown Backaround: Presently our No Dogs Allowed policy is not enforceable, by putting enforcement under Section 8.8 Animal Control, it would allow the Animal Control officer to impose up to a $300 fine. The Board of Cemetery Trustees feels that this may deter those that ignore the signs that say no dogs allowed. We presently have a number of residents that do not restrain their dogs and do not pick up dog droppings and leave them for Town employees to clean up. This could be a health risk to employees. On behalf of the employees and the Board of Cemetery Trustees, we ask for your support, thank you! Submitted by Bill Brown. Finance Committee Report: No Report Bylaw Committee Report — given by Jeff Struble: At their meeting on October 11, 2022, the Bylaw Committee voted 5-0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. Motion made by Joe Carnahan, Precinct 6 to move the question 2/3rd Vote Required 120 in the affirmative 8 in the negative 137 Town Meeting Members in Attendance Motion to Move the Question Carried After some discussion a vote was taken Motion Carried 8 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 ARTICLE 13: Motion made by the Select Board that the Town vote to authorize the Select Board, on behalf of the Town, to petition the General Court for passage of a special law, as set forth below; provided, however, that the General Court may make clerical or editorial changes in form only to the bill, unless the Select Board approves amendments to the bill before enactment by the General Court; and provided further that the Select Board is hereby authorized to approve amendments that shall be within the scope of the general public objectives of this petition. AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT OF ANTHONY DEL SIGNORE, THE ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF OF THE TOWN OF READING Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same as follows: SECTION 1. (a) Notwithstanding chapter 32 of the General Laws or any other general or special law to the contrary, Anthony Del Signore, Assistant Chief of the Fire Department of the Town of Reading, may continue in service beyond the age of 65; provided, however, that Anthony Del Signore is mentally and physically capable of performing the duties of his office. The town may, at its own expense, require that Anthony Del Signore be examined by an impartial physician designated by the town to determine such capability. In no case, shall Anthony Del Signore remain in service as the Assistant Chief of the Fire Department past the date of February 29, 2024. This act shall not entitle Anthony Del Signore to remain in service to the Town of Reading if otherwise removed or suspended from office in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. (b) No further deductions shall be made from Anthony Del Signore's regular compensation under chapter 32 of the General Laws for any service performed subsequent to reaching the age of 65. Upon his retirement, he shall receive a superannuation retirement allowance equal to that which he would have been entitled had he retired upon reaching age 65, if any. SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon its passage. Presentation given by: • Fidel Maltez - See Attached • Greg Burns Background: Assistant Fire Chief Anthony Del Signore will turn age 65 on February 28, 2023. Mass General Law mandates that Public Safety employees retire at age 65. The Assistant Fire Chief has requested to work in his role for one year after this mandatory retirement date, or the age of 66. The Assistant Fire Chief has been with the Town of Reading for a significant period and is in great standing. Furthermore, as Assistant Fire Chief, he has a largely administrative role, supporting the daily operation of our Fire Department and our Fire Chief. The Assistant Chief has been in the position since January of 2021. By keeping the Assistant Fire Chief in the position for one more year it will provide continuity to our Fire Department and will allow us more time to select and train his replacement more thoroughly. Finally, Section (b) of the legislation request above, will cap the Assistant Fire Chief's retirement compensation as though he had retired at age 65. There is no additional retirement compensation because of this additional year of service. Finance Committee Report: No Report Bylaw Committee Report - given by Jeff Struble: At their meeting on October 11, 2022, the Bylaw Committee voted 5-0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. Motion Carried 9 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center ARTICLE 14: Motion made by the Select Board to Table Article 14 Motion Carried to Table ARTICLE 15: Motion made by the Select Board to Table Article 15 Motion Carried to Table ARTICLE 16: Motion made by the Select Board to Table Article 16 Motion Carried to Table November 17, 2022 ARTICLE 17: Motion made by the Select Board to indefinitely postpone Article 17. Presentation given by: Fidel Maltez - See Attached Motion to Indefinitely Postpone Carried ARTICLE 18: Motion made by the Select Board that the Town: And (1) Amend, pursuant to G.L. c.40, §5B, the purpose of the Smart Growth Stabilization Fund, so that the fund may hold all payments received from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts under Chapter 40R of the General Laws, including incentive and density bonus payments, said funds to be expended in accordance with said Chapter; (2) Transfer $414,000 or any other sum from Free Cash into the Smart Growth Stabilization Fund, which funds the Town received from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in payment for development within the Town's 40R Smart Growth Zoning Districts; or take any other action with respect thereto. Presentation given by: • Fidel Maltez - See Attached Backaround: Article 18 includes an amendment to the purpose of the Smart Growth Stabilization Fund as well as a vote to transfer a recent payment from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) into the Fund. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40R, DHCD makes two types of payments to municipalities: zoning incentive payments and density bonus payments. SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 The Smart Growth Stabilization Fund was created in 2008 for the purpose of holding the zoning incentive payment for the Reading Woods 40R project. In 2010, the purpose was expanded so the Fund could receive a zoning incentive payment for any project. Between 2008 and 2015, $503,000, comprised of both zoning incentive and density bonus payments, was deposited into the Fund. At this time, the Town would like to transfer a density bonus payment of $414,000 into the Fund. This payment is for the following 40R projects: The Postmark, Ace Flats, Rise475 and 14 Chapin Ave. The payment is calculated as $3,000 per net number of housing units. Though density bonus payments have been transferred into the Fund in prior years, Article 18 proposes first to amend the purpose of the Fund to expressly allow such an action, and then to transfer the aforementioned $414,000 into the Fund. Payments made into the Fund prior to 2016 can be used for any purpose; payments made into the Fund since 2016 are restricted for capital expenditures only. Finance Committee Report - given by Edward Ross: At their meeting on October 19, 2022 the Finance Committee voted 8 - 0 to recommend this Article to Town Meeting. Bylaw Committee Report: No Report After some discussion a vote was taken 2/3 rd Vote Required 122 in the affirmative 2 in the negative 137 Town Meeting Members in Attendance Motion Carried ARTICLE 20: Motion made by the Select Board to Table Article 20 Motion Carried to Table ARTICLE 21: Motion made by the Select Board for the Town to create a Laura S. Parson's Trust to be administered by the Commissioners of Trust Funds, under the direction of the Council on Aging, and in accordance with the wishes of the donor, as outlined in the Gift Agreement dated 1st day of June 2022; or take any other action in relation thereto. Presentation given by: • Fidel Maltez - See Attached Background: The article request that the Town establishes The Laura S. Parsons Fund to be administered by the Commissioners of Trust Funds in the amount of $10,000. The principal balance of this gift will be preserved in perpetuity, and only the interest portion will be expended. The donor has requested that the Council on Aging determine the expenditure categories. The funds will not be spent on salaries or capital improvements. Finance Committee report: No Report Bylaw Committee Report: No Report SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center Motion Carried November 17, 2022 ARTICLE 22: Motion made by the Select Board to indefinitely postpone Article 22. Presentation given by: Fidel Maltez - See Attached Motion to Indefinitely Postpone Carried ARTICLE 23: Motion made by Citizen Petition that the Town vote to require that owners of all commercial buildings, owners of residences having 3 or more units and owners of Parking lots in the Downtown Smart Growth District shovel public sidewalks down to the hard pavement and prevent or remove icy conditions in the entire width of the sidewalk by 9:00 AM after any snowstorm. Presentation given by: • Mary Parr - See Attached Background: Much has been done in recent decades by our merchants and Town to make our downtown an attractive alternative to mall shopping. Now, with state mandated 40R and 40B zoning rules and a change to a mixed residential status, it is time to upgrade safety for users of our downtown walking district in the winter. The DPW sidewalk plow is limited by trees, benches, signposts and trash receptacles. Nonlocal building owners seem to be unaware of the safety hazards of inadequately cleared icy sidewalks. Shoppers and residents with strollers, wheelchair users and dog walkers alike are forced into busy downtown traffic. Sidewalk shoveling has never been mandated in Reading. Finance Committee report: No Report Bylaw Committee Report: No Report Motion made by Steven Cool, Precinct 6 to amend as follows: Motion made by Citizen Petition that the Town vote to require that owners of all commercial buildings, owners of residences having 3 or more units and owners of Parking lots in the Downtown Smart Growth District shovel public sidewalks in front of and adjacent to their buildings down to the hard pavement and prevent or remove icy conditions in the entiFe width of to form a navigable path down the sidewalk by 9:00 AM after any snowstorm on business days. Motion made by Bill Brown, Precinct 8 to Indefinitely Postpone the entire Article Motion to Indefinitely Postpone Carried 12 1 P a g e SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center November 17, 2022 On motion made by Bill Brown, Precinct 8 it was voted that this Subsequent Town Meeting stand adjourned to meet at 7:30 PM at the Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center, on Monday, November 21, 2022. Meeting adjourned at 10:10 PM with 137 Town Meeting Members in attendance. Motion Carried A true copy Attest: Laura A Gemme, CMC /CMMC Town Clerk 13 1 P a g e Subsequent Town Meeting Presentation: Killam Elementary School Building Project November 17, 2022 Elementary School Planning Milestones November, 2020 Elementary Schools Master Planning Report presented to community June, 2021 Killam Elementary School Statement of Interest submitted to MSBA February, 2022 Killam Elementary School Project invited into MSBA Phase 1 Preparation Period November, 2022 With Town Meeting Approval, Advance into MSBA Phase 2 Scope Definition Introduction • Why is Reading considering a repair, addition/renovation, or replacement of Killam Elementary School? • What is the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), its process and timeline for supporting school building projects? • What does a Yes vote for Article 7 accomplish? • What are the implications to Reading's other elementary schools if Killam were to be renovated or rebuilt? • If Killam were to be rebuilt, what is the estimated cost for the project and how would the community pay for it? • What could be the impact on Reading's taxpayers to support a new Killam School Building? • How will the community be engaged throughout the process? • Questions raised by Town Meeting Members. Why is a renovation or rebuild of Killam needed? • Physical plant and programmatic deficiencies are extensive. • Construction to Killam Elementary School was completed in 1969. Since 1969, no major renovations have been completed. • Renovations area possible outcome of the MSBA process, however anew building is more likely. • Any significant renovation would reach a threshold of 20% of the building's assessed value and trigger compliance requirements currently grandfathered, like ADA. -= Physical Plant Deficiencies • Lead and copper in drinking water • Lack of ADA compliance in Hi -Def areas, student and staff bathrooms, entrances and exits, cafeteria stage • Classroom access requires passing through other classroom • Original electrical system and limited electrical and data connections • Lack of fire sprinkler system • Large scale door and window replacement needed • Water infiltration during heavy rain • Need for increased sight lines for safety Programmatic Deficiencies • Lack of appropriate space needed to support complexity of student needs, including special education services, multilingual learners, and small group support. • Some classrooms and commission spaces accessible only through other classrooms. • Library Media is located in open crossroad space used as a corridor. • Closets used for instructional and meeting spaces. • Limited data connections in classrooms which constricts use of instructional technology. Images of Killam's Deficiencies .- What is the MSBA? • The Massachusetts School Building Authority ("MSBA") is a quasi -independent government authority created to reform the process of funding capital improvement projects in the Commonwealth's public schools. • The MSBA works with local communities to create affordable, sustainable, and energy efficient schools across Massachusetts. • MSBA provides reimbursements to communities based on a predetermined percentage of eligible school construction costs. • Since 2004, $16.1 billion in payments were made to cities, towns, and regional school districts. • MSBA's dedicated revenue stream consists of one penny of the State's 6.25% sales tax. In 2021, 58 Statements of Interest were submitted to the MSBA by municipalities for funding consideration through the Core School Building Project program. Of this total, 11 districts were invited into the Senior Study phase. Following Senior Study, MSBA voted to advance Reading into the Phase 1 Preparation/Eligibility Phase. What is the MSBA's School Building process? a � . ` What does a "Yes" vote for Article 7 accomplish? • Phase 1 Preparation (Eligibility Process) opened the door for MSBA financial support for a renovation or rebuild of Killam Elementary School. • Article 7's request of $2.2 M allows the School Building Team to move forward into Phase 2 Scope Definition. • Phase 2 Scope Definition will encompass: o Forming Project Team -Owner's Project Manager and Architect to oversee project phases o Conducting Feasibility Study - Comprehensive assessment of building and grounds to advance our understanding of the needs and options for the project o Creating a Schematic Design -Detailed design, scope, budget, and schedule for the project • All aspects of renovation and rebuild will be examined. • A Yes vote will: o Advance the project into Phase 2 Scope Definition o Serve as an indicator to MSBA that the Town is likely to support a project that emerges What is the MSBA's timeline? Phase I Preparation: • Module 1 Eligibility Period Total 270 days (June 1, 2022 through February 23, 2023) Phase 2 Scope Definition: • Module 2 Project Team (OPM, Designer) Total 150 days • Module 3 Feasibility Study Total 300 days • Module 4 Schematic Design Total 75 days • Module 5 Project Scope & Funding Total 90 days Phase 3 Scope Monitoring: • Modules 6-8 Final Design 1 year Construction Total 1.5 years Grand Total = 3.5 years The above are maximum allowed durations. Many steps will likely overlap, resulting in a shorter, 3.5 year timeframe. 04, Phase 2 Scope Definition - Purpose of $2.2M Funding The $2.2M request for funding presented to Town Meeting would pay for the project's Scope Definition Phase, which includes: • Hiring an Owner's Project Manager to provide the town with an objective third party to oversee future project phases. • Securing a designer to develop a specific solution that is a best fit for Reading and our needs. • Advancing our understanding of the needs and options for the Killam site by conducting extensive detailed analyses. Scope Definition must be thorough and comprehensive. It is critical to "get right". Funding for Phase 2 Scope Definition is eligible for MSBA reimbursement. a � . G� Phase 2 Scope Definition - $2.2M Cost Breakdown Phase 2 Scope Definition: DesignerFees...................................................................................................$ 740,000 Testing & Other Services: Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental................................$270,000 Hazardous Materials.........................................................$120,000 SiteSurvey..........................................................................$ 70,000 Wetlands.............................................................................$ 15,000 Traffic Studv........................................................................40 000 Subtotal Testing.......................................................................................5 515,000 OPMFee.............................................................................................................$ 260,000 Estimating Contingency(20%)....................................................................$ 300,000 Market conditions contingency(10%)........................................................$ 185,000 Total Feasibility Study Total (2021)........................................................$2,000,000 10% Escalation ...................................................................................................$ 200,000 Feasibility Study Total =` What are the implications to our other schools? • Phase 2 Scope Definition will include close examination of our district -wide space capacity and both current and anticipated future needs. • Solutions for other programmatic and space -related deficiencies in the district, such as: o Address capacity constraints at other elementary schools. o Mitigate the need for modular classrooms (9 modulars, 170+ students). o Potential of creating single site to house the RISE preschool program (103+ students) and comply with new mandates for access to RISE services. o Provide appropriate spaces for delivering special education services as specified in students' IEPs and instruction to multilingual learners, a quickly growing population in our community. o Improve alignment of classroom capacity by redistricting student enrollment. (*1 Phase 2 Scope Definition - Outcome • With community input, the OPM, Designer and School Building Team will document the educational program, generate an initial space summary, document existing conditions, establish design parameters, develop and evaluate alternatives. • The Owner's Project Manager will submit to MSBA on behalf of the District and its Designer a Preliminary Design Program and a Preferred Schematic Report. • Approval by the MSBA Board of Directors is required for all projects to proceed into Schematic Design. • The Owner's Project Manager and Designer will develop a thorough schematic design of sufficient detail to establish the scope, budget, and schedule for the Proposed Project. What costs are eligible for reimbursement by MSBA? • Total construction costs are limited at $360 per square foot for reimbursement by the MSBA • Furnishings, fixtures, equipment, and technology are all reimbursed by the MSBA with an allowance of $2,400 per student. • Spaces dedicated for special education services, including preschool classrooms. • Eligible site costs include the following: o basic landscaping, excavation, and site utilities o pedestrian walkways on the site and play yards for elementary schools o fields for physical education classes and general student use • Generally eligible site costs are reimbursable up to 8% of the total building cost, subject to submission of detailed budget/scope and approval by MSBA. What costs are ineligible for reimbursement by MSBA? • Construction costs that exceed the allowable expenses per square foot of $360, plus eligible demolition and abatement. • Costs in excess of $2,400 per student for furnishings, fixtures, equipment, and technology. • Site costs in excess of 8% of the total building cost. • All costs associated with non -hazardous site earthworks, including but not limited to, removal of rock or ledge. • Legal fees and costs associated with mailing, moving, and temporary swing spaces. • Owners and construction contingency costs. • Costs not identified during Scope Definition Period, specifically during the Feasibility Study and Schematic Design modules. " What are examples of Excluded Expenses? Extraordinary Site Costs - additional costs for extra playfields and/or extra cost due to a problem site such as ledge or contamination, wetland issues. Abatement - removal of hazardous materials. Temporary space -swing space, temporary trailers or moving back and forth within the building. Any district wide central administration space— e.g. Superintendent's offices. Program space greater than MSBA standards. This can be an array of things and can include: • Oversized classrooms • Oversized gym or a Field House •oversized storage • Spaces beyond the program for the grade structure — for instance, an Auditorium is not funded by MSBA in an Elementary School. But, a town may choose to add one because they do not have other/enough facilities in other town buildings. (*I What does it cost to renovate or rebuild? Elementary School Estimated Total Project Cost and Reimbursement Data at Schematic Design Date of MSBA Approval October, 2021 October, 2021 August, 2021 April, 2021 April, 2021 DISTRICT Peabody MedflAd Wellesley Westwood Andover School Name Construction Type Enrollment GSF Assumed Start of Construction Welch Add/Reno 390 59,025 June, 2022 Dale Street New 575 95,828 July, 2022 Hardy New 365 80,039 February, 2023 Paul Hanlon New 560 113,141 July, 2022 West New 925 191,028 July, 2022 TOTAL PROJECT COST 29,973,821 81,893,664 72,500,000 87,820,386 151,661,968 Less Excluded[spenses 2,101,263 38,231,483 33,774,895 41,441,578 67,794,165 NET COST 27,872,558 43,662,181 38,725,105 46,37SMS 83,867,803 MSBA REIMBURSEMENT RATE 63.33% 44.90% 34.90% 39.35% 45.85% Total MSBA Gant 17,651,691 19,604,319 13515,062 18,250,061 38,453,388 Estimated Construction Casts per Sq Foot $ 396.00 $ 673.00 $ 694.00 $ 622.00 $ 624.00 MSBA Sch-180ding Projects and MSBA Tableau Cost Dam Graph -Links to costs associated with school building pe jectsp—don MSBA website J� What is an estimated costs for a new Killam School? Cost Scenario - Extremely Conservative Based on... • high estimate of a Total Project Cost of $120,000,000 and • low estimate of 30% for MSBA reimbursement rate • net Local Share of Project Costs would total $84,000,000. Based on this cost scenario, the estimated impact per $100,000 of Home Value is $88.43 per year. How would the project be funded? • Pending approval by MSBA, the project would be jointly funded by the MSBA and the Town of Reading through: o MSBA Reimbursement - the reimbursement rate for the project will be established by MSBA at the end of Phase 2 Scope Definition, Module 4 Schematic Design. ■ The statutory formula applies a base rate of 31% for all communities, which is then adjusted based on three socioeconomic factors: Community Income Factor (if any), Community Property Wealth Factor (if any), and Community Poverty Factor (if any). ■ Based on other like elementary school projects, Reading's reimbursement rate is estimated to range from 31% to 49%. o MSBA Incentive Points- additional incentive points related to maintenance and energy efficiencies, such as a Net Zero Energy building, which would increase reimbursement rate. o Debt Exclusion -a majority of voters' approval. The additional amount for the payment of debt service is added to the levy limit or levy ceiling for the life of the debt only. b ` In this scenario, what is the impact on Taxpayers? IMPACT OF KILLAM PROJECT ON AVG SINGLE FAMILY HOME $9,mo ($700K USING FY22 TAX RATES) $9,600 $9,s0o $9poo $9.300 $9,200 $9,300 $9ADo $8,900 $8,000 $e,roo Tax Bill f -Ave Single All. C.—at ..It Tar Bill with Killam Family Exclusions Fall off Debt Exclusion What is a Debt Exclusion? • Approval of a debt exclusion permits the community to raise the amount of the annual debt service payment for that project each year until the debt is retired. • The amount of an exclusion may be raised in addition to the levy limit. It does not increase the levy limit nor become part of the base for calculating future years' levy. • A debt exclusion may be presented to the voters to exclude the debt service on the community's borrowings, or the community's share of the debt service on a borrowing of a regional governmental unit of which it is a member. G.L. c. 59, § 21C(k). 0 All Is F In this scenario, what is the impact on Taxpayers? Fr2D2z11-TCER,IDED-14 sa2,3ajw sa�a6,11: 13.33/ 3.96 s69a,6T6 s9a 3 ,.—/ODE $)9,69],608 S. 82.90/03.12 $69616]5 $9AB3 , Eo22 Df$%p69,50a $85,16o,10a $5,462,s08 13.]8I moo $6981615 E$9bffi Oebt fvucluslonestimatetl lnvease$88A3 per$100, 0 uvalue F 2022Tax Pate is uxe to demensfratefhe eff—f Klllam Debt Exclusion Tofal Exclud N Dehl bei,v removed IPMHS aM Woalentl paitl off in 1. antlthe Obrary rs pab M in 1. Klllam -- was estimated of $120 mll Ilon wftha 30%MSBA re[mbursement leaulpg $AA millm m excluded debt TM KAlam Debt &elusion [sslwwnontb6-.1 a-1, borrowing TM annual debt service 6 enimated to be $5,462,— TM average side f-1, tax bill increased by an avenge of 3.49%overtbe last ]Syeara iar.11 Mr Ave single ramav $ 9313 nRer c urgent Dela, Eubsime Fall off $ 9A13 Tax B 111 wfth KllWm Delft Exclus ba $ 9b2a n a Who is leading the Killam School Building Project? • The Killam School Building Committee, formed during the Phase 1 Preparation Phase, guides the building project and process with step-by-step support by MSBA. • The Killam School Building Committee is comprised of the Permanent Building Committee, and representatives of the School Committee, Select Board, and Finance Committee, with support from town staff including the School Superintendent, select Killam Elementary School staff, Town Manager, Town Accountant, Facilities Director, and Procurement Officer. • The Killam School Building Committee will oversee the process of renovating or building a new Killam Elementary School from planning to construction. • In addition, during Phase 2 Scope Definition, a Visioning Committee will be created, made up of Reading residents and Town/School staff members, with the purpose to articulate the educational vision of the building project. ;;,, Questions Asked by Town Meeting Members • "Why can't students learn in an old building?" • "Why now?" • "What are consequences of not renovating/replacing Killam?" • "Elementary enrollment has decreased over the last five years and is expected to level why can't we just redistrict students to other schools?" • "Are we also going to have to renovate or build new the other schools?" • "What happens to the remaining funds if we don't spend all $2.2M in Phase 2?" • "Where will students attend school if Killam is rebuilt? • "How are we going to address the traffic issues if Killam is built for a larger population of students? • What happens if we decide to not continue with the process?" n How will the community be engaged throughout the process? • Both the Killam School Building Committee and the Visioning Committee meetings are open to the public. • Residents will be asked to participate in focus groups, respond to surveys, attend public meetings held by Town Boards and Committees, and provide feedback. • A website will be created early in Phase 2 Scope Definition where all documents, plans, meeting minutes, and images will be accessible throughout the process. • Since August, 2022, four public meetings were held for the community and three tours were conducted of the Killam Elementary School for elected Town Meeting members. Thank you!