HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-05-09 Select Board Packet
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
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2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Select Board
Date: 2023-05-09 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Select Board Meeting Room
Address: 16 Lowell Street Agenda:
Purpose: General Business
Meeting Called By: Caitlin Nocella on behalf of Chair Mark Dockser
Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings excluding
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PAGE #
7:00 Overview of Meeting
7:05 Public Comment
7:10 Select Board Vote to Reorganize
7:15 SB Liaison & Town Manager Reports 3
7:30 Discuss Local option to increase the Cost of Living
Adjustment (“COLA”) for Fiscal Year 2023 to up to 5 4
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
Page | 2
percent on the base amount specified pursuant to G.L. c.
32, § 103, for retirees.
8:00 Vote on Letter of Support for MassWorks Grant 14
8:30 Vote to Accept Land Gift at 0 Sanborn Lane, following
acceptance by Conservation Commission 40
8:45 Discuss and Vote on Select Board Assignments to VASC
8:55 Vote on VASC Recommendations to volunteer
appointments to CPDC 46
9:00 Discuss Select Board Liaison Assignments 48
9:15 Discuss FY24 Water & Sewer Rates 51
9:30 Discuss Issuing RFP for Feasibility Study for New Senior
Center 64
9:45 Discuss Potential Changes to ReCalc Charge and Sunset
Date 78
10:00 Discuss Clarification of SWEC Charge, as Requested by
Committee 81
10:15 Discuss Scheduling Annual Meeting with the Reading Ice
Arena Authority 83
10:30 Discuss Future Agendas 100
10:45 Approve Meeting Minutes 103
Office of the Town Manager 781-942-9043
16 Lowell Street townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us
Reading, MA 01867 www.readingma.gov/town-manager
To: Select Board
From: Fidel A. Maltez
Date: May 4, 2023
RE: Town Manager Memo for May 9th, 2023 Meeting
I am excited to report that we have successfully completed our Annual Town Meeting! It was an exciting
event with many important priorities discussed and voted on! Our FY2024 Town and School Budget was
approved. In addition, Town Meeting funded the deficit to fully complete Phase I of the Birch Meadow
Complex. We foresee work starting in June – I know this project will have a lasting impact on our
community! With Town Meeting complete, we will focus primarily on adopting our water & sewer rates
for FY2024. At this meeting, we will have a presentation, largely focused on questions asked at the last
meeting. We have also made a slight shift to the Tiers to lower the impact on larger households in Town.
At this meeting, the Select Board will be asked to reorganize. As was done last year, I will ask for
nominations for Chair, will open for discussion after the nominations and will then hold a vote for Chair.
Once a Chair is successfully elected, the new Chair will accept nominations for Vice-Chair and will facilitate
the rest of the meeting. The Select board will hear several items at this meeting, but we have intentionally
limited the number of votes. We have heard feedback from Board members that they would like to
separate discussion and votes on any potentially controversial items.
Our Town Accountant will present a local option to increase the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for
retirees for Fiscal Year 2023 up to 5%. This has been voted on by the Retirement Board, and it must now
come to the Select Board. This local option was authorized through special legislation signed by Governor
Baker to mitigate the impact of inflation on retirees.
Finally, the Select Board will be asked to vote to accept a land donation at 0 Sanborn Lane. The Reading
ARPA Advisory Committee and the Select Board allocated funding to conservation to complete survey and
legal work that allowed this donation. Kudos to our Conservation Administrator, Chuck Tirone, for
facilitating this donation.
FAM
Retirement Board 5% Local
COLA Option
SHARON ANGSTROM
MAY 9, 2023
Background
On November 16, 2022, the Governor signed Chapter 269 of
the Acts of 2022 into Law.
This act provides local retirement systems with a local option
to increase the Cost-of-Living Adjustment for FY23 to up to
5% of the base amount.
The approval of the increase can occur at any time during the
fiscal year and will be retroactive back to July 1, 2022
Additional
Background
In a Town, the chief executive officer –the Select Board in
nearly all cases must vote in favor to accept the increase
rather than Town Meeting as is the case for COLA base .
Approval of this option will provide retirees with an
additional 2% or an additional $280 for FY23.
The local approval option is different than traditional COLA
increases and COLA base increases.
Additional
Background
Retirees typically receive a COLA
increase of up to 3% of the base amount.
Reading maintains a $14,000 COLA
base.
The COLA increase is typically up to
$420 annually.
Retiree Pay Data
Description Number of
Retirees Result
Pensions under
$14,000 77 Increase of up to
$280 per retiree
Pensions $14,000
to $29,999 107 Increase of $280
per retiree
Pensions
$30,000 to
$49,999
111 Increase of $280
per retiree
Pensions greater
than $50,000 107
Increase of $280
per retiree
•73.4% of retirees have pensions less than
$50,000 (298 out of 402)
•26.6% have pensions greater than $50,000
(107 of 402)
•The average Reading pension is $36,670,
which is a very modest amount.
•This option was adopted to assist retirees
with increased costs caused by inflation.
•This option is for FY23 only, FY24 will
return to a COLA of up to 3% of the
$14,000 COLA base amount.
Key Data to Consider Relative to Adoption of
this one-time COLA Local Option
Increases Pension Liability by
$842,400
Fy25 Pension Assessment
will increase by $147,300
Reading’s Pension Liability is
scheduled to be fully funded by
2031.
Reading Retiree Pensions
Under $14k $14,000 to$29,999 $30,000 to $49,999 Greater than $50k
Questions?
March 15, 2023
Reading Contributory Retirement Board
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Dear Members of the Board:
As requested, we have prepared an analysis of the impact on the Reading Contributory Retirement System’s
liabilities and funding schedule as a result of a one-time increase in the COLA from 3% to 5% on July 1, 2022,
up to the COLA base of $14,000. We used the data and results of the January 1, 2023 valuation, which is in
progress, to develop the change in the unfunded actuarial accrued liability and the resulting impact on the
FY2025 and later appropriations. The results of our analysis are based on the assumptions selected by the Board
for the January 1, 2021 valuation, including a 7.00% investment return rate assumption.
Cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) may be granted by the retirement board under M.G.L. c. 32, § 103 each
year. If an increase is given, the COLA percentage is applied to a retiree’s retirement allowance up to $14,000.
If the COLA on July 1, 2022 increased from 3% to 5%, a one-time increase that will become a permanent part
of retirees’ current retirement allowance, and as allowed in the recently enacted Chapter 269 of the Acts of 2022,
the accrued liability and FY2025 appropriation are expected to increase as follows:
* replaces 3% on July 1, 2022 up to $420
The increase in the FY2025 appropriation is without regard to any limits on the annual increases in
appropriations. The additional FY2025 appropriation of $147,300 will increase by 4% annually until the system
is expected to be fully funded in 2031.
In closing, we are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the material we have provided in this
supplemental report.
Sincerely,
Linda L. Bournival, FSA, EA
Consulting Actuary
COLA
Accrued
Liability
Normal Cost
Increase in
FY2025
Appropriation
5% on July 1, 2022 up to $700*
$842,400
$0
$147,300
PERAC MEMO #29/2022
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: All Retirement Boards
FROM: John W. Parsons, Esq., Executive Director
RE: 5% Local COLA option
DATE: November 18, 2022
On November 16, 2022, the Governor signed Chapter 269 of the Acts of 2022 into law.
This act provides the local retirement systems with a local option to increase the Cost of
Living Adjustment (“COLA”) for Fiscal Year 2023 to up to 5 percent on the base amount
specified pursuant to G.L. c. 32, § 103. The approval of the increase can occur at any time
during the fiscal year and will take effect as of July 1, 2022.
The local approval mechanism is different than traditional COLA increases and COLA
base increases. In order for a system to adopt a COLA increase pursuant to this act, the
retirement board must vote for the increased amount and then it must also receive
local approval.
For purposes of this act, local approval means:
•In a city, the mayor must recommend the increase to the city council and the council
must vote in favor.
•In a city having a Plan D or Plan E charter, the city manager must recommend the
increase to the city council and the council must vote in favor.
•In a town, the chief executive officer1 - the select board in nearly all cases - must
vote in favor to accept the increase rather than the town meeting as is the case for
COLA base increases.
•In a district, or other political subdivision, the governing board, commission or
committee must vote in favor to accept the COLA increase.
1 As defined in G.L. c. 4, § 7, ''chief executive officer'', when used in connection with the operation of municipal
governments shall include the mayor in a city and the select board in a town unless some other municipal office is
designated to be the chief executive officer under the provisions of a local charter.
PERAC
Auditor SUZANNE M. BUMP | KATHLEEN M. FALLON | KATE FITZPATRICK | JAMES J. GUIDO | RICHARD MACKINNON, JR. | JENNIFER F. SULLIVAN, ESQ.
JOHN W. PARSONS, ESQ., Executive Director
FIVE MIDDLESEX AVENUE, SUITE 304 | SOMERVILLE, MA 02145
PH 617 666 4446 | FAX 617 628 4002 | TTY 617 591 8917 | WWW.MASS.GOV/PERAC
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS | PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT ADMINISTRATION COMMISSION
PHILIP Y. BROWN, ESQ., Chair
M E M O R A N D U M - Page Two
TO: All Retirement Boards
FROM: John W. Parsons, Esq., Executive Director
RE: 5% Local COLA option
DATE: November 18, 2022
•In a regional system, two-thirds of the cities and towns within the system must
approve the increase. This is done in the same fashion as stated above for
municipalities: in a city, by the city council upon recommendation by the mayor or,
in a city with a Plan D or Plan E charter, the city manager; or, in a town, by approval
of the chief executive officer (likely the select board) as defined by G.L. c. 4, § 7.
•In a county, the county commissioners, who normally do not have a role in COLAs
nor COLA base increases, must vote to accept and two-thirds of the cities and towns
within the system must approve the increase in the same manner as stated above for
regional systems.
Though many local systems are comprised of multiple units such as housing authorities
and districts, the two-thirds language only applies to regional and county systems as the
approval specified in the statute only refers to cities and towns as voting political
subdivisions.
Section 2 of the act provides that a COLA increase pursuant to this act is retroactive to July
1, 2022. Any COLA increase, in addition to any COLA previously adopted for FY 23, will
become part of the fixed amount of a retirees’ retirement allowance in the same manner as
all COLAs granted pursuant to section 103.
PERAC has already received questions about estimating the cost of the enhanced COLA.
PERAC Actuary John Boorack has provided the following formula for a conservative full-
cost estimate, not a one-year estimate, to assist boards in their planning:
(0.2) x (COLA base) x (# of retirees/beneficiaries)
If you have any questions about this memo, please contact PERAC’s General Counsel,
Judith Corrigan, at (617) 591-8904 or at judith.a.corrigan@mass.gov.
p:\admin\pera & perac memos\perac memo #29-2022.docx
DOWNTOWN HAVEN STREET
MASSWORKS INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM
Reconstruction for Safety, Walkability, and Beautification in Downtown Reading
Town of Reading, MA
April 5th, 2023
DOWNTOWN READING
WHY FUND HAVEN STREET AND
READING’S DOWNTOWN IMPROVEMENTS?
Reading has invested significant time and resources to zoning which promotes residential and commercial mixed-use developments under 40R
Reading has invested nearly 5.5 Million in underground utility upgrades along Haven Street
Reading continues to see new housing and mixed-use development in the downtown and smart growth districts
Funding under MassWorks will:
Help Reading achieve economic development and growth goals through increased private development
Increase the walkability, safety, and aesthetic features of our downtown
Complement our ongoing projects to increase the capacity of our water, sewer, and drainage infrastructure
Signal to the development community that Haven Street and its adjacent roadways is an area of major investment and opportunity for the Town
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN READING’S
DOWNTOWN
Reading has seen a significant increase in developments under recently enacted 40R (Smart
Growth Zoning District); completed developments include:
Postmark Square (5-Story Mixed use Building, 50 Units, 10 Affordable Units)
20 -24 Gould Street (4-Story Mixed Use Building, 55 Units, 14 Affordable Units)
467 Main Street (4-Story Mixed-Use Building, 31 Units, 8 Affordable Units)
14 Chapin Avenue (4-Story Residential Townhouse
Schoolhouse Commons (3-Story Building, 20 Units, 4 Affordable Units)
The Metropolitan at Reading Station (Multifamily Project, 68 Units, 17 Affordable Units)
SPOTLIGHT DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENTS
ONGOING DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENTS
Reading has several developments ongoing permitting, including:
18 Woburn Street (3-Story Mixed Use Building, 6 Residential Units)
531 Main Street (3-Story Mixed Use Building, 7 Residential Units)
Coming Soon
6-16 Chute Street (Approved February 2022, 4-Story Building, 2 Floors of
Commercial Space, 29 Units, 8 Affordable Units)
HOUSING PRODUCTION PLAN &
SUBSIDIZED HOUSING INVENTORY
The Town has been successful in meeting the 10% Subsidized Housing Inventory
goal under our Housing Production Plan due to new development
The HPP process provided an opportunity to re-engage residents on housing and
refresh staff’s demographic and housing affordability data
The Housing Production Plan’s goals and strategies focus on regulatory, funding,
and partnership/leadership opportunities
Continuing to promote mixed use and housing development to meet affordability goals
COMPLIANCE WITH MBTA COMMUNITIES
Existing Housing Stock: 9,952
Existing Developable Station Area: 343 Acres
Required Unit Capacity: 1,493 Units
40% of such required to be within ½ Mile of Depot = 598 units
Required Reasonable District Size: 43 Acres
40% of such of District(s) land to be within ½ mile of Depot = 17.2 acres
COMPLIANCE WITH MBTA COMMUNITIES
Existing Housing Stock: 9,952
Existing Developable Station Area: 343 Acres
Required Unit Capacity: 1,493 Units
40% of such required to be within ½ Mile of Depot = 598 units
Required Reasonable District Size: 43 Acres
40% of such of District(s) land to be within ½ mile of Depot = 17.2 acres
REVENUE GENERATED VIA NEW DEVELOMPENTS
•40R Incentive Payments Received Since Creation of DSGD:
o Downtown Smart Growth District = $350,000
•Density Bonus Payments Received Since Creation of DSGD:
o Downtown Smart Growth District: $573,000
o Future Expected Density Bonus Applications: $123,000
•New Growth Revenue:
o 30 Haven Street, MF Charles Rehabilitation, Rise475, 136 Haven St, 24 Gould
translated to $958,000 in New Growth Tax Revenue as of 2021
CURRENT CONDITIONS
CURRENT CONDITIONS
CURRENT CONDITIONS
CURRENT CONDITIONS
CURRENT CONDITIONS
CONCLUSION
Reading is active in investing into our downtown infrastructure and incentivizing
private development
Goal established to bring more people to Town to help economic development
within the Town Center
Moderate density surrounding our high dense 40R is desirable
Healthy living corridors/connections is important to establish for residents and
community
Q & A
TOWN OF READING, MA
16 Lowell Street, Reading MA 01867
Select Board
Secretary Yvonne Hao
Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development
1 Ashburton Place, Unit 2101
Boston, MA 02108
Dear Secretary Hao,
The Town of Reading is applying for a MassWorks Infrastructure Program grant under the Executive
Office of Housing and Economic Development’s Community One Stop for Growth initiative. MassWorks
funding will be designated for roadway and drainage improvements along Haven Street and abutting
critical collector streets, which comprise a majority of our vibrant downtown district. These
improvements follow a multi-year program, and millions of locally committed funds, to rehabilitate
sewer and water utilities along the roadway, and substantially increases the capacity of these corridors
and Reading’s downtown to develop higher density housing and mixed uses.
Improvements under MassWorks funding will include pedestrian safety features, intersection
improvements, increased tree canopies, and public realm amenities which will serve to cultivate a
desirable and safe destination for abutting residents and visitors to Reading. Such improvements, and
the considerable financing we have already allocated into downtown infrastructure, signals to potential
housing and mixed-use developers that Reading is committed to densifying its downtown while
increasing safety, accessibility, and walkability.
Moreover, Reading recognizes the necessity for dense and affordable housing adjacent to the Reading
Commuter Rail Depot and within walkable neighborhoods. Our recently completed Housing Production
Plan highlights the importance of producing additional housing while increasing the capacity of utility
use through substantia infrastructure improvements.
The Town of Reading, and the governing bodies that have overseen the massive investments to our
downtown, has shown time and again that we are looking to promote mixed-use and affordable housing
developments, healthy and vital community assets, and safe and reliable transportation options for our
entire community.
The Town of Reading Select Board supports this MassWorks application and looks forward to the
potential improvements for Reading’s dense and busy downtown district while increasing access to
housing.
Sincerely,
The Town of Reading Select Board
16 Lowell Street, 01867
Reading, MA
TOWN OF READING, MA
16 Lowell Street, Reading MA 01867
Select Board
SELECT BOARD OF READING
Mark L. Dockser, Chair Karen Gately Herrick, Vice Chair
Christopher Haley, Secretary Carlo Bacci
Jacqueline McCarthy
QUITCLAIM DEED
I, William A. Quigley Jr., Trustee of Butcher Family Realty Trust from Steven and Irene
Butcher u/d/t dated May 18, 2006, and recorded with the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds in
Book 47467, page 372, with a mailing address of _____________________________________,
for which a trustees’ certificate pursuant to M.G.L. c. 184, § 35 is recorded at the Middlesex South
District Registry of Deeds at Book _______, Page _______ (“Grantor”), for consideration paid of
less than one hundred dollars, grant to the Town of Reading, Massachusetts, acting by and through
its Conservation Commission, with an address of 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts 01867
(“Grantee”), with Quitclaim Covenants, all of my right, title and interest in a parcel of land
described below to be held, managed, controlled and maintained by said Conservation
Commission for conservation purposes under the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws
Chapter 40, Section 8C, as amended, and subject to Massachusetts Constitutional Amendment
Article 97:
A parcel of land located on the northerly side of Sanborn Lane shown as #0 Sanborn Lane
on a plan recorded herewith as Plan #_____________ of 2023 and titled “Plan of Land
located in Reading, Massachusetts (Middlesex County)” prepared for the Town of Reading
Scale 1”= 20’ and dated March 22, 2023 prepared by Sullivan Engineering Group, LLC
and containing approximately 76,773 square feet.
Subject to restrictions, easements and betterments of record so far as the same may now be in force
and applicable.
The property is vacant land and has not been a homestead.
For Grantor’s title see deed recorded at said Registry in Book 47467, Page 381.
Executed under seal this ________ day of ________________, 2023.
William A. Quigley Jr,
Trustee of Butcher Family Realty Trust
from Steven and Irene Butcher
Locus: 0 Sanborn Lane, Reading, MA
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
_________________, ss.
On this ____ day of __________________, 2023, before me, the undersigned Notary
Public, personally appeared the above-named William A. Quigley Jr, Trustee of Butcher Family
Realty Trust from Steven and Irene Butcher, proved to me by satisfactory evidence of
identification, being (check whichever applies): driver’s license or other state or federal
governmental document bearing a photographic image, oath or affirmation of a credible
witness known to me who knows the above signatory, or my own personal knowledge of the
identity of the signatory, to be the person whose name is signed above, and acknowledged the
foregoing to be signed by him/her voluntarily for its stated purpose.
______________________________
Notary Public
My Commission Expires:
We, the undersigned, representing a majority of the members of the Town of Reading
Conservation Commission, do hereby accept the deed of William A. Quigley Jr, Trustee of
Butcher Family Realty Trust from Steven and Irene Butcher of the land included in this deed.
Witness our hands and seals this ________ day of __________________, 2023.
MARTHA MOORE BRIAN BOWE
ANDREW DRIBIN CARL SACCONE
WILLIAM McCANTS JOHN SULLIVAN
We, the undersigned, representing a majority of the members of the Select Board of the
Town of Reading, in accordance with M.G.L. c.40, §8C, do hereby approve the acceptance by
the Town of Reading Conservation Commission of a gift of land from William A. Quigley Jr,
Trustee of Butcher Family Realty Trust from Steven and Irene Butcher included in this deed.
Witness our hands and seals this ________ day of __________________, 2023.
MARK L. DOCKSER KAREN GATELY HERRICK
CHRISTOPHER HALEY CARLO BACCI
JACQUELINE McCARTHY
1
LaVerde, Jacquelyn
From:Anthony D'Arezzo
Sent:Tuesday, March 21, 2023 6:10 PM
To:LaVerde, Jacquelyn
Cc:Heather Clish
Subject:Change of Voluteer Position
CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when opening attachments or clicking
links, especially from unknown senders.
Dear Ms. LaVerde,
It has come to my attention that there is a possible candidate for an Associate Member of the Community Planning and
Development Commission (CPDC). As there is only one Associate Member allowed on the CPDC, for this candidate to be
considered, I need to request a change in position.
I would like to formally request to be appointed a full member of the CPDC. I am unsure of the process, I do know the
Select Board will need to vote on the change. I may need to be vetted by the VASC.
Please let me know what is needed for this change to be considered.
Thank you,
Tony D'Arezzzo
D'Arezzo
Board/CommitteeMembers AddressFull/ AssocOrig. DateTerm EndsApptAuthCommunity Planning & Development CommissionJohn Weston 10 Winthrop Ave F 2007 2025SBCommunity Planning & Development CommissionVACANTF 2024SBCommunity Planning & Development CommissionHeather Clish 51 Deering Street F 2020 2023SBCommunity Planning & Development CommissionPamela Adrian 87 Ash Street F 2018 2023SBCommunity Planning & Development CommissionMark Wetzel 163 County Road F 2023 2024SBCommunity Planning & Development CommissionTony D'Arezzo 130 John Street A 2017 2023SBIncumbent ‐ Term Expires June 30thCurrent Associate seeking Full
Select Board Liaison Assignments
effective May 2021
Projects Public Services #
PARC Chris Community Services
Water Tower Karen Council on Aging & MVES 1 or 2 Karen & Mark
Board of Health 1 or 2 Anne & Carlo
Recreation Committee 1 or 2 Carlo
Administrative Services #Cust. of Soldiers&Sailors Graves 1 Carlo
Select Board VASC 2 Mark & Carlo Community Development
School Committee 2 Mark & Chris Economic Development 1 or 2 Karen & Mark
Regional School District 1 Chris MAPC 1 Karen
RMLD Commissioners 2 Karen CPDC 1 or 2 Karen & Carlo
RMLD CAB 1 Chris Zoning Board of Appeals 1 or 2 Anne
Bylaw Committee 1 Carlo Historical 1 or 2 Carlo
Finance Committee 2 Karen & Chris Historic District Commissions new Chris
RCTV Board of Directors 1 or 2 Anne & Chris Conservation Commission 1 or 2 Karen
Cultural Council 1 Anne Reading Housing Authority 1 Anne
Climate Advisory 1 Karen Public Safety
Reading Ice Arena Authority 1 Carlo Public Safety department 1 or 2 Anne & Mark
Walkable Reading 1 Chris HRAC 1 or 2 Anne
Celebration Committee 1 Chris The Coalition 1 Mark
Animal Controls Appeal Comm. 1 Karen Facilities
Moderator & TM Rules Committee 1 Carlo Permanent Building Committee 1 or 2 Mark
Board of Registrars 1 Carlo Public Library
Constables 1 Anne Library Trustees 1 or 2 Anne & Carlo
Finance Public Works
Audit Committee 1 Chris Public Works department 1 Karen
Board of Assessors 1 Karen Board of Cemetery Trustees 1 Chris
Retirement Board 1 Anne MWRA Advisory Board 1 Anne
Commissioners of Trust Funds 1 Mark Trails Committee 1 Anne
Veterans Memorial Trust Fund Comm.1 Mark Town Forest Committee 1 Mark
Select Board Liaison Assignments
effective May 2022
Projects & Ad Hocs Public Services #
PARC Chris Community Services
RAAC Chris & Mark Council on Aging & MVES 1 or 2 Karen & Mark
ReCalc Mark Board of Health 1 or 2 Jackie & Carlo
Killam School Karen Recreation Committee 1 or 2 Carlo
Cust. of Soldiers & Sailors Graves 1 Carlo
Community Development
Administrative Services #Economic Development 1 or 2 Karen & Carlo
Select Board VASC 2 Chris & Jackie MAPC 1 Karen
School Committee 2 Karen & Chris CPDC 1 or 2 Jackie & Carlo
Regional School District 1 Chris Zoning Board of Appeals 1 or 2 Jackie
RMLD Commissioners 2 Karen & Jackie Historical 1 or 2 Carlo
RMLD CAB 1 Chris Historic District Commissions new Chris
Bylaw Committee 1 Carlo Conservation Commission 1 or 2 Karen
Finance Committee 2 Mark & Jackie Reading Housing Authority 1 Jackie
RCTV Board of Directors 1 or 2 Jackie & Karen Public Safety
Cultural Council 1 Jackie Public Safety department 1 or 2 Chris & Mark
Climate Advisory 1 Karen The Coalition 1 Mark
Reading Ice Arena Authority 1 Carlo
Walkable Reading 1 Chris Facilities
Celebration Committee 1 Chris Permanent Building Committee 1 or 2 Mark
Animal Controls Appeal Comm. 1 Carlo Public Library
Moderator & TM Rules Committee 1 Carlo Library Trustees 1 or 2 Karen & Carlo
Board of Registrars 1 Carlo Public Works
Constables 1 Jackie Public Works department 1 Karen
Finance Board of Cemetery Trustees 1 Chris
Audit Committee 1 Chris MWRA Advisory Board 1 Jackie
Board of Assessors 1 Karen Trails Committee 1 Jackie
Retirement Board 1 Jackie Town Forest Committee 1 Mark
Commissioners of Trust Funds 1 Mark
Veterans Memorial Trust Fund Comm.1 Mark
Select Board Liaison Assignments
effective May 2023
Assignments
Projects & Ad Hocs #Public Services #Chris 10
SWEC 1 Carlo Community Services Jackie 14
Killam School 1 Karen Council on Aging & MVES 1 or 2 Karen & Mark Karen 12
ReCalc 1 Mark Board of Health 1 or 2 Jackie & Carlo Carlo 13
Affordable Housing Trust 1 Jackie Recreation Committee 1 or 2 Carlo Mark 10
Cust. of Soldiers & Sailors Graves 1 Carlo
Community Development
Administrative Services #Economic Development 1 or 2 Karen & Carlo
Select Board VASC 2 Chris & Jackie MAPC 1 Karen
School Committee 2 Karen & Chris CPDC 1 or 2 Jackie & Carlo
Regional School District 1 Chris Zoning Board of Appeals 1 or 2 Jackie
RMLD Commissioners 2 Karen & Jackie Historical 1 or 2 Carlo
RMLD CAB 1 Chris Historic District Commissions new Chris
Bylaw Committee 1 Carlo Conservation Commission 1 or 2 Karen
Finance Committee 2 Mark & Jackie Reading Housing Authority 1 Jackie
RCTV Board of Directors 1 or 2 Jackie & Karen Public Safety
Cultural Council 1 Jackie Public Safety department 1 or 2 Chris & Mark
Climate Advisory 1 Karen The Coalition 1 Mark
Reading Ice Arena Authority 1 Carlo
Walkable Reading 1 Chris Facilities
Celebration Committee 1 Chris Permanent Building Committee 1 or 2 Mark
Animal Controls Appeal Comm. 1 Carlo Public Library
Moderator & TM Rules Committee 1 Carlo Library Trustees 1 or 2 Karen & Carlo
Board of Registrars 1 Carlo
(PAIR) Partners and Allies for
Inclusive Reading 1 Mark
Constables 1 Jackie Public Works
Finance Public Works department 1 Karen
Audit Committee 1 Chris Board of Cemetery Trustees 1 Chris
Board of Assessors 1 Karen MWRA Advisory Board 1 Jackie
Retirement Board 1 Jackie Trails Committee 1 Jackie
Commissioners of Trust Funds 1 Mark Town Forest Committee 1 Mark
Veterans Memorial Trust Fund Comm.1 Mark
Town of Reading
Select Board Water & Sewer Rate Preview
May 9, 2023
FY24 Water
Enterprise
Budget
$8,655,507
(2% Reduction
vs. FY23)
Voted by Town Meeting:
•$850,000 Offset from Reserves
•$145,000 from ARPA to Support Capital
FY24 Sewer
Enterprise
Budget
$7,791,992
(2.5% Increase
vs. FY23)
Voted by Town Meeting:
•$550,000 Offset from Reserves
FY24 Rates –Good News
•Thanks to a more than usual dry-summer in 2022, revenue in the
water & sewer enterprise funds is ahead of projections
–This will result in additional regeneration of retained earnings,
more than anticipated
–Very hard to predict what next summer will be like, we do not
want to assume a dry summer every year
•MWRA Preliminary Assessment is very positive for Reading
–0.6% Increase in Water Assessment ($2,825,027)
–-0.8% Decrease in Sewer Assessment ($5,337,985)
–-0.3% Decrease combined
Historic MWRA Water Assessments
FY24 Rates, Reading is pursuing Tiered Rates
Overview:
•Today we have a single rate system, based on water usage
•Proposal is to go to a tiered system that would encourage
conservation. Higher usage would be billed at a higher rate
•Several questions asked at our last meeting
•Select Board recommended a public forum, tentatively scheduled for
Wednesday May 31st at 6 PM
•Recommending that the Select Board Chair schedule the Public
Hearing and Vote for June 6 to allow more time for outreach
Question: Are we using the right time frame?
•For our analysis we are using, 4 quarters (1-year) worth of data:
7/27/2021, 10/26/2021, 1/25/2022, 4/26/2022.
•Below is a graphical trend of water usage for Reading, issued on
February 2022 and on February 2023.
•Higher water usage the summer of 2020 (presumably because of
COVID) and the summer of 2022 (presumably because of weather). It
appears that the winter months stay consistent, year over year.
•Going back to 2019 is too dated, specially with development
•We still think the data used for analysis is the best
Question: Are we required to go to tiers?
•M. G. L. c. 165, §2B was passed in 1993, but was to take effect on July 1, 1994.
Subsequently, the law was amended to include additional language on July 10, 1994, with
the amendment also retroactive to July 1, 1994.
•The original version of G. L. c. 165, §2B was passed in 1993 and stated as follows: “All
municipalities or water districts shall institute water charges and fees that incorporate a
base rate for all users; provided, that said base rate shall be increased at an increasing
block rate to fairly reflect the resource demand and consumption of high volume users of
water.” St.1993, c. 110, §195. Section 196 of that legislation further intended to add that
Section 195 was to take effect on July 1, 1994, but contained a typo referring to Section 196,
which was subsequently corrected on January 14, 1994.
•On July 10, 1994, the Legislature amended G. L. c. 165, §2B to include additional language
[shown here in italics]: “All municipalities or water districts within the jurisdiction of the
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, but not including communities serviced by the
Connecticut Valley Aqueduct shall institute water charges and fees that incorporate a base
rate for all users; provided, that said base rate shall be increased at an increasing block
rate to fairly reflect the resource demand and consumption of high volume users of water.”
The amendment was made effective retroactively as of July 1, 1994. St.1994, c. 60, §140.
Question: Should we implement second
meters?
•Commonly known as “Irrigation Meters”, this would allow water used
for irrigation or pools to be metered separately and not billed for
sewer usage
•It will create a deficit in sewer revenue that is hard to predict
•Residents must install and pay all plumbing expenses, permits and
purchase second meter to take advantage of this
•If Select Board would like to pursue this option, recommend limiting
to 50 Residential Properties for at least 2 fiscal years, to analyze
trends and impacts on revenue.
•Do not recommend allowing irrigation meters to commercial
properties
Question: How many people in a household
would fall in each tier?
•A resident asked the size of home that would fall on each tier. The
table below is the best approximation we can show:
–45 gallons/person/day is based on MWRA data for Reading
–65 gallons/person/day is based on EPA nationwide data
–Does not account for irrigation, pools, or outside water usage, this
accounts for domestic consumption
Tiers Start End Start End Start End
1 - 500 0 1 0 1
2 501 1,000 1 2 1 1
3 1,001 2,500 2 5 1 3
4 2,501 4,000 5 7 3 5
5 4,001 +7 or More 5 or More
# of persons in household per tier
45 gallons per day 65 gallons per day
FY23 Rates
Water Sewer
11.41$ 10.86$
Rate per 100 cubic feet of usage
Rates
Proposed FY24 Tiered Rates
•Big change: modified tier 4: 2,501 to 4,000, to incorporate more “bigger
families”
•Water: With this plan, billings are projected to go up $203,639 (or 2.7%) if
the new structure is in place for a full year and $31,634 (0.4%) if the new
structure is in place for ¾ of a year.
•Sewer: With this plan, billings are projected to go up $49,450 (or 0.7%) if
the new structure is in place for a full year and $14,829 (0.2%) if the new
structure is in place for ¾ of a year.
Tiers 1 2 3 4 5
Start - 501 1,001 2,501 4,001
End 500 1,000 2,500 4,000 +
Rate 10.10$ 10.80$ 11.70$ 12.50$ 13.00$
% Difference -11%-5%3%10%14%
Water
Tiers 1 2 3 4 5
Start - 501 1,001 2,501 4,001
End 500 1,000 2,500 4,000 +
Rate 9.60$ 10.30$ 11.15$ 11.90$ 12.35$
% Difference -12%-5%3%10%14%
Sewer
Who Falls on Each Tier?
•84.3% of Residential accounts billed under Tier 1, 2, and 3, 10.6% in Tier 4
•52.1% of Commercial Accounts billed under Tier 1, 2, and 3, 7.7% in Tier 4
•Accounts are billed at the respective tier rate, like income taxes, it is
progressive
Commercial # Bills <=0:71
CO 1 2 3 4 5 Totals
# Bills 188 138 185 75 394 980
% Bills 19.2%14.1%18.9%7.7%40.2%100.0%
Residential # Bills <=0:759
RE 1 2 3 4 5 Totals
# Bills 2,627 6,129 16,637 3,186 1,559 30,138
% Bills 8.7%20.3%55.2%10.6%5.2%100.0%
Total # Bills <=0:876
Total 1 2 3 4 5 Totals
# Bills 2,836 6,287 16,874 3,320 2,027 31,344
% Bills 9.0%20.1%53.8%10.6%6.5%100.0%
Projected Billing for Water
Projected Billing for Sewer
User Type Usage Current Bill FY 2024 - TIERS FY 2024 - NO TIERS
Low-End User 500 54.30$ 48.00$ 55.93$
Avg. Residential User (45 gpd)1,500 162.90$ 155.25$ 167.79$
Avg. Residential User (65 gpd)2,200 238.92$ 233.30$ 246.09$
Large Residential User 4,500 488.70$ 507.00$ 503.36$
Large Commercial User 10,000 1,086.00$ 1,186.25$ 1,118.58$
Very Large Commercial User 100,000 10,860.00$ 12,301.25$ 11,185.80$
User Impact (per Bill) - Sewer Bills Only
User Type Usage Current Bill FY 2024 - TIERS FY 2024 - NO TIERS
Low-End User 500 54.30$ 50.50$ 58.90$
Avg. Residential User (45 gpd)1,500 162.90$ 163.00$ 176.71$
Avg. Residential User (65 gpd)2,200 238.92$ 244.90$ 259.18$
Large Residential User 4,500 488.70$ 532.50$ 530.14$
Large Commercial User 10,000 1,086.00$ 1,247.50$ 1,178.08$
Very Large Commercial User 100,000 10,860.00$ 12,947.50$ 11,780.83$
User Impact (per Bill) - Water Bills Only
Recommendation for Water & Sewer
Rates for FY24
Tiers 1 2 3 4 5
Water Rate 10.10$ 10.80$ 11.70$ 12.50$ 13.00$
Sewer Rate 9.60$ 10.30$ 11.15$ 11.90$ 12.35$
FY24 Combined Rate 19.70$ 21.10$ 22.85$ 24.40$ 25.35$
FY23 Combined Rate 22.27$ 22.27$ 22.27$ 22.27$ 22.27$
% Difference -12%-5%3%10%14%
Avg. Residential User (45 gpd)Usage Current Bill New Bill
Quarterly Water Bill 1500 171.15$ 163.00$
Quarterly Sewer Bill 1500 162.90$ 155.25$
Combined Bill 1500 334.05$ 318.25$
Usage in cubic feet
Project Manual RFQ #18-109 - Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Service
Page 1 of 14
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
DESIGNER SERVICES (RFQ) #18-109
May 24, 2018
1. INTRODUCTION
The City of Newton, Massachusetts, (“Owner”), acting through the Designer Selection Committee (DSC), is
seeking the services of a qualified designer (“Designer”) within the meaning of the Massachusetts Designer
Selection Law M.G.L. Chapter 7C, Sections 44 through 58, to provide Designer Services for programming,
feasibility, design, new construction or addition to/renovation of the City’s Senior Center, 345 Walnut Street,
Newton, Massachusetts to establish a new Newton Center For Active Living (the “Project”).
The City is requesting the qualifications of a Designer to provide professional services during one and perhaps
subsequent multiple Project phases.
• First, in Phase 1 the Designer will prepare a Facilities Program Study to identify the interests and needs
of the various stakeholders in order that the Owner may select a Design Program(s). Phase 1 services
shall be referred to herein as the Basic Services.
• Second, subject to the approval of the Project and further subject to continued funding authorized by
the City, the contract between the City and the Designer may be amended to include continued Designer
services for a Feasibility Study to arrive at a Preferred Option based on the program, needs and interests
identified and selected in Phase 1.
• Third, subject to the approval of the Project and further subject to continued funding authorized by the
City, the contract between the City and the Designer may be amended again to include continued
Designer services for Schematic Design Phase plans, specifications and cost estimates for Site Plan
Approval of the Preferred Option.
• Finally, subject to the approval of the Project and further subject to continued funding authorized by
the City, the contract between the City and the Designer may be amended again to include continued
Designer services through the Project’s Design Development, Construction Documents, Bid and
Award, Construction Administration and Final Closeout phases.
A potential Project may include a renovation and addition of the existing Senior Center building or construction
of a new building which may be on an alternate site.. The Fee for services related to the completion of the
Basic Services will be negotiated but will not exceed $30,000. “Extra Services” fees will not be allowed for
Phase 1. Subsequent phases will be negotiated once approved.
2. GENERAL INFORMATION
The Owner believes in a design approach where all Project stakeholders are involved in the design process
from start to finish on a collaborative basis as indicated in the City of Newton – Public Buildings Department
Building Design and Construction Sustainability Guidelines Attachment G. The process recognizes that non-
inclusive and compartmentalized design decisions made unilaterally may have adverse impacts on achieving
sustainable design goals. An integrated design approach is required for the Project.
RUTHANNE FULLER
MAYOR
NEWTON CENTER FOR
ACTIVE LIVING
PROJECT
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 2 of 14
The Owner’s Project Manager (OPM) will coordinate the collaborative design team process for options
analysis, criteria development and strategic plan approval.
3. BACKGROUND
City’s History, Profile and Organizational Structure:
Newton was settled in 1639 and incorporated as a City in 1873. The City is located approximately seven miles
from downtown Boston, has a population of approximately 85,146 and occupies a land area of 18.33 square
miles. The City is principally suburban-residential in character and consists of 13 distinct villages –
Auburndale, Chestnut Hill, Newton Centre, Newton Corner, Newton Highlands, Newton Lower Falls, Newton
Upper Falls, Newtonville, Nonantum, Oak Hill, Thompsonville, Waban, and West Newton.
The City is governed under a home-rule charter, which vests executive authority and responsibility in an elected
Mayor, who serves a four-year term. Legislative authority is vested in a 24-member City Council, of which
eight members are elected from the City’s eight wards and sixteen are elected at large. Members of the City
Council are elected every two years.
Approximately 19,000 residents, nearly 22% of the City’s population are age 60 or above. The Newton Council
on Aging through the Newton Senior Center serves approximately 5,000 individuals in the in this age category
per year and Senior Services are approximately 30,000 units of services annually which include social /
recreation programs, support groups, health education, physical activities, cultural programs, Medicare
counseling, help with benefit applications and related social services, and elder law assistance. Newton’s over-
60 population is projected to reach 30% of the general population by the year 2030.
Department of Senior Services
The Department of Senior Services is defined in Chapter 14, Article I of the Newton City Ordinances and as
such is responsible for aiding in the implementation of the Council on Aging’s policies and programs and
coordinates the Council’s functions. The Director of Senior Services is appointed by the Mayor and confirmed
by the City Council Attachment A. In carrying out its responsibilities the Department of Senior Services
operates the Newton Senior Center.
Council on Aging
The Council on Aging (COA) is established under Chapter 14, Article II of the Newton City Ordinances. The
COA consists of nine members appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. The duties of the
COA are to carry out studies, and to initiate and implement programs designed to meet the needs of the aging
population which are in coordination and consistent with Chapter 19A of the Massachusetts General Laws and
applicable legislation. The COA advises and consults with the Director of Senior Services relative to the
Department’s programs and services for senior citizens Attachment A.
Advisory Board
In accordance with Section 14-16 of the Newton City Ordinances, the Mayor shall appoint an Advisory Board
to the COA consisting of not more than twenty members whose duty is to advise the Council and offer
recommendations with respect to the needs of the aging.
The Newton Senior Center
The Senior Center located at 345 Walnut Street was built in 1938 as the Newtonville Branch Library, or the
John R. Prescott Library, named after its largest contributor. The Classical Revival building was designed
by the Boston architecture firm of Robb & Little. It was designed to be larger than the other branch libraries
constructed during the same time period due to its close proximity to the Newton High School. The Newton
Senior Center is a contributing structure within the Newtonville Historic District, a National Register
Historic District. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and is significant under National
Register Criteria A and C.
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 3 of 14
In 1981 the Senior Drop-In Center moved into the library. In 1983 an arson fire caused over $100,000 in
damage. The building was renovated in 1993 by the Boston firm of Schwartz/Silver Architects and it re-
opened as the new Senior Center. The renovations made some alterations to the building to accommodate
the new programmatic needs. The two large reading rooms on the main floor became an activities room
and a dining wing. On the lower level, the community room was subdivided to create an art studio and a
games room; the children’s room was subdivided to create a health maintenance suite and library. Traces
of the original configuration of these spaces are visible in the plaster detailing of the ceilings.
The current Senior Center is a 2 ½ story, 2 floor building with a mezzanine level. The building square footage
is 11,298 and is situated on a 25,909 square foot lot. The main heating system was recently converted to
natural gas but the heating distribution system is original from 1938, with a few modifications made in 1993
when the former library building was converted to the current Senior Center. The Boiler is from 1980 and the
roof top unit (RTU) is from 2016. All HVAC distribution systems and equipment have reached their useful
life, with the exception of the 2016 RTU. Electrical and plumbing systems are from 1938 with modifications
made in 1993 and have reached their useful life. The Montgomery elevator is from 1993 and does not meet
current elevator code for size and parts are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain and should be updated.
Exterior painted surfaces were last painted over 8 years ago and currently are in need of repair and re-painting.
Exterior Windows are original to 1938 and have reached their useful life and should be replaced. The roof is
made of both slate and EPDM and along with the copper and bronze/aluminum gutters and downspouts are in
need of repair/replacement.
Parks and Recreation Department
The Department of Parks and Recreation is established under Chapter 21, Article I of the Newton City
Ordinances. The Parks and Recreation Commissioner is charged with the maintenance, care and management
of playgrounds and all recreational lands, except to the extent conferred upon the Parks and Recreation
Commission. The parks and recreation department is responsible for planning, scheduling, organizing and
supervising programs for designated city groups and citizens. Under the direction of the parks and recreation
commissioner the department supervises and patrols activities at swimming ponds and pools, skating areas,
playgrounds and all other recreational areas. The parks and recreation department also conducts all senior
citizens recreation programs Attachment A.
Parks and Recreation Commission
Article III establishes the Parks and Recreation Commission. Among its duti es it advises the mayor and city
council on matters pertaining to sports, recreation, parks, open space and preservation of scenic beauty. The
commission renders decisions concerning parks and recreation programs and the use of lands under its
jurisdiction Attachment A.
Newton Recreational Facilities
The Parks and Recreation Department oversees more than 55 different programs including active and passive
recreation, camps, social programs, dance, organized leagues, trips, wellness programs. The departmen t
manages some 18 different buildings and facilities. Among these are the Lower Falls Community Center, the
Upper Falls Community Center, Gath Pool and Field House, Crystal Lake and Bath House, Hawthorn Field
House and Nahantan Park and Field House.
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 4 of 14
4. PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
In the process of evaluating facilities programs for senior citizens, the City also seeks to evaluate alternative
facility programming which may provide services and programs that go beyond the traditional thinking when
addressing the needs of the senior community in order to develop a new Center for Active Living which can
serve a broader community base. Programming options may include needs identified by the Parks and
Recreation Department as well.
Overall Project Objectives include:
• Ensuring that the Senior Center and the Parks and Recreation Department’s mission and goals are fully
understood, updated as necessary, and incorporated into the process, while establishing potential goals
for a Center for Active Living;
• Engaging with all stakeholders, in coordination with the OPM, from project outset to ensure a
collaborative approach is maintained throughout the design process, including involvement from multiple
Owner entities;
• Assisting in communicating Project details with the public;
• Reviewing and assessing the existing programs, documentation and conditions;
• Identifying opportunities for new programs and services for senior citizens and opportunities to provide
a broader range of programs and services to a wider population.
• Providing a Facilities Program Study which will allow the Owner to determine which program
option(s) is /are appropriate for the City.
Coordinating with the City in identifying other approvals required by any governing agency and
coordinating submittal materials for such approvals;
• Investigating the most appropriate design options and phasing plans; including temporary operational
space, if required;
• Identifying any community, traffic, or neighbor concerns that may impact study options;
• Developing accurate and complete cost estimates, including Life Cycle Costs as requested, at the
Feasibility Phase and during all subsequent stages of Design. Reconcile all estimates with the estimates
provided by the OPM;
• Collaborating with the OPM to develop a detailed comprehensive Project Schedule that incorporates
the City’s approval process, to achieve specified start and completion milestones;
Completing a Schematic Design for the preferred option, including a cost estimate;
• Supporting a design that is of high quality, efficient, cost effective, and conforms to Newton Energy
Initiative program and the Massachusetts High Performance Building Guidelines and LEED for
Municipal Buildings at a minimum, and complies with all applicable regulatory requirements including
the Massachusetts Stretch Code which has been adopted by the City. In addition design teams are
directed to the City of Newton - Building Design and Construction Sustainability Guidelines
Attachment G for additional requirements;
• Developing and evaluating creative energy efficiency solutions over and above the stretch code and
innovative alternative sustainable design solutions, including but not limited to active/passive solar,
geothermal, etc., and identifying alternate funding sources, first costs and paybacks;
• Provisioning of EQuest or similar energy modeling services;
• Collaborating with the OPM to help the Owner determine the appropriateness of a CM-at-Risk or
Chapter 149 construction delivery method for the Project;
• Coordinating with the City as required for submittals, documentation and LEED On-Line for certification
of the Project;
• Coordinating the structural peer review in accordance with the requirements of the Massachusetts State
Building Code;
• Assisting the OPM in coordinating materials testing in accordance with the requirements of the
Massachusetts State Building Code; and other materials and systems tests as may be identified or required
by the City.
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 5 of 14
• Assisting the City, in collaboration with the OPM, in procuring the services of a Hazardous Materials
Consultant, Traffic Engineer, Geotechnical Engineering, Commissioning Agent, Surveyor and any other
consultant or consulting services as may be required for this Project.
To accomplish this, the selected Designer will be working in partnership with various City departments,
committees, and sub-committees, as well as the OPM. The local committees will include at a minimum:
• City Council, Advisory Building Committee, Working Group, Senior Services, COA, Parks and
Recreation Department, and the Mayor.
• Design Review Committee (DRC) – A standing committee appointed by the City Council and Mayor,
established to coordinate the design review process for any public City facility.
• Planning and Development Department, Development Review Team (DRT) - Prior to construction at
any municipal building, the Director of Planning reviews projects for consistency and compatibility
with the Newton Comprehensive Plan and other applicable planning and analytical studies.
• Public Facilities Committee of the City Council – For required local reviews.
• Programs and Services Committees of the City Council – For required local reviews.
• Finance Committee of the City Council – For required local reviews.
• Public Buildings Department (PBD) – The Public Buildings Commissioner is responsible for the
construction, alteration, repair and maintenance of all public buildings. PBD will provide direction to
the OPM and/or Designer. The Public Buildings Commissioner also serves as the Secretary of the
DSC and DRC and will be supported by the OPM for those tasks.
• Public Meetings at other City Committees – As may be required for local reviews.
• Other committees including the Committee on Disabilities, Conservation Commission, Fire
Department, Department of Public Works, etc. – As may be required for local reviews.
The Designer will assist the Owner in identifying other approvals required by the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts and coordinate submittal materials with the OPM for such approvals. Such approvals may
include:
• Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA)
• Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB)
• Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC)
Needs and building conditions assessments and other background documents shall be available for informational
purposes and include:
• City of Newton Capital Improvements Program
http://www.newtonma.gov/gov/executive/cip/
• City of Newton City Historic Building Survey by BCA, dated September 2011
http://www.newtonma.gov/gov/building/
• City of Newton Senior Services: newsletter, descriptions of programs, and other data.
www.newtonseniors.org
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 6 of 14
5. PROJECT PHASING DESCRIPTION
Phase I: Facilities Program Study 3-4 months
The City will embark on a Facilities Program Study to evaluate facility programming options to address senior
citizens’ needs as well as alternatives which may provide services and programs that go beyond traditional
thinking for the development of an Active Center for Living. Programming options may include needs
identified by the Parks and Recreation Department as well. Phase I tasks should include but are not limited
to:
• Discussions with current user groups, all stakeholders, Senior Services department staff, Council on
Aging, Parks & Recreation Dept. the Newton Center for Active Living Advisory Building Committee
(NCAL ABC), the Working Group, Design Review Committee, City Council and the general public;
• Information gathering of interests of the greater community using a variety of tools not limited to
review of the existing senior center and programs, developing community and user surveys, facilitated
public meetings and/or focus group interviews.
• The process should consider the space and programming needs of the COA and P&R, as well as the
needs and desires of City residents.
• The Facilities Program Study will include optional programs for each group and options to
accommodate both groups combined. The study will identify program space needs, approximate
building sizes and square foot costs, and corresponding site area and access requirements to support
each program option. The study will also identify what program options are viable for an addition /
renovation project of the existing senior center.
If the City decides to proceed with the Project beyond the Facilities Program Study Phase, the Contract between
the City and the Designer will be amended accordingly. The total estimated duration of such Contract is
estimated as follows.
Phase II: Feasibility Study 4-6 months
Phase III: Schematic Design Phase/Site Plan Approval 6-8 months
Phase IV: Design Development/Construction Documents/Bidding Phases: 14-16 months
Phase V: Construction Administration and Close-Out Phases: 20-24 months
The anticipated initial Contract period will be from July 16, 2018 or the date of contract execution, whichever
is later, through the completion of the Facilities Program Study Phase. The City reserves the right to terminate
the services provided by the selected firm/individual at the end of this phase and re-solicit Designer services
or to continue with the selected Designer beyond this phase in accordance with the Contract for Designer
Services at Attachment B below.
6. SCOPE OF SERVICES
The Designer will be required to execute the City of Newton’s standard Contract for Designer Services
(Contract), a copy of which is attached hereto as Attachment B which is incorporated herein by reference. The
required scope of services is set forth in the Contract. If the Owner decides to proceed with the Project beyond
the Facilities Programing Phase the Contract will be amended accordingly. Should the contract be amended to
include the Schematic Design Phase, and when the project delivery method is decided (Design/Bid/Build or CM-
at-Risk), the Contract will be amended to include such delivery methods. Copies of Designer Services Contract
Amendments for Design/Bid/Build and CM-at-Risk are also attached hereto in Attachment B and incorporated
herein by reference. Unless specifically excluded and agreed to by the Owner, the Designer’s Basic Services
consist of the tasks described in the Contract for Designer Services and as amended by this RFQ including all
investigative work (to the extent provided for in the Contract), feasibility study, schematic design,
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 7 of 14
and, at the Owner’s option, design work, preparation of construction documents, bidding period administration,
construction administration, and other related work reasonably inferred in the opinion of the Owner as being
necessary to meet the project’s stated scope and goals.
During the feasibility, schematic design and design development phases of the project, the Owner will require
interactive working group sessions to explore site strategy options, design concepts, evaluation criteria,
programming requirements, sustainability goals and potential solutions.
The anticipated scope of the Feasibility Study includes but is not limited to: Investigating the existing building
and site and potential alternate sites providing conceptual plans and elevations that meet the program and space
requirements of the Owner for and addition / renovation project, new construction on the existing site, and
evaluation of potential alternate sites with new construction. The Feasibility Study will be based on the
Facility Program(s) selected by the Owner as a result of the Phase I study.
The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM)1 is seen as advantageous to delivering project goals. The
Designer shall advise the Owner on their use of BIM and, at no additional cost, shall prepare all Instruments
of Services in a form suitable for use in a BIM model for design, construction, commissioning, and building
operations and maintenance. The Designer shall provide the Owner with options on how to apply BIM on the
Project and shall make recommendations on alternative methods of BIM implementation. The Designer shall
indicate their ability to utilize a BIM model if created by another party such as the General Contractor (GC)
or Construction Manager at Risk (CM) for use in, but not limited to, mechanical coordination and construction
administration.
This RFQ will be appended to and become part of the Contract for Designer Services. Any Designer selected as
a result of this RFQ will be required to execute the Contract for Designer Services and any applicable
amendments that are attached hereto.
The Designer will review the proposed project as specified in the RFQ. The Designer will meet as required
with the City, Building Committee, OPM and other officials (elected or volunteer) to develop a thorough
understanding of the project and the needs of the City of Newton.
Designer Services include, but are not limited to, verification of existing record information including building
dimensions, details and general existing conditions, cost estimating, all architecture as well as traffic, civil, site
development, sanitary, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, structural, site planning and landscape
architecture, basic environmental permitting, graphics, lighting design, acoustics, data and communication;
any specialty consultants; code consultants, accessibility, energy evaluations including the coordination of
energy rebates, detailed cost estimates, LEED or sustainable design consultants; Furniture, Fixtures &
Equipment (FF&E) including programming, specifications, procurement and coordination of installation;
assessments of geotechnical and geo-environmental information; preparation of construction documents;
developing and issuing of early bid packages, if needed; bidding and administering the construction contract
documents and other design and consulting services incidental and required to fulfill the project goals. Please
refer to Article 8 of the Contract and any amendment for a complete summary of Basic Services.
3 Building Information Modeling is a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility. A
BIM is a shared knowledge resource for information about a facility forming a reliable basis for decisions during its
life-cycle; defined as existing from earliest conception to demolition
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 8 of 14
Extra and reimbursable expenses are defined in Article 10 of the Contract in Attachment B. Any extra or
reimbursable expenses will not be allowed in Phase 1 any subsequent Phase extra or reimbursable expenses
must be approved in writing in advance,
7. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Each Designer submitting a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must certify in its cover letter that it is a qualified
Designer within the meaning of the Massachusetts Designer Selection Law, M.G.L. Chapter 7C, Sections 44
through 58, employing a Massachusetts registered architect responsible for and being in control of the services
to be provided pursuant to the Contract. Any Designer that fails to include such certification in its response,
demonstrating that these criteria have been met, will be rejected without further consideration.
8 EVALUATION & SELECTION CRITERIA
In evaluating proposals, the Owner and DSC will consider the members of the proposed design team. Identify
those member(s) of the proposed design team who will be responsible for the following categories of work:
(Firm’s name, individual’s name and professional registration or license number, as applicable, must be listed in
the application for each category of work).
a. Architecture
b. Environmental Permitting
c. Geotechnical Engineering
d. Geo-Environmental
e. Site Survey
f. Archeological Survey
g. Hazardous Materials
h. Civil Engineering
i. Structural Engineering
j. Landscape Architecture
k. Fire Protection Engineering
l. Plumbing Engineering
m. HVAC Engineering
n. Electrical Engineering
o. Lighting Consultant
p. Energy Modeling
q. Data/Communications Consultant
r. Specifications Consultant
s. Sustainable/Green Design/Renewable Energy Consultant
t. Cost Estimating
u. Accessibility Consultant
v. Traffic Consultant
w. Interior Design, Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment Consultant
x. Code Consultant
y. Security Consultant
z. Acoustical Consultant
Applicants must address each category of work listed above in their application whether it is to be performed
by in-house staff or by sub-consultant(s).
Failure to address each category may result in the elimination of the applicant from consideration on this
project.
Applicants should not list any consultants other than those for the categories of work listed above.
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
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The Owner and DSC will consider the following additional criteria in evaluating proposals:
a. Prior Senior Center / Community Center or closely related experience best illustrating current
qualifications for the project. Firms / teams demonstrating significant experience with Facilities
Programming for these particular project types as documented on Attachment C are deemed to be
highly desirable.
b. Past performance of the firm, if any with regard to public or private projects across the Commonwealth,
with respect to:
i. Quality of project design.
ii. Quality, clarity, completeness and accuracy of plans and contract documents.
iii. Ability to meet established program requirements within allotted budget and to design to budget.
iv. Ability to meet schedules including submission of design and contract documents, processing of
shop drawings, contractor requisitions and change orders.
v. Coordination and management of consultants.
vi. Working relationship with contractors, subcontractors, local awarding authority, staff and local
officials.
c. Current workload and ability to undertake the contract based on the number and scope of projects for
which the firm is currently under contract.
d. The identity and qualifications of the consultants who will work on the project.
e. Demonstrated ability to lead a collaborative team approach to the project.
f. Demonstrated ability to provide documents for CM-at-Risk, M.G.L. c. 149A, delivery method for
the project, including ability to provide early bid packages for fast-track project.
g. The financial stability of the firm.
h. The qualifications of the personnel to be assigned to the project.
i. Geographical proximity of the firm to the project site or willingness of the firm to make site visits
and attend local meetings as required by the client.
j. Prior experience using BIM on projects of similar type and scope.
k. Additional criteria that the DSC considers relevant to the project.
9. SELECTION PROCESS & SELECTION SCHEDULE
Selection will be made by the City of Newton Designer Selection Committee in accordance with Newton’s
Designer Selection Ordinance (Section 5-35 through 5-37) and Procedures, attached hereto as Attachments E
& F.
Process:
a. The Owner acting through the DSC will perform a review of all responses as follows:
i. The City has appointed the DSC, in accordance with Chapter 5, Article IV of the Owner’s
Ordinance, for the selection of the Designer.
ii. The DSC will be responsible for reviewing each Respondent’s proposal to determine if they have
met the minimum criteria established in the RFQ. Respondents who do not meet the minimum
criteria will not be further considered.
iii. The DSC will review the Respondents’ applications and check the necessary references.
b. The DSC members will score each proposal that has met the minimum criteria based on the weighted
evaluation criteria identified in Section 4 of the RFQ.
c. Based on the initial scores the DSC will rank the Respondents and short -list a minimum of three (3)
Respondents.
d. The DSC will schedule interviews with the short-listed Respondents. Each short-listed Respondent
will be given an opportunity to make a brief presentation on their experience and capabilities to
successfully provide the required project management services. DSC members will have an
opportunity to discuss the responses and ask questions.
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
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e. Following the interviews, the DSC members will develop final rankings based, in part on, the weighted
Evaluation Criteria in the RFQ and on additional information obtained during the interviews.
f. In accordance with the City’s Designer Selection Procedures, the DSC will transmit a list of ranked
finalists to the Mayor. The submitted list shall be accompanied by a written explanation.
g. As more fully described in Attachment E, City of Newton Designer Selection Committee Designer
Selection Procedures, the Owner, through the OPM, will commence fee negotiations with the first-
ranked Respondent.
h. If the Owner is unable to negotiate a contract with the first-ranked selection, the Owner will then
commence negotiations with its second-ranked selection and so on, until a contract is successfully
negotiated and approved by the Owner. If fee negotiations fail the Mayor may request three (3)
additional recommendations from which he may select, or the City may re-advertise the RFQ.
i. The Owner may re-advertise the RFQ if fewer than three responses are received.
Schedule:
The following is a tentative schedule of the selection process, subject to change at the Owner’s discretion.
May 20, 2018 Advertise in the Boston Globe.
May 23, 2018 Advertise in the Central Register of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
May 24, 2018 RFQ available on City’s website: www.newtonma.gov/bids
May 31, 2018 Project briefing and facility tour 11:00 AM 345 Walnut Street, Newton
June 1, 2018 Last day for questions 12 noon
June 4, 2018 Responses to Questions issued by Purchasing Department
June 7, 2018 SOQs due to Purchasing Department 11:00 AM
June 20, 2018 Respondents short-listed
June 21, 2018 Notify Respondents for interviews
June 27, 2018 Interview short-listed Respondents
July 9, 2018 Start negotiations with selected Respondent
July 16, 2018 Execute contract
This RFQ may be obtained after 10:00 a.m. on May 24, 2018 from:
Purchasing Department
Newton City Hall
1000 Commonwealth Avenue
Room 201
Newton, Massachusetts 02459
Email: purchasing@newtonma.gov
Phone # 617 796 1220
or at
www.newtonma.gov/bids
Proposers requiring clarification or interpretation of the RFQ shall make a written request to the Purchasing
Department as indicated above, by noon on Friday, June 1, 2018. Proposers contacting ANY CITY
EMPLOYEE or any other person regarding this RFQ outside of the Purchasing Department, once the RFQ
has been released, may be disqualified from the procurement process.
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
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The City will make best efforts to give written Responses to the Questions no later than June 4, 2018 to all
individuals or firms requesting a copy of this RFQ by an email Addendum.
A Project briefing will be held at:
The Senior Center, 345 Walnut Street, Newtonville, MA 02460 May 31, 2018 at 11:00 a.m.
Attendance at the briefing is not mandatory.
Sealed responses to the RFQ from qualified persons or firms must be clearly labeled “RFQ #18-109 Designer
Services for Newton Center for Active Living” and delivered to the Purchasing Department at its address above
no later than 11:00 AM on Thursday, June 7, 2018. The sealed responses must include eleven (11) hard
copies and a CD copy of the response. SOQs may be delivered in person, by courier or by mail. SOQs
submitted by fax or electronic mail will not be considered.
SOQs will not be accepted nor may submitted SOQs be corrected, modified or withdrawn after the deadline.
There will be no public opening of the SOQs, though on the deadline date a list of all persons who submitted
an SOQ will be published. Proposers are responsible for downloading the specifications from the City’s web
site, and are requested to email the Purchasing Department (purchasing@newtonma.gov) their company
name, address, email address, phone & facsimile number and what bid # (i.e. #18-109) they have downloaded.
The City of Newton, operating through the DSC, reserves the right to reject any and all SOQs, to waive any
defects, informalities, and minor irregularities; and to award contracts or cancel this RFQ if it is in the City’s
best interest to do so. The City of Newton is an AA/EEO employer, and encourages MBE and WBE firms to
apply.
10. SOQ REQUIREMENTS
Persons or firms submitting an SOQ must meet the following requirements:
a. Submit eleven (11) hard copies, and one (1) digital copy in PDF format on separate compact disc.
Reponses should be printed double-side and bound in such a manner that the pages lie and remain flat
when opened. The specific organization and orientation of the proposal is at the applicant’s discretion,
but it is recommended that the proposal be laid out in such a manner that the reader doesn’t need to be
constantly rotating the proposal. Proposals should not be provided with acetate covers.
The Owner will only accept hard original copies of SOQs. Responses submitted by fax or electronic
mail will not be considered.
The Owner assumes no responsibility or liability for late delivery or receipt of Responses. All
Responses received after the stated submittal date and time will be judged to be unacceptable and will
be returned unopened to the sender.
b. Applications must be accompanied by a concise cover letter that is a maximum of two pages in length.
A copy of the cover letter should be attached to each copy of the application. The cover letter must
include the certifications as noted in Section 7 of this RFQ.
c. Applicants may supplement this proposal with graphic materials and photographs that best demonstrate
design capabilities of the team proposed for this project subject to the page limitations as set forth in
the Standard Designer Application Form.
11. REQUIREMENTS FOR SOQ CONTENT
All copies of SOQs shall be:
• Presented in an organized and clear manner;
• Must include the required forms in Attachment C;
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 12 of 14
• Must include all required certifications;
• Must include the following information:
A. Cover letter shall be a maximum of two pages in length and include:
1. An acknowledgement of any addendum issued to the RFQ.
2. An acknowledgement that the Respondent has read the RFQ. Respondent shall note any
exceptions to the RFQ in its cover letter.
3. An acknowledgement that the Respondent has read the Standard Contract and Standard
Amendments. Respondent shall note any exceptions to the Standard Contract and/or Standard
Amendments in its cover letter.
4. A specific statement regarding compliance with the minimum requirements identified in Item 7
of this Request for Services to include identification of registration, number of years of
experience and where obtained (as supported by the resume section of Attachment C).
5. A description of the Respondent’s organization and its history.
6. The signature of an individual authorized to negotiate and execute the Contract for Designer
Services, in the form that is attached to the RFQ, on behalf of the Respondent.
7. The name, title, address, e-mail and telephone number of the contact person who can respond to
requests for additional information.
B. Selection Criteria: The response shall address the Respondent’s ability to meet the “Selection Criteria”
Section.
C. Certifications: Respondents will be required to submit certifications required in M.G.L. c. 7C, §51(d)(1)-
(iv).
12. PAYMENT SCHEDULE & FEE EXPLANATION
The Owner in conjunction with OPM will negotiate the fee for services dependent upon an evaluation of
the level of effort required, job complexity, specialized knowledge required, estimated construction cost,
comparison with past project fees, and other considerations. As construction cost is but one of several
factors, a final construction figure in excess of the initial construction estimate will not, in and of itself,
constitute a justification for an increased in fee.
13. OTHER PROVISIONS
A. Public Record Law
All responses and information submitted in response to this RFQ are subject to the Massachusetts Public
Records Law, M.G.L. c. 66, § 10 and c. 4, § 7(26). Any statements in submitted responses that are
inconsistent with the provisions of these statutes shall be disregarded.
B. Waiver/Cure of Minor Informalities, Errors and Omissions
The Owner reserves the right to waive or permit cure of minor informalities, errors or omissions prior to
the selection of a Respondent, and to conduct discussions with any qualified Respondents and to take
any other measures with respect to this RFQ in any manner necessary to serve the best interest of the
Owner and its beneficiaries.
RFQ #18-109 Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Services
Page 13 of 14
D. Communications with the Owner
The City’s Purchasing Department:
Purchasing Department Newton City Hall
1000 Commonwealth Avenue
Newton, Massachusetts 02459
Phone # 617.796.1220
Email: purchasing@newtonma.gov
Fax # 617.796.1227
Respondents that intend to submit a SOQ are prohibited from contacting any of the City’s staff other than
the City Purchasing Department. An exception to this rule applies to Respondents that currently do business
with the City, but any contact made with persons other than the Purchasing Department must be limited to
that business, and must not relate to this RFQ. In addition, such respondents shall not discuss this RFQ with
any of the City’s consultants, legal counsel or other advisors. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS RULE MAY
BE GROUNDS FOR DISQUALIFICATION.
E. Costs
The Owner is not liable for any costs incurred by any Respondent in preparing its SOQ or for any other
costs incurred prior to entering into and only in accordance with a Contract between the Respondent
and the Owner.
F. Withdrawn/Irrevocability of Responses
Applicants may withdraw an SOQ as long as the written request to withdraw is received by the City of
Newton Purchasing Department prior to the time and date of the SOQ opening.
G. Rejection of Responses, Modification of RFQ
The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all responses if the Owner determines, within its own
discretion, that it is in the Owner’s best interests to do so. This RFQ does not commit the Owner to
select any Respondent, award any contract, pay any costs in preparing a response, or procure a contract
for any services. The Owner also reserves the right to cancel or modify this RFQ in part or in its
entirety, or to change the RFQ guidelines. A Respondent may not alter the RFQ or its components.
H. Subcontracting and Joint Ventures
Respondent’s intention to subcontract or partner or joint venture with other firm(s), individual or entity
must be clearly described in the response.
H. Validity of Response
Submitted responses must be valid in all respects for a minimum period of ninety (90) days after the
submission deadline.
CITY OF NEWTON
Nicholas Read
Chief Procurement Officer
May 24, 2018
Project Manual RFQ #18-109 - Newton Center for Active Living Project - Designer Service
Page 14 of 14
ATTACHMENTS:
RFQ Attachment A:
City of Newton Ordinances
Chapter 14 - Senior Services
Chapter 21 Parks and Recreation, Public Grounds and Trees
RFQ Attachment B:
Base Contract for Designer Services;
Base Designer Contract Amendment for Design/Bid/Build;
Base Designer Contract Amendment for CM-at-Risk
RFQ Attachment C:
Standard Designer Application Form for Municipalities and Public Agencies not within DSB Jurisdiction
(Updated July 2011) (http://www.mass.gov/anf/docs/dcam/dlforms/dsb/designer-municp-app-11-7-11.doc)
RFQ Attachment D:
Required Certifications
▪ Satisfaction of State Tax Requirements
▪ Certificate of Authority
▪ Certificate of Non-Collusion
▪ Certificate of Tax Compliance
▪ Proof of Registration by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts an architect or
professional engineer (if applicable)
▪ Demonstrated ability to secure general liability insurance, worker’s compensation,
and automobile insurance for all proposed staff that will be involved in the project
▪ List all claims, including insurance claims and claims in litigation or adjudicatory
process or settled, brought by or against the firm/individual in the past three (3)
years. Including for each the reason for the claim, name (s) of claimant(s) and
outcomes.
RFQ Attachment D.1:
Certificate of Good Standing and/or Tax Compliance
RFQ Attachment D.2:
Certificate of Authority – Business Corporations
RFQ Attachment D.3:
Certificate of Non-Collusion
RFQ Attachment D.4:
Certificate of Tax Compliance
RFQ Attachment E:
City of Newton Designer Selection Committee,
Designer Selection Procedures
RFQ Attachment F:
City of Newton Ordinances
Design Review Committee Ordinance
RFQ Attachment G
City of Newton – Public Buildings Department
Building Design and Construction Sustainability Guidelines
Select Board ad hoc Committee: Reading Center for Active
Living Committee (RECALC)
There is hereby established a volunteer ad hoc committee reporting to the Select Board known as
the Reading Center for Active Living Committee (ReCalc). The charge of ReCalc is to explore
the current and future needs of the Community, and initiate planning for a potential new
Senior/Community Center in town that will focus on residents aged 60+ and possibly other
members of the Community.
At the Annual Town Meeting, $40,000 was appropriated in FY’22 capital funds for the purpose
of Senior/Community Center planning. A consultant will be hired with these funds to provide
technical assistance and expertise in Community Resource Planning and Community
Engagement. The Town Manager may also require Town Staff to work with ReCalc.
-ReCalc will collect data and information from communities that have successfully navigated the
Senior/Community Center planning process.
-ReCalc will articulate a vision of a Community Center and conduct extensive Community
Engagement to determine if residents desire a 60+ Center for Active Living or a
multigenerational center.
- Through regular meetings and community outreach, ReCalc will gather, analyze, and organize
information for future planning decisions related to the proposed center.
Specific goals: Progress report to the Select Board before Annual Town Meeting 2022.
The Committee shall be made up of 7 voting members, all of whom must be Reading residents,
all appointed by the Select Board and comprised of the following:
Mark Dockser to represent the Select Board
1 member of the Council on Aging (COA), designated by the COA
1 member of the Recreation Committee, designated by the Recreation Committee Chair
4 at-large members from the community, preferably with background in architecture, design,
planning, project management and community engagement, and/or who represent a variety of
key stakeholder groups such as seniors who participate in our Council on Aging programs,
eldercare professionals, families with age 60+ members who use our recreation programs, and
those aged 60+ who don’t currently use the COA programs to be recommended by VASC.
ReCalc shall provide regular updates to the Select Board during the process. ReCalc shall sunset
on or before November 30, 2022. If needed, this date can be extended by vote of the Select
Board.
Open Meeting Law: ReCalc is a committee under the Select Board and is therefore subject to
the requirements of the Open Meeting Law (e.g., advance notice of meetings, agendas, minutes,
production of documents when requested, etc.). Further, any formal subcommittees of ReCalc,
charged with carrying out specific tasks are also subject to the Open Meeting.
There is hereby established a volunteer ad hoc committee reporting to the Select Board known as
the Reading Center for Active Living Committee (ReCalc). The charge of ReCalc is to explore
the current and future needs of the Community, and initiate planning for a potential new
Senior/Community Center in town that will focus on residents aged 60+ and possibly other
members of the Community.
At the Annual Town Meeting, $40,000 was appropriated in FY’22 capital funds for the purpose
of Senior/Community Center planning. A consultant will be hired with these funds to provide
technical assistance and expertise in Community Resource Planning and Community
Engagement. The Town Manager may also require Town Staff to work with ReCalc.
-ReCalc will collect data and information from communities that have successfully navigated the
Senior/Community Center planning process.
-ReCalc will articulate a vision of a Community Center and conduct extensive Community
Engagement to determine if residents desire a 60+ Center for Active Living or a
multigenerational center.
- Through regular meetings and community outreach, ReCalc will gather, analyze, and organize
information for future planning decisions related to the proposed center.
Specific goals: Progress report to the Select Board before Annual Town Meeting 2022.
The Committee shall be made up of 7 voting members, all of whom must be Reading residents,
all appointed by the Select Board and comprised of the following:
Mark Dockser to represent the Select Board
1 member of the Council on Aging (COA), designated by the COA
1 member of the Recreation Committee, designated by the Recreation Committee Chair
4 at-large members from the community, preferably with background in architecture, design,
planning, project management and community engagement, and/or who represent a variety of
key stakeholder groups such as seniors who participate in our Council on Aging programs,
eldercare professionals, families with age 60+ members who use our recreation programs, and
those aged 60+ who don’t currently use the COA programs to be recommended by VASC.
ReCalc shall provide regular updates to the Select Board during the process. ReCalc shall sunset
on or before November 30, 2022. If needed, this date can be extended by vote of the Select
Board.
Open Meeting Law: ReCalc is a committee under the Select Board and is therefore subject to
the requirements of the Open Meeting Law (e.g., advance notice of meetings, agendas, minutes,
production of documents when requested, etc.). Further, any formal subcommittees of ReCalc,
charged with carrying out specific tasks are also subject to the Open Meeting.
Symonds Way Exploratory Committee (SWEC) Charge
Authority The Symonds Way Exploratory Committee (SWEC) is an ad hoc committee
appointed by the Reading Select Board.
Membership The SWEC will have seven (7) members composed as follows:
1 Select Board Member (ex-officio, appointed by the Select Board)
1 Recreation Committee Members (ex-officio, appointed by the
Recreation committee)
1 Community Planning & Development Commission (CPDC) Member
(ex-officio, appointed by the CPDC committee)
1 Conservation Committee Member (ex-officio, appointed by the
Conservation committee)
1 Permanent Building Committee Member (ex-officio, appointed by the
Permanent Building Committee)
1 School Committee Member (ex-officio, appointed by the School
committee)
1 Council on Aging Member, or Senior Advocate (ex-officio, appointed
by the Council on Aging)
In order to help the Committee carry out its purpose, the Select Board invites the
following staff will lend their professional guidance and advice to the Committee.
Town Manager
Superintendent of Schools
Town Accountant
Assistant Town Manager
Community Development Director
Administrative Services Director
Procurement Officer
Community Services Director
Meetings will be recorded and administrative support will be provided by Town
Hall staff (scheduling and posting meetings, taking minutes, etc.)
Purpose The purpose of this committee is to serve as an advisory committee to the
Reading Select Board for the purpose of recommending the best options for uses
of the land for our community, understanding the needs of the community, located
on Symonds Way.
SWEC shall gather input from its members and the Reading residents as to what
the property should look like and its functionality. SWEC will hold regular
meetings and community outreach, SWEC will gather, analyze, and organize
information for future planning decisions related to the best uses for this property.
The Committee shall consider the following:
1. Best uses to serve as many residents as possible
2. Using public funds and grants where possible towards development
3. Private/public partnerships to develop the property
The first task of SWEC will be to define the best use for the property. SWEC will
provide feedback on potential physical layouts on the property developed by SV
Design Architects and funded by Town Meeting on April 2022. If a private/public
partnership is deemed appropriate, the SWEC will work with Reading Town Hall
staff to develop and review a Request for Proposals (RFP) for private developers
to invest in the property. Once proposals are received, and with the help of
Reading Town Hall Staff, SWEC will help review and evaluate the submittals to
the RFP. The Committee will offer recommendations for potential funding
options, if pursuing public development.
Deliverable The Committee shall begin its work in December 2022 and shall submit multiple
options for development recommendations using an evaluation scheme to be
determined by the committee to the Select Board no later than August 31, 2023
unless another date is agreed to by the Select Board. If approved by the Select
Board, the Committee shall present its development recommendations to
Subsequent Town Meeting in November 2023.
Sunset The Committee shall sunset on June 30, 2024 but may be extended by a Select
Board vote.
Public Body The meetings and deliberations of the Committee shall be subject to the Open
Meeting Law.
May 23, 2023 Tuesday
Overview of Meeting Dockser 7:00
Public Comment Board 7:05
SB Liaison & Town Manager Reports Board 7:15
HEARING
Discuss/Vote on FY24 Non-Union
Classification & Compensation
Schedules Maltez 7:30
HEARING Vote on FY2023 Water & Sewer Rates Maltez 8:00
Committee Report from CPDC CPDC 8:30
Vote on Local option to increase the
Cost of Living Adjustment (“COLA”)
for Fiscal Year 2023 to up to 5 percent
on the base amount specified pursuant
to G.L. c. 32, § 103, for retirees. Board 9:00
Vote on Select Board Liaison
Assignments Board 9:15
Vote on Potential Changes to ReCalc
Charge and Sunset Date Board 9:20
Vote on Clarification of SWEC Charge,
as Requested by Committee Board 9:30
Vote on Issuing RFP for Feasibility
Study for New Senior Center Board 9:40
Committee Report from CPDC CPDC 9:50
National Public Works Week Board 9:55
Arbor Day Proclamation Board 10:00
Pride Month Resolution Board 10:05
Juneteenth Resolution Board 10:10
Discuss Future Agendas Board 10:20
Approve Meeting Minutes Board 10:30
June 6, 2023 Tuesday
Overview of Meeting Dockser 7:00
Public Comment Board 7:05
SB Liaison & Town Manager Reports Board 7:15
Update from Economic Development
Director on Kiosk Roll-Out Board 7:30
Discussion on Improving
Communication with Small Businesses Board 7:45
Vote to Accept Easement from Meadow
Brook Golf Course to Conservation
Commission, Lot 5 Board 8:00
Discusion on a Dog Park in Reading Board 8:30
Discussion on Emails for Boards and
Committees Board 8:45
Discuss Exploration of Town Counsel Board 9:00
Ice Arena Authority Report Board 9:15
Discuss Future Agendas Board 9:30
Approve Meeting Minutes Board 9:45
June 20, 2023 Tuesday
July 18, 2023 Tuesday
August 1, 2023 Tuesday
August 22, 2023 Tuesday
September 12, 2023 Tuesday
September 26, 2023 Tuesday
October 10, 2023 Tuesday
October 24, 2023 Tuesday
November 7, 2023 Tuesday
November 13, 2023 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING
November 16, 2023 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING
November 20, 2023 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING
November 21, 2023 Tuesday
Novmeber 27, 2023 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING
December 5, 2023 Tuesday
Vote to approve annual licenses
(delegated to TM Office)
Vote to approve Liquor Licenses
December 6, 2023 Wednesday
Department Budget Presentations
December 12, 2023 Tuesday
Department Budget Presentations
Future Meetings - Agenda Items
VASC Policy Changes and
Recommendations VASC
Discuss Early Sunday Hours at
Recreational Fields & Parks Rec Comm
Public Safety Quarterly updates Board
Air BnB update CPDC
Update on 186 Summer Ave / Review of
Select Board role (consult with Town
Counsel) Town Counsel
Discuss Police Department Policies with
respect to Police Reform Legislation &
Department Accreditation Board
Discuss and Approve Flag Policy Board
Recurring Agenda Items
Close Warrant: Annual Town Meeting March 3/1/2022
Close Warrant: Subsequent Town September 9/27/2022
Appoint Town Accountant March Annual
HEARING Approve Classification & Compensation May Annual
Appointments of Boards & Committees May/June Annual
HEARING Approve Tax Classification October Annual
HEARING Approve Licenses December Annual
Liaison: RCTV members Report Annual
Liaison: CAB (RMLD) member Report Annual
Liaison: MAPC member Report Annual
Liaison: Reading Housing Authority Annual
Liaison: Reading Ice Arena Report Annual
Town Accountant Report Qtrly
Economic Development Director Semi-ann
Parking/Traffic/Transportation Task
Town Board & Committee visits
Town Department visits
Review Select Board Goals
Review Town Manager Goals February/March
Select Board Draft Minutes
April 18th, 2023
Public Comment
Bill Brown noted Memorial Day celebrations are coming up and if anyone notices a veteran grave
without a flag or marker to please let him know.
Select Board Reorganization
Dockser noted his thoughts on delaying this one more meeting until the recount is over. Bacci, Haley and
McCarthy agreed with Dockser while Herrick felt the board should continue and reorganize tonight.
Bacci moved to delay the board reorganization until their next meeting, May 9th, after the recount is
certified. The motion was seconded by McCarthy and approved with a 4-1 vote with Herrick
abstaining.
Liaison Reports
Haley noted at the School Committee meeting it was announced that Susan Bottan is leaving the
Superintendents Office.
McCarthy noted the State extended allowing remote and hybrid meetings for local government until
2025. The Board of Health has some women’s health events coming up. They are also continuing with
the community self needs assessment. Meadow Brook is looking for a tobacco license so they could sell
cigars at their pro-shop.
Bacci noted at the Recreation Committee they announced Jim Sullivan has been hired for the Program
Coordinator position. SWEC met and he noted he was personally attacked by Angela Binda for the first
bit of the meeting accusing him of many things. The Board of Health is working on updating tobacco
regulations. The board of registrars met and discussed the re-count and certified the petitions. The re-
count will be this Saturday and they appointed David Zeek as a temporary Registrar to do the re-count.
Herrick attended the Recreation Committee meeting and got an update from Angela Binda on her
concerns about process and OML violations at SWEC. She noted the Council on Aging meeting was zoom
bombed last week. She will be attending RMHS on April 26th to come in and meet staff at the school.
Dockser noted the Council on Aging has been working hard on a video to highlight the conditions of the
Pleasant Street Center and what they truly need. They would like to show the video at Town Meeting if
the vote passes at their meeting. He noted he had a busy office hour at the PSC last week. He attended
the Commissioner of Trust Funds and Beth Klepis has decided to not continue after her term is up in
June.
Angela Binda requested two minutes to do public comment now. She wanted to respond to Bacci’s
comments earlier. She noted she did not personally attack him; she pointed out things in the SWEC
meetings that have been lacking in process.
Town Manager Report
Maltez noted the warrant books for Town Meeting are now available. He mentioned that Lowell Street
closures are due to repaving. They are prepping the road now to be paved in the next couple weeks. He
asked residents to please follow all road closure signs. The rubbish and recycling carts survey has gotten
great results.
Appoint Temporary Board of Registrars Member
Laura Gemme noted that a current Board of Registrars member is out of the country and unable to
attend and participate in the recount on Saturday. Earlier this evening the Board of Registrars appointed
David Zeek to temporarily fill the position until the recount is certified. The Select Board now must
appoint him as well.
Haley moved to appoint David Zeek temporarily to the Board of Registrars until the recount is
certified. The motion was seconded by Herrick and approved with a 5-0 vote.
Parking Fee Discussion and Vote
Lt. Jones was back before the board to go over any further questions regarding the proposed parking
fees they discussed at a prior meeting. The changes would be for Group A,B and C violations.
Haley moved to adopt the recommendations from Reading Police department on parking violation
fees as presented, including the recommendation to allow that a separate violation ticket may be
issued after two hours of the violation if the original violation is still occurring. The motion was
seconded by Herrick and approved with a 5-0 vote.
Select Board Policy
In light of recent the recent Supreme Judicial Court ruling on Barron v. Kolenda; Town Counsel and
recommending the board revise section 1.2.5 of the Select Board policy. She specifically recommends
the last part of the last sentence stating “avoid making disparaging comments about individuals”.
Haley noted the policy uses the word “shall” and not “must” which seems like the board doesn’t need to
address this.
The board discussed the wording and ultimately decided to reword the last sentence and remove the
last part as suggested by Counsel. They also agreed to come back and clean up the wording better at a
later meeting.
Haley moved to remove item (3) from the Select Board Policy 1.2.5 – Public Comment. The motion was
seconded by McCarthy and approved with a 5-0 vote.
The new complete wording will be as follows:
1.2.5 Public Comment
Each person appearing before the Select Board who wishes to speak will, upon recognition by the
Chair, identify him/herself by name and address of residence. Failure to identify him/herself may
result in the Chair withdrawing permission for that individual to speak to the Select Board. When
recognized by the Chair, the speaker will (1) address only the Chair and (2) speak for only the
time allocated by the Chair.
Executive Session
Haley moved to enter under Purpose 6 to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of 17
Harnden Street, as the Chair declares that an open meeting could have a detrimental effect on the
bargaining position of the body, to invite Town Manager Fidel Maltez and Executive Assistant Caitlin
Nocella to attend the executive session, and to reconvene in open session afterwards. The motion was
seconded by McCarthy and approved with a unanimous roll call vote.
Harden Street
Dockser noted that in consultation with Town Counsel and Bond Counsel, the structure of a purchase
and sale agreement proposed by the current owner is not something that as a municipality we are able
to execute. They have explored multiple avenues to make it happen but have been unsuccessful. They
will go back to discussing further options for a senior center.
Future Agendas
The board discussed future agenda items.
Minutes
The board edited the last set of meeting minutes.
Haley moved to approve the meeting minutes of March 21, 2023 as amended. The motion was
seconded by Herrick and approved with a 5-0 vote.
Haley moved to adjourn at 9:06PM. The motion was seconded by Herrick and approved with a 5-0
vote.