HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-13 Finance Committee Packet Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
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Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Finance Committee
Date: 2024-03-13 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Select Board Meeting Room
Address: 16 Lowell Street Agenda:
Purpose: General Business
Meeting Called By: Jacquelyn LaVerde on behalf of Chair Ed Ross
Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings excluding
Saturdays, Sundays and Legal Holidays. Please keep in mind the Town Clerk's hours of
operation and make necessary arrangements to be sure your posting is made in an
adequate amount of time. A listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be
discussed at the meeting must be on the agenda.
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Topics of Discussion:
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AGENDA:
• Liaison Reports
• Budget Presentations: FY25 Town Manager Recommended Budget & Town Departments
(Continued)
o Finance Department
o Department of Public Works
■ Water, Sewer, & Storm Water Enterprise Funds
o Library
o Facilities
• Discussion and Vote on FY25 Budget and Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles
• Discuss FINCOM Report to Town Meeting
• Future Agendas
• Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes
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 1 1
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, ss. Officer's Return, Town of Reading:
By virtue of this Warrant, I on 2024
notified and warned the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote on Town affairs, to
meet at the place and at the time specified by posting attested copies of this Town Meeting
Warrant, in the following public places within the Town of Reading:
Precinct 1 J. Warren Killam School, 333 Charles Street
Precinct 2 Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street
Precinct 3 Reading Municipal Light Department, 230 Ash Street
Precinct 4 Joshua Eaton School, 365 Summer Avenue
Precinct 5 Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue
Precinct 6 Barrows School, 16 Edgemont Avenue
Precinct 7 Birch Meadow School, 27 Arthur B Lord Drive
Precinct 8 Wood End School, 85 Sunset Rock Lane
Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street
The date of posting being not less than fourteen (14) days prior to April 22, 2024, the date set for
Town Meeting in this Warrant.
Constable
A true copy Attest:
Laura Gemme, Town Clerk
OF J?p
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TOWN WARRANT
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, ss.
To any of the Constables of the Town of Reading, Greetings:
In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby required to notify and
warn the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in the Local Elections and Town
affairs, to meet at the Reading Memorial High School, 62 Oakland Road, in said Reading on
MONDAY, the TWENTY-SECOND DAY of APRIL A.D., 2024
at seven-thirty o'clock in the evening, at which time and place the following Articles are to be acted
upon and determined exclusively by Town Meeting Members in accordance with the provisions
of the Reading Home Rule Charter.
ARTICLE 1 The following Town Officers were elected on March 5, 2024
A Moderator for one year;
One member of the Select Board for three years;
Two members of the Board of Library Trustees for three years;
Two members of the Municipal Light Board for three years;
Two members of the School Committee for three years;
Each of Reading's eight (8) precincts elected eight (8) Town Meeting members for a
three-year term.
In addition, the following Town Meeting members were elected:
Precinct 1 —One (1) Town Meeting member for a 2-year term
Precinct 2 —One (1) Town Meeting member for a 1-year term
Precinct 3—Two (2) Town Meeting members for a 1-year term
ARTICLE 2 To hear and act on the reports of the Select Board, School Committee,
Library Trustees, Municipal Light Board, Finance Committee, Bylaw Committee, Town Manager,
Town Accountant and any other Town Official, Board or Committee.
Select Board
Background: This article appears on the Warrant for all Town Meetings. At this Annual Town
Meeting, the Moderator has requested that reports be submitted in writing in advance for the
following:
-State of the Town (Select Board Chair)
ARTICLE 3 To choose all other necessary Town Officers and Boards or Committees
and determine what instructions shall be given to Town Officers and Boards or Committees, and
to see what sum the Town will vote to appropriate by borrowing or transfer from available funds,
or otherwise, for the purpose of funding Town Officers and Boards or Committees to carry out the
instructions given to them, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: This Article appears on the Warrant for all Town Meetings. There are no known
Instructional Motions at this time. The Town Moderator requires that all proposed Instructional
Motions be submitted to the Town Clerk prior to Town Meeting so that Town Meeting Members
may be"warned" as to the subject of an Instructional Motion in advance of the motion being made.
Instructional Motions are normally held until the end of all other business at Town Meeting.
ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to amend the FY 2024-34 Capital
Improvements Program as provided for in Section 7-7 of the Reading Home Rule Charter and as
previously amended, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: This Article is included in every Town Meeting Warrant. The Reading General
Bylaw (section 6.1.3) states "... No funds may be appropriated for any capital item unless such
item is included in the Capital Improvements Program, and is scheduled for funding in the Fiscal
Year in which the appropriation is to be made." Bond ratings agencies also want to ensure that
changes to a long-term Capital Improvements Program (CIP) are adequately described.
The following changes are proposed to the FY2024 — FY2034 CIP (current year plus ten years):
General Fund
FY24: +$295,000
$200,000 RMHS Field House Floor/Bleachers (move project upl yr. design FY24 then debt)
$ 95,000 Coolidge Alarm Panel
FY25: -$ 0 net change
$85,000 Bobcat Utility— Snowplow (2013) (increase by $45k and move up 1 yr. to FY25)
$45,000 Driver's Ed Vehicle (2013) (move up 5 yrs., FY29 to FY25)
$55,000 Computer Aided Dispatch (increase by $55k)
$50,000 Police unmarked vehicle (earmark grant went away)
- $240,000 Sander Truck #18 (2006) (move out 1 yr.)
$ 5,000 Cemetery Ford Sedan #4 (2006) (move out 1 yr.)
FY26: -$631000
-$ 55,000 Coolidge Alarm Panel Design — (remove different direction taken)
- $ 45,000 Bobcat Skid S130 —Snowplow (2008) (move out 3 yrs., FY26 to FY29)
-$ 35,000 Bobcat Utility 3650—Snowplow (2013) (move up 1 yr. FY26 to FY25)
$ 7,000 School Doors & Windows (increase by $7k)
$ 65,000 Hwy Small Dump Truck#7 (2012) (move up 1 yr.)
$240,000 Sander Truck#18 (2006) (from Fy25 to FY26)
-$240,000 Sander Truck#19 (2007) (move out 1 yr. to FY27)
Enterprise Funds — Water
FY24: +$0
FY25: -$300,000
-$300,000 Water Main Repairs — (not needed)
FY26: -$400,000
-$400,000 Water Main Repairs — (not needed)
Enterprise Funds — Sewer
FY24: +$200,000
$200,000 Prefab Longwood Rd. Sewer Station
FY25: +$0
FY26: +$0
Enterprise Funds — Storm Water
FY24: +$0
FY25: +$0
FY26: +$0
Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee recommends the proposed amendments
to the FY 2024 — FY 2034 Capital Improvements Program by a vote of_ at their meeting on
March _, 2024. Placing items in the Capital Improvement Program is a prerequisite first step
but in itself does not authorize spending funds toward these items.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 5 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town's Operating Budget for the
Fiscal Year commencing July 1, 2023, as adopted under Article 12 of the Annual Town Meeting
of April 24, 2023 and amended under Article 4 of the Subsequent Town Meeting of November 13,
2023; and to see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow or transfer from available
funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to be added to the amounts appropriated
under said Article, as amended, for the operation of the Town and its government, or take any
other action with respect thereto.
Finance Committee
Background:
General Fund —Wages and Expenses
Account Line Description Decrease Increase
B99 — Benefits Health Insurance+$300,000 $145,000
Medicare + $75,000
OPEB - $200,000
Indemnification -$30,000
E99 — Regional Essex North +$65,000 $65,000
Vocational Education
H91 Public Services Attrition Savings 20,000
Wages
G92 Admin Services- Town Manager Search $20,000
Expenses
G92a Technology Phone Service Migration $20,000
Expenses
191 Finance Wages Retirement Vacation Buybacks $17k $34,000
Collector Transition $17k
J91 — Public Safety Health -Sealer Weights & Measures 41,000
Wages +$6,000
Health -Attrition Savings -$15,000
Fire - Vacation Buyouts $50,000
J92 -Public Safety Health Weights & Measures -$6,000 $6,000
Expenses
K91 — Public Works Attrition savings $50,000
Wages
K-93 Snow & Ice Snow& Ice Expenses $75,000
K-94 Street Lights Street Light Expenses -$25,000 $25,000
M-92 Facilities Town Vacation Buyback $14,000 $14,000
Buildings
Subtotals $101,000 414,000
Net Operating Expenses $313,000
From Free Cash $313,000
Enterprise Funds
Account Line Description Decrease Increase
S99 Sewer EF Longwood Rd Sewer Station 200,000
Subtotals - 200,000
Net Operating Expenses 200,000
From Sewer EF Reserves 200,000
Finance Committee Report: At their meeting on March_, 2024, the Finance Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 6 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available
funds, borrow or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to pay bills remaining unpaid from
prior fiscal years for goods and services actually rendered to the Town, or take any other action
with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: There are no prior years' bills; this Article is expected to be tabled.
Finance Committee Report: No Report.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 7 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available
funds, borrow or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the purpose of funding the
irrevocable trust for "Other Post-Employment Benefits Liabilities", or take any other action with
respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: Each year at Annual Town Meeting, we ask to transfer funds budgeted for OPEB
from that line to the actual OPEB Trust in this Article. Sometimes due to budget surpluses in
health insurance premiums we have increased the budgeted contribution figures; this year we
have to ask to lower the budgeted contribution by$200,000 to cover a health insurance premium
deficit. Recent contributions to the Trust on behalf of the General Fund have been $700,000
(FY20), $793,400 (FY21), $350,000 (FY22), and $500,000 (FY23).
This year, Town Meeting is requested to make the annual transfers of funds previously budgeted
and held for the OPEB Trust Fund. This practice is followed each year in case health insurance
costs are higher than budgeted, and therefore may be needed to fund a deficit. In FY24, we
recommend transferring $300,000 out of the $500,000 budgeted to OPEB in the general fund.
Original annual transfers designed to fully fund OPEB liabilities in the Enterprise Funds should
continue: $85,000 in the water fund, $25,000 in the sewer fund and $10,500 in the storm water
fund. This Article will therefore move the total $420,500 of all these OPEB contributions to the
trust for Other Post Employment Benefit liabilities.
The most recent OPEB valuation shows the Town's OPEB liability at $59.9 million and 13.84%
funded as of June 30, 2023. The three Enterprise Funds and the Light Department are on a full
funding schedule, and the General Fund is on a partial funding schedule. As noted, the General
Fund will transition to a full funding schedule as soon as possible, as is required by law or
immediately after the Pension Fund is fully funded.
Finance Committee Report: At their meeting on March_, 2024, the Finance Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 8 To see if the Town will vote to transfer funds received from the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts in payment for development within the Town's 40R Smart
Growth Zoning Districts from Free Cash into the Smart Growth Stabilization Fund, or take any
other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: No Smart Growth revenue has been received to transfer, therefore, this Article is
expected to be Indefinitely Postponed.
Finance Committee Report: No Report.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 9 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow, transfer from
available funds, including the reallocation of funds from the Parker Roof Project borrowing
authorized under Article 14 of the 2021 Annual Town Meeting, or otherwise provide a sum or
sums of money for the purpose of installing a new replacement fire alarm panel at Coolidge Middle
School, including the costs of installation, consulting services, plans, documents, bidding services
and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to
be expended under the Town Manager, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: This request is for a full replacement of the entire fire alarm system at the Coolidge
Middle School. After discussions with the fire alarm company and electrical engineer, it was
decided that a more cost-effective solution would be to replace the panel and some of the devices
within the school that are not compatible with the new panel. Due to the invasiveness of replacing
the panel and all the field devices, it was decided that an updated panel install and a replacement
of some of the devices would be a more prudent approach.
Reading Fire Department has been engaged in this entire process and is fully aware of the plan.
As soon as school ends, the new panel and necessary devices will be replaced and tested by the
contractor, as well as Reading Fire Department.
Finance Committee Report: At their meeting on March_, 2024, the Finance Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
Bylaw Committee Report: TBD.
ARTICLE 10 To see if the Town will vote to take the following actions:
a) Raise and appropriate, borrow, transfer from available funds, including the reallocation of
funds from the Parker Roof Project borrowing authorized under Article 14 of the 2021
Annual Town Meeting, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the purpose of
designing a new floor at the Reading Memorial High School Field House, including the
cost of consulting services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services and all
related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to
be expended under the direction of the Town Manager; and
b) Raise and appropriate, borrow, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum
or sums of money for the purposes of making improvements, including full replacement of
the floor at the Reading Memorial High School Field House, including the costs of
installation, construction, consulting services, audits, plans, documents, cost estimates,
bidding services and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection
therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and,
for the purpose of meeting such appropriation, authorize the Town Treasurer, with the
approval of the Select Board, to borrow said sum in accordance with G.L. c. 44, §7(1), or
any other enabling authority, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: The RMHS Field House floor was installed in 2005 using sheet goods adhered
with glue and a vinyl center court also adhered with glue. The Town has experienced issues with
the Field House since installation as it wasn't appropriately sealed/water proofed. As a result, the
glue never cured properly, the floor has buckled and lifted in certain areas, and seams have
separated. Furthermore, areas of the floor have needed ongoing repair where cracks are
transmitting through the surface. This has resulted in consistent repairs needed to the floor each
year.
In addition to repairs needed, the thin layer of glue on the surface has raised concerns around
injuries for students/community members who use the field house. While there are no injuries
necessarily attributable to the floor, we do know that a new floor would provide a safer experience
for all, with more give and compliance with updated guidelines around safe floor surfaces. The
new surface for the track and center court will meet ASTM 7227 requirements with a minimum
thickness of 10mm as opposed to a current 7mm thickness.
The project would also include new bleachers. While the bleachers are safe and inspected each
year, they are original to the building and are not ADA compliant. They only have 2 motorized
sections, and a trolly is needed to get the other bleachers up and running, which is a significant
lift for our facilities team. We continue to invest money in maintaining the safety of the current
bleachers, representing an ongoing yearly cost. A new bleacher system would be fully aluminum,
ADA compliant, and fully motorized.
In all, the Field House project would provide an enhanced and accessible athletic experience for
our community, prioritize the safety of students and community members, and ensure the
durability needed to save costs on maintenance.
Finance Committee Report: At their meeting on March_, 2024, the Finance Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
Bylaw Committee Report: TBD.
ARTICLE 11 To see if the Town will vote to (1) establish the limit on the total amount
that may be expended from each revolving fund established by Article 9 of the Town of Reading
General Bylaw pursuant to Section 53E'/2 of Chapter 44 of the Massachusetts General Laws for
the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024; and (2) amend Section 6.5.2 of the General Bylaw,
establishing the Inspection Revolving Fund, as shown below, with the deletions being in bold and
struck through:
6.5.2 Inspection Revolving Fund
Funds held in the Inspection Revolving Fund shall be used for legal costs, oversight and
inspection, plan review, property appraisals and appeals, public services general
management, pedestrian safety improvements, records archiving, and other costs related
to building, plumbing, wiring, gas, and other permits required for large construction
projects and shall be expended by the Town Manager. Receipts credited to this fund shall
include building, plumbing, wiring, gas and other permit fees for Johnson Woods, Eaton
Lakeview (23-25 Lakeview Avenue and 128 Eaton Street), 258 Main Street, 531 Main
StFeet ^n�48 29 Wnh. rn RiFeet 'ter 6-16 Chute Street (Green
Tomato), 25 Haven Street (Rite Aid), 413 Main Street (McDonald's), 431 Main Street
(Chase Bank), and 459 Main Street (128 Tire) developments.
Or take any other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background:
Revolving Spending Revenue Year End
Account Authority Source Allowed Expend- Balance
Expenses iture
Limits
Conservation Conservation Fees as provided for Consulting and $25,000 Available for
Commission Commission in Reading General engineering services expenditure
Consulting Bylaws Section 5.7, for the review of next year
Fees Wetlands Protection designs and
engineering work for
the protection of
wetlands.
Inspection Town Building, Plumbing, Legal, oversight and $250,000 Available for
Revolving Manager Wiring, Gas and other inspection, plan expenditure
Fund permits for the review, initial property next year
projects listed in the appraisals and
Article. appeals, Public
Services planning
and general
management, curb,
sidewalks and
pedestrian safety
improvements,
records archiving and
other project related
costs.
Public Health Board of Clinic fees, charges Materials and costs $25,000 Available for
Clinics and Health and third-party associated with expenditure
Services reimbursements clinics and public next year
health programs
Library Library Charges for lost or Acquire Library $15,000 Available for
Fines and Director and damaged Library materials to replace expenditure
Fees Trustees materials lost or damaged next year
and fees from printing, items, and for the
faxing or similar maintenance, upkeep
supplementary fee- and supplies for
based services. supplementary fee-
based services
Mattera Facilities Rental Fees Utilities and all other $10,000 Available for
Cabin Director maintenance and expenditure
Operating operating expenses next year
Community Conservation Rental and user fees Utilities and all other $10,000 Available for
Gardens at Administrator maintenance and expenditure
Mattera operating expenses, next year
Cabin and project supplies
and equipment
Solid Waste Director of Lease of second Offset the cost of $250,000 Available for
Revolving Public Works barrels and overflow curbside trash & expenditure
Fund upon the bags, recycling collection, next year
recommenda disposal of solid
tion of the waste, replacement
Town toters, and any other
Manager costs associated with
the administration of
the trash and
recycling ro ram
Town Forest Director of Sale of timber; fees for Planning and $10,000 Available for
Public Works use of the Town Improvements to the expenditure
upon the Forest Town Forest next year
recommends
tion of the
Town Forest
Committee
• Conservation Consulting Revolving Fund - These funds are used to receive payments
from applicants, hire expert consultants where required, and return the balance to the
applicant. The balance in this Fund as of March 2024 is $33,257.
• Inspections Revolving Fund — The balance available as of March 2024 in this fund is
$781,916 and of that total $175,250 is proposed by the Town Manager as part of the FY24
budget {$125,250 to support General Admin and Economic Development wages and
expenses; and $50,000 to offset Building Inspections division wages}.
• Health Clinic Revolving Fund - The Reading Health Division contracts for third party
payments for a number of immunizations. The funds are used to augment the influenza
vaccine supply from the State Department of Public Health to insure vaccine for the
homebound clients and first responders. The Division also uses these funds for materials for
other screening clinics. Clinic client fees are also deposited into this fund to offset vaccine
and clinical supply costs. The balance available as of March 2024 in this fund is $16,663. The
State has been cutting back on the free flu and other vaccines to be distributed to cities and
towns, and the Town therefore needs to purchase extra doses. The necessary amounts used
for clinic vaccine, supplies and staff salaries related to the clinics each year directly from the
revolving fund is therefore approximately $25,000.
• Library Fines and Fees Fund —The balance available as of March 2024 in this fund is
$15,837. The added flexibility in use of this fund approved by Annual Town Meeting two years
ago has been helpful.
• Mattera Cabin Operating Fund — Some of the use of the Cabin is revenue generating, and
this Article allows those revenues to be used directly for the operating expenses of the cabin.
The balance available as of March 2024 in this fund is $0. In response to a previous
instructional motion by Town Meeting, the Town Manager moved the responsibility for both
the Mattera Cabin and Cemetery garage to the Facilities department.
• Community Gardens at Mattera Cabin Operating Fund —This fund was created at Annual
Town Meeting in April 2022. This new revolving fund is proposed to provide a mechanism for
the Conservation Commission to generate revenue (e.g., fees from the gardeners) and
expend it on utilities, other maintenance as well as operating expenses, equipment, and
supplies. The Community Garden continues to grow and attract regional support. This year
the Community Garden received $73,500 in external grants towards the expansion of the
garden into Phase 2. The balance available as of March 2024 in this fund is $2,188.
• Solid Waste Revolving Fund was created in 2023. The purpose is to offset the cost of
curbside trash and recycling collection, disposal of solid waste, replacement toters, and any
other costs associated with the administration of the trash and recycling program. The balance
available as of March 2024 in this fund is $0.
• Town Forest Revolving Fund was created in 2011. The purpose is to allow revenues from
controlled timber harvesting and permit fees to then be spent by the DPW Director upon the
recommendation of the Town Forest Committee, on improvements to the Town Forest. The
Town Forest Committee has had a forest stewardship plan created (through a grant) to make
recommendations on forest management including controlled timber harvesting. The balance
available as of March 2024 in this fund is $00.
Finance Committee Report: At their meeting on March _, 2024, the Finance Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
Bylaw Committee Report: At their meeting on March _, 2024, the Bylaw Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
ARTICLE 12 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available
funds, borrow or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the operation of the Town and its
government for Fiscal Year 2025 - beginning July 1, 2024, or take any other action with respect
thereto.
Finance Committee
Background: Please see the Budget pages after this Warrant Report, which includes full details
of the FY25 Finance Committee budget.
Finance Committee report: Please see the FY25 Spending Scorecard for the votes of the
Finance Committee on line items in the FY25 budget. The Finance Committee recommends the
subject matter of Article 11 as explained by these votes at their meeting on March _, 2024.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 13 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available
funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the purpose of developing a zoning plan
compliant with the requirements of G. L. c.40A, §3A, so called the "MBTA Communities Act",
including the hiring of consultants, the preparation of plan documents, and the distribution of
relevant information, and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection
therewith, said sum to be expended under the direction of the Town Manager, or take any other
action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: Due to the change in nature of the MBTA Communities process, the Town is now
facing many more months of engagement, research, and concept building. To aid with this
endeavor we request$75,000 in funding for Planning and Consultant Support from Town Meeting.
If approved we would be able to pair this with our current grant award to conduct town-wide
mailers, develop engagement material, planning design work, and other needed resources.
Finance Committee report: At their meeting on March _, 2024, the Finance Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 14 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow, transfer from
available funds or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to pay the costs of infrastructure
improvements to the Haven Street Infrastructure Project, including replacement of roadway,
sidewalks, and related improvements, including the payment of any and all other costs incidental
and related thereto, said sum to be expended under the direction of the Town Manager; and, for
the purpose of meeting such appropriation, authorize the Town Treasurer, with the approval of
the Select Board, to borrow said sum in accordance with G.L. c. 44, §7(1), or any other enabling
authority, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: Since the onset of the Downtown Smart Growth District, the downtown has
welcomed multiple redevelopment projects. One area where the Town has seen significant
development has been Haven Street. In order to accommodate this growth, the Town has
invested in an extensive utility improvement plan. Additionally, the need has risen to revitalize
the Haven Street streetscape for better access for both vehicles and pedestrians. The goal would
also be to activate the street to help improve economic growth with improved lighting and
amenities to support local businesses. The project would focus on Haven Street (Main St. to High
St.) and High Street (Washington St. Woburn St.), with potential improvements to side street
approaches and adjacent parking lots as funding allows.
In 2019, the Town hired Beta Group, Inc. to develop a 25% conceptual plan for Haven Street.
This conceptual plan included a full topographic survey,traffic analysis, and the 25%design. Beta
Group was instrumental in the Main Street improvements and was asked to extend their design
and input from Main Street to the Haven Street corridor. During the initial phase of the design,
staff input was compiled and incorporated into a functioning conceptual plan. In 2020 Beta Group
provided an engineering budget which estimated the reconstruction of Haven Street to be
approximately$7M. Beta Group also extended costs for the adjacent streets and the Town owned
Upper Haven parking lot.
At the November 2022 Subsequent Town Meeting, members voted to approve$750,000 in design
funds. Subsequently, Beta Group was tasked with finalizing the design and bid documents in
addition to assisting the Town in pursuit of a Mass Works grant. In September 2023, the State
awarded Reading $2.6 million from the Mass Works Infrastructure Program to support
construction of this Project. Furthermore, the Town is hopeful that Governor Healey will bond
funds under Bond Bill (1-15151), which would provide Reading with an additional $3.75M. Until the
bond bill funds are officially granted to the Town, we are expecting to borrow the difference.
The proposed article is requesting Town Meeting to authorize a total project of $6.4M. This is
expected to cover construction cost for High Street (Washington St. to Woburn St.) and Haven
Street (Main St. to High St.).
Finance Committee Report: At their meeting on March_, 2024, the Finance Committee voted
to recommend this Article to Town Meeting.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 15 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board to grant an
easement to the Reading Municipal Light Department to install, construct, reconstruct, repair,
replace, add to, inspect, maintain, and operate for the transmission of high and low voltage electric
current and for the transmission of intelligence, overhead lines and all necessary equipment and
appurtenances thereto, and an underground electric distribution system consisting of lines of
buried wires and cables and lines of wires and cables installed in underground conduits, together
with all equipment and appurtenances thereto for the transmission of intelligence and for the
furnishing of electric service, on a portion of 160 Hopkins Street (Assessor's Parcel 8-0061), or
take any other action with respect thereto.
Select Board
Background: RMLD has a current license agreement with the Town of Reading. Because the
land is used to feed the pump station and many residents on Gazebo Circle, RMLD needs to
supply electrical services to the station. RMLD is submitting a formal Easement request for the
Town's consideration and signature.
Finance Committee Report: No Report.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
ARTICLE 16 To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to Section 2-6 of the Reading Home
Rule Charter, to declare the seats of certain Town Meeting Members to be vacant and remove
certain described persons from their position as Town Meeting Members for failure to take the
oath of office within 30 days following the notice of election or for failure to attend one-half or more
of the Town Meeting sessions during the previous year, or take any other action with respect
thereto.
Select Board
Background:
Town Meeting Members Attendance
2024 Annual Town Meeting - Article 16
Total of 2 Town Meetings resulting in 5 evenings of attendance
Listed below are those who attended 1 evening or less
Precinct Vote
Remain Remove
Precinct First Middle Last Term Total Precinct on Town from
Name Name Vote Meeting Town
Meeting
3 Richard P Bova 2026 0
3 Richard W Eagleston 2026 0
3 Mark S Giardina 2026 1
58 Town Meeting Members had perfect attendance in 2023
Remove from List or Remain on the List:
Town Meeting Members that have low attendance are added to the list to be removed from
Town Meeting.
If you vote to leave the name on the list, they are removed from Town Meeting.
If you vote to remove the name from the list, they remain on Town Meeting.
Finance Committee Report: No Report.
Bylaw Committee Report: No Report.
and you are directed to serve this Warrant by posting an attested copy thereof in at least one (1)
public place in each precinct of the Town not less than fourteen (14) days prior to April 22, 2024,
or providing in a manner such as electronic submission, holding for pickup or mailing, an attested
copy of said Warrant to each Town Meeting Member.
Hereof fail not and make due return of this Warrant with your doings thereon to the Town
Clerk at or before the time appointed for said meeting.
Given under our hands this -th day of 12024.
Mark L. Dockser, Vice Chair
Karen Gately Herrick, Secretary
Carlo Bacci
Chris Haley
SELECT BOARD OF READING
Constable
READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS
School Committee FY25 Recommended Budget
Finance Committee Questions&Answers
February 28, 2024
1. What about the change in expenses forecast for substitutes? In the Regular Day and Special
Education Cost Centers, the Professional Salaries category, substitute amounts are not provided for
FY24, and FY25. Where are the expenses forecast for substitutes?
A. The pay for substitutes has now been accounted for under the "Other Salaries" category in both
Cost Centers.This line represents a summary line. We plan for substitutes carefully, and have
budgeted for daily and long-term teacher substitutes, as well as paraprofessional, nursing, and
custodial substitutes.
2. What's the balance that can be carried forward in a Revolving Funds?
A. Revolving Funds separately account for specific revenues and earmark them for expenditure
without appropriation for particular purposes to support the activity, program or service that
generated the revenues.Typically, revolving funds are authorized by state law for programs or
services with expenses that(1)fluctuate with demand and (2) can be matched with the fees,
charges or other revenues collected during the year.
Year-end surplus and deficit balances carry forward to serve as the following year starting Fund
Balance.These funds may be subject to other accounting procedures as outlined by the Division
of Local Services (Department of Revenue). The School Committee is committed to year-to-year
fiscal stability and wishes to maintain healthy balances in the event of emergencies/unplanned
events.The Code of Federal Regulations offers guidance for Food Services to maintain net cash
resources equivalent to 3 months average expenditures, or such other amount approved by the
State agency.
3. Can you provide some background on the Libby Donation account?
A. This was a gift to the School District by a former resident and graduate of Reading Memorial High
School (RMHS), for the establishment of yearly awards to be named the "David B. Libby
Scholarship".
Thes scholarships are managed by the Counseling Department, and they award twenty-two (22)
$4000 scholarships each year to the student awardees in the form of a check. The first awards
were given in the spring of 2023.The scholarship is to be awarded to "deserving and
underprivileged" students residing in Reading MA and graduating from RMHS, according to
Libby's direction.
School Committee's FY25 Recommended Budget: Questions and Responses 2.28.24 1 1 P a g e
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LaVerde, Jacquelyn
From: LaVerde,Jacquelyn
Sent: Tuesday, March 12, 2024 3:50 PM
Subject: Follow up to Birch Meadow Question
Hello All!
There was a question raised at last week's meeting regarding$215,000 in the capital plan for Birch Meadow. This
is not for the Birch Meadow Recreational Complex. Rather, it is for improvements to parking lots, sidewalks, and
walkways at Birch Meadow Elementary School.
Many thanks,
Jackie
Jackie LaVerde
Executive Assistant
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
781-942-6643
ilaverde(t�ci.reading,ma.us
Town Hall Hours:
Mon,Wed, Thurs 7:30 am—5:30 pm
Tues 7:30 am—7:00 pm
Friday- CLOSED
1
OPINE
Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Finance Committee
Date: 2024-03-06 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Select Board Meeting Room
Address: 16 Lowell Street Session: Open Session
Purpose: General Business Version: Draft
Attendees: Members - Present:
Chair Ed Ross, Vice Chair Joe Carnahan, Geoffrey Coram, Endri Kume, Joe
McDonagh, Marianne McLaughlin-Downing, Emily Sisson, John Sullivan, Mark
Za rrow
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Acting Town Manager Matt Kraunelis, Chief Financial Officer Sharon
Angstrom (remote), Director of Operations Jayne Wellman, Human
Resources Director Sean Donahue, Town Clerk Laura Gemme, Chief
Technology Officer Kevin Furilla, Community Development Director Andrew
MacNichol (remote), Community Services Director Jenna Fiorente, Public
Health Director Ade Solarin, Fire Chief Greg Burns, Assistant Fire Chief Rick
Nelson, Deputy Police Chief Christine Amendola (remote), Facilities Director
Joe Huggins (remote), Karen Gately Herrick (remote)
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Jacquelyn LaVerde
Topics of Discussion:
This meeting was held in-person in the Select Board Meeting Room of Town Hall and
remotely via Zoom.
Chair Ed Ross called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
Liaison Reports
Marianne Downing shared that Select Board incumbent Chris Haley was re-elected by 498
votes in yesterday's election.
Geoffrey Coram shared that Sarah McLaughlin and Shawn Brandt were both re-elected to
the School Committee.
Ed Ross shared updates from the Killam School Building Committee. The designer, Lavallee
Brensinger Architects (LBA), hosted a sustainability session last Thursday, where they
reviewed their process, introduced their sustainability expert, and talked about the
sustainability options available to the district. The group also launched a project website:
killamschool.com.
Budget Presentations: FY25 Town Manager Recommended Budget & Town
Departments•
Town Accountant Revenue, Financial Forecast, Spending Scorecard, Shared Costs:
Page 1 1
Chief Financial Officer Sharon Angstrom reviewed the information that she presented at the
first Financial Forum in the fall, and changes that have been made since that forum.
Property taxes increase 1.8% because excluded debt for the Wood End School and High
School will be paid off. Local revenues increased 16.3%, state aid increased 2.5 %,
transfers increased 3.7%, and free cash increased 29.9%. In the share of the budget,
property taxes account for 72%, Local revenues 9%, state aid 13%, transfers 4%, and 3%
from free cash. Actual new growth increased for several years, but decreased in FY23 likely
due to inflation.
Financial forecast revenues increase 3.14% before free cash and increase overall 3.87%.
Accommodated costs increased 3.2%. Projected interest earnings were increased from
$500,000 to $1.99 million, as interest returns are still high, to absorb the increase in the
retirement assessment.
On the Spending Scorecard, shared costs are up 2.3%, which includes benefits, capital, debt
service, vocational schools, and FINCOM reserves. Other accommodated costs, such as
casualty and liability insurance, utilities, and fuel, are included in department budgets. The
overall operating budget has increased 4.5%. The school department budget is increased
4.3% due to accommodated costs for special education. The grand total for the operating
budget from the General Fund is $124,060,725.
Shared costs are up 2.3%: benefits are up 8.1%, capital is up 3.3%, debt has a 20.6%
reduction due to excluded debt for the Library project being paid off, vocational schools are
up 21.7% due to the extra $160,000 for capital for the new building, and FINCOM reserves
are level funded.
For benefits, the retirement pension assessment increases 16.8%. Due to a 5.65% increase
in health insurance for next year, Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) is reduced 33.3%
to $200,000 to ensure there is enough for health insurance.
Proposed capital spending is $3,035,000 and includes: $50,000 for the Permanent Building
Committee, $85,000 for a bobcat for Facilities, $10,000 for telephone upgrades at the
schools, $125,000 for school technology projects, $45,000 for a driver's ed vehicle,
$100,000 for Town technology projects, $455,000 for computer aided dispatch, $50,000 for
an unmarked Police vehicle, $45,000 for a cemetery passenger car, $80,000 for a Highway
pickup truck, $250,000 for a Public Works blower unit, $50,000 for fence improvements,
$215,000 for Birch Meadow School parking lot and walkway improvements, $100,000 for
field, playground and court improvements, $100,000 for the rock wall repair program,
$50,000 for parking lot improvements, $100,000 for sidewalk, curb, and pedestrian safety
improvements, $100,000 for skim coating, $600,000 to pave Lowell Street, and $425,000
for road paving.
Karen Gately Herrick suggested eliminating the $50,000 for the Permanent Building
Committee (PBC). Ms. Angstrom stated that the funds are for unforeseen projects for the
PBC. The PBC does not always use all the funds, but they have used them in the past,
though she would not mind changing the amount.
Mr. Zarrow asked what the $215,000 is for Birch Meadow. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he
would get the definitive answer and report back to the Committee.
Administrative Services:
Operations:
Operations Director Jayne Wellman reviewed the Operations and Town Manager's budget.
Operations is a level services budget, there is no new staffing, and expenses increase for
postage due to elections. Some costs are reimbursable, but presented for full transparency.
In the Town Manager's Office budget, there is no change in FTEs, and there is a 10%
increase in property & casualty insurance. Ms. Wellman stated that she is watching
insurance costs closely. The increases are not driven by the Town's loss ratios, rather what
Page 1 2
is happening in the property and casualty market such as convective storms, aging
infrastructure, and volatility in the insurance market.
Joe Carnahan asked if the Town Manager Reserve fund and Select Board funds are usually
spent. Ms. Wellman and Acting Town Manager Matt Kraunelis explained that the Select
Board reserve fund used to be allocated to a few different committees, but they would not
always spend them. The previous Town Manager, Bob LeLacheur, combined those costs
and asked those committees to come to the Select Board to request those funds. The Town
Manager Reserve Fund is used at the discretion of the Town Manager to cover unanticipated
expenses.
Human Resources:
Human Resources Director Sean Donahue explained that the division consists of three
employees, though the budget only lists two employees, as support staff is part of the
Operations budget. Salary increases are in line with the compensation plan. Expenses are
level funded. The division is currently working with the Technology Department to update
its application tracking system. However, there might be a request in the future for an
updated system.
Town Clerk/Elections:
Town Clerk Laura Gemme reviewed the Town Clerk and Elections budget. The Town Clerk
budget is level funded with a slight increase in salaries. The Town Clerk's office is finally
fully staffed.
With Elections, there is an increase due to the Presidential election. Election costs will
increase going forward due to voting by mail, largely due to postage. For any state
elections, postage is reimbursable from the state, but not for the local elections.
Ms. Gemme thanked all the volunteers who helped make the elections successful.
Technoloav:
Chief Technology Officer Kevin Furilla presented the Technology budget. The Technology
Department is fully staffed with five full-time employees. Percentages for expense line
items appear to have significant changes, as Mr. Furilla stated that he recategorized several
things. The overall Technology budget increases 3.7%.
Public Services:
Community Development:
Community Development Director Andrew MacNichol presented the Community Services
budget. He noted that there were no unexpected changes or increases, just a few slight
increases in salaries. The department has seven full-time staff and six part-time staff.
Expenses stayed level with no increases. Most projects are done internally. The
department tries to get grants to match or fund planning and construction projects.
Community Services:
Community Services Director Jenna Fiorente reviewed the Community Services budget,
which consists of three divisions: Recreation, Elder & Human Services, and Veterans'
Services. There are ten full-time staff, and several part-time and seasonal employees.
Most of the part-time and seasonal employees work for Recreation, and are funded through
the Recreation revolving fund. The number of residents serviced by the department grows
each year, and the services provided by the department are highly valued. Ms. Fiorente
noted that a future request will be for a therapeutic recreation specialist to provide more
inclusive programming.
Public Safety:
Public Health:
Health Director Ade Solarin provided an overview of the Public Health budget. The Health
Department is a small department with a small budget and four full-time employees and
one part-time seasonal employee. There are also independent contractors such as the
Page 1 3
Animal Control Officer, and Tobacco Control Coordinator. The salary budget is consistent
with FY25 salary projections, which includes a 1.25% cost of living adjustment (COLA), a
2.35% step increase for non-union non-management employees, and a 2.5% step increase
for non-union management employees. To keep up with the increased demand, the Health
Director position was recently reclassified as a forty-hour-per-week salaried position, which
is reflected in this budget. There is $8,200 added to the Support Staff line item for the new
part-time Weights and Measures Inspector, as the state is no longer providing those
inspections. There is a $1,500 increase to supplement the overtime line item to cover
overtime pay for inspection and work-related activities performed outside of working hours.
In the expenses budget, there is a $10,000 reduction to the Animal Disposal line item, as
$25,000 for Animal Control was just reassigned to Health from the Police Department.
There was also a $4,000 line item transfer from DPW for sharps disposal. There is also a
$500 requested increase for supplies, and a $1,000 increase for mileage reimbursement and
travel expenses. Overall, there is a $5,500 decrease in expenses, and a $28,375 increase
in salaries, with a total net budget increase of 5.3% in the amount of $22,875.
Fire/EMS:
Fire Chief Greg Burns was joined by new Assistant Fire Chief Rick Nelson, and presented the
FY25 budget for the Fire Department. The Fire Department is responsible for four major
functions: Fire Prevention, Fire Suppression, Emergency Medical Systems, and Emergency
Management. There is no proposed increase in staffing for the FY25 budget. There are
grants in progress including: $1,000 SAFE grant for educating school children in fire safety,
$2,200 senior safe grant, $14,110 for firefighter safety equipment which will be used to
outfit new firefighters, and a $6,500 planning grant used to purchase specialized equipment
to put out electric vehicle fires. The department received notification that MEMA approved a
$418,191 reimbursement for the Town's response to COVID, which brings the total COVID
reimbursement from FEMA to $501,000. The FY25 budget increase is 4.1% over FY24.
Expenses increase 1.1% and wages increase 4.3%. The increase in salaries is largely
driven by the pay and class study for non-union employees, and collective bargaining
agreements with unions. There is a $2,300 increase in expenses driven by EMS costs and
service contracts.
Police/Coalition/Dispatch:
Deputy Police Chief Christine Amendola presented the budget for the Police Department,
Coalition for Prevention and Support, and Dispatch. Wages for the Police Department have
increased 4.6% due to union contracts step increases and COLA, as well as non-union pay
and class adjustments. The department is fully staff with 46 police officers. Expenses are
level funded.
The Coalition salaries increased 3.5% based on the pay and class study. There are no
grants funding salaries. Expenses decrease 35.5%, as programs will be funded with the
opioid settlement money.
Salary increases for Dispatch were based on the pay and class study for the Head
Dispatcher who is non-union, and a 5.5% increase for union contracts steps and COLAs. An
E-911 grant for $65,000 enabled a decrease in requested funding for overtime. Also, as of
today, Dispatch is fully staffed. Expenses were level-funded.
Town Department budget presentations will continue at the next meeting with Finance,
Public Works and Enterprise Funds, Library, and Facilities.
Discussion and Possible Vote on Ex-Officio FINCOM Member for Ad Hoc Community
Preservation Act Study Committee:
Mr. Ross shared the charge and composition of the Ad Hoc Community Preservation Act
Study Committee, which includes one ex-officio member of the Finance Committee, and
asked if any members were interested in being the FINCOM designee. Joe Carnahan stated
that he is interested. Marianne Downing requested that Mr. Carnahan find out about the
true cost to residents, and whether the additional tax would be on the rate with debt
exclusions, or the rate without debt exclusions.
Page 1 4
On a motion by Emily Sisson, seconded by Endri Kume, the Finance Committee
voted unanimously 9-0-0 to appoint Joe Carnahan as the ex-officio Finance
Committee member to the Ad Hoc Community Preservation Act Study Committee.
Future Agendas:
Mr. Ross noted that the Committee is scheduled to meet next week and the week after, but
might be able to finish everything and vote on the budget and warrant articles next week.
Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes:
On a motion by Emily Sisson, seconded by Mark Zarrow, the Finance Committee
voted unanimously9-0-0 to approve the meeting minutes of February 28, 2024 as
presented.
On a motion by Emily Sisson, seconded by Joe Carnahan, the Finance Committee
voted unanimously 9-0-0 to adjourn at 9:25 pm.
Page 1 5