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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-03-26 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. Page | 1 2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Select Board Date: 2024-03-26 Time: 7:30 PM Building: Reading Public Library Location: Community Room Address: 64 Middlesex Avenue Agenda: Revised Purpose: General Business Meeting Called By: Caitlin Nocella on behalf of Vice Chair acting as Chair Mark Dockser 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. All Meeting Postings must be submitted in typed format; handwritten notices will not be accepted. Topics of Discussion: Zoom Option: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87292249895 Meeting ID: 872 9224 9895 Dial by your location • +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) • +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/keFZZCfhaW 7:30 Board Discussion and Vote to Reorganize 7:45 Overview of Meeting 7:50 Public Comment 8:00 Select Board Liaison and Town Manager Reports 8:15 Vote to re-open Town Meeting Warrant and close warrant with new Town Meeting start date 8:30 Vote to adopt Hazard Mitigation Plan 9:00 Vote to hold in-person/early voting for Special Election on May 14, 2024 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 9:15 Discuss and Vote on Modification to CPA Study Committee membership to include member of Conservation Commission 9:30 Vote to appoint Select Board member to CPA Study Committee 9:45 Vote to Appoint Town Accountant to a term July 2024-June 2025 10:00 Discuss Investigation into Board Conduct 10:30 Discuss Future Agendas 10:40 Approve Meeting Minutes 10:50 Executive Session: Purpose 3: To discuss strategy with respect to Koster v. Town of Reading (Appellate Tax Board (ATB) Docket No. F-350310) and Koster v. Town of Reading (ATB Docket No. F-350371). *This agenda was revised on 3/21 to change the location and start time of the meeting to accommodate a larger venue 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 53E½ 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 Street (Chronicle 40R), 18-20 Woburn Street (40R), 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 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 ARTICLE 13 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 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 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 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 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 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 ___________, 2024. _______________________ Mark L. Dockser, Vice Chair _______________________ Karen Gately Herrick, Secretary _______________________ Carlo Bacci _______________________ Chris Haley SELECT BOARD OF READING _______________________________ , Constable Select Board Presentation 3/26/24 1 Reading’s Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2023 2 JAMIE CAPLAN CONSULTING LLC Bill Bohn, Risk Assessment Lead David Murphy, Mitigation Specialist Darrin Punchard, Deputy Project Manager Jamie Caplan, Project Manager 3 What is a Hazard Mitigation Plan? •The Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 requires all municipalities that wish to be eligible to receive Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for hazard mitigation grants to adopt a local multi-hazard mitigation plan and update this plan in five-year intervals. •Hazard mitigation planning is a proactive effort to identify long- term strategies and actions that can be taken to reduce the dangers to life and property from natural hazard events such as extreme weather, flooding, tornadoes, wildfire, or infectious diseases. •The Plan includes risk assessments, hazard mitigation goals and actionable measures. •FEMA approval, and Town adoption, of our Hazard Mitigation Plan allows the Town to apply for hazard mitigation grant funds. 4 What are the potential grant opportunities? •Building Resilient Infrastructure Communities (BRIC) grant program provides funds for hazard mitigation projects. –Manchester-by-the-Sea, $4.48mn to retrofit and restore the culvert system around the Central St Bridge and Sawmill Brook –Chelsea & Everett, $50mn to implement gray and green flood resilience solutions to address coastal flood risks in disadvantaged communities –MBTA, $10mn for flood doors for the Blue Line to the airport •Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Grants –Town of Reading received one to implement our Maillet, Sommes, and Morgan wetland restoration and stormwater storage project TIMELINE 5 Nov 2022 Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Fall 2023 Jan 2024 Mar 2024 Task 1. Convene Local HMPC Kick- off Mtg HMPC Mtg HMPC Mtg Public Mtg HMPC Mtg HMPC & Public Mtg Public Mtg (CAC) Task 2. Update Hazard Profiles Task 3. Update Critical Facility Inventory Task 4. Update Mitigation Goals Task 5. Update Mitigation Actions Task 6. Plan Review, Evaluation, and Implementation Task 7. Public Review of Draft Task 8. Review and Approval Approved by MEMA Approved by FEMA Adopted by Town Reading’s plan was updated from 2022-2023, by the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HPMC), a working group of municipal departments, led by our consulting team. We held two virtual public meetings and presented the Draft plan to the CAC for comments. The plan has already been approved by MEMA & FEMA, adoption by the Select Board is the final step. 6 WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PLAN •Chapter 1. Introduction –Changes since the Previous Plan •Chapter 2. Planning Area Profile –Population –Infrastructure –Land Use •Chapter 3. Planning Process –Who was involved –Studies reviewed •Chapter 4. Risk Assessment –Hazard profiles –Critical Facilities –Summary of Risk •Chapter 5. Capability Assessment –Plans, Administration, Finances, Education –National Flood Insurance Program •Chapter 6. Mitigation Strategy –Goals –Mitigation Actions •Chapter 7. Plan Implementation and Maintenance –Method and schedule for implementation HAZARDS FOR READING HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 7 Primary Climate Change Interactions Natural Hazards Changes in Precipitation •Flooding (includes dam failure, ice jams) •Drought •Landslide Rising Temperatures •Extreme Temperatures •Wildfires (including brush fires) •Invasive Species •Infectious Disease Extreme Weather •Hurricanes/Tropical Storms •Severe Winter Storm/Nor’easter •Tornadoes •Other Severe Weather (includes microbursts, thunderstorms, etc.) Non-Climate Influenced Hazards •Earthquake 8 HAZARD RANKING Hazards Probability Impact Spatial Extent Warning Time Duration Value Rank Severe Winter Storms 4 3 4 1 3 3.3 High Extreme Temperatures 4 2 4 1 3 3 High Flood 4 3 2 3 2 3 High Drought 2 3 4 1 4 2.8 Mod. Infectious Disease 3 2 4 2 2 2.7 Mod. Hurricanes/Wind 2 3 4 1 2 2.6 Mod. Invasive Species 3 2 2 3 4 2.6 Mod. Other Severe Weather 4 1 4 2 1 2.6 Mod. Tornadoes 2 4 1 3 1 2.4 Mod. Wildfires/Brushfires 2 1 3 3 3 2.1 Mod. Earthquakes 1 1 4 4 1 1.9 Low Landslide 1 2 1 4 1 1.6 Low CRITICAL FACILITIES 9 Municipal Offices Fire Stations Police Station Schools Water Treatment Facility Power Substation Elderly Housing and Nursing Homes Water Storage Tanks Sewer Pump Stations Medical Facilities Train Station •Mitigation actions are a measure, project, plan or activity proposed to reduce current and future vulnerabilities described in the risk assessment. 10 MITIGATION ACTIONS HMPC and Public Engagement MVP Plan Actions Risk & Capability Assessments Previous Mitigation Plan A RANGE OF MITIGATION ACTIONS 11 MITIGATION ACTIONS Action #Action Title Priority 1 Enhance public safety team's critical communications abilities High 2 Update development regulations to require stormwater systems to consider climate projected storm levels High 3 Publicize emergency communication plans & increase resident coverage High 4 Upgrade old and undersized drainage culverts and pipes that cause flooding during heavy rain events High 5 Design & construct flood storage and stormwater infiltration projects on Town-owned land High 6 Implement stream stabilization, stream restoration, and address sedimentation issues.High 7 Update critical transportation infrastructure High 8 Provide full generator coverage at more critical facilities High 9 Update critical water and sewer infrastructure (including adding backup power)High 10 Promote Sustainable Building Practices Medium 11 Incorporate green infrastructure into future Town development projects Medium 12 Integrate Climate Resilience into all future Plan updates Medium 13 Identify and pursue opportunities to engage on climate and hazard mitigation Medium 14 Conduct vulnerability study of critical facilities Medium 15 Complete an urban heat island study Medium 16 Implement urban forest management Low 17 Create tree policy / planting guide Low 18 Create an invasive species wetland policy Low 19 Create tree database Low 12 TOWN OF READING, MASSACHUSETTS SELECT BOARD A MOTION ADOPTING THE TOWN OF READING, MA HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 2023 WHEREAS the Town of Reading recognizes the threat that natural hazards pose to people and property within the Town of Reading; and WHEREAS the Town of Reading has prepared a multi-hazard mitigation plan, hereby known as TOWN OF READING, MA HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 2023 in accordance with federal laws, including the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended; the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended; and the National Dam Safety Program Act, as amended; and WHEREAS the TOWN OF READING, MA HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 2023 identifies mitigation goals and actions to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property in the Town of Reading from the impacts of future hazards and disasters; and WHEREAS adoption by the Town of Reading Select Board demonstrates its commitment to hazard mitigation and achieving the goals outlined in the TOWN OF READING, MA HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 2023. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN OF READING, MA, THAT: Section 1. In accordance with M.G.L. c. 40, the Town of Reading Select Board adopts the TOWN OF READING, MA HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 2023. While content related to the Town of Reading may require revisions to meet the plan approval requirements, changes occurring after adoption will not require Town of Reading to re-adopt any further iterations of the plan. Subsequent plan updates following the approval period for this plan will require separate adoption resolutions. ADOPTED by a vote of ________ in favor and ________ against, and ________ abstaining, this _______ day of _______, _______________. By: _________________________________ Mark L. Dockser, Chair ATTEST: By: _________________________________ Karen Gately Herrick, Vice Chair APPROVED AS TO FORM: By: _________________________________ Laura Gemme, Town Clerk CPA Study Committee Move to create a Community Preservation Act Ad Hoc Committee, comprised of 7 voting members and one non-voting member to be appointed by the Select Board, and is charged with facilitating communications with community leaders, Town Administration, Town Meeting Members, the Select Board, local community groups, and the statewide Community Preservation Coalition to share information regarding the opportunities and challenges when adopting the CPA. The Committee will study the need for the CPA and the various methods for adoption and present its findings to the Select Board in time to achieve a town wide vote in the November election including preparation for a special town meeting vote that accommodates the November 5, 2024 election; said committee to sunset on December 31, 2024, unless extended. Members will be comprised of: 5 ex-officio voting members: • Select board member • Recreation member • Historical Commission member • Affordable housing trust member • FINCOM member And 2 residents who will apply directly to the Select Board with preference given to current or past members of either trails committee, town forest committee or conservation commission. And 1 non-voting member who shall not count towards quorum who is the Director of Reading Housing Authority April 9, 2024 Tuesday Overview of Meeting Public Comment Select Board Liaison and Town Manager Reports Arbor Day Proclamation Chris Cole Community DEI Assesment With School Com & Library Trustees - Amy Discuss & Vote on Bill Russell Committee (BRACE) April 22, 2024 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING April 25, 2023 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING April 29, 2023 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING May 2, 2024 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING May 7, 2024 Tuesday Discuss creating a Building Committee for the Senior Center Project May 21, 2024 Tuesday HEARING Discuss/Vote on FY25 Non-Union Classification & Compensation Schedules Discuss FY25 Water & Sewer Rates Discuss and Vote on Creation of Building Committee for Senior Center project June 4, 2024 Tuesday HEARING Discuss and Vote FY25 Water & Sewer Rates June 18, 2024 Tuesday Vote on VASC recommendations for Annual board/committee Appointments Vote to declare Surplus Items: Fire Department Ladder Truck Chief Burns July 16, 2024 Tuesday August 20, 2024 Tuesday September 10, 2024 STATE PRIMARY September 17, 2024 Tuesday October 8, 2024 Tuesday October 29, 2024 Tuesday Hearing Tax Classification November 5, 2024 STATE ELECTION November 12, 2024 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING November 14, 2024 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING November 18, 2024 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING November 19, 2024 Tuesday November 21, 2024 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING December 3, 2024 Tuesday Vote to approve Annual Liquor Licenses December 4, 2024 Wednesday Department Budget Presentations December 10, 2024 Tuesday Department Budget Presentations Recurring Agenda Items Close Warrant: Annual Town Meeting March Close Warrant: Subsequent Town Meeting September Appoint Town Accountant March Annual HEARING Approve Classification & Compensation May Annual Appointments of Boards & Committees May/June Annual HEARING Approve Tax Classification October Annual Approve Licenses December Annual Arbor Day Proclamation April Annual Liaison: RCTV members Report Annual Liaison: CAB (RMLD) member Report Annual Liaison: MAPC member Report Annual Liaison: Reading Housing Authority Report Annual Liaison: Reading Ice Arena Report Annual Town Accountant Report Qtrly Economic Development Director Semi-ann Parking/Traffic/Transportation Task Force (PTTTF) Town Board & Committee visits Town Department visits Review Select Board Goals Review Town Manager Goals February/March Select Board Mee�ng Minutes - DRAFT Saturday, January 27, 2024, 9:00 am Town Hall Select Board Mee�ng Room 16 Lowell Street Interview of Town Manager Candidates Members Present: Chair Jackie McCarthy, Vice Chair Mark Dockser, Secretary Karen Gately Herrick, Carlo Bacci, Chris Haley Others Present: Community Paradigm Associates Consultant Bernard Lynch, Human Resources Director Sean Donahue, Nancy Docktor (in-person then remote 9:55 am), Tom Motl (remote), G (remote 9:47 am), Ann Motl (remote 11:30 am), Barbara (remote 1:20 pm), KK’s iphone (remote 1:35 pm), Aus�nantram (remote 1:38 pm), Resident (remote 1:38 pm), Kim (remote 1:49 pm) Candidates Interviewed: Clancy Main, Mat Kraunelis, Mat Coogan, Tony Barleta This mee�ng was held in-person in the Select Board Mee�ng Room of Town Hall and remotely via Zoom. Chair Jackie McCarthy called the mee�ng to order at 9:07 am. Consultant Bernard Lynch of Community Paradigm Associates, and recruiter for the Town Manager search, reviewed the search and interview process to date, and explained his process for today to ask lead-in ques�ons designed to have a dialogue with each candidate. Interview Town Manager Candidates: Clancy Main Community Paradigm Consultant Bernie Lynch asked the first candidate, Clancy Main, to explain how he got into municipal government and why he would like to come to Reading. Clancy Main stated that he grew up in North Reading and went to Aus�n Prep. He is currently the Assistant Town Manager in Billerica, a community of approximately 45,000 residents, 400 employees, and a $200 million opera�ng budget. He helps the Town Manager with the day-to-day, is the personnel director, and handles personnel nego�a�ons. He has overseen several projects including a fire sta�on, a field complex, historic renova�ons, a senior center, and a DPW project. He stated that he was excited at the opportunity in Reading because Reading is embarking on projects that Billerica has already done. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main about his leadership style. Mr. Main stated that he is very introspec�ve and always trying to find ways to do beter and be a beter manager. He likes to be a team builder, to collaborate, to be there for his employees, and have regular pop-up mee�ngs with department heads. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Main about his leadership in the community. Mr. Main answered that he spends a lot of �me in the community in Billerica, and thinks it is important for administra�on to be seen in the community. He atends events at the Senior Center, rode a float in the town parade, and will visit the coffee shop frequented by many residents to chat with them there. He enjoys a good rela�onship with the boards and commitees. He tries to be a unifier and do what is best for the community. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main how he ensured collabora�on and communica�on. Mr. Main cited a �me when residents, elected officials, and other board members could not come to a consensus on priori�es. He and the Town Manager hatched the idea of a Capital Facili�es Commitee comprised of eight Chairs from various boards and commitees with vested interest. The group was able to bring in a consultant, and ranked needed and wanted projects in �ers. Those chairs were able to get the members from their respec�ve boards and commitees on board. Through this process, the town designed a Senior Center and Recrea�on Center. Ms. Herrick asked Mr. Main to speak about the funding process and building consensus throughout the community to take on large capital projects when people are concerned about the cost of living. Mr. Main explained the need to be transparent the whole way, including the cost to build, and future cost to staff and maintain. He noted that Billerica built up a debt stabiliza�on fund, started in 2012, to act as kind of a piggy bank instead of using free cash, so such projects are not a burden on taxpayers. Mr. Haley noted that Billerica’s opera�ng budget is significantly larger than Reading’s and asked if a smaller budget would be a hindrance. Mr. Main explained that Billerica is $30 million under proposi�on 2 ½, and could tax the residents an addi�onal $30 million each year, but exercises fiscal restraint and does not, so as not to burden the taxpayers. They are conserva�ve in the way that they budget. Mr. Main also explained Billerica’s tax base is 70% residen�al, and 30% commercial. He noted that the town tries to drive people to small businesses, and tries to ensure the businesses have a place to go. Commercial space is a mix of new developments and redevelopment. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Main how he envisions working with and suppor�ng Reading’s Economic Development Director. Mr. Main explained that Billerica also has an Economic Development Director and had a conversa�on with her about what Reading could do to market Reading as the place to be. Ms. McCarthy asked Mr. Main what his philosophy is on addressing some of the issues surrounding the changes on MBTA Communi�es. Mr. Main noted that housing is tough in every community, as people just do not like the prospect of change. He explained that there needs to be a respec�ul dialog, and explana�on that it is an opportunity and good for the community, that change will be slow, and neighborhoods will not be overhauled overnight. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main if Billerica was ac�ve in Green Communi�es. Mr. Main stated that Billerica was not a Green Community when he started there, but he worked to get the stretch energy code passed, and eventually Billerica was designated a green community. They have received several grants from Green Communi�es for projects around town. Ms. Herrick asked Mr. Main about his experience with the Community Preserva�on Act. Mr. Main stated that Billerica gets approximately $1 million per year from CPA. He has seen the funds used on two projects: a historical building renova�on to become the cable access studio, and fields for the recrea�on facility. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main about his financial management, involvement with the budget, and assembling a GFOA budget. Mr. Main recalled his experience as Chief of Staff to City Council and viewed the budget from the staff and the community perspec�ve. They created a document that gave every department a sec�on to tell their story, their goals, share pictures, and have narra�ves on how their por�on of the budget would be spent. He spends �me working with department heads on their capital, and understanding their opera�ons. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main to explain his role in personnel management and collec�ve bargaining. Mr. Main stated that he spends a lot of �me with department heads to figure out language changes and put together an ini�al plan to offer to the union. He costs the contract, and nego�ates along with the Town Manager. He cited recent contract nego�a�ons to solve problems hiring water and sewer operators, and CDL drivers. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main how he handles performance evalua�ons. Mr. Main stated that Billerica does not do performance evalua�ons, though they do give a lot of feedback to department heads. Mr. Dockser noted that the Select Board conducts performance evalua�ons of the Town Manager and asked Mr. Main how he felt a performance evalua�on of him would work. Mr. Main stated that he always wants to get beter, and is always looking for feedback and construc�ve cri�cism. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main how he has demonstrated his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Mr. Main explained that following an equity issue with an employee, he realized that he can add to the conversa�on and wants to ensure that everyone feels comfortable being involved and having a voice. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main about his involvement with social media with regards to interac�ng with ci�zens, making government more transparent, and communica�ons. Mr. Main stated that he did his capstone project on social media and local government. He cited his experience with a project that had misinforma�on circula�ng about it, so he started a Facebook page and spent �me pu�ng informa�on about ongoing projects on it. He also created a newsleter, and did a lot with cable access. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main how he would manage a rela�onship with the Select Board. Mr. Main stated that in the early stages of ge�ng to know the Select Board, he may overcommunicate, just to be upfront, and would expect the same from Select Board members. He would always be accessible. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Main how he would be engaged with the community in Reading. Mr. Main stated that he grew up in North Reading, and currently lives in Derry, NH, but he and his wife want to move back to the area. He noted that having Fridays off is an opportunity to s�ll come in, meet with people in the community, and meet with cons�tuents and address their issues. Mr. Dockser noted that Reading is looking for someone who will remain in the Town Manager posi�on for a long �me and asked Mr. Main how Reading might fit into his plans. Mr. Main stated that he has spent a lot of �me in the Reading community. It means a lot to him, and it is a place he would stay for a very long �me. He would like to see projects like Killam through the process. He stated that Reading is a great community with a lot of opportuni�es, and a lot of challenges. He would like to be a part of the community and bring his family here. Mr. Bacci asked Mr. Main how he felt about pickleball. Mr. Main stated that he played pickleball once. He knows Reading is trying to build pickleball courts in Town, and suggested a public-private partnership might be possible with the golf course. Matt Kraunelis The second candidate interviewed was Mat Kraunelis, the current Assistant Town Manager, and only internal candidate. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis how he got into municipal government, why he is interested in the Town Manager posi�on, and why he feels he will be successful. Mr. Kraunelis thanked Mr. Lynch and the Select Board for this opportunity. He recalled his history gradua�ng from Merrimack College and going to law school. He was interested in poli�cs, policy, and government. He spent a few years a�er college prac�cing law in the public sector, then ran for City Council, won, and spent six years, reaching the term limit, on the Methuen City Council. He then became Chief of Staff to the Mayor in Methuen. When the Mayor reached his term limit, Mr. Kraunelis went to work for the State Office of Consumer Affairs. A�er some �me there, he wanted to go back into town government, the opportunity as the Reading Director of Administra�ve Services arose, and he was hired in 2015. He was in the posi�on for seven years before being appointed as Assistant Town Manager, and he is currently the Ac�ng Town Manager. He stated that his passion is public service and wants to stay in public service in Reading. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about his leadership style, and how his style would enable him to make changes that he deems necessary. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he knows everybody and helped to build the team. Reading has seen a lot of changes over the last few years, and he feels that he can provide stability and keep the team together. He acknowledged that some�mes change is needed, and he meets with employees and department heads regularly. He considers himself a servant leader, not autocra�c, and likes to inspire and guide employees as they do their work. Mr. Lynch asked how Mr. Kraunelis would assess the Reading organiza�on, where change is needed, and how he would go about it. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he works in Opera�ons and meets with employees and residents every day. He hears things, and hears when things need to change. He likes to lead by example and would demonstrate to department heads and employees how he can adapt and make changes, too. People can be afraid of change, but with communica�on skills, and ensuring everyone is heard, you can get the job done. For example, with the change in Town Managers, there was uncertainty, but things had to change. He talked and listened to people, le�ng them know that their opinions were valuable. During the financial crisis in 2008 in Methuen, they had to ask every employee to take a pay cut. It took a lot of work, but they did not have to do any layoffs. Ms. McCarthy asked how he would approach mentoring and leadership of new, and senior department heads. Mr. Kraunelis stated they all have different needs, and there is a level of trust you must develop with each of them. He allows them to work in their style, and is there to support when needed. Other department heads need a litle more handholding. He makes himself available, troubleshoots when needed, and makes decisions when needed. Mr. Dockser asked what other ways he would support staff with less experience. Mr. Kraunelis stated that addi�onal training is always effec�ve, and has worked on training programs that include de-stressing and preven�ng burn-out. If there are any classes an employee wants to take, he is suppor�ve, and proud whenever one of Reading’s employees comes through public leadership and management training. It comes down to training and mentoring to deal with issues head-on. Mr. Dockser asked how Mr. Kraunelis sees his role with the community outside of employees, such as resident issues, and volunteers. Mr. Kraunelis stated that one of the benefits of his role as Ombudsman is he meets a lot of ci�zens, and he has found that they mostly want to be heard. He noted his apprecia�on for and importance of the many volunteers who take the �me to serve on boards on nights and weekends, and that he has a good rela�onship with all the Boards and Commitees. He makes sure that mee�ngs are staffed when needed, and that they are also listened to and heard. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Kraunelis how he sees himself mee�ng the efforts of the many ongoing ac�vi�es planned. Mr. Kraunelis stated that the Town Manager must be a leader in those efforts. He cited the current Killam School Building project, and how he spoke with the Owner’s Project Manager and architect to ask what they needed from him, and brought addi�onal staff members onto the project to ensure that all those needs are met. He has also been involved with the feasibility study for ReCALC and keeping it on track. He noted that every �me he has asked staff to provide assistance, they have done it. Providing resources is what the Town Manager needs to do. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about his experience developing a municipal budget, and his philosophy when developing one. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he has worked on both state and municipal budgets. He explained that the process in Reading begins in September and October with Financial Forums with the Finance Commitee, and ge�ng guidance on the use of free cash. He has met with division heads to review the budgets historically, and decided whether changes were needed. Department Heads will then review with the Town Manager, which he has helped with as well. The budget he is working on currently is balanced, and he has a great rela�onship with the Chief Financial Officer and Town Treasurer. Any changes that are needed are made right away. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about the Finance Commitee process and whether he feels it is best prac�ce. Mr. Kraunelis explained that at the Financial Forum, the Finance Commitee will consult with the CFO on the total finances of the Town, and will suggest how much free cash to use to balance the budget. The Finance Commitee has priori�es and guidelines. He noted that the Town is in a good free cash posi�on most years and free cash use just provides a litle support. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about his background with capital budge�ng. Mr. Kraunelis explained that he did a lot of capital budge�ng for Methuen, but not as much in Reading. Technology, which was formerly a division of Administra�ve Services, has a lot of capital, and he worked collabora�vely with the Technology Director. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about his involvement with project management and managing facili�es projects. Mr. Kraunelis cited his experience with Methuen High School. While he was not the lead on the project, as the Chief of Staff, he handled all the paperwork with the MSBA. In Reading, he is currently working on the Killam School Building Project, with signing authority as Ac�ng Town Manager, and is involved with the ongoing Senior Center feasibility study. He was also involved with the Library project at the end. Mr. Lynch asked what issues he has seen, and work he has done with the Senior/Community Center. Mr. Kraunelis stated that the team working on the project has looked at what a lot of other communi�es have done, and has visited other senior centers. He was involved with the procurement. Ms. Herrick asked Mr. Kraunelis what he would love to see happen in Reading. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he would love to see the Killam School and Senior Center built. He would love to see more community events, and he is interested in arts and culture. He dedicates much of his spare �me to arts in culture in Methuen. In Reading, there is an Arts & Culture plan with a grant to support it. He noted that the payback is big on such events and gives a sense of pride to the community. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about his personnel management and role in collec�ve bargaining. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he nego�ated contracts with the Mayor in Methuen (he noted that the infamous Police contract happened a�er his �me in Methuen). And in Reading, he was part of the team that former Town Manager Fidel Maltez assembled. Mr. Haley asked Mr. Kraunelis if he has an internal candidate in mind to fill his posi�on if he is appointed as Town Manager. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he can think of several internal individuals who could step into his role, some of whom have MPAs, and some who are working towards them. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Kraunelis what he envisions the role of the Assistant Town Manager should be. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he would be looking for someone who could do the job as it stands now overseeing all divisions of Administra�ve Services and Public Services. Ms. McCarthy asked Mr. Kraunelis what he learned working with the State Office of Consumer Affairs, and how it would help him in the role of Town Manager. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he learned a lot about consumer protec�on and would make sure that consumers were ge�ng the most for their money. In his �me there, he reviewed many issues, and went to a lot of hearings regarding regula�ons. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about his experience with land use and development, and how he would see his impact on the development of Reading. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he had experience in Methuen. The Economic Development Director le�, and he was overseeing the Planning Department as Chief of Staff, and completed an updated Master Plan. In Reading, he also oversees the Planning Division, where there is the 40R Smart Growth District and the ongoing MBTA Communi�es mandate. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis if Methuen was a Green Community. Mr. Kraunelis stated that Methuen was a Green Community early on and received an early grant. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis how he has demonstrated a commitment to diversity. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he was on the team that hired Reading’s first Director of Equity and Social Jus�ce. He has worked with the Human Rights Advisory Commitee (HRAC) and Reading Embraces Diversity (RED), and hopes to con�nue working on diversity ini�a�ves. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis about his thoughts on social media. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he believes it is important, as it is a main way many people get their informa�on. Reading’s first Facebook started under him, and is currently maintained by two employees. Mr. Bacci noted that communica�on about the impact of construc�on projects on downtown businesses was not handled well and asked Mr. Kraunelis what he would have done differently. Mr. Kraunelis explained that the Town o�en did not get no�fica�on from u�li�es un�l the day of construc�on. They have been trying to build rela�onships with u�lity companies to get more advanced no�ce. For town contracted work, they try to get the word out as soon as the informa�on is available. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis how he would like to see his rela�onship with the Select Board if appointed. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he has enjoyed a great rela�onship with the Board, even before being appointed Ac�ng Town Manager. He does not want the Select Board to be surprised by anything, and would communicate about issues right away. The Select Board sets the policy, and it is the Town Manager’s job and staff’s job to implement those policies. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Kraunelis about his rela�onship with the state delega�on. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he has a great rela�onship with the delega�on and has known them for a long �me. Even as Director of Administra�ve Services, it has been part of his role to be ac�ve with the state government and delega�on. He noted that former Town Manager Fidel Maltez did exceedingly well working with the delega�on in securing state grants, and he would like to see that con�nue. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Kraunelis how engaged he is with municipal professional organiza�ons. Mr. Kraunelis stated that he atends the Massachusets Municipal Associa�on’s Annual Conference. He also atends the monthly Manager’s breakfast with a local group of Mayors and Town Managers. He is also a member of the Massachusets Municipal Lawyers Associa�on, and plans to join the Massachusets Municipal Managers Associa�on if appointed as Town Manager. Matt Coogan The third interview was with candidate Mat Coogan, the current Town Administrator in Boxford. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan to introduce himself and explain why he is interested in Reading. Mr. Coogan began by thanking the Select Board and the hiring commitee. He stated that he felt that Reading has a good partnership between the Schools and Town, and a�er his experience with the Reading Immersion earlier this week, it feels like a good fit for him. He has worked in local government for approximately eleven years, and noted his background in Planning. He is currently the Town Administrator in Boxford, and while he is not ac�vely looking to leave Boxford, he stated that Reading is one of those great opportuni�es that comes along that are worth exploring. He stated that he had an accident in 2022 that he wanted to be up front about. He was driving home, lost control, hit a phone poll, and had been drinking. He stated that since then, he has been trying to have accountability for his mistake by going through the process of con�nua�on without a finding. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan what ac�ons he would take in his first 100 days to illustrate his management style. Mr. Coogan explained that he would get out in the community to meet people, get to know all the Department Heads and Boards and Commitees, and work with the Select Board to figure out how they can work together. He stated that his leadership style is based on communica�on, and sees his management style as managing a team, like an orchestra, and the role of Town Manager is a suppor�ng role, seeing the bigger picture and working with the Select Board to get mul�ple priori�es balanced. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about his leadership style with the Community as a whole. Mr. Coogan stated that he likes to be approachable and available to residents. He noted that Boxford does not have a newspaper, so he ins�tuted a newsleter. He also holds bimonthly open office hours, par�cipates in community events, and atends weekly lunches at the Senior Center. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Coogan how he envisioned himself working with Reading’s many volunteers. Mr. Coogan stated that when he started in Boxford, his first 100-day process included atending at least one mee�ng of every board and commitee. He introduced himself and set up �me with each Board and Commitee Chair to learn what was happening with their board. Beyond boards, there are local athle�c organiza�ons, Chamber of Commerce, and other community organiza�ons, that he would reach out to and schedule a mee�ng to learn about their work. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about his experience with budget development and his financial management philosophy. Mr. Coogan stated that this is his sixth season overseeing the budget process. He stated that his philosophy is adhering to the financial policies and best prac�ces of municipal finance. He tries to be proac�ve for budgets for the next several years. Mr. Haley asked Mr. Coogan what Boxford’s opera�ng budget is, and if he could handle the larger demand with the amount of money that Reading has. Mr. Coogan stated that the setup for the budget process is similar regardless of how much revenue there is, and the opera�ng budget. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about capital planning and funding. Mr. Coogan stated that Boxford had the first dra� of the capital plan when he arrived. It is funded with free cash, debt appropria�ons, Community Preserva�on Act, and state grant funding and earmarks. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan what his thoughts were on using free cash for the opera�ng budget. Mr. Coogan stated that it all depends on the system in place. He stated that he thought it was interes�ng that Reading uses an amount of free cash appropriated every year, and that it could be a slippery slope if it is not well maintained and managed. In Boxford, free cash has become like a stabiliza�on fund in addi�on to the stabiliza�on fund. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about Green Communi�es. Mr. Coogan stated that Boxford is a Green Community. He also managed Green Communi�es in Gloucester, Salem, and Newburyport. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about his experience managing capital projects and facility projects. Mr. Coogan stated that most recently he has been involved with the process for a new senior/community center, and is currently working on the design of the DPW facility, and electrifica�on of the HVAC system in one of the elementary schools in Boxford. In Newburyport, he was part of the mul�-modal parking garage facility project, as well as street light conversions in Gloucester. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about his background in grant wri�ng. Mr. Coogan stated that as administrator of Green Communi�es, it entailed a lot of grant wri�ng. He also was successful in securing MassWorks grants for a bridge replacement, $3 million for parks, and $250,000 for the design of a rail trail. Ms. McCarthy asked Mr. Coogan about his approach to addressing land use and development concerns at the local level, and how to help Boards and Commitees work through them. Mr. Coogan noted the importance of involving stakeholders early in the process, as well as working with developers before they get too far into the process. Ms. Herrick asked Mr. Coogan what excites him about coming to Reading. Mr. Coogan stated that given his planning background, he was excited about the development and taking advantage of the ameni�es in town, such as the train sta�on, balancing the characteris�cs of the community, projec�ng what type of housing stock is needed for the next few years, and the new Killam School. Mr. Lynch asked how the idea for an outdoor dining parklet came about, and the importance of the rela�onship with small businesses. Mr. Coogan recalled his experience working for a small business growing up in upstate New York, and noted the challenges that local small businesses have. In graduate school, he worked for a non-profit that did Business Improvement Districts. He also cited his experience with Economic Development in Salem working with businesses to develop business plans to get funding. Ms. McCarthy asked Mr. Coogan his philosophy on pursuing MBTA Communi�es, and what that entails with community mee�ngs and Town Mee�ng. Mr. Coogan stated that he and the Land Use Director in Boxford were able to secure outside funds to get technical assistance and provide data. They are working to determine what is in the best interest of the town, relying on the regional planning associa�on, and ge�ng grants for technical assistance, which has made the process less concerning for Boxford residents. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Coogan about his leadership with projects like MBTA Communi�es, Killam School, and Senior/Community Center, and how he envisions his role as Town Manager. Mr. Coogan stated that he works by �melines, figures out how long it will take and works backwards. He brought in someone from the state to speak with the Planning Board, and had the Land Use Director provide informa�on to Town Mee�ng. He explained a current situa�on of dealing with underu�lized town buildings, and created a commitee that consisted of members of other boards to go through the process. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about his personnel management, experience with collec�ve bargaining, hiring, reten�on, and succession. Mr. Coogan stated that he was the head nego�ator in Newburyport and Boxford, has nego�ated about ten contracts in roughly six years, and is data driven in nego�a�ons. He cited his process in Boxford to update the compensa�on plan. For succession planning, he tried to be crea�ve in holding on to ins�tu�onal knowledge as much as possible. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan about his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Mr. Coogan stated that a speaker speaking about privilege le� a las�ng impression on him, and how privilege affects how one is perceived in the community and what doors are open to you. In the a�ermath of the George Floyd incident, they created a DEI alliance designed to get people to work together, and help everyone understand what the issues are. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Coogan how he would envision his rela�onship with the Select Board. Mr. Coogan stated that his system in Boxford works well. He has bi-weekly mee�ngs with the Chair, makes himself available to members as much as they want, and provides them with as much informa�on as possible. He also stated that he tries his hardest to work with the Select Board Chair to keep mee�ngs to two hours or less. Mr. Bacci asked Mr. Coogan how he felt about pickleball. Mr. Coogan stated that he has never played the sport, but understands that it has become the rage. Mr. Coogan concluded by sta�ng that he has a lot of experience that makes him a dynamic candidate that he thinks the Select Board is looking for, and has a lot of state partners that can help. Antonio Barletta Mr. Lynch asked the fourth and final candidate, Antonio “Tony” Barleta, to explain what got him into municipal government, why he is interested in coming to Reading, and why he feels he would be successful in Reading. Mr. Barleta is the current Town Administrator for Nahant, MA. He thanked Mr. Lynch and the Select Board for providing him with this opportunity. He stated that he lives with his wife and two children in Beverly, and grew up in Nahant. He has a litle over six years of experience at the state level and six years at the municipal level. What drew him to the opportunity in Reading is the long-term rela�onships with prior Town Managers. He noted that Reading has a lot of community pride, and like Nahant, is a mostly residen�al community. The opportunity for downtown development is something he will not experience in Nahant. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Barleta to explain his management style. Mr. Barleta explained that he likes to listen and engage, is team-oriented, treats his staff as family, and makes sure that members feel as much as a part of the team as he does. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Barleta how he would illustrate to the Board, the staff, and the community, what they would have with him as Town Manager. Mr. Barleta noted that the �ming is approaching Town Mee�ng, and MBTA Communi�es is a challenge that Reading is facing. He would sit down with the Board and staff to understand their priori�es. He would do the same externally, by building rela�onships with the community, state delega�on, and businesses in town. He cited his first 100 days in Nahant, where the community was in a shaky financial situa�on. But he learned of the situa�on, taught it, and got community support. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Barleta how he sees the role of the Town Manager with the community at large. Mr. Barleta explained he sees the role of the Town Manager in any community is to keep the surface calm, and to make sure the community feels that the town is working on their behalf, while protec�ng the Select Board and Department Heads. The Town Manager needs to problem solve in a way that promotes the community’s belief in its local government. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Barleta how he plans to work with individuals and groups in the community. Mr. Barleta stated that being present, being available, and communica�ng is the founda�on of building the rela�onship with the community, and not just atending community events, but also promo�ng them, or crea�ng new ones. He would work with the Chamber of Commerce to understand what local small businesses are experiencing, and being responsive to their concerns. Mr. Lynch asked how he would communicate and build rela�onships with appointed boards and commitees, and with the Schools. Mr. Barleta noted that boards and commitees are comprised of a lot of talented people who dedicate their �me. He would be available to them, atend their mee�ngs, and be suppor�ve of them. He stated that in Nahant he has a close rela�onship with the Superintendent of Schools, and it is important to work with one another to solve any issues that arise. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Barleta how he addressed the financial condi�on of Nahant, what ac�ons he took to solve the budget problem, and how he addresses the budget process now. Mr. Barleta explained that the Town of Nahant received a report from the Department of Revenue in 2015 that laid out fiscal concerns. At that �me, Nahant’s bond ra�ng was poten�ally at risk, and he wanted to protect the bond ra�ng by increasing stabiliza�on. He increased the stabiliza�on to 5%, and it is on its way to 10%. He priori�zed paying down debt, doing things with free cash, and using free cash effec�vely. Those ac�ons solidified the bond ra�ng, and the town is up over 3000% from when he started there. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Barleta what his capital planning process is, what his goals are and why, and how he would work with the community on their priori�es. Mr. Barleta explained that he starts by doing financial forecas�ng, coming up with financial policies, filling in the financial plan, working with financial advisors, Town Accountant and Department Heads to understand what the needs are for the next three, five, and ten years. He would approach financial management on community needs to make sure the town’s needs come first, then make sure to have a sound financial basis to accomplish those priori�es. He would learn what the priori�es are, their expected �me frame, and how they fit in with the financial forecast of the town. Mr. Lynch asked what direct experience Mr. Barleta had with large capital projects. Mr. Barleta stated that Nahant sends its wastewater to Lynn Water & Sewer, but that system had reached its end of life. He began by hiring an engineering firm through the procurement process, and asked them to provide alterna�ve analyses and their costs. Nahant was able to get SRF (State Revolving Fund) funding through the state, worked with consultants, and procured a contractor. He stated that he was involved and made sure that they were mee�ng the checkpoints. The project was completed last year, came in on budget at $8.8 million, but slightly behind schedule due to being on the Lynnway, and having to deal with summer traffic. He worked with the state delega�on, City of Lynn, and other state departments to get the job done. Ms. McCarthy asked Mr. Barleta what he learned from his experiences in securing SRF funding, and how that makes him stronger in securing funding from outside sources. Mr. Barleta stated that they brought on a contractor with experience with the SRF program and u�lized their experience. Mr. Lynch asked if Nahant is a Green Community. Mr. Barleta stated that Nahant is a Green Community, though he worked for the Department of Energy Resources at the �me Nahant was cer�fied. In his �me there, he worked directly with many municipali�es on their compliance issues, and worked with the department to develop legisla�on and increase the Green Communi�es budget to $20 million. Chris Haley noted that Nahant’s opera�ng budget is $15 million, significantly less than Reading’s, and asked what kind of advantage Mr. Barleta would have over someone who is managing a larger budget. Mr. Barleta noted the important things are principles of municipal finance despite the size of the budget, how the budget is managed, understanding where there is flexibility, and where there are limita�ons. He noted that he has faced many challenges in his career, and felt that his style of being a fast learner would put him in a posi�on to be successful. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Barleta how he would balance mee�ng the needs, providing the wants, and maintaining the character of the town. Mr. Barleta explained that first you need to understand what the needs and wants are of the town. For example, Reading must comply with MBTA Communi�es this year. The state is doing it to counteract the high cost of housing, but Mr. Barleta stated that he believes that municipali�es should be able to determine their own zoning. The challenge is accomplishing what the state is requiring, while also sa�sfying the community’s own wants and needs, finding the “sweet spot”, and educa�ng the community on how to accomplish it. Mr. Dockser explained that Reading needs a new Senior Center, and there are only a few available poten�al loca�ons. He asked Mr. Barleta what experience he has had with Senior Center projects, and how he would view that for Reading with limited land use, and town priori�es in general. Mr. Barleta noted that Nahant has an extremely ac�ve Senior Center located within the Town Hall, but it is an�quated, outdated, and undersized. They are currently going through alterna�ves analysis to determine what it would cost to revamp the kitchen at Town Hall, or move the Council on Aging to the elementary school. They are currently looking at the wants and needs for the Council on Aging, its programs, and the costs of either of those projects to decide which one they want to pursue. Mr. Lynch asked about Mr. Barleta’s personnel management. Mr. Barleta stated that he entered an unsetled environment in Nahant, as there was high transi�on with the Town Administrator posi�on. Also, going through the pandemic, many long-term employees who were old enough re�red. He was able to rebuild the team with extremely talented people. Because the staff is so small, everyone must wear many hats, and collabora�on is key. Mr. Barleta stated that he is directly involved with collec�ve bargaining, and has nego�ated contracts twice with each bargaining unit. He works with the Finance Director to understand what the town can afford for the next few years, and works to understand what will sa�sfy the bargaining units without burdening the town. He also noted that he has an open-door policy with the bargaining units, to try to resolve issues before having to go through a formal grievance procedure. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Barleta about his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Mr. Barleta explained that those values were ingrained in him at the state level, especially with the Patrick administra�on, which included inclusivity trainings and events. He tries to bring those trainings to Nahant. Mr. Lynch asked about Mr. Barleta’s experience with social media. Mr. Barleta stated that in his �me in Nahant, the town ins�tuted a Facebook page, and integrated it into the town’s rebuilt website. Mr. Lynch asked Mr. Barleta how he maintains rela�onships with the state. Mr. Barleta cited his history and great rela�onship with Nahant’s State Senator and their staff, Reading’s Representa�ve Jones on energy legisla�on, and Senator Lewis, in his work with DCR. Mr. Lynch asked how he interacts with his Board of Selectmen in Nahant, and how he would interact with the Reading Select Board. Mr. Barleta noted that Nahant’s Board of Selectmen only has three members, and he has standing one- on-one mee�ngs with each of them every week. He has built communica�on and trust by making sure they stay informed. At the state level, he found his role to be suppor�ve of the elected officials, let them take a “victory lap” when things are going well, and protect them when things were not going great. He stated that he would do the same in Reading, and make sure that the Select Board is successful. Mr. Dockser asked how he plans to work through having a larger staff, and not needing to be as much of a “player coach” in Reading. Mr. Barleta explained that being a “player coach” was more of an asset, as having the experience to work on a lot of technical details with a lot of different departments and categories, gave him the understanding of what staff was talking about, and how to mutually problem solve. As a leader, he would also want to ensure that the team is developing for long-term success. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Barleta how he would help the Select Board set priori�es, and make recommenda�ons to guide staff. Mr. Barleta stated that every Department Head knows what is best for their department and team. But as Town Manager, he would know the larger picture of what the goal is as a community, and put that into perspec�ve to help the Department Head understand the long-term goals and what the team is trying to accomplish. Mr. Dockser asked Mr. Barleta how comfortable he felt being a mentor to less experienced members of the team. Mr. Barleta stated that he has benefited from learning from many different mentors throughout his career, and o�en finds himself being asked for advice. He believes in helping team members develop themselves, and se�ng up a team that feels they have equal responsibility and equal investment. Carlo Bacci asked Mr. Barleta how he felt about pickleball. Mr. Barleta stated that he has been able to u�lize Community Preserva�on Act (CPA) funds to install pickleball courts in Nahant. He noted that the players are a very passionate group, and that the sport has a wide age range of par�cipants. In his conclusion, Mr. Barleta thanked the Board and Mr. Lynch for an enjoyable interview process, and reiterated that having a stable, long-term rela�onship is important to both the Town and to himself. He stated that in all his research, and all the people he has spoken with, he has not heard anything nega�ve about Reading. He noted that Reading had a solid founda�on, and he would love to be a part of it. On a mo�on by Mark Dockser, seconded by Karen Gately Herrick, the Select Board voted unanimously 5-0-0 to adjourn at 3:33 pm.