HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-10-29 Select Board Packet
Town of Reading
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at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
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2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Select Board
Date: 2024-10-29 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Select Board Meeting Room
Address: 16 Lowell Street Agenda:
Purpose: General Business
Meeting Called By: Caitlin Nocella on behalf of the Chair
Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings excluding
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operation and make necessary arrangements to be sure your posting is made in an
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All Meeting Postings must be submitted in typed format; handwritten notices will not be accepted.
Topics of Discussion:
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PAGE #
7:00 Overview of Meeting
7:05 Public Comment
7:15 Select Board Liaison Reports and Town Manager’s Report
7:30 HEARING – Discuss and vote on tax classification 3
8:00
HEARING - Discuss and Vote on Safety Amendments 2024-8 and
2024-9 to the Traffic and Parking Regulations: The proposed
amendments will amend Article 12.1 of the regulations by
imposing the four hour parking restriction established in Article
5.4.9 of the regulations, to the Brande Court Municipal Parking
Lot (Amendment no. 2024-8) and the Reading Upper Municipal
Parking Lot (Amendment no. 2024-9). If adopted, parking will be
34
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
limited to a maximum of four hours between 8:00 AM and 5:00
PM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
in one or both of these locations.
8:15 Discuss and Approve Inter-Municipal Agreement for Regional
Housing Services (MNRHSO) 44
8:30 Discuss multi-unit tiered water rates 65
9:00 Discuss second water meter pilot program 66
9:30 Update on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds and potential
reallocation vote 81
9:45 Future Agendas 86
9:55
Approve prior meeting minutes
• September 10, 2024
• September 24, 2024
88
10:05
Executive Session Purpose 3: To discuss strategy with respect to
collective bargaining with the Facilities Union, as an open session
may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the
Select Board.
Legal Notice
(Seal)
Town of Reading
To the Inhabitants of the Town of Reading:
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in accordance with the
Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 369 of the Acts of 1982 on the issue of
determining a residential factor in assessing the percentage of tax burden to be borne by
each class of property for Fiscal Year 2025. The hearing will be held on Tuesday,
October 29, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Select Board Meeting Room at Town Hall, 16
Lowell Street, Reading, MA and remotely on Zoom. The five classes of property
involved are residential, open space, commercial, industrial and personal property.
A copy of the proposed document regarding this topic will be available in the
Select Board packet on the website at www.readingma.gov.
All interested parties are invited to attend the hearing, or may submit their
comments in writing or by email to townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us
By order of
Matthew A. Kraunelis, Esq
Town Manager
________________________________________________________________________
To the Editor:
To be published on Tuesday, October 15th and again on Tuesday, October 22nd, 2024
Please send bill and tear sheets to: Town Manager, 16 Lowell St., Reading, MA.
FY 2025 Classification
Information
Presented by the
Reading Board of Assessors
October 15, 2024
Required Actions by SB
•Selection of a Minimum Residential Factor
•Selection of a Discount for Open Space
•Granting of a Residential Exemption
•Granting of a Small Commercial
Exemption
Minimum Residential Factor
•Recently, Reading has adopted a slight
split tax rate.
•An MRF of 1 would yield a single tax rate.
•(Tax Levy / Total Value) x 1000 = TR
•Tax Levy is $89,399,276 / $7,832,363,065
= 0.01141 x 1000 = $11.41
•Single Tax Rate would be $11.41 est.
Reading Senior Circuit Breaker Credit Details
230 Seniors applied for the exemption.223 Seniors were approved.
Total Amount of Circuit Breaker Income Tax Credits Received by Qualified Seniors:
$463,044. The Current Exemption Amount is 100%.
•The total credit amount of $463,044 will be shifted within the residential class of
properties to pay for the tax relief.
•At 100%, we would be shifting $463,044 and the residential tax rate would be
$11.48 and the CIP rate would be $11.41 at a shift of 1.00. The average cost is $60
without a tax shift.
•At a shift of 1.10 the tax rates would be $11.40 & $12.56 respectively.
•Without a shift the tax rates would be $11.48 residential and $11.41 for CIP.
The average single family home value for FY 2025 is $893,100
The table below summarizes the anticipated FY 2025 average tax bill amounts at
various shift intervals.
CIP
SHIFT
MRF RES %RES TAX
RATE
EST 2025
BILL
1 1.000000 93.7007 11.48 $10,253
1.01 0.999328 93.6377 11.47 $10,244
1.02 0.998655 93.5747 11.46 $10,235
1.03 0.997983 93.5117 11.45 $10,226
1.04 0.997311 93.4487 11.45 $10,226
1.05 0.996638 93.3857 11.44 $10,217
1.06 0.995966 93.3227 11.43 $10,208
1.07 0.995295 93.2598 11.42 $10,199
1.08 0.994622 93.1968 11.41 $10,190
1.09 0.993950 93.1338 11.41 $10,190
1.10 0.993278 93.0708 11.40 $10,181
CIP SHIFT MRF RES %RES TAX RATE EST 24 TAX BILL
1.1 0.993278 93.0708 11.40 $10,181
1.11 0.992605 93.0078 11.39 $10,172
1.12 0.991933 92.9448 11.38 $10,163
1.13 0.991260 92.8818 11.38 $10,163
1.14 0.990588 92.8188 11.37 $10,155
1.15 0.989916 92.7558 11.36 $10,146
1.16 0.989243 92.6928 11.35 $10,137
1.17 0.988571 92.6298 11.34 $10,128
1.18 0.987899 92.5668 11.34 $10,128
1.19 0.987226 92.5038 11.33 $10,119
1.2 0.986554 92.4408 11.32 $10,110
1.21 0.985883 92.3779 11.31 $10,101
1.22 0.985210 92.3149 11.31 $10,101
1.23 0.984538 92.2519 11.30 $10,092
1.24 0.983866 92.1889 11.29 $10,083
1.25 0.983193 92.1259 11.28 $10,074
1.26 0.982521 92.0629 11.28 $10,074
1.27 0.981849 91.9999 11.27 $10,065
1.28 0.981176 91.9369 11.26 $10,056
1.29 0.980504 91.8739 11.25 $10,047
1.3 0.979832 91.8109 11.24 $10,038
CIP SHIFT MRF RES %RES TAX RATE EST 25 TAX BILL
1.31 0.979159 91.7479 11.24 $10,038
1.32 0.978487 91.6849 11.23 $10,030
1.33 0.977814 91.6219 11.22 $10,021
1.34 0.977142 91.5589 11.21 $10,012
1.35 0.976471 91.4960 11.21 $10,012
1.36 0.975798 91.4330 11.20 $10,003
1.37 0.975126 91.3700 11.19 $9,994
1.38 0.974454 91.3070 11.18 $9,985
1.39 0.973781 91.2440 11.17 $9,976
1.4 0.973109 91.1810 11.17 $9,976
1.41 0.972437 91.1180 11.16 $9,967
1.42 0.971764 91.0550 11.15 $9,958
1.43 0.971092 90.9920 11.14 $9,949
1.44 0.970420 90.9290 11.14 $9,949
1.45 0.969747 90.8660 11.13 $9,940
1.46 0.969075 90.8030 11.12 $9,931
1.47 0.968403 90.7400 11.11 $9,922
1.48 0.967731 90.6771 11.11 $9,922
1.49 0.967059 90.6141 11.10 $9,913
1.5 0.966387 90.5511 11.09 $9,904
Average single family tax bill history from 2007 to present
Fiscal Year
Single Family
Assessed Values
Single
Fam
Parcel
Single
Family
Avg Val
Residential
Tax Rate
Avg
Single
Family
Tax Bill
Percent
Change
2007 2,994,759,900 6,487 461,656 12.07 5,572 2.79%
2008 2,933,909,900 6,490 452,066 12.6 5,696 2.23%
2009 2,882,787,600 6,501 443,438 13.21 5,858 2.84%
2010 2,816,270,800 6,505 432,939 13.75 5,953 1.62%
2011 2,880,796,500 6,508 442,655 13.80 6,109 2.62%
2012 2,895,475,600 6,514 444,500 14.15 6,290 2.96%
2013 2,816,675,700 6,516 432,300 14.94 6,459 2.68%
2014 2,910,595,200 6,524 446,100 14.74 6,575 1.76%
2015 3,030,663,500 6,528 464,250 14.71 6,828 3.84%
2016 3,266,065,400 6,539 499,500 14.51 7,248 6.15%
2017 3,491,464,400 6,544 533,537 14.04 7,490 3.33%
2018 3,666,153,000 6,549 559,803 13.87 7,761 3.62%
2019 3,897,988,400 6,556 594,568 14.26 8,479 9.25%
2020 4,117,586,400 6,566 627,104 13.96 8,748 3.24%
2021 4,315,911,300 6,566 657,312 13.83 9,090 3.92%
2022 4,619,196,800 6,574 702,646 13.33 9,366 3.03%
2023 5,076,375,600 6,590 770,314 12.61 9,716 3.73%
2024 5,663,161,900 6,592 859,096 11.72 10,068 4.05%
2025 est 5,888,168,950 6,593 893,100 11.40 10,181 1.12%
FY 2025 TAX RATE NOTE
Total Amount of the FY 2025 Debt Exclusion is
$1,278,420
This adds $0.16 to the FY 2025 Res Tax Rate
$143 to the Average Single Family Home
$318 to the Average Commercial Property
FY 2025 TAX RATE NOTES Cont.
2022 2023
Sales Activity 227 141
Days on Market 22.19 34.43
Avg. Sale Price $907,228 $992,213 (+9.37%)
The average commercial property valuation for FY 2025 is $1,984,800.
The table below summarizes the anticipated FY 2025 average commercial tax bill
amounts.
CIP SHIFT MRF CIP %CIP TAX
RATE
EST 2025
BILL
1 1.000000 6.2993 11.41 $22,647
1.01 0.999328 6.3623 11.53 $22,885
1.02 0.998655 6.4253 11.64 $23,103
1.03 0.997983 6.4882 11.76 $23,341
1.04 0.997311 6.5512 11.87 $23,560
1.05 0.996638 6.6142 11.98 $23,778
1.06 0.995966 6.6772 12.10 $24,016
1.07 0.995295 6.7402 12.21 $24,234
1.08 0.994622 6.8033 12.33 $24,473
1.09 0.993950 6.8663 12.44 $24,691
1.10 0.993278 6.9293 12.56 $24,929
CIP SHIFT MRF CIP %CIP TAX RATE EST 25 TAX BILL
1.11 0.992605 6.9923 12.67 $25,147
1.12 0.991933 7.0552 12.78 $25,366
1.13 0.991260 7.1182 12.90 $25,604
1.14 0.990588 7.1812 13.01 $25,822
1.15 0.989916 7.2442 13.13 $26,060
1.16 0.989243 7.3071 13.24 $26,279
1.17 0.988571 7.3701 13.35 $26,497
1.18 0.987899 7.4331 13.47 $26,735
1.19 0.987226 7.4962 13.58 $26,954
1.2 0.986554 7.5592 13.70 $27,192
1.21 0.985883 7.6221 13.81 $27,410
1.22 0.985210 7.6852 13.93 $27,648
1.23 0.984538 7.7482 14.04 $27,867
1.24 0.983866 7.8112 14.15 $28,085
1.25 0.983193 7.8742 14.27 $28,323
1.26 0.982521 7.9371 14.38 $28,541
1.27 0.981849 8.0001 14.50 $28,780
1.28 0.981176 8.0631 14.61 $28,998
1.29 0.980504 8.1261 14.72 $29,216
1.3 0.979832 8.1890 14.84 $29,454
1.31 0.979159 8.2520 14.95 $29,673
CIP SHIFT MRF CIP %CIP TAX RATE EST 25 TAX BILL
1.32 0.978487 8.3151 15.07 $29,911
1.33 0.977814 8.3781 15.18 $30,129
1.34 0.977142 8.4411 15.29 $30,348
1.35 0.976471 8.5040 15.41 $30,586
1.36 0.975798 8.5671 15.52 $30,804
1.37 0.975126 8.6301 15.64 $31,042
1.38 0.974454 8.6931 15.75 $31,261
1.39 0.973781 8.7560 15.87 $31,499
1.4 0.973109 8.8190 15.98 $31,717
1.41 0.972437 8.8820 16.09 $31,935
1.42 0.971764 8.9450 16.21 $32,174
1.43 0.971092 9.0080 16.32 $32,392
1.44 0.970420 9.0710 16.44 $32,630
1.45 0.969747 9.1340 16.55 $32,848
1.46 0.969075 9.1970 16.66 $33,067
1.47 0.968403 9.2600 16.78 $33,305
1.48 0.967731 9.3229 16.89 $33,523
1.49 0.967059 9.3859 17.01 $33,761
1.5 0.966387 9.4490 17.12 $33,980
CIP SHIFT MRF CIP %CIP TAX
RATE
EST 2025
BILL
1 1.000000 6.2993 11.41 $9,530
1.01 0.999328 6.3623 11.53 $9,630
1.02 0.998655 6.4253 11.64 $9,722
1.03 0.997983 6.4882 11.76 $9,822
1.04 0.997311 6.5512 11.87 $9,914
1.05 0.996638 6.6142 11.98 $10,006
1.06 0.995966 6.6772 12.10 $10,106
1.07 0.995295 6.7402 12.21 $10,198
1.08 0.994622 6.8033 12.33 $10,298
1.09 0.993950 6.8663 12.44 $10,390
1.10 0.993278 6.9293 12.56 $10,490
The median commercial property valuation for FY 2025 is $835,200.
The table below summarizes the anticipated FY 2025 median commercial tax
bill amounts.
CIP SHIFT MRF CIP %CIP TAX RATE EST 25 TAX BILL
1.1 0.992605 6.9293 12.56 $10,490
1.11 0.991933 6.9923 12.67 $10,582
1.12 0.991260 7.0552 12.78 $10,674
1.13 0.990588 7.1182 12.90 $10,774
1.14 0.989916 7.1812 13.01 $10,866
1.15 0.989243 7.2442 13.13 $10,966
1.16 0.988571 7.3071 13.24 $11,058
1.17 0.987899 7.3701 13.35 $11,150
1.18 0.987226 7.4331 13.47 $11,250
1.19 0.986554 7.4962 13.58 $11,342
1.2 0.985883 7.5592 13.70 $11,442
1.21 0.985210 7.6221 13.81 $11,534
1.22 0.984538 7.6852 13.93 $11,634
1.23 0.983866 7.7482 14.04 $11,726
1.24 0.983193 7.8112 14.15 $11,818
1.25 0.982521 7.8742 14.27 $11,918
1.26 0.981849 7.9371 14.38 $12,010
1.27 0.981176 8.0001 14.50 $12,110
1.28 0.980504 8.0631 14.61 $12,202
1.29 0.979832 8.1261 14.72 $12,294
1.3 0.992605 8.1890 14.84 $12,394
CIP SHIFT MRF CIP %CIP TAX RATE EST 25 TAX BILL
1.3 0.979832 8.1890 14.84 $12,394
1.31 0.979159 8.2520 14.95 $12,486
1.32 0.978487 8.3151 15.07 $12,586
1.33 0.977814 8.3781 15.18 $12,678
1.34 0.977142 8.4411 15.29 $12,770
1.35 0.976471 8.5040 15.41 $12,870
1.36 0.975798 8.5671 15.52 $12,962
1.37 0.975126 8.6301 15.64 $13,063
1.38 0.974454 8.6931 15.75 $13,154
1.39 0.973781 8.7560 15.87 $13,255
1.4 0.973109 8.8190 15.98 $13,346
1.41 0.972437 8.8820 16.09 $13,438
1.42 0.971764 8.9450 16.21 $13,539
1.43 0.971092 9.0080 16.32 $13,630
1.44 0.970420 9.0710 16.44 $13,731
1.45 0.969747 9.1340 16.55 $13,823
1.46 0.969075 9.1970 16.66 $13,914
1.47 0.968403 9.2600 16.78 $14,015
1.48 0.967731 9.3229 16.89 $14,107
1.49 0.967059 9.3859 17.01 $14,207
1.5 0.966387 9.4490 17.12 $14,299
MEDIAN COMMERCIAL TAX COMPARISON
FY24 vs FY25
FY CIP
SHIFT
TAX RATE MEDIAN VALUE TAXES +/-
2024 1.10 $12.92 $792,000 $10,462
2025 1.10 $12.56 $835,200 $10,490 +$28
FY 2025, holding at a shift of 1.10 results in a small increase
for the median commercial property of $28
1.01 0.999328 11.47 11.53 10,244$ 167$ 9,630$ (832)$
1.02 0.998655 11.46 11.64 10,235$ 158$ 9,722$ (740)$
1.03 0.997983 11.45 11.76 10,226$ 158$ 9,822$ (640)$
1.04 0.997311 11.45 11.87 10,226$ 149$ 9,914$ (548)$
1.05 0.996638 11.44 11.98 10,217$ 140$ 10,006$ (456)$
1.06 0.995966 11.43 12.10 10,208$ 131$ 10,106$ (356)$
1.07 0.995295 11.42 12.21 10,199$ 122$ 10,198$ (264)$
1.08 0.994622 11.41 12.33 10,190$ 122$ 10,298$ (164)$
1.09 0.993950 11.41 12.44 10,190$ 113$ 10,390$ (72)$
1.1 0.993278 11.40 12.56 10,181$ 104$ 10,490$ 28$
1.11 0.992605 11.39 12.67 10,172$ 95$ 10,582$ 120$
1.12 0.991933 11.38 12.78 10,163$ 95$ 10,674$ 212$
1.13 0.991260 11.38 12.90 10,163$ 87$ 10,774$ 312$
1.14 0.990588 11.37 13.01 10,155$ 78$ 10,866$ 404$
1.15 0.989916 11.36 13.13 10,146$ 42$ 10,966$ 504$
1.2 0.986554 11.32 13.70 $10,110 6$ 11,442$ 980$
1.25 0.983193 11.28 14.27 $10,074 (30)$ 11,918$ 1,456$
1.3 0.979832 11.24 14.84 $10,038 (56)$ 12,394$ 1,932$
1.35 0.976471 11.21 15.41 $10,012 (92)$ 12,870$ 2,408$
1.4 0.973109 11.17 15.98 $9,976 (128)$ 13,346$ 2,884$
1.45 0.969747 11.13 16.55 $9,940 (164)$ 13,823$ 3,361$
1.5 0.966387 11.09 17.12 $9,904 ($200)14,299$ 3,837$
Commercial Property Value Breakdown for FY 2024
68 properties < $500K 48 from $500K - $1M
42 from $1M to $2M 28 from 2M to $10M
7 Properties above $10M
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
<500K 500K - 1M 1M - 2M 2M - 10M > 10M
Average commercial tax bill history from 2007 to present
Fiscal
Year
Total Commercial
Value
Comm.
Parcels
Average
Commercial
Value
Tax
Rate
Average
Commercial
Tax Bill
Percent
Change
2007 236,516,816 198 $1,194,529 12.07 14,418 -2.45%
2008 256,582,400 203 $1,263,953 12.6 15,926 10.46%
2009 262,919,463 206 $1,276,308 13.21 16,860 5.87%
2010 270,816,033 205 $1,321,054 13.75 18,164 7.74%
2011 319,506,376 204 $1,566,208 13.8 21,614 18.99%
2012 320,481,055 205 $1,563,322 14.15 22,121 2.35%
2013 300,063,400 199 $1,507,900 14.94 22,527 1.84%
2014 285,068,700 198 $1,439,700 14.76 21,221 -5.7%
2015 284,141,800 196 $1,449,700 14.71 21,325 .488%
2016 294,140,500 197 $1,493,100 14.51 21,665 1.59%
2017 309,470,100 198 $1,563,000 14.04 21,945 1.29%
2018 317,592,400 201 $1,580,062 13.92 22,002 -0.007%
2019 319,725,400 194 $1,648,064 14.20 23,403 6.36%
2020 327,747,500 192 $1,707,018 14.21 24,257 3.65%
2021 327,145,600 190 $1,721,818 14.06 24,251 -0.13%
2022 347,922,700 193 $1,802,000 13.55 24,417 0.68%
2023 357,568,000 194 $1,843,134 12.83 23,647 -3.15%
2024 368,131,400 192 $1,917,351 12.34 24,772 4.5%
2025 est 383,070,400 193 $1,984,800 12.56 24,930 .64%
Discount for Open Space
•MGL C59, sec 2A defines class 2 open space as: “land which is not
otherwise classified and which is not taxable under provisions of
Chapters 61A or 61B, or taxable under a permanent conservation
restriction, and which land is not held for the production of income
but is maintained in an open or natural condition and which
contributes significantly to the benefit and enjoyment of the public.”
•An exemption of up to 25% could be adopted for property classified
as Class 2 Open Space.
•Reading has never adopted a discount for Class 2 Open Space.
Residential Exemption
•SB may adopt a Residential Exemption for residential properties in
town that are owner occupied.
•Amount up to 35% of the average assessed value of ALL
residential properties, including vacant land.
•Adopting this would raise the residential tax rate. This would apply
to all residential properties before the exemption. The top third of
the residential properties would be paying for the exemption.
•Adopted by only 13 communities including Boston, Chelsea,
Cambridge & Waltham.
•Since the shift is only in the res class, higher valued homes will pay
for the exemption to those homes of lower value.
Small Commercial Exemption
•Up to 10% of property value for commercial properties only. (No
industrial or personal property).
•Total Property Value less than $1,000,000
•Not more than 10 employees as certified by the Dept. of
Employment & Training.
•One business in a building of several would qualify only if all other
businesses qualified.
•Exemption goes to the real estate owner and not the business
owner.
•Less than a dozen communities in the Commonwealth have adopted
this exemption.
Neighboring Communities / FY 2024
Community Avg. Single
Family
Value
Avg. Single
Family Tax
Bill
Tax Rate
/$1000
RES / CIP
CIP SHIFT
MAX /
ACTUAL
Lynnfield $984,943 $10,352 10.51/17.99 1.57/1.57
No. Reading $811,899 $10,725 13.21 1.50/1.00
Stoneham $709,434 $7,513 10.59/20.17 1.75/1.75
Wakefield $753,756 $8,480 11.25/21.70 1.75/1.75
Wilmington $683,790 $7,816 11.43/26.23 1.75/1.75
Woburn $669,754 $5,398 8.06/19.72 1.75/1.75
READING $854,864 $10,019 11.72 / 12.92 1.50/1.09
Municipality Residential Commercial Industrial Personal Property Total RO% of Total CIP% of Total
Arlington 13,747,614,314 537,586,224 27,367,600 211,282,260 14,523,850,398 94.66 5.34
Belmont 10,777,756,500 387,995,566 29,530,500 109,427,110 11,304,709,676 95.34 4.66
Burlington 5,935,041,299 2,974,322,957 230,178,092 231,881,610 9,371,423,958 63.33 36.67
Concord 8,583,989,514 528,176,395 29,558,604 71,056,870 9,212,781,383 93.17 6.83
Lexington 15,289,843,165 867,162,320 1,088,195,285 372,968,740 17,618,169,510 86.78 13.22
Lynnfield 4,152,460,960 458,233,034 24,785,600 68,224,590 4,703,704,184 88.28 11.72
Melrose 7,060,349,614 195,641,976 28,702,070 151,144,520 7,435,838,180 94.95 5.05
Milton 8,409,311,548 167,575,259 5,228,200 184,147,910 8,766,262,917 95.93 4.07
North Reading 4,149,482,511 275,845,394 179,411,300 103,692,344 4,708,431,549 88.13 11.87
Reading 7,016,118,763 388,559,761 12,672,000 69,998,850 7,487,349,374 93.71 6.29
Stoneham 5,134,867,508 420,878,111 38,263,300 95,812,308 5,689,821,227 90.25 9.75
Sudbury 6,528,068,698 268,293,396 39,102,700 173,473,820 7,008,938,614 93.14 6.86
Wakefield 6,518,757,766 534,077,774 97,863,550 200,703,120 7,351,402,210 88.67 11.33
Watertown 8,502,470,850 1,023,186,934 2,087,497,050 318,149,790 11,931,304,624 71.26 28.74
Wilmington 5,270,206,822 225,886,635 1,188,786,763 255,410,620 6,940,290,840 75.94 24.06
Winchester 10,249,002,756 314,967,624 41,069,200 111,385,240 10,716,424,820 95.64 4.36
Woburn 8,319,811,149 1,199,747,145 1,168,367,489 787,445,730 11,475,371,513 72.50 27.50
VARIOUS COMMUNITIES RESIDENTIAL VS CIP
SHARE OF TAX BASE 2024
Middlesex League / FY2024
Community
Avg. Single
Family Value
Avg.
Single
Family
Tax Bill
Tax Rate /
$1000
RES / CIP
CIP SHIFT
MAX / ACT
Arlington $1,015,162 $10,751 10.59 1.50 / 1.00
Belmont $1,615,221 $17,057 10.56 1.50 / 1.00
Burlington $725,782 $6,488 8.94/25.81 1.75 /1.70
Lexington $1,510,347 $18,502 12.25/24.20 1.75 /1.74
Melrose $791,260 $7,857 9.93/17.71 1.75 /1.72
Reading $854,864 $10,019 11.72/12.92 1.50 /1.09
Stoneham $709,434 $7,513 10.59/20.17 1.75 /1.75
Wakefield $753,756 $8,480 11.25/21.70 1.75 /1.75
Watertown $600,132 $7,022 11.70/23.08 1.75 /1.73
Wilmington $683,790 $7,816 11.43/26.23 1.75 /1.75
Winchester $1,504,262 $17,043 11.33/10.81 1.50 /1.0
Woburn $669,754 $5,398 8.06/19.72 1.75 /1.75
Largely Residential Comparable Communities
Fiscal Year 2024 Data
Community
Avg. Single
Family Value
Avg.
Single
Family
Tax Bill
Tax Rate /
$1000
RES / CIP
CIP SHIFT
MAX / ACT
Arlington $1,015,162 $10,751 10.59 1.50 /1.00
Belmont $1,615,221 $17,057 10.56 1.50 /1.00
Concord $1,454,960 $19,104 13.13 / 12.24 1.50 /1.00
Lincoln $1,554,640 $20,039 12.89 / 19.70 1.50 /1.49
Lynnfield $984,943 $10,352 10.51 / 17.99 1.57 /1.57
Melrose $791,260 $7,857 9.93 / 17.71 1.75 /1.72
Milton $1,008,088 $11,008 10.92 / 17.94 1.75 /1.60
Reading $854,864 $10,019 11.72 / 12.92 1.50 /1.10
Sudbury $1,077,481 $15,742 14.61 / 21.16 1.50 /1.40
Wakefield $753,756 $8,480 11.25 / 21.70 1.75 /1.75
Winchester $1,504,262 $17,043 11.33 /10.81 1.50 /1.00
Reading had the third lowest average single family tax bill of those listed.
Municipality Single Family Values
Single
Family
Parcels
Average Single
Family Value
Single Family
Tax Bill*Residential Commercial
Max CIP Shift
Allowed CIP Shift
Andover 7,495,003,931 8,725 $859,026.00 $11,734.00 13.66 27.32 1.750000 1.71000
Bedford 2,899,928,282 3,462 $837,645.00 $10,454.00 12.48 28.16 1.750000 1.75000
Belmont 6,644,255,000 4,540 $1,463,492.00 $16,450.00 11.24 11.24 1.500000 1.00000
Burlington 4,345,721,600 6,592 $659,242.00 $6,197.00 9.40 26.15 1.750000 1.66855
Canton 4,008,636,100 5,513 $727,124.00 $7,686.00 10.57 21.57 1.633727 1.63005
Danvers 3,742,953,800 6,179 $605,754.00 $7,118.00 11.75 19.98 1.500000 1.47513
Dedham 4,435,996,000 6,638 $668,273.00 $8,581.00 12.84 26.55 1.750000 1.75000
Lynnfield 3,484,909,600 3,874 $899,564.00 $10,165.00 11.30 18.15 1.572849 1.49923
Mansfield 3,083,908,350 5,446 $566,270.00 $7,979.00 14.09 18.52 1.500000 1.22990
Marshfield 5,702,614,600 9,215 $618,840.00 $7,005.00 11.32 11.32 1.500000 1.00000
Milton 6,752,343,200 7,215 $935,876.00 $10,669.00 11.40 18.22 1.750000 1.56100
Natick 6,491,586,500 8,550 $759,250.00 $9,597.00 12.64 12.64 1.500000 1.00000
North Andover 4,393,857,000 6,341 $692,928.00 $8,481.00 12.24 17.25 1.500000 1.32025
North Reading 3,212,324,100 4,310 $745,319.00 $10,427.00 13.99 13.99 1.500000 1.00000
Reading 5,053,434,378 6,590 $766,834.00 $9,654.00 12.59 13.21 1.500000 1.05000
Shrewsbury 5,588,987,200 9,405 $594,257.00 $7,797.00 13.12 13.12 1.500000 1.00000
Stoneham 3,366,830,400 5,133 $655,919.00 $7,281.00 11.10 21.16 1.750000 1.75000
Tewksbury 4,366,425,400 7,894 $553,132.00 $7,799.00 14.10 26.59 1.750000 1.65981
Wakefield 4,369,557,458 6,255 $698,570.00 $8,194.00 11.73 22.46 1.750000 1.75000
Walpole 4,391,705,300 6,618 $663,600.00 $9,217.00 13.89 18.42 1.500000 1.27497
Westborough 2,578,353,728 3,926 $656,738.00 $11,059.00 16.84 16.84 1.500000 1.00000
Westford 4,422,396,200 6,450 $685,643.00 $10,120.00 14.76 14.76 1.500000 1.00000
Wilmington 4,443,239,500 7,142 $622,128.00 $7,428.00 11.94 27.34 1.750000 1.75000
Winchester 7,806,640,521 5,681 $1,374,167.00 $16,215.00 11.80 11.24 1.500000 1.00000
READING TOWN COMPARISONS FY 2024
READING TOWN COMPARISONS FY2024
TERM DEFINITION
Levy The property tax levy is the revenue a community can raise
through real and personal property taxes.
Levy Limit The maximum amount a community can levy in a given
year equal to last year’s levy plus 2.5% plus new growth
plus debt exclusion / override if applicable.
Levy Ceiling Equal to 2.5% of the total full and fair cash value of all
taxable real and personal property in the community.
New Growth Increase in the tax base due to new construction, parcel
subdivisions, condo conversions and property renovations,
but not due to revaluation. It is calculated by multiplying
the increased assessed value by the prior year’s tax rate for
the property class.
Override A permanent increase to a community’s levy limit.
Override
Capacity
The difference between the levy ceiling and the levy limit.
It is the maximum amount by which a community may
override its levy limit.
Debt Exclusion A temporary increase to the levy limit for the payment of a
specific debt service item over a specified period of time.
Capital Outlay
Expenditure
A temporary exclusion for the purpose of raising funds for
capital projects.
Excess Levy
Capacity
The difference between the actual levy and the levy limit.
IMPORTANT TERMS
Legal Notice
(Seal)
Town of Reading
To the Inhabitants of the Town of Reading:
Please take notice that the Select Board of the Town of Reading will hold a public
hearing on October 29, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Select Board Meeting Room at Town Hall, 16
Lowell Street, Reading, MA or also available remotely on Zoom to act on proposed changes to
the following Traffic and Parking Regulations:
• Amendment Number 2024-8; Article 12.1 to Enact Pursuant to Article 5.4.9: unless
otherwise designated, parking within the Brande Court Municipal Parking Lot shall be
limited to a maximum of four hours between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Mondays,
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
• Amendment Number 2024-9; Article 12.1 to Enact Pursuant to Article 5.4.9: unless
otherwise designated, parking within the Reading Upper Municipal Parking Lot shall be
limited to a maximum of four hours between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Mondays,
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
A copy of the proposed documents regarding this topic will be in the Select Board packet
on the website at www.readingma.gov
All interested parties are invited to attend the hearing in person or remotely via Zoom; or
may submit their comments in writing or by email to townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us
By order of
Matthew A. Kraunelis
Town Manager
To the Chronicle: Please publish on Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Send the bill and tear sheet to: Town Manager’s Office
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
ATTN: Caitlin Nocella
cnocella@ci.reading.ma.us
781-942-9043
Town of Reading
Amendment to the
Traffic and Parking Regulations
Amendment Number: 2024-8
Date Filed: October 29, 2024
Filed By: TSO Michael S. Scouten
On Behalf of: Select Board
Section 1:
Purpose of Amendment – Amend of Article 12 Traffic Rules and Regulations - Public Ways
Article 5.4.9 Four Hour Parking.
Section 2:
Purpose of Amendment – Article 12.1 to Enact Pursuant to Article 5.4.9: unless otherwise
designated, parking within the Brande Court Municipal Parking Lot shall be limited to a
maximum of four hours between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays,
Thursdays and Fridays.
Section 3:
Effective Date:
This act shall take effect upon its passage and the provisions above shall not expire.
Select Board:
Date Signed:
Town of Reading
Amendment to the
Traffic and Parking Regulations
Certification of Amendment:
The Town Clerk certifies that Amendment Number ____________ above was ____________ by the
Select Board of the Town of Reading through an official vote occurring during a public hearing held on
____________. The Amendment was ____________ through a vote of ____________ in favor and
____________ opposed.
Town Clerk
Town Corporate Seal
Town of Reading
Amendment to the
Traffic and Parking Regulations
Amendment Number: 2024-9
Date Filed: October 29, 2024
Filed By: TSO Michael S. Scouten
On Behalf of: Select Board
Section 1:
Purpose of Amendment – Amend of Article 12 Traffic Rules and Regulations - Public Ways
Article 5.4.9 Four Hour Parking.
Section 2:
• Purpose of Amendment – Article 12.1 to Enact Pursuant to Article 5.4.9: unless
otherwise designated, parking within the Reading Upper Municipal Parking Lot shall be
limited to a maximum of four hours between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM on Mondays,
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Section 3:
Effective Date:
This act shall take effect upon its passage and the provisions above shall not expire.
Select Board:
Date Signed:
Town of Reading
Amendment to the
Traffic and Parking Regulations
Certification of Amendment:
The Town Clerk certifies that Amendment Number ____________ above was ____________ by the
Select Board of the Town of Reading through an official vote occurring during a public hearing held on
____________. The Amendment was ____________ through a vote of ____________ in favor and
____________ opposed.
Town Clerk
Town Corporate Seal
Web: www.ci.reading.ma.us/police/
October 24, 2024
Dear Select Board,
The Police Department would like to update you how the two parking lots have been
utilized since stopping the paid parking. Employees of these downtown businesses have parked
in the lots daily all day. We know this because they have left their employee placards hanging in
their windows. Brande Court has 85 parking spaces. Since there is no regulation currently at least
50 of the spaces have been used all day by employees. The Upper Municipal lot has not had as
many but at least 10 vehicles daily are there more than four hours to all day.
Town staff has continually worked on Downtown Parking through the Parking Traffic
Transportation Task Force (PTTTF) to create an equal opportunity for all business customers and
turn over. We also are aware employees are an essential part of each business. Since the
downtown growth around 2018 we have continually had concerns brought to the police
department and PTTTF that their customers had nowhere to park because the same vehicles are
in the lot all day. We also had businesses concerned we did not offer enough employee parking.
PTTTF worked with a consultant and made suggestions to the Select Board. It was determined
that a committee that involved residents, business owners, and staff would be the best way to get
recommendations for the changes needed in the downtown area. The PARC committee sent out
a parking survey to every resident in town. They had over 800 respondent’s, 10 public meetings
to which every business was invited by email and posted for any resident as well.
Using the input of the residents’ and business’s that participated it was clear we had an
employee parking issue and turn-over problem. The PARC committee recognized the need for
turnover in the two parking lots, as they are the most convenient. Paid Parking was the best
solution to help maximize the lot usage and turn over. Also, importantly we were able to add 113
more employee spaces totaling 236 spaces. This is more than enough now; however, many
READING POLICE DEPARTMENT
15 Union Street . Reading, Massachusetts 01867 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Emergency Only: 911 . All Other Calls: (781) 944-1212 . Fax: (781) 944-2893
employees want to park as close as possible to their business. Employees or anyone can also
park at any open parking spot at the train depot after 9:30am. A study was conducted in 2023,
and Reading has one of the lowest employee parking passes compared to other towns with
employee passes by a lot. We do not believe it is a fee issue as most are sold but rather a
convenience issue.
It is evident this week without paid parking the employees will take up these parking
spaces. When the lot was only two-hour parking employees shuffled their cars around all day.
We could enforce a two-hour parking in downtown all day but that is a lot of enforcement for
one person to keep up with. When the lot is four hours employees stay there and then also shuffle
to another space or street at the four-hour mark. We have written over 800 parking citations a
year in these two parking lots. That has been consistent over the years. Attached are photos of
this week showing employees are parking in the parking lot daily.
Any other information we can help provide please let me know.
Sincerely,
Deputy Chief Christine Amendola
Brande Court
Employee Placard
Vehicles
Brande Court
Employee Placard
Vehicles
Brande Court
Employee Placard
Vehicles
1
To: Reading Select Board and Town Managers Office
From: Andrew MacNichol, Community Development Director
CC: Kevin McCarthy Senior Planner
Date: October 24, 2024
Re: Downtown Parking Regulations
We would like to make it clear that we all support our local businesses and are always seeking to understand
the challenges and improvements we can make to build with the community. Town staff, and community
members, have continuously worked on downtown parking regulation updates given the challenges expressed
over the last few years. Many challenges related to the fact that users are not able to adequately utilize the
rightly timed parking allowances. There is a high number of short-term parking spaces in the Downtown area
(most of which are on-street parking spaces) and longer-term parking areas have been utilized by contractors,
employees, and customers alike leading to less availability of those spaces. Paid parking was a
recommendation to support turnover and user choice of these highly utilized public parking areas.
To summarize some recent history (1-4 years) of downtown parking discussions we wanted to provide the
following in addition to the RPD memo:
1. A 2020 survey was conducted to Downtown Businesses to discuss parking improvements. While there
is a lot more context to the survey, and it may not be wholly representative, nearly 60% of
respondents (16/27) to the posed question of “The Town is looking to expand access to Reading.
Which of the following transportation related infrastructure improvements would you like to see?
Select all that apply.” selected “Parking Kiosks (Pay to Park”) as a response.
a. Additional takeaways included:
i. Parking spaces are not flexible to meet varied demand
ii. Employees need areas to park for a full day
iii. Maintain and improve access for convenient loading and unloading
2. In 2022 the Reading Police Department and Select Board, through regulation, added 113 Employee
Parking Spaces to the Downtown area – nearly doubling the previous 123 employee spaces.
a. These parking areas are also allowed as 2-hour public parking and there is no guarantee of a
space.
b. There are approximately 435 2-hour parking spaces in the downtown area, additional
unregulated parking, and additional private business/housing parking spaces.
3. There were over 15 Parking Advisory and Recommendations Committee (PARC) meetings from
September 2021 to May 2022. There were additional engagement opportunities with staff through
one-on-one business meetings, forums at local businesses, and additional messaging.
4. The contract with kiosk vendor IPS Group was established in February 2023. The kiosks were
delivered in Fall 2023.
a. The initial implementation of paid parking was delayed from January 2024 to Spring 2024 to
Summer 2024 and ultimately was able to be launched in September 2024. These delays were
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Public Services Department
Planning Division
Phone: 781.942-6670
Fax: 781.942-9071
Website: www.readingma.gov
2
for a variety of reasons, including initial troubleshooting and configuration with the Vendor’s
system.
Understanding that the launch of the system in September 2024 also had its challenges and shortcomings that
led to the immediate pause of their use we would like to improve upon what we have heard to date. We are
reviewing the ideas of additional signage, relocating the kiosks if there are better locations, new mailings and
awareness building. However, if there is additional data or information that can help the Town make the
appropriate decision as to re-implementation of the paid parking system or not please let us know.
If re-implemented we would like to build findings and takeaways, as practical, from the kiosk software over a
period of time, such as:
• Unique and individual users per X-time periods
• Time of day “Peak” period(s)
• Average length of stays and total counts on staying time (how many people are staying for 1-hour or
less, 2-hours, 3-hours, etc.)
• Employee permit usage and availability
• Revenue and collections (card, coin, or app percentage of users; average monthly collections; etc.)
We have and continue to recommend that if paid parking is utilized in Reading that we implement a Parking
Benefit District (or similar) to collect the revenue that can be used to help pay for the costs of the software and
also go back to the district for improvements.
1
To: Reading Select Board and Town Managers Office
From: Andrew MacNichol, Community Development Director
CC: Olivia Knightly, Senior Planner and Kevin McCarthy Senior Planner
Date: October 24, 2024
Re: Metro North Regional Housing Services Office (MNRHSO)
Materials Submitted:
• Inter-Municipal Agreement (IMA)
• MNRHSO Future Scope of Work
To summarize the intent of the MNRHSO Inter-Municipal Agreement and the future expectations of the
regional organization I wanted to provide the following summary:
• The MNRHSO, while having evolved since its inception, has existed since 2013.
• The organization to date has been comprised of Reading, North Reading, Wilmington, Woburn, and
Saugus. We would like to add the municipalities of Wakefield and Stoneham to the organization.
• The IMA is the municipal agreement that establishes the rules and regulations expected – and that
Reading will continue to act as the Lead Municipality. As Lead Municipality we release the RFP,
execute a contract with qualified Vendor, and payment of invoices. The partner Municipalities
reimburse Reading on a quarterly basis based on hours/costs accrued.
• The MNRHSO has been without a consultant since July 2024 as we prepared for this expansion and
the release of a new Request for Proposals (RFP). We expect to release an RFP in the immediate
future to bring a consultant on board to support the organization.
• The primary goals of the MNRHSO, and which are further detailed in the Scope of Work submitted,
are to provide direct resident support in each Municipality, provide the Monitoring of local Deed
Restricted Affordable Units and their annual certifications (these are units typically outside of an
approved 40B or 40R), and provide support and research to staff on grant opportunities, program
development, and other.
• Municipalities, including Reading, continue to seek and directly add to their local Affordable Housing
Stock – as evident by the proposed Inclusionary Housing Regulations being brought to Town Meeting
this November and a recent project approved by the CPDC on Main Street.
• Each Municipality allocates $15,000 every fiscal year. The Consultant will track hours and bill based
on hours expended to each specific Municipality. This is how reimbursement is tracked. An example
invoice from our previously contracted Consultant (Anser Advisory) is below to detail. Not every
Municipality expends their full $15,000 every year – thus the funds can be released back or used for
additional programming.
• We have a request in the November Town Meeting to increase the Expense line item tied to Regional
Housing Services. While the line item will increase Reading itself will not see an increased need
beyond its $15,000 – it is proposed to bring the two new municipalities in and seek their
reimbursement.
Thank you for your consideration and time dedicated to this manner. We are happy to support in whatever way
possible.
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Public Services Department
Planning Division
Phone: 781.942-6670
Fax: 781.942-9071
Website: www.readingma.gov
Scope of Work: Core Housing Services
Core Housing Services may include but not necessarily require:
1. Monitoring of existing units
• Update/maintain database of affordable housing developments and residents
across each municipality
• Gather recorded documents (Regulatory Agreements, Deed Riders, etc.) for each
unit and check for updates periodically
• Conduct annual Local Initiative Program (LIP) and/or Local Action Units (LAU)
ownership monitoring:
o Review recorded documentation for re-financing, transfer, etc.;
o Issue and track annual self-certification letters;
o Approve owner re-financing and related inquiries:
▪ Includes initial valuation, assisting owners through process, getting
municipal approval
o Administration of re-sale assistance for existing owners and perspective
purchasers
• Value ownership units for assessment purposes
o Provide the Assessor’s Office with annual valuations for the affordable
units, based on an analysis of each deed restriction and its method of
resale calculation.
• Conduct annual LIP/LAU rental monitoring and certify the following to EOHLC:
o Review rents and tenant certification;
o Check that units are maintained; and
o Ensure tenant selection process complies with Fair Housing laws.
▪ Develop a list of compliance violations with a proposed course of
action, as well as certifications of compliance.
o Ensure annual rent increases are allowed under State/National
requirements and limits
• Track foreclosures
• Lead local LIP/LAU Lottery processes and Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing
Plans, for new and existing developments
2. Subsidized Housing Inventory administration
• Reconcile municipal inventory records with the Subsidized Housing Inventory
(SHI) maintained by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities
(EOHLC)
• Support in Request for New Units to the inventory as required
3. Local Support
• Project Consultation:
o Meet on-site with staff and housing entities
o Assist town boards and developers with evaluating parcels or town-owned
property and soliciting developer interest;
o Facilitate site and conceptual plan review, project concepts and designs;
o Prepare or review project proforma budgets;
o Prepare Local Preference justification;
o Analyze projects using locally adopted rules, State guidelines and
regulations, best practices;
o Review finalized plans with regard to the affordable component, including
unit mix, disbursement, cost, governance, schedule, marketing;
o Interact with EOHLC and Subsidizing Agencies;
o Provide comments on the Regulatory Agreement, and other local
agreements as appropriate.
• Support municipalities on questions regarding Affordable Housing Trust Funds.
Help in the development of Resident Assistance Programs such as down-payment
assistance, rental assistance, small grants or capital improvement programs, buy-
down programs, or any other locally defined initiatives to assist new or existing
residents. Activities include:
o Developing the program including eligibility requirements;
o Funding and revenue determination;
o Development of application materials;
o Implementation assistance (municipality responsible for administration)
• On-site Meetings for staff, Boards and Committees – attending and/or presenting
materials related to the above services on an as-needed basis
• Resident Support:
o Allow residents to contact the Vendor directly with questions and
concerns related to housing; can include office hours in each community,
phone/email responsiveness, referrals, etc. depending on community
desires.
o Consultant should provide initial response to residents within 24-48 hours
and support in emergency needs and may be called on to advise and
provide referrals to residents who call with emergency needs.
• Consult on acquisition of units
• Aid in affordable housing grant applications, Requests for Information, Requests
for Proposal’s
• Bring awareness to member municipalities of annual recertification of Housing
Production Plans
• Providing up to date regional data, metrics, and resources
• Conduct outreach to owners (i.e., HOR program letters)
• Prepare proposals for supplemental services as needed
• Help towns achieve town-specific goals
4. Regional Activities
• Financial accounting
• Bi-Monthly Advisory Committee Meeting agenda and minutes development
• Educational training to municipalities on Regional/State/Federal housing grants,
initiatives, resources
• Status reporting and Communication Strategy
• Assist communities with regional linkages
• Maintain and regularly update the organizations MNRHSO.org website
• Create and maintain Interested-buyer/renters list and provide awareness on
upcoming housing opportunities
• Provide training, workshops and referrals of resources to existing owners and
renters by connecting them to programs and services available regionally
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
August 18, 2023
Contract No:B1612-001.00
Invoice No:18732
Remit To:
Anser Advisory, LLC
P.O. Box 532306
Atlanta, GA 30353-2306
Contract B1612-001.00 Town of Reading - MNRHSO Housing Consultants Services 22_14
Professional Services from July 1, 2023 to July 31, 2023
Project Town of Reading
Town of Reading 22-14
Professional Personnel
Hours Rate Amount
Lambert, Nicole 2.50 145.00 362.50
Totals 2.50 362.50
Total Labor 362.50
Billing Limits Current Prior To-Date
Total Billings 362.50 8,472.75 8,835.25
Limit 14,500.00
Remaining 5,664.75
$362.50Total this Project
Project Town of North Reading
Town of North Reading 22-14
Professional Personnel
Hours Rate Amount
Lambert, Nicole 6.50 145.00 942.50
Totals 6.50 942.50
Total Labor 942.50
Billing Limits Current Prior To-Date
Total Billings 942.50 8,592.75 9,535.25
Limit 14,500.00
Remaining 4,964.75
$942.50Total this Project
Project City of Saugus
Please notify ARSupport@anseradvisory.com with electronic payments or questions on this invoice.
Project 18732B1612-001.00 MNRHSO Housing Consultants Svcs 22_14 Invoice
City of Saugus 22_14
Professional Personnel
Hours Rate Amount
Lambert, Nicole 8.00 145.00 1,160.00
Totals 8.00 1,160.00
Total Labor 1,160.00
Billing Limits Current Prior To-Date
Total Billings 1,160.00 2,370.25 3,530.25
Limit 14,500.00
Remaining 10,969.75
$1,160.00Total this Project
Project Town of Wilmington
Town of Wilmington 22_14
Professional Personnel
Hours Rate Amount
Lambert, Nicole 2.00 145.00 290.00
Totals 2.00 290.00
Total Labor 290.00
Billing Limits Current Prior To-Date
Total Billings 290.00 6,119.00 6,409.00
Limit 14,500.00
Remaining 8,091.00
$290.00Total this Project
Project City of Woburn
City of Woburn 22_14
Professional Personnel
Hours Rate Amount
Lambert, Nicole 1.00 145.00 145.00
Totals 1.00 145.00
Total Labor 145.00
Billing Limits Current Prior To-Date
Total Billings 145.00 3,260.25 3,405.25
Limit 14,500.00
Remaining 11,094.75
$145.00Total this Project
$2,900.00Total this Invoice
Page 2Please notify ARSupport@anseradvisory.com with electronic payments or questions on this invoice.
1 | Page
AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is entered into by and between the Towns of North Reading,
Reading, Saugus, Wakefield, Stoneham and Wilmington, and by the City of Woburn, hereafter
referred to individually as “Municipality” and collectively as the “Municipalities,” this First of
December, 2024, as follows:
WHEREAS, the Municipalities desire to share the services and costs of a common
Regional Housing Services Office; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Reading is willing and capable of contracting for the services
of a Regional Housing Services Office; and
WHEREAS, each of the Municipalities has authority to enter into this Agreement
pursuant to G.L. c. 40, s 4A.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Municipalities, in mutual consideration of the covenants
contained herein, intending to be legally bound, agree under seal as follows:
1. Term. The Term of this Agreement shall commence on December 1, 2024 and shall
expire on June 30, 2026, unless earlier terminated as set forth herein. Any municipality may
withdraw from the Agreement as defined below. The Agreement may be extended for an
additional six (6) two-year terms as voted by each municipality through its respective Select
Board, Town Council, or Mayor.
2. Lead Municipality. During the Term of this Agreement, the Town of Reading, acting
as the lead municipality, shall operate the Regional Housing Services Office. Upon
commencement of the Term of this Agreement and for every two (2) years thereafter, the Town
of Reading, through standard procurement practices and in accordance with Chapter 30B of the
Massachusetts General Laws as applicable, shall procure consultant services on behalf of the
Municipalities, and shall then execute and manage a contract with the consultant (hereafter
“Consultant”). The scope of services, as outlined in Exhibit A, shall be disclosed as part of the
procurement process and contained within the Consultant contract. Said Consultant contract may
be terminated prior to its expiration by written agreement of the majority of Municipalities in
accordance with the terms of the contract.
The cost of the Consultant contract shall be included in the Membership Fee of each
Municipality and payment administered by the Town of Reading. Each Municipality shall have
sole responsibility for the Municipality’s share of such services. If the Consultant contract
requires appropriation by the participating Municipalities, final approval of the contract must be
obtained from each Municipality.
3. Duties. During the Term of this Agreement, the Regional Housing Services
Office shall perform the housing administrative services as described in Exhibit A: Core
Housing Services for an annual allocation of hours as indicated in Exhibit B: Fee Structure,
attached and incorporated herein.
2 | Page
4. Municipal Appropriation and Payment. Upon signing this Agreement, each
municipality shall appropriate its share of the annual Membership Fee as set forth in Exhibit B:
Fee Structure, as may be adjusted as set forth herein. The Membership Fee shall cover the costs
incurred for the operation of the Regional Housing Services Office, including Consultant costs
and administrative costs incurred by the Town of Reading. The Town of Reading shall quarterly
invoice each of the Municipalities for its proportionate share of the work actually performed
during the preceding quarter with payment due within thirty (30) days of the date of the invoice.
Payment for supplemental services not included in Exhibit A: Core Housing Services and for
additional hours in excess of the allotted hours in Exhibit B: Fee Structure shall be invoiced
separately as may be agreed upon by the Town of Reading and the individual municipality. The
Municipalities may borrow, lend, or transfer allocated hours or services to other Municipalities
upon written agreement between the impacted Municipalities provided that the total number of
hours available to the Regional Housing Services Office remains constant, and provided that
each Municipality remains solely responsible for payment due the Consultant for the services
performed for that Municipality.
5. Membership Fee Adjustments. The Advisory Committee will review the Membership
Fee annually three (3) months prior to the end of each fiscal year and, if appropriate, adjust the
Membership Fee for the upcoming fiscal year. The Consultant shall provide to all Municipalities
a record of the actual hours of services provided to each Municipality and adjustments for the
following fiscal year.
6. Indemnification. Notwithstanding the final sentence of G.L. c. 40, s 4A, to the extent
permitted by law, the Municipalities shall indemnify and hold harmless the Town of Reading and
each and all of its officials, officers, employees, agents, servants and representatives from and
against any claim arising from or in connection with the performance by the Regional Housing
Services Office of their duties in or for the Municipalities including, without limitation, any
claim of liability, loss, damages, costs and expenses for personal injury or damage to real or
personal property by reason of any negligent act or omission or intentional misconduct by the
Regional Housing Services Office while in or performing services for the Municipalities;
provided however, that this obligation shall not extend to claims arising from or in connection
with the negligent or wrongful acts or omissions of the Town of Reading and each and all of its
officials, officers, employees, agents, servants and representatives.
By entering into this Agreement, none of the Municipalities has waived any
governmental immunity or limitation of damages which may be extended to them by operation
of law. It is expressly understood that the services rendered hereunder are deemed for public and
governmental purposes, and all privileges and immunities from liability enjoyed by the
Municipalities shall extend to their participation hereunder and to the activities so undertaken to
the fullest extent permitted by law.
7. Withdrawal. Any Municipality, by a vote of its respective Select Board, Town Council,
or Mayor, may withdraw from this Agreement at the end of any municipal fiscal year with the
provision of at least ninety (90) days’ prior written notice to the Town of Reading. Such
withdrawal shall take effect on the following June 30. No such withdrawal shall affect any
obligation of indemnification that may have arisen hereunder prior to such withdrawal, nor shall
3 | Page
it affect any financial obligations that by prior agreement extend beyond the withdrawal date.
Upon such withdrawal, the Town of Reading shall prepare full statements of outstanding unpaid
financial obligations under this Agreement and present the same to the withdrawing Municipality
for payment within thirty (30) days thereafter. The remaining Municipalities shall continue with
this Agreement as written unless the Agreement is terminated as per paragraph eight (8).
8. Termination. The Town of Reading, by a vote of its respective Select Board, may
terminate this Agreement upon the provision of at least six months’ prior written notice to the
participating Municipalities. After providing notice, the Town of Reading shall remain liable to
the participating Municipalities for any portion of the payments received and not earned until the
date of termination. Such termination shall take effect on the following June 30.
The Town of Reading and the participating Municipalities, by a majority vote, may agree
to terminate this Agreement at least six months prior to the end of any municipal fiscal year.
After the date of the vote, the Town of Reading shall remain liable to the participating
Municipalities for any portion of the payments received and not earned. Such termination shall
take effect on the following June 30. No such termination shall affect any obligation of
indemnification that may have arisen hereunder prior to such termination, nor shall it affect any
financial obligations that by prior agreement extend beyond the termination date. Upon such
termination, the Town of Reading shall prepare full statements of outstanding unpaid financial
obligations under this Agreement and present the same to the participating Municipalities for
payment within thirty (30) days thereafter.
9. Advisory Committee. There shall exist an Advisory Committee composed of one
(1) representative, or their designee, from each Municipality, who shall be appointed by the
Town Manager/Administrator or Mayor of the Municipality. Each Municipality shall have one
vote and each representative, or their designee, shall be authorized to cast such vote. The
Advisory Committee shall meet at least on a quarterly basis. The Consultant shall prepare and
send to each Municipality a quarterly status report prior to the quarterly meeting. In addition, the
Advisory Committee may meet on a monthly basis, or at any mutually agreed upon timeframe,
and the Consultant shall prepare and send to each Municipality a monthly status report prior to
the monthly meeting.
10. Conflict Resolution. The Advisory Committee may hold additional meetings to
discuss and resolve any conflicts that may arise including, but not limited to, disagreements
regarding the needs of each municipality and changes to the annual allocation of hours as
indicated in Exhibit B: Fee Structure. Any recommendations made to the Consultant must be
made by a majority vote. Any unresolved issues shall be decided by the Town Manager of the
Town of Reading.
11. Additional Municipalities. At any time during the Term of this Agreement, including
any extension thereof as provided in Section 1, the Advisory Committee may meet and, by
unanimous vote, amend this Agreement to admit an additional municipality on the following July
1.
4 | Page
12. Financial Safeguards. The Town of Reading shall maintain separate, accurate and
comprehensive records of all services performed for each of the Municipalities hereto, and all
contributions received from the Municipalities. The Town of Reading shall issue a financial
report for each fiscal year to each of the Municipalities by December 31 of the following fiscal
year.
13. Assignment. None of the Municipalities shall assign or transfer any of its rights or
interests in or to this Agreement, or delegate any of its obligations hereunder, without the prior
written consent of all of the other Municipalities.
14. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by a writing signed by all
Municipalities duly authorized thereunto.
15. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement is held by a court of competent
jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, or if any such term is so held when applied to
any particular circumstance, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any
other provision of this Agreement, or affect the application of such provision to any other
circumstances, and the remaining provisions hereof shall not be affected and shall remain in full
force and effect.
16. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed and enforced in
accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
17. Headings. The paragraph headings herein are for convenience only, are no part of this
Agreement and shall not affect the interpretation of this Agreement.
18. Notices. Any notice permitted or required hereunder to be given or served on any
Municipality shall be in writing signed in the name of or on behalf of the Municipality giving or
serving the same. Notice shall be deemed to have been received at the time of actual receipt of
any hand delivery or three (3) business days after the date of any properly addressed notice sent
by mail as set forth below, or to such other person or address as may be set by proper notice:
Town of North Reading
Michael P. Gilleberto, Town Administrator
235 North Street
North Reading, MA 01864
Town of Reading
Matt Kraunelis, Town Manager
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Town of Saugus
Scott Crabtree, Town Manager
298 Central Street, Ste. 1
Saugus, MA 01906
5 | Page
Town of Stoneham
Dennis Sheehan, Town Administrator
35 Central Street
Stoneham, MA 02180
Town of Wilmington
R. Eric Slagle, Town Manager
121 Glen Road
Wilmington, MA 01887
Town of Wakefield
Stephen P. Maio, Town Administrator
1 Lafayette Street
Wakefield, MA 01880
City of Woburn
Michael Concannon, Mayor
10 Common Street
Woburn, MA 01801
19. Complete Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire Agreement between the
Municipalities concerning the subject matter hereof, superseding all prior agreements and
understandings. There are no other agreements or understandings between the Municipalities
concerning the subject matter hereof. Each Municipality acknowledges that it has not relied on
any representations by any other Municipality or by anyone acting or purporting to act for
another Municipality or for whose actions any other Municipality is responsible, other than the
express, written representations set forth herein.
6 | Page
WITNESS OUR HANDS AND SEALS as of the first date written above.
TOWN OF NORTH READING
By its Select Board
__________________________________
Nicholas Masse
__________________________________
Vincenzo Stuto
__________________________________
Richard F. Wallner
__________________________________
Stephen J. O’Leary
__________________________________
Liane R. Gonzalez
7 | Page
WITNESS OUR HANDS AND SEALS as of the first date written above.
TOWN OF READING
By its Select Board
__________________________________
Carlo Bacci, Chair
__________________________________
Karen Gately Herrick, Vice Chair
__________________________________
Mark Dockser
__________________________________
Chris Haley
__________________________________
Melissa Murphy
8 | Page
WITNESS HIS HANDS AND SEALS as of the first date written above.
TOWN OF SAUGUS
By its Town Manager
__________________________________
Scott C. Crabtree, Town Manager
9 | Page
WITNESS HIS HANDS AND SEALS as of the first date written above.
TOWN OF STONEHAM
By its Town Administrator
__________________________________
Dennis Sheehan, Town Administrator
10 | Page
WITNESS OUR HANDS AND SEALS as of the first date written above.
TOWN OF WILMINGTON
By its Select Board
__________________________________
Gregory B. Bendel, Chair
__________________________________
Kevin A. Caira
__________________________________
Frank J. West
__________________________________
Gary B. DePalma
__________________________________
Lilia Maselli
11 | Page
WITNESS OUR HANDS AND SEALS as of the first date written above.
TOWN OF WAKEFIELD
By its Town Council
__________________________________
Michael J. McLane, Chair
__________________________________
Edward F. Dombroski, Jr.
__________________________________
Jonathan P. Chines
__________________________________
Mehreen N. Butt
__________________________________
Robert E. Vincent, II
__________________________________
John F. Carney
__________________________________
Douglas S. Butler
12 | Page
WITNESS HIS HANDS AND SEALS as of the first date written above.
CITY OF WOBURN
By its Mayor
__________________________________
Michael P. Concannon, Mayor
13 | Page
Exhibit A – Scope of Work: Core Housing Services
Core Housing Services may include but not necessarily require:
1. Monitoring of existing units
• Update/maintain database of affordable housing developments and residents across each
municipality
• Gather recorded documents (Regulatory Agreements, Deed Riders, etc.) for each unit and
check for updates periodically
• Conduct annual Local Initiative Program (LIP) and/or Local Action Units (LAU) ownership
monitoring:
o Review recorded documentation for re-financing, transfer, etc.;
o Issue and track annual self-certification letters;
o Approve owner re-financing and related inquiries:
Includes initial valuation, assisting owners through process, getting municipal
approval
o Administration of re-sale assistance for existing owners and perspective purchasers
• Value ownership units for assessment purposes
o Provide the Assessor’s Office with annual valuations for the affordable units, based
on an analysis of each deed restriction and its method of resale calculation.
• Conduct annual LIP/LAU rental monitoring and certify the following to EOHLC:
o Review rents and tenant certification;
o Check that units are maintained; and
o Ensure tenant selection process complies with Fair Housing laws.
Develop a list of compliance violations with a proposed course of action, as
well as certifications of compliance.
o Ensure annual rent increases are allowed under State/National requirements and
limits
• Track foreclosures
• Lead local LIP/LAU Lottery processes and Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plans, for new
and existing developments
2. Subsidized Housing Inventory administration
• Reconcile municipal inventory records with the Subsidized Housing Inventory (SHI)
maintained by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC)
• Support in Request for New Units to the inventory as required
3. Local Support
• Project Consultation:
o Meet on-site with staff and housing entities
o Assist town boards and developers with evaluating parcels or town-owned property
and soliciting developer interest;
o Facilitate site and conceptual plan review, project concepts and designs;
o Prepare or review project proforma budgets;
o Prepare Local Preference justification;
o Analyze projects using locally adopted rules, State guidelines and regulations, best
practices;
14 | Page
o Review finalized plans with regard to the affordable component, including unit mix,
disbursement, cost, governance, schedule, marketing;
o Interact with EOHLC and Subsidizing Agencies;
o Provide comments on the Regulatory Agreement, and other local agreements as
appropriate.
• Support municipalities on questions regarding Affordable Housing Trust Funds. Help in the
development of Resident Assistance Programs such as down-payment assistance, rental
assistance, small grants or capital improvement programs, buy-down programs, or any other
locally defined initiatives to assist new or existing residents. Activities include:
o Developing the program including eligibility requirements;
o Funding and revenue determination;
o Development of application materials;
o Implementation assistance (municipality responsible for administration)
• On-site Meetings for staff, Boards and Committees – attending and/or presenting materials
related to the above services on an as-needed basis
• Resident Support:
o Allow residents to contact the service provider directly with questions and concerns
related to housing; can include office hours in each community, phone/email
responsiveness, referrals, etc. depending on community desires.
o Consultant should provide response to residents within 24-48 hours and support in
emergency needs
• Consult on acquisition of units
• Aid in affordable housing grant applications, Requests for Information, Requests for
Proposal’s
• Bring awareness to member municipalities of annual recertification of Housing Production
Plans
• Providing up to date regional data, metrics, and resources
• Conduct outreach to owners (i.e., HOR program letters)
• Prepare proposals for supplemental services as needed
• Help towns achieve town-specific goals
4. Regional Activities
• Financial accounting
• Bi-Monthly Advisory Committee Meeting agenda and minutes development
• Educational training to municipalities on Regional/State/Federal housing grants, initiatives,
resources
• Status reporting and Communication Strategy
• Assist communities with regional linkages
• Maintain and regularly update the organizations MNRHSO.org website
• Create and maintain Interested-buyer/renters list and provide awareness on upcoming
housing opportunities
• Provide training, workshops and referrals of resources to existing owners and renters by
connecting them to programs and services available regionally
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Exhibit B
Fee Structure
The participating municipalities will proportionally share the total cost of operating the Regional
Housing Services Office, each Municipality’s proportionate share being deemed its
“Membership Fee”. Invoicing and documentation of total fees and hours worked by the
Consultant shall be recorded and provided to each participating municipality for proof of
services.
Membership Fee Schedule:
This fee structure does not include payment for additional or supplemental services which will be
procured and invoiced outside of this agreement.
Town of Reading Office of Town
Accountant
___________________________________________________________________________________
16 Lowell Street, Reading, MA 01867 Phone 781-942-9005 Fax 781-942-9037
To: Select Board
From: Sharon Angstrom, CFO/Town Accountant
Subject: Multi-Unit Condo Water/Sewer Rates
Date: October 23, 2024
At the last Select Board meeting, the board asked me to find a solution to lower the water
rates for residents of multi-unit condos. The solution available through MUNIS allows us to
enter a condo factor (i.e., # of units attached to the meter). We found that this solution
seemed to achieve the desired result giving each owner access to 10 HCF at the lowest
possible rate, except in the case of the Postmark building. We found that many of the
residents in this building do not use all ten units/HCF allowed at the lowest rate per unit.
Thus, the restaurant benefited from the unused usage of other residents and would not pay
the appropriate rate relative to its usage. To solve this problem, I am proposing to use the
condo factor method, and for the short term, we will adjust the Postmark bill manually. We
will get the quarterly usage for the Post 1917 restaurant through the HOA from the
restaurant’s submeter and subtract the usage from the main bill. We will then generate a
separate manual bill for restaurant usage using the actual usage and charge the restaurant at
the appropriate tiers.
This manual process is not ideal as it lengthens an already lengthy process and lends itself to
human error; the usual method is to upload the meter readings into our software without
data entry. We hope this manual process will be short-lived, as we hope that installing a
deduct meter that attaches to the restaurant's submeter will help to automatically pull
restaurant usage from the total bill and provide us with the usage automatically to bill
Postmark for the restaurant usage. Jayne Wellman, our Assistant Town Manager, and Chris
Cole, our DPW Director, are assessing whether this solution is viable and the most cost-
effective.
In the meantime, my team is committed to manually adjusting the bill for the Postmark
property until an automated method can be installed. We are willing to do this to allow condo
residents to enjoy the lowest possible water rates as quickly as possible.
We know of no other condo with a similar situation to Postmark. Most businesses in mixed-
use buildings are rented or are not naturally high-water users.
I hope this plan will be sufficient to obtain the Select Board's approval to implement the
condo factor for multi-unit condo buildings. I welcome any questions you may have.
Fax: (781) 942-5441 PUBLIC WORKS
Website: www.readingma.gov (781) 942-9077
Date: October 24, 2024
To: Town of Reading Select Board
Cc: Matthew A. Kraunelis, Town Manager
From: Christopher A. Cole, Director of Public Works
Re: Secondary Water Meter – Pilot Program
Per the request of the Select Board, the Department of Public Works is proposing the attached
draft policy for implementation of a 400-unit secondary water meter pilot program. This draft
policy and regulations have been reviewed by the Water Division, Building Commissioner, and
Plumbing Inspector. This policy, if adopted, will set forth uniform requirements for the
installation of secondary water meters for the purpose of outside watering use only and is not
intended for domestic drinking water or swimming pools. Outside water usage via the secondary
meters shall only be allowed between April 1 and October 31. Any usage outside this window
would be charged a penalty.
All secondary water metering shall require a rain sensor and a backflow preventor. Property
owners will be responsible for paying for all permitting, plumbing work, and the purchase of the
secondary meter and transponder. If any illegal tampering of the secondary meter system is
found, penalties will be issued.
Any properties that currently have a secondary meter will be issued a letter inquiring whether
they want to reactivate their secondary meter. Any properties with existing secondary meters
will require an inspection by Town staff including possible replacement of the water meter if
necessary. Logistics on the application process via OpenGov is currently being vetted by Town
staff.
Rate comparisons will be presented to the Select Board to deliberate on what rate(s) should be
charged for the use of the secondary meter.
Thank you,
Christopher A. Cole
Director, Department of Public Works
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867-2683
TOWN OF READING
MASSACHUSETTS
Department of Public Works
Second Water Meter Regulation and Fees
Adopted November 2024
2 | Page
Town of Reading Secondary Water Meter Policy and Regulations
TOWN OF READING
MASSACHUSETTS
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
75 NEW CROSSINGS RD.
READING, MASSACHUSETTS 01876
Reading Requirements and Process for Secondary Meter Installation
Authority and Purpose
These regulations set forth uniform requirements for the installation of secondary water meters for the
purpose of outside use only and not intended for domestic drinking water, filling swimming pools, or
commercial and manufacturing use. All costs associated with the second water meter shall be borne by
the property owner and are subject to permitting and all regulations listed below. These regulations are
adopted for the purpose of servicing a 400-unit pilot program.
All existing second meters must be inspected by Town of Reading staff (by appointment) and must meet
current standards as described in this policy.
Use of secondary water meters to provide outdoor watering shall be operable only during the months of
April 1 through October 31, when the Town Manager has imposed no water bans. All irrigation systems
will be required to have an operable rain sensor switch as well as a backflow prevention device.
Consumption from this meter will be charged a premium water rate only.
These regulations shall apply to residential, commercial, and industrial facilities within the Town of
Reading (Town). These regulations amend existing “Water and Sewer Regulations.”
The Department of Public Works, DPW, acting through the Director of Public Works, shall implement
and administer the provisions outlined within these rules and regulations.
Secondary Meters
The policy is to allow one secondary water meter to be installed in front of or before the primary meter
for the purpose of outside use. Installation shall meet all State and Local plumbing codes and require an
approved plumbing permit and inspection. All irrigation systems will be required to have an operable
rain sensor switch as well as a backflow prevention device.
Permits
The owner, through their licensed plumber, must obtain all necessary permits from the Reading
Community Development Office and the Water Division – ENGINEERING before any work is started
including, but not limited to, a plumbing permit and water application. Any application for a service must
include drawing(s) of proposed water service, showing all pipes, valves, means and materials involved in
the project, including all connections to outside faucets and irrigation system(s) if applicable, completed
by a licensed plumber.
3 | Page
Town of Reading Secondary Water Meter Policy and Regulations
Process
1. Apply for a DPW water connection/ application permit through OpenGov.
2. A licensed plumber must apply for a plumbing permit through OpenGov.
3. Must submit drawings of the proposed plumbing alterations, showing all pipes, valves, means, and
materials involved.
4. Once approved, the plumber needs to coordinate with the DPW water division to schedule a water
shut-off (if needed) and prepare the site for the meter installation.
5. After the preparation work is completed, the plumber must call the Building Department to schedule
a final inspection.
6. DPW personnel will install the 2nd water meter. Please allow 24-48 hours after final inspection and
before installation.
Fees & Cost
All permits, installation charges, equipment, including a secondary water meter, and water dispensed
through the secondary water meter shall be charged to the applicant at a rate approved, from time to time,
by the Town Manager. There are no refunds or exchanges.
Owners will not pay sewer charges on the water used through the Secondary Water Meter; however, after
41 HCF units (Tier 4), your water rate will increase by an added conservation rate for units used in excess
of 41 HCF units. Consumption from this meter will be charged a premium water rate only.
Meter Cost:
• $400 meter plus transponder (Residential)
• Price varies (commercial)
Water Connection (Second Meter) Application Fee:
• $100.00 (residential)
• $150.00 (commercial)
Plumbing Permit:
• $50 (Residential)
• $80.00 (Commercial)
Tamper Fee:
• $300
o Tampering includes but is not limited to customers that received unauthorized, unmetered
water, customers that have intentional damage or tampering done to their meters, meter
locks, radio readers, wires, or any equipment that is property of the Town.
Outside of Season Usage Fine:
• $300
o If a secondary water meter records usage outside April 1 to October 31, this fine will be
assessed on the customer’s next bill.
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Town of Reading Secondary Water Meter Policy and Regulations
Second Water Meter Technical Requirements
Purpose: As stated above, second water meters measure water used outside of the home, so that the sewer
fee is based only on indoor water usage. The meter is for outdoor use only and cannot be used for indoor
consumption. The meter must be used for the address where it was purchased. All costs associated with
the second water meter shall be borne by the property owner and are subject to permitting and all
regulations listed below. These regulations are adopted for the purpose of servicing a 400-unit pilot
program.
All existing second meters need to be inspected by Town of Reading staff (by appointment) and must
meet current standards as described in this policy.
Use of secondary water meters to provide outdoor watering shall be operable only during the months of
April 1 through October 31, when the Town Manager has imposed no water bans. All irrigation systems
will be required to have an operable rain sensor switch as well as a backflow prevention device.
No Plumber shall be allowed to shut off the water at the outside curb stop entering a home or business.
Only the Town of Reading Water/Sewer Division personnel shall perform this function. All inspections
for valves and piping will be by appointment only except in an emergency.
When a plumber encounters an old iron pipe service entering the home through the wall or up through the
floor, they shall not operate the meter valve. They shall call the Water/Sewer Division Office immediately
to determine if the pipe is in sound condition to shutoff the existing meter valve.
When a plumber encounters an old iron pipe service entering the house and it is determined by the
Water/Sewer Division personnel that it is poor condition and needs to be replaced, it shall be the home or
business owner’s responsibility to repair or replace the pipe and meter valve and notify the Town of its
repair or replacement before a new secondary water meter can be installed.
If, for any reason, a plumber is unsure about shutting off the meter valve please contact the Water/Sewer
Division office to arrange for an inspection of the meter valve or to have the water shutoff at the outside
curb stop.
There shall be no freezing of water pipes when installing new plumbing for secondary water meters. All
water shutdowns will be by meter valves or outside curb stops. No exceptions to this policy.
All plumbers will be required to have all the tools and equipment needed to ensure no water is allowed to
spill or leak onto the basement floor whether it is concrete, tile or carpets, etc.
For the standard meter setup (⅝ inch by ¾ inch meter), the plumber shall leave a 7.5 inch spacing. All
meter bends and straights must be ¾ inch male internal pipe thread by 1-inch meter nut connection to the
meter. If the assembly is for a meter which is not standard or if there are any questions, the plumber shall
verify the adaptor sizes or connection set size and shape with the Water & Sewer Division personnel.
All plumbers are required to include drawing(s) of proposed water service, showing all pipes, valves,
means and materials involved in the project, including all connections to outside faucets and irrigation
5 | Page
Town of Reading Secondary Water Meter Policy and Regulations
system(s), if applicable. The drawing showing the “Secondary Water Meter Typical Layout” is not
acceptable as the drawing for the plumbing permit.
Backflow devices will be required and pressure reducing valves may be required, as outlined in the State
Plumbing Code. Costs for those devices will be the responsibility of the property owner.
After the installation of all valves, piping, and secondary meter all plumbing will be wiped dry and
checked for leaks before leaving the premises.
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Town of Reading Secondary Water Meter Policy and Regulations
TOWN OF READING
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
SECONDARY WATER METER TYPICAL LAYOUT
7 | Page
Town of Reading Secondary Water Meter Policy and Regulations
Procedural Information Regarding Secondary Water Meters in Reading
Process:
1.Apply for a DPW Engineering for a Water Application (Service Pipe
Connection (SPC) or Service Pipe Maintenance (SPM)) permit online at:
Click EXPLORE under Department of Public Works
Click SELECT for Public Works Permits
Click APPLY ONLINE
2.A licensed plumber must apply for a plumbing permit online at:
https://readingma.portal.opengov.com/
Click EXPLORE under Building/Inspections
Click SELECT for Plumbing Permit
Click APPLY ONLINE
*Must submit drawings of the proposed plumbing alterations, showing all
pipes, valves, means, and materials involved
3. Once approved, the plumber needs to coordinate with the DPW Water
Division to schedule a water shut off (if needed) and prepare the site for the
meter installation.
4. After the preparation work is completed, the plumber must call the Building
Department to schedule a final inspection.
5. DPW personnel will install the second water meter. Please allow at least
24-48 hours after final inspection and before installation.
Town Contacts:
Department of Public Works
75 New Crossing Rd
781-942-9092
Qualifications:
Must have both Town water and Town sewer accounts. Only exception is
well water users with Town sewer only.
Additional Information:
Use of Secondary Water Meters are only permitted between April 1st and
October 31st. You may want to consider having your plumber leave a spigot
plumbed to your primary line for purposes of washing your car or construction
work. You will not pay sewer charges on the water used through the Secondary
Water Meter; however, after 41 HCF units (Tier 4), your water rate will increase
by an added conservation rate for units used in excess of 41 HCF units.
Consumption from this meter will be charged a premium water rate only. Any
tampering with the meter will be charged $300 and risk loss of meter. Usage
outside season will incur a $300 fee on the next billing cycle. All irrigation
systems will be required to have an operable rain sensor switch as well as a
backflow prevention device.
Costs:
Water Connection Application Fee
$100.00 (residential)
$150.00 (commercial)
Standard Meter, MTU & Installation
$400.00 (residential)
Price varies (commercial)
Plumbing Permit
$50 (Residential)
$80.00 (commercial)
Secondary
Water Meters
Town of Reading
(400–unit pilot program)
2nd Meter Highlights
•400-unit pilot program
•2nd meter for outside water use only
•Outside water usage via 2nd meter can only be used April 1 to October 31
•Penalty would be charged for usage beyond these dates
•Rain sensor and backflow preventor required
•Property owner pays for all permitting, plumbing work, and the 2nd water
meter
•Penalty charged for any illegal tampering
2nd Meter Highlights (cont.)
•Any properties with existing 2nd water meters will require an inspection
by Town staff and possible replacement and/or modifications of the
meter system if necessary.
•These properties will receive a letter inquiring whether they want to
reactivate the 2nd water meter.
•Logistics on application process through OpenGov currently being vetted
Setting the Rate
Tiered Rates Volumes
Primary
Water
Rate
Second Meter
Rate (+5%)
Second Meter
Rate (+10%)
Second Meter
Rate Tier 4
Tier 1 0 - 10 HCF 11.15$ 11.71$ 12.27$ $12.97
Tier 2 11 - 25 HCF 12.14$ 12.75$ 13.35$ $12.97
Tier 3 26 - 40 HCF 12.45$ 13.07$ 13.70$ $12.97
Tier 4 41 HCF and above 12.97$ 13.62$ 14.27$ $15.00
READING (per HCF)
Rate Comparisons
Tiered Rates Volumes
Primary
Water
Rate
Second Meter
Rate
N/A All units 6.95$ 6.95$
STONEHAM (per HCF)
Tiered Rates Volumes
Primary
Water
Rate
Second Meter
Rate
Tier 1 0 - 16 HCF 7.02$ 7.02$
Tier 2 17 - 32 HCF 9.93$ 9.93$
Tier 3 33 - 62 HCF 13.19$ 13.19$
Tier 4 63 HCF and above 16.49$ 30.98$
TEWKSBURY (per HCF)
Tiered Rates Volumes
Primary
Water
Rate
Second Meter
Rate
Tier 1 0 - 40 HCF 5.06$ 10.02$
Tier 2 41 - 80 HCF 7.59$ 10.02$
Tier 3 81 HCF and above 10.02$ 10.02$
Tamper Fee 300.00$
LEXINGTON (per HCF)
Tiered Rates Volumes
Primary
Water
Rate
Second Meter
Rate
Tier 1 0 - 8 HCF 2.52$ 4.49$
Tier 2 9 - 16 HCF 3.85$ 8.76$
Tier 3 17 - 32 HCF 5.70$ 11.69$
Tier 4 33 HCF and above 8.84$ 14.33$
NATICK (per HCF)
Decisions for the Select Board to Make
•What rate(s) should be charged for the 2nd meter?
•Should there be an application fee?
•Is the pilot program only for residential properties?
•Approve Tamper Fee and amount and Out of season use fine and
amount.
ANY QUESTIONS?
TOWN OF READING
YEAR-TO-DATE BUDGET REPORT
Report generated: 10/02/2024 19:01
User: sangstrom
Program ID: glytdbud
Page 1
FOR 2025 04
ACCOUNTS FOR: 2280 FGRT ARPA CLFRF GRANT
ORIGINAL APPROP TRANS/ADJSMTS REVISED BUDGET YTD ACTUAL ENCUMBRANCES AVAILABLE BUDGET % USED
01 REVENUES
228J1450 450000 FEDERAL REVENUE
-7,592,234.00 0.48 -7,592,233.52 -7,592,233.52 0.00 0.00 100.0%
TOTAL REVENUES
-7,592,234.00 0.48 -7,592,233.52 -7,592,233.52 0.00 0.00 100.0%
03 SALARIES
228J3511 511000 PREMIUM PAY
592,234.00 307,765.52 899,999.52 894,972.17 0.00 5,027.35 99.4%
228J3511 511154 ADD'L STAFF HRS - SR PROGRAMS
100,000.00 25,000.00 125,000.00 122,975.00 0.00 2,025.00 98.4%
TOTAL SALARIES
692,234.00 332,765.52 1,024,999.52 1,017,947.17 0.00 7,052.35 99.3%
05 EXPENSES
228J5530 530000 BURBANK Y DISABILITY PROGRAMS
3,500,000.00 -3,403,900.00 96,100.00 96,100.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
228J5530 530001 TREE & INVASIVE SPECIES REMOVA
100,000.00 0.00 100,000.00 99,183.00 560.00 257.00 99.7%
228J5530 530002 CONSERVATION SURVEYS
8,000.00 -8,000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 .0%
228J5530 530003 MAILLET SOMMES STWTR PROJECT
77,000.00 0.00 77,000.00 77,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
228J5578 578000 COVID19 MITIGATION
3,500,000.00 -3,261,034.00 238,966.00 217,606.09 0.00 21,359.91 91.1%
228J5578 578019 TRAILS COMMITTEE SUPPLIES
11,620.00 0.00 11,620.00 11,581.01 0.00 38.99 99.7%
228J5578 578023 LITERACY CURRICULUM & PD
0.00 2,000,000.00 2,000,000.00 1,490,266.00 509,734.00 0.00 100.0%
228J5578 578041 SR PROGRAMS & FEASABILITY STDY
800,000.00 -25,000.00 775,000.00 384,491.05 267,668.02 122,840.93 84.1%
228J5578 578042 SR CTR DUE DILIGENCE EXP
0.00 8,034.00 8,034.00 8,034.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
TOWN OF READING
YEAR-TO-DATE BUDGET REPORT
Report generated: 10/02/2024 19:01
User: sangstrom
Program ID: glytdbud
Page 2
FOR 2025 04
ACCOUNTS FOR: 2280 FGRT ARPA CLFRF GRANT
ORIGINAL APPROP TRANS/ADJSMTS REVISED BUDGET YTD ACTUAL ENCUMBRANCES AVAILABLE BUDGET % USED
228J5578 578043 RHC DIGITIZING PHOTOS/MAPS
0.00 13,500.00 13,500.00 4,323.35 0.00 9,176.65 32.0%
228J5578 578044 CC SURVEYS & BM STEWARDSHIP
0.00 30,500.00 30,500.00 14,900.00 0.00 15,600.00 48.9%
228J5578 578045 READING CHAMBER BUS SUPPORT
0.00 29,000.00 29,000.00 29,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
228J5578 578046 RR FALL ST FAIR EXPENSES
0.00 25,000.00 25,000.00 25,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
228J5578 578047 READING GARDEN LOST REVENUE
0.00 4,000.00 4,000.00 4,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
228J5578 578048 READING FD PANTRY ASSISTANCE
0.00 74,200.00 74,200.00 74,200.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
228J5578 578049 FIRST CONGRESSIONAL ASSIST
0.00 4,000.00 4,000.00 4,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
TOTAL EXPENSES
7,996,620.00 -4,509,700.00 3,486,920.00 2,539,684.50 777,962.02 169,273.48 95.1%
08 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
228J8581 581005 BM MASTER PHASE I
0.00 1,500,000.00 1,500,000.00 1,500,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
228J8588 588460 WATER CAPITAL PROJECTS
0.00 785,314.00 785,314.00 785,314.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
TOTAL CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
0.00 2,285,314.00 2,285,314.00 2,285,314.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
09 OTHER FINANCING USES
228J9596 596500 XFER TO ENTERPRISE FDS
0.00 795,000.00 795,000.00 795,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
TOTAL OTHER FINANCING USES
0.00 795,000.00 795,000.00 795,000.00 0.00 0.00 100.0%
TOTAL FGRT ARPA CLFRF GRANT
1,096,620.00 -1,096,620.00 0.00 -954,287.85 777,962.02 176,325.83 100.0%
TOTAL REVENUES
-7,592,234.00 0.48 -7,592,233.52 -7,592,233.52 0.00 0.00
TOTAL EXPENSES
8,688,854.00 -1,096,620.48 7,592,233.52 6,637,945.67 777,962.02 176,325.83
TOWN OF READING
YEAR-TO-DATE BUDGET REPORT
Report generated: 10/02/2024 19:01
User: sangstrom
Program ID: glytdbud
Page 3
FOR 2025 04
ORIGINAL APPROP TRANS/ADJSMTS REVISED BUDGET YTD ACTUAL ENCUMBRANCES AVAILABLE BUDGET % USED
GRAND TOTAL
1,096,620.00 -1,096,620.00 0.00 -954,287.85 777,962.02 176,325.83 100.0%
** END OF REPORT - Generated by Sharon Angstrom **
TOWN OF READING
YEAR-TO-DATE BUDGET REPORT
Report generated: 10/02/2024 19:01
User: sangstrom
Program ID: glytdbud
Page 4
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TOWN OF READING
YEAR-TO-DATE BUDGET REPORT
Report generated: 10/02/2024 19:01
User: sangstrom
Program ID: glytdbud
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Rollup Code
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
Overview of Meeting 7:00
Public Comment 7:05
Select Board Liaison and Town
Manager Reports 7:15
Discuss and Vote on Symonds Way
Land for Pickleball
Vote on Select Board Designee for
ACE
Update from PBC on Senior Center
project
Discuss Section 1.5 of the Select Board
Policies; Volunteer Board and
Committee Appointments Board
Future of the Pleasant Street Center
Building Dockser
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
Library Budget Presentation Lannon
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 Draft Minutes
September 10, 2024
Public Comment
Chris Haley noted he is speaking as a resident and not a Select Board member. He noted he
is unable to give his opinions on anything related to MBTA Communities or Haven
Streetscape project tonight as a Select Board member because he owns commercial property
on Haven Street. He thanked Guy Manganiello for filing his disclosure form to participate in
the MBTA Communities properly but unfortunately, he was attacked by members in this room
and the public online. He then noted he does not support the Haven Streetscape project or
MBTA Communities.
Liaison Reports
Murphy gave updates on the recent School Committee meeting. She also noted there will be
two more public hearings hosted by CPDC regarding MBTA Communities, one on
September 16 and another on September 19.
Herrick attended a recent Lunch N’ Learn at the Pleasant Street Center. She attended a recent
Recreating and CPDC meeting. She also attended the Fall Street Faire. The library trustees
met last night and discussed their ongoing landscape plan.
Haley noted the Charter Review Committee met and went over all the changes they will be
proposing. They will meet again September 23rd with Town Counsel.
Dockser noted ReCalc has now sunset and had their final meeting. The Permanent Building
Committee has now taken the project and the next step is to hire an Owners Project Manager.
He noted the Fall Street Faire had a great turnout.
Bacci thanked the Rotary for the Fall Street Faire. He attended the Recreation and CPDC
meetings as well.
Town Manager Report
Thanked the Rotary as well for the Fall Street Faire. There is a financial forum on September
18th. They have hired a nurse advocate/ public nurse. They are in the process of hiring a
health inspector which will make them fully staffed. Fire Chief Greg Burns announced he will
be retiring in May after over 20 years of service as Chief!
Haven Streetscape Discussion
Haley left the room for this discussion because he owns property on Haven Street.
Town Engineer Ryan Percival along with Scott Ridder and Darshan Jhaveri from BETA Group
gave the board a presentation on the Haven Streetscape project. The presentation can be
found in the Select Board packet on the Town website. This project would be using some
funds from a MassWorks Grant but they would be looking to borrow around $5 million.
The board discussed and got a better explanation of the loss of parking spaces and the
accessible parking that will be added. Percival explained this plan is not finalized and options
can be changed.
Inter-Municipal Agreement for Health Services
Health Director Ade Solarin gave a brief overview of the shared services that the agreement
would cover. The towns participating in this shared services agreement are: Reading, North
Andover, Andover, North Reading, Lynnfield and Haverhill.
Shared Services Coordinator Annete Garcia then spoke in more detail about the agreement
and answered any questions the board had.
Haley moved to approve the Inter-Municipal Agreement for the Public Health
Excellence for Shared Services Grant between the Towns of North Andover, Andover,
Reading, North Reading, Lynnfield and the City of Haverhill, as presented. The motion
was seconded by Dockser and approved with a 5-0 vote.
MBTA Communities Discussion
Haley and Bacci left the room for this discussion because they both own property that could
potentially be in the MBTA zoning district.
Community Development Director Andrew MacNichol gave the board a presentation on
MBTA Communities and the 2 concepts they are proposing. The presentation can be found in
the Select Board packet on the Town website.
Concept 1: A-80 Expansion would maintain the existing Downtown 40-R District zoning as is.
Concept 2: Main Street + Downtown would upzone within the existing Downtown Smart
Growth District zoning geography. It would also allow additional multifamily use where it
already exists along Main Street.
They have two more public hearings coming up on September 16th and 19th to get additional
feedback and allow CPDC to decide which concept they want to put forth to Town Meeting.
Town Forest Committee Presentation
Bill Sullivan, Chair of the Town Forest Committee, gave the board a presentation on the
warrant articles they are bringing to Town Meeting in November as well as a general update
on things they have been working on. The presentation can be found in the Select Board
packet on the town website.
They have been working on removing dead trees and invasive species from the Town Forest
as well as replanting new trees. This work requires multiple phases, and they need funding
from Town Meeting to complete the project. They have received some grant money but will
be asking Town Meeting in November for $150,000.
They are also proposing a Bylaw Amendment regarding off-leash dogs in the Town Forest.
They are first proposing to expand and clarify the definition of “effective voice control on an
animal”. They will then be proposing to change the number of dogs allowed off-leash per
handler to two dogs. These changes were reviewed by Town Counsel, approved by the Bylaw
Committee and supported by the Health Department and Animal Control Officer.
MassDOT Land Taking
Town Engineer Ryan Percival and Town Manager Matt Kraunelis explained to the board the
request from the State. The Town owns some land in Wilmington on Route 38 and there is a
project going on there and MassDot is requesting a friendly taking. We have no need for the
land nor do we know why we own it.
Haley moved to approve the MassDOT Land Damages Agreement relative to 435 Main
Street, Wilmington, and authorize the Town Manager to execute said document on
behalf of the Town. The motion was seconded by Dockser and approved with a 5-0
vote.
Parking Kiosk Update
Jayne Wellman noted the kiosks are working and will be going live on September 23rd to the
public.
Recreation Committee Appointment
Laura Noonan and Kevin Leete are both associate members of the Recreation Committee and
are seeking to fill the one full position vacancy.
Laura Noonan was present and explained she is on the committee to focus on making sure
recreation activities are inclusive and available to children with disabilities.
Haley moved to appoint Kevin Leete to a full membership on the Recreation Committee
with a term expiring June 30, 2026. The motion was seconded by Herrick and failed
with a 2-3 vote.
Haley moved to appoint Laura Noonan to a full membership on the Recreation
Committee with a term expiring June 30, 2026. The motion was seconded by Dockser
and approved with a 4-1 vote.
Town Counsel Exemption
Ivria Fried and Ethan Dively from Harrington & Heep, explained to the board their reasoning
for filing a Section 19(b)(1) exemption. This exemption is because they have been asked to
participate and advise in the review of the Town Charter. They noted they will recuse
themselves from any discussion of Article 6.2 and the substantive amendments to the role of
the Town Counsel. Any advice they provide will be limited to the overall Charter amendment
process.
The full memo of an explanation from Town Counsel can be found in the Select Board packet
on the town website.
Haley moved to approve the Section 19(b)(1) exemption request filed by Town Counsel
on September 4, 2024 and authorize the Carlo Bacci, Chair of the Select Board, to sign
the agreement on behalf of the Board. The motion was seconded by Dockser and
approved with a 5-0 vote.
Future Agendas
The board discussed future agenda items.
Haley moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:48 PM. The motion was seconded by Dockser
and approved with a 5-0 vote.
Select Board Draft Minutes
September 24, 2024
Public Comment
Gena Pilyavsky made a comment about water rates and how they need to fix the multi-unit
rates.
David Zeek also commented about how the rates need to be fixed for multi-unit buildings.
John Sullivan had the same comments.
Paul Sullivan had the same comments.
Phil Santoro had the same comments.
Joseph White feels the roads are in horrible condition and there are a ton of potholes.
John Gottwald echoed previous comments about fixing the rates for multi-until buildings.
Linda Wilkes had the same comments as well.
Liaison Reports
Murphy attended CPDC meeting on Monday regarding MBTA communities. She also
attended the School Committee meeting last night; they are hiring for a Director of Finance
and METCO Director.
Dockser also attended the CPDC meeting. He also attended the financial forum last week in
which it was noted the operating budget is very tight. Lastly, the PBC met last week and they
are negotiating a contract with an OPM.
Haley noted the Charter Review Committee met last night and they went over the public
feedback from the last meeting and got some legal advice regarding how RMLD fits into the
charter. He commended the Police Department for their handling of the incident last night
and felt that is was the best use of a reverse 911 call.
Bacci echoed Haley’s comments about the Police Department last night. He also attended the
second night of the CPDC meeting and commended staff for all their work on MBTA
Communities.
Town Manager Report
Kraunelis noted some upcoming events; The arts and cultural festival will be October 5th,
along with the Fire Department open house. October 1st will be the Maillet Sommes Morgan
ribbon cutting and then there will be coffee with a cop at the last corner. He also thanked the
Police for their response to the incident last night. We have a new health inspector and a new
Executive assistant in the Operations department.
Appoint Member to Conservation Commission
Haley moved to appoint Carl Saccone to an associate position on the Conservation
Commission with a term expiring June 30, 2026. The motion was seconded by Dockser and
approved with a 4-0 vote.
Hearing – Safety Amendments
Lt. Jones was present to explain the request of Safety Amendment 2024-07. This request
came in as complaint from see, click, fix and then went to PTTTF for further discussion. PTTTF
is now suggesting a placement of a stop sign heading northbound on Emerson Street at the
intersection with Dividence Road.
Haley moved to close the hearing regarding Safety Amendment 2024-07. The motion
was seconded by Dockser and approved with a 4-0 vote.
Haley moved to approve Amendment 2024-07 to the Traffic and Parking Regulations as
presented. The motion was seconded by Dockser and approved with a 4-0 vote.
CPA Presentation and Discussion
Joe Carnahan gave the board a presentation on what the Ad-Hoc Community Preservation
Act Study Committee has been up too since May. The presentation can be found in the Select
Board packet on the town website.
The CPA called to order at 7:57PM.
Karen Herrick joined the meeting via Zoom at 8:00 PM.
He then noted that the committee would like to amend their charge slightly to accommodate
a longer timeline which was suggested by Community Preservation Coalition.
Haley moved to amend the charge for the Community Preservation Act Study
Committee as presented. The motion was seconded, and the following toll call vote was
taken:
Haley – yes; Murphy – yes; Dockser – yes; Herrick – yes; Bacci – yes.
The CPA adjourned at 8:04 PM.
Vote to Close Town Meeting Warrant
Kraunelis and Town Accountant Sharon Angstrom go through the warrant articles with the
board and the board decides they want to take ‘votes of support’ for each article.
Haley moved to support Articles 1-8 on the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant. The
motion was seconded by Dockser and the following roll call vote was taken:
Haley – yes; Murphy – yes; Dockser – yes; Herrick – yes; Bacci – yes.
Haley left the room for discussions and the vote of Article 9 regarding Haven Streetscape
project because he owns property on Haven Street.
Dockser, Murphy and Bacci are not in support of spending this much money on this project.
Herrick noted she thinks this should still go to town meeting for discussion but isn’t
necessarily in support of it either. It was noted all these articles will be going to town meeting,
this is just a vote to show if the board supports the article or not.
Dockser moved to support Article 9 on the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant. The
motion was seconded by Murphy and the following roll call vote was taken:
Murphy – no; Dockser – no; Herrick – abstain; Bacci – no.
Haley moved to support Articles 10-14 on the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant. The
motion was seconded by Dockser and the following roll call vote was taken:
Haley – yes; Murphy – yes; Dockser – yes; Herrick – yes; Bacci – yes.
Haley moved to support Article 15 on the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant. The
motion was seconded by Dockser and the following roll call vote was taken:
Murphy – no; Dockser – no; Herrick – yes; Bacci – no; Haley – yes.
Haley and Bacci left the room for discussions and votes on Articles 16 and 17 regarding
MBTA Communities because they both own properties that could potentially be in the MBTA
zoning area.
Dockser moved to support Article 16 on the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant. The
motion was seconded by Murphy and the following roll call vote was taken:
Murphy – no; Dockser – yes; Herrick – yes.
Dockser moved to support Article 17 on the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant. The
motion was seconded by Murphy and the following roll call vote was taken:
Murphy – yes; Dockser – yes; Herrick – no.
Haley and Bacci left the room and did not participate in the closing of the warrant.
Murphy Moved to close the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant consisting of 16 Articles
to take place on November 12, 2024. The Motion was seconded by Dockser and the
following roll call vote was taken:
Herrick – yes; Dockser – yes; Murphy- yes.
Herrick left the meeting.
Second Water Meter Pilot Program Discussion
The board discussed doing a second water meter pilot program. They discussed how it
would work and how many residents they would want in this initial pilot program. It only
made sense to offer it to those who already have second meters in place from years ago. The
board settled on having 400 residents in the pilot program. They would like staff to come up
with the specifics of the program and how it will work and come back to the board on
October 29.
Dockser moved to direct to the Town Manager to establish a pilot program, with up to 400
participants, allowing for the use of second water meters or deduct meters for the purposes
of irrigation, and to report back to Select Board with details regarding the program at their
October 29 meeting. The motion was seconded by Murphy and approved with a 4-0 vote.
Minutes
The board reviewed meeting minutes from July 16 and August 20th.
Haley moved to approve the meeting minutes from July 16 and August 20th as
presented. The motion was seconded by Dockser and approved with a 4-0 vote.
Future Agendas
The board discussed future agenda items.
Executive Session
Haley moved to enter into Executive Session at 9:39 PM, under purpose 3 for the
purpose of discussing strategy with respect to potential litigation pertaining to unpaid
police detail invoices and involving B&E Services and Heyland Development and
strategy with respect to Town of Reading v. Delphi Construction Inc, and Town of
Reading v. Champlain Excavating Inc. because the Chair finds that an open session may
have a determinantal effect on the Board’s litigating position of the Board, and to invite
into the Executive Session, Town Counsel Ivria Fried, Town Manager Matt Kraunelis and
Executive Assistant Caitlin Nocella, Chief Clark and not to return to open session. The
motion was seconded by Dockser and approved with the following roll call vote:
Murphy – yes; Dockser – yes; Bacci – yes; Haley – yes.