HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-07-15 Select Board MinutesTown of Reading RECEIVED
0 Meeting Minutes By Town Clerk(RK) at 4:31 pm, Aug 11, 1111
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
Select Board
Date: 2025-07-15 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Select Board Meeting Room
Address:
16 Lowell Street
Session:
Open Session
Purpose:
General Business
Version:
Final
Attendees:
Members - Present:
Chris Haley, Melissa Murphy (Remote), Karen Rose -Gillis, Carlo Baccl, Karen
Gately Herrick
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Town Manager Matt Kraunelis, Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman,
Deputy Police Chief Christine Amendola, DPW Director Chris Cole,
Conservation Administrator Chuck Tirone, Community Development Director
Andrew MacNichol, CFO Sharon Angstrom (Remote), Computer Technician
Tim Johnson (Remote), Carla Nazzaro, Marianne Downing, Martha Moore,
Maria Morgan, Ryan Morgan, Ed Ross, Kristen Hagstrom, WIII Finch, Brian
Bowe, Jaclyn Lee (Remote), Tricla Kiely (Remote), Aimee Fraulo
(Remote), Geoffrey Wilson (Remote), Margaret Nelson (Remote), Kit
Leonard (Remote), Susan Colella (Remote), Jim Kelleher (Remote),
Jonathan's Whone (Remote), Charisse (Remote), Murban (Remote), Liz
Leahy (Remote), Timnia Serino (Remote), Bridget Power (Remote), Michael
Wang (Remote), Mary Jirmanus (Remote), Joseph Fleury (Remote),
Elizabeth Joyce (Remote), Anna Puurna (Remote), James McGovern
(Remote), Maitri Patel (Remote), Walter Talbot (Remote), Ann Marle Faust
(Remote), Naila Jirmanus (Remote), (Phone de Marlajo (Remote), Angela
Binds (Remote)
Minutes Respectfully submitted By: Madeleine Baptiste
Topics of Discussion:
This meeting was held in the Town Hall Select Board Meeting Room and remotely via Zoom
Chair Chris Haley called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm and provided an overview of the
evening's agenda, then thanked the Fire Department for their efforts during the Summer
Avenue house fire.
n the soon
Residents Maria Morgan of 26 Lee Street, Dilly Wilson of 376 West Street, and Liz Leahy of
516 Haverhill Street expressed concerns about construction projects interfering with the
Extended School Year (ESY) programs, specifically regarding safety of the children, and
sought better coordination between the Town and School District Officials in planning
these projects. Marianne Downing of 13 Heather Drive expressed numerous concerns and
potential impacts on Resident access with the Montessori School's proposed use of Mattera
Cabin.
Page 1 1
Carla Nazzaro of 64 Lawrence Road expressed her support for the construction projects
taking place during the summertime. She stated that it is the least disruptive time for the
Town and was impressed with the Facilities and DPW Departments' ability to get
contractors to fix areas not currently suitable for young children.
Town Manaaer Report
Town Manager Matt Kraunelis apologized for the disruption of the ESY programs with the
construction projects, acknowledged the concerns, and informed the Town that he, in
conjunction with the School Department, deemed this to be the most appropriate time to
address safety concerns with playgrounds. He attended Porchfest and noted its growing
success. He thanked Alan and Ace Foulds as well as the Porchfest Committee for their
hard work in putting together this event. He noted that residents can still bring Items to the
DPW Garage, and the curbside pickup of old trash and recycling containers will continue
through July and August with dates available on the website. He congratulated Sergeant
Noah Clark, who has served the Town since 2021, on his promotion and noted that
Sergeant Clark is a great addition to Reading Police Department's Command Staff. He
shared that Reading has completed the process in becoming a Green Community and
thanked everyone involved for their hard work and participation. There will be an event later
in August held here in Reading with more information to come soon. He noted that the first
Financial Forum of the season will be on Wednesday September 17th at 7:00 pm at the
Library Involving the Finance Committee, Select Board, and the School Committee. He
spoke with the MBTA this week and they are scheduling a meeting with the Reading
delegation and Town Staff in the coming weeks to discuss various topics. Following this
meeting, the MBTA is looking for resident feedback through a public meeting later this year.
He reminded that better communication has always been a priority for him to have stronger
connections with the Residents and improve communication methods. To ensure this, he
shared that the Town started a communication survey for the public to take, and he
encouraged residents to do this to understand better the needs and Ideas of residents. This
is available on the Town Website and social media outlets.
Community Suotllaht
Town Manager Matt Kraunelis highlighted the teamwork by the Fire Department, Police
Department, DPW, and Reading's Mutual Aid Partners in responding to the structure fire at
186 Summer Avenue on July 9th. He expressed immense pride In their ability to come
together to fight the fire, use drones to detect hot spots, keep the surrounding area safe,
remove excess water from under the property's structure, and keep all the vehicles
functioning. He shared that he cannot overstate how lucky he feels to have this type of
collaboration between Town Departments. He congratulated Bunratty's Tavern on their 10th
anniversary in Reading and highlighted their accomplishments, including their recent
feature on Phantom Gourmet.
Public Hearina Discuss and Vote on Traffic Amendments
Karen Rose -Gillis read the Public Hearing Notice.
Deputy Police Chief Amendola discussed the plan to provide Residents with the option of
stickers or placards for teachers and visitors parking in the neighborhood. She shared
parking lot work at Austin Prep is projected to be started soon and the regulations will be
put in place immediately. Chris Haley referred to emalls received earlier In the day that
complained about isolating restrictions in just one area. [See Appendix] The board heard
numerous public comments in support of the new parking regulations,
including Kristen Hagstrom and Bob Sherman of Arcadia Avenue, and Margaret Nelson of
Edgemont Avenue. Margaret Nelson questioned If there would be a cost to residents for
placards and how these new regulations would be enforced. Jeanette Vigorito, 10 Timothy
Place, requested that the Town consider making parking permits available to all Reading
residents and not just those affected. She suggested a one permit per household limit and
feels all residents should not be restricted from parking in the newly regulated areas due to
the actions of others who violate parking policies.
Karen Rose -Gillis moved to close the hearing regarding Traffic Amendments 2025-
6,
Page
2025-7, and 2025-8. The motion was seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and
approved by 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Board Members questioned where Austin Prep students will park when enforcement
begins. Deputy Chief Amendola stated that the priority is safety In the Barrows
neighborhood and then they will deal with other aspects once that is addressed. Carlo
Bacci asked if Austin Prep could park on their grass and Deputy Chief Amendola said they
will not do that for certain reasons after asking Austin Prep the same question.
Boards Members and residents alike expressed concerns on various topics Including
Austin Prep's delays in their parking plan, accessibility to Residents, and safety in the
Barrows neighborhood, and Deputy Chief Amendola assured them that this Is all being
reviewed while trying to keep as many public roads accessible as possible and this is
hopefully temporary.
Karen Rose -Gillis moved to approve Amendment 2025-6 to the Traffic and Parking
Regulations as presented. The motion was seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and
approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Karen Rose -Gillis moved to approve Amendment 2025-7 to the Traffic and Parking
Regulations as presented. The motion was seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and
approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Karen Rose -Gillis moved to approve the Amendment 2025-08 to the Traffic and
Parking Regulations as presented. The motion was seconded by Karen Gately
Herrick and
approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - yes
Deputy Chief Christine Amendola explained that the PD will send out letters to every
resident affected by the new regulations to give insight Into how things will be moving
forward.
Eastern Gateway Priority Planning Update
Community Development Director Andrew MacNlchol presented an update on the Eastern
Gateway project. He started by thanking his staff and peers, JM Goldson, Michael Wang the
architectural consultant from Form and Place, and the Resident Steering Committee.
Andrew explained that the project alms to develop a framework for future zoning and
infrastructure in the industrial district, focusing on mixed -use, connectivity, and open
spaces. In discussing next steps, he shared that It would Include refining concepts,
engaging with focus groups, and hosting public workshops to gather community feedback
by the end of the year. Board Members commended Andrew and his staff for their hard
work on this project. They discussed aspects of this project including MBTA's involvement in
increasing transit options, assuring that residents' feedback is a priority in the process
moving forward, and the foreseeable timeline in continuing this project. Carla Nazzaro of 64
Lawrence Road suggested that property owners at the proposed development site be
Involved to gauge their thoughts and priorities during public workshops. Maryanne Downing
of 13 Heather Drive asked If the Town must Involve the MBTA in this process with the
proposed site being adjacent to the train line. Andrew MacNichol explained that it is not
necessary other than from the standpoint of looking to involve them in improving public
transit and Is not a significant challenge to build adjacent to the train line. Michael Wang of
Form and Place Architectural Consulting highlighted the tremendous opportunity to develop
a mixed -use area and affirmed that this project is on the right path. Karen Gately Herrick
asked about the success and commonality in the industry of the Riverwalk property in
Lawrence. Mr. Wang explained that he created the master plan for that project and while It
is not a common design, it solved their unique challenge to provide adequate parking for the
different uses there and addressed the need for useable and accessible open space for the
public.
Page 1 3
Discuss Potential Override/Budget Review
CFO/Town Accountant Sharon Angstrom reviewed the fiscal year 2026 budget and
identified potential savings in accommodated costs. She highlighted changes in the areas
of pension, property and casualty insurance, and workers' compensation that resulted in
lower contributions for the Town and a decrease in the projected costs, in turn saving free
cash with continued savings projected for the upcoming fiscal years ahead. She mentioned
an unexpected increase in the costs for the Northeast Metro Regional Vocational School
which will require asking for additional funding at the November Town Meeting. She stated
that the State Aid Increased higher than anticipated, and with State Aid deductions
decreasing, the Town will experience savings. She also reported in the coming fiscal years
that free cash usage will decrease due to a $200,000 surplus by calculating the information
now compared to when it was first forecasted. In planning the Fiscal Year 2027 budget,
Sharon Angstrom, Town Manager Matt Kraunelis, and Chris Haley met to Investigate areas
for potential cost savings. They discussed exploration in health Insurance plan design
changes, opt -out program rules, and a comprehensive review of departmental revenue.
Sharon emphasized that accommodated costs was the logical place to start as It is
necessary spending and experienced double-digit growth. Chris Haley mentioned that the
Town Staff, the Finance Committee and himself are collaborating to identify potential
savings while maintaining services. Sharon explained that there will be follow-up with RMLD
to understand the decrease in the RMLD payments and costs for SPED contingency from the
School Department. She will follow up on actual expenses for fiscal year 2026.
Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman stated that the bidding process for the new rubbish
contract has already gone out and it has been a competitive process. She mentioned
having all the proposals back from interested bidders by the end of July with the Intention of
awarding a contract at the end of August. She stated that she will share information with
Board Members throughout the remainder of the process. Sharon Angstrom explained that it
is too early to have a finalized free cash number currently due to the unknown regeneration
amount. Ed Ross, 16 Kensington Avenue, a member of the Finance Committee, expressed
gratitude to Sharon for the hard work in reviewing the budget and hopes to assure residents
that the Town is spending every dollar thoughtfully.
Discussion on Proposed Montessori School at Mattera Cabin
Conservation Commission Chair Brian Bowe shared strong support for the Mulberry Forest
School's use of Mattera Cabin. He stated that this is a unique opportunity that aligns with
the values and mission of the Conservation Commission. Mary Jinnanus Saba, Co -Head of
the Mulberry Forest Montessori school shared that the school is a land stewardship focused
program whose values fit with those of the Conservation Commission. She stated that she
expects no exclusivity to Mattera Cabin as other groups primarily rent this space during
after school hours and weekends. She also stated that, as this is a pilot year proposal, she
does not know what enrollment looks like at this time and shared that the school's goal is to
provide for families and children of all Incomes, and that there is growing popularity In these
types of schools. Conservation Administrator Chuck Tirone agreed that this is an exciting
opportunity for Reading and expressed his appreciation to the Mulberry Forest Montessori
School for bringing their interest to the Town. Mary Jirmanus explains that the governing
board is their own board and will seek accreditation from the School Committee. She
mentioned that their pilot program is designed to accommodate up to 20 students and
anticipates, at this late start date, to have 10 students this year. Their financial abilities will
depend on the number of students and their fundraising efforts between now and the start
of the school year. Chuck Tirone stated that through conversation with Town Counsel, they
discussed a fair rate of $9,300 with an annual fee in coming years not yet known because
this is just the pilot year. He also explained that the Town already plows the Mattera Cabin
in the winter so that would not be an additional cost. Mary Jinnanus Saba stated that the
Mulberry Montessori is looking for a lasting and collaborative relationship with the Town and
with proof of concept, would have a better idea of upcoming years' finances would look like.
Some Board Members expressed support for this program to take place at Mattera Cabin
and believe it is a wonderful opportunity for all involved, while other Board Members had
reservations with safety of the children, potential traffic disruptions, and financial benefit
Page 14
to the Town, with the proposed rate between $3,000 and $5,000 annually. The Board heard
many Public Comments in support of this program, including Trails Committee Member Will
Finch, Elizabeth Joyce, and Conservation Commission members Joseph Fleury and Walter
Talbot. Carla Nazzaro of 64 Lawrence Road suggested to the Town that In the Mulberry
Forest's potential licensing agreement, a clause be Included to encompass potential costs
covered by the Town and costs covered by the Conservation Commission. Chris Haley noted
that the rate they are looking to charge will depend on various factors Including applicant
status in conjunction with rates normally charged by the Town, enrollment, and the long-
term usage of the Cabin would be at a discounted rate. He shared that while it would be a
discounted rate, it must be fair to the Town and all others who wish to rent the Mattera
Cabin, and he is hoping to see a number close to $10,000. He also notes that the Town's
primary concerns with this potential partnership with Mulberry Forest are safety, security,
and financial aspects.
Discuss Forming a Water and Sewer Rate Advisory Committee
Carlo Bacci moved to table the water and sewer rate discussion. The motion was
seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Discuss and Vote on Board & Committee FY26 Budoet Reauests
The board discussed and agreed on their allocations with a $20,000 budget for various
boards and committees. The request for FY26 from the various boards and committees
totaled over budget at $29,480. While they understood all requests from these boards
would contribute to critical projects, the Board agreed that making cuts would be
necessary and discussed potential options. Ultimately, the board agreed to move $500
from the Climate Advisory Committee to Conservation, and keep the remainder of funding
identical to last year. Angela Binda of 10 Orchard Park Drive spoke In full support of fully
funding the over budget requests and emphasized the important work that they do. She
urged the Select Board to ask Town Meeting to aid in coming up with funds to cover the
requests. Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman expressed wishes to find a way to find
the $9000 of over budget requests.
Karen Rose -Gillis moved that the Board allocate funding for the following Boards
and
Committees:
• Climate Advisory Committee $500
• Conservation Commission $6500
• Historical Commission $1500
• Town Forest Committee $6500
• Trails Committee $5000
The motion was seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Discuss Communication Tracking Methods
Melissa Murphy moved to table the discussion on Communication Tracking
Methods.
The motion was seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Select Board Liaison Reports
Carlo Bacci moved to table the Select Board Liaison Reports. The motion was
seconded by Chris Haley and approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Page 1 5
Future Agendas
Future Agendas will include a status update on the Master Plan Committee with CPDC.
Discuss and Vote to Approve Prior Meeting Minutes
The committee discussed suggested changes and edits to the minutes.
Karen Rose -Gillis moved to approve the meeting minutes of June 10, 2025, as
amended. The motion was seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and approved by a
vote
Of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Karen Rose -Gillis moved to approve the meeting minutes of June 24, 2025, as
amended. The motion was seconded by Karen Gately Herrick and approved by a
vote
of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
Carlo Bacci moved to adjourn at 11:00 pm. The motion was seconded by Karen
Gately
Herrick and approved by a vote of 5-0.
Roll Call Vote: Melissa Murphy - Yes, Carlo Bacci - Yes, Karen Gately Herrick - Yes, Karen
Rose -Gillis - Yes, Chris Haley - Yes
The meeting adjourned at 11:00 pm.
Page 16
Appendix: Emads referenced in Pudic Hearing Discuss and Vote on Traffic amendments
From: Jeanette Miles Vlnonro
To: keadino- SelectEoand
Subject: Resident Request Regarding Parking Unnitatlon5
Date: Tuesday, July 15, 2025 1:38:38 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the Town of Reading's email system. Do not click links or open
attachments unless you recognize the sender's email address and know the content is safe.
Dear Members of the Reading Select Board,
1 respectfully urge you to reconsider any proposal that would limit parking permits solely to residents of a specific
neighborhood, such as Barrows and/or Longwood Road and surrounding Public Ways, and instead ensure that all
Reading residents have equal access to perking throughout town. As taxpayers, we all support the services and
infrustrucbue of the town as well as contribute to the maintenance and shared use of public spaces; restricting access
to certain areas unfairly excludes residents who have every right to enjoy the full benefits of our community. I
understand the concems about the violations by non-residents, but it's important that those actions not result in
unjust penalties to law-abiding Reading residents who have not caused the issues, who follow the town rules, and
who respect the neighborhoods. I ask that you please consider and adopt a fair and inclusive policy that protects
neighborhood integrity without excluding the interests of members of all our own town community who call
Reading home.
Thank you for your time and service.
Very truly yours,
Jeanette Vigorito
10 Timothy Place,
Reading MA 01867
Sent from my (Phone
From: Nimle Baden
To: Rmdina- SeledLoaM
Cc: Town Manager
Suejecto Concerns RegaNing PWose l Parldng Perron Urnib ons
Date: Tues , July 15, 2025 6:10:03 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the Town of Reading's email system. Do not click links or
open attachments unless you recognize the senders email address and know the content Is safe.
LJ
Dear Members of the Reading Select Board,
I am writing to respectfully urge you to reconsider any proposal that would restrict parking
permits exclusively to residents of specific neighborhoods, such as Barrows and/or Longwood
Road and the surrounding public ways. I believe it is essential that all Reading residents have
equitable access to parking throughout our town.
As taxpayers, we all contribute to the upkeep and infrastructure of Reading, and we all share
in the responsibility of maintaining and utilizing public spaces. Limiting access to certain
areas unfairly excludes residents who should be able to enjoy the full benefits of our
community.
While I understand concerns related to violations by non-residents, I ask that any resulting
policies avoid penalizing law-abiding Reading residents who follow town regulations and
respect neighborhood standards. It is vital that we adopt a fair and inclusive approach, one that
preserves neighborhood integrity without compromising the rights of our broader community.
Please consider implementing a policy that reflects the shared nature of our town and supports
the interests of all Reading residents.
Thank you for your time and dedicated service.
Sincerely,
Nicole Barletta
l Fulton Street
Reading, MA 01867
From: mthaastrcnnNwnzan net
To: Readna - SeieRMard
Subject: Resident Permit Parking
Date: Wednesday, My 2, 202S 2:27:0 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the Town of Reading's email system. Do not click links or
open attachments unless you recognize the sender's email address and know the content is safe.
AN
Good afternoon,
I am forwarding an email that I sent to our Town Manager earlier today. I want to
alert the Select Board members of my request regarding the parking situation caused
by Austin Prep students
I am requesting an addition to Amendment 2025-8 which lists Longwood Road as
another street with limited parking. Please add West Hill Circle to this Amendment.
The email I sent earlier is as follows:
Mr. Kraunelis,
I am writing to ask for an addition to Amendment Number 2025-8. The Amendment
includes Longwood Road as a street with limited parking due to the situation Austin
Prep has created. Please include West Hill Circle on the list of streets with Resident
Permit.
Austin Prep students already park on West Hill Circle which I have witnessed day
after day. Unfortunately, I am highly familiar with the situation on Arcadia Ave. as my
son and his family live at 53 Arcadia Ave.
We need to prevent a repeat of Arcadia Avenue's nightmare on West Hill Circle.
Respectively,
Mary T. Hagstrom
20 West Hill Circle
From: Tanya croesu
To: Readinn -Ssi, and
subject: Residmt Reque Regarding Parkiip Urnitadons
Date: Tuesday, luly 15, 2025 3:12:23 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the Town of Reading's email system. Do not click links or
open attachments unless you recognize the senders email address and know the content is safe.
To the Members of the Reading Select Board,
I am writing to respectfully ask that you reconsider any proposed policy that would
restrict parking permits to residents of specific neighborhoods, such as Barrows
and/or Longwood Road and nearby public ways. I urge the board to support a more
inclusive approach that allows all Reading residents fair and equal access to parking
throughout town.
As members of this community, we all contribute to the town's operations,
infrastructure, and public spaces through our taxes and civic participation. Limiting
access to certain areas especially when those spaces are public can feel
exclusionary to law-abiding residents who simply want to enjoy the same town
benefits as their neighbors.
While 1 understand there are concerns about misuse of parking by non-residents, I
hope these concerns do not lead to unintended consequences that penalize fellow
Reading residents who follow the rules and show respect for the neighborhoods they
visit.
Please consider a solution that supports neighborhood integrity without excluding
other community members who also call Reading home. A balanced, inclusive policy
would reflect the values of fairness and unity that I believe our town stands for.
Thank you for your time and your continued dedication to our community.
Sincerely,
Tanya Croteau
43 Pilgrim Road
Reading, MA 01867
From: Kane netlane
To: Readinn- Seledboard
8uEjech New Banows area parking pWky
Dole: Tuesclay, July 15, 2825 3:13:Q pat
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the Town of Reading's email system. Do not click links or open
attachments unless you recognize the sender's email address and know the content is safe.
Hello,
I am writing today about the proposed parking ban in the Barrows area, restricting this area to only those who live in
that particular neighborhood. As a tax payer, I do not believe that this is equitable as anyone can currently park in
my whole neighborhood without restriction and we as tax payers should have the same courtesy throughout the
town. I respectfully urge you to reconsider and allow all current Reading residents with a parking slicker the ability
to park in any neighborhood throughout the town, including the Barrows areal
Respectfully,
Katie Theriault
46 Evergreen Road
Sent firm my iPhone
From: Amanda Sull'wan
TO: aeatlin0-SeleafBoaM
Cc: Town Mananer
Subject Parking limit Ban
Date: Tuesday, July 15, 2025 5:33:19 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the Town of Reading's email system. Do not click links or
open attachments unless you recognize the sender's email address and know the content Is safe.
Dear Members of the Reading Select Board,
I respectfully urge you to reconsider any proposal that would limit parking permits solely to
residents of a specific neighborhood, such as Barrows and/or Longwood Road and the
surrounding public ways, and instead ensure that all Reading residents have equal access to
parking throughout town.
As taxpayers, we all support the services and infrastructure of the town as well as contribute to
the maintenance and shared use of public spaces; restricting access to certain areas unfairly
excludes residents who have every right to enjoy the full benefits of our community.
My family and I have been residents of Reading for almost a year, and during this time we
have experienced the warm, inclusive spirit that makes this town feel like home. A policy that
restricts parking in this way does not seem in keeping with the welcoming and
community -minded values that drew us to Reading in the first place.
I understand the concerns about violations by non-residents, but it's important that those
actions do not result in unjust penalties to law-abiding Reading residents who have not caused
the issues, who follow the town rules, and who respect the neighborhoods.
I ask that you please consider and adopt a fair and inclusive policy that protects neighborhood
integrity without excluding the interests of members of our town community who call Reading
home.
Thank you for your time and service.
Very truly yours,
Amanda and Bill Sullivan
351 Grove Street
Reading, MA 01867
From: Jaan Mar➢mnell
To: EXAMa-5dc' 01W
yVjoob Austin Prep Student Pdddng
pop: Sunday, July 6, 2025 11:21:11 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the Town of Reading's email system. Do not click links or open
attachments unless you recognize the senders email address and know the content is safe.
Oozed Afternoon,
I would like to bring to your attention, that West Hill Circle should also be included for consideration of
prohibited/limited parking for Austin prep students. Throughout this past school year, Austin Prep students parked
on both sides of the street on West Hill Circle, making it difficult to navigate and find parking for our own families.
Often, these students parked too close to West Street making it difficult to pull out safely and on several occasions
students left trash. AP students would exit their cars, cross West Street in front of the Montessori school and walk
up a private driveway on the right hand side to thenjump off the stonewall on sane private Property to continue on
through the woods to Austin Prep.
With cars parked on both sides of our street, it was often difficult to back out of our very sicep driveway.
Please, consider adding West Hill Circle to the no parking area for Austin Prep students. I fear parking here will just
become worse after other streets in the neighborhood are banned. And there's always a concern for people crossing
West Street on such a busy comer.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Julie MacDoonell
8 West Hill Circle.
Sent from my Whore