Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-12-11 Board of Selectmen Packetqty OF[?FgO Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street w Reading, MA 01867-2683 ~639:lNCORe~4P'S Fax: (781) 942-5441 Website: www.ci.reading.ma.us {&ft-6cS &Oct)1~ PUBLIC WORKS (781) 942=9077 December 4, 2007 Dear Residents, Due to scheduling conflicts, the resurfacing of Colburn Road will not begin until the spring. Prior to the resurfacing of the roadway, the Town will be making drainage improvements in the vicinity of Hurlbert Road. As next year's construction season- gets closer, every resident on Colburn Road will receive a letter from the Town with a more accurate time schedule as to when the work will commence. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact the Engineering Division at (781) 942-9082. Sincerely, cc: Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager Ted McIntire, Director of Public Works Christopher A. Cole Civil Engineer r(:~ rte' i ~V Yzcw epce4 C/ LATHAM9 LATHAM & LAMOND~ P.C. 643 MAIN STREET READING, MASSACHUSETTS 01867-3096 W W W.LLLLAW.COM KENNETH C. LATHAM (1939-1996) 0. BRADLEY LATHAM* JOHN T. LAMOND JOSHUA E. LATHAM* CHRISTOPHER M. O. LATHAM *ADMITTED TO PRACTICE IN MASSACHUSETTS & NEW HAMPSHIRE November 28, 2007 c . row, << ~'r TELEPHONE: (781) 944-0505 FAX: (781) 944-7079 I Py Department of Housing and Community Development 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 300 ° Boston, MA 02114 e Re: Application for Comprehensive Permit filed by the Reading Housing Authority as to 49 and 75 Pleasant Street, Reading, Massachusetts; Local Initiative Program Q Please be advised that the Reading Zoning Board of Appeals has issued the enclocod comprehensive permit decision. Sincerely, cc: Reading Housing Authority Reading Board of Selectmen Latham, th m & Lamond, P.C. i O.. adley Latham Attorney for Reading Housing Authority /c~ RECEIYED TOWN CL.E READM-. KASS, TOWN OF READING ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS 2001 NOV 19 FP 41 4b FINDINGS AND DECISION ON COMPREHENSIVE PERMIT CASE #07-11 RE: Application of Reading Housing Authority - Local Initiative Petition Address: A9'61, 65, 67, 71 and 75 Pleasant Street; Assessors Map 65, involving portions of Parcels 6 and 7. Date: N6vember.8, 2007 1. PROCEDURAL HISTORY 1. On-March 7, 2006, the Reading Board of Selectinen voted to support the Reading Housing Authority's (hereinafter, the "Applicant") application to the Massachusetts Department of Housing- and Community Development ("DHCD") under the Local Initiative Program ("LIP") in anticipation.of:the Applicant's submittal of a comprehensive permit application to the Reading Zoning.Board of Appeals ("ZBA') pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 40B; §§20-23, inclusive. 2. On July 5, 2007; the Applicant applied for a comprehensive permit from the ZBA; pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40B; § §20-23 to construct four (4) three-bedroom townhouse style rental units in a single structure on a new lot to be created on southerly side.of Pleasant Street, Reading, Massachusetts (the "Project"). All of the rental units are designed to be."affordable". 3. The Applicant is* currently the owner of 75 Pleasant Street, Reading, which is improved by a two-family dwelling. The Town of Reading (the "Town') is the owner of the property located at 49 Pleasant Street; Reading which1s improved by a building housing the Reading Senior Center. As proposed and pursuant to a Memorandum of Understanding between the Town and the Applicant, a portion of the property at 49 Pleasant Street will -be conveyed by the Town to the Applicant to be combined with a portion of the property located at 75 Pleasant Street to form the "Development Lot". The rental units will be numbered 61, 65, 67 and 71 Pleasant Street. 4. As proposed,. the Development Lot will be comprised of approximately 10,253 square feet of land, as shown on Sheet EX-lA of the Site Plans, and marked "Proposed Lot B" on the Approval Not Required Plan, referenced below. The Development Lot will have frontage on Pleasant Street, which provides pedestrian access. Vehicular access is from Parker Street via a driveway .ZBA Decision - #07-11 C3 easement over a municipal parking lot. The Development Lot is zoned Apartment Use (A-40 District) as set forth in the Reading Zoning By-Laws and the Zoning Map referenced therein ("the By-Laws"): 5. A duly advertised public hearing was opened on August 2, 2007, and was continued to the following dates with the consent of the Applicant' September 20, 2007; November 1, 2007 and November 8, 2007. Evidence was received at each session of the public hearing. The public was given the opportunity to speak and present other evidence at each session of the public hearing. With the Applicant's consent, the ZBA, various other Town board members and Town officials have been allowed to walk and inspect the Development Lot. 6. The public hearing was closed on November 8, 2007. 7..' The following plans, documents and exhibits were received during the public hearing and are incorporated by reference into. this -decision.: • Application, with supportive materials, as submitted on July 5, 2007. • March -28', 2006. letter from the Reading Town Manager advising of Board of Selectmen approval of the LIP application. • December 6, 2006 letter - from the DHCD approving the LIP application and determination of.site eligibility. • October 16, 2006 Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Reading.and the Applicant, which agreement deals with a land swap between the Town and the Applicant and other matters between those parties. • Quitclaim deed to the Applicant dated January 20, 2000 as recorded.that the Middlesex South District Registry.of,Deeds at Book 31071, page 603. • Plan Package Entitled "Proposed Four Unit Residential Building for Modular Family Housing (DHCD Project No. 196019), 61, 65, 67,.71 Pleasant Street, Reading, MA; Submission for Comprehensive Permit Application; Issue Date: May 9, 2007, as revised, containing multiple plans on numerous sheets, including the following plans: Existing Condition Plan (Sheet EX-1) by Allen & Major Associates, Inc:, dated 02/14/06; Final Lot Line Configuration Plan (Sheet EX-IA) by Allen Major Associates, Inc., dated 04/24/07, revised to 10/29/07; Proposed Demolition Plan. (Sheet EX-1B) by Allen & Major Associates, Inc.,. dated 02/17/06, revised to 2007; Proposed Layout Plan (Sheet C-1) by Allen & Major Associates, Inc., dated 02/17/06, revised to 1.0/29/07; Proposed Grading & Drainage Plan (Sheet C-2) by Allen & Major Associates, Inc., dated 02/17/06, revised to 11/0'8/07; Proposed Utility Plan (Sheet C-3) by Allen & Major Associates, Inc., dated 02/17/06, revised to .10/29/07; Proposed Erosion Control 'Plan (Sheet C-4) by Allen & Major Associates, Inc.,, dated 02/17/06, revised to - 10/29/07; -Landscape Plan (Sheet L1) by Brown Lindquist Fenuccio & Raber Architects, Inc., date May 9, 2007; First Floor Plan (Sheet Al) dated May 9, 2007, revised to September 17, 2007; Second Floor Plan (Sheet A2) dated May, 9, 2007, revised to September 17, 2007; Elevations Plan (Sheet A3) dated May 9, 2007, revised to September 17, 2007; Elevations Plan (Sheet A4) dated ZBA Decision - #07-11 2. eA May 9, 2007,, revised to September 17, 2007. The above plans are sometimes referred to as. the "Site Plans" or "Project Plans". • DHCD Chapter 40B Subsidized Housing Inventory as of. June 7, 2007. • Fire Department memorandum dated October 10, 2007. • Town Engineer's memoranda dated July 26, 2007,November 1, 2007. and November 8, 2007. • Conservation Administrator's memoranda dated August 2, 2007 and September 20,2007; • Letter from the Reading Town Manager, dated August 2, 2007, regarding the status of affordable housing in Reading. • Document entitled Recalculation of Project, August. 2007 Analysis; Computation of Net Income of Project. • Reading Design Review Team minutes dated July 30, 2007. • Responsiveness Summary from the Applicant dated August 28, 2007 with accompanying financial data and other accompanying materials. • Geotechnical Study Report prepared for the Reading Housing Authority, Proposed Multi- Unit Housing Project at 75 Pleasant Street, Reading, Massachusetts, dated September 2005; Project No. 9792, by UTS of Massachusetts, Inc.; Kevin M. Martin, P.E. • "Approval Not Required Plan" by Allen & Major Associates, Inc.., dated 11/01/07, which plan shows the Development Lot as "Proposed Lot B". • Letter 'from Stephen P. Lessa, counsel to abutter, Robert De Pasquale; dated November 2; 2007-. i Letter from Allen & Major Associates, Inc., dated October 2, 2007, as to reduction in impervious area on Lot B, from current conditions as a consequence *of the development. • Letter from Attorney O. Bradley Latham, dated November 6, 2007. • Drainage Analysis prepared by Allen & Major Associates, Inc., dated November 7; 2007. • Memorandum from the Conservation Administrator, dated November 6, 2007. 8. During the public hearing, the Applicant, was represented by its. Engineer, Timothy Williams; P.E.; of Allen and Majors, Woburn, Massachusetts, its Architects, Rick. Fenuccio and, Chris Raber of Brown Lindquist Fenuccio & Raber Architects, Inc., Yarmouthport, Massachusetts, its Attorney, O: Bradley Latham of Latham, .Latham & Lamond, P.C., Reading, Massachusetts, and Lyn Whyte, Executive Director of the Reading Housing Authority, who presented the ZBA with the Applicant's plans, testimony and.supporting materials. Representatives of the Applicant were present at all sessions of the public hearing at which evidence was presented and received. 9. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 44, §53G and its rules and regulations relative to comprehensive permits, the ZBA received advice from the Reading Town Counsel and Reading Town Planner. 10. The ZBA sought and received ' input and recommendations relative to the Applicant's proposed Development from various Town boards, committees and officials including the Board of Selectmen, Town Manager, Board of Health, Conservation Commission, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Building Inspector, Historical Commission and Design Review Team ("DRT") all of which have been made part of the record of this proceeding and have been taken into consideration by the ZBA in rendering its decision. 3 ZBA Decision - #07-11 C. 11. Parties -in'interest, persons residing in the area of the Development Lot and other residents of the Town appeared at the public hearing and gave the ZBA input relative- to-the anticipated impacts of the proposed Development which the ZBA also took into consideration in rendering its decision. 12. . During the public hearing, the Applicant made a number of revisions to its plans for the Development in response to concerns, comments and recommendations made by the ZBA,other. Town boards and committees, Town officials, the ZBA's consultants, parties in interest and other persons residing in the area of the Development Lot. Substantively, the Applicant modified its project plans by making the revisions shown on the Project Plans referenced below. 13. The ZBA deliberated on this decision at its meetings of November 1 and November'8, 2007, and made the following findings and decision based on the evidence submitted at the public hearing. II. FINDINGS L The Applicant has standing to file this application pursuant to 760 CMR 31.01 based upon the following: a) The Applicant-is a public agency as-that term is used in M.G.L: e. 40B, § 21; b) The Applicant has produced evidence of a subsidy based upon the project eligibility/site approval determination letter dated December 6, 2006 issued,by the DHCD (the "Eligibility Letter") establishing fundability by a subsidizing' agency under a low and moderate income-housing program; and c) The Applicant has "control of the site" as that term is used in 760 CMR 31..01, by virtue of a deed recorded with the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds in Book 31071,. Page 603; and a Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Reading and the Applicant relative to a portion of the property located at 49 Pleasant Street, Reading; MA. 2. The Town of Reading has not achieved the statutory minimum set forth in M:G.L. c. 40B, §20 or 760 CMR 31.04 in that less than ten percent (10%) of the total number of housirig units in the Town of Reading are "low or moderate income housing" units, nor is 1.5% of the Town's land . area comprised of affordable.housing. 3. The approval of the Applicant's proposed Development would not result in the commencement of construction of low or moderate income housing on sites comprising more than three-tenths of one percent (0.3%) of the total land area in the Town of Reading zoned for residential, commercial or industrial use or ten (10) acres, whichever is larger, in any one calendar year. 4 ZBA Decision - #07-11 C 4. At least 0.75% of housing units have not been produced in the Town 'within the last year accordance with a Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development ("DHCD") approved affordable housing plan. 5. The Development Lot will be accessed from Pleasant and Parker Streets, as shown on the Site Plans, which are hereby incorporated into and made a part of this decision, including any revisions thereto necessitated by this decision. 6. There is currently no structure on. the Development Lot; other than- a retaining wall. The existing conditions of the Development Lot are shown on the Site Plans. 7. The Development Lot is zoned Apartment Residential Use (A-40). .8. When developed in accordance with the conditions set forth herein, the proposed Development will be consistent with local housing needs. 9. The project does not fall within the. jurisdiction of the Reading Wetlands Protection Bylaw or State Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. Chapter 131, Section 30 et.seq:). III. DECISION Pursuant to M. G.L. c. 40B, §§20-23, after a public-hearing and based on the above findings and the evidence submitted at* the public hearing, the ZBA hereby grants a comprehensive permit to the Applicant for the construction of four (4) three-bedroom townhouse style rental units, in a single structure, with associated- infrastructure and improvements on Lot B, subject to the following conditions. The term."Applicant" as set forth herein shall mean the Applicant, its successors, transferees, and assigns. The terms and conditions of this Comprehensive Permit, together with the Regulatory Agreement to..be entered into shall control the development of the Project. To the extent the Comprehensive Permit and Regulatory , Agreement are inconsistent. with any other instrument document, agreement or plan submitted in connection with the Project, this Comprehensive Permit shall control to the full. extent permitted by law. This Comprehensive Permit is subject to compliance by the Applicant with all terms and conditions of this decision. The ZBA finds that the waivers granted, as conditioned or limited, do not render, the project uneconomic. I.V. CONDITIONS A. Administrative 1. The Development shall be constructed in substantial conformance with the approved Site Plans which have been incorporated herein by reference, and shall not be substantially changed, altered, or reconfigured or used in any way, except as provided in this Comprehensive Permit: 5 ZBA Decision - #07-11 2. This Comprehensive Permit is granted to the Applicant and shall not be assigned or transferred to any person or entity without the express written approval of the ZBA, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. Prior to making a decision. relative to any such assignment or transfer., the ZBA may hold a public hearing. 3. The ZBA shall have the power, at a public meeting and without further public hearing to modify or amend the terms and conditions of this Comprehensive Permit on the. application of the Applicant, or upon its own motion, to correct technical errors in this-Comprehensive Permit. 4. In the event the Applicant seeks any change in the Comprehensive Permit after this decision is final, whether deemed by the ZBA-to.be an "insubstantial change" or a "substantial change" in the Project as herein defined, any such change must be presented to the ZBA for approval and .for modification of this decision. Any substantial changes or modifications to this Comprehensive Permit shall only be made upon written request and typon the holding of a public hearing after which the'ZBA may approve or disapprove the requested modifications or amendments to this decision, in accordance with the provisions of Mass. Gen. Laws b. 40B, §21 and the provisions of 760 CMR 31.03. The ZBA will determine whether, additional information and advice is necessary from other boards and officials in the event of such a substantial change, and will-then determine whether,the change or requested. relief is to be approved and the decision amended accordingly. "Substantial change" for the. purposes of this. paragraph shall include, but not be limited to, all matters defined as substantial changes in 760 CMR 31.03 (2) (a). If it deems necessary the ZBA may at the Applicant's expense retain consultants to review and advise the ZBA regarding any proposed changes. 5. This Comprehensive Permit shall become final in accordance with the provisions of 760 CMR 31.08(4). If construction'authorized by this Comprehensive Permit has not begun within three (3) years of the date.that it becomes final, it shall lapse. Upon written application by the Applicant, the ZBA shall, for good cause shown, extend said expiration date.. B. Affordability 1. All of the dwelling units created within the Development shall be "affordable as that term is defined by Massachusetts. General Laws Chapter 40B and DHCD's regulations, in perpetuity, or as long as legally permissible. 2. To the extent permitted by law, preference for seventy percent (70%) of the dwelling units shall be given to qualifying persons or families who (a) are Reading residents, regardless of duration of residency; or (b) have a parent, .grandparent or child, whether by birth, adoption, step-relation or marriage, residing in Reading at the time of application; or (c) are employees (including new hires who haven't started work) who work for the Town of Reading, regardless of duration of employment; or (d) have resided in Reading, within five years immediately prior to the time of application; or (e) have a child enrolled in the Reading Public Schools at the time of application. 6 ZBA. Decision - t#07-11 G~ 3. Prior to-the .issuance of the certificate of occupancy for the building, the Applicant shall establish to the satisfaction of Town Counsel that all of the dwelling units are and shall remain affordable units and in accordance with this decision and applicable DHCD guidelines for affordable rental units. The Town reserves the option to select its own independent monitoring agent, at the Town's expense, which maybe a Certified Public Accountant ("CPA") to review the financial work -of the Applicant. The CPA shall be provided reasonable access by the Applicant to'any financial information necessary to make these determinations and to verify-the income and expenses of the Development. Additionally, the Town, at its option, may retain the services of an independent monitoring agent to monitor compliance with the terms and conditions of this decision at the Town's expense. C. Construction 1. A preconstruction conference with Town Building Inspector, Town Engineer, Fire Department, Director of Public Works and Town Planner shall be held prior to the commencement of.construction.'For the purposes of this decision, %6mmencement'of constriction" shall occur when the clearing and grubbing (removal of stumps and topsoil) has been initiated. The contractor shall request such conference at least one week prior to commencing construction by contacting the Building Inspector " writing. At the conference, a schedule of inspections shall be agreed upon by the Applicant and the Town officials responsible for the inspections. 2. Duly authorized agents of the Town., including, but not limited to the Building Inspector, the Fire Chief, the Town Engineer and their respective assistants and staff, shall* have the right, with reasonable notice to the on-site project manager; which notice -may be oral, to enter upon the common areas of the Development Lot and any common areas of the buildings thereon to ensure compliance with the terms and provisions ofthis Comprehensive Permit. This right of entiy'shall terminate, when the certificate of occupancy is issued. 3. During construction, all local, state and federal laws and regulations shall be followed regarding noise, vibration, dust and blocking Town ways. Construction shall be subject to the. construction controls contained in Reading General By-Law Section 5.5..8 Construction Hours and Noise Limits. All trucks delivering earth materials of any type to the Development shall be covered in compliance with state law. 4. The Applicant shall comply with all by-laws, rules and regulations, guidelines and codes of the Town and rules, regulations, codes and laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts pertaining to the Development,. unless specifically waived herein. S. Prior to the issuance of the first building permit for a dwelling unit under this Comprehensive. Permit, the Applicant shall furnish evidence to the Building Inspector that a copy of this decision has been recorded with the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds. 6. Prior to the issuance of a building permit for the Project, the Applicant shall submit the final plans for approval by the ZBA. The final plans shall include all of the conditions set forth 7 ZBA Decision - #07-11 V ' her The ZBA may distribute such plan(s) to'its consultants and/or Town boards and officials for a written recommendation or report. Approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and shall be deemed granted if not reviewed by the Board'or their Agent within forty-five (45) days of submission by the'Applicant. 7. All utilities (gas, telephone, electric; fire alarm, cable television, sewer and water) shall. be installed underground and in pipes or conduits, as the case may be. . 8. During construction the site shall be secured in a manner approved by the Building Inspector so as to prevent injury or property damage to the residents of the Town.. 9.. Blasting, if any, shall be performed in accordance with regulations of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 527 CMR. 13.00 and in accordance with any existing written regulations for blasting issued by the Town's Fire Department. 10. The. Applicant will comply with all rules and regulation's of the State Building Code for Fire Suppression Systems. 11. Street numbers will be provided on each dwelling in accordance with the Town's usual procedure. 12. The dwelling units shall be constructed in substantial conformance with the Project, Plans. The ZBA reserves the right to approve or disapprove substantial modifications. . 13. Prior to the issuance of a building permit for any dwelling unit, the Applicant shall submit copies of architectural plans for the building to the Building Inspector. fora "determination of whether they "comply with the Building. Code, the Project Plans and this decision. 14. The Applicant shall comply with all pertinent requirements of the American with Disabilities Act and Massachusetts Architectural Access Board, if applicable, but no elevator or lift shall be required. 15. The Applicant shall provide a copy of the building location footprint "as-built" plan to the ZBA and Building, Inspector prior to the issuance of the certificate of occupancy so that the Building. Inspector can determine that there is compliance with this decision and the Site Plans. The Applicant shall provide to the Engineering Department with a separate as=built plan depicting the location on the. Development Lot of the water, sewer and drainage systems demonstrating compliance with the Town's rules and regulations and installation specifications, except as waived by this decision. 16. The. landscaping shall be established substantially as is shown on the landscaping plan that has been submitted. The Applicant shall use reasonable efforts to save the two maple trees situated at the front of the Development Lot near Pleasant Street (shown on Plan Sheet 1- Existing Conditions), including placing barriers so that construction equipment does not damage those trees. If it becomes apparent that the trees cannot be saved, the Applicant shall submit a 8 ZBA Decision - #07-11 6,0- proposal as to replacement trees to the ZBA for its approvals. A note shall be added to the landscaping plan so stating. IT The Building Inspector shall determine that the interiors of the dwelling units meet the. specifications as have been provided to the ZBA by the Applicant and the State Building Code. 18. The Development, and all construction, dwelling units, utilities, drainage, earth removal or removal of structures and all related appurtenances with respect to the Development, shall comply with all applicable state and federal regulations. The Applicant will provide the ZBA with copies of all permitting requests and other correspondence directed to any applicable state or federal agency and of all correspondence, approvals or disapprovals received from any such agency. 19. The Development shall comply-with all State anti Federal rules, regulations, filing and permit requirements and certifications required by the regulations, if applicable. 20. Where subsequent approvals by the ZBA are required by this decision, such approvals. shall not be unreasonably denied, delayed or conditioned. V. Waivers The Applicant has requested and the ZBA hereby grants the following exceptions and waivers for the Project: A. TOWN OF READING ZONING BY-LAWS BY-LAW REFERENCE Section 4.3.3-Site Plan Review . Section 2.2.13 Table of Dimensional Controls-Lot Frontage ZBA Decision - #07-11 REQUIREMENT Site plan review by the Reading Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC) is required for the construction of a four-unit building. Section 2.2.13 Lot Frontage requires that there be physical vehicular access to a debth of 20 feet into the lot. over the lot frontage. 9 WAIVER GRANTED TO ALLOW:' To allow the comprehensive permit to issue pursuant to M.G. Laws Chapter 40A, without the need for multiple hearings before multiple boards in an efficient-and economic manner. To allow the project as shown on the submitted plans. The building is located within the first 20 feet of the front lot line.. Vehicle access from Pleasant Street is not needed for the new building as there is adequate and primary 6 1%_ Section 5.1.2 Table of Dimensional Controls -*Lot Area Section 5.1.2=--Table of Dimensional Controls-Front Yard Setback Section 5.1.2 Table of Dimensional Controls--Side Yard Setback . Section 5.1.2 Table of Dimensional Controls-Lot Coverage Section 5.2.7.1-Landscape Coverage Section 6.1.1.3-Loading Spaces B. WAIVER OF FEES ZBA Decision - #07-11 The Project is located within the A-40 District, which requires a lot area of 40,000 for Apartment use. The A-40 District requires a 30' front yard setback. The A-40:District requires a 30' side yard setback for apartment use. The A-40 District imposes a maximum 25% lot coverage. The A-40 District requires that at least 25% of the area of a lot containing apartments shall be landscaped. . . Apartment Dwelling use requires one loading and Unloading Space for each twenty (20) rental units. 10 vehicular access from Parker Street over the municipal parking lot. Any waiver needed as to Section 2.2.13 is granted. There is unobstructed pedestrian access from Pleasant Street. To allow the proposed lot size of 10,253 square feet. To allow a minimum 13.6' front yard setback. This provides an adequate set back and is more than the set-back of the abutting Senior Center from Pleasant Street. To allow a minimum 4.8' side yard setback as is shown on the plans. There is ample access to the building. with the side yards as proposed. Each unit has a private patio area at the rear for outdoor usage. The proposed building is of a small . scale and does not have the height of an apartment building, so the greater side yard requirement for an apartment is not needed. To-allow a lot coverage of approximately 27%, To allow the landscaped areas of at least 20 as are shown on the'submitted. plan. To waive any requirement for loading and unloading spaces. No loading spaces are needed. The parking spaces allocated for each unit provide convenient access to each unit for furniture moving. ~/P/ i The Applicant has requested, and the ZBA hereby grants, (1) a waiver of all building permit fees (including but not limited to those for building permits, electrical permits, gas and plumbing permits issued by the Town's Building Department); and (2) a waiver/abatement of all application fees, infiltration and inflow fees/charges and storm drainage fees/charges. This waiver is granted because the Applicant is the Reading Housing Authority, a public.agency, and because all four of the dwelling units being created by this. Comprehensive Permit shall be affordable units. [End of decision. The next page is a notice and the decision signature page.] ZBA Decision - #07-11 11 G'' Pursuant to M.G. Laws Chapter 40B, Section 22, the Applicant shall have the right to appeal to the Housing Appeals Committee in the Department of Housing and Community Development for*a.review of the same. RECORD OF VOTE The following members of the ZBA voted to .grant the foregoing comprehensive permit subject to the above-stated terms, conditions and limitations: Robert E. Refter/. Clark W. Petschek John A. Jarema 11.08.07 ZBA Decision - #07-11 Susan K. Miller eter I. Tedesco - Filed With the Town Clerk on bvv II, 2007. 12 ~O - Al .~0OF R$gOA Town of Reading r w~ 16 Lowell Street 63g rx~oR4p4` Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 Email: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us MEMORANDUM TO: Board of Selectmen FROM: Peter I. HecheAleikner DATE: December 7, 2007 RE: December 11, 2007 Agenda TOWN MANAGER (781) 942-9043 (3 a) There is a vacancy on the TTAC and Associate Douglas Reid is interested in being appointed for a position expiring June 30, 2008. I expect Mr. Reid to be there at the meeting. 1 3b) There is a vacancy on the Town Forest Committee occasioned by Ben Nichols moving from Reading. Associate Tom Connery is interested in being appointed to that position. We expect Mr. Connery to be present at the meeting. 4a) Elizabeth Whitelam from the Cultural Council will be in to present the highlights section of the Selectmen's Agenda. 4b) The annual request for 24 hour operation by the Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook Drive will take place. This is a public hearing. Attached to your material are comments from the Conservation Administrator and also from the Police Chief. We see no reason not to renew this approval. Also attached is a copy of last year's approval that includes the conditions of the approval. 4c) Enclosed in your material is a copy of the presentation that will be made by the ad hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force. Following the conclusion of the report, the Board should decide whether or not to extend the life of this ad hoc committee beyond its expiration date on December 31, 2007. 4d) Enclosed is the Selectmen's Policy on Communications. Selectman Anthony has asked what the policy should be on follow up on correspondence that the Board has received. 2 al APPOINTMENTS TO BECOME EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 6, 2007 Reading Telecommunications and Technologv Advisorv Committee Term: 3 years 1 Vacancv Appointing Authoritv: Board of Selectmen Present Member(s) and Term(s) Douglas Cowell Bill Cowie Vacancy Benjamin T. Ream C. Pitt Crandlemire Douglas Reid (Associate) Candidates: Douglas Reid Orig. Term Date Exp. 958 Main Street (99) 2008 110 Van Norden Rd. (05) 2009 ( ) 2008 .972 Main Street (04) 2010 32 Cross' Street (06) 2010 29 Hampshire Road (07) 2008 *Indicates incumbents seeking reappointment 3 a~ OF RF9 Town of Reading a r~ w wo 16 Lowell Street 1639°IN 40 Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 Email: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us TOWN MANAGER (781) 942-9043 VOLUNTEER VACANCY TOWN OF READING TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE One vacancy with a term expiring June 30, 2008 exists on the Telecommunications and Technology Advisory Committee. The purpose of the Committee is to advise the Board of Selectmen on matters of policy related but not limited to the installation, financing, siting, management and monitoring of Cable Television, Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access, Cellular and/or Digital telephone service and any other emergent technology designed for the same or similar purposes for use within the Town of Reading. Interested applicants may apply at the Town Clerk's office, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts by 5:00 p.m. on December 7, 2007 or until the vacancy is filled. C7 o o ohm N :z =C-, o.o.rn D Grp w cn:~ 'u cri MI 3 Reading Telecommunications and Technologv Advisorv Committee Term Three years AWointing Authoritv Board of Selectmen Number of Members Five Members Meetings No less than four meetings per year Authoritv Board of Selectmen - Adopted as Cable TV Advisory Committee on 12/13/94; amended as Reading Telecommunications and Technology Advisory Committee on June 11, 2002 Puruose To advise the Board of Selectmen on matters. of policy related but not limited to the installation, financing, siting, management, and monitoring of Cable Television, Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access, Cellular,and/or Digital telephone service, and any other emergent technology designed for the same or similar purposes for use within the Town of Reading. Advise the Board of Selectmen on all matters related to the existing Cable TV license, and any subsequent renewals of the license: ♦ hold an annual compliance hearing and monitor the on-going compliance of the current Cable TV licensee with the requirements of the Cable TV contract within the limits of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 166A and the License; ♦ work in conjunction with the company and the local access corporation in governing the use of the public access channel in the Town of Reading; and ♦ ensure the coordination of activities of other public organizations and private organizations concerning the use and development of cable programming; ♦ have the responsibility to monitor all aspects of the cable television system in the Town of Reading within the limits of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 166A and the license. Page 1 of 1 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, December 06, 2007 8:03 AM To: 'Doug Reid' Cc: Doug Cowell; Schena, Paula Subject: RE: Permanent TTAC Member Status Thanks Doug. We have this set for an interview next Tuesday at 7:30 PM in the Selectmen's Meeting Room. See you there. Pete C Board of Selectmen From: Doug Reid [maiIto: dreid05@gmail .com] Sent: Wednesday, December 05, 2007 6:38 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Cc: Doug Cowell Subject: Permanent TTAC Member Status Mr. Hechenbleikner: I'm an Associate member of the Reading TTAC committee, happy to be utilizing my technical experience to help my community. I understand there are openings in the committee for voting members. I would like to become a full voting member of the Reading TTAC committee so I can fully participate in our activities and contributions to Reading. Sincerely; Doug Reid 29 Hampshire Rd Reading, MA 01867 781-439-8104 3aS 12/6/2007 of R~q~ f~ Town of Reading ry ~~wa 16 Lowell. Street e3~, rrrcoaY°f`~ , Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 TOWN MANAGER Email: townmanager@ci.reading.mams (781) 942-9043 MEMORANDUM TO: Board of Selectmen j! FROM: Peter I. Hechenbleikner DATE: December 7, 2007 RE: December 11, 2007 Agenda 3a) There is a vacancy . on the TTAC and Associate Douglas Reid is interested in being appointed for a position expiring Tune 30, 2008. I expect Mr. Reid to be there at the meeting. / 3b) There is a vacancy on the Town Forest Committee occasioned by Ben Nichols moving from Reading. Associate Tom Connery is interested in being appointed to that position. \ We expect Mr. Cannery to be present at the meeting. 4a) Elizabeth Whitelam from the Cultural Council will be in to present the highlights section of the Selectmen's Agenda. 4b) The annual request for 24 hour operation by the Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook. Drive will take place. This is a public hearing. Attached to your material are comments from the Conservation Administrator and also from the Police Chief. We see no reason not to renew this approval. Also attached is a copy of last year's approval that includes the conditions of the approval. 4c) Enclosed in your material is a copy of the presentation that will be made by the ad hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force. Following the conclusion of the report, the Board should decide whether or not to extend the life of this ad hoc committee beyond its expiration date on December 31, 2007. 4d) Enclosed is the Selectmen's Policy on Communications. Selectman Anthony has asked what the policy should be on follow up on correspondence that the Board has received. 341%. APPOINTMENTS TO BECOME EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 6, 2007 Town Forest Committee Term: 3 years Appointine Authoritv: Board of Selectmen Present Member(s) and Term(s) George B. Perry III, Chairman Louis deBrigard Vacancy Thomas W. Connery (Associate) Joan Hoyt (Associate) 230 Franklin Street 37 Auburn Street 101 Beaver Road 89 Oakland Road 1 Vacancy Orig. Term Date Exp. (76) 2009 (02) 2008 2010 (03) 2008 (06) 2008 Candidates: Thomas W. Connery *Indicates incumbents seeking reappointment 3~~ OF RF,Q op, y Town of Reading, r^' 16 Lowell Street 639=txco°¢P Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 TOWN MANAGER Email: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us (781) 942-9043 VOLUNTEER VACANCY TOWN OF READING ' TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE One vacancy with a term expiring June 30, 2010 exists on the Town Forest Committee. The Town Forest Committee's primary function is to oversee the care, custody and management of the Reading Town Forest. Interested applicants may apply at the Town Clerk's office, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts by 5:00 p.m. on December 7, 2007 or until the position is filled. C= M CIJ<~C P 3~,3 TOWN FOREST COMMITTEE Term Three years Appointing Authoritv Board of Selectmen Number of Members Three Members Meetings As needed Authoritv Reading Charter - Adopted March 24, 1986 Puruose The Town Forest Committee's primary function is to oversee the care, custody and management of the Reading Town Forest. j Thomas Connery 101 Beaver Road Reading, N 01867 (781) 944-2268 November 28, 2007 C Board of Selectmen N Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867-2685 RE: Town Forest Committee Vacancy - Expression of Interest Dear Members of the Board of Selectmen: My name is Tom Connery and I presently serve as an Associate Member of the Town Forest Committee. Due to the departure of our esteemed senior member, Mr. Ben Nichols, a vacancy now exists on the Committee. I am writing to express my interest in assuming full committee membership. About four years ago I joined in the Town Forest Committee when a potential land swap was being formulated by the Meadow Brook Country Club. As an ardent supporter of this phenomenal town asset, I was, and remain, interested in preserving the integrity of this most-valued town asset. In the future, decommissioning of the water treatment facility, the presence of the compost center at the Town Forest front door, insect infestation, conservation of natural resources, and guided stewardship of public use of this land, will be issues that must be understood and managed with leadership, care and concern. I am interested in supporting these initiatives. I have lived in Reading for 17 years and am raising my family in this fine town. I serve as a Director of the Reading Open Land Trust and believe this open space leadership role dovetails well with the Town Forest Committee. I am an Eagle Scout and have been actively involved in Reading scouting for many years and have enjoyed the resources of the Town Forest with this group. Lastly, as a professional, I work as a real estate developer. My expertise in land use matters, familiarity with rules, regulations and land use law, together with my experience with wetland specialists, drainage and stormwater management issues, and natural resource management, provide me with a background that is beneficial to management of the Town Forest. I have enjoyed the privilege of serving an Associate Member of the Town Forest Committee and hope that you'll agree that I have the requisite background and interest to be considered for full Committee membership. I look forward to meeting with you and/or learning of your response to my letter. Thank jp~jadvance for your favorable consideration. Sinc , Thomas W. Connery cc: George Perry, Chairman OFti~9o~ rc , j Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street 63g=~NcoaA°4P Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 Email: townmanager@ci.reading.maus MEMORANDUM TO: Board of Selectmen , I FROM: Peter I. Hechenbleikner J t' G DATE: December 7, 2007 RE: December 11, 2007 Agenda TOWN MANAGER (781) 942-9043 3a) There is a vacancy on the TTAC and Associate Douglas Reid is interested in being appointed for a position expiring June 30, 2008. I expect Mr. Reid to be there at the meeting. 3b) There is a vacancy on the Town Forest Committee occasioned by Ben Nichols moving from Reading. Associate Torn Connery is interested in being appointed to that position. We expect Mr. Connery to be present at the meeting. r4a) Elizabeth Whitelam from the Cultural Council will be in to present the highlights section of the Selectmen's Agenda. 4b) The annual request for 24 hour operation by the Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook Drive will take place. This is a public hearing. Attached to your material are comments from the Conservation Administrator and also from the Police Chief. We see no reason not to renew this approval. Also attached is a copy of last year's approval that includes the conditions of the approval. 4c) Enclosed in your.material is a copy of the presentation that will be made by the ad hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force. Following the conclusion of the report, the Board should decide whether or not to extend the life of this ad hoc committee beyond its expiration date on December 31, 2007. 4d) Enclosed is the Selectmen's Policy on Communications. Selectman Anthony has asked what the policy should be on follow up on correspondence that the Board has received. Z/ a 11 LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF READING To the Inhabitants of the Town of Reading: Please take notice that the Board. of Selectmen .of4he Town of Reading will hold a public hearing at their meeting on Tuesday,. December 11, 2007 at' 8:06 p.m., in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading,. Massachusetts in accordance with the Bylaw, Article 5.10.1, Retail. Sales on -a ; request by Motiva Enterprises:, LLC (pwner,) and Ld.i.gh: Enterprises, Ltd (Licensed Operator) that it.be granted the. right.to.. continue operating at the Reading Shell Station, locat= edz at 87 Walkers. Brook Drive; y Reading, twenty-four (24) hours per day,., and: specifically requests approval.. under said. Bylaw to operate etween the hours of 12:01. a.m. _and. 6:00 A11 interested parties. may appear in person, may submit written comments, or email comments to townmanaaer @ci.readina.ma.us. By order of Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager 12/6: OF $figO f~ Town of Reading moo. ,r Ewa 16 Lowell Street X639 INS RY°Reading, MA 01867-2685 - FAX: (781) 942-9071 Email: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us MEMORANDUM { TO: Board of Selectmen FROM: Peter I. Hechenbleikner . G ~ DATE: December 7, 2007 RE: December 11, 2007 Agenda TOWN MANAGER (781) 942-9043 3a) There is a vacancy on the TTAC and Associate Douglas Reid is interested in being appointed for a position expiring June 30, 2008. I expect Mr. Reid to be there at the meeting. 3b) There is a vacancy on the Town Forest Committee occasioned by Ben Nichols moving from Reading. Associate Tom Connery is interested in being appointed to that position. We expect Mr. Connery to be present at the meeting. 4a) Elizabeth Whitelam from the Cultural Council will be in to present the highlights section of the Selectmen's Agenda. f4b) The annual request for 24 hour operation by the Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook Drive will take place. This is a public hearing. Attached to your material are comments from the Conservation Administrator and also from the Police Chief. We see no reason not to renew this approval. Also attached is a copy of last year's approval that includes the conditions of the approval. 4c) Enclosed in your material is a copy of the presentation that will be made by the ad hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force. Following the conclusion of the report, the Board should decide whether or not to extend the life of this ad hoc committee beyond its expiration date on December 31, 2007. 4d) Enclosed is the Selectmen's Policy on Communications. Selectman Anthony has asked what the policy should be on follow up on correspondence that the Board has received. J,/ , - 11 Board of Selectmen Meeting - December 19. 2006 - Paae 3 The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen need to approve the draft housing plan and then pass it on to DHCD. He also noted that the purpose is to develop a proactive plan for increasing affordable housing. The Town needs to produce 66 units/year. Chainnan Ben Tafoya noted that there are short-term and long-term issues. He spoke with James Bond who bought the MF Charles building, and he noted that the critical issue is parking. Hearing - 24 Hour Permit. Readina Shell Station. 87 Walkers Brook Drive - The Town Manager noted that this is an annual event. Attorney Mark Gallant indicated that he was representing Motiva. He noted that the permit has been issued for the past 16-17 years. The Station is in the industrial district with no residential abutters, the gas and bathrooms are available 24 hour a day. They provide gas cans and a list of towing companies. They recently received the order of conditions to reconstruct the canopy. Danielle Robinson noted that this has been a Mass. DEP site for 10 years. All wells except one are below clean up level. The April test was high and Motiva fixed the loose gasket on the tank top. She also noted that the company is putting up a fence for litter control. The Conservation Commission is asking them to do work on property they don't own. She noted that the Station will be closed when the canopy is installed, and she will notify the Town Manager when that happens. A motion by Goidv seconded by Bonazoli to close the hearing on the 24 hour permit for 87 Walkers Brook Drive was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to approve an application for 24 hour sales by Motiva Enterprises, LLC d/b/a Readina Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook Drive. The Board of Selectmen finds that, in accordance with Section 5.10.1 of the General Bvlaws: o It is in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare to permit such operation: and o There is no detrimental effect of such operation on the Town or the immediately abuttina neighbors; The approval of this application is subiect to the following conditions: 1. This approval expires at midnight, December 31.2007; 2. All signs shall conform to the Zoning By-Laws of the Town of Reading: 3. The gasoline service station shall. in fact, be open 24 hours a dav, seven davs a week; 4. The operator will ensure that there is a suovly of gasoline available at the station during all hours that the station is open, 5. The operator will provide gas cans for motorists who run out of gasoline on the road; 6. The operator will prepare and post a list of local towing and repair shops that are open 24 hours a dav for those who need it: 7. Restroom facilities shall be open 24 hours a dav, seven davs a week. was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. 4,1,r, 3% MARK A. GALLANT, P.C. ATTORNEY AT LAW 462 BOSTON STREET SUITE 1, SECOND FLOOR TOPSFIELD, MA 01983 (978) 887-0366 LIt ENSED IN MASSACHUSETTS AND NEW HAMPSInRRE NEWBURYPORT: (978) 463.0220 PEABODY. (978) 538.0066 E-r AIL: mgallant@nii.net PAX NUMBERS (978) 887-0321 WE BSITE: WWW.gallantlawxom REPLY TO TOPSFIELD OFFICE ti 1 November 15, 2007 James Bonazoli, Chairman Board of Selectmen Town of Reading V ~n Town Hall f J Readin& NIA, 01867 RE: 24 Hour Permit M Reading Shell Station 87 Walkers Brook Drive O Reading, MA 01867 Dear Chairman Bonazoli: My office represents Motiva Enterprises, LLC (owner) and Leigh Enterprises, Ltd (Licensed Operator), 87 Walkers Brook Drive, Reading, Massachusetts on their application for a permit to operate twenty-four (24) hours per day at the Reading Shell Station, 87 Walkers Brook Drive. In accordance with the By-Law, Article 5.10.1, Retail Sales, Motiva Enterprises, LLC (as Station Owner) and Leigh Enterprises, Ltd (as Licensed Operator) hereby requests that they be granted the right to continue operating the above station located at 87 Walkers Brook Drive, Reading, twenty-four (24) hours per day, and specifically requests approval under the said By-Law to operate between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Also, my clients are requesting that the Common Victualler's License also be extended. Kindly schedule the same for a hearing before the Board of Selectmen for the Board's meeting in Tuesday, December 11, 2007. Please advise my office of the date of the hearing. Also, kindly have the newspaper bill my Topsfield office directly for the cost of the legal notice for the hearing. If you have any questions, please feel free to call. Thank you. Very truly yours, Mark A. Gallant MAG:pd Cc: Peter I. Hechenbleikner, Town Manager Town Clerk Robin Shea, Motiva Enterprises, LLC ((f - D~' V MARK A. GALLANT, P.C. ATTORNEY AT LAW 462 BOSTON STREET SUITE 1. SECOND FLOOR TOPSPIELD. MA 01983 (978) 887.0366 LI ENSE'D IN MASSACHUSETTS AND NEW HAMPSHIRE E-? AILt mgallanc@nii.net W) BSITEt www.gaUantlaw.com NM BVRYPORT: (978) 463.0220 PEABODM (978) 538-0066 PAX NUMHER, 1978) 887-0321 REPLY TO TOPSFIELD OFFICE November 15, 2007 Peter I. Hechenbleikner, Town Manager Town of Reading Town Hall Reading, MA., 01867 RE: Reading Shell Station 87 Walkers Brook Drive Reading, MA 01867 Dear Mr. Hechenbleikner: As you know, my office represents Motiva Enterprises, LLC (owner) and Leigh Enterprises, Ltd (Licensed Operator), 87 Walkers Brook Drive, Reading, Massachusetts. I have enclosed a separate letter to the Board of Selectmen requesting the renewal of the 24 hour permit. I am writing this letter to inform you that the Station is scheduled to replace the canopy beginning on December 3, 2007. The Contractor is estimating that it will take about 6 weeks to complete the work although my clients are hopeful that it will be completed sooner. During the canopy construction, the station will be closed. It is my understanding that my clients have obtained the required approval and permits for the canopy work. My clients will keep the Board and your office informed as to when the work is completed and the station is re-opened. If the Board of Selectmen or you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you. Very rely yours, Mark A. Gallant MAG: ag Cc: Robin Shea, Motiva Enterprises, LLC Board of Selectmen 00-171 H lr.~ I BOSTON GAS COMPANY MCMANUS ROSE M TOWN OF READING 201 RIVERMOOR ST OF WAKEFIELD ASSOC CONSERVATION COMMISSION BOSTON, MA 02132 98 WALKERS BROOK DRIVE 16 LOWELL ST READING, MA 01867 READING, MA 01867 ARISTONICS CORPORATION 95 WALKERS BROOK DRIVE READING, MA 01867 MOTIVA ENTERPRISES LLC C/O EQUIVA SERVICES LLC PO BOX 4369 HOUSTON, TX 77201 BROOKVIEW INVEST. LLC 15 THIRD AVE BURLINGTON, MA 01803 HOME DEPOT USA INC 2455 PACES FERRY RD ATLANTA, GA 30339 s BLACKSMITH ENTERPRISES II LIMITED PARTNERSHIP 88 WALKERS BROOK DR READING, MA 01867 JORDAN'S FURNITURE INC ATTN A/P DEPARTMENT 450 REVOLUTIONARY DRIVE E. TAUNTON, MA 02718 WALKERS BROOK CROSSING LLC 1266 FURNACE BROOK PKWY QUINCY, MA 00000 446 i` t{ , i 1 - 4 ~ ltiArar QR v 'lt l Y t J IAk6VICWFNEPiU6 - Ind. U, it ii 41.! Ind. ZZ, i J \ f/ Page 1 of 2 Hechenbleikner, Peters From: Cormier, Jim Sent: Tuesday, December 04, 2007 4:29 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: FW: WBD Shell Station Peter, Regarding WBD Shell, Lt. Robbins email is below, I don't see any reason not to continue the 24 hour permit and believe that having it open is a benefit to travelers and residents. If you need this in a different format (more formal letter) just let me know and I will do that. Chief Jarnes W. Cormier Town of Reading Police Department 15 Union St. Reading, MA 01867 781-942-6770 fax 781-944-2893 When writing or responding, please remember that the secretary of State's Office has determined that email is a public record. This communication may contain privileged or other confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, or believe that you have received this communication in error, please do not print, copy, retransmit, disseminate, or otherwise use the information. Also, please indicate to the sender that you have received this email in error, and delete the copy you received. From: Robbins, Richard Sent: Tuesday, December 04, 2007 3:36 PM To: Cormier, Jim Subject: RE: WBD Shell Station Chief: I ran the history for this gas station at 87 Walkers Brook Dr from November 29, 2007 back to November 26, 2006. There were no complaints filed against the station, nor were there any robberies. There was one heroin arrest made on 12/29/2006 where the drug was visible on the dashboard. The case was continued without a finding. Based upon my review of the history, recommend that the station continue to operate 24 hours per day. Sincerely, Lt Det Robbins From: Cormier, Jim Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2007 10:07 AM To: Robbins, Richard Subject: FW: WBD Shell Station 12/4/2007 Page 2 of 2 Dick, Can you have one of the detective check the history for the past year at the shell on WBDrive, the board is having a hearing on Dec. 11. Chief James W. Cormier Town of Reading Police Department 15 Union St. Reading, MA 01867 781-942-6770 fax 781-944-2893 When writing or responding, please remember that the secretary of State's Office has determined that email is a public record. This communication may contain privileged or other confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, or believe that you have received this communication in error, please do not print, copy, retransmit, disseminate, or otherwise use the information. Also, please indicate to the sender that you have received this email in error, and delete the copy you received. From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2007 9:25 AM To: Fink, Fran; Cormier, dim Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: WBD Shell Station Fran - Can you tell me what the status of this site is with respect to Conservation? Are there any outstanding issues? Jim - Do you have any comments with respect to continued 24 hour operation? Any complaints? Any robberies? The Board of Selectmen is scheduling the annual hearing on 24 hour operation for December 11. Thanks Pete ~kq N 12/4/2007 Page 1 of 2 Hechenbleikner, Peter From: Fink, Fran Sent: Thursday, December 06, 2007 2:14 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Cc: Jackson, Paul Subject: RE: WBD Shell Station Hi Peter, Just an update, The contractor has completed all the pre-construction requirements, and I did the initial inspection with him and the haz mat supervisors on Tuesday. He was planning to start cutting concrete and pavement yesterday and complete the footings for the canopy by December 17. Then the canopy will be constructed by a different contractor. I expect the fence, drainage improvements including the rip-rap mentioned below, and required haz mat removal to be completed as part of this work. However, the removal of the sediments from the wetland will likely be delayed until next summer. The area is under water (and now ice) at this time. Lt. Jackson will be overseeing the work on the fuel dispensing systems and has issued a permit for the work. I will inspect as the work proceeds. Fran From: Fink, Fran Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2007 2:13 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: RE: WBD Shell Station The Order of Conditions for the canopy and other work is valid through December 2009, and can be extended. They have recorded the Order at the Registry and have posted the bond for the work, but have not done other pre-construction requirements. They did miss a deadline set in the Order for removal of sediments from the wetland - that was supposed to be completed during the 2007 growing season so that the area could be planted and stabilized immediately. They were also supposed to install rip-rap to stabilize the source of the sediments within 30 days of getting permission from MHD and the gas company to work on their land. I believe that they have obtained permission, but do not know the dates. There were no other mandatory time lines in the Order. Fran From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2007 1:56 PM To., Fink, Fran .Subject: RE: WBD Shell Station Thanks Fran Are they in compliance with all requirements? And are all permits still valid? P From: Fink, Fran Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2007 10:37 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; Cormier, Jim Cc: Schena, Paula 12/6/2007 0 Page 2 of 2 Subject: RE: WBD Shell Station They have an Order of Conditions permitting replacement of the canopy, installation of fence around the parking lot, removal of sediments from wetlands and certain drainage improvements to reduce sedimentation in the future. The canopy work will involve excavation of soils contaminated with hazardous materials, and likely the pumping of contaminated groundwater. Soils will be removed from site and replaced with clean fill. Groundwater will be stored in a frac tank and removed from site. They will also check the fuel lines and pumps and repair/replace as needed. They filed a Release Abatement Measure Plan with DEP describing the how they will carry out the work per the haz mat standards. They also had to go to ZBA and CPDC (I think) on the canopy, and have received permits from them. They recently filed the Building Permit application. I don't know whether Glen has issued the permit yet. The contractor and the haz mat consultant met with me last week to review pre- construction requirements in the OOC. I expect them to return soon with the necessary documents, etc. to fulfill these requirements before they start work. Meanwhile the most recent status report for the on-going haz mat treatment continues to show that certain contaminants remain above DEP standards. I am hoping that the removal of soils and groundwater will help move this process forward more quickly. Fran From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent Wednesday, November 28, 2007 9:25 AM To. Fink, Fran; Cormier, Jim Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: WBD Shell Station Fran - Can you tell me what the status of this site is with respect to Conservation? Are there any outstanding issues? Jim Do you have any comments with respect to continued 24 hour operation? Any complaints? Any robberies? The Board of Selectmen is scheduling the annual hearing on 24 hour operation for December 11. Thanks Pete tj 12/6/2007 1 Town of Reading I to two 16 Lowell Street js39.rxco 4a Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 Email: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us MEMORANDUM TO: Board of Selectmen FROM: Peter I. Hechenbleikner 3 4 \ DATE: December 7, 2007 RE: December 11, 2007 Agenda TOWN MANAGER (781) 942-9043 3a) There is a vacancy on the TTAC and Associate Douglas Reid is interested in being appointed for a position expiring June 30, 2008. I expect Mr. Reid to be there at the meeting. 3b) There is a vacancy on the Town Forest Committee occasioned by Ben Nichols moving from Reading. Associate Tom Connery is interested in being appointed to that position. We expect Mr. Connery to be present at the meeting. 4a) Elizabeth Whitelam from the Cultural Council will be in to present the highlights section of the Selectmen's Agenda. 4b) The annual request for 24 hour operation by the Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook Drive will take place. This is a public hearing. Attached to your material are comments from the Conservation Administrator and also from the Police Chief. We see no reason not to renew this approval. Also attached is a copy of last year's approval that includes the conditions of the approval. (4c) Enclosed in your material is a copy of the presentation that will be made by the ad hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force. Following the conclusion of the report, the Board should decide whether or not to extend the life of this ad hoc committee beyond its expiration date on December 31, 2007.. 4d) Enclosed is the Selectmen's Policy on Communications. Selectman Anthony has asked what the policy should be on follow up on correspondence that the Board has received. Town of Reading V. z 16 Lowell Street o Reading, MA 01867-2683 js39' INCORY~~Nb Fax: (781) 942-5441 Website: www.ci.reading.ma.us 14 PUBLIC WORKS (781) 942-9077 November 27, 2007 Ms. Eileen Goldberg Riverways Program Mass. Department of Fish and Game 251 Causeway street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02114 Re: Adopt-A-Stream Program Stream Team Implementation Awards Application by Reading Conservation Commission Dear Ms. Goldberg: I am writing on behalf of the Reading Department of Public Works to express support for the application by the Reading Conservation Commission for a Stream Team Implementation Award. The Commission would use the award to gather the necessary technical information needed to design and permit a new trail. This trail would link existing trails in Town-owned Conservation Areas along the eastern Ipswich River corridor in Reading to trails in the Town Forest along the western River corridor. Parts of the trail would be constructed as boardwalks through the wetter areas along the River, over land owned and maintained by the Water Supply Division of the DPW. The Water Supply Division of the DPW owns about 19 acres of land west of Mill Street between the Town Forest and the Town Conservation Areas along the Ipswich River. We maintain and preserve this land in its natural condition to protect the public drinking water wells in Reading. We would welcome a well-designed and maintained trail and boardwalk system through our land to connect the existing trail networks on either side. We will actively support the proposed feasibility study by providing information, access, and any other assistance that we can. Thank you for your consideration of this proposal. Sincerely, 64,E 1A Edward D. McIntire, Jr. Director of Public Works ~GZ^" Awlfr N. MEMORANDUM To: Peter Hechenbleikner Board of Selectmen Conservation Commission Kim Honetschlager From: Fran Fink Date: November 21, 2007 Re: Fishing Dock at Lobs-Mill Conservation Area Among other things, the Northern Area Greenway study committee has identified the Lobs Mill Conservation Area on Mill Street as a good location for a fishing dock. To further this idea, Kim Honetschlager and I met at Lobs Mill on.November 15th with members of the NAG study committee, the Ipswich River Stream Team, and Doug Cameron from the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game. Mr. Cameron is the Assistant Director and Deputy Chief Engineer for the Fishing and Boating Access Program. His program provides design, engineering, materials, labor, and repair services for fishing docks. These services ate completely funded by the state, and Mr. Cameron indicated that funds are available at this time to allow design and construction to proceed at Lobs Mill. He also indicated that Lobs Mill would be a good location for a dock for the following reasons: • The State Fish and Wildlife Department stocks the Ipswich River with trout from Mill Street into North Reading; • The land is Town-owned and under the care of the Conservation Commission; • The Commission and I can support the necessary wetlands permit application process; • Public access can be provided. The site already has a gravel parking lot and a relatively flat, short path leading to the river. These could easily be modified to provide wheelchair access. The parking lot provides space for three vehicles at present and there is room to widen it to provide at least two more spaces without harming the trees nearby. The Access program would pay for paving as well as the dock; • The topography and vegetation at the riverbank provide a good space for a small dock, perhaps 10' by 15', and the dock can be readily incorporated into the existing canoe launch and picnic area; V • There are active volunteers on the Stream Team and Conservation Commission who can help to maintain the area. Mr. Cameron also indicated that there is no formal grant application process, but the Access program does require the Town to enter into a land management agreement. The Town is asked to provide daily operation and maintenance such as trash collection, mowing, and policing. The Access program would provide any substantial repairs that might be needed over time. Please review the attached materials provided by Mr. Cameron, including a sample land management agreement. If the Conservation Commission and Board of Selectmen are willing to support this project and enter into the agreement, the next step might be to have Town Counsel to review the sample agreement. When there is a final draft acceptable to all parties, it can be executed. Then we can begin the design and permitting work with Mr. Cameron, and possibly see construction next summer. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. You can reach me in the Conservation office, 781-942-6616 or ffink anci.readina.ma.us. Thank you for your consideration of this proposal. 1~ C/ P % SAMPLE LAND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT THIS LAND MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is entered into . pursuant to the authority of G.L. c.2 IA, §2(8) and § 11B, on this day of ,20 , by and between the Department of Fish and Game ("Department") and the Town/City of acting by and through its Board of Selectmen/Aldermen and/or Mayor ("Municipality"). IN CONSIDERATION of the construction, improvement or repair, maintenance and daily operation of the fishing and/or boating access facility located at: ("facility"), and in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration with regard to the facility, the Department and the Municipality covenant and agree as follows: 1. The Department shall undertake any repairs, replacement or reconstruction made reasonably necessary by the effects of weather or normal public usage. The timing of said repairs, construction or reconstruction shall be dependent upon budget restrictions and the appropriation of adequate funds by the Massachusetts Legislature. 2. The Department shall provide the Municipality with a sign or signs which contain the provisions of 320 CMR 2.00, regulations governing the use of public access facilities, and a statement that the facility was constructed by the Department of Fish and Game, Office of Fishing and Boating Access. 3. The Municipality shall install and maintain the sign or signs provided pursuant to section 2 of this Agreement in a prominent and visible location at the facility. 1/4 14 C-S SAMPLE 4. The Municipality shall be responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the facility including, but not limited to policing, trash and liter removal, and the overall preservation of the facility for use by the general public in accordance with G.L. c.131, §45. 5. The Municipality shall not use or permit to be used any parking spaces or open areas within the facility for purposes other than public access, or for purposes that are inconsistent with the provisions of 320 CMR 2.00 without the written permission of the Department. 6. Subject to the prior written approval of the Department, the Municipality may adopt a fee schedule and method of collecting such fees for the use of the facility. (a) Fees charged by the Municipality for launching and parking shall be the same for all citizens, and for eachtype of usage, except as otherwise provided for in §6(b) and 6(c) of this Agreement. (b) Fees for out-of-state users may be no more then three (3) times the fee for in-state users for daily or seasonal use, unless federal monies were used in, or reimbursed for the construction or repair of said facility, in which case the fee shall be the same for all users. (c) .A separate fee for commercial haulers may be adopted by the Municipality for daily or seasonal use. 7. All fees collected by the municipality shall be used exclusively for the daily operation and maintenance of the facility. Upon request, the Municipality shall provide the Department with a certified accounting of the receipts and expenditures of all such fees. 8. Subject to the prior written approval of the Department, the Municipality may adopt reasonable management measures governing the use of the facility that are not inconsistent with the provisions of 320 CMR 2.00, or other applicable management measures as adopted by the Department. 2/4 qc1P SAMPLE IN WITNESSES WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on this day of )20 BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME David M. Peters, Commissioner John P. Sheppard Director of Fishing and Boating Access BY THE MUNICIPALITY Board of Selectmen/Aldermen and/or Mayor I, , Clerk of the Municipality, hereby certify that the above named individual(s) currently hold(s) the office of , and is/are authorized to sign this Agreement on behalf of the Municipality. TOWN/CITY SEAL 4/4 (1) It is unlawful to operate any amphibious vehicle, airplane or seaplane in a public access facility. (2) Notwithstanding any provision of 320 CMR 2.00, the Director may establish: (a) management measures governing the use of a public access facility including, but not limited to, the number of users, the time of use, the manner of use and the type of use; (b) management measures governing any watercraft using a public access facility including, but not limited to, engine horsepower, watercraft specifications, and the size and type of trailers used to launch watercraft; and (c) management measures restricting, suspending or prohibiting the use of a public access facility. eg 320 CMR DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME 320 CMR 2.00: PUBLIC ACCESS FACILITIES Section 2.01: Definitions 2.02: Management Measures 2.03: Special and General Permits 2.04: Prohibitions 2.05: Penalties 2.01: Definitions Unless the context otherwise requires, the following words shall have the following meanings and the following rules of construction shall apply: Amphibious Vehicle means any motored vehicle that is designed to operate both on land and in the water including but not limited to those vehicles commonly referred to as DUKWs, LARCs, Stalwarts, hybrids and United States Coast Guard Certified Amphibians. Director of Fishing and Boating Access, means the person appointed by the Commissioner of the Department of Fish and Game to act as the administrative head of the Department of Fish and Game's public access program, also known as the Office of Fishing and Boating Access. Intended Use of a Public Access Facilitv means the launching and retrieval of any trailered or cartop watercraft and parking of the vehicle used to launch and retrieve watercraft in a properly mars ed parking area. Intended Use of a Shorefishing Area means recreational fishing. Intended Use of a Snortfishing Pier means recreational fishing. Public Access Facilitv means any properly posted land and/or water resource within Massachusetts that is subject to the authority of M.G:L. c. 21A, § 11B, and 320 CMR 200, including, but not limited to, boat launching ramps, parking areas, sportfishing piers and shorefrshing areas, as designated by the Board or as utilized by agreements with other agencies. Watercraft means a vessel of any kind, except seaplanes and amphibious vehicles, which is used. or capable of being used as a means of transportation. 2.02: Management-Measures 8/12/05 320 CMR - 5 320 CMR DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME 2.02: continued (3) Prior to the establishment of any management measure, except those established pursuant to 320 CMR 2.04(19), the Director shall provide the following notice and afford interested persons an opportunity to comment as follows: (a) publish notice of the management measures in a newspaper of general circulation within the jurisdiction of the public access facility; (b) mail a copy of the management measure to those associations, organizations or persons most effected by the measures, or who have requested to be notified of such measures; (c) file a copy of the notice with the State Secretary; and (d) prominently post the management measures at the entrance to the public access facility and at such other conspicuous locations within the facility as the Director deems necessary and appropriate. (4) If the Director finds that the immediate establishment of management measures is necessary for the public health, safety or general welfare, and that observance of the procedures for notice and comment provided in 320 CMR 2.02(3) would be contrary to the public interest, the Director may dispense with such procedure's and establish the management-measures on an emergency basis. The Director's finding and a brief statement of the reasons for his finding shall be incorporated in the emergency. management measures and filed with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The Director shall comply with the procedures for notice and comment provided in 320 CMR 2.02(3) if the management measures are to be effective for a period longer than 45 days. 2.03: Snecial and General Permits (1) The Director may issue special permits authorizing special activities, events, fishing derbies or contests or other public gatherings at public access facilities. (2) Except as otherwise provided in 320 CMR 2.02(1), the Director may issue general permits for a class of specified uses or for specific categories of uses. (3) Applications for a special permit or general permit may be made to the Director. (4) The Director may establish conditions and restrictions to the special or general permit that, in his opinion, are necessary and appropriate for the public health, welfare and safety, or are required by the type of public access facility sought to be used. 2.04: Prohibitions Unless otherwise authorized by special or general permit issued pursuant to 320 CMR 2.03, it is unlawful for any person to conduct the following uses or activities within a public access facility: (1) camp, swim, sleep overnight, picnic, loiter, gamble or drink alcoholic beverages; (2) litter, vandalize property, have a fire, post a sign or notice or have unleashed pets; (3) ride bicycles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, all terrain or other vehicles within a public access area except as required for the intended use of the public access facility; - (4) use a public access facility for any purpose other than its intended use; (5) use any parking area for a purpose other than the parking of vehicles used to launch and retrieve watercraft in conjunction with the intended use of the public access facility; (6) parka motor vehicle and/or.trailer in a manner inconsistent with the striping pattern, signage or other means used to delineate the proper places to park; ~ G~ 8/12/05 320 CMR - 6 320 CMR DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME 2.04: continued (7) exceed any posted speed limit, or violate any traffic pattern or traffic control measure (8) conduct any business, commercial or trade activity that is inconsistent with the intended use of the facility; (9) sell or otherwise deal in wares of any sort or advertise any business, commercial activity or trade; (10) conduct any rental transactions, or park or engage in any activity related to rental transactions; (11) hold any public or private meeting, or conduct or participate in any tournament, contest or organized sporting, fishing or boating event; (12) wash motor vehicles, boats or any other personal property or equipment, or flush motors or other equipment; (13) fish within a 50 foot radius of any boat launching ramp or associated pier or float system; (14) leave any motor vehicle or boat trailer within a public access facility for more than 18 hours; (15) store any watercraft, trailers, equipment or other personal items, beach, dock or tie up any watercraft for more than 30 minutes, or use docks, piers or floats by watercraft not launching or retrieving; (16) operate watercraft at other than headway speed or watersk.i within 300 feet of any public access facility; (17) operate personal watercraft from any public access facility except for the initial launch and retrieval; (18) close, gate or obstruct the entrance to any public access facility or take any action or conduct any activity that prevents or impedes access to, or the intended use of a public access facility; (19) load or unload powered watercraft onto or off of boat trailers by means of propulsion systems in violation of posted management measures that prohibit such activities at specified public access facilities; or (20) falsify any information on an application for a special or general permit 2.05: Penalties Violation of any provision of 320 CMR 2.00, any posted management measure or the conditions or restrictions of any special or general permit may be punished by any of the following: (1) a fine of not more than $100; (2) the revocation or suspension of any special permit of use under a general permit issued pursuant to 320 CMR 2.04; (3) a prohibition on the future application for or issuance of a special or general permit; and G1~ 1A 8/12/05 320 CMR - 7 320 CMR DEPARTMENT OFFISH AND GAME 2.05: continued (4) the towing or removal at the owner's cost of any motor vehicle, trailer, watercraft or other article of personal property abandoned or left for more then 18 hours at a public access facility, or parked in a manner in violation of 320 CMR 2.00 and applicable management measures. REGULATORY AUTHORITY 320 CMR 2.00: M.G.L. c. 21 A, 2(8), 2(28), 8 and 11B. 8/12/05 320 CNIR - 8 Town of Reading Ad Hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force Final Report December 11, 2007 The Ad Hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force first met in September of 2006. The members reviewed their charge and then began investigating a preliminary route that the Greenway could take. Members of the Task Force walked all of the various sections of the preliminary route. Kim Honetschlager, the staff person assigned to the NAG committee, mapped out the draft route. We then began to study what shape the existing trails were in and what needed to be done to make the Greenway a reality. Various members research trail construction and possible grants using the Internet, while other members visited nearby communities to see what and how they had accomplished similar projects. Several members met with Brookline officials about the work they did at Halls Pond. A rough cost estimate was developed based on the research we did and a spreadsheet of the costs was created (attached). We also looked at what parts of the trail could be reasonably accomplished with volunteer labor and what parts of the trail would need to be taken on by a professional. To this end, the committee wrote Trail Assessments (attached) that provide information on such things as trail name, location, description, work needed, time and cost estimates, skill level needed to accomplish the task, and other information. This information will allow volunteer groups to get a clear idea of what the scope of the project is that they might want to take on. In addition to developing the main Greenway trail, the committee also identified an alternative route that the trail could follow if the proposed boardwalk connecting the Town Forest and Lobs Pound Mill site was unable to be constructed (see attached map). The committee also identified spurs off of the main trail that would allow access from different neighborhoods. Members of the committee have walked and assessed all of the spurs. Midway through our tenure, we decided on a name change for the trail. Instead of the Northern Area Greenway, or NAG, we now refer to it as the Ipswich River Greenway Trail and suggest that this name change become permanent. Two, privately owned parcels of land were identified by the committee as being considered to be obtained by the Town so that the Greenway trail could pass through them. One is located on Sanborn Lane. The alternative Greenway trail runs along Sanborn Lane. If this property were obtained, it would allow the trail to leave the street and pass through a wooded upland, ending across the street from the Lobs Pound J . v parking site on Mill St. The other parcel is on Main Street and would connect the main trail as it goes through Marion Woods. The question of accessibility has been wrestled with by the committee. In keeping with their charge of "protecting and preserving the natural environment and the quality which makes these lands unique", the committee suggests that the areas indicated on the attached map be first considered for ADA assessability. Because of the present condition of the existing trails in this indicated area, the committee feels that these areas can be relatively easy to update so that they are accessible to all people. Any new trail construction would be accessible, too. The cornerstone of the proposed Ipswich River Greenway Trail would be the construction of an approximately 2 mile long boardwalk that would parallel the Ipswich River, passing through the surrounding wetlands. This boardwalk would anchor the trail between the Town Forest and the Lobs Pound Mill property. To this end, the Reading Stream Team and the Town have submitted a grant request to Mass Riverways, requesting money to do a feasibility study concerning this boardwalk. The committee is also proposing several enhancements to the trail • At the Mattera Conservation area, a 400' trail is proposed, connecting the Log Cabin to Bare Meadow. At the end of this trail, a small viewing platform with seating is proposed. • At approximately 200 yards west of the trailhead in the Town Forest, a 100' elevated boardwalk to the river is proposed. It would terminate with a modest pier that could be used for fishing, wildlife viewing, and as a kayak/canoe launch. • At the Lob's Pound Mill site, we are proposing that this area become ADA accessible by improving the present parking area, the path leading into the site, and the construction of a small fishing pier/kayak launch. To this end, members of the committee and Fran Fink, Conservation Administrator, met with Doug Cameron of the MA Division of Fish and Game - Fishing and Boating Access. We wanted to see if this site qualified for state funds for the construction of out proposed idea. All indications were that we do qualify for the state to come in and do all of the work. Fran Fink is taking the lead in this, working with the state to reach an agreement. For the Greenway trail to reach completion and to function well, many things still need to be addressed, including, but not limited to: • who "owns" the trail • a maintenance plan for the trail • parking at the proposed trailhead in the Town Forest where the old water treatment plant was j • crossing Main St. safely • sign standardization • new, detailed maps • informational kiosks at trailheads • updating and construction of the small, remaining portions of the main trail A volunteer labor force is seen as very important to the success to the trail. Many people and groups have come forward during this process to voice their support for the project and offered to become involved. The Conservation Commission, REI, Friends of Reading Recreation, Reading Stream Team, Walkable Reading, the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), and others have voice their support. The last Open Space survey showed that many Reading residents wanted more passive recreation opportunities. There is a momentum of enthusiasm for a Greenway trail in Reading. In early November two events occurred to demonstrate citizen's interests in trails. First, there was a "trails summit". Members of various interest groups in Town came together to discuss how more Reading residents could take advantage of all of the beautiful open space in town. Second, two Reading residents who work for the AMC, enlisted their co-workers to come to Reading and do an Adopt-A-Trail training program. Over 30 people showed up for this informative session where they learned about trail clearing, safety, and what is involved in adopting a piece of a trail in Reading. Volunteers alone, however, won't be enough to bring the Ipswich River Greenway to fruition. Who will "carry the ball" for this project? The committee suggests that the Town consider the following: • Town matching funds, whereby some money would be available for matching grants or volunteer groups could apply for matching funding. • Community Preservation Act funding • A maintenance plan for the trail. • Additional staff dedicated to trail oversight and environmental education, possibly through a reallocation of the present resources. During the fifteen months the committee has been working, we have come to believe that the creation of the Ipswich River Greenway trail across northern Reading could become a living legacy for all citizens of Reading. Submitted December 6, 2007 David Williams Chair, Northern Area Greenway Task Force -1 TRAIL ASSESSMENT Trail Name: Council Ring trail segment Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): Al Trail Description: Informal trails crisscross this pine plantation. Trail could be rerouted to avoid the Scout circle, but this is the most direct route. Distance is about 688'. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: There is little underbrush so trail markers and/or logs laid along the edges are needed to mark the trail. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Youth. Grant Candidate? No, unless the trail is part of a grant to fund a longer stretch of trail. Time Estimate: 4 hours. Cost Estimate: $35 for plastic trail markers to be nailed to trees. Accessibility: Not accessible, but easy walking. Trail surface would have to be hardened and slope down to the boardwalk would have to be traversed to make it accessible. The boardwalk is not presently accessible. Priority (high, low): Low. Permitting: Requires approval from Conservation Commission and Town Forest Committee. Maintenance Plan: Check annually and refresh markers or logs as needed. ~GIS. TRAIL ASSESSMENT (Attach additional documents as needed, e.g. sketches, photos, or cost estimates. Reference other sources of information if available, e.g. websites, maps. Leave sections blank if unknown.) Trail Name: Cranberry Dam Trail Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map):' A2, A3, A4 and A5 Trail Description: Trail begins at the junction of the Wood End School Trail and the Rocky Hollow Trail which has been flagged from Lynn Village Way. The wide path goes North 65' where the trail turns NW for 82'. The trail turns W for 175' as it goes down a gradual hill to an old stone wall on the right side of the trail. The trail then narrows for 127' as it starts to cross the old Cranberry Dam. Exposed roots in this section of the dam make walking on 53' of the dam challenging especially for young children. A 16 V2 foot single span bridge then extends over open water to the next section of earthen dam. This next section is 128' long of which 100' is more difficult to walls on due to exposed roots. The trail then turns S through a mature pine grove. The trail is difficult to see as it winds around two very large pines which should be blazed. The trail is easy to see after the two pines. The trail then narrows again as it heads W through young dense woods. The path bears right at a fork where the left fork leads to the top of a short ridge. The main path winds for 670' along the wetlands until it reaches and old boardwalk installed in 2004. Approximately a third of this boardwalk was improved in 2007 with a 4' wide boardwalk installed on concrete blocks and secured with rebar which cost $1,750. Though this area can be dry in the late summer and early fall, in the winter and spring the water can be easily 12-16" deep. The old boardwalk installed on logs tended to be moved by high water and ice. This section of trail ends at the end of the boardwalk at the intersection with the Pine Ridge Trail. (The Pine Ridge Trail is a nice side trail to explore as it is on an esker which quickly rises above wetlands on both sides) Trail Assessment and Work Needed: Need sign at intersection with Wood End Trail, Rocky Hollow Trail and Pine Ridge Trail. Need blazing around two large pines and at two forks. Trail probably shouldn't be widened at this time in area where it narrows through young dense growth as the narrowness makes the change in vegetation more noticeable. In the fixture the path would need to be widened as the trees grow wider but growth should be slow due to the canopy and denseness. The earthen Cranberry Dams should be evaluated for either removal of trees or the installation of bog bridges over the roots to make it accessible. Due to the depth of the water in the wetlands substantial effort is needed to construct boardwalk in the area where a third has already been rebuilt. Summer and early fall are the best time of the year to construct a boardwalk when the water level is lower. Consideration may want to be given to installing Wood Duck Bird Houses Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Youth and Adult/skilled Grant Candidate? Yes Time Estimate: Will take 3 or 4 more scout led projects. Cost Estimate: $4,000 for boardwalk, $600 for bog bridge Use (walls, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): Walk, XC ski Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair accessibility due to trail slope and narrowness of Cranberry Dam Priority (high, low): Important link to bring many residents within easy walking distance of conservation land. Permitting: Wetlands permit for wetland crossing from conservation Commission, as well as permission from Town Forest Committee. Maintenance Plan: Seasonal check. c~. Assessed by: Charles Donnelly Moran Date: 11/27/07 TRAIL ASSESSMENT (Attach additional documents as needed, e.g. sketches, photos, or cost estimates. Reference other sources of information if available, e.g. websites, maps. Leave sections blank if unknown.) Trail Name: Rocky Hollow Trail Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenaway Proposed Route map): A6 Trail Description: Trailhead is on Lynn Village Way, on left before the first house. Trail follows an old wood road for 100 yards, then leaves wood road and turns right or west and downhill through a stone and boulder strewn forest. Look for Rattlesnake Plantain here. It then crosses an intermittent stream and rises again to meet the existing Cranberry Dam Trail. Trail has been flagged, but doesn't exist past the wood road. Work Needed: Needs signs at both ends and where it diverges from the woods road. Trail needs to be built from the woods road to the Cranberry Dam trail including 50 ft of boardwalk over the stream. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Youth and Adult/skilled. Grant Candidate? Not necessary. Time Estimate: 100 hours Cost Estimate: $1120 for boardwalk materials Use (walk, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): Walk or XC ski. Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair accessibility due to slope and numerous rocks. Priority (high, low): Important link for alternate route of Greenway as well as access to Town Forest for Sanborn Lane development. Permitting: Wetlands permit for stream crossing from Cons Com, as well as permission from Town Forest Committee. Maintenance Plan: Annual check q~/ 9 1'. TRAIL ASSESSMENT Trail Name: Trail behind Old Mill Lane Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): A8 Trail Description: The envisioned trail would connect the large Sanborn Village development to the Lobs Pound Mill site. The trail would begin on what is now private land. This 1.9 acre parcel would need to be acquired by the town or by a non-profit such as the Reading Open Land Trust, or a trail easement would be needed. The proposed trail would drop steeply off Sanborn Lane, then cross a small stream that runs under Sanborn Lane. It would then follow the edge of the marsh behind the houses on Old Mill Lane coming out at Mill Street across from the Lobs Pound Mill parking area. The trail would be mostly upland, but would require a serious, boardwalk over a marshy area near the Mill Street end. Total trail length is about 1,300'. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: 1. The parcel between 51 and 67 Sanborn Lane (map 235, lot 4) would have to be acquired outright or a trail easement would have to be acquired. 2. Property boundaries should be surveyed and marked in the field. 3. A short set of steps or a steep trail needs to be built off Sanborn Lane. 4. A short bridge (8'?) is needed across a small stream. 5. An upland trail should be cleared behind Old Mill Lane. 6. A boardwalk is needed across a marshy area (100' as a very rough guess). 7. Upland trail needs to be built from the boardwalk to Mill Street. 8. Some sort of traffic calming measure should protect the Mill Street crossing. 9. A trail signs or markers should be located at both ends. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Professional or adult/skilled. However, most sections of the trail could be built by youths if the trail is not to be accessible. The trail is too extensive to be an Eagle Scout project. The boardwalk might require engineered plans and professional installation. Grant Candidate? Yes. The trail connects a large neighborhood to the Town's best access to the Ipswich River. It would allow pedestrians and bikers to avoid sidewalk-less Mill Street. Time Estimate: Unknown. Cost Estimate: Unknown. Assessed value of lot 235-4 is $112,500. Accessibility: The trail connects the sidewalks on Sanborn Lane to the Lobs Pound Mill area, which is envisioned as fully accessible. The task force makes no recommendation. Priority (high, low): Low. The trail is not on the direct route of the greenway and property would have to be acquired. Permitting: The Board of Selectmen would have to decide what, if any, traffic calming devices should be installed at Mill Street. Wetlands permit required. Maintenance Plan: Would require annual maintenance. a Assessed by: Kim Honetschlager Date: 10/29/07 ` TRAIL ASSESSMENT (Attach additional documents as needed, e.g. sketches, photos, or cost estimates. Reference other sources of information if available, e.g. websites, maps. Leave sections blank if unknown.) Trail Name: NorthWest passege Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): M3 Trail Description: This would be the construction of an elevated board walk running approximately .8 miles through the Ipswich river wetlands and roughly paralleling the river. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: 1. A feasibility study would first need to be done to determine if this trail can be constructed. 2. A design/engineering study would them have to be done. 3. The project would have to be financed. 4. Actual construction of boardwalk. 5. Steps or moderate grading needed at the north junction of this boardwalk to connect it to the main trail as there is a steep slope there. 6. Steps or a ramp need to be constructed at the southern terminus of the boardwalk to connect it to the proper grade at Mill St. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Professional Grant Candidate? Yes. Time Estimate: All aspects of it, at least a year. Cost Estimate: $500,000 Use (walk, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): Walking, wheelchair Accessibility: Targeted to be ADA accessible. Priority (high, low): High Permitting: Conservation permit need. Others?? Maintenance Plan: Upon completion, the boardwalk should be walked once a month by Town officials and be checked for structural integrity and cleared of any debris. Any structural problems should be made known to the proper Town authorities. ~o TRAIL ASSESSMENT (Attach additional documents as needed, e.g. sketches, photos, or cost estimates. Reference other sources of information if available, e.g. websites, maps. Leave sections blank if unknown.) Trail Name: Main St to Lobs Pound Mill site parking area Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): M4 and M5 Trail Description: Trail descends from Main St, traversing the steep bank towards'the South, then turns West, with a stone wall on your left through a forested wetland and floodplain of the Ipswich .River. The trail jogs to the left through a break in the stone wall and continues on the South side of the wall before joining the existing blue blazed trail in Marion Woods, which leads to the Lobs Pound Mill parking lot on Mill St. The town does not own the lot near Main Street (Map 245, lot 5). Trail Assessment and Work Needed: 115 ft of boardwalk or bog bridge needed along river bottom section, and 50 ft of improvement with stone dust or equivalent surface. The town will need to purchase lot 245-5 or obtain a trail easement. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Adult skilled or youth led. Grant Candidate? No Time Estimate: 200 brs Cost Estimate: $3000 for materials. Cost to purchase land between $3,000 (cost/acre of Kiernan Rd lot) and $32,100 (assessed value). Use (walk, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): Walking Accessibility: None, due to steep slope. Priority (high, low): High: main route of Ipswich River Greenway Permitting: Conservation Commission permit needed for work in wetlands and riverfront area. Maintenance Plan: Bi-annual due to high growth rate. LA C/ TRAIL ASSESSMENT (Attach additional documents as needed, e.g. sketches, photos, or cost estimates. Reference other sources of information if available, e.g. websites, maps. Leave sections blank if unknown.) Trail Name: Log Cabin Bare Meadow Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): M8 Trail Description: The trail extends from the parking area at the Log Cabin extending though the property's gardens and through a short section of wooded area to Bare Meadow. This segment of trail is intended to be fully ADA accessible. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: Regrading the grassed area within the log cabin's property to establish a maximum 5% grade ramp and 1% cross slope. Work within the wooded area requires establishing a hard edge to the trail and proper surface treatment and minimal regrading. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Supervised, youth or adult/skilled Grant Candidate? No, cost is low enough to be done with volunteer labor and contributions. Time Estimate: 1 Month Cost Estimate: $2,000 for stonedust / surface material Use (walk, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): Wheelchair Accessibility: Full Priority (high, low): High Permitting: N/A Maintenance Plan: cap ~t o 4• ~lyr~4•c'Kll v ~ (>a•~c~GL% ~-=5 Lzru-zoaC VA !t . r O v e "i gar ,Y iJ ~ v~ • . . 12 4 6~31 z `t 6j y "-:Z- ~ r YI Ab I`"+ r tp v t 13 -tae- W t h~a TRAIL ASSESSMENT Trail Name: Haverhill to Bare Meadow (proposed) Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): M11 Trail Description: Trailhead is on Haverhill St. just north of Batchelder Rd. The proposed trail would connect Haverhill St. to an existing trail in Bare Meadow, and complete a proposed greenway starting at the Town Forest and terminating at Haverhill St. Starting from Haverhill St. moving west to Bare Meadow, the trail begins over some slightly wet areas with heavy ground vegetation. At approximately five-hundred feet it moves to slightly higher ground into a wooded area. At approximately nine-hundred-seventy feet the trail crosses a stream approximately six feet wide and one foot deep. It then continues over a slightly marshy area. It changes back to a forested area, and subsequently connects to an existing trail in Bare Meadow. The trail covers approximately one quarter mile. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: The trail requires clearing and marking. A small bridge will be required to cross the stream, as well as bog bridging on either side. The trail will also require bog bridging in the marshy area west of the stream from the nine-hundred-eighty-six foot mark to the one-thousand-fifty-six foot mark. Scout Colin Bailey is currently working on this trail as an Eagle Scout project. Sldll Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Youth/Adult skilled. Grant Candidate? Not necessary. Time Estimate: Cost Estimate: Use (walls, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): walk, XC ski Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair accessibility due to wet areas Priority (high, low): Important link for alternate route of greenway as well as access to Bare Meadow from Haverhill ST. Permitting: Wetlands permit for stream crossing from Cons Com Maintenance Plan: Annual check "0 (Sf LIA 'oe 5 6 ;r; ~OtnmuterFtaiiStailorm ti'de(St0ffi Town Eourdasy S=01 Oftr7mmBUk16Ya !i!1 Oftr B'tkdget urmxd r• NOW ,r Stream /!j Kldm Sim. Av Hydto Capra or Nve CS St whes jiy)• Paort~b Pamah wffhbtuios ArR~itg7o~vro • 31 i 30 •':''C yj i" ' ' ' ` a J~ f"+' ~i: iSf + t : ,J:. . ? d.6C; r ! :'ry. Yy~~'R 34 , ~ d . + ;1 rY J 4. j f.:: '.I. i•ti~' . i.......J . ' ~;..:.i j /?;;:•l+Y i i'•: ::~:4~ . ~ ~ h::'.-.~ "t ~ti;:+ j.~ C' ' ,r.;:~-.:.: 1. w`•.. "'w': ri F:` ~''J I ~,i ~ a•,'u:f ref ' ~ h:4 tay i :i! f>~ 1r ,tJ:i.:::: f~> ; . Ili _ '''4.•`ti; :i°tC: r'• j; a:;lis! . •i , • : ii `if i f : , fti-Q. data 6h%Vtt Oa Phis Wio are } provided for p aning.purposes cml i '41~ 1 ~ ~ 4R`' •3 i.'i:' ._....a i'!i':t`i:',c "'•n ( 90 ft Ma sOnl 124 2 1 ! 16 TRAM. ASSESSMENT (Attach additional documents as needed, e.g. sketches, photos, or cost estimates. Reference other sources of information if available, e.g. websites, maps. Leave sections blank if unknown.) Trail Name: River View Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): S 1 Trail Description: This new trail construction would be a spur off of the main IRG Trail to the Ipswich River. It would be an approximately 100' elevated boardwalk to the river ending with a 15' x 10' viewing platform of the river that could also double as a kayak launch or fishing pier. Right now it is a wet, muddy path, sometimes with 30' of it under water. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: 1. Needs a sign indicating where this trail spur goes. 2. Existing foot path to river needs to be widened and cleared. 3. Slope from main trail to new boardwalk will need to be graded. 4. Construction of elevated boardwalk. 5. Construction of 15' x 10' pier or dock. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Professional or skilled design. Adult/skilled volunteers for actual construction. Grant Candidate? Yes Time Estimate: 6 - 8 days. Could be accomplished over several weekends. Cost Estimate: $20,000 Use (walk, bike, XC ski, and wheelchair): Wildlife/birdwatching, fishing, kayak launch. Accessibility: Envisioned as fully accessible. Priority (high, low): low Permitting: Conservation permit required. Blessing of the Town Forest Committee. Other?? Maintenance Plan: The boardwalk should be regularly checked and cleared of fallen debris. In times of high water conditions, it should be checked to see if stable. Gig L TRAIL ASSESSMENT Trail Name: Overlook Trail Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): S2 Trail Description: Trail rises from Town Forest fire road (M1) to parallel and overlook the river. The trail is single track, i.e. wide enough for one person, and is lovely because of this. It winds up and over a rise and has rare views of the river where no industrial buildings can be seen. Trail follows the edge of the marsh for a short distance, then ends at one of the landings right on the river. Distance is about 911'. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: Trail is in good shape having recently been brushed out and yellow blazes cut into trees. Slopes need to be stabilized. 1. Needs signs at both ends. 2. Needs steps at the south end. 3. Trail should be cleared and widened a bit. 4. Woodchips could be spread on path (free from Town compost). 5. One or two benches could be placed at the high point of the trail. 6. Slope leading from high point down to the landing should be widened and stabilized with steps and/or water bars. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Youth or adult/skilled Grant Candidate? No, cost is low enough to be done with volunteer labor and contributions. Time Estimate: 20 hours? Cost Estimate: 2 recycled plastic park benches (ask for donations - benches could be engraved): $900. Pressure treated lumber for steps: $500. Labor: $0. Total: $1,400. Use (walk, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): walkers only Accessibility: Not accessible - trail starts out with a series of steps going up a moderate slope. It parallels an accessible portion of the greenway. Priority (high, low): Low, not on main greenway route and in relatively good shape. Permitting: Conservation permit required for work within 100' of wetlands and within 200' of the river. Permission should be sought from the Town Forest Committee as well. Maintenance Plan: Trail should be checked annually; cleared and stabilized as needed. c ~G H TRAIL ASSESSMENT (Attach additional documents as needed, e.g. sketches, photos, or cost estimates. Reference other sources of information if available, e.g. websites, maps. Leave sections blank if unknown.) Trail Name: Wood End Cemetery Trail Trail Section (on Ipswich River Greenway Proposed Route map): Sections S6 and S7 into Bare Meadow Trail Description: The trail starts at Franklin Street and runs along Wood End Cemetery. It is a single track, only wide enough for one person. It runs though the big pines and does have a small wooden bridge. There is a side trail that runs out to the back of a house on Pearl Street and then comes back onto the main trail. There is another trail that runs out towards the houses on Batchelder Road and onto Haverhill Street. It takes about 20 minutes to walk the main trail from Franklin Street to Bare Meadow. The side loops are also about a 20 minute walk. The trail would be great for a young child accompanied by an adult. Trail Assessment and Work Needed: The trails appear to be in very good shape and only need minimal work. Currently there are NO. trail markings and there needs to be a sign placed at one end. Skill Level (professional, adult/skilled, or youth led): Youth Grant Candidate? No cost Time Estimate: N/A Cost Estimate: N/A Use (walk, bike, XC ski, wheelchair): The trail could be used for walkers and cross-country skiers. Bikers might be able to use it, but it make be a rough ride. Accessibility: The trail is very accessible for able bodied walkers. Priority (high, low): High priority, but not on the main geenway route. Permitting: N/A Maintenance Plan: Trail should be cleared/checked regularly, with trees being cut as needed. Possibility of having some kind of play area though the trail might be nice for the kids. G3o~ POTENTIAL NON-TRAIL PROJECTS 1. Place benches at trail junctions and scenic points in the Town Forest or in Bare Meadow for nature viewing and as resting places for those who cannot walk long distances. Seating should be fully accessible on accessible trails. Cost: roughly $450 per plastic bench. 2. Build an accessible viewing platform at the top of Bare Meadow accessed from the Mattera Conservation Area. See www.mass.aov/envir/des/portraits/prosDect.litm for a similar project in Waltham or check out the Oct. 2007 Connections newletter for info on ari accessible viewing platform in Acton: www. mass. aov/dcr/stewardship/areenwav/newsletter.htm. 3. Build an accessible fishing pier at the Lobs Pound Mill site. See www.southwickma.ora/Public Documents/SouthwickMA BComim/lake,. 4. Add picnic tables in the Town Forest or in Bare Meadow. 5. Design Ipswich River Crreenway logo, signs, and trail markers. Develop a signage plan. E.g. of trail markers: littp://walthamlandtrust.ora/news-items/western- orreenwav-trailmarkers-installed and www. shta.ora/store/i)roduct.i)hD?-Drodtictid=16170&cat=252&oaae=l 6. Develop trail blazing scheme and blaze main route. 7. Create trail maps for greenway and related trails. 8. Install kiosks at trail access points. Here's an example: httD://www.town.acton.ma.us/LSCOM/NewsOlO6l4.htm, 9. Create publicity plan and increase public knowledge of the greenway. ~ X31 Summarv Chart Input Costs Marker Sign Cost Trail Imp Trail Clrg Boardwalk Cost per per linear Cost per Cost per Cost per Sq Crosswalk linear it ft linear it linear It it Cost $1 $50 $2 $5 $35 $250 Route Estimated Costs Agg Stone Dust Cost per linear Ft $2 Distance Other Markers Signs Trail Imp's Trail Clearing Boardwalks Crosswalks Volunteer Contribution Route Total Aggregte Route Total Stone Dust w/Stone Dust Main Route Main Section 1 Totals: 8,713 40,000 54 269 0 4,175 467,600 0 0 512,097 97,440 569 537 Main Section 2 Totals: 1,704 0 14 70 0 3,840 25,620 250 -25,620 4,174 6144 , 10 318 Main Section 3 Totals: Main Route Totals: 4,221 14,638 0 $40,000 42 $110 206 $544 4,622 $4,622 9,025 $17,040 14,700 $507 920 0 $250 -25,672 -$51 292 2,923 $519 194 32,927 $136 511 , 35,850 , , , , $615,705 Trail Trail Volunteer Aggregte Route Total Alternate Route Distance Other Markers Signs Imp's Clearing Boardwalks Crosswalks Contribution Route Total Stone Dust w/Stone Dust M1 Trail Segment: 2,613 0 26 131 0 0 0 0 0 157 52,260 52 417 Alternate Section Totals: 71564 0 69 345 D 8,440 88,480 0 -72,630 24,704 31,648 , 56,352 Main Section 2 Totals: 1,704 0 14 70 0 3,840 25,620 250 -25,620 4,174 6 144 10 318 Main Section 3 Totals: 4,221 0 42 206 4,622 9,025 14,700 0 -25,672 2,923 , 32 927 , 850 35 Alternate Route Totals: 16,102 $0 $151 $751 $4,622 $21,305 $128,800 $250 -$123,922 $31,957 , $122,979 , $154,937 Spurs: Town Forest pond trail Overlook trail Wood End access trail Lobs Pound Mill access Lobs Pond - Fishing Dock Hare Meadow parking access Franklin St access trail Bare Meadow woods trail 2 Bare Meadow woods trail 2 Spur Totals: Trail Trail Volunteer Aggregte Route Total Distance Other Markers Signs Imp's Clearing Boardwalks Crosswalks Contribution Route Total Stone Dust w/Stone Dust 121 0 1 6 0 606 0 0 0 613 969 1 583 911 0 9 46 0 4,553 0 0 0 4,607 7,284 , 11 892 786 0 8 39 0 0 0 0 0 47 6,291 , 6,338 208 0 2 10 0 1,042. 0 0 0 1,054 1,667 2,721 0 0 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 15 583 0 0 0 0 600 2,331 2 932 291 , 1040 0 10 52 2,079 0 0 0 0 2,142 8,317 10,458 0 0 0 0 0 25,495 0 0 25,495 0 25,495 182 663 0 7 33 1,326 0 0 0 0 1,366 5,305 6,671 4,203 $0 $40 $201 $3,988 $6,201 $25,495 $0 $0 $35,925 $32,165 $68,090 21 Aggre9te Stone Dust est cost volunteer est. Cost Since Contribution Boardwalk Breakdown for each CIr Troll trait segment imp Trail improvements ESt~ ,417 Comments Distance other Markers sins 52250 52 157 38,540 38 616 Description Otl 2.one 116 10,905 6,680 4,225 26 131 40,000 96 4,175 467,600 2,613 10 42 467,600 669,537 nageltraii markers 119,15 8 612,097 97,4b4 Main section 1 Sig arkers 835 467 0 Signageltral m e Trail 640 0 T own forest trail - M - - 1 1 Cleat -TialliS•sgna- 40,000 467,800 2 Fire Road - 50 M2 4,175 Footpaths Markers 0 _ - 269 _ - - 250 M3.1 3,340 64 - - 6,J44 10,43 Boardwalk Feas:IVIVI, ardwalKs 8713 40,000 - 250 , - - M3'2 Stud, construct bo 3' 0 M3.2 Boardwalk ' 0 Totals: Main Section 1 3,840 .25 62 0 - - 38 25,620 0 37 - 8 37 10,31$ u-- - Main section 2 crosswalk - g 14 sswalK at e(Crail 768 4+174 ' X3 Mi115treet Cro ll Signag 25,520 lobs Pound . trail 1 vnaar tra• 183 250 - - 3827 M4 Marion Woods boardwmarkersalk 5 25,52 2,344 31 0 8,840 ,483 - - 2 - Woodstrail 2 77 70 1 3256 M5 Marion 624 0 14 - 24 3,232 signageimarkers 1,704 - 1,465 .2,420 Street Crossing • X2 Main SidewaiK May, Street M6 Totals; 15 Main Section 2 - 3 2,020 040 6,086 293 20 1,746 Trail Signagearail 4 13,647 13,750 - Main Section 3 Trail clear era 404 102 2,071 rail .3,412 M7 Mattes Cons Area elT 2 G1ear Trail Signag 772? 1 210 15 34 1285 1 Bare Meadow ,056 overlook markers 6 3,412 M$ Constructviewing trail ow overlocK eltraii 605 85 1 6 659 M8.1 Bare Mead Platform e -Trail Signag 17 1285 .14,700 6,808 viewing piatforr" 1,706 13 14,700 51 35'850 Bare Meadow markers eltraii 3 .4,255 32'927 M9 i Improve Tra A Signag Woods tra 257 2'923 Bare Meadow markers i nageltrail 1 4,255. „25,672 M10 Clear'Trail S g 0 1 of 105 43 14,700 Bare Meadow end markers 9 9'025 M11.1 Trail gaardwaik 951 206 4,622 H latetlahnds Crossing on eltraii 42 M11.2 W Clear Trail Signag 0 i laverhiii StTrail of Trail 4,22A verhiil St end markers 22 M11 :3 Ha Totals: P^~ Main Section 3 Al Alternate Section Scout circle trail Signage/trail markers 688 7 34 41 5,504 5,545 A2 Dividence Meadow Boardwalk 347 48,580 -24,290 24,290 24,290 A3 Brdwik Dividence Meadow trail 1 Signage/trail markers 918 9 46 55 7,344 7,399 A4 Cranberry Dam & Boardwalk 32 0 0 A5 Existing Bridge Dividence Meadow trail 2Signageltrail markers 523 5 26 31 4,184 4,215 A6.1 Lynn Village Way Trail Signage/trail markers 139 1 7 8 1,112 1,120 A6.2 Lynn Village Way Boardwalk 54 7,560 -7,560 0 0 A6.3 Boardwalk Lynn Village Way Trail Clear trail and 702 7 35 3,510 -3,510 42 5,616 5,658 Signage/trail markers A7 Sanborn Village Signage/path markings 2,944 29 147 177 177 sidewalks Opening in bridge railing A8.1. Old Mill Lane trail Boardwalk 76 10,640 -10,640 0 0 A8.2 Old Mill Lane trail Clear Trail Signage/path 850 9 43 4,250 4,250 51 6,800 6,851 markings A8.3 Old Mill Lane trail Boardwalk 155 21,700 -21,700 0 0 A8A Old Mill Lane trail Clear Trail Signage/path 136 1 7 680 -680 8 1,088 1,096 markings Alternate Section 7,564 0 69 345 0 8,440 88,480 0 -72,630 24,704 31,648 56,352 Totals: I S1 Spurs Town Forest pond trail Clear Trail Signage/path 121 1 6 606 613 969 1,583 markings Possible Bog Bridge S2 Overlook trail Clear Trail Signage/path 911 9 46 4,553 4,607 7,284 11,892 S3 markings Wood End access trail Signage/trail markers 786 8 39 47 6,291 6,338 S4 Lobs Pound Mill access Clear Trail Signage/path 208 2 10 1,042 1,054 1,667 2,721 markings S4.1 Lobs Pond - Fishing construct dock S5 Dock Bare Meadow parking Improve Trail Signage/trail 291 3 15 583 600 2,331 2,932 S6 access markers Franklin St access trail Improve Trail Signage/trail 1,040 10 52 2,079 2,142 8,317 10,458 markers S7 Bare Meadow woods trai Boardwalk 182 25,495 25,495 25,495 S8 2 Bare Meadow woods trai Improve Trail Signage/trail 663 7 33 1,326 1,366 5,305 6,671 2 markers Spur Totals: 4,203 0 40 201 3,988 6,201 25,495 0 0 35,925 32,165 68,090 ,4-^ \l tl~, V~ e 23 IPSWICH RIVER GREENWAY GRANT AND VOLUNTEER RESOURCES Type of Grant Grant Name Grantor Assistance Description Amount Rivers, Trails, & National Park Technical assistance RTCA provides technical assistance to locally-led non-monetary Conservation Service natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation Assistance Program projects. The project applicant may be a state or local agency, tribe, non-profit organization, or citizens' group. Federal agencies, including the National Park Service; may apply only in collaboration with a non-federal partner. RTCA does not provide financial assistance to support project implementation. Recreational Trails Mass DCR Reimbursement The Recreational Trails Program provides funding on a $2,000- Grant funding reimbursement basis for a variety of trail protection, $50,000 construction, and stewardship projects throughout Massachusetts. It is part of the national Recreational Trails Program, which is funded through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Funds are disbursed to each state to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. Greenways and Mass DCR Not currently funded. DCR provides grants to non-profit organizations, $5,000; Trails municipalities, and regional planning associations to $10,000 for Demonstration support innovative greenway and trail projects multi-town Grants Program throughout Massachusetts. DCR will also consider projects requests for multi-town greenway and trail projects. These additional funds are intended to promote linkages across town boundaries and foster partnerships among neighboring communities. The Grant Program favors feasible projects that produce tangible results, enjoy broad-based community support, and will serve as models for other greenway and trail initiatives. Projects eligible for funding include greenway and trail planning, mapping and resource assessment, greenway related public education and outreach, and greenway and trail management, maintenance, and expansion. New England Wide New England Small Grants Grassroots Environment Fund W The Small Grants Program provides grants up to up to $2,500 $2,500 to fund community involvement in projects that address a wide range of environmental issues including: agriculture, air quality, alternative energy, aquifer protection, biotechnology, community gardens, environmental justice, energy conservation, forestry, global warming, land trusts, marine environment, public health, sprawl, sustainable communities, toxics and hazardous waste, trails, water quality, watershed management, wetlands, wildlife, and youth-organized environmental work. Application Date Notes URL 1-Aug 1 year, hfD://www.nos.oov/n renewable; crc/Droarams/rtca/ assistance runs Oct. 1 - Sept. 30; approval is in early Nov. 1-Oct In-kind httD://www.mass.aov/ expectation: dcr/orants.htm 20% Not offered in httD:/Iwww.mass.aov/ 2007 dcr/stewardshio/oree nwav/arants.htm hfto://www.arassroot sfund.ora/auide 1.ht ml 24 '2 [seat ch • www rr -comb ew_~ve at GC g( S advanced awarded to 21 releaseseco IRelease4 last ye s 1250 atds recipients in Archive2000(0 shtml d associatio ns, Cesslre_.k e PG&E CorPoratioti s grant [rtts of local 2440 lease tional Prog +river ,important educa nonprotit wat eation efforts. erital +i s l=wish en&ct-nlnk, schaols, virorim nwa &h - PCE CORD and high of other loc to hCO S ow adirect anstudents -2& t-us ental and a variety had help &Cd- propased Programs,-, ence comPane to the environment Snvirontn Grant have a bducation benefd, contain responstbttity ent, and ha program d their ow their local environm factor of the understan rove tribu. www m and how assrrtetw3 s. to tmP act. Other con nature or imp intea CCtagram diversity. lasting legacy tacess we raphic an P 2007 the selection well as geog3 000 to Nov. 30, . program, n 10,044 ent Stream Teams s to implement stream Teams ,,ward that cleadY ttea Existing ietnentatio osa'js protects Team imp or to a adVance the stream teams proj use the Stream coons end ate in tin t til be availarovy e ect ects ttom their A M in utce Sts e cog m Te sms to P ass Wiverways implementation beprotriver nd -Tiepdo Pt with {herStrea fliect . URI. or contact into Team Action P~ mpiementaC~on on their P Stream 'Voty, on ov( Implementation technical assistance A~yoi'tGatiOn %ot8s ((wwvl• mass, ards addititonai pats hit ' entstsca Awards 5 & 1ti-day i ld cum 18-pec projects; ant,d~~. lodging & 311 r_ ting project pesG~iption currently accep State materials tCotPs must mer must -Type of s is i based in A AmeriCotP be Patks on seasSGA Mass Packs 10 pssistanGe -The SCA 2007 conse'Vat ton ho devote 5 or provided teg, requests for the ttttowns a leaders w have Coup Volunteers, kshire h' MOSt members e degrees. Bet ntee _ unlty aeon ice, college Volu T G ericorPs supervision forest in sere anon parks Am is a reside julll Comm nsety of completing, their Con se. and SCA Mass months tc ull time in rocess een the Student anon oration for completed, or are is partne ship is D partment 0f nce/ or Program assachusett Service Alliance(G P variety °f This M setts a wide ociation, the Massachu SCp, craws tackle habitat Ass Service, maintenance, ruetures, trnberian recreation and a ommunity historic h 1 frail constructiorono ation edu of cation, with an (timberlandser National an d_ , C projects includinge cons{ruC ntai and environme veicontent• s rlandser bridg restoration, edtes r ovalem , rated Name=timbe munit invasive sP ro ,ects. is an tnte9 ve in{arm com t Program to invest our ents a li emphasis on troll P en t seek service inVestm 's Community investorchallenges of time (Path of whose d ran a i combination Cart°-t! Timberlan eeting com root 0tganizations erland has roach to m through 0n-P Timb VotunteeTS' funding 3Pp resources and values. coordination, company and in-kind resourceour vision . V0luriteerism 3n ComP3ny finances ram on two areas. Timberland are consistent with missions 3 its grant pro9 chosen to focus onsiblAW • Snvironment3l Rasp 25 0 V' Volunteers, If an REI employee is directly involved in your non-profit organization, REI coordination, funding please ask him or her to submit a nomination for a grant. We accept nominations from our employees for projects or programs that focus on protecting outdoor places for recreation or helping increase participation in outdoor activities--especially among youth. Friends of Reading Recreation Volunteers, The Friends of Reading Recreation (FORR) was established to seek coordination, funding private sector donations to enhance the recreational and leisure opportunities in the Town of Reading. National Honor Society at RMHS Volunteers Volunteers Walkable Reading Useful Guides, Links; Organizations Creating Greenways: A Citizen's Guide Connections Newsletter American Trails Resource Library Recreational Trails Design and Construction manual rt' uide Students need hours of volunteer time to qualify. They have an "alert" list for notifying volunteers. Author/Source DCR DCR Greenways & Trails Program American Trails (org.) U. of MN U. Of MN Trail Design for Small Prope ies g NPS: North Handbook for Trail Design, Construction and Maintenance American Trails (org,) National Scenic Trail Accessible Trails information Trails and Health, Promoting Healthy Lifestyles and American Trails (org.) Environments What the Health Community Should Know about Trails American Trails (org.) Riverways grant opportunities website Friends of Arlington's Great Meadows Southampton Greenway Housatonic River Walk Coastal Trails Coalition Brookline Greenspace Alliance Associated Grant Makers GuideStar (grant search site) Mass Audubon Ecological Extension Service Active Living by Design MA Riverways Program Robert Wood Johnson Foundation \1 ` CVv htto:/IvNm,rei.com/a, boutrei/orants02.htmi htto:1twww.forr01867., orq/ URL htto://www. mass.covldcr/stewardship/creenwav/rreati naa reenwavs.ht m httD'.//Www,mass.covldcr/stewardshin/areenwav/newaletter.htm. , htto://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/naturaireso urces/DD6371.ht, ml htto://www.extension. umn.edu/distribution/naturairesou rcesIDD8425. ht ctrl htto://www.nos.oov/noco/na rkmomVncttrailconstructionmanuall . htm, www.ame-ricantra ils.orc/resources/accessible/index. htmt, www. americantrails.orc/resources/benefits/TrailsHealth. adf www.americantrails.oro/resources/health/healthcombuild.html. httD://www.mass-L,ov/dfwele/river/resourc;es/crants.htm htto)/www.foacm.orOl htto:/lwww.southamotoncreenwav. ora/home.html htto://www.obriverwaik. ore/ htto://co astaltrails. orc/xooos/ httD://www.bracklinecreensoace.ora/ hfto://www.acimconnect.oro/Abouttwhaftsacm.asi)x htto:/lwww.cuidestar.oro/ htto://www.massaudubon.orc/Nature Connectionlees.ahD httr):I/www.acfivelivinc.bvdesion.ora/ 26 W O© ~ x,39. T^ qcA N J V MINGTON W ~ . 1 C) y { V. ! 1M ' i _ = \ ~ = i I _ I 11 f 1 - O `l -;j •.i: ` i / 2i .,r . 1 NORTH ~0 9 . ~ _ READING IPSWICH RIVER GREENWAY PROPOSED ROUTE Legend r•-••• Town Boundary Main, existing ® ® Main, proposed or needs work Alternate, existing ■ ■ ® v Alternate, proposed or needs work . Spur or access trail a v in v Spur, proposed or needs work Existing Amenities 10 Trailhead Kiosk ° Parking Canoe landing Picnic Table Proposed Amenities a Trailhead Kiosk Parking Bench ra Canoe landing ® Overlook 12 Picnic Table Fishing Pier Viewing Tower Open Space Ownership Municipal Private; Land Trust; Ch 61 Pipeline `L?''•_ e\ , Trail, Path , , DEP Wetlands Deep Marsh Gs! 1 Shallow Marsh, Swamp Map by Town of Reading, 12/5/07 i Parcels current 1/1/07. Roads, buildings, 2~;\ contours from 1998 aerial photos. Highways, wetlands & pipelines from MassGIS 0 200 400 600 8001,0001,200 Feet CONSERVATION LAND?, TMW t'' ~ A IPSWICH RIVER GREENWAY ACCESSIBILITY Legend ..v..l Town Boundary Greenway Accessibility Accessible MINE Accessible, proposed Not Accessible MEMO Not Accessible, proposed Existing Amenities Trailhead Kiosk ' Parking canoe landing Picnic Table Propo sed Amenities Trailhead Kiosk Parking °s Bench canoe landing ® Overlook M Picnic Table Fishing Pier Viewing Tower Open Space Ownership Municipal Private; Land Trust; Ch 61 Pipeline Trail, Path - DEP Wetlands t) Deep Marsh i Shallow Marsh, Swamp j; Targeted Accessible Areas Map by Town of Reading, 1215107 Parcels current 1/1/07. Roads, buildings, contours from 1998 aerial photos. K Highways, wetlands & pipelines from MassGIS R 0 200 400 600 800 Feet . • ~ N Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 Email: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us MEMORANDUM TO: Board of Selectmen 1 FROM: Peter 1. Hechenbleikner . } DATE: December 7, 2007 RE: December 11, 2007 Agenda TOWN MANAGER (781) 942-9043 3a) There is a vacancy on the TTAC and Associate Douglas Reid is interested in being appointed for a position expiring June 30, 2008. I expect Mr. Reid to be there at the meeting. 3b) There is a vacancy on the Town Forest Committee occasioned by Ben Nichols moving from Reading. Associate Torn Connery is interested in being appointed to that position. We expect Mr. Connery to be present at the meeting. 4a) Elizabeth Whitelam from the Cultural Council will be in to present the highlights section of the Selectmen's Agenda. 4b) The annual request for 24 hour operation by the Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook Drive will take place. This is a public hearing. Attached to your material are comments from the Conservation Administrator and also from the Police Chief. We see no reason not to renew this approval. Also attached is a copy .of last year's approval that includes the conditions of the approval. 4c) Enclosed in your. material is a copy of the presentation that will be made by the ad hoc Northern Area Greenway Task Force. Following the conclusion of the report, the Board should decide whether or not to extend the life of this ad hoc committee beyond its expiration date on December 31, 2007. 4d) Enclosed is the Selectmen's Policy on Communications. Selectman Anthony has asked what the policy should be on follow up on correspondence that the Board has received. ~~I 1. 1. 9 -Board ofSelectmen Communication It is important to the public and to the Board of Selectmen itself to make it clear when an individual member is speaking for the Board as a whole, or when he/she is speaking for him/herself as an individual. In order to ensure this clarity of communication, the following shall be the policy of the Board of Selectmen: 1. Members of the Board of Selectmen shall be given stationery in printed or electronic format for their use. This stationery shall name only that member of the Board on the masthead. Board members may use this stationery for correspondence relative to Town business or matters. Correspondence of this type shall be copied to all of the other members of the Board of Selectmen and to the Town Manager. Any such correspondence shall state that the views expressed are those of that member of the Board of Selectmen only. 2. The Board of Selectmen stationery, naming all five members of the Board on the masthead, will be used only for correspondence from the full Board of Selectmen. This ,will be used to communicate positions of the full Board of Selectmen based on consensus of the full Board or based upon actually voted positions of the Board. 3. The Board of Selectmen may take votes on recommendations on Warrant Articles appearing before Town Meeting, and the Chairman of the Board of Selectmen or his/her designee will be responsible for communicating those recommendations to Town Meeting based on votes of the Board. 4. If a Board member rises to speak at Town Meeting, he/she shall identify whether he/she is speaking for the full Board or as an individual. In today's society, much of the correspondence to the Board of Selectmen is electronic, and often is copied to all members of the Board. The Board of Selectmen acknowledges that correspondence in electronic form that is made and/or received by it and its individual members are "public records". Additionally, the Board of Selectmen acknowledges that the manner in which it deals with electronic correspondence may raise concerns relative to the Open Meeting law. The Board also feels it is important to ensure that a proper response is given to an email request. Electronic correspondence will be handled in the following manner: • Correspondence about a particular service that needs attention from town staff. The Town Manager will respond to this electronic correspondence, with an electronic copy to all members of the Board of Selectmen, and this correspondence will be listed on the next Board of Selectmen agenda. • Correspondence addressed to the Board of Selectmen expressing an opinion or comment on a hatter before the Board of Selectmen. The Town Manager will . respond to acknowledge this electronic correspondence, with an electronic copy to all members of the Board of Selectmen, and this correspondence will be listed on the next Board of Selectmen agenda. • Correspondence addressed to the Board of Selectmen asking the Board for action on a particular matter. The Secretary to the Board of Selectmen (or designee) will draft a form letter, acknowledging the receipt of the correspondence, outlining that the Open Meeting Law prohibits the Board of Selectmen as a whole from commenting on the matter outside of a public meeting, and that the Board will consider at a future meeting whether to schedule agenda time on that matter. G ~v • Acknowledging that it is possible that private one on one electronic communications may reach a quorum of members without the knowledge of all participants, members of the Board of Selectmen shall only comment in electronic form on any correspondence received by referring the matter to the Town Manager. • Members of the Board of Selectmen may communicate electronically on housekeeping matters such as the scheduling, cancellation and time of meetings and requests to put matters on its agenda. • Documents may be, distributed via email from the Board of Selectmen to all members of the town's boards, commissions and committees to permit advance review of materials to be discussed at upcoming meetings. • Hard copies of all electronic communications will be created and immediately placed in a central file where it can be provided as a public record upon request. Revised March 9, 2004 Revised June S, 2007 d3 14 4e) Discussion Re: World Cafe - Selectman Tafoya asked a question as to whether or not the World Cafe process scheduled for February 27, 2008, raises any issues in terms of the open meeting law and the conflict of interest law. Enclosed is an email from Town l Counsel with her comments. 4f) I will have a draft of a proposed process addressing the issue of multi-way stops. I will have this available for the Board on Tuesday night. 4g) The Board may review the Action Status Report. 6a) For the Board's information, I have issued a Common Victualler's License for the Epicurean Feast which is the cafeteria at the former Tasc Building at 55 Walkers Brook Drive. Coincidentally, I also met the owner of the building and he is delighted to report that a portion of the ground floor and the first floor are rented and occupied, the second floor is rented for occupancy in January and he has some proposed tenants for some of the space in the upper levels of this building. PIH/ps ~,g I Page 1 of 1 f Hechenbleikner, Peter ~nL From: ecdoucette@brackettldcas.com Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2007 7:23 PM j To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: Re: WC FAQ.doc Peter, I would be happy to reduce the following to a formal written legal opinion if necessary. After reading the World Cafe FAQ document in light of your concerns, I have the following continents: 1. Open Meeting Law - As you know, the OML applies only to meetings of governmental bodies, ie., boards, commissions and committees, when public business over which the particular BCC has jurisdiction is discussed and/or considered. The OML also applies to subcommittees even if they are only charged with malting non-buiding recormnendations to the parent govenuuental body. My opinion would be that the OML does not apply to meetings of the World Cafe generally even if a quorum of a particular BCC is in attendance. However, given that it is anticipated that there will be instances where discussions will be held on the "direction" the town should take on an issue (Addison-Wesley is specifically mentioned), it is quite possible that in certain circumstances, an OML violation could occur. For example, the Board of Selectmen has jurisdiction over the development agreement for the Addison-Wesley property and are the proponents of the 40R bylaw. In the event a quorum of the Selectmen attended a World Cafe meeting that discussed the Addison-Wesley project, their attendance could pose a problem even if they have no intention of rendering a decision. The key is if the World Cafe discussion involves issues over which the town officials in attendance have jurisdiction. Certainly it seems to me that a quorum of the Selectmen could meet to talk on and about issues over which the Board of Selectmen have no official jurisdiction. Of course as you suggested, posting the World Cafe's meeting would alleviate this concern. 2. Conflict of Interest Law - Similar to the above discussion, if a member of a BCC attends the World Cafe and participates in a discussion involving a matter over which that individual's board has jurisdiction, M.G.L. Chapter 268A, Section 23(b) (3) could operate to result in a violation of the conflict of interest law, at least with respect to the appearance of impropriety, if a disclosure is not executed and filed (an elected official must file in the town clerk's office and an appointed official must file a disclosure with his/her appointing authority). This filing must occur before an official participates in a World Cafe discussion. If you need further comments or a formal opinion please let me know and I will get one right out to you. Though participation in the World Cafe discussions sounds quite meritorious, it also calls for vigilance and self-policing by town officials. Ellen Ellen Callahan Doucette Brackett & Lucas 165 Washington Street Winchester, MA 01890 (781) 729-1500 (781) 729-5444 (fax) 11/30/2007 4e) Discussion Re: World Cafe - Selectman Tafoya asked a question as to whether or not the World Cafe process scheduled for February 27, 2008, raises any issues in terms of the open meeting law and the conflict of interest law. Enclosed is an email from Town Counsel with her comments. 4f) I will have a draft of a proposed process addressing the issue of multi-way stops. I will have this available for the Board on Tuesday night. 4g) he Board may review the Action Status Report. 6a) For the Board's information, I have issued a Common Victualler's License for the Epicurean Feast which is the cafeteria at the former Tasc. Building at 55 Walkers Brook Drive. Coincidentally, I also met the owner of the building and he is delighted to report that a portion of the ground floor and the first floor are rented and occupied, the second floor is rented for occupancy in January and he has some proposed tenants for some of the space in the upper levels of this building. PIH/ps O..'~ J i Resident v. Non-Resident Total Percent tickets issued 70% 63% 60% 50% O Q > 40% _37% U) a~ c C m 30% 4- c C m m Q- 20% 0% - 2002 Year rig resident 25% - - 0 Non-resident 20% 15% G m v CL 11% 0% 2002 S_ 2003 Resident v. Non-Resident Cits 14"/0 10%) 2004 Year d L d CL Resident v. Non-Resident Warnings p resident Year 4e) Discussion Re: World Cafe - Selectman Tafoya asked a question as to whether or not the World Cafe process scheduled for February 27, 2008, raises any issues in terms of the open meeting law and the conflict of interest law. Enclosed is an email from Town Counsel with her comments. 4f) I will have a draft of a proposed process addressing the issue of multi-way stops. I will have this available for the Board on Tuesday night. 4g) The Board may review the Action Status Report. ,'~For the Board's information, I have issued a Common Victualler's License for the Epicurean Feast which is the cafeteria at the former Tasc Building at 55 Walkers Brook Drive. Coincidentally, I also met the owner of the building and he is delighted to report that a portion of the ground floor and the first floor are rented and occupied, the second floor is rented for occupancy in January and he has some proposed tenants for some' of the space in the upper levels of this building. PIH/ps qTL Board of Selectmen Meeting December 1, 2007 The meeting convened at 12:00 noon at the Bancroft Avenue Tennis Courts, Bancroft Avenue, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman James Bonazoli, Secretary Ben Tafoya, Selectmen Camille Anthony and Richard Schubert, Town Engineer George Zambouras, Conservation Commission Member Jamie Maughan, Birch Meadow Planning Committee Member Gary Gresh, and Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner. Site Visit of the Bancroft Avenue Tennis Courts The Town Manager showed the Board of Selectmen the three trees that would need to be moved for the tennis court reconstruction. Two of the trees are on the south side of the courts, and the other one is on the northeast corner of the tennis wall. The Board agreed that the two trees on the south side need to be removed. One was entangled in wires and was right next to the court. The other is about 15 feet south of the courts but is in very difficult shape. The Board did not agree to the removal of the tree on the northeast corner of the courts. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli noted that the Birch Meadow Planning Committee wanted to eliminate the tennis wall and incorporate that into one of the courts. They also wanted to move the courts southward as much as possible - probably about 10-20 feet. There is aquestion as to whether or not the tennis wall could be moved southward to avoid the tree, or even turned sideways so that the wall itself would not create a problem for the tree. The Town Manager will review this with the Town Engineer and with Friends of Reading Tennis. The group then looked at the possibility of a wiffle ball field to be constructed facing the new little league field next to the tennis courts. This would require removal of two trees, raising the grade somewhat and relocating the pathway. The Board generally felt that this would be appropriate. There was discussion about removal of the "hill," and it was noted that the High School physical education program utilizes that for a ropes course. Additionally, the Board as a whole was not interested in seeing the trees removed or the hill eliminated. There was discussion about removal of some of the brush, and the Board was not sure that this was required. The group then walked over to the batting cage area. The Birch Meadow Planning Committee wants to move the batting cage to build a pavilion on that location. The pavilion would have bathrooms, a concession stand and a covered picnic area. The Town Manager asked if the pavilion could be moved to the area within the tree grove, and leave the open area where the batting cages are for open recreation purposes. If the batting cage needs to be moved, that can be accomplished and leave the area as an open area. The Town Engineer showed some sketches relocating some of the softball fields. It is likely that Imagination Station will be left approximately where it was. 4e) Discussion Re: World Cafe - Selectman Tafoya asked a question as to whether or not the World Cafe process scheduled for February 27, 2008, raises any issues in terms of the open meeting law and the conflict of interest law. Enclosed is an email from Town Counsel with her comments. 4f) I will have a draft of a proposed process addressing the issue of multi-way stops. I will have this available for the Board on Tuesday night. 4g) The Board may review the Action Status Report. 6a) For the Board's information, I have issued a Common Victualler's License for the Epicurean Feast which is the cafeteria at the former Tasc Building at 55 Walkers Brook Drive. Coincidentally, I also met the owner of the building and he is delighted to report that a portion of the ground floor and the first floor are rented and occupied, the second floor is rented for occupancy in January and he has some ,proposed tenants for some of the space in the upper levels of this building. 4 PIH/ps 6 6d, - ! z s THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS 1 Number: 2007-33 Fee: $50.00 TOWN OF READING This is to certify that LPM HOLDING COMPANY, INC. d/b/a , EPICUREAN FEAST, 55 WALKERS BROOK DRIVE, READING, MASS., seating 58 customers IS HEREBY GRANTED A COMMON VICTUALLER'S LICENSE in said Reading, Massachusetts and at that place only and expires December 31, 2007, unless sooner suspended or revoked for violation of the laws of the Commonwealth respecting the licensing of common victuallers. This license is issued in conformity with the authority granted to the licensing authorities by General Laws, Chapter 140, and amendments thereto. Pursuant to Section 3.6 of the Board of Selectmen's Policies, patrons are not permitted to bring alcoholic beverages on the premises for their own consumption and licensees are not permitted to keep alcoholic beverages on the premises except for a small quantity that is used in the preparation of certain specialty cooked foods. All signs shall conform with the sign regulations of the Town of Reading. In Testimony Whereof, the undersigned have hereunto affixed their official signa r ~ '^fy y..,nf»$.'a.R+,er+a~'~s'.'. .~~a '•;.•,.N,a9t~fl'~' ~~~~wm. 714MAW W. -Amf" Date Issued: November 29, 2007 v v v v v v®v v vv~\/ v J J J vV v J ~ v Weylin Symes Artistic Director 2(07 NOV 28 M 11: 15 November 27, 2007 THEATRE tickets & production office 395 main street stoneham, ma 02180 (781) 279-2200 (781) 279-3787 fax stonehamtheatre.org administrative office 125 main street, suite f stoneham, ma 02180 (781) 279-7885 (781) 279-2374 fax James E. Bonazoli . Chairman, Board of Selectmen 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 1867 Dear James, Jon White-Spunner Managing Director G(cte-l On the night of October 23, the Reading Fire Department was instrumental in extinguishing a fire that threatened to engulf Stoneham Theatre and other businesses on Stoneham Square. Sadly, Evergreen Florist was destroyed, but thanks to the swift action of the Fire Departments other severe damage was averted. On Monday, December 10, we plan to honor the men and women of your Fire Department in a special benefit at the theatre. We have invited your Fire Chief to be an honored guest at Miracle on Main Street - a musical holiday benefit for Stoneham Theatre with a portion of the proceeds going to The One Hundred Club of Massachusetts Inc., an organization that provides for the families of fallen firefighters. I am writing to encourage you to support this event and the firefighters from your town, who so ably look after us. Tickets are available. for $35 and $75 (which includes a VIP reception) and can be purchased by responding to Liz O'Meara-Goldberg at 781.279.7885 ext.102 or liz@stonehamtheatre.org. I look forward to seeing you at the Theatre! ' f. Y urs Sincerely, ~~White-spunner Director of Community Development ga, Stoneham 0 L C Fax: (781) 942-5441 Website: www.ci.reading.ma.us November 28, 2007 Mr. Eric Worrall, DRD MassDEP-NERD 205B Lowell Street Wilmington, MA 01887 RE: ACO-NE-06-F001 Required Submission Dear Mr. Worrall, PUBLIC WORKS (781) 942-9077 Condition 7.k. of the Town. of Reading's Administrative Consent Order (#ACO-NE-06-F001) was amended to require the Town to submit to the MassDEP the information contained herein within 120 days following receipt of final certificates, permits, or approvals under MEPA and the ITA to purchase all of its water from the MWRA Water System. This submittal meets that requirement. The Secretary of Environmental Affairs issued a Certificate on January 12, 2007 indicating that the SFEIR for Reading's admission to the MWRA Water System "adequately and . properly complies" with MEPA. On July 12, 2007, the WRC approved Reading's request for an Interbasin Transfer for full membership in the MWRA Water System. After the WRC Approval, MassDEP approved a 120-day extension requested by the Town to finalize the submission required by Condition 7.k. of the above-referenced ACO. This extension adjusted the due date for this submission to December 15, 2007. This submittal follows the Town's previous submission to the MassDEP in August 2006 of the Town's response to Condition 7.j. of the above-referenced ACO. Condition 7.k. 1. - The Town of Reading intends to deconstruct the Louanis Water Treatment Facility (WTF) in 2008. Prior to deconstruction, the WTF will be fully decommissioned. The decommissioning was partially completed with the prior shut-down of the WTF on August 31, 2006. In general, the treatment chemicals were removed and properly disposed of, chlorinated lines were purged, chemical pump lines were flushed, and storage tanks were cleaned. In addition, the WTF was drained and by-pass valves were closed to.isolate the distribution system from the facility. A detailed description of this process was outlined in the submission provided to the MassDEP on August 25, 2006 as required by Condition 7.j. The 7j. shut-down process maintained the facility operational in the event of an emergency with the ability to provide chlorination. Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867-2683 Currently, the heat and electric service to the facility are maintained. In order to complete the decommissioning process, all utility services will be terminated and individual service lines will be capped and abandoned completely isolating the WTF for deconstruction. The Town of Reading will develop plans and specifications necessary for the deconstruction of the WTF. Prior to design, hazardous materials within the facility will be identified, including asbestos, PCB, and mercury containing building materials or equipment. As part of the design, wetlands will be flagged in the surrounding area and a Notice of Intent will be submitted to the local Conservation Commission. The deconstruction contract will require. that the demolition contractor obtain all required permits from local, State (MassDEP, Mass Historical) and Federal (EPA) agencies, abate asbestos and other hazardous materials in accordance with applicable rules and regulations, and document disposal of the same. Presently, we do not anticipate contaminated soil or ground water conditions. If encountered during demolition, a Licensed Site Professional will evaluate the conditions and provide the requirements for assessment, testing, management, and disposal. Deconstruction and disposal of debris will be completed as required by applicable rules and regulations, including rodent control, dust control, sediment and erosion control, recycling of non-coated concrete and brick, and off-site disposal of coated building rubble. Currently the schedule for decommissioning and deconstructing the WTF is to complete design and bidding of the project by spring 2008 and begin deconstruction by fail 2008. Deconstruction is anticipated to be completed by end of year 2008. Condition 7.k. 2. - The Town of Reading now receives all of its drinking water from the MWRA Water System up to an annual equivalent average of 2.1 mgd. The Town is requesting to have its local drinking water supply sources listed below reclassified' from an "inactive" status to "emergency" status to maintain the capacity to provide water in the event of an emergency. The Town will continue to maintain its individual well sites as outlined in the Shut-Down Process attachment from the prior Condition 7J. response. Well Name ( Source Code ( Current Status Requested Status Revay Well #1 3246000-03G ( Inactive Emergency Well 42 3246000-04G Inactive Emergency Well 43 3246000-05G Inactive Emergency B-Line Well 3246000-06G Inactive Emergency Town Forest Well 3246000-07G Inactive Emergency Well 482-20 ( 3246000-08G Inactive ( Emergency Well 466-8 3246000-09G Inactive Emergency Well #13 3246000-1OG Inactive Emergency Well 415 3246000-11 G Inactive Emergency Prior to deconstruction, the Town will also maintain its WTF, the high service pumps that discharge to the distribution system, and the emergency generator as outlined in the Shut-Down Process attachment. The chlorine gas system will be maintained to provide disinfection within 8 hours of a notice to proceed. ~J Prior to WTF decommissioning, the Town intends to construct modifications at the WTF site to establish an emergency water supply system. The water transmission main that connects the source wells to the WTF will be redirected to Clearwell No. 2. This connection will require a minor amount of piping to route raw water directly from the wells to Clearwell No. 2 for storage. This clearwell is currently connected to the high service pump station. A new chlorination system will be installed within the pump station to provide disinfection to the raw water that will be pumped from Clearwell No. 2 into the Town distribution system under an emergency. Refer to the figure of the WTF site attached at the end of this letter. In addition, the existing emergency generator will be retrofitted and/or relocated adjacent to the pump station to provide emergency power to the retrofitted former high service pump station and the majority of the well pump stations (the well pump stations not served by the generator have stand-by engines or a portable generator connection, which will be maintained). A new chlorination system will be designed for installation within the high service pump station as the Town will abandon the chlorine gas system in the WTF. Chlorine gas carries significant safety risks including shipping and operator handling hazards, potential leakage, and is considered a potential security risk. For providing emergency chlorination, a product with a high shelf life is necessary. The Town intends to utilize a chlorine tablet system instead of liquid chlorine. Liquid calcium or sodium hypochlorite should only be stored for 60-90 days as the liquid loses 2-4 percent of available chlorine after 30-days at room temperature. Continually disposing and replacing this chemical at regular intervals is a waste. Also, there is concern regarding the potential for creating per chlorate in stored hypochlorite. In comparison, calcium hypochlorite tablets can be stored up to a year after production which has a far greater economic feasibility. The tablet chlorination system will produce chlorinated solution for injection into the discharge main at the high service pump station. Incoming water from a side stream is introduced into the chlorinator where the tablets are eroded at a predictable rate according to the amount of water that enters. A centrifugal pump injects the chlorinated solution into the discharge main providing the desired level of available chlorine to meet the Town's desired residual. The tablet chlorination system is NSF 61 approved for potable water use and the tablets are NSF 60 approved for potable water chemical use. Components of the system include the following: • Tablet chlorinator - tablets are manually placed on a sieve plate inside the chlorinator and as water flows across the plate, the tablets erode at a rate proportional to the flow; • Inlet water supply connection with filter; • Inlet solenoid valve; • Inlet pressure regulator; • Inlet pressure gauge; • Digital flow meter - a flow sensor transmits a pulse signal to a digital monitor, measuring the flow of the fresh water dissolving stream; • Flow control valve - valve adjusts flow of dissolving stream; • Solution tank - stores the chlorinated stream prior to injection; • Primary solution tank level control - a gate valve meters the tablet by-pass flow. The by-pass stream balances the variation in the water-dissolving stream. The float valve opens or closes to maintain the pump rate as it is manually throttled; • Secondary high/low level solution tank control - closes the solenoid valve in a high level condition and shuts down the pump in a low level condition; k3' 8 • Solution delivery pump - a multi-stage centrifugal pump delivers chlorinated solution into a pressurized stream; • Solution injection pump air bleed - used to prime the pump and is used as a recycle line for tank cleaning; • Primary backflow prevention; • Discharge control valve - used to balance system output water flow with system input water flow; • Outlet connection; • NEMA 4X Electrical Enclosure, UL listed; • Aluminum Frame. The individual well pump stations and the disinfection system will have remote operation capabilities at the Town's master controls. The chlorination system will be manually operated and will be programmed to run only when the high lift pumps are operating The Town will check the chlorination system for functionality every 60-days and maintain enough active product for a disinfection period 12 hours greater than maximum delivery time. The Town will replace the tablet chlorine supply annually or within the intervals recommended by the manufacturer. Unused product will be provided to the manufacturer for disposal during delivery of new product. Currently the schedule for constructing the emergency water supply system is to complete design of the project by spring 2008 and begin construction within 30 days. Construction is anticipated to be completed by July 2008. Conditions 7.k. 3 & 4 - The Town of Reading is committed to maintaining the existing ownership of the Zone I's for the existing PWS wells. The Town will continue to conduct an annual survey of its Zone II's as currently performed and maintain its current wellhead protection area zoning. This completes our report to satisfy the requirement of Condition 7.k. of the Town of Reading's Administrative Consent Order (#ACO-NE-06-F001). If you have any questions please call me at 781-942=9077 or Plant Supervisor Peter Tassi at 781-942-9199. Very truly yours, Edward D. McIntire, Jr. Director of Public Works Enclosures cc: Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager Bob LeLacheur, Assistant Town Manager Peter Tassi, Louanis Water Treatment Plant Supervisor Mike Cunningham, P.E., S E A Jon Beekman, S E A READING WATER TREATMENT PLANT ~t t ♦ =.~lL. fir VV I P•~0. ) sAt;.. jo tl, 1.w \ e~ r,._ _ 1, _ LI. •i to 1D ri)rr _ ` ~.;a::w.__,..s1'_• _ kU: _ _ ~'aUg_ _ _ ~ ~A.e: _ _ _ '~31{t. _ : qtr _}If - _ - -tr-_:_'• , _ +al,c+_ L+- "I<, N-A, T - :LI{?.. _ IJt_ •,1Lrf - _ ~t,).y,. - y _ .d1! - :*:~tr. _ .;Syft. }.k 7 - - _ ~S~Ce; ~ - - ' s.).ls: • ::''Y).~L;7 l - ~~I,i_. , - .•'a_~1. .:'Sf.Cf 'r- ,J,r . k,ls: ':`Iz. ' - ':31:<:. _~~~atlts: ' •:.il.&: =-.,fir' = .:.U,s .-,ytC•: - ~SL'~ _ ,)fr. ::11G: "l- Arr - : ij- - _ ..li - 51Jt ' al,'r _ ~1 •IFr: yl~♦ - '~.t.lA• tl{~ 1{.. eti ai - •tli - •.'f i 4 al» : - •:,Ir }fir, • •tl a• tl,-' _ - . All _ - t1A _ -•lil"•:~:. : _ - . + .•tll":' ..t,.'. 4:..1..x}..... .._-~~t:l-•.~_ •5t "-t'.. ~1;,tk'. {`.~.'_f . a. - 1. 1 :....t l .r - m ~s ' t.: ~Jr. \'r4u. _ , a~:' i,~' ~ rtJ;:» , . -,1 Y i ` ~ Lill --e :y~(fr, ':~t r t , :x~JS::.°:.. , ~ J ,•,Ir~ - 7;51r. ~ :.4ti.:_ _ -~.StL•' _ - '.•SiF_r ~ ~ . , _ - "fit e 1 f , , . .:i' r~ ~1,{ • - `.l`t~ti•: - r~t:, .)~rn:. _ :\GI ^'1'+"' } ui/ f ?.tfl •1`!.Il:r },t 1 \''tr! T'': ~I~.C -.1. •~%'_~)•1~-• %~i/. •llf ~•{~f ` ` Clearwell No. 2 Slzt , :ixl~• - _ 7sl~t~~ .,~Ir,•• tiff llrr ~ t~~ a Y Y Y 1 High Service Pump Station ` r ''_'t :..,~~u' . ~1:~~ .i, l,? sr , 1 .tC.: ~C'.' i r` •~1 ~'f- •l •"0.4' ' 117 Water. Treatment Plant v Legend Lj Town Boundary . Parcels Roads F- I Bridge 1" I Paved I i Unpaved t04 V 7 • M t \~j Buildings 1 Sidewalks Driveway - Streams open water Wetlands Map by: Town of Reading Map date: 9/5/06 Parcels valid 1/1/06. Roads, buildings, sidewalks, drives, hydrography from aerial photos taken spring 1998. Data are for planning purposes only. 0 50 100 200 300 Ft t /C 6CIf M7 DEC -4 AM 101- 45 3 December 2007. Dear Peter Hechenbleikner, Michael E. Chapman Foreign Auto Union 15 High Street, Reading MA 01867 781-944.2920 email: m4chapman@verizon.net or: chapmami@bc.edu I am very relieved that the town decided against differentially increasing taxes on commercial property. But I thought I ought to express my feelings on this issue, in the event of renewed debate. Since starting my business in Reading in 1989, I have paid for all my own garbage collection, I have never (thank goodness) needed to use the police or fire services, and, of course, the business does not have children enrolled in Reading's school system. Other than some wear and tear on the tar macadam caused by my two employees driving to and fro, and an annual safety visit by the fire department, I think I can safely say that we have cost the town nothing during this eighteen-year period, while we have contributed many thousands of dollars in various taxes and permits. In comparison, residential property owners make full use of the town's services, such as its library, they produce copious quantities of garbage, and, especially, they send their children to school in the town. It strikes me that this country's Founding Fathers would not think: it fair for Reading to tax residential property owners less than commercial property owners. Tax concessions for businesses, in fact, especially as we head into what could well be a major recession, might do wonders to reduce the burden on residential owners, as concessions ,,would encourage more businesses to start in (or, more to the point, perhaps, not move away from) Reading, thereby pumping much needed funds into the treasury for virtually no extra cost. Yours sincerely, NOTICE OF A PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PLAN MEETING FORMER AGFA CORPORATION FACILITY 80 INDUSTRIAL WAY WILMINGTON, MA Release Tracking Number: 3-17097 Permit Number: W023879 Agfa Corporation received a petition from 10 residents in the Town of Reading requesting this location be designated as a Public Involvement Plan site, in accordance with MGL c.21E §14(a). Agfa Corporation designated the 80 Industrial Way Site as a Public Involvement Plan (PIP) site on November 18, 2005. Agfa conducted its first public meeting on December 20, 2005 to present the draft Public Involvement Plan and to provide an update on response actions at the site. The second public meeting was conducted on December 16, 2006 to provide another update on response actions at the site. A third public meeting will be conducted in the Community Room at the Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street, at 7:00 p.m., on December 18, 2007 to provide additional updates on the site. Copies of'documents related to this site are available in the Public Information Repository located in the Reading Library. Any questions regarding this meeting should be directed to Mr. Christopher Santomassimo, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, Agfa Corporation, 100 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ, 07660, at 201-373-4008, or christopher.santomassimo@agfa.com. 8 a .c w ua t~ Page 1 of 1 C rcI' Hechenbleikner, Peter From: rnrchambercom@aol.com Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2007 12:45 PM To: RNRchambercom@aol.com Subject: Tax shift proposal defeated Dear Chamber Members, Last night the public hearing was held regarding the proposed tax shift in Reading. I am very happy to report that the proposal was defeated by a vote of 4 to 1! RCTV will be airing the recording of the hearing in the near future. A schedule will be forwarded soon for those who wish to view it. I would like to thank all those who attended the meeting last night in support of the Chamber's efforts to defeat this proposal. I would also like to express my gratitude to the Chamber's representative, Ken Rossetti, and the Economic Development Committee's representative, Leslie McGonagle for the many hours and meetings they contributed their time to as members of the Ad Hoc Committee formed to study the proposal. There are certainly many other volunteers behind the scenes who deserve our appreciation for helping out with educating the business and residential communities by speaking with people, handing out flyers, and distributing information packets. To those individuals, thank you for giving your time for the benefit of the community. One thing is certain - the tax shift proposal will continue to be placed before the Selectmen for consideration in the future. It will be the responsibility of the business community to stay focused on the matter and be ready to present the reasons why a tax shift is not appropriate for the town of Reading. Michael Giacalone, CPA President Reading - North Reading Chamber of Commerce . More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail! g,e~, 11/28/2007 Page 1 of 1 L /G&~ Hechenbleikner, Peter From: Michelle Hopkinson [michelle.hopkinson@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, November 27, 2007 11:47 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Cc: Town Manager Subject: Thank you for your vote tonight To the Board of Selectmen, I just wanted to thank you for your vote tonight opposing the new tax shift in Reading. I attended the public hearing tonight to show my support for the business community. Tonight you heard from many of the local businesses as well as members of the Chamber but you didn't hear from any of the residents. I just wanted to follow up with you my perspective as a resident and active volunteer in the community. For the past 10 years I have served on civic organizations in the town of Reading. These organizations have included Young Women's . League, Joshua Eaton PTO, Girl Scouts, Friends of Reading Recreation, and Friends of Reading Tennis Task force. Being on the receiving end of the many generous donations made by our local businesses, I have gained a true appreciation for their commitment to this town. Know matter what the cause; we can count on them for support. When the economy is the way it is right now, gas prices at record highs, and the minimum wage going up to $8 in 2008, 1 felt it would not be appropriate to add another financial burden to them. They have done so much for us, now it was time to think of them. Again, the process was successful because we had residents who volunteered their time to study all aspects of this proposal. The information that was provided was very useful in making an educated decision. I was glad you thanked everyone for their service. I have to tell you I really like the sense of community it brings when the town, residents, and businesses work together for a common cause. We have been able to see many positive changes in our community. I think this network it unique to Reading and outweighs the dollars I would save. By voting against the tax shift, you have renewed the business community's faith in our town that they are our neighbors and are appreciated for the contributions they make everyday. Hmmm...maybe we are becoming a "business friendly" community after all! As always, thank you all for your time and service to our community. Respectfully, Michelle Hopkinson 21 Sherwood Rd 781-944-7875 11/28/2007 Hechenbleikner, Peter b~ ~ l C- c ~ 1-11 From: William Solomon [attywhs@comcast.net] Sent: Tuesday, December 04, 2007 4:00 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: RE: Comcast Effective Competition Petition - FCC Attachments: Effective Competition Andover, Acton, Boxborough, Reading, Ipswich, Franklin, Marlborough, Stoneham, DOC-278214A1.PDF Effective )mpetition Andover, Peter I have finished my review of Comcast's Effective Competition Petition (FCC Notice Attached) and I can find no legal basis to oppose it, based on my review of FCC decisions, secondary material and discussion with Washington counsel. Please note, that under the FCC's regulations, an opposition would have to be filed no later than 20 days after Public Notice in the FCCs Daily Digest - this Thursday, December 6, 2007. Bill 1 Page 1 of 2 4tl~C 60S' Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, December 06, 2007 8:20 AM To: 'Orlando Soto'; Reading - Selectmen Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: RE: Support for Split Tax Dear Jeanette: Thank you for sending an email to the Board of Selectmen. The Board has adopted a policy of not sending substantive responses to emails in order to try to stay in compliance with the Commonwealth's open meeting law which prohibits policy discussions by the Board outside of an open public meeting. Please understand that the Board'values your input on issues and your correspondence will be included in the materials circulated to the Board prior to its next meeting and it is available as part of the public record. The Board members will have a chance to comment during an upcoming public meeting. I want you to know that this email was received in December 6, and the Board of Selectmen hearing was November 27. The Board voted to retain the single tax rate. However, as you may be aware, this matter comes before the Board of Selectmen annually in November for a decision, and there will be discussion on the issue I am sure next November. If you want to have a personal discussion of the issue with a member of the Board, we hold "office" hours in Reading Town Hall before the first regularly scheduled meeting of each month at 6:30 PM in the first floor conference room. The next Office hour is on December 11. Thank you again for contacting the Board of Selectmen. Ben Tafoya Secretary Reading Board of Selectmen 1/c Board of Selectmen From: Orlando Soto [mailto:osoto@cfl.rr.com] Sent: Thursday, December 06, 2007 7:40 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Support for Split Tax . To Reading Town of Selectmen Board: As a resident of Reading's Precinct 8 my husband and I support the Split in Taxes which would allow for a different tax rate between residential properties and commercial properties. Unfortunately, we will be unable to attend the meeting scheduled for this Tuesday, November 27th. Nevertheless, we would like to have our voices heard to vote towards supporting the split of property taxes. Thank you for your kind attention to our request and support of the split of taxes. Very truly yours, Mrs. Jeanette Vigorito Reading Resident n 12/6/2007