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2008-05-27 Board of Selectmen Packet
OF RFgO fy Town of Reading ~ s39; ,x o~~wo 16 Lowell Street wc0 Reading, MA 01867-2685 FAX: (781) 942-9071 Email: townmanager@readingma.gov Website: www.readingma.gov MEMORANDUM TO: Board of Selectmen FROM: Peter I. Hechenbleikner DATE: May 23, 2008 RE: May 27, 2008 Agenda TOWN MANAGER (781) 942-9043 1 a) Mr. Moccia may be in under public comment as he indicated in one of his emails. 3a) We have one applicant for an Associate position on the Economic Development Committee. 3b) We have a number of applicants for one position on the Trails Coma M* ittee. Although the Committee is newly formed, I would assume they would welcome Associate members. 4a) The Town Accountant will be in for her quarterly report to the Board. I imagine most of the report will be focused on the ongoing transition to the Munis operating platform. 4b) Please see George Zambouras' material with regard to confirmation of betterments for Woodland Road. It's interesting to note that the total project cost came in at less than half the estimate. This is because the Department of Public Works did most of the work there. The quality of the work is excellent and I believe that the abutters are very happy to be living on a Town standard street. 4c) In your packet is an outline of the Warrant and everything we had on the Warrant as of Thursday evening. We will have remaining articles available at your meeting on Tuesday. 4d) The Economic Development Committee will do a report to the Board of Selectmen on their work plan and their progress to-date. 4e) The Birch Meadow Master Plan Committee will be doing a presentation on their proposal for a Master Plan. Ultimately, the approval of the Master Plan is up to the Board of Selectmen. Following the presentation and any questions or comments from the Board of Selectmen, it will be up to the Board to determine what process it wants to go through in order to approve this plan so we can move forward with implementation as appropriate. 4f) A State grant program is available to assist with potential land acquisition for open space purposes. The Ipswich River Greenway Plan identified two parcels that would be prime parcels for acquisition. There are another two parcels that are indicated on the map and material that you have enclosed. The grant pays a maximum of just under 60% of the cost of property acquisition. We've used this grant program in the past to purchase Marion Woods. We would like direction from the Board of Selectmen as to whether or not it makes sense to move forward with appraisals for these property and potential application for a grant. We have not contacted property owners yet and have not arranged yet for appraisals. The four parcels can be considered under State regulations as contiguous parcels because they all abut Town owned property and this program may present an unusual opportunity for the Town to be able secure these parcels of land as open space. PIH/ps Memo To: Board of Selectman cc: Peter I. Hechenbleikner, Town Manager From George J. Zambouras, Town Engineer Date: May 23, 2008 Re: Main Street Traffic ]VVMMY While we were all planning the safest way to remove the dummy and what measures we can implement until the new lights are installed to make the intersection as safe as possible, its construction answered the question for us. Much to everyone's surprise the dummy's concrete foundation was not much of a foundation. It was simply sitting upon the reinforced concrete that is being removed for the new roadway. While removing the concrete in the southbound lane today the dummy was almost lost. In the process of removing the reinforced concrete, the foundation shifted severing its lifeline, the electrical conduit beneath the dummy foundation and cannot be repaired without removing the foundation. Yes it is still standing proud as ever however its everlasting yellow light will shine no more. Yes, sadly she has passed, may she RIP. During our Thursday Main Street meeting with Peter Hechenbleikner, Acting Chief Cloonan, Chief Burns, Ted McIntire, Chris Cole, Abigail McCabe and I, we agreed a four way stop and elimination of all left turns would be the safest method for regulating traffic and pedestrians upon removal of the dummy. While we did intend to receive state approval first and test the 4-way stop application, today's events accelerated the timetable. The dummy will be removed during this phase and the 4-way stop will be in effect following re-paving of this phase of Main Street. I will be available during your meeting to explain the 4-way stop in detail. 0 Page 1 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, May 15, 200810:56 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading From: Reading - Selectmen Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 10:42 AM To: 'Eileen Moccia'; Reading - Selectmen Subject: RE: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Dear Eileen: J-b Page 1 of 2 ub1 VON 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. 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. Thank you again for contacting the Board of Selectmen. Ben Tafoya Secretary Reading Board of Selectmen 1/c Board of Selectmen From: Eileen Moccia [mailto:eileentmoccia@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 9:53 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Gentlemen: I am the owner of the property located at 50 Fairview Avenue, Reading. I am requesting that someone from your department come out to our property to view the town tree. This tree has already had damage from a recent wind storm and one limb has already blow to the ground. This tree is diseased and will not withstand more abuse. We had the Assistant Tree manager come out to look at the tree already and were not pleased with 5/16/2008 IID l Page 2 of 2 his response for leaving the tree standing. He quickly stated to my husband and myself that the tree could "withstand 2 or 3 more hurricanes". Should we wait to see if this tree lands on our property or a neighbors property which has alread happend with the limb that fell off!!? My house is insured by Horace Mann Insurance Co and my husband is the agent of this policy. I will be sending a copy of this request as well as a copy of your response to this agency. If this tree falls down on my property or my neighbors property this insurance company will have been informed of this towns neglect to alter this situation regarding this tree. I have been viewing the removal of several trees on neighbors properties, as well as some that were removed that were not town trees during the last several months and do not understand why this tree.is still standing. I would appreciate it if someone with the authority to remove the tree would meet with either my husband, Joseph or myself to discuss this tree situation as soon as possible. I will wait for your answer to this problem. sincerely, Eileen T. Moccia Get Free (PRODUCT) REDTm Emoticons, Winks and Display Pics. Check it out! 62- 5/16/2008 r*7) -Page 1 of 2 Hechenbleikner, Peter f s n, From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Friday, May 16, 2008 11:49 AM To: 'Eileen Moccia'; Reading - Selectmen Cc: Keating, Bob Subject: RE: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Eileen As I am sure you know, today Bob Keating our Supervisor of Parks, Forestry and Cemetery, and Bruce Fenton, our Forestry foreman, again reviewed the location and condition of the tree you referenced. Mr. Keating has the authority to remove a tree if it warrants removal. He is considering your concern and the condition of the tree and will be making a decision shortly on whether or not to remove it. do wand you to be assured that the Town does not remove trees on private property, and if there is a question in any particular case of where the tree lies, the Town's surveyors determine the location vis-a-vis the Town right of way. You should be hearing from Mr. Keating within the next several days. Pete From., Eileen Moccia [mailto:eileentmoccia@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 9:53 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Gentlemen: I am the owner of the property located at 50 Fairview Avenue, Reading. I am requesting that someone from your department come out to our property to view the town tree. This 'tree has already had damage from a recent wind storm and one limb has already blow to the ground. This tree is diseased and will not withstand more abuse. We had the Assistant Tree manager come out to look at the tree already and were not pleased with his response for leaving the tree standing. He quickly stated to my husband and myself that the tree could "withstand 2 or 3 more hurricanes". Should we wait to see if this tree lands on our property or a neighbors property which has alread happend with the limb that fell off!!? My house is insured by Horace Mann Insurance Co and my husband is the agent of this policy. I will be sending a copy of this request as well as a copy of your response to this agency. If this tree falls down on my property or my neighbors property this insurance company will have been informed of this towns neglect to alter this situation regarding this tree. I have been viewing the removal of several trees on neighbors properties, as well as some that were removed that were not town trees during the last several months and do not understand why this tree is still standing. I would appreciate it if someone with the authority to remove the tree would meet with either my husband, Joseph or myself to discuss this tree situation as soon as possible. I will wait for your answer to this problem. sincerely, Eileen T. Moccia t (L, 5/19/2008 Page 1 of 2 Hechenblefter, Peter From: Eileen Moccia [eileentmoccia@hotmail.com] Sent: Friday, May 16, 2008 6:18 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: FW: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Subject: RE: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Date: Fri, 16 May 2008 11:06:17 -0500 From: Joe.Moccia@horacemann.com To: eileentmoccia@hotmail.com Dear Mr.Tafoya, I will attend the next meeting as a resident and a representing Agent for Horace Mann Property Insurance company; however, I feel it proper to inform the Town of Reading and professional arborists that since several notices have been submitted as to the condition of the tree and the dangers to the homes and their inhabitants there may be liability through Subrogation should damage occur. Sincerely,Joe Moccia From: Eileen Moccia [mailto:eileentmoccia@hotmail.com] Sent: Friday, May 16, 2008 10:44 AM To: Moccia, Joe Subject: FW: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Subject: RE: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Date: Thu, 15 May 2008 10:42:09 -0400 From: Selectmen @ci.reading. ma. us To: eileentmoccia@hotmail.com; Selectmen@ci.reading. ma. us Dear Eileen: Thank you for sending an email to the Board of Selectmen. The Board has adopted a policy of not sending substantive response's 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 uiiiderstand 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 continent during an upcoming public meeting. 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. Thank you again for contacting the Board of Selectmen. Ben Tafoya 1 G,~ 5/19/2008 Page 2 of 2 Secretary Reading Board of Selectmen 1/c Board of Selectmen From: Eileen Moccia [maiIto: eileentmoccia@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 9:53 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Gentlemen: I am the owner of the property located at 50 Fairview Avenue, Reading. I am requesting that someone from your department come out to our property to view the town tree. This tree has already had damage from a recent wind storm and one limb has already blow to the ground. This tree is diseased and will not withstand more abuse. We had the Assistant Tree manager come out to look at the tree already and were not pleased with his response for leaving the tree standing. He quickly stated to my husband and myself that the tree could withstand 2 or 3 more hurricanes". Should we wait to see if this tree lands on our property or a neighbors property.... which has alread happend with the limb that fell off!!? My house is insured by Horace Mann Insurance Co and my husband is the agent of this policy. I will be sending a copy of this request as well as a copy of your response to this agency. If this tree falls down on my property or my neighbors property this insurance company will have been informed of this towns neglect to alter this situation regarding this tree. I have been viewing the removal of several trees on neighbors properties, as well as some that were removed that were not town trees during the last several months and do not understand why this tree is still standing. I would appreciate it if someone with the authority to remove the tree would meet with either my husband, Joseph or myself to discuss this tree situation as soon as possible. I will wait for your answer to this problem. sincerely, Eileen T. Moccia Get Free (PRODUCT) REDTm Emoticons, Winks and Display Pics. Check it out! Keep your kids safer online with Windows Live Family Safety. Help protect vour kids. E-mail for the greater good. Join the I'm Initiative from Microsoft. i C. 3 5/19/2008 6 , The Massachusetts Armv National Guard Field Maintenance Shop-Readina The Massachusetts Army National Guard has 10 maintenance facilities through the state. The newest addition is the Field Maintenance Shop (FMS), Reading. This state of the art maintenance facility began construction in September 2006 under the Massachusetts Army National Guards Military Construction program. With a price tag of 17.2 million dollars this federally funded project is set to meet the Massachusetts Army National Guards maintenance needs today and into the future. The Massachusetts Army National Guard is transforming and modernizing in order to accomplish 21 Sc-century missions assigned to it by the National Command Authority and the Governor of Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Army National Guard must generate combat power in order to meet these demanding missions; this combat power can best be generated when its equipment meets the Army Maintenance Standard. Under the leadership of the Shop Chief, CW2 Charles Eaton 14 technician employees will work under the Two Level Maintenance System known as Field and Sustainment systems. These systems will provide the support and processes needed to repair and return equipment to the end user.or directly into the supply system. This two level system generates increased requirements and demands on a Field Maintenance Shop as compared to the prior Organizational Maintenance Shop (OMS) which operated under a four level system where many maintenance needs needed to be directed to the Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) in Ayer, MA. Providing expanded maintenance services to 17 units, HHD/211 MP; 972 MP; Det 1/181 EN; 101 FI Det; 65 PCH; HHC/51St TC; C/f-181 IN; HHT/1-182 CAV; B/1-182 CAV; Camp Curtis Guild; MEDCOM; C/126 BSB; 182 EN; 188 EN Det; 272 Chem; B/1-101 FA; and B/26 BSTB, the FMS at Reading will attempt to increase their staff to 22 personnel. Additional demands on the state due to Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom include RESET operations., This program is the resetting of equipment returning from , theater back to a fully mission capable standard prior to fielding back to National Guard units for training or deployment. The core of the MA RESET program operates out of'Field Maintenance Shop-Framingham with current efforts to relocate this program to Reading in order to benefit from the new Reading facility. These efforts could further increase the Field Maintenance Shop- Reading staff by 10-12 personnel. a 10 MA Army National Guard Maintenance Facilities Field Maintenance Shop (FMS) 1. Dorchester 2. Westfield 3. Worcester 4. Reading 5. Brockton 6. Framingham 7. Fall River 8. Camp Edwards Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) 9. Ayer Unit Training Equipment Site (UTES) 10. Camp Edwards / C- y eVal patxick and The 'D The onoxable Gexal'oyexMGnloroseph C ibbon Carter, CuIing me Adjutant Gen you to the R. tenance Shop welcthe new Meld 1a~n Culld• coxdiall lxt~s at on camp Cl for the Cexemo y located Sig event (5~ heading maxl~.s a g 1 Guard This cevemOlly Army patio 2006' Massachus inning in Sep mbex n( 65,000 sq• ft., Ncj). Beg xllio to an end, ~R ction of this $1~i -Row drawing constxa aTt facility state-of-the evel a 'Two lned to ante tasks the Army txansfox-Field N~ ainten ns w ere . As ace Systems 0 j atlo is to meet aintenauth bsequent levCI of a .was desig oad, and su S geadU'9 creased woxlcl expanded• ~~ands and in these new dem -VMS te o ist%cs )irectoxaboth the s o of the 141E g serving ARG. A Part lays a vital roles of the Reading p isslon level l and state To and directs field units fedexa o eratioverseesns 1 assig,v~S Reading fox its 11 Sexy e as a ce aintenan opMS Reading vrxl ovally se to assist units in ~dd~ti G exaf Ba -~o~axd pdomestic operations. conducting VN. Reading aiatenanee S edule Ribb°Field n Gutting Arrival l Cere1nony ~e it's 9. 4Q National Anthem InvQeation 'R peening en'arks Guest speakers°mients eral The Adjutant GM Joseph Carter -Benedietion,h°tos B.ibbon Cut~on Concludes Ceremony dour 1 gefreShnuents• raeiUty ~~1 e .eric I Hiking j Society I TmLs 'a ~ Trail Building Volunteers Needed! Saturday,, June 7 :00 AM - :00 M Mattera Conservation Area 1481 Main St, Reading Join RE and the Reading Trails Committee for this National Trails Day event. We will rough out an accessible trail from the Mattera log cabin to Bare Meadow Conservation Area. Volunteers will clear and edge the trail and lay down a surface of reclaimed asphalt. Bring gloves, clippers, hand saws, rakes, wheelbarrows or garden carts, water bottle, insect repellant, and sun screen. Drinks and a light lunch will be provided. Join us for an hour or for the whole day. Adults and older youth only please. Call REI Reading Customer Service to sign up and get a free wicking RE Volunteer "Get Dirty" T-shirt the day of the event: 781-944-5103. Check the Town of Reading website for more information. Follow the link under Volunteer Opportunities on the home page: www.read inama.aov. ~I1: ;Ulf 0 AP RF,, ICS Schena, Paula From: Sent: To: Subject: Town Managers report Hechenbleikner, Peter Monday, May 19, 2008 12:18 PM Schena, Paula FW: Roadway Funding, Non-Capital From: McIntire, Ted Sent: Monday, May 19, 2008 12:11 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Cc: LeLacheur, Bob; DeBrigard,. Mike; Zambouras, George; Kinsella, Jane Subject: Roadway Funding, Non-Capital FY08 Annual Town Meeting Warrant April 23, 2007 Pg. 50, Line S6 - $27,235 of the Expense Total is used for roadway patch/paving, made up of the following: • Pg. 143, Highway Patch - $14,235 • Pg. 143, Highway Supplies - $13,000 of $35,830 is used for roadway patch/paving (Note: There was an additional $4,000 added to this account under Article 5 (FY08 budget amendments) at the April 28, 2008 Town Meeting, for patching) FY09 Annual Town Meeting Warrant April 28, 2008 Pg. 37, Line S6 - $34,435 of the Expense Total is used for roadway patch/paving, made up of the following: Pg. 123, Highway Patch - $14,235 Pg. 123, Highway Supplies - $20,200 of $43,030 is used for roadway patch/paving Edward D. "Ted" McIntire, Jr. Director of Public Works Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading. MA 01867-2683 781-942-6680 781-942-9081 fax emcintire().ci.readina.ma.us I G-7 Page 1 of 1 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 4:15 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Reading Memorial Park - update r-Town- anagers report 5-27-08 From: Ellen Doucette [rrmailto:ecdoucette@brackettlucas.com] Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 3:53 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: Reading Memorial Park - update Peter, This morning I appeared in the Middlesex Probate Court in front of Judge Kagan re: a Case Management Conference on the town's Petition for Reasonable Deviation regarding Reading Memorial Park. As you know, because the judge viewed the language of the deed; "quiet enjoyment of the neighborhood" as making the , neighbors beneficiaries of the trust (a gift of land to the town for charitable purposes forms a trust) abutters to the Park were given notice of the Petition and many of them filed objections/answers or some other form of document with the court. Because of these objections, the Asst. Attorney General indicated to me on several occasions that she was going to withdraw her assent to the petition, notwithstanding that she believes the town's plans with respect to the park are acceptable and allowed by the deed in any event. Six of the neighbors were in attendance: Davina Shuman, John Cortese, Thomas MacGrath and 3 others whose names I cannot remember. Judge Kagan informed me that because of the filed objections, I had two choices: one, to obtain the assent of the objectors (unlikely) and two, to get a trial date. At that time, A.A.G. Soris indicated to the judge that the Attorney General's Office was withdrawing its assent to the petition. She did indicate to the judge that she had toured the park, read the deed and spoke to town officials before giving her assent, i.e., she did her homework and the assent was given after much consideration. With the A.G.'s assent withdrawn, I had no choice but to ask the court to withdraw the petition without prejudice. The Attorney General is the public's representative with respect to charitable trusts and without their assent and/or assistance, the Town's petition had little chance of success. The motion to withdraw the assent, and the petition, was allowed which concludes this matter for now. Please call if you have any questions. Regards, Ellen Ellen Callahan Doucette, Esq. Brackett & Lucas 165 Washington Street Winchester, MA 01890 (781) 729-1500 (781) 729-5444 Facsimile I G~ 5/16/2008 Page 1 of 1 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 11:55 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Some web site stats own Manager's report ) From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 11:51 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; Cole, Christopher; Feudo, John; Furilla, Kevin; Honetschlager, Kim; Kinsella, Jane; LeLacheur, Bob; Roberts, Carol; Schena, Paula; Schloth, Mike; Scribner, Andrew; Delai, Mary; Huggins, Joe; Reading - Department Heads; Vinnie Cameron (vcameron@rmld.com) Subject: Some web site stats A quick overview of the subscribers we have, more details to follow in the next week or two: ReadingMA Notes (199 names) ReadingMA_PlanningNews (125 names) ReadingMA_Jobs (58 names) ReadingMA_RecreationNews (138 names) ReadingMA_ElderNews (43 names) 1Gq 5/16/2008 Page 1 of 1 ,q" w '.-J r-t G /2 ' `c4aa"CS'C` Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Monday, May 19, 2008 1:35 PM To: Zambouras, George; Ellen Callahan Doucette Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: Double Poles According to the RMLD, there are 93 "double poles" in Reading, and the RMLD is off all but 4. Of those 4 they should have their work done in a week or so. The main problem is Verizon. The state law gives 90 days for removal of double poles but there is no penalty if they don't. Do you have experience or ideas as to how to get Verizon to move more quickly? Should we refuse to hear pole relocation petitions? Or deny petitions? Ellen, is a local bylaw imposing a fine for non-compliance a possibility? Pete Town Manager report t C( C) 5/19/2008 f 1 ~VLA 1J TRACKING O F LEGAL SERVICES - FY 2008 Monthlv Hours $ Month Monthlv Monthlv Hours Cumulative Available Monthlv Monthlv Cumulative Available Hours Hours Used vs Remainder $ $ Cost Remainder Allocated Used Allocated of 1/2 vear Allocated Used 1/2 Year July 49.0 70.3 21.30 21.30 223.70 $6,667 $9,522 $9,522 $30,480 August 49.0 20.9 (28.10) (6.80) 202.8 $6,667 $2,885 $12,407 $27,595 September 49.0 47.3 (1.70) (8.50) 155.5 $6,667 $6,399 $18,806 $21,196 October 49.0 26 (23.00) (31.50) 129.50 $6,667 $3,510 $22,316 $17,686 November 49.0 48.8 (0.20) (31.70) 80.70 $6,667 $6,588 $28,904 $11,098 December 49.0 53 4.00 (27.70) 27.70 $6,667 $7,176 $36,080 $3,922 294.00 266.3 27.70 0.00 $40,002 $36,080 $36,080 $3,922 January 49.0 22.4 26.60 (54.30) 271.60 $6,667 $3,024 $39,104 $40,900 February 49.0 29.7 19.30 (73.60) 241.90 $6,667 $4,009 $43,113 $36,891 March 49.0 44.6 4.40 (78.00) 197.30 $6,667 $6,021 $49,134 $30,870 April 49.0 29.8 19.20 (97.20) 167.50 $6,667 $4,023 $53,157 $26,847 May 49.0 $6,667 June 49.0 $6,667 Subtotal 294 126.5 $40,002 $17,077 Total 588.00 392.8 41.8 $80,004 $53,157 $26,8471 Note - monthly amount used is gross and does not reflect portions of expenses allocated to enterprise accountsexpense 5/20/2008 Mr. Ronald Bucchino Mr. Jesse Arroyo Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA,01867-2683 The Tyree Organization, Ltd. 9 Otis Street Westborough, MA 01581 CONSERVATION COMMISSION Phone (781) 942-6616 Fax (781) 942-9071 ffinka.ci.readine.rna.us May 19, 2008 Re: Getty Property #30355, 306 Main Street, DEP RTN 3-21224 and RTN 3-26432 Order of Conditions, DEP 270-492, RGB 2006-41 Dear Mr. Bucchino and Mr. Arroyo: The Commission inspected the work at 306 Main Street on April 27 and May 11, 2008. During their meeting on May 14, 2008, the Conservation Commission reviewed the site inspection reports and the following documents: 1. Letter dated April 23, 2008, with four attached site plans, from Jesse Arroyo of Tyree; 2. Letter dated May 6, 2008, with two attached figures and two attached appendices, from Jesse Arroyo of Tyree; 3. Site plan entitled "Proposed Planting Program" for 306 Main Street, prepared by ESS Group, Inc., dated May 5, 2008; 4. Phase IV Status Report dated May 5, 2008, RTN 3-21224. The Commission then voted to accept the installation of the monitoring wells, the on-going monitoring activities, and the grading, soil preparation, and planting plans as set forth in these documents. Please forward a copy of the most recent soils tests from the stockpile area as soon as they are available. If further excavation is found to be necessary, please forward a description of that work as well. C, 2..- Please call to arrange a site visit with the landscape contractor and Tyree representatives before the grading and planting begins. We would like to use this inspection to identify invasive plants to be removed and to review methods for removal, limits of work, and the general sequence of work. After the initial planting, provision should be made for frequent watering during germination of the seed mixture, and for close monitoring and additional cutting of invasive species as needed. Thank you for your attention to these matters. Sincerely, ~7"' /xIC-L Frances M. Fink Conservation Administrator cc: Mr. James Stewart, Getty Petroleum Marketing, Inc., 141 Main Street, South Portland, ME 04106 Mr. Anthony F. Andronico, LSP, 78 Hamilton Street - #1, Quincy, MA 02170 DEP-HERO, Attn: Mr. Andrew Clark, Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup, 205B Lowell Street, Wilmington, MA 01887 Lt. Paul Jackson, Fire Department Mr. Larry Ramdin, Health Director Ms. Carol Kowalski, Planning Director Board of Selectmen I c, Page 1 of 1 kD~ Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 11:43 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: 2008 Taxes I/c BOS From: Heffernan, Nancy Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 11:40 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Cc: LeLacheur, Bob; Licari, Beth Subject: 2008 Taxes Peter, Following up on yesterday's meeting, the number of unpaid Real Estate Tax bills as compared to last year is as follows: 5/13/08 619 2008 tax bills - demands will be issued on Friday 5/16 5/17/07 660 2007 tax bills 5/23/06 627 2006 tax bills So it appears that the worsening economy has not hit our collections rate yet. Nancy Nancy J. Heffernan Town of Reading Treasurer/Collector 16 Lowell St Reading MA 01867 (781) 942-6634 Fax: (781) 942-9037 I (f :S I-f 5/14/2008 APPOINTMENTS TO BECOME EFFECTIVE MAY 279 2008 Economic Development Committee 0 Vacancies Avvointin2 Authoritv: Board of Selectmen Present Member(s) and Term(s), Sheila Clarke Russell T. Graham, Chr. Leslie McGonagle Meghan A. Young-Tafoya John Russell, V. Chr. Michelle R. Williams (Assoc.) Sharon Petersen (Associate) Candidates: Michelle Ferullo Orig. Term Date moires 536 Haverhill St. (06) 2008 68 Maple Ridge Rd. (06) 2008 140 Pine Ridge Rd. (06) 2010 40 Oak Street (06) 2010 91 Spruce Road (06) 2009 31 Melbourne Ave. (07) 2008 25 Holly Road (09) 2008 I a- I ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Term Appointing Authority Number of Members Meetings Purpose Three years Board of Selectmen Five members appointed for three year terms so arranged that as near an equal number of terms as possible shall expire each year. As needed Develop an Economic Development Strategy consistent with the Master Plan and goals and objectives established by the Board of Selectmen. Work'with staff to obtain State and Federal economic developmental grants. Explore the need for and legality of forming a "property based" and/or "business based" Business Improvement District(s) funded by Assessments on all businesses within the individual district(s). Encourage commercial development and office leases of downtown space consistent with the traditional atmosphere of a.New England Village Center. Advise the Board of Selectmen, CPDC and any other Town agency or official on matters related to ' economic development in the community. Maintain an ongoing dialogue with business owners and owners of major properties on a pro-active basis to understand how the Town can work with them to achieve their plans. 3,!~4 'I, s0~l n APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO BOARDS/COMMITTEES/COMMISSIONS, Name: ~e,KWLLO M c* elIe fW4-1 t Date: c~l~{ 0 (Last) (First) (Middle) Address: o c, r4Q,4,)a r- , GJI wG► Tel. (Home) 4VI -Gj 11,~ -S- 0,-- Tel. (Work) (Is this number listed?) Occupation: ~'~()(M # of years in Reading: Are you'a registered voter in Reading? L4e_ S e-mail address: i Place a number next to your preferred position(s) (up to four choices) with #1 being your first priority. (Attach a resume if available.) Animal Control Appeals Committee Aquatics Advisory Board Audit Committee Board of Appeals Board of Cemetery Trustees Board of Health Board of Registrars Bylaw Committee Celebration Committee Cities for Climate Protection Commissioner of Trust Funds Community Planning & Development Comm. Conservation Commission Constable Contributory Retirement Board Council on Aging Cultural Council Custodian of Soldiers' & Sailors' Graves .As S©cr cZk M tk w Economic Development Committee/ Finance Committee Historical Commission Housing Authority Human Relations Advisory Committee Land Bank Committee MBTA Advisory Committee Metropolitan Area Planning Council Mystic Valley Elder Services Recreation Committee RMLD Citizens Advisory Board Telecommunications and Technology Advisory Committee Town Forest Committee Water, Sewer and Storm Water Management Advisory Committee West Street Historic District Commission Other 8 Please outline relevant experience for the position(s) sought: _ / N t'r N oa 3C,3 APPOINTMENTS TO BECOME EFFECTIVE MAY 27, 2008 Trails Committee 1 Vacancv A pointing Authority Board of Selectmen Present Member(s) and Term(s) Thomas S. Gardiner Joan A. Hoyt Charles Donnelly Moran David Williams Vacancy Orig. Term Date moires 182 Franklin Street (08) 2009 89 Oakland Road (08) 2010 32 Vale Road (08) 2009 117 Oak Street (08) 2010 (08) 2008 Candidates: Marybeth Baker Patricia Biggs Heather Clish Susan Giacalone Alan Rosh Steve Smith bI 2.2.7 Policv Establishing a Reading Trails Committee (RTC) Based on the recommendation of the Northern Area Greenway Committee, there is hereby established a five (5) member Reading Trail Committee (RTC) which will assume the responsibilities of planning, developing, and maintaining present and future trails in the Town of Reading. The goal is for the Town to create and maintain a connected, well coordinated system of trails to serve the residents of the community. The RTC will undertake the following responsibilities. . Make recommendations to the Conservation Commission, Town Forest Committee, and Recreation Committee regarding development, operation, use, and maintenance of trails crossing lands under the jurisdiction of these bodies. The RTC shall have no rule-making authority itself. Act as a liaison between the Town of Reading and the Reading Open Land Trust, Friends of Reading Recreation, Walkable Reading, Scout groups, and other youth and community groups with respect to development, operation, use, and maintenance of trails. e Coordinate and manage an Adopt-a-Trail program, if appropriate, for the maintenance of trails or portions there-of. Set trail construction, maintenance, use, accessibility, and signage standards. ♦ Oversee production of trail maps and guides. ♦ Provide advice and recommendations on the development of the Ipswich River Greenway and other trail initiatives arising from Town reports and studies. ♦ Approve volunteer trail projects before the volunteers seek approval for projects from the Conservation Commission, Town Forest Committee, or other Town or other cooperating organizations. o Organize training, hikes, trail maintenance days, and trail construction projects. o Foster working relationships with DPW, Police, Fire, Schools, or other agencies to carry out the mission of the RTC. ♦ Encourage cooperation and address problems and conflicts in trail areas. ♦ Identify grant opportunities to support trail initiatives. Make recommendations to the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, and other bodies of the Town on measures necessary and appropriate to implement the trails program. The Committee will be made up of five (5) members appointed for 3 year teens, so appointed that as even a number of terms shall expire in each year. Associate members may also be appointed. In selecting the Committee membership of 5 members, the Board of Selectmen shall appoint all members and shall give consideration to members representing the following interests within the community: ➢ Recommendation of the Conservation Commission; ➢ Recommendation of the Town Forest Committee; ➢ Recommendation of the Recreation Committee; ➢ one or more residents of the community who do not represent the above groups, and who has expertise in, conservation, environmental affairs, trails operation and maintenance, or other areas of expertise which, in the opinion of the Board would be helpful in meeting the Committee's mission. Subcommittees may be created by a vote of the Committee. Members of Subcommittee members do not necessarily have to be members of the Committee. 31o-z, This Committee shall administratively fall within the Department of Community Services. Staff as available will be assigned by the Town Manager to work with the Committee. This Committee shall sunset on June 30, 2013 unless renewed by the Board of Selectmen. Adopted 3-25-08 3 b3 APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO BOARDS/COMMITTEES/COMMISSIONS Name: G gV,ur mca rtlbt k-l, r`1, ig \i (Last) (First) (Middle` Address: x'1!4 Occupation: Nu/-5e_ Prat l- -h one r' Date: q /1 1 / U Tel. (home) Cq - $ ~(0 - Z B $ Tel. (Work) - 139 b9Ll z (Is this number listed?) do # of years in Reading: Z.. Ate you a registered voter in Reading? N 0 e-mail address: ~ir~rub~ ba (GQ.r- ~ l~cr~-M~( (o r ~ J Place a number next to your preferred position(s) (up to four choices) with #1 being your first priority. (Attach a resume if available.) Animal Control Appeals Committee Aquatics Advisory Board Audit Committee Board of Appeals Board of Cemetery Trustees Board of Health Board of Registrars ~Bylaw Committee Celebration Committee Cities for Climate Protection Commissioner of Trust Funds Community Planning & Development'Comm. Conservation Commission Constable Contributory Retirement Board Council on Aging Cultural Council Custodian of Soldiers' & Sailors' Graves -Economic Development Committee Finance Committee ' ~Historical Commission ~Housing Authority Human Relations Advisory Committee Land Banks Committee MBTA Advisory Committee Metropolitan Area Planning Council Mystic Valley Elder Services d, Recreation Committee RMLD Citizens Advisory Board Telecommunications and Technology Advisory Committee Town Forest Committee Trails Committee West Street Historic District.Commission Other 8 ao r.3 w Please outline relevant experience for the position(s) sought: = a,',-% an c\vid ,runne.- P\(Uf.#- .1^A PA1,P+e. :1:' R-X)'\ou ►'l.e_ ova do.o~ r ~ ~ J ana kcxvL Vojten4-trrtJ 17) ft,-j- L,n \(S 1. Q Whc~c MMS_ 6*- Nl-F. Wo/bC d ~-Vr- EcMS whe Z 1i✓tA i . ra(d,,-ddz v c is avo. MK1nly, = M (A+,cf c Acct i/x {lC~i nG nA o ~'1 r rrt2.n 6v S o./- ✓L, Lc?'Y,vnccn [~L S J I J J aci~ dia- t S1rn'glt., Zh,aq i 1A +)A -e in Gl, nvn-6HYLA_(t~Jc rAlarti► J J J 3,b y RECEIVED TOWN CLERK PPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO BOARDS/COMMITTEES/GOMA9ai A' MASS.. Name: R; q-Ts Ira..-1-11; r-1, (First) (Middle) Address: 3 0 Fes, c~~o S f Occupation:. u 4r_ q ZD0o FR 10 P 12= 49 Date: Tel. (Rome) 7 CI' Yy 3a Tel. (Work) Gr.il: s`? - a y3 (Is this number listed?) yc,., . , # of years in Reading: 3. S Are.ypu a registered voter in Reading? q e-mail address. a9 c, -'r; Place a number next to your preferred position(s) (up to four choices) with #1 being your first priority. (Attach: a resume if available.) Animal Control Appeals Committee Aquatics Advisory Board Audit Committee Board of Appeals Board of Cemetery Trustees Board of Health Board of Registrars Bylaw Committee Celebration Committee Cities for Climate Protection Comunissioner of Trust Funds Community Planning & Development Comm.. Conservation Commission Constable Contributory Retirement Board Council on Aging Cultural Council Custodian of Soldiers' & Sailors' Graves Economic Development Committee Finance Committee Historical Commission Housing Authority Human Relations Advisory Committee Land Bank Conunittee MBTA Advisory Committee Metropolitan Area Planning Council Mystic Valley Elder Services Recreation Committee RMLD Citizens Advisory Board -Telecommunications and Technology Advisory Committee Town Forest Committee Trails Committee West Street Historic District Commission Other Please outline relevant experience for the position(s).sought: n 7A.5Z fl, -1kr_ Za~CS-t 1~A- 1,~.r-r- in „ nfu,-d R C S; fe-Tf• ( ISnH. Q c~ 4j,, rsf ~r;o o K (SQA/ i r nv~ (3 v r w Vt P_.c r t) Obi ~vv u.f i 1 rI-,It, -i-,, -}ra.,' -4 ~ Q 7` P.N JS 9 (A)O aJ GNJ JC,"O 1. VYv,-k.f 1'✓1-re ✓'eS-t ~-c~• t to i/a s 3,6 APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO BOARDS/COMMITTEES/COMMISSIONS Name: Date: (Last) (First) (Middle) ' Address: Tel. (Home)/- /059 Tel. (Worlt) - X7 3 oo 9- Y,3e2) Occupation: Are you a registered voter in Reading? C//S (Is this number listed?) A" # of years in Reading: , e-mail address:415~4pDG&0rYS, DYGj Place a number next to your preferred position(s) (up to four choices) with #1 being your first priority. (Attach a resurne if available.) `Animal Control Appeals Committee ____Aquatics Advisory Board Audit Committee Board of Appeals 'Board of Cemetery Trustees Board of Health ~Board of Registrars `Bylaw Committee Celebration Commmittee Cities for Climate Protection 'Commissioner of Trust Funds Community Planning & Development Cornrn. Conservation Commission Constable 'Contributory Retirement Board 'Council on Aging '-Cultural Council `Custodian of Soldiers' & Sailors' Graves Economic Development Committee `Finance Committee VHistorical Commission -Housing Authority `Human Relations Advisory Committee Land Bank Committee 'MBTA Advisory Committee `-Metropolitan Area Planning Council Mystic Valley Elder Services 'Recreation Committee ~RMLD Citizens Advisory Board 'Telecommunications and Technology 'Advisory Committee Town Forest Committee Water, Sewer and Storm Water Management Advisory Committee West Street Historic District Commission VOther-1-;~,ai'k ~r~vrr i/,LPG 00 Please outline relevant experience for the position(s) sought: - d -a 3a 6 APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO BOARDS/COMMITTEES/COMMISSIONS Name: V 1 CL.G ~./ei~ Y'. Date: J`~/, O D (Last) (First) (Middle) Address: Y/C Cr r k _ r i ✓ e- Tel. (home) 7 l _ el c~C- - q $ 5 , Tel. (Work) - X13 9 _ 31 3 3 (Is this number listed?) Ye s Occupation: IL I`7~ r Ay" _e # of years in Reading: / DL._ Are you a registered voter in Reading? Yes e-mail address: S• °J t ct~ C %On e V ► Z h . h e7 ` v Place a number next to your preferred position(s)' (up to four choices) with #1 being your first priority. (Attach a resume if available.) Animal Control Appeals Committee Aquatics Advisory Board Audit Committee Board of Appeals Board of Cemetery Trustees, Board of Health Board of Registrars Bylaw Committee Celebration Committee Cities for Climate Protection Commissioner of Trust Funds Community Plamling & Development Comm. Conservation Commission Constable Contributory Retirement Board Council on Aging Cultural Council Custodian of Soldiers' & Sailors' Graves 0 __Economic Development Committee A Finance Committee -c Historical Commission C) C) Housing Authority Human Relations Advisory Committk Land Bank Committee MBTA Advisory Committee Metropolitan Area Planning Council Mystic Valley Elder Services Recreation Committee -Recreation Citizens Advisory Board Telecommunications and Technology 'Advisory Committee _Town Forest Committee Trails Committee West Street Historic District Commission ~Other Please outline relevant experience for the position(s) sought: O YI o ; v s V OUtdorS . t'r'i 3> p ~nrn trx n 30 APPLICATION FOR APPOINTWNT TO BOARDS/CO TTEES/COMAUSSIONS Name: Fd.511-1 /G-i?~ Date: (Last) (First) (Middle) Address: Z.3Z A) Tel. (Home) 791 Tel. (Work) 71,7-m _ (Is this number listed?) iC3 Occupation: /✓SOZ)UG% # of years in Reading: l/ Are you a registered voter in Reading? IV5 e-mail address: Place a number next to your preferred position(s) (up to four choices) with #1 being your first priority. (Attach a resume if available.) _Animal Control Appeals Committee -Aquatics Advisory Board _ Audit Committee Board of Appeals -Board of Cemetery Trustees -Board of Health Board of Registrars Bylaw Committee -Celebration Committee -Cities for Climate Protection -Commissioner of Trust Funds -Community Planning & Development Comm. Conservation Commission Constable -Contributory Retirement Board -Council on Aging -Cultural Council Custodian of Soldiers' & Sailors' Graves Economic Development Committee Finance Committee Historical Commission Housing Authority -Human Relations Advisory Committee -Land Bank Committee MBTA Advisory Committee Metropolitan Area Planning Council _Mystic Valley Elder Services Recreation Committee RMLD Citizens Advisory Board Telecommunications and Technology Advisory Committee. Z Town Forest Committee Trails Committee _West Street Historic District Commission Other Please outline relevant experience for the position(s) sought: / 1/1111. 1"i//a_ /,koz . Arl- Alazlc 1ti.2 Gr~G/!Z /S'//C/-iG 4Zv,y /IS /li4W IT 17'5`b4 klawlC /a~C //mil/~7N~~ ~ /~U% /Ix•/J /W47" 6W11-1d1-W11- 417 /1 ~17We;-77-,i-- ArJ 17kow- /T hQ :6 WV 8- AM BE 3 bg APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO BOARDS/COMMITTEES/COMMISSIONS Name: ~ , SR Date: l 0rTs (``Last) ' (First) C °(Middle) ( 44 Address: Tel. (Home) 7% -2 Tel. (Work) (Is this number listed?) Occupation: T~, C7 fit r # of years in Reading: K~ Are ou a re stered voter in Readin a ~v~ v . Y gi g • e-mail address: /0 C14 U~ ~ 4 J Place a number next to your preferred position(s) (up to four choices) with #1 being your first priority. (Attach a resume if available.) Animal Control Appeals Committee Aquatics Advisory Board Audit Committee Board of Appeals Board of Cemetery Trustees .Board of Health Board of Registrars ~Bylaw Committee Celebration Committee Cities for Climate Protection Commissioner of Trust Funds Community Planning & Development Comm Conservation Commission Constable Contributory Retirement Board Council on Aging Cultural Council Custodian of Soldiers' &.Sailors' Graves _Economic Development Committee Finance Committee ' Historical Commission. ' Housing Authority Human Relations Advisory Committee. ~ Land Bank Committee MBTA Advisory Committee Metropolitan Area Planning Council Mystic Valley Elder Services ' Recreation Committee ' w RMLD Citizens. Advisory Board Telecommunications and Technology ~ Advisory Committee Town Forest Committee Q Trails Committee West Street Historic District Commission Other Please outline relevant experience for the position(s) soought: A, (kx GY/ D ley 2,1, 9 Memo To: Peter I. Hechenbleikner, Town Manager From: George J. Zambouras, Town Engineer Date: May 22, 2008 Re: Woodland Road Acceptance - Construction Improvements All improvement work necessary to accept the roadway as a public way as voted by the Board of Selectman on February 13, 2007 has been completed. The total' cost for the improvements is $44,882.02 which is substantially less than the original estimate of $94,263.75. This reduction was a result of all work, except for the final pavement surface, being performed by Department of Public Works personnel. Based on lot frontage the attached sheets identify the final betterment to be assessed to each of the residents. 0 Page 1 Ll Woodland Street - Street Acceptance Betterment Assessment INCLUDING CORNER LOTS April 21, 2008 Calculated Abutting PLAT PARCEL ADDRESS Full Frontage Abated Frontage Frontage 122 79* 91 John Carver Road 115.00* -86.25 28.75 122 80 11 Woodland Street 75.00 75.00 122 81 7 Woodland Street 149.29 149.29 112 38* 83 John Carver Road 105.82* -79.36 26.46 112 37 12 Woodland Street 94.63 94.63 112 26 6 Woodland Street 40.00 40.00 112 25 6 Woodland Street 103.97 103.97 TOTALS 683.71 -165.61 518.10 * Corner Lot Calculated Cost per linear foot of frontage = Total cost of construction / calculated abutting frontage $44,882.021518.10 LF = $ 86.63 per LF ASSESSMENTS PLAT PARCEL OWNER 122 79* Daniel Lelacheur & Nancy Kearney 122 80 Jeanette Rivers Trustee, The Rivers Tr. 122 81 John Holland & Patricia Holland 112 38* Thomas Hatch Jr. & Laura Ryan 112 37 Robert Tucker & Michele Tucker 112 26 Christie Williamson & Christopher Jarvis 112 25 Christie Williamson & Christopher Jarvis Calculated . Calculated cost Abutting per linear foot Frontage frontage Assessment 28.75 $ 86.63 $ 2,490.56 75.00 $ 86.63 ' $ 6,497.11 149.29 $ 86.63 $ 12,932.71 26.46 $ 86.63 $ 2,292.18 94.63 $ 86.63 $ 8,197.62 40.00 $ 86.63 $ 3,465.12 103.97 $ 86.63 $ 9,006.72 $ 44,882.02 * Corner Lot qb2-,, WOODLAND STREET - STREET ACCEPTANCE BETTERMENT FINAL ASSESMENT TOTAL ADDRESS PLAT LOT OWNERS ASSESMENT 91 John Carver Road 122 79 Daniel Lelacheur $ 2,490.56 Nancy Kearney 11 Woodland Street 122 80 Jeanette Rivers Trustee, $ 6,497.11 The Rivers Tr. 7 Woodland Street 122 81 John Holland $ 12,932.71 Patricia Holland 83 John Carver Road 112 38 Thomas Hatch Jr. $ 2,292.18 Laura Ryan 12 Woodland Street 112 37 Robert Tucker $ 8,197.62 Michele Tucker 6 Woodland Street 112 26 Christie Williamson $ 3,465.12 Christopher Jarvis 6 Woodland Street 112 25 Christie Williamson $ 9,006.72 Christopher Jarvis $ 44,882.02 Nb3 DRAFT - June 30, 2008 Special Town Meeting WARRANT OUTLINE 05/22/2008 Art. Mover/ Moderator # Article Description Sponsor Comment Notes 7 ~Correct Zoning Bylaw 113oardofSelecu,icii o .Iohli"oll Mucclic 8 Library Book replacement revolving Board of Selectmen Hechenbleikner fund 9 Authorize additional debt for Water Board of Selectmen o LeLacheur/LaPointe/ Treatment plant demolition Doucette Ir I l 10 Authorize additional funding for Board of Selectmen • LeLacheur/LaPointe/ Artificial Turf Field Doucette 11 Approval of contract in excess of 3 Board of Selectmen Hechenbleikner years - Substance Abuse evaluation ~ 1? I I~ I I f~ 14 I L/G 1 t F ,1 } i u _C ~ 1 I 3 Amend Capital Improvement. Board of Selectmen Program FY 2008 - FY 2017 COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Middlesex, ss. Officer's Return, Reading: By virtue of this Warrant, I, on notified and warned the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote on Town affairs, to meet at the place and at the time specified by posting attested copies of this Town Meeting Warrant in the following public places within the Town of Reading: Precinct 1 J. Warren Killam School, 333 Charles Street Precinct 2 Peter Sanborn Place, 50 Bay State Road Precinct 3 Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street Precinct 4 Joshua Eaton School, 365 Summer Avenue Precinct 5 Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street Precinct 6 Austin Preparatory School, 101 Willow Street Precinct 7 Reading Library, Local History Room, 64 Middlesex Avenue Precinct 8 Wood End School, 85 Sunset Rock Lane The date of posting being not less than fourteen (14) days prior to June 30, 2008, the date set for the Special Town Meeting in this Warrant. I also caused an attested copy of this Warrant to be published in the Reading Chronicle in the issue of Alan W. Ulrich, Constable A true copy. Attest: Cheryl A. Johnson, Town Clerk 1 L-1 C--2- SPECIAL TOWN MEETING (Seal) COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Middlesex, ss. To any of the Constables of the Town of Reading, Greetings: In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby required to notify and warn the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in elections and Town affairs, to meet at the Reading Memorial High School Auditorium, 62 Oakland Road in said Reading, on Monday, June 30, 2008, at seven-thirty o'clock in the evening, at which time and place the following articles are to be acted upon and determined exclusively by Town Meeting Members in accordance with the provisions of the Reading Home Rule Charter. ARTICLE 1 To hear and act on the reports of the Board of Selectmen, Town Accountant, Treasurer-Collector, Board of Assessors, Director of Public Works, Town Clerk, Tree Warden, Board of Health, School Committee, Contributory Retirement Board, Library Trustees, Municipal Light Board, Finance Committee, Cemetery Trustees, Community Planning & Development Commission, Conservation Commission, Town Manager and any other Board or Special Committee. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 2 To choose all other necessary Town Officers and Special Committees and determine what instructions shall be given Town Officers and Special Committees, and to see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for the purpose of funding Town Officers and Special Committees to carry out the instructions given to them, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 3 To see if the Town will vote to amend the FY 2008 - FY 2017, Capital Improvements Program as provided for in Section 7-7 of the Reading Home Rule Charter, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to amend one or more of the votes taken under Article 13 of the Warrant of the Annual Town Meeting of April 23, 2007, as amended by Article 4 of the November 13, 2007 Subsequent Town Meeting and as amended by Article 5 of the April 28, 2008 Annual Town Meeting; and to see what sum the Town will vote to appropriate by borrowing or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, as the result of any such amended votes for the operation of the Town and its government, or take any other action with respect thereto. Finance Committee 2 Lf c3 ARTICLE 5 To see if the Town will vote to accept the report of the Board of Selectmen upon the laying out as a public way the following described private way under the provision of law authorizing the assessment of betterments, such ways being laid out in accordance with plans duly approved by the Board of Selectmen; and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to take such ways under the provision of law authorizing the assessment of betterments, in fee or rights of easement therein by eminent domain, under the provisions of Chapter 79 of the General Laws, as amended, or acquire said lands in fee or rights of easement therein by purchase, gift or otherwise and to assess betterments therefore, the plans and descriptions for such way being filed in the Office of the Town Clerk in accordance with the statutory requirements; and to see what sum the Town will vote to appropriate by borrowing, or from the tax levy, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, for the acquisition of said lands or easements therein or for payment of any eminent domain damages and for the construction of said ways, or take any other action with respect thereto. • Baldwin Lane Extension Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 6 To see if the Town will vote to rescind authorized but unused debt for: • Water main repairs as authorized by Article 10 on November 7, 2005 or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 7 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-Laws of the Town of Reading as follows: to renumber Section 2.2.2.28.1 thereof so that it reads Section 2.2.28.1; or take any action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 8 To see what sums the Town will vote to appropriate to establish revolving funds under Chapter 44, Section 53E'/2 for any or all of the following purposes: ♦ Replacement of lost or stolen Library books; and to determine the total amount of expenditures during Fiscal Year 2009 which may be made from each such fund, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 9 To see if the Town will vote to amend the vote taken under Article 4 of the June 12, 2006 Special Town Meeting to appropriate by borrowing, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for the payment of entrance fees, costs of connection, demolition of the existing Water Treatment Plant and other modifications to the water distribution system, and other expenses for the same; and to see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen, acting as Water Lf G Commissioners, to take such actions necessary or required to apply for admission to and to receive the entirety of the Town of Reading's public water supply from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority Water System, including, without limitation, filing legislation, payment of applicable fees and charges, and entering into an agreement with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority as may be required or necessary to receive a supply of water at prevailing rates charged by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to communities in its water supply system, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 10 To see if the Town will vote to amend the vote taken under Article 22 of the April 23, 2007 Annual Town Meeting to appropriate by borrowing, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise appropriate pursuant to Chapter 44 of the Massachusetts General Laws or any other enabling act for the purpose of making artificial turf field improvements at the Parker Middle School, including the costs of engineering services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services, construction management services, and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and to see if the Town will authorize the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, or any other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be used to defray the cost of all, or any part of, said improvements; and that the Town authorizes the Town Manager to enter into any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Article and authorize the Treasurer-Collector, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to borrow pursuant to said authorization. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 11 To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to Mass. General Laws Chapter 30B, Section 12, to authorize the Town Manager to enter into a contract, including all extensions, renewals and options, for a Substance Abuse Prevention Program Evaluator, for a period greater than three years but not exceeding five years upon such terms and conditions determined by the Town Manager, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen 4 ~G~~ and you are directed to serve this Warrant by posting an attested copy thereof in at least one (1) public place in each precinct of the Town not less than fourteen (14) days prior to June 30, 2008, the date set for the meeting in said Warrant, and to publish this Warrant in a newspaper published in the Town, or providing in a manner such as electronic submission, holding for pickup or mailing, an attested copy of said Warrant to each Town Meeting Member. Hereof fail not and make due return of this Warrant with your doings thereon to the Town Clerk at or before the time appointed for said meeting. Given under our hands this 27th day of May, 2008. James E. Bonazoli, Chairman Stephen A. Goldy, Vice Chairman Ben Tafoya, Secretary Camille W. Anthony Richard W. Schubert SELECTMEN OF READING Alan W. Ulrich, Constable 5 q G( Economic Development Committee Work Plan 21 May 2008 Next scheduled meeting - 4 June 2008 EDC Members - Russ Graham, Sack Russell, Leslie McGonagle, Sheila Clark, Meghan Young Tafoya, Michele Williams (A), and Michelle Ferullo, Sharon Petersen (A) Liaison Kowalski, Abby McCabe, Pete Hechenbleikner Town Leaders - Carol Board of Selector Projected Launch Dates Alleyway Project (TBD) I. Marketing ! Project Start Responsible: 3 Status & Comments Description Part r i e_- and Due Date Sheila/Mike Business page updated Website (AB) Continue with Business page EDC page in progress (ongoing) o Adding businesses EDC Page 27May08 Final edits submitted during meeting, to be Sales/Marketing Brochure Sheila/Meghan printed 5-22-08 Cost-effective production (in-house?) tion from website, Carol's Obtain informa initial brochure, and Downtown Steering Committee's work Russ/Sharon/Meghan Ongoing Meghan drafted business profile `boiler plate' PR Mode Profile 1 business per month draft edited during meeting Local organization (Rotary) Regional outreach RCN EDC Articles Reading Portfolio Design /Fagade - Arlington 5/5/5 as Model Leslie/Carol/Jack - Find some interested business who would m the survey) f ro (potentially be interested in design improvement Talk with architects from Arlington Grant for this project? e Determine viability page 1 of 4 Updated on 5/2312008 - - Status & comments IT. Business - project Start onsible _ 5i9nage, corn Resp and DuE Date temporary mon Description _Pa!~~~ - ~es~ Seasonal- Abby to research Michelle Starting 7uly signage post use Expand Farmers' Market cheese and flowers zone[' as Looking into adding to this year's selections goods then of downtown "Green map Adding more bread and bake Beginning in EDC will use the rest of this year, last year All Beg businesses to survey for ]une we are er - Serving as business s of business na smes treets r and As we all listing Defined . EDC Section Lead going to start with the following "vvelcome wagon into sections sides) to EDC members "real" assign street ( are as follows: Break out Resurnvey to obtain more streets to pursue first, Use existing information Main to High rt any concerns to Haven Street From Woburn to Washington formerly High Street - liaiso n/ambassador ( includes couple of busih to Main Streetn St. Repoombudsman) g!New business Washington - From HI Break into Existin der to talk/survey 3 for 3une - each of us to inaesses andcollect Each section lea Goal s from ~ businesses GOAL' per month business survey businesses p Abby sent by email the downtown businesses contacts. Revisions ad `Michele in Excel Leslie Compile a master listing d/b Abby Create independent erce for Check with lchaamber of Comm business aits that have been Add names/ern construction business collected during meetings Q..., page 2 of 4 yly. Town External comments Project status & Respans~ - Description Party(ies) Start and ` Due Date _ _ (AB) _ Michelle Promote Retail and Restaurants Downtown o Work with busine~omoecommercial a ai able space promote realtors to help o "Fish where fish are" - Proactively identify possible businesses (ie Upper Crust) o Cold calling to potential businesses Further EDC Education (AB) Attend DHCD sponsored programs • Create agenda item on any "education" that can be shared by group Go after grants and corporate sponsorships (AB) Invite State Reps in for more discussion on grant possibilities Talk to DHCD Identify Corporate sponsors Identify priority needs for grants/sponsorships Q--DHCD Meghan and Sheila plan to attend BradingiWaY workshop in Burlington on Design/ All Abby continues pursuit of getting Emmy to come to Reading. More later... Russ(State) State Reps Sub-committee to meet on grants invite - (Sheila/Michelle and Meghan) Meghan/Michelle (Corp hack August All members to put a list together of "possibilities" for Grant projects - to be reviewed in June 4 meeting Page 3 of 4 -°mme"ts Statd$ gL - DDate now open onsible' ue Coffe DepOt n - - Resp _ partY_~ie_ i - Ongoing nternal - n~ sV. Tow --Descr'ption All bout RF? U ately to talk - -conOmic - ar on han to meet seP ----=date status report Carol/Is project p meat Activleader to provide any new _ for this p DevEp~ Section Carol information Meghanl wed for the BOS presentation ° with Business Michele revie --"unication compile surveys and All prepared and own Camrn 27 Training May website• . n leaders' eill comp bassador Ongoing on-Tuesday p on osted on ection lions to liais°n/ am Russ to be report BDC Sany percep Dpdated work plan flS and eel utes with BOS p°artner with B work plan/min otes the y 1 1 also prom • Share our how you've lived reviews this BDC as it Ye ma is arly etin9it aspect of an to 0~ 3upe 2008 many yrs rk RCTV Chairm [able 0 unj e 2008 _ purin9 discussion ad broadcast On meeting attend . BOS member attend times - t to coordinate good "Ail in Reading ed during Nlegha" drafted and review elevator p itch r.Know ourselves for pitch" to the table 08 meeting Create eleva bring our committee May 12 CPDC 1ndividua% skills weare on could Meghan attended the Create a ,.who we member or associa e Sheila and ` so that new t _ quickly meeting acclimate All Partner with d meetings trotate} above A other (fee meeting - if Get to know each pint _ carter have a ~ Once a q uidelines at ail possible C on design 9 Consultation Work with CpD to_peeC M s from Adam gaacke► peer indicate reComi•nendation tAg~ page 4 of 4 Economic Development Committee Town of Reading Business Survey The Economic Development Committee (EDC) was formed by the Board of Selectmen to better assess the commercial and industrial needs of the community and to assist local businesses in enhancing their market potential. It is comprised of voluntary residents and a representative of the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce. The EDC is requesting that you complete the following business survey in order that they may better serve you. Please complete and return this survey no later than October le to Michele Williams 31 Melbourne Ave. Reading, M.A. 01867 or bring it to the breaWast. What best describes your business? ❑ Retail ❑ Industrial ❑ Manufacturing ❑ Commercial ❑ Service ❑ Other 2. How many employees does your company employ? ❑ 0-9 ❑ 10-20 ❑ 21-40 ❑ 41-50 ❑ Greater than 50 3. How many employees does your company have at this location? 4. How many years has the business been in operation at this location? 5. What is the primary market for your business? 6. What is the best thing about doing business in your current location? 7. Would you like to expand your business in Reading? Yes No Any future expansion plans? Yes No Comments: y~S You are cordially invited to A CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST Sponsored by the Reading Economic Development Committee (EDC) for business owners and business grape owners DATE: October 10, 2007 TIME: 7:30 to 9:00 am PLACE: Reading Senior Center, Pleasant St. Please come and meet the EDC members & hear about the upcoming downtown improvements that could affect your business and let us know haw the EDC can help your businesses. RSVP: By October 1, 2007 to the El DC email: EDC(7a,ci.readini2.ma.us. Please complete the enclosed survey. (starting on the back of this page) and send it back ASAP or. bring it to the breakfast. q~L 8. What single thing would make your business more successful in Reading other than parking? 9. What single action could the Economic Development Committee (EDC) take that would make your business more successful? 10. Many storefronts in Reading could stand a facade makeover and the upcoming streetscape construction period is an ideal time to do it. If yours is one of them, what is the main impediment to having your building's appearance unproved? a. I don't think it's necessary b. I can't afford it a. My landlord doesn't think it needs it b. My landlord agrees it's needed, but can't afford it c. Other: (please be specific) 11. What can the EDC do to help you make needed building and facade improvements? a. Help you explore. sources of funding b. Help with suggestions for design improvements and signage upgrades c. Other (please be specific) 12. How would you rate the responsiveness of the town to the needs of your business? ❑ A strong business advocate ❑ Needs some improvement ❑ Needs major improvement, please explain VC1 13. Which of the following would you rank as the most important issue facing your business? ❑ Crime and safety ❑ Skill education training and motivation of workers ❑ Government responsiveness ❑ Appearance of location ❑ Developing new customers ❑ Other 14. Do you have any plans to leave your current location? Yes No If yes, what is the reason? 15: What other type of businesses would help your business? 16. If you had one piece of advice to share with new businesses coming into Reading what would it be? We encourage you to fill out the following information. This information will assist us in following up with the survey and to assist the business community. Contact name: Business name: 'Address: Telephone: F&k: E-mail: Would you be willing to talk with the EDC members to give input to the above questions? Yes No Thank you, The Economic Development Committee: Russell Graham, Jack Russell, Sheila Clarke, Leslie McGonagle, Meghan Young-Tafoya, and Michele Williams. Carol Kowalski Community Services Director and Town Planner, staff to the EDC. The EDC e-mail is EDCO.ci.readina. ma.us. qj 8, Town of Reading DRAFT Alleyway Initiative Goals of the Initiative A subcommittee of the Economic Development Committee (EDC) of the Town of Reading has been assigned the task of working on an alleyway initiative. The initiative arose out of ideas that came from local business owners at the Business Breakfast sponsored by the EDC in the fall of 2007. The goals of the initiative are the following: • Work with the property owners of 668 Main Street and 660 Main Street. The alleyway initiative starts at CVS in the rear and runs between the Middlesex Animal Hospital and The Reading Trophy & Shirt Co. on Main Street. • Make the alleyway an inviting and appealing entranceway to the downtown area from the parking lot in the back of the buildings and make it an extension of the Downtown Improvement Project, keeping it in line with the changes forthcoming as a result of the Downtown Improvement Project. • Collaborate with many local groups such as local artists, the Reading Garden Club, and others to make the initiative a community effort. This project is in strong support of Reading's Master Plan and compliments the Downtown Improvement Project. Comaonents The initiative is made up of the following major components: • brick pavers • lighting • murals, and • plants. These components are discussed in detail in the pages that follow. Process The process for this initiative is one of collaboration with the property owners, the town of Reading, committees of the town of Reading, the Economic Development Committee and many volunteer groups. To date meetings have been held with the following: • property owners • the Town Planner • a subcommittee of the EDC The subcommittee of the EDC has been performing some research and brainstorming on some ideas of how the alleyway may be changed. Subcommittee members contacted a local arts 5/22/2008 Page 1 of 10 ~1 Reading Garden Club who were enthusiastic and willing to help. Ongoing organization and the meetings will be forthcoming and this document will continue to be developed. Financial Outla"Is A major component of the initiative is cost which is outlined in the financial information section. Tasks and Timeframes Tasks and timeframes will be assigned as appropriate and EDC is committed l to moving this see table of tasks and timeframee daet of the fall of 2~0g~ project forward with an expected Pcompletion The Allewwav with in this Below are pictures of the alleyway to give a clear idea of what we are working t" J / View from Main atreeti, way vy~ rx-- - .~.r, ,w;mataty Fit feet. View from parxumg lot ui iGm 5/22/2008 Page 2 of 10 0 c~elll I,- Total alley area equals 963 square feet. An alternate area which is currently asphalt by the stairs to the white building is 292 square feet, and a concrete are near the building is 142 square feet. 5/22/2008 Page 4 of 10 ~dlz Mural to be painted on white building Alleyway measurements Components in Detail Brick Pavers The brick pavers will be the same material as used in the Downtown Improvement Project so that the alleyway looks like a continuation of the downtown. The town property is the orange lined area and would be done in brick pavers which could be set on the current asphalt. There was discussion surrounding putting some of the brick pavers in the front sidewalk to make the alleyway known from Main Street. The property owner should seriously consider brick pavers for the remaining area by the white building. The following information was obtained to gain an idea of what the pavers would look like. Boston Colonial brick pavers shown below. Lighting Lighting in the alleyway will make a big difference aesthetically and for security since it is fairly dark. The lights will need to be high enough so that they do not become a tempting target to vandals. The lights should be energy efficient and sensor controlled. The cost of the ongoing electricity will need to be discussed and negotiated. Approximately 4-gooseneck lights flush mounted and fully shielded would be needed. Proposed Lighting 5/22/2008 Page 5 of 10 Murals The subcommittee of the EDC is extremely excited about the idea of a mural on the Animal Hospital building, which is currently painted. Studies have shown that buildings with murals, actually are less likely to be used for graffiti. The idea of having a mural contest has been suggested and is a great opportunity to bring forth community involvement, excitement, and support. Some ideas have been discussed such as a historical mural. The mural would need to be maintained and refreshed on a periodic basis. The mural would be approved by a small panel (with the property owner as the main panelist and other community members as panelists). The subcommittee feels strongly that in order for this to be successful, there should be a small number of people making the final decision. Downtown Chillicothe, Missouri Kelly Williams Poling Lake Wales Historic District, Florida 5/22/2008 Page 6 of 10 I,j The mural and the other building should be coated with anti-graffiti sealant. Below are some examples of historical murals that other towns have done. Archway At the initial meetings held by members of the EDC, the town and property owners, awnings and archways were discussed as a way to let people know that the alleyway is inviting and a nice way to transition from parking in the rear to the downtown shops. The archway would need to be attached to the buildings. 5/22/2008 Page 7 of 10 q j l moxe illviting of the alley E~11th e the entxa~Ge ay ox intexfiere until the of the building the ats a gxeat way t° ldows to way on plants discussed bstruet the fee has dee1ded have been +s should not ° o enbGOT""" gem ax p is 512212()08 Pa8° 8 ° t() Financial Information Item Description Pavement Removal and Disposal Remove payment and dispose Stone Dust Replacement Replace stone dust Fine Grade and Compaction Bricks Installation of bricks Lighting Grading Cost of bricks Lay brick pavers into the asphalt Gooseneck lighting 4 lamps alternating sides of the building Installation of lights Payment of electricity of lights Murals Plants Archway Other Maintenance of Alleyway TOTAL Connect to building conduits Use existing electrical meters cost I $792 $1350 $700 $7'467.25 $16,315 $5,000 ($1250 each times 4) $2250 TBD Professional painting of Mural on $10,000-15,000 Middlesex Animal Hospital building Plants that will not require much $1000 maintenance & will not interfere ON HOLD with plowing or store windows Iron Archway above the entrance $2,000 to the alleyway Any unexpected items TBD I TBD TBD $TBD 5/22/2008 Page 9 of 10 q j Tasks and Timeframe-timeframes to be discussed and added Description ( Timeframe Status Initial Meetings with Beginning of 2008 Completed, January and property owners February Draft document to use in First and second quarters of In Process discussions with all parties 2008 Additional meetings with First quarter of 2008 Completed both property owners Meetings with the Reading August 2008 To be scheduled Garden Club Meetings with local artists May - June 2008 I To be scheduled Meetings with all appropriate June 2008 To be scheduled town committees Costs detailed I May In process Selection of those who will June To be scheduled do the work on the pavers Selection of brick pavers I March ( Completed Selection of those who will June To be scheduled install the lights Selection of the lights I May Completed Selection of those who will May In Process paint the mural, contest process Draft of mural I June To be scheduled Approvals of mural J June To be scheduled Selection of plants I On hold I Last part of the project Discussion of maintenance of Fall of 2008 To be scheduled plants Installation of brick pavers Fall of 2008 To be scheduled Installation of lights Painting of Mural and planting of plants The targeted end date is the fall of 2008. The timing is contingent on the completion of the Maine Street sidewalks of the Downtown Improvement Project. Summary There is full commitment of the town, the EDC, and property owners to move forward in an energetic manner to get this project done. The proposed thneframe recommends a targeted end date of the fall of 2008. The initiative involves the community, makes Reading more attractive and will help local businesses. 5/22/2008 Page 10 of 10 q ~ [ 9 eDgA---~-F Ad Hoc Birch Meadow Planning Committee Master Plan Draft 8 - 5/23/2008 jf OVERVIEW At the request of the Board of Selectmen, the ad hoc Birch Meadow Planning Committee was formed to help reach consensus among stakeholders of the Birch Meadow Area on a community vision and Master Plan for recreation and open space, so that the community can more "thoroughly benefit from this valuable resource. Charge of the Committee The charge of the Cominittee was to perform a variety of activities related to the development of a Master Plan for the Birch Meadow Area. These activities included documenting current uses of the Area; soliciting input from the community at large as'to, what uses can/should be included for the Area; reaching out to the current users for their comments and input; reaching out to stakeholders who could be affected by changes to the Area; and conducting public hearings on the draft and final version of the Master Plan. Geographic Focus "Birch Meadow" is defined as the Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) site, the parks and playground surrounding the RMHS site, the Coolidge Middle School site, the Higgins Conservation property including the property extending along the Aberjona River to and including town owned property on Grove Street. The committee's discussions concentrated on several areas where a long-range plan was deemed most appropriate. These areas included: 1. Three softball fields along Birch Meadow Drive 2. `Former Imagination' Station site 3. Field behind CoolidgeliMiddle School 4. Grove of trees with circle of benches 5. Grove of treesiwithll and ropes course 6. Basketball and volleyball courts 7. Castine Field 8. Higgins Conservation area. 9. Morton Baseball Field Initial Analysis The Committee agreed to consider the Birch Meadow Area as a whole while discussing each of these areas individually. The Committee also agreed to the following goals: • Address the wants and needs of Reading constituents • Make efficient, flexible use of the land in the Birch Meadow Area • Make a long=term plan to help channel future funding appropriately In an early meeting, the Committee listed a number of activities and issues that would be taken into consideration during the discussions to follow. These included: Softball/baseball • Soccer/football/field hockey/lacrosse • Kickball/dodge ball (gym class games) • Ice skating • Playground, target age group ages 5-14 (similar to Imagination' Station) • Rest rooms/snack shack • Wiffle ball field • Open play space • Multi-purpose surfaces (street hockey, dodge ball, basketball) • Water park/community pool • Paddle, boats • Lighting • !Double sided scoreb4rd Tetherball • Paddle tennis • Parking • Shade Trees/water fountainsibenches • Ropes • Hiking/cross country skiing q-e2 BIRCH MEADOW AREA SURVEY To understand the community's interests, the Birch Meadow Ad Hoc Committee produced a survey for completion by families and teens through the month of September. Over 800 individuals responded either to the electronic survey on the Reading Recreation website or the form included in the Fall 2007 issue of the Reading Recreation Magazine. The survey asked questions to understand: o Frequency of Use o Desired Additions o Top Choices The survey also welcomed general free text comments from respondents. Demographics for Respondents 300 250 200 : ® NumSeniors 150 ` O NumCollege O NumHighSchool 100 i ` Y 2 NumMiddleSchool 50 F +A rr 7 R Num Elementary D NumPresSchool 0 - 1 Middle;School (Ages 1043) Top Choices for Area: Middle School Top Choices restrooms~ sport court 0 waterpark/pool whiffle ball -waterpark/pool o teen center ❑ playground skate park o skate park playground 11 whiffle ball O sport court 19 restrooms teen center e3 High School (Age 14-20) Top Choices for Area High School Top Choices playground whiffle ball skate park-_ sport court' t, restrooms whiffle ball. restrooms skate park, , sport court older kid playground waterpark/pool All Top Choices " w aterpark/pool teen center ❑ waterpark/pool 09 teen center ❑ restrooms ❑ sport court skate park ❑ whiffle ball 0 playground w aterpark/pool Ei teen center ❑ older kid playground * sport court skate park o restrooms p w hiffle ball Hiyhliyhts from the free text cosss,messts included: "Please maintain the natural beauty of Birch Meadow and do not add more parking lots or buildings. Take special care of the undeveloped meadows and wetlands around the area." o Many people wanted the Birch Meadow area to stay OPEN AND GREEN, requesting that whatever is done not upset the ecological balance of the Castine area or over-develop the open space. o Individuals of all ages responded very positively to the idea of cycling; hiking and walking TRAILS in this area. Many requested measured routes within and around the Birch Meadow Complex. "Keeping these grounds available for casual us6;1 ''+important and they serve as a valuable community resource." o People want MORE FIELDS - baseball, softball, soccer, laerosse and;'.wiffle ball - with LIGHTING for later in the day/older patron use. o There was strong support for MULTI-SPORT areas that can be used for dodge ball, volleyball, roller hockey, or a skate park. o People want a BALANCE between structuredleague sports or activities, and, drop-in activities that adults and kids can take advantage of when they have time. Popular new requests are Frisbee, wiffle ball and volleyball leagues, along with walking and cycling clubs. REPLACING IMAGINATION STATION was a top choice in the free comment area. o The majority of respondents agreed this playground should be for older kids. Within the existing Birch Meadow area is the Tot Lot adjacent to the tennis courts and nearby is the Birch Meadow School playground. Teens requested RESTRoOMs AND A SNACK SHACK in the area in greater numbers than those who filled out the family surveys! PARKING is a concern among many who fear that any additions to the Birch Meadow area will aggravate an already tight parking situation. There was strong support for a SPLASH PARK and for a COMMUNITY POOL, although people did not know where a pool could be situated in this already filled area. "Clean up trash on a regular basis. Have police bike/foot patrols, especially evenings and night. Make sure field lights go out on time. Enforce rules posted on signs at parks. " ~(eS These responses prompted the Birch Meadow Area Planning Committee to focus on: o Restrooms/community gathering place o Multi-sport courts o Additional fields o Older kid playground o Hiking trails o Amenities: water bubblers, spray fountains, signage for trails, seating o Clean up the creek area around the stadium track and imagination , station - as in clean back dead/overgrown growth and plan appropriate greenery The Hill Current Condition The Hill between the High School parking lot and Morton Field is th&6nly topographical relief in the area. It also acts as a natural barrier between the High School and portionsof the Birch Meadow Area. The Committee did not determine if the hill is natural or man made. There is speculation that the core of the hill is old construction debris, but that is only a guess. Currently the hill is overgrown with brush and small weed trees growing at the base of many larger full grown trees. This gives the hill an unkempt and unattractive appearance. `The top of the hill is accessible from several directions. The underbrush on the hill provides cover from view and it is a hangout area for under-age drinking and other undesirable activities. There is a high ropes course located at the top of the hill that is: used by the High School. The ropes course was recently upgraded and is heavily used as part of the Athletic D.epartment's: cumculum. There is a low ropes course at the bottom of the hill near the tennis courts. There is also an open area between the hill and the newly built softball field next to the tennis courts. There are some large trees in this area and undergrowth with a small, open space of grass leading up to the newly created walkway that goes along the edge of new softball field's outfield: Discussed Options Much of the committee's conversation. regarding the hill focused on whether to remove the hill entirely from the area. The!hill has many good attributes and potential, but also encompasses a significant. amount of space that is unusable for traditional recreational uses. Some of the options discussed included: • Removing the hill and making the space level Placing a new, older kid play ground (rebuild Imagination Station type) on the hill. • Placing an open air pavilion on the hill. • Removing a portion of the hill to increase the amount of level space in that area. • Cleaning up the hill while leaving the larger trees. Recommendation The Committee decided to leave the hill for its natural and recreational attributes and recommends "cleaning up" the underbrush to neaten the hill's appearance and increase its accessibility. All of the large trees should remain unless otherwise noted (see below). q e6 After hearing from the RMHS Physical and Wellness Education Coordinator, the Committee recommends keeping the high ropes course in place. However, the committee recommends removing or relocating the low ropes course for safety reasons. Until this becomes financially feasible and an agreeable location is found, the current low ropes course should be enclosed with some type of barrier consistent with other barriers at the complex for safety purposes. The Committee recommends hiring a landscape architect to create a proposal for landscaping the hill to take full advantage of its natural features. Open Space Between Hill and New Field Current Condition There is a small grassy area between the hill and the new softball field that is big enough to locate a small field or a hard top court. The area is not big enough for a full size softbalf1fl'eld. Close to the hill there are several large trees and some underbrush. Discussed Options The committee discussed several options for this space. It was i tially'thought that a second full size softball field could fit in this location. However, this would not be possibldiWithout removing the majority of the hill. The committee also discussed whether to put in a multi-use court or a fie,uthat could be used for basketball, street hockey, dodge ball, or a field for t-ball and wiffle ball., Recommendation The Committee decided that since this area will not be irrigated, grass is not likely to survive. However, this site is well-suited to meet the potential need for a multi-use court in the Bitch Meadow Area following completion of the tennis courts - where only tennis will be allowed. This, coupled with the ability to locate a multi-use court away from neighboring houses, made this concept for this space a natural fit. Further, lighting around the new softball field and on the multi-iise court would greatly expand the use of this area. Space Between IhIl . Morton Field. and Practice Field Current ' Condition The area where the batting cage is located is well traveled with pathways from the school to the tennis courts and to Morton field. In addition to the batting cage, there is a permanent building housing electrical and water services for the fields as well as a storage trailer for the Morton Field equipment plus a soccer kick wall. The space is flat with a few trees. Discussed Options The committee discussed eleaning up the batting cage or moving the cage for a new `Imagination Station" or multi-use court. Due to the'iocation neither option seemed to be attractive. Recommendation The batting cage should be moved down toward right-center field of Morton Field and the softball field. This will allow easy access for both baseball and softball teams while maintaining a sufficient distance from residences to minimize noise. The kick wall, service building and storage trailer should be removed. Due to the central location of this space, the committee recommends a "Public House" with an open air pavilion be built. L, e1 The (roughly 20' x 30') Public House will house restrooms, a snack shack, and the electrical and water services for the fields. A slightly larger foot print could potentially house the . 1 st M maintenance equipment for Morton Field as well. fle_ lln4m] 20' x 50' open-air pavilion would hold roughly 100 patrons and could offer yearlong events, including a free summer concert ' " 'i series, Taste of the Town, Fine Arts Festival and seasonal ice-skating. r This unique outdoor facility would be available to rent from April W through mid-October for catered - parties and dinners, business meetings," 1-11 1 fundraisers and many other functions. IIJ itp- Based on precedents from other ' area communities, the x rental for the pavilion could be as little as $35 for 5 hours or as much as $150 a day plus application fee. The circle of trees between the site of the pavilion and the softball fields should also include picnic tables for outside r picnics in the shade. Coolidee Middle School Current Condition Presently, the land behind the CoolidgeMiddle School is used as a playing field, mostly for soccer and lacrosse. This field area is uneven and the soil is poor making it very,difficult to maintain. Discussed Options Expansion of this lield area:to a high 'school sized playing field for soccer or lacrosse is limited by the boundaries of the property. A number,,of'ideas were, suggested for this area from the site of a community pool to multi-sport courts. These ideas were deemed unfeasible because of the partially hidden location which would make it difficult for police to patrol the area and also, out of consideration for the residents whose homes closely border this field. Recommendation The Committee's recommendation! is to use the fill from the Parker Middle School project when it is converted to a turf field to re-grade'tl ecurrent area and make it more useable. The intention is use by U-10 soccer or lacrosse teams. Three Softball Fields The three skinned fields are used throughout the year by the following organizations: RMHS-softball, track and field (shot put, javelin and discuss), soccer, football, field hockey Reading Youth Softball Reading men's and women's leagues Reading POP Warner ye8 Reading Youth Soccer All of the softball fields adjacent to Castine Field have serious drainage problems - the situation is most pronounced at the field alongside the driveway entrance next to the former Imagination Station site. Following a slight rain, the fields are extremely wet and saturated. Deep standing water following heavy rain renders them unplayable. The overall condition of the softball fields is poor due to frequent flooding and nearly constant use. Restoration is needed. Recommendation Several priorities were agreed upon for this area: 1. The drainage issue must be addressed to minimize down time on the. fields since Reading has limited areas where softball can be played. 2. Reconfigure the softball fields (varsity field) so that all three:fields can be used simultaneously and at night men (RMSL) and Reading Youth Softball (RYS)-- thereby'reducing the interference from the RMSL players hitting into RYS field/games. Also, the infields of the softball fields need resurfacing in a similar manner to Morton Field. This would require excavating the existing infield areas and restoring with the same fill as used at the baseball field for optimum performance and maintenance properties. 3. It is recommended to place a scoreboard on Morton Field as well as'! the Varsity softball field, which will require extension of the current electrical utilities ta,power the equipment. 4. Include standing dugouts on the reconfigured softball fields: 5. Replace the batting cage and relocate it with a doublewide cage to include electricity service for lighting - the site should be in the same area as the softball field scoreboard. 6. Bleachers protected by netting are needed for the softball fields to make the games safe and enjoyable for spectators. 7. The committee recommends removing the green storage shed and replacing it with a larger more aesthetic and functional structure in the same vicinity. M22ins='Conservation Area Current Condition Higgins Conservation Area is on the north side of Birch Meadow Drive, adjacent to Birch Meadow School and Birch Meadow Drive. As the narriel implies, the area is dedicated to conservation-related activities. The property is under the jurisdiction' of thel' Reading Conservation Commission. The land is restricted by covenant to conservation purposes, ~vhieh;severely limits its use for activities such as active recreation. The parcel is predominantly wetlands with the designation of Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and Land Subject to Flooding under the Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act. These wetlands border the Aberjona River which runs along the southern boarder of the site and exits the Higgins Area at Lowell St. near the P&S Convenience Store. The designation as jurisdictional wetlands and flood plain restricts modifications (e.g. filling, grading or construction) on most of the parcel. Even the upland (i.e. non wetland) areas. of the Conservation Area are within the Buffer Zone of the wetlands and subject to restrictions. There is a trail through a portion of the area that is maintained by volunteers (most recently by David Hanson as part of his Eagle Scout project). The trail is used for exercise and nature study but because of its configuration, it L, e,~ is of limited use for access to the Birch Meadow Complex from residential areas. The existing trail also provides access to the interior of the site which supports quiet and undisturbed high quality wildlife habitat. Options Discussed Both active and passive uses were considered for the Higgins area. Soccer fields, a town pool and a skate park were active recreation activities considered. Passive uses identified were an expanded trail system and no alteration of the existing conditions. Recommendation All of the alternative plans for the Higgins Conservation Area were considered in light of the overall Birch Meadow Planning objectives and limitations on the Parcel. Due to the combin4ed-constraints of the Conservation Covenant and the Wetlands Protection Act, active uses of the parcel: we. redeemed - infeasible. Of the passive recreation options, the expanded trail system was identified as preferable and thus the recommended use for the area. An expanded trail system would have multiple advantages;,and would not adversely affect current uses or constrain future uses. In addition, an expanded trail system nicely satisfies,:one of the top requests for the Birch Meadow area as registered in the town-wide survey for walkmg,;;rummng'biking trails. The existing uses for nature walks, exercise, and nature study could continue with an expanded trail system. In fact, these uses would be expanded because more areas would be accessible and there would: be greater exercise opportunities. In addition, an expanded trial system could provide walking opportunities for,,residents, particularly students, from contiguous neighborhoods to get to the area's school and recreational activities. Travel by bicycle or foot would minimize vehicular traffic and afford incidental nature observation opportunities': Planning and implementation of the expanded trail system should take into account the area's resources. Exceptional wildlife habitat areas should be identified and trails designed to allow access, without adversely affecting the natural setting. The system should also be. designed to facilitate travel to and from residential areas and sidewalk access points.. Much of the trail system would be in jurisdictional wetlands, particularly along the river; regulations dictate the use of a raised boardwalk to minimize damage to the wetlands. Castine Area Current Conditions The Castue Area is an approximately one acre parcel adjacent to the Abedona. River just upstream of Birch Meadow Drive. The area is surrounded by a berm and the interior is approximately four feet below the adjacent playing 'ifields and sidewalks. The low point in the interior: space is the ,!approximate elevation of the adjacent Abedona"River. Castine' is connected to the river by culverts with controls' that' allow, river water to both enter and exit the area. These culverts,, installed to create an ice skating pond in winter and to drain the area in summer. The Castine Area supports multiple and sometimes conflicting uses. As mentioned, it is flooded during winter and serves as a popular skating area. When the ice thaws, the area becomes a pond approximately 2 feet deep that is a wildlife habitat for water fowl and amphibians. During the summer, when the area dries out, it serves as a recreational field for both organized soccer and unstructured play. The attractiveness of the area for both soccer and skating is enhanced by the lighting surrounding the field. The area is also important as a flood storage area; when the Aberjona is at or above the banks, water can be diverted to Castine thereby relieving the potential for flooding elsewhere in the Birch Meadow complex. Downstream areas also experience flooding issues. Retention yelp of water in the Castine Area mitigates the damage and inconvenience of high water associated with the Aber ona. Although Castine supports active recreation, it is a jurisdictional wetland and flood plain under the Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act. The low elevation of the area results in a groundwater elevation at, and sometimes above, the ground surface. This condition produces soils saturated with water during most of the year, a primary characteristic defining a wetland. Also, even though the grass is periodically cut, the area supports wetland vegetation (e.g. cattails), the other primary characteristic defining a wetland. The characteristics that make the area a wetland and flood plain also compromise its value as an active recreation area. Especially during wet years, the soil is so saturated during spring and even into early summer that the field cannot be used. Later in the year, it is not uncommon for only a portion of the field to be dry enough for soccer or other active recreation. When the groundwater elevation is low, the area. does provide a useful and enjoyable playing field. However, even at these times, a significant rainfall can render the field unusable for a time due to the poor drainage. Options Discussed A number of activities and land use options were considered and investigated for the Castine Area. These included: • Enhanced Soccer Field. Re-grading or otherwise altering the hydrology of the area to eliminate the high groundwater and make the area usable in spring and after rain evebig4as evaluated. This could include slightly shifting the foot print of the existing soccer :field to take advantage, of adjacent, non jurisdictional upland. Planting several willow trees around Castine Field.and allow the cat tails to grow will help better define the area. • Enhanced Ice Skating Pond. Providing mechanically assisted temperature control to extend the ice skating season and enhance the skating experience was considered. This would involve installing seasonal-temporary cooling coils on the ground surface so that ice would form sooner, maintain integrity and last longer. • Restored Wetlands and Nature Park. The'area could be restored to its original condition as a palustrine wetland with areas of standing water. Paths and observational benches could be included to produce a Nature Park for wildlife observation-and relaxation. . Recommendation More time was spent by the Birch' Meadow Master Planning Committee discussing and evaluating Castine than any other area. The area. has significant potential for active recreation, including soccer and ice skating. The Castine Field would be m'ligh',demand due to the limited field resources within Reading, especially in the spring. Any enhanced recreation'u.se'of the Castine Area would require filling the wetland to create a dry surface or placing cooling coils on the bottom of the depressed land. This would be difficult given the area's significant limitations as result of wetland protection regulations and the area's role in flood control and protection. The committee explored these limitations and consulted and coordinated its discussions with the Town's Conservation Commission, which administers the Wetlands Act. The mitigation requirement for fill placed in Castine proved to be the critical limitation for active use of the area. According to the State's Wetland Protection Act and Reading By-Laws, any jurisdictional wetland filled must be replaced on a two for one basis. The replacement area must be in close proximity to the filled area and cannot be in existing wetlands. Thus, filling of an acre for recreation in Castine would necessitate creating two acres of (ell wetland adjacent to the Arbojona River. Additionally, the filling would require excavation of a comparable volume to create substitute flood storage volume. Even if non jurisdictional land in the immediate vicinity could be acquired for wetland and flood storage replacement, the cost would be prohibitive. The Committee also had the concern that even with replacement, filling of Castine could exacerbate existing flooding issues and concerns for residents in the immediate area and downstream. Thus, enhanced soccer field and ice skating were deemed as infeasible alternatives. This conclusion was not reached casually and because of the high demand for reliable playing fields, many ideas to enhance Castine were considered. Ultimately all were rejected, primarily because of the constraints imposed by the State's and Town's wetland protection regulations. The alternative of a restored wetland and nature park could be consistent with limitations on the area imposed by wetland regulations. This alternative was retained as a possible long term use of the area. This final use is also consistent with comments by Reading residents participating in the town-wide survey who wrote in requests to preserve the natural beauty of the Birch Meadow area. Current demand for soccer fields necessitates retaining Castine as a field even though its use is limited due to the high groundwater. If the Town acquires additional soccer fields, the alternative of converting the area to a,i;j' ture park should be. 'revisited. Thus, the recommendation for the Castine Area is no change: retain it as"a field with limited use until such time as the Town has other adequate field capacity. Bancroft Street/Tot Lot Area Current Condition Presently, the area across from the intersection of BancroftStreet and Hartshorn Road, contiguous to the current. tennis courts complex has a new state of the. art playground for pre-school aged children, one basketball court and an unusable volleyball court.. The Tot Lot is well used during the day until dusk by young children in town. The basketball court is also well used later in the day by middle and high school aged residents for pick-up games. Elm Discussed Options-Basketball/Volleyball Court The idea of.having sufficient multi-use courts in this area for pick-up basketball, volleyball, dodge ball, or even roller hockey games, was discussed; The need for this type of court will be all the greater once the tennis courts are resurfaced. Currently, middleand high school aged residents use the tennis courts for pick up dodge ball games in the spring and summer. This activity will not be allowed once the courts are redone. Recommendation The current volleyball court should be upgraded to a traditional basketball court, with lighting extending use through lOpm. This will allow for "hard top" surface games without the noise associated with a multi-use courts, particularly hockey. The Committee recommends a second multi-use court in this area, directly behind the Field House and adjacent to the new softball/t-ball field as described above (see Open Space Between Hill and New Softball Field). Lighting, combined with easy drive-by access behind the high school complex, will enable activities in this area to be monitored by police in the evening. The Committee recommends maintaining the Tot Lot unchanged. In addition, "No Parking" signs on Bancroft Street are difficult to see. To make them more visible, they should be lowered. Discussed Option - Pool or Splash Pad One of the findings of the community survey is that the town really would like to have a place where families can gather, and children can cool off without having to have a membership. The land near the Tot Lot was discussed as a possible site for pool or a splash pad. Recommendation Recognizing that there is not sufficient space in the Birch 4 Meadow area to accommodate a swimming pool, a splash park was suggested. Some Committee members recalled '4 ' x ! the old kiddie pool in this . area which was closed for y ` { t Gs hygiene and, sanitation reasons. A splash ad would be a place where children (pre-school to grade 4 or 5) safe fun , , could play during, the summer months. This proposed ~ splash.pad, is different, from the old kiddie pool in that there on. Under surface drainage ensures that there is no w Morton Field and Batting Cafle Current Condition is no standing water:' Water either shoots up from the ground in ~'geritleljets or" sprays down' as a mist, from apparatus that children walk or play under. The walking surface is typically riibber, so it is safe for children to play sanitary standing water. Morton Baseball Field is among the best fields in the Middlesex area. The newly designed infield and outfield fence.' give a polished look more like. a baseball. field than a playground 4 field (wide. open). There is to backstop with a,limited wing fence g , ' F on both the first and third base side. There, is a recently enhanced batting cage located in the right field area beyond the fence. Discussed Options The Committee felt that'!1Vlorton'Field was in its proper location. However, the safety of players and spectators was a concern. The Committee invited discussion with a representative from the Reading Babe Ruth Organization (John Halsey) as well as the RMHS High School baseball varsity, coach Peter Moscariello. Coach Moscariello was not able to attend but did T Y communicate the importance of the batting cage and the reasons it was placed in its current location. It was found that the batting cage was placed in its current location to keep it away from neighborhood houses. Batting cages tend to be noisy, so *7 }m t~~ the location beyond the right field area has served the area well. ~'tt/3 Dugouts (see picture) and safety wings for Morton field are needed to ensure the safety of the participants. Currently there is no protection for either team's player bench areas. As part of the dugout plan, a plan -far a storage structure behind the backstop is recommended; this would include electricity for events, pitching machines etc. as well as storage areas for general maintenance, Reading Babe Ruth equipment and RMHS equipment. Additional seatingibleachers for spectators, protected by safety netting, would also be an asset for this area. The discussion also addressed the possibility of combining dugouts, storage and spectator seating in a combined or modular structure as an optimum and cost effective option for upgrading space. The Committee also felt strongly that a scoreboard would be an asset to the field. Often when watching games, it is difficult for the audience to know the score. This would enhance the experience for the players and spectators. Due to the high volume of use for the batting cage, batting cage. This will enable greater use with a minimal additional footprint. ~I' i Recommendation Leave Morton Field in its current location. The Committee recommends adding a storage 'R i &16 structure near the backstop, dugout structures for both participating teams and spectator, seating. The dugout and spectator seating should have.. protective netting for players and fans. The Committee also recommends the need for a fully functional electronic scoreboard that could be placed in the center field area. Imaeination Station Area Current Condition Replacing Imagination Station was a top, choice of respondents to the Birch Meadow Area Survey. The majority of respondents agreed this playground should be for older kids. Within the existing Birch Meadow Complex is the Tot Lot adjacent to the tennis courts and nearby is the Birch Meadow School playground. The footprint of land formerly filled by the Imagination Station playground has been reduced due to environmental setbacks required following the installation of the high school turf field at the stadium. A 50-foot buffer must now be observed;'along the wetlands stream. In addition, the high school requires land for an emergency access road'to the highschool from Birch Meadow Drive. Discussed Options The committee considered using this land for one or two multi-sport courts, possibly with portable sides so it could be used for rollerblading or as a skate park. After the resurfacing of the Bancroft Street tennis courts, high school students will not be able to use them for dodge ball games as they have in the past few years. The thought was to give young people a new, appropriate place to play these games. The proximity of the Imagination Station location to the road made it appealing as a site for this. Police could easily drive by throughout the day and evening to patrol the location. L;co,(V the Committee discussed extending it to a double-width The Committee also considered this Imagination Station site as a possible location for the splash pad area. After discussion, it was agreed that the splash area was better situated near the Tot Lot because of the natural connection of the two play areas for young children. The Committee looked for other locations in the Birch Meadow complex for the replacement playground. One idea was to situate a creative play style playground in the grove of trees near the lacrosse field, where there is currently a circle of seats. This area would provide nice shade cover for children using the playground on a hot summer day. It is centrally located to all the fields, giving parents who are watching older children play soccer, lacrosse, softball, baseball and tennis the security of knowing the playground is in the area, and away from the road. In the end, this area was discarded because of the safety issues and maintenance issues posed by placing equipment directly under trees. Consideration was also given to placing the playground in the open land between the tennis courts and Castine field. This area was also away from the road and relatively central t6 all the playing fields in the Birch Meadow complex. Additionally, it was not far from the Tot Lot, an advantage fora parent entertaining multi-aged children. This land was later deemed more appropriate for the location of a gathering building with a snack shack and restrooms. Coming full circle, the committee returned to the original location of Imagination Station. Recommendation Within the existing Birch Meadow Complex area is the Tot Lot adjacent to the tennis courts and across the street is the Birch Meadow School playground, designed f6r.5-19year olds. 'Given that not all children mature at the same rate, the committee felt this playground should extend play opportunities for children through 8t" grade, and looked for equipment for children 6-14:. The committee would also recommend planting trees around the new Imagination Station. The current thinking is that equipment for this.. demographic should offer unlimited points of entry, unscripted play routes (as Imagination Station did), encourage stretching, upper body fitness, competitive spirit, and be fun. The committee also wantea.,.,,something unique to our community. Imagination Station was a leading-edge playground design when it was installed in 1990. Companies like Game Time and Landscape Structures offer "extreme",'systems targeted at the 6-12 age group. In addition to offering creative play and a range of physical activities, these playgrounds are clot made from pressure treated wood and they are open, so parents have the opportunity to see their children at play. These two issues had been noted deficiencies of the Imagination Station playground. Like Imagination Station, the Game Time and Landscape Structures systems are customizable to suit the imagination of our community Other Considerations -7-j' V- 7, - 1; .r I 7 ~ ..............~C MFG ,'"i.- n... /ae~._. ~aS6.-.4 ~ Among the community comments entered on the Birch Meadow area survey was to clean up the area to maintain the natural beauty and preserve wetlands. The area around the wetlands between the stadium field and the Imagination Station plot is so overgrown that it traps litter that blows in from around the area. The current overgrowth needs to be trimmed back judiciously and I plantings that are both visually attractive and suitable to the wetlands area should be added. The committee also recommends designating an area under trees for gathering and waiting. Such an area could include picnic tables or several benches which could be used by individuals watching children at the playground or waiting for children who are finishing up games. The committee also recommend adding a welcome gate or arch with a map and information about the Birch Meadow area. Site Amenities Current Conditions Currently, there are many amenities at the Birch Meadow areai'q~ Unfortunately many of them are outdated or in need of repair or replacement. There are currently three (3) water fountains servicing the Birch Meadow area: These fountains use an older style spigot that can be left on accidentally and cause puddling with many ;'gallons of wasted water. One fountain is located along Birch Meadow Drive near the YMCA, one at the end' o f *fBancroft Street between the tennis court and Morton Field, and another one between the Tot Lot and basketball court`: The use of signage in the Birch Meadow area is inconsistent and sparse. Morton Field has a plaque embedded in a stone at the field and there is a free standing sign at the entry of the field from Bancroft Street. There is also a plaque at Castine Field. . Benches are available inside the Tot. Lot and tennis courts. Bleachers also exist at Morton Field, the .lacrosse field, and football stadium. There are a few other benches sprinkled around the area. Walking paths have been constructed as part of the high school construction project. These paved walkways connect the major areas. of the Birch Meadow' complex. Lighting in the area consists of field lights at the lacrosse field, football field, tennis courts, varsity softball field and Castine Field. There are no convenience or safety lights in the. area. Trash receptacles are located throughout the area. There are currently two cross-walks;. that allow. pedestrians to safely cross Birch Meadow Drive to access the area. These cross=walks are located between Arthur B. Lord Drive and the Imagination Station site, and between Coolidge Middle School and the Imagination Station site. Discussed Options To improve upon the amenities offered at Birch Meadow, the Committee discussed updating the current water fountains, adding misters to cool off athletes during the summer months, and upgrading signage for uniformity from field to field. It was deemed important to add an information center/kiosk with an area map, general rules and possibly `doggie bags' to assist guests with cleaning up after their pets. Additional benches and trash/recycling receptacles were discussed as well for the comfort of Area users. Lastly, the Committee discussed adding solar powered lights along the pathways and reconnecting old pathways. L' PJ 6 Recommendation: The committee recommends replacing the spigot-type water fountains to a new low flow water conserving fountain with an attached mister and dog bowl " . "Misters" would be placed in the following locations: Imagination Station, pavilion, near batting cage. i 4 To make the Birch Meadow area more inviting, the existing signage should be replaced and new signage added as discussed 'above. The benches in the area are sufficient r v: r ti at the Tot Lot and field locations. The rotting wooden benches throughout the area should be replaced.and more added. The pathways in the area are well constructed and useable, however, the committee recommends adding lighting and adding a pathway from the end of Longfellow to the Tot Lot path. While there are many trash receptacles throughout the Birch Meadow area, additional trash/recycling receptacles should ,be added with a well-documented removal plan in place. In addition to the play structure at Imagination Station, bike raeks, water fountains, and clusters. of `low boulders should be placed in the Birch Meadow Complex for climbing and.gathenng The following general recommendations were made: • Redirect current path that goes along side,theTot. Lot and basketball court to,travel in a straight line to the new parking lot; including stairs and a walking lane in front of the HS to lielp direct pedestrians and keep students off the new landscaping. • Picnic tables in the area around the pavilion 'including the grove of trees and the hill. One picnic table near the Tot Lot. • A walking path should be. continued around, but not cut across, the Birch Meadow fields, and connect with the proposed walking paths in the Higgins Conservation area.. • Remove old water fountains and add new, low-flow. versions at the following locations: Tennis courts, multi-use courts, pavilion;.softball fields, Imagination Station • Place several climbing structures or large rocks in the pavilion area. • Place benches in strategic places along the walking path. • Acquire a fire retardant ,c,anopyto cover the turf fields during fireworks. • Take out all outdated "Vita Course' signage. • Add a new crosswalk across Birch Meadow Drive as described above. • Add more trash receptacles Wand new recycling receptacle throughout the area to minimize litter. • Remove 'old pressure treated telephone poles and replace with post and rail structures to match as the fencing (doubles as seating)!on Oakland Road. Boulders are natural `looking l!'climbers constructed from Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC), a tough material that offers a natural, rock-like feel and texture and is virtually maintenance free. GFRC is" UV-stable; the weathered finish won't fade. These boulders are appropriate for 5 to 12 year olds. They provide various levels of climbing challenge with handholds and footholds for safety. Bouldering provides a good workout for toddlers to teens. Physically, it challenges the entire muscular spectrum, building strength, balance, flexibility, and co-ordination. Mentally, climbers develop problem-solving skills while working as individuals or as a team. Emotionally, the benefits include increased self-confidence and self-awareness, and decreased levels of stress and anxiety. L eo Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867-2683 MEMORANDUM To: Board of Selectmen From: Fran Fink, Conservation Administrator Date: May 22, 2008 Re: Potential land acquisition opportunities CONSERVATION COMMISSION Phone (781) 942-6616 Fax (781) 942-9071 fflnk@ci.reading.ma.us The Division of Conservation Services in the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs recently issued their annual request for grant proposal for open space and recreational land acquisition. There are three grant programs: the LAND grant for conservation land acquisition (formerly "Self-Help"), the PARC grant Tor active recreation land acquisition and park improvements (formerly "Urban Self-Help"), and the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund for all of these types of projects. Applications are due July 15, 2008. Town staff from Conservation, Planning, DPW, GIS, and Recreation met with the Town Manager on May 1 to consider parcels that might be good candidates for acquisition under a LAND grant. We considered parcels in several parts of town, but narrowed the focus to four parcels that directly abut protected open space in the northern end of town. All four would contribute to the Ipswich River Greenway trail network. The parcels are shown on the attached map, and include the following: Two parcels located directly north of the Mattera and Bare Meadow Conservation Areas, owned by the same realty trust. The smaller parcel has a small house on it. The larger parcel is undeveloped. The northern end of this land lies within the major floodplain and red maple swamp along the Ipswich River, and abuts the Reading Open Land Trust parcel known as Fairbanks Marsh. There are several certified vernal pools in the wetlands to the north and east. The southern end of this land is upland and slopes steadily up towards the boundaries of the Town Conservation Areas. The upland is primarily an oak/pine forest, but there is a lawn near the house. The Conservation Commission issued an Order of Conditions in 2004 and extended it through 2010 for construction of a single-family house on the larger parcel. Construction has not yet begun. Driveway access is provided through the smaller parcel because the frontage of the larger parcel is all within the wetland. The Board of Health issued a septic system permit in 2004 that may have expired, but the soils are suitable and a new permit could be obtained. Since 2004, there have been some preliminary proposals for a 40B multi-family development, but this type of development would probably require installation of a sewer pump station. Parcel located between Marion Woods Conservation Area and Main Street - This parcel is entirely within the floodplain and red maple swamp along the Ipswich River, and is not developed. It is not likely that the site would qualify for a septic system permit or a wetlands permit for house construction. It contains endangered species habitat. If a boardwalk were constructed, it would link, the Greenway trails east of Main Street to those west of Main Street. Parcel located between the Town Water Department land south of Mill Street and Sanborn Lane - A stream flows northward under Sanborn Lane, crossing through the center of this parcel into the Ipswich River. The east and west sides of the parcel rise from the stream valley. There is a narrow band of upland on the eastern side, and a wider upland area in the northwestern side. The site is in the Aquifer Protection District and contains endangered species habitat. There are certified vernal pools on adjacent parcels. The parcel would provide a potential trail link from Marion Woods into the Sanborn/Lilah neighborhood. Most of the frontage of the parcel is constrained by a concrete retaining wall along the outer edge of Sanborn Lane at the stream crossing. The only unconstrained frontage is 10 feet wide and located at the southwestern conger of the site. The wetlands approach very close to this area, and the land slopes steeply down to the wetlands, making driveway construction difficult without direct wetlands alteration and endangered species habitat alteration. The Commission has received three permit applications in the past ten years for a driveway and house on the parcel. The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program has raised serious concerns about the wildlife impacts of construction, and the driveway designs have not met the wetlands protection standards. The first permit application was withdrawn, and the second and third were denied. One of the denials was appealed to the Department of Environmental Protection, and they also issued a denial. A 40B Comprehensive Permit application was also filed for a 4-unit development. The ZBA denied that application because the design could not provide adequate wetlands protection and emergency access at the salve time. The Conservation Commission discussed the parcels during their meeting on May 14t'' and would support the LAND grant application. Staff has been gathering information about the parcels and the grant requirements, and will meet again on May 27"' at 3:00 to discuss the application process further. The grant application will require at least one appraisal, and we have received a proposal for appraisal of all four parcels from Brown Associates of Reading in the amount of $1,200. Brown Associates provided appraisals for the Mattera Conservation Area and Dividence Meadows, two recent acquisitions. A second appraisal is required if the total value of the four parcels exceeds $750,000. Alternatively, the Town could apply to acquire some of the parcels this year, and the remainder in a subsequent year. If the grant application is successful, it will not cover the entire cost of acquisition. The awards depend on the total funds budgeted by the state for the grant program, the relative merits of grant applications from other towns, and Reading's eligibility rating based on socioeconomic characteristics. At best, Reading might receive a grant for approximately 60% of the total cost of the project, and no grant would be awarded to exceed $500,000. Thus, the Town must identify a source of local funding, and Town Meeting must vote to authorize the funding and acquisition. Acquisition must be completed by June 30, 2009, after which DCS would reimburse the Town in the amolult of the grant. bi r -L, t3 a s Date: May 15, 2008 To: Sgt. David Clark, dclark(@ci.readinia.ma.us James Bonazoli, Board of Selectman, Chairperson, bonazoli(@,comeast.net Chief James Cormier, icormier(ckixeadina.ma.us Lt. Michael Cloonan, Acting Chief of Police, mcloonan(7a.ci.readina.ma.us Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager, townmanaaerRci.readina.ma.us From: Erica McNamara Re: Reading Police RAD Program I am writing to convey my sincere appreciation to the Reading Police Department for the well-run R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) Program offered in the month of May. I wanted to acknowledge the skilled team of officers led by Sgt. David Clark and Pat Iapicca including Officer Abate, Officer Stasiak, Officer Agnone, Officer Halloran, Officer Lavita, and Officer Nelson. Together, the instructors created a safe environment for defensive skills practice and valuable safety guidance for local residents. Additionally, I would like to thank Lt. Cloonan, for taking time out of his busy schedule to present graduation certificates to all of the participants. This program represents a valuable public service offered by the Reading Police Department. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (2003-2006), an estimated 17% of women experienced sexual assault in their lifetime. Women sexually assaulted ranged in age from from 1 year to over 60 years old. Forty-one percent of female victims reported injuries in addition to the sexual assault. Over a third (34%) reported having a disability. Almost half of sexual assaults reported occurred at the ~a..l victiun's home. Only 42% of victims reported sexual assaults to police and less than 37% had forensic evidence collected. Given these statistics, it is important to remember that local sexual assault statistics may actually be higher than published reports due to underreporting by victims. Additionally, local youth risk behavior survey data indicates • Eight percent (8%) of Reading High School students reported ever experiencing physical or sexual violence in a dating relationship. • Ten percent (10%) of Reading High School students reported ever experiencing sexual contact against their will. The Reading Police Department has taken a pro-active approach through the RAD program allowing adolescents and women an opportunity to become empowered and knowledgeable about protecting their safety. As you make budgetary and strategic decisions over the few years, I strongly encourage you to continue to support this valuable program as a priority public service. Additionally, I request that you consider the importance of implementing the RAD kids program to address safety training for our younger residents. Thank you. Sincerely, Erica McNamara 44 Greystone Way Reading, MA 01867 <K6LL n--- 1 of 1 4C,6C,5 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 11:54 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: 1/c Board of Selectmen From: VanMagness, Frederick (HOU) [mailto:Frederick.Vanmagness@state.ma.us] Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 11:44 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: Dear Peter: Hello. I'm writing to let you know that my work as Chief of Staff and Senior Legal Counsel for Representative Brad Jones is ending tomorrow, May 16, 2008. After more than five years in Brad's office, I am leaving to start a public relations consulting business with a trusted colleague of mine. We're both very excited about this new opportunity, but we will miss the chance to work with some of the people we've met through our dealings at the State House and in Brad's district. Before my last day, I wanted to take this chance to thank you for the pleasure of working with you in recent years. It has always been very enjoyable speaking with you, and I personally appreciate all of your help and assistance along the way. Hopefully we will have an opportunity to cross paths again sometime in the future through our work. Until then, please feel free to contact me at my new business address: Fred Van Magness, Founding Partner LYRIC CONSULTING P.O. Box 1555 Brookline, MA 02446 (781) 771-8602 E-mail: frednlvricconsultinv..com Internet: www.lvrieconsultina.com Starting on Monday, please feel free to direct any questions that you have for Representative Jones to his office at (617) 722-2100. Legislative requests may be referred to Steven Larrabee, Director of Legislative Affairs. Inquiries or requests regarding Brad's district may be referred to one of his aides, Justin Martel, Cynthia Oldfield or Tanya Maslar. And, of course, you always can feel free to call Representative Jones directly for assistance. Thank you again and please be sure to keep in touch. Sincerely, Fred Van Magness 4S6 5/16/2008 Page 1 of 2 aos Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Friday, May 16, 2008 11:49 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading I/c Board of Selectmen From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Friday, May 16, 2008 11:49 AM To: 'Eileen Moccia'; Reading - Selectmen Cc: Keating, Bob Subject: RE: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Eileen .As I am sure you know, today Bob Keating our Supervisor of Parks, Forestry and Cemetery, and Bruce Fenton, our Forestry foreman, again reviewed the location and condition of the tree you referenced. Mr. Keating has the authority to remove a tree if it warrants removal. He is considering your concern and the condition of the tree and will be making a decision shortly on whether or not to remove it. I do wand you to be assured that the Town does not remove trees on private property, and if there is a question in any particular case of where the tree lies, the Town's surveyors determine the location vis-a-vis the Town right of way. You should be hearing from Mr. Keating within the next several days. Pete From: Eileen Moccia [mailto:eileentmoccia@hotmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 9:53 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: tree located at 50 Fairview Ave, Reading Gentlemen: I am the owner of the property located at 50 Fairview Avenue, Reading. I am requesting that someone from your department come out to our property to view the town tree. This tree has already had damage from a recent wind storm and one limb has already blow to the.ground. This tree is diseased and will not withstand more abuse. We had the Assistant Tree manager come out to look at the tree already and were not pleased with his response for leaving the tree standing. He quickly stated to my husband and myself that the tree could "withstand 2 or 3 more hurricanes". Should we wait to see if this tree lands on our property or a neighbors property which has alread happend with the limb that fell off!!? My house is insured by Horace Mann Insurance Co and my husband is the agent of this policy. I will be sending rc- 5/16/2008 Page 2 of 2 a copy of this request as well as a copy of your response to this agency. If this tree falls down on my property or my neighbors property this insurance company will have been informed of this towns neglect to alter this situation regarding this tree. I have been viewing the removal of several trees on neighbors properties, as well as some that were removed that were not town trees during the last several months and do not understand why this tree is still standing. I would appreciate it if someone with the authority to remove the tree would meet with either my husband, Joseph or myself to discuss this tree situation as soon as possible. I will wait for your answer to this problem. sincerely, Eileen T. Moccia Get Free (PRODUCT) REDTm Emoticons, Winks and Display Pics. Check it out! ~L2 5/16/2008 Page 1 of I 1-/C 60 ,5 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Monday, May 19, 2008 9:56 AM To: Cloonan, Mike Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: General Comments to the Town I/c Board of Selectmen From: LeLacheur, Bob Sent: Monday, May 19, 2008 8:27 AM To: Cormier, Jim; Cloonan, Mike; Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: FW: General Comments to the Town From: Kate Coughlin [mailto:coughlins2@verizon.net] Sent: Friday, May 16, 2008 7:29 PM To: Finance Subject: General Comments to the Town Request From: Kate Coughlin Email: couahlins2 a.verizon.net Address: 55 Oak Street City: Reading State: MA Zip: 01867-3706 Phone: 781-944-5843 Organization: I recently had the opportunity to attend the RAD class run by the RPD. I have never been one to comment via website, or newspaper, or soapbox, but, if I could, I would shout fi•om the rooftops on the merits of attending this program. I have heard all my life the phrase "sense of empowerment" but until now, have not known the true meaning. The confidence gained and skills and techniques learned, have changed my life. Yes, as simple as that. The program was so well run, and the RAD instructors so in sync with each other, that my only regret is it's over. I wish this was a mandatory PE requirement in the High Schools. In addition to learning defensive tactics, I received a palpable sense of comradede with other women of Reading. We cheered for each other and pushed each other to heights we never knew we could attain. We all came out better women. A side benefit was getting to know the officers of RPD. I am proud to be a resident in a town that values it's residents and elicits such compassion, and honest commitment to betterment from its officers. Kudos to Sgt Dave Clark, Officers Kristen Stasiak, Ian Nelson, Michelle Halloran, Sal Lavita, Richard Abate, Pat Iapicea, and Christine Agnone. Special thanks to all those who assited the RPD in the pursuit of imparting knowledge. KI 5/19/2008 Page 1 of 1 L/C, ~6as Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Monday, May 19, 2008 12:46 PM To: 'Eileen Moccia' Cc: selectmen @co.read ingma.us; Schena, Paula Subject: FW: 50 Fairview Mr. and Mrs. Moccia, I have received the attached from our Parks, Forestry, and Cemetery supervisor, and we will be removing this tree within the next few weeks. Pete Hechenbleikner Town Manager I/c Board of Selectmen From: Keating, Bob Sent: Monday, May 19, 2008 12:43 PM To. Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: 50 Fairview Peter: Bruce Fenton and I reviewed the Maple tree at 50 Fairview on Friday May 16, 2008. The homeowner was present when we make the inspection. As you recall the tree has a singular trunk which had branched out into three leaders about eight feet above ground level. Last year the center leader had split and we removed the fallen leader. There was some rot at the base of the fallen leader but it did not appear to have affected the two remaining leaders significantly. Our recent inspection does show an increased amount of rot between the two remaining leaders. These leaders form a large Y with one toward the street and the other toward the left corner of the house. The tree does not appear to be in eminent danger of falling but the prognosis is not good as the rot will continue as the crotch will collect water. I will place the tree on our removal list and it will be taken down in the next few weeks. Bob Keating, Tree Warden. g. -e- 5/19/2008 C t c n. Leaders at the Core of Better Communities May 26, 2008 Vol. 89, No. 11 SERVICE AWARD LIST AVAILABLE NOW Another reminder to check the preliminary service award list posted in the awards section at icma.org. Send an e-mail to awards@icma.org by June 2 if you don't see your name listed but think it should be or if you have questions about the num- ber of years shown. You help is needed to ensure accuracy of the list. CLASS DEADLINE EXTENDED The deadline to apply for the next class of Leadership ICMA has been extended to May 30. Participants in this premier two- year leadership development program attend the eight-day ICMA-SEI Leadership Institute at the University of Virginia's Weldon Cooper Center, learn five com- prehensive class modules, and complete a team-based capstone project at a local government. Applicants must have at least three years of local government management experi- ence, For an application and more infor- mation, go to http://icma.org/lead. More to the Pension Story Recent news stories, including a May 11 front page article in the Washington Post, have given the public the impression that virtually all public employee pension plans are poorly funded. The data tell a different story. The Washington Post published a letter to-the editor frorn the Center for State and Local Government Excellence that highlighted the center's research findings: m Overall, state and local government pension plans are as well funded as private plans, with assets covering nearly 90 percent of liabilities, even though public plans tend to pay larger benefits, use a more stringent funding yard stick, and are not covered. by any national legislation that mandates funding standards. ® Better funding occurs when the plan has an. extended funding history, uses a rigorous cost method, has an independent investment council, and makes its annual required. contributions. a Although. more than. 40 percent of plans studied failed. to make their an- nual .required. contribution (ARC) in 2006, the majority of these plans faced legal constraints on their contributions. One reason that reporters exaggerate the pension funding issue is because they often. cover it in stories that also focus on the unfunded liability for re- tiree health care. The ICMA Retirement Corporation provided funding for the center's research studies, which were carried. out by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston. College. Full reports are available at http://slge.org. SEND YOUR PROFILE To PM 2008 Annual Confei°ence Housing/Shuttle I o Have you been profiled in a newspaper or other publication within the past four There are two important things you .necci to know about this ye s .IC MA An months? If so, send an original clipping rltlal Conference in Richmond, Virginia, 5epternber 21-24: securing hotel or electronic copy of the story or article a.econt.mod.ations is going to be competitive, and (2) a phi.sticated shuttle with the name and date of publication bus system will be used to move attendees in, o , and around Richmond. In which it appeared to PM Editor Beth Payne, ICMA, 777 North Capitol St., Suite But have no fear! 1CMA staff aril the Vi 'nia. Host Committee (which 500, Washington, O.C. 20002-4201; hosted the National Association of C nties' conference just last year) have e-mail, bpayne@icma.org, worked. hand to develop a stra.te or dealing with these two challenges. The results are a more equity e approach to making a conference housing reservation and a state-of-t e-art conference shuttle bus system. Housing Reserv .ion Changes for 2008: The online conference housing l © r bureau will ¢n simultaneously with online conference registration. Starting o a/Jane 2, you can make a hotel reservation and register for the confer ice online, or you may download your forms to fax or to mail, The i v fir Continued on page 8 g r .10~ c//G~i C~G~~IL177Gt/GZGG~G ~~~GG9CdO~ZdGlP~~~1 ~r~" = w w a~aude a~~e~%~ede2t~ttcrred r mate ~~a~c~e, ~a~tc~ 027.3'.x- '1054 ,W 20'" MIDDLESEX DISTRICT BRADLEY H. JONES, JR. STATE REPRESENTATIVE MINORITY LEADER READING • NORTH READING LYNNFIELD • MIDDLETON TEL. (617) 722-2100 Rep.BradleyJones@hou.state.ma.us www.bradjonesonline.com May 12, 2008 Ms. Ruth Urell, Director Reading Public Library 64 Middlesex Avenue Reading, MA 01867 Dear Ms. Urell: Not long ago you contacted my office to express your concerns with a variety of education programs for Fiscal Year 2009. I thought I would take a moment to update you on the initial outcome of the House budget. Very sinply, the firialized House budget includes the following updated funding. schedule for the programs you contacted me about: Line Item Program HWM H Final 7000-9501 State Aid to Municipal Libraries $9,489,844 $ 9,989,844 7000-9506 Technology & Resource Sharing $3,051,000 $ 3,051,000 7000-9507 Matching Grants - no funding - $ 200,000 I also wanted to take a moment to comment generally on the budgetary process. As you may know, legislative budgeting is a two-step process beginning in the House of Representatives with the release of a budget proposal by the Committee on Ways and Means. The budget proposal is then debated, amended and approved by the House as a whole. Shortly thereafter the Senate follows a similar process and the two branches must eventually reconcile differences between the separate versions of the state budget to come up with a final version. Budgeting state revenues is the most important regular activity that the Legislature conducts: it is where the state decides how to spend your money, and it is what gets the government up and running... The process should be open and clear to. the public so that constituents can petition and evaluate their legislators. Yet, for the past several years the Democratic majority in the House has undermined the democratic process by making major budgetary decisions behind closed doors, specifically through the consolidation of budget amendments. <Fq l The consolidation process is a series of closed door negotiations where issue-specific budget amendments are rolled into several consolidated amendments, which are then released for "debate" on the House floor. In fact, this year the 1,512 individual amendments filed this year were rolled into a mere 16 consolidated amendments. The substitution of consolidated amendment in place of individual amendments renders debate on specific accounts virtually impossible, which means that the closed door negotiations effectively finalize the House budget. This process gives too much power.to the Speaker of the House and essentially robs individual legislators of their privilege to make a public case for their spending priorities. While I do not begrudge private or frank conversation, removing debate from the public venue is unfair to constituents and unjust behavior within a democracy. Constituents should have a chance to know what is going on and legislators should have a chance to actually debate, rather than have it be just for show. My growing disappointment and frustration with this process combined with a tremendous concern with the overall bottom line led me to vote against all of this year's consolidated amendments and against the budget as a whole. The budget adopted by the House reflects $1,388,882,544 more spending than Fiscal Year 2008, which far outpaces ordinary inflation. This sort of spending during a time of uncertain revenues and economic difficulty seems to set up the state for 9C cuts midyear. Despite my support for certain very worthy components, voting against each consolidated amendment better enabled me to make the point about the process and the bottom line on the final budget vote than if I had done otherwise. I hope you understand my current position. Again, thank you for getting in touch. Should you have further comments or concerns regarding this or any other matter, please feel free to contact me at your convenience. H. Jones, Jr. v Leader ga 2 May 20, 2008 Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested Board of Selectmen Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 Dear Members of the Board: In keeping with our ongoing efforts to provide regular updates regarding our service in Reading, I would like to inform you about an effort underway at Comcast to fulfill customer demand for more High Definition (HD) programming and advanced digital services. As you may know, most of our customers today receive digital cable, and a significant and rapidly growing portion of this digital majority also subscribe to HD service. Because we are committed to offering more HD programming than any other provider and to meeting our customers' desire for even more HD content, we are taking steps now that will allow us to deliver more than 1,000 HD choices by the end of this year. In addition to increased HD choices, our customers have told us they expect us to continue enhancing popular digital features and services like On Demand and Digital Video Recorders. To accommodate this significant expansion of digital and HD services (we currently offer about 500 HD choices a month), we will be changing the channel positions of a small number of cable networks this July, moving them to our digital service. Because more than 70 percent of our New England customers receive digital cable service today, most Comcast customers will continue to receive these networks without interruption. For the balance of our customers, these networks will no longer be viewable without a digital converter box. For those analog customers who would like to continue to view this programming, we will be offering them one free digital box for a year and a discount on additional outlets. This offer will allow current analog customers to enjoy the benefits of digital cable, including a clearer picture, access to On Demand programming, parental controls and an Interactive Program Guide. As you may know, our primary competitors - the satellite and telephone companies - do not offer any analog service and require that all of their customers either rent digital boxes or purchase expensive satellite receivers. The move of these analog networks is scheduled to begin on July 15, 2008. As is our practice, we will be notifying affected customers about this initiative in a variety of ways, including sending them a letter (copy attached), calling them and when possible, visiting their home. Additionally, customers can visit a newly created website - www.comcastdiaitalworld.com - to get their questions answered or contact us 240 by phone at 1-800-COMCAST or via live chat at www.comcast.com. And, as previously communicated, Comcast will continue to offer basic cable as an analog service through and after the separate, unrelated event of the federally-mandated Broadcast Digital Transition, which applies only to broadcast television stations. 1~~') Reading, MA Page 2 For local residents who are interested in upgrading from analog to digital service, it is easy to switch simply by requesting a digital converter box or scheduling a professional installation. Again, let me point out that we will be offering analog customers a free digital box for a year, and that there will be no additional programming fee as a result of the channel adjustments. Comcast's goal is to offer our customers the best quality, the most choices and the greatest value in home entertainment, and we will continue to invest in our network, in customer service and in new technologies in order to meet that goal. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 978-927-5700, ext. 4409 should you have any questions about the information I have enclosed here or about our service in general. Respectfully, Jane M. Lyman Sr. Manager of Government Relations Enclosure: Sample Customer Communication ~ -Z-,, -important information about your Service- Effective 711512008, the following channels will be moving to a new channel number and service level: NetworsName Current Chanriei ,Current Service Level z q ° New Clianrict skew Serviieit ever 1 CN8 3 Basic I 188 1 Basic TruTV I 27 1 Expanded Basic 186 1 Digital Starter MSNBC 53 Expanded Basic I 251 1 Diqital Starter EWTN 56 Expanded Basic 238 Digital Starter BCTV t 56 Expanded Basic 268 Digital Starter Inspiration 56 Expanded Basic 234 I Diqital Starter Hallmark 58 Expanded Basic 208 Digital Starter NJT 56 1 Expanded Basic No Longer Available In order to continue to view the programming listed, you will need to subscribe to the digital package stated. Digital converter box and remote necessary to receive digital programming (current monthly service charge of $3.95) are not included. Not all programming and services available in all areas. Other restrictions apply. Call 1-800-COMCAST complete details. 02008 Comcast. All rights reserved. 29 The following high-definition channels will now be included in the following packages: TNT HD Digital Starter f t ESPN HD I Digital Starter' MOJO t Digital Starter UHD I Digital Starter HD Theater I Digital Starter National Geographic Channel HD Digital Classic A high-definition cable box is required to view programming in HD. Why is Comcast moving analog channels to the digital lineup? • By moving channels to digital we create capacity for more HD channels, faster Internet speeds and other enhancements in response to customer demand. How does digital cable service benefit me? • Digital cable customers enjoy a host of features and benefits that are not available with analog service. Video On Demand, the Interactive Program Guide, Music Choice, enhanced picture quality and Parental Controls are all enabled by a digital converter box. Digital cable service also allows for advanced services like Digital Video Recorders and High Definition viewing. What will it cost me to change my service to digital cable? • To continue receiving the channels that will be moving to digital cable, you will need a digital set top box. The fee for a standard-definition digital box with remote control is only $3.95 per-month. Please visit www.comcastdiaitalworld.com or call 1-800-COMCAST for more details. How difficult is it to make the switch to digital cable? • The transition to digital cable is quick and easy and there are several options available to you: 1) You can pick-up a digital converter box at your local service center, 2) we can ship you a digital converter box and a self-installation kit at no charge or 3) you can schedule a professional installation. For more information about these changes, to locate service centers near you or to learn more about the benefits of digital video service and current discount offers, please call 1-800- COMCAST or visit www.comcastdigitalworld.com. Metro-29 g~- k ~p ~cdvc~ ~t REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS DISPOSTION OF PROPERTY The Reading Housing Authority (RHA), a public body corporate and politic organized under the laws of the commonwealth is solicitinu bronosals from parties interested in ourchasine a certain parcel of land located at 75 Pleasant Street. ReadinL7. MA 01867. This parcel is approximately 18,700 square feet and the land is shown as Lot 6 on Reading Assessors' Map 65. The deed is recorded at the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds Book 31071, Page 603.The property lies near the center of the Town of Reading, MA and fronts on a public way, known as Pleasant Street. There is an existing building on the property that has been used as two-family dwelling. The property is bordered on the west by a municipal parking lot and the Reading Senior Center, to the south and east by residential properties. This public property disposition is subject to the requirements of MGL c.30B § 16 and the terms and requirements of the sale of the Premises are set forth in the Request For Proposal (RFP) which may be obtained by contacting Lyn Whyte, Executive Director, Reading Housing Authority, 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive, Reading, MA 01867. The deadline for submitting a price proposal in response to this RFP is 4 p.m. Monday, June 16, 2008. A proposal may be submitted by an authorized agent or representative, or a party with a binding option to acquire the property. The RHA reserves the right to waive any informality or to reject any or all proposals if in the public interest to do so. 8• REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE PROPOSED DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY (REAL ESTATE) KNOWN AS 75 PLEASANT STREET, READING, MASSACHUSETTS OWNED BY THE READING HOUSING AUTHORITY DUE: 4:00 P.M. (LOCAL TIME), JUNE, 16, 2008, AT THE OFFICE OF THE READING HOUSING AUTHORITY 22 FRANK D. TANNER DRIVE READING, MASSACHUSETTS 01867 781-944-67.55 BIDDERS SHOULD SIGN FOR AND OBTAIN AN RFP PACKAGE FROM THE OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, READING HOUSING AUTHORITY 22 FRANK D. TANNER DRIVE READING, MASSACHUSETTS 07.867 1. Proposal Sumrnarv_: The Reading Housing Authority (RHA) is a public body corporate and politic organized under M.G. Laws Chapter 121B. RHA is seeking proposals for the purchase from it of certain real estate known as 75 Pleasant Street, Reading, Massachusetts, including land with the existing buildings thereon (the Property). The property is owned by the RHA and is as further described in the deed, a copy of which is attached hereto (Exhibit A) and incorporated herein by reference. The deed is recorded at the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds Book 31071, Page 603. The land is shown as Lot 6 on Reading Assessors' Map 65. The Reading Housing Authority is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) to sell the Property in its current "as is" condition. 2. Pronertv Description: The Property lies near the center of the Town of Reading, Massachusetts, and fronts on a public way, known as Pleasant Street. The land is comprised of 18,700 square feet. There is an existing building on the property that has been used as two-family dwelling. The Property is bordered on the west by a municipal parking lot and the Reading Senior Center, to the south and east by residential properties. The existing building is vacant of occupants and is considered historic. A plan showing the Property is attached (Exhibit B). 3. Aoolicable Zoning: The property appears to be in the zoning A-40 District. In that District, one-family and two-family dwellings are allowed as a matter of right. Interested parties should obtain and review the Reading Zoning Bylaw. 4. Governmental Permitting: Permits, orders and approvals from the Town of Reading; other state or federal permits, orders, or approvals may apply, depending on what the purchaser intends to do with the property. A demolition permit is required if the purchaser intends to demolition the building. Reading has a demolition delay by-law; a copy of which is attached (Exhibit C). The RHA obtained a ruling from the Reading Historical Commission. A building permit and occupancy permit would be required to alter the existing building or to build a new building. The RNA makes no representations or promises regarding the status or need for permits and approvals. 5. Eaual Ooportunity and Non-Discrimination: The RHA adheres to all applicable equal opportunity and anti-discrimination laws, regulations, and standards. 6. Site Access: The property at 75 Pleasant Street will be open for viewing and inspection by interested persons for two hours, starting at 10:00arn on June 11, 2008. The access is expected to last for no more than two hours. 7. Reauests for Additional Information: Additional requests for information should be directed to Lyn Whyte, Executive Director, Reading Housing Authority, 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive, Reading, iViA 01367 at. (781)-944-6755. 3. Subrttissiort_Rerquirrments: 3.1 Submission Deadline: Proposals shall be received in she RHA Office until 4:00 :2€2053. In orderto be considered for selection, the applicant must submit a complete response to the ~1`3 Request for Proposal. ONE ORIGINAL AND SIX COPIES of each proposal must be submitted. Proposals should be submitted in sealed packages; marked as, "Proposal for Purchase of 75 Pleasant Street, Reading, MA;" and delivered to: Lyn Whyte, Executive Director Reading Mousing Authority 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive Reading, MA 01867 Any proposal received after the defined submission date or any proposal that is received incomplete may not be accepted. The RMA will not be responsible for the complete or timely receipt of any submittal or portion thereof. 8.2 Proposal Format: Proposal should be bound (or stapled together with consecutively numbered pages) and printed single sided on 8 %2" x 11" white paper. 8.3 Proposal Content: All Proposals should include the following elements: Letter of Interest: A signed letter of interest. not to exceed four oases in length. should be included as the first item in the proposal. This letter of interest should summarize key elements of the proposal, such as the proposed purchase price, any contingencies or "due diligence" requirements, and should identify the bidder's name, address, and telephone number along with those of any consultants who have participated in the preparation of the proposal. The letter of interest also should include a statement agreeing to all terms and conditions defined in this Request for Proposal, or a statement taking exception to certain identified conditions. b. Organization and Qualification: The proposal should describe the names and addresses of all persons anticipated to hold a beneficial interest in the Property must be disclosed in accordance with M.G.L. Ch. 7, §40J. This information should be contained on Exhibit D. c. Certifications: The following Certification Statements (on the forms attached) must be completed, signed and included with the proposal: Disclosure of Beneficial Interest- M.G.L., Chapter 7, Section 40J (Exhibit D) Non-Collusion (Exhibit E) Tax Compliance - M.G.L., Chapter 62C, Section 49A (Exhibit F) d. Financial Matters; The proposal should demonstrate the financial qualifications of the proponent to complete the purchase and satisfy any financial conditions in the Proposal. This should include a description of the financial status and capacity of the proponent. While a proposal without a condition of financing is preferable, if the proposal contains a condition of financing', the proposal should identify what lender financing is required and should be accompanied by a copy of a preapproval letter from a licensed lending institution, not a mortgage broker. All potential sources of funds to complete the purchase should be identified. and explained in detail. The RMA reserves the right: to further investigate the financial qualifications and credit worthiness of a proponent. g; N e. Prooosal Narrative and Projaram Description: If the Proposal is in anyway conditional on what the proponent intends to do with the property, the proposal should include a detailed description of what the proponent;intends to do with the Property. Otherwise, no such description is required. Timetable: The proposal should provide a statement of how soon the proponent will be prepared to take title to the Property and satisfy any conditions of the purchase. However, see section 11.6. 9. Selection Criteria: The primary consideration is to obtain the maximum purchase price for the Property with the least conditions as to the proponent's obligation to purchase. The RHA will be evaluating all Proposals to qualify them as being responsible and responsive to the requirements of the RFP. The RHA intends to select what it considers to be most advantageous proposal from a responsive and responsible proponent, taking into consideration price and all other evaluation criteria set forth in the RFP, but the RHA reserves the right to reiect anv and all Proposals. 10. Selection Process: 10.1 Onenina of Proposals: Proposals shall be opened oubllcly at 10:00 a.m. on June Is. 2008, at the office of the RHA, 22 Frank B. Tanner Drive, Reading, MA 01867. 10.2 Proposal Evaluation: A preliminary screening of each proposal will be conducted to determine adherence to the RNA's Minimum submission requirements. The RHA reserves the right to reject any proposal or to request clarification on material submitted if it is deemed to be in the best interests of the RHA to do so. All proposals that are determined to be in adherence with the basic submission requirements will be reviewed and evaluated for consistency with the RNA's objective to sell the Property soon and at the highest sales price. This evaluation will be conducted by the RNA or its designee, subject to final determination by the RHA. The RHA may consult others of its choosing. The RHA may engage as consultants to review portions of any proposal and, if such proposal is accepted, include reimbursement for the costs of such experts in the terms and conditions of any Purchase and Sales Agreement. 10.3 Clarification: Following the review of written proposal submissions, written questions of clarification may be asked by the RNA to allow for clarification of proposals and to enable further evaluation of the proposal and qualifications. 10.4 Interviews: The RNA or its designee may conduct interviews with those proponents whose proposals are judged to be the most advantageous proposal from a responsive and responsible proponent, taking into consideration price and all other evaluation criteria set forth in the RFP. 10.5 Final Evaluation: Following the interview process, if any, the R IAA will make a final evaluation of the proposals. 1.0.6 Conditional Applicant Designation: The RI-1A will make the final selection of the designated proponent, conditioned on the succPssful negotiation of a Purchase and Sale Agreement. 4 81~ 10.7 Purchase and Sale Agreement: The selected proponent must execute a purchase and sale agreement with the RHA within twenty (20) days of when RHA advises the proponent of his or her selection, The purchase and sales agreement will be drafted by the RHA and may incorporate the terms of the RFP and the proposal selected and all arrangements between the RHA and the selected proponent concerning purchase price, the schedule and term of payment, the schedule (including a closing date), the refundability of deposits proposed to secure the purchase and, any contingencies or due diligence requirements. A cash deposit will be required in the arnount of five percent of the sales price, which deposit shall be held by the RHA. 10.8 Execution of Transaction: Following completion of a Purchase and Sale Agreement, the performance of any agreed upon due diligence and the satisfaction of any agreed upon contingencies, title will be conveyed to the designated purchaser. Real estate taxes or payments in lieu of taxes shall be allocated and made in accordance with M.G.L. Ch.44, §63A at closing, to the extent deemed applicable by the RHA. A certification pursuant to M.G.L. Ch. 62C, §49A that all taxes have been paid must be signed at closing by the purchaser. 11. General Conditions: This RFP is subject also to the following conditions: 11.1 The RHA reserves the right to change the selection process or schedule with written notice to all proponents. RHA reserves the right to suspend, withdraw, or amend this RFP at any time, without notice. 11.2 All materials submitted by a proponent become the property of the RHA. The RHA is under no obligation to return any of the material submitted by a proponent in response to this RFP. 11.3 The RHA reserves the right to reject, in its sole discretion; any proposal not submitted in conformance with this RFP and any amendments hereto, or to reject any and all proposals, in its sole discretion, for any reason. The RHA further reserves the right to waive or decline to waive irregularities in any proposal when it determines that it is in the RHA's best interest to do so. 11.4 The proponent agrees to purchase the property in its "AS IS" condition and agrees to be solely responsible for obtaining any and all permits, approvals, waivers, releases, or any other requirements as to the property as proposed in this RFP. The RHA assumes no obligation in that regard. No representations or warranties are made as to the physical condition or potential use of the property. 11.5 The purchase and sales agreement shall contain a provision that the buyer acknowledges that, under Massachusetts law, whenever a child or children under six years of age resides in any residential premises in which any paint, plaster or other accessible material contains dangerous levels of lead, the owner of said premises must remove or cover said paint, plaster or other material so as to make in inaccessible to children under six years of age and that the buyer is aware that the Premises may contain dangerous levels of lead and assumes any responsibility with reference thereto and that the buyer has received a lead paint "property transfer notification certification". The purchaser must sign a certification that it shall comply with the law and so indemnifies tine RHA. 1.6 The selected proponent must purchase Lhe property and pay the full purchase price within sixty days (60) days of the execution of the Pr►rc.hase and 5aif A.gr=~enlent. The RHA reserves Lh, ri{;ftt to extend this deiadline. g. 6 11.7 The proponent shall not assign, transfer, sublet, convey, or otherwise dispose of any contract which results from this RFP, or its right, title, or interest therein, or its power to execute the same to any other person, firm, partnership, company, or corporation without the previous corssent in writing of the RHA. Should the proponent attempt any of the above without written consent of the RHA, the RHA reserves the right to declare the proponent in default and terminate the contract for cause. 11.8 All contract amendments must be in writing and approved and signed by an RHA authorized official to bind the RHA. 11.9 The proponent must certify that no official or employee of the RHA or of the Town of Reading, Massachusetts, has a pecuniary interested in this proposal or in the contract which the proponent offers to execute or in expected profits to arise there from, unless there has been compliance with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 43, Section 27, and that this proposal is made in good faith without fraud or collusion or connection with any other person submitting a proposal. 11.10 The proponent must be current in taxes and all water and sewer liabilities on any and all real estate owned in the Town of Reading, MA. 12. Exhibits: The following supplemental information is attached: (a) Exhibit A - Deed. (b) Exhibit B - Site Plan of the Property. (c) Exhibit C- Reading Demolition Delay Bylaw. (c) Exhibit D - Disclosure of Beneficial Interests in Real Property Transaction. (d) Exhibit E - Certificate of Non-Collusion & Tax Compliance Certification. (e) Exhibit F-Tax Compliance Certification. (f) Exhibit G - Lead Paint Property Transfer Notification Certification. 8K3 1 07 1 P6603 QUITCLAIM DEED 1, Margaret C. Molyneaux, of Reading, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, for consideration paid and in full consideration of Two Hundred Thirteen Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($213,750.00) grant to Reading Housing Authority, a public body corporate and politic organized under M.G.I_: c. 121 B, with a place of business at 22 Frank D. Tanner Drive, Reading, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, with quite/aim covenants A certain parcel of land with the buildings thereon situated in Reading, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, bounded and described as follows: NORTHERLY by Pleasant Street, one hundred eight and 05/100 (108.05) feet; EASTERLY by land now or formerly of Julia E. Prescott, one hundred fifty-six and 20/100 (156.20) feet; SOUTHERLY by land now or formerly of Mary L. Boyce, of Ella J. Parker and Lewis Ellenwood, one hundred twenty-six and 80/100 (126.80) feet; and Z.V,. WESTERLY by land now or formerly of Town of Reading, one hundred sixty-one and 251100 (161.25) feet. Containing 18,700 square feet of land, more or less, be all said measurements and contents more or less, or however otherwise the said premises may be bounded, measured or described. Grantor hereby releases Declaration of Homestead dated April 18, 1990, and recorded in Middlesex South Registry of Deeds at Book 20518, Page 548. For grantor's title see deed recorded In the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds at Book 7139, Page 399, .r u, WITNESS my 17and and seal this _~7U0 'day of January, 2000. ru L it r A; , u X14) Mararet C, Molynea U/P/A Bruce A. Power rr tc r'y ~ ra ~ _I 0 J, SP 8K3107 ( PG604 COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Middlesex, ss. January ZU , 2000 Then personally appeared the above named Margaret C. Molyneaux U/P/A Bruce A. Power and acknowledged the foregoing instrument to be his free act and deed before me. Des na Kyri i is ~lotary Public My Commissio expires April 14, 2006 8;9 lRH / ! 1. i . _ ~ _ ' ~ ' . J ~ ~G ' - ! I Sti9N / 0 I r RIM-93.'~ CE) J fig, 1 IN11(13r 9 7. 00 s Blr'.alDEtVALjK . r - CONC.' .SLIT DRIVE ~ bb'ALfC ° lhLt - ,#75 s WOOD FRAME = i ny~r 'LING _99_ 5 \ v .3 6i 4 qG . ` ..H SA =92. 09 `EC f=C: Fl?-^ 0LiTLET -PS ;STEPS a 87.J~ c rTG~JE WALL '(b)=80.04 ~ 1 fji /&,PSTFR ~kPFA '•A ? _ - O - - TOPiL HL TAIMN-9`VALL -TDW-W-C-E READING if , , rJ~ r~ n ~ .n_ 4 n1 J t J[^E-, v t~ R.~J~ lVjAP~6-5 ~~q r ~ln 'E'} i~ /1 _ _ _ LOTS & 7 J? AREA[ = 4 1, 059 _ i~ =0.94 ACRE , ._2 . A _5.13 Demolition of Structures of Potential Historical Sianificance 5.1.3.1 The purpose of this Bylaw is to preserve and protect historically significant structures within the Town which reflect or constitute distinctive features of the architectural, cultural, economic, political or social. history of the Town and to encourage owners of such structures to seek out persons who might be willing to purchase, preserve, rehabilitate or restore such structures rather than demolish them. To achieve these purposes, the Reading Historical Commission is empowered to advise the Building Inspector with respect to the issuance of permits for demolition of such historically significant structures. The issuance of demolition permits for such historically significant structures is regulated as provided in this Bylaw. 5.13.2 Definitions 5.13.2.1 Business Dav: A day which is not a legal municipal holiday, Saturday or Sunday. 5.1.3.2.2 Demolition: Any act of pulling down, destroying, removing or razing a structure or commencing the work of total or substantial destruction with the intent of completing the same. 5.13.2.3 lEnaereenev Demolition: In the event of an imminent danger to the safety of the public, nothing in this Bylaw shalt restrict the Building Inspector from immediately ordering the demolition of any structure or any part thereof. 5.13.2.4 Potentially Sip-nificant Structure: Any structure or a portion of a structure that: a. Is listed on, or is within an area listed on, the National Register of historic Places, the Massachusetts Historical Register or`' Historic Places, or is the subject of a pending application for listing on said registers or; b. Is .in.cluded in the Historical and Architectural Inventory, as of September 1, 1995, maintained by the Reading E.li.storical Commission. or structures for which complete historical and architectural sui ey forms may be pending as of that date or, C. Has been determined by an affirmative vote of at least fora- (4) mernbers of the Commission to be historically or architecturally signi.fic.ant in terms of period, style, method of building construction or association with a significant architect, builder or resident either by itself or a. part of 4a _~roup 01' buildill", provided that the owner of such a strarc.ttare <md the 1:3uild1116)r Inspector have been notified in Edilor's Notc: So iai original. Ahharcntly should be "Df." (i n_'raf t3;:ia.vs r;r; 1merdc d through .llily 2007 1 hand or by certified snail at least thirty (30) days prior to such vote,. 5.13.2.5 Preferably :Preserved Historic Structure: Any historically significant structure which is detennined by the Commission to be in the public interest to preserve because of the important contribution made by such structure to the historical and/or cultural resources of the Town. 5.13.2.6 Commission: The Reading Historical Commission. 5.13.2.7 Structure: Materials assembled at a fixed location to give support or shelter, such as a building, framework, wall, tent, reviewing stand, platform or the like. 5.1.3.3 Procedures 5.13.3.1 The Commission will provide a listing of Potentially Significant Structures to the Building Inspector. This list is subject to the following criteria and periodic modification: Criteria for Potentially Significant Structures: a. The structure is determined to be importantly associated with one or more historic persons or events, or b. Is determined to be associated with the broad architectural, cultural, economic or social history of the Town or Commonwealth, or c. The structure is defined in Definition 5.13.2.4 as a Potentially Significant Structure. 5.13.3.2 Upon the receipt of a completed application i:onn for a Demolition Pen-nit for a Potentially Significant Structure, the Building Inspector shall immediately forward a copy thereof to the Conunission for review. 5.13.3.3 Within fourteen ('14) days of the date upon which the Commission receives the demolition application, the Commission shall make an Initial. Determination that is: a. Positive if the structure is historically inventoried, or in the process of being inventoried or determined by the Commission to ha.ve historic sitnificance, or b. Neoati,,.c if the initial .13etcrininat.iOll is nrg:T.ti~°e, the property is no longer subject to This R,.Jaw, and the Building Inspector rnay act on the Dernolitiim Permit. 5.13.:3.4 II' the luitia.l 1)c tcrlnitl~ttioil is positiv(,, the Colmilission shall hold a I)ublic. hc.arinti on the tpplicati<nt N.viihi.n (.v,crlty-one C;er~?rul Fiyl tw;ti 67 :Antond'.'d 1113OUtZh lnly "1007 g;~2 (21) days of the Initial Det.en-nination. and shall givc public notice of the time, place and purpose of the hearing in a local newspaper at least fourteen (1.4) days before said hearing; at least seven (7) days before said hearing, the Coi.tunission shall nail a copy of said notice to the applicant, to the owner(s) of all property deemed by the Commission to be affected thereby as they appear on the most recent local tax list, and to such other persons as the Commission shall deem entitled to notice. The Commission may rewire that the applicant maintain on the property, which is the subject of a Demolition Permit application, a notice in a form designated by the Commission, visible from the nearest public way, of any hearing on the subject matter of such application. The applicant shall be responsible for costs associated with the mailing, posting or publishing of the required notices. No less than five (5) business days before the public hearing, the applicant shall submit three (3) copies of a demolition plan which shall include the following: a. An assessor's map or plot plan showing the location of the structure to be demolished on its property with reference to the neighboring properties; b. I'hotographs of all facade elevations; c. A description of the structure to be demolished; d. The reasons for the proposed demolition and data supporting said reason; e. A brief description of the proposed reuse of the property on which the stnichire to be demolished is located. 5.13.3.5 If, after the close of such hearing, the Commission determines that the demolition of the Potentially Significant Structure would not be detrimental to the historical or architectural heritage or resources of the Town, the Commission shall so notify the Building Inspector within Fifteen (15) business days of. the conclusion of the hearing. Upon receipt of such notification, or after the expiration of the fifteen (.15) days, the Building lnspector may act on the Demolition Permit if he has not received notil:ication tioni tile Commission. 5.1:3.3.6 If the Comm.i4sioii determines that the demolition of the Potctit.ially Significant StruOL11e would be detri.nien(tti to the historical or architectural h(,ritage or z-csourccs of the '.I'mvn, st.n.h .1ruc:ture sh;lil he (.onr,idc)-(A a Iarefcrably Pros r <<.cl Historic Structure. The Con-imistiion shall so advise the applicant .inct the Building lnspcc.tor, -ind a. Dcniolition Permit iii-ay be delayed tip co finekc (12) months al.'ter [lie conclusioll of C;cncril Bylaws' 0 Nmcndw ihrrnjzh .lu1y 2007 91'(3 the hearing during which time alternatives to demolition shall be considered. The Commission shall offer the owner inforn•tation about options other than demolition, such as resources in the preservation field, the Massachusetis Historical Commission, the Town Planner, and other interested parties that might provide assistance in preservation, funding and/or adaptive reuse. 5.13.3.7 Rest)onsibility of Ownew'Annlicant The owner of record shall be responsible for participating in the investigation of options to demolition by actively seeking alternatives with the Commission and any interested parties, by providing any necessary information, by allowing reasonable access to the property, and by securing the premises. 5.1.3.4 Release of Delav Enforcement NotNvithstanding the preceding section of this BylaNv, the Building Inspector may issue a Demolition Permit for a Preferably Preserved Historic Structure at any time after receipt of written advice from the Commission to the effect that either: a. The Commission is satisfied that there is no reasonable likelihood that either the owner or sorne other person or group is willing to purchase, preserve, rehabilitate or restore such building; or b. The Commission is sa.tisfled that during the delay period the owner has made continuing, bona fide and reasonable efforts to locate a purchaser to preserve, rehabilitate and restore the subject structure, and that such efforts have been unsuccessful. As a condition of releasing the delay enforcement, the Commission may require the applicant to submit measured drawings or other documentation for the Town's historic records. 5.13.5 Emergency Demolition Nothing in this Section shall be construed to derogate in any way from the authority of the Building Inspector derived from Chapter 143 of the General Laws. However, before acting pursuant to that Chapter, the Building Inspector shall make every reasonable eft<.)rt to url'orm the Chairperson of the Commission of his intentions to cause demolition before lie initiates same. 5.13.0 Enforcement and remedies 5.13.6.1 In the event a ,,truCt:UJ.e governed by this 13 lair: is dcniolis led in violation of" this Bylaw, tllcn no building perinit shall be issut d for the Iremises fitr a period of two (2) Years after the date of such demolition„ ,\.s used herein. "premises" includes the pars el. land upon vvtticl:r the demolished structure % vas located and all adjoining; 17arcels of land under common ownership or control. (.1c'neral RvIa\.vs t,9 Ani ;ndcd (hron4gh July :2007 1?1; Exhibit D DISCLOSURE OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN REAL PROPERTY TRANSACTION This form contains a disclosure of the narnes and addresses of all persons with a direct or indirect beneficial interest in the real estate transaction described below. This form must be filed with the Massachusetts Division of Capital Planning and Operations, as required by M.G.L. c. 7, § 40J, prior to the conveyance of or execution of a tease for the real property described below. Attach additional sheets if necessary. 1. Public agency involved in this transaction: Reading Housing Authoritv, Reading. MA 2. Complete legal description of the property. Real estate known as 75 Pleasant Street, Reading, Massachusetts. as further described in the deed to Reading Housing Authoritv recorded at Middlesex South District registrv of Deeds at Book 31071. Page 603. 3. Type of Sale: Sale of fee ownership in real estate. 4. Seller: Reading Housing Authority, Reading, MA, 22 Frank B. Tanner Drive. Reading, MA 01867 Purchaser(s): 5. Names and addresses of all persons who have or will have a direct or indirect beneficial interest in the real estate described above. Note: If a corporation or other company has, or will have a direct or indirect beneficial interest in the real property, the names of all stockholders and members must also be listed except that, if the stock of the corporation is listed for sale to the general public, the name of any person holding less than ten percent of the outstanding voting shares need not be disclosed. Name: Address: Name: Address: Name: Address: None of the persons listed in this section is an official elected to public office in the Commonvlealth of Massachusetts except as noted belo,nr: 7 g; is Name: Title or position: 6. This section must be signed by the individual(s) or organization(s) entering into this real property transaction with the public agency named in item 2. If this form is signed an behalf of a corporation or limited liability company, it must be signed by a duly authorized officer of that corporation or company. The undersigned acknowledges that any changes or additions to item 4 of this form during the term of any lease or rental will require filing a new disclosure with the Division of Capital Planning and Operations within 30 days following the change or addition. The undersigned swears under the pains and penalties of perjury that this form is completed and accurate in all respects. Signature: Printed name: Title: Date: 2008 Exhibit E CERTIFICATE OF NON-COLLUSION To: The Reading Housing Association Project Name: Sale of 75 Pleasant Street, Reading, MA Pursuant to Chapter 233 of the Acts of 1983, section 49A(b) [M.G. Laws Chapter 3013, Section 10], the undersigned certifies under penalties of perjury that this bid or proposal has been made and submitted in good faith and without collusion or fraud with any other person and has complied with all laws of the Commonwealth relating to taxes. As used in this certification, the word "person" shall mean any natural person, business, partnership, corporation, union, committee, club, or other organization, entity, or group of individuals. Signature of individual submitting bid or proposal Name of business COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS County of On this day of personally appeared 2008 before me, the undersigned notary public, , proved to me through satisfactory evidence of identification, which was ❑ photographic identification with signature issued by a federal or state governmental agency, ❑ oath or affirmation of a credible witness, ❑ personal knowledge of the undersigned, to be the person whose names is signed on the preceding or attached document, and who swore and affirmed to me that the contents of the document are truthful and accurate to the best of his knowledge and belief, acknowledged to me that she/he signed it voluntarily fdr its stated purpose. Plotary Public My commission expires: 9 x ~ 1 Exhibit F TAX COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATION Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 62C, §49A, I certify under the penalties of perjury that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, I am in compliance with all laws of the Commonwealth relating to taxes, reporting of employees and contractors, and withholding and remitting child support, as well as paid all contributions and payments in lieu of contributions pursuant to MGL 151A, §19A (b). Signature of person submitting bid or proposal Name of business Date: , 2008 FID# 10 qi /9'