HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-05-01 Board of Selectmen PacketApril 26, 2007
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Stephen R. Pritchard, Secretary
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs
100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900
Boston, MA 02114
Re: Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
Dear Secretary Pritchard:
Ben Tafoya, Chairman
James E. Bonazoli, V. Chairman
Stephen A. Goldy, Secretary
Camille W. Anthony
Richard W. Schubert
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
(781) 942-9043
FAX: (781) 942-9071
Website: www.ci.reading.ma.us
L
The Town of Reading has embraced energy conservation measures throughout the community,
including a significant public campaign to encourage residents to convert incandescent light
bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs. We have been very successful in this effort and in last
Fall's "Change a Light, Change the World" Campaign, the Town received a commitment to
change over more than 2,000 bulbs.
We are concerned that these new compact fluorescent light bulbs contain mercury. This
presents a disposal problem.
Reading does operate a fluorescent light bulb disposal program at our Public Works Garage
and this has been effective for the larger fluorescent light bulbs. However, it is unrealistic to
think that residents will not dispose of these smaller compact fluorescent light bulbs in the
regular trash, rather than disposing of them properly.
Clearly, this is a statewide, if not national, problem. We are all encouraged to do what we can
to reduce energy demands and therefore greenhouse gases. We need to be careful in doing so
that we are not creating other problems.
We look to the leadership of the Department of Environmental Affairs in the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts to address this issue.
Sincerely,
Ben Tafoya
for the Reading Board of Selectmen
PIH/ps
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PROCLAMATION
TO DECLARE A DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS'
FORGET-ME-NOT WEEK IN THE TOWN OF READING
WHEREAS:
Our community has a continuing sense of gratitude to those disabled
veterans who did so much to preserve the American way of life; and
WHEREAS:
The Disabled American Veterans has worked exclusively for the
welfare of our disabled veterans; and
WHEREAS:
The Thomas F. Hayes Memorial Chapter 37 of the D.A.V. has been
established to carry on this work in our community; and
WHEREAS:
The D.A.V. offers free service to disabled veterans and their families
in filing claims for government benefits and assists disabled veterans
with medical, employment and other problems; and
WHEREAS:
The D.A.V. meets emergency situations which may arise in the family
of a disabled veteran; and
WHEREAS:
The D.A.V: has chosen May 4-13, 2007 for its Annual Forget-Me-
Not campaign in our community, and has announced that all funds
collected will be used for disabled veterans in the community.
NOW, THEREFORE, WE, the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Reading, Massachusetts
do hereby proclaim the week of May 4-13, 2007 as Disabled American
Veterans' Forget-Me-Not Week, and urge the support of all citizens
and organizations for that week.
THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Ben Tafoya, Chainnan
James E. Bonazoli, Vice Chairman
Stephen A. Goldy, Secretary
Camille W. Anthony
Richard W. Schubert
~al
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS
THOMAS lF HAYES MEMORIAL
CHAPTER #37
DAV...because the battle never ends
Board of Selectmen
Town of Reading
Care of the Town Manager
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Dear Selectmen:
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The Thomas F. Hayes Memorial Chapter 437, Reading, Massachusetts, requests
permission of the Town of Reading to hold our annual FORGET-ME-NOT drive from
May 4, 2007 through May 13, 2007. All of the donations collected on this drive will be
used for hospital and welfare work prescribed by the Disabled American Veterans
National, State and our local Chapter bylaws.
We would appreciate permission from the town to hold this fund raiser. Please send in
letter form an authorization with your approval so we can place it on file. If, for any
reason, you need any further information in addition to the above, please call the
undersigned. You may leave a detailed message on the answering machine if there is no
answer.
Sincerely,
er Horton, Adjutant
3 Reading Terrace
Reading, MA 01867
781-944-4593/781-944-1145
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Hechenbleikner, Peter
From: Fink, Fran
Sent: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 6:04 PM
Page 1 of 2
lei
To: Feudo, John; Hechenbleikner, Peter; Schloth, Mike; Stephen Goldy (sgoldy@sgoldy.com); Ronald
Powell (ronald.w. powell@verizon. net); Ron Boucher; Patricia Lloyd (patricia.lloyd@comcast.net);
Honetschlager, Kim; hclish@comcast.net; Frank Driscoll; Annika Scanlon; Barbara Stewart; Doug
Greene; Jamie Maughan; Leo Kenney; Mark Wetzel (mlwetzel@yahoo.com); Mark Wetzel work;
Will Finch; William Hecht
Subject: Open Space and Recreation Plan Meeting May 16
Hi everyone,
I am trying. once again to get going on the update of the Open Space and Recreation Plan. Our current plan was
issued in March of 2001 and expired in March of 2006. 1 am looking for volunteers to help with the update, and
hope that you will consider getting involved.
What has prompted today's message is a call from John Feudo in the Recreation Division. He is working on an
Urban Self-Help Grant for some improvements to the town tennis courts. One requirement for the grant is that the
Town must have an updated OSRP by mid-July. So there is not a moment to lose if we want to be eligible for the
grant.
We have made some progress in recent months. The Cons Com has been circulating a survey to citizens that
will help assess the needs and priorities for open space and recreation. John Feudo has also recently begun
working on a master plan for the recreation facilities. The Northern Area Greenway Committee has been
exploring the whole Ipswich River/Bare Meadow/Town Forest area to look at trail possibilities and other
recreational opportunities. We have recently bought two important pieces of conservation land in the north end of
town. The Community Preservation Act committee has been working to try to put the CPA in place as a funding
mechanism. And the CPDC has updated their Master Plan, including chapters on open space and recreation.
What we need now is a new OSPR committee that will go through the 2001 OSRP, identify sections that need
updating, and then gather the information needed to update each section. I have the entire plan in my computer,
so it can be edited fairly readily. We also need to compile the survey results and update the needs and priorities
that the plan identifies. The survey is essentially the same set of questions used for the 2001 plan, so we can
compare the results directly.
I have reserved the Conference Room at Town Hall on Wednesday, May 16, at 7:00 PM to meet and get the
process going. I hope that most of you can attend or can send a representative from the boards and committees
that you work with.
I would like to have representatives from Selectmen, Finance, Recreation, CPDC, Conservation, Town Forest,
Northern Area Greenway, Community Preservation, ROLT, IR Stream Team, and several other citizens who are
interested in open space and recreation. Please forward this message to anyone that you know who might be
interested. In particular:
Mike, please forward to CPDC
John, please forward to Recreation
Peter/Steve, please forward to Selectmen
Ron Powell, please forward to Fin Comm
Ron Boucher/Pat, please forward to BOLT
Kim, please forward to Stream Team
Will, please forward to NAG group
Mark, please forward to CPA group
There is a copy of the 2001 OSRP in the library, and copies were given to most town boards. I also have copies
in my office, and the plan is on the town web-site.
q a
4/25/2007
Page 2 of 2
Please send a reply and let me know the following:
1. Will you volunteer for the committee, or identify someone else.from your board or committee who would
like to volunteer?
2. Can you attend the meeting on May 16Th?
3. As we plan additional meeting dates, are there particular days of the week that you can not attend
meetings?
If you have any questions or suggestions, please email them or call me in the office, 942-6616.
Thank you for your support!.
Fran
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4/25/2007
.
LEGAL. NQTICE~"'
TOWN OF READING
v To -the Inhabitants of-the Town
Reading:
Pease take notice that. the,
bard of Selectmen of the Towne
:0Ileading: will hold the following
public. hearings" o.n Tuesday,
Wy 1.; 2007 in the Selectmen's
Meeting. Room; 16 L:owell.• Street.,
l4b,40i.ng;' Massachusetts::
Petroleum Bylaw,_
-L Regulations :8:00 p.m.
r ; °o Liquor License Fees ;M8
through. 201,0 8:30m,
Y A copy of the proposed lan"
.gig t e is available in -the. Office: of
he_TbWh Manager during regular
siness hours.
.,All interested part'ies_ may
; pppac in person; may submit
their comments in`writing,.ar may
C:A
eVaiI. townmanage.r@ci..read
ing.ma.us.
By order of
Peter I. Hecheribleikne.r
Town`Mat alter
4/24
LG
Hoene Depot
60 Walkers Brook Drive
Reading MA 01867
Michael Clements
Mass Highway
10 Park Plaza
Boston MA 02116-3973
Maureen Jernstedt
Cumberland Farms, Inc #2461
777 Dedham St
Canton MA 02021
Mobil RN #10426
Exxon Mobil Petroleum #100
12596 W. Bayaud Ave #100
Lakewood CO 80228
Jiffy Lube hiternational,. Inc
700 Milam, PO Box 4427
Houston TX 77210-4427
Fadi Melk
431 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Reading Square Auto Body
9 Chapin Ave
Reading MA 01867
Kings Complete Auto Center
550 Main Stq
Reading MA 01867
Reading Department of. Public Works Reading Muniepal Light
75 New Crossing Drive 230 Ash St
Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867
Richard Silva
Verizon Corporate Real Estate
6 Bowdoin Square'
Boston MA 02114
John Hanson Corp
522 West St
Reading MA 01867
Gloria Manherz
Cumberland Farms
85 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Joe Prizzo
Main Street Mobil
178 Main ST
Reading MA 01867
Bill Mlodynia
Jiffy Lube
3 Powder Mill Rd 2nd Floor
Maynard MA 01754
MBP LLC
467 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Foreign Auto Parts
90 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Stoneham Auto Body
4 Minot St
Reading MA 01867
Re: Mobil R/S # 10534 Mobil on the Run
Exxon Mobil c/o Veeder Root CMS 1330 Main St
12596 W. Bayaud Ave #100 Reading MA 01867
Lakewood CO 80228
Haralampos Sidiropoulos
Triekett Realty Trust
1180 Main St
Tewksbury MA 01876
Terry Kozloff
Getty Petroleum Marketing
PO Box 1590
Portland ME 04104
Charlie Gray
431 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Siimnoniz Car Wash
374 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Supplier Auto Parts
4 Chapin Ave
Reading MA 01867
Bassam Kofahi
ASZ,LLC
749 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Nabih El-Khoury
Global
1330 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Rabih Realty Co Robert Morelli Cumberland Farms, hie #2124
East Coast Gas Meadowbrook Golf Club 777 Dedham St
1462 Main St 292 Grove St Canton MA 02021
Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867
Tom Cacciola Motiva Enterprises LLC Shell # 100027
Cumberland Farms 13258 FM 1960 West 87 Walkers Brook Drive
295 Salem St Houston TX 77065 Reading MA 01867
Reading MA 01867
Mike Chapman Auto Grooming Center The Auto Body Clinic
Auto Grooming Center 15 High St 17-19 High St '
197 8th St Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867
Charlestown MA '
Steve Arena Weavers Auto Service Paint Store with the Purple Door
The Auto Body Clinid 21 High St 46 Hamden St
134 Candlewood DR Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867
Waltham MA
Amy Finlay Domenic Zanni Smith Oil
13 Flora St 22 Lakeview Ave 267 Main St
Haverhill MA 01830 Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867
Cain Oil Co Peter Seibold SM Hodson Oil Co
18 Gould St 437 Sununer Ave 26 Brande CT
Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867
Joe Pandolfo Fraen Corp Johnson Woods
Pandolfo Company 80 New Crossing Drive 156 Johnson Woods Dr
3 Meadowcroft
Burlington MA 0 01 1$03 Reading MA 01867 Reading MA 01867
Autocraft Collision Thomas Goddard Roger Reed Wax
943 Main St Eric's Greenhouse 167 Pleasant St
Reading MA 01867 1090 Main St Reading MA 01867
Reading MA 01867
Superior Auto
143 Washington St
Reading MA 01867
Brown's Auto
35 Lincoln St
Reading MA 01867
128 Ford
88 Walkers Brook Drive
Reading MA 01867
Massachusetts Anny National Guard Anton Cleaners
50 Maple St 47 Hamden St
Milford MA 01757 Reading MA 01867
Barbas Trucking CO
232 Ash St
Reading MA 01867
Meineke Car Center
117 Main St
Reading MA 01867
Kevin Brown
4 Duane Dr
North Reading MA 01864
Avellino Well and Pump
246 Haven St
Reading MA 01867
Reading Cycles
165 Main St
n Parlinp, MA 01867
~ ~3
4/19/2007
DRAFT #8 (01/25107)
TOWN OF READING PETROLEUM STORAGE REGULATIONS
ARTICLE 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 1. Definitions
For purposes of these Regulations, the following words and phrases shall have
the meanings given:
"Board" - the Town of Reading Board of Selectmen.
"Petroleum Products" - one or more of the following:
Crude oil or any fraction thereof, which is liquid at standard conditions of
temperature and pressure (60°F and 14.7 lbs. per square inch absolute);
All liquid hydrocarbon products including, but not limited to, gasoline of
any grade, motor fuels, kerosene, home heating oils, diesel fuels.
"Handle" - To use, to deal with, to act on, to sell, or manufacture, or to dispose of
Petroleum Products..
"Operator" - The individual who has effective control of a business, a home
occupation, an organization (for profit or non-profit), or office of a governmental
agency located in the Town of Reading.
"Owner" - The individual who has legal ownership of a business, home
occupation; or industry or the operator of an organization or governmental
agency located in the Town of Reading. For the purpose of this Bylaw, the Board
of Selectmen shall be entitled to rely on the most current list of owners in the
records of the Reading Board of Assessors as providing sufficient evidence of
ownership.
"Perennial Stream" - a body of running water; including rivers, brooks or creeks,
which moves in a definite channel in the ground, and which flows throughout the
year.
"Release" - The accidental or intentional spilling, leaking, pumping, discharging,
pouring, emitting, emptying, or dumping of crude petroleum or any of its products
upon or into any land, air, or waters of the Town of Reading. Release includes,
without limitation, leakage of crude petroleum or any of its products from failed or
discarded containers or storage systems; disposal of crude petroleum or any of
its products into any sewage disposal system, dry well, catch basin, unapproved
waste landfill; and any other discharge of crude petroleum or any of its products
into the environment in the Town of Reading.
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"Site" - Any real estate, personal property, facility, building, structure, installation,
equipment, pipe, or pipeline including any pipe into a storm drain, sewer, or
treatment works, well, pit, pond, lagoon, impoundment, ditch, tank, landfill,
storage container, or any other place or area to, from, or at which crude
petroleum or any of its products are stored; used, manufactured, sold, handled,
disposed, or discharged.
"Store" - To keep or contain crude petroleum or any of its products in such a
manner as not to constitute handling or otherwise use or disposal of such
substances or materials. Notwithstanding the aforesaid, the term "store" shall
not include the maintaining of crude petroleum or any of its products that are in
transit.
"Threat of Release" - A substantial likelihood of a release that requires action to
prevent or mitigate an imminent threat to the life, health, or safety of the public
that may result from such release.
Section 1.2. Findings and Purpose
Environmental contamination can bankrupt site owners, lower or destroy land
values, drive out residents and industry, depress the local economy, and
endanger public health.
Most petroleum products do not readily decompose into harmless components
but remain in dangerous forms and penetrate into and throughout , the
environment by moving through water, soil, and fissures in the bedrock.
The groundwater of the Town is a major environmental resource of the
community and the region.
The Town receives all of its water from the MWRA System, but the Town must
continue to maintain the capacity to provide water from its existing water supply
sources, maintain or improve ownership or control of Zone I for its wells, maintain
or improve its Zone 11 wellhead protection, and maintain its existing water supply
sources as an inactive water supply in accordance with Massachusetts Drinking
Water Regulations.
Releases of crude petroleum or any of its products onto the ground and surface
waters have adversely affected and repeatedly threaten the quality of the
groundwater supplies and related surface water resources, posing substantial
public health and safety hazards.
Unless stricter preventive measures are adopted to manage the storage, use,
and generation of crude petroleum and its products and prohibit the release of
these substances within the Town, further releases of such materials will
predictably occur, and with greater frequency and degree of hazard by reason of
increasing construction, commercial and industrial development, population, and "
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4/19/2007
vehicular traffic in the Town and surrounding areas. In addition, the cleanup of
releases requires expeditious measures to avoid widespread environmental
damage to the resources of the Town of Reading.
Section 1.3. Authority and Effective Date
These regulations are promulgated by the Board pursuant to its authority under
Section 5.17 of the Town of Reading Bylaw. These regulations shall become
effective as of , 2007.
ARTICLE 2 . PETROLEUM REGISTRATION
Section 2.1. Registration
Every owner and/or operator of a site where petroleum products totalina
ten (10) Gallons liquid volume or areater or ten (10) pounds drv weiaht or Greater
are stored or handled shall register with the Board of Selectmen within forty-five
(45) days of the effective date of this Regulation or no less then thirty (30) days
before any change which would require registration.
Registration shall include:
(a) inventory of petroleum products to be stored, used, or handled,
including the type and quantity of each petroleum product;
(b) a description, including street address and Assessors Map and Parcel
number of the site location where the petroleum products are being used,
handled or stored accompanied by a map or drawing;
(c) a description of the location within the site where the petroleum
products are being used, handled, or stored, including a plan or drawing of said
location;
(d) description of the method of storage (i.e., in a 150-gallon tank), age of
container, capacity of container; and
(e) the names, addresses, telephone, email, and fax of the owner, the
operator, and the applicant.
Registration shall be submitted on Form A, Registration, incorporated as
part of these Regulations.
The Board of Selectmen, or their designee, shall review the registration
information to determine whether an owner and/or operator is subject to the
permit requirements set out in these Regulations and the Petroleum By-law. The
Board shall notify the Owner and Operator within forty-five (45) days of
submission of the Registration whether a permit will be required.
ARTICLE 3. PETROLEUM PERMIT REQUIREMENT
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4/19/2007
Section 3.1. Permit Required
Subject to the exceptions set forth below, no owner or operator shall store or
handle any petroleum product, as defined above, in the Town of Reading unless
a permit is obtained from the Board. This permit shall be in addition to any other
permit or license required by state or local law or regulation. The owner and/or
operator of any site on which such petroleum product is stored or handled shall
submit a completed permit application to the Board within forty-five (45) days of
notification by the Board of Selectmen under 2.1. The Board of Selectmen
and/or the Fire Chief may schedule a site inspection.
No permit shall be required if all of the following criteria are satisfied:
The total quantity of all petroleum products on the site is less than
ten (10) gallons liquid volume or less than ten (10) pounds dry
weight.
The site is not located in an area of Town that presents a high risk
to groundwater or surface water should a release of any amount
occur, as said areas are delineated on the plan approved by the
Board and attached hereto as Exhibit A. These areas include, but
are not limited to, the area within the Aquifer Overlay District as
shown on the .most recent zoning map, land with the FEMA flood
prone areas, estimated and priority habitat of state-listed species,
certified vernal pools, and land within two hundred feet (200') of any
river or perennial stream.
The Board shall only issue a permit under these Regulations after a public
hearing, duly noticed by publication, at least seven days before the scheduled
hearing, in a. newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Reading and by
mailing, by certified mail return receipt, notice of the time and place of the
hearing to all owners of property abutting said site within 300 feet as certified by
the Reading Assessor's Office and adjoining municipalities. The cost of such
notice shall be borne by the applicant.
The Board may issue a permit under these Regulations for no more than five
years or for a shorter time where the Board decides that a shorter time is
appropriate in the best interests of the Town of Reading. Said permit may be
renewed in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.3 below and shall expire
if not renewed before the end of the initial time period.
Any such permit shall be subject to such conditions and restrictions as may be
prescribed by the Board, which may include a condition that the permit be
exercised to such extent and within such period as may be fixed by the Board.
Prior to the close of the hearing, the Board shall require the written
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4/19/2007
recommendation of the Reading Fire Department of the contingency plan set
forth in the application in accordance with Section 3.2 below. The applicant shall
be required to post said contingency plan on the site at a location acceptable to
the Reading Fire Department.
Said permit must be amended in the event any change occurs as set forth in
Section 3.4 below.
An applicant for permit, renewal permit, or amended permit shall pay a fee in
accordance with the schedule of fees set forth in Section 3.5 below.
Section 3.2. Permit Application and Contingency Plan
An application for a petroleum storage permit shall be made in writing to the
Board, on Form A incorporated as part of the Regulations, and shall provide all
information requested on said form, including but not limited to the information
set out at section 2.1 of these Regulations..
If a determination is made that a permit is required, the applicant shall submit
Form B, the Contingency Plan, incorporated as part of these Regulations The
Contingency Plan shall provide all information requested on Form B , including
but not limited to the following:
a. where and how petroleum products will be stored
b. where and how petroleum products will be handled
c. methods for containing release of petroleum products
d. measures to prevent and control releases
e. inventory of containment and emergency equipment
f. schedule of maintenance of containment and emergency
equipment
g. name, address, telephone, email, and fax number of person
responsible for overseeing and implementing the contingency plan
and reporting any release and the chain of notification for facility
personnel and employees as well as responsible organizations who
would be alerted in the event of a release or emergency
h. evacuation scheme for the site
The Fire Department shall review the Contingency Plan and send written
recommendations to the Board of Selectmen prior to the close of the hearing on
said application.
Section 3.3 Renewal of Permit
At least sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of a permit, the owner and/or
operator may apply to the Board for renewal of the permit. The application shall
be made in writing to the Board on the form approved by the Board.
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4/19/2007
The Board may renew a permit for a maximum of five years or for a period of less
than five years where the Board decides that such shorter time is appropriate in
the best interests in the Town of Reading.
Upon receipt for a renewal, the Fire Chief or other qualified person may
schedule a site inspection.
The Board may, but need not, conduct a public hearing upon the application for
renewal and may issue at a public meeting such renewal permit. The minimum
requirements for renewal of a permit shall include a completed renewal
application (Form A), a complete inventory, and a satisfactory contingency plan
(Form B). The Board may impose conditions upon the renewal permit.
Section 3.4. Amended Permit
Any permit issued pursuant to these regulations must be amended where the
owner or operator wishes to change any terms or conditions of the permit or the
Contingency plan, without expansion or enlargement, upon which the local permit
was issued. An application for amended permit must be submitted not less than
thirty (30) days prior to an anticipated change. A change includes but is not
limited to, any change in owner or operator of the site or any change of
petroleum products stored.
Any person seeking amendment of a permit must apply in writing to the Board on
Form A The Board may issue an amended permit after a favorable site
inspection and public hearing as provided in Section 1 above.
A permit may not be amended to allow expansion of the originally permitted
activity. If the Board determines that the amendment constitutes an
enlargement, the applicant will be directed to file an application for a new permit.
Section 3.5. Fees
In addition to the cost of notice of any public hearing, the applicant shall pay the
following fees:
a. Registration - no fee
b. Permit - $100.00. plus $50.00 per tank
c. Renewal Permit - $100.00
d. Amended Permit - $100.00
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4/19/2007
Section 3.6. Abandonment of Use
Where the site ceases to be used for the keeping, storage, use, manufacture,
sale, handling, or disposing of petroleum products, the owner and/or operator
shall send written notification to the Board of Selectmen at least thirty days in
advance of the discontinuance of such use. All products shall be removed from
the site and disposed pursuant to federal and state laws. Notification shall
include, but not be limited to, a listing of all products being discontinued, method
of disposal, and the disposal site.
ARTICLE 4.0 REGULATIONS
Section 4.1. Prohibitions
A. No person shall release any petroleum products upon the
ground; into any surface water or groundwater; or into any sewage disposal
system, catch basin, dry well, stormwater management structure, or drainage
structure within the Town of Reading. Maintaining a site that constitutes a threat
of release of petroleum products is prohibited. If a release occurs there shall be
immediate notice to the Fire Department.
B. Storage
1. All petroleum products shall be stored in product-tight
containers.
2. No container over thirty (30) years old shall be used for
storage of petroleum products in the Town of Reading
unless authorized by the Board based on materials or
condition of the container. Any container over thirty (30)
years old or that reaches the age of thirty (30) years after the
effective date of these regulations shall be removed within
sixty (60) days of said effective date or the date the
container reaches the age of thirty (30) years, whichever is
later. The Board of Selectmen may authorize use of a tank
over thirty (30) year old (based upon the written
recommendation of the Fire Department).
3. Each container must be designed to prevent the flow of
petroleum product to exposed soils, drains or surface waters
and groundwater.
4. Outdoor storage, if permitted by zoning, must be designed to
protect from the elements, accidental damage and
vandalism.
5. Areas for storage of petroleum products shall be clearly
delineated and signs posted clearly describing the nature of O
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4/19/2007
the storage area. Each container must be clearly labeled
with the name of the petroleum product. Containers of
petroleum products which are in their original labeled
product containers and which are or will be displayed for
retail sale are not required to be labeled in accordance with
this subsection. The Board of Selectmen and/or the Fire
Department may require storage areas to be fenced.
6. Each container shall be stored in such a manner as to
facilitate visual inspection of said container.
Section 4.2. Enforcement
The Board of Selectmen, the Reading Fire Department, or their agent may enter,
according to law, upon any site at any reasonable time to inspect for compliance
with these Regulations and with the conditions of the permit, and for threat of
release.
Upon request, the owner or operator of any site identified on a permit shall
furnish to the Reading Fire Department all information required to monitor
compliance with these Regulations and the conditions of any permit, renewal
permit, or amended permit issued hereunder.
Section 4.3. Violation Notices and Orders
The Board and/or the Reading Fire Department, or their agents, are authorized to
issue notices of violation, cease and desist orders, and other enforcement orders
to compel compliance with these Regulations, the Bylaw under which these
Regulations are adopted, and the conditions of any local permit issued by the
Board as the Board or the Fire Department deems necessary and appropriate.
The Board and/or the Reading Fire Department, or their agents, shall give written
notice of any violation to the operator and owner of the site. Such written notice
shall specify the nature of the violation; any corrective measures that must be
undertaken, including containment and cleanup of discharged materials and
sampling and analysis before, during, and after cleanup; any preventive measure
required for avoiding future violations, including long-term monitoring; and a time
for compliance.
Any requirements specified in a violation notice or an order shall be reasonable
in relation to the public health hazard involved and the difficulty of compliance,
but shall not be less than required under Federal or State law.
The cost of containment and cleanup shall be borne by the owner and/or
operator of the site. All costs that the Town incurs in any cleanup process shall
be borne by the owner and/or operator of the site and shall be collectable as a
charge owed the Town in accordance with Section 58 of Chapter 40 of the
General Laws. 0~\
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4/19/2007
Section 4.4 Penalties
Any person who violates any provision of this Regulation shall be fined as
provided in Section 1.5 of the Bylaws of the Town of Reading. Each day that an
individual fails to comply with a notice or order under the Bylaw or Regulations
shall constitute a separate violation.
After notice in accordance with Section 4.3 above, the Board after notice and
hearing may suspend, modify or revoke any permit, renewal permit, or amended
permit issued under these Regulations for due cause, which shall include but not
be limited to failure to.comply with any section of these Regulations or the Bylaw,
failure to perform the conditions set forth in the approved contingency plan, or
violation of any condition of a permit, renewal permit or amended permit.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
9
~G
V
FORM A
TOWN OF READING PETROLEUM STORAGE REGULATIONS
(Check one below)
❑ REGISTRATION OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS
❑ APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM STORAGE PERMIT
❑ RENEWAL OF PERMIT
Instructions: This form is to be submitted to the Board of Selectmen, 16 Lowell Street,
Reading, MA 01867. For definitions of terms and further information, refer to Section 5.17 of the
Town of Reading Bylaws and the Town of Reading Petroleum Storage Regulations. If additional
space is required for any response, please attach additional sheets.
SECTION 1. APPLICANT/OPERATOR/OWNER INFORMATION:
Applicant:
Name:
Address:
Telephone No.:
E-mail:
Fax No.:
If not Owner or Operator, identify relationship to Owner or Operator:
Operator:
Name:
Address:
Telephone No.:
E-mail:
Owner:
Name:
Address:
Telephone No.:
E-mail:
4/19/2007 1
Fax No.:
Fax No.:
1
Location of Site:
Street Address
Assessor's Map #
Assessors Plat #
Attach plan of land
SECTION 2. INVENTORY OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS TO BE STORED, AND
CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE
(For each of the petroleum products identified please provide the information relative to the
container in which each such product will be stored):
Type of Material
17
12
13
14
15'
Quantity 1
(Gallons or Age
Pounds) (yrs)
( I
Containers
Capacity General Description
SECTION 3. LOCATION WITHIN SITE DESIGNATED FOR STORAGE
Please attach a plan depicting the entire parcel, and including the location within the site where
each petroleum product will be stored.
SECTION 4 - TVDe of use:
Are products (check all that apply):
sold on site
used on site
Applicant Signature:
Date
O Y r t O■ t i 0 tl O / 11 11 Y 0 0 0 0 N 0. a 0 0.■ ■E ■ o Y! O a r■! N r Y 0 a 9 N e K r a r s a 0 r 0 W 8 a a r 0 M M r r A 0 1
Do not write below this line
Received by
4/19/2007 2
Date
A6
FORM B
TOWN OF READING PETROLEUM STORAGE REGULATIONS
CONTINGENCY PLAN
Instructions: This form is to be submitted at the time that the Application .
For Petroleum' Storaqe Permit or the Renewal of Permit is filed with the
Board of Selectmen. A copy of the Application (Form A) shall accompany
this form. If additional space is required for any response, please attach
additional sheets.
Person responsible for overseeing and implementing the contingency plan:
Applicant:
Name:
Address:
Telephone No.:
E-mail:
Fax No.:
(Person responsible for reporting anv release:
Name:
Address:
Telephone No.:
E-mail:
Fax No.:
1. Where and how will petroleum products be stored on the site? (plan
submitted with Application for Petroleum Storage Permit (Section 3) is sufficient
2. Where and how will petroleum products be handled?
3. Describe the methods for containing release of petroleum products.
V
4/19/2007 1
4. Describe the measures you will implement to prevent and control
releases, including staff training.
5. Provide an inventory of the. containment and emergency equipment on
site.
6. Provide a schedule of maintenance of the containment and emergency
equipment on site.
7. Chain of notification for facility personnel and employees as well as
responsible organizations who will be alerted in the event of a release or
emergency. Provide name, address, telephone, fax, and email for all
personnel:
8. Describe the evacuation scheme for the site. You may attach a plan or
drawing in lieu of a narrative response.
Applicant Signature: Date
RECOMMENDATION OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
(to be filed with the Board of Selectmen five days prior to the commencement of
the public hearing)
Fire Department Date
4/19/2007 2
35 Lincoln Street
Reading, MA 01867
April 24, 2007
Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager
Town of Reading
Town Hall
16 Lowell Street
$eading, MA 01867
Board of Selectmen
Reading Town Hall
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA, 01867 "
Reading Fire Department
757 Main Street
Reading, MA 01867
Attn: Chief Gregory Burns
-o
N
c~
r~
Re: Town of Reading, General By-Laws / Proposed 5.17 Storing and Handling of Crude
Petroleum or any Crude Petroleum Products
To All Concerned:
After attending the meeting on April 18, 2007, with Town officials, I have collected my thoughts
regarding the storage and handling By-law as proposed and would lilac to share them with you.
All storage and handling of petroleum products are already licensed by the state and fees are
collected by the Division of Standards yearly. Also the EPA requires generator ID numbers as
well as hazardous waste manifests for proper disposal of petroleum products.
If the Town's intent was to protect Reading as well as the environment, home heating oil tanks
would need to be scrutinized as well. The average 275 gallon tank has 271/2 times more
capacity, than your proposed 10 gallon cut-off (Section 2.1 figure for permits). They are likely
up to~30 years bl'd,'installed below ground level, have no containment provisions, and no storage
permirfees are required. The Town's permit requirement (Section 3.1) seems excessive and
redun ani or`the avera "ge local business and will also be very cumbersome for our selectmen and
women to hear each. and every applicant for a permit for storage.
,.e ti
~G~
Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager
Board of Selectmen
Reading Fire Department, Attn: Chief Burns
April 24, 2007
Page 2
By requiring all applicants for this permit to send a letter by certified mail to property owners
within a 300 foot radius of their business property could open a Pandora's box with issues not
relating to the storage permits; including parking, signage, hours, etc.
In closing, in my opinion, it would serve the business community and the Fire Department to
have a public document posted at Town Hall as well as at the Main Street Fire Station listing the
following for public review: (1) the name of the business; (2) storage capacity; and (3) types of
petroleum used by the business. By posting this information, it would relieve businesses and
select persons lengthy hearings for permits and would give any interested person the opportunity
to look at the information at the Town Hall and/or the Fire Department on Main Street.
Thank you for your time.
Very truly yours,
Kevin Brown
Brown's Auto Repair
\g
~G
.LEGAL. NOTICE
TOWN OF READING
To the Inhabitants of the Town
.i# Reading:
Please take notice that the.
B.tard 'of Selectmen of the Town
-of>Reading. will hold the following
blic he.aeings' o,n Tuesday,.
ip•uay 1". 2007 in the Selectmen's
Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street,
Reading,' Massachusetts:
's. s. Petroleum Bylaw._
Regulations 8:00 p.m.
a + Liquor License Fees X008
tf~rough 20110 8:30 p:m.
A copy of the proposed Ian-
,,.gU6ge is. available'. in the Office' of
...tt1e_Town Manager during regular
;•-.by.giness hours. ,
.All interested parties may
,a{?ppar in'person; may submit
their, comments in writing, or may
en, ail-townmanager@ci.,read
in~.ma.us.
By order of
Peter 1, Hechenbleikner
Town,, Manager
x/24
I
3.2.1.19 - Liauor License Fees
The following fees are established for each calendar year for the categories of license
available in the Town of Reading:
Categorv
3885
~08Fi
208
2008
2009
2010
Retail Package Goods Store License for all
$2000
$2909
$2900
kinds of Alcoholic Beverages not to be
$2100
$2200
$2300
Drunk on the Premises
Restaurant License to Expose, Keep for
$3000
$3109
$200
Sale, and to Sell All Kinds of Alcoholic
$3300
$3400
$3500
Beverages to be Drunk on the Premises
Restaurant License to Expose, Keep for
$2400
$2400
$2480
Sale, and to Sell Wine and Malt Beverages
$2400
$2400
$2400
to be Drunk on the Premises
Club License to Expose, Keep for Sale, and
$300
W09
$1000
to Sell All Kinds of Alcoholic Beverages to
$1000
$1100
$1200
be Drunk on the Premises
~v
~gAGEIA~RA,GE.
WTTT[p APING FSAD XNG .
A xii 2007 EXT PROpSED;
"ADING
r License Fob-yip~ wn.MINGTa- ` ~
Liquo ~5TER,1 ETTAM;1 1 $2035' $2031•.
~
LYNNFIELD. SAI3GUS WtN~g $2,000; ' $34431 $341
$1,7501 501 $1242
WAKJFTELD N. RE ` $1,5001 $2,000 $31200 $17
1 $977
$2,0001 $2.500l_. Nita1 $2,400 1 $973 $48
2 5001 _ $2,750` 11 1 $2,0Q0` X5,4001 $1,7001 $1'040 $ $1,000 1 $48
11 $2,500 $41250 2501 $50
Lyc uor 11 $2,000 $4,6001 $2,0001 $350 $1001
ackaae Stare $3,000 fl401 $1,4001 $5001 $1.5001 $251
P 11 ,4001 2' $1,7101 $50`
ne On1yI 2 2,0001 $35~ $501
Restaurant
Beer & w ` $5001 $251
Club $501
one Dav l.icenSe
5:~-,
r
3.2.1.17 - Information Reeardin2 the Alleued Service of Alcohol Prior to Violation for
Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicating Liquors
Upon the receipt of a letter from the Office of the Attorney General or the Middlesex
District Attorney's Office pursuant to G.L. c. 90, Sec. 24J or any other statute, or any other
notice regarding the alleged service or sale of alcohol to an individual who is subsequently
convicted or pleads guilty to a violation of driving under the influence of intoxicating liquors, or
enters a disposition under Section 24D of Chapter 90, the Licensing Authority:
♦ Shall forward a copy of the letter to the licensee cited, along with a copy of these rules
and regulations.
e May request that the licensee appear before the Licensing Authority to respond to the
allegation.
Upon the receipt of two or more letters in a two-year period, the licensee shall be
required to appear before the Licensing Authority to respond to the allegations.
Any disciplinary action taken by the Licensing Authority shall be taken in accordance
with the provisions of the Reading Liquor Policy, the Massachusetts General Laws, and Rules
and Regulations of the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission. Neither a letter from the
Office of the Attorney General or the Middlesex District Attorney's Office, nor the original letter
from the court to these law enforcement agencies shall, by itself, constitute sufficient evidence so
as to allow for a finding that a licensee has committed a violation.
3.2.1.18 - Dutv to Report an Attempt to Purchase by a Minor
. The licensee shall be required to report to the Reading Police Department any time a
person attempts to purchase alcohol while being underage, or attempts to use an altered or forged
identification for the purpose of purchasing alcohol. Furthermore, the licensee shall immediately
report to the Reading Police Department any time they suspect an adult is purchasing alcohol for
a minor. These infractions must be reported even when the incident takes place off premises,
such as for home deliveries.
3.2.1.19 - Liquor License Fees
The following fees are established for each calendar year for the categories of license
available in the Town of Reading:
Cate2orv
2005
2006
2007
Retail Package Goods Store License for all
$2000
$2000
$2000
kinds of Alcoholic Beverages not to be
Drunk on the Premises
Restaurant License to Expose, Keep for
$3000
$3100
$3200
Sale, and to Sell All'Kinds of Alcoholic
Beverages to be Drunk on the Premises
Restaurant License to Expose, Keep for
$2400
$2400
$2400
Sale, and to Sell Wine and Malt Beverages
to be Drunk on the Premises
Club License to Expose, Keep for Sale, and
$800
$900
$1000
to Sell All Kinds of Alcoholic Beverages to
be Drunk on the Premises
3-6 Board of Selectmen Policies
SUMMARY OF MUNICIPAL PARTNERSHIP ACT
Section 1 creates a Municipal Property Tax Exemption Fund for the
purpose of reimbursing cities and towns for property taxes abated for
qualifying senior citizens. The fund will receive a portion of the local
hotel and meal taxes imposed by cities and towns.
Section 2 provides that the deputy commissioner for local services.
shall also be known as the director of municipal affairs and shall
report to the commissioner of revenue and to the secretary of
administration and finance.
Section 3 would allow cities and towns to advertise the notice of
invitation for bids for a procurement contract on the internet instead of
in a local newspaper of general circulation, as is currently required
under the Uniform Procurement Act. Municipalities could post the
notices on either their own or the commonwealth's website. The
Operational Services Division estimates that this change would save
cities and towns thousands of dollars each year. According to OSD,
this change received the support of the Office of the Inspector
General last year and was included in House 1 but was not passed.
Sections 4, 6, 7 and 8 would allow cities and towns, by local option, to
participate in the Group Insurance Commission. Decisions to
participate would be made by agreement between the municipality
and a public employee committee which would include-
representatives from each collective bargaining unit. Bill was drafted
by MAPC and has already been filed as a separate bill.
Section 5 would require retirement systems that have a funding ratio
of less than 80 per cent and have underperformed the PRIT Fund by
at least 2.25 per cent over a 5-year period, as determined by PERAC,
to transfer their assets to the PRIT fund for investment. Systems with
extenuating circumstances could appeal to PERAC for an exemption
from this requirement.
Sections 9 to 20 and section 30 would increase flexibility in municipal
borrowing by allowing borrowing for terms consistent with the
maximum useful life of the asset, but not more than 30 years, as
determined by the mayor, town council or board of selectmen. The
bill would also increase flexibility for emergency borrowing, expedite
2
L
the process for achieving savings through refinancings and remove
overly restrictive requirements for amortization of debt.
Section 21 would confirm the existing authority of cities and towns to
impose a trash collection fee that is mandatory unless the city or town
grants a waiver. The collected fees or charges need not be
maintained in a separate fund. The section is intended to validate the
type of trash collection program recently invalidated in Springfield.
Section 22 would streamline the process by which local assessors
can grant abatements without receiving prior approval from the
department of revenue. The commissioner would issue guidelines
granting authority to abate for reasons determined by the
commissioner to be in the public interest.
Sections 23 to 27 would eliminate utility corporation tax exemptions
for telecommunications companies and make them subject to the
same exemptions as other business corporations. They would be
taxable on machinery used in the conduct of business, and city and
town.assessors would be responsible for valuing that machinery.
3
L ~3
Section 28 would increase the maximum local option hotel tax from 4
per cent to 5 per cent of the rent for occupancy.
Section 29 allows cities and towns by local option to impose a meals
tax of up to 2 per cent of gross receipts. Twenty-five per cent of the
amount collected under this section and of new amounts collected
under section 28 (hotel tax) would be deposited in a reserve fund in
the executive office for administration and finance to be used for the
purpose of reimbursing cities and towns for property taxes abated for
qualifying senior citizens. The balance would be distributed to each
city or town that adopts this tax in proportion to the amount received
in that city or town.
Sections 31, 32 and 33 would allow communities to continue to shift
the percentage, of the total tax levy imposed on any class of property
in an amount not to exceed 183 per cent of the value of that property
divided by the value of all taxable property in the city or town for the
next two fiscal years.
4
r
L
Section 34 would create a special commission to study the use of
state technology for municipal purposes.
Section 35 would create a special commission to consider ways to
grant increased local authority in areas currently requiring home rule
petitions. The commission would also investigate methods for
providing incentives for best municipal fiscal practices and
regionalization of municipal services.
Section 36 would ratify trash collection fees imposed before the
effective date of this act.
5
Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA)
MMA testimony to Revenue Committee urging passage of Municipal Partnership Act
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Joint Committee on Revenue
The Honorable John Binienda, House Chair
The Honorable Cynthia Creem, Senate Chair
Joint Committee on Revenue
State House
Boston, MA 02133
Dear Representative Binienda, Senator Creem, and Members of the Committee,
On behalf of the cities and towns of the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts Municipal Association offers its strong
support for the provisions of the Municipal Partnership Act filed by Governor Deval Patrick and Lt. Governor Timothy
Murray that are before you today for a public hearing. This legislation is vital to restore the financial health of our
communities, reduce the burgeoning property tax burden throughout the Commonwealth, and ensure our state’s
economic growth and competitiveness.
Please record our strong support and endorsement of the provisions of the Municipal Partnership Act that you are
hearing today, including the local option meals tax, the increase in the local option lodging tax, the closure of the
telecommunications property tax loophole, the tax classification provision, and the related bills before your Committee.
Building a Strong Partnership for a Stronger Commonwealth
These are very difficult and challenging times for both local and state government. Just as the state started work on its
fiscal 2008 budget facing a $1.3 billion revenue-spending shortfall, cities and towns statewide are struggling mightily to
close local shortfalls but with almost none of the revenue and cost-saving tools that are available to state lawmakers. In
spite of the efforts of legislators to fund local aid, with state resources limited and the Commonwealth facing a huge
budget gap, communities have been forced to balance their local budgets through a combination of over-reliance on the
regressive property tax and deep cuts in important services. The Municipal Partnership Act would provide cities and
towns with local option revenues that are necessary to avoid even greater pressure on their residents and even more
cuts in municipal and.school programs.
State tax collections and Lottery revenues have slowed this year and are expected to slow even further next year. The
main municipal aid accounts proposed by the Governor and included in the Local Aid Resolution approved by the House
and Senate last week would increase by $15 million, or only 1.2 percent. The $220 million increase for Chapter 70 school
aid is an important increase in a very difficult budget year for the state, yet this still leaves more than 60 districts with only
$50 per student in new aid to help balance local school budgets. For all practical purposes under state law, municipalities
and school districts only have the option of increasing their reliance on the over-used property tax or cutting already thin
local government services.
In order to maintain high quality municipal and school services, cities and towns need local taxing authority beyond the
tightly capped property tax and the very limited motor vehicle excise and existing local option taxes. Equally important,
we need to have this greater self-reliance in order for Massachusetts to meet the economic challenges from our
competitor states, as we seek to keep property taxes low and provide the services that attract and keep businesses and
families here.
Cities and towns are planning and setting their fiscal 2008 budgets now, and thus the Municipal Partnership Act will
mostly benefit communities and their local taxpayers in future years. Yet it is imperative that the Municipal Partnership
Act be enacted now, because the widespread municipal budget shortfalls are structural in nature and will plague our
state again and again, in fiscal 2009, fiscal 2010 and years after, if this local authority is denied to our cities and towns.
The recent report by The Boston Foundation, &Idquo;Boston Bound, A Comparison of Boston’s Legal Powers
with Those of Six Other Major American Cities,” makes clear that the state’s capital city cannot continue to
effectively compete with other major cities without additional &Idquo;home rule” authority, including municipal
taxing authority. The fundamental reasoning behind the report applies to all cities and town here in Massachusetts. Cities
and town need to have greater self-reliance in order for Massachusetts to meet the economic challenges from our
competitor states.
Support the Local Option Sales Tax On Meals
Sections 1 and 29 of the partnership legislation would allow cities and towns to adopt a sales tax on meals of up to 2
percent in addition to the 5 percent state tax. Municipalities would retain 75 percent of the local collection, with the
balance deposited in a fund to be used to increase reimbursements for locally administered property tax exemptions.
hhpJ/www.mma.org PDF_POWERED _PDF_GENERATED 27 April, 2007,13:07
V
Massachusetts Munlcipai Association (MMA)
Our neighboring states in the Northeast and states in other parts of the country commonly use a tax on meals to help pay
for government services. Even if the proposed local option were fully adopted statewide, the combined Massachusetts
rate would still be the same or lower than in New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island and other states, counties and
cities. There are no real problematic &Idquo;border” or &Idquo;competitiveness” issues and a tax on meals
has the great benefit of exporting the tax to tourists and other temporary residents.
A 2 percent local sales tax on meals could provide as much as $250 million annually to take pressure off the over-
burdened and regressive property tax and help pay for police, fire, school and other local government services. This.
important proposal would make our tax system less regressive and provide the resources needed to provide critical
municipal and education services.
We are not asking you to approve or vote for a tax. This proposal would simply allow municipal leaders to make this
taxation decision locally, on a community-by-community basis, giving local officials who are accountable to the citizens
and voters the authority to vote to levy the tax, and allocate the funds.
The MMA fully supports this major component of the Governor’s partnership legislation. We also support MMA
legislation (House Bill 2994) that would authorize a local sales tax on meals of up to 3 percent and other legislation
(Senate bills 1790 and 1803 and House bill 3118).
Support the Local Option Room Occupancy Excise
Section 1 and 28 of the partnership legislation would allow cities and towns to add an additional 1 percentage point to the
existing local option, room occupancy excise of up to 4 points. As with the tax on meals, 75 percent would be retained
locally, with the balance used to fund tax exemption reimbursements.
Massachusetts. lags behind room occupancy rates in other states. Allowing cities and towns to add 1 additional
percentage point to the current local rate will not result in any competitive disadvantages and will result in significant tax
exporting, generating approximately $20 million in new revenues, much of it paid by individuals and businesses from
outside the region.
Close the Telecommunications Company Property Tax Loophole
Sections 23 through 27 of the partnership legislation would modernize obsolete property tax law to end the unwarranted
ability of telecommunications companies to remove certain high-value personal property from local tax rolls with the
result of higher taxes for homeowners and other businesses.
One major problem facing local government is the growing obsolescence of the state’s property tax language
governing exemptions. Increasingly, businesses are removing property from local tax rolls because the law has simply
not kept up with changes in technology and business practices. When the property of a particular class of businesses
(the telecommunications companies are the most notable example) becomes tax-exempt, the tax burden is picked. up by
homeowners and other business taxpayers. This is a manageable problem if there is a clear policy reason for the
exemption, but it is totally unacceptable if the tax avoidance is due to outdated law, as is the case with the
telecommunications loophole. We respectfully and urgently ask you to end this tax loophole that benefits a few
telecommunications companies at the expense of taxpayers and communities across the Commonwealth, costing cities
and towns, their residents and other businesses an estimated $80 million a year.
The proposed tax reform would ensure that profitable telephone and other telecommunications companies pay a fair
share of local taxes, as do electric and other utility companies. The bill would make sure that telecommunication
businesses are not able to escape taxes simply by making self-serving and non-productive changes in how they are
organized (including using off-shore and out-of-state companies). The abuse of these arcane tax loopholes forces an
increase in the tax bills paid by residential taxpayers and by owners of local businesses. Contrary to claims by
representatives of telecommunications businesses, there is no evidence that ending the increasingly tax-free status of
their personal property will raise telephone bills or cause a rollback in investment in new infrastructure and services. The
telecommunications industry is far more competitive than just a few years ago, and ending unwarranted preferential tax
treatment cannot simply be passed along as a rate increase. Massachusetts currently ranks near the bottom nationally in
taxes applied to telecommunications firms, and our telephone rates have not been reduced because of this. Further, our
state is a high-income state with substantial consumer spending on telecommunications services. It would make no
sense for affected businesses to slow down or end investment here. Please disregard this unfortunate hyperbole from
the industry.
The MMA strongly supports this key provision in the Governor’s partnership legislation and the related legislation
that is before you today.
Property Tax Classification
http://www.mma.org PDF_POWERED _PDF_GENERATED 27 April, 2007,13:07
V ,
Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA)
Section 31 through 33 of the partnership bill would stabilize property tax bills by extending the schedule under which
cities and towns that adopted the 200 percent CIP factor, based on legislation in 2004, are required to increase the
residential share of the property tax levy. The schedule proposed in House 3749 delays by two years the required
reduction from 183 percent to 175 percent.
Unlike over previous economic cycles when residential and business values rose and fell in similar trends, during and
since the 2001 recession residential values continued to grow while business values were generally stagnant or declined.
In 2004, the Legislature allowed cities and towns to increase the customary shift in tax burden from residential property to
businesses from 175 percent to 200 percent temporarily. The intent of the law was to stabilize property tax bills, but
return over time to the lower tax shift as residential and business trends normalized.
House 3749 would extend the schedule at the fiscal 2007 level (183 percent) for two years to reflect slower normalization
than originally expected. Without this measure, residential property taxpayers in approximately 13 communities will be hit
with unnecessarily high increases in their property tax bills. We fully support the Governor’s proposal on the
classification schedule, and ask you to issue a favorable report on this important legislation.
Other Provisions of the Municipal Partnership Act
Sections 20 and 22 would update several provisions relating to administration of local property tax abatements and
approval of local borrowing. We support these provisions.
Summary
Again, on behalf of the cities and towns of Massachusetts, please support the Municipal Partnership Act. This legislation
is vital to restore the financial health of our communities, reduce the burgeoning property tax burden throughout the
Commonwealth, and ensure our state’s economic growth and competitiveness. Passage of these measures will
allow local and state officials to stand together and do the necessary work to build a strong and vibrant future for
Massachusetts.
Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Geoffrey C. Beckwith
MMA Executive Director
http://www.mma.org _PDF_POWERED _PDF_GENERATED 27 April, 2007R3:C
Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA)
Local officials from across state join governor to urge passage of Municipal
Partnership Act
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
For immediate release
For more information, contact Geoff Beckwith or Pat Mikes at (617) 426-7272
The MMA and local government leaders from across the state joined Gov. Deval Patrick and Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray at
the State House today to testify before the Legislature’s Revenue Committee in support of the Municipal
Partnership Act, legislation that would allow cities and towns to adopt local option taxes and to close a property tax
loophole used by telecommunications companies to avoid local taxation.
Local leaders and the Patrick-Murray administration said passage of the legislation is necessary to reduce the property
tax burden on homeowners, restore fiscal stability to cities and towns, fund essential municipal and school services, and
ensure the state’s economic growth and competitiveness.
&Idquo;We stand here today with a shared spirit of partnership and a common mission to make our communities and the
Commonwealth stronger,” said the MMA and leading municipal officials in a statement issued at the hearing as
they offered testimony in support of the Municipal Partnership Act. Far too often, our cities and towns have only two
choices: cutting services or raising property taxes.
&Idquo;Massachusetts communities and local taxpayers must have other tools to balance budgets, restore fiscal stability,
and fund services. The modest 2 percent local option meals tax and 1 percent local option lodging tax in the Municipal
Partnership Act would allow us to reduce our reliance on property taxes, and fund critical public safety, public works and
education services. The Municipal Partnership Act would close the telecommunications property tax loophole that is
being abused by a handful of companies, costing communities and local taxpayers $80 million a year.
&Idquo;Together, these essential steps would allow local and state officials to stand together and do the necessary work
to build a strong and vibrant future for Massachusetts, keeping our residents here, and attracting business investment
and growth.”
Municipal leaders who offered testimony included MMA Executive Director Geoffrey Beckwith, Chesterfield Select Board
member David Kielson (president of the MMA), Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone (president of the Massachusetts
Mayors’ Association), Millis Selectman Jeffrey Hardin (president of the Massachusetts Selectmen’s
Association), Gloucester Councillor Bruce Tobey (vice president of the MMA), and scores of municipal leaders from
throughout the state.
The Municipal Partnership Act, filed by the governor in February, offers a series of initiatives that would allow
communities to become more self-reliant through local option meals and lodging taxes that together could provide $270
million in new revenue capacity for cities and-towns, setting aside 25 percent of those funds for property tax relief, and
would close the tax loopholes that allow telecommunications companies to avoid paying their fair share of an estimated
$80 million in local property taxes.
&Idquo;The need for this legislation has become even more urgent as the state struggles with a $1 billion budget gap,
and local aid levels have been limited by the state’s fiscal condition,” Beckwith said. &Idquo;We are asking
the Legislature to recognize the need to pass this bill and allow communities to address the property tax problem, and to
invest in the core local services that we need to attract and keep families and businesses in our state.
&Idquo;The more we empower our communities, the stronger our state will become,” Beckwith concluded.
http://www.mma,org _PDF_POWERED PDF_GENERATED 27 April, 2007,13:09
Board of Selectmen Meeting
April 10, 2007
For ease of archiving, the order that items appear in these Minutes reflects the order in which
the items appeared on the agenda for that meeting, and are not necessarily the order in which
any item was taken up by the Board.
The meeting convened at 7:03 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street,
Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman James
Bonazoli, Selectmen Camille Anthony and Richard Schubert, Police Chief Jim Cornier, Fire
Chief Greg Burns, Public Works Director Ted McIntire, Town Engineer George Zambouras,
Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Paula Schena and the following list of interested parties:
Bill Brown, Neil Cohen, Richard McDonald, Karen Herrick, Police Officer Mark Segalla, Sgt.
Peter Garchinsky, Police Detective John McKenna, Head Dispatcher Vicky Avery, Mary Ellen
O'Neill, Cecilia Lewis, Marlene Wolfe.
Reports and Comments
Selectmen's Liaison Retorts and Comments - Selectman Camille Anthony noted that there will
be a site visit of the Route 128/I-93 Interchange Project on Saturday, April 14th at 8:00 a.m. on
Walnut Street, and then a site visit of the Northern Area Greenway at 10:00 a.m. beginning at
1481 Main Street.
Selectman Richard Schubert thanked the voters for supporting him in his re-election.
Vice Chairman James Bonazoli noted that Steve Goldy was unable to be here this evening
because his mother passed away. He also noted that the Reading Open Land Trust dedication
had a great turnout. The adult soccer league is meeting on Sunday morning. Friends of Reading
Recreation is holding a bike clinic on May 3, 2007. He was very disappointed that there was
only a 12% turnout for the Local Election.
Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that he attended the CPDC Meeting last night. There is a Cultural
Council Reception on Thursday, April 12th at 1:30 p.m. at the Senior Center.
Public Comment - Bill Brown noted that the Board of Cemetery Trustees will have their tour of
the cemeteries at 5:30 p.m. on May 22nd.
Town Manner's Report
The Town Manager gave the following report:
■ The Town Manager noted that Ken Charest and his son Boy Scout Nate Charest were
present for a badge requirement.
• The Town now owns the land at 1481 Main Street.
• A grant application for Substance Abuse prevention has been submitted.
• Route 128/1-93 site walk on April 14th at 8:00 a.m.
• Northern Area Greenway site walk on April 14th at 10:00 a.m.
• AWP - DAT Meeting.
Sa
Board of Selectmen Meeting - April 10. 2007 - Page 2
■ Cultural Council Reception on April 12th - 7:30 p.m. at the Senior Center.
■ Reading Elder/Human Services Volunteer Reception on April 18th at 5:30 p.m. at the
Senior Center.
■ There will be a public Hearing in the Selectmen's Meeting Room at Town Hall on April
23rd at 3:00 p.m. on Reading's application to purchase all of its water from the MWRA.
■ An. Earth Day Fair is planned for the RMLD Cafeteria on April 21 st from 10:00 a.m. 'til
2:00 p.m. Several Town agencies will be participating. The evening before, two movies
will be shown - "An Inconvenient Truth" and "Who Killed the Electric Car." The films
and the Fair will be very interesting.
■ Reading's next street sign lottery drawing will beheld on April 30, 2007.
■ The Reading Lions Club invites you to participate in the Fourth Annual Reading Friends
and Family Day. Save the Date - Saturday, June 30, 2007.
■ RCTV has won several awards for "Reading at Large" and the Ipswich River
presentation.
■ "Help Wanted" - the process is beginning to recruit volunteers for various Boards,
Coininittees and Commissions of the Town.
■ The Town has been awarded the Tree City, USA Award.
■ "The Police Department is making Reverse 911 calls regarding car breaks.
Proclamations/Certificates of Aooreciation
Certificate of Recognition - Eagle Scout Award - Connor Gildea - A motion by Schubert
seconded by Anthonv to approve the Certificate of Recoenition for Eaale Scout Connor
Gildea was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Proclamation - National Telecommunications Week, - Police Chief Jim Cormier, Fire Chief
Greg Burns, Sgt. Peter Garchinsky, Police Officer Mark Segalla, Police Detective Jolu1
McKenna and Head Dispatcher Vicky Avery were present.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to approve the Proclamation for National
Telecommunications Week was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Personnel and Appointments
Tax Classification Committee - The Board interviewed Neil Cohen, Richard McDonald and
Karen Herrick for two positions on the Tax Classification Committee.
Schubert moved and Anthonv seconded to place the following names into nomination for
two positions on the Ad Hoc Tax Classification Advisorv Committee with terms expiring
.December 31. 2007: Neil Cohen. Karen Gatelv Herrick and Richard McDonald. Each
candidate received four votes and were appointed. Because of the quality of the candidates,
the consensus of the Board was to appoint all three candidates even though only two members
were needed.
Discussion/Action Items
Hi2hl4ihts - En6neerini4 - Director of Public Works Ted McIntire and the Town Engineer
George Zambouras were present. George Zambouras gave a very thorough review of the duties
and projects that the Engineering Division is working on.
v
Board of Selectmen Meeting - April 10. 2007 - Pate 3
Review Pavement Management Plan - Mr. Zambouras reviewed the list of roadway
improvements.
Chainnan Ben Tafoya asked what the criteria is for curbing. The Town Manager noted that
narrow streets typically need curbing. The curb helps to prevent water erosion.
Selectman Richard Schubert asked if the Engineering Division is prepared to oversee the
Downtown project. Mr. Zammbouras noted that Engineering is short one person but the State will
have an Engineer to oversee the project. It would be helpful to have that position filled.
Mr. Zambouras noted that the roadway projects will be starting in a couple of weeks. There is
$415,000 slated for this Spring and $750,000 for the Fall. $25,000 $30,000 will be used for
crack sealing. There will be more preventative maintenance work this year. He reviewed the
pavement plan and noted that it is used as a guide. The Town Manager noted that PCI stands for
Pavement Condition Index. To "reclaim" is to dig down to the dirt and totally rebuild.
Hearinia - Tree Removal Anneal - West Street - Selectman Richard Schubert read the hearing
notice.
The Town Manager noted that the citizens requested sidewalks on West Street. The Tree
Warden held a hearing for removal of one oak tree at 530 West Street, one tree at 532 West
Street and one maple tree at 532 West Street. Mary Ellen O'Neill of 125 Summer Avenue and
Gina Snyder of 11 Jadem Terrace are appealing the decision.
Mr. Zambouras noted that the sidewalk has to meet handicap standards. The sidewalk could fit
behind the tree but they would have to excavate around 27" because of the slope. The
excavation will probably kill the tree. Selectman Richard Schubert asked if they could go with a
shallower amount of gravel, and Mr. Zambouras noted that the sidewalk won't last as long if
they do that.
Selectman Richard Schubert asked if the sidewalk could vary in width for a short distance, and
Mr. Zambouras noted that the ADA requirement is 36" but the Town goes wider so the sidewalk
plow can plow - we try to get 5'.
Mary Ellen O'Neill noted that she was concerned about losing the 44" oak tree. She also noted
that there is no discussion about replacement, and that this is a substantial loss of three trees in a
very short distance. She noted that this is not a priority street for sidewalks.
Cecilia Lewis of 530 West Street noted that she has been there for 52 years. She also noted that
times change and there has been a lot of construction in that area of Town. Her doctor
recommends that she walk but she can't because there are no sidewalks. She noted that there are
a lot of young families in that neighborhood, and that there are other trees in that area so removal
will not have much affect on the environment.
5 U4,3 %
Board of Selectmen Meeting - April 10, 2007 - Paize 4
Marlene Wolfe of 522 West Street noted that she would hate to see the tree come down but
wants to have a sidewalk. She also noted that it would be nice to build the sidewalk and keep the
tree. The Town Manager rioted that if the tree is left, it will die.
Selectman Richard Schubert noted that a 44" tree is significant, and he would rather see the
construction minimized.
Cecilia Lewis noted that the tree has been dropping limbs and she questions the health of the
tree.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Bonazoli to close the hearinLy on the tree removal on
West Street was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthony to retain the 44" oak tree at 530 West Street
and approve the removal of the 14" oak tree in front of 530 West Street and one 14" maple
tree at 532 West Street was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Review Town Meeting Warrant - The Town Manager reviewed the An iual Town Meeting
Warrant.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthony to recommend the subject matter of Article 5
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that she would like a breakdown of insurance as to where the
increase is coming from in the health insurance.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Bonazoli to recommend the subject matter of Article 7
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Bonazoli to recommend the subject matter of Article 8
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Bonazoli to recommend the subiect matter of Article 9
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthony to recommend the subject matter of Article 10
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthony to recommend the subject matter of Article 11
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthony to recommend the subject matter of Article 12
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthony to recommend the subject matter of Article 13
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
CK/
Board of Selectmen Meeting - April 10. 2007 - Paize 5
A motion by Schubert seconded by Bonazoli to recommend the subject matter of Article 14
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Bonazoli to recommend the subject matter of Article 15
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 16
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 17
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 18
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 19
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 20
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 21
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that he had concerns that the Town will end up incurring all the
costs if the fundraising doesn't come through along with MSBA reimbursement. The Town
Manager noted that he will not award the project until he is sure that we will have the money.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 22
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 23
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 24
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 25
failed by a vote of 0-4-0.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that the 300 foot exemption does need to be looked at but not
through this Article.
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthonv to recommend the subject matter of Article 26
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
6 °"S
Board of Selectmen Meeting - April 10. 2007 - Paize 6
Review Action Status Report - The Town Manager reviewed the Action Status Report. Vice
Chairman James Bonazoli noted that he would like to see the Oakland Road property used as a
Creative Arts Center.
Approval of Minutes
A motion by Schubert seconded by Anthony to approve the Minutes of March 27. 2007 was
approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Schubert to adiourn the meeting of April 10, 2007 at
10:48 p.m. was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Secretary
Board of Selectmen Meeting
April 14, 2007
The Board met at 8:00 a.m. on Walnut Street in front of 240 Walnut Street. Present were
Chainnan Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman James Bonazoli, Secretary Stephen Goldy and Selectman
Richard Schubert. Also present were Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner and the following list
of interested parties: Bob Frey, Jim Purdy, Heather Soracco, Douglas Yatsuheshi, Pat Heesen,
Bob Frederick, Ted Smethurst, Bob Soli, Tom Foxon, Phil Dube, John Watson, Arm Webster,
Valerie Sachetta, Rich Abraham, Harry Simmons, Frank, Trish and Eileen Faggiano, Bob and
Diane Weggel, Mary Avery, Michael Welsh, Laurie McGonagle, John Pack, Rosemarie Hrabi,
Rita Shelzi, Richard Dennis, Joan Drane, Maureen and Patrick McClellan, Charles Restuccia,
Joan Benevides, Cheryl Johnson,. Hinda Sorbello, David Dugan, Fred Alexander, Virginia
Adams, Will Finch, Jean Hoyt, Brant Ballantyne.
Discussion/Action Items
Site Visit Route 128/I-95 Interchange Project - Bob Frey from Mass Highway and Jim Purdy
from the Berger Group reviewed the options for the Route 128/I-93 Interchange project, and
answered questions from members of the Board of Selectmen and the community. The session
adjourned at approximately 9:30 a.m.
Site Visit of Northern Area Greenwav - The four members of the Board of Selectmen then went
to review the Northern Area Greenway with the Northern Area Greenway Committee at
approximately 10:00 a.m., meeting at the cabin at 1481 Main Street.
Respectfully submitted,
Secretary
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Number: 2007-1 Fee: $50.00
TOWN OF READING
This is to certify that WILDFLOWER CATERING, INC., CHARLESTOWN, MASS.
IS HEREBY GRANTED
A SPECIAL ONE-DAY LICENSE
FOR THE SALE OF BEER AND WINE
TO BE SERVED ON THE PREMISES
AT A FUNCTION
TO BE HELD AT JORDAN'S FURNITURE,
50 WALKERS BROOK DRIVE
ON SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2007
BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 7:00 P.M. TO 10:00 P.M.
Under Chapter 138, Section 14, of the Liquor Control Act.
Holders of one day licenses shall provide a bartender and/or servers who are trained
and authorized to make decisions regarding continued service of alcoholic beverages
to attendees. There. shall be no self service of any alcoholic beverage at any event
approved as a one day license.
This
is granted in conformity with the Statutes and Ordinances relating
es at 10.0 .m:, April 22, 2007, unless suspended or revolt.
z
:ter Z x•~ m ~bE Fn.
-1 t..q C1'
Date Issued: April 17, 2007
r
a~
L I Z
M3
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Number: 2007-1 Fee: $50.00
TOWN OF READING
This is to certify that READING ROTARY CLUB, P. O. BOX 61, READING, MASS.
THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION
IS HEREBY GRANTED
A SPECIAL ONE-DAY LICENSE
FOR THE SALE OF ALL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
TO BE SERVED ON THE PREMISES
AT A ROTARY AUCTION AT THE BURBANK YMCA
ON SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 2007
BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 6:00 P.M. TO 12:00 P.M.
Under Chapter 138, Section 14, of the Liquor Control Act.
Holders of one day licenses shall provide a bartender and/or servers who are trained
and authorized to make decisions regarding continued service of alcoholic beverages
to attendees. There shall be no self service of any alcoholic beverage at any event
approved as a one day license.
This permission is granted in conformity with the Statutes and Ordinances relating
thergwo eVires at 12:00 p.m., April 28, 2007, unless suspended or revoke.
►"VW ~
907r- 0~
Date Issued: April 24, 2007
5"
6 %
v v ~ V V V V ~
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Number: 20074 Fee: $75.00
TOWN OF READING
USED CAR DEALER'S LICENSE - CLASS II
TO BUY AND SELL SECOND-HAND MOTOR VEHICLES
In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 140 of the General Laws with
amendments thereto, Limited Liability Coro. d/b/a Universal Machinerv, is hereby
licensed to buy and sell second-hand motor vehicles at 26 Brande Court, subject to the
following conditions: ,
That all Zoning and other Bylaws and Rules and Regulations of the Town of
Reading are adhered to.
Maintaining offices only at 26 Brande Court in Reading, MA. There will be no
equipment at this location at any time. All equipment will be kept at 106 Brookline
Street, Pepperell, MA
This license is granted in conformity with the Statutes and ordinances relating thereto;
and expires December 31, 2007. unless sooner suspended or revoked.
In Testi
Whereof, the undersigned have hereunto
f
. _J
Date Issued: April 24, 2007
THIS LICENSE MUST BE POSTED IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE UPON THE PREMISES.
(OVER)
6 '
F,~e-if
G ~C ~C 1
OF.R,~9o!
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
a
Reading, MA 01867-2683
js39rINCCRY~¢~~
Fax: (781) 942-5441
Website: www.dreading.ma.us
Subject: Resurfacing of Locust Street
To: Residents of Locust Street
PUBLIC WORKS
(781) 942-9077
April 26, 2007
As many of you are aware, the Town of Reading will be resurfacing Locust Street this year. This
work will commence this Spring. During a recent inspection of Locust Street, we noticed issues
that will impact several homeowners on that street. Please note that after the construction is
completed, practices that are currently being performed on the road will no longer be allowed.
These include:
1. Parking on the grass strip that abuts the travel way. All vehicles must either park on the
travel way or on the homeowner's property. The Town of Reading owns approximately
eight (8) feet back from the edge of travel way and we do not allow any vehicle to park
on that'strip of land.
2. The use of timbers or rocks along the edge of the travel way. The use of any material
along the edge of the travel way, other than granite curb, is not permitted. In some areas
of the roadway, homeowners have taken it upon themselves to install edging of various
types along the edge of pavement. These must be removed prior to construction. If any
of these materials are within the right-of-way during construction, they will be removed
by the Town. If removed by the Town, we will either place the items on the
homeowner's property or discard them. The Town will not be responsible if items left
behind are damaged or lost.
3. Paving the grass area next to the edge of travel way. As stated before, the Town owns
approximately eight feet back from the edge of travel way. Paving of this area is not
allowed by the Town. Any existing paved surfaces, except for legal driveways and
approved sidewalks, will be excavated by the Town.
4. Using crushed stone or any other loose material along the edge of travel way. In some
cases, homeowners have placed crushed stone along the edge of travel way. This practice
is not allowed because of liability issues. This material will be removed by the Town and
discarded. If the owners of these materials wish to keep them, they must excavate and
remove it prior to construction.
If any homeowner is planning to replace and/or install a gas, water, or sewer service you must do
this work prior to construction. If you have plans to widen your driveway, please contact the
Engineering Division as soon as possible before construction begins.
ga .
The following is a list of contacts:
Gas Service:
Keyspan Energy (formerly Boston Gas Co.)
Contact: Dan Sancomb
Phoner(978)375-1579
Water Service:
Town of Reading Water Department
Contact: Jim Richardson, Water. Superintendent
Phone: (781) 942-9092
Sewer Service and Drivewav Widening:
Town of Reading Engineering Division
Contact: Peter Reinhart, Civil Engineer
Phone: (781) 942-9082
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at (781) 942-9082 or by
email at Dreinhart@ci.readine.ma.us.
Sincerely:
Peter T. Reinhart
Civil Engineer
UFREAO
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867-2683
63s'NCOR4~¢P
Fax: (781) 942-5441
Website: www ci.reading.ma.us
April 26, 2007
Dear Residents:
b (C ~q
PUBLIC WORKS
(781) 942-9077
The Town of Reading through its contractor, LaRovere Design/Build Corp., will be installing
new sidewalk and curb in front of your property along West Street, between Enos Circle and
Catherine Avenue, within the next few weeks. Work will commence each day at 7:00 A.M. and
end at approximately 4:30 P.M., weather permitting. Please use caution when traveling along the
street and sidewalk during the construction period.
Vehicles will not be allowed to nark on the travel wav durine construction within the
construction area. Vehicles found parked on the street during the hours of construction will be
towed at the owners' expense.
During this project, on your day for collection of rubbish, all rubbish must be at the curb
by 6:30 A.M..
The Town of Reading will be working diligently to expedite the work on your street and we
thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this issue
please feel free to contact the Town of Reading Engineering Division at (781) 942-9082,
Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 A.M. and 4:45 P.M.
Page 1 of 1
A& &0S
Hechenbleikner, Peter
From: Burns, Greg
Sent: Friday, April 20, 2007 12:29 PM
To: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Subject: gas today leak at the Dannis Properties Building
Peter
We had a gas today leak at the Dannis Properties Building. A construction company excavator damaged a 6"
high pressure gas line. Fortunately it was venting to the atmosphere. When we arrived on scene we controlled
ignition sources and evacuated the building. Due to the amount of gas escaping the odor impacted Barbas
Trucking, Reading Light Department and the 20 Pond Meadow Drive Medical Building. These buildings did not
have any gas readings just an odor.
It took Keyspan several hours to shut off the flow of gas. The intersection reconfiguration at Walkers Brook Drive
and General
Way made it difficult for Keyspan to determine which of three or four valves controlled the gas supply to Dannis
Properties and access to the valves was hindered due to the work that had been performed in the street.
Keyspan was forced to dig a new trench to access the pipe and clamp it off.
During the incident we were receiving calls for odors of gas in the area so we had Dispatch use the Reverse 911
System to inform residents in a quarter mile radius of the incident. Also we had several people at the 20 Pond
Meadow Drive Medical Building complain of dizziness due to the odor.
Greg
) C'
4/20/2007
Hechenbleikner, Peter
" .
From
com
vcameron@RMLD
Sent:
Monday, April 23, 2007 10:01 AM
To:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Cc:
pdion@rmld.com
Subject:
FW: South street walk
Responding to you on the pole issue.
----Original Message-----
From: Peter Dion
Sent: Monday, April 23, 2007 9:53 AM
To: Vincent Cameron
Subject: RE: South street walk
i
I looked at it. It is a Verizon set. The only place to move it would be across the
street and the same issue would exist with the neighbor.
We don't maintain the "grant of location" Verizon does but I see no need to move the pole
from our perspective. I would guess the grant of location has been there for a while
Pete
-----Original Message-----
From: Vincent Cameron
Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2007 12:49 PM
To: Peter Dion
Subject: FW: South street walk
I know we talked about this previously. Has our view changed.
-----Original Message-----
From: phechenbleikner@ci.reading.ma.us
[mailto:phechenbleikner@ci.reading.ma.us]
Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2007 11:36 AM
To: pajhoops@webtv.net
Cc: Vincent Cameron
Subject: RE: South street walk
Paul
That is an issue with the Reading Municipal Light Department and/or Verizon, depending on
who owns the pole.
I'm copying this to Vinnie Cameron, General Manager of the RMLD.
Pete
-----Original Message-----
From: P J [mailto:pajhoops@webtv.net]
Sent: Thursday, April 19, 2007 9:19 AM
To: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Subject: RE: South street walk
Mr Hechenbleikner, still waiting to hear about how you plan on rectifying the public
utility pole on private property issue.
1
gEJ~
Page 1 of 1
LIC t3 0-5,
Schena, Paula
From: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2007 11:31 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Cc: Zambouras, George; Schena, Paula
Subject: Downtown Streetscape project
I just heard from Representative Brad Jones directly, and the bid opening date per the Commissioner, is May 30 -
definite.
They will expedite an order to proceed with construction.
Pete
Paula - L/C Board of Selectmen
C EDC
C~ Q
4/25/2007