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Home My WebLink About2007-02-06 Board of Selectmen Packet2007 MEETING DATES BOARD OF SELECTMEN February 3, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting - Budget February 6, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting February 13, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting February 19, 2007 President's Day February 26, 2007 Special Town Meeting February 27, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting March 6, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting March 13, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting March 27, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting April 3, 2007 April 10, 2007 April 16, 2007 April 23, 2007 April 24, 2007 April 26, 2007 April 30, 2007 Local Election Board of Selectmen Meeting Patriot's Day Annual Town Meeting Board of Selectmen Meeting Annual Town Meeting Annual Town Meeting May 1, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting May 3, 2007 Annual Town Meeting May 15, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting May 22, 2001 Board of Selectmen Meeting May 28, 2007 Memorial Day June 5, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting June 12, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting June 26, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting July 4, 2007 Independence Day July 10, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting July 24, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting August 7, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting August 21, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting September 3, 2007 Labor Day September 4, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting September 18, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting September 25, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting October 8, 2007 Columbus Day October 9, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting October 16, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting October 30, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting November 6, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting November 12, 2007 Veterans Day Celebrated November 13, 2007 Subsequent Town Meeting November 15, 2007 Subsequent Town Meeting November 19, 2007 Subsequent Town Meeting November 20, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting November 22, 2007 Thanksgiving November 27, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting December 11, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting December 18, 2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting December 25, 2007 Christmas DRAFT -April 23, 2007 Annual Town Meeting WARRANT OUTLINE 02/02/2007 Art. Mover/ Moderator # Article Description Sponsor Comment Notes 8 Senior Tax worker program to Board of Selectmen Overlay 9 Authorizing debt and appropriating - Board of Selectmen Chanter 90 10 Authorize disposition of surplus Board of Selectmen tangible property 1 I Authorizing Revolving Funds Board of Selectmen 12 j;lhj11-uv1ng FY 2008 Budget FINCOM 13 Street Acceptances - Woodland Road Board of Selectmen 14 Transferring appropriations from Board of Selectmen prior years appropriation to MWRA water interconnection project 16 Debt authorization - Downtown Board of Selectmen Improvement Program 4 Amend Capital Improvement Board of Selectmen Prnsrram FY 2007 - FY 2011 7 Approving FY 2008 to FY 20012 Board of Selectmen Capital Improvement Program 15 Establishing a stabilization fund for FINCOM host retirement health care costs 17 Debt Authorization - Financial Board of Selectmen software and hardware 18 Debt Authorization - Tennis Court Board of Selectmen 19 Debt Authorization - Fire pumper Board of Selectmen OHIO! 20 Debt Authorization - field Board of Selectmen improvements 21 Transfer care, custody and control of School Committee Plat 73 lot 7 from the School Committee to the Town of Reading for library purposes 22 Amending Zoning Bylaw Section CPDC 2.2.13 - definition of frontage 23 Amending Section 5.6 of the general Board of Selectmen 24 General Bylaw Amendment - Sight Board of Selectmen 25 Removal of Town Meeting members Board of Selectmen From the Office of: Ellen Callahan Doucette BRACKETT & LUCAS 165 Washington Street Winchester, MA 01890 (781) 729-1500 PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT This day of Februarv , 2007. 1. PARTIES AND MAILING ADDRESSES Lucille DelPonte, Administratrix of the Estate of Margaret Grace Mattera a/k/a Margaret M. Mattera hereinafter called the SELLER, agrees to SELL certain property to the TOWN OF READING, acting by and through its Board of Selectmen hereinafter called the BUYER or PURCHASER, agrees to BUY, upon the terms hereinafter set forth, the following described premises: 2. DESCRIPTION Approximately 2.14 acres of property with buildings thereon located at 1481 Main Street, Reading MA as more fully described in a deed from Richard A. Mattera to Richard A. Mattera and Margaret M. Mattera dated May 25, 1984 recorded at Middlesex South Registry of Deeds, Book 15628, Page 455, attached hereto as Exhibit A. 4. TITLE DEED Said premises are to be conveyed by a good and sufficient quitclaim deed running to the BUYER, or to the nominee designated by the BUYER by written notice to the SELLER at least seven (7) days before the deed is to be delivered as herein provided, and said deed shall convey a good and clear record and marketable title thereto, free from encumbrances, except: (a) Provisions of existing building and zoning laws;. (b) Existing rights and obligations in party walls which are not the subject of written .agreement; (c) Such taxes for the then current year as are not due and payable on the date of the delivery of such deed; (d) Any liens for municipal betterments assessed after the date of this agreement; (e) Easements, restrictions and reservations of record, if any, so long as the same do not prohibit or materially interfere with the current use of said premises; (f) 5. PLANS If said deed refers to a plan necessary to be recorded therewith the SELLER shall deliver such plan with the deed in form adequate for recording or registration. 6. REGISTERED TITLE N/A 7. PURCHASE PRICE The agreed purchase price for said premises is ($800,000.00) Dollars, of which $ 5% have been paid as a deposit this day and $ are to be paid at the time of delivery of the deed in cash, or by certified, cashier's, treasurer's or bank check(s). $ 800,000.00 TOTAL 8. TIME FOR PERFORMANCE; DELIVERY OF DEED Such deed is to be delivered at 2 o'clock p.m. on the th day of February, 2007, at the Middlesex South Registry of, Deeds, unless otherwise agreed upon in writing. It is agreed that time is of the essence of this agreement. 9. POSSESSION AND CONDITION OF PREMISES Full possession of said premises free of all tenants and occupants is to be delivered at the time of the delivery of the deed, said premises to be then (a) in the same condition as they now are, reasonable use and wear thereof excepted, and (b) not in violation of said building and zoning laws, and (c) in compliance with provisions of any instrument referred to in clause 3 hereof. The BUYER shall be entitled personally to inspect said premises prior to the delivery of the deed in order to determine whether the condition thereof complies with the terms of this clause. 10. EXTENSION TO PERFECT TITLE OR MAKE PREMISES CONFORM If the SELLER shall be unable to give title or to make conveyance, or to deliver possession of the premises, all as herein stipulated, or if at the time of the delivery of the deed the premises do not conform with the provisions hereof, then any payments made under this agreement shall be forthwith refunded and all other obligations of the parties hereto shall cease and this agreement shall be void without recourse to the parties hereto, unless the SELLER elects to use reasonable efforts to remove any defects in title, or to deliver possession as provided herein, or to make the said premises conform to the provisions hereof, as the case may be, in which event the SELLER shall give written notice thereof to the BUYER at or before the time for performance hereunder, and thereupon the time for performance hereof shall be extended for a period of thirty (30) days. The Seller shall not be required to expend more than $2,000.00 to conform to the provisions of this Paragraph. 11. FAILURE TO PERFECT TITLE OR MAKE PREMISES CONFORM, ETC. If at the expiration of the extended time the SELLER shall have failed so to remove any defects in title, deliver possession, or make the premises conform, as the case may be, all as herein agreed, or if at any time during the period of this agreement or any extension thereof, the holder of a mortgage on said premises shall refuse to permit the insurance proceeds, if any, to be used for such purposes, then any payments made under this agreement shall be forthwith refunded and all other obligations of the parties hereto shall cease and this agreement shall be void without recourse to the parties hereto. 12. BUYER'S ELECTION TO ACCEPT TITLE The BUYER shall have the election, at either the original or any extended time for performance, to accept such title as the SELLER can deliver to the said premises in their then condition and to pay therefore the purchase price without deduction, in which case the SELLER shall convey such title, 3 3 q .,t except that in the event of such conveyance in accord with the provisions of this clause, if the said premises shall have been damaged by fire or casualty insured against, then the SELLER shall, unless the SELLER has previously restored the premises to their former condition, either (a) pay over or assign to the BUYER, on delivery of the deed, all amounts recovered or recoverable on account of such insurance, less any amounts reasonably expended by the SELLER for any partial restoration, or (b) if a holder of a mortgage on said premises shall not permit the insurance proceeds or a part thereof to be used to restore the said premises to their former condition or to be so paid over or assigned, give to the BUYER a credit against the purchase price, on delivery of the deed, equal *to said amounts so recovered or recoverable and retained by the holder of the said mortgage less any amounts reasonably expended by the SELLER for any partial restoration. 13. ACCEPTANCE OF DEED The acceptance of a deed by the BUYER or his nominee as the case may be, shall be deemed to be a full performance and discharge of every agreement and obligation herein contained or expressed, except such as are, by the terms hereof, to be performed after the delivery of said deed. 14. USE OF MONEY TO CLEAR TITLE To enable the SELLER to make conveyance as herein provided, the SELLER may, at the time of delivery of the deed, use the purchase money or any portion thereof to clear the title of any or all encumbrances or interests, provided that all instruments so procured are recorded in accordance with REBA standards. 15. INSURANCE Until the delivery of the deed, the SELLER shall maintain insurance on said premises as presently insured. 16. ADJUSTMENTS Collected rents, mortgage interest, water and sewer use charges, operating expenses (if any) according to the -4 G° schedule attached hereto or set forth below, and taxes for the then current fiscal year, shall be apportioned and fuel value shall be adjusted, as of the day of performance of this agreement and the net amount thereof shall be added to or deducted from, as the case may be, the purchase price payable by the BUYER at the time of delivery of the deed. Uncollected rents for the current rental period shall be apportioned if and when collected by either party. 17. PAYMENT OF ASSESSED TAXES AND ADJUSTMENT OF UNASSESSED TAXES All taxes due as of the closing date shall have been paid by SELLER. If the amount of said taxes is not known at the time of the delivery of the deed, they shall be apportioned on the basis of the taxes assessed for the preceding fiscal year, with a reapportionment as soon as the new tax rate and valuation can be ascertained 18. BROKER'S FEE N/A 19. BROKER(S) WARRANTY N/A 20. DEPOSIT N/A 21. BUYER'S DEFAULT; DAMAGES If the BUYER shall fail to fulfill the BUYER's agreements herein, all deposits made hereunder by the BUYER shall be retained by the SELLER as liquidated damages and shall be the SELLER sole remedy at law and equity. 22. RELEASE BY HUSBAND OR. WIFE The SELLER's spouse hereby agrees to join in said deed and to release and convey all statutory and other rights and interests in said premises. 23. BROKER AS PARTY N/A 24. LIABILITY OF TRUSTEE, SHAREHOLDER BENEFICIARY, ETC. -5 1 4 C, ~s If the SELLER or BUYER executes this agreement in a representative or fiduciary capacity, only the principal or the estate represented shall be bound, and neither the SELLER or BUYER so executing, nor any shareholder or beneficiary of any trust, shall be personally liable for any obligation, express or implied, hereunder. 25. WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS The BUYER acknowledges that the BUYER has not been influenced to enter into this transaction nor has he relied upon any warranties or representations not set forth or incorporated in this agreement or previously made in writing, except for the following additional warranties and representations, if any, made by either the SELLER or the broker(s): 26. MORTGAGE CONTINGENCY CLAUSE N/A 27. CONSTRUCTION OF AGREEMENT This instrument, executed in multiple counterparts, is to be construed as a Massachusetts contract, is to take effect as a sealed instrument, sets forth the entire contract between the parties, is binding upon and enures to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, devisees, executors, administrators, successors and assigns, and may be cancelled, modified or amended only by a written instrument executed by both the SELLER and the BUYER. The use of the feminine shall include the masculine and the use of the masculine shall include the feminine. The rule off construction which provides for construing contract provisions in favor of the non-drafting party shall have no effect, as both'Seller and Buyer, or their representatives, have participated in the negotiation and drafting of this Agreement. 30. NOTICES Any notice required or permitted to be given hereunder shall be in writing and delivered by hand or mailed postage prepaid by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, addressed to the parties at the addresses set forth on page 1 of this Agreement. Copies of all notices to SELLERS shall simultaneously be sent to: William Dalton, Esq. Dalton & Finegold, LLP -6 4 Lk~ . 34 Essex Street Andover, MA 01810 and all notices to BUYER shall simultaneously be sent to: Peter I. Hechenbleikner, Town Manager Reading Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 with a copy to: Ellen Callahan Doucette, Esq. Brackett & Lucas 165 Washington Street Winchester, MA. 01890 Any such notice so mailed or delivered shall be deemed properly served and delivered for all purposes hereunder at the time such notice is indicated as stamped by any post office regularly maintained by the United States Postal authority. 31. ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS Rider A, attached hereto, is fully incorporated herein by reference. This agreement is subject to the issuance by the Middlesex Probate Court of a License to Sell for the Estate of Margaret Grace Mattera a/k/a Margaret M. Mattera. This agreement shall be executed in any number of counterparts. Each counterpart shall together constitute only one and the same agreement. Executed as an instrument under seal on the day and year first written herein. SELLER -7 BUYER Town of Reading, by and through its Board of Selectmen d .1 Ben Tafoya, Chair James Bonazoli, Vice Chair Stephen Goldy, Secretary Camille Anthony Richard Schubert -8 q, ~ " RIDER "A" ADDENDUM TO PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT TITLE MATTERS Without limitations of any other provisions in this Agreement, said premises shall not be considered in compliance with the provisions of this Agreement with respect to the title unless: Title to said premises is insurable for the benefit of the Buyer by an American Land Title Association member title insurance company in a fee owner's policy of title insurance at normal premium rates, in the American Land Title Association form currently in use. Subject only to those printed exceptions to title normally included in the "jacket" to such form or policy, and such matters referenced in and not inconsistent with Paragraph 4 of this Agreement. Any matter or practice arising under or relating to this agreement which is the subject of a Title Standard or a Practice Standard' of the Massachusetts Real Estate Bar Association shall be governed by said Standard to the extent applicable. At the time of the closing, the Seller shall provide the Buyer with an affidavit in recordable form establishing that there are no federal taxes due on the Estate of Margaret Mattera. At the time of closing, the Seller shall provide the Buyer with an affidavit in recordable form, clarifying the name of the decedent as Margaret Grace Mattera a/k/a Margaret M. Mattera. 2. SELLER'S ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS (a) Seller states that to the best of her knowledge no hazardous material has been stored or released on the premises. -9 ~ C"V * (b) Seller states, to the best of her knowledge, that there- is no pending bankruptcy, mortgage foreclosure, or other proceeding that might in any material way impact adversely on the Seller's ability to perform on the closing date. (c) Seller states that she has been made aware of the presence of asbestos contained in the siding of the dwelling which was discovered by an inspection conducted by the Buyer. 3. BUYERS ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS The Buyer agrees and understands that the deed into the Buyer will contain certain conservation restrictions that will run with the land. -10 41 0~ IoCoytVIDOY TOWN OF Fte`ADING 'To . the. Inhabitants of the Towri of Reading: Please take notice that,thb.:'. Board of Selectmen of the Town of Reading wilt, hold a public . hearing.on.Tuesd. Y, February . im at'8:-00:p.m. in.thb. Selectmen's Meetind Room,. 16: Lowel'i : 'Str'eet; Reading, . Massachusetts 'on a policy edtabtishing an~ ad' hoo Tax classification Study Committee,.... AII''interested parties !..may appear ,in ..person, ' may ;submit. .Aheir comments in. writing;. or ..'..nay email town manager@., <i:readina:ma.us: By order of -Deter I. H.echenbleikner Town Manader 1I30. . qcl , Policv establishing- an ad-hoc Tax Classification Committee There is hereby established a five (5) member ad-hoc Tax Classification Committee (Committee) to advise the Board of Selectmen on matters related to the tax classification process. The purposes of the Committee are to advise the Board of Selectmen and the Town Manager on matters of policy related but not limited to: • The residential factor; • The open space discount; • The residential exemption; ' • The commercial exemption. The Committee will be created from the date of this hearing until December 31, 2007, unless such term is modified by the Board of Selectmen. They will deliver final recommendations to the Board by October 31, 2007. 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: • Member or designee of the Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce; • Member or designee of the Economic Development Committee; • Member or designee of the Board of Selectmen; • Member or designee of the Finance Committee; • Member or designee of the Community Planning and Development Committee. The Committee shall be advisory in all matters. Decisions as to whether or not to implement measures shall rest as appropriate with the Town Manager, the Board of Selectmen, or other body having jurisdiction in the matter. This Committee shall administratively fall within the Finance Department. Staff as available will be assigned by the Town Manager to work with the Committee. Adopted 2-6-07 P#. To: Subject: Date: <andreagarb@comcast.net> FW: Walnut St/Old Farm Rd Intersection Monday, January 29, 2007 10:45:07 PM 1111 JAN 31 AN 10. 53 rView Sourcel -----Original Message----- From: Garbarino, Al Sent: Mon 1/29/2007 10:43 PM To: townmanager@ci.readinq.ma.us Cc: Subject: Walnut St/Old Farm Rd Intersection Peter, I am writing this as a follow up to the voicemail I left you on Friday January 26 regarding the Walnut St/Old Farm Rd intersection. On behalf of the neighborhood, I would like to formally request that the process be initiated to place stop signs at this intersection as soon as possible. With all four corners containing some form of obstruction, the intersection is a hazard, making both driving and walking across a dangerous undertaking. Unfortunately the crosswalks offer little relief as they are not always respected by drivers. As an example, there were several children attempting to cross Walnut St from Old Farm Rd last week to get to school and waited in the crosswalk as 6 cars sped through. Clearly this is a situation that puts Reading residents at risk and one that should be remedied as quickly as possible. Based on conversations I have had with members of the Board of Selectmen, you are the person to speak with to get the process initiated. Unless I hear differently from you, I will assume that this is the case and you will take the appropriate actions. Please let me know if you need any assistance from the members of the neighborhood as we are more than happy to help. My wife or I will also drop off a printed version of this correspondence attached with the signatures of several members of the neighborhood. Thank you in advance for your prompt response to this situation. If you would like to discuss this further, I can be reached during the day at 617-563-9563 or at home at 944-2709. . Sincerely, Al Garbarino 32 Old Farm Rd INBOX: Email I of 574 M rvbve to Folder lr~k Back to Ton < Previous I Next > i s , January 28, 2007 r- Dear members of the Board of Selectmen and Mr. Hechenbleikner, We would like to express our concern regarding the serious safety hazard, for our children being created by the removal of the Walnut Street crossing guard as of Friday,-February 2; 2007. This decision was based on an inaccurate number of 5 children crossing this dangerous intersection daily. The following is a partial list of families who use this crossing on a daily or near-daily basis. Name Address # of children impacted = ~2- ttA('k 1,3 3. J°Z C>/C( ~CJLr/YI 02 4. r 1 y6. r 0/ d 25 8. n 9. YO LJ 10. A,-'t I I. 12. U We would like to respectfully request your assistance in the reconsideration of this decision untileppropriate measures are taken to secure the safety of this intersection for our children. 1 n Thank yo~ DIT, r~ r 4-6( _ 1017 i r Page 1 of 1 Hechenbleikner, Peter From: Susan O'Leary [slooleary@comcast.net] Sent: Friday, February 02, 2007 11:19 AM To: Reading - Selectmen Subject: Thank you Dear Selectmen, On behalf of all the parents, thank you for sending out representatives to come and observe the intersection at Old Farm and Walnut. I wanted to inform you that the temporary crossing guard made an inappropriate accusation toward two parents as they walked their children. I can only guess that she is not aware of the stressful situation that the parents have been put in for the past month with the sporadic coverage of this intersection. We were warned by Chief Cormier that even with a cruiser posted that it could be called away at any given moment, so not to depend on the coverage. Although coverage has been appreciated, there has been at least one or two days that the cruiser was either absent or parked in a driveway on Walnut Street hidden from sight. This cross guard who was at the post this morning and may have been there once before has no right to question how many kids walk and why their parents may be with them. Parents need to decide what is safest for their children in this current situation. The children in this area need a safe and swift resolution to this and I hope that you will assist us in this effort. Thanks again for your time and support. Parents of the Walnut street intersection q 2/2/2007 Board of Selectmen Meeting December 19, 2006 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 7:05 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman James Bonazoli, Secretary Stephen Goldy, Selectman Camille Anthony, Town Engineer George Zambouras, Recreation Administrator John Feudo, Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Assistant Town Manager Bob LeLacheur/Finance Director, Paula Schena and the following list of interested parties: Bill Brown, Thomas Ryan, Attorney Mark Gallant, Dave Talbot, Danielle Robinson. Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Retorts and Corrunents - Vice Chairman James Bonazoli noted that he has received phone calls regarding being able to buy a cup of coffee before 6:00 a.m., and he asked if a bylaw change is needed. The Town Manager noted that the bylaw has a provision for the Selectmen to grant a waiver in the interest of public safety, health and welfare. He cautioned the Selectmen to be careful how and when to grant a waiver because virtually all commercial property abuts residential. He also noted that the Town did receive complaints regarding the Dunkin' Donuts on Washington Street receiving deliveries at 4:00 a.m. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli thanked Phil Rushworth and Jennifer Hart for inviting him to their Cultural Connection Meeting. He noted that the Cultural Connection is looking for space. They have asked him to sit on an advisory committee. He also noted that Cross Street residents are looking for easier access from Cross Street across to Main Street. Selectman Camille Anthony noted that she and Stephen Goldy attended the Cheerleader Reception on Sunday. Selectman Stephen Goldy noted that the Citizens' Police Academy is accepting applications. He also announced that he will be i urmning for re-election in the Spring. Chainnan Ben Tafoya noted that Selectman Richard Schubert lost his sister-in-law Kate Fleming who was a victim of flooding and he expressed his condolences. He also noted that he spoke with Selectman Schubert who asked him to armounce that he will be running for re-election. Chairman Tafoya attended a CPDC Zoning Workshop. There will be hearings on January 8th regarding the parking overlay district, Jolinson Woods development, and a request by Tambone to change zoning. He also attended a MAPC Meeting. He noted that the Board received correspondence from the City of Melrose regarding 9C - water and sewer rate relief. Reading's sewer cost will increase $170,000 if the cut is not overturned. The Town Manager indicated that he will draft a letter to the Governor Elect Deval Patrick regarding 9C cuts. si~t/ Board of Selectmen Meeting - December 19. 2006 - Paae 2 Public Comment - Tom Ryan noted that the handicap parking spot in front of the Post Office has a one hour parking sign and that is illegal. Handicapped people are exempt from parking violations. The Town Manager noted that the sign is old and will be taken down. Bill Brown noted that the Community Preservation Act Study Committee has a Finance Committee Member serving on it, and Finance Committee Members are not allowed to serve on other committees. The Town Manager noted that the previous counsel indicated that it was okay as long as it is not a standing committee. He will take this matter to Town Meeting for clarification. Dave Talbot noted that the 16 Sanborn Street rezoning is not just limited to 16 Sanborn Street. He asked how many properties are effected, and Chairman Ben Tafoya noted technically many but realistically next to none due certain conditions. Selectman Camille Anthony suggested that CPDC have a color coded map to see the impact. Vice Chainman James Bonazoli noted that Town Meeting will vote on the overlay district and then 16 Sanborn Street. Town Manager's Report The Town Manager gave the following report: • Town Planner Chris Reilly has resigned effective the end of December. • The West/South Street traffic signal was damaged by curb installation. The Town Engineer is arranging to have it repaired ASAP. • The MWRA water interconnection vault on Border Road at West Street will be under construction after the first of the year. • Friends and Family Day - June 30, 2007. • Curbside Holiday Tree Collection - Week of January 8-12, 2007; Compost Center is open for trees on Saturday, January 13th. • The Christian Science Church on Lowell Street next to Town Hall is no longer being used. It could be an interesting site for an arts center in Reading, and I am exploring this option with representatives of the Arts Connection. • The Board of Selectmen has received electronically their proposed 2007 meeting calendar. Discussion/Action Items Review Action Status Report - The Town Manager noted that he added the Employee Merchant Parking to the report. Gazebo Circle is out to bid and will be under construction in the Spring. The bid date for the Downtown improvements is January 31, 2007. Vice Chainnan James Bonazoli recommended taking off the Addison-Wesley traffic presentation. Selectman Camille Anthony noted that the federal government is looking at two flyovers instead of depressions for the Route 128/93 project. She suggests meeting with the other communities. Adopt Housing Plan - Town Engineer George Katsoufis was present. s~~ Board of Selectmen Meetina - December 19, 2006 - Paae 3 The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen need to approve the draft housing plan and then pass it on to DHCD. He also noted that the purpose is to develop a proactive plan for increasing affordable housing. The Town needs to produce 66 units/year. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that there are short-term and long-tenn issues. He spoke with james Bond who bought the MF Charles building, and he noted that the critical issue is parking. Hearing - 24 Hour Permit, Reading Shell Station. 87 Walkers Brook Drive, - The Town Manager noted that this is an annual event. Attorney Mark Gallant indicated that he was representing Motiva. He noted that the pen-nit has been issued for the past 16-17 years. The Station is in the industrial district with no residential abutters, the gas and bathrooms are available 24 hour a day. They provide gas cans and a list of towing companies. They recently received the order of conditions to reconstruct the canopy. Danielle Robinson noted that this has been a Mass. DEP site for 10 years. All wells except one are below clean up level. The April test was high and Motiva fixed the loose gasket on the tank top. She also noted that the company is putting up a fence for litter control. The Conservation Corrnnission is asking them to do work on property they don't own. She noted that the Station will be closed when the canopy is installed, and she will notify the Town Manager when that happens. A motion by Goldv, seconded by Bonazoll to close the hearing on the 24 hour permit for 87 Wallcers Brook Drive was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to approve an application for 24 hour sales by Motiva Enterprises, LLC d/b/a Reading Shell Station at 87 Walkers Brook Drive. The Board of Selectmen funds that, in accordance with Section 5.10.1 of the General Bvlaws: It is in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare to permit such operation; and ♦ There is no detrimental effect of such operation on the Town or the immediatelv abutting neighbors: The approval of this application is subiect to the following conditions: 1. This approval expires at midnight, December 31, 2007: 2. All signs shall conform to the Zoning By-Laws of the Town of Reading; 3. The gasoline service station shall, in fact, be open 24 hours a dav, seven davs a week: 4. The operator will ensure that there is a supply of gasoline available at the station during all hours that the station is open. 5. The operator will provide gas cans for motorists who run out of gasoline on the road: 6. The operator will prepare and post a list of local towing and repair shops that are open 24 hours a dav for those who need it. 7. Restroom facilities shall be open 24 hours a dav, seven davs a week. was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. sQ,3 Board of Selectmen Meeting - December 19. 2006 - Paae 4 Follow Up hna2ination Station - The Town Manager noted that Leathers' short report is in the packet. He also noted that there is an issue with keeping the area secure. The Selectmen need to decide what to do; i.e., demolish, design, etc. He would like to see the first phase of reconstruction done in 2007. Selectman Stephen Goldy noted that he wants to see a master plan for the whole Birch Meadow area. He also noted that hmagination Station caters to a certain age group. He would like to add onto it for the older age groups. He suggests perhaps a skate park, teen center or hockey rink. Recreation Administrator John Feudo noted that we need to do a survey to see what the community wants. Selectman Camille Anthony asked about the maintenance at Wood End, and John Feudo noted that there won't be much the first five years - the biggest concern is vandalism. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli noted that the Recreation Committee recommends demolishing Imagination Station. They are also looking for money for tennis courts. He feels that there is a lot of money being spent on the toddler age group, and he feels that the Town should be doing something for the older age group. John Feudo noted that if he had his choice, he would choose tennis courts because that services all age groups. He also noted that the Recreation Committee recommends demolishing Imagination Station and replacing it with a recreation facility. The Town Manager noted that he met with Friends of Reading Recreation who are developing a master plan for Memorial Park. He feels that they could help with visioning of the Birch Meadow area. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that the plaques, signs and art work need to be dismounted and stored. A motion by Anthonv seconded by Bonazoli to approve the demolition of ImaLyination Station, with the preservation off-site of certain artifacts includine plaoues, siLyns and "art work." and that the Town Manager is directed to proceed with a design process for lavout and construction of a new Imagination Station at that site. and that the capital planning process include development of the new Imagination Station on that site was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Review Inforination on the Tax Classification Studv - The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen requested information on different levels of tax classification. The report of the Findings of the 1993 Tax Classification Task Force is included in the packet. He suggests putting together a policy and charge and bring it back to the Selectmen for a hearing. Options for "No Parkiniz Here to Corner" sip-ns at Washington and Woburn Streets and Washington and Prescott Streets - The Town Manager noted that the map shows the Police Chiefs recommendations for both sides of both ends of Washington Street. He will schedule this for a public hearing. Sa~f Board of Selectmen Meeting - December 19. 2006 - Page 5 Sian Release of Easement - Joseph Wav - Selectman Stephen Goldy recused himself from this agenda item. The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen need to approve the' release of easement on Joseph Way. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Anthonv to approve, as authorized by Town Meetine under Article 12 of the 2006 Subsequent Town Meeting, the release of a 20' drainase easement that runs over, under and upon 37 Joseph Wav in Readins and as shown as a 20' drainaLye easement on a plan of land entitled "Readine Manor in Readine. Mass. for Hillerest Realtv, Inc., dated March 15, 1954, Dana F. Perkins & Sons, Inc., C.E. and Survevors, which plan is recorded with the .Middlesex South Re2istrv of Deeds in Book 8281, Paue 201, said easement to be abandoned as shown on "Plan of Land in Reading, MA Showine Easement Abandonment," prepared by Middlesex Survev Inc. Land Survevors of 131 Park Street, North Reading, MA. 01864 dated September 20, 2006 was approved by a vote of 3-0-1, with Goldv abstainine. Licenses - The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen delegated him to approve licenses. He is approving 44 Common Victualler Licenses, Four Automatic Amusement Devices Licenses, 15 Entertainment Licenses, five Live Entertainment Licenses, nine Class I, II and III Motor Vehicle Licenses, one Livery License and one Laundromat License. All applications are reviewed by the Health Division, the Building Inspector, the Police Department and the Tax Collector. Approval of Minutes A motion by Anthonv seconded by Goldv to approve the Minutes of November 28, 2006 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to adiourn the meetine of December 19. 2006 at 10:00 p.m. was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary s~~ Board of Selectmen Meeting January 2, 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 7:02 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman James Bonazoli, Secretary Stephen Goldy, Police Chief Jim Connier, Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director Bob LeLacheur, Paula Schena and the following list of interested parties: Andrea Garbarino, Stanley and Edward Kantorosinski, Ernie Bay, Phil Pacino, Richard Surrette, Janette Surette, Joyce Buckley, Attorney James Juliano, Attorney Steven Cicatelli, Attorney Andrew Upton, Bao Ngoc Huynh. Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments - Selectman Camille Anthony noted that she had Office Hours this evening, and she had four neighbors from the Old Farm Road area come in. They will speak under public comment. Selectman Stephen Goldy noted that the Reading Recreation brochure is done. Chairman Ben Tofaya noted that CPDC will be holding hearings regarding the Special Town Meeting Warrant including parking overlay, and request for map change for Tambone and Johnson Woods. A subcommittee is meeting tomorrow night to refine the language. There has been discussion on acceleration of Johnson Woods, and the Town is pushing for an increase in the number of affordable housing units if they move their schedule up three years. Public Comment - Andrea Garbarino noted that her neighborhood was notified today that the Crossing Guard position is being eliminated from the Old Farm Road part of Town. She also noted that the School did not notify her and that is a safety issue. The Town Manager noted that there is a shortage of Crossing Guards. The higher priority in that location is at Franklin Street so they are moving that Crossing Guard there but he has since quit. He will talk with Police Chief Cormier later tonight when he is here. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli noted he would like an update of the Crossing Guards. Town Manager's Report The Town Manager gave the following report: • Waste to Energy grant close-out - Additional $14,000 to Town of Reading. • Curbside Holiday Tree Collection - Week of January 8-12, 2007; Compost Center is open for trees on Saturday, January 13th. • MMA Annual Meeting Friday and Saturday - January 12th and 13th. • BCC training January 31St '_~I ' I Board of Selectmen Meeting - Januarv 2. 2007 - Page 2 Regarding the January 16th meeting on goals, the Town Manager will prepare a draft set of goals. He thinks a Retreat is a good idea but will need plamung. ' Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that he would like to take some time on January 16th to talk about long-teen goals. Selectman Camille Anthony noted that 15 goals are too many. Discussion/Action Items Hearing - Bagel World Reauest to Overate Beginning at 5:30 a.m. a Variance from Section 5.10 of the General Bvlaws - The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town Manager noted that 10-12 years ago, the Town adopted a bylaw restricting hours of sales. That issue carne about when a business wanted to be open 24 hours per day, seven days per week but it abutted residential property. The Town recently received a complaint about a business getting deliveries around 2:00 a.m.-3:00 a.m. The Police enforced and then found other businesses opening before 6:00 a.m. The Town does have one 24 hour store that abuts the highway. Bagel World owner Stanley Kantorosinski and his son Edward were present. Stanley Kantorosinski noted that he has been opening at 5:00 a.m. since 1998 and he has never had any complaints. All of his deliveries are after 9:00 a.m. He is requesting to open at 5:30 a.m. The Town Manager noted that the Board of Health recommends no additional hours until Bagel World meets minimum standard conditions. He also noted that in order to grant a waiver, the Board needs to prove that they are providing a service for the public health, safety or welfare of the Town. He noted that there will soon be three additional residences behind Bagel World. He suggests that the Selectmen close the hearing, and then highly advertise the issue on whether or not to change the bylaw. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to close the hearing for Bagel World's request to operate beginning at 5:30 a.m. was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Hearing - West Street Mobil Reauest to Overate Beginning at 5:00 a.m, a Variance from Section 5.10 of the General Bvlaws - The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town Manager noted that this property is a drive through and gas station. A neighbor to the gas station noted that it is a busy place but it is quiet. The owner of the property noted that the Town should consider this request, or people will go elsewhere and the Town will lose business. A motion by Goldv seconded by Bonazoli to close the hearing for West Street Mobil's request to operate beginning at 5:00 a.m. was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Hearing - No Parking - Both sides of Washington Street 50 South of Woburn Street and 50 feet North of Prescott Street - The Secretary read the hearing notice. v Board of Selectmen Meetinja - Januarv 2. 2007 - Paae 3 The Town Manager noted that this is a follow up from a petition. The concern is to expand the no parking on comer from 20 feet to 50 feet. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that 50 feet on both sides of the street still doesn't eliminate the bottleneck on the rest of the street. Police Chief Jim Cormier noted that this will allow easier access. Emie Bay of 142 Woburn Street noted that moving back 50 feet will take away two 24 hour parking spaces from residents. He would like only one side moved to 50 feet. He also noted that the signs have already been moved back from 20 feet to 71 feet. He feels that the problem is related to the Selectmen taking away 50 commuter spaces. He suggests that the Town ask people to go to the Woburn Station. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that the Selectmen did try to encourage people to go to Anderson Station in Woburn by not selling commuters stickers. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to close the hearing on no parking on both sides of Washington Street 50 feet south of Woburn Street and 50 feet north of Prescott Street was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. .A motion by Anthonv seconded by Goldv to amend the Town of Reading Traffic Rules and ReLyulations by adding to Article 5, Section 5.3: PARKING PROHIBITED ON CERTAIN STREETS NO PARKING ANY TIME 50 FEET FROM INTERSECTION Street WashinLyton Street Washington Street was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Location Both sides of street - 50 feet south of Woburn Street Both sides of street - 50 feet north of Prescott Street Hearing - No Parking on the West Side of Washineton Street from Woburn Street to the Briarwood Condos - The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town Manager noted that the request is to restrict parking on the west side of Washington Street. There is a letter from the Briarwood Condo Association in favor of no parking. Phil Pacino, President of the Briarwood Condo Association, noted that he had concerns regarding access for emergency vehicles and snow removal. Richard Surrette of 7 Washington Street indicated that this is a good idea. He noted that it is difficult to get in and out of Briarwood in the Winter. Janette Surrette of .13 Washington Street noted that the cars completely block the Woburn Street intersection when the train comes. S ~3 Board of Selectmen Meeting - Januarv 2. 2007 - Pase 4 Joyce Buckley of 139/141 Woburn Street had concerns for the safety of the children walking to Parker Middle School. She noted that the fire trucks and trash trucks cannot get down the street. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to close the hearing on no parking on the west side of WashinLyton Street from Woburn Street to the exit drivewav of Briarwood Condos was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to amend the Town of Reading Traffic Rules and ReLyulations by addinLy to Article 5. Section 5.3: PARKING PROHIBITED ON CERTAIN STREETS NO PARKING ANY TIME Street Location Washington Street On the Westerly side from Woburn Street to the exit drivewav at Briarwood Condos was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Hearing - Request for Waiver of Drivewav Opening Regulations to allow two Drivewav Ot)eninj~s on Jolm Street - 43 Salem Street - The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town has restrictions on the number of driveways. This property is in violation because it has one extra driveway. The property owner has* the option of combining two driveways or appealing to the Board of Selectmen. The Town Manager noted that there is an e-mail in tonight's handout from Gerard and Mary Beth McDonald who have concerns about the project but no concerns regarding the driveways. Attorney James Juliano noted that every plan was submitted to the Engineering and Planning Divisions. The plan was sighed off on and has not changed. The Conservation Commission has signed off on the plans. The owner thought everything was in compliance. The current curb cut was pre-existing. The Town Manager noted that there is no record of a road permit. He would prefer to get the curb cut further back from the intersection. Attorney Steven Cicatelli noted that Mr. Lynch did not move forward without getting permits or paying fees. He also noted that Mr. High helped him design the plan. He noted that if they put in a 24 foot opening, then they would have to put in a complete walkway and that would increase the amount of impervious surface. The Town Manager recoinmended that the owner provide for improvement to the radius. A motion. by Anthonv seconded by Bonazoli to close the hearine on the a waiver of the drivewav openin,2 reealations at 43 Salem Street was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Board of Selectmen Meeting - Januarv 2. 2007 - Page 5 A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to. approve the request for a waiver of the drivewav ovenin"L, reeulations to allow two drivewav openings on John Street as well as a drivewav on Salem Street for the property located at 43 Salem Street subject to completion prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancv. and that the deed establishing a 25 foot radius at the corner of John Street and Salem Street and a bond be posted 2uaranteein2 the work was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Hearing - Change of Manager for Romano's Macaroni Grill. - Attorney Andrew Upton representing Macaroni Grill and Sao Ngoc Huynh were present. Mr. Huynh noted that he was made General Manager two months ago and he has managed other restaurants. Selectman Camille Anthony asked if he has had TIPS training, and Mr. Huynh indicated that he had TIPS training. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to approve the Change of Manager for Romano's Macaroni Grill from Michael Ross to Bao N2oc Huvnh was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Preview Special Town Meeting Warrant - The Town Manager reviewed the Warrant for the Special Town Meeting. He noted that Article 3 was to amend the Capital Improvements Program; Article 4 is to amend the FY 2007 Budget; Article 5 is to authorize debt for the Downtown Improvements project. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli requested that the Nurse Advocate be included in amending the budget. Article 6 is to amend the Zoning By-Laws regarding, Sanborn Street parking; Article 7 is to amend the Zoning map; Article 8 is zoning for the Tarnbone property; Article 9 is to amend the Zoning map; Article 10 is to amend zoning for Johnson Fan-n; Article 11 is to amend zoning for PRD cluster; Article 12 is to amend the General Bylaws to allow Finance Committee Members to serve as voting members on subcommittees. Approval of Minutes A motion by Anthonv seconded by Goldv" to approve the Minutes of November 14, 2006, as amended, was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldv seconded by Anthonv to approve the Minutes of December 5, 2006, as amended, was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldv seconded by Bonazoli to approve the Minutes of December 12, 2006 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Anthony seconded by Goldv to adiourn the meeting of Januarv 2. 2007 at 10:05 p.m. was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary S &s Board of Selectmen Meeting January 9, 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 7:02 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman James Bonazoli, Secretary Stephen Goldy, Selectmen Camille Anthony and Richard Schubert, Police Chief Jim Connier, Town Manager Peter Hechernbleikner, Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director Bob LeLacheur, Paula Schena and the following list of interested, parties: Bill Brown, Michele Benson, Ron D'Addario, Ray Porter, Gina Snyder, Daniel Blodgett, Tracy Sopchak, Ted Tye, Representative Patrick Natale, Jolm Sasso, Jeff Struble, Tom Laughlin, Russ Graham, Michelle Halloran, Karen Herrick, Joe and Natalie Westerman. Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reuorts and Comments - Selectman Richard Schubert noted that he had missed the last two meetings due to the death of his sister-in-law Kate Fleming. He also announced that he will be running for re-election, and he hopes to continue to serve the community. Selectman Camille Anthony noted that the Community Preservation Act Study Committee met on Thursday. She will be contacting towns that do have the Community Preservation Act. She attended last night's CPDC meeting regarding the zoning change for parking, and she has concerns regarding this zoning change. Chairman Ben Tafoya noted that the Town is working on a reap that show what properties will be affected. Selectman Anthony noted that the overlay is very poorly worked out. Vice Chainnan James Bonazoli suggested that the Selectmen revisit their plan regarding the parking problem. Chairman Tafoya noted that the Reading Co-Op Bank is trying to reach a goal, and they thought that this would lessen the concerns of what could happen to that parcel. Selectman Stephen Goldy asked why the signs were up on Washington Street before the Selectmen voted, and the Town Manager noted that was an error. Vice Chainnan James Bonazoli noted that the. Friends of Reading Tennis are doing a fundraiser. He requested that the Nurse Advocate be put on the budget wish list, and that the change in the Hours of Operation bylaw be put on the Special Town Meeting Warrant. Town Manaeer's Report The Town Manager gave the following report: • Imagination Station is slated for the beginning of demolition within the next week or two. The Recreation Administrator has overseen the removal of plaques and other art work that can be removed. The site will then be secured by boulders so that encroachment by other uses does not occur until a master pan for the area can be completed. s~ Board of Selectmen Meetina - Januarv 9. 2007 - Paae 2 • Curbside Holiday Tree Collection - Week of January 8-12, 2007; Compost Center is open for trees on Saturday, January 13th from 8:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Members of the Board of Selectmen, the ATM/Finance Director Bob LeLacheur and I will be at the MMA Annual Meeting Friday and Saturday - January 12-13. • Boards/Committees/Commissions training including ethics training will take place on January 31St • An Affordable Housing audit by the Inspector General of 1375 Main Street - I have referred to Town Counsel for review and recommendation. • The list for the Lottery for street signs is attached. • The West Street at South Street traffic signal has been repaired - it was damaged by the contractor installing curbs and sidewalks on that piece of South Street. Discussion/Action Items Hiahlialzts - Cities for Climate Protection - Cities for Climate Protection Committee Members Ray Porter, Gina Snyder, Ron D'Addario, Michelle Benson, Daniel Blodgett and Tracy Sopchak were present. Ray Porter and Gina Snyder gave a review of the Committee's mission, funding and public outreach to-date. Chainnan Ben Tafoya asked the Committee to investigate the generic classification for zero emissions vehicles. He noted that each car maker has at least one. Ted Tve - National Development - Chairman Ben Tafoya introduced Ted Tye, Managing Partner of National Development who Pearson has selected to partner with the Weiner Group to develop the Addison-Wesley/Pearson site. Mr. Tye noted that National Development has been based in Newton since 1983. They have 150 employees with four principals all living in the area. He also noted that National Development is known for their design and quality of projects. They have a wall of awards. They are involved in a broad range of projects including office, commercial, hotels and retail. He noted that Pearson still owns the property and the property will not become a Lifestyle Center. He is here to wipe the slate clean. There are no proposals or timeframe for the development but there are economic needs to be met. Selectman Stephen Goldy asked where the market is going now. Mr. Tye indicated that the office market is slow, housing is winding down to condos, retail depends on many factors, senior housing is something that he would love to see on that site. Vice Chairman James Boniazoli asked Mr. Tye for examples of good and not so good development processes. Mr. Tye indicated that Burlington had a very good process. They developed 30 acres of a 70 acre site. The Town had a subcommittee who met weekly and that process worked very well. He indicated that community input and leadership from the Board of Selectmen is needed. Representative Patrick Natale noted that the biggest issue with the previous proposal was the traffic. Board of Selectmen Meeting - Januarv 9, 2007 - Page 3 Review Crossing Guard Denlovment - Police Chief Jim Cormier and Safety Officer Michelle Halloran were present. Chief Cornier noted that Crossing Guards stop traffic with a stop paddle but do not direct traffic. There are 10 posts in the Town and the staffing is currently at 18 but will soon be 17. They have two spares with limited availability. He noted that it is difficult to auginent with Patrol Officers and it also gives a false sense of security because they do get calls for service. He noted that from January 2006 to January 2007, the Patrol Officers covered 260 times. Chief Cormier reviewed the criteria for selecting Crossing Guard posts. He noted that the Town is always seeking new Crossing Guards. He is working with the schools to develop safe routes to school. He also noted that many communities provide Crossing Guards to elementary schools only. He noted that the lack of Crossing Guards is not a financial problem, it is a staffing problem. Vice Chairman James Bon azoli asked if the Town should look at alternatives. Chief Cornier noted that we have to take a serious look at this. Sometimes neighborhood pockets aren't realistic because they are always changing. He indicated that there is a need to explore safe routes to school. Chairman Ben Tafoya asked how the numbers are arrived at, and Chief Cornier noted that it is the average number of children per day. This changes from year to year. A resident from 32 Old Fann Road noted that a Crossing Guard was moved, and he questioned which location was more dangerous. He also noted that the number of children at Old Farm Road is closer to 20 children, not five. Chief Cormier noted that Franklin Street and Sunset is a high traffic area with poor sight lines and a huge tree. There is also more pedestrian flow at Franklin Street. The resident from 32 Old Farm Road noted that he would help to put up a stop sign at Old Fann Road. Michelle Halloran noted that she receives calls every day from people requesting Crossing Guards but she can't fill the current posts. Chief Connier noted that the goal is to staff all 19 posts'. Review CPDC Recommendation - West Street School Zone - The Town Manager noted that CPDC approved the Montessori School with the condition that the Board of Selectmen establish a school zone. The PTTTF suggests approving the school zone now but don't enforce until the school is built. They will ask the school to provide the speed sign. He will schedule this for a hearing on February 13, 2007. Discussion on Town Planner Position - The Town Manager noted that Town Planner Chris Reilly resigned and he needs to replace this position. He suggests a Town Plaluner/Community Services Director and also to hire a Jr. Planner to help manage the workload. The salary and benefits for the Jr. Planner will come out of the Inspections Revolving Fund. S~3 Board of Selectmen Meeting - January 9. 2007 - Pate 4 Selectman Richard Schubert asked how CPDC will be staffed, and the Town Manager noted that it will probably be staffed by the Department Head. Selectman Stephen Goldy noted that he liked the direction but wants more infonnation on the job description. The Town Manager noted that if the Board agrees, then he will develop a job description, do an organization chart, etc. He also noted that CPDC needs resources to implement the Master Plan. He will advertise for the Plan er/Department Head immediately and after that person is hired, then hire the Jr. Planner. Vice Chairman James Bonazoli asked what the Inspections Revolving Fund is being spent on now, and the Town Manager noted the Assistant Building Inspector's salary, sidewalks, additional costs for inspections and initial appraisals. A motion.bv Anthonv seconded by Schubert to direct the Town Manager to move forward with the Department. Head/Planner and Jr. Planner positions was approved by a vote of 3- 2-0, with Goldv and Bonazoli opposed. Chairman Ben Tafoya asked about the Hours of Operation bylaw. The Town Manager indicated that he will find out what other communities do and suggested that it be classified by businesses and restaurants. The Board decided to meet on January 23, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss the possibility of putting an article on the Warrant for the Special Town Meeting. Approval of Minutes A motion by Schubert seconded by Goldv to approve the Minutes of November 21, 2006 was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. A motion by Schubert seconded by Goldv to adiourn the meeting of Januarv 9, 2007 at 10:30 p.m. was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary 5c,q Board of Selectmen Meeting January 23, 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 7:30 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman James Bonazoli, Secretary Stephen Goldy, Selectmen Camille Anthony and Richard Schubert, Town Manager Peter Heehenbleikner and the following list of interested parties: Paul Dodge, Paul Feely (Chronicle), Michael Allard, Mac McEntyre (Advocate), Kevin Allardi, Robert Beddia, W. J. Hanson, Marlene Wolfe, Arthur Sordillo, Ken Flint, Sherry Hernan, Gloria Manherz, Tony D'Arezzo.. Discussion/Action Items Discuss Possible Amendment to Bvlaw - Hours of Operation for Retail - The Town Manager reviewed his memo of January 23, 2007 on Hours of Retail Sales. He also reviewed a map that showed the location of 30 facilities licensed by the Board of Health to sell coffee. Vice Chainnan James Bonazoli reviewed his proposed options for changing the bylaw to allow coffee establislunents to be open at 5:00 a.m. Selectman Camille Anthony asked about drive-thrus, and whether they would be permitted. Selectman Richard Schubert thought that we should take the issue to Town Meeting. He prefers Option 1 with some of the elements of the Option 2 language. He felt that there should be a process, and that there should be annual review and approval. Chairman Ben Tafoya preferred the second option because it gives the Board the option of allowing places to open earlier, and allows the Board to measure the impact. Much of the review can be done by staff such as is done for the liquor licenses. Selectman Stephen Goldy preferred the same option. Selectman Camille Anthony asked where the grid for Option 1 carne from, and Vice Chainnan Bonazoli indicated that he did an internet search, and he believed that this is the Chicopee model. Selectman Anthony asked what the process would be for moving forward with this, and Chairman Tafoya noted that there are some options here but we need to look at what we are trying to accomplish. The Town Manager felt that the best course of action may be to change the bylaw minimally to allow the Board some options for giving annual permits for public convenience (as opposed to the strict public health, safety and welfare provisions currently in the bylaw) and then do all annual process. He stated that many of these establislunents directly abut residences and there could be some concerns. The Board of Selectmen could then develop rules and regulations based S~ Board of Selectmen Meeting - Januarv 23. 2007 - Paae 2 upon which applications they would consider. There would be a hearing on the adoption of the rules and regulations. Part of the rules and regulations may be a requirement that there be a hearing when consideration is being given initially for ally waiver from the 6:00 a.m. opening, and notice to attendees could be included. Marlene Wolfe of 522 West Street asked what the process was and the above comments of the Town Manager were reiterated. The Town Manager noted that if this is approved by Town Meeting, it would have to be approved by the Attorney General's Office and this could require up to 90 days. The Board agreed to the process as outlined by the Town Manager, and Town Counsel will be asked to draft the bylaw for inclusion on the February 26, 2007 Special Town Meeting Warrant. On motion by Goldv seconded by Schubert, the Board of Selectmen voted to adjourn the meeting of Januarv 23, 2007 at 8:50 p.m. by a vote of 5-0-0. Respectfully submitted, Secretary v wc THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT F STATE HOUSE ® BOSTON 02133 1 > (617) 725-4000 ®y0y°w DEVAL L. PATRICK GOVERNOR TIMOTHY P. MURRAY LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR January 22, 2007 N Mr. Ben Tafoya Reading Board of Selectman 16 Lowell St. o Reading, MA 01867 ,a. 0 Dear Mr. Tafoya: . ca. Please accept my belated thanks for your letter of January 2, 2007. I appreciate your taking the time to write. As you may know, have restored all of the 9c cuts in full and I am grateful that my decision will benefit the town of Reading. I look forward to working with you in the future. best, A _ OF F? Town of Reading rn m 16 Lowell Street 0 Reading, MA 01867 639~INCOR4~¢P Joseph R. Veno, Chairman Gail LaPointe Richard P. Foley January 26, 2007 Alan Foulds Reading Town Moderator 9 Ide Street Reading, MA 01867 Dear Alan, & l cI&s CONTRIBUTORY RETIREMENT BOARD Ph: (781) 942-9007 Fx: (781) 942-9037 Daniel B. Seferian Francis P. Driscoll Colleen Loughlin, Ret Admin Please be advised that the Reading Retirement Board is meeting on March 21, 2007 and will vote on a cost of living increase for our retirees for fiscal year 2008. According to the provisions of Chapter 127 of the Acts of 1999, the Reading Retirement Board must annually notify the proper legislative body 36 days before a publicly posted meeting where the Reading Retirement Board decides whether to elect to grant an increased COLA. Please call me at (781) 942-9007 if you have any questions. Sincerely, U Colleen Loughlin Retirement Board Administrator cc: Peter Hechenbleilcner Town Manager 9k . 6 ( ~ 6j LATHAM, LATHAM & LAMOND~ P.C. 643 MAIN STREET READING, MASSACHUSETTS 01867-3096 W W W.LLLLAW.COM KENNETH C. LATHAM (1939-1996) 0. BRADLEY LATHAM* JOHN T. LAMOND SHEILAH GRIFFIN-REICHARDT JOSHUA E. LATHAM CHRISTOPHER M. O. LATHAM *ADMITTED TO PRACTICE IN MASSACHUSETTS & NEW HAMPSHIRE TELEPHONE: (781) 944-0505 FAX: (781) 944-7079 January 25, 2007 Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager Reading Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA o1867 Re: Sanborn Street; Employee Parking Overlay District; Comparative Values Dear Peter: 1%48 v N L7'1 1v You ask whether Reading Co-Operative Bank is in a position to provide two appraisals comparing potential tax revenue to the Town from the use of 16 Sanborn Street for multifamily use in one case and for a parking lot in the other case. The Bank is not in a position to provide such an appraisal. However, we note that the assessed values placed on 16 Sanborn Street by the Town in FY 2005, with the multifamily building, was $399500. We note also that the assessed value placed on the land (approximately 8,200 square feet) that abuts the bank building and that is used by the Bank for parking is $367,800. The difference is less than $32,000. Irrespective of any difference in assessed values, it is a well know fact that using the Sanborn Street lot for residential purposes will place a greater demand on town services, such as police, fire, trash collection and schooling, than would using the land for a parking lot, and that should be factored in any financial analysis. Sincerely, Lathan, Latham & Lamond, P.C. U 0. Bradley Latham cc: John Sasso, Chairman Community Planning and Development Commission Reading Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA oi867 go Ccomcast January 26, 2007 Via Certified Mail - Return Receipt Requested N Board of Selectmen 2= Town of Reading NO 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 17 C51 v Dear Members of the Board: Pursuant to G.L. Ch. 166A, Section 10, Comcast is pleased to provide a copy of its Annual Consumer Complaint Form, or "Form 500", for 2006. The Form 500 contains information on customer complaints in your community and how Comcast responded, including the time taken to resolve complaints. For the Form 500, the Massachusetts Cable Division defines a complaint as: Any written or verbal contact with a cable operator in connection with subscription in which a person expresses dissatisfaction with an act, omission, product or service that is (1) within the operator's control, and (2) requires a corrective measure on the part of the operator. Conicast has forwarded a copy of the enclosed Form 500 to the Department of Telecommunications and Energy, Cable Division. If I can be of further assistance on any matter related to the Form 500, please contact me at 978-207-2264. Very truly yours, Jane M. Lyman Sr. Manager of Government & Community Relations cc: Massachusetts Cable Division qX ~ Pond Road, 676 Island Road, Form 500 Complaint Data Comcast C able Communications NH 03109- , (978) 848-5476 25-Jan-07 Code Key: Manner of Resolution Code Key: Avg. Resolution Time Resolved to the satisfaction of both parties. A <1> Less than 1 Day <2> 1-3 Days <3> 4-7 Days <4> 8-14 . B. Resolved, customer dissatisfied. C. Not Resolved. Days <5> 15-30 Days <6> >30 Days Manner of Resolution (see code key above for the manner represented I READING Avg by the letters below) The number below each letter indicates the number of complaints Town Total Resolution resolved in that manner. Year { 2006 Complaints Time (see C B 6640 code above) A. . { Subscribers - ~1 87 2 0 Appointment Service Call 89 <2> <2> 23 2 0 Billing 25 - 2 2 <3> 0 0 0 Customer Service 25 <2>>-- 24 1 Equipment 386 386 <2> 0 0 0 Installation 1 <4> { 1 0 Other - 2 _ - i <4> ! 2 0 0 0 Reception 118 ( 113 <2> 5 Service Interruption - - cz~ 144 Form 500 Service omcast Cable Communication: 676 Island Pond Road, Interruption Data Manchester, NH 03109- 25-Jan-07 (978) 848-5476 Code Key: Duration of Ser vice Interruption 1> Less than 1 Day <2> 1-3 Days <3> 4-7 Days <4> 8-14 Days <5> 15-30 Days <6> >30 Days ) Town , READING r, , y „ .,r Year 2006 ~ i Subscribers ~ 6640 Date of Service Interruption Duration of Service Interruption (see Code Key above) READING 09/20/2006 i <1> READING 11/10/2006 READING 08/31/2006 <1> READING ( 08107/2006 READING 07/26/2006 <1> f READING ;f 07/26/2006 j) <1> READING 07/11/2006 `1> ~ READING j~ 06/05/2006 I~ <1> 1 QYIJ 187 ~L DEVAL L. PAIRICK GOVERNOR TIMOTHY P. MURRAY LIEMENAW GovERNOR BLhNAHU COIILN sEuliL IARY Wednesday, February 7, 2007 4:30 PM-7:00PM* Banquet Room (basement level) Stoneham Town Hall 35 Central Street Stoneham, MA 02180 THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF TRANSPORTATION 1-93 /1-95 INTERCHANGE TRANSPORTATION STUDY TASK FORCE MEETING MEETING AGENDA 1. Welcome and Administrative Items 4:30 2 3. 4 5 Review and Update of Process and Project Considerations (Planning/Environmental/Design, Agency Coordination, Funding, etc) Deciding on Preferred Highway Recommendations (Evaluation summary, new naming conventions, primary vs. secondary choices, etc.) Other Items for Recommendation Package (Corridor congestion, Transit/TDM issues, Land Use, short vs. long term etc.) Preparation for Public Meeting #3 / Other Business (Promotion, meeting format, major points to cover, etc.) 4:40 5:00 5:45 6:15 6. * Extra Session: Additional Coverage of Agenda Items 6:30 Note: If needed, this session will be used for additional discussion of agenda items beyond the basic coverage in their scheduled time slots. 9Jr` TEN PARK PLAZA, BOSTON, MA 02116-3969 TELEPHONE: (617) 973-7000 • TELEFAX: (617) 523-6454 • TDD: (617) 973-7306 • WWW.MASS.GOVIEOT I-93/1-95 Interchange Transportation Study Task Force Meeting Wednesday, January 17, 2007 4:30 PM Reading Senior Center Reading, Massachusetts Attendance Task Force Members and Public who signed in: Camille Anthony Reading Selectman Darlene Bruen Jay Corey Woburn City Engineer Ian Durrant Jeff Everson PRESERVE Jim Gallagher Eileen Hamblin Board of Realtors George Katsoufis Tony Kennedy Stoneham Selectman Justin Martell Paul Meaney Woburn Business Assn. Paul Medeiros Rick Schubert Reading Selectman Suzanne Smith Richard Stinson Wakefield DPW Doug Wood-Boyle Executive Office of Transportation staff: Bob Frey Manager of Statewide Planning, Study Project Manager Adriel Edwards Planning Consultant team: Jim Purdy Louis Berger Group (Project Manager) Rick Azzalina Louis Berger Group (Engineering) Anne McKinnon Howard/Stein-Hudson (Public Participation) Sudhir Murthy Traflnfo Communications, Inc. (Traffic Modeling) Keri Pyke Howard/Stein-Hudson (Traffic) Meeting Summarv Welcome and Administrative Items Woburn City Council MassRIDES MAPC Reading Citizen Rep. Rep. Brad Jones Woburn Citizen Rep. Stoneham Citizen Rep. Daily Times Chronicle Bob Frey welcomed everyone to the latest I-93/1-95 Interchange Transportation Study Task Force meeting, and thanked Reading for hosting. In accordance with EOT's policy of an open study process, ail Task Force meetings are open to the public, but agenda items are discussed first with Task Force members. Bob reminded attendees to refer to the study web site (www.9395info.com) for the latest information. There were no questions on the December 13th meeting summary. Bob indicated a change in the order of the agenda (as several members needed to leave early). He also announced a tentative schedule of future meetings: The next Task Force meeting would be held on February 7 in Stoneham. A subcommittee meeting would be planned for mid-February to discuss further transit and TDM measures and other miscellaneous topics. Some topics are generally outside the scope of this study, but could be addressed to some degree in the final report. Another Task Force meeting would be held on February 28 in Woburn prior to the third public informational meeting in mid-March in Woburn. n tU Office of Transportation Planning Page 1 of 7 Printed: 2/l/2007 I-93/1-95 Interchange Task Force Meeting of January 17, 2007 Recommendations: Process and Proiect Considerations Bob Frey informed attendees that EOT and the consultant team are continuing to work with the implementing agencies to ensure a smooth transition to the environmental phase. Bob and Jim informed attendees that it is required by the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) that the final decisions on highway components be made in the environmental phase. Final decisions must be made based on a full analysis, in case further design and analysis identifies a major problem. For this reason, MEPA also typically requires agencies to study more than one alternative, especially for large projects like an interchange, even if a planning study recommends a single, preferred alternative. The MEPA scope, which is based on comments received in the Environmental Notification Form, dictates how many alternatives must be studied in the environmental and design stages. This process also gives the public and other agencies not involved to-date an opportunity to comment. The work that has been done for the planning study, including all the alternatives that have been considered, will serve as a base for the environmental phase and will significantly streamline the process. Jim stated that the Task Force will have enough information in the planning study to make a recommendation as to their preferred highway improvements (in combination with the various transit and TDM recommendations). Bob agreed, and emphasized that although "final" decisions are made in a later stage, the Task Force should make a recommendation at this point. Bob stated that all the recommendations would be packaged together to elevate their collective priority in the MPO funding process and better ensure that all components are implemented. Bob recommended that the group reach closure on the planning study in order to move to the next stage. EOT will ask LBG to prepare the Environmental Notification Form (ENF) under its current contract. The planning report will be appended to the ENF to clearly describe the work that has been done to-date. Tony Kennedy asked if the local conservation commissions will get the ENF to review. Jim Purdy said localities will receive copies of the ENF to review and comment on, but there are no permits or approvals required at the local level at this stage. Bob encouraged Task Force members to stay involved by serving as a Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) during the environmental process. This would allow the Task Force to participate in resolving outstanding issues during the in-depth analysis of alternatives in the Environmental Impact Report/Study. Darlene Bruen was not able to attend the December Task Force meeting. She expressed concern that a new plan, based on a rejected alternative, was shown at that meeting. Jim Purdy clarified that the alternative shown in December had not been thrown out previously. 113-C was demonstrated at the public meeting in October in the interest of time and to prevent confusion, but all H3 options remained part of the "family" of alternatives under consideration. Also, H3-C was favored by members of the Task Force, and at the time of the October public meeting, the simulation of H3-B demonstrated some traffic operations deficiencies. Bob Frey also stressed that H3-A and H3-B had not been thrown out, and asked members to recall that he indicated at previous meetings that more than one alternative would need to be examined as part of this study and included in the report. Also, H3-B was shown at the design station of the open house at the Reading public meeting and a number of attendees made favorable comments on H3-B. Comments from the public, FHWA, and MassHighway suggested that it was worth revisiting 113- B to improve the traffic deficiencies. The revised scheme was shown to the Task Force in December. Camille Anthony asked why flyunders were ever considered if they have serious problems. Jim Purdy clarified that flyunder ramps have not been rejected or declared infeasible. MassHighway Office of Transportation Planning Page 2 of 7 Printed: 2/1/2007 I-93/I-95 Interchange Task.Force Meeting of January 17, 2007 asked questions about the flyunders that the team is addressing. He added that MassHighway also reviewed and commented on the two alternatives at Washington Street and found merit in the split-ramp scheme because it removes the weave on Rte. 128 between Washington Street and I-93 rather than just lengthening it. Bob Frey reiterated that the team and EOT are not favoring one alternative over another at this point and the team will be meeting again with FHWA and MassHighway. Continued Discussion: Cummines Park Area Options Proposed Cedar Street On-ramp: Keri Pyke reviewed the analysis and conclusions about the proposed on-ramp at Cedar Street. Three issues were studied: the impacts on the weave on Rte. 128, impacts at the adjacent intersections of Washington Street / Olympia Avenue and Washington Street / Rte. 128 entrance ramps, and the LOS of the proposed ramp. She said the weaving section on Rte. 128 would still be LOS F even with the new ramp removing 200-300 cars in the peak hours, because that reduction is a small percentage of the total vehicles in the weaving area. On the other hand, the nearby intersections at Olympia and at the entrance ramps would improve substantially; delay would likely be reduced by approximately 40 seconds. The LOS on the proposed Cedar Street ramp itself would be LOS B. Jim Gallagher asked how much traffic the proposed ramp could accommodate before it operated at LOS F. Keri Pyke said she was not sure, but the ramp would have to be dismantled with later phases anyway. Keri Pyke said the proposed Cedar Street ramp would be a short term measure compatible with the H1 improvements. It would not work with the later phases because of the other ramps that would enter I-93 in that vicinity. Rick Azzalina and Jim Purdy agreed. Proposed Normac Road ramp: Keri Pyke explained that the ramp at Normac Road is not feasible for the relocated ramp scheme, as the ramp would not allow for a sufficient acceleration lane onto Rte. 128. Unsafe merges would result. For the split-ramp scheme at Washington Street, a Normac Road ramp would not be an option (as a second on-ramp would create further problems on 128). In any case, the analysis shows that cut-through traffic in the adjacent neighborhood would be a potential consequence, even if the ramp were limited to on-traffic. Darlene Bruen asked if the group is ready to take this option off the table. There was general agreement among task force members present to drop the Normac Road option and retain the proposed Cedar Street on-ramp as an interim measure. Developing Recommendations Jim Purdy reviewed H3-B Revision 3, which was refined in response to comments from the public, FHWA, and MassHighway. The original H3-B scheme resulted in a queue beginning at the diverge to the connector road to Washington Street and I-93 and also at the split to I-93 north and south. The queue from there extended back onto Rte. 128 northbound. 1-13-13 Revision 3 addresses this queuing problem by making the connector road 3 lanes with 2-lane ramps to I-93 SB and I-93 NB. Three lanes also remain on the mainline. The Washington Street Bridge would have to be rebuilt, which is an opportunity to widen it and improve the local intersections. On Rte. 128 SB, the revised scheme has a 2-lane ramp to I-93 SB instead of a 1-lane ramp, and a 1-lane ramp to I-93 NB; this solved the other queuing problem with the original version of H3-B. Previously, the split ramp system was called a C-D road, but now it is more accurately being called the I-93 connector. This connector must be used by travelers on Rte. 128 northbound Office of Transportation Planning Page 3 of 7 Printed: 2/1/2007 fJy'`~ I-93/I-95 Interchange Task Force Meeting of January 17, 2007 headed for the Washington Street exit or I-93 northbound or southbound. Travelers on Rte. 128 , northbound cannot use the connector road to bypass Rte. 128 traffic because there is not the option to continue on to Rte. 128 northbound. Rte. 128 northbound through-traffic stays on the mainline, which will be three lanes with no weaves. Travelers entering the system from Washington Street will have the option to go to Rte. 128 northbound (of course) but there is not one continuous lane from before the Mishawum bridge to Rte. 128 northbound on the connector road. Therefore, the nomenclature "C-D road" was dropped. Jim Purdy said the H3-C alternative was refined slightly by providing two lanes in the below- grade ramp frorn Rte. 128 SB to I-93 SB. George Katsoufis asked where the southbound problem merge was in the original H3-B. Jim Purdy said the problem was at the diverge point for I-93 SB-there was insufficient distance for traffic to sort out. Jay Corey asked why 2-lane ramps are needed in H3-B and not in 113-C. Jim Purdy said 2 lanes aren't needed for capacity but to improve the traffic diverges. In 113-C, the southbound diverge is further downstream, so there is more distance for traffic to sort itself out. Camille Anthony asked if H3-C has weaves in Reading. Yes, between I-93 and Rte. 28 in both directions, but these sections are long enough to handle the weaving volumes. Darlene Bruen asked what are the differences now between 113-13 and H3-C. 6 113-11 includes the I-93 connector road and split Washington Street ramps, and it uses two flyovers to connect Rte. 128 and I-93. 113-C includes relocating the Washington Street ramps west and features one fly-over and one fly-under to connect Rte. 128 SB with I-93. Jay Corey asked if a hybrid alternative could be considered that would have H3-C with the split- ramp at Washington Street. Jim Purdy said yes, the alternatives can now be viewed as having interchangeable components. Jim Purdy reviewed the evaluation summary of H3-B and 113-C. With many of the measures of Traffic Impacts-safety, mobility, highway design, and access-the two alternatives are similar in impact, with H3B having the safety advantage of removing the Washington Street weave from Rte. 128. H3-C would require taking one industrial building and some partial surface takings while H3-B does not involve property takings. Jay Corey asked about signage and the number of decisions a driver would have to make. Jim Purdy said the two alternatives (H3-B and H3-C) are similar in terms of driver decisions - both change the current system by removing a loop ramp in each direction. For example, on Rte. 128 southbound the driver first sees an off-ramp to I-93 in both directions and then chooses to stay left for I-93 southbound or right for I-93 northbound. Darlene said that she was under the impression that H3B would require more decisions. Rick Azzalina said that there are actually slightly more decisions to make with 113C because of the mainline weave areas that are eliminated with H3B. Both are simpler than H4. Jim Purdy said there is not a gravity solution for the fly-under ramps in H3-C and pumping would be required at the interchange and possibly at the connector to Washington Street ramps. Jim Gallagher asked for clarification of which ramps would operate at LOS E and Fin the peak hours. Office of Transportation Planning Page 4 of 7 Printed: 2/1/2007 S I-93/I-95 Interchange Task Force Ramps that would overate at LOS E: Meeting of January 17, 2007 1-13-13: Rte 128 SB off to Rte. 28 and weave between Rte. 28 and I-93 - both peak hours. H3-B and H3C: Weave on Rte. 128 SB between 1-93 SB on-ramp and Mishawum Road off ramp - both peak hours. H3-B and H3C: I-93 SB off-ramp to Rte 128 SB - both peak hours H3-C: Rte. 128 NB off-ramp to Washington Street - both peak hours H3-B and H3-C: On ramp from Mishawum Rd to Rte 128 SB - LOS F in both peak hours. Jeff Everson asked if the effect of these alternatives on congestion to Waltham has been considered, opining that the improvements would add to congestion on Rte. 128. Jim Purdy said the modeling was done within the study area, and Rte. 128 traffic is not able to grow to reach to 2025 demand because the roadway is constrained throughout most of its length. Bob Frey said the interchange improvements can make a difference and will improve overall travel time for drivers on Rte. 128, and referenced the "Benefits of Reducing Congestion" document on the study web site. Jeff Everson felt that rear-end accidents would increase due to increased stop-and-go traffic. He requested that this issue be addressed in detail in the planning report. Tony Kennedy and Camille Anthony requested that the existing conditions be shown on the following graphics for comparison. Jim agreed that this would be done, especially for the graphics to be used at the public meeting. Jim Purdy reviewed the impacts of H3-B and H3-C using additional criteria: • Travel time through the interchange would be the same for H3-B and H3-C in the AM peak period. Travel time would be shorter with H3-B in the PM peak due to the 93 connector road. Also, comparing the travel time of 3 major moves revealed mostly similarities. • The total exiting volume would be the same for both alternatives. • The speed differential across lanes, which can be a safety concern if it is large, would be essentially the same for both H3-B and 113-C. • The delay time through the interchange would be essentially the same. • Congestion: H3-C experiences slightly higher congestion in the PM peak. • Noise: Although a full noise study cannot be done until the design of the improvements is advanced, KM Chng, noise consultant, estimates that the changes in noise would be small. Some quadrants may improve a little and some may become slighter noisier; however H3- C is expected to be marginally better in terms of noise impact. • Visual: Both alternatives will have a moderate visual impact, with more impact from the double-flyovers of H3-B. • Wetlands: H3-B would disturb approximately 34,000 s.f. and H3-C would disturb approximately 15,000 s.f. [It was later determined that much of the H3-B impact is from elevated ramps above the wetland rather than direct fill.] • The economic development potential is considered the same for both alternatives. • Difficulty of construction: H3-C would be more difficult to build because of the underpasses. Office of Transportation Planning Page 5 of 7 Printed: 2/1/2007 I-93/I-95 Interchange Task Force Meeting of January 17, 2007 Capital cost: H3-B would cost about $123.9 million; H3-C, about $94 million. Again, the takings required for relocated Washington Street ramps in H3-C would add to the cost. [Note: subsequent to the meeting, more work was done on H3-C to make it more comparable to H3-B, which will increase cost.] Jim Purdy showed a series of simulations that illustrated how the two alternatives might appear from a bird's eye view. H3-B and H3-C are about the same height; H3-B occupies a wider view from Walnut Street in Reading and is closer to homes on Richard Circle.. Camille Anthony requested a comparison of these schemes to the previous MassHighway schemes in terms of the height and incursion into the adjacent neighborhoods. Bob Frey suggested that the Task Force focus on four individual components in these alternatives: • Split ramp at Washington Street • Relocated ramp at Washington Street • Both ramps over existing highways • One ramp under existing highways The consultant tedm'will "mix and match" components and evaluate them using the criteria discussed earlier. Rick Schubert asked about the visual impact evaluation. He said many of the concerns he heard at the public meetings related to visual impacts. The ramp from Rte. 128 NB to I-93 NB appears to be close to South Street and fairly high. Tony Kennedy requested more simulations from Stoneham. Jim Purdy said the visual-impact analysis would be expanded to address some of these questions. Additional Items for Recommendations Bob Frey indicated that CTPS had just produced a draft memo addressing the question, "What level of investment in transit is needed to make a substantial difference in traffic volumes at the interchange?" The numbers provided should be considered draft until further notice: • To make an "appreciable" difference in LOS in the I-93 corridor to Boston would require a reduction of 6,900 vehicles during the 3-hour AM peak hour. • This translates into 7,900 person trips. • If area commuter railroad lines absorbed this number of person trips, they would be over- capacity. • Parking would be a problem and would constrain commuter rail use. George Katsoufis asked why CTPS assumed that all of the shifts would be from auto to transit what about carpool/vanpool? He asked if CTPS would provide an estimate of the percentage 6,900 vehicle trips represents of the total so we can then look at a variety of measures to consider. Jim Gallagher asked how land use and walkable transit stations fit in here, especially if the supply of parking spaces is inadequate. Jim Purdy addressed the question of the role of land use policy in this study with a chart that posited ways to meet future demand: increase the capacity of the interchange a little and meet some of the demand through transit and TDM. Yet, there would still be a shortfall and demand would exceed capacity. These "extra" vehicles would either use local Office of Transportation Planning Page 6 of 7 Printed: 2/1/2007 I-93/1-95 Interchange Task Force Meeting of January 17, 2007 streets instead of the highway or extend the length of the peak period (or both). Land use policy could play a role in reducing this unmet demand for driving. Task Force members discussed some challenges and barriers to transit use and carpooling. Jay Corey said incentives are critical to getting people to use transit. Adriel Edwards said disincentives to driving may be necessary, too. Rick Schubert felt the State's policies are sometimes in conflict with each other - for example encouraging economic growth, but discouraging certain types of growth. Bob commented that in Massachusetts, most land use decisions are made at the local level. Paul Medeiros expressed frustration at what he felt was a lack of commitment from the State on whether Mishawum would be re-opened as a full-time station with the development of the site with residential units. Paul Meaney said the MBTA lost credibility with him when they closed Mishawum after they said it could stay open. He also asserted that a pedestrian bridge to Anderson RTC should be provided to enable more people to get to the station by foot. Jim Purdy said a big question is how much people want the State involved in local land use issues. Darlene Bruen said the goal is for the State and localities to work together better. Paul Meaney noted that a development proposed at the Mishawum station has been approved. The project will include 210 residential units, 50,000 s.f. of office space, and parking for 596 cars. In addition, the Middlesex County Court temporary relocation planned in the area will be about 350,000 s.f. The impact of these projects should be included. Schedule for Upcoming Meetings Bob Frey said the third public informational meeting would be held in Woburn in mid-March. The next Task Force meeting will be held on February 7 at Stoneham Town Hall. Thy meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m. Office of Transportation Planning Page 7 of 7 Printed: 2/1/2007 9~~ I-934-95 INTERCHANGE TRANSPORTATION STUDY Advancement of Highway Alternatives for the I-93/1-95 Interchange - February 2007 After further evaluations, numerous comments received from the public, and continued work with the Interchange Task Force, the consultant team suggested the components of the "1-13" series of highway designs be developed into one of the long term recommendations for improving traffic operations and safety at the I-93/I-95 interchange. The H3 Alternative has two major components: ■ Within the Interchange - Replace the northwest and southeast "loop" ramps of the interchange with "direct connection" ramps for Route 128 NB to I-93 NB and for Route 128 SB to I-93 SB. ■ Ramps for Washington Street - Modify the on/off ramps at Washington Street and Route 128 NB (Exit 36). Each component has two variations: Within the interchange - ■ Ramps Over- First, replace the northwest loop ramp (128 SB to I-93 SB) with anew ramp that goes over both I-93 and Route 128. Also, replace the southeast loop ramp (128 NB to I-93 NB) with a new ramp that goes over both I-93 and Route 128. ■ Ramp Under -First, replace the northwest loop ramp (128 SB to I-93 SB) with anew ramp that goes under both I-93 and Route 128. Also (as above), replace the southeast loop ramp (128 NB to I-93 NB) with a new ramp that goes over both I-93 and Route 128. Ramps for Washington Street - ■ Split Ramp - The on-ramp would be split to provide one branch to Route 128 northbound and a second branch to I-93 in both directions, eliminating the weaving movement with Route 128 mainline traffic. ■ Relocated Ramps - Both on and off-ramps would be moved further west of existing location, increasing the weaving distance with Route 128 NB mainline traffic. The off- ramp to Washington St. would begin where Rt.128 passes over the railroad tracks. One commercial property would need to be taken. The interchange variations can be mixed and matched with the Washington Street ramp variations, creating four major options that could potentially move forward: • H3-OS: Two flyover ramps with Split ramp at Washington St. (former H3-B) • H3-OR: Two flyover ramps with Relocated ramps for Washington St. (former H3-A) • H3-US: One flyUnder, one flyover with Split ramp at Washington St. • H3-UR: One flyUnder, one flyover with Relocated ramps for Washington (former H3-C) T EOT, LBG Page 1 of 1 2/1/07 , tlc~q TRACKING OF LEGAL SERVICES - FY 2007 Monthlv Hours Month Monthlv Monthlv Hours Cumulative Available Monthlv Monthlv Cumulative Available Hours Hours Used vs Remainder $ $ Cost Remainder Allocated Used Allocated of 112 vear Allocated Used Year July 51.2 48.6 (2.60) (2.60) 258.6 $6,667 $6,318 $6,318 $73,686 Includes Heir search August 51.2 44.8 (6.40) (9.00) 213.8 $6,667 $8,189 $14,507 $65,497 for Memorial Park September 51.2 34 (17.20) (26.20) 179.8 $6,667 $4,875 $19,382 $60,622 October 51.2 51.5 0.30 (25.90) 128.3 $6,667 $6,635 $26,017 $53,987 November 51.2 35.9 (15.30) (41.20) 92.4 $6,667 $4,667 $30,684 $49,320 December 51.2 24.4 (26.80) (68.00) 68 $6,667 $3,180 $33,864 $46,140 307.2 239.2 (68.00) $40,002 $33,864 $33,864 $46,140 January 51.2 (51.20) (119.20) 375.2 $6,667 $33,864 $46,140 February 51.2 (51.20) (170.40) 375.2 $6,667 $33,864 $46,140 March 51.2 (51.20) (221.60) 375.2 $6,667 $33,864 $46,140 April 51.2 (51.20) (272.80) 375.2 $6,667 $33,864 $46,140 May 51.2 (51.20) (324.00) 375.2 $6,667 $33,864 $46,140 June 51.2 (51.20) (375.20) 375.2 $6,667 $33,864 $46,140 Subtotal 307.2 0 $40,002 $0 Total 614.4 239.2 -375.2 $80,004 $33,864 $46,1401 STRIVING FOR SUSTAINABLE & PREDICTABLE RATES Water and sewer rate revenue requirements are projected to rise by $200 million between FY07 and FYI 1, resulting in community increases of almost 9% each year. Nearly 60% of the current expense budget is fueled by debt service payments. In the face of these conditions, the Advisory Board recommended the following action plan to the Authority: ❖ Create a Rates Management Committee. Revisit the levels of reserves as required in the bond covenants. Develop a debt restructuring plan. STEPS TAKEN The Authority convened a Rates Management Committee comprised of Members of the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Advisory Board, and staff members from MWRA and the Advisory Board, in consultation with the Authority's Financial Advisor. ❖ The Authority revisited amendments to existing Bond Covenants which resulted in: ■ Reducing the Debt Service reserve to 50% of maximum annual debt service. ■ Eliminating the Community Obligation Revenue Enhancement (CORE) Fund. Replacing a portion of the Renewal and Replacement Fund with Commercial Paper. These changes become effective in 8 to 10 years and will free up $172 million, which could be used to pay down debt or fund new capitol projects. ❖ In mid-January, the Authority restructured $648 million of existing debt. The restructuring will address rate pressures before covenants take hold. RESULTS These proactive actions by the MWRA will establish a path toward achieving sustainable and predictable rates. Rate increases, projected to be close to 9% in the coming years, will be contained to an estimated 5.8% (assuming continued receipt of $18.75 million in Debt Service Assistance). Additionally, this path will: Provide $200 million in new borrowings to fund the Authority's ongoing capital budget. Reduce charges by approximately $425 million over the next ten years. ❖ Provide $4.9 million in present value savings. Maintain and affirm bond ratings from Fitch, Moody's and Standard & Poor's, even while restructuring debt and changing covenants. The combined borrowing of $848 million is the largest bond issue in the Authority's 20-year history. The true interest cost was 4.34%. MWRA ADVISORY BOARD • PHONE: 617.742.7561 • FAX: 617.742.4614 • EMAIL: Christine.Hevelone-Bvler a,mwra.state.ma.us WEB SITE: http://www.mwraadvisoryboard.com Hechenbleikner, Peter From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: H Juliann Thanks for writing. Hechenbleikner, Peter Monday, January 29, 2007 8:43 AM 'Anne LeBlanc - iMac' Feudo, John RE: Don't Rip down Imagination Station! L ( C, i'o Unfortunately we have to take Imagination Station down. There are too many hazards for people to use it. The stone material on the ground is not a cushioning material and is dangerous if kids fall on it. Parts of Imagination Station boards are splintery and could hurt kids. The metal slides are not permitted any more - they get too hot in the summer and could burn kids. We are working on a plan to build a new Imagination Station. We will need help from kids to help us design it. It will be very expensive to do, but I hope we will re-build one that is as nice, and safer for all of our kids to play on. Pete Hechenbleikner Town Manager -----Original Message----- From: Anne LeBlanc - iMac [mailto:amleblanc@mac.com] Sent: Sunday, January 28, 20078:24 PM To: Town Manager Subject: Donut Rip down Imagination Station! Dear The Town Manager, I think its crazy to rip down Imagination Station. If you have to rip it down then you should rebuild it afterwards. I have been waiting a long time for it to re-open but today I saw that it was being ripped down. If you still don't want to rebuild it then just fix what ever is wrong with it and rebuild what you already ripped down. Please tell me what is wrong with it. Listen to me and please don't rip it down!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you very much. From, Juliann LeBlanc age 9 1 J Page 1 of 1 Hechenbleikner, Peter From: Bo or Gina [bogina03@earthlink.net] Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2007 8:13 PM To: E V Blodgett Cc: Sharon Thomas; Kendal Stackhouse; Fran Scott; Reilly, Chris; Mary Ellen O'Neill; McIntire, Ted; Ann Marie Marcellino; Town Manager; Ron D'Addario; Betty Cronin; Daniel Blodgett; Sue.Berger; Michele Benson; Anthony, Camille; Adams, Virginia Subject: Global Warming Changing Course FYI - New Seminar Offering on Global Warming  The Reading Advisory Committee for Cities for Climate Protection (ACCCP) is delighted to sponsor a 4-week seminar on "Global Warming: Changing the C02URSE". Developed by the Northwest Earth Institute (NWEI) in Portland Oregon, the course will begin on Tuesday, February 27th and run for 4 consecutive Tuesdays culminating with a celebration evening on Tuesday, April 3rd The location will be the upstairs lounge at the Reading Senior Center, 49 Pleasant Street. The time is somewhat flexible according to the wishes of the participants, but will run approximately from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.. The cost of the course is $15.00, which covers the informative reading material provided by the NWEI. The four sessions titled "Off Course," "Collision Course," "Changing Course," and lastly, "Setting a New Course," each contain 6 to 7 readings by acclaimed authors on the subject. At each session, participants discuss the readings and share their personal experiences. Ideas are shared in a friendly, dynamic setting. All views are respected; we are all learners gaining from hearing and sharing the ideas of others. If you would like to join our group, please telephone Ron D'Addario at 781-439-9146. If you use the answering machine, please leave your name and number, and someone will return your call. The (ACCCP) is also excited to announce that it will sponsor Earth Day events on April 21st and 22nd The days are in the planning stage at this time. If you would like to participate in these events, or if you have something that pertains to the Earth Day mission of fostering sustainability for our planet, please contact our committee from our website at www.ci.reading.ma.us/climate. You may also reach us through a link within our town website at www.ci.reading.ma.us. 1/31/2007 ~ I c a Hechenbleikner, Peter From: patricia.a.harty@verizon.com Sent: Tuesday, January 30, 2007 12:48 PM To: undisclosed-recipients Subject: Verizon letter Dear Municipal Leader, It was great seeing many of you at the recent Massachusetts Municipal Association Conference earlier this month. Many of you stopped by the Verizon booth to discuss our FiOS products and services, the Massachusetts Cable Choice and Competition Act and what it would mean for municipalities and consumers. In our view, everyone benefits from this legislation: consumers, municipalities, and the industry. As described below, the bill creates a fair system to encourage cable competition and support local access programming. We heard a lot of excitement about our efforts to bring real cable competition to Massachusetts. In fact, the number one question we received at the MMA conference was "when is FiOS coming to our town?" It Puts Consumers First: For too long, consumers have had little choice when choosing a cable provider. Where there's cable competition, consumers win. The FCC says where wire-to-wire cable competition exists, rates are 17 percent lower. Other studies say the savings can exceed 25 percent. Under the Act, monopoly power ends and consumers will guide the future of the cable television industry. It Encourages Increased Broadband Investment: Massachusetts can keep its place as a national leader in technology and communications through this legislation. This legislation incents competitors to invest, deploy technology and compete by eliminating barriers to entry and reducing the time and cost of launching new services. Additionally, the bill not only streamlines the process for new entrants, but enables established providers to compete in each others' territories more easily. It Provides Support for Communities: Franchise fees: Franchise fees will be set by each municipality, up to the federal maximum of 50. Cities and towns will retain complete control over these fees and how much consumers will pay in their communities: PEG Support: The legislation provides consistent capital for local access studios. If an incumbent agreement is in place, the new provider will match the per subscriber fee paid to the town. If there is no incumbent, or when the incumbent agreement expires, all providers will pay up to 1% of gross revenues on the cable TV service to support local access capital needs. This fee is also set by the municipality. Local Channels: New entrants must provide the same number of PEG access channels provided by an incumbent cable operator. All operators will be required to interconnect their networks so the same local programming is available on all cable networks in a given community. Communities retain complete control of the content of those channels. Public Rights-of-Way: This legislation does not change municipal control or management of public rights-of-way. New cable-operators must provide municipalities with indemnification against damage caused by construction of the cable network. Existing Licenses: Current contracts are grandfathered unless both sides agree to terminate an existing agreement. FiOS TV is not cable TV. It's better: Verizon is the only company in the nation bringing fiber connections for video, Internet and phone service directly to the home of consumers. The Verizon network is future-proof, offering enough capacity for new television services and unlimited future technology applications. " V Existing cable networks cannot keep pace with technology innovation as more technology companies develop applications tailored for the FiOS network. 1 JJ