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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-09-18 Board of Selectmen Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting September 18,2007 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 7:00 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman.James Bonazoli, Vice Chairman Stephen Goldy, Secretary Ben Tafoya, Selectman Richard Schubert, Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director Bob LeLacheur, Paula Schena and . the following list of interested parties: Bill Brown, Steve Vittorioso, Gina Snyder, Tracy Sopchak,.Michele Benson, Ron D'Addario,Thomas and Christine McGrath, Florence Campbell, Beverly Daly, Jennifer Cannon, Jean Hailey, Caroline Chapell, Anand Barde,Don Stroeble, Jack and Mary Scott, E. K. Higgott, T. J. Ryan, Mary Ellen Stolecki, Matt Wilson, Karen Herrick, Karen Flammia, Mark Wetzel,Patricia Lloyd, Kristine and Brian Balkus, Liz Malinski, Davina Shuman,Dan Ensminger,Ron O'Keefe. Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments — Selectman Richard Schubert asked if the Selectmen's expectations regarding the alcohol signage at the Atlantic Market is clear now. The Town Manager noted that he met with Arnold Rubin and it is clear now. Selectman Schubert asked whether the Town Engineer or Conservation have any comments on the interchange project. Selectman Ben Tafoya suggested including the letter that Selectman.Richard Schubert had previously written with the report. Selectman Ben Tafoya noted that CPDC approved the plan for the Sanborn Street parking lot. He also noted that they had a hearing on the 40R application for Addison-Wesley. Regarding the affordable housing component, the developer wants 50% of the median income and 20% affordable but the.Town wants 80% of the median and 25% affordable, and that should be made clear to the developer.- He noted that the traffic reports and economic impact reports were previously requested but were not available last night. Selectman Tafoya asked that the Selectmen be informed of CPDC's schedule regarding Addison-Wesley. Selectman Ben Tafoya noted that he attended the Library Board of Trustees Meeting regarding capital planning and expenditures. He also noted that the Tax Classification Study is complete and has been sent to the Board of Assessors for them to verify its accuracy before coming to the Board of Selectmen. Vice Chairman Stephen Goldy noted that the Friends of Reading Recreation is hosting the Second Annual Cross Country Road Race in the Town Forest and also a Wiffle Ball Tournament. He also noted that the Selectmen are concerned regarding the status of the 40R State reimbursements, and they need to be kept apprised of this. He attended the School Committee Meeting regarding the Budget. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 18 2007—Page 2 Chairman James Bonazoli asked about baseline versus a level service budget, and the Assistant Town Manager noted that the Finance Committee met, and they will make clear what they are looking for at the Financial Forum. Chairman Bonazoli noted that he received a thank you note from Sally Hoyt. He received a phone call from Meaghan Crook regarding early morning 18 wheeler trucks on John Street. The Town Manager noted that the Town had tried to get a Heavy Vehicle Exclusion on John Street but the State would not approve it. Chairman Bonazoli also noted that the Stop & Shop Grand Opening is Thursday evening, and there.will be a drawing to benefit the Friends of Reading Recreation. Town Manager's/Assistant Town Manager's Reports The Town Manager gave the following report: • I would like the Board of Selectmen to approve a motion formally referring the proposed 40R Zoning By-Law amendments to the CPDC for hearing. A motion by Tafoya seconded by Goldy to refer to the CPDC for hearing and recommendation the proposed Gateway Smart Growth Zoning By-Law in anticipation of a December 13, 2007 Special Town Meeting with the Warrant to close on November 6, 2007 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. • Enclosed is the Town Treasurer's "Report on Investments" for FY 2007. A copy has also been.given to the Finance Committee. • Nurse Advocate Dianne Aurilio-Luther has been hired and has started work. She is working part time in that position, and will also be filling in part time as the Public Health Nurse until we can fill that position. Dianne's resume is attached. • Larry Ramdin will start work on October.Ist as our new Health Services Administrator. Larry's resume is attached. • Franklin Street sidewalks are done. Finish work including loam and seed have also been done. I would like to have a "Ribbon Cutting" in October—combined with the dedication of the Mattera Conservation Area. • The next Household Hazardous Waste Collection is at the Wakefield High School on September 22nd. This is a joint program with the Town of Wakefield, open to Reading and Wakefield residents. There will be another collection in Reading in the Spring. • The RCASA Annual Meeting is on September 26th at 7:00 p.m. at the Parker Middle School. I would encourage all residents who are interested in the issue of Substance Abuse to become involved. There is a need for many areas of expertise, if you have the time to volunteer. • DPW has filed a grant application for four things: • Park recycling containers • Shade trees for South Main Street • Conversion of the Town's traffic signals from conventional sources to LED (much more energy efficient plus better visibility) • Recycling post cards to all households • The temporary "Truck Exclusion" signs on a number of streets off of Lowell Street and Main Street that were installed because of the RM13S_construction have expired"and will be, removed shortly. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 18,2007—Page 3 • On September 13, 2007, a meeting was held in the Community Room with over 30 neighbors of the Washington Street Park area. Also in attendance were the Police Chief and Sergeants McKenna and Segalla. The neighbors voiced their concerns on the safety and security of the park due to several recent incidents. The recent incidents involved larcenies and assaults on young children by several High School students. Parents have also witnessed incidents of bullying, fighting, fowl language, public urination, alcohol consumption and drug use. The parents are extremely upset and do not want the issues to become even more volatile. As a result,many families with young children are afraid to let their children play at the park. As a,result of this meeting, the Police Department will take a very proactive approach to quelling the neighbors' concerns. • The Board of Selectmen have received invitations to the MMA Fall Regional Forums. • Enclosed is an invitation for the Board of Selectmen to participate in a World Caf6 Community conversations process. • Eight of the 10 bike racks received under an MAPC grant have been installed by DPW. The Police Station and RMLD racks will be installed shortly. The Assistant Town Manager noted that the Data Center is complete and looks great. He thanked the School Department and Facilities for all their hard work. Discussion/Action Items Cities for Climate Protection Pledge — Cities for Climate Protection Committee Members Gina Snyder, Tracy Sopchak, Michele Benson and Ron D'Addario were present. Gina Snyder noted that the Pledge is,to reduce emissions by driving less, driving efficiently and vehicle maintenance. She also noted that the Committee..completed their first milestone. There will be a"Conversation on Climate"on October 4, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. at the Senior Center and the public is invited. Selectman Richard Schubert asked about a potential tree bylaw. Gina Snyder noted that it is more effective to look at the existing bylaws, and develop a program that makes it easy for people who want to donate trees. She also noted that the Light Department is developing a program to match the cost of planting trees on the south side of homes to cut back on air conditioning. Tracy Sopchak noted that she would like to have a tree layer on the GIS Map. Review EDC "Peer to Peer" and Market Study for Downtown'— The Town Manager reviewed Adam Baacke's reports on Economic Development and Downtown Revitalization. He noted that the burnt building on Woburn Street will be in front of CPDC in October. The Wine Shop and Venetian Moon are competitive and appropriate for Downtown but they need stucco work done on the buildings. Chairman James Bonazoli suggested making it a condition on their liquor license. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 18,2007—Page 4 The Town Manager noted that the alleyway could use some lighting and perhaps a mural. The dumpster in the parking lot should be relocated. The MF Charles building is a historical building. The Mass Bank office building leaves gaps in the "spine" — it doe's not enliven Downtown. The Town Manager noted that Mass Highway has received the signed contracts from the contractor for the Downtown project. Hearing—Memorial Park Master Plan—The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town Manager noted that the.handout has a revised plan and cost estimate. He also noted that the Selectmen appointed a committee to recommend uses for the park. A cy pres petition has been filed with the court to allow practices at the park. Friends of Reading Recreation offered to do improvements. Reading Recreation got a volunteer landscape architect to draw up a concept plan. The Selectmen suggested having final input. The Town Manager and John. Feudo held a meeting for abutters on May 17, 2007, and the plan has been modified to accommodate comments received. The Town Manager noted that there are two issues that need to be addressed: The construction of a paved walkway and parking on Harrison Street frontage. He also noted that improvements to the park include reshaping the ice rinks and adding lights to them, add bocce, horseshoes and volleyball, pub parking between the trees and off the roadway, additional shade trees and plantings (look for donations), redo the tennis court and basketball court. The cost is $740,000, and we have a donor to do a vast majority of the work. Vice Chairman Stephen Goldy noted that a resident had asked if these improvements meet the rights of the Deed. The Town Manager noted that the basketball court-and tennis courts are already there, and they don't meet the restrictions due to, the fence enclosures. Kristine and Brian Balkus of 23 Harrison Street noted that the speed limit on. Harrison Street is not posted. Ms. Balkus noted that they lost two small dogs and fear for their children. They want the speed limit lowered and posted. The Town Manager indicated that the speed limit is 30 mph, and the police do enforcement on Harrison Street and will continue to do so. He noted that the sidewalks will add safety. Selectman Richard Schubert asked if there was an opportunity for traffic calming measures, and the Town Manager noted that vehicles parked on the side of the street is a traffic calming measure. Chris McGrath of 39 Harrison Street noted that the neighbors suffer during the No Parking season. She would like resident stickers. Traffic and parking is a huge problem. She also noted that the Town wants to provide parking for people who don't live on the street but not for the residents. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 18,2007—Page 5 Liz Malinski of 26 Harrison Street noted that emergency vehicles could not get down that street. Making the jewel more attractive will bring more people. She suggests making the street one way if the Town is going to follow through with the plans. She also noted that the land used to be a swamp and the frost heaves are huge, and that is what ruined the tennis and basketball courts. Davina Shuman of 1 Charles Street noted that she had concerns about traffic and parking, and she is against the asphalt paths. The Town Manager noted that the pathway needs to be a walking path. Asphalt is the cheapest way to go, and it needs to be handicap accessible. He also noted that a liner will be put under the pond area so homes don't get flooded out. A resident of 24 Charles Street noted that traffic is an issue with little activity. She also noted that she called the police several times regarding teenagers drinking and smoking pot in the park. She noted that the park is already a jewel without organized activities. Bill Brown of 28 Martin Road noted that there has been vandalism at that park since it was built. He also noted that there were horseshoes there previously. A resident from 57 Harrison Street asked that the Town not make it a destination park. He noted that if there are not organized events,then angled parking is not needed. He would like the Deed restriction left intact. He has no problem with fixing the ice rinks or with a paved sidewalk. He does not want a one way street and does not want organized activities. Tom McGrath of 39 Harrison Street noted that he is opposed to a parking lot with lines. He suggests widening the street and adding curb. Mary Scott of 48 Salem Street asked if the perimeter fence will be replaced. She noted that it is rusted and trees are growing through it. It is not safe for the children who are climbing it. The Town Manager indicated that the Recreation Department will maintain the park and he was not aware of the fence. Don Stroeble of 52 Salem Street noted that the Town has a history of poor maintenance. A resident from 1 Charles Street noted that she did not want a paved path. Another resident from 1 Charles Street noted that the bush in back of the condominium collects trash. They will also lose their privacy with people walking on an asphalt pathway. Bill Brown noted that he wants ADA compliance. Florence Campbell of 55 Salem Street noted that she is still waiting for the brook to be cleaned out. A motion by Tafoya seconded by Goldy to close the hearing on the Memorial Park Master Plan was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 18, 2007—Page 6 Chairman James Bonazoli noted that this is a plan to polish that jewel—it is an asset. He has no problem with the bocce or horseshoes, and he feels that the pathway opens it up to everyone. He also noted that these changes have nothing to do with the Deed restrictions. Selectman Richard Schubert asked if the Town could establish a Perpetual Care Fund. He is in favor of eliminating the angled parking and using paving and curbing. Selectman Ben Tafoya noted that he agrees with the change in parking. He would like to see how maintenance will be involved, and noted that the policy has to be clear on maintenance. The Town also needs a policy on donations. He suggests having a paved pathway for the lower part of the park and leave the rest as green space. Vice Chairman Stephen Goldy noted that he was also concerned about maintenance, and agreed that a policy is needed. He also agrees with the parallel parking, and.noted that there is an absolute need for apathway in the whole park that is ADA compliant. The Town Manager noted that the changes being made will make maintenance easier. Hearin;—Liquor License Fees—The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen already established fees for 2008 and usually set them for three years. He also noted that surrounding towns were surveyed and recommended the following fees: Liquor Proposed 2009 Proposed 2010 Package Store $2200 $2300 Restaurant $3400 $3500 Beer and Wine Only $2450 $2500 Club $1050 $1100 One Day License $50 $50 A motion by Tafoya seconded by Goldy to close the hearing setting the liquor license fees was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldy seconded by Tafoya to approve the schedule for liquor license fees for CY 2009 and CY 2010, as presented,was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Hearing — Pay and Classification Plan Amendment — Substance Abuse Professionals — The Secretary read the hearing notice. The Town Manager noted.that the Town received a SAMBA Grant. We need to hire staff to move forward. This is for 1%2 FTE positions'. He is requesting that the Selectmen add these two positions and approve the grades. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 18, 2007—Page 7 Vice Chairman Stephen Goldy asked if the grant is for all salary, and the Town Manager noted that 85% is for salary and 15% is for expenses. Selectman Richard Schubert asked where these people will be located, and the Town Manager indicated that they will be located at the Police Station. Bill Brown asked if the grant dries up, will the positions be eliminated. Selectman Richard Schubert noted that if the position is not funded,then the position is not filled. A motion by Tafoya seconded by Goldy to close the hearing on the Pay and Classification Plan for the Substance Abuse Professionals was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Tafoya seconded by Goldy to approve the amendments to the 2008 Classification Plan for the Community Outreach Coordinator/Program Coordinator as a Grade 8 and the Proiect Director as a Grade 13 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Bertucci's Plan for Outdoor Dining—This was rescheduled for September 25, 2007. Report — Community Preservation Act Study Committee — Committee Members Mary Ellen Stolecki, Matt Wilson, Karen Herrick, Karen Flammia, Mark Wetzel, Bill Brown, Patricia Lloyd and Torn Ryan were present. The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen created the Community Preservation Act Study Committee, and the intent is to put the CPA on the Warrant for the Subsequent Town Meeting. Mary Ellen Stolecki noted that the CPA was on the ballot in 2002 and lost by 75 votes. She also noted that the CPA enables the Town to exercise control over local planning decisions. The money can be used for acquisition and preservation of open space, create and support affordable housing, and acquisition and preservation of historic buildings and landscapes. Mary Ellen Stolecki noted that the surcharge cannot be more than 3%, and Town Meeting can vote to accept exemptions. If the CPA passes, then a Committee needs to be formed and they would be responsible for disbursing monies. The disadvantages to the CPA are that it adds a surcharge to the tax bill, and there is a five year commitment. The advantages are that the State will match funds, the Town will attain and preserve affordable housing, and it will boost the Town's eligibility for grants. Mary Ellen Stolecki noted that the Committee voted to place the CPA before Town Meeting for consideration, to recommend that the first $100,000 on residential properties be exempt, to exempt low-income housing and low or moderate income senior housing, and to propose a 2% surcharge. Bill Brown noted that the North Main Street property could not have been purchased with CPA funds because it sold for more than the assessed value. Torn Ryan gave a presentation on why he is against the CPA. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 18, 2007—Page 8 Dan Ensminger of 6 Oakland Road noted that this is not the right way to address problems. It's nice to do but not essential. He noted that the Town's roads are falling apart. The Town already has 7% of affordable housing, and there are other ways to get open space. He also noted that the voters stepped up to the plate for the High School, and he feels that this is the wrong time to bring this to the voters. Ron O'Keefe noted that this is a tax and it should be called that. Bill Brown noted that he is testifying tomorrow for making it mandatory to revisit after five years. Approval of Minutes A motion by Goldy seconded by Schubert to approve the Minutes of AulZust 28, 2007 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Goldy seconded by Tafoya to approve the Minutes of September 4, 2007 was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. A motion by Bonazoli seconded by Goldy to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing litigation and not to come back into Open Session was approved on a, roll call vote with all four members voting in the affirmative. Xecretar fully submitted, y