HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-01-03 Board of Selectmen HandoutTOWN MANAGER'S REPORT
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
• Another successful adopt-a-family program took place this year thanks to everyone's help. This
year we had a total of 90 donor groups. A group can be anything from a single person to a
grammar school and anything in between such as Lion's Club, Gymnastics Academy, church
group, fraternal organizations, town government departments, etc. There were 85 'groups' that
participated in the Christmas dinner and gift giving piece of the program. We had 58 recipient
families, which included 120 children. I'm happy to say each and every child received gifts at
Christmas. This was due in large part to the generosity of many people and I believe this is the
most children we have ever had in the program.
• The Wood End School audit is complete and reimbursement has been made in time to avoid
us re-issuing the BAN for the school.
• State Treasurer Tim Cahill will be in Reading on January 10 to make a check presentation for
the Wood End School and also a partial progress payment for the Reading Memorial High
School.
• Health Insurance bids were due back on today - January 3. The bids will be evaluated by the
consultant, and with the Task Force. We will be transitioning from a March 1 renewal date, to
a June 1 renewal date.
• There will be a Seminar on: Open Meeting Law, Holding an error free hearing, Public Records
Law, and loss prevention on January 18, 2006 - 7:30 p.m. in the Selectmen's Room.
Please keep this date free and try not to plan other Board/Committee Meetings for this date.
This seminar will be open for all Town Employees and Board/Committee members.
• The "Initiative Against Substance Abuse" kick=off meeting will be this Thursday at 7:00 PM at
the Parker Middle School cafeteria.
TOWN OF READING
IN THE YEAR TWO THOUSAND AND SIX
Bvlaw
Amending Article 5.6 of the General Bylaws of the Town of Reading, 1986, as amended, by
deleting in its entirety Article 5.6 and inserting the following: -
Town of Reading General Bylaw - Section 5.6
ANIMAL CONTROL BYLAW
5.6.1 - Definitions As used in this By-Law, the following words and terms have the following meanings:
5.6.1.1 ACO The Animal Control Officer.
5.6.1.2 Banishment An order that a vicious dog may no longer reside or visit in the Town
of Reading.
5.6.1.3 Destruction An order that a vicious dog be destroyed in accordance with
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140 and Massachusetts Society
for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals guidelines.
5.6.1.4 Effective voice control - To be under effective voice control, the animal must be
within the keeper's sight and the keeper must be carrying a leash and
the animal must refrain from illegal activities.
5.6.1.5 Keeper
Any person having charge of an animal within the Town of Reading,
including but not limited to the animal's owner, dog walkers, dog
sitters, members of the animal owner's household or family.
5.6.1.6 Kennel
Four or more dogs, six months of age or older, kept on a single
property, whether for breeding, sale, training, hunting,
companionship, or any other purpose.
5.6.1.7 Kennel license
A special license issued to a kennel, which allows payment of a single
fee covering all dogs in the kennel; with the kennel license, the kennel
owner receives a special kennel tag for each dog in the kennel.
5.6.1.8 License
A dog's registration, evidenced by a tag issued annually by the Town
Clerk to the owner of each dog residing in Reading and worn by the
dog securely fixed to its collar or harness.
5.6.1.9 License, transfer The registration issued to a dog already licensed in another US
jurisdiction, after the dog moves into the Town of Reading.
5.6.1.10 License period
Annually, from January 1St through December 31St
5.6.1.11 Muzzling
Using a device that fits over a dog's mouth and prevents it from
biting, but that does not cause any injury or interfere with the vision
or respiration of the dog that wears it.
5.6.1.12 Nuisance dog A dog that repeatedly violates Section 5.6.5 Section 5.6.5 of this By-
Law.
5.6.1.13 Permanent restraint - An order issued by the Animal Control Appeals Committee
under Section, requiring a vicious dog's keeper to restrain it.
5.6.1.14 Restraint Limiting, restricting, or keeping an animal under control by means of
a physical barrier (e.g., a leash, substantial chain or line, visible or
invisible fence).
5.6.1.15 Running at large A dog is running at large if it is not on the private property of
its keeper, or on private property with the express permission of that
property's owner, or on a leash, or under effective voice control (i.e.,
within the keeper's sight and the keeper is carrying a leash).
5.6.1.16 Temporary restraint An order issued by the ACO under Section 5.6.3.2(54),
requiring the dog's keeper to restrain a nuisance dog or suspected
vicious dog for 30 days.
5.6.1.17 Vicious dog A dog that, without provocation, bites a human being or kills or
maims a domestic animal without provocation.
5.6.1.18 Any word or term defined in Massachusetts General Law Chapter 140, Section 136A, and
not otherwise defined here, is incorporated by reference.
5.6.2 VACCINATION. LICENSING. AND FEES
5.6:2.1 Three or fewer does.
5.6.2.1.1 License and vaccination requirements. All dogs six months and older, while residing
in the Town of Reading, must have a license. To obtain or renew the license, each dog
owner must annually present proof of a current rabies vaccination. When a veterinarian
determines that vaccination is inadvisable, the owner may present a veterinarian's
certificate exempting an old or sick dog from vaccination for a stated period of time.
5.6.2.1.2 New dogs. Within 30 days of acquiring a dog 6 months of age or older, each dog
owner in Reading must present proof of that dog's current rabies vaccination and obtain a
license and dog tag from the Town Clerk.
5.6.2.1.3 New puppies. Within 6 months of a puppy being born, each dog owner in Reading
must present proof of that puppy's current rabies vaccination and obtain a license and dog
tag from the Town Clerk.
5.6.2.1.4 New residents. A new resident who owns a dog 6 months of age or older must
license it within 30 days after moving into Reading. The Town Clerk will issue each dog a
transfer license, upon the owner's surrender of a current license from another US
jurisdiction and proof of current rabies vaccination. The transfer license is valid until the
next regular licensing period.
5.6.2.1.5 Lost tags/replacement tags. Dog owners must replace a lost tag within three business
days of the loss, by obtaining a replacement tag from the Town Clerk.
5.6.2.1.6 Tag exemptions for dog events and medical reasons.
(1) A dog while actually participating in an official dog sporting or dog fancy event (if the
event sponsors do not allow participants to wear tags) is exempt from the requirement that
its license tag be affixed to its collar, provided its keeper has the tag at the event and
available for inspection by the ACO.
(2) When a veterinarian determines that a dog cannot wear a collar for medical reasons, the
dog is exempt until it recovers from the requirement that its license tag be affixed to its
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collar, provided its keeper has the tag in his or her possession and available for inspection
by the ACO.
5.6.2.1.7 Annual renewal. Dog owners must renew each dog license annually. The annual
licensing period runs from January 1" through December 31St.
5.6.2.1.8 License due date/late fee. The application form for obtaining, renewing, or
transferring a license shall be distributed to each household no later than December 31St
each year. Dog owners must return forms and fees to the Clerk by January 15th (or the first
business day thereafter, if the 15th falls on Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday). Any license
renewed after this date is overdue, and the owner must pay a late fee in addition to the
license renewal fee. The overdue license fee and the late fee may be added to the owner's
tax bill or may be recovered through the imposition of a municipal charges lien on any
property standing in the name of the dog owner, pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws
Chapter 40, Section 58.
5.6.2.1.9. License fees. The fees for licensing each dog shall be determined by the Board of
Selectmen. The fees shall differentiate between neutered or spayed dogs, and not neutered
or spayed dogs. The fee for neutered or spayed dogs shall be less than the fee for non-
neutered or spayed dogs.
5.6.2.2 Four or more does.
5.6.2.2.1 License and vaccination requirements. Anyone who owns or boards four or more
dogs within the Town of Reading must apply for and obtain a kemiel license from the
Town Clerk. (This requirement shall not apply to medical boarding by any licensed
veterinarian practicing in the Town of Reading.) To obtain or-renew the license, the kennel
licensee must present proof of current rabies vaccinations for each dog in the kennel older
than six months. When it is off the kennel property, each dog in the kennel must wear a
kennel tag, issued by the Town Clerk, affixed to its collar or harness.
5.6.2.2.2 New dogs and new puppies. The kennel licensee must report to the Town Clerk each
new dog in the kennel within 30 days of its acquisition, show proof of current vaccination,
and obtain a kennel tag for that dog. The kennel licensee must show proof of current
vaccination and obtain a tag for each puppy when it reaches six months old.
5.6.2.2.3 Application process. Every applicant for a new kennel license must first obtain Zoning
approval as required by the Reading Zoning Bylaws prior to submitting an application to
the Town Clerk on a form prescribed by the Clerk.
5.6.2.2.4. Inspection process. Before the Town Clerk can issue the kennel license, the Health
Division must inspect the proposed kennel, file a report on the inspection, and favorably
recommend that the kennel meets all the following requirements:
(1) The location of the kennel is appropriate for housing multiple dogs.
(2) The location of the kennel on the property will have no significant adverse effect on the
peace and quiet or sanitary conditions of the neighborhood.
(3) The area provided for housing, feeding, and exercising dogs is no closer than 20 feet to
any lot line.
(4) The area provided for housing, feeding, and exercising dogs is no closer than 50 feet to
any existing dwelling on an abutting lot.
(5) The kennel will be operating in a safe, sanitary, and humane condition.
(6) Records of the numbers and identities of the dogs are properly kept.
(7) The operation of the kennel will be consistent with the health and safety of the dogs and
of the neighbors.
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5.6.2.2.5 Periodic inspections. Before a kennel license is renewed, and at any time they believe it
necessary, the ACO and or the Health Division may inspect any kennel. If the ACO or the
Health Division determine that it is not being maintained in a safe, sanitary, and humane
condition, or if the kennel records on the numbers and identities of the dogs are not
properly kept, the ACO will report the violations to the . Animal Control Appeals
Committee (ACAC) for a hearing on whether to impose fines or revoke the kennel license.
5.6.2.2.6. Kennel review hearings. Within 7 business days after receiving the ACO's report of
violations the ACAC will notify all interested parties of a public hearing to be held within
14 days after the notice date. Within 7 business days after the public hearing, the ACAC
shall either revoke the kennel license, suspend the kennel license, order compliance or
otherwise regulate the kennel.
(1) Any person maintaining a kennel after the kennel license has been denied, revoked, or
suspended will be subject to the penalties in Section 5.6.7 of this By-Law.
5.6.2.2.7. Annual renewal. Each kennel licensee must renew the license annually, at the Town
Clerk's Office. The annual licensing period runs from January 1st to December 31st
5.6.2.2.8. License due date. Kennel license renewal forms will be sent to each licensed kennel,
no later than December 1st each year. Kennel licensees must return forms and fees to the
Town Cleric by January 15t" (or the first business day thereafter, if the 15th falls on
Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday). Failure to pay on time will result in a late fee, due in
addition to the license fee. The overdue license fee and the late fee may be added to the
licensee's tax bill or may be recovered through the imposition of a municipal charges lien
on any property standing in the name of the kennel licensee, pursuant to Massachusetts
General Laws Chapter 40, Section 58. Nothing in this bylaw shall prevent or abrogate the
Board of Health's authority to license and inspect kennels in the Town o f Reading.
5.6.2.2.9 Fees. The fees
for licensing each kennel shall be established by the Board of Selectmen.
5.6.2.2.10 Incorporation. The following provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter
140 are expressly incorporated herein: Section 13713-Sale or other delivery of unlicensed
dog by kennel licensee; Section 137D-Licensee convicted of violation of statutes relating
to offenses against animals; and Section 138A-Importation of dogs and cats for
commercial resale, etc.
5.6.3 ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
5.6.3.1. Appointment. The Town Manager shall appoint an Animal Control Officer (ACO) under
the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 151 and 151A to
carry out the provisions of this By-Law and to perform such other duties and
responsibilities as the Town Manager may determine.
5.6.3.2 Duties. The ACO's duties shall include but not be limited to the following:
(1) Enforcement of the Town of Reading by-laws and relevant state regulations t...
(2) Explanation of By-Law violations.
(3) Notification of the owner of Unlicensed dogs.
. (54) Issuance of Temporary restraint orders. The ACO shall issue an order of
temporary restraint to the keeper of any animal that is a nuisance or that is awaiting a
decision under Section 5.6.6 as to whether it is vicious. An order of temporary
restraint is an order that the animal must be confined to its keeper's property when not
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on a 6-foot or shorter leash or may be ordered to be sheltered at a local kennel or
veterinarian facility; muzzling will be at the ACO's discretion. It shall be in force for no
more than 30 days unless the ACO renews it in writing for subsequent 30-day periods.
The ACO shall rescind or stop renewing the order when, in the ACO's judgment,
restraint is no longer required. The dog's keeper can petition the Animal Control
Appeals Committee (ACAC) under Section 5.6.4.2 to rescind the order of
temporary restraint.
(a) Nuisance animal. An animal is a nuisance if it repeatedly violates any
subsection of Section 5.6.5 ,particularly if it continues to chase motor vehicles,
pedal vehicles, or animals carrying or drawing a person, or continues to damage
property after its keeper has been fined for the animal running at large.
(b) Awaiting a decision on a vicious animal hearing. The ACO must order an
animal restrained and (when off the keeper's property) muzzled pending the outcome of
a vicious animal hearing under Section 5.6.6.2
(6) Issue an order of Confinement. The ACO may make arrangements for the temporary
housing of any animal that is to be confined under the provisions of this By-Law. The
housing may be at local veterinary clinics, or at dog kennels within the Town or
neighboring towns.
(7) Complaint resolution. The ACO shall investigate all complaints arising within the
Town pertaining to violations of this By-Law and try to mediate disputes between
Town residents pertaining to the behavior of an animal maintained or located within the
Town. If the mediation fails, the ACO will decide on a solution and inform the animal
owner and any resident that brought a complaint or problem to the ACO's attention.
Any party aggrieved by or disagreeing with the ACO's decision may appeal that
decision to the Animal Control Appeals Committee; the ACO shall attend the meetings
of the ACAC on the matter.
(8) Recordkeeping. The ACO shall keep accurate, detailed records of the confinement
and disposition of all animals held in custody and of all bite cases reported, and the
results of investigations of the same. The ACO shall maintain a telephone log of all
calls regarding animals and submit a monthly report summarizing the log to the ACAC.
5.6.4 ANIMAL CONTROL APPEALS COMMITTEE (ACAC)
5.6.4.1 Composition of the ACAC. The Animal Control Appeals Committee is comprised of three
Reading residents, none of whom can be employees of the Town, appointed to three-year
overlapping terms by the Board of Selectmen. The ACAC will annually select a member to
serve as the chair. At least one of the three members must be a dog owner.
5.6.4.2 Right to appeal. When the Animal Control Officer has investigated a complaint regarding
an animal's behavior and has issued a finding or an order of temporary restraint with which
either the animal's keeper or the complainant disagrees, then either party may appeal by
sending a written request to the Town Clerk within 10 business days after issuance of the
ACO's decision. Following the Clerk's receipt of a written appeal, the ACAC shall hold a
public hearing on the appeal within 2114 days, at which the dog owner, the complainant,
and the ACO must appear.
5.6.4.3. Findings and further appeals. The ACAC shall vote at the public hearing on whether to
uphold, reverse, or modify the ACO's decision and shall mail its ruling to the animal
owner, complainant, and ACO within three business days after the public hearing.
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5.6.4.4 Hearings vicious dogs. The ACAC shall hold public hearings and make decisions on any
vicious dog declaration under Section 5.6.6.
5.6.4.5 Further Appeals. An appeal from a decision of the ACAC may be made by either the Owner or
Complainant pursuant to the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 30A.
5.6.5 CONDUCT OF ANIMALS
5.6.5.1 Endangering safety. No animal keeper shall allow the dog to bite, menace, or threaten, all
without provocation, so as to endanger the safety of any person. This section is not meant
to preclude an animal from acting as a watchdog on its keeper's property.
5.6.5.2. Disturbing the peace. No animal keeper shall allow the animal to disturb the peace of any
neighborhood by making excessive noise without provocation. Noise is excessive if it is
uninterrupted barking, yelping, whining, or howling for a period of time exceeding 15
minutes. This section is not meant to preclude a dog from acting as a watchdog on its
keeper's property.
5.6.5.3. Damaging property. No animal keeper shall allow the animal to damage public or private
property or realty.
5.6.5.4 Running at large. When not on the private property of its keeper, or on private property
with the express permission of that property's owner, an animal must be on a leash or may
be under effective voice control in locations noted below. To be under effective voice
control, the animal must be within the keeper's sight and the keeper must be carrying a
leash.
(1) Voice control (in place of leash control) allowed. A dog may be under voice control
when within the Town Forest or on Conservation lands..
(2) Public gatherings -leash control only. An animal may be at any public gathering
not otherwise specified in this By-Law only if it is on a 6-foot or shorter leash and the
animal must refrain from illegal activities.
(3) School grounds-animals not allowed during school/leash control only at other
times. Unless the school principal gives permission in advance, no animal may be on
school grounds from 30 minutes before classes begin until 30 minutes after classes end.
At all other times, the animal may be on school grounds only if it is on a 6-foot or
shorter leash. An animal is not violating this prohibition if it remains within a vehicle.
(4) Exception for assistance animals (service animals). Section 5.6.5.4 does not apply
to any properly trained assistance animal or service animal while performing its duties.
5.6.5.5 Chasing. No animal keeper shall allow the animal to chase a person, motor-powered
vehicle, human-powered vehicle, or animal drawing or carrying a person.
5.6.5.6 Dog litter. Every dog keeper is responsible for expeditiously removing any dog feces the
dog deposits anywhere except on its keeper's private property, on other private property
with the property owner's permission,. This provision does not apply to any assistance dog
or service dog while it is performing its duties.
5.6.6 VICIOUS DOGS
5.6.6.1 Declaring a dog vicious. Any dog that, without provocation, bites a human being or kills or
maims a domestic animal without provocation may be declared vicious by the ACAC. An
exception may be made for a puppy that draws blood, or for a dog that attacks or bites an
unaccompanied domestic animal on the dog keeper's property.
5.6.6.2. Procedure for declaring a vicious dog. Upon the written complaint of the ACO, any other
public safety agent, or upon the petition of not less than 5 individuals from 5 separate
households the Animal Control Appeals Committee (ACAC) shall hold a public hearing,
after which it will determine whether it should declare a dog vicious and, if so declared,
what remedy is appropriate.
5.6.6.3 Exceptions. A dog shall not be declared vicious if the ACAC determines any of the
following:
(1) The person's skin was not broken.
(2) The person who was bitten was willfully trespassing, committing a crime, or
attempting to commit a crime on the premises occupied by the dog's keeper.
(3) The dog was being teased, tormented, abused, or assaulted by the injured person
or animal prior to attacking or biting.
(4) The dog was protecting or defending a human being in its immediate vicinity from
attack or assault.
5.6.6.4 Remedies. Upon its finding that the dog is vicious, the ACAC shall order one of the
following remedies: permanent restraint; banishment; or destruction in accordance with
MSPCA guidelines.
(1) Permanent restraint order is an order that the dog must at all times while on its
keeper's property be kept within the keeper's house or a secure enclosure ; whenever
the dog leaves its keeper's property, it must be muzzled and restrained on a lead no
longer than 6 feet or confined in an escape-proof enclosure. The secure enclosure shall
be a minimum of 5 feet wide, 10 feet long, and 5 feet in height, with a horizontal top
covering the entire enclosure; shall be constructed of not less than 9 gauge chain link
fencing; the floor shall be not less than 3 inches of poured concrete; with the bottom
edge of fencing embedded in the concrete; shall be posted with a clearly visible
warning sign including a warning symbol; must contain and provide protection from the
elements; and shall comply with all applicable building codes and with the Zoning
Bylaws of the Town of Reading. In addition, the keeper of the dog shall annually
provide proof to the Town Clerk of a liability insurance policy of at least one hundred
thousand dollars for the benefit of the public safety.
(2) Banishment is an order that a vicious dog may no longer reside or visit in the Town
of Reading. (A vicious dog that is confined to a vehicle while passing through Reading
is not "visiting" and therefore is not in violation of the order of banishment.)
(3) Destruction is an order that the dog be destroyed in accordance with Massachusetts
General Laws Chapter 140 and Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of
Animals guidelines.
5.6.7 PENALTIES
5.6.7.1 Fines. Any dog keeper who maintains a kennel after the kennel license has been denied,
revoked, or suspended, or who fails to obtain a kennel license; and any dog keeper who
fails to comply with Section 5.6.5 CONDUCT OF DOGS shall be subject to penalties as
determined by the Animal Control Appeals Committee, not exceeding $300 per day for
every day of the violation.:
5.6.7.2 Reimbursement of costs. If the Animal Control Officer confines a dog, the dog's keeper
must reimburse the Town of Reading for any expenses incurred in boarding that dog. If the
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dog has not been licensed, the keeper must obtain a license and pay any applicable late fee
before the dog can be released.
5.6.7.3 Penalties for violating restraint orders. The 4C,4C shall determine a schedule of penalties
not exceeding $300 for each and every violation of restraint orders.
5.6.8 MISCELLANY
5.6.8.1 Non-criminal disposition of violations. The ACO may, as an alternative to initiating
criminal proceedings, initiate and pursue proceedings for the non-criminal disposition of
any violation of this By-Law, in accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General
Laws Chapter 40, Section 21D, to the extent of the specific penalty provided therefore.
5.6.8.2 Incorporation of state law. The provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140,
Sections 136A through 156 and 158 through 174D, inclusive, as may be amended from
time to time and except as modified herein, are hereby incorporated into this By-Law.
5.6.8.3.Severability. The invalidity of one or more sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences,
clauses, or provisions of this By-Law shall not invalidate or impair any other part of this
By-Law nor invalidate the By-Law as a whole.
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OFRFg4'L
y READING POIIICE DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF
~ 639'INCORQ~~P~O
Janw W Cormier
Chief of Police
December 27, 2005
15 Union Street, Reading, Massachusetts 01867
Emergency Only: 911 All Other Calls: 781-944-1212 Fax: 781-944-2893
E-Mail: JCormier@ci.reading.ma.us
Ted McIntire, Director
Public Works Department
16 Lowell St.
Reading, MA 01867
Dear Ted:
As I believe you are aware, I have assigned Officer Michelle Halloran to succeed Officer
Tom Murphy as Safety Officer when Tom begins his leave of absence. I just wanted to
take this opportunity to thank you for your participation in our interviews on Monday
December 12, 2005. As you know the Safety Officer position is a vitally important
position, not only within the police department, but in the community also. With your
participation and input I believe we were able to choose a great replacement for Officer
Murphy.
Officer Halloran is very excited to assume her duties and get immersed in her new role.
The police department is looking forward to the transition and is excited to see what new
ideas and skills Officer Halloran will bring to the position.
Thank you again for all of your help.
Sincer ly,
Tames omier
Chief W. Cormier
cc Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager
9
Energy Delivery
KeySpan Energy Delivery
52 Second Avenue
Waltham, Massachusetts 02451
2005 DEC N Alf 11: 24
December 29, 2005
Peter I. Hechenbleikner
Town Manager
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Dear Mr. Hechenbleikner:
KeySpan is very concerned about the impact natural gas prices will have on our customers this heating season.
With that in mind, we are working hard to help mitigate the cost of natural gas prices in several ways. We buy
gas in the summer months when prices are lower; we use proactive hedging strategies to get the best price in the
marketplace; and we encourage conservation and efficiency so energy is used wisely. It should be noted that
KeySpan does not profit from the cost of natural gas, it is a pass through expense. We can only charge the
customer what we pay for the commodity.
KeySpan promotes programs such as Balanced Billing, Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and other
programs and services to help educate customers on ways they can manage or get assistance with their energy
costs. There are also cold weather protections in place for the elderly, blind or disabled, and those with a
medical emergency or life support.
Despite these efforts, we realize this heating season poses an increased financial burden on customers due to
record high energy prices. As a result, KeySpan will be doing even more by implementing a plan designed to
educate all customers' about efficient energy use and identify customers eligible for financial assistance
programs and services. A newspaper campaign is being developed to promote HEAP and other low-income
programs. Our customer service representatives are receiving additional training with a focus on high bills,
financial assistance, and payment arrangement policies.
In addition, to help those in need pay their heating bills, KeySpan is making a $1-million contribution to local
area fuel funds such as the Salvation Army's Good Neighbor Energy Fund, New Hampshire's Fuel Assistance
Programs and the United Way's Special Fund.
We've included some of the communications we are using to educate customers on what they can do to help get
through what looks to be a challenging heating season. And we will continue to do all we can to help our
customers have a safe and warm winter. Please feel free to call the office of Barbara Kates-Garnick, Vice
President of Community Affairs at (781) 466-5112 if you require additional information.
Sincerely,
(a ~q b . C 4 -Ct
Robert B. Catell
Chainnan and CEO
KeySpan Corporation
Nick Stavropoulos
President, KeySpan Energy Delivery
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We don't know how cold it's going
to be this winter. But we do know
that with higher fuel costs it's going
to be a bit challenging for everybody.
So we'd like you to know there's
help if you need it.
You may qualify for financial
assistance from the Fuel Assistance
Program. Grants are available to
help low-income customers pay
their energy bills. Applications for
the program are being accepted
now. Funds are given out on a first-
come, first-serve basis-so you
should apply quickly. For more
information, call your local
Community Action Agency or
EnergyBucks at 1.866. LESS. COST.
Conservation saves money, too.
Lower your thermostat. Replace
weather-stripping as well as your
heating system's dirty air filters.
Caulk around windows and doors.
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From:
Frey, Bob (MHD) [Bob.Frey@state.ma.us]
Sent:
Tuesday, January 03; 2006 4:01 PM
To:
Corey, John; Schubert, Rick; Anthony, Camille; Barnes, Jonathan; Bruen, Darlene; Casey;
Paul; Clarke, Dennis; DiBlasi, Joe; Durrant, Ian; Everson, Jeff; Festa, Mike; Gallagher, Jim;
Grover, Robert; Grzegorzewski, Josh; Hamblin, Eileen; Havern, Robert; Jones, Bradley;
Katsoufis, George; Kennedy, Anthony; Kinsman, Art; Leiner, Craig; McLaughlin, Tom;
Meaney, Paul; Medeiros, Paul; Molter, Andrew; Natale, Patrick; Rogers, Maureen A.; Smith,
Suzanne; Sodano, Paul; Stinson, Richard; Sullivan, Dan; Tarallo, Ed; Tisei, Richard; Webster,
Bill; Woelfel, Steve
Cc:
Blaustein, Joan; Callan, Melissa; Christello, Tricia; Cooke, Don; DiZoglio, Dennis; Draisen,
Mark; Dwyer, Margaret; Edwards, Adriel; Florino, Ron; Frey, Bob; Town Manager; Lindstrom,
Mike; Lucas, Barbara; Lutz, Elaine; McKinnon, Anne; McLaughlin, Thomas; Mcvann, John;
Miller, Kenneth; O'Rourke, Carmen; Pap, Mary; Purdy, Jim; Pyke, Keri; Reilly, Chris;
Schwartz, Bill; Stein, Kathy; Tafoya, Ben; Van Magness, Frederick; Wood, Gail
Subject:
Next 93/95 ITF Meeting 1/11/06
9 %
ITF 2006 01-11 ITF 2005 11-30
neeting agenda..ummary.doc (75.
Hello and Happy New Year Task Force Members:
Our next meeting of the I-93/I-95 Interchange Task Force will be:
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Shamrock Elementary School
Green Street
Woburn
Directions if you need them:
From I-93:
Take Exit 36 (Montvale Ave.) into Woburn on Montvale. Travel about 3,4 mile, then bear LEFT
onto Green Street (at Dunlop Tire store). Shamrock School is about 1-~ mile further on the
right.
From I-95/Rt 128 and Woburn Center:
Take Exit 35 (Rt. 38). Take 38 South into Woburn center (2+ miles, along Main Street).
After passing City Hall, continue south on Main for about 1/3 mile and take LEFT onto
Green Street. Shamrock School is about 1/3 mile further on the left.
Parking is in front of building or in overflow lot off Green street, just past school
driveway (toward Woburn Center).
In this meeting we will continue our discussions regarding the development and evaluation
of alternatives. The agenda is attached:
«ITF 2006 01-11 meeting agenda.doc>>
The summary from our last ITF meeting (11/30/05) is also attached (and is also on the
website):
«ITF 2005 11-30 summary. doc>>
See you next week in Woburn...
Thanks,
- Bob
Bob Frey
Manager of Statewide Planning
Office of Transportation Planning
Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation
(617) 973-7449
bob.frey@state.ma.us
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Mitt Romney Kerry Healey
Governor Lieutenant Governor
a --I "L: 7
MASSACHUSETTS
EXECUTIVE OFFICE
OF TRANSPORTATION
John Cogliano
Secretary
1-93 /1-95 INTERCHANGE TRANSPORTATION STUDY
TASK FORCE MEETING
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Shamrock Elementary School
Green Street
Woburn, MA 01801
MEETING AGENDA
1. Welcome 4:30
2. Administrative Items 4:35
(Meeting Summary; ITF membership)
3. Developing and Evaluating Alternatives (continued) 4:45
(Examples, Initial Concepts, Positives and Negatives)
4. Planning for Public Meetings 5:45
(Content, Schedule, Outreach)
5. Open Issues fr6m Previous Meetings 6:00
6. Questions & Answers / Other Business / Next Meetings 6:20
Telephone (617) 973-7000 TDD (617) 973-7306
0
Teiefax (617) 523-64.54
I-93/1-95 Interchange Transportation Study
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
4:30 PM
Reading Senior Center
Reading, Massachusetts
Attendance
Task Force Members and Public who signed in:
Camille Anthony Reading Selectman
Don Cooke
Consultant for Woburn
Tony DiSarcina
Citizen
Jeff Everson
PRESERVE
Robert Grover
Stoneham Dpt. Public Works
Eileen Hamblin
Board of Realtors
Anthony Kennedy
Stoneham Selectman
Paul Meaney
Woburn Business Assn.
Darlene Mercer-Bruen
Woburn Citizen
Ed Tarallo
Woburn Planning Director
Bill Webster
THAG
Jonathan Barnes
Jay Corey
Ian Durrant
Jim Gallagher
Stephen Hagan
George Katsoufis
Mike Lindstrom
Paul Medeiros
Rick Schubert
Paul Sodano
Doug Wood-Boyle
Reading CDPC
Woburn City Engineer
MassRIDES
MAPC
Stoneham Sun
Reading Citizen
Sen. Richard Tisei
Woburn City Council
Reading Selectman
Stoneham Chamber
Daily Times Chronicle
Executive Office of Transportation/MassHighway staff:
Bob Frey Manager of Statewide Planning, Study Project Manager
Adriel Edwards Planning
Consultant team:
Jim Purdy Louis Berger Group (Project Manager)
Keri Pyke Louis Berger Group (Traffic)
Rick Azzalina Louis Berger Group (Engineering)
Anne McKinnon Howard/Stein-Hudson (Public Participation)
MeetinLy Summarv
Welcome and Introductions
Bob Frey opened the I-93/I-95 Interchange Task Force (ITF) meeting and led introductions. In
accordance with EDT's policy of a fair and open study process, all Task Force meetings are open
to the public, but agenda items are discussed first with Task Force members. He stated that there
will be a general public meeting this winter but no date is set yet. He reminded everyone to check
the study website (www.9395info.com) for updates.
Administrative Items
Kathy Stein reviewed the ground rules and emphasized "sticking to the agenda." She and Bob
Frey explained that the meeting format was modified as part of an effort to make the meetings
more productive while continuing to address the concerns of Task Force members. Kathy said
agendas would be more decision-oriented, with the team and the Task Force working together to
reach conclusions on each meeting's decision points, deciding together whether further discussion
is needed. Another change is that open issues will be reviewed at each meeting after the main
objective is covered. Kathy added that presentations would be given in a timely fashion so that
Office of Transportation Planning Page 1 of 5 Printed: 1/3/2006
I-93/1-95 Interchange Task Force Meeting of November 30, 2005
time remains for questions and discussion. Bob said the purpose of this meeting is to demonstrate
how the group would evaluate alternatives by applying the evaluation criteria. He stressed that the
team is not favoring any strategy or option at this point. Rather, this is an exercise in method by
using some specific examples.
Review of Problems and Strateev for Solutions
Jiro Purdy narrated a series of slides, which reviewed the context, the main goals and objectives,
and the key problems of the study area.
The context of the interchange includes the following:
• The interchange was designed for much lower volumes;
• It is closely bordered by residential neighborhoods; and
• It is adjacent to major business areas requiring direct access.
The main goals and objectives of the study are to:
• Improve traffic flow;
• Improve safety;
• Avoid takings; and
• Minimize environmental impacts, maximize benefits.
And the three key problems are:
• Congestion
• Safety
• Geometries
Jim elaborated on each of the key problems to introduce an approach to developing and evaluating
solutions. As agreed upon at a previous meeting, Jim suggested identifying the biggest problems
first. For example, the Route 128 southbound weave is used in the exercise below. The process
involves considering a range of possible solutions for a particular problem - including transit,
TDM, and various geometric options. The advantages and disadvantages of each option will be
compared to the goals and objectives of the study, with the context kept in mind.
Jim said the first round screens each option, evaluating qualitatively how the option may improve
traffic flow, safety, avoid takings, and maintain access to local streets. In the examples that follow,
screening based on these criteria eliminates options with fatal flaws. More favorable options are
considered for general feasibility. The result is one or more options, which may be combined into
an alternative package that will address a specific problem. When the biggest problem is fixed,
other issues will be examined as necessary.
In the second round, each alternative (packages of options) will be screened in more detail to
determine how well it meets objectives, as well as the extent to which it improves neighborhoods/
avoid impacts, and improves local streets/avoid impacts, using quantitative measures where
possible. Additional analysis will be done to refine the alternatives, which will be evaluated
against a full list of criteria. Finally, the consultant team will compare the various costs and
benefits and propose recommendations. The types of improvements will be comprehensive:
short- and long-term; transit, TDM, interstate highway ramps; and local streets and intersections.
Office of Transportation Planning Page 2 of 5 Printed: 1/3/2006
I-93/1-95 Interchange Task Force Meeting of November 30, 2005
Camille Anthony asked if the evaluation criteria in the second round of screening would be
weighted differently from the first round criteria. Jim Purdy advised against numerical weightings
for different types of criteria (e.g., reducing delay time for motorists versus avoiding property
takings), because different criteria are not directly comparable. Bob Frey said the relative
importance of different impacts and benefits will come out of discussion in the Task Force.
Camille asked that improvements to traffic flow and safety not outweigh negative impacts to
communities. Bob reminded Task Force members of the Governor's "Communities First" policy
and the fact that this is a stated goal of the study.
Jeff Everson questioned whether the Task Force, which is composed primarily non-technical
people, is equipped to make decisions in this study. Jim Gallagher said he views the Task Force as
experts that bring various values and expertise to the table, and in this way offers a more balanced
approach than what only engineers would provide. Jim Gallagher asked if operational
improvements (signs, ramp meters, pavement markings, etc.) would also be developed as options.
Bob responded that operational improvements would be considered.
Several Task Force members expressed concerned about congestion on Route 128 and questioned
the study's intent to address the problem. George Katsoufis said the relationship between
congestion on the mainlines of Route 128 and the ramps of the interchange must be clarified,
especially when talking to the public. Bob said this is one of the open issues. When the team
detennines the best way to present the information, it will be critiqued by the Task Force to make
sure it is understandable for the public. Camille Anthony opined that unless congestion on Route
128 is improved, this study effort is futile. She asked what specifically could be done to address
congestion on Route 128. Ed Tarallo echoed this sentiment.
Darlene Mercer-Breen asked that the study look at the larger picture regarding congestion on
Route 128. Bob Frey said the portion of Route 128 which is in the scope of work (from Route 38
in Woburn to Route 129 in Reading) will be addressed as part of this study, but it is not possible to
solve all the region's transportation problems at once or through a single study. Problems must be
prioritized and addressed in pieces of manageable size. A decision was made to have expert
consultants look comprehensively at the I-93/I-95 Interchange to develop potential solutions for it.
In addition, this study will recommend transit, TDM, and other improvements that could alleviate
some of the problems on Route 128. Paul Meaney asked whether there are any other ongoing or
planned efforts to improve Route 128 from Waltham to Gloucester. He asked that the results of
this study be consistent with any potential future work. Bob replied that, to his knowledge, there is
not any planned work covering the entire stretch of Route 128. Rep. Natale asked if new
development projects along Route 128 are taken into account. Jim Purdy said the model
incorporates assumptions about new development.
Developing and Evaluating Alternatives
Jim Purdy led the group through several examples of how potential solutions to specific problems
(high traffic volumes, poor ramp LOS, and poor geometries) would be evaluated.
Example A: High traffic volumes degrade traffic flow and increase accidents
Potential solutions to study include Transportation Demand Management (TDM) in Woburn and
Stoneham; expanded permanent bus service from Anderson RTC to Burlington, Lexington, and
Waltham; High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) or High Occupancy Toll lanes on Rte 128 (suggested
by George Katsoufis); and parking incentives at Anderson RTC (suggested by Tony Kennedy).
Office of Transportation Planning Page 3 of 5 Printed: 1/3/2006 (V-.**)
T*MOOPI
I-9311-95 Interchange Task Force Meeting of November 30, 2005
These will be studied to estimate how much reduction in traffic volume could be achieved at the
interchange and its effect on congestion and accidents. Jeff Everson asked whether TDM actually
results in visible improvements. Jim Purdy said that through the CORSIM model, we can estimate
the impact a TDM option may have. Ed Tarallo cautioned against taking a general-purpose lane
for HOV use. If the HOV lane were a new lane, then it may be a viable option. He also said the
MBTA's fiscal.problems may prohibit additional bus service. Jim Purdy said it is too early to rule
out an option because of potential implementation difficulties. George Katsoufis said coordinated
land-use planning and zoning should be considered as a solution. Jim Purdy agreed.
Example B: Substandard Route 128 Southbound weave area
Potential solutions to study include replacing either the northeast or northwest loop ramp (or both)
with a direct connection; adding a southbound lane on Route 128; or creating a collector-
distributor system. These will be studied to estimate how much better the interchange would
operate if the southbound weave were improved or eliminated. In contrast, maintaining the loop
ramps but lengthening the weave distance between them would unavoidably encroach on
residential neighborhoods. Therefore, this option was screened out because of this fatal flaw.
Rep. Natale suggested both loop ramps be replaced with direct connections. Jay Corey
commented on the geometric advantages of direct connections, but asked what would happen
when the traffic merges with I-93 southbound. Rick Azzalina said it may be possible to have a
two-lane entrance on I-93 since there is more right-of-way on I-93. Tony Kennedy asked that the
potential solutions be shown with all movements integrated. Jeff Everson asked if the study would
be able to estimate the land takings needed for a collector-distributor system. Rick Azzalina said
creating a separate collector-distributor system would require using more land, but that the intent is
to develop a solution that minimizes the land required. Tony Kennedy asked if a collector-
distributor road would be needed on both the southbound and northbound side. Jim Purdy said that
would be best. Rick Azzalina noted that the close spacing of the interchanges lends itself to a
collector-distributor system. He noted that it would give access to businesses and all off-ramps
while eliminating the weaves on Route 128. George Katsoufis noted that the Washington Street
Bridge off of the Mishawum exit backs up all the way onto the highway.
Jim Purdy said this type of exercise would be done for all of the key problems at the interchange.
The screening evaluations will be tested by using the regional travel model and by doing
conceptual engineering; an initial report will be given at the next Task Force meeting. Options that
continue to look promising at this stage can be carried forward and potentially become part of
alternatives for more detailed testing.
Open Issues from Previous MeetinLys
Jeff Everson asked if he could discuss the 10 items he raised in a recent e-mail, covering various
issues (combined with his opinions) concerning the study. They were as follows:
1. Estimating the reduction in accidents
2. Estimating the change in home-to-office commuting time
3. Estimating the cost to redesign and build an interchange
4. Enlisting the Task Force to help redesign the interchange
5. Quantity of the accident data
6. Quality of accident data
7. Funds spent by MassHighway on the new accident reporting form do not address these
issues (opinion). /~~A
Office of Transportation Planning Page 4 of 5 Printed: 1/3/2006
I-93/1-95 Interchange Task Force
Meeting of November 30, 2005
8. MassHighway did not consider or contribute to Safety Analyst (opinion).
9. MassHighway, through expenditures on software, considers right-of-way and eminent
domain more important than safety and accident analysis (opinion).
10. MassHighway has ignored substantial engineering expertise and research that could have
been applied to the interchange problem (opinion).
Bob Frey said that all of the comments, except for item #9, have been answered before and
referred Task Force members to the project website for detailed responses. Bob indicated that
Item #9, primarily covering MassHighway's expenditures on right-of-way software, is not relevant
to this study. Jeff Everson did not agree that the issues had been addressed adequately and felt that
MassHighway's expenditures for right-of-way software, versus what little he felt MassHighway
invested in accident analysis, was a disturbing situation. Jim Purdy said software to quantify
safety improvements at an interchange like this one would take years to develop and test. It would
not be a good idea to stop all studies and projects for up to three years while software is developed.
Bob Frey said the remaining open issues would be reviewed at the next Task Force meeting. A
Data Subcommittee meeting would be tentatively scheduled shortly to review new data expected
soon. In the meantime, MassHighway is working with the MBTA on parking improvements at
Anderson RTC. Paul Meaney requested that the next Task Force meeting agenda include a review
of the sketches shown here at this meeting, and Bob replied that it could. Camille Anthony
suggested that interested members of the Task Force help to develop future meeting agendas.
Other Business/Future Meetings
The meeting ended at 6:40 p.m. The next meeting of the Task Force was scheduled for January
11, 2006. A public informational meeting is planned for early in the year.
Office of Transportation Planning Page 5 of 5
Printed: 1/3/2006
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