HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-04-04 Board of Selectmen Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting
April 4, 2000
The meeting convened at 7:35 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street,
Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Sally Hoyt, Secretary George Hines, Selectmen
Camille Anthony and Matthew Cummings, Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Counsel
H Theodore Cohen, Town Planner Anne Krieg, DPW Director Ted McIntire, Finance Director
Beth Klepeis, Town Accountant Richard Foley, Acting Library Director Diane Young, Fire
Chief Don Wood, Paula Schena and the following list of interested parties: Fred Van Magness,
Thomas and Christine McGrath, Jeff Letendre, Marilyn Cortese, Jim Doherty, Michael Garcia,
Ed Kettle, Greg Zanni, representatives from Pearson Education.
Reports and Comments
Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments — Chairman Sally Hoyt noted that she feels much
better and thanked the Selectmen for covering while she was out. She thanked Matthew Nestor
for his serving as Chainman in her absence, and also the Town Manager and staff for keeping her
informed and for sending her cards.
Selectman George Hines acknowledged the recent death of a well known Reading resident and
noted that the community support was great.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that this was National Nap at Work Day. She met with the
Town Manager, Town Planner Anne Krieg, Len Rucker and Paul Carson from the Reading
Municipal Light Department regarding underground lines and getting power to the Pearson
project.
Public Comment—There was no public comment.
Town Manager's Report
The Town Manager gave the following report:
♦ The Town Manager noted that the program for the Police Station Dedication is in
the Selectmen's packet this evening.
♦ The Town Manager noted that the Zoning Board of Appeals is asking for clarification
of the Selectmen's vote regarding 82 Linden Street. He will clarify the Board's
position on that issue.
Discussion/Action Items
Appoint Town Accountant — On motion by Cummings seconded by Anthony, the Board of
Selectmen voted to reappoint Richard Foley as Town Accountant for a term expiring March 31,
2001, or until a successor is appointed. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Policy Establishing "Last Night" Steering Committee — On motion by Cummings seconded by
Anthony, the Board of Selectmen voted to adopt the policy for the "Last Night" Steering
Committee. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—April 4, 2000—Page 2
Close the Warrant for Special Town Meeting—Zoning—The Town Manager noted that the date
of the Special Town Meeting has been changed to April 27, 2000. Article 4 is to amend the PUD
to allow Lincoln Properties to proceed. Article 5 is to allow Dickinson to proceed. Article 6
combines Articles 4 and 5. Article 7 is to amend the Business "C" zone, and Article 8 is to
amend the zoning map for the Business "C"zone.
Town Planner Anne Krieg noted that Article 4 will amend the PUD to allow the residential units
that Lincoln proposes. This Article will also remove the words "full service" from hotels
because it is not defined in the Bylaws.
Article 5 is for the Dickinson proposal. All of Dickinson's uses already exist in the industrial
zone but they need a height allowance.
The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen need to decide whether there should be a single or
separate Articles.
Selectman Matthew Cummings indicated that he felt the Articles should be split up because they
would be more manageable to deal with separately.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that CPDC Chairman Jonathan Barnes is concerned that this
will become a political football if they are dealt with separately. CPDC recommends combining
into one Article. Selectman Camille Anthony noted that if a group of Town Meeting Members
doesn't want a certain developer and they don't approve the Article, then we are stuck with
nothing.
Town Counsel Ted Cohen noted that he prefers to have separate Articles.
Selectman George Hines concurred that he prefers separate Articles.
The Town Manager noted that representatives from Pearson Education were present. Town
Planner Anne Krieg noted that Addison-Wesley decided last year to vacate the site and sell the
property. They have been working with CPDC and the neighborhood to put together a document
that addresses everyone's concerns. The hindrance is a traffic issue. Pearson has applied to
MEPA and received a certificate that outlines a traffic study to be done. The changes to the
Business C District will help to redevelop this site.
Jim Doherty of 76 Curtis Street noted that build out will not be limited. The Town Manager
noted that they will have to go through MEPA which will restrict. Town Planner Anne Krieg
noted that the changes will take place where they are allowed to occur.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to close the
Warrant consisting of 7 Articles for a Special Town Meeting to be held on April 27, 2000 at 7:30
p.m. at the Reading Memorial High School. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Board of Selectmen Meetin—AApril 4, 2000—Page 3
Hearing— Stop Sign on Grove Street Southbound at Franklin— Secretary George Hines read the
legal notice. The Town Manager noted that the Selectmen had a hearing about one year ago.
Two were in favor and one opposed. Selectman George Hines requested that this be put back on
the agenda. He has received calls in favor of a stop sign.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that the Selectmen have a letter from Gail Philip-Spence who
is in favor of a stop sign.
Fred Van Magness of 243 Franklin Street noted that he was very much in favor of a stop sign.
He feels this is a dangerous intersection and there is a new school coming. He also noted that the
large white sign regarding the Compost Center was suppose to be moved but can't be moved.
The resident at 283 Grove Street asked if the stop signs on Franklin Street will remain. He noted
that he is opposed to a stop sign on Grove Street. He feels the signage on Franklin Street is in
the wrong location.
Michael Garcia of 230 Grove Street lives across the street from the intersection. He noted that
the Town should put the island back. The stop sign on Franklin Street is poorly marked. The
Compost sign is big and obstructs the view. He suggested that the Town try putting up a
panoramic mirror.
Fred Van Magness noted that there is no clear site distance at this intersection.
Selectman George Hines noted that the island was taken out because it was being hit. He
suggested that a reconfiguration plan be put on the Capital Improvements Program.
The Town Manager noted that if the sign for the Compost Center was not on the tree, the tree
would block the view anyway.
Ed Kettle of 273 Grove Street noted that the cars do not stop on Franklin Street.
Greg Zanni of 15 Family Circle noted that the problem is on Franklin Street--not Grove Street.
On motion by Hines seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to recommend that
an intersection improvement plan for this intersection be put on the Capital Improvements
Program. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to close the
hearing for the stop sign on Grove Street southbound at Franklin. The motion was approved by a
vote of 4-0-0.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve a stop
sign on Grove Street southbound at Franklin Street. The motion was approved by a vote of
4-0-0.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—April 4, 2000–Page 4
Hearing – Amended Parking Regulations on East Side of Harrison Street between Salem and
Charles Street–Secretary George Hines read the legal notice. The Town Manager noted that no
parking regulations were instituted on the east side of Charles Street, and people are getting
tickets for parking on their lawns. The Town Manager and Selectman George Hines met with
the neighbors, and they are asking the Selectmen to consider seasonal restrictions.
Tom McGrath of 39 Harrison Street noted that he was supportive of the signage because the fire
trucks need to get through. He noted that the problem is seasonal and they are not needed 24
hours a day, seven days a week. He is requesting neighborhood parking stickers or changing the
times.
The Town Manager noted that resident parking means any resident of the Town can park there.
On motion by Hines seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to close the hearing
on amending the parking regulations on the eastside of Harrison Street between Salem and
Charles Street. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
On motion by Hines seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to amend the
parking regulations on Harrison Street between Orange and Charles to read "No Parking 4:00
p.m. to 8:00 p.m., April through August." The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Complete Review of the FY2001 Budget – The Town Manager noted that the target to cut from
the Town side of the budget is $419,000 and we were short $6,400. The Cherry Sheets are in
and with that money, we are $9,000 to the good after the$6,400.
The Town Manager noted that the Department Heads had written a letter to the Selectmen
regarding cutting the Pay and Classification Plan by $8,900, and they are asking the Board of
Selectmen to put the money back in.
Selectman George Hines noted that he originally raised the issue of the Pay and Classification
funding to avoid layoffs. Given the depth of the concerns by the management team and the fact
that we now have the money and positions have been eliminated, he is asking the Board of
Selectmen to honor their commitments and support funding the Pay and Classification Plan.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that in the "heat of the battle," she thought 4% was the place
to stay but if the Selectmen started the program, they should finish it. She indicated that the
Town Manager should not go into another Pay and Class study until the money is set.
Selectman George Hines proposed that contract negotiations stay at zero until finances are better.
Selectman Matthew Cummings noted that the case is well made, and he will support it but we
still have to raise revenues. The Town got an additional $21,000 but we are still spending it.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that this is the first time in the six years that she has been a
Selectmen that she has received a letter regarding employee morale. She feels the Selectmen
need to finish the program.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—April 4, 2000—Pagge 5
Chairman Sally Hoyt noted that this is a fairness issue.
On motion by Cummings seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen voted to reconsider the
elimination of$8,190 from the Pay and Classification Plan. The motion was approved by a vote
of 4-0-0.
On motion by Cummings seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen voted to restore $8,190
to the appropriate line items. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Selectman George Hines asked that the Board of Selectmen reconsider the elimination of the
Assistant Town Manager position at another meeting before Town Meeting when there is a full
Board.
The Town Manager noted that he respects the role of the Board of Selectmen in the budget
process, and the decisions that we have all had to make as a community are difficult ones. He
would like to address one particular reduction, not to change the Board's mind, because it is clear
to him that their minds are made up.
The elimination of the Assistant Town Manager's position will be a major blow to the Town and
its management team. We have tried to make the most effective possible use of the position,
including using the Assistant Town Manager as Department Head of two departments that
previously had department heads. The Assistant Town Manager has been responsible for a
number of special projects.
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The Town Manager faults himself for not making it clear to the Board of Selectmen and the
community the value of the position. Their decision having been made, he wants to assure the
Board that he and all staff will do the best that we can with the situation — but there will be
impacts that we cannot avoid.
Comment to ZBA Regarding 23 George Street Comprehensive Permit Application — The Town
Manager noted that the property owner wants to construct 10 units. The Selectmen had two
hearings and denied supporting the LIP Program. The owner is now using a different application
that does not require the Board of Selectmen approval for the same plan. The ZBA hearing is on
Thursday.
Town Planner Anne Krieg noted that a packet has been sent to the ZBA. This packet included
language on the comprehensive permit law, zoning analysis, general information, all Board of
Selectmen minutes, staff reviews of projects and elements of site plan. Access and density are
still an issue and there is a lack of technical information.
Selectman George Hines asked if the ZBA approves the conceptual plan, would there be further
review. Town Planner Anne Krieg noted there would be no more review -- it would go directly
to the Building Inspector.
Board of Selectmen Meeting=April 4, 2000—Page 6
Selectman George Hines asked if the subdivision codes are enforceable and the Town Planner
noted they are not. Selectman Matthew Cummings noted that it could be required by the ZBA
process.
Selectman Camille Anthony noted that the letter to the ZBA should indicate that there has to be
some site plan review.
Selectman George Hines recommended that the communication to the ZBA should note that the
Selectmen made numerous attempts to work with the developer and were rebuffed.
On motion by Hines seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to direct that a letter
be sent to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a Comprehensive Permit for 23 George Street
outlining the history of the application, the Board's opposition to endorsing a LIP application,
that the Board of Selectmen had previously offered to negotiate and numerating the reasons
therefore; and that the Board of Selectmen direct the Town Manager to include as attachments
the minutes of previous Selectmen's meetings on the subject with the letter to the Board of
Appeals. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Review Annual Town Meeting Warrant—Take positions on Articles—The Town Manager noted
that Article 5 will be indefinitely postponed.
ARTICLE 6 - To dispose of surplus property. On motion by Anthony seconded by Cummings,
the Board of Selectmen voted to authorize the disposition of surplus property. The motion was
approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
ARTICLE 7 - To amend the CIP for the current year. There is one change that is to add
$515,000 to the Barrows School project because of the delay.
ARTICLE 8 - Proposed amendments to the current year budget in the amount of$542,935. The
Town Manager reviewed the list of amendments. On motion by Anthony seconded by Hines, the
Board of Selectmen voted to support the subject matter of Article 8. The motion was approved
by a vote of 3-1-0, with Hines opposed.
Hines moved and Anthony seconded to increase Account #22 FinCom Reserve Fund by $54,800
to offset snow and ice. The motion failed by a vote of 1-3-0, with Cummings, Anthony and Hoyt
opposed.
ARTICLE 9 - Approving the FY2001-2010 Capital Improvements Program. On motion by
Anthony seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to support the subject matter of
Article 9. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
ARTICLE 10 - Approving debt authorization for Chapter 90. On motion by Cummings
seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen voted to support the subject matter of Article 10.
The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—April 4, 2000—Page 7
ARTICLE 11 - Approving debt authorization for Saugus River drainage design will be
indefinitely postponed.
ARTICLE 13 - Approving the FY2001 budget. Will be done at the next meeting.
ARTICLE 14 - Approving the compost bin revolving fund. On motion by Anthony seconded
by Hines, the Board of Selectmen voted to support the subject matter of Article 14. The motion
was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
ARTICLE 16 - Approving the leases of portions of RMHS. The leases have not been signed yet
so this will be done at the next meeting.
ARTICLE 17 - Establishes the COLA. Finance Director Beth Klepeis was present and noted
that Town Meeting needs to vote a COLA of up to 3% for retirees. On motion by Cummings
seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen voted to support the subject matter of Article 17.
The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
ARTICLE 18 - Taking of the conservation bond for Sunset rock Development. On motion by
Anthony seconded by Hines, the Board of Selectmen voted to support the subject matter of
Article 18. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0.
ARTICLE 19 - Taking of land—Spence Farm. This will likely be tabled.
Approval of Minutes
On motion by Anthony seconded by Hines, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the minutes
of their meeting of December 14, 1999. The motion was approved by a vote of 3-0-1, with
Cummings abstaining.
On motion by Cummings seconded by Hines, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the
minutes of their meeting of February 29, 2000. The motion was approved by a vote of 3-0-1,
with Hoyt abstaining.
On motion by Cummings seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the
minutes of their meeting of March 8, 2000. The motion was approved by a vote of 3-0-1, with
Hoyt abstaining.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the
minutes of their meeting of March 14, 2000, as amended. The motion was approved by a vote of
3-0-1, with Hoyt abstaining.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Hines, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the minutes
of their meeting of March 21, 2000 as amended. The motion was approved by a vote of 3-0-1,
with Hoyt abstaining.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—April 4, 2000—Page 8
On motion by Anthony seconded by Cummings, the Board of Selectmen voted to go into
Executive Session for the purpose of discussion of strategy with respect to purchase and sale of
real estate — Reading Business Park— not to come back into Open Session. On a roll call vote,
all four members voted on the affirmative and the Open Session was adjourned at 10:55 p.m.
Respefully submitted,
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Secreta