HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-09-22 Board of Selectmen HandoutDRAFT MOTIONS
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
SEPTEMBER 22, 2009
Tafoya, Bonazoli, Anthony, Goldy, Schubert Hechenbleikner
2) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the resolution in support of
H.3125: An Act to Expand the Bottle Bill.
4c) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the Warrant consisting of
Articles for the Subsequent Town Meeting to take place on November 9,
2009 at the Reading Memorial High School Auditorium, 62 Oakland
Road at 7:30 p.m.
4d) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing on parking
regulations on Mt. Vernon Street.
Move that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic
Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen on March 28,
1995, by adding to Article 5, Section 5.1.7, the following:
"NO PARKING ANYTIME"
Street Location
Mt Vernon St Both sides for 130 feet from the intersection of
High Street
4e) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing rescinding parking
regulations on Birch Meadow Drive, Hillside Road, Waverly Road and
Longfellow Road.
Move that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic
Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen on March 28,
1995, by rescinding from Article 5, Section 5.4.4.1, the following:
"NO PARKING
between the hours of
10:00am to 11:00 am99
0
Street Location
Birch Meadow Drive Both sides of Birch Meadow Drive from
Oakland Road to Arthur B Lord Drive
Waverly Road
Hillside Road
Longfellow Road
Both sides for the entire length
Both sides from Oakland Road to
Waverly Road
Both sides from Oakland North to the
Dead End
4f) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing on parking
regulations on Lowell Street.
Move that the Board of Selectmen amend the Town of Reading Traffic
Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board of Selectmen, by adopting
under Article 5, Section 5.4.1 as follows:
"5.4.1 30 Minute Parking; No Person shall park a vehicle
between the hours of 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM, Monday through
Saturday, for more than thirty (30) minutes on any of the streets
or parts of streets listed in Appendix A-2."
Appendix A-2
5 .4.1 Parking prohibited during certain hours on certain streets
30 minute parking 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Monday though Saturday
STREET LOCATION
Lowell Street From the corner of Main Street on the westerly
side, six (6) spaces heading in a Northerly
direction.
4g) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing on amendments to
the liquor policies.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the amendments to Article 3
of the Board of Selectmen policies.
4h) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing on amendments to
the Policy of Solicitation/Acceptance of Donations.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the amendments to the
Policy on Solicitation/Acceptance of Donations.
5a) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of September 1,
2009 as amended.
Move that the Board of Selectmen adjourn the meeting at _ p.m.
(9
RESOLUTION
IN SUPPORT OF H.3125: AN ACT TO EXPAND THE BOTTLE BILL
WHEREAS: The Commonwealth's Bottle Bill was created in 1981 and has not been
updated to include newer plastics that were unavailable in 1981, including
bottled water; and
WHEREAS: 305 million gallons of bottled water were consumed in Massachusetts last
year; and
WHEREAS: Ratepayers within the MWRA service area enjoy some of the cleanest and
best tasting water in the country; and
WHEREAS: Communities are struggling in this economy to provide services and maintain
public utilities including water and sewer infrastructure; and
WHEREAS: The water and sewer needs of the Commonwealth outpace the availability of
dollars to help with infrastructure projects; and
WHEREAS: This bill would be an opportunity to invest in the "forgotten infrastructure" of
water and sewer infrastructure by making funds available to municipalities,
water districts, and the MWRA to be used for water and sewer infrastructure
repairs and projects; and
WHEREAS: This bill would create a win-win situation for communities, ratepayers and for
the environment.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Reading, Massachusetts
supports H.3125: An Act to Expand the Bottle Bill which includes a five-
cent ($0.05) deposit on bottled water containers and creates a dedicated fund
with unclaimed deposits available to municipalities, water districts, and the
MWRA to be used for water and sewer infrastructure repairs and projects.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Ben Tafoya, Chairman
James E. Bonazoli, Vice Chairman
Camille W. Anthony, Secretary
Stephen A. Goldy
Richard W. Schubert
Date: Monday, September 21, 2009
Re: ICMA Conference
Report to the Reading Board of Selectmen
ICMA 2009 Conference
Montreal CA - September 13-16 2009
I appreciate the Board of Selectmen support for my attendance at the ICM<A Conference in
Montreal this year, When the Fall Street Faire was initially scheduled for September 20, I planned
to spend Saturday through Wednesday at the conference. I had made reservations and travel
arrangements based on that scenario. When the Fall Faire was changed to September 13 to avoid
the Jewish New Year, I changed my reservations etc. so that I could attend much of the Fall Street
Faire.
Therefore the number of sessions I was able to attend is abbreviated from my attendance at past
conferences, and I was not able to attend any ICMA University sessions this year. Even so it was a
very worthwhile experience.
Sustainable Development and the State of the Environment
Keynote session. During his long and distinguished career, award-winning scientist,
environmentalist and broadcaster Dr. David Suzuki has raised public consciousness about
environmental issues and inspired massive efforts to preserve and protect our natural world. In his
return to ICMA, he will offer a model of sustainable development--including the role that local
governments can play--in which humanity can live well and still protect the environment.
Making Ends Meet: Revenue Enhancements and Cost-Saving Measures
Economic uncertainty and declining traditional revenues have many local governments
contemplating their funding options. This session will offer ideas for new revenue sources and
strategies for reducing expenses and saving money. Participants will also explore ways to
introduce potentially unpopular ideas for raising revenues to elected officials and the public.
Session Leader: Russell W. Blake, City Manager, Pocomoke City, Maryland Panelists: Byron
Davies, Chief Executive, City and County of Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom; Dr. Hanspeter
D
TO: Board of Selectmen
Knirsch, Consult GmbH, Geschdftsf ihrer, Germany; Mark D. Vanderpool, City Manager, Sterling
Heights, Michigan
Regionalism and Consolidation: If It Were Easy, Would Everyone Do It?
In tight budget years, consolidating governments or government services seems like a smart move,
right? Maybe. Communities around the world--including those around Montreal--have tried
merging in the past, each to varying degrees of success. What can we learn from those who have
been through the process? This session will address the challenges and pitfalls of consolidation,
discuss how to maintain a sense of community during the transition, and share recently collected
data comparing several consolidation experiences in the United States. Session Leader: Jerry
Newfarmer, President and CEO, Management Partners, Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio Panelists: Dennis M.
Hays, County Administrator, Unified Government of Wyandotte County-Kansas City, Kansas;
David C. Johnstone, former city manager; Candiac, Quebec; Kurt M. Thurmaier, Professor,
Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois
Community by Design: Rethinking Land Use Strategies for a Sustainable World
More and more local governments are rethinking their land use strategies as part of their plans for
a sustainable future. Whether it's allowing for increased density in the central business district or
creating more multi-use trails to connect neighborhoods, land use is being approached in new and
different ways these days.
An Outlook for the Economy and Local Government
Keynote session. Dr. Alice RivHn is a senior fellow in the economic studies program 4t the
Brookings Institution and a visiting professor at Georgetown University's Public Policy Institute.
Among the most influential policy makers in Washington, D.C., she is a visionary thinker with a
keen eye on the changing state of the national economy, the U.S. health system, and the state of
U.S. cities. Dr. Rivlin will brief attendees on the current outlook for the economy with a particular
focus on implications for local governments.
The Right Performance Metrics for Real Performance Gains
Shrinking budgets. Reduced revenue. Rising costs. In light of these and other economic challenges
that local governments currently face, performance management has become more important than
ever, emerging as an effective way for local government not only to become more effective, but
also to cut costs and save money. This presentation will illustrate methods to define effective
measurements for each level of an organization and make these measurements part of an integrated
framework of key performance indicators that supports the local government's goals and business
strategies. Presented by our Strategic Partner EMA, Inc. Speakers: Judith Cascio, Vice President
Public Sector, EMA, Inc., Hartford, Connecticut; Nancy Lerner, Managing Partner, EMA, Inc.,
Houston, Texas
Going Green with Less Green
Is environmental sustainability a luxury we can no longer afford in difficult economic times? This
session will explore the challenges we face staying the course on our sustainability initiatives
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without breaking the bank. Listen to advice on how to align the expectations of elected officials
and citizens, and hear expert tips for energy efficiencies that can help save money. Session Leader:
Edward K. Shikada, Deputy City Manager, San Jose, California Panelists: Chris Earley, Principal,
Greening Urban, Richmond, Virginia; Richard Michaud, City Administrator, Saco, Maine
Obesity in Your Community: Why You Should Care and What You Can Do
Local governments in the U.S. and worldwide are addressing the obesity epidemic and related
health problems with a variety of efforts to promote active living and improve access to healthy
food. Now they have a way to gauge their success. ICMA's Center for Performance Measurement
(CPM) has teamed up, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop measures
that local governments can use to evaluate the effectiveness of policies and environmental change
strategies to prevent obesity. The new CPM template expands on ICMA's ongoing Healthy
Communities work, which supports the proactive efforts of managers who grasp the urgency of
this looming health crisis. Hear about the strategies of two cities--Albany, OR, and Lynchburg,
VA--that have brought to this effort an emphasis on collaboration with schools -and other
stakeholders and a big-picture focus on sustainability. Session Leader: Mark Thompson, Assistant
Director, Center for Performance Measurement, ICMA, Washington, D.C. Panelists: Amy C.
Lowry, MPA, Associate Project Director, Common Community Measures for Obesity Prevention
Project, Atlanta, Georgia; Bonnie Svrcek, Deputy City Manager, Lynchburg, Virginia; Wes Hare,
City Manager, Albany, Oregon
Can You Keep Costs Down and Services Up?
All communities--large and small--are looking for ways to improve or maintain service delivery
while reducing their costs. Can it be done, especially with limited money in the budget for
consultants? This panel of practitioners will discuss best practices in undertaking these kinds of
improvements, the key questions to ask, and the range of approaches available before outlining
their experience implementing specific approaches including workflow processing, lean thinking,
and performance measurement. Session Leader: David J. Krings, Consultant, TechSolve,
Cincinnati, Ohio Panelists: Curry Clifford, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Region of Peel,
Ontario, Canada; Roger W. Fraser, City Administrator, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Jonathan Rand
Lewis, Deputy City Manager, Palm Bay, Florida
Shared Services
The benefits of "economies of scale" continue to push small communities to come together to
provide shared services to their residents. By pooling resources, small communities are able to
offer services that they wouldn't otherwise be able to afford. This session will look at which
services work best when shared, and what some of the challenges and pitfalls are of the shared
services model.
Tough Choices--Reductions in Force (RIF) vs. Salary/Hour Reductions
Chances are you've had to make some pretty difficult decisions lately about laying off employees,
making pay cuts, and more. This roundtable will focus on your options in these tough economic
times, looking at RIFs vs, salary and hour reductions, early retirement packages, and contract vs,
salaried employees.
J
Standing Still Is Not an Option: Why Organizations Need to Focus on Workplace Health and
Well-Being
Keynote session. The conference's closing session combines elements of ICMA's traditional
Celebration of Service to the Profession, including induction of the incoming executive board and
recognition of ICMA's 2009 Distinguished Service Award recipients Dennis Beach and David
Elder and other award recipients, with a presentation by Linda Duxbury, one of Canada's leading
workplace health and demographic experts. Dr. Duxbury will identify what you should be doing to
help your employees--and yourself--live happier, more balanced, and more productive lives.
Celebration of Service
I was privileged to participate in this program in recognition of my 35 years of service to
professional local government management.
COST:
• Registration $ 400
• Lodging $ 624.33
• Travel $ 837.56
• Meal $ 50
Total $1911.89
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DRAFT
November 9, 2009 Subsequent Town Meeting
WARRANT OUTLINE 09/22/2009
Art. Mover/ Moderator
# Article Description Sponsor Comment Notes
1 Reports Board of Selectmen • RMLD,
• State of the Schools
• Follow-up on Cemetery
2
Instructions
Board of Selectmen
3
Amend Capital Improvement Board of Selectmen
•
Program FY 2010 - FY 2019
4
Amend FY 2010 Budget
FINCOM
5
Payment of prior years bills
Board of Selectmen
e
6
Disposal of tangible property
Board of Selectmen
• Teimis Court windscreen
7
Acceptance of COLA for Exemptions Board of Assessors
•
8
Rescind debt authorizations
Board of Selectmen
•
9
Sewer I/I Grant/Loan
Board of Selectmen
•
10
Authorize the sum of $60,000
for Board of Cemetery
•
design of a building at Laurel
Hill Trustees
Vb
1~
SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING
(Seal)
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, ss.
To any of the Constables of the Town of Reading, Greetings:
In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby required to
notify and warn the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in elections and
Town affairs, to meet at the Reading Memorial High School Auditorium, 62 Oakland
Road, in said Reading, on Monday, November 9, 2009, at seven thirty o'clock in the
evening, at which time and place the following articles are to be acted upon and
determined exclusively by Town Meeting Members in accordance with the provisions of
the Reading Home Rule Charter.
ARTICLE 1 To hear and act on the reports of the Board of Selectmen, Town
Accountant, Treasurer-Collector, Board of Assessors, Director of Public Works, Town
Clerk, Tree Warden, Board of Health, School Committee, Contributory Retirement
Board, Library Trustees, Municipal Light Board, Finance Committee, Cemetery Trustees,
Community Planning & Development Commission, Conservation Commission, Town
Manager and any other Board or Special Committee.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 2 To choose all other necessary Town Officers and Special
Committees and determine what instructions shall be given Town Officers and Special
Committees, and to see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing or transfer from
available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for the purpose of funding Town Officers
and Special Committees to carry out the instructions given to them, or take any other
action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 3 To see if the Town will vote to amend the FY 2010 - FY 2019,
Capital Improvements Program as provided for in Section 7-7 of the Reading Home Rule
Charter, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to amend one or more of the votes
taken under Article 14 of the April 27, 2009 Annual Town Meeting relating to the Fiscal
Year 2010 Municipal Budget, and see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing or
transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate as the result of any such
amended votes for the operation of the Town and its government, or take any other
action with respect thereto.
Finance Committee
ARTICLE 5 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the payment during Fiscal
Year 20.10 of bills remaining unpaid for previous fiscal years for goods and services
actually rendered to the Town, or take any other action with respect thereto.
9
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 6 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to
sell, or exchange, or dispose of, upon such terms and conditions as they may determine,
various items of Town tangible property, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 7 To see if the Town will vote to increase the senior tax exemptions
as follows:
To increase the property tax exemption. allowed to certain senior citizens and surviving
spouses and minors under Mass. General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 17D by
any percentage up to the annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) as determined by the
Commissioner of Revenue; and
To increase the income and asset limits certain senior citizens may have to qualify for an
exemption under Mass. General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41C by any
percentage up to the annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) as determined by the
Commissioner of Revenue,
or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Assessors
ARTICLE 8 To see if the Town will vote to rescind authorized but unused debt
for:
Energy and similar improvements to Town owned buildings as authorized
by Article 9 on November 10, 2008,
or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 9 To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing pursuant to
G.L. Chapter 44, §7(1) or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for
the purpose of reconstructing surface drains, sewers and sewerage systems, including
the costs of engineering services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services
and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said
sum to be spent under the direction of the Town Manager; and to see if the Town will
authorize the Town Manager, the Board of Selectmen, or any other agency of the Town
to apply for a grant or grants to be used to defray all or any part of said sewer
construction and/or reconstruction and related matters; and to see if the Town will vote
to authorize the Town Manager to enter into any or all agreements as may be necessary
to carry out the purposes of this Article; and to see if the Town will authorize the Town
Manager, the Board of Selectmen, or any other agency of the Town to apply for a non-
interest bearing loan from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, and to
authorize the Treasurer-Collector, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to
borrow pursuant to said loan, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
~3
ARTICLE 10 To see if the Town will vote the sum of Sixty Thousand Dollars
($60,000) from the sale of real estate and/or other funds for the purpose of designing a
building or buildings to replace the present service building in Laurel Hill Cemetery
including but not limited to design specifications, test borings, surveying and any other
items incidental thereto, said funds to be expended by the Town Manager, and that the
Town Treasurer be and hereby is authorized and instructed to transfer said funds to
carry out the purpose of this vote, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Cemetery Trustees
ARTICLE 11 To see if the Town will vote to accept the provisions of G.L. c. 64L,
§ 2(a) to impose a local sales tax upon the sale of restaurant meals originating within the
Town by a vendor at the rate of .75 percent of the gross receipts of the vendor from the
sale of restaurant meals to take effect January 1, 2010, or take any other action with
respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 12 To see if'the Town will vote to amend Article 5, Public Order, of
the Town of Reading General Bylaws as follows: (New language is in italics.)
5.5.4 Public Buildinqs, Public Property and Public Ways
5.5.4.1 No person shall gamble or keep, use or have in his possession
any spirituous or intoxicating liquor in any building or room owned
or occupied by the Town or upon any public property or public
ways, except as otherwise authorized by the Board of Selectmen,
special Statute or general laws.
5.5.4.2 No person shall smoke or have in his possession any lighted cigar,
cigarette, or other tobacco product in any building or room owned
or occupied by the Town,
or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 13 To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 4.5, Licenses, of the
Town of Reading General Bylaws by deleting there from in its entirety Section 4.5.2,
Junk, and inserting therein a new provision as follows:
4.5.2 Junk Old and Precious Metals and Secondhand Articles
4.5.2.1 License Required
4.5.2.1.1 Every person who is in the business of collecting, dealing in, or keeping
a shop for the purchase, sale or barter of junk, old and precious metals
including gold and silver, and/or secondhand articles, shall be licensed
by the Board of Selectmen.
i4
4.5.2.1.2 No person shall use any building, enclosure or other structure for the
storage, sale or keeping of rags, waster paper stock or other
inflammable material without a license therefore from the Board of
Selectmen.
4.5.2.2 Application for License; Term; Fee
4.5.2.2.1 Each application for a license shall be made in writing to the Board of
Selectmen and set forth the name of the party licensed, the nature of
the business and the building or place in which it is to be carried out.
4.5.2.2.2 Each license for the keeping of a shop for the purchase, sale or barter
of junk, old and precious metals including gold and silver, and/or
secondhand articles shall be issued on a location specific basis.
4.5.2.2.3 Licenses under this bylaw may be issued only after notice and a
public hearing and shall be for a period of one (1) year unless
sooner revoked by the Board of Selectmen.
4.5.2.2.4 The fee for each such license shall be determined by-the Board of
Selectmen.
4.5.2.2.5 The license shall be clearly and prominently displayed in a suitable
and conspicuous place on the premises.
4.5.2.2.6 Such license shall run from April until May of the following year.
4.5.2.3 Record of Purchases, Examination and Inspection of Records and Articles
4.5.2.3.1 Every junk dealer, old and precious metal dealer or secondhand article
dealer shall keep a book in which shall be written at the time of each
purchase, a description thereof, the name, age and residence of the
person from whom the purchase was made, and the day and hour
when such purchase was made. Photocopies of picture identification
shall be taken and maintained for any person who sells or barters an
item.
4.5.2.3.2 A list of all purchases and acquisitions shall be submitted to the
Reading Police Department within one (1) week of such purchase or
acquisition.
4.5.2.3.3 The Chief of Police or his designee shall at all times have the authority
to inspect or examine all books kept by the dealer or keeper of the
shop and shall have the right to inspect and examine all articles and
merchandise therein.
4.5.2.4 Purchases from Persons less than Eighteen (18) Years of Ape Prohibited
No junk dealer, old and precious metal dealer or secondhand article dealer or any
employee thereof shall directly or indirectly purchase or receive by way of barter or
exchange any junk, old and precious metals or secondhand articles from a person under
the age of eighteen (18) years.
~S
4.5.2.5 Articles Purchased or Received to be Retained for Fourteen (14) Days
No item purchased or received by any dealer or keeper of a shop licensed under this
bylaw shall be removed from the Town, sold, or otherwise disposed of for at least
fourteen (14) days from its date of purchase or acquisition unless permission has been
obtained from the Chief of Police or his designee who may request to inspect or
photograph the item.
4.5.2.6 Testing of Weighing and Measuring Devices
All weighing or measuring devices used by a licensee in the conduct of the licensed
business shall be tested and sealed by the Town of Reading Sealer of Weights and
Measures prior to being placed into service. All weighing and measuring devices shall
thereafter be inspected and tested on an annual basis.
4.5.2.7 Rules and Regulations
The Board of Selectmen may adopt rules and regulations governing the issuance and
conduct of business for the sale of junk, old and precious metals and secondhand
articles pursuant to the authority granted by M.G.L. Chapter 140, §54 and the authority
granted by this bylaw.
4.5.2.8 Suspension or Revocation of License
Any license issued hereunder may be suspended or revoked, after a notice and hearing,
for cause or violation of this bylaw and/or the Board of Selectmen's rules and
regulations.
4.5.2.9 Enforcement and Penalties
Violations of this bylaw shall be subject to a fine of Three Hundred Dollars ($300.00).
Each day the violation exists shall constitute a separate offense. This penalty may be
enforced pursuant to Section 5.11, Non-Criminal Disposition of Certain Violations of
Bylaws and Rules and Regulations, of this bylaw.
4.5.2.10 Severability
If any provision of this bylaw is held to be invalid, it shall not affect the validity or
application of the remaining provisions, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 14 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Cemetery Rules and
Regulations of the Town of Reading by rescinding the previous Cemetery Rules and
Regulations and adopting the following Cemetery Rules and Regulations:
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Foreword
The Town of Reading Home Rule Charter adopted on March 24, 1986 and amended
November 13, 2004 provides that:
"The Board of Cemetery Trustees shall be responsible for the preservation, care,
improvement and embellishment of the Town's cemeteries and burial lots therein and
such other powers and duties given to the Board of Cemetery Trustees under the
Constitution and General Laws of the Commonwealth, by the Charter, by bylaw or by
Town Meeting vote."
Working under this charge, the Board of Cemetery Trustees strives not only to fulfill its
legal responsibilities regarding the Town's cemeteries, but also to preserve the aesthetic
quality of our heritage by establishing the following rules and regulations. The Trustees
encourage public comment at regularly schedule meetings or via correspondence.
TOWN OF READING
CEMETERY RULES AND REGULATIONS
The Board of Cemetery Trustees has set forth the following rules and. regulations for the
ownership, use and care of burial sites in the Town's cemeteries. The authority to do this
is found in Chapter 114 of Massachusetts General Laws.
Resident Requirements
1. The sale of lots is limited to current Reading residents only.
Ownership of Lots
2. The Trustees shall set the price of lots. All lots must be paid in full at the time of the
sale.
3. The owner of a lot is limited to burying human remains in that site. The owner has a
right to place a memorial subject to limitations as outlined in other sections of these
regulations.
4. When a lot is purchased, the owner will be issued a deed specifying the location and
dimensions of the lot. The Trustees are responsible for corner posts set at each lot.
These will clearly define the number of the lot. The deed will contain certain terms and
conditions for the use of this lot.
Copies of lost deeds may be obtained by paying an established fee.
5. The owner of a lot may only transfer ownership of that lot by deed if such transfer is
approved by the Trustees. A fee will be charged for the recording of deed transfer. The
owner does not have a right to lease the property.
6. Lots may be resold only to the Town of Reading, at the original purchase price.
7. Upon the death of the lot owner, ownership shall pass as provided by the statutes of
Massachusetts in force at that time. The Trustees will require proof of the rights of
ownership of such lot.
Care of Lots
8. The Trustees shall require certain deposits to be made at the time of sale for
perpetual care of the lot or grave without expense to the Town.
(I
"Perpetual Care" means the cutting of grass on the grave or lot at reasonable intervals,
raking and cleaning, reseeding and other work as may be necessary to keep the lot or
lots in good condition. Perpetual care will not include the repairing or replacing of
memorials.
Memorials
9. A memorial may be installed on a lot. The Trustees must approve the design and
specifications for any memorial. Flat markers shall be of granite or bronze; upright
memorials shall be of granite. No other materials shall be allowed.
10. Where permitted only one upright memorial of granite may be placed on a lot
subject of limitations as outlined in other sections of these regulations. One flat marker
may be set on an individual grave. Markers may not be set to embrace two or more
graves. All markers shall be set flush with the ground. The foundations for all memorials
will be installed by the Cemetery Department and a fee will be charged.
11. In Laurel Hill, a memorial will not be installed unless the lot is endowed with
perpetual care. On old lots matching markers may be used if existing markers exceed
regulation size. If upright headstones become broken or excessively tipped, the right is
reserved to lay these into the ground as flat markers.
12. Neither the Trustees nor the Town shall be liable for damage to memorials or
markers.
13. A stone cutter or other person who is to do work on a structure erected on a lot or
grave must obtain a written permit from the Cemetery Director before beginning work.
Work must be performed under the supervision of the Director. The work area must be
left in proper condition.
14. An owner of a lot or lots does not have the right to plant trees, shrubs or plants on
the lot(s). Nor does the owner have the right to erect a fence, curbing, hedge or any
other landmark. The Trustees have the right to remove any shrub, hedge, root or branch
that they may deem detrimental to other cemetery lots. The Trustees also have the right
to remove unsightly flowers, old vases and other containers that may present an unsafe
condition or be detrimental to the looks of the lot or the cemetery in general. No vigil
lights or wooden crosses will be allowed on any lot or grave.
Memorial Regulations
15. The following regulations are for upright memorials. These limitations must be
followed or the memorial may not be erected.
On a two grave lot, maximum size 3'0"x 1'0" base, 3' high.
On a three grave lot, maximum size 4'0"x 1'3" base, 3' high.
On a four grave lot, maximum size 4'6"x 1'6" base, 4' high.
On a five grave lot, maximum size 4'6"x 1'6" base, 4' high.
On a six grave lot, maximum size 5'x 2' base, 4' high.
On a seven grave lot, maximum size 5'6"x 2' base, 4' high.
On an eight grave lot, maximum size 6'x 2' base, 4' high.
On a single grave, only a flat marker is allowed.
Unless otherwise noted all markers shall be 2' x 1', and shall be of bronze or granite.
Baby grave markers shall be 1'3" x 0'8". Granite markers shall be consistently 4" thick.
In all veteran sections, grave markers shall only be of bronze.
Special Regulations for Charles Lawn Memorial Park
16. No upright memorial will be allowed on lots within this cemetery. Each individual or
extra depth grave space may have a flush marker. A central marker will be allowed on
lots of two or more burial spaces. This will be no larger than 3'x 1'.
17. Floral decorations are limited to one pot of 8 inches in diameter per grave.
Urn Gardens at Forest Glen and Charles Lawn
18. Two cremation urns may be interred in each grave.
19. Memorialization will be limited to one 2'x1' bronze flush marker in Forest Glen.
Granite or bronze markers may be used in Charles Lawn.
Interments and Removals
20. No interment may be made before (a) a permit is issued by the Board of Health to
the Director, (b) the owner of the lot gives an order to use the lot, and (c) all fees have
been paid.
21. The Director must be given reasonable advance notice of an interment or removal.
This notice must give the lot number, the grave number, name and age of deceased for
a burial, size of box and name of the undertaker in charge. Neither the Director nor the
trustees will be held responsible for any error in the given 'notice (including any order
given by phone).
Fees for opening graves, making and recording interments, reinterments, funerals after
working hours or Saturday afternoons or holidays as well as other services will be
established by the Trustees and shall be paid in advance..
22. Funerals will not be allowed on Sundays, New Year's Day, Memorial Day,
Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day nor Christmas Day.
23. All burial cases must be sectional concrete or monolithic containers.
24. In each regular grave space, one regular interment plus one cremation urn or two
cremation urns will be allowed, except extra depth lots in Charles Lawn, where
provisions have been made for two burials in one grave space.
General Regulations
25. All funeral processions in the cemetery are under the direction and control of the
Director.
26. No firearms are allowed in any cemetery except for military and memorial services.
8
27. Vehicles, except for those in a funeral, procession, may be excluded from any
cemetery. Maximum speed limit in any cemetery is fifteen miles per hour.
28. All persons walking through a cemetery must keep to the pathways and not
trespass on lots except for gaining access to their own lots. Parents must take full
responsibility for their children and not permit them to climb on headstones. Loitering,
playing and dogs are not allowed.
29. Unauthorized gravestone rubbing is not allowed.
30. Cemeteries are open from sunrise to one half hour after sunset.
31. The soliciting of business by anyone within the cemetery is prohibited.
32. No employee shall receive any fee or gratuity from any person except the standard
fees prescribed by the Trustees and to be paid to the Town. Any employee violating this
rule will be subject to disciplinary action.
33. The Trustees shall have authority to grant to owners to depart in special instances
from the provisions of the foregoing regulations in cases where it clearly appears that the
spirit and intent of the regulation will not thereby be violated.
or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Cemetery Trustees
ARTICLE 15 To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 6.3.17 of the Town
of Reading Zoning By-laws as follows: (Language underlined shows deletions/words in
italics denotes new language.)
6.3.17. Reconstruction after Destruction (by a Special Permit)
The Board of Appeals may grant a Special Permit for the reconstruction of a use,
structure, building, sign, parking space or loading bay or other situation allowed by
Special Permit, which is destroyed or damaged by explosion, collapse, fire, storm,
natural disaster or other catastrophic event, any of which is beyond the control of the
owner or by the proposed voluntary action of the owner, to demolish, in whole or in part,
in a manner different from the prior conditions, provided that the Board determines that:
a. The reconstruction conforms to the current requirements of this bylaw to
the maximum extent practicable.
b. The reconstruction is appropriate in scale and mass for the neighborhood,
with particular consideration of abutting properties.
b. c. In the case of the reconstruction of a nonconforming use, that it complies
with the standards for the substitution of a nonconforming use.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 16
D
and you are directed to serve this Warrant by posting an attested copy thereof in at least
one (1) public place in each precinct of the Town not less than fourteen (14) days prior to
November 9, 2009, the date set for the meeting in said Warrant, and to publish this
Warrant in a newspaper published in the Town, or providing in a manner such as
electronic submission, holding for pickup or mailing, an attested copy of said Warrant to
each Town Meeting Member.
Hereof fail not and make due return of this Warrant with your doings thereon to
the Town Clerk at or before the time appointed for said meeting.
Given under our hands this 22nd day of September, 2009.
Ben Tafoya, Chairman
James E. Bonazoli, Vice Chairman
Camille W. Anthony, Secretary
Stephen A. Goldy
Richard W. Schubert
SELECTMEN OF READING
Thomas H. Freeman, Constable
10
. (j~)
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, ss. Officer's Return, Reading:
By virtue of this Warrant, I, on notified and warned the
inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote on Town affairs, to meet at the
place and at the time specified by posting attested copies of this Town Meeting Warrant
in the following public places within the Town of Reading:
Precinct 1 J. Warren Killam School, 333 Charles Street
Precinct 2 Peter Sanborn Place, 50 Bay State Road
Precinct 3 Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street
Precinct 4 Joshua Eaton School, 365 Summer Avenue
Precinct 5 Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street
Precinct 6 Austin Preparatory School, 101 Willow.Street
Precinct 7 Reading Library, Local History Room, 64 Middlesex Avenue
Precinct 8 Wood End School, 85 Sunset Rock Lane
The date of posting being not less than fourteen (14) days prior to November 9, 2009,
the date set for the Subsequent Town Meeting in this Warrant.
also caused an attested copy of this Warrant to be published in the Reading
Chronicle in the issue of
Thomas H. Freeman, Constable
A true copy. Attest:
Laura Gemme, Town Clerk
11
ZZ
Page 1 of 2
Hechenbleikner, Peter
From: Gary S. Brackett [gsbrackett@brackettlucas.com]
Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 3:09 PM
To: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Cc: Ellen Callahan Doucette
Subject: West Street Historic District Commission
From: ecdoucette@brackettlucas.com [mailto:ecdoucette@brackettlucas.com]
Sent: Monday, September 21, 2009 9:36 PM
To: gsbrackett@brackettlucas.com
Subject: Fwd: West Street Historic District Commission
Importance: High
Peter,
I am writing regarding the options available to address the issue of the complete vacancy of membership for the
West Street Historic District Commission in light of two pending applications for Certificates of Appropriateness
for work to be undertaken on dwellings within the District. I offer the following:
One option is for Town Meeting to rescind the bylaw establishing Local Historic Districts and/or removing the
West Street Historic District (identified in the Appendix to the bylaw),in accordance with G.L. c.4, sec.
4B. However, rescission of the bylaw is equal to an amendment of the bylaw which requires not only a 2/3 vote
of Town Meeting, but a recommendation from the Historical Commission, or the passage of 60 days without such
recommendation. This time frame allows for the possibility of a Historical Commission recommendation prior to
the November 9, 2009 STM. The form of the article would be similar to that provided you regarding the Quinn
Bill.
In the event that the town wishes to preserve the West Street Historic District and its Commission and
the procedure for the issuance of Certificates of Appropriateness, it is my opinion that, in the absence of
nominations from the various local organizations (Board of Realtors, Architects) the Board of Selectmen is not
limited in the individuals it may appoint. G.L. c.40C, sec. 4 states that if the Board of Selectmen does not receive
nominations from the various organizations within 30 days of their written request to such organizations, "the
appointing body may proceed to make the appointment to the commission without nomination by such
organization." Section 5.18.4.2 of the bylaw states this alternative more simply: that the Selectmen "if possible"
may appoint individuals nominated by local organizations but if no such nominations are received, it "may
proceed to make appointments as it sees fit."
The ability of the Selectmen to appoint as they desire in the absence of nominations would allow for the
possibility of appointing members of the Reading Historical Commission as members of the West Street Historic
District, if they agreed to accept. In addition, whether or not the members of the RHC are regular or special
municipal employees, holding two or more unpaid appointed positions will not violate the provisions of c.268A,
sec. 20 relative to multiple positions.
I am available by cell phone Tuesday if you need to discuss this with me, and I have also discussed this specific
issue with Gary Brackett if you wish to call the office to discuss this further with him.
Regards
Ellen
9/22/2009
Page 1 of 1
Schena, Paula
From: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 8:31 AM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Parking Regulations Mt Vernon
For Board of Selectmen this evening
From: Bill Hecht [maiIto: hecht.bill @gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, September 21, 2009 6:16 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Parking Ruglations Mt Vernon
Peter
As a resident of Mt. Vernon St. I whole heartedly agree with the parking change to no parking either
side
within 130 feet of High Street. With the conversion of Chute street into one way only
the High Street/Mt Vernon intersection has seen increased utilization. The hill at that end of Mt. Vernon
forces cars to take the corner wide
and slowly. The commuters essentially create a single passable lane and its much worse in the winter.
An enforced parking ban such as the one mentioned would greatly enhance the safety of this road, my
only concern is the residents who regularly park on that end of the street, perhaps there is a provision
you can make for them.
Bill Hecht
57 Mt Vernon st
9/22/2009
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Page 1 of 1
Hechenblefter, Peter
From: Doug Cowell [doug@douglascowell.com]
Sent: Saturday, September 19, 2009 12:09 PM
To: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us
Subject: Board/Committee/Commission Comments
Request From: Doug Cowell
Email: dour (i%oIMIascowell.com
Address: 958 Main Street
City: Reading
State: MA
Zip: 01867-1719
Phone:
Organization: Resident
On parking issue for Birchmeadow Drive: The restrictions should read "On School Days". Otherwise, during weekend activities this
will be counter productive.
I recently viewed the artist design drawing for the Atlantic Constriction site. Why does Reading consistently approve such hideous
buildings? This Post Modem design beside a Colonial pleasing structure in a area near the 1890's Rail Station is beyond belief. Years
ago you let McDonalds put the eye sore jungle gym on Main Street; haven't there been enough out of place buildings in this square?
All that new improvement and this is what you allow? Take some action and have this re-designed to complement the area, it is only
the fagade, and should not be a cost issue.
9/21/2009
Schena, Paula
From: Hechenbleikner, Peter
'Sent: Sunday, September 20, 2009 10:03 AM
To: Ginny
Cc: Schena, Paula
Subject: RE: Rescinding Parking Regulations on Birch Meadow Drive, Hillside Rd, Waverly Road and
Londgellow Road
Thank you for your email. I will see that your concerns get raised at eh hearing on
Tuesday.
Pete
c BOS
-----Original Message-----
From: Ginny [mailto:virginiamartinaverizon.net]
Sent: Sat 9/19/2009 1:56 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Rescinding Parking Regulations on Birch Meadow Drive, Hillside Rd, Waverly Road
and Londgellow Road
Dear Mr. Hechenbleikner;
I am responding to your letter concerning rescinding parking regulations on Longfellow
Road. I have resided at 51 Longfellow Road for the past 23 years. I am on the corner of
Longfellow and Oakland Road. I would like to see the parking restrictions remain in
place. This road has many young children who have been able to play safely without the
threat of a speeding car taking off from its parking place in the neighborhood: Also, the
children who walk home from school down my street can now do so without jumping out of the
way of a speeding vehicle! I have been able to get out of my driveway without having to
call the police to come and remove cars from either across or in the way of me exiting my
driveway. I have not had to be concerned with cars parking in such a way the emergency
vehicles would be unable to turn the corner because the high school kids park any which
way they please even extending past the foot limit from the corner. And I have been most
happy with not having to pick up the remains of McDonald's', Dunkin Donuts',.Wendy's bags,
cups, uneaten food, cans, school supplies, papers, socks, shoes and any.other unused junk,
trash or what-have-you that these drivers leave on the street, sidewalk, my yard, the
middle of the street etc. I am not able to attend Tuesday's public hearing, so I am
submitting this email in hopes that the parking regulations for Longfellow Road, Oakland
Road and others nearby remain in place indefinitely. I feel there is adequate parking at
our new high school and that Birch Meadow Drive should remain open for student parking.
Thank you for considering my comments in the review of this matter.
Yours truly
Virginia M. Martin
51 Longfellow Road
Reading, MA
(f2:1~
Page 1 of 1
Hechenbleikner, Peter
From: rnrchambercom@aol.com
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2009 3:51 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Short Term Parking
Hello Pete,
I know you spoke to Bill Crowley already but here is what he reported back to me regarding Short Term
parking needs on Main Street.
You can let me know if you need any more assistance from us. Irene
All but one business owner desires to have shorter parking limits imposed in the municipal lot in front of their
respective businesses. The recommended time limit is 20-30 minutes, especiallly between the hours of 4PM and
8 or 9PM, Monday through Saturday. I suggested to those owners, and they all agreed, that there is no need to
impose these limits on all 24 (non-handicap) parking spaces. 6 - 8 spaces could be designated, and that they all
be on one side of the parking area.
The Town Manager indicated that the Police Chief may have reservations about such a change bacause of
staffing for enforcement during the evening hours. However, the hours of 4 pm to 8 or 9 pm was a common
request.
Best regards,
William F. Crowley
First Vice President
Reading - North Reading Chamber of Commece
9/22/2009
9