HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-06-23 Board of Selectmen Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting
June 23, 1998
The meeting convened at 7:03 p.m. in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street,
Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Camille Anthony, Vice Chairman Bruce
MacDonald, Secretary Sally Hoyt, Selectmen George Hines and Matthew Nestor, Town
Manager Peter Hechenbleikner and the following list of interested parties: Stewart Chipman,
Mary Higgins, Tim McGrath, Debbie and Michael Boschetti, Paul Boudette, Ed Halpin, Phil
Johnson, Gail Wood, Margaret Plansky, Nancy Eaton, Christopher Vaccaro, Denyelle Potter,
John Casciano, George Perry, Nichols and Hall, Ted McIntire, Peter Tassi, Phil LeBlanc, Leo
Meuse, Rev. Robert Sweet, Virginia Adams, Leslie and Cheryl Sidelinker.
Personnel and Appointments
Recreation Committee — On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen
placed the following names into nomination for two Associate positions on the Recreation
Committee for terms expiring June 30, 1999 -- John B. Winne and Susan G. Fay. On a roll call
vote of the nominated candidates, John B. Winne and Susan Fay received 5 votes each and were
appointed.
Board of Appeals — On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen placed
the following names into nomination for one position on the Board of Appeals for a term
expiring June 30, 2001 -- Christopher R. Vaccaro and Bernard W. O'Shaughnessy. On a roll call
vote of the nominated candidates, Christopher R. Vaccaro received 5 votes and was appointed.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen placed the following name
into nomination for one Associate position on the Board of Appeals for a term expiring June 30,
1999--John A. Jarema. On a roll call vote of the nominated candidate, John A. Jarema received
5 votes and was appointed.
CPDC— On motion by Hoyt seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen placed the following
names into nomination for two positions on the Community Planning and Development
Commission for terms expiring June 30, 2001 --Jonathan E. Barnes, Richard D. Howard and
Kathleen Smith. On a roll call vote of the nominated candidates, Jonathan E. Barnes and
Richard D. Howard received 5 votes each and were appointed.
Conservation Commission — On motion by Hines seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen
placed the following names into nomination for two positions on the Conservation Commission
for terms expiring June 30, 2001 —John R. Casciano, Michael A. Pacillo, Kathleen M. Smith and
Nathan White. On a roll call vote of the nominated candidates, John R. Casciano received 5
votes,Michael Pacillo received 2 votes and Kathleen M. Smith received 3 votes. John Casciano
and Kathleen Smith were appointed.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—June 23, 1998 —Page 2
Solid Waste Advisory Committee — On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of
Selectmen placed the following name into nomination for a term as an Associate member on the
Solid Waste Advisory Committee for a term expiring 6-30-99 -- Nathan White. On a roil call
vote of the nominated candidate, Nathan White received 5 votes and was appointed.
Historical Commission — On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen
placed the following names into nomination for two positions on the Historical Commission for
terms expiring June 30, 2001 —Louise Sandberg, Clayton Jones and Wilbar Hoxie. On a roll call
vote of the nominated candidates, Louise Sandberg received 5 votes, Clayton Jones received 4
votes and Wilbar Hoxie received 1 vote. Louise Sandberg and Clayton Jones were appointed.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen placed the following name
into nomination for one position on the Historical Commission for a term expiring June 30, 1999
-- Wilbar Hoxie. On a roll call vote of the nominated candidate, Wilbar Hoxie received 5 votes
and was appointed.
On motion by Hoyt seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen placed the following name
into nomination for one Associate position on the Historical Commission for a term expiring
June 30, 1999 -- David H. O'Sullivan. On a roll call vote of the nominated candidate, David H.
O'Sullivan received 5 votes and was appointed.
Land Bank Committee — On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen
placed the following names into nomination for one position on the Land Bank Committee for a
term expiring June 30, 2001 -- George B. Perry II and Neil J. Sullivan. On a roll call vote of the
nominated candidates, George B. Perry received 5 votes and was appointed.
Sign Review Board — On motion by Anthony seconded by Nestor, the Board of Selectmen
placed the following names into nomination for two positions on the Sign Review Board for
terms expiring June 30, 2001 — James F. Treacy, Geraldine Varney, Suzanne S. Dauphinais and
Leslie McGonagle. On a roll call vote of the nominated candidates, James F. Treacy and
Geraldine Varney received 5 votes each and were appointed.
On motion by Hoyt seconded by Nestor, the Board of Selectmen placed the following names into
nomination for one position on the Sign Review Board for a term expiring June 30, 2000 —
Suzanne S. Dauphinais and Leslie McGonagle. On a roll call vote of the nominated candidates,
Leslie McGonagle received 3 votes and was appointed.
Discussion/Action Items
Review of Water Storage Tank Options — Consultants Nichols and Hail from Stearns and
Wheeler LLC, Public Works Director Ted McIntire and Water Treatment Plant Supervisor Peter
Tassi were also present. The consultants made a presentation on the options for the Auburn
Street standpipe which include repairing the tank which would not have a warranty; leaving the
tank not in service for historical preservation purposes; construction of a new standpipe on
Auburn Street; construction of a new elevated storage tank on Auburn Street; or construction of a
new standpipe on Lothrop Road.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—June 23, 1998 —Page 3
Camille Anthony asked if having the amount of dead storage that we have in the tanks is a
problem for water quality. In the numbers that we have, it is not a problem.
Bruce MacDonald suggested that we make sure that the maximum build out of the landfill is
included in any calculation of our water storage tank capacity.
George Hines noted that we are doing a total water supply study as to whether or not we should
use our own water, and we should not make a decision until that study is done. It was pointed out
that regardless of our source of supply, we will need water storage in Town.
Camille Anthony asked about the amount of water storage we have right now. We currently
have 1.9 million gallons of effective capacity. This is enough to be one day's storage.
Sally Hoyt asked if the Town has the capacity to serve the landfill with water. Gail Wood noted
that it depends on the use of the landfill. Ted McIntire noted that we currently can supply 6
million gallons of water per day. We now supply 2 million gallons per day. _
Gail Wood reported that the Water and Sewer Advisory Committee recommends the
abandonment of the current standpipe for water and updating the master plan.
George Hines asked that we examine all options for using the existing standpipe and ask what
was studied; for example, could we fill the bottom and use a bladder in the upper portion.
Camille Anthony asked who has addressed the issue of replacement of the tank. The consultants
noted that we looked at all options for using the existing standpipe and it is not recommended.
The issue of tank replacement has been reviewed by Stearns and Wheeler.
Michael Bochetti of 6 Emerald Drive asked if there would be an advantage of Lothrop Road
versus the Auburn Street location, and the Public Works Director outlined several areas where
Lothrop Road might be an advantage. These included fire flow, pressure, capacity. Bochetti
raised the issue of whether or not a standpipe was in accordance with zoning.
Ed Hopkins of 61 Lothrop Road asked why the deterioration was rapid. He asked if there is a
problem with more than one tank. The response was that this is the only tank where there is a
problem. The Bear Hill tank was recently painted inside and out. The Auburn Street tank was
recently painted inside. Mr. Hopkins thought that the makeup of the medal of the tank might be
different.
Jennifer Jangro of 20 Emerald Drive asked why the potential use for a storage tank was not
disclosed when they bought the property. The Town Manager noted that we do not know who is
buying property and, therefore, who to disclose these issues to.
Tim McGrath of 37 Emerald Drive asked about infrastructure availability to this site and access
for emergency vehicles to the Lothrop Road site. He asked about the impact on existing roads,
and asked if the ownership of this site for water tank purpose was disclosed to the property
owners.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—June 23, 1998—Page 4
Debra Bochetti of 6 Emerald Drive spoke against consideration of a water tank on Lothrop Road.
George Hines asked that a copy of the scope and feasibility study be sent to the Board of
Selectmen prior to it being issued.
Ted McIntire noted that the modeling of the water master pian will take approximately 60 days
once the contract is awarded. This study will address the engineering issues—not the political or
zoning issues.
Matt Nestor noted that he can not imagine a scenario where we would place a tank on Lothrop
Road, and feels that we can go ahead and make a decision eliminating that option.
George Hines noted that his gut reaction was the same but we do need some engineering on this
issue.
On motion by MacDonald seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen directed the Town
Manager to proceed with a feasibility study for the construction of a new water standpipe on
Town owned property by updating the 1977 water system study and evaluating a comprehensive
hydraulic model of the water system, and to evaluate the impact of a new tank located on any
feasible Town owned property. The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0.
Board of Selectmen Reorganization On motion by Anthony seconded by Hines, the following
name(s) were placed into nomination for a term as Chairman of the Board of Selectmen for a
term commencing June 23 1998 and ending June 30, 1999 or upon the selection of a successor,
whichever occurs first: Bruce MacDonald. The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Nestor, the following name(s) were placed into nomination
for a term as Vice Chairman of the Board of Selectmen for a term .commencing June 23, 1998
and ending June 30, 1999 or upon the selection of a successor, whichever occurs first: Sally
Hoyt. The motion was approved by a vote of 3-1-1, with Hines opposed and Hoyt abstaining.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the following name(s) were placed into nomination
for a term as Secretary of the Board of Selectmen for a term commencing June 23, 1998 and
ending June 30, 1999 or upon the selection of a successor, whichever occurs first: Matt Nestor.
The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0.
The Chairman asked that the liaison requests from members of the Board be submitted by end of
the day on Thursday.
Approval of Labor Contract — DPW Union — The Town Manager outlined the settlement of the
FY 1999 -FY2001 contract between the Town of Reading and the DPW Union.
On motion by Hoyt seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen approved the labor contract
and side letters between the Town of Reading and the AFSCME Public Works Union for a term
beginning 7-1-98 and expiring 6-30-01. The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—June 23, 1998 —Page 5
Wilson/Pleasant Street Decision - Rev. Robert Sweet noted that the site is feasible as far as the
Reading Housing Authority is concerned. Until the Board of Selectmen votes to turn the
- property over, they would not go forward with definitive plans. They are looking at a duplex
unit which would be attractive and fit within the neighborhood. They understand the
requirements outlined in Joe Delaney's letter.
Bruce MacDonald asked about parking concerns. It was noted that Joe Delaney's calculation
allows for a 14,050 square feet of pavement in the drainage calculations. In service pavement,
this will be adequate for over seven cars to park.
Camille Anthony asked what happens if DEP rules against the Town regarding the River's
Protection Act. Reverend Sweet noted that if the Board of Selectmen acts now, the Housing
Authority can move forward immediately. If there is a River's Protection Act problem, then the
Housing Authority may need to come back to the Board of Selectmen.
Sally Hoyt asked if the property would have a basement, and the Town Manager noted that they
will not be able to have a basement on this site.
Phil LeBlanc asked for a copy of Joe Delaney's letter to DEP and to the Board of Selectmen. He
felt that making a detennination now is premature. The highest and best use of the lot is for a
parking lot to alleviate on street parking for the little league field.
In the storm last Saturday, residents were pumping their basements which had three feet of
water. The impact will be horrendous for those who live there. If we do away with the lot, there
will be water coming out of the drain in the walk out basement at his house. Residents on
Wilson Street are constantly pumping water. The Zoning By-Laws say that the duty of the
enforcement authority is to ensure health, safety and welfare from fire, flood, etc. The reason the
land was never used is that it was marginal.
George Hines noted that this is a difficult decision. He identifies with the mission of the Reading
Housing Authority. He agrees that it is time to make a decision. He recommends not approving
this. This property would not have a basement and, therefore, would be substandard housing. It
would exacerbate the problem in the neighborhood. He hopes that the Board of Selectmen
would continue to work with the Housing Authority on this site.
Bruce MacDonald asked about other sites, and it was noted that this is the site that is before the
Board right now.
Sally Hoyt asked what would happen if we waited until DEP makes their determination.
Reverend Sweet was concerned about Mr. Hines comment about substandard housing. Hines
noted that not having a basement where everyone else in the area has a basement would make it
substandard. Sweet noted that there is a lot of housing in Reading including Reading Housing
Authority owned property that does not have basements and is not viewed as being substandard.
Board of Selectmen Meeting—June 23, 1998 —Page b
Matt Nestor noted that houses built today usually do have basements. This site is not perfect but
it would not be substandard. He's in favor of voting tonight.
Leo Meuse of 32 Wilson Street noted that he had two pumps in the recent rains and then the
power went out and the water flooded his basement.
Sally Hoyt noted that she understands the concerns and it is good that DEP is coming out. The
Town Manager noted that DEP is not coming out to answer residents' concerns about drainage —
only about the definition of the River's Protection Act.
Phil LeBlanc noted that he had read Joe Delaney's letter and was concerned about the phrasing
that "it's not possible to adequately determine..." He feels that the Board shouldn't make a
decision based on that letter. The Engineer should have dug a trench to see what the perc rate is.
Camille Anthony noted that we should go forward to find out what the ground water level is. A
private party would have to show calculations. Rev. Sweet noted that the Housing Authority will
do that work if the Board of Selectmen turns the lot over to them.
Matt Nestor moved and Hoyt seconded a motion that the Board of Selectmen agrees that it will
deed the property at Map 77 Plat 30 to the Reading Housing Authority for the purpose of
developing not more than two or three affordable housing units to be owned and operated by the
Reading Housing Authority, this agreement subject to the condition that the Authority get all
required permits for the use.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Hines, delete the words "or three" units was approved by a
vote of 4-1-0, with Nestor opposed.
On motion by Hines seconded by Nestor, the Board voted to add wording after the word unit:
"with adequate off street parking." The motion was approved by a vote of 4-1-0, with Hoyt
opposed.
A further amendment by Nestor seconded by Hines, to add "further subject to final review by the
Board of Selectmen" was approved by a vote of 5-0-0. The final motion reading as follows was
approved by a vote of 4-1-0, with Hines opposed.
On motion by Nestor seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen agrees that it will deed the
property at Map 77 Plat 30 to the Reading Housing Authority for the purpose of developing not
more than 2 affordable housing units with adequate off street parking to be owned and operated
by the Housing Authority, this agreement subject to the condition that the Authority get all
required permits for the use; and further subject to DEP's determination of applicability of the
River's -Protection Act; and further subject to final review of the plans by the Board of --
Selectmen. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-1-0, with Hines opposed.
Approval of Conditions of Sale — Grove Street Lot - Mr. and Mrs. Sidelinker were present. The
Town Manager reviewed the conditions of sale pursuant to the directions from the Board of
Selectmen.
Board of Selectmen Meeting;—June 23, 1998 —Page 7
Motion by George Hines seconded by Matt Nestor that the Board of Selectmen confirms the
award of the sale of the Town owned lot on Grove Street to Leslie and Cheryl Sideiinker for the
sum of$20,000 due at the transfer of the deed for the property,and an additional amount of up to
$20,000 due upon the issuance of a certificate of occupancy; said additional sum represents the
difference between the appraised value at that date and the cost of the moving and restoration of
the Foster Emerson House on that site; and further subject to all other terms and conditions
agreed to including a letter dated June 20, 1998 signed by Cheryl and Leslie Sidelinker and
approved by the Reading Historical Commission. This motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0.
Nancy Eaton from the Conservation Commission expressed disappointment in the way the
Conservation Commission has been side stepped in this process. She feels that they have been
left out of the process. It can take a year for Conservation restrictions to be put in place.
Members of the Board noted that the Conservation issues are in the Purchase and Sales
Agreement and in the bid. This process does not have a year to wait for Conservation
restrictions.
Virginia Adams from the Historical Commission noted that Meadow Brook has pulled a
demolition permit for this project which they plan on exercising by early September if the house
is not moved by that date.
Approval of Summit Village Agreement — The Town Manager noted that the conditions have
been met as required by the Board of Selectmen for the approval of an agreement with Summit
Village pursuant to the Board's previous direction.
On motion by Anthony seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen approved a settlement of all
issues with respect to Summit Village as outlined in Brad Latham's Fax of June 23, 1998, and
subject to the deed for the 2.5 acres being filed. The motion was approved by a vote of 5-0-0.
On motion by Hoyt seconded by Anthony, the Board of Selectmen adjourned their meeting of
June 23, 1998 at 10:55 p.m. by a vote of 5-0-0.
Respectfu ly submitted,
Se etary