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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-09-22 Board of Selectmen Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting September 22, 1998 The meeting convened at 7:16 p.m in the Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Bruce MacDonald, Vice Chairman Sally Hoyt, Secretary Matthew Nestor, Selectman George Hines, Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Counsel H Theodore Cohen, Assistant Town Manager Russell Dean, Fire Chief Don Wood, Police Chief Edward Marchand, Paula Schena and the following list of interested parties: Matt Lordan, John Kovacs, James Blomley, David and Susan Puopolo, Rob Connor, Patty Gillen, Mary Jean Hughes, Brian Desmond, Michael and Virginia Bramante, Carolyn Whiting, Ray and Debbie Marshall, Bob and Debbie Solomon, Tom and Concetta Albano, James Cormier, Pat Iapicca, Bill Irwin, Paul Roberts, Allen Roberts, Tom Strandberg, Clarence Enos, Nancy Matheson, Paul Peoples, Jack Sullivan, Joe Connelly, John McKenna. Reports and Comments Selectmen's Liaison Reports and Comments—George Hines noted that he met with the Business Park Task Force and the consultant. The consultant anticipates eight to ten proposals and there is potential for possible residential development. He attended the Budget Council Meeting last week and voted on Election Day. Matthew Nestor commented that the Elections were very well run. Sally Hoyt attended a meeting of the North Suburban Planning Council and noted that the Council was receptive to scheduling some meetings in the evening. She requested that a request be made to Mass Highway to lower the speed limit on West Street from 35 mph to 25 mph. She received a call from an Intervale Terrace resident who is requesting that Intervale Terrace be made one way. She heard from residents requesting a plaque at Washington Park for athletes killed in military action. Bruce MacDonald had no report. Public Comment—There was no public comment. Town Manager's Report The Town Manager gave an overview of the "blight" parking program and reported on the following items: ♦ Blight grant amendments have been made. ♦ He attended a meeting at Camp Curtis Guild. The National Guard is undertaking a comprehensive site plan for that site. The National Guard expressed an interest in opening to communities and restoring the rifle range at that site. ♦ The Historical Commission will be holding a fund raiser. s Landfill bid opening is on September 24th. CPDC is meeting next Monday regarding paved sidewalks on Walnut Street. ® A tentative decision has been made regarding Labor Counsel. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 22, 1998—pa ee22 ♦ The Inwood Office Park has requested a Reading address. ♦ The fence between Ashley Court and Anson Lane has been installed. ♦ The Mill Street Bridge construction is primarily done. -- ♦ The Longwood Road sewer line is in. ♦ The Auburn Street Water Tower will be sandblasted next week. Working is not permitted on Sundays. ♦ Route 129 construction is at a stand still. ♦ Charles Street sidewalks and repaving are done. ♦ Prescott and Summer Avenue signal—when this project is completed it is our intention to have a two to four week transition period and then remove the temporary Crossing Guard at that location, and to reassign the Guard at another,high priority location. ♦ Rustic Lane construction is done. ♦ Mineral Street Bridge should be done before Winter. ♦ Police Station is out to bid. George Hines requested that a letter be sent to the Mass Highway Commissioners requesting that the Resident Engineer or Project Engineer come out and give a report on the schedule of the work plans for Route 129. Proclamations/Certificates of Appreciation Proclamation — Kniizhts of Columbus Weekend for the Physically and Mentally Challenged — Grand Knight Paul Roberts, Allen Roberts, Tom Strandberg and Clarence Enos were present to accept the Proclamation. On motion by Hoyt seconded by Hines, the Board of Selectmen approved a Proclamation designating October 9th through October 12th, 1998 as Knights of Columbus Weekend for the Physically and Mentally Challenged. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Proclamation — Readin- Women's Club 105th Birthday_Anniversaa — On motion by Nestor seconded by Hines, the Board of Selectmen approved a Proclamation commending the Reading Women's Club on the celebration of their 105th Birthday Anniversary. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Sally Hoyt accepted the Proclamation on behalf of the Women's Club. Discussion/Action Items Approval of Contract — Reading Firefighter's Association — Chief Wood was present for the approval of the Firefighter's contract. On motion by Hoyt seconded by Nestor, the Board of Selectmen approved the contract between the Town of Reading and the Reading Firefighter's Association - IAFF Local 1640 - for a period beginning July 1, 1998 and expiring June 30, 2001. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Approving Speed Limit — Pearl Street — The Town Manager explained that the Town had received requests from residents to lower the speed limit on Pearl Street. The Police did a speed study and submitted it to Mass Highway with a request to change from 30 mph to 25 mph. _ Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 22, 1998—page 3 On motion by Hoyt seconded by Nestor, the Board of Selectmen approved an amendment to the "Town of Reading Traffic Rules and Regulations, dated March 28, 1995 as amended"by adding to Appendix A14, 6.24—Special Speed Regulations the following: "Pearl Street — Northbound — beginning at the junction of Salem Street (Route 129) thence northerly on Pearl Street 2.46 miles at 25 miles per hour ending at the junction of Route 28; the total distance being 2.46 miles; "Pearl Street — Southbound — beginning at the junction of Route 28 thence southerly on Pearl Street 2.46 miles at 25 miles per hour ending at the junction of Salem Street (Route 129); the total distance being 2.46 miles; The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Close the Warrant for Subsequent Town Meeting—Ted Cohen was present for the closing of the Warrant. The Town Manager reviewed the Articles on the Subsequent Town Meeting Warrant. George Hines asked if funding for the Symonds Way project was to come from the Ice Arena funds, would it fall under Article 8. Ted Cohen noted that if the funds were not being earmarked, then it could be done under Article 8. Bruce MacDonald noted that the words "and recycling"need to be added to Article 9. George Hines asked if Ackerly Communications was under orders to take down the billboards. The Town Manager noted that the only way to get rid of the billboards is to buy them out. Ted Cohen noted that the Outdoor Advertising Board didn't take action because they didn't have the funds to compensate. George Hines requested that an Article be placed on the N�arrant to provide for a later Town Meeting date but within the period of time that statute dictates. On motion by Hines seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen voted to close the Warrant for the Subsequent Town Meeting to be held on November 9, 1998 consisting of 24 Articles. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Ted Cohen asked the Board to approve a motion to rescind the Order of Taking and authorize a new Order of Taking for the property located at 21-37 Hamden Street. On motion by Nestor seconded by Hoyt, the Board voted to rescind the Order of Taking adopted on August 20, 1998 relating to the land located to the rear of 21-37 Hamden Street, Reading, Middlesex County, MA, shown as Lot A on the plan entitled: "PLAN OF LAND IN READING, MA Survey Performed By: Town of Reading Engineering Division, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, MA 01867 Scale: 1" = 20' Date: August 4, 1998" believed to be owned by Christ G. Grevelis, Trustee of Harris G. Realty Trust, and that the Board vote to adopt an Order of Taking of said land on this date, and that the Board vote to execute the Order of Taking, a Notice of Taking, an Acceptance of Deed, a Purchase and Sales Agreement and all other documents relating to the taking of said land and the receipt of a deed therefor from the owner of said land. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 22, 1998—page 4 Hearing — Sprint Communications for Location of Digital Communications Facility on Auburn Street Water Tower Site - The Secretary read the notice of the hearing. The Town Manager indicated that notices and the health study were sent to the abutting property owners. This is the last digital site at this location, because the shelter has no more room. The Town Manager also noted that the Town is powerless from stopping someone from buying land and putting up a tower. John Kovacs from Sprint PCS distributed photos and indicated on the revised drawings where the six antennae panels would be located. He noted that the cables would be on the inside of the I-beam and would not be seen from Auburn Street. Bill Irwin, a physicist from MIT, was present to discuss the health issues. He teaches and does research on devices using electromagnetic spectrum and the effects on the human body since 1981. He is certified by the American Academy of Health Physics, and also works with biotechnology and telecommunications. Bruce MacDonald asked if he is working for the company who wants to install the antennas and the answer was yes. Bill Irwin noted that the amount of power determines the health risk. The maximum acceptable amount of power is 243 watts. These antennas emit .5 milliwatts. The emissions are directed toward the horizon, not at the ground. Matthew Nestor asked if he had ever appeared as an expert witness on behalf of an injured party, and the answer was yes but not for injuries due to electromagnetism. Mike Bramante of 45 Auburn Street noted that he has read articles in the newspapers, and that Gloucester and Holyoke have adopted bylaws and the Town of Reading should do the same. He has concerns because his son's bedroom is 100 feet from the tower location. He doesn't want this in his backyard. He feels that we should let the companies build their own towers and wants all of the antennas that are already up to be taken down. Mary Jean Hughes of 23 Chestnut Road noted that she was not notified of the meeting. She wants to see the antennas come down. Patty Gillen of 23 Chestnut Road noted that she did not receive notification of the meeting. We should take what the cigarette companies have done as a warning. There is a movie being released about what happened in Woburn. Carolyn Whiting of 17 Chestnut Road is concerned about what we don't know and the effects on her property value. Wayland and Holyoke have bylaws and we should have them too. Brian Desmond of 105 Auburn Street indicated that he was not notified of the meeting. He noted that the neighborhood is a mess and wants to see them out too. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 22, 1998-page 5 Rob Conner of 7 Beacon Street asked what the fee was. He also noted that on the websites .03 are levels that are being talked about. Debbie Marshall of 40 Auburn Street indicated that cell phones are 1 watt, and that hospitals don't allow cell phones. Mr. Irwin stated that this is because it could interfere with medical monitoring equipment, not because of health risks. Nancy Matheson of 27 Auburn Street asked what are the effects of constant radiation. This study is just for Sprint, not for everything as a whole. She asked if there is more radiation from a cell phone when contact is made. The answer is that there is not. Bill Irwin noted that the concerns with cell phones is that the antennae on some models is close to the head. He noted that the residents should talk to the Mass. Department of Public Health. There are two areas of serious risk: people who use handsets and workers who install antennas while others are operating. He also noted that the further away the antennas are, the more power is needed. Therefore, adding cell sites reduces the power required to operate each one. Brian Desmond feels that the neighborhood should sign a petition. Patty Gillen asked how far back the studies go. She also asked if the antennas ever malfunction and get misaligned. She feels this has a negative impact on property values. She would like to see them go to the landfill or to New Hampshire. Mary Jean Hughes indicated that she has a grave concern for her children. On motion by Hoyt seconded by Nestor, the Board of Selectmen voted to close the hearing on an application by Sprint Communications for the use of a portion of the water tower on Auburn Street for the location of a digital communications site. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Matthew Nestor was concerned that people may not have been notified and that the hearing should be extended. He is not satisfied with his knowledge of the issue and wants to do more research. George Hines noted that there are already two installations in place. He stated that we need to have more information, and he asked what effect a continuation would have on the agreement with Sprint. Bruce MacDonald noted that he hears the neighbors' concerns and feels as though we should have a disinterested third party such as someone from the State Department of Public Health come in with more infoiniation. The Board directed the Town Manager to schedule a second hearing in about one month, and to have someone from the State Department of Public Health present to discuss the health issues. All abutter notifications will be sent certified mail. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 22, 1998—page 6 Hearing; on Fire Lanes — Various Public Buildings — The Town Manager reviewed the locations of fire lanes at the various public buildings. On motion by Nestor seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen voted to close the public hearing on the establishment of fire lanes for public buildings as presented. On motion by Nestor seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the designation of fire lanes for the following public buildings as presented: Town Hall, Parker Middle School, Killam School, Coolidge Middle School, Reading Memorial High School, Reading Public Library, Joshua Eaton School, Barrows School, Birch Meadow School. The motion was approved by a vote of 3-0-0. Hearing — Amendment to the Policy Hazardous Waste Committee - The Town Manager explained that the amendment is to change the number of members from seven members to five members. On motion by Nestor seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen closed the public hearing on an amendment to the Selectmen's policies relative to the Hazardous Waste Committee. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. On motion by Hoyt seconded by Hines, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the proposed amendment to the Selectmen's policies relative to the Hazardous Waste Committee. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Hearing—Amendment to Policy—Arts Council - The Town Manager explained that this was to change the name of the Arts Council to the Cultural Council. On motion by Hines seconded by Nestor, the Board of Selectmen voted to approve the policy relative to changing the'name of the Arts Council to the Cultural Council. The motion was approved by a vote of 4-0-0. Approval of Plan— Symonds Way Recreation Area- The Town Manager reviewed the history of the area. He noted that the Recreation Committee recommends a ball field and opposes a shooting range. Assistant Civil Engineer Jack Sullivan presented the plans for the baseball diamond/overlay soccer field. He noted that the area will need limited wetland filling and will have subdrainage. The Town Manager noted that we will have to file with the Conservation Commission because it is within 100 feet of the wetlands. Bruce MacDonald asked how much wetland filling is needed. Jack Sullivan responded 100 square feet. The Town Manager noted that State Law allows 5000 square feet. Sally Hoyt asked if the Conser�,-ation Commission has seen the site. The Town Manager answered yes, and that they have flagged the site. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 22, 1998—page 7 George Hines noted that the need for this facility is well documented. Construction would start in the Spring. The Town Manager noted that these plans don't address the issues of a firing range. An outdoor firing range would need an earth berm. Bruce MacDonald asked if the range Camp Curtis would be reopening, and the Town Manager noted it probably will. Sally Hoyt indicated that she would like to see a closed in firing range. Police Chief Edward Marchand gave the background on the site. He noted that in the mid 60's the Police took the annex and built an indoor and outdoor range at no cost to the Town. The Police Department lost the structure when the ice rink was constructed. When the Police Department lost the firing range, they were under the impression that the_ range would be replaced. The Police can shoot anytime in the Winter when the kids are in school. The Police Department is having a difficult time finding a place to shoot. Sally Hoyt asked if we have room for an indoor range. Chief Marchand indicated that an indoor range is very costly and not being considered. An outdoor firing range is the best. Paul Peoples, Reading Police Department Armorer, read a memo to the Board. He noted that it is getting more and more difficult to find a place for firearms training. He noted that if there is not support for the range then there is not support for the Department. The Town Manager noted that no other area in Reading would be feasible for a firing range. Sally Hoyt asked if the Reading Rifle and Revolver Club would be available. She noted that we promised the Reading Police Department that we would rebuild. The Town Manager disagreed and noted that he never made a commitment but said he would try. George Hines noted that this is an important issue, and that there must be another location for a firing range. Paul Peoples noted that there is no middle of the road. Either the Board supports a range and training or it doesn't. The Police have to have training—it is a liability issue. George Hines noted that voting for recreational use doesn't mean the Board doesn't support training. Bruce MacDonald asked if the Town looked at potential coexistence. Jack Sullivan indicated that six different alternatives were looked at and two of those had a firing range. Board of Selectmen Meeting_September 22, 1998—page g The Town Manager noted that this presentation is what the Board of Selectmen directed staff to do. Joe Connelly noted that the Recreation Committee does not feel that the proximity of a firing range to recreational fields is compatible. Sally Hoyt noted that there are two potential locations for future ball fields at Longwood Farm and Spence Farm and that she is more concerned about safety. Matthew Nestor asked if there was any way to work.out a schedule. George Hines noted that the concept of a ball field was previously approved by the Board of Selectmen. If it was being proposed for something else, other people would have been here tonight. Bruce MacDonald asked if the material for a firing range had to be on earthen berm. Chief Marchand responded yes. He also asked if there are any temporary ranges. Jim Connier indicated that he got the impression that a range was going to be built there, and he asked the Board of Selectmen to give a lot of consideration to using this site as a range. Bruce MacDonald noted that there was zero likelihood that a firing range would go anywhere else and that Longwood Farm was an option for a ball field. Sally Hoyt indicated that she approves of sports but the immediate concerns are for the public safety officers to be provided with a range. John McKenna noted that the only place a range will be approved is where the previous range was. Paul Peoples stated that the Police were never asked for input and if they had been asked, they could have helped. Pat Iapicca noted that he fully supports the Chief and having a firing range at that location. He asked the Board to delay voting tonight and have new plans drawn up to make both sides happy. George Hines noted that the problem of a lack of a range is not indigenous to Reading, and that there could be a regional solution to the problem. Sally Hoyt commended the Recreation Committee for all of their work. A motion by Hines seconded by MacDonald, to approve the plan for the recreational area at Symonds Way and directed staff to proceed with all approvals, design, bidding and construction of this site at the earliest possible date was not approved by a vote of 2-2-0, with MacDonald and Hoyt opposed. Board of Selectmen Meeting—September 22, 1998—page 9 The Board directed staff to have the Police work with the Recreation Committee to draw up new plans. On motion by MacDonald seconded by Hoyt, the Board of Selectmen voted to adjourn their meeting of September 22, 1998 at 11:10 p.m. The motion was approved by a vote of 3-0-1, with Hines abstaining. Respectfully submitted, <.. reta