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Home My WebLink About2009-10-27 Board of Selectmen PacketPage 1 of 1 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Monday, October 19, 2009 3:08 PM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Student Representative to Board of Selectmen Board of Selectmen 10-27 From: Ben Tafoya [mailto:BenTafoya@planetnw.com] Sent: Monday, October 12, 2009 9:57 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: FW: Student Representative to Board of Selectmen Can we talk about this? Do we have any orientation we can do for the student? BEN TAFOYA PLANET NETWORKS INC. 203 Middlesex Tpke Burlington, Mfg. 01803 800-786-1105 toll free 617-953-2530 cell 781-272-3311 phone 925-905-3178 fax http://www.planetnw.com From: Freedman, Elinor [maiIto: EFreedman@reading.k12.ma.us] Sent: Monday, October 12, 2009 9:31 PM To: btafoya@ci.reading.ma.us Cc: mahoney1121@aim.com Subject: Student Representative to Board of Selectmen Dear Mr. Tafoya, I would like to recommend a wonderful RMHS senior Patrick Mahoney as the student representative to the Board of Selectmen. His e-mail is: mahoneyll2l@aim.com . Please let me know what the next steps are for him and thank you for giving a student this great lesson in civic responsibility.. Sincerely, Elinor A. Freedman Principal Reading Memorial High School 62 Oakland Road Reading, Massachusetts 01867 efreedmanamreadinje. k12. ma. us 781.944.8200 781.942.5420 fax 10/22/2009 Page 1 of 2 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 11:43 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: For Board of Selectmen 10-27-09 From: Sullivan, Jim Sent: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 11:11 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: FW: Peter, It looks like the Chamber is going to give $1200 towards possibly obtaining new lights for the smaller trees or garland for the light poles (See below). I will speak with Priscilla and keep you informed before anything is decided. In my opinion, the garland wrapped around the poles makes the most sense logistically. Again, I will keep you updated on all the happenings. Thanks, Jim Pm, .Suffft fan Program Coordinator Reading Recreation 16 Lowell Street Reading MA, 01867 781-942-6672 JSullivan@ci.reading.ma.us From: rnrchambercom@aol.com [mailto:rnrchambercom@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 11:02 AM To: Sullivan, Jim Subject: Re: Yes, she brought it up and the Chamber voted to give $1200 toward the project if the other funds are raised. Priscilla has the specifics and is working on obtaining the balance of the funds. She will be in touch with you (or Pete) because I think she is looking for some financial support from the Celebration Trust. Irene Collins Executive Director Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce 978-664-5060 www.ReadingNReadingChamber.org -----Original Message----- From: Sullivan, Jim <jsullivan@ci.reading.ma.us> 10/22/2009 c Page 2 of 2 To: rnrchambercom@aol.com Sent: Tue, Oct 13, 2009 10:43 am Subject: RE: I believe Priscilla had mentioned she was going to bring it up at the meeting? Just curious as to what the thoughts were. Pm Saffivan Program Coordinator Reading Recreation 16 Lowell Street Reading MA, 01867 781-942-6672 JSullivan(cr~ci.reading ma.us From: rnrchambercom@aol.com [mailto:rnrchambercom@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 10:40 AM To: Sullivan, Jim Subject: Re: Hi Jim, Refresh my memory - the board meeting regarding getting additional funds for the lights on lamp posts? Irene Collins Executive Director Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce 978-664-5060 www. ReadingNReadingCharriber. org -----Original Message----- From: Sullivan, Jim <jsullivail@ci.readin .ig na:us> To: rnrchambercom@aol.com Sent: Tue, Oct 13, 2009 10:03 am How did the meeting go last week? Pm SuP.Pitzare Program Coordinator Reading Recreation 16 Lowell Street Reading MA, 01867 781-942-6672 JSullivan@ci.reading ma.us A 0 10/22/2009 Page 1 of 1 Hechenbleikner, Peter $o5 1u- V o~ From: David Hutchinson [david.hutchinson@comcast.net] Sent: Monday, September 28, 2009 7:56 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; Ben Tofoya Subject: Library Board of Trustees Feedback on proposed Municipal Building Committee Peter and Ben, thanks again for taking the time to come to our meeting last week to present the Municipal Building Committee proposal. We discussed the concept briefly in the time remaining of our meeting on Monday night. Given our view that it is time for us to begin planning for an updated library building, we would appreciate the opportunity to participate in a dedicated forum, such as the MBC, that will evaluate all of the town's needs, including the library. As I believe you are aware, we have been in the process over the last several years of evaluating the library building and gathering input on the current and future community needs of library services and how these translate into building needs. We have reached the point in our analysis where we would like to share our process and recommendations to various stakeholders, including to the Board of Selectmen, for which I think we have some time on the Oct. 27 agenda. We thick this evaluation process is necessary and would be helpful in any event, whether as input to an ad hoc MBC or otherwise. We are still finalizing the detail of the presentation, but I would be happy to go over this with you prior to the Oct. 27 meeting. Thanks again and feel free to contact me. Regards, David Hutchinson Chairman Library Board of Trustees 9/29/2009 DRAFT Policy establishing an ad hoc Municipal Building Committee ad /roc Municipal Building Committee "Municipal" Buildings shall include Town and School Department buildings. There is hereby created an ad hoc Municipal Building Committee, which shall exist until December 31, 2010 or until such earlier date the ad hoc Committee may have completed its work. The ad hoc committee and its member's terms may be extended by the Board of Selectmen for up to an additional 12 months. The ad hoc Municipal Building Committee shall consist of seven (7) residents of Reading for ten-ns expiring December 31, 2010. In selecting the membership, an attempt will be made to fill the membership as follows: 0 1 Member appointed by the School Committee 0 1 Member appointed by the Board of Library Trustees 0 1 Member appointed by the Finance Committee 0 1 Member of the Board of Selectmen appointed by the Board of Selectmen 0 3 Residents at Large that do not fulfill any other requirements of the other categories. The Board of Selectmen will attempt to include in those members some members who have experience and expertise in building design and construction. It is the intent of the Board of Selectmen that staff members should serve as a resource to the ad hoc committee, but not serve as members of the committee. The ad hoc Committee shall perform the following activities related to developing conceptual plans and programs for Municipal Building projects over the next 10 years: 1. Review and understand the scope of the charge to the ad hoc committee, and develop a suggested work plan and schedule; 2. Reach out to Town Departments and Boards/Committees/Commissions that may have building space needs within the next 10 years (2020) for their information and ideas; 3. Understand the resources available to potentially address Municipal Building needs, including Town owned property on Oakland Road which is currently under the care, custody, and control of the Board of Selectmen; 4. Prepare a preliminary report on the scope of foreseeable Municipal Building needs through the 2020; 5. Submit the preliminary to the Board of Selectmen for their review and comment; 6. Based on Board of Selectmen review, advance priority projects forward to a point where Town Meeting authorization for funds to design and build the individual or collective facilities may be sought; 7. Report to the Board of Selectmen and get feedback at key milestones in tliis process, including prior to the development of the final report.. In conducting its work, the Municipal Building Committee shall place a priority on the issue of need, scope, and siting of garage and related space for the DPW Cemetery Division. Staff and Town Counsel will be assigned to work with the ad hoc Municipal Building Committee through the Town Manager and Superintendent of Schools as appropriate. The ad hoc Municipal Building Committee will be considered to be part of the Town Managers Office for administrative purposes. Adopted -109 ~~z JEAN DELIOS -Town of Reading Community Services Director / Town Planner 16 Lowell Street Phone: (781) 942-6612 942-9071 Reading, MA 01867-2683 Fax: (781) jdelios@ci.reads reading. ma.us MEMORANDUM To: Peter Heckenbleickner, Town Manager From: Jean Delios, Community Services Director/Town Planner Date: October 23, 2009 Re: Customer Service - Outline of Issues and Action Items for Resolution In an effort to outline the issues that have been raised with regard to customer service I have prepared the following summary. I have also recommended action items to address the concerns. Issues: • The Community Services Department has received complaints, primarily in three divisions: building; health; and conservation. There have been criticisms of the planning division with regard to CPDC's Site Plan Review. • At the same time, the Department gets a lot of positive feedback from very satisfied customers across all divisions who feel they get good service. There are many high profile planning and development initiatives completed, underway, or in the planning stages. This is an opportunity to bring about positive changes and new opportunities for growth in Reading. On a very positive note, there is a buzz about Reading. • There have been recent instances where the Community Services Department is unfairly blamed for delays • A group has been formed, Making Reading Better, that is focusing on the issues around customer service in Town • The Economic Development Committee (EDC) is advocating for positive change and dispelling inaccurate rumors about Town services and the employees who provide them. • A meeting was held with the permits staff on 8/25/09 with Selectman Ben Tafoya and the Town Manager. Subsequent one-on-one meetings have been held with the Community Services Director and staff. • There is a perception among some that Reading is not business friendly and has room for improvement in the permitting (and other) services provided by the Community Services department. 2Z) Action Plan: Work with staff to make permitting more predictable, consistent, and efficient without compromising regulatory requirements, or eroding the standards of review. • Hire an Outside Consultant to Identify the Problem - What isn't working and why through the use of focus groups • Procure Permit Tracking Software - Better manage permitting requirements across and within divisions. (we are ready to move on this - there will be an expense going forward, for software licenses) • Keep the Lines. of Communication Open - Ask for, feedback from customers (letters, e-mails, green "customer service" survey cards, on-line customer surrey cards, FAQ's from the EDC). • Standardize Forms and Procedures - to provide efficiency and predictability • Improve Communication with Permit Applicants through (we do much of this already): ✓ Single Point of Contact ✓ Permitting Flow Charts and Checklists ✓ Clear Submittal Requirements ✓ Concurrent Applications ✓ Combined Public Hearings ✓ Pre-Application Process ✓ Development Review Team ✓ Regularly Scheduled Inter-Divisional and Inter-Departmental Meetings ✓ Maximize the use of the Town's Website • Review bylaws and regulations that the staff is enforcing, but which may not be conducive to good customer service and promoting economic development. Celebrate Success - Success Breeds Success - Adopt the model of the service driven organization where customer needs and expectations are at the core and where you think like a customer. Promote a culture of customer service excellence. Productive relationships between the Town and the business/development community attract economic investment and lay the groundwork for growth and development that complement the community. MEETIING WITH PERMITS STAFF 8-25-09 10 am 1. Introduction and background - Ben Tafoya, Chairman Board of Selectmen 2. Economic Development initiatives in Reading • Economic Development Committee • Street Faire • Staffing • Studies - parking, peer to peer, market study • 40R zoning • Reduced setback in Business A zone • Review of sign regulations 3. Economic Development activity in Reading • Sam's Bistro • Swiss Baker • Ristorante Pavarotti • Salem 5 • Be Gifted •RCTV • Mission of Deeds • Redevelopment of the Atlantic site • Liquor Store • Butcher Shoppe 4. Reading's reputation 5. What we can not change: • Taxes • Location • State laws and regulations • Staff cannot change local laws and regulations but we can identify to others what laws are particularly problematic with the hope of getting the laws changed 6. What we can do • We can provide extraordinary customer service • We can walk the customer through the process - most of them have never done this before, and probably will never do it again • We can simplify some processes, and make the processes easier to understand - not just more paper - but the right paper • We can coordinate among ourselves - avoid surprises to the customer • We can be helpful and courteous • We can assign responsibility to a staff person to handle a customer consistently through their entire process - concierge service • We can help the customer work with the town and "get to yes" • We cannot be (or be perceived to be) vindictive 7. What are we going to do together.to make this happen? ae3 SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 Response 37 Response 38 Response 39 Response 40 Response 41 Response 42 Response 43 Response 44 Response 45 Response 46 Response 47 tA. j Response 4B ad G es onse 49 ~ ~ 1J ;i Response e 50 Go ' Response 51 Response 52 6115% esponse 53 boa Res onse 54 RUI Response 55 dal Response 56 DPW Response 57 Wfk I* Response 58 pQ Response 59 91 63(t~m► Response 60 PjM 1 K Response 61 Q(~,Mb Response 62 ~ onse 63 s R e p 03/06/2009 0 3/1 012 0 0 9 0 3/1 512 0 0 9 03/16/2009 03/24/2009 03/27/2009 04/13/2009 04/13/2009 05/28/2009 06/11/2009 06/25/2009 04:40:09 PM 09:00:43 AM 06:00:31 PM 03:15:00 PM 11:32:09 AM 09:13:04 AM 03:31:26 PM 06:05:27 PM 09:17:08 AM 11:57:47 AM 10:35:02 AM 08:56:09 AM 09:01:05 AM 03:43:07 PM 11:11:35 AM 02:41:41 PM 02:46:36 PM 03:11:59 PM 02:57:33 PM 11:34:59 AM 07:46:29 PM 11:45:50 AM 11:48:02 AM 11:48:55 AM 04:40:00 PM 01:19:19 PM 01:20:27 PM 07/28/2009 08/26/2009 08/27/2009 09/02/2009 09/02/2009 09/03/2009 09/11/2009 09/13/2009 09/22/2009 09/29/2009 09/29/2009 09/29/2009 10/01/2009 10/09/2009 10/09/2009 20, (JP~ ail C3) htip://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/resultsindiv/sid/30426f54... 87 seconds 70 seconds 164 seconds 166 seconds 77 seconds 144 seconds 109 seconds 56 seconds 119 seconds 112 seconds 104 seconds 207 seconds seconds 158 seconds 88 seconds 120 seconds 256 seconds 338 seconds 108 seconds 659 seconds 86 seconds 281 seconds 114 seconds 41 seconds 166 seconds 62 seconds 56 seconds ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 24.61.83.96 24.61.83.96 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 72.85.148.132 71.184.130.202 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 66.92.85.102 66.92.85.102 76.119.236.18 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 173.76.182.185 72.70.41.98 98.110.167.27 98.110.173.196 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 71.184.130.103 72.70.41.98 72.70.41.98 Ic-y,D /6 ~ Amj ae, q 2 of 2 10/23/2009 1:08 PT SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownball.net/response/sid/30426f5473E.. I'll f-F V-d :e ms` Vt: 4", Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey ( Next Date/Time Taken: 10/09/2009 01:20:27 PM Duration: 56 seconds What department did you visit? Health IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select Save What was the reason for your visit? Forms for home/commercial kitchen Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: Would be nice to have more private area to discuss matter. About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? What is your address? What is your email address? What is your phone number? May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com ae'~' 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:09 PI SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownball.net/response/sid/30426f5473f.. % - Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey I Next Date/Time Taken: 10/09/2009 01:19:19 PM Duration: 62 seconds What department did you visit? Plumbing Department What was the reason for your visit? Permit Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select Save Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here:. Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here:' About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? bob Callan What is your address? 179 West Street Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? What is your phone number? 781 944 2576 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com ae6 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:10 PlV. SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473f... tl fC~Et~J°L L ? ~G1 4` t~ ` F r any; "~.~r... - ~~+:•'S. :4', ~ r~~~tlx 4~ s _ f' ~r~i ~r tl` Ili _ t~ x ~ S~~ty 1 ^,i 1~ Surveys > Results. > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey ( Next Date/Time Taken: 10/01/2009 04:40:00 PM Duration: 166 seconds What department did you visit? health IP Address: 71.184.130.103 Label: -Select Save What was the reason for your visit? rent a unit out Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes , Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Larry Ramdin is very nice person, he responded to my voice mail even he is out for conference and also gave me many good advice. Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Yunsong Gao What is your address? 166 High Street Reading ma 01867 What is your email address? yunsongg@yahoo.com What is your phone number? 781 944 2917 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? Yes ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMaaik.com O 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:10 PT SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473E.. FIR ~a€ ( ili~fff f , ~ q~ t 1 Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey ( Next Date/Time Taken: 09/29/2009 11:48:55 AM Duration: 41 seconds What department did you visit? Building Permits What was the reason for your visit? Someone left large cement blocks in my back yard Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes IP Address: 72.70,41.98 Label: -Select Save Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? What is your address? What is your email address? What is your phone number? May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com 1 of 1 0 -egS 10/23/2009 1:10 P1v SurveyMagik:: Results:: Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingrna-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473E.. Datemme Taken: 09/29/2009 11:48:02 AM Duration: 114 seconds What department did you visit? DPW IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select Save What was the reason for your visit? To pick up recycling bins and schedule Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: The 2 guys didn't seem very busy Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? No Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: The bins are great, but the recycling schedule is out of date. Maybe one of the staff can use downtime (such as what I saw) to update the recycling schedule About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? What is your address? What is your email address? What is your phone number? May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com aeq 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:10 PT Surreys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey Next SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473E.. _2 ..ni•.-.~-'~-.7,...T--r ti~l~} ~-_'l 1 Y~~~~~~'"L1r LI~;_._ ,~aa+-.'. ~ .,,y •'11~~~7~~'° r~+s1✓- 57 of7A I i a"9 Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey ( Next Date/Time Taken: 09/29/2009 11:45:50 AM Duration: 281 seconds What department did you visit? Health IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select- Save What was the reason for your visit? demolition Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: All personnel were very friendly About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Sunny Ferrante What is your address? 274 North Ave. Bedford MA 01730 What is your email address? sunnyferranted20@yahoo.com What is your phone number? 781 760 0231 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? @Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com 1 of 1 0.e . t 10/23/2009 1:21 PP SurveyMagik:: Results:: Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownball.net/response/sid/30426f5473f.. 3 ~ F ~ - - ~ Sat u 9 J ~~y,, Y" 1 S ,f~1~b II1,~ ~ ~ n~ ~AI _ ~t~~. ~~i. ~'y' ~7 a~ f,~..ny - ~w• r y~- H Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey ( Next Date/Time Taken: 09/22/2009 07:46:29 PM Duration: 86 seconds What department did you visit? DPW IP Address: 98.110.173.196 Label: -Select Save, What was the reason for your visit? clogged manhole Were you assisted in a timely manner? No Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? No Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: no one has contacted me yet. I submitted it online over a week ago. Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? No Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: Please call me. Thank youth About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Cori Gaffny What is your address? 66 Wescroft Reading MA 0186 What is your email address? corigaffny@hotmail.com What is your phone number? 781 942 0848 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? No ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com o e'll 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:21 PM SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 Date/Time Taken: 09/13/2009 11:34:59 AM Duration: 659 seconds What department did you visit? Health Dept. What was the reason for your visit? bat in the house Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473f... ~f IP Address: 98.110.167.27 Label: -Select Save Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Larry Ramdin was very accomodating and helpful. We had a bat in our house friday late night. He came to our house on his own time (Sat.) to take the bat to the lab for a rabies test. Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: Thank you, Larry!! About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Rachel Fabiano What is your address? 20 Fox Run Lane Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? rjfabiano22@yahoo.com What is your phone number? 781 9442072 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? Yes @Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com 1 of 1 d -e'I Z 10/23/2009 1:21 Ply Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey ( Next SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownball.net/response/sid/30426f5473f.. Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey I Next Date/Time Taken: 09/11/2009 02:57:33 PM Duration: 108 seconds What department did you visit? Health What was the reason for your visit? Food Service Permit Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select Save Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: Keep everything just the way it is. About You , we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Ed Boback What is your address?. 30 Torrice Drive Woburn MA 01801 What is your email address? a What is your phone number? 781 935 6320 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? No ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved . SurveyMagik.com d ,-o 0 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:22 PT SurveyMagik.:Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingtna-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473f... Date/Time Taken: 09/03/2009 03:11:59 PM Duration: 338 seconds What department did you visit? Public Health What was the reason for your visit? Street Faire Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes IP Address: 173.76.182.185 Label: -Select Save Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Larry Ramdin was excellent! Answered all my questions and then some (a good thing). Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: Thank you. PS I said "yes" to #5 below, but I already get Community Connection and downtown updates (twice) so please make sure I'm not duplicated on your e-list. Thanks. About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Lori Renn Parker What is your address? 42 Winthrop Ave Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? lori@jklmp.com What is your phone number? 781 944 5074 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? Yes @Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com ae4 N 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:22 PD Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey I Next SurvcyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473E.. --K 'ten-, .y - f u'17 1 f ~V 3 '•:71~ Kl Yi✓{, .{r~ a, it ~~~"~"j[~.~./ f` ' ti ~ ~ l.( ,~r~~•- 1' 7 t4~~5, f - xY~~-~ r. y i V Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey I Next Date/Time Taken: 09/02/2009 02:46:36 PM Duration: 256 seconds What department did you visit? Town Engineer IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select Save What was the reason for your visit? plans from Town map Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: amazed to see aria) maps in color - very knowledgeable of house on lot Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: Nothing to do with the above - Our roads are like mine fields - the brick speed bumps are doing damage to our cars. There is not enough room between Woburn sTreet and Union Stree to between the 2 lights - impossible to take left or right turn there. About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? What is your address? 10 Laneton Way Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? 781 What is your phone number? 781 944 5250 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com 0 -e' /,-5"' 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:22 PN SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingtna-survey.virtualtownhall.neVresponse/sid/30426f5473E.. IQi1, xt r. E „ ti ~ A "cz -~'r" f ~ - R I " 1 F~F L~r'~~ V Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey ( Next Date/Time Taken: 09/02/2009 02:41:41 PM Duration: 120 seconds What department did you visit? DPW What was the reason for your visit? sticker for bulk waste Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Very nice person Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select- Save, Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: The service was great About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Jane Spillane What is your address? 22 Riverside Drive Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? spillane25@comcast.net What is your phone number? 781 944 9493 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? Yes @Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMaciik.com p ,el b 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:22 Ply SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingrha-survey.virtualtownball.net/response/sid/30426f5473f... rr 1 `C I Y ' Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey Next Date/Time Taken: 08/27/2009 11:11:35 AM Duration: 88 seconds What department did you visit? Engineering IP Address: 72.70.41.98 Label: -Select Save What was the reason for your visit? Aqua Zone Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: Under paid, over worked About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Tom Gardiner What is your address? 182 Franklin Street Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? What is your phone number? 781 944 1157 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? ©Copyright, Ali Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com C,? -e, I I 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:23 PZ SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473f... r_ ' I~ i i 4r d RSGa f~ u Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey Next Date/Time Taken: 08%26/2009 03:43:07 PM Duration: 158 seconds What department did you visit? Health What was the reason for your visit? Business Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Larry Ramdin was very helpful. Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes IP Address: 76.119.236.18 Label: -Select Save Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Jennifer L Faulkner What is your address? 29 Gavin Cir Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? jfaulknerb@comcast.net What is your phone number? 781 9445442 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? Yes @Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:23 PM SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 Date/Time Taken: 07/28/2009 09:01:05 AM Duration: 237 seconds What department did you visit? Building What was the reason for your visit? Building a house Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes http://readingrna-survey.virtualtownhall.net/response/sid/30426f5473f... IP Address: 66.92.85.102 Label: -Select Save Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: Everyone at the Building Department were nothing less than professional thoughout the entire building process I acted as the GC so I was at the Building Department on a number of occations. Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: If you could do something about my high tax bill you would be batting 1,000. About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Mark Anzalone What is your address? 12 Kylie Drive Reading MA What is your email address? zamma7@verizon.net What is your phone number? 781 944 0685 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? Yes ©Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com O'e, t g 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:23 PN Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey Next SurveyMagik::Results::Customer Service Survey January 2009 http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.neVresponse/sid/30426f5473f... d ~1 US IX y raW 4.X`]"'a'.it7'~~15 ` ash - i54.i~ r ^,4_.,1t F:.7 ixv'tYl '~L Surveys > Results > Individuals > Response Options Customer Service Survey January 2009 Results Prey I Next Date/Time Taken: 07/28/2009 08:56:09 AM Duration: 207 seconds What department did you visit? Health IP Address: 66.92.85.102 Label: -Select Save What was the reason for your visit? Irrigation well Were you assisted in a timely manner? Yes Was the person you spoke with helpful and courteous? Yes Please add any comments on your interaction with Town staff here: I spoke with Mr. Ramdin regarding additional information that was required to issue a permit. He was very helpful. Did you achieve the business you were trying to achieve? Yes Please add any additional comments/suggestions as to how we can improve our service here: About You - we would like to be able to get back to you to address any comments or concerns: What is your name? Mark Anzalone What is your address? 12 Kylie Drive Reading MA 01867 What is your email address? zamma7@verizon.net What is your phone number? 781 944 0685 May we add your information to our electronic mailing list that offers community updates? Yes @Copyright, All Rights Reserved SurveyMagik.com 1 of 1 10/23/2009 1:23 Pl\ Page 1 of 2 Hechenbleikner, Peter From: Burns, Greg Sent: Monday, October 05, 2009 2:49 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; Cormier, Jim Subject: RE: Regional Dispatch Peter, a-M Chief Richard Bongiorno of Stoneham is leading the effort. Reading has been participating in the effort with Jim Cormier, Andrew Scribner and I. So far a consultant was hired for phase 1 and this has been completed. Phase I of the project involved identifying how each community is dispatching now and other considerations such as: radio infrastructure, identifying who is doing the dispatching, collective bargaining issues, availability of fiber networks, radio frequencies, mutual aid partners, computer programs etc. We are now looking at Phase 11 and we met at the end of August and identified items for a consultant to address for this phase of the project. On September 15 several members of the committee took a tour of the Berkshire Communications Center. Items we are looking at for the consultant in to address in the Phase 11: ® Identify short and long term savings (if any) and capital budget expense to each town ® How long can each community wait to replace or update equipment if regionalization takes place. We can expect at least three years or longer to be on line if we continue. ® Analyze operational options, i.e.; pay per call, or per diem based on our respective populations. It is thought that we would not see an initial savings (depending on future grants), but will see what is presented in the Phase II study. Other areas we would like Phase II to research and present are as follows: ® How will the level of service be improved or will we see any decreased level of service? Organizational structure of a new Regional Operations Center ( ROC) • Collective Bargaining impacts ® Cost to build a center and cost to operate (grants?) ® Potential locations to include an Emergency Operations Center within the Regional Operations Center ® Will a ROC address dead spots or replace aging equipment within each community. ® Additional support each community can expect to receive for a given event, whether police, fire, EMS. i.e.; GPS for fire hydrant locations, street locations, school locations etc. . What support staff will be required at each police station for walk in reporting etc. We also discussed the need for the consultants to provide options relating to the structure of a Governance Board, highlighting their responsibility to the public and various Boards of Selectpersons as well as elected and appointed officials. It was also decided a sub-committee would meet to draft a Phase II RFP. Legal considerations were discussed beyond union contracts such as implementation itself; Statutes, By-laws; Ordinances, MOU's etc, as well as discussing the feasibility to broaden and/or expand the ROC to other communities. 10/6/2009 J k1 I Page 2 of 2 Greg From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Monday, October 05, 2009 1:47 PM To: Burns, Greg; Cormier, Jim Subject: Regional Dispatch What is the status of this project? Who is leading the effort? Do we have a. consultant hired? Pete 10/6/2009 t( C &L) NASS%CTCUSET' 's B%Y COT,&I-JA.BIES 9LSSOCg9[q''qO9, 2BCC. P.O. Box 531, Reading, MA. 10867 rl'ekyhone: 781-944-1191- Tax. 781-942=0661 Website: -www.const-a6Ces-m6ca.org N 8 1-0 October 17, 2009 Mr. Peter I. Hechenbleikner rv CD Reading Town Manager Reading Town Hall _ 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 Dear Peter, You may wonder who is serving civil process in the Town of Reading. I have enclosed a copy of the current listing of constables from the mass. Lawyers Diary, Legal Pages. The individuals listed are not from Reading. I have discussed this issue at length with the publishers year after.-;year, and the response was that individuals listed claim they are able to serve; .;ci vil..process in Reading by obtaining a special appointment".. Mass. Rule 4(c). My response to this issue is, they cannot be assured that the courts would approve a 4(c) appointment, since the law limits serving certain documents by outsiders. Another reason i:s 99% of the time Reading lawyers use the services of Deputy Sheriffs since constables are limited to serving-civil-process over $2500, whereas Deputy Sheriffs may serve process without any dollar limitation. I have concentrated-on Training Programs for years now, and need to continue as a constable for that purpose." Sincerely, 54 CONSTABLES, DEPUTY SHERIFFS & PROCESS SERVERS PLYMOUTH Abbott Associates ACK Constable Service Robert R. Reardon, Jr. All State Constables; Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Allied Constable Group Asiaf & Associates James A. Carey The Constables Network - South Coast Legal Svcs March, Whitcomb & Associates Harold L. March Mass Bay Constables Assn., Inc. Michael C. Moore Paul Minsky & Associates Plymouth County Sheriffs Office Richard E. Ramponi & Associates Robert S. Barlow, Constable Svc Robert S. Barlow POCASSET (SEE BOURNE) RAYNHAM All State Constables, Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Asiaf & Associates James A. Carey Mass Bay Constables Assn., Inc. Richard E. Ramponi & Associates Charles H. Rose V/READING Abbott Associates All State Constables, Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Allied Constable Group S.M. Hoyt-Mass Bay Constables Sally M. Hoyt Mass Bay Constables Assn., Inc. Middlesex County Sheriffs Office Paul Minsky & Associates Richard E. Ramponi & Associates QUINCY Abbott Associates All State Constables, Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Allied Constable Group Applebaum & Applebaum Cnstbls Robert Applebaum James A. Carey The Constables Network - South Coast Legal Svcs DHR & Associates S.M. Hoyt-Mass Bay Constables Sally M. Hoyt Leary & Associates March, Whitcomb & Associates Harold L. March Mass Bay Constables Assn., Inc. Michael C. Moore Norfolk Cty Sheriffs Civ Proc Div Paul Minsky & Associates Richard E. Ramponi & Associates RANDOLPH All State Constables, Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Allied Constable Group Applebaum & Applebaum Cnstbls Robert Applebaum Rosalind Applebaum Asiaf & Associates Michael B. Fixman Leary & Associates March, Whitcomb & Associates Harold L. March Mass Bay Constables Assn. jnc. Norfolk Cty Sheriffs Civ Proc Div Paul Minsky & Associates Richard E. Ramponi & Associates REVERE Abbott Associates All State Constables, Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Allied Constable Group Bedugnis & Associates C & C Constables, Inc. DHR & Associates Michael B. Fixman Frederick L. Mangone Mass Bay Constables Assn., Inc. Paul Minsky & Associates Richard E. Ramponi & Associates ROCHESTER All State Constables, Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Mass Bay Constables Assn., Inc. Plymouth County Sheriffs Office Richard E. Ramponi & Associates ROCKLAND All State Constables, Inc. Jerold S. Loomis Allied Constable Group Asiaf & Associates James A. Carey. The Constables Network - South Coast Legal Svcs Mass Bay Constables Assn., Inc. Paul Minsky & Associates Plymouth County Sheriffs Office Richard E. Ramponi & Associates ROSLINDALE (SEE I ROXBURY (SEE SO' SAGAMORE (SEE B1 SALEM Abbott Associates All State Constable Jerold S. Loomi: Allied Constable G DHR & Associates John J. Ruehrwein John J. Ruehrwl Mass Bay Constab Northern Process Ronald F. Ford John F. Manning Paul Minsky & Ass, Richard E. Rampoi SALISBURY All State Constable Jerold S. Loomi: Mass Bay Constab Richard E. Rampoi SAUGUS Abbott Associates All State Constable Jerold S. Loomi: Allied Constable Gi Michael B. Fixman John J. Ruehrwein John J. Ruehrwi Frederick L. Mangc Mass Bay Constab Paul Minsky & Asst Richard E. Rampoi SAVIN HILL (SEE SO SCITUATE All State Constable Jerold S. Loomi: Allied Constable G The Constables Ne South Coast Lei DHR & Associates Mass Bay Constab Michael C. Moore Paul Minsky & Ass, Plymouth County E Richard E. Rampoi 3a 2-' Massachusetts Department of LI `c,s ~ f i l*1 Elementary and Secondary Education Mitchell D. Chester, Ed.D. Commissioner October 19., 2009 75 Pleasant Street, Malden, Massachusetts 02148-4906 Telephone: (781) 338-3000 Tly: N.E.T. Relay 1-806-439-2370 r13 E3 10 cm n r.~ Superintendent John X. Crowley Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational Technical School District 100 Hemlock Rd. Wakefield, MA 01880 -v N Dear Superintendent Crowley: I am writing in response to a request dated August 31, 2009, from Wakefield town administrator Stephen Maio for a Department opinion on the status of the Northeast Metropolitan district's FY10 budget. This request was made pursuant to 603 CMR 41.05(7), under which a member town in a regional school district may request the Commissioner to issue an opinion as to whether the budget of the regional school district has been approved in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements. The requirements for the approval of a regional school district budget are set forth in G.L. c.71, § 16B, and 603 CMR 41.05. The adoption of a regional school district budget requires the approval of two-thirds of the member communities. Northeast Met has twelve members, so the district budget requires the approval of eight members. Based upon our discussions with you and your staff and with representatives of your membn this towns, there does-not appear to be any substantial disagreement as to the underlying facts i case. The regional school committee's initial proposed budget for FYI 0 was not approved by the member communities. On June 11, the committee adopted a revised budget for FY10 that was recertified to the member communities. The appropriating authorities in Winthrop, Revere, Wakefield, and Malden voted to reject the recertified budget within the required 45-day period following the recertification. The town of Saugus held a town meeting on June 29 and approved a warrant article appropriating $2,032,473 for the regional district assessment. This amount did not 3-i~l. Superintendent Crowley October 19, 2009 Page 2 correspond to either the town's assessment in the initial proposed budget or the town's assessment in the revised budget. • The appropriating authorities in the remaining member communities did not take any action on the district budget within the required 45-day period following the recertification. Pursuant to 603 CMR 41.05(3)(d), these communities are deemed to have approved the revised budget. With four members having rejected the revised budget and seven members having been deemed to have approved the budget, Saugus becomes the deciding vote. Section 16B of G.L. c. 71 is clear as to the required procedure when a regional school committee recertifies a revised budget proposal: "Prior.to the expiration of forty-five days from the date on which such budget was adopted by the regional school district committee, each member municipality shall hold a meeting of the local appropriating authority to act upon the appropriation of the budget so reapportioned and recertified to it." In Saugus, the local appropriating authority is town meeting. If the selectmen had refused to issue a warrant for a town meeting within the 45-day period, or had refused to include an article on the warrant dealing with the regional district budget, the Department's regulations at 603 CMR 41.05(3)(4) provide a remedy, deeming the budget to have been approved. In the instant case, however,. Saugus clearly held a town meeting within the required time frame and with a warrant article dealing in part with the regional district budget. The regulations also make clear that town meeting may choose to appropriate a lesser amount than requested by the regional school committee and, when it does so, that is deemed a rejection of the proposed budget. See 603 CMR 41.05(2)(b). What is less clear is. whether town meeting must first vote explicitly to reject the proposed budget before voting a lesser amount, or whether the vote on the lesser amount is sufficient to satisfy the statutory requirement to "act upon" the proposal. Under the terms of Section 1613, the town meeting warrant article should include the amount as proposed by the regional school committee, leaving no doubt that town meeting has been given the opportunity to debate and consider this amount. See G.L. c. 71, § 16B, 5th paragraph ("The annual regional school budget as adopted by a two-thirds vote of the regional school district committee We are well aware, however, that in many instances a different amount appears on the warrant, either because the school committee recertified the budget after the warrant closed, or because the selectmen simply wished to make a different recommendation. When we have been consulted about such instances in advance of town meeting, we have advised that this procedural uncertainty can be easily remedied by a motion on town meeting floor to amend the article to reflect the school committee's budget. We also note that G.L. c.71, § 1613, gives the superintendent of regional school district the right to address a town meeting Superintendent Crowley October 19, 2009 Page 3 regarding the district's budget. These actions ensure that town meeting members are making an educated decision and that the documentation clearly reflects on which regional school district budget they cast their votes. With respect to the June 29`h town meeting in Saugus, I believe that the town finance committee, the Saugus representatives to the regional school committee, and the superintendent all could have clarified the situation before the meeting. It is important that town meeting members are well informed when casting their votes and that the record clearly indicates on which budget they have voted. Nevertheless, the action taken by town meeting speaks for itself. The budget for the regional school district was considered and acted upon, and the appropriated amount was less than the amount requested in the regional school committee's most recent budget proposal. In my opinion, any procedural irregularity in the wording of the warrant article is not sufficient to invalidate that town meeting action. Accordingly, it is my opinion that the so-called "one- twelfth" budget set by the Department on July 1, 2009 remains in effect, and it is now the responsibility of the regional school committee to reconsider the budget and recertify a new proposal to the member towns. Finally, it is my hope that the school district and the member towns will work collaboratively to resolve the differences that inevitably arise in regional school district budget discussions. Regular discussions on the district's budget and finances throughout the year can help immensely in avoiding disputes such as this. Sincer Y, Mitchell D. Chester, Ed.D. Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education cc: Board of Selectmen, Towns of North Reading, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham, Wakefield, Winchester, Winthrop Mayor Richard Howard, City of Malden Mayor Robert Dolan, City of Melrose Mayor Thomas Ambrosino, City of Revere Mayor Thomas McLaughlin, City of Woburn 3, (C ~S Mark L. Wetzel 163 County Road Reading, MA 01867 ~9 ~~T 6 '~1 October 15, 2009 Mr. Peter Hechenbleikner Town Manager Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 Dear Mr. Hechenbleikner : Please consider this letter as my resignation from the Town of Reading Conservation Commission. I have enjoyed serving the town and working with the town staff. Sincerely, Mark Wetzel c. Ms. Fran Fink - Conservation Administrator 3 C, BLD ER ICES lnfornaation • Advice • Solutions October 5, 2009 Ms. Dawn Folopoulos Director Reading Council on Aging Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, 01867 Dear . F los: As you know, the Board of Directors voted on September 29, 2009 to award the town of Reading an additional Board seat, bringing the total to three (3) seats. The Council on Aging is the appointing authority for this new seat. The term is for three (3) years beginning October 1, 2009 through September 30, 2012. I am confident that the person you select will bring the necessary qualities to add to our Board's success. Please let me know when you have chosen the new member and I will be happy to contact him/her to set up a time to meet for an orientation. If you would like a suggestion for a potential candidate, please let me know. Thanks! ^ 5 f 1 f" S r Ou". 300 Commercial Street #19 • Malden, MA 02148 • FAX 781-324-1369 • TTY/TTD 781-321-8880 781-324-7705 • www.myes.org ® 1-800-AGE INFO Serving the communities olEverett, Malden, Aledfond, Melrose, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, and Wakefield since 1975. ~ (f. &s 78 Ashley P face Reading, MA 01867 C . V.,> M OCT 23 AM II: 07 October 21, 2009 Barbara Meade, RN Chair, Reading Board of Health Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 Dear Ms. Meade: We are writing to commend and thank the Reading Board of Health, the Health Department, and in particular Mr. Larry Ramdin for the manner in which a serious environmental threat has been resolved. As you may know, in the spring of 2008 the owner of Eric's Green House Nursery began illegally accepting and dumping grass clippings in the rear of his property immediately abutting Ashley Place. The resultant stench of ammonia from the decomposing clippings began to significantly impact our quality of life. We were unable to leave our windows open during the day or at night as the fresh air of spring had been overwhelmed by the foul odor coming from Eric's. It got to the point that our children began to avoid playing outside our homes due to the constant smell. Entertaining guests outdoors became literally subject to the direction the wind was blowing. Needless to say we became increasingly frustrated as we did not purchase homes in this otherwise beautiful and tranquil neighborhood with any understanding that we would be living next to a transfer station for local landscapers. We contacted Town Hall and were referred to the Health Department. Although the final resolution of the problem took more than a year, (the one aspect of this story that could use some improvement) through the diligence of Mr. Ramdin we were kept informed throughout the long and complex process. We gradually gained an appreciation for the need to meticulously address the details of the various local and state laws and regulations involved in order for the town to craft an order that would be indisputable. It has been over two months now since Eric's was served notice to cease and desist form the illegal dumping and composting. It is testimony to the thoroughness and professionalism of Mr. Ramdin and the other town staff involved in the case that Eric's immediately complied with the order and removed the grass clippings and has remained in compliance to date. Needless to say, our quality of life has been greatly improved as a result. While we may have temporarily taken for granted our right to breathe fresh air and enjoy the pleasant fragrances of the changing New England seasons, the experience of exerting and protecting those rights has provided us with a new-found appreciation for and confidence in the civic process. We owe a debt of thanks to Mr. Ramdin and the other Reading officials who have restored that confidence and the ability of our family and our entire neighborhood to breathe easily again. Sincerely, XA, & Brenda Byrne Tom CC: Mr. Larry Ramdin Mr. Peter Hechenbleikner (C , October 21, 2009 To the Board of Selectmen: 2m9 OCT 23 AN II; 09 I will be unable to attend the Selectmen's meeting regarding the meal tax and would like to go on record as being totally against the proposed tax. It really has nothing to do with the amount of money, as Camille mentioned. She didn't think people would be against it because it is such a small amount. But it is Just one more thing! We renovated our square to attract more people. Now, let's charge them to make more money! We were told it only cost $600,000 (which we didn't have) because the state put up the rest (which they didn't have!) We have state of the art sport fields; however, the cost is extremely high for students to use them. Give me the plain old fields where everyone can afford to participate and use them. Our Arts Center is beautiful; but, at what cost to the students who would like to participate in productions (whether they are on stage or behind the scenes)? Plus, they must solicit advertising for the programs. For the most part, school buses are denied unless you are able to pay a costly fee. It seems our Health Inspector has forced many non profit churches and organizations to go to great expense to improve their kitchens if they want to continue their Faires, cooking for the elderly, etc. It always seemed to work successfully before, why not now? We now hear that church plowing will not be done after this year. One more thing gone! Students are asked to bring in so many supplies- pens, pencils, crayons, tissues, etc., plus money for a supply list, P.T.O. dues, etc. These are just a few things that come to mind that I believe are and should be concerns for our tax payers. Everything seems to be money, money, money! Is anyone giving concern to the fact that people in our community are really facing financial difficulties? That we can't seem to keep the Food Pantry stocked, that people are facing foreclosures, and so many have lost their jobs. Does anyone care? It seems that we are paying more and having more taken away from us! These are just a few of my thoughts and I don't feel that I am alone in this. Please don't take this as a criticism for all the work you all do. It amazes me that you are all so generous with your time and efforts to make our community better. I just felt I needed to state my concerns. Re ectfully, Ore~eln 'Entremont 398 Haverhill Street 3~ Commonwealth of Massachusetts E DEPARTMENT OF MOUSING & - -w _ w° COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Deval L. Patrick, Governor ♦ Timothy P. Murray, Lt. Governor O Tina Brooks, Undersecretary ~A, Spa October 16, 2009 N Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 C)' 00 Re: Downtown `Smart Growth District Preliminary Determination of Eligibility Dear Mr. Hechenbleikner: I am -writing regarding the application for a preliminary determination of eligibility pursuant to MGL, Chapter 40R and 760 CMR 59.00 that was submitted by the Town of Reading (Town) to the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for the proposed Downtown 'Smart Growth District (District). I am pleased to inform you our review has determined that the proposed District satisfies the referenced statutory and regulatory requirements. The Smart Growth Residential Density Plan submitted with the application calculates that 256 Incentive Units are allowed to be developed pursuant to the proposed Smart Growth Zoning. Upon issuance of a Letter of Approval from DHCD, the Town will be entitled to a $350,000 Zoning Incentive Payment. Pursuant to 760 CMR 59.05, DHCD issues this Letter of Eligibility with the following conditions: 1. The Town adopts the Smart Growth Zoning for the District as proposed in the document titled Downtown Smart Growth District as approved by DHCD on October 9, 2009, a copy of which is enclosed with this letter. Adoption of the Smart Growth Zoning must occur before October 16, 2012. After adoption of the Smart Growth Zoning, the Town must submit proof of such adoption to DHCD. Proof of adoption requires the submission of the following information: a) a copy of the Smart Growth Zoning adopted by Town Meeting certified by the Town Clerk; b) a copy of the Zoning Map adopted by Town Meeting certified by the Town Clerk; c) a copy of the Attorney General's letter approving the Smart Growth Zoning; d) if there were any amendments between the Smart Growth Zoning approved by DHCD in its preliminary determination of eligibility letter and the Smart Growth Zoning adopted by town meeting, an annotated version of the Smart Growth Zoning must be submitted clearly indicating all changes including, where applicable, deletions made by the Attorney General; and, 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 300 Boston, Massachusetts 02114 3 www.mass.gov/dhcd 617.573.1100 e) a certification by the Town Clerk that the Smart Growth Zoning has been published and posted pursuant to MGL, Chapter 40, Section 32. 2. If there are changes to the Smart Growth Zoning, DHCD may treat such submission as an amendment to the application and will notify the Town of its decision to do so in writing. DHCD must confirm its final approval within 60 days of receipt of such submission provided the amended application satisfies all the approval criteria set forth in 760 CMR 59.04(1). 3. There is no local rule, regulation or bylaw that would prevent the 256 Future Zoned Units from being developed in the District. There is no agreement that regulates the development of the Future Zoned Units or requires a Project to have either Rental Units or Homeownership Units. 4. DHCD approves the "Downtown "Smart Growth District Design Standards and Guidelines dated October 2, 2009 with the approval of DHCD dated October 31, 2009, a copy of which is enclosed with this letter. Such design standards must be filed with the Town Clerk. 5. If a building permit has not been issued for a Bonus Unit in the District within three years of the date of the Zoning Incentive Payment, or if a building permit was issued within such three-year period, but no certificate of occupancy for such Bonus Unit was issued within two years thereafter, the Town must submit satisfactory evidence, in the form of certification by the Plan Approval Authority, zoning enforcement officer or public works official, of the start of construction within that time period of one or more Projects as defined by 760 CMR 59.02, or be subject to revocation under 760 CMR 59.07(3) and the repayment of monies under 760 CMR 59.06(3). The start of construction requires evidence satisfactory to DHCD that construction activity has occurred in good faith on the Project, such as the pouring of foundations or footings, or utility relocation, or the remediation of hazardous materials on the site, and provided that such construction is continued through to completion. The three-year time period is extended by the time that a Project on which construction would otherwise have started within the three-year time period is subject to legal or administrative appeal or challenge, or if the proponent is actively pursuing other required permits or there is other good cause for the failure to start construction. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Don Schmidt at (617) 573-1363 or donald.schmidt@state.ma.us. Sincerely, 6Th Tina. Brooks Undersecretary cc: Abby McCabe, Staff Planner 3y), ( October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA A BY-LAW AMENDING THE READING ZONING BY-LAWS by adding the following new section: 4.12. DOWNTOWN SMART GROWTH DISTRICT ("the DSGD") 4.12.1 Purposes The purposes of the Downtown Smart Growth District are: (1) To provide an opportunity for residential development and to especially encourage mixed-use development, including both new construction and renovation of existing buildings, within a distinctive, attractive and livable environment that supports the commercial revitalization of Downtown Reading. (2) To promote continuing development and redevelopment in Downtown Reading that is pedestrian friendly and consistent with Reading history and architecture. (3) To ensure high quality site planning, architecture and landscape design that enhances the distinct visual character and identity of Downtown Reading and provides an environment with safety, convenience and amenity. (4) To provide for a diversified housing stock at a variety of costs within walking distance of services and public transportation, including affordable housing and other housing types that meet the needs of the Town's population. (5) To generate positive tax revenue for the Town, and to benefit from the financial incentives provided by Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40R, while providing the opportunity for new business growth and additional local jobs. (6) To encourage preservation and rehabilitation of historic structures and buildings. (7) To promote efficient use of land and existing parking supply and limit expansion within the district by encouraging shared parking. (8) To encourage adoption of energy efficient building practices and sustainable construction methods. (9) To ensure compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection stormwater management policies and practices. 4.12.2 Definitions As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below: ACCESSORY BUILDING - A detached building the use of which is customarily incidental and subordinate to that of the principal building or buildings and which is located on the same lot. An Accessory Building shall not be used to house people, domestic animals or livestock, nor shall it be used as an independent commercial enterprise. An Accessory Building located within 10 feet of a principal building shall be subject to the dimensional requirements applicable to the principal building. Page 1 ~ October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNERSHIP UNIT - A dwelling unit required to be sold to an Eligible Household per the requirements of this Section 4.12. AFFORDABLE HOUSING RESTRICTION - A deed restriction of an Affordable Unit meeting statutory requirements in Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 184 §31 and the requirements of §4.12.10 of this article AFFORDABLE RENTAL UNIT - A dwelling unit required to be rented to an Eligible Household per the requirements of §4.12.10. AFFORDABLE UNIT - The collective reference to Affordable Homeownership Units and Affordable Rental Units. ANNUAL UPDATE - A list of all approved and currently proposed Smart Growth Districts within the Town of Reading, to be filed on or before July 31St of each year with the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development pursuant to Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40R and applicable regulations. APPLICANT A landowner or other petitioner who files a plan for a Development Project subject to the provisions of this Section 4.12. APPROVING AUTHORITY (AA) - The Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC) of the Town of Reading acting as the authority designated to review projects and issue approvals under this Section 4.12. AA REGULATIONS - The administrative rules and regulations adopted by the AA pursuant to Section 4.12.11. AS-OF-RIGHT DEVELOPMENT - A Development Project allowable under this Section 4.12 without recourse to a special permit, variance, zoning amendment, or other form of zoning relief. A Development Project that is subject to the Plan Review requirement of this Section 4.12 shall be considered an As-of-right Development. CONSUMER SERVICES - A barber shop, dry cleaning or laundry establishment, photographer's shop or studio or similar business where service is provided directly on the premises. DESIGN STANDARDS - The document entitled Downtown Smart Growth District Design Standards and Guidelines, dated October 2, 2009 and approved by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development on October 31, 2009, as amended, pursuant to Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40R § 10 and applicable regulations. Said Design Standards shall be applicable to all Development Projects within the DSGD that are subject to Plan Review by the Approving Authority. DEVELOPMENT PROJECT or PROJECT- A residential or mixed use development . undertaken under this Section 4.12. A Development Project shall be identified as such on the Plan which is submitted to the Approving Authority for Plan Review. Page 2 3J Y October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA DWELLING UNIT - A structure or a portion of a structure containing in a self sufficient and exclusive manner facilities for sleeping, bathing, and cooking, including one full kitchen and full bathroom facilities as defined by the Massachusetts State Building Code. ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLD - An individual or household whose annual income is below eighty percent (80%) of the area-wide median income as determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), adjusted for household size, with income computed using HUD's rules for attribution of income to assets. FAMILY - One (1) or more persons occupying a dwelling unit as a single house- keeping unit. Domestic employees may be housed on the premises without being counted as a family or families. FLOOR AREA, NET - The actual occupied area of a building or buildings not including hallways, stairs, mechanical spaces and other non-habitable spaces, and not including thickness of exterior or interior walls. FLOOR AREA, GROSS - The sum of the gross areas of all floors of a building, measured from the exterior faces of the exterior walls or from the centerline of walls separating two buildings. Gross floor area does not include the following: 1) basement space having at least one-half the floor-to-ceiling height below grade, rated as non-habitable by applicable building code 2) accessory parking (i.e., parking that is available on or off-site that is not part of the use's minimum parking standard) 3) attic space having a floor-to-ceiling height less than seven feet, rated as non- habitable by applicable building code 4) exterior balconies 5) uncovered steps, landings, and ramps 6) inner courts open to the sky. HOUSEHOLD INCOME, MEDIAN - The median income, adjusted for household size, as reported by the most recent information from, or calculated from regulations promulgated by, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). INSTITUTIONAL USE - A non-profit or quasi-public use or institution, such as a church, library, public or private school, municipally owned or operated building, structure or land, used for public purpose. MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT - A Development Project containing a residential Principal Use and one or more Non-Residential, Secondary Uses as specified in Section 4.12.5.1, provided that, in newly constructed buildings, separate and distinct building entrances are provided for residential and non-residential uses. Page 3 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA MONITORING AGENT- An entity designated by the Reading Board of Selectmen, which may be the Reading Housing Authority or other qualified housing entity, with the power to monitor and to enforce compliance with the provisions of this By-Law related to Affordable Units, including but not limited to computation of rental and sales prices; income eligibility of households applying for Affordable Units; administration of an approved housing marketing and resident selection plan; and recording and enforcement of an Affordable Housing Restriction for each Affordable Unit in the DSGD (See Section 4.12.10.6). MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL - A building containing four or more residential dwelling units designed for occupancy by the same number of families as the number of dwelling units. NON-RESIDENTIAL USE - Office, Retail, Restaurant, Service or Institutional Use, inclusive, or some combination of the same. OFFICE - A place for the regular performance of business transactions and services, generally intended for administrative, professional and clerical activities, including a medical or dental office or health clinic. PLAN - A plan depicting a proposed Development Project for all or a portion of the Downtown Smart Growth District and which is submitted to the Approving Authority for its review and approval in accordance with the provisions of this Section 4,12. PLAN APPROVAL - The Approving Authority's authorization for a proposed Development Project based on a finding of compliance with this Section 4.12 and Design Standards after the conduct of a Plan Review. PLAN REVIEW - The review procedure established by this Article and administered by the Community Planning and Development Commission of the Town of Reading as the Approving Authority. RESTAURANT - Any business establishment principally engaged in serving food, drink, or refreshments, whether prepared on or off the premises provided, however, that drive through windows are not allowed. RESIDENTIAL USE - A building or part of a building containing Dwelling Units as defined herein above and parking that is accessory to the Dwelling Units. RETAIL USE - Business establishments selling goods and/or services to customers on-site, generally for end use personal, business or household consumption. A reasonable amount of storage consistent with Massachusetts Building Codes of said goods shall also be assumed to be an incidental part of Retail Use. SMART GROWTH DISTRICT - An overlay zoning district adopted pursuant to Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40R, in accordance with the procedures for zoning adoption and amendment as set forth in Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40A and approved by the Page 4 35~ October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA Department of Housing and Community Development pursuant to Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40R and applicable regulations. UNDERLYING ZONING - The zoning requirements adopted pursuant to Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40A that are otherwise applicable to the geographic area in which the DSGD is located, as said requirements may be amended from time to time. UNDULY RESTRICTIVE - A provision of a Smart Growth District or a Design Standard that adds unreasonable costs or unreasonably impairs the economic feasibility of proposed Development Projects in a Smart Growth District. UNRESTRICTED UNIT - A Dwelling Unit that is not restricted as to rent, price or eligibility of occupants. USE, ACCESSORY - A use subordinate to the Principal Use on the same lot or in the same structure and serving a purpose customarily incidental to the Principal Use, and which does not, in effect, constitute conversion of the Principal Use of the lot, site or structure to a use not otherwise permitted in the Smart Growth District. USE, PRINCIPAL - The main or primary purpose for which a structure, building, or lot is designed, arranged, licensed, or intended, or for which it may be used, occupied, or maintained under this Section 4.12. USE, SECONDARY - A use located on the same lot as a Principal Use but which is of equal or lesser scale, impact, and visibility than the Principal Use. A Secondary Use is not an Accessory Use, as it is largely independent from the Principal Use. 4.12.3 Scone and Authority The Downtown Smart Growth District is established pursuant to the authority of Mass. Gen. Laws. Ch. 44R and applicable regulations, and shall be deemed to overlay the parcels as shown on the Zoning Map of the Town of Reading, as amended. The Applicant shall have the option of applying for Plan Approval pursuant to the zoning controls set forth in this article or complying with all applicable zoning controls set forth in the Zoning By Laws of the Town of Reading for the underlying district(s) or for other overlay zoning that may be therein defined. Development Projects proceeding under this Article shall be governed solely by the provisions of this Article and shall be deemed exempt from the standards and/or procedures of the Underlying Zoning and other overlay provisions. 4.12.4 Establishment and Delineation of the DSGD The Downtown Smart Growth District is an overlay district that is superimposed over the Underlying District. The boundaries are delineated as the "Downtown Smart Growth District" on the Official Zoning Map of the Town of Reading on file in the office of the Town Clerk, said map hereby made a part of the Reading Zoning Bylaw. 4.12.5 Allowed and Prohibited Uses '3 1 Page 5 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA Any use not listed herein as an Allowed Use is deemed prohibited. 4.12.5.1 Allowed Uses The following uses shall be permitted as-of-right in the DSGD upon Plan Approval pursuant to the provisions of this article: (1) Multi-family Residential (2) Office* (3) Retail* (4) Restaurant* (5) Institutional* (6) Consumer Service* *Only as part of a Mixed-Use Development; see Section 4.12.7 below In addition to the allowed uses listed above, the following uses are permitted as-of- right for Development Projects within the DSGD subject to the requirements of this article. (6) Parking accessory to any of the above permitted uses, including surface, garage-under, and structured parking (7) Accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above permitted principal uses 4.12.5.2 Prohibited Uses. The following uses are prohibited in the DSGD: (1) Any use which regularly emits strong odors, or dust particles, or smoke, or poses danger, such as manufacture of acids, gases, fertilizers and glue, petroleum refining, reduction of animal matter, and manufacture of cement, gypsum, or explosives. (2) Any other use dangerous to persons within or outside the District by reason of emission of odor, fumes, gases, particulate matter, smoke, noise, vibration, glare, radiation, electrical interference, threat of fire or explosion, or any other reason. (3) Any use that degrades water quality, reduces groundwater recharge, or increases flooding are prohibited. 4.12.6 Dimensional and Other Requirements Applications for Plan Approval shall be governed by this Section 4.12 and the Design Standards for the Downtown Smart Growth District. Page 6 3~~ October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA Mixed-Use with Other Mixed-Use Building Type Commercial 1St Floor or Residential Only Maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) 3.4 2.4 (Gross Floor Area / Lot Size) Minimum Lot Frontage 50 feet Maximum Lot Coverage N/A Minimum Lot Area N/A Number of Buildings per lot N/A Maximum Building Frontage 300 feet Minimum Front Setback' 0 feet Maximum Front Setback' 10 feet Minimum Side/Rear Setback 2 15 feet abutting a Residential Zone Minimum Side/Rear Setback 2 0 feet in DSGD or abutting Business-B Interior Setback (between 15 feet buildings on same lot) ' See 7. 1.1 of the Design Standards for front facade setback requirements 2 See 7.1.2 of the Design Standards for building step-back requirements 4.12.6.1 Residential Density Allowances The following residential densities shall be allowed on all lots and within all buildings within the DSGD pursuant to the requirements of this Section 4.12: Multifamily Residential 20 Units per acre (a) The Approving Authority may provide a waiver as specified in Section 4.12.12 to allow a density in excess of that stated above. (b) The Approving Authority may provide a waiver as specified in Section 4.12.12 to promote the renovation or adaptive reuse of existing buildings. 4.12.6.2 Dimensional Standards and Requirements The following building heights shall be allowed on all lots within the DSGD, pursuant to the requirements of this Section 4.12: Multifamily Residential Buildings 33 Feet Multifamily Residential Buildings with 45 Feet Commercial Uses on the Ground Floor Page 7 3gq October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA 4.12.6.3 Contiguous Lots In the DSGD, where two or more lots are contiguous or are separated by a right-of- way, such lots may be considered as one lot for the purpose of calculating maximum lot coverage; parking requirements; minimum useable open space; and dwelling units per acre. 4.12.6.4 Age-Restricted Housing Units An Applicant may propose a Residential or Mixed-Use Development Project in which all dwelling units are designed for or are accessible to the elderly or the handicapped under all applicable laws and regulations, provided that not less than twenty-five percent (25%) of the housing units in any such Development Project shall be Affordable Units. All such Development Projects shall be governed by the requirements of this Section 4.12 and the Design Standards. 4.12.7 Mixed-Use Development Development Projects may include a portion not to exceed 50% of the total gross floor area to be used for non-residential uses including Office, Retail, Restaurant, Service or Institutional Uses; provided that office or institutional uses on the ground floor may not utilize more than 33% of the total gross square footage of that floor. 4.12.8 Off-Street Parking and Loading 4.12.8.1 Off-Street Parking Retail stores, offices and consumer service establishments located within three hundred (300) feet of a public off-street parking facility shall be exempt from off- street parking requirements. In all other cases, off-street parking shall be provided to meet the following minimum requirements: Retail or Restaurant 0 spaces Office and Institutional 2 spaces per 1,000 ft Residential Units 1 space per unit Other Non-Residential, less than 2,000 ft 0 spaces Other Non-Residential, 2,000 ft or more 1 space per 2,000 ft leaseable space in excess of 2,000 ft As indicated above, off-street parking is not required for Other Non-Residential uses in the district unless such use exceeds 2,000 square feet of net floor area. 4.12.8.2 Off-Street Loading & Delivery Front door and on-street deliveries are not allowed for non-residential establishments on Main and Haven Streets. Off-street loading spaces shall be provided to meet or exceed the following minimum requirements: Page 8 3y10, October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA Restaurant: 1 space per 2,000 ft leaseable space in excess of 2,000 ft Other allowed Secondary Use: 1 space per 5,000 ft leaseable space in excess of 2,000 ft The Approving Authority may waive the loading space requirement if the Applicant provides a plan proving that the loading space is not needed or can be shared. 4.12.8.3 Location of Parking Any surface parking lot shall, to the maximum extent feasible, be located at the side or rear of a building, relative to any public right-of-way, public open space, or pedestrian way. In no case shall surface parking for new construction be permitted within the required front yard setbacks. 4.12.8.4 Waiver of Parking Requirements The Approving Authority may grant a Plan Approval making such modifications in the standards or prescribe safeguards and conditions as it shall warrant appropriate, provided that it finds that it is impractical to meet the standards and that such modifications are appropriate by reason of the proposed use and will not result in or worsen parking or traffic problems in the DSGD. The Approving Authority may impose conditions of use or occupancy appropriate to such modifications. 4.12.8.5 Shared Use of Required Parking Shared use may be made of required parking spaces by intermittent use establishments, for example, churches, assembly halls or theaters, whose peak parking demand is only at night or on specific days of the week; by other uses whose peak demand is only during the day; or in public parking lots. At the time of application, a formal agreement shall be made in writing by the owners of the uses involved concerning the number of spaces involved, substantiation of the fact that such shared use is not overlapping or in conflict, and the duration of the agreement. The applicant shall demonstrate that shared spaces will meet parking demands by using accepted methodologies (e.g. the Urban Land Institute Shared Parking Report, ITE Shared Parking Guidelines, or other industry established studies on shared parking). 4.12.8.6 Cooperative Establishment and Operation of Parking Areas Required spaces for any number of uses may be provided in a combined lot or lots (public or private), provided that the number of spaces in the combined facility shall not be less than the sum of those required of the individual uses, with allowances made, upon formal designation, for night use or for separate and distinct working shifts, and provided also that such lot or lots shall be within 600 feet of the principal buildings served. 4.12.8.7 Visitor Parking -Z (A Page 9 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA The Approving Authority may allow for additional visitor parking beyond the minimum required spaces per unit if deemed appropriate given the design, layout and density of the proposed Development Project. 4.12.8.8 Parking Design Parking shall be designed and constructed to comply with all applicable disability access requirements including but not limited to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and 521 CMR. 4.12.9 Open Spaces and Recreational Areas The site design for Development Projects may include common open space and facilities. Where proposed, the plans and any necessary supporting documents submitted with an application for Plan Approval within the DSGD shall show the general location, size, character, and general area within which common open space or facilities will be located. The plans and documentation submitted to the Approving Authority shall include a description of proposed ownership and maintenance provisions of all common open space and facilities and, if requested by the Approving Authority, any necessary restrictions or easements designed to preserve the open space and recreational areas from future development. Upon consideration of the above information, the Approving Authority may approve a waiver as provided for in Section 4.12.12 for a front setback to allow for common open space or facilities. 4.12.10 Affordable Housing Affordable Units shall comply with the following requirements: (1) The monthly rent payment for an Affordable Rental Unit, including utilities and parking, shall not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the maximum monthly income permissible for an Eligible Household, assuming a Family size equal to the number of bedrooms in the unit plus one, except in the event of an Eligible Household with a Section 8 voucher in which case program rent limits shall apply. (2) For an Affordable Homeownership Unit the monthly housing payment, including mortgage principal and interest, private mortgage insurance, property taxes, condominium and/or homeowner's -association fees, insurance, and parking, shall not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the maximum monthly income permissible for an Eligible Household, assuming a Family size equal to the number of bedrooms in the unit plus one. (3) Affordable Units required to be offered for rent or sale shall be rented or sold to and occupied only by Eligible Households. 4.12.10.1 Number of Affordable Units Twenty percent (20%) of all dwelling units constructed in a Development Project shall be Affordable Units. Provided however, for Development Projects in which all ~v Page 10 1 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA of the dwelling units are limited to occupancy by elderly persons and/or by persons with disabilities, twenty-five percent (25%) of the dwelling units shall be Affordable Units, whether the dwelling units are Rental Units or Ownership Units. 4.12.10.2. Fractional Units When the application of the percentages specified above results in a number that . includes a fraction, the fraction shall be rounded up to the next whole number if the fraction is 0.5 or more. If the result includes a fraction below 0.5, the fraction shall be rounded down to the next whole number. 4.12.10.3 Design and Construction Affordable Units must be dispersed throughout a Development Project and be comparable in initial construction quality and exterior design to the Unrestricted Units. However, nothing in this section is intended to limit a homebuyer's rights to renovate a Dwelling Unit under applicable law. The Affordable Units must have access to all on-site amenities. Affordable Units shall be finished housing units. All Affordable Units must be constructed and occupied not later than concurrently with construction and occupancy of Unrestricted Units. In Development Projects that are constructed in phases, Affordable Units must be constructed and occupied in proportion to the number of units in each phase of the Development Project. 4.12.10.4 Unit Mix The total number of bedrooms in the Affordable Units shall be at least proportionate to the total number of bedrooms in all units of the Project of which the Affordable Units is part. 4.12.10.5 Affordable Housing Restriction Each Affordable Unit shall be subject to an Affordable Housing Restriction which is recorded with the County Registry of Deeds or Land Court Registry District of the County. All Affordable Housing Restrictions must include, at minimum, the following: (a) A description of the Affordable Homeownership Unit, if any, by address and number of bedrooms; and a description of the overall quantity and number of bedrooms and number of bedroom types of Affordable Rental Units in a Development or portion of a Development which are rental. Such restriction shall apply individually to the specifically identified Affordable Homeownership Unit and shall apply to a percentage of rental units of a rental Development or the rental portion of a Development without specific unit identification. (b) The term of the Affordable Housing Restriction which shall be in perpetuity or for the longest period customarily allowed by law'but shall be no less than thirty (30) years. 13 Page 11 '31 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA (c) The name and address of the Monitoring Agent with a designation of its power to monitor and enforce the Affordable Housing Restriction. (d) Reference to a housing marketing and resident selection plan, to which the Affordable Unit is subject, and which includes an affirmative fair housing marketing program, including public notice and a fair resident selection process. If approved by DHCD, the housing marketing and selection plan may provide for local preferences in resident selection. The plan shall designate the household size appropriate for a unit with respect to bedroom size and provide that preference for such unit shall be given to a household of the appropriate size. (e) A requirement that buyers or tenants will be selected at the initial sale or initial rental and upon all subsequent sales and rentals from a list of Eligible Households compiled in accordance with the housing marketing and selection plan. (f) Reference to the formula pursuant to which rent of a rental unit or the maximum resale price of a homeownership unit will be set. (g) A requirement that only an Eligible Household may reside in an Affordable Unit and that notice of any lease or sublease of any Affordable Unit shall be given to the Monitoring Agent. (h) Provision for effective monitoring and enforcement of the terms and provisions of the Affordable Housing Restriction by the Monitoring Agent. (i) Provision that the restriction on an Affordable Homeownership Unit shall run in favor of the Monitoring Agent and the Town of Reading, in a form approved by municipal counsel, and shall limit initial sale and re-sale to and occupancy by an Eligible Household. (j) Provision that the owner(s) or manager(s) of Affordable Rental Unit(s) shall file an annual report to the Monitoring Agent, in a form specified by that agent certifying compliance with the. provisions of this Section 4.12.10 and containing such other information as may be reasonably requested in order to ensure affordability. (k) Provision that the restriction on Affordable Rental Units in a rental Project or rental portion of a Project shall run with the rental Project or rental portion of a Project and shall run in favor of the Monitoring Agent and the Town of Reading, in a form approved by municipal counsel, and shall limit rental and occupancy to an Eligible Household. (1) A requirement that residents in Affordable Units provide such information as the Monitoring Agent may reasonably request in order to ensure affordability. (m) Designation of the priority of the Affordable Housing Restriction over other mortgages and restrictions. 4.12:10.6 Administration 14 1 Page 12 31 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA The Monitoring Agent shall ensure the following (See Section 4.12.2 Definitions): (a) Prices of Affordable Homeownership-Units are properly computed; rental amounts of Affordable Rental Units are properly computed. (b) Income eligibility of households applying for Affordable Units is properly and reliably determined. (c) The housing marketing and resident selection plan conforms to all requirements and is properly administered. (d) Sales and rentals are made to Eligible Households chosen in accordance with the housing marketing and resident selection plan with appropriate unit size for each household being properly determined and proper preference being given. (e) Affordable Housing Restrictions meeting the requirements of this section are recorded with the Middlesex County Registry of Deeds or Land Court Registry District of Middlesex County. In the case where the Monitoring Agent cannot adequately carry out its administrative duties, upon certification of this fact by the Approving Authority or by the Department of Housing and Community Development, the administrative duties shall devolve to and thereafter be administered by a qualified housing entity designated by the Reading Board of Selectmen. 4.12.10.7 Costs of Housing Marketing and Selection Plan. The housing marketing and selection plan shall make provision for payment by the owner of reasonable costs to the Monitoring Agent and the owner shall pay reasonable costs to the Monitoring Agent to develop, advertise, and maintain the list of Eligible Households and to monitor and enforce compliance with affordability requirements. 4.12.11 Plan Approval Procedures The Approving Authority (AA) shall adopt and file with the Town Clerk Administrative Regulations relative to the application requirements and contents for Plan Review, subject to approval by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. Plan approval procedures shall be as follows: 4.12.11.1 Pre-Application Requirements Prior to the submittal of a Plan for Plan Approval, a "Concept Plan" may be submitted to help guide the development of the definitive submission for project build out. Such Concept Plan shall reflect the following: (a) Overall building envelope areas (b) Open space and natural resource areas Page 13 3 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009. Town of Reading, MA (c) General site improvements, drainage plans, groupings of buildings and proposed land uses (d) Anticipated parking spaces and locations (e) Site vehicular access The Concept Plan is intended to be used as a tool for both the Applicant and the Approving Authority to ensure that the proposed Project design will be consistent with the Design Standards and other requirements of the DSGD. 4.12.11.2 Application Procedures All Projects are subject to Plan Approval. (1) Submittal An application for Plan Approval shall be submitted to the AA on the form provided by the Authority, along with the application fees set forth in the administrative regulations. The application shall be accompanied by such plans and other documents as required by the AA as well as any materials required to verify compliance with any of the provisions of this Section 4.12. All plans shall be prepared by certified architects or engineers as required by the Massachusetts Building Code. An application for Plan Approval shall be filed by the Applicant with the Town Clerk. A copy of the application, including the date of filing certified by the . Town Clerk, as well as the required number of copies of the application, shall be filed forthwith by the Applicant with the AA. Application submissions must include a hard copy as well as an electronic copy in PDF or CAD format. Said filing shall include any required forms provided by the AA. As part of any application for Plan Approval for a Development Project, the Applicant must submit the following documents to the AA and the Monitoring Agent: ® Evidence that the Development Project complies with the cost and eligibility requirements of Section 4.12.10; • Development Project plans that demonstrate compliance with the design and construction standards of Section 4.12.10.3; and • A form of Affordable Housing Restriction that satisfies the requirements of Section 4.12.10.5. • Review fees. The Applicant shall be required to pay for reasonable consulting fees to provide peer review of the application for the benefit of the Approving Authority. Such fees shall be held by the Town of Reading in an interest- bearing escrow account, and shall be used only for expenses associated with the use of outside consultants employed by the Approving Authority in reviewing the Plan application. Any surplus funds remaining after the tlv Page 14 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 (3) (4) (5) (6) Town of Reading, MA completion of such review, including any interest accrued, shall be returned to the Applicant forthwith; Circulation to Other Boards Upon receipt of the application, the AA shall immediately provide a copy of the application materials to all relevant municipal Boards, Departments; Commissions, Officials as determined by the AA and, if the project is subject to Affordability requirements, the Monitoring Agent. These entities shall provide any written comments within 60 days of receipt of the plan and application. Public Hearing . The Approving Authority shall hold a public hearing and review all applications according to the procedure specified in Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 40A § 11 Criteria for Plan Approval The Approving Authority shall approve the Development Project upon the following findings: a. The Applicant has submitted the required fees and information as set forth in applicable Regulations; and b. The proposed Development Project as described in the application meets all of the requirements and standards set forth in this Section 4.12, applicable Design Standards and the AA regulations, or a waiver has been granted there from; and c. Any extraordinary adverse potential impacts of the Project on nearby properties have been adequately mitigated. For a Project subject to Affordability requirements, compliance with Condition b. above shall include written confirmation by the Monitoring Agent that all Affordability requirements have been satisfied. Criteria for Plan Denial A Plan Approval application may be disapproved only where the Approving Authority finds that: a. The applicant has not submitted the required fees and information as set forth in the regulations; or b. The Project as described in the application does not meet all the requirements and standards set forth in this Section 4.12, applicable Design Standards and the AA Regulations, or that a required waiver there from has not been granted; or c. It is not possible to adequately mitigate significant project impacts on nearby properties by means of suitable conditions. (7) Time Limit 11 Page 15 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA The decision of the AA shall be made, and written notice of the decision filed with the Town Clerk within 120 days of receipt of the Application by the Town Clerk. This time may be extended by mutual agreement between the AA and the Applicant by written agreement filed with the Town Clerk. failure of the AA to take action within said 120 days or the extended time shall be deemed an approval of the Plan Approval application. 4.12.12 Waivers Upon request of the Applicant, the Approving Authority may waive dimensional and other requirements, including design standards, with conditions, in the interests of design flexibility and overall project quality, and upon a finding of consistency of such variation with the overall purpose and objectives of the DSGD and the Reading Master Plan, or if it finds that such waiver will allow the project to achieve the density, affordability, mix of uses and/or physical character allowed under this Section 4.12. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Zoning By-Law, the Affordability provisions of Section 4.12. 10 shall not be waived. The Approving Authority will take into consideration the following items when considering a waiver: 1) High performance energy efficient buildings and construction methods. 2) Projects with publicly accessible open space. 3) Projects that include retail and restaurants located on street level. 4) A demonstrated shared parking initiative that makes efficient use of land and existing parking supply. 5) The preservation or rehabilitation of historic properties or other buildings considered significant to the Town. 41213 Plan Changes After Approval by Approving Authority 4.12.13.1 Minor Plan Changes After Plan Approval, an Applicant may apply to make minor changes in a Development Project involving minor utility or building orientation adjustments, or minor adjustments to parking or other site details that do not affect the overall buildout or building envelope of the site, or provision of open space, number of housing units, or housing need or affordability features. Such minor changes must be submitted to the Approving Authority on redlined prints of the approved plan, reflecting the proposed change, and on application forms provided by the Approving Authority. The Approving Authority may authorize such changes at any regularly scheduled meeting, without the need to hold a public hearing. The Approving Authority shall set forth any decision to approve or deny such minor change by motion and written decision, and provide a copy to the Applicant for filing with the Town Clerk. Page 16 35 October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA 4.12.13.2 Major Plan Changes Those changes deemed by the Approving Authority to constitute a major change in a Development Project because of the nature of the change in relation to the prior approved plan, or because such change cannot be appropriately characterized as a minor change as described above, shall be processed by the Approving Authority as a new application for Plan Approval pursuant to this Section 4.12. 4.12.14 Fair Housing Requirement All Development Projects within the DSGD shall comply with applicable federal, state and local fair housing laws. 4.12.15 Project Phasing The Approving Authority may allow a Project to be phased at the request of the applicant or to mitigate any extraordinary adverse impacts on nearby properties. For projects that are approved and developed in phases, the proportion of Affordable units shall be consistent across. all phases and the proportion of Existing Zoned Units to Bonus units (as those terms are defined in 760 CMR 59.00 shall be consistent across phases. 4.12.16 Decisions The Approving Authority shall issue to the applicant a copy of its decision containing the name and address of the owner, identifying the land affected and the plans that were the subject of the decision and certifying that a copy of the decision has been filed with the Town Clerk. If 20 days have elapsed after the decision has been filed with the Town Clerk without an appeal having been filed, or if such appeal having been filed is dismissed or denied, the Town Clerk shall so certify on a copy of the decision. A copy of said decision shall be filed with the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds. A Plan Approval shall remain valid and run with the land indefinitely, provided that construction has commenced within two years after the decision is issued, which time shall be extended by the time required to adjudicate an appeal and which time shall be extended if the project proponent is actively pursuing other required permits or there is other good cause for failure to commence. The Approving Authority may require the posting of a performance bond to secure and/or screen a Development Project site in the event that demolition is undertaken but subsequent work lapses, for any reason within or outside the applicant's control, for a period longer than one year. 4.12.17 Date of Effect The effective date of this By-Law shall be the date on which such adoption is voted upon by Town Meeting pursuant to the requirements of Section 5 of Chapter 40A of the General Laws and Chapter 40R of the General Laws; provided, however, that an Applicant may not proceed with construction pursuant to this By-Law prior to the receipt of final approval of this By-Law and accompanying Zoning Map by both the Page 17 " J October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 9, 2009 Town of Reading, MA Department of Housing and Community Development and the Office of the Massachusetts Attorney General. 4.12.18 Severability If any provision of this Section is found to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Section shall not be affected but remain in full force. The invalidity of any provision of this Section 4.11 shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the Town's Zoning By-Law. 4.12.19 Amendments to Design Standards The AA may adopt, by majority vote, amendments to the Design Standards. Any amendment to the Design Standards must be objective and not subjective and may only address the scale and proportions of buildings, the alignment, width, and grade of streets and sidewalks, the type and location of infrastructure, the location of building and garage entrances, off street parking, the protection of significant natural site features, the location and design of on-site open spaces, exterior signs, and buffering in relation to adjacent properties. DHCD may, at its discretion, require any amendment to the Design Standards to contain graphics illustrating a particular standard or definition in order to make such standard or definition clear and understandable. Before adopting any Design Standard, the AA shall submit the proposed Design Standard to DHCD for approval. Any amendment to the Design Standards shall not take effect until approved by DHCD and filed with the Town Clerk. An application for Plan Approval that has been submitted to the Town Clerk pursuant to this Section 4.12 shall not be subject to any Design Standard that has not been approved by DHCD and filed with the Town Clerk. And that the Zoning By-Law of the Town of Reading is hereby further amended by adding the following text to Section 4.12. b' I Page 18 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading TOWN OF READING DOWNTOWN SMART GROWTH DISTRICT DESIGN STANDARDS & GUIDELINES October 2, 2009 Approved by DHCD - October 31, 2009 Page 1 of 20 October 7, 2009 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Introduction 2. Purpose 3. Applicability 4. Definitions 5. Application Requirements 6. Guiding Principles 6.1 Support Mixed Use Development 6.2 Reinforce Broader Town Goals to Enliven Downtown 6.3 Balance Unity and Variety and Create Legibility 6.4 Protect and Preserve Critical Historic and Cultural Resources 6.5 Promote Sustainable Development 7. Building Design Standards 7.1 Massing 7.2 Appearance 7.3 Entries 7.4 Fenestration 7.5 Materials 8. Site Design Standards 8.1 Sidewalks 8.2 Driveways and Parking 8.3 Landscaping 8.4 Lighting 8.5 Utility Areas and Utilities 8.6 Drainage and Storm Water Management 9. Signage Design Standards Page 2 of 20 October 7, 2009 a' ~9~ DSGD Design Guidelines 1. INTRODUCTION Town of Reading These Design Standards and Guidelines complement the District By-Law and establish the design requirements for development within the Downtown Smart Growth District (DSGD). 2. PURPOSE The Design Standards and Guidelines include both binding design standards for compliance and non-binding guiding principles. The Design Guidelines shall be used by the CPDC in their review and consideration of development proposals pursuant to the District By-Law. 3. APPLICABILITY These Design Standards and Guidelines apply to all proposed development within the Downtown Smart Growth District that is subject to Plan Approval under the provisions of Section 4.12 of the Zoning By-Laws. The CPDC, at its discretion, can approve minor deviations from the Design Standards if, in its opinion, such deviations contribute to the goals articulated in Section 6 more effectively than literal compliance with specific requirements. Applicants should clarify how proposed deviations fiu-ther the goals of the Town as defined by the Guiding Principles. These Design Standards do not exempt applicants from obtaining all required permits and complying with all applicable building codes, laws, and regulations in force. 4. DEFINITIONS Definitions in Section 4.12.2 of the Town of Reading Zoning By-Laws apply to these Design Standards and Guidelines. Where referenced, the Primary Commercial Streets in the DSGD shall be Main Street, Haven Street and High Street. 5. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS Application for development within the District shall comply with the application requirements set forth in the District By-Law and shall include all information noted below. . a. Completed application form b. Development narrative including all uses, breakdown of square footage for each use, number of housing units and zoning summary. c. Locus map with lot identification 3 Page 3 of 20 October 7, 2009 (3`' DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading d. Existing Site plan, including all existing structures, trees, topography, and easements, prepared by a licensed surveyor e. Certified list of abutters f. Photos of adjacent properties and other properties impacted by the development project g. Proposed site plan, indicating project boundaries, building footprints, on- site and remote parking areas (where applicable), and topography h. Building plans - all levels including roof i. Building elevations - all sides including courtyards and interior lot elevations j. Massing perspective sketches or renderings illustrating the key elements of the development proposal within its context k. Proposed exterior lighting plan with photometric information 1. Proposed storm water management plan with rainwater calculations The documents shall clearly differentiate between existing and proposed work by use of screened lines or color. Changes and revisions to subsequent submittals shall be prominently noted. 6. GUIDING PRINCIPLES 6.1 Support Mixed Use Development Downtown Reading has historically contained a mix of uses: residential, office, retail, mass-transit, and governmental--that all contribute to the community center character. New mixed-use development should contribute to the overall mix of uses within the district to and support architectural design that marks Reading's identity. New residences, restaurants, and commercial development will bring people to downtown to shop, live, work, and engage in civic and cultural activities. Mix use development will add to the employment, residential, commercial and cultural opportunities and enrich the varied societal life of Downtown Reading. Together they create the livable and vibrant communities that the "Smart Growth" district is intended to promote. In the DSGD the Primary Commercial streets shall be Main, Haven, and High. 6.2 Reinforce Broader Town Goals to Enliven the Downtown New development and adaptive reuse should enhance the character of downtown Reading and its community amenities, including sidewalks, crosswalks, street trees, lighting, and pedestrian oriented spaces, and it should use these improvements to make connections to open spaces, public buildings and public transportation. Page 4 of 20 October 7, 2009 U 39~ DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 6.3 Balance Unity and Variety and Create Legibility These design standards are intended to ensure that new buildings are compatible with the existing town center. It is in the Town's interest to promote variety as well. The creative use of forms, materials and unique uses that give vitality to Reading's center is encouraged. Legibility of spaces is especially encouraged - a clear definition of public, semi-public, semi private, and private zones; residential, retail, commercial and public uses; usable open spaces and enclosed building volumes; and vehicular and pedestrian areas. .6.4 Protect and Preserve Historic and Cultural Resources h New development should be compatible with nearby buildings and streetscape patterns. The adaptive reuse of historic buildings is encouraged. New construction should respect the patterns of New England Village construction that have and continue to define the downtown area, including reinforcing the street line by moving the buildings next to the sidewalk in commercial areas, creating an intimately scaled rhythm of fagade features. 6.5 Promote Sustainable Development . Sustainable construction techniques and materials should be incorporated in new construction in the District. Renovation of existing buildings should seek to improve energy efficiency within the building. Water conservation and energy efficiency should be a central goal in the selection of building components and building systems. Page 5 of 20 October 7, 2009 DSGD Design Guidelines . Town of Reading 7. BUILDING DESIGN STANDARDS 7.1 Massing 71.1 Front Facade Setback A minimum of 60% of front facades at ground level shall be located at the minimum setback line to reinforce the street line. When the space between the facade and setback line is specifically designed for pedestrian uses, such as outdoor dining, the maximum setback shall be permitted. Stepped back portions of the front facade at ground level are encouraged to articulate entries and provide variety. 7.1.2 Building Step-Back Requirements Page 6 of 20 October 7, 2009 a~ 3y Figure 7.2.1- Front Facade Setback DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading The front and rear facades of four story buildings shall step back a minimum of 6- S. Property Lime Section at 4th Story Step Back Figure 7.2.2 - Facade Step Back five (5) feet from the primary building face at either the second or fourth floor levels over 50% of their length, or offer alternative strategies for scaling the building height to the pedestrian must be offered.. Where buildings abut a residential district, the side yard step-back shall be such that the maximum building envelope is bounded by a line projected from the property line at a 1 to 2 ratio (63.4') 7.1.3 Mixed use buildings shall use proportions - a dominant horizontality for commercial, and a dominant verticality for residential - to give legibility to building uses. STEP BACK AT UPPER STORIES REDUCES BUILDING MASS CORNICE COMPLETES BUILDING COMPOSITION VERTICAL UPPER STORY WNDOWS CONTRAST WITH HORIZONTAL LOWER STORY WINDOWS CHANGE IN MATERIAL ACKNOWLEDGES CHANGE INUSE LARGER WINDOWS OPEN RETAIL LEVEL TO THE STREET Figure 7.23 Page 7 of 20 BAND COURSES REINFORCE BUILDING PROPORTIONS SMALLER UPPER FLOOR WINDOW CONTRAST WITH LARGER PUBLIC SIZE OF GROUND FLOOR WINDOWS TALLER FIRST FLOOR REINFORCES PUBLIC ZONE. PROJECTING HORIZONTAL REINFORCES HUMAN SCALE SHELTERED ENTRIES ENRICH PEDESTRIAN ZONE October 7, 2009 3.9 Section at Side Yard Step Back when Abutting a Raidential District Section at 2nd Story Step Back DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 7.1.4 Special functions with public significance such as theaters, educational uses, and exhibitions spaces, shall be differentiated in form to articulate their role in the downtown environment. 7.2 Appearance 7.2.1 Projecting bays, recesses, and cornices are encouraged at all floor levels to define proportions noted above. Building facades over 40' in length are required to have a change in plane articulated by projecting or recessed bays, balconies, or setbacks. 7.2.2 Horizontal elements such as belt courses, projecting cornices, canopies, and step backs should be combined with vertical elements such as recesses, projecting bays, parapets and vertically aligned windows, to create facades that may evoke but do not imitate the t historic buildings of Reading. Projected elements 2 feet and less may be located within the setback areas. Projections into the public right-of-way shall comply with the requirements of the Massachusetts State Building Code 780 CMR. 7.2.3 Fagade elements shall continue around to all sides of buildings visible from the street. Elements can be simplified at the rear of buildings to clarify a frontiback hierarchy. 7.2.4 Rooftop mechanical equipment shall be set back from building facades so that it is not visible from street views, screened from view behind parapets or enclosed within architectural elements that integrate it into the building design. Screening elements shall incorporate sound control devices or construction that mitigates equipment noise. Roofs shall not be visible from street views, except that mansard roofs may be used at the top floor of three or four story buildings. For any buildings, visible roofs shall not exceed walls in their respective visible Page 8 of 20 Figure 7.5.2 October 7, 2009 3`J0,- AVOID ROOF VISUAL ENWHASIS EQUAL TO OR GREATER THAN THAT OF THE WALL DSGD Design Guidelines proportions from street views. Town of Reading 7.2.5 Existing building facades with architectural significance are to be incorporated into new construction wherever feasible. Protected buildings can be changed only with the approval of the Reading Historical Commission. 72.6 Franchise Architecture, distinctive building design that is trademarked or identified with a particular chain or corporation and is generic in nature, shall not be allowed in the DSGD: To maintain the unique character of Downtown Reading, buildings shall not be branded using an architectural style of a company. Franchises or national chains may adapt their architectural style to follow these Design Standards and Guidelines, to create a building that is compatible with Downtown Reading. 7.3 Entries 7.3.1 Entries are to be clearly articulated with projecting canopies or recesses for convenience, way-finding, and to activate the street front and pedestrian spaces. Residential and commercial entries shall be separated as required in the District By-Law. Figure 7.4.1 7.32 Retail and commercial entries will face a public sidewalk and are to be primarily transparent to reinforce the public nature of the ground floor uses, and they are to be flanked by primarily transparent fagade elements to reinforce this perception. 7.3.3 Lighting and signage shall be integrated into the entry design to reinforce the public nature of the entry. Page 9 of 20 October 7, 2009 A 3g~ ENTRANCES CLEMY ARTNCUNATW AND DW?VMNiI = DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 7.3.4 Entries to upper floor residential and commercial uses are encouraged on commercial streets, but shall not interrupt the perceived continuity of the commercial streetscape. 7.4 Fenestration 7.4.1 Fenestration shall reinforce the dominant horizontality for commercial uses and a dominant verticality for residential uses to give legibility to different uses. VMDOWS SPACED AND GROUPED LOGICALLY SMALLER UPPER FLOOR WINDOWS CONTRAST WITH LARGER PUBLIC SIZE OF GROUND FLOOR WINDOWS VERTICAL UPPER STORY WINDOWS CONTRAST WITH HORIZONTAL LOWER STORY WINDOWS LARGER WINDOWS OPEN RETAIL LEVEL TO THE STREET Figure 7.5.1 ESS THAN TO HEIGHT 2 2 LESS EIGHT i 7.4.2 Ground floor commercial and retail uses shall be a minimum of 60% glass. The view into the first floor commercial or retail windows shall be maintained with a view into the sales floor or seating area. View windows shall not be blocked. Merchandise displays shall not include full-height backdrops that block the view. Transom windows above view windows and doors are encouraged. Upper floor residential and commercial uses shall have relatively less glass area to emphasize the public nature of the street-front uses. Glass shall be clear, or reflective only to the extent that such reflectivity reduces interior heat. Mirror glass is not permitted. No appliques or other such deliberate screening shall be permitted. Signage on Page 10 of 20 October 7, 2009 ~a ~iy DSGD Design Guidelines glass shall be as permitted in Section 9. Figure 7.5.2 Town of Reading 7.4.3 Protecting ground floor fenestration and defining commercial street fronts with overhanging awnings or canopies is encouraged. Operable windows and doors onto balconies and terraces at upper floor uses are encouraged. Figure 7.5.3 7.5 Materials 7.5.1 Allowed exterior finishes include, but are not limited to brick, stone, cast stone or other finished masonry, cementitious panels, glass, metal, wood, and cellular PVC trim. Page 11 of 20 October 7, 2009 393 ) ACTIVITY D15PLAY - FULL VIEW TO ACTIVITY -GOOD FOR RE5TAURANT AND NON-RETAIL U5E5 --MAX CONNECTION TO 5TREET LEVEL PRODUCT D15PLAY - BE5T FOR RETAIL. --GENERATE5 HIGH PEDE5TRIANINTERE5T -MAX UTILIZATION OF 5TOREFRONT -DOE5 NOT BLOCK V15151UIY TO INTERIOR DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 7.5.2 Prohibited materials include vinyl siding and EIFS, although these materials may be used on facades not visible from the primary commercial streets provided such materials are detailed and installed in such a manner as to be consistent with the intent of these Design Standards and Guidelines. 7.5.3 Changes in materials are encouraged to reinforce the massing requirements noted above. When change in material or colors occur, they shall articulate the difference between public and private uses, upper floors and lower floors. 7.5.4 Materials shall continue around to all sides of buildings, which are visible from the street or public parking areas. Elements can be simplified at the rear of buildings to clarify a front/back hierarchy 7.5.5 Blank facades are not permitted. Changes in material, which are accompanied by a change in plane, vertical and / or horizontal elements shall be used to provide a pedestrian scale in areas where windows and doors are not functionally required. Page 12 of 20 October 7, 2009 Z DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 8. SITE DESIGN STANDARDS 8.1 Sidewalks 8.1.1 New sidewalks shall not interrupt the continuity of existing sidewalk materials and dimensions. However, recessed entries and widened sidewalks devoted to outdoor uses, such as dining, can receive special materials and articulation that give spatial definition to these functions. 8.1.2 Amenities that increase the comfort of pedestrian movement along sidewalks such as lighting, projecting canopies, and street trees are required. 8.1.3 Usable open spaces adjoining sidewalks that create activated pedestrian areas for dining, farmers markets, etc. , are encouraged, especially those in the vicinity of public uses such as the commuter rail station. 8.1.4 Improvements to adjacent crosswalks, curbing and sidewalks to accommodate increased pedestrian activity associated with new developments are encouraged. 8.2 Driveways and Parking 8.2.1 Driveways shall not interrupt the continuity of sidewalks and pedestrian spaces. Curb cuts shall be located away from the primary commercial streets whenever possible, preferably on side streets and alleys. 8.2.2 Parking lots shall not face primary commercial streets or be located in front of buildings. Whenever possible, parking areas should be located behind buildings. 8.2.3 Parking lots behind buildings shall be aggregated across property lines wherever possible to maximize the efficiency of the paved space and minimize the number of curb cuts and driveways. 8.2.4 Below grade parking is encouraged, especially where existing changes in grade make on-grade access possible while allowing economical structuring of buildings above. Ramping must be incorporated within the building envelope or below grade. 8.2.5 Parking areas that abut lots in residential districts shall be screened from view by fencing, planting or both and conform to landscaping requirements in paragraph 8.3, following. 8.2.6 Shared parking plans for proposed developments shall be developed in cooperation with the Town of Reading and shall be compatible with the Town's parking policy. Page 13 of 20 October 7, 2009 31 33 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 8.2.7 All parking areas and driveways must be designed to maximize pedestrian and vehicular safety. No driveways are to be located within 50' of an intersection. 8.3 Landscaping 8.3.1 Providing street trees that continue the planting plan established by the Town of Reading is encouraged. 8.3.2 Landscaping at retail frontages should be minimal and not interfere with the connection between the sidewalk and interior uses. Landscaping to define commercial entries or outdoor dining areas shall not interfere with the continuity of the sidewalks. Landscaping to define residential entries shall not compete with or overwhehn the continuity of the retail frontages. 8.3.3 Landscaping in parking areas is required - one tree in a minimum 50 square foot planting area for every 5 cars. Landscaping to buffer parking lots from adjoining residential areas is required. 8.3.4 Landscaping that creates usable public open space, or continues existing public open space, is encouraged, providing it does not interrupt the continuity of retail frontages or disengage buildings from the sidewalk in commercial areas. 8.3.5 Wherever possible plantings shall be native species that require minimal irrigation and fertilizer. Planting of invasive species is prohibited. 8.3.6 Healthy existing trees with a minimum 6" caliper and large canopy shall be identified and shall be identified on the Concept Plan if such plan is submitted as specified in 4.12.11.1 of the DSGD ordinance. Proposed development shall preserve four of the identified healthy existing trees per acre or one per lot, whichever is greater. 8.4 Lighting 8.4.1 Fagade lighting and architectural lighting shall articulate building uses and entries and reinforce the public nature of the sidewalk and building frontage. 8.4.2 Lighting along street fronts shall reinforce rather than compete with the continuity of the Town's street lighting. If the sidewalk includes street trees, streetlights shall be located between the trees so that the tree canopy does not interfere with illumination coverage. 8.4.3 Lighting in parking areas and at the side and rear of buildings abutting adjoining properties should be designed to cut off light at the property line. 8.4.4 Lighting should contribute to public safety by lighting entries, exits, and adjacent open spaces. Page 14 of 20 October 7, 2009 353 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 8.4.5 Lighting incorporated into signage, or illuminating signage, must conform with sign requirements of the Zoning Bylaws of the Town of Reading in effect as of March 31, 2009... 8.4.6 All lighting shall be oriented downward and otherwise conform to "dark skies" standards. Uplighting is permitted to light a primary entrance when the light fixture is mounted under an architectural element (e.g. roof, cornice, walkway, entryway or overhanging non-translucent eaves) so that the uplight is captured. 8.4.7 Prohibited lighting includes neon or other edge-glowing sources, mercury vapor, low pressure sodium, high pressure sodium, searchlights, and flashing or changing light sources. 8.5 Utility Areas and Utilities 8.5.1 Loading docks, dumpsters, mechanical equipment and utility meters shall be located at the rear or side of buildings where they are not visible from primary commercial streets and do not interrupt the continuity of the sidewalk and building facades. 8.5.2 When loading docks, dumpsters, and mechanical equipment cannot be located within buildings they shall be screened by elements compatible with the architecture of the building. 8.5.3 Where possible and feasible, shared loading areas, dumpsters, and mechanical equipment shall be incorporated into the design, 8.5.4 No above ground electrical lines or utility cables will be permitted. 8.5.5 Burial of overhead utility lines, adjacent to new development will be required. 8.6 Drainage and Storm Water Management 8.6.1 Storm water management systems shall incorporate "Best Management Practices" (BMP) as prescribed by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, in addition to employing Low Impact Development (LID) strategies. BMP/LID means and methods should be carefully integrated within the site design approach with a goal of decentralizing storm water management systems to the greatest extent practical and minimizing environmental impact of new development. The specific goals of the BMP/LID measures should be mitigation of post-development down stream impacts and achieving the highest level of water quality for all storm water runoff. 8.6.2 Systems and the designed approach for storm water management should include elements such as infiltration chambers, landscaped swales, vegetated rain- Page 15 of 20 October 7, 2009 3y 351*' DSGI.D Design Guidelines Town of Reading gardens, infiltration trenches, dry-wells, permeable pavements and other runoff controlling features that in combination serve to achieve BMP/LID goals. 8.6.3 A Storm water Operations and Maintenance Plan shall be submitted at the time of application for all Development Projects to ensure compliance with the District By-Law. The plan shall include a map of the proposed system, specify the parties responsible for the system, a map of the system, easements required, and a schedule for maintenance tasks. 8.6.4 All water from roofs and paved areas shall be retained on site, where possible, and recharged into the ground, or incorporated into a recovery system for use as on-site irrigation, gray water flushing, etc. 8.6.5 Pervious paving is recommended, along with landscaping and pervious landscaped areas. 8.6.6 Sites shall be graded as necessary to prevent ponding of water. Page 16 of 20 October 7, 2009 393 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 9. SIGNAGE DESIGN STANDARDS 9.1 Exterior Signs 9.1.1 Signage shall be provided to identify residential and non-residential. Signs shall be made of natural materials or have a natural appearance. 9.1.2 A residential-only development or the residential component of a mixed- use development project shall be permitted one sign at each principal entrance to the site. The sign shall identify the name and address of the development and shall not exceed 16 square feet. 9.1.3 Each mixed-use development project in the District may include a primary storefront sign. 'a storefront cantilevered sign, a display window sign and an awning, or some combination thereof. 9.1.4 Signs on buildings should not obstruct elements such as cornices, arches, lintels, pediments, windows, pilasters, etc. 9.1.5 Signs in the District should be designed primarily to be visible to pedestrians or slow moving vehicular traffic. Wording should be kept to a minimum and the use of logos is encouraged. 9.1.6 No signmaker labels or other identification (including UL label), are permitted on the exposed surfaces of signs, except as may be required by the building code. If required, such labels or other identification shall be in an inconspicuous location. 9.1.7 Awnings that are used to provide signage should be standardized by height above grade, type, size, materials, colors, illumination and method of installation, across the building fagade and within the block to the largest extent practical. 9.2 Primary Storefront Sign 9.2.1 A primary storefront sign shall be located within a sign band beginning approximately 8 to 15 feet above the finish floor level. When a tenant has elevations fronting on different sides of a building, the tenant may have a primary storefront sign on each fagade. Wall signs in multi-tenanted buildings shall be placed within the same sign band. The placement of wall signs on individual buildings shall respect the sign band on adjacent buildings. Page 17 of 20 October 7, 2009 353 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 9.2.2 The total sign area for the primary storefront sign shall not contain more than two square feet of sign area for each linear foot of storefront. Sign area shall be calculated by creating a box around the main body of the primary sign. The storefront leaseline width multiplied by two equals the maximum sign area in r-CHANNE HEIGHT 1-LETTER +-WIDTH HEIGHT CIRCLE LL DTH-+ HEM ODD 5HAPE I - - i WIDTH" WIDTH HEi~ AREA = H X W i' I 2' 2' AREA = 24 5Q.FT. AREA = 25 5Q.FT. 51GNAGE AREA GUIDE Figure 9.2.2 square feet, and may not exceed 75 square feet. 9.2.3 Signage above the sills of the second story windows shall be confined to painted or applied letters on the window glass, provided that such signs advertise the organizations therein. Signage is not permitted on continuous, horizontal "curtainwall" type windows in upper stories. 9.3 Storefront Cantilevered Sign 9.3.1 Each tenant will be allowed to construct and install a cantilevered ("blade sign'), installed perpendicular to the building facade, not in excess of eight (8) square feet as measured on one face of the sign. Any such storefront cantilevered sign shall not count toward the total allowable area of signage on a single fagade. 9.3.2 One storefront cantilevered sign will be allowed per tenant on each elevation of a building with a customer entrance. The sign shall be attached to the tenant storefront at a minimum 8' 6" above finish floor level. 9.3.3 Each storefront cantilevered sign may be externally illuminated with two integrated lights (one light on each sign face or panel). The sign may be square, Page 18 of 20 October 7, 2009 g 19 ~ 3 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading round, elliptical or other shape. Complex shapes and three-dimensional letters or figures are encouraged. Formed plastic, injection molded plastic, and internally illuminated panels are prohibited. 9.3.4 Signs on the inside or outside surface of display windows may be permitted provided, however, that such signage shall not cover more than ten percent (10%) of the display window area and shall be lighted only by building illumination (white, non-flashing). 9A Awnings 9.4.1 Awnings shall be made of fire resistant, water repellent marine fabric (e.g. canvas) or may be constructed of metal or glass. Vinyl or vinyl-coated awning fabric will not be permitted. 9.4.2 Patterns, graphics and stripes are encouraged. 9.4.3 Continuous, uninterrupted awning spans are not permitted. Fixed awnings shall not span numerous bays, windows or store fronts. The awnings should delineate storefronts on a multi-tenant building. 9.4.4 Internally illuminated awnings are not permitted, except that down lighting that is intended to illuminate the sidewalk may be provided under the awning. All lighting under a canopy shall be cutoff or recessed, with no lens dropping below the horizontal plane of the canopy. The light source shall not illuminate or cause the awning to "glow". 9.5 Prohibited Sign Types The following sign types are prohibited in the DSGD: 9.5.1 Signs employing luminous plastic letters are prohibited. 9.5.2 Signs or lights that move, change, flash, or make noise are prohibited. Such prohibition shall include commercial balloon devices, high powered search lights and signage expressed or portrayed by emitted light, digital display or liquid crystal display. Where permitted, indicators of time or temperature may move. 9.5.3 Box style cabinet signs or "can" signs are prohibited, whether internally illuminated or not. 9.5.4 Signs utilizing paper, cardboard, Styrofoam, stickers or decals hung around, on or behind storefronts, or applied to or located behind the storefront glazing are prohibited. Page 19 of 20 October 7, 2009 9 373 DSGD Design Guidelines Town of Reading 9.5.5 Any imitation of official traffic signs or signals, or use of such words as "Stop," "Look," "Danger," "Slow," "Caution," or "Warning" is prohibited. 9.5.6 No red or green lights or any lighting effect utilizing such colors may be used on any sign if, in the opinion of the Chief of Police, such light or lighting would create a hazard to the operation of motor vehicles. 9.5.7 Directories shall not be located outside of the buildings. 9.5.8 Roof, pole or pylon signs are prohibited. 9.5.9 Inflatable figures and/or signs are prohibited, whether movable or stationary. Page 20 of 20 October 7, 2009 a 3y~ The proposed street rehabilitation project aims to improve, repair and create a public asset in a predominantly low-income neighborhood that will make it safe, livable and functional. This project consists of rehabilitation of roadway and sidewalks on Marie Street, Henry Street, Edith Avenue, Elliot Road and Kenwood Road. The proposed street rehabilitation, located in North Everett, will benefit 275 individuals in 110 households. Please see attached Low and Moderate Income Worksheet that support this statistical data that resulted from an income survey performed according to HUD. survey methodology standards. This project will improve 2,630 linear feet of deteriorated roadway and unsafe sidewalks. Marie Street, Henry Street, Edith Avenue, Elliot Road and Kenwood Road are all residential streets located in a densely populated residential section of the City. This section of the city has been designated as a target area for infrastructure improvements. This spring, 2007, with support of the Small Cities Application, Sammet Street, Berwick Court and Wickfield Court will be rehabilitated. In 2006, Small Cities funded the infrastructure improvements of upper section of Newton Street. These projects are part of a multi-year and multi-funding effort undertaken by the city. The City is extremely pleased that DHCD has increased the funding to Mini-Entitlement communities such as Everett. The funding of this project will allow the City of Everett to complete the infrastructure improvements within out target area of North Everett. 35~ Page 1 of 2 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 3:58 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Cc: Schena, Paula; Marino, Lillian Subject: FW: Please forward to the EDC I/c Board of Selectmen From: Delios, Jean Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 1:33 PM To: McCabe, Abigail Cc: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: Please forward to the EDC I-/ C 3os At Peter's suggestion I followed up with a few commercial property owners (that we knew had 20,000 sf of vacant space) 1. The former Linens and Things property 2. The former Registry space on Salem Street = next to REI 3. Space in the 128 Market Place property - aka Danis to share a solicitation we received from the State looking to rent office space in the area. That resulted in some very positive feedback as noted below. Jean J. Delios Col mnwlity Services Director/Town Planner Town of Reading 16 LowellStreet Reading, MA 01867-2685 Tel 781-942-6612 Fax 781-942-9071 jdelios(Oi ci.reading.ma.us iAgvw.readingma.gov From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 12:34 PM To: Delios, Jean Subject: RE: 128 Marketplace/One General Way contact Thanks - cc to EDC From: Delios, Jean Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 12:08 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: FW: 128 Marketplace/One General Way contact Thought some positive comments would be nice to share. 10/22/2009 311' Page 2 of 2 Jean J. Delios Community Services Director/Town Plarrner Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867-2685 Tel 781-942-6612 Fax 781-942-9071 jd.elios(Y;ci.reading.ma.us www.readingma..gov From: Nick Nikolaou [mailto:nnikolaou@danisproperties.com] Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 11:53 AM To: Delios, Jean Subject: 128 Marketplace/One General Way contact Hi Jean, Great to talk to you earlier today, please place me as your contact for the 128 Marketplace/One General Way property. Thank you for providing the information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts leasing opportunities. It is great to hear the Town attempting to assist business's in the community. Please keep us in mind if any other opportunities come up. Thanks Nick Nikolaou Danis Properties One General Way Reading, MA 01867 Email: nnikolaoua danisproperties.com Ph: 781-944-5558 X2711 Fx: 781-944-9097 aizl-' 10/22/2009 Page 1 of 3 L1 C, g0-S Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 3:57 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Cc: Schena, Paula; Marino, Lillian Subject: FW: General Comments to the Town L/c Board of Selectmen From: Ramdin, Larry Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 1:46 PM To: sportman@actionambulance.com Cc: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: RE: General Comments to the Town Dear Mr. Portman, I am sorry that you had to go out in the rain, to the field-house, only to find out the Flu clinics were cancelled, due to lack of vaccines. The Health Division has made significant efforts to advise the community that the clinics were cancelled, once we had information that our vaccine shipments would be delayed. The notice advising of the clinic cancellation was posted on the town website, on 9/24, it was mentioned by the Town Manager on his Cable show " Ask the Town Manager at a Selectmen's meeting, carried on RCTV, it was printed in both Reading Newspapers - Chronicle 9/18/09 and .the Advocate I am unable to give you an answer as to why vaccines are available at Walgreens and other commercial vaccination sites, however, please be reminded that our regular seasonal flu clinics are normally scheduled for early to mid November. Also the seasonal flu usually is active in mid January to February, so there is still ample time to host a clinic if we receive our supplies in early November. To date all the flu activity that is being reported is novel H1 N1 per the Department of Public Health (DPH). This year we were acting on the advice of the Department of Public Health to hold early clinics, with the expectation that vaccines would be available. Unfortunately on September 17, we were advised that our supplies would be delayed without any indication on when seasonal flu vaccines would be available. Thus with the limited supply of vaccines that we had in hand, clinics were held for the at risk " over 65" group on September 23 , in senior housing and we have completed the seniors vaccination program. To date we have no indication as to when we will receive our vaccine shipments, therefore no new information to share. When the vaccines become available we will be scheduling our clinics and publicizing the clinics on RCTV, the Reading Newspapers and the Town website. 10/22/2009 I 3~ Page 2 of 3 I would appreciate any suggestions you may have to improve our messaging to ensure that residents get information on the clinics. Larry A. Ramdin MA REHS CHO Health Services Administrator Reading Health Division 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 781-942-9061 781-942-9071-Fax When writing or responding, please remember that the Secretary of State's Office has determined that email is a public record. This communication may contain privileged or other confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, or believe that you have received this communication in error, please do not print, copy, retransmit, disseminate, or otherwise use the information. Also, please indicate to the sender that you have received this email in error, and delete the copy you received. From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 11:41 AM To: Ramdin, Larry Subject: FW: General Comments to the Town Do you have an update, and or other information for Mr. Portman? Please cc me on your response to him. P 3 10/22/2009 Page 3 of 3 From: Stanley ] Portman [mailto:sportman@actionambulance.com] Sent: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 7:32 PM To: townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us Subject: General Comments to the Town Request From: Stanley J Portman Email: sportman e actionambulance.coin Address: 26C Carnation Circle City: Reading State: MA Zip: 01867 Phone: Organization: It's been twenty days since the last update about the flu vaccine(s... how about an update? Why did my wife and I have to get our (seasonal) shot from Walgreens? For that matter, why did we have to go to the door of the field house (in the pouring rain) beforeve were informed by a piece of paper on the door that the clinic was cancelled? 3~3 10/22/2009 Page 1 of 1 C 3a5 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 4:08 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Cc: Schena, Paula; Marino, Lillian Subject: FW: Framing the FY11 Budget Discussion Attachments: FY11 0%.PDF I/c Board of Selectmen From: McClellan, Mary Ann [mailto: Maryann. McClellan@ mwra.state. ma. us] Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2009 4:04 PM Subject: Framing the FY11 Budget Discussion As you can see by the attached letter, the MWRA Advisory Board is trying to set the tone and frame the discussion for the FY11 budget review by requesting that the FY11 rate revenue requirement stay level-funded with the FY10 budget. We need not tell you how difficult times are. Advisory Board staff is looking for your input, suggestions and support on our 0% rate revenue increase. 10/22/2009 3J~ 60 ~N, Arlington • As}tlmtd • Bedford • Belmont • Boston - Braintree • Brooklin(,,O~:427'~ADVISORY Dedham • Everett • Framingham • Hingham • Holbrook • l.eominstar $ WATA \~t Medront • Melrose • Milton • Nahont • Natick • Needham • Norton Revere - Saugus • Somerville - South Hadley • Southborough • Stoneham BOARD Watertown • Wotlcsley • weston • Westwood • Weymouth • Wilbraham N Frederick A. Laskey, Executive Director Massachusetts Water Resources Authority 100 First Avenue Boston, Massachusetts 02129 urlington • Cambridge • Canton • Chelson • Chicopee e Clinton Lexington • Lynn - LynnField • Malden • Marblehead • Marlborough Northborough • Norwood • Peabody,• Quincy • Randolph • Reading ghton • Stvnmpscott • \Vakefie►d • Walpole • Waltham Stou )CZ_j Wilmington • Winchester • Winthrop • Woburn • Worcester Secretary Ian Bowles, Chairman, MWRA Board of Directors Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs 100 Cambridge St. Boston, MA 02114 October 13, 2009 Dear Secretary Bowles and Mr. Laskey: As the Authority begins putting together its Proposed FY11 Capital and Current Expense Budgets, I would like to take the opportunity on the front end to speak on behalf of the MWRA.'s cities and towns, and, most importantly, the ratepayers. As I'm sure you're both aware, the financial outlook for the Commonwealth is bleak at best as we hear the first quarter financial news come in. The state's revenues are already far below target for FY10, which will necessitate further reductions to the state budget; local aid cuts are all but inevitable to close this gap. This reduction in local aid in FY10 will put additional pressure on cities and towns, which have already cut staffing and services to balance their budgets. In addition to service cuts, communities have also increased rates and fees to help maintain core services. Therefore, families and individuals are seeing their taxes, fees, and rates increase even as their disposable income is shrinking. In its attempt to reduce these impacts in FY10 the Commonwealth relied upon one-time revenue sources to build its budget, as well as utilizing rainy day 'funds. If these measures of last resort could not prevent additional cuts, there is no question that the FY11 state budget could be even more draconian for cities and towns. Therefore, in order to be fair to MWRA staff and responsive to the condition of our cities and towns, the Advisory Board seeks to weigh in early on the proposed rate revenue increase for FY11. On Friday, October 9, the Executive Committee endorsed an approach to keep the rate revenue requirement level-funded in FY11. We have directed Advisory Board staff to utilize the budget review process to work with the Authority to ensure ways to accomplish this goal while still maintaining service. Toward this end, we encourage Authority staff to begin by revisiting the various "tools" provided in the Advisory Board's review of the Proposed FY10 budgets, many of which are items and issues long recommended by the Advisory Board as potential areas of reduction. If ever there was a year to allow cities, towns, and especially ratepayers to "catch their breath" by providing financial respite, it is in FY11. The aim would be to provide communities and ratepayers.with this much-needed financial break while minimizing the Joseph E. Pavaluro, Executive Director ' 11 Beacon Street • Suite 1010 • Boston, MA 02108-3020 - Telephone: (617) 742-7561 - Fax: (617) 742.4614 Website: %N-Aw.mwraadvisoryboard.com • Finail: mwra_ab@mwra.state.ma.us Secretary Bowles and Frederick Laskey - Page Two impacts upon service even as we keep the FY12 rate revenue requirement well below current planning projections. We look forward to working with Authority staff to achieve this ambitious and difficult - but timely and necessary - goal. Sincerely, Katherine H. Dunphy Chair, MWRA Advisory Board Cc: Board of Directors Cities and Towns 3~3~ Page 1 of 3 LIc 6a5 Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Thursday, October 22, 2009 4:20 PM To: Franklin Faucette Cc: Schena, Paula; Cormier, Jim; Hechenbleikner, Peter; Lee, Michael; Zager, Jeff; Zambouras, George Subject: RE: Reading MA Downtown Issues (for me ) Frank - please see comments below: -----Original Message----- From: Franklin Faucette [mailto:ffaucette@yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, October 19, 2009 2:32 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: RE: Reading MA Downtown Issues ( for me ) Hi, me again. I thought you might like to know. I had the occasion to walk up town today about fpm. When I was next to the funeral home on Linden Street a car came out of the Atlantic parking lot near the thrift shop and turned right towards Haven Street. I believe it's a one-way street to the left. When I was returning home up Mount Vernon Street a car passed me going down towards Linden Street. I knew it would turn right towards Woburn Street. It did. Another one-way infraction. Two motorists going the wrong way in less than 15 minutes. This is not an unusual series of events in Reading. I realize you can not do anything about it. We will confirm that the required signs are posted, and then make sure that our Police officers are vigilant on enforcement as they travel these areas.. Bye - Frank Faucette, 35 Kingston St On Mon, 10/19/09, Hechenbleikner, Peter <phechenbleikner@ci.reading.ma.us> wrote: > From: Hechenbleikner, Peter <phechenbleikner@ci.reading.ma.us> > Subject: RE: Reading MA Downtown Issues ( for me ) > To: "Franklin Faucette" <ffaucette@yahoo.com> > Cc: "Cormier, Jim" <jcormier@ci.reading.ma.us>, "Hechenbleikner, Peter" <phechenbleikner@ci.reading.ma.us>, "Lee, Michael" <mlee@ci.reading.ma.us>, "Zager, Jeff" <jzager@ci.reading.ma.us>, "Zambouras, George" <gzambouras@ci.reading.ma.us> > Date: Monday, October 19, 2009, 9:11 AM. > Frank > Thanks for the information. I know the answers to > some of the issues > you raised, but not all. I have a staff meeting on > Parking and traffic > issues on Wednesday, and will then get back to you. 10/23/2009 Page 2 of 3 > Thanks for your observations and interest. > Pete Hechenbleikner > -----Original Message----- > From: Franklin Faucette [mailto:ffaucette@yahoo.com] > Sent: Friday, October 16, 2009 4:59 PM > To: Hechenbleikner, Peter > Subject: Reading MA Downtown Issues ( for me ) > Hi, I have been meaning to send you an email for > some time now. > (1) Why was the left turn arrow removed from the > light fixture > crossing Main and Salem Street in front of the white > church? The engineers designing the project determined that based on traffic counts, the left turn signal at Salem and Main was not warranted. My experience as one who uses that intersection 6 times a day at all times of day and night, is that this analysis is correct. However, the engineer is looking to see whether, if we restored the left turn signal, it would cause any disruption in the rest of the operation of that intersection. If it will not, we will re-install it. > > To get around this I have to go up by the High > School if going to > North Reading and points north. Otherwise I have to turn in > front of > cars coming up the hill ( which I avoid if at all possible > unless I'm > taking a right turn to go buy gas ) > (2) Maybe it's just me, but the white markings on > the road at the same > intersection and I'm told around some other downtown > crossings, look > obscene ( male body parts ) to me. > It's probably an international marking but really > in an informal pole among staff and officials, none of could see anything obscene in the international symbol. These are required on federally funded projects, and they are included because there is actually a sensor at the intersections for bicycles. Bicyclists are aware of this - I was not. > > (3) Do you realize that to cross Haven St, if > walking, requires you to > cross at the crosswalk at Main St or in front of the > Atlantic ( it will > always be the Atlantic to me ) or at the depot? > So in front of the busy post office, multiple banks > and other > businesses on Haven Street it's a jaywalkers risky delight. 10/23/2009 3~y Page 3 of 3 > Hardly > anyone goes to the crosswalk, they are not handy at > all. we do realize this - the issue has been raised in the past. However, if we were going to put in additional crosswalks, it would be at the expense of parking spaces. Given that it is a 1 way street and that we have had no accidents and that even if we had crosswalks people would cross at other locations anyway, we felt it better to leave the existing situation alone. > (4) CVS parking lot - many cars do not exit the lot > by following the > oval driving pattern of the lot. I've even seen cars go > back up the ramp > to exit. The parking spots being used where the bank drive > up atm used > to be, hides anyone walking across the exit to Haven > St. - while there > is a stop sign there, go watch it for a while- the town > could get rich > by abusers. The lot has adequate and appropriate signage, but obviously some are ignoring it. we will make sure that our Police officers are aware of the regulation and they will enforce as they are in the area. > Maybe there should be some sort fence / obstruction > in front the 5 or > 6 spots that face Haven St to not allow these cars to > perpetuate them > driving the wrong way in the lot. This particular area is private property and we cannot regulate it. when the MF Charles building is redeveloped we will see whether we can do something to eliminate this, perhaps by making this easement a 2 way easement from Haven street. > That's all - Frank Faucette, 35 Kingston St 1/c BOS 10/23/2009 ~~3