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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-01-12 Board of Selectmen HandoutTOWN MANAGER'S REPORT Tuesday, January 12, 2010 • Street Sign lottery • Change in ownership of Addison Wesley Pearson property - (Gateway 40R) • Snow and Ice account balance • The EDC is holding 2 forums on sign regulations tomorrow, January 13. One is at 7:30 am, and the other is at 6:30 PM at the Senior Center. It is the same presentation at both - so choose the one that is most convenient to you. • Local Elections 2010 o Nomination papers available o Nomination papers filed by February 16 - 5 PM o Withdraw nomination papers by March 2 o. Register to vote by March 17 o Election April 6 o Annual Town Meeting starts April 26 • Town Census - 3rd week in January - PLEASE USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO LICENSE YOUR DOG in the least cost timeliest manner available • Flu clinic - An H1 N1 flu clinic is scheduled for January 16 at the Coolidge Middle School 10:00 am to 4:00 PM. This is open to the general public, including students in grades 6-12 who would like the vaccine but had not turned in their permission slip for the "in school" clinics that were held in December. • Curbside pick-up of Christmas Trees is the week of January 11, 2010. • The Town of Reading will once again sponsor its Annual Martin Luther King Day Celebration on Monday, January 18th at the Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center. Breakfast will begin at 9:00 AM and the program will commence at 10:00 AM Dates and Events: • Special Election -Senate seat- January 19 d m N 0 0 0 0 0 0 r 00 r ,N r r V CL OLOW 000000 m N N CO t.O O O O O O 1`- ,(Z CWO 0 0 0 0 0 000 r 00 In C0 O O tl- Q~ t` O co N O O LO W d' O O O O O ~ m N W ~t 0 0 0 0 0 N E d' N m 6 0 0 0 0 0 CO MrOOO U 00 CO d^ co e' N N r- cl~ co uj 000 N C.0 N r d' V Q ,+,,000000000 O y 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 O O)O r-~ N r 0 0 0 0 C5 O O O O m~ Lo co 0) co O ct' r r C CT O N CD r N Lo w z J Cn J C) r ' C W W W W W LU W CO z EO a> S]. W Z - W _I CO z .o y n p w U z U c o 4 V) o `t l1C CD CD 0-C U) a - W W W W W W W W W U U U U U U U U U U ~ 'S W 000000000 6 zzzzzzzzz o V O m O O O lO O m m O,O r O O N N m m M ,Q O d' O O 'i d d mot" m o O O 0 O O O O O U LmC) m m m m m m m O O r r 0 0 0 0 M d' m r r m d' 'd' d' d' p m m m m m m m m m r r r r r r r r r Page 1 of 2 Hechenbleikner, Peter From: McCabe, Abigail Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 9:54 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Cc: Delios, Jean Subject: RE: Smart Growth Info Peter, I spoke with DHCD and have confirmed the following. The exact date Reading received the $350,000 incentive payment for the Gateway Smart Growth district was June 3, 2008 so we have to return the money if no construction has begun by June_3,-201._1... They also told me that the Trust Fund still has over, $3 million and he saw no reason why Reading wouldn't still receive the incentive payment soon for the downtown district. He also gave me some suggestions for a monitoring agent to manage the affordable housing component. Abby Ab[-.:~y M. McCabe Staff Planner Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867. Phone: 781-942-6648 Fax: 781-942-9071 a.Mccabe.C~c.i read_in.g...m_q..us. Please complete our customer service survey at h.tt1)•//i,•(ir.idint;;tYiGi su;r,yr.~y.viT•tli~,,ili:,(.)wnhall...net/siii.vcy/ti:i.d./60,'3 td2e4547 1 /5 31 From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 9:00 AM To: McCabe, Abigail Subject: RE: AWP So what is the date? Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager Tovw of Reading 16 Lowell Street (leading MA 01867 phn.>ri:: lr>1-942-9043 f,~x7F~1-942-9071 :VkR) :ovvvv recidingm-a.org "mall iowlInlanager@ci.reading.rna.us Please let us know how we are doing -fill out our brief customer service survey at http:/(r ma survey.virtualtownhall.net/survey/si.d/603.ffd2e4 54 7 1 7 53/ From: McCabe, Abigail 1/12/2010 Page 2 of 2 Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 8:55 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: RE: AWP Three years from the date of when we received the $350,000 from the state for adopting the district, so I believe we at least have a solid year. This is directly from the MGL Chapter 40R Regulations: (d) If the Department has issued a revocation of a Municipality's certification pursuant to 760 CMR 59.07(3) on the grounds that there has not occurred the Start of Construction of a Project or Planned Infrastructure upgrade (see 760 CMR 59.07(1)(b)) within an Approved District within three years of the date upon which the Municipality received the Zoning Incentive Payment, the Municipality shall immediately repay to the Department all Zoning Incentive Payments and Density Bonus Payments received from the Trust Fund with respect to that District. Staff Planner Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading, MAO] 867 Phone: 781-942-6648 Fax: 781-942-9071 gMQcgj; eC ci _readin~:ma.us Please complete our customer service survey at ht#;p_:/ix c. Lcling a-, ~tirvc~ y,vi1,tualtownhall.net/surveyls d/G0l1'fcl2e454.71753./ From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 8;38 AM To: McCabe, Abigail Subject: AWP Do you know what the date is by which we are required to have construction start on the gateway 40R project before we might have to pay $ back to the state? Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager c;, ; of Rt-tjc9irrg 16 l..ovv ,il ;street MA 018(-J7 (:1hOnc:r i'8'1-912-9043 fax 781-942-9071 ,,veb www.readingma.org e,i wl tawnmanager@4ixe.a iin.g,,r7>jq.,us Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at http://readingma- suryey.v rku,al.townha.ll_.net/su.ryey/s.i44QQ.X d2e4547.1.753/ 1/12/2010 (9 Starbucks 288 Main Street This location has had several issues related to the management of their dumpster area/trash storage and trash. We have issued citations for these violations and if they are asking to extend their hours, it would mean increased trash generated on site. The Board of Health will require an updated trash management plan for the site. This could include an increase in the frequency of pick-up for trash, additional dumpsters. The trash is being collected every other day per advice of Starbucks. Summary of Violations September 3, 2004 Complaint received 1. Dumpster emptied at 2:00 , 3:00 and 4:00 am on several occasions 2. Delivery trucks blocking roadway on Percy Avenue, residents unable to access their property Starbucks reminded of BOH regulations prohibiting emptying of dumpsters between 11:00 pm and 6:30 a.m. and given a copy. Discussed with Marls Morehouse District manager November 17, 2004 Complaint Dumpster being emptied before 6:30 am January 14,,2005 Dwnpster emptied before 6:30 am Delivery trucks blocking roadway on Percy Avenue, prohibiting access by residents of Percy Avenue Order to correct form Board of Health and a $300.00 fine issued on January 18. Starbucks changed waste management contractor from JMR to BFI February 4, 2005 Complaint trash dumpster overflowing November 212005 Dumpster being emptied before 6:30 am July 2, 2008 Complaint: Dumpster area open, uncovered d-ampster. Spoke with Kathryn Fink, Manager. BOH Order to maintain trash area free of accumulations of trash, repair enclosure and cover durnpster except when in active use. Corrected January 7, 2009 Dumpster cover open, gate to enclosure open trash outside dumpster. $25.00 ticket issued CV January 14 2009 Dumpster cover open, gate to enclosure open trash outside dumpster. $25.00 fine issued. Duumpster enclosure gate in disrepair. Discussed issue with Steve Crowley, District manager and Dean Varney, Quality Control Manager and advised that fWIher violations will result in hearings before BOH. Order to repair Duumpster enclosure and maintain so as to prevent re-occurrence of violation BRACKETT & LUCAS COUNSELORS AT LAW 19 CEDAR STREET WORCESTER, MASSACHUSETTS 01609 508-799-9739 Fax 508-799-9799 GARY S. BRACKETT JUDITH A. PICKETT ELLEN CALLAHAN DOUCETTE JASON D. GROSSFIELD January 7, 2010 VIA EMAIL ONLY Board of Selectmen Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 Re: Proposed Revisions - Section 4.5.2 Junk, Reading General Bylaws To the Board: OF COUNSEL ELAINE M. LUCAS Direct email: ecdoucetteCbrackettlucas.cam This office prepared the attached article amending Section 4.5 of the General Bylaws by deleting the current Section 4.5.2, Junk, and inserting a new provision intended to more specifically define and regulate the purchase and resale of junk, old and precious metals and secondhand articles for the November 19, 2009 Subsequent Town Meeting. The article was withdrawn for further consideration and/or review. In drafting the article to revise Section 4.5.2, which I modeled after similar bylaws adopted in other municipalities, it was my intent to offer for consideration a bylaw that would in part, address the recent proliferation of gold and silver buyers, and provide a method to ensure that citizens who take advantage of such services are not themselves, taken advantage of. For instance, by including in the bylaw a requirement that scales to be tested and sealed by a Sealer of Weights and Measures and by establishing a system of recordkeeping in an attempt to prohibit the sale and resale of stolen articles. Prior to Town Meeting, members of the Bylaw Committee expressed their concern that the revision would be unduly burdensome on certain licensed establishments such as consignment or antique stores. It is my understanding that the Selectmen now wish to discuss which is the better course of action; to submit the article to town meeting to revise the bylaw or, to address the regulatory intent of the article through the adoption of a policy. It is my opinion that with one exception, the intent of the proposed revision could be achieved by either a 53 O q J"' [ bylaw or a policy, but that a policy may provide the Selectmen with more flexibility depending upon the nature of the licensed business. The authority to issue license for the sale of junk and old metals is set forth in G.L. c.140, §54, a copy of which is attached hereto for your information.i Pursuant to §54, a Town must have a bylaw authorizing the issuance of licenses of collectors and dealers in junk and secondhand articles and within that bylaw, the Town may establish rules and regulations governing the conduct and supervision of the business. However, §54 also authorizes the licensing authority to make "additional rules, regulations and restrictions which shall be expressed in all licenses". Any "additional rules, regulations and restrictions" may not conflict with the bylaw provisions. Inclusion of the phrase "upon such terms and conditions as the Board shall determine" in the existing bylaw authorizes further regulation of the licensed activities by the Selectmen in accordance with §54. Presently, Section 4.5.2 provides that "[t]he Board of Selectmen may license suitable persons, uRon such terms and conditions as the Board shall determine, to be. dealers in and keepers of shops for the purchase, sale or barter of junk, old metals and second-hand articles, and no person shall be such a dealer or keeper without such a license." (emphasis supplied) As a general rule, policies adopted by the Selectmen do not have the same force of law as bylaws which are adopted by Town Meeting and approved by the Attorney General. In this instance however, if the Selectmen were to adopt a policy identifying the "rules, regulation and restrictions" or conditions for the issuance of licenses under Section 4.5.2, and then specifically incorporated those rules, regulations and restrictions into each license issued as may be appropriate, then a violation of any rule, regulation or restriction could form the basis for the revocation or suspension of the license, or the imposition of a fine. In this way, the Selectmen could require buyers of gold and silver for example, to request photographic identification from sellers, retain the items for a specific period of time, maintain a record of purchases and provide a report to the Reading Police Department, but not similarly, condition a license issued the operator of a clothing consignment store. As stated above, the only exception I would ask the Selectmen to consider in its discussion of adopting a policy instead of a bylaw, relates to the penalty imposed for a violation. Pursuant to G.L. c. 140, §55, violations of a junk dealer's license is punishable by a $20.00 fine. I strongly recommend that the Selectmen consider revising Section 4.5.2 to allow for its enforcement under Section 5A 1, Noncriminal Disposition of Certain Violations of Bylaws and Rules and Regulations, of the General Bylaws which provides for a fine of $300.00 per day, each day being a separate offense. Please note that a license under §54 for the sale of junk and secondhand articles is not a pawnbroker's license under G.L. c.140, §70. Similar to junk licenses, the licensing of pawnbrokers also requires the adoption of a specific bylaw authorizing such licenses. 54 SECONDHAND ARTICLES To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 4.5, Licenses, of the Town of Reading, General Bylaws by deleting therefrom in its entirety Section 4.5.2, Junk, and inserting therein a new provision as follows: 4.5.2 Junk Old and Precious Metals and Secondhand Articles 4.5.2.1 License Required 4.5.2.1.1 Every person who is in the business of collecting, dealing in, or keeping a shop for the purchase, sale or barter of junk, old and precious metals including gold and silver, and/or secondhand articles, shall be licensed by the Board of Selectmen. 4.5.2.1.2 No person shall use any building, enclosure or other structure for the storage, sale or keeping of rags, waster paper stock or other inflammable material without a license therefore from the Board of Selectmen. 4.5.2.2 Application for License; Term, Fee 4.5.2.2.1 Each application for a license shall be made in writing to the Board of Selectmen and set forth the name of the party licensed, the nature of the business and the building or place in which it is to be carried out. 4.5.2.2.2 Each license for the keeping of a shop for the purchase, sale or barter of junk, old and precious metals including gold and silver, and/or secondhand articles shall be issued on a location specific basis. 4.5.2.2.3 Licenses under this bylaw may be issued only after notice and a public hearing and shall be for a period of one (1) year unless sooner revoked by the Board of Selectmen. 4.5.2.2.4 The fee for each such license shall be determined by the Board of Selectmen. 4.5.2.2.5 The license shall be clearly and prominently displayed in a suitable and conspicuous place on the premises. 4.5.2.2.6 Such license shall run from Apri l until May of the following year. 4.5.2.3 Record of Purchases Examination and Inspection of Records and Articles 56 ~~ti 4.5.2.3.1 Every junk dealer, old and precious metal dealer or secondhand article dealer shall keep a book in which shall be written, at the time of each purchase, a description thereof, the name, age and residence of the person from whom the purchase was made, and the day and hour when such purchase was made. Photocopies of picture identification shall be taken and maintained for any person who sells or barters an item. 4.5.2.3.2 A list of all purchases and acquisitions shall be submitted to the Reading Police Department within one (1) week of such purchase or acquisition. 4.5.2.3.3 The Chief of Police or his designee shall at all times have the authority to inspect or examine all books kept by the dealer or keeper of the shop and shall have the right to inspect and examine all articles and merchandise therein. 4.5.2.4 Purchases from Persons less than Eishteen Years of A¢e Prohibited No junk dealer, old and precious metal dealer or secondhand article dealer or any employee thereof shall directly or indirectly purchase or receive by way of barter or exchange any junk, old and precious metals or secondhand articles from a person under the age of eighteen (18) years. 4.5.2.5 Articles Purchased or Received to be retained for Fourteen Days No item purchased or received by any dealer or keeper of a shop licensed under this bylaw shall be removed from the town,' sold, or otherwise disposed of for at least fourteen (14) days from its. date of purchase or acquisition unless permission has been obtained from the Chief of Police or his designee who may request to inspect or photograph 'the item. 4.5.2.6 Testine of Wei~hin>r and Measuring Devices All weighing or measuring devices used by a licensee in the conduct of the licensed business shall be tested and sealed by the Town of Reading Sealer of Weights and Measures prior to being placed into service. All weighing and measuring devices shall thereafter be inspected and tested on an annual basis. 4.5.2.7 Rules and Resulations The Board of Selectmen may adopt rules and regulations governing the issuance and conduct of business for the sale of junk, old and precious metals and secondhand articles pursuant to the authority granted by M.G.L. Chapter 140, §54 and the authority granted by this bylaw. 4.5.2.8 Suspension or Revocation of License 57 j2 ~~5 Any license issued hereunder may be suspended or revoked, after a notice and hearing, for cause or violation of this bylaw and/or the Board of Selectmen's rules and regulations. 43.2.9 Enforcement and Penalties Violations of this bylaw shall be subject to a fine of Three Hundred Dollars ($300.00). Each day the violation exists shall constitute a separate offense. This penalty may be enforced pursuant to Section 5.11, Noncriminal Disposition of Certain Violations of Bylaws and Rules and Regulations, of this Bylaw. 4.5.2.10 Severability If any provision of this bylaw is held to be invalid, it shall not affect the validity or application of the remaining provisions, or take any other action relative thereto. 58 13 MA ST 140 § 54 Page 1 of 1 M,G.L.A. 140 § 54 Massachusetts General Laws Annotated Currentness Part I. Administration of the Government (Ch. 1-182) "W Title XX. Public Safety and Good Order (Ch. 133-148A) 'W-Chapter 140. Licenses (Refs & Annos) N*g 54. Junk dealers Cities and towns by ordinance or by-law may provide for the Licensing, by the police commissioner In Boston, by the license commission in Lowell, by the aldermen in other cities and by the selectmen in towns, of suitable persons to be collectors of, dealers In or keepers of shops for the purchase, sale or barter of junk, old metals or second hand articles, may make rules and regulations relative to their business, and may provide for the supervision thereof. Said licensing board or officer may, except as otherwise provided In such ordinance or by-law, make additional rules, regulations and restrictions which shall be expressed in all licenses. Said licenses may be revoked at pleasure, and shall be subject to sections two hundred and two to two hundred and five, inclusive, except that societies, associations or corporations organized solely for religious or charitable purposes and their agents shall not be required to pay a fee for such licenses. https://web2.~vestlaw.com/result/documenttext.aspx?sv=Full&service=Find&utid=l &ifm=... 1/7/2010 59 Page 1 of 2 Hechenbleikner, Peter From: Delios, Jean Sent: Wednesday; January 06, 2010 2:40 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; 'Vincent Cameron'; 'Ellen Doucette'; Feudo, John; Zambouras, George Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: RE: BOS 1-12-10 Attachments: Earth Removal Bylaw_Draft_12_31-09.doc; Minutes 5-13-09 TFMasterPlan.doc Peter The two items you have asked for updates on include the Town Forest Master Plan and the Earth Removal By-Law. The Town Forest Master Plan is being advanced by a committee that has been meeting regularly. Attached please find minutes of a meeting some months back. I met with Patrice Todisco a few weeks ago and she informed me of the committee's goal to seek funding for a planning study which may be available through State grants. The goal of the planning study would be to address forestry stewardship needs and to conduct a forestry assessment. I also got an e-mail recently about the State forester coming to conduct a site visit this Saturday and some staff plan on attending. With regard to the Earth Removal By-Law, the attached draft is a work in progress. We plan on presenting the revised draft at the CPDC meeting next Monday (1/11/10). There is a meeting of staff Friday at 1:30 to get more comments. I suspect there will be additional changes from both CPDC and staff which we plan to wrap up in the next few weeks. Best, Jean Jean J. Delios iH6i1:1;1i~) '4,cn r1'lre0or ,litl1%I)''HillIner Town of Reading 16 Loweu Street Reading, NLA 01867-2685 Tel 781-942-6612 Fax 781-942-9071 From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: Wednesday, January 06, 2010 1:05 PM To: Vincent Cameron; Delios, Jean; Ellen Doucette; Feudo, John; Zambouras, George Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: BOS 1-12-10 Please see the proposed Board of Selectmen agenda for next Tuesday. I need the following by Friday morning: Background information on the 20 year agreement - Cameron Any information on Town Forest master Plan - Delios Background on junk - Doucette r 9 1/8/2010 60 DRAFT 12-31-09 ARTICLE AMENDMENT OF THE READING GENERAL BYLAWS TO ADD AN EARTH REMOVAL BYLAW To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town of Reading General Bylaws by inserting the following new provision in Article 5, Public Order, as follows: 5.19 EARTH REMOVAL 5.19.1 Purpose The purpose of this bylaw is to promote the health, safety, welfare and amenities of the Town of Reading and any neighborhood thereof, and to prevent harmful results from improper excavation. Nothing in this bylaw, however, shall be deemed to amend, repeal, or supersede the Zoning By- Laws of the town of Reading now or heareafter in effect. Nothing in this bylaw shall derogate from the intent and purpose of such Zoning By-Laws. In cases of dual application, the provisions of this bylaw and the Zoning By- Laws must both be met and satisfied. 5.19.2 Authority . This section is adopted under the authority contained in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40, §21, ¶17. 5.19.3 Definition For the purposes of this bylaw, "earth" shall include soil, loam, rock, peat, clay, sand and gravel, or other earth material or combination thereof. 5.19.4 Permit Required No earth shall be removed from any parcel of land not in public use, either above or under water, without an earth removal permit issued by the Board of Selectmen (hereinafter the "Board") as hereinafter provided. 5.19.5 Existing Operations All existing earth removal operations in the Town of Reading shall be subject to the provisions of this Bylaw. A permit pursuant to the provisions of this Bylaw shall be required for all earth removal operations for any operation to'continue after the adoption date of this Bylaw. 5.19.6 Exemptions Notwithstanding the provisions hereof, no permit shall be required for: 5.19.6.1 the removal of earth from any parcel in connection with the lawful construction of a one or two family residential building or structure thereon or the lawful construction of a driveway or sidewalk incidental to any such building or 61 I~ structure, provided that the quantity of material removed does not exceed that actually displaced by the portion of building, structure, driveway or sidewalk below finished grade. 5.19.6.2 where necessary as part of the construction of a road pursuant to an approved definitive subdivision plan approved by the Community Planning and Development Commission to the extent as may be necessary to complete the project as planned. 5.19.6.3 where necessary in the customary use of an operating farm, nursery, garden, landscaping activities or cemetery to the extent that such removal is necessary to the operation of the same. 5.19.6.4 where the moving and/or removal of earth for any municipal purpose is by, or on behalf of the Town of Reading. 5.19.6.5 where the removal is from a parcel for which removal was authorized under a legal permit issued prior to adoption of this Bylaw, the same may continue until the expiration date of said permit provided that all. by-laws, permits and conditions applicable prior to the adoption of this Section 3A shall be complied with. 5.19.6.6 a threshold of 100 cubic yards shall be established as the minimum standard for applicability of this bylaw. Earth removal, as defined herein, which falls below this threshold shall be exempt. 5.19.7 Notice and Public Hearing No permit for the removal of earth material shall be issued by the Board, until a public hearing is held thereon, by the Board of Selectmen, due notice of which shall be given by them, at the expense of the applicant, at least fourteen (14) days in advance, in a newspaper commonly used for such notices in the community, the posting of copies thereof on municipal bulletin boards, and the mailing of copies thereof to property owners within three hundred (300) feet of the property line, including those across any streets. 5.19.8 Applications An application for a permit required by this bylaw shall be filed with the Board of Selectmen. The Board of Selectmen shall transmit one U~3 62 n (1) copy to the Conservation Commission and one (1) copy to the Planning Board within seven (7) days of the filing. 5.19.8.1 Content of Application The application shall consist of the1ollowing: 5.19.8.1.1 An operation plan indicating: a. the location of the proposed excavation and the zoning district in which it is located. b. the legal name and address of the owner of the property involved. c. the legal name and address of the petitioner, which address shall be used by the Board for all correspondence hereunder. d. name and address of all abutting property owners as defined by G.L. Chapter 40A, §11 (only required when a public hearing is necessary). e. a detailed plan of the land involved, prepared by a Registered Civil Engineer, or a registered surveyor, and acceptable to the Board, at a scale of V-20', or as determined appropriate, showing the entire parcel of land based on a perimeter survey and showing existing topography by five (5) contours within one hundred-(100) feet of, and including, the site of the proposed excavation or to the property line. This contour plan shall show locations of a sufficient number of test borings made to determine the average depth of top soil before excavation; f. a detailed plan of the land involved, prepared by a Registered Civil Engineer, or a registered surveyor, and acceptable to the Board, showing five (5) foot contours of the site as of the completion of the excavation project, all drawn to a scale acceptable to the Board. The plan shall further show the maximum depth that the applicant intends to excavate, the type of material the*applicant intends to extract from the land, the manner and depth in which the top soil will be replaced, and the type of reseeding and planting being proposed; g. natural features such as wetlands, the 100 year flood plain, ground cover and surface and ground water. Water-table elevation shall be determined by test pits and soil borings. A log of soil borings shall be included, taken to the depth of the proposed excavation, congruent with the size and geological makeup of the site; h. all access road, drives, storage areas and trucking routes to be used within the Town. 63 i. erosion and sediment control plan. j. the means of disposing of rocks, tree stumps, refuse and waste products. k. provision for safe and adequate water supply. 1. a topographical map showing drainage facilities, final grades and proposed vegetation and trees; 5.19.8.1.2 A re-use plan showing: a. The proposed use, after completion of removal operations, of all the land of the applicant shown on the plan or contiguous thereto. b. Five foot (5) contours of the site as of the proposed completion of the excavation project. c. The drainage of site and excavation after the removal operation. d. The land in a condition no less valuable for development and use than it was before the commencement of operations. e. The schedule to restore the land which cannot exceed three (3) years from the expiration of an initial permit, or a permit renewed within six (6) months of the expiration of another. The land shall be restored so that it can be used for purposes permitted by the Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Reading for the district in which the land is located. 5.19.8.1.3 The form of the bond to be used: a. A bond shall be filed by the applicant-before the permit is granted or as a condition to the permit to assure satisfactory operation and performance under the requirements of this bylaw and the conditions of the permit. b. The bond shall be in a form satisfactory to the Town Counsel and the Town Treasurer. The bond shall be in an amount which the Selectmen determine adequate to restore the land at the expiration of the permit or at any time during the life of the permit when operations cease, and adequate to repair damage, if any, to public ways. c. The bond shall be issued by an insurance company authorized to do business in Massachusetts or shall be of such surety as will qualify for security under the Subdivision Control Law, Chapter 41, 81 U (1). ~Q5 64 d. The bond shall be in an amount determined by the Selectmen; but in no case shall be less than Two Thousand ($2000.00) for each acre shown on the plan. 5.19.8.1.4 Filing fee The Board shall establish such fees for the issuance of permits as it shall find necessary for the administration of this Bylaw, taking into consideration the costs of clerical, civil engineering consultants, legal and inspection expenses. 5.19.9 Permit Expiration Any permit issued hereunder shall automatically expire upon the completion of the earth removal project for which it was issued or at such time as may be specified in said permit, and in any event within one (1) year from the date of issue thereof. A permit may be renewed by the Board of Selectmen for a period of one (1) year without a hearing if it finds that all conditions then applicable have been complied with and that the work has been carried on continuously and in good faith. A permit may not be renewed more that once without a hearing, and may not be granted for an area in excess of five (5) acres unless in the opinion of the Board of Selectmen the area of the previous permit is being satisfactorily restored for use in accordance with the reuse plan. 5.19.10 Conditions for Approval 5.19.1.1 No permit shall be issued for the removal of earth in any location if in the opinion of the Board of Selectmen such removal will: 5.19.10.1.1 Endanger the public health or safety or constitute a nuisance. 5.19.10.1.2 Produce noise, dust or other effects observable at the lot lines in amounts seriously objectionable or detrimental to the normal use of the adjacent property. 5.19.10.1.3 Result in the transportation over ways which will be injured in any way by loads in excess of the road capability or by means of handling vehicles used to transport earth or of handling materials in transport. U~ G ~J 5 65 5.19.10.1.4 Cause a change in topography and cover which will be disadvantageous to the appropriate use of land as shown on the reuse plan and permitted by the zoning bylaw. 5.19.10.1.5 Result in the removal of existing topsoil from the Town of Reading 5.19.10.2 No permit for the removal of earth shall be approved by the Board of Selectmen except upon condition that a cover of topsoil of not less than six (6") inches in depth shall be replaced or allowed to remain, except where, due to construction of roads, buildings or permanent physical features, such provision is impractical. Such topsoil cover shall be seeded with a perennial cover crop to assure uniform growth and surface soil stabilization. 5.19.10.3 No permit for the removal of earth shall be approved by the Board if the work extends within three hundred (300') feet of a way open to public use, whether public or private, or two hundred fifty (250') feet of a building or structure, or within one hundred (100') feet of a property line, or within fifty (50') feet of a natural stream or a body of water unless the Board is satisfied that such removal will not undermine the way or structure and will not cause damage to the abutting property, stream or body of water. 5.19.10.4 No permit shall be granted for removal from an area in excess of five (5) acres at any one time. 5.19.10.5 In approving the issuance of a permit, the Board of Selectmen shall impose such other reasonable conditions as it deems necessary, which shall be written upon and shall constitute part of the permit, including but not limited to: 5.19.10.5.1 The finished leveling and grading. 5.19.10.5.2. The type of topsoil and planting necessary to restore an area to usable conditions. The topsoil shall be treated with three (3) tons of line per acre and one thousand (1,000) pounds of 10-10-10 fertilizer, or such other fertilizer as approved by the Board of Selectmen. The type of seed and trees and shrubs to be planted to restore the natural beauty and to reduce the 6 (g) 4-~ 66 erosion and the procedure to protect the area from erosion while growth is being established shall also be conditions of the permit. 5.19.10.5.3 The duration of the removal operation 5.19.10.5.4 The prohibition from using a site for the batching of earth and related materials 5.19.10.5.5 Temporary structures. 5.19.10.5.6 Hours of operation and trucking, while at no time shall be between six (6) P.M. and eight (8) A.M. or on a Sunday or legal holiday. 5.19.10.5.7 Cover of material being transported, routes of transportation of material and routes of all vehicles involved. 5.19.10.5.8 Control of temporary and permanent drainage. All natural drainage shall leave the property at the original drainage point with no increase in flow. 5.19.10.5.9 Disposition of boulders and tree stumps. 5.19.10.5.10 Suitable fencing to enclose any excavation which will tunnel under original ground level or which will have a depth of ten (10) feet or more and create a slope of more than three (3) horizontal to one (1) vertical. Any opening in such fence shall be locked when daily operations have ceased and such openings shall be properly signed describing the possible danger within. Such fence shall be located ten (10') feet or more from the edge of the excavation, shall be at least six (6') feet high and shall be of a type which will screen the operation from view from all public ways. 5.19.10.5.11 Maintenance of natural vegetation on undisturbed land. 5.19.11 Specifications and Standards of Operation All earth removal shall be subject to the conditions of the permit and the following specifications and standards: J" 7 67 2' 5.19.11.1 The methods and stages of removal and of restorations to usable condition shall include all conditions of the re- use plan. 5.19.11.2 Roadways used for transportation of material must be swept clean and cleared of material spilled from trucks, at least once each forty-eight (48) hours and more often, if necessary to maintain safety and a clean neat appearance. 5.19.11.3 Damage to pavement, drainage, structures and curbing cause by said trucks or spillage shall be repaired by the applicant. 5.19.11.4 Any repair or cleaning of roadways as outlined in paragraphs 2 and 3 above, if performed by the town, shall be paid for by the applicant. 5.19.11.5 Adequate steps shall be taken during removal operations to abate excessive dust and all access roads and drives on the site shall be oiled at all times. 5.19.11.6 No equipment, except mobile equipment for sorting, washing, crushing, grading drying, processing, and treating or other operation machinery, shall be used closer than one hundred (100') feet from any public right- of-way or any abutting property line. 5.19.11.7 Side slopes in a pit no steeper than a three (3) (horizontal) to one (1) (vertical) ratio. 5.19.11.8 No area shall be excavated so as to allow the accumulation of free standing water. 5.19.11.9 Adequate lateral support for all adjacent properties shall be provided and maintained. 5.19.11.10 No excavation below the existing grade of any tract boundary nearer that fifty (50') feet to abutter's property boundary or public right-of-way, or lower that four (4') feet above maximum high ground water level, except where a pond is approved on the re-use pan. Final elevation of the pit not in excess of three percent (3%) grade from the nearest public way or ways. 0 68 5.19.11.11 Entrance to the premises for the Board of Selectmen or their agent to inspect the site shall be allowed at any time. 5.19.11.12 A requirement that within six, (6) months after termination of operation, all buildings, structures and equipment shall be removed from the premises. 5.19.12 Rules and Regulations The Board of Selectmen may adopt rules and regulations governing the issuance of earth removal permits. 5.19.13 Waiver Strict compliance with the requirements of this Bylaw of the Board's rules and regulations may be waived in connection with earth removal operations and in existence on the date of adoption of this Bylaw or on a new operations when, in the judgment of the Board, such action is in the public interest and not inconsistent with the intent of this Bylaw. 5.19.14 Suspension or Revocation of Permit Any permit issued hereunder may be suspended or revoked, after a notice and hearing, for cause or violation of this Bylaw and/or the Board's rules and regulations. 5.19.15 Blastin No blasting shall be allowed unless permitted, with conditions imposed, by the Fire Chief and otherwise in conformance with state and federal law. 5.19.16 Valiidi The invalidity of any section of provision of this bylaw shall not invalidate any other section of provision thereof. 5.19.17 Administration and Enforcement The Board of Selectmen or duly authorized representative shall review the progress of the work from time to time to ensure proper conduct. If the Board of Selectmen concluded that there has been a violation of this Bylaw, a notice of violation shall be sent to the applicant, by registered or certified mail, to the address stated on the initial application, and if applicable, a notice ordering a cessation of the improper activities. Enforcement of this Bylaw may also be made in accordance with Section 5.11, Noncriminal Disposition of Certain Violations of Bylaws and Rules and Regulations, of this Bylaw. 9 69 Section 12 -Acceptance of Gifts to Departments In numerous instances, the various departments or agencies of the Town receive offers of gifts or donations for various purposes. It is the policy of the Board of Selectmen to encourage such donations and gifts, with the clear understanding that there is no offer on the part of the Town or its Departments or Agencies to reciprocate in any manner with regard to provisions of services, enforcement of laws or regulations, or any other consideration by the Town. The Town Manager is hereby authorized to accept any such gifts or donations on the part of the Town, to see to their disposition in accordance with donors wishes and applicable law, and to notify the Board of Selectmen at their next meeting of any such gifts or donations. Adapted 114-86, Revised 12-13-94 Section X 3 - Solicitation/Acceptance of Donations The Board of Selectmen values and appreciates the efforts of individuals, community groups, and businesses in the community to raise private funds for the betterment of the Town. These donations often take the form of donations of trees and benches, construction of capital projects, and donation of funding for programs. It is important for the Town and donors to have an understanding of the nature, location, design, and details of any such equipment, capital project or program on Town property or at Town facilities or utilizing Town resources prior to entering into fundraising efforts, so that the Town can meet its share of any commitments related to capital projects or programs, so that donations of trees and benches and other equipment are of a design and quality and in locations consistent with Town needs, and so that any such projects or programs are compatible with the plans and programs of the Town. Therefore, the Town must be consulted prior to any fundraising efforts, In accepting gifts and donations the Board of Selectmen should consider how the maintenance of the and operation of the equipment, capital project or program will be funded. Agreements as to gifts and donations, including maintenance, should be documented in writing. In order to facilitate this process, the Town is working to develop master plans for its various facilities and sites. The following procedures shall be used under the circumstances outlined: Town sites with Master Plans: ® The donor shall consult with Town staff through the Town Manager, and if the proposed donation is consistent with the master plan, approval may be granted by the Town Manager to proceed with fund raising. ■ If a commitment of Town funds is required to match or supplement fund raising efforts, the fundraising efforts may be approved if the proposed project is included in the Town's Capital Iinprovement erect Program (CIP), with an understanding that Town funds will not be available until those capital funds are available through the budget. 70 The Town Manager shall notify the Board of Selectmen of any such approved projects. Town Sites without Master Plans: ® The donor shall consult with the agency having jurisdiction over the property in question - Board of Selectmen as Park Commissioners; Conservation Commission for Conservation lands; Town Forest Committee; etc. for projects in those locations. ® The agency having jurisdiction may grant approval to proceed with the project. ■ If a commitment of Town funds is required to match or supplement fund raising efforts, the fundraising efforts of the donor may be approved only if the proposed project is included in the Town's Capital Improvement Prejee Program(CEP) or funds are otherwise available, with an understanding that Town funds will not be available until those capital funds are available through the budget. Equipment Plantings and programs: ■ Donors shall consult with Town staff and/or Board, Committee, or Commission as appropriate, having jurisdiction in the area where the equipment or planting is proposed to be located,, or the staff of the department or division within which the program is proposed to be run. ■ If the equipment, planting, or proposed program is consistent with the standards, design, mission and direction of the agency having jurisdiction, approval may be granted to proceed with fundraising. ® If a commitment of Town funds is required to match.or supplement fund raising efforts, the fundraising efforts may be approved if the needed funding is otherwise available from the agency of jurisdiction. Replacement, maintenance and repair: In circumstances where donations are made to replace, maintain or repair portions of Town sites and facilities, including replacement of elements of parks, recreation areas, buildings, and similar equipment, (example - replacement of pitchers mounds and home plates, replacement of basketball hoops) the Department Head within whose jurisdiction the site or facility falls may accept such, donations where: The value of the donation is $5000 or less The item being replaced, maintained, or repaired is consistent with any master plan for the property in question. Where the above criteria are met but the value of the replacement, maintenance, or repair, is between $5000 and $10,000, the Town Manager may approve the donation upon the recommendation of the Department Head. . The Town will develop a standardized mechanism to recognize donors of equipment, capital projects, and programs that is consistent and which will be easy to maintain and update. The method of recognition.shall be subject to review and approval of the Board of Selectmen. 71 Additionally, the Town must be assured that any donations that are solicited or received on behalf of improving Town facilities or operating Town programs are either solicited by properly established non-profit corporations, through for profit corporations, or by individuals malting donations directly to the Town. This is important for purposes of ensuring that donor's expectations are' completely met with regard to possible tax deductibility of donations, and that a fundraising group is indeed making all donations properly and directly to the Town for the purpose intended. In order to achieve other department missions and provide essential services, the Board of Selectmen recognizes the need for staff to develop fiscal and other resources to supplement municipal funding. The policy of the Board of Selectmen regarding fundraising activities bstaff is the following: 1. Such activities will not decrease staff effectiveness nor will they constitute an inordinate amount of work time. 2. In accordance with the Conflict of Interest Law (Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 268A), Town employees will not realize personal financial benefit from fundraising activities. 3. Employees involved in fundraising are expected to use good judgment at all times, and to be sensitive to issues such as the business climate and the ability to give. 4. In accordance with the Town's established policy on Acceptance of Gifts, it is understood that there is no offer on the part of the Town or its employees, Departments, or Agencies to reciprocate in any manner with regard to provision of services, enforcement of laws or regulations or any other considerations by the Town. 5. To ensure consistency in communication about fundraising efforts, Boards, Committees, Commissions and Department Heads shall inform the Town Manager of new fundraising efforts or campaigns prior to such activities. 6. Notice of regular or ongoing fundraising activities should be given to the Town Manager through the regular channels of communication. 7. The Town Manager may establish guidelines which specifically describe different types of fundraising and appropriate actions. Adopted 3-8-94, Revised 12-13-94; Revised 9-22-09 72 ~t~3 Zimbra: dashoniz@comcastnet t~ SmartZone Communications Center Collaboration Suite Re:: 190 Summer Avenue llttg!/x20031.wc.matl.comcasL WV Zlml)rallnal dashontz@comeast.net Wednesday, January 06, 2010 11:05:03 PM From: mjfavaloro@gtnail.com To: jdeIios@ci.reading.ma.us; dashontz@comcast.net; phechenbleil ner@ci.reading.ma.us; gredmond t@ci_reading.ma.us; ecdoucette@brackettlucas.eom; bobbiebotticelli@verizon.net; gbshontz()comcast.net Ellen: I have read your response to my 12.15.09 email to you, which response was apparently emailed directly to Glen Redmond on 12.21.09_ My client obtained a copy of that correspondence to Glen and forwarded a copy of that to me today. My position is not that a lot protected by a zoning freeze is protected by section 63.4 (lot C2 shown on the 2003 plan containing 21,591 sq. ft of area and 80' of frontage ) but rather a lot that conformed to zoning requirements at the time it was created. Out B shown on the March 1995 plan endorsed by the CPDC before the zoning change eliminating the S-10 District in April of 1995) is entitled to such protection. Section 6.3.4. was in effect at the time of the 2003 endorsement and is in effect today, there has been no freeze provision in the bylaw since 2001 and is therefore inapplicable in my opinion to this analysis. Town Meeting in 2001 in fact made the decision to eliminate the freeze provision and instead effectively create a zoning exemption for all lots lawfully created under current zoning regulations when adopting section 6.3.4 and eliminating 6.3.1.4. Then Town Planner Chris Reilly and I had that precise discussion in 2003 when reviewing this situation involving Ms. Shontz -Stackpole. Such increased protection for once conforming lots makes sense, Town Meeting in 2001 would not have simply eliminated the remaining two years of zoning freeze protection (through 2003) without providing some type of protection for owners of ANR lots, as only subdivision plan lots would be protected to 8 year zoning freeze protection under the statute. As the 2003 plan created a lot that was closer to conforming to the S-15 requirements by virtue of the increased area, sections 6.3.7 and 6.3.12 serve to continue the protection enjoyed by the 1995 Lot B to Lot C3 as shown on the 2003 plan. Please call me directly to discuss at your convenience. Thanks. Mark Favaloro On Tue. Dec 15, 2009 at 11:02 PAL mark favaloro <mj_tat_~larc>; r;~nail_coFZt> wrote: I-11 Ellen: I have been asked by Debbie Shontz-Stackpole (Debbie) to review your letter of December 11, 2009, together with the relevant provisions of the Reading Zoning by-taws (by-laws), which I have done. As I recall, between 1995 and 2003, the by-laws contained a provision that allowed for an 8 year transitional period for budding on existing 10,000 sq. ft. lots in what became the S-15 district. That period expired on April 27, 2003. Therefore, under that provision, Debbie would have had the right of build on the lot in question, lawfully created pursuant to the by-laws in 1995 as more fully set forth in your December 11. 2009 letter, as a matter of right any time before April 27, 2003. However , in 2001, the transitional provision in question was deleted by Town Meeting action, and essentially replaced by the current Section 63.4. of the by-laws which provides in relevant part: A use, building, structure, lull, parking area, loading bay, sign, landscaping or any other oninc r°C1LIIiPmE activity, is considered to be lawfully created vvith respect 'to = nts if: 1. It was inexistence on Siiarch 16, 1942when the Zoning B °-La`.`!',": as originally adopted, or 2. Subsequent to March 16, 1942, it v"'as pernn"i:te.. by -";7e .sor' in_? .BUJ-' av'r Ef f'=er I~it -,'or by Special Permit and was in existence prior to the effective elate of any amendment, which rendered it nonconforming. (emphasis added) Further sections 6.3.7 16.3.7. Change in Lot drat Results in Nonco-m?lia:ice: No lot upon which there is a building or for which a building permit is in force shall be subdivided or othervAse changed in area or shape, except through public acquisition, so as to result in a violation applicable to either the lot or the building. A lot already nonconforming shall not be changed in area or shape so as to increase the degree of nonconformity with the requirements of this By-Lav,- however, a nonconfonTiing lot may be changed in area or shape if, to do so, does not increase the degree of 1 of 2 1/7/2010 1:59 Al Z nibra: dashontz@comcastnet C, yam- impwszow i.v~rc.mali.comcaSLrPt/ZUnpraimau -D SmartZone Communications Center Collaboration Suite dashontz@comcast.net 190 Summer Avenue Tuesday, December 15, 2009 11:02:25 PM rrom: mjfa-,,aloro@gmail.com ,ci.reading.ma.us; dashontz@comeast.net; phechenbleikner@ci.reading.ma.us; To: jdelios(d gredmond@cixeading.ma.us; ecdoucette@brackettlucas.com; bobbiebotticelli@verizon.net; gbshont R)comcast.net Attaclunents: Ltr to C Redmond with attachments 12-11-09.pdf (342.9KB) HI Ellen: I have been asked by Debbie Shontz-Stack-pole (Debbie) to review your letter of December 11, 2009, together with the relevant provisions of the Reading Zoning by-laws (by-laws), which I have done. As I recall, between 1995 and 2003, the by-laws contained a provision that alloxved for an & year transitional period for building on existing 10,000 sq. fit. lots in what became the S-15 district. That period expired on April 27, 2003. Therefore, under that provision, Debbie would have had flee right of build on the lot in question, lawfully created pursuant to the by-laws in 1995 as more fully set forth in your December 11, 2009 letter, as a matter of right any time before April 27, 2003. However, in 2001, the transitional provision in question was deleted by Town Meeting action, and essentially replaced by the current Section 6.3.4. of the by-laws which provides in relevant part: A use, building, structure, haf, parking area, loading bay. sign, landscaping or any other activity, is considered to be lawiuily created with respect to zoning requirements if, i. It v,/as in eXistence on tvlarch '16,"'1942? when the Zoning °y-La!v vlas originally adopted, Z Subsequent to March 16, 1942, it tams E?j,j-ni°ted f_-,y ,.Ile Zor?seij Oy-Lat~v either b, P i~a,t or by Special Permit and was in exispence prior to the effective date of any amendment, vdhich rendered it nonconforming (emphasis added) Further sections 6.3.7 (6.3.7. Change irtt Lot that Results in Nlcncortiplia:nce: NO lot upon which there is a building or for which a building permit is in force shall be Subdivided or othenr,Ase changed in area or shape, except through public acquisition, so as to result in a violation applicable to either the ion or the building. fofi already nonconforming shall not be changed in area or share so as to increase the degree of nonconformity vAth the requirements or this By-I a;;r hpv,,, vef', a no nconf orming lot may be chanced in area or shape if, to do so, does not increase the degree of nonconformity. Said change shall be allowed by right. No building permit, Special Permit, certificate of occupancy or approval of a subdivision plan under the Subdivision Control Law shall be issued with reference to said transferred lard until both the lot retained and the ne`dy created to (s) meet the requirements of this By-Lavv.) and 6.3.12 (0.3.12. Nonc;onforr-ninng Lots: 4ny lot t~.Jhich does not comply -,v th the provisions of this By-Lai,/ ',tiith respect to minimum lot area, minii-num lot frontage, or r•?inimurn lot width or viith the requirements then in effect at the time of recording or endorsement, whichever occurs sooner, shall not be subdivided or otherwise changed in area or shape, except -'through public action, so as to be in violation of the provisions of this By-Law- A lot already nonconforming vtfith respect to those provisions shall not be changed in area or shave so as to increase the degree of noncompliance. lot which is nonconforming with respect to those provisions rnay be changed to be made closer in compliance, but once brought closer into compliance, i.e., the amount or degree of nonconformity is reduced, it shall not be permitted to revert to noncompliance vhich is greater than the closest amount or degree of compliance which it had achieved. A l(At, which is nonconforming, shall not preclude the issuance of permits allowed pursuant otherwise in this Zoning 3y-Law.) 1 of 2 12/16/2009 9:42 AID is daslioniz@comcastnet http://sz0031.wc.nail.comcastnet/Aiinbra/maf of the by- laws essentially permit a grandfathered undersized lot to be expanded towards greater conformity to a compliant zoning condition (in this case increased area, resulting form the 2003 plan). Accordingly, it appears to me that the lot in question is to be considered a building lot pursuant to the above referenced sections of the by-laws . Please review at your convenience and let me know your thoughts. As you may be aware, Debbie has a sale of this lot dependent on zoning conformity, so your prompt attention to this issue would be most appreciated. y Mark This transmission contains privileged information. If you have received tlvs email in error, please delete it from your computer and contact me immediately. Although this email and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or or other defects that might affect any computer system into -Which it is opened it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus free and no responsibility is accepted by Mark Favaloro for any loss or damage arising in any way from its use. Thant: you. Mark J. Favaloro, Esq. telephone: 781.439.9267 direct facsimile: 757.390.3659 ntifa~~ aii~ro;a?~tlail.cc?m 2 of 2 12/16/2009 9:42 AM