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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-11-13 Subsequent Town Meeting MinutesCOMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Middlesex, ss. Officer's Return, Reading: By virtue of this Warrant, I, on October 2, 2007 notified and warned the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote on Town affairs, to meet at the place and at the time specified by posting attested copies of this Town Meeting Warrant in the following public places within the Town of Reading: Precinct 1 J. Warren Killam School, 333 Charles Street Precinct 2 Registry of Motor Vehicles, 275 Salem Street Precinct 3 Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street Precinct 4 Joshua Eaton School, 365 Summer Avenue Precinct 5 Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street Precinct 6 Austin Preparatory School, 101 Willow Street Precinct 7 Reading Library, Local History Room, 64 Middlesex Avenue Precinct 8 Mobil on the Run, 1330 Main Street The date of, posting being not less than fourteen (14), days prior to November 13, 2007, the date set for the Subsequent Town Meeting in this Warrant. I also caused an attested copy of this Warrant to be published in the Reading Chronicle in the issue of October. 24, 2007. A true copy. Attest: Cheryl . Johnso , Town Clerk 1 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING (Seal) COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Middlesex, ss. To any of the Constables of the Town of Reading, Greetings: In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby required to notify and warn the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in elections and Town affairs, to meet at the Reading Memorial High School Auditorium, 62 Oakland Road, in said Reading, on Tuesday, November. 13, 2007, at seven-thirty o'clock in the evening, at which time and place the following articles are to be acted upon and determined exclusively by Town Meeting Members in accordance with the provisions of the Reading Home Rule Charter. ARTICLE 1 To hear and act on the reports of the Board of Selectmen, Town Accountant, Treasu rer-Co I lector, Board of Assessors, Director of Public Works, Town Clerk, Tree Warden, Board of Health, School Committee, Contributory Retirement Board, Library Trustees, Municipal Light Board, Finance Committee, Cemetery Trustees, Community Planning & Development Commission, Conservation Commission, Town Manager and any other Board or Special Committee. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 2 To choose all other necessary Town Officers and Special Committees and determine what instructions shall be given Town Officers and Special Committees, and to see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for the purpose of funding Town Officers and. Special Committees to carry out the instructions given to them, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 3 To see if the Town will vote to amend the FY 2008 - FY 2012, Capital Improvements Program as provided for in Section 7-7 of the Reading Home Rule Charter, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to amend one or more of the votes taken under Article 13 of the April 23, 2007 Annual Town Meeting relating to the Fiscal, Year 2008 Municipal Budget, and see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate as the result of any such amended votes for the operation of the Town and its government, or take any other action with respect thereto. Finance Committee ARTICLE 5 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the payment during Fiscal Year 2008 of bills remaining unpaid for previous fiscal years for goods and services actually rendered to the Town, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 6 To see if the Town will vote to establish a stabilization fund, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 7 To see if the Town will vote to accept the report of the Board of Selectmen upon the laying out as a public way the following described private way under the provision of law authorizing the assessment of betterments, such ways being laid out in accordance with plans duly approved by the Board of Selectmen; and to authorize the Board of Selectmen to take such ways under the provision of law authorizing the assessment of betterments, in' fee or rights of easement therein by eminent domain, under the provisions of. Chapter 79 of the General Laws, as amended, or acquire said lands in fee or rights of easement therein by purchase, gift or otherwise and to assess betterments therefore, the plans and descriptions for such way being filed in the Office of the Town Clerk in accordance with the statutory requirements; and to see what. sum the Town will vote to appropriate by 'borrowing, or from the tax levy, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, for the acquisition of said lands or easements therein or for payment of any eminent domain damages and for the construction of said ways, or take any other action with. respect thereto. • Timothy Place Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 8 To see if the Town will vote to rescind authorized but unused debt for: The Barrows School project as authorized by Article 5 voted 12/10/98 and amended by Article 12 voted 4/24/00, and further amended by Article 13 voted 5/6/04; The Birch Meadow Tennis Courts as authorized by Article 21 of the 2007 Annual Town Meeting. or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 9 To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise; and appropriate for the purpose of making improvements to or replacing the Birch Meadow Tennis Courts, including the costs of engineering services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services, construction management services, and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and to see if the Town will authorize the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, or any other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be used to defray the cost of.all, or any part of, said improvements; and to authorize the Town Manager to enter into any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Article, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen 3 ARTICLE 10 To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for the purpose of purchasing a fire ladder truck, including the costs of consulting services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and to see if the Town will authorize the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, or any other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be Used to defray the cost of all, or any part of, said fire engine; and to authorize the Town Manager to enter into any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Article, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 11 To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing, or transfer from available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for the purpose of constructing curbing, sidewalks, and pedestrian improvements, including the costs of consulting services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and to see if the Town will authorize the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, or any other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be used to defray the cost of all, or any part of, said curbing, sidewalk, and pedestrian improvements; and to authorize the Town Manager to enter into any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Article; provided however that any borrowing authorized by this Article and any appropriation subject to this Article shall be contingent upon the passage of a debt exclusion referendum question under General Laws Chapter 159, Section 21c within 90 days of the close of this Special Town Meeting, or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 12 To see if the Town will vote to accept General Laws Chapter 44, Sections 3-7, inclusive, otherwise known as the Massachusetts Community Preservation Act, by approving a surcharge on real property for the purposes permitted by said Act including the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space, the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources, the acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use, and the creation, acquisition, preservation and support of community housing; to determine the amount of such surcharge on real property as a percentage of the annual real estate tax levy against real property in an amount not to exceed 3%, such surcharge to be imposed on taxes assessed for fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2008; and to determine if the Town will accept one or more of the following exemptions from the surcharge as set forth in Section 3(e) of the Act : (1) Property owned and occupied as a domicile by a person who would qualify for low income housing or low or moderate income senior housing in the community; (2) Class 3 commercial, and Class 4 industrial property as defined by Section 2A of c. 59 in any year the.Town adopts a classified tax rate; (3) The first $100,000 of the taxable value of each parcel of residential real property. or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen ARTICLE 13 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-Laws of the Town of Reading as follows: Add Sections 2.2.1.1.1, 2.2.13.1, 2.2.21 and 2.2.23.1 as follows: 2.2.1.1.1 Accessory Building: A detached single story building the use of which is customarily incidental and subordinate to that of the principal building and which is located on the same lot as that occupied by the principal building. 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 the principal building shall be subject to the dimensional requirements applicable to the principal building. 2.2.13.1 Garage, Detached: A detached single story accessory building serving as storage for personal vehicles or other items belonging to the occupants of the premises that is used for residential purposes. Such building shall be fully enclosed. A detached garage located within 10 feet of the principal building shall be subject to the dimensional requirements applicable to the principal building. 2.2.21 Lot Coverage: The percentage of the total lot area covered by principal and accessory buildings (Accessory Building, Detached Garage and/or Carriage House-Stable-Barn). 2.2.23.1 Open Space: The percentage of the total lot area that consists of undisturbed natural vegetation, grasses, landscaping or otherwise naturally permeable materials, and is completely devoid of any building, structure, road, driveway, parking area, walkway, court, basketball court, or other similar patio, deck, pool, tennis materials. pervious and/or impervious Add the following (un-shaded) rows to the end of 4.2.2 Table of Uses, Accessory Uses: PRINCIPAL-USES RES RES ! RES BUS- BUS BUS IND -A-- C A ~0 0 S-15 A-6 - - - S- ?C) 1Accessory Uses - - - - - - - No Accessor Build in - - ~ - - o- - Yes N No- N- o No -No Detached Gara e Yes No No No No No No Replace the existing Paragraph 5.2.3.5 with: 5.2.3.5 No building shall be located within the required side yard setback except for a detached garage or accessory building for a one or two family dwelling or any other permitted principal use in a Residence District. Such building shall conform to the dimensional requirements of Table 5.2.3.7. Replace the existing Paragraph 5.2.3.6 with: 5.2.3.6 No building shall be located within the required rear yard setback except for a detached garage or accessory building for a one or two family dwelling or any other permitted principal use in a Residence District. Such building shall not occupy more than 25% of the rear yard. Such building shall conform to the dimensional requirements of Table 5.2.3.7. Add the following Table: Table 5.2.3.7 Detached Garage Accessory and Accessory Building Dimensional Controls - S-15, S-20 and S-40 Districts Accessory Floor Area Max. Building Height to Min. Side and Rear (square feet) Ridgeline or Highest Point Yard (feet) on Roof feet 100 or less 10 3 101 to 300 14 10 301 to 650 16 15 651 or greater Not Allowed or take any other action with respect thereto. Community Planning and Development Commission ARTICLE 14 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to file the following or similar legislation with the Great and General Court: AN ACT RELEASING CERTAIN LAND IN THE TOWN OF READING FROM THE OPERATION OF A CONSERVATION RESTRICTION Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of same, as follows: Section 1. Pursuant to Section 32 of Chapter 184 of the General Laws and notwithstanding any other general or special law to the contrary, the department of conservation and recreation may release a conservation restriction dated January 24, 1983, recorded in the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds at 14938, Book 486, being more particularly described as follows: The parcel of land labeled "Parcel B" (Developed) containing 2.85 acres more or less, as shown on the plan of land entitled "Plan for Conservation Restrictions, Bay State Road, Reading, Mass.", Scale 1" = 40' by R.E. Cameron & Associates, Inc. dated January 25, 1982 recorded said deeds in Plan Book 1983, Page 259. Section 2. This act shall take effect upon its passage. or take any other action with respect thereto. Board of Selectmen and you are directed to serve this Warrant by posting an attested copy thereof in at least one (1) public place in each precinct of the Town not less than fourteen (14) days prior to November 13, 2007, the date set for the meeting in said Warrant, and to publish this Warrant in a newspaper published in the Town, or providing in a manner such as electronic submission, holding for pickup or mailing, an attested copy of said Warrant to each Town Meeting Member. Hereof fail not and make due return of this Warrant with your doings thereon to the Town Clerk at or before the time appointed for said meeting. Given under our hands this 25th day of September, 12007. Ali-r',•-----.--_-z_ / James E. Bonazoli, C/J(airman Stephen/A. Goldy, Vice Chairman Ben Tafoya, Secretary Cami-lie W. Anthony ~ •r i e i - Richard W. Schubert SELECTMEN OF READING SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School November 13, 2007 The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Alan E. Foulds, at 7:43 p.m., there being a quorum present. The Invocation was given by Anthony L. Rickley, Precinct 2. There was a moment of silence to honor all veterans and remember those who made the supreme sacrifice, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The Warrant was partially read by the Town Clerk, Cheryl A. Johnson, when on motion by, James E. Bonazoli, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to dispense with further reading of the Warrant except for the Officer's Return, which was read by the Town Clerk. ARTICLE 1- General Manager Vinnie Cameron gave the following Reading Municipal Light Department 2007 Highlights: • The kilowatt-hour sales for the period July, 2006 through June, 2007 were 709,201,028, which represents a .72% increase as compared to the 2006 fiscal year. • The RMLD registered a record peak demand of 173 megawatts in August, 2006, which is about 5 megawatts higher than the previous year's peak. • The RMLD's revenues for the July, 2006 through June, 2007 were $66.2 million, which produced a Net Income of $1.9 million. • The RMLD fuel costs for the period July, 2006 through June, 2007 were $29.9 which is 23.3% lower than the 2006 fiscal year due to lower fuel costs. • The RMLD returned $2.2 million to the Town of Reading, which includes the Annual Return and the Voluntary Payment. The 2007 return is 3.8% higher than the 2006 return. • Over $5.0 million was spent in capital improvements during 2007, most of which focused on the electric substations, distribution system, and system controls. • The reliability of the electric system is at a very high level with an average customer not experiencing an electrical outage for more than 14 months, which is approximately one-half the industry average. • The RMLD started its Green Choice Program in August, 2006, which allows customers to support renewable energy projects throughout New England. ARTICLE 1- School Superintendent Pat Schettini gave the following State of the Schools report: The Reading Public Schools has a District Improvement Plan that is comprised of a Mission Statement (that you see on the screen(below)) and three Focus areas Climate and Culture, Teaching and Learning, and Fiscal and Human Resource Management. The District improvement plan is the overarching plan for our district. It is based on the high standards for school improvement as delineated in the Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School Standards and New England Association of Schools and Colleges Standards. Each school has its own school improvement plan that is aligned with the District Improvement Plan and each educator aligns his or her professional goals with these plans. This process will ensure that our schools are all heading in the same direction. That direction is the journey toward excellence. The journey of continuous improvement. I will talk a bit more on this topic in a few moments. But first, allow me to celebrate with you the many accomplishments of our schools. Mission The Reading Public Schools strives to ensure that all students will have common challenging meaningful learning experiences in the academics, health and wellness, the arts, community service, co-curricular activities and athletics. We will lead and manage our school community to reflect the values and culture of the Reading Community, and guide and support our students to develop the appropriate skills, strategies, creativity, and knowledge necessary to be productive informed independent citizens in a global society. Academics • 92% of the Class of 2007 attending college • Acceptances to many fine colleges and universities • AP and SAT scores continue to be very high • 2007 MCAS e 100% of the RMHS graduating class of 2007 passed • Continue to address improvement of MCAS scores across the district as the difficulty of the tests increases Accomplishments • Reading Schools Recognized for Meeting High Standards • Reading Students Demonstrate Their High Academic Achievement -2- Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 • Reading Students Display Their Talents Outside the Classroom • Reading Drama and Band Programs Continue to Dominate • Reading Sports Teams Show High Level of Success • Reading Teachers and Administrators Recognized by State and National Organizations and present at numerous state and national conferences Superintendent's Awards Kerry Lynch - Class of 2008 Christopher Guenard - Class of 2008 Preparing Reading's Youth To Be Productive, Informed, Independent, Citizens In A Global Society Journey Toward Excellence Standards of Quality, Indicators of Success, and Improvement Processes • Blue Ribbon Standards and Improvement Model • NEASC Accreditation Standards and Improvement Model • Turning Points • Breaking Ranks I and II • Breaking Ranks in the Middle • District Improvement Plan • School Improvement Plans Reading is a Very Special Place • Town-wide and District-wide Dedication to Community Service • Engaged and Supportive -3- Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 • Parent Community • Local Business Community • Local Service Organizations such as Rotary and Lions - • Highly Professional Administration, Faculty and Support Staff Working in our Schools • Very Collaborative Town - School Relationship A Journey Toward Excellence Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work Coach Vince Lombardi ARTICLE I - On motion by James E. Bonazoli, Chairman of the Board of Selectman, it was voted to table the subject matter of Article 1. ARTICLE 2 - On motion by Ben Tafoya, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was moved to table the subject matter of Article 2. ARTICLE 3 - On motion by, Camille W. Anthony, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to amend the FY 2008 - FY 2012 Capital Improvements Program approved at the April 23, 2007 Annual Town Meeting by substituting therefore the Capital Improvements Program FY 2008 - FY 2018 dated November 13, 2007, as provided for in Section 7-7 of the Reading Home Rule Charter. Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager gave the following presentation: Purpose of this report - Put requested Town Meeting actions into some kind of context for Town Meeting. I will give an overview, and then Town Accountant Gail LaPointe and Assistant Town Manager and Finance Director Bob LeLacheur will give more of the summary details. Specific details of each article will be given under that article. FINCOM and Board of Selectmen, and the School Committee are already well schooled in this information but Town Meeting needs to understand the basis for recommended actions. The wisdom of the following approach was recently reinforced by Moodys bond rating agency recently when they upgraded our rating to AA3, citing cash reserves, appropriate fiscal policies, and elimination of reliance on non recurring revenues to support the operating budget. This bond upgrade is saving the Town and its taxpayers and utility ratepayers hundreds of thousands of dollars over the next decade. FINCOM Policies The requested actions at this Town Meeting on financial matters follow FINCOM's financial policies: • Differentiate between recurring versus non-recurring expenses & revenues • Match non-recurring expenses such as capital with non recurring revenues like cash reserves including free cash • Avoid matching recurring costs like operating expenses with non-recurring revenue like cash reserves -4- Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 • Keep a minimum of 5% of cash reserves to offset sudden and unexpected changes in expenses and revenues - such as a hedge against yet un-approved state aid • Consider use of reserves in excess of 5% as an investment in the community - capital, funding, unfunded pension liability, etc. • Avoid an unsustainable budget process such as Stoneham and Saugus where reliance on one time revenues has lead to long term financial instability • Live within our means for recurring costs Town Meeting actions During this Town Meeting you will hear presentation on the following articles - the presentations at that time will be more detailed than this overview: • The purpose of Article 3 - placing items in the CIP o Spending money for this fiscal year under Article 4; • Recurring expenses like benefits paid from recurring revenue - State Aid • non-recurring expenses like capital improvements paid from non- recurring revenues like free cash • Article 6 - Adding to the Stabilization Fund funded from non-recurring revenues • Article 8 - debt rescinded - a "clean-up" article • Article 9 - tennis court debt authorization • Article 10 - ladder truck debt authorization • Articles 11 & 12, hear a presentation and Finance Committee report, but then defer further discussion on those until a full financial picture is completed ARTICLE 4 - On motion by, Richard W. Schubert, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to amend. the following votes taken under Article 13 of the April 23, 2007 Annual Town Meeting relating to the Fiscal Year 2008 Municipal Budget, and that the Town vote to raise from available funds and appropriate the following sums as the result of such amended votes for the operation of the Town and its government: General Fund - Wages and Expenses Account Line Description Decrease Increase B9 Benefits $265,000 $140,000 per April '07 TM $ 25,000 Substance Abuse Program Coordinator $ 70,000 RMLD adjustment $ 15,000 Water Fund credit $ 10,000 Sewer Fund credit $ 5,000 Life Insurance H1 Vocational School Education $ 77,500 M1 Accounting Salaries - Sick-leave and $ 6,500 vacation buyback -5- Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 N16 Finance Salaries - Staffing. for $ 25,000 Financial Technology project (overtime) N17 Finance Expenses - Pay & Class $ 25,000 Study for Town and School non-union positions P2 Library Expenses - Public $ 13,500 technology Q23 Community Services Expenses $ 9,000 e $4,000 Substance Abuse team training 0 $5,000 Flexible Account S15 Public Works Expenses - Highway $ 50,000 Maintenance U10 Town Building Maintenance - Library $ 30,000 elevator repairs Subtotals $501,500 Net from tax levy, state aid & local< receipts: $501,500 General Fund - Capital Account Line Description Decrease Increase C l School Equipment $ 20,000 $20,000 Snow Plow Equipment RMHS C2 School Building Improvements $ 90,000 0 $50,000 Killam Roof Repairs 0 $20,000 Parker Generator a $20,000 RMHS Handicap Access enhancements C3 Town Building Improvements $ 70,000 $60,000 carpeting/flooring for Town Hall, Main Fire Station, Senior Center and Library $10,000 HVAC Repairs in Town Hall & Main Fire Station C5 Town Technology $ 117,000 0 $95,000 GIS flyover and mapping layers 0 $22,000 upgrade voting. machines C7 Library - Roving reference $ 10,000 C9 Public Safety - Video Technology $ 35,000 CIO Public Works - Equipment $445,400 $ 16,100 previous Rack Spray Truck - fed. emissions -6- Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 $ 4,300 previous Dump Truck - fed. emissions $135,000 Backhoe ® $ 90,000 Dump Truck $ 75,000 New Sidewalk Plow $ 65,000 Pickup Utility $ 30,000 Passenger Vehicle $ 30,000 Lawnmowers (2) C12 Public Works - Roadway $ 165,000 Improvements/Sidewalks $115,000 Franklin Street $ 30,000 general sidewalks $ 20,000 paving materials Subtotals $ 952,400 Net from Free Cash $ 664,732 Net from tax levy, State Aid and local $ 287,668 receipts Enterprise Funds Account Line Description Decrease Increase W5 Water Fund $250,000 $200,000 (expenses) - To offset rates charged ® $65,000 (expenses) - Decommission Water Treatment Plant ($15,000) (expenses) credit for Health Insurance X5 Sewer Fund $190,000 0 $200,000 (expenses) - To offset rates charged * ($10,000) (expenses) credit for Health Insurance X5* Sewer Fund $300,000 $300,000 (capital) inflow and infiltration from Developer Mitigation* Y5 Storm Water Fund $ 8,000 $8,000 previous Dump Truck - fed. emissions Subtotals $748,000 Net from: • Water Reserves (for W5) $250,000 • Sewer Reserves (for X5) $190,000 -7- Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 0 Developer Mitigation (for X5*) $300,000 0 Storm Water Reserves (for Y5) $ 8,000 ARTICLE 5 - On motion by, James E. Bonazoli, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to indefinitely postpone the subject matter of Article 5. ARTICLE 6 - On motion by Ben Tafoya, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted, to appropriate by transfer the sum of $500,000 from Free Cash for the purpose of funding the Stabilization Fund, which can be later appropriated for any lawful purpose, as authorized by Chapter 40, Section 5B of the Massachusetts General Law. 2/3 vote required Declared unanimous by Moderator ARTICLE 7 - On motion by Camille W. Anthony, member of the School Committee, it was voted to table the subject matter of Article 7. ARTICLE 8 - On motion by Camille W. Anthony, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to rescind authorized but un-issued debt in the amount of $250 for the Barrows School project as authorized by Article 5 voted 12/10/98, and amended by Article 12 voted 4/24/00, and further amended by Article 13 voted 5/6/04. ARTICLE 9 - On motion by Richard W. Schubert, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to amend the action taken under Article 21 of the April 23, 2007 Annual Town Meeting by increasing the sum authorized to be raised by borrowing from $350,000 to $625,000 and appropriate pursuant to Chapter 44 Section 7(1) of the Massachusetts General Laws said. $625,000 for the purpose of making improvements to or replacing the Birch Meadow Tennis Courts, including the costs of engineering services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services, construction management services, and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and that the Town authorize the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, or any other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be used to defray the cost of all, or any part of, said improvements; and that the Town authorize the Town Manager to enter into any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Article; and that the Town authorize the Treasurer-Collector, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to borrow pursuant to said authorization. Town Manager Peter I. Hechenbleikner gave the following presentation: The Engineering Division has accepted bids for reconstruction of the Birch Meadow Tennis Courts. The analysis of bid costs from the Town Engineer is attached. The options available to the Town are as follows: -8- Subsequent Town Meeting November 1.3, 2007 • Do nothing. In this instance, 3 of the courts are unsafe and unplayable and will immediately be taken out of use. The useable life of the remaining 3 courts is problematic, and one can assume that the courts would be completely out of use within a couple of years. • Minimal Repair. One option is to do an overlay and repainting of the existing tennis courts. This would include a thin (1") overlay, raising the nets, and repainting. The expected cost based on the bids we have taken would be $110,000, and the useful life would be approximately 5 years. One would assume that no outside funding would be available for this work - the $90,000 raised privately is for a reconstruction, not a repair.. The state funding of $50,000 is likewise for a reconstruction, not a repair. • Full Reconstruction. The bid for full reconstruction, including new lights and the required contingency is approximately $625,000. Offsetting this would be $140,000 in available outside funds, leaving the net cost of the project at $485,000. The only reasonable source of funds would be to bond the project for up to 10 years. The cost per year for principal and interest would be approximately $60,000. The decision then is whether or not to proceed with any action on these tennis courts, and if so, what is the appropriate action. The existing tennis courts have been in place for around 50 years, and have had one major repair job done in that time. If properly taken care of, new tennis courts should have a similar life. The USTA recommends repainting every 5 to 7 years, and crack sealing every 8 to 10 years. The possible actions at Town Meeting based on the options above would be as follows: Article 3 - FY 2008 Article 8 - Debt Article 9 - Budget Rescission re Tennis Additional Debt Amendments Courts Authorization for Tennis Courts Do Nothing No action Rescind previously No action - authorized debt Indefinitely Postpone Minimal Repair Appropriate Rescind previously No action - $110,000 authorized debt Indefinitely Postpone Full Reconstruction No action No action Authorize additional debt in the amount of a new total of $625,000 ARTICLE 9 - On motion by Ronald D'Addario, Precinct 6, it was moved to amend Article 9 by reducing the amount by $125,000 (cost'of lighting). Motion to amend did not carry. 2/3 vote required 135 voted in the affirmative 7 voted in the negative -9- Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 ARTICLE 10 - On motion by James E. Bonazoli, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to raise by borrowing and appropriate pursuant to Chapter 44 Section 7(1) of the Massachusetts General Laws the sum of $850,000 for the purpose of purchasing a fire ladder truck, including the costs of consulting services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and that the Town authorize the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, or any other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be used to defray the cost of all, or any part of, said fire engine; and that the Town authorize the Town Manager to enter into any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Article; and that the Town authorize the Treasurer- Collector, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to borrow pursuant to said authorization. 2/3 vote required Declared unanimous by Moderator ARTICLE 11- On motion by Ben Tafoya, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was moved to raise by borrowing and appropriate the sum of $4,500,000 for the purpose of constructing curbing, sidewalks, and pedestrian improvements, including the costs of consulting services, plans, documents, cost estimates, bidding services and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town Manager; and that the Town authorize the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, or any other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be used to defray the cost of all, or any part of, said curbing, sidewalk, and pedestrian improvements; and that the Town authorize the Town Manager to enter into any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Article; provided however that any borrowing authorized by this article and any appropriation subject to this Article shall be contingent upon the passage of a debt exclusion referendum question under General Laws Chapter 159, Section 21c within 90 days of the close of this Special Town Meeting. ARTICLE 11- On motion by Ben Tafoya, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to refer the subject matter of Article 11 to the Board of Selectmen. On motion by William C. Brown, Precinct 8, it was moved to adjourn at 10:54 p.m. to meet at 7:30 p,m. at the new Reading Memorial High School Auditorium, on Thursday, November 15, 2007. 150 Town Meeting Members were present. A true copy. Attest: heryl Johnso Town Clerk - 10 - Subsequent Town Meeting November 13, 2007 Drastic need for funding of sidewalk/curb/pedestrian improvements At today's rate of expenditure it will take 1333 years to complete the job, not including repair or replacement 4 2 ~ 1 1. mmak SIDFWALK NI AP 2 1. New sidewalks, curbs, pedestrian improvements • Franklin Street experience • Shortage - 576,000 feet of sidewalk Shortage - 606.000 feet of curb • Many main roadways not served - examples include: Grove Street, Forest Glen Road, West Street, South Street, Walnut Street, Mill Street, Washington Street, Harrison Street, Pleasant Street 3 ~R 1 • 9 t t _y t! i f : H f .v y, ~f f t a R 4 am 2. ADA compliant HC ramps • Town is addressing this where we are otherwise doing road project • In 2007, constructed 5 HC ramps • We only have 1288 left to do • Resident demand/requests • Average cost - $3500 each k 3. Part of road construction • Standard - curbing on road construction. projects with a grade of 5% or more prevents erosion • In 2007, the Town spent $130,000 on curbing in these situations • That reduced street construction projects by $130,000 5 4. Infill • Betterment process in "old days" • Result is a discontinuous sidewalk and curb system • This leaves "holes" in the pedestrian system 6 . w. i Ems 5. Replacement and re-construction • Town has done literally no replacement or reconstruction in the past 21 years • "patching" is the best that we have been able to do Safety issues • Difficulty in plowing rr Arm r%, r 65 Y 8 f ~ , J ice`" I . S , F " _ ~ ~•.mr. - ''x 1~~ rr- { l f Win: r.a bv.ti :1 '..tea... WHY SHOULD WE CARE? • safety issue • environmental benefits • energy reduction • health benefits • enhance property values • Curbs save roads and sidewalks and make maintenance and plowing easier 9 * IF SIDEWALKS AND CURBS ARE SO IMPORTANT WHY DON'T WE JUST DO THEM NOW? • Program outlined is $450,000 per year for 10 years • Limited capital funds would take all of next year's discretionary capital $ • As a Debt Exclusion the program would cost average household $50 per year _ : WHAT DO WE DO NOW? • Agree that there is a need • Agree that this is a priority • Ask the community for the money to address the need • Work out the priority projects • Get moving forward with construction 10 WHAT DOES THE COMMUNITY SAY? This program will support the "Suggested Routes to School" program • "Walkable Community" is addressing the need for improved walking • ACCCP supports biking and alternatives to conventional transportation • Residents frequently request sidewalk, curb, and HC. ramp installation and improvement 11 SUBSEQUENT TOWN MEETING Reading Memorial High School November 15, 2007 The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Alan E. Foulds, at 7:51 p.m., there being a quorum present. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. ARTICLE 12 - On motion by Camille W. Anthony, member of the Board of Selectmen, it was moved to accept General Laws Chapter 44, Sections 3-7, inclusive, otherwise known as the Massachusetts Community Preservation Act, by approving a surcharge on real property for the purposes permitted by said Act including the acquisition, creation and preservation of open space, the acquisition, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources, the acquisition, creation and preservation of land for recreational use, and the creation, acquisition, preservation and support of community housing; that the Town determine the amount of such surcharge as 2% on real property as a percentage of the annual real estate tax levy against real property, such surcharge to be imposed on taxes assessed for fiscal years beginning on or after July 1, 2008; and that the Town will accept the following exemptions from the surcharge as set forth in Section 3(e) of the Act : (1) Property owned and occupied as a domicile by a person who would qualify for low income housing or low or moderate income senior housing in the community; (2) The first $100,000 of the taxable value of each parcel of residential real property. ARTICLE 12 - On motion by James E. Bonazoli, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to refer the subject matter of Article 12 to the Board of Selectmen. On motion by Michael F. Slezak, Precinct 6, it was voted to move the question. 2/3 vote requested 85 voted in the affirmative 30 voted in the negative On motion to refer the subject matter of Article 12: Counted vote requested 64 voted in the affirmative 55 voted in the negative Motion to refer to committee carried. ARTICLE 13 - On motion by David Tuttle, Community Planning and Development Commission, it was moved to amend the Zoning By-Laws of the Town of Reading as follows: Add Sections 2.2.1.1.1, 2.2.13.1, 2.2.21 and 2.2.23.1 as follows: Warrant AY-ticle 12 Community Preservation Act The CPA is a statewide enabling legislation that allows towns to establish a dedicated fund for three cornn-iunity concerns: , open space <i Tordable housing hi,toric resources (_TA allows Rc iding the opportunity to: t~t~rnir~c its ~~eioritics. j-)Ian for its future, and Warrant Article 12 Community Preservation Act ❑ This locally controlled fund draws revenue fioin 2 sources: • I ocal surcharge on property values S~a~c matching funds } 1 V Warrant Article 12 Community Preservation Act Local funding: Proposed 2% surcharge on real property, I m include two exemptions for: I) the first $100,000 of assessed value of c~Oi taxable parcel of real property, and or low and/or moderate 4 incc~mc scii'orhouseholds. f~ Warrant Article 12 Community Preservation Act State funding: 100% state matching funds have been L«~,li l thle since 2001. A11 re,' enues generated and collected in Reading will receive state matching funds. 2 Warrant Article 12 Community Preservation Acct. ~x ■ Monies collected by Reading and matched by the state, would be placed in a local CPA Fund, - administered by local residents. 10% of the annual revenues of the fund must be u~c for each of the core areas: open space, able housing and historic resources. ->d 1ic rcmainin(, 70% of the annual revenues can c ~tIIOcat ~,d for any combination of the allowed k) r recreation use. t.: Fund Allocation Open Spa J-- istoric Open `Darr, ' I I Iti14111 C. Il~~otii 11 t }t - Opeu Space.: Open Space, ll kioric, Housing, Recreation 3 t 1 E Reading CPA surcharge overview: Proposed surcharge with one exemption' t to the average household in Reading calculated usinb FY2007 values, a 2 percent surcharge, and the $100,000 exemption. Average Assessed Home Value $461,656 Minus $100,000 exemption - $100,000 Equals Net House Value Surcharged = $361,656 Tirnes Municipal Tax Rate (per dollar) x 0.01207 . Fqu._JIs Amount Subject to Surcharge = $4365 Times CPA Surcharge Rate x 2% rnount paid toward CPA Fund $ 87 1OV, lncom1 : (~)r lm1 lijid or moderate income senior households I:~ t~ait7g CPA surcharge overview (continued): the projected amount Reading would raise x.. s' I lie churt hclow shows several scenarios. ~ otc thin 11[csL amounts are just the amount raised.locally. The total would nlor , altar the state match is received each year. t Exemptions 1% 2% 3%a r: Noce $ 454,731 $ 909,462 $ 1,364,193 iv1DO K 3 361,937 $ 723,873 $ 1,085,810 4 Reading CPA projected surcharge z on range of property values and Town revenues Property Value 100,000 200,000 300,000 400,000 500,000 ? "I'l) i3xf $ 1,2075 2,414 3,621 $ 4,828 $ 6,035 Town Raises vvithow $100,000 exem t Exemption- 12 $ 24 $ 36 $ 48 $ 60 s 454,731 3 445,451 5 $ 18 $ 36 $ 54 $ 72 $ 91 S 682,096 S 668,177 24 $ 48 $ 72 $ 97 $ 121 s 909,462 S 890,903 - 36. $ 72 $ 109 $ 145 $ 181 S 1,364,193 S 1,336,352 with $100,000 exempt - $ 12 $ 24 $ 36 $ 48 $ 361,937 S 357,297 - $ 18 $ 36 54 - $ 72 5 542,906 5 s3s,94~ -4 $ 481 1 $ 72 r$ _ 97 $ 723,873 $ 714,594 0 36 $ 72 $ 109 $ 145 1,s t,ossst s 1,071s91 «e Value is $461,656 !ax figur es, using 12,07 as residential tax rate {,1 " ;'i is the basis far the state mat ch ',L._, . ! "ption r Community Preservation Act x} . Local Enactment, Local Control CPA accepted by Town Meeting, then placed on ballot for voter approval. • PA remains in effect for a minimum of five ClIt's from the date of voter approval, a. cl of surcharge (and optional exemptions) can a111~2nded at any regularly scheduled election. [-Cl)cgl the CPA after 5 years,. 5 Community Preservation Act t: Local Enactment, Local Control The Town appoints local citizens to the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). The CPC would create an action plan based on i rnput they gather from Town Boards and public itlformational meetings. These plans are subject to oc; J comment and approval. > :(T(' I uiids can be appropriated by Town Meeting a~lI'i i organizations who may act quickly ~ircl ~tcqui:~ition; creation, preservation and , rhj~c?t't I' c tI ~pacc. affordable and community °:1 IS MI-I. flisto nc buildings and landscapes. . x Community Preservation Act Considerations F, • Commercial properties are not exempt. • General oblia7ation bonds or notes can be authorized in anticipation of revenues to be raised. ,,,,CPA funds may be used as leverage for matching r?i ( ni es from state and federal grant programs that e,c, i i iv a local match. ~I~cadin,, has adopted the CPA, applications forSelf- 11~ tjid l rh,iT~ Self-Help matching funds through V, (Wid receive significantly higher weight in idcr, ti~~n. S 6 2.2.1.1.1 Accessory Building: A detached single story building the use of which is customarily incidental and subordinate to that of the principal building and which is located on the same lot as that occupied by the principal building. 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 ten (10) feet of the principal building shall be subject to the dimensional requirements applicable to the principal building. 2.2.13.1 Garage, Detached: A detached single story accessory building serving as storage for personal vehicles or other items belonging to the occupants of the premises that is used for residential purposes. Such building shall be fully enclosed. A detached garage located within ten (10) feet of the principal building shall be subject to the dimensional requirements applicable to the principal building. 2.2.21 Lot Coverage: The percentage of the total lot area covered by principal and accessory buildings (Accessory Building, Detached Garage and/or Carriage House-Stable-Barn). 2.2.23.1 Open Space: The percentage of the total lot area that consists of undisturbed natural vegetation, grasses, landscaping or otherwise naturally permeable materials, and is completely devoid of any building, structure, road, driveway, parking area, walkway, patio, deck, pool, tennis court, basketball court, or other similar pervious and/or impervious materials. Replace the existing Paragraph 5.2.3.5 with: 5.2.3.5 No building shall be located within the required side yard setback except for a detached garage or accessory building for a one or two family dwelling or any other permitted principal use in a Residence District. Such building shall conform to the dimensional requirements of Table 5.2.3.7. Replace the existing Paragraph 5.2.3.6 with: 5.2.3.6 No building shall be located within the required rear yard setback except for a detached garage or accessory building for a one or two family dwelling or any other permitted principal use in a Residence District. Such building shall not occupy more than twenty five percent (25%) of the rear yard. Such building shall conform to the dimensional requirements of Table 5.2.3.7. Add the following Table: Table 5.2.3.7 Detached Garage Accessory and Accessory Building Dimensional Controls - S-15, S-20 and S-40 Districts Accessory Floor Max. Building Height to Min. Side and Rear Area (square feet) Ridgeline or Highest Point yard (feet) -2- Subsequent Town Meeting November 15, 2007 on Roof (feet) 100 or less 10 3 101 to 300 14 10 301 to 650 .16 15 651 or greater Not Allowed 2/3 voted required 15 voted in the affirmative 95 voted in the negative Motion did not carry. ARTICLE 14 - On motion by James E. Bonazoli; Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, it was voted to authorize the Board of Selectmen to file the following or similar legislation with the Great and General Court: AN ACT RELEASING CERTAIN LAND IN THE TOWN OF READING FROM THE OPERATION OF A RESTRICTION ON LAND Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows: Section 1. The Town of Reading, acting by and through its Board of Selectmen, is hereby authorized to release a restriction on land granted to the Town by the United Church Homes of Reading, Inc., purported to be-a conservation restriction pursuant to Section 32 of Chapter 184 but not signed by the Secretary and therefore presumed to be a restriction pursuant to Chapter 23 of Chapter 184, which restriction expires naturally in thirty years but cannot be rerecorded, dated January 24, 1983, and recorded in the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds at Book 14938, Book 486, being more particularly described as follows: the parcel of land labeled "Parcel B" (Developed) containing 2.85 acres more or less, as shown on the plan of land entitled "Plan for Conservation Restrictions, Bay State Road, Reading, Mass.", Scale 1" = 40' by R.E. Cameron & Associates, Inc. dated Jan. 25, 1982 recorded in said deeds in Plan Book 1983, Page 259. Section 2. This act shall take effect upon its passage. Counted vote requested 107 voted in the affirmative 6 voted in the negative On motion by Jaynes E. Bonazoli, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, it was moved to adjourn this Subsequent Town Meeting sine die.. Meeting adjourned at 10:18 p.m. -3 - Subsequent Town Meeting November 15, 2007 Town Meeting Members were present. A true copy. Attest: Cheryl . Johns To lerk -4- Subsequent Town Meeting November 15, 2007