HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-03-30 Board of Selectmen HandoutDRAFT MOTIONS
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
MARCH 30, 2010
Tafoya, Bon F Anthony, Goldy, Schubert Hechenbleikner
la) Move that the Board of Selectmen go into Executive Session for the
purpose of discussing strategy with respect to labor negotiations to come
back into Open Session at approximately 7:30 p.m.
BT CA SG RS
Move that the Board of Selectmen adjourn the meeting at p.m.
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TOWN MANAGER'S REPORT
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
® The President has declared portions of MA including Middlesex County as a
disaster area for individual assistance.. The names of those who had damage to
their homes and have reported it to the Town will be sent to FEMA. The attached
press release has the contact information for FEMA, and this document is also on
the Town's web site.
® As is the case for much of the region, our primary thoughts and focus are on
weather related issues
® Election Tuesday
® Coolidge Science Olympiad team has won the state title once again.
® Update re Mattera Cabin
® Election for Voke School
® There will be a ground breaking ceremony for Memorial Park on April 22 at 3:30
PM.
® There will be a dedication of the new Tennis Courts in April. The tennis courts are
now open, and the lights on Bancroft Avenue are on.
® The Spring guide for recreation activities in reading will be out by the end of next
week.
® Closing on property at Sumner Cheney Place - funds will be deposited in the
affordable housing trust fund
® The Chocolate Truffle was on TV today - Marshmallow Peanut Butter Cup as the
snack of the day will be airing Tuesday, March 30, 2010 9:00 on WBZ.
® The Compost Center opens Friday, April 2.
® The Household Hazardous waste Collection will be in Reading on May 22. There is
also a fall collection in Wakefield.
® Update on:
o Double Pole elimination
o Cell Tower proposal at Prescott near Lincoln
o Tree watering and survival
o Causeway Road site visit - March 26. Board of Selectmen liaison
o Board of Selectmen site visit re sidewalk dining - Venetian Moon (see
email from. Town Engineer re HC ramps)
Dates and Events:
+ Election April 6, 7 am to 8 PM
® Earth Day Fair will be April 10th, RMLD, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.
*April 22 - 3:30 PM - Ground Breaking Memorial park
*Annual Town Meeting starts April 26
+ Friends and Family Day (AKA Town Day), June 19
+ Fall Street Faire, September 12
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY 900%
MASSACHUSETTS EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
400 Worcester Road tftsl~
Deval L. Patrick Framingham, MA 01702-5399 Don R. Boyce
Governor Tel: 508-820-2000 Fax: 508-820-2030 Director
Timothy P. Murray Website: www.mass.gov/mema
Lieutenant Governor
Mary Elizabeth Heffernan
Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 29, 2010
Peter Judge, MEMA PIO
(508) 820-2002
GOVERNOR PATRICK ANNOUNCES FEDERAL FLOOD AID ON ITS WAY
Financial Assistance Available for Individuals & Businesses in 7 Counties
BOSTON, MA - Governor Deval Patrick announced this evening that federal aid will become
available to Massachusetts individuals and businesses hardest hit by the most recent flooding
events. The assistance was authorized under a Major Federal Disaster Declaration issued by
President Barack Obama after a review of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's
analysis of Governor Patrick's request for federal assistance for those most impacted by the
flooding beginning on March 12, 2010 and continuing. The Massachusetts congressional
delegation advocated strongly in support of the request.
The President's action makes Individual Assistance (IA) Programs available to affected
homeowners, renters and businesses in a 7 county area. The counties include Essex, Middlesex,
Worcester, Suffolk, Norfolk, Bristol and Plymouth Counties. Given this week's storm and
anticipated flooding, the Governor will expand his request to cover any damage resulting from
the ongoing weather event.
"I am thankful to President Obama for recognizing the havoc the storm and flooding has inflicted .
on communities across the Commonwealth," said Governor Patrick. "Now that our request for a
disaster declaration has been granted, critical federal aid can reach the individuals, families and
businesses that need it the most. People dealing with effects of this week's storm can rest assured
we stand ready to make a request for additional assistance so they can get the help we anticipate
they '11 need."
The available Individual Assistance Programs administered by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) include Individuals
and Households Programs (IHP), Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Legal
Assistance, Tax Relief, and Small Business Administration Disaster Loans. This assistance will
assist individuals and businesses in their recovery from the impacts of flooding.
-MORE-
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Individuals and business owners, who sustained losses in the designated counties, can initiate the
application for assistance process by calling the FEMA Teleregistration numbers: 1-800-621-
FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585; (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired or registering on-
line at www.fema.gov. The toll-free Teleregistration numbers will operate Monday through
Friday from 7:00am to 1:00am, on weekends - Saturday and Sunday from 7:00am to 10:00pm,
until further'notice.
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is the state agency responsible
for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and
disasters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MEMA provides leadership to: develop plans
for effective response to all hazards, disasters or threats; train emergency personnel to protect the
public; provide information to the citizenry; and assist individuals, families, businesses and
communities to mitigate against, prepare for, and respond to and recover from emergencies, both
natural and man made.
For additional information about MEMA and Winter & Flooding Preparedness, go to
www.mass.gov/mema. Follow MEMA updates on Facebook and Twitter.
-30-
Region I
P.O. Box 116
365 East Street
Tewksbury, MA 01876
Tel: 978-328-1500 Fax: 978-851-8218
Region II
Region III / IV
P.O. Box 54
1002 Suffield Street
12-I Rear Administration Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Bridgewater, MA 02324-0054
Tel: 413-821-1500
Tel: 508-697-3600 Fax: 508-697-8869
Fax: 413-821-1599
(3
TO: Board of Selectmen
Date: Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Re: Downtown Trees
Camille Anthony has asked about the process for guaranteeing survival of the new Downtown
trees.
I have discussed this matter with the Parks/Forestry/Cemetery Supervisor and the Town
Engineer. The following points are relevant to this issue:
• Tree plantings were done at the optimal time - fall planting allows the roots to begin to
get established, and then start the spring growing season well established
• Trees in large planter areas and on the commons are of no concern re survival - they
have large turf or mulched areas around them preventing soil compaction and allowing
for adequate watering,
• The Forestry Division will spray the trees for winter moths this spring to prevent
defoliation - we do this as needed for "high value" trees including the common.
• All of the trees in the project are guaranteed by the installer through September 2010 -
a standard shade tree guarantee.
• The concern for watering the street trees is only for this season. Once they are
established and healthy through 2010 they should survive well.
To address the issue of survivability, the Parks/Forestry/Cemetery supervisor and Town
Engineer have expressed the following concerns and made the following suggestions:
• Although the contractor has guaranteed the trees through. September, we understand
that the contractor will not be watering the trees this summer - it is less expensive for
him to take the risk of a tree or trees dying, and then replanting those that don't survive,
than to do the watering. There is. no requirement in the contract that the trees be
watered - only that they be guaranteed for survival.
• "hand" watering is not a viable option because of cost in employee time and disruption
to business parking and traffic. Hand watering is not an industry standard or best
practice.
• The optimal watering would be through the use of "gator's" for each of the street trees
(see photo)
• The Town currently owns 14 gators
• The number of trees that would need the gators is 66 including 14 trees on Haven St.
• Gators cost $18.00 each/20 GAL X 52 bags =$936.00.
• The gators need to be filled once per week during hotter/dryer times of the season.
Each gator requires 20 gallons of water to fill it. With the available tank capacity that
0 Page 1
we have on a vehicle (275 gallons) it would take 5 trips per week to water all of the
trees.
• To optimally utilize Town work forces, we propose to try to get abutters to adopt the
trees in front of their businesses for purposes of watering (filling the gator 1X per week)
this summer, preferably getting entire blocks adopted.
• At a minimum, adopting the trees in this manner in the areas where parking is more
intense would be a large help. In some areas, filling the gators from a Town truck
during business hours would be doable.
• In future years we would hope to get the businesses to adopt the trees for purposes of
planting the tree wells with flowers, such as Pizza World did last year.
® Page 2
C. to
CUSHING7 L , INCS
March 25, 2010
Mr. Peter Hechenbleikner
Town Manager
Town Hall
16 Lowell Street
Reading, Massachusetts 01867
Mr. Larry Ramdin
Health Services Administrator_
Town Hall °
16 Lowell Street
Reading, Massachusetts 01867 wca
Re: Public Involvement Activities Associated with
c3
Release Abatement Plan Modification W for
Reading Municipal Light Department %n
Substation 4, 45 Causeway Road and 571 West Street 1%0
Reading, MA
Release Tracking #3-28717 and #3-28999
Dear Mr. Hechenbleilmer and Mr. Ramdin:
On behalf of our client, Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) [the Potentially
Responsible Party (PRP) and current owner of the above-referenced properties], and in
accordance with the Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP), 310 CMR 40.1403(3)(d), this letter
serves as notification of the submittal of a "Release Abatement Measure Plan Modification #1 /
Release Abatement Measure Status Report #2 and Self-Implementing Procedure Report for
Substation No. 4" to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's (MADEP)
Northeast Regional Office in Wilmington, Massachusetts. The document was prepared in
accordance with the MCP 310 CMR 40.0445(1) to address proposed cleanup of soils at 45
Causeway Road and 571 West Street (the site) that. have been identified as being impacted with
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
This document has also been submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA),
Region I, to described the evaluation of the distribution of PCBs at the site and for conducting a
Self-Implementing Procedure (SIP) for site characterization, and clean up and disposal (as
necessary) of PCB remediation waste as described in 40 CFR 761.61(a).
464 High Street
Clinton, MA 01510
Tel. 978.368.6320
Fax 978.368.6121
85 Constitution Liz, Ste 3134
Danvers, MA 01923
Tel. 978 774.7224
Fax 978.774.7292
(311
The proposed work is expected to begin in May 2010 extend into August of 2010.
Should you have any questions concerning this document or the proposed work, please do not
hesitate to call us at (978) 774-7224.
Sincerely,
CUSHING, JAMMAUQ7& WHEELER, INC.
Jaimnallo, LSP, PG
C: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Vincent Cameron, RMLD
Kevin Sullivan, RMLD
Keren Schlomy, Rubin and Rudman LLP
Diedre T. Lawrence, Rubin and Rudman LLP
Frances Fink, Town of Reading, MA Conservation Commission Administrator
Page 1 of 1
Hechenbleikner, Peter
From: Zambouras, George
Sent: Monday, March 29, 2010 2:00 PM
To: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Subject: HP regulations
Attachments: 521022.pdf; 521020.pdf; 521021.pdf
Peter
Attached are sections of the AAB regulations pertaining to sidewalks and ramps.
Section 521 CMR 21.2.1 References a "level landing at the top" of a curb cut/handicap ramp.
Another key comment in this section is that the curb cut shall be located in the "pedestrian path
of travel" (see my comment and 20.1 & 20.2 below)
Section 521 CMR 21.6.1 References the landing shall be 48 inches in width and shall not
slope more than 2% in any direction.
Section 521 CMR 20.9 Defines minimum slopes for walkways (assessable route) vs ramps as:
"An accessible route with a running slope steeper than 1:20 (5%) is a ramp and shall comply
with 521 CMR 24.00: RAMPS. Nowhere shall the cross slope of an accessible route exceed
1:50 (2%). (Refer to 521 CMR 2.4.4d)"
Section 521 CMR 22.2 References that walkways be "not less than 48 inches wide and have
an unobstructed path of travel shall which is at least 36 inches clear."
Section 521 CMR 22.3, 22.3.1 & 22.3.2 Reiterates 20.9 the 5% ramp rule and 2% grade for
walkways.
Based on the above there must be a 48" wide level area at the end of the ramp.
In addition regarding "pedestrian path of travel" 21.2.1 (above), 20.1 & 20.2; 1 believe AAB can
declare that the tables would be in violation of this regulation. I would strongly recommend that
the planned placement of the table be submitted to AAB for a ruling.
Section 521 CMR 20.1 and 20.2 References "Accessible routes and paths" and the
requirement that it "shall coincide with the route for the general public".
George J. Zambouras, P.E.
Town Engineer
781-942-6683
781-942-5441(fax)
Email: gzambouras@ci.reading.ma.us
3/30/2010
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
22.00: WALKWAYS
22.5 SURFACE
Wallnvay surfaces shall be stable, and firm and shall lie generally in a continuous plane with a
minimum of surface warping.
22.6 DRAINAGE
Grading and drainage shall be designed to minimize pooling of water or accumulation of ice or
flow of water across walkways.
22.7 GRATINGS
If gratings are located in wanting surfaces, they shall have spaces no greater than '`/z inch (`/2" =
13mm) wide in the direction of the flow of travel. If gratings have elongated openings, then they
shall be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the dominant direction of travel.
See Fig. 22b.
Predominant Direction of Traffic
10
1A
" ax Section through Grating
13
Long dimension perpendicular
to route of travel
V ♦ ♦ V / • ♦ ♦ r r ♦ ♦ r Y
V V V V t V V V Y Y V Y V •
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♦ ♦ r ♦ V Y i • ♦ V' V V ♦ ♦
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♦ V r Y V ♦ r Y ♦ r ♦ V ♦ V V
Gratings
Figure 22b
22.8 INTERSECTIONS
Wherever a walkway crosses or joins streets, public ways, driveways or parking lots, it shall
comply with the following:
22.8.1 The intersecting surfaces shall blend to a common level with a slope no greater than 1:20 (5%),
or a curb cut shall be installed in compliance with 521 CMR 21.00: CURB CUTS.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 102
0
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
521 CMR 20.00: ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
20.1 GENERAL
An accessible route shall provide a continuous unobstructed path connecting accessible spaces
and elements inside and outside a facility. Accessible routes may include but are not limited to
walks, halls, corridors, aisles, skywalks, and tunnels. Accessible routes may not include stairs,
steps, or escalators, even if the stairs and steps are required to be accessible under 521 CMR.
20.2 LOCATION
Within the boundary of the site, an accessible route(s) shall be provided from accessible
parking, accessible passenger loading zones, and public streets or sidewalks to the accessible
building entrance they serve. The accessible route(s) shall coincide with the route for the
general public.
20.2.1 At least one accessible route shall connect accessible buildings, facilities, elements and spaces
that are on the same site.
20.3 WIDTH
An accessible route shall have a minimum clear width of 36 inches (36" = 914 nun) except at
doors and at openings less than 24 inches (24" = 610mm) deep where it shall comply with
521 CMR 26.00: DOORS AND DOORWAYS.
20.4 TURNS
If a person in a wheelchair must make a turn around an obstruction, the minimum clear width of
the accessible route shall comply with Fig. 20a or 20b.
~r
rn
90 degree
turn
36" . 48" or more I. 36"
914 1219 914
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42"
1067 1067
less than 48"
Minimum Clearances for Turning Minimum Clearances for Turning
Figure 20a Figure 20b
20.5 PASSING SPACE
If an accessible route has less than 60 inches (60" = 1524mm) clear width, then passing spaces
at least 60 inches by 60 inches (60" x 60" = 1524mm by 1524mun) shall be located at intervals
not to exceed 200 feet (200'= 61m). A T-intersection of two corridors or walks is an acceptable
passing place.
1 /2 7/06
521 CMR - 89
(DI
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
20.00: ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
20.6 PROTRUDING OBJECTS
Objects shall not reduce the clear width of an accessible route or maneuvering space (see Fig.
20c) and must comply with 521 CMR 20.6.1.
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Additional protection Protruding Objects Floor mounted]
not required between hanging on wall with dispensing unit,
wing walls. leading edges above wing walls not
27° (686 mm) required.
Protruding Objects
Figure 20c
20.6.1 Objects projecting from walls (for example, telephones) with their leading edges between 27
inches and 80 inches (27" and 80" = 686mm and 2032mm) above the finished floor shall
protrude no more than four inches (4" = 102mm) into walks, halls, corridors, passageways, or
aisles and shall not have sharp or abrupt edges. See Fig. 20d.
Lobby ( 4° m:
102
t,. Protruding
Object
N
M
O
N
Walking Parallel to a Wall
Figure 20d
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20.6.2 Objects mounted with their leading edges at or below 27 inches (27" = 686mm) above the
finished floor may protrude any distance as long as they do not reduce the accessible route
below 36 inches (36" = 914mm). See Fig. 20e.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 90
IZ
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
20.00: ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
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Walking Perpendicular to a Wail Walking Parallel to a Wall
Figure 20e
20.6.3 Free-standing objects mounted on posts or pylons may have a maximum overhang of 12 inches
(12" = 305mm) measured between 27 inches and 80 inches (27" and 80" = 686nun and 20321lu11)
above the ground or finished floor. See Fig. 20f.
Objects Mounted on Posts or Pylons
Figure 20f
20.7 HEADROOM
Walks, halls, corridors, passageways, aisles, or other circulation spaces shall have a minimum of
80 inches (80" = 2032mm) clear headroom. See Fig. 20d. If vertical clearance of an area
adjoining an accessible route is reduced to less than 80 inches (80" = 2032mn1), a barrier shall
be provided to warn blind or visually-impaired persons of the reduced headroom. See Fig. 20g.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 91
a
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
20.00: ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
Protect shaded area
from cross-traffic\
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Area
14
°
Minumum Clear Headroom
Figure 20g
20.8 SURFACE TEXTURES
The surface of an accessible route shall comply with 521 CMR 29.00: FLOOR SURFACES.
20.9 SLOPE AND CROSS SLOPE
An accessible route with a runningslope steeper than 1:20 (5%) is a ramp and shall comply with
521 CMR 24.00: RAMPS. Nowhere shall the cross slope of an accessible route exceed 1:50
(2%). (Refer to 521 CMR 2.4.4d)
20.10 CHANGES IN LEVELS
Changes in levels along an accessible route shall comply with 521 CMR 29.2, Level Changes.
See Fig 20h.
1/4" - 1/2"
6 - 19 2
1/4" max
Changes In Level
Figure 20h
20.11 EGRESS
Accessible routes serving any accessible space or element shall also serve as a means of egress
for emergencies or connect to an accessible area of rescue assistance.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 92
r7il)
521. CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
20.00: ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
20.11.1 All spaces or elements required to be accessible by 521 CMR shall be provided with no less than
one accessible means of egress.
a. Where more than one means of egress is required under 780 CMR (The Massachusetts State
Building Code) from any accessible space or element, each space or element shall be served by
not less than two accessible means of egress.
Exception: For the purpose of 521 CMR 20.11, fire escapes shall be exempt.
20.1 1.2 The exit discharge shall provide a continuous path of travel from an exit to a public way by
means of a walkway or a ramp.
a. Where public ways are further than 100 feet from an exit, exterior areas of rescue assistance
complying with 20.12.2 maybe constructed along the exit discharge located no closer than 100
feet from the building.
b. in buildings where the grade at the level of exit discharge prohibits construction of either a
walkway or a ramp, a portion of an exterior exit balcony located immediately adjacent to an
emergency exit complying with 521 CMR 20.12.2 may be constructed as an area of rescue
assistance.
20.12 AREAS OF RESCUE ASSISTANCE
Shall be provided where an accessible means of egress is not provided and shall comply with the
following requirements:
Exception: Areas of rescue assistance are not required in:
a. existing buildings undergoing alterations, remodeling, reconstruction
b. buildings or facilities having a supervised automatic sprinkler systems
c. tunnels;
d. open air parking garages and open air transit stations
20.12.1 Location and Construction: An area of rescue assistance shall be one of the following:
a. A portion of a stairway landing within a smokeproof enclosure (complying with applicable
requirements of 780 CMR (The Massachusetts State Building Code). See Fig. 20i.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 93
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
20.00: ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
b. A portion of an exterior exit balcony located immediately adjacent to an exit stairway when
the balcony complies with applicable requirements of 780 CMR (The Massachusetts State
Building Code) for exterior exit balconies. Openings to the interior of the building located
within 20 feet (20' = 6m) of the area of rescue assistance shall be protected with fire
assemblies having a'/a hour fire protection rating.
c. A portion of a one hour fire-resistive corridor (complying with applicable requirements of
780 CMR: the State Building Code for fire-resistive construction and for openings) located
immediately adjacent to an exit enclosure. (See Fig. 20j)
C
Area of Rescue Assistance In Corridor
Figure 20J
d. A vestibule located immediately adjacent to an exit enclosure and constructed to the same
fire-resistive standards controlling corridors and openings.
e. A portion of a stairway landing within an exit enclosure which is vented to the exterior and
is separated from the interior of the building with not less than one hour fire-resistive doors.
f. When approved by the appropriate applicable building official, an area or a room that is
separated from other portions of the building by a smoke barrier. Smoke barriers shall have
a fire-resistive rating of not less than one hour and shall completely enclose the area or room.
Doors in the smoke barrier shall be tight-fitting smoke- and draft-control assemblies having
a fire-protection rating of not less than 20 minutes and shall be self-closing or automatic.
closing. The area or room shall be provided with an exit directly to an exit enclosure.
Where the room or area exits into an exit enclosure which is required to be of more than one
hour fire-resistive construction, the' room or area shall have the same fire-resistive
construction, including the same opening protection, as required for the adjacent exit
enclosure.
1/27/06 521 CMR - 94
6
Area of Rescue Assistance In Stairway
Figure 201
':.,:Exit
4>
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
20.00: ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
g. An elevator lobby where elevator shafts and adjacent lobbies are pressurized as required for
smol<eproof enclosures by 780 CMR: the State Building Code or 524 CMR: the State Board
of Elevator Regulations, and when complying with requirements herein for size,
communication, and signage. Such pressurization system shall be activated by smoke
detectors on'each floor located in a manner approved by the appropriate local authority.
Pressurization equipment and its duct work within the building shall be separated from other
portions of the building by a minimum two-hour fire restrictive construction.
h. A flat level area that is stable, firm and slip resistant adjacent to the exit discharge in
locations where the public way is further than 100 feet from the building.
20.12,2 Size: Each area of rescue assistance shall provide at least two accessible spaces, not less than
30 inches by 48 inches (30" x 48 = 762mrn by 12191nm) each.
a. The area of rescue assistance shall not encroach on any required exit width.
b. The total number of such 30 inch by 48 inch (30" x 48" = 762mm by 1219mm) areas per
story shall be not less than one for every 200 persons of calculated occupant load served by
the area of rescue assistance.
20,123 Stairway Width: Each stairway adjacent to an area of rescue assistance shall have a minimum
clear width of 48 inches (48" = 1219mm) between handrails.
20.12.4 Two-way Communication: A method of two-way commmunication, with both visible and audible
signals, shall be provided between each area of rescue assistance and the primary entrance to the
building, The fire department or appropriate building official may approve a location other than
the primary entrance to the building. Any operable mechanism shall comply with 521 CMR
39.00: CONTROLS.
20.12.5 Identification: Each area of rescue assistance shall be identified by a sign that states "area of
rescue assistance" and displays the international symbol of accessibility. The sign shall be
illuminated when exit sign illumination is required. Signage shall also be installed at all
inaccessible exits and where otherwise necessary to clearly indicate the direction to areas of
rescue assistance. In each area of rescue assistance, instructions on the use of the area under
emergency conditions shall be posted adjoining the two-way communication system.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 95
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
521 CMR 21.00: CURB CUTS
21.1 GENERAL
Whenever sidewalks, walkways, or curbs on streets and ways are constructed, reconstructed, or
repaired, curb cuts are required. All curb cuts shall comply with the following:
21.2 LOCATION
Curb cuts shall occur wherever an accessible route crosses a curb and at the following locations:
21.2.1 Curb cuts are required at each corner of each intersection, located within the crosswalk and/or
the pedestrian path of travel. Curb cuts shall be perpendicular to the curb at street crossings and
each shall have a level landing at the top. At marked crossings, the bottom of the r•aMp rum,
exclusive of flared sides, shall be wholly contained with the marked crossing. See Fig. 21a. The
crosswalk/pedestrian path of travel must also be perpendicular to the curb.
Exception: Where pedestrian right-of-way established width will not accommodate a
perpendicular curb cut and landing, a parallel public sidewalk curb cut with a level landing at its
bottom shall be provided instead of a perpendicular curb cut.
21.2.1.1 Apex curb' cuts: Where site constraints prevent the installation of a perpendicular curb cut or a
parallel curb cut with a level landing, an apex curb cut is allowed. Site constraints include the
following:
1/27/06
521 CMR - 96
0
Curb Cuts at Intersection
Figure 21a
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
21.00: CURB CUTS
a. Driver or pedestrian line of sight to or from the front of the level landing on the ramp is
impaired, preventing safe observation of crosswalks or approaching traffic at the
intersection by a significant immovable or unalterable streetscape feature such as a
building, structure or historic element, etc.
b. Stop line is beyond the allowed limit as stated in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices.
c. Vaults containing electrical, telecommunications, etc. that are under or on the existing
sidewalk.
d. Large radius intersections which are 30 feet or greater.
21.2.1.2 When apex curb cuts are installed a 48 inch (48" = 1219imn) landing shall also be provided at
.the bottom of the curb cut and located within the marked crosswalk.
21.2.2 Reciprocal curb cuts: When curb cuts or sidewalks are being constructed or reconstructed on
one side of the street, and when such curb cuts or sidewalks are connected to an opposite side of
the street by one or more pedestrian paths of travel, then at least one curb cut shall be provided
on the opposite side of the street where such side is controlled by the same owner.
21.2.3 Driveways: Curb cuts are required at driveways intersecting sidewalks when the driveway has
side curbs.
21.2.4 Raised Islands: Any raised islands in crossings shall be cut through level with the street or have
curb cuts at both sides and a level area at least 48 inches (48" =1219irn-n) long between the curb
cuts in the part of the island intersected by the crossings.
21.2.5 Obstructions: Curb cuts shall be located or protected to prevent their obstruction by parked
vehicles.
21.3 SLOPE
The least possible slope should be used for any ramp. The maximum slope shall be one-in-12
(1:12) (8.3%). Where sidewalks are too narrow to install a straight-line curb cut at a slope of
one-in-12 (1:12) (8.3%), the sides of the curb cut shall not exceed one-in-12 (1:12) (8.3%). See
Fig. 21b. The maximum cross-slope for any curb cut shall be 1:50 (2%). (There is no tolerance
allowed on slope requirements). (Refer to 521 CMR 2.4.4d).
12
1 F- Surface of Ramp Level
Level - j Landing
-
Landing
i~. . . . .
Horizontal Projection of Run
Slope
Figure 21b
1/27/06
521 CMR - 97
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
21.00: CURB CUTS
21.4 TRANSITIONS
Transitions from curb cuts to walks, gutters, or streets shall be flush or free of changes in level
greater than '/2 inch ('/2" = 13mm). Maximum slopes of adjoining gutters, road surface
immediately adjacent to the curb cuts, or accessible route shall not exceed one-in-20 (1:20)
(5%).
21.5 DRAINAGE
Grading and drainage shall be designed to minimize pooling of water, accumulation of ice, or
flow of water across the base of the curb cut.
21.6 WIDTH
The minimum width of a curb cut shall be 36 inches (36" = 914mrn), exclusive of flared sides.
See Fig. 21c.
21.6.1 Landing width: Where a perpendicular curb cut is provided, a landing the width of the curb cut
shall be provided at the top of the curb cut. The landing shall be 48 inches (48"= 1219mm) in
length. The slope of said landing shall not exceed one-in-50 (1:50) (2%) in any direction.
21.7 FLARED SIDES
Sides of curb cuts shall extend at least 24 inches (24" = 610mrn) at the curb. The maximum
slope of the flare is one-in-ten (1:10) (10%). Curbing at the flared sides must blend with the
slope of the flared sides. See Fig. 21c.
a
U
1:12
0
a
1:10
1:10
1
~ 36" min
Curb Cut with Flared Sides
Figure 21c
21.8 RETURNED SIDES
Curb cuts with returned sides are only permitted where they are protected by handrails pursuant
to 521 CMR 24.5, Handrails or where pedestrian travel across the ramp is obstructed by
permanently installed street hardware or landscaping. See Fig. 21d.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 98
(9
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
21.00: CURB CUTS
21.9 BUILT-UP CURB CUTS
Built-up curb cuts are allowed only where they do not project into vehicular traffic lanes. See
Fig. 21e.
Side
walk
non vehicular r
lane
N
r
non vehicular
lane
barrier Built up curb cut barrier
Figure 21e
21.10 PEDESTRIAN STREET CROSSINGS
Where provided, pedestrian street crossings at, above, or below grade shall comply with the
following:
21.10.1 Crossing controls shall be raised from or flush with their housings and shall be a minimum of
two inches (2" = 51 mm) in the smallest dimension. The force required to activate controls shall
be no greater than 5 lbs.
21.10.2 Location: Controls shall be located as close as practicable to the curb cut serving the controlled
crossing and shall permit operation from a clear ground space.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 99
(D'
36" min.
Curb Cut With Returned Sides
Figure 21d
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
21.00: CURB CUTS
21.10.3 Mounting Height: Pedestrian-actuated crossing controls shall be a maximum of 42 inches (42" _
1067mm) above the finished sidewalk.
21.10.4 Cleat ground space: A stable and firm area, complying with 521 CMR 6.5, Forward Reach, or
521 CMR 6.6, Side Reach shall be provided at the controls. Where a parallel approach is
provided, controls shall be within ten inches (10" = 254mm) horizontally of and centered on the
clear ground space. Where a forward approach is provided, controls shall abut and be centered
on the clear ground space.
21.11 DETECTABLE WARNINGS - Reserved until further notice.
21.12 ACCESSIBLE PEDESTRIAN SIGNALS - Reserved.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 100
521 CMR: ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD
521 CMR 22.00: WALKWAYS
22.1 GENERAL
Walkways shall include but not be limited to all walks, sidewalks, overpasses, bridges, turmels,
underpasses, plazas, courts and other pedestrian pathways, and shall comply with the following
requirements:
22.2 WIDTH
Width of walkways shall be not less than 48 inches (48"= 1219mm), excluding curb stones. An
unobstructed path'of travel shall be provided which is at least 36 inches (36" = 914mm) clear,
excluding curb stones.
22.3 GRADE
Walkways with a running slope greater than one-in-20 (1:20) (5%) are ramps and shall comply
with 521 CMR 24.00: RAMPS.
22.3.1 Nowhere shall the cross slope of walkways exceed one-in-50 ('1:50) (2%). (Refer to 521 CMR
2.4.4d.)
Exception: Sidewalks on streets and ways shall be considered walkways, with the exception that
if the slope of the natural topography exceeds one-in-20 (1:20) (5%) a ramp is not required.
22.3.2 Nowhere shall the surface slope of any plaza area exceed one-in-50 (1:50) (2%).
22.4 LEVEL CHANGES
Walkways shall have continuous common surfaces, not interrupted by steps or changes in level
greater than '/4 inch (Y4" = 6mm).
22.4.1 Changes in level between '/4 inch and %2 inch (1/4" and '/2" = 6mm and l 31mn) shall be beveled
with a slope no greater than 1:2 (50%). See Fig. 22a.
1/4" to 1/2"
6 to 13 I ^
6 ::e:: 1
Changes in Level
Figure 22a
22.4.2 Changes in level greater than %2 inch (1/2" = l3mm) shall require a curb cut, walkway, ramp,
elevator, or platform lift that complies with 521 CMR 21.00: CURB CUTS, 521 CMR
22.00: WALKWAYS, 521 CMR 24.00: RAMPS or 521 CMR 28.00: ELEVATORS.
1/27/06
521 CMR - 101
MASSACHUSETTS
,
MUNICIPAL
ASSOCIATION
March 29, 2010
ONE WINTHROP SQUARE, BOSTON, MA 02110
617-426-7272 • 800-882-1498 • fax 617-695-1314 • www.mma.org
United States Environmental Protection Agency
New England Region
MA Office of Ecosystem Protection ~
5 Post Office Square, Suite 100
Boston, MA 02109-3912
Attn: Thelma Murphy (via email at murphy.thelma@epa.gov) °
RE: Comments on Draft Stormwater Permit-NPDES Permit o
Dear Regional Administrator Spaulding, I~`a
On behalf of the cities and towns of the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts Municipal
Association (MMA) appreciates the opportunity to provide written testimony on North Coastal
Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permits.
Cities and towns understand the need to protect water resources. Our members are committed
environmentalists who take their role as stewards of this important natural resource very
seriously. Communities throughout Massachusetts have been working toward the reduction and
elimination of pollutants in municipal stormwater discharges well before the initiation of the
NPDES Phase II permit program in 2003. Communities have long promoted the need to look
holistically at how water resources are managed in the Commonwealth to provide for public
health, safety and economic growth for our citizens.
In the past, the federal government partnered with communities to the benefit of our health and
environment. Today, as evidenced by recent regulatory initiatives and unfunded requirements,
that is not the case and localities are suffering. Last year, a group of Massachusetts local
officials, including then-MMA President Bruce Tobey, traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet
with top EPA officials and the Massachusetts Congressional delegation. The officials expressed
concern about a number of unfunded federal mandates, assistance to cities and towns, and
communications between the EPA and communities.
The local officials told the regional administrator for the EPA's New England office that strict
stormwater standards are placing a financial burden on cities and towns at a time when local
budgets are already stretched to the limit. The MS4 program is certainly one of the most
burdensome unfunded mandates imposed by the federal government on localities. The EPA's
estimate is that MS4 communities can expect to spend up to $60 per capita each year to
implement stormwater programs in their communities. The federal government must provide
funding opportunities to assist local governments as they struggle to implement the requirements
associated with this program.
9
The new draft of the North Coastal Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)
General Permit would require communities to institute more advanced stormwater testing,
monitoring and management programs, yet is completely silent on the additional costs to
communities.
The proposed permit is clearly written in aone-size-fits-all format and provides little or no
flexibility. It does not reflect the diversity among the MS4 communities. Each of these
communities has taken various steps to successfully comply with the original 5-year permit-. The
steps implemented during the original permit period differ from community to community and
with varying intensities. The proposed MS4 permit takes none of this into account and leaves no
flexibility in its level of compliance.
One of the provisions in the 2003 general permit was the ability for cities and town to tailor the
BMP'"s.to achieve the maximum benefit utilizing available financial resources and manpower. In
this draft permit, there is considerably less flexibility. For instance, the requirements to sweep all
streets and sidewalks twice a year would force communities to more than double their street
sweeping budget. Urban communities may. sweep many times a year while suburban
communities with swales; no sidewalks and no box storm drain may not sweep at all. Few
communities currently have the financial resources or equipment to sweep their sidewalks even
once a year.
The requirement to maintain catch basins at no more than 50% full means that communities will
end up significantly reducing the existing storage capacity in every catch basin. Limited staff
will be required to document the amount in each catch basin when their time could be better
spent cleaning catch basins, thus the paperwork and documentation requirements will likely
decrease the catch basin cleaning frequency. Again, the new regulatory approach would result in
a higher cost to perform this function.
The requirement to perform dry weather. and wet weather sampling of all outfalls is especially
burdensome. These communities have literally thousands of outfalls. Timing of the grab
samples during wet weather will be difficult, costly and nearly impossible to schedule to obtain
proper samples that are representative of the first flush of runoff.
The..EP_A.must..streamline--the.requirements_by-allowing communities to. prioritize_catchment.__.
samplings or substitute end of pipe sampling with strategic in-stream sampling, which is more
effective and efficient. The cost to monitor and sample all outfalls is extraordinary and would
place a severe financial burden on our cities and towns.
Another concern is the aggressive schedule that the EPA proposes for implementation of the
program. Giving permitees only 90 days to file their Notice of Intent after their permit is
finalized and dictating that within 120 days from the NOI the formal Stormwater Management
Program must be complete is unrealistic. Communities would be forced to hire expensive
environmental consultants for assistance to complete numerous elements of the program because
of lack of staff and technical expertise from years of both state and federal cutbacks in grant
funding and local aid. Hiring these consultants would require compliance with statutory
procurement requirements and can be extremely time consuming. The initial 5-year permit
requirements were accomplished in-house: This is no longer possible and communities will now
be forced to cut other services or raise taxes to pay for these new requirements.
These are just a few examples of the significant problems with the proposed MS4 permits.
Preliminary projections indicate that this permit will cost the impacted communities tens of
millions of dollars per year to comply. The submittal of the NOI is a commitment to implement
all the requirements of the general permit and there are no guarantees that there will be adequate
funding in place now or over the 5-year permit life. As noted above, the requirements under the
proposed permit are well beyond the normal operating budgets of our cities and towns. Because
of Proposition 21/2, many communities may be forced to vote on a tax override requiring voter
approval. Many may have to fund requirements through a bond or create a stormwater utility. It
may not be feasible to comply with these requirements, even if city and town governments are
committed to implementing them, because taxpayers may simply refuse.
In short, we express our deep and serious concerns regarding these costly new permit
requirements, and can testify that these requirements would certainly divert scarce resources
away from core essential services necessary for the protection of public health and safety and the
education of our schoolchildren. The costs of the operational, structural and staffing changes
necessary to monitor and meet the requirements of the permit would have a severe financial
impact on communities across the Commonwealth.
For these reasons, we ask you to defer action on the submission of NOI's until municipalities
have had an opportunity to engage the regulatory agencies in an open dialogue regarding permit
requirements. We urge the EPA to amend your approach to incorporate goals that are more
realistically attainable and within the financial constraints of the current economic climate, or
wait until adequate federal funding is available to ensure that these requirements do not translate
into a harmful unfunded mandate on cities, towns and taxpayers.
If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office or Tom Philbin at the
MMA at any time. Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Geoffrey C. Beckwith
Executive Director
Reading Lyme Disease Prevention Event
Target Audience List
3.23.10
• Garden Clubs
• Trails Committee
• Schools
• Youth sports teams
o Soccer
o Baseball
o Etc.
• Reading Municipal Light
• Contractors
• Landscapers
• Parents
• Day Care Centers
• Senior Citzen Centers
• Surrounding Town Health Departments
• Realtors
• Outdoor Equipment retailers
• Department of Public Works
• Engineering Department
• Police
• Fire Department
• House Painters
• Doctors offices
0
Draft 3.23.10
For More Information:
David Mancuso
617-543-0938
makingreadingbetter@yahoo.com
Making Reading Better, the Reading Board of Selectman and the
Reading Board of Health Present a Free Community Seminar on
Lyme Disease Prevention and Protection
Nationally Recognized Tick Borne Disease Prevention Expert to. Speak on the
Growing Public Health Issue of Tick Borne Disease in Suburban Massachusetts
Reading, MA: April XX, 2010. Making Reading Better, an informal group of residents
and businesses focused on helping the Town of Reading have teamed up with the
Reading Board of Selectmen and the Town's Health Department to create a free
community forum addressing the growing but often overlooked increase of tick
borne. illness, including Lyme disease, in Massachusetts' suburbs.
In the past decade, reported cases of Lyme Disease have increased more than an
alarming 258 percent. According to the most recent numbers available, the
Massachusetts Department of Public Health reported nearly 4,000 cases of Lyme
disease in the state in 2008. This number represents a 10.46/o percent increase in
cases over the previous year, but experts suggest that undiagnosed and unreported
cases could likely comprise 10 times that number. The highest incidence of the
disease was found among children aged 5-14 years and adults aged 55-69 years.
On May 6, 2010 at 7:00 pm, at the Walter S. Parker Middle School, 45 Temple Street,
Reading, Massachusetts, nationally recognized tick-borne disease expert Dr. Thomas
Mather will lead a presentation entitled: Preventing Lyme Disease: What You Should
Know and Do About Ticks and Tick-Bite Prevention.
Dr. Mather is currently professor of public.health entomology and zoonotic diseases
at the University of Rhode Island and the director of URI's Center for Vector-Borne
Disease. Dr. Mather has published over 90 papers on the subject, authored one
book and holds 4 U.S. Patents. His work has also been supported by the Centers for
Disease Control, the National Institutes of Health, the US Department of Agriculture,
the Environmental Protection Agency, and several philanthropic foundations. Dr
Mather helped create the PBS documentary film Hidden in the Leaves, and
contributed to the Animal Planet series, Monsters Inside Me, both of which examine
the growing and profound impact of tick borne disease.
The event is free and open to all residents of Reading, North Reading, Stoneham,
Wakefield, Woburn and other surrounding communities. Seating is limited and
tickets may be obtained by emailing a request to makingreadingbetterC-yahoo.com,
or by stopping by one of the following locations listed below.
The presentation will include a screening of Hidden in the Leaves, and attendees will
learn how to identify different species of ticks, develop an understanding of the
conditions in which disease-carrying ticks thrive, how they spread disease and how
best to protect themselves, their families,-pets and homes from tick bites and
disease.
"Tick borne illness is on the rise in Massachusetts and awareness and education are
the front lines of defense against the public health concerns that ticks and tick borne
illness represent," said Larry A. Ramdin, Health Administrator, Town of Reading.
"We are pleased to be able to make Dr. Mather's knowledge and expertise available
to the entire community."
"Lyme disease and the many other tick caused' illnesses are no longer isolated to
Connecticut, Rhode Island or Nantucket, this a real concern for suburban
communities in Massachusetts where children and parents cherish their time in the
outdoors." said Camille Anthony, Selectwoman, Town of Reading. " We look forward
to hosting our neighbors from surrounding towns in what promises to be an
enlightening evening."
Tickets for Preventing Lyme Disease: What You Should Know and Do About Ticks and
.
Tick-Bite Prevention are available at.
• By email to: makingreadingbetter@yahoo.com
• Century 21, North Shore, 32 Lincoln St. Reading, MA
• The Chocolate Truffle, 494 Main St. Reading, MA
• Harrow's Chicken Pies, 126 Main St. Reading, MA
• swissbakexpress, 32 Lincoln St. Reading, MA
• Colonial Manor Realty, 127 Franklin St., Reading, MA
Reading Town Hall, 16 Lowell St., Reading, MA
About Making Reading Better
Making Reading Better (MRB) is an informal group of residents and businesses focused on
supporting and helping the Town of Reading, Massachusetts. More information can be found at:
www.makingreadingbetter.org
About the Reading Department of Public Health
0
Reading Tick Event Promotion Materials
Draft 3.23.10
POSTER COPY
Staying Safe in Your Backyard This Summer
How to combat ticks and Lyme disease
Free. Limited Seating. Get Your Tickets Today
May 6. 2010.7:00 PM
WS Parker Middle School
Reading, MA
Tick borne illness is on the rise in Massachusetts' suburbs, but unlike mosquito
borne illness there is no statewide program to stop or control their spread.
Preventing tick borne disease is up to you.
About Our Speaker:
Dr. Thomas Mather, recognized as an expert by the National Center for Disease
Control and the National Institutes of Health, will show how to protect yourself,
your family and your property from ticks and tick borne illnesses.
Don't be one of the thousands of residents of Massachusetts who had their life
changed by a tick bite they never felt.
Free Tickets:
*By Email; MakingReadingBetter@yahoo.com
* In Reading: Or at Century 21 at the Depot - 32 Lincoln St., Harrows Chicken Pies -
126 Main St., The Chocolate Truffle - 494 Main St, swissbakexpress - 32 Lincoln St.,
Colonial Manor Realty -127 Franklin St.
Town Hall - 16 Lowell St.
*In Stoneham:
*In Wakefield:
*In Woburn:
Brought to you by:
9
MAKING READING BETTER
In Conjunction With:
The Reading Department of Public Health and the Reading Board of Selectmen
FLYER
Staying Safe in Your Backyard This Summer
How to combat ticks and Lyme disease
Free. Limited Seating. Please Get Your Tickets Today
Preventing Lyme Disease: All About Ticks and Bite Prevention
May 6.2010.7:00 PM
WS Parker Middle School
Reading, MA
About Our Speaker
Dr. Thomas Mather, recognized as an expert by the National Center for Disease
Control, the National Institutes of Health and other leading institutions, will show
you how to protect yourself and your family from ticks and tick borne illnesses.
Don't be one of the thousands of residents of Massachusetts who had their life
changed by a tick bite they never felt.
Tick borne illness is on the rise in Massachusetts suburbs, but unlike mosquito
borne illness there is no statewide program to stop or control the spread of tick
borne illness.
Preventing tick borne disease is up to you.
More About Ticks and Lyme Disease:
* In the past decade, reported cases of Lyme Disease have increased more than an
alarming 258 percent.
* This statistic does not account for the many cases of Lyme Disease that go
unreported each year.
* Misdiagnosis and misapplication and interpretation of laboratory testing for Lyme
Disease and other tick-transmitted diseases continues to be a public health issue.
* If left untreated, about 60% of people with Lyme disease suffer bouts of arthritis in
their knees, elbows and/or wrists.
* Although treatable, Lyme Disease can result.in lifelong debilitating illness in some
patients; later stage symptoms can include peripheral nervous system problems,
heart arrhythmia, blindness and rarely death.
* In children, fewer than 50 percent of Lyme Disease infections show an actual tell-
tale "Bulls-eye" rash.
* Lyme Disease is just one of many tick transmitted illnesses with increasing
incidence in Massachusetts, along with babesiosis and anaplasmosis.
* Most tick-transmitted diseases are acquired right around your home and yard.
What You Will Learn
* How to identify the different types of ticks in our area
* How ticks spread disease
* The role of mice in disease transmission
* How to safely remove a tick if bitten
* Where ticks like to bite people and pets
* Signs and symptoms of Lyme disease and other tick borne illness
* How to set up a tick perimeter around your property to protect
your home and family
* How to use safe, effective pesticides like permethrin
Free Tickets:
*By Email: MakingReadingBetter@yahoo.com
* In Reading: Or at Century 21 at the Depot - 32 Lincoln St., Harrows Chicken Pies -
126 Main St., The Chocolate Truffle - 494 Main St, swissbakexpress - 32 Lincoln St.,
Colonial Manor Realty -127 Franklin St., Town Hall -16 Lowell St.
*In Stoneham:
*In Wakefield:
9)
*In Woburn:
Brought to you by:
MAKING READING.BETTER
In Conjunction With:
The Reading Department of Public Health and the Reading Board of Selectmen
RCTV PSA SLIDE
Staying Safe in Your Backyard This Summer
How to combat ticks and Lyme disease
Dr. Thomas Mather, Nationally Recognized expert
May 6. 2010.7:00 PM
WS Parker Middle School
Reading, MA
Open to the Community
Free Tickets:
*By Email: MakingReadingBetter@yahoo.com
Or at Century 21 at the Depot - 32 Lincoln St., Harrows Chicken Pies -126 Main St.,
The Chocolate Truffle 494 Main St,,swissbakexpress - 32 Lincoln St., Colonial
Manor Realty -127 Franklin St., Town Hall - 16 Lowell St.
Brought to you by Making Reading Better, Reading Board of Health, Reading Board
of Selectmen
Tick, Tick, Tick... Boom! It's Lyme Disease Season.
3
Hechenbleikner, Peter
From:
Cormier, Jim
Sent:
Friday, March 26, 2010 11:20 PM
To:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Subject:
Fw: Mt. Vernon Street
Pete
See below from Ron re Mt. Vernon St. Looks ok.
Jim
Sent using BlackBerry
-----Original Message-----
From: Burns, Ron <rburns@ci.reading.ma.us>
To: Cormier, Jim <jcormier@ci.reading.ma.us>; Robbins, Richard <rrobbins@ci.reading.ma.us>
Sent: Fri Mar 26 14:58:59 2010
Subject:
It's clear, no cars ever park there anymore.
From: Cormier, Jim
Sent: Friday, March 26, 2010 1:04 PM
To: Robbins, Richard; Burns, Ron
Subject: FW: Mt. Vernon Street
Comments for the BOS
Chief James W. Cormier
Reading Police Department
15 Union St.
Reading, MA 01867
781-944-1212
781-944-2893 Fax
JCormier@ci.reading.ma.us
NA-233
web www,readingma.gov/police
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at
http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/survey/sid/30426f5473f3e953/
When writing or responding, please remember that the secretary of State's Office has
determined that email is a public record. This communication may contain privileged or
other confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, or believe that you
have received this communication in error, please do not print, copy, retransmit,
disseminate, or otherwise use the information. Also, please indicate to the sender that
you have received this email in error, and delete the copy you received.
From: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent: Friday, March 26, 2010 11:39 AM
To: Cormier, Jim
Subject: Mt. Vernon Street
Is there any further information re parking on Mt. Vernon Street - as a result of
restricting parking at the intersection with High? Any problems created? This is on the
Board of Selectmen meeting on Tuesday
Peter I. Hechenbleikner
Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading MA 01867
phone: 781-942-9043
fax 781-942-9071
web www.readingma.gov <http://www.readingma.gov>
email townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us <mailto:townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us>
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at
http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/survey/sid/603ffd2e45471753/
<BLOCKED::http://readingma-survey.virtualtownhall.net/survey/sid/603ffd2e45471753/>
2
3~
Green.Dog Frequently Asked Questions
Pagel of 5
Click HERE to return to the Town of Brookline website Click HERE to return to the Department of Public Works website
i mss, S, ~ 5,
z R,l ~P 77 !,7 o1 "1 7
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ABOUT US ' THE PARKS & OPEN SPACE SYSTEM PARKS & RECREATION , CONSERVATION FORESTRY CEMETERY CON1
Green Dog Program Frequently Asked Questions
}low were ePffle1shlLo.PLS and_parks determine-d2
-th l..xisited_a_Parkduring..aff_leash_hours,_but_~ctas told_my_dog_had_toJze_an_leash.. Why_is:.this?
i_Yisited_a_park_d_uring off_leash_hours, b4ttb_e.P.-arhs5'as cl_osed,~1'hY-is_kht5?
Mv.usuaLPar_k_is.el4se_d~oY_r_enoy_ations.._or__due tefieLd_conditians._Wherg cao..l_go._vci5tzmv d4g?
Why_deesn'.t Br_oakline_ha_v_e a_dvg_park,_so_dogs.._can alYtays_be ofEleastI
Why are there no evening off-leash hours?
Could.off-leash hours or.parks ,change in the future?
I'm.a dog_walker. Can .1 bring, my clients, to play and exercise off. leash?
Can my.friends and.Yisitors.,bring thefr_dogs to.glay off.-leash in Brookline?
Why_doa..need to_license_my_dogZ
What._are,Grgen pog..Liaisons?
Why.do_I_haYe to_pfck.up after..my:dog?
I_saw an._aggr_essive_dog_ln_a_R--ar_k. What_shoutdl d.o?
Hoyt doJ_C~PoLt~ ~i9iatjon_of_off-~eashhoyrS o.(_otheLd9glssuesy
Ho_w_doJ_fiad out_mo1_eJnformati4lLo ak_e_syggestiols,a.bout the_P_rogramZ
Question: How were the off-leash hours and parks determined?
Answer: The Park and Recreation Commission established off-leash hours and parks to balance the needs of both dog owners and visitors without dogs. The pr
with the following considerations: park size, wildlife/sensitive areas/garderis, historic areas, passive and active uses of the parks, park users/neighbors, athlE
schools and children, and distribution of parks throughout Town. The Commis;ion also sought public input through public meetings, and conducted a pilot pro
http://www.brooklinema. gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=906%3Ag... 3/30/2010
Green Dog Frequently Asked Questions Page 2 of 5
prior to full implementation.
Question: I visited a park during off-leash hours, but was told my dog had to be on-leash. Why is this?
Answer: Off-leash hours may occasionally. be suspended at any park. If there is a permitted activity, such as a school group activity or a'sports game, dogs mu
their safety and the comfort of our other park users. When Parks crews are working in the parks, dogs must be on-leash for the safety of both the animals anc
Question: I visited a park during off-leash hours, but the park was closed. Why is this?
Answer: Fields may be completely closed when they are wet due to inclement weather, if heavy rain is anticipated, during the spring thaw, or for other reast
maintaining healthy fields. We post park closed signs, but you can also call the Recreation hotline, 730.2083, 24 hours a day to check if the fields are closed,
Parks Division M-F, 7 a.m.- 3 p.m. at 879.5650. Please also use your judgment about using the fields in wet conditions, Note that synthetic turf fields generall
weather, but dogs are not atlowed on these fields, whether on or off-leash. You are still welcome to walls your leashed dog on the paved paths at any time, it
closures.
Question: My usual park is closed for renovations, or due to field conditions. Where can I go with my dog?
Answer: Check out our Green Dog Parks map here to find another park with off-leash hours. In addition, you may walk your leashed dog at any of our park;
turf fields, playgrounds, sand boxes, tennis courts, basketball courts, nature sanctuaries and planted flower and shrub beds. Please observe park signage and
other areas may also be closed to dogs (e.g., a portion of Harry Downes Field).
Question: Why doesn't Brookline have a dog park, so dogs can always be off-leash?
Answer: Brookline is an urban community with a limited amount of park space available. Many different types of users value and appreciate our well-maintah
spaces, and we have to balance the needs of these users. A dedicated dog park would require taking existing parkland and converting it to this use. The Park
Commission has not identified an ideal location for a dog park at this time.
Question: Why are there no evening off-leash hours?
Answer: The Park and Recreation Commission considered the needs of both dog owners and non-dog owners when establishing the off-leash hours, There are
off-leash hours since most parks have heavy use from other users during this time, particularly during the athletic season, Two of our parks, Brookline Avenue
Anderson Park, do have off-leash hours from dawn to dusk during the winter months (December to February).
Question: Could off-leash hours or parks change in the future?
Answer: The Park and Recreation Commission continues to assess the success of the Green Dog Program. They also consider information obtained from Park n
reports, and public comments in their assessment. Off-leash hours or parks could change in the future since the Park and Recreation Commission does has the
temporarily or permanently close, or modify the boundaries of off-leash areas for any of the following reasons: environmental damage, failure to comply with
regulations, public health or safety, or serious unanticipated problems affecting other park users. If any changes are made to the program, updates will be pc
park signage will be changed, and often neighbors will be notified.
3g
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Green Dog Frequently Asked Questions Page 3 of 5
Question: I'm a dog walker. Can I bring my clients to play and exercise off-leash?
Answer: Everyone, including dog walkers, is limited to three off-leash dogs per person. Note that the off-teash dogs must be under voice control and in your s
not recommended to bring multiple on and off-leash dogs, since you will not be able to easily attend to the off-leash dogs if necessary.
Question: Can my friends and visitors bring their dogs to play off-leash in Brookline?
Answer: Owners with licensed dogs that meet the Green Dog Program criteria can take advantage of the off-leash program whether they are Brookline resides
to being licensed, the other criteria include the following: dogs must be 4 months old, not in heat, vaccinated, healthy, and not aggressive towards other dog
Question: Why do I need to license my dog?
Answer: Massachusetts state law requires that atl dogs be licensed. Licensing also requires proof of rabies vaccination. Licensing is critical to ensuring the hei
friends and other people, and can help identify your dog if they become lost. For more information, contact the Town Clerk's office at 730-2010,
Question: What are Green Dog Liaisons?
Answer: Green Dog Liaisons are residents who frequently visit a particular park and have volunteered to be a liaison between our office and other dog owners
of our parks with off-leash hours have liaisons. When appropriate, we will pass on comments, complaints, etc. that we receive to the liaison(s) for that park.
inform other users of any problems, positive feedback, or updates. This system allows for information to get to park users very quickly and smoothly and help
program successful.
Question: Why do I have to pick up after my dog?
Answer: Picking up after your dog, whether on or off-leash is required by Brookline Town bylaw, and is punishable by fines and/or removal from the park and
program. Everyone should bring something with them, such as a bag, for cleaning up, and should pay particular attention when dogs are off-leash. Cleaning u
law, it is also the polite, responsible thing to do. Since all our parks are shared by many users, it is particularly important to remove feces so other users, suc
sports or people picnicking, don't come into contact with these messy, potentially unhealthy remains. In addition, we ask all users to discard all trash and tal
items with them when they leave.
Question: I saw an aggressive dog in a park. What should I do?
Answer: We encourage you to contact the police if you witness or are involved in incidents of aggression towards people, other dogs, or wildlife. They are avi
24 hours a day, or 911 for emergencies. Brookline's bylaws are quite clear that aggressive dogs are not permitted off or on leash. If individuals feet they or th,
threatened, then it is reasonable for the offending dog to be put on leash and/or removed from the area depending on the severity of the situation. Owners c
privileges and/or be fined, and dogs can even be impounded if the situation warrants it. Brookline Park Rangers and the Animal Control Officer also patrol thi
can assist in these situations.
Question: How do I report a violation of off-leash hours or other dog issues?
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Green Dog Frequently Asked Questions
Page 4 of 5
Answer: You can report off-leash or other violations when you are in the park to the Brookline Police Department at 730.2222. Someone is available to take y
day. We encourage you to contact the Police if you witness an aggressive dog or other unsafe conditions in a park. Park rangers atso regularly patrol the parks
and are available to discuss any violations or concerns you have. You can also report issues to the Park and Recreation Commission by calling 730-2069 or e-m
greenclo, g@brooklinema:goy
Question: How do I find out more information or make suggestions about the program?
Answer: The Park and Recreation Commission, Recreation Department, and Parks and Open Space Division at[ welcome your questions and comments. Please
further information and updates at wv, l.rQQktiOerna..goYLGr_eenDo.g or contact us at 730.2069 or greeter do~_@broohJJw@j "Q_v .
02010 Town of Brookline Massachusetts Parks and Open Space Division
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Church of the Good Shepherd
95 Woburn Street
2010 MAR 30 PM 4: 17 Reading, MA 01867
781-944-1572
admin@goodshepherd-reading.org
The Rev. Deborah M. Woodward
Priest-in-Charge
March 29, 2010
Mr. Peter T. Hechenbleikner, Town Manager
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Dear Mr. Hechenbleikner,
The Bargain Box, at the Church of the Good Shepherd, received your letter of March 8
concerning the regulation of dealers.
The Bargain Box is a charity store located in the basement of the church, open on Fridays
and Saturdays during the year, and on Saturdays only during the summer. We pay for
repairs to the church that the budget can't cover. However, we feel that it is more than
that. We give ten percent of all sales to various food pantries. We save better clothing for
a charity that gives mothers on welfare three new outfits to wear to job interviews when
they complete a job training program or other education. A volunteer helps them put the
outfits together and told us that the first person she helped said "I wish I could start work
tomorrow..." We give things to the Mission of Deeds, such as bedding and pictures for
the wall, and recently we gave $500 for their expansion program. A woman who goes to
Bolivia on nondenominational visits to the poor there is welcome to come in and take
whatever she needs. Another couple goes to Guatemala to the. poorest remote villages
there on a nondenominational trip and again can have whatever they need. We just
packed up two boxes of books and sent them to a "Teach for America" teacher in
Louisiana which ranks 49`h in'the U.S. in education. We are in touch with two different
schools there and send a box occasionally.
In the shop, clothing is always $5.00 a bag, toys $3.00 a bag, and books 3 for $1.00. We
think this is a service to those who live in town, to be able to buy things at such prices.
We take pride in keeping the prices low, and trying to weed out any clothing that is
ripped or soiled in any way.
We do no buying or bartering. Everything in the shop is donated, usually from the church
members and their families, or from people with whom we are aquainted. We do have
costume jewelry but rarely have a sterling piece and almost never anything gold. A lot of
the jewelry is .50 or $1.00, so again people can come in and spend a few dollars.
We keep track of all that is sold for our own information and anyone at any time is
welcome to come in and examine the books.
We firmly believe that we should be exempt from a $50.00 yearly fee. $50.00 is ten bags
of clothes, and we invite you to come in and sort, examine and hang the equivalent of ten
bags to see the effort the women, mostly seniors, put into it. Or come in and sort and
shelve seventeen bags of toys.
If we as a charity are charged $50.00, does that mean that all churches holding fairs or
rummage sales will also be charged $50.00 for selling goods?
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
J dith Sands
argain Box Representative