HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009 Annual Report - Community Services DepartmentCOMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Board of Selectmen
Selectman Camille Anthony was re-elected to a three year term. For Fiscal Year 2010,
Ben Tafoya was elected Chairman, James Bonazoli was elected Vice Chairman and Camille
Anthony was elected Secretary. Patrick Mahoney was appointed as the Youth Liaison to the
Board of Selectmen.
Personnel and Volunteers
Major changes in personnel included the following:
• Town Planner/Community Services Director Carol Kowalski resigned.
• Jean Delios was hired as Town Planner/Community Services Director.
• Director of Public Works Ted McIntire retired.
• Jeff Zager was hired as Director of Public Works.
• Town Clerk Cheryl Johnson left the employ of the Town.
• Laura Gemme was hired as Town Clerk
In addition, the Board of Selectmen
• Conducted a successful Boards, Committees and Commissions training program.
• Reappointed Gail LaPointe as Town Accountant.
• Had an Actuarial Study done on Other Post Employment Benefits.
• Adopted Guidelines for the Youth Liaison to the Board of Selectmen.
• Adopted the "Code of Conduct" for volunteers.
• Approved the revised Personnel Policies.
• Adopted the Compensation and Classification Plan as presented by the consultant.
• Agreed not to direct the Town Manager to hire a Coordinator of Volunteers.
• Amended the Senior Tax Work Program to increase the abatement limit from $750 to
$1,000, and to increase the number slots in the program from 21 to 30.
• As an attempt to go "green," the Board of Selectmen began receiving their meeting
packets electronically.
In the area of Boards, Committees and Commissions, the Board of Selectmen
• Approved the policy creating an Ad Hoc Municipal Building Committee.
• Created the Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee as a pilot program to help streamline
the process of appointing volunteers to the many Boards, Committees and Commissions
of the Town.
• In a joint session with the Board of Assessors, appointed Fred McGrane to the Board of
Assessors to fill the unexpired position left vacant when Frank Golden resigned from the
Board.
The following individuals were either newly appointed or re-appointed by the Board of
Selectmen to the following Boards, Committees and Commissions:
• Susan Giacalone and John Miles to the Animal Control Appeals Committee,
• Stephen Herrick to the Audit Committee,
• Lois Margeson to the Aquatics Advisory'Committee,
• Robert Redfern, Jeffrey Perkins and Damase Caouette (Associate) to the Board of
Appeals,
• Mary R. Vincent and William C. Brown to the Board of Cemetery Trustees,
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• Barbara Meade to the Board of Health,
• Gloria R. Hulse to the Board of Registrars,
• John H. Russell and Ronald T. O'Keefe, Jr. to the Bylaw Committee,
• Kurt Habel to the Celebration Committee,
• Ray Porter; David Williams (Associate), Bing Xia (Associate) to the Advisory
Committee on the Cities for Climate Protection Program,
Neil Cohen to the Commissioners of Trust Funds,
• Claire Paradiso and George Katsoufis (Associate) to. the Community Planning and
Development Commission,
• Douglas N. Greene, Brian J. Tucker and Barbara Stewart to the Conservation
Commission,
• Thomas H. Freeman as Constable,
• Margaret Havey, Marguerite Bosnian, Erica Lynne Deane and Gina Nelson to the
Council on Aging,
• Vicky Schubert, Lynne A. Cassinari and Matthew Conway to the Cultural Council,
• George A. Rio, Michelle Ferullo (Associate), John Russell (Associate) and Kara Fratto
(Associate) to the Economic Development Committee,
• Kathryn Greenfield and Angela Binda (Associate) to the Historical Commission,
• Timothy Kelley to the Reading Housing Authority,
• Charles McDonald, Monique Pillow Gnanaratnam, Margaret LeLacheur (Associate) and
Randall Jones (Associate) to the Human Relations Advisory Committee,
• Edward G. Smethurst to the Land Bank Committee,
• Rheta McKinley to the Mystic Valley Elder Services, Inc.,
• John Cogswell to the RCTV:Board of Directors,
• Nancy Linn Swain, Mary Ellen Stolecki, John Winne, Adam Chase (Associate), Joseph
Rossetti (Associate), and Eric Hughes (Associate) to the Recreation Committee,
• Bill Cowie and Robert Ferrari to the Telecommunications and Technology Advisory
Committee,
• George B. Perry to the Town Forest Committee,
• Thomas S. Gardiner, Susan Giacalone, Thomas Connery (Associate) and John E. Parsons
(Associate).to the Trails Committee,
• Ben Tafoya and Richard Schubert to the Volunteer Appointment Subcommittee,
• Virginia Adams, Priscilla Poehler, Richard Schubert, Everett Blodgett, Stephen O'Shea,
Ilene Bornstein (Alternate) and Sharlene Reynolds Santo (Alternate) to the West Street
Historic District Commission.
Community Development
The Board heard a presentation on a possible LIP application for 885 Main Street. The
Board directed the owner of the property to work with abutting property owners before bringing
this back to the Board.
A volunteer citizens group worked to bring the first Fall Street Faire to Downtown
Reading on September 13 2009. This event was to celebrate the completion of the Downtown
revitalization, and it brought a sense of community to the Town with events for the entire family.
This will become an annual event.
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Six months after the Atlantic Food Mart went out of business, the Board of Selectmen
held a hearing on revocation of the Atlantic Food Mart Package Store Liquor License due to the
lack of duty to perform. The hearing was continued twice to give the owner of the Atlantic Food
Mart the opportunity to transfer the liquor license. The owner was unable to come up with a plan
to transfer the license so they surrendered the license to the Town making this the only available
Package Store Liquor License in Reading. Upon surrender of the Atlantic Food Mart license, the
Board of Selectmen held two hearings on applications for a package store liquor license. The
Wine Nation and Reading Discount Liquors applications were both denied by the Board.
The Board of Selectmen approved a Wine and Malt Restaurant Liquor license for
Bangkok Spice Thai Restaurant at 76 Haven Street, and also approved an All Alcohol Restaurant
Liquor License for Kok, Inc. d/b/a O'Yes at 26 Walkers Brook Drive.
The Board of Selectmen approved revised liquor policies regarding clubs and All
Alcoholic Licenses in restaurants with less than 100 seats. The intent was to implement orderly
closing for clubs, and to implement a policy for All Alcohol Licenses with less than 100 seats.
The Board of Selectmen approved a Lodging House License for the property, at 83
Hamden Street. This was the first Lodging House License ever issued by the Town.
The Board of Selectmen approved a policy on the Use of Sidewalks for Outdoor Dining.
This policy would allow the use of sidewalks in certain locations for outdoor dining but no
alcohol would be allowed outside. ' The Selectmen also sponsored an article on the Subsequent
Town Meeting Warrant to give the Board of Selectmen the ability to allow alcohol consumption
on public property so that the Board could allow alcohol service as part of the outdoor dining
licenses. Town Meeting approved this article.
A hearing was held on the Washington Park Master Plan. The plan was approved by the
Board of Selectmen minus the removal of the wall along Washington Street and angled parking
as presented at the hearing on April 28, 2009.
After many presentations, the Board of Selectmen held a hearing on the Birch Meadow
Master Plan and approved .the Master Plan consisting of the text, as amended, the proposed "Plan
to Imagination Station Revision 3" including opening the access road and adding trees around
the perimeter and the map of "Birch Meadow Improvements" dated June 30, 2009 and revised
October 16, 2009.
Infrastructure
The long awaited Downtown project was completed in the Summer of 2009.
When Reading joined the MWRA, the issue of redundancy was important to the Town of
Reading. The MWRA committed to increasing storage in the northern intermediate high area,
and their goal was to create looping and laddering of the water supply. The MWRA approached
the Town in proposing two oversized 180' tall water tanks at the cloverleaf intersection of Route
128 near the Stoneham line. This proposal was not well received by the Board of Selectmen and
while they support the redundancy through construction of additional pipelines, the Selectmen
also went on record as opposing the water storage option presented.
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Following an Instructional motion from Town Meeting to either repair or replace the
cemetery garage, the Town began the process of determining the location of a new cemetery
garage.
Financial
The Board of Selectmen approved the FY 2010 Compensation Plan which included a 2%
cost of living allowance for non-union employees. All employees have been told not to expect
salary increases in 2011 and 2012. The Personnel Policies were changed to reduce sick leave
from 15 to 12 days per year, and new employees are not eligible for sick leave buy back.
The Town approved the settlement in the amount of $125,000 between the Town of
Reading and AGFA related to the contamination of the Revay Well and the recovery of expenses
related. These funds, plus over $700,000 in settlement of the class action MTBE case, have gone
into the water system reserve accounts.
CONSERVATION DIVISION
The Conservation Commission was established in 1960 under Section 8C of Chapter 40
of the Massachusetts General Laws for the promotion and the development of the natural
resources, and for the protection of watershed resources in Reading. The Commission has
worked since that time to acquire and maintain hundreds of acres of conservation land within the
Town for public enjoyment and resource protection.
In 1972, the Conservation Commission was given regulatory authority to administer the
new Wetlands Protection Act, Section 40 of Chapter 131 of the Massachusetts General Laws.
Over the years, the Commission's role in the administration of the Wetlands, Protection Act has
been further defined through regulations and policies issued by the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection.
In 1980, the Town adopted Section 5.7 of the Reading General Bylaws, the Wetlands
Protection Bylaw. The Commission subsequently promulgated.the Reading Wetlands Protection
Regulations under the Bylaw. From time to time, Town Meeting has amended the Bylaw and the
Commission has amended the Regulations, most recently in July of 2006. The amendments serve
to clarify the language, to make it consistent with recent changes in the State law and regulations,
and to assure revenues from filing fees.
Wetlands Protection Activities
During 2009, the Conservation Commission reviewed. 40 permit applications for
proposed work and wetlands delineation. The Commission held 101 public hearings and public
meetings, and performed 120 site inspections regarding the permit applications and construction.
The Commission also issued 106 decisions including permits, resource area delineations,
extensions and amendments. The Commission made final site inspections and closed 62 project
files, and identified and resolved 10 violations. The Administrator reviewed and signed off on
610 building permits and 20 minor projects, and performed 463 site inspections. The
Commission collected $3,530 in filing fees under the Wetlands Protection Act, and $16,686
under the Wetlands Protection Bylaw.
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Major projects under permitting review and/or construction oversight by the Commission
in 2009 included:
• Two multi-family developments that include affordable housing;
• Two subdivisions nearing completion, with nine houses occupied in 2009;
• Twelve new houses on existing lots, and numerous improvements to existing houses;
• Renovations at Reading Memorial High School and Barrows School nearly completed;
• Artificial turf playing field at Parker Middle School and related drainage improvements
nearly completed;
• Other Town improvement projects including: Demolition of the Strout Avenue Water
Treatment Plant and restoration of a meadow in its place, addition of a locker room at
Burbank Arena, permitting of improvements in Memorial Park and reconstruction of
West Street, and completion of improvements to Willow Street and Woodland Street;
• Completion of commercial redevelopment projects with hazardous waste removal and
drainage improvements on Walkers Brook Drive including: Salem Five Bank, Stop &
Shop, Bertucci's Restaurant, Longhorn Steakhouse, offices at #55, Shell Station and the
Honda Gallery;
• A new day-care center on Torre Street;
• Permitting and oversight of hazardous waste removal and commercial redevelopment
projects at four sites on south Main Street;
• Completion of hazardous waste mitigation, and permitting of proposed landfill capping
and drainage improvements at the Causeway Road Mass. Highway Depot;
• Permitting of signage improvement on Route I-95 and resurfacing of Route I-93;
• Completion of pool house and irrigation system improvements at the Meadow Brook
Golf Club;
• Completion of sewer system improvements at Camp Curtis Guild.
. The Commission and Administrator provided emergency permits for work to clean up
hazardous waste spills and to address flooding caused by beavers. We worked with Town
Counsel to defend the appeal of two Commission decisions, and both cases were resolved in the
Town's favor. The Administrator worked with other Town staff to draft an earth removal bylaw,
review permit tracking systems, improve customer service, and complete training in conflict-of-
interest law and harassment. The Administrator also worked with the Federal Emergency
Management Agency to update Flood Insurance Rate Maps, and continued to update the website
with Agendas, Minutes, trail events and other information.
Natural Resources Conservation Activities
. The Commission worked closely with the new the Trails Committee and many volunteers
to design, fund, and carry out trail improvement projects in 2009. We attended an all-day trail
construction workshop by the Mass. Division of Conservation and Recreation, started a library of
books and brochures about trail design and construction, and completed a permit for work on
public trails in and near wetlands resource areas.
This November, me celebrated the completion of the new access ramp to the Mattera
Cabin constructed by Boy Scouts, the new wheel-chair accessible trail from the cabin to Bare
Meadow, and the new viewing platform in Bare Meadow paid for with a grant from REI, Inc.
The event was attended by volunteers who helped carry out the work, including people from the
Public Works Department, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Friends of Reading Recreation and other
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residents. We also dedicated two benches along the trail donated by Understanding Disabilities
in memory of their founder, Judy LeBlanc. These new facilities have already been put to use by
the Library and the Friends of Reading Recreation for outdoor programs and by a resident for a
wedding.
Before we can open the Mattera Cabin for public use, we need to replace the furnace,
make the bathroom accessible, and complete other minor improvements. We have arranged for
design and labor to be provided by the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School but
need about $20,000 to pay for materials and a professional plumber. In November, we received
a $2000 grant from the Fleetwing Charitable Foundation Trust.
With the support of the Selectmen, we kicked off a fundraising campaign in December,
and received $1,355 in donations from citizens that month. The campaign will continue in 2010.
We received a Recreational Trails Grant from the State and began trail improvements in
Bare Meadow this Fall. Work will continue with boardwalk construction next Spring.
We worked with the Mass. Fishing and Boating Access Board to complete the permit for
the fishing platform and accessible trail that they will install at Lobs Mill next Spring.
We worked with other Boy and Girl Scout volunteers on trail improvements in the Town
Forest, at Pinevale; at Maplewoood, and on the installation of bat houses in a number of
Conservation Areas.
We are participating in planning for Birch Meadow, and for the Water Treatment Plant
site in the Town Forest. We have completed Conservation Restrictions on 13 acres of private
land, and are working to complete transfer of about 15 acres of undevelopable Town-owned land
to Conservation care. We have worked closely with the Police Department to stop misuse of
Conservation land, including tree-cutting, shelter construction, paintball and ORV use.
In May, we expanded the Adopt-A-Trail Program to include 26 adopters. We have
provided a handbook and field training to adopters, and have assigned each a particular trail to
oversee. Adopters inspect their trails several times a year and carry out routine brush clearing,
marking and clean-up. They report larger problems to the Trails Committee for resolution by
volunteer work parties and/or Public Works crews. If you would like to volunteer to help with
trails, please contact the Conservation Office (781-942-6616). Information about events is
posted on the website www.readingma.gov.
Membership and Office Management
During 2009, Doug Greene, Tina Ohlson, Bill Hecht, Mark Wetzel, Barbara Stewart and
Annika Scanlon continued in service on the Commission, along with Leo Kenney, our
consultant. In January, Brian Tucker was appointed to the Commission and Brian Sullivan was
appointed as an Associate member. Mark Wetzel served as Chairman until his resignation in
October and Doug Greene served as Vice Chairman. Fran Fink continued as Conservation
Administrator and Maureen Knight served as Recording Secretary.
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Commissioners and the Administrator attended various workshops and courses during the
year to stay current with open space protection and wetland regulation practices.
The Commission's office is located in the Community Services Department on the first
floor of Town Hall. The phone number is (781) 942-6616.
Respectfully submitted,
Fran Fink, Conservation Administrator
ELDERMUMAN SERVICES DIVISION
The Division of Elder/Human Services provides social services, advocacy, activities,
transportation, educational programs, and a meal site for Reading residents age 60 and over.
Home-delivered meals are available for homebound elders through Mystic Valley Elder
Services' Meals on Wheels Program. In addition, the Division offers information, support, and
referrals to seniors and their adult children, friends and caregivers about a variety of aging
concerns. For those under age 60, the Division provides social services and holiday programs.
The staff consists of an Administrator (37.5 hr/wk), a Social Worker (37.5 hr/wk), a
Senior Center Coordinator (35 hr/wk), a Van Driver (35 hr/wk), a Nurse Advocate (21 hr/wk)
and a Clerk (19 hr/wk).
This year, highlights and lowlights for the Division included the following:
• Being selected by Wingate at Reading for an Outstanding Service Award.
• Property Tax Work Program was increased from 21 participants to 30, and the maximum
abatement was increased from $750 to $1000.
• Medical Escorts are now eligible for mileage reimbursement from the Burbank Trust
Fund.
• Hosted three van driver trainings.
• Nurse Advocate position presented at the Massachusetts Council on Aging Conference.
• Administrator met with Senator Richard Tisei regarding the needs of the seniors.
• The Coordinator of Volunteers retired and the position remains open.
Social Service
Our Social Worker addresses the needs and concerns of Reading residents of all ages.
Assistance for those under the age of 60 often involves crisis intervention, goal-setting,
information and referrals about financial, housing, mental health and disability-related concerns.
For those age 60 and over, assistance includes crisis intervention, EAP-model of case
management, addressing housing concerns, mediating intergenerational disputes, intervening in
cases of neglect, loneliness or, depression, coordinating appointments with area medical and
social service agencies as well as providing information and referrals with regard to nursing
home placement and eligibility for State and Federal programs. Assisting relatives and friends of
seniors with all the above concerns is another important service our Social Worker provides.
During 2009, our Social Worker had 3470 contacts with approximately 952 people who required
assistance of some kind. In addition, our Social Worker co-facilitates an Alzheimer's/Memory
Loss Caregivers' support group at the Senior Center.
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Our Social Worker provides eligibility screening for, and assistance with, applications for
Fuel Assistance, the Reading Food Pantry and various transportation programs. In 2009, the
Social Worker completed these tasks for 115 (34% increase from 2008) individuals/families to
the Reading Food Pantry, 148 (29% decrease from 2008) certifications for medical transportation
and assisted 157 (19% increase from 2008) households with their Fuel Assistance applications.
Our Home Heating Financial Assistance Program did not provided any assistance during 2009.
There weren't any requests.
Nurse Advocate
The Nurse Advocate is dedicated to helping Reading seniors manage their health care
needs. The main responsibilities of the Nurse Advocate include educating, counseling and
advocating for seniors.
This position is interested in identifying the frailest seniors in, Reading, especially those
who live alone and do not have someone nearby for support. By being available to support
seniors more proactively, the program will help seniors to remain healthier and more
independent. Similar programs have demonstrated that such interventions can even reduce
disabilities and prevent or delay institutionalization.
In the past year, the Nurse Advocate has assisted 94 seniors with 733 contacts. Some of
the outcomes of her work include:
• Helping to reduce anxiety
• Facilitating transition to more appropriate living situation
• Encouraging proactive planning
• Developing trusting relationships
• Providing referrals
• Advocating for seniors by problem solving with providers and/or family members
• Assisting with accurate diagnosis
• Facilitating prompt treatment and/or follow up
• Improved quality of life for seniors and caregivers
• Educating seniors regarding health/medical issues
• Educating caregivers
• Promoting self care
• Prevent 911 calls
• Prevent hospitalizations
• Prevent fall, injury or disability
• Prevent caregiver burnout
• Prevent premature nursing home placement
Helping seniors understand their health care needs and plan strategies for managing these
needs both in the short term and future is the goal of this new (since 2007) program.
The Nurse Advocate is very knowledgeable about Alzheimer's Disease. This year, she co-
facilitated the Alzheimer's/Memory Loss Support Group at the Senior Center, and arranged a
training for Public Safety staff about how best to communicate with people with Alzheimer's
Disease.
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During the past year, there has been a consistent flow of referrals from a wide variety of
sources. Both seniors and elder care professionals have shown a great deal of interest in learning
about the position. There have been many notes of appreciation from seniors and their
caregivers. Further, at the annual Massachusetts. Council on Aging Conference, the Nurse
Advocate, the Administrator and a Reading resident who has served as a program consultant
provided a seminar for professionals about the Nurse Advocate position. On the evaluations
from the seminar, 70%o recommend the seminar. be repeated. Comments included "Great
workshop! Great PowerPoint, great examples - great ideas!" "Excellent innovative program!"
"Super!" "Next time you should have more time."
Senior Center
The Senior Center Coordinator's primary responsibility is to manage the daily operations
of the Senior Center including the care of the facility and the coordination of activities. As can be
seen from the following chart, the Senior Center is a hub of activity Monday through Friday.
Cribbage
Bingo
Billiards
Bingo
Chess
Movies
Motion to Music
Knitters
Motion to Music-
Strength
- Aerobics
Aerobics
Training
Open
Computer
Computer
Book Discussion
Party Bridge
Computer Lab
Lessons
Lessons
Tai Chi
Open
Quilting
Congressman*
Open Computer
Computer Lab
Tierney's Office
Lab
Hairdresser*
Visit with
Yoga
Open Computer
AA
Officer Jim*
Lab
Birthday
Practice Bridge'
Lunch & Trivia*
Scuttlebutt*
SHINE - health
Lunch*
insurance info*
Fuel
Low Vision*
Podiatry Clinic*
Newcomers
Assistance
Coffee*
Information*
SHINE*
Open Computer
Blood Pressure
Walgreen's
Health
Lab
Clinic* *
Blood Sugar
Insurance
Screening
Information
Legal Clinic *
Party Bridge
Visit with the*
Town Manager
Money Matter
Blast from the
Visit with
*
Past Games
Selectman Goldy*
Zumba Fitness
Line Dancing
Walgreen's Blood
Pressure Clinic*
Memoir Writing
*Meet monthly
**Provided by the Reading Health Department
New programs added during 2009 include: Monthly newcomer's coffee hour, Yoga, two
additional weekly bridge games, Zumba, Irish Set Dancing, "Food Renewed" free bread
program, Alzheimer's! Memory Loss Caregivers' Support Group.
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Support groups like Low Vision, Scuttlebutt and the new Alzheimer's/ Memory Loss
Caregivers' Group provide participants with an opportunity to express their feelings and gain
insights from other participants' experiences. Guest speakers are often invited to present
education and alternate viewpoints.
Reading Elder/Human Services strives to provide Reading seniors with the tools and
information they need to self-advocate and make informed decisions about their lives.
The Division is committed to providing quality, up-to-date information to our residents
on matters important to their lives. In 2009, Reading Elder/Human Services sponsored a variety
of lectures and educational programs.
Examples of the educational seminars and programs held at the Senior Center include:
• Need more information about Fuel Assistance? presented by Reading Social Worker
• Medical Supply Delivery program presented by Charm Medical Supply
• Digital TV changes presented by Steve Smith, volunteer
• Salt: Do I Really Have to Cut Down? presented by Mystic Valley Elder Services
• File of Life presented by Hallmark Heal VAN and Hospice
• Emergency Preparedness presented by Betsy Land Mass. Dept. Public Health
• Lyme Disease and Rabies presented by Reading Public Health Dept.
• Money Management program presented by Mystic Valley Elder Services
• Why Don't You Do It In Your Sleeve? Sneeze presented by the Home Health Foundation
• Get the Scoop on Summer Reading presented by the Reading Public Library
• What is Assisted Living?, presented by Longwood Place
• Peter Sanborn Place presented by Peter Sanborn Place
• Windsor Place of Wilmington presented by Windsor Place of Wilmington
• Veterans and Spouse Benefits presented by the Reading Veteran's Agent
• Taking Control of Your Future: A Legal Check Up presented by Massachusetts Bar
Association
• Protect Your Skin From Sun Damages and Identifying Moles and Malignant Melanomas
presented by Massachusetts College of Pharmacy
• Blood Sugar Screening presented by Hallmark Health VNA and Hospice
• Improving Your Driving presented by the Registry of Motor Vehicles
• Annual Health Fair presented by Hallmark Health VNA and Hospice
• Healthcare Myths presented by Congressman Tierney's Office
• Weatherizing Your Home for Ultimate Savings presented by Massachusetts Municipal
Association
• Blood is Thicker Than Water: Anti-coagulants presented by Massachusetts College of
Pharmacy
• Arthritis Medications and Side Effects presented by CVS Pharmacy
• Shingles presented by the VA Boston Healthcare System
• Vitamin D: What's All the Talk About? Presented my Mystic Valley Elder Services
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Examples of social programs held at the Senior Center include:
• Pizza Party and Open Mic sponsored by Wingate Healthcare
• Magic Show sponsored by Wingate Healthcare
• Monthly Birthday Lunch sponsored by Burbank Trust Fund
• Senior Center slide show sponsored by Reading Elder/Human Services
• Red Sox Pride Day sponsored by Reading Elder/Human Services
• Fashion Show sponsored by The Corner Closet & Reading Elder/Human Services
• Red Hat Tea sponsored by the Red Hat Society of Reading
• Summer Luau sponsored by the Burbank Trust Fund
• Annual Lion's Italian Dinner sponsored by Reading Lion's Club
• Annual Ham and Bean Supper sponsored by Reading Police Department
• Halloween Party sponsored by Windsor Place of Wilmington
• Winter Solstice Celebration sponsored by HomeInstead Senior Care & First Alert
• Annual Barbecue sponsored by Mystic Valley Elder Services
• Lunch with The Senior Echoes Choir sponsored by Reading Elder/Human Services
Examples of programs held off-site include:
• Thanksgiving Dinner at the Hillview sponsored by Representative Brad Jones
• Elk's :Summer Cookout sponsored by the Wakefield Elk's - Wakefield
• Monthly Breakfast Out Club - local restaurants
• Senior Tea -presented by Joshua Easton School
• Lunch at Birch Meadow School presented by 4th and 5th grade students
• Dinner and COnversations presented by Coolidge Middle School Peer Leaders
The Division provided joint programming for the seniors with several Town Departments
including: The Veterans' Agent, the Public Library; The DPW and Recreation Departments, the
Health, Fire and Police Departments, Coolidge Middle School, Birch Meadow and Joshua
Easton Schools, Reading Memorial High School, RMLD and RCTV. We also collaborated with
several civic clubs, church groups, Scout Troops, a resident's group (i.e., Cities for Climate
Protection), Creative Arts, Reading Adult & Community. Education, the Post Office, local
businesses and social service agencies.
The Senior Center plans to broaden the programs, classes and services currently offered.
For this reason, Reading seniors were surveyed about their interests. The survey was mailed in
the Pleasantries Newsletter to every household in Reading with a resident age 65 or older (2,625
in total). Surveys were also available at the Senior Center. Approximately 2.4% (63) of the
surveys were returned. The results demonstrated . a strong interest in the following: Bird
watching, genealogy, writing, basic computer classes, gardening, a walking club and stress
management. The results will guide programming plans for 2010.
Volunteers
The Division recognizes the importance of volunteers. Few of our programs would run
smoothly without volunteers from the community. The volunteers themselves learn new skills,
meet new people, and enjoy an increased sense of self-worth. For these reasons, the Division
places great emphasis on offering a variety of volunteer opportunities for a diverse set of skills,
abilities and interests.
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Our Coordinator of Volunteers (COV)* matches volunteers to various community service
positions - many of which specifically aid Reading's older population. Some of the positions
filled by volunteers include: Senior Center Receptionist, gardeners, book discussion leaders,
game leaders, income tax preparers, computer instructors, COA Board Members, repairmen,
Friendly Visitors, Medical Escorts, office workers, Newsletter Editor, bread suppliers, kitchen
helpers, shoppers for homebound seniors and shopping escorts.
Intergenerational projects continue to be an important teaching tool for cooperation
among the generations. Students served the seniors lunch and helped with yard work and snow
shoveling. They provided entertainment at the Senior Center and prepared dinner and
entertainment for the seniors at their schools. They made cards, cookies and tray favors at.
holiday times. These events are becoming increasingly popular with the seniors and the middle
school aged students.
When reporting statistics, the Executive Office of Elder Affairs has requested a
differentiation between "registered" volunteers and "unregistered" volunteers. Registered
volunteers include those who have completed the volunteer application process including the
application, Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, interview, training, placement
and ongoing support. Unregistered volunteers include, but are not limited to, students, civic
groups, Town Departments and free -performers.
In the past year, 236 registered volunteers gave 9,425 hours of service. The financial
equivalent for these services is approximately $190,856,* and 320 unregistered volunteers gave
500 hours of service.
*The 2009 rate of $20.25 is used by the United Way, the Massachusetts Executive
Office of Elder Affairs, Minnesota School of Business, several medical centers, Points
of Light and Synergy Resource Center. (Jalandoni, N. (2008) Value of Volunteer Time
http://independentsector.org/programs/research/volunteer time.html).
The Coordinator of Volunteers retired in March of 2009. Attrition is one of the methods
being employed to address the current budget crisis. Therefore, the position was not included in
the FY 2010 Budget.
Subsequently, the Coordinator of Volunteers position was restored to the Elder/Human
Services' FY 2010 Budget by a vote at Town Meeting on April 30th. Three Council on Aging
members spoke to the audience of Town Meeting members asking that the FY 2010 Budget be
amended to include the COV position. The original position was 21 hours per week with
benefits, and the FY 2010 position was granted as 19 hours per week without benefits.
Unfortunately, the Governor's Budget projected even less State funding for the Town
than had been predicted. For this reason, interviewing for this position is on hold.
The Division has incorporated the COV tasks into the responsibilities of the remaining
staff members. Portions of the Medical Escort and Property Tax Work Programs have been
assumed by the Finance Depart ment. This has helped reduce the workload for the Division. It
should be noted that it has been a team effort to absorb the work of the COV. The services are
still being delivered, albeit, with some impacts.
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For example, homebound seniors may have to wait longer to be matched with a Friendly
Visitor, Shopping Escort or Shopping Assistant. By reprioritizing the workload and opting out
of training and other commitments like serving on a regional Mystic Valley Elder Services Board
of Directors, the staff continues to work diligently to maintain the quality and quantity of
volunteers, services and programs until the economy is robust enough to fill the COV position.
Lunch time Meals
The Senior Center's daily nutrition program is provided by Mystic Valley Elder Services,
Inc. (MVES). In an effort to increase attendance at lunch, we often offer concurrent games,
programs and/or entertainment.
There are 28 meal site volunteers who help serve and clean up after the noontime meal at
the Senior Center. Socialization is an important component of this program. In 2009, a total of
5,145 lunches was served at the Senior Center.
In 2009, MVES' Meals-On-Wheels Program delivered a total of 19,692 meals to 161
participants. The roster of participants changes as people become well enough to prepare their
own meals or move to other levels of care. A variety of meals is delivered: Lunch meals,
evening meals, clinical diets and frozen meals for the weekend. A variety of "'clinical diet"
meals is also available including: No concentrated sweets, diabetic, low fiber, high fiber, low
lactose, renal or pureed.
Van Transportation
The Van Transportation Program provides a vital service for those seniors who don't
drive. Transportation is provided in-town for the following purposes: Errands, grocery shopping,
voting, medical and personal appointments, pharmacy needs, going to breakfast and visiting the
Senior Center. For younger residents, the van services offers transportation to and from the Food
Pantry and other vital destinations. In 2009, the van provided 8802 one-way trips (5% increase
over 2008) to 88 passengers.
Newsletter
The Pleasantries Newsletter is a monthly publication created by the Division and
published by Senior Citizen's Publishing, Inc. (SCP). There is no cost to the Town for this
arrangement. SCP's revenue is derived from selling advertising space in the newsletter.
The newsletters are delivered to approximately 2625 senior households in Reading three
times a year. This figure is significantly lower than in previous years. In an effort to lower costs,
we have combined married couple households, and we now hand-deliver stacks of newsletters to
senior housing developments instead of mailing them. The Burbank Trust Fund provides the
funding for postage. During the other nine months, 900 copies of the newsletter are available at
several locations around town.
. The goal of the newsletter is to increase awareness of the programs and services available
to Reading's seniors and their caregivers. The newsletter also provides important information
about benefit changes and helpful agencies. An annual subscription is available by mail for
$5.00. Residents can now subscribe to the newsletter online at no cost and receive it via email.
105
Community Services Department
Property Tax Worker Program
The Division coordinates the Property Tax Worker Program which allows Reading
seniors to perform various tasks for Town Departments in exchange for an abatement on their
property taxes. The program is open to Reading residents age 65 and over or disabled who own
property and have a household income that does not exceed limits, set by the program. In 2009,
there were 21 positions available, and each participant was permitted to earn a maximum
abatement of $750.00 annually. In 2009, participants were compensated at a rate of $7.50 per
hour. The program has been funded through the Assessors' Overlay account.
In 2010, the program will expand to allow for 30 participants, an abatement maximum of
$1000.00 and an hourly rate of $8.00.
Burbank Trust Fund
In 2009, the Council on Aging approved expenditures from the Dorothy L. Burbank Trust
to pay for the following: Glass plate to cover the piano top and the piano tuning, emergency
preparedness kits, post-it pads and tape measures to use as promotional items, RCTV
membership, three advertisements in the Reading Recreation Community Guide, three months of
postage cost for bulk mailings of the newsletter, monthly entertainment for the Senior Center's
special lunch program, birthday cake, gift certificates and lunch for the monthly birthday
celebrants.
Schroeder Trust Fund
in 2009, funds from the Schroeder Trust were used to purchase hot Thanksgiving and
Christmas meals for seniors who were going to be alone for the holidays. Thirty meals were
provided for each Thanksgiving and Christmas, and all meals were delivered by COA Board
Members.,
Donations
Many individuals and organizations have generously supported Elder/Human Services'
efforts by providing' money, gifts and in-kind services. Some of the donations have included:
Sponsorship of an event, program or meal; Senior Center decorations; baked goods; gift
certificates from local businesses; paper cups and plates; flowers; plants; art work; refreshments
and more.
Holiday Program
Adopt-A-Family
Each year, Elder/Human Services coordinates the Adopt-A-Family holiday program
which matches low income Reading families with confidential donors of food and gifts for
children. Reading residents, businesses, out-of-town businesses that employ Reading residents,
youth organizations, school groups, nursery schools, churches and municipal departments join
together to make this program a success. This past year, 125 donor groups, families and
individuals made donations of food and gifts to the Adopt-A-Family Program.
Recipients
Households
Thanksgiving Food
56
Christmas Food/Gifts
90 (107 children)
106
Community Services Department
In August, the Administrator began meeting with various church and civic groups about
assuming responsibility for coordinating the Adopt-a-Family Program. The Town has overseen
the program for the past 24 years but with a smaller staff, the program is too time-consuming to
manage.
Fortunately, the Rotary Club agreed to take over the coordination of the.program.
Because the program was already underway, the Rotarians participated as volunteers this year.
The Administrator will begin working with the members in the Summer of 2010 to teach and
transfer the program.
COA Hot Meals
The Social Worker supplies the Council on Aging with a list. of 30 seniors who would
welcome a Thanksgiving meal and a visitor, and another 30 for around Christmas time. (This
task is more difficult than it sounds as many seniors are uncomfortable accepting assistance.)
The meals are purchased from Boston Market using Schroeder Trust Funds and are delivered by
COA Board Members.
Christmas Gifts
The Social Worker gathers gift wishes from 25 seniors. The Young Women's League
purchases, wraps and delivers the gifts.
Thanksgiving and Christmas Baskets
The Social Worker supplies the Wakefield Elks with a list :of 20 seniors who would
welcome receiving a basket of uncooked holiday food.
Emergency Funds
The Division has two revolving funds. The Elder Services Revolving Fund covers
emergency situations for persons age 60 and older who lack financial resources to cover basic
needs or emergencies. The Human Service Revolving Fund is for persons under age 60 who
lack financial resources for emergency situations.
Council on Aging Board
During 2009, the Council on Aging experienced some changes. Erica Deane and Gina
Nelson joined us as Board Members, and Carol Patterson and Barbara Powers resigned. The
COA Board Members took on many volunteer tasks this year including: Data entry, manning the
reception desk, running errands for the staff, helping to prepare mailings, and working on some
special projects (i.e., greeting cards, senior discount directory, movie inventory, tax preparation,
Friends and Family Day, etc.). Their assistance and support is very much appreciated.
Respectfully submitted,
Dawn Folopoulos, Elder/Human Services Administrator
107
Community Services Department
HEALTH DIVISION
Introduction
The Health Division is responsible for administering the local public health function.
This involves preparing for and responding to Public Health emergencies, promoting and
protecting public health in Reading. This process involves the utilization of numerous scientific
principles, specific knowledge and skill sets including (but not limited to): Epidemiology,
Microbiology, Chemistry, Physics, Building Science, Testing of Electrical Services and Outlets,
Knowledge of Plumbing Principles and Equipment Operation, HVAC Operation, Psychology,
Medical Entomology, Health Education, Water Quality, Pest Control, Communicable Disease
processes, Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Solid Waste Disposal, Air Quality Control, Noise
Control and Public Health Law.
The Health Division is required to enforce at a minimum of 14 State regulations, in
addition to Board of Health regulations and Town bylaws. The Division provides advice to
residents and businesses on these laws. Additionally, the Division is expected to enforce a new
State law on Allergen information and awareness and calorie posting on menus at restaurants.
The Division has an open door policy and always advises on ways for businesses and residents
to gain compliance with the legal and safe practice requirements.
H1N1
2009 was an especially interesting year for the community as the world saw the
emergence of a new influenza virus strain H 1N 1 in April. Since the virus, no one had any
immunity and there was no vaccine available. The surveillance community had no idea on what
the impact would be. The one initial observation was that it spread rapidly. The virus also
behaved different to seasonal influenza viruses in that the major group affected was the under 25
age group. A major part of-the Health Division's time and resources were spent in educating the
community protecting themselves from the H 1 N 1, and it proved to be a success as we had no
major clusters or large scale outbreak of influenza in Reading.
Once vaccines were available, the school age population and CDC assigned high risk
groups were given priority for vaccinations. Clinics were held at all Middle and High Schools.
The Division and School Department collaboration worked extremely well as any student who
wished to have a vaccine was vaccinated without any major impact on the educational system.
Further, once vaccines were widely available clinics were held for all Town residents including a
clinic at the U.S. Senate Special Election. The response to the H1N1 virus utilized a significant
amount of the Health Division resources.
Board of Health
The Board of Health, comprised of three members, RN Barbara Meade, RN Colleen
Seferian and Dr. David Mitchell Singer DMD, usually meets on the second Thursday of each
month. The Board provides advice to the Health Administrator and sets policy on Public Health
issues in the Town of Reading.
RN Barbara Meade was re-appointed to the Board for another three year term, and she
was also re-elected as Chairman of the Board in September.
108
Community Services Department
Staffm
Clerical/Licensing
The Health Division is fortunate to have the services of Clerk Darlene Foley. Darlene is
the face and voice of the Health Division. She is the first person the public interacts with when
they seek to avail themselves of the services of the Health Division. Her attention to detail, her
demeanor and customer service skills plays an important part in the provision of services to those
who do business with the Division. She processes all incoming applications, licenses, complaints
and issues, burial permits. Additionally, she serves as the Logistics Section Chief in the
Emergency Dispensing Site Incident Command Structure (ICS). This year, because of changes in
State Public Health regulations and as part of her job function, she successfully completed
Blood Borne Pathogen training. Ann Gentile provides back-up support for the Clerical function
in the Health Division.
Environmental Health Division
The Environmental Health Division provides advice on good safety practices to all
temporary event hosts, conduct risk, assessments on the food and initiates food safety
requirements as mandated by the Food code. We have meet with numerous community
organizations to advise on facility upgrades, temporary food permits and other public health
matters.
The Division also responds to complaints, and conducts inspections mandated by the
Public Health laws; e.g, food inspections, housing inspections, complaints, air quality and noise
control (indoor and outdoor), swimming pools, camps, tanning salons and animal licensing.
Health Inspector Joan Vitale continues to do an outstanding job and is invaluable to the
Health Division. During the year, our focus has shifted to risk-based food safety inspections.
Casey Mellin, part-time Health Inspector, give the Health Division the ability to provide limited
public health services to Reading on nights and weekends which has proven to be invaluable to
the community. The Reading Fall Street Faire and other weekend temporary food service events
were inspected without having to incur additional overtime costs.
The Environmental Health staff conducted a survey of food establishments as part of the
response efforts to a National Salmonella outbreak associated with peanut butter. Three housing
emergency closures were issued for violations of the State Sanitary Code, and four hearings were
held for repeat violations of the Food Code. The Division has also served notice of violation,
nuisance abatement and violation of air pollution regulations on a local establishment that was
maintaining an illegal composting operation. The Environmental Health staff also assisted at all
flu clinics.
Community Health Services
The Community Health Services unit provides immunization to residents, hosts preventative
blood pressure and cholesterol clinics and health education activities. This year, we participated
in/coordinated the following:
• Reading Fall Street Fair
• Reading Friends and Family Day
• Senior Health Fair at the Senior Center
Healthy habits seminar at the Library
• Monthly health focus displays
109
Community Services Department
This year was extremely challenging for Public Health Nursing as we conducted both
seasonal flu and H1N1 clinics from September to December, coupled with community education
efforts from May 2009: This meant we hosted three times the number of clinics that are normally
held. The regional MRC assistance proved to be invaluable to the hosting of the clinics by
providing clinic staff that assisted in line management, registration and other clinic areas. We
must also acknowledge our seasonal clinic nurses who did yeoman service in vaccinating 2484
residents who sought vaccinations this year.
Public Health Nurse Dina McCarron R.N. is responsible for investigating communicable
diseases, and Reading now receives all communicable diseases notifications electronically from
the Department of Public Health. The disease investigation aspect of the PHN duties requires
detailed interviews which adhere to patient privacy principles that are mandated by State and
Federal laws. We continue to engage the community in promoting healthy lifestyle choices that
will eventually lead to a healthier Reading. The Public Health Nurse also inspects camps to
ensure that the clinical requirements of the camp regulations are met. Additionally, the PHN
does visits to homebound seniors on the request of the Nurse Advocate, and is also the
designated Operations Chief in our Emergency Dispensing Site Preparedness. Plan.
Emergency Preparedness
The Health Division is responsible for the Public Health emergency function in the Town
of Reading, and the Health. Administrator is part of the Town Unified Command in the ICS
structure. This function requires that all Health Division staff be available on a 24/7 basis to
respond to emergencies
The Health Division continues to participate in the Emergency Preparedness Region 3B -
Greater Lawrence Coalition and Greater River Valley Medical Reserve Corps (GRVMRC).
Further, the Health Administrator is a member of the Local State Advisory Committee on
Emergency Preparedness and the Coalition for Local Public Health. This, year, the Health
Administrator and the Health Division staff participated in a number of regional exercises and
trainings. These trainings assisted us in our response to the H1N1 influenza pandemic. The
Public Health Nurse provided vaccinator services at two regional H1N1 clinics. The Division has
signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Reading Police Department where the Police
Department will provide security services, and perform the security function within the ICS
structure for Public Health emergencies.
As part of the emergency preparedness preparation and response to H1N1, the Health
Division has provided hand sanitizers to all Town Departments in addition to Public Safety.
Weights and Measures
The Weights and Measures function is contracted to the State Division of Standards. The
contract with the Division of Standards was renewed for 2010.
Mosquito Control
Reading continues to be part of the Eastern Middlesex Mosquito Control Project. One
mosquito pool tested positive for eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Residents were advised to
observe precautionary measures when going outside after dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Additionally, spraying was done around the area surrounding the trapping site.
110
Community Services Department
East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project
The East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project conducts a program in Reading consisting
of mosquito surveillance, larval and adult mosquito control and public education.
Over 13 inches of rain fell during June and July which produced above average mosquito
populations and contributed towards an increased risk of EEE. The adult mosquito surveillance
program used traps to collect mosquitoes from six Reading locations. Data was compiled from
26 mosquito trap collections over eight nights. In August and September, six trap collections
from Reading were tested for West Nile Virus and EEE by the Massachusetts Department of
Public Health.
The Larval Mosquito Control Program relies on the larvicide, Bacillus thuringiensis var.
israelensis (Bti), which is classified by the EPA as relatively non-toxic. An April helicopter
application of Bti controlled mosquito larvae at 402 wetland acres. Field crews using portable
sprayers applied Bti in the Spring and the Summer to 13 wetland acres when high densities of
mosquito larvae were found in stagnant water.
For adult mosquito control, eight crews applied Sumithrin to 4,038 acres at night using
truck mounted aerosol sprayers when survey traps indicated high populations of mosquitoes.
Advance notification of the spraying was done through notices in the Daily Times Chronicle, at
the Reading Town website,. and through a recorded telephone message at 781-893-5759.
The Project's public education program is designed to develop awareness within the
public and the private sectors as to their roles in mosquito control. The Project serves as a
resource to residents, municipal officials and the local media on mosquitoes and mosquito borne
diseases.
The website http://www.town.sudbuEy.ma.us/services/health/emme-p provides residents
with information on mosquitoes, control programs and related topics..
Statistics:
Action
Inspections/
Individuals Served
Revenue
Inspections
648
Immunizations/Tests
2484
Infectious Disease Investigations
151
Clinic Visits
277
Licenses, Fees and Permits
491
$74,114.18
Fines/Tickets
32
$1075.00
111
Community Services Department
General
Health Administrator Larry Ramdin was awarded the "2009 Massachusetts Sanitarian
of the Year Award " by the Massachusetts Environmental Health Association, and graduated as
a 2009 scholar of the Northeast Public Health Leadership Institute. Mr. Ramdin also completed
the ICS 400 training.
Health Inspector Joan Vitale was credentialed as a Pool and Spa Inspector. Public Health
Nurse Dina Mc Carron, RN, completed ICS 300 training, and Health Division Clerk Darlene
Foley completed ICS 200. The entire Health Division staff completed the Blood Borne Pathogen
training as required by 105 CMR 480.000: MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
MANAGEMENT OF MEDICAL OR BIOLOGICAL WASTE (STATE SANITARY CODE
CHAPTER VIII) and ICS 808
The Health Division was given copies of the new State ethics notification forms and
completed online State Ethics training.
Conclusion
In 2010, we will be faced with the ever-changing challenges in the Public Health arena
including a third wave of the H1N1 influenza and administration of new Massachusetts Public
Health laws without requisite funding from the Commonwealth. The Division staff is committed
to promoting and advancing good customer service techniques and policies. We are currently
working on a "Healthy Reading" Project which we hope to launch in early Spring 2010.
I would like to thank the Administration, especially the Board of Health, Town Manager
Peter Hechenbleikner, Community Services Director/Town Planner Jean Delios and the Board of
Selectmen for their continued support in promoting, protecting and preserving the Public Health
in Reading.
Respectfully submitted,
Larry A. Ramdin MA, REHS, CHO, CP-FS, LSE
Health Administrator
112
Community Services Department
INSPECTIONS DIVISION
The Inspections Division is responsible for carrying out inspectional services on
commercial and residential construction in the areas of building, gas, plumbing and wiring. In
addition, the Division is responsible for enforcing the Town's Zoning By-laws and providing
staff to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
tic
ti
St
Year End 2009
Previous Year End 2008
s:
a
s
Building
Building Permits issued
680,
721
Inspections
1259
1,465
Fees received
$253,031.26*
$329.434.96*
Occupancy Permits
146
168
Fees received
$5,825.*
$5,130*
Wiring
Wiring Permits issued
486
573
Inspections
930
1,072
Fees received
$36,932.*
$42,187*
Plumbing/Gas
Gas. Permits issued
222
239
Gas Fees received
$7,924.*
$8,255*
Plumbing Permits issued
354
394
Plumbing Fees received
$17,826.*
$17,887*
Combined Inspections
Gas/Plumbing
783
882
TOTAL FEES
$321,538.26*
$402,893.96*
* Totals do not include permit fees for Walkers Brook Crossing, Johnson Woods and
Archstone-Reading deposited in revolving building account.
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
The Zoning Board of Appeals met 18 times in 2009. The ZBA voted on petitions for 21
Variances, Special Permits and appeals.
ZBA Members are Chairman Clark Petschek, Robert Redfern, John Jarema, Peter
Tedesco, Damase Caouette, John Miles and Jeffrey Perkins. The Town Planner Jean Delios and
the Commissioner of Buildings Glen Redmond provide primary support to the Zoning Board of
Appeals.
113
Community Services Department
PLANNING DIVISION
During 2009, the Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC) continued
to receive experienced and dedicated service from its Chairman Nick Safina and Board Members
Clair Paradiso, Joseph Patterson, David Tuttle, John Weston and Associate Member George
Katsoufis. Staff changes in the Planning Division included a new Town Planner Jean Delios.
The Planning Division worked closely with the CPDC and Economic Development Committee
to achieve important milestones in 2009.
Planning Division Activities
Responsibilities of the Planning Division include advising the public, property owners,
Reading's Boards and Commissions, business owners and architects, and coordinating Town
staff on planning issues regarding land use, zoning and economic development. The Planning
Division provides support to the Community Planning and Development Commission, the
Zoning Board of Appeals and the Economic Development Committee.
In 2009, the Planning Division reviewed 3.9 applications for a variety of approvals
including site plan review, subdivision, signage design and extensions/modifications to existing
decisions. The CPDC held 21 public meetings and eight zoning work sessions centered on
Zoning By-Law amendments for a proposed Downtown Smart Growth Zoning Overlay District
and proposed zoning changes and design standards for South Main Street. Eight Development
Review Team meetings were also held with Town staff and applicants to provide guidance on
application procedures, permitting and zoning compliance.
Major Accomplishments - 2009
• Downtown Smart Growth District (DSGD) - Town Meeting adopted in November.
Planning staff and CPDC held numerous workshops, meetings, presentations and public
hearings with stakeholders in the community on the Final Draft of the Downtown Smart
Growth District. An application was completed and filed with DHCD in July.
• South Main Street - Additional work on draft design standards and zoning changes.
• Sign Bylaw - With CPDC and Economic Development Committee, prepared updates and
-recommended bylaw revisions to Section 6.2.
• Non-conforming Bylaw - With CPDC, worked on updates and recommended bylaw
revisions to Section 6.3.
• Earth Removal Bylaw - Prepared draft recommendations for future consideration.
Economic Development Committee
The Economic Development Committee (EDC) Chairman Meghan Young-Tafoya, Vice
Chairman Sheila Clarke, Russ Graham, George Rio, Michelle Williams and Associate Members
Jack Russell, Michelle Ferullo and Kara Fratto working with Planning staff, executed an
aggressive work plan for the year. Associate Member Sharon Petersen resigned after a year of
service. A very successful Fall Street Faire was held in September. The alleyway project was
completed in the Summer of 2009. A Wayfinding project was undertaken with funding from a
State grant. Website updates including a more prominent link from the home page to an updated
list of active projects.
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Community Services Department
The Economic Development Committee has also been regularly profiling local
businesses in the Reading Chronicle and Reading Advocate.
Projects reviewed by Planning Division and CPDC in 2009
Subdivisions
Benjamin Lane (Minor Modification and Bond Reduction)
Kylie Drive (Lot Releases)
Site Plan Review - Street Address/Business Name/notation if a waiver
279 Salem Street, REI
83 Main Street Gulf /Cumberland Farms gas station (waiver)
36 Woburn Street commercial parking lot expansion
198 Ash Street, expansion of dentist office (waiver)
50 Walkers Brook Drive, Paul's TV at Jordan's Furniture (Waiver)
545-557 Main Street, RCTV
4 Chapin Avenue, Mission of Deeds expansion (waiver)
345 Main Street, Reading Plaza
107 Main Street, Sam's Bistro
10 Torre Street, Goddard School
169 Haven Street, Old Redding Butcher Shoppe (waiver)
285 Main Street, Perfecto's Cafe
580 Main Street, elevator and other interior changes (waiver)
18-20 Woburn Street, site plan review permit extension
55 Walkers Brook Drive, Keurig Coffee expansion (waiver)
Sign Review (Certificate of Appropriateness) _ Address/Business Name
580 Main Street, Bank of America
One General Way, Master Signage Plan for building
35 Linden Street, Swiss Baker Express
83 Haven Street, Silva's Alterations
50 Walkers Brook Drive, Paul's TV at Jordan's Furniture
233 Haven Street, Aine's Boutique
45 Walkers Brook Drive, Bertucci's Restaurant
407 Main Street, TD Bank
1349 Main Street, Master Signage plan for building
603 Main Street, T & T Nails & Spa
CPDC Special Permits - Street Address/Business Name/notation if a modification
None
ZBA Comprehensive Permits - e.g., LIP DRT
DRT on 885 Main Street for a possible LIP project
Two DRT meetings for Peter Sanborn Place at 50 Bay State Rd.
115
Community Services Department
Zoning Workshops/Public Hearing for Zoning Amendment - Date/Subject
Public Hearings
April 13, 2009 - Public Hearing for Annual Town Meeting - Business A front setback reduction
April 13, 2009 - Public Hearing for Annual Town Meeting - To allow pharmacy drive thru in
PUD-B districts
July 13, 2009 - Public Hearing for Downtown Smart Growth District Application submittal to
DHCD
October 19, 2009 - Public Hearing for Section 6.3.17 for Subsequent Town Meeting
(Reconstruction after Deconstruction)
November 2, 2009 - Public Hearing for Downtown Smart Growth District Zoning Amendment
for Special Town Meeting
Zoning Work Sessions
Eight Work Sessions on the Downtown Smart Growth District
Four Work Sessions on South Main Street design guidelines and zoning changes
Two Work Sessions on Zoning By-Law Section 6.3.17, Reconstruction after Deconstruction
Endorsement of Subdivision Approval not Required Plans
1198 Main Street and 2 Brentwood Drive
13 Buckingham Drive
37 Pinevale Avenue
26 County Lane
17 King Street
ZBA and CPDC Agenda Sharing and Case Review Comments
In 2009, revenue generated from the Planning Division activities totaled $21,318. The
Planning Division is located at Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street, and the telephone number is 781-
942-9056.
Respectfully submitted,
Jean Delios, Community Services Director/Town Planner
VETERANS' SERVICES DIVISION
The Veterans' Services' Division Office is responsible for the needs of all the veterans in
Reading. It is the Veterans' Services Officer to whom the unemployed, the indigent, the
disabled, the ill or veterans otherwise in need first apply for assistance. He interviews the
applicants, determines their eligibility, and assists in filing for all veterans' benefits including the
Massachusetts Chapter 115 Program. for indigent veterans and their dependents. The Town of
Reading receives 75% reimbursement from the State for all the money expended by the Town of
Reading under Chapter 115.
The Veterans' Services Officer also assists Reading veterans with applying for all other
State benefits such as tuition waivers, grants, student loans, annuities, bonuses, outreach centers,
counseling, veterans' license plates and many more.
116
Community Services Department
Under the category of federal aid, veterans' are assisted in processing applications for
benefits including service-related compensation, disability pensions, personal aid, pensions,
social security benefits, medical, education, employment, medals, death benefits and retrieving
military records for veterans who, without, would not be eligible for any benefits.
Federal benefits including filing for compensation and pension, life insurance, burial and
survivor's benefits. Additional benefits expended by the Veterans' Affairs Administration
benefits directly to the veteran population in Reading was over $2.4 million for fiscal year that
ended June 2009.
The Veterans' Services Division also works with other communities to coordinate public
events such as the Veterans' Day ceremony held at the Reading Memorial High School and
Memorial Day services held at the four cemeteries in Town.
The office hours of the Veterans' Services Division are Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.,
Wednesday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and the telephone
number is 781-942-6652.
Respectfully submitted,
Frank Driscoll, Veterans' Services Officer
TOWN COUNSEL
During 2009, Brackett & Lucas addressed various and diverse issues on the Town's
behalf. At present; the Town is involved in several litigation matters arising out of the
construction/renovation of the Reading Memorial High School ("RMHS"). One litigation matter
that was filed by a flooring sub-contractor was resolved in 2009. However, five litigation
matters are still pending. We anticipate that the RMHS litigation matter filed by the demolition
sub-contractor will be dismissed as to the Town of Reading and two of the litigation matters,
including one which was instituted by the Town's general contractor, are being considered for
mediation in an effort to narrow the disputed issues and minimize the legal costs associated with
litigation.
During 2009, a civil action filed by the Town in 2004 against the Agfa Corporation
seeking damages for the alleged contamination of the former Revay Well was settled through
mediation, a challenge to the Town's adoption of a stormwater utility fee was dismissed, and an
enforcement action brought by the Town against the owner of an unlicensed lodging house was
successfully resolved. In addition, a longstanding zoning appeal was successfully concluded
when the Massachusetts Appeals Court upheld the Land Court's grant of summary judgment in
favor of the Board of Appeals. We are currently awaiting a decision from the Appeals Court on
another zoning matter involving a decision issued by the Board of Appeals, and there are four
additional zoning appeals pending in the Land Court.
In the past year, legal assistance was provided to Department Heads, Town Boards,
Committees and Commissions, including, the Board of Selectmen. Legal services which were
provided included advice and legal opinions in the areas of land use to the Zoning Board of
Appeals and Community Planning and Development Commission.
117
Community Services Department
In addition, some assistance was provided for contract review. Conservation matters are
handled by Attorneys Judith Pickett and Jason Grossfield. We have also.provided advice and
representation to the Police Department and.the Fire Department regarding employee issues.
Aside from issues related to the RMHS litigation, we continue to provide advice to the
School Department on various non-litigation issues, and we assist in the development. of contract
and bid documents. Brackett & Lucas also assisted in the preparation and review of bylaws, as
well as the review and drafting of Warrant Articles for Town Meeting. We attended all Town
Meetings in order to address any legal issues or concerns that may be raised by members.
It has been apleasure and a privilege to serve the legal needs of the Town of Reading this
past year, and we look forward to continuing to do so in the future.
Respectfully submitted,
Ellen Callahan Doucette, Town Counsel
THE ARC OF EAST MIDDLESEX
Listed below is a detailed analysis of the number of individuals serviced during FY 2009
by The Are of East Middlesex in Reading as well as the surrounding cities and towns.
Program Statistics for FY 2009:
Program
Reading
Other
Total
Day Services
21
126
147
Recreation
94
190
284
Residential
Range Heights Road, Lynn
4
4
Cliffside Commons, Malden
2
2
Lebanon Street, Melrose
8
8
Main Street, Melrose
7
7
Haven Street, Reading
8
8
Hopkins Street, Reading
5
5
Pitman Drive, Reading
4
4
Newcomb Avenue, Saugus
4
4
Albion Street, Wakefield
6
6
Nahant Street, Wakefield
3
3
Spruce Street; Wakefield
4
4
Water Street, Wakefield
5
5
Independent/Supported Living
6
12
18
TOTAL RESIDENTS
23
55
78
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Day Services
The Arc's Day Services Division includes East Middlesex Industries (EMI), School to
Work Transition Services and as of June 2007 Life Choices, a federally funded day habilitation
program. EMI provides workshop services and training as well as follow-up case management
to clients placed in gainful employment worksites within the area. The goal of EMI is to provide
individuals with the vocational skills and training to become independent, tax-paying members
of their communities. Additionally, EMI provides vocational opportunities through the Center
for Emerging Artists (CEA). Products produced by many of the individuals attending CEA are
featured in several exhibitions in the area each year. Many items produced are for sale, and the
artists receive commission income for each piece sold.
Recreation Program
The Arc of East Middlesex provides recreational services throughout the year for children
and adults with developmental disabilities. The funding to run these programs is raised through
fundraising efforts and individual attendance fees. Although these programs are staffed by
employees, not all of them could be run without the assistance of volunteers. Several dances and
swim programs are held throughout the year, and it should be noted that approximately 50
Reading residents have volunteered to assist in these very successful programs.
Journey to Independence
Journey to Independence has proven to be. a very successful program that teaches teens
and young adults with developmental disabilities necessary skills, such as personal health care,
money handling, cooking, cleaning, employment, leisure and personal safety at an offsite
location called the Real World House. This program operates on weekends and school vacations
and provides a safe, fun, overnight learning environment for individuals to learn the skills they
will need to succeed in the future.
Residential Services
Residential services are currently provided at several sites throughout the area to 91
adults who have developmental disabilities. Residential programs are funded primarily by the
Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Room and Board fees charged to the residents
are used to offset DDS funding. The goal of residential services is to provide individuals with an
opportunity to live and participate in the local communities that we serve.
Family Support Services
The Arc's Family Support Division provides the following advocacy services for
individuals with developmental disabilities and their families:
• Parent Resource Counseling
• Information and Referral Services
• Internships and Work Study Programs for students
• Various Support Groups
• Resource Library
• Family Education and Training
• Individual Centered Planning
• Supported Living
• Sib-Shop groups for siblings of individuals with developmental disabilities
• Respite Services
• Building Community Bridges
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The Arc of East Middlesex is grateful for the continued support that the Town of Reading
has provided to its residents with developmental disabilities.
Respectfully submitted,
Blaine Stone, Chief Financial Officer
DOWNTOWN STEERING COMMITTEE INC.
The Downtown Revitalization Streetscape projects was completed on schedule in early
September 2009, and was celebrated by a ribbon cutting and a very well attended first annual
Fall Street Faire on September 13th.
The Committee raised funds for the Economic Development Committee's Alleyway
Initiative which was completed during 2009. This initiative resulted in brick paving, additional
lighting and beautification, including a mural, of the alley from Main Street to the back parking
lot.
With the revitalization project completed, the Committee sees its future as a fundraising
arm of the Economic Development Committee for future Downtown improvements and events
such as the Fall Street Faire.
Respectfully submitted,
John H. Russell, President
HISTORICAL COMMISSION
The Historical Commission's work in 2009 included regular monthly meetings and work
in the Historical Commission Archives. The Commission also installed a series of historical
plaques in the Downtown, participated in two community events in collaboration with the
Library, and began the expansion of the existing Historical and Architectural Inventory. The
Commission continued its effort to convert historically important Town records to formats that
maybe accessed electronically.
For the second year in a row, the Commission applied for funds from the Massachusetts
Historical Commission's Survey and Planning Grant program in order to expand the Reading
Historical and Architectural Inventory. The project was awarded the full amount of requested
funds which was $12,000 or 60% of the $20,000 project cost. The remaining 40% or $8,000
local share of the project cost is to be paid from Historical Commission funds. The project began
according to the MHC schedule in September 2009 and by December 2009, the first two phases
of the four phase project were complete and on time. At the completion of the project in 2010,
approximately 100 properties will have been added to the existing Inventory.
. A number of citizens and various entities requested the assistance of the Historical
Commission in 2009 including requests for input on renovation, restoration and genealogical
research. Once again, the Commission's input was sought from another potential purchaser and
developer of the Pierce Organ Factory.
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The Commission offered input to the Board of Selectmen regarding the history of the
Washington Park stone wall as they considered a new master plan for the park. The Board
recognized the significance of this WA project, and a proposed demolition of the wall for
increased parking was avoided as they voted to approve the plan without demolition of the wall.
In the Spring, 10 granite pavers were installed in the new sidewalks on Main Street in the
Downtown. Each paver highlights a relevant piece of Reading history. The project was funded
by grants from the Reading Cultural Council and the Celebration Trust Fund as well as by
private donations. The Historical Commission created a pamphlet detailing the information on
the plaques, led a walking tour describing the history associated with them, and appeared on a
segment of RCTV's Reading@Large which highlighted the unique project.
In May, the Commission partnered with the Friends of the Library in their Annual House
Tour, featuring six historic homes and in October, they supported and volunteered at the Mass
Memories Roadshow hosted by the Reading Public Library. This event offered an opportunity
for citizens to bring in old photos and memorabilia to be scanned or photographed as part of a
state-wide project to document their stories in their communities.
In June, the Commission re-elected its current officers to a new term for the following 12
month period.
Members at year-end 2009
Kathryn M. Greenfield, Chairman
Sharlene Santo Reynolds, Secretary
Roberta Sullivan, Treasurer
Associates at year-end 2009
Angela Binda
Virginia Adams
Mark Cardono
Respectfully submitted,
Kathryn Greenfield, Chairman
LAND BANK COMMITTEE
During 2009, the Land Bank Committee provided assistance with identifying and
documenting Town-owned property. The Committee provided the historical documentation to
the Town Manager, the Board of Selectmen, the Town Planner and the GIS Coordinator.
We look forward to working with the GIS Coordinator and the Assessors' Department to
coordinate all Town records into a single database for all Town Departments to utilize.
Respectfully submitted,
Edward G. Smethurst, Chairman
Jeff Perkins, Vice Chairman
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METROPOLITAN AREA PLANNING COUNCIL
The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) is a regional planning agency serving
the people who live and work in Metro Boston. With a mission to promote smart growth and
regional collaboration, MAPC's work is guided by our regional plan, "MetroFuture: Making a
Greater Boston Region."
Despite economically challenging times, MAPC has proudly helped the 101 cities and
towns in Greater Boston in navigating the recession with an eye toward preserving our region's
vast resources for future generations. Whether in the area of public safety, open space
preservation, clean water, affordable housing, transportation equity, sustainable development or
inter-municipal cooperation, MAPC is uniquely positioned to bring cities and towns together for
the betterment of the region as a whole. Our work encompasses many facets of living and
working in Massachusetts, but is always guided by smart growth principles, and the philosophy
that collaborative approaches can best solve regional issues.
Guidine Future Development and Preservation
With MAPC's progressive new regional plan, "MetroFuture: Making a Greater
Boston Region," the agency is helping to guide both development and preservation in
Metropolitan Boston, now through 2030. The plan was approved in December 2008, and
campaigns for its implementation were launched to the public at an energizing event in June
2009. With the plan officially in place, MAPC's work has turned to advancing and measuring its
implementation. Since the plan's adoption, MAPC staff has worked hard collecting input from
hundreds of MetroFuture friends and supporters whose ideas have helped craft four initial
MetroFuture campaigns: Green Jobs and Energy, Local Smart Growth Planning, Transportation
Investment and Zoning Reform.
At the June 9, 2009 MetroFuture kickoff event, more than 300 people gathered to discuss
and advise MAPC on strategies for advancing the first three campaigns. MAPC also released
"From Plan to Action: A MetroFuture Summary," an accessible guide to MetroFuture goals and
implementation strategies which is available online at www.mapc.org and www.metrofuture.org.
In 2010, MAPC will continue to advance the MetroFuture campaigns and engage the "Friends of
MetroFuture" in this work. We are also establishing a. Regional Indicators Program to assess the
region's progress in achieving MetroFuture's goals,. as well as MAPC's effectiveness at
undertaking the implementation strategies. We are pleased that two of our partners in
establishing the MetroFuture plan are continuing their support of implementation. The Boston
Foundation has contributed to MetroFuture implementation broadly while an anonymous
foundation has funded establishment of an Equity Report Card.
One way MAPC is advancing MetroFuture is through our work with the Massachusetts
Smart Growth Alliance (MSGA): Through MSGA, MAPC has successfully advocated for
policies and initiatives that advance sustainable and equitable development, including increased
state investment in transit and other transportation options, the state's "Gateway Cities"
revitalization program, and meaningful zoning reform. MSGA is also working with the
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) to make sure that expansion of the MWRA
is accompanied by smart growth requirements and water conservation.
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Through the MSGA, MAPC is also working with MassPIRG - the Massachusetts Public
Interest Research Group - as well as Smart Growth America and other groups on the national
"Transportation for America" campaign which urges federal transportation policies that are
consistent with smart growth principles. We are also working with leaders from across New
England in the "New England Regional Rail Coalition," an association of planning,
environmental, municipal and business groups from all six New England states that came
together this year to improve the region's competitiveness for rail investments. MAPC also
counts itself a member of Smart Growth America's "State and Regional Caucus," which brings
smart growth-focused organization leaders from across the country.
MAPC is also a founding member of "Our Transportation Future" (OTF), a coalition of
business, labor, planning and environmental groups who are pushing for increased investment in
the state's transportation infrastructure. OTF played a key role in the 2009 transportation debate
around reform and revenue. Although our effort to achieve an increase in the gas tax failed, the
Legislature did commit $275 million in funding to transportation from an increase in the sales
tax.
MAPC strives to make every major development project in the region compatible with
MetroFuture and the State's Sustainable Development Principles. One way we do this is through
our active involvement in the Massachusetts Environmental Protection Act (MEPA) process. As
we study and comment on major developments, MAPC communicates our perspective and
recommendations to developers, municipalities and State officials. In 2009, MAPC evaluated
and commented on several key projects, including the Urban Ring, the South Coast Rail project,
Lowell Junction, Beacon at 495, Route 18 in Weymouth and RiverGreen Technology Park. Of
special note is the "Commons at Prospect Hill" project in Waltham. MAPC collaborated with the
128 Central Corridor Coalition - which includes Burlington, Lexington, Lincoln, Waltham and
Weston - to submit several joint comment letters to MEPA for this project.
Our MEPA comments consistently seek to minimize and mitigate traffic impacts, to
expand transit, bicycle, and pedestrian alternatives, to safeguard critical environmental resources,
to limit storm water impacts through "Low Impact Development (LID)," and to encourage a
mixture of commercial and residential uses.
Better Planning through Technical Assistance
Cities and towns throughout the region continue to seek out MAPC for technical
assistance on a variety of issues. Much of MAPC's "on the ground" technical assistance work for
municipalities has been made possible through funding from the District Local Technical
Assistance program (DLTA). This program was created by the Legislature and Governor Deval
Patrick in 2006 to assist communities with a variety of land use planning activities, especially
expedited permitting of commercial and industrial projects. The program is now entering its third
funding round, and it has been expanded to assist municipalities to regionalize planning,
procurement and service delivery.
Using DLTA funding matched by the town, MAPC worked with Danvers to create
mixed-use bylaws for targeted portions of Danversport. The bylaws were crafted after extensive
public input, including a "Visual Preference Survey" using Photoshop and Pictometry imaging
tools, as well as a survey of Danvers residents on industrial-type uses.
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In addition, the "Danvers Mixed Use Report" suggested zoning revisions to other
targeted industrial areas, and designed and presented a public program on the feasibility of using
the State's 40R Smart Growth Zoning program to redevelop parts of Downtown Danvers.
MAPC staff also helped several municipalities to apply for federal stimulus money made
available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). With assistance from
MAPC, Revere received $485,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy to help pay for the
installation of a new roof with built-in photovoltaic panels and high efficiency air conditioning
units at the Beachmont Elementary School.
Throughout 2009, MAPC develop the Malden Master Plan, utilizing Community Viz
software, which helps community members'visualize themselves inside four different scenarios
for future residential development in Malden. MAPC staff used Community Viz in a live
demonstration to compare alternative zoning scenarios and their impacts on different Malden
neighborhoods. Participants provided instant feedback on each scenario using wireless keypads;
following discussion, they voted on their preferred option. MAPC began work on a Housing
Production Plan for Bellingham. The plan includes an analysis of housing supply and demand, an
analysis of barriers to development, a map series, and will include an extensive implementation
plan with strategies to help the town achieve and maintain affordable housing goals. The work
will also include formation of a "Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board of Trustees"
to oversee implementation activities.
MAPC staff worked on housing publications this year, including one with The Citizens
Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA), titled "The Use of Chapter 40R in Massachusetts
As a Tool for Smart Growth and Affordable Housing Production." An advisory committee on the
project will explore policy improvements in light of the information revealed by the report. Staff
also assisted the Massachusetts Housing Partnership on a Municipal Affordable Housing Trust
Fund guidebook, which explains strategies for setting up a trust and gaining approval from the
local legislative body.
This year, MAPC began working with municipalities that wanted help collaborating on
the joint delivery of services, and these efforts were also funded under DLTA. Two of the
projects' focused on consolidating public health services among Arlington, Belmont and
Lexington, and between Melrose and Wakefield. The Melrose/Wakefield project was
implemented mid-year and met with success by year's end. Working with the public health
directors of Arlington, Belmont and Lexington, MAPC staff helped to build an organizational
framework and governance structure for a single regional health department designed to serve
the three towns with improved service quality through a cost-effective approach. Action is
expected at the 2010 Spring Town Meetings.
Several other DLTA projects addressed public safety concerns. In the first, MAPQ
assisted in creating a regional emergency communications center (RECC). A vendor was
selected at the end of the year and the study will begin in January. A second project would
regionalize an emergency planning committee (REPC) among seven communities in and around
Norwood. MAPC researched model organizations, proposed a structure and set out a plan for
implementation.
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Another pair of projects focused on consolidation of fire services. Melrose and Wakefield
asked MAPC to help them examine the potential of jointly providing fire department services,
such as inspections, fire safety services and dispatch. Ashland and Hopkinton asked MAPC to
help them evaluate combining their fire departments as a means of mitigating economic
pressures. MAPC staff, aided by fire service professionals, collected data, analyzed response
times and build-out trends, station locations and equipping and staffing, to deliver a report of
findings and recommendations for next steps. Through our work with School Departments on the
North Shore, MAPC staff also developed a combined teacher training schedule for seven-
departments and helped create a joint job posting system designed to improve applicant pools,
provide efficient candidate screening and lower advertising costs.
Encouraging and Supporting Collaboration among Municipalities
Subregional councils are a primary means of communication between MAPC and
member communities, and MAPC continually seeks to expand participation in these councils.
Each municipality in the MAPC region is included in one of eight subregions, led by a staff
coordinator; the Metrowest Growth Management Committee plays this role in MetroWest, but is
governed by an independent board, on which MAPC serves.
Subregions provide a venue for citizen input into regional planning as well as a forum for
local elected officials, planners, community organizations, legislators and businesses to exchange
information. Over the past year, subregional meetings addressed a wide variety of planning
topics, such as the Ocean Management Act, the Green Communities Act, Scenic Byways, water
usage, using GIS, economic development and more.
MAPC also facilitates regional dialogue and joint municipal action among chief elected
and appointed officials in the region. Among the most prominent of such efforts are the Metro
Mayors Coalition and the North Shore Coalition, which bring together mayors and city/town
managers to collaborate across municipal boundaries..
The Metro Mayors helped further the mission of MAPC this year by responding quickly
to the emerging economic crisis. MAPC has taken an active role in working to help cities and
towns avoid layoffs and become more efficient, through efforts like legislative advocacy in
support of a comprehensive municipal relief package, of local options taxes, of participation in
the Group Insurance Commission (GIC), and by studying the feasibility of regional 911 call,
centers in the Metro Boston region. MAPC also helped cities share information and develop
strategies to cope with the foreclosure crisis.
A regional anti-youth violence initiative is another example of regional collaboration that
MAPC helps to foster. Over the past three years, MAPC helped nine Metro Mayors Coalition
cities, 10 North Shore Coalition municipalities, and two MetroWest towns to secure more than
$2 million annually in funding through the state's Charles Shannon Community Safety Initiative.
MAPC is the fiduciary agent and program manager for these funds, helping communities to
implement multi jurisdictional, multi-disciplinary strategies to combat youth violence, gang
violence and substance abuse. In August 2009, the Metro Mayors Coalition hosted its Second
Annual Shannon Grant Basketball Tournament in Somerville. Participants in the tournament
included law enforcement, prevention partners and youth.
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MAPC continues to perform fiduciary, planning, and project management services for the
Northeast Homeland Security Regional Advisory Council (NERAC), managing $4.65 million in
grant funding for 85 cities and towns north and west of `Boston. In 2009, MAPC took on the role
of fiduciary for all four regional homeland security councils across the Commonwealth,
managing $13.4 million in grant funds and performing grant management, procurement and
financial services for all four, while managing a team of three other regional planning agency
partners who staff and support the Southeast, Central and Western councils. MAPC also
participates in statewide homeland security planning efforts along with participants from several
state agencies and all homeland security regions.
MAPC has expanded its fiscal management role in the public health arena as the "host
agent" for the Region 4A Public Health Coalition, a cooperative of 34 Public Health
Departments ranging from Wilmington to Wrentham between I-95 and I-495. MAPC assists the
coalition in utilizing more than $485,000 for emergency and pandemic preparedness efforts. As
H1N1 "Swine Flu" pandemic concerns spread across the State, MAPC hosted an additional $1.2
million in grant funding to provide vaccine clinics throughout the 4A region.
Preparing for Natural Disasters
After recent storm events - such as the Northeast ice storm in December 2009 and
several heavy rains storms that caused flooding this Summer - residents across the region are
more aware than ever of the severe effects of natural disasters. To help allay these effects,
MAPC completed Natural Hazard Mitigation Plans for 32 cities and towns in 2009, on top of the
41 other plans completed in recent years. Each plan; includes a GIS map series depicting areas
subject to various natural hazards, an inventory of critical facilities and infrastructure, a
vulnerability analysis; and a mitigation strategy with recommended actions to reduce
vulnerability.
In 2010, MAPC will be completing the final set of plans for the region, helping 17 more
communities. MAPC will also begin work this year on updating and renewing the Hazard
Mitigation plans for 19 communities on the North Shore and South. Shore whose original plans
were completed in 2005. FEMA requires that the plans be renewed every five years to reflect
current data and conditions.
In many communities, Brownfield sites such as abandoned industrial facilities hold much
potential for redevelopment and community revitalization if properly cleaned up. MAPC is
working collaboratively with Peabody and Salem using a $1 million EPA Brownfields grant to
assess several Brownfield sites in the two cities. The sites are important for Peabody's plans to
mitigate flooding in the downtown, and also for the expansion of open space, greenways, and
economic development in both cities.
Municipal Savines through Shared Procurement
Some 35 communities are saving up to 20 percent on purchases of office supplies, paving
services, and road maintenance by participating in MAPC's Regional Services Consortiums.
MAPC performed multiple procurements for municipalities in four consortiums in the South
Shore, MetroWest, North Shore, Metro Northwest, and Merrimack Valley regions. Similar
savings were realized by the 300 members of the Greater Boston Police Council (GBPC).
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During 2009, MAPC continued to broaden its array of GBPC-sponsored vehicle contracts
to provide choices, convenience, and quality for public safety departments needing police
cruisers, SUVs, general use vehicles, a range of trucks from light to very heavy duty, and a
selection of hybrid vehicles. Overall, 187 vehicles were purchased totaling more than $12
million in sales.
In 2009, MAPC began its partnership with the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts
(FCAM) to develop a collective procurement service model to address the high cost of fire
apparatus and ambulances. MAPC procurement services will continue to be attractive as local
governments face mounting budget constraints. Making Data Accessible to All Good planning
requires access to good data. MAPC works to collect and analyze regional data and to make this
data available to the public, while helping to increase analytic capacity at the local level. Users
throughout the region and around the world can access information about MAPC communities
through our ever-expanding Web-based mapping site, www.MetroBostonDataComirion.or .
In an effort to develop an even more effective next generation of the DataCommon,
MAPC is working closely with our colleagues in the Open Indicators Consortium (OIC), which
includes data intermediaries from throughout the nation. OIC is working with researchers at
UMass Lowell to develop an "open source" technology to add more powerful analysis tools for
researchers and a more intuitive interface for novice users.
Although users can access the DataCommon for most of their needs, MAPC still
responds to daily data requests from municipalities, organizations, individuals, the media and
state agencies. In 2009, MAPC answered more than 200 on-demand data requests. In July 2009,
MAPC held its biennial "Data, Day" Conference and received an overwhelming response with
more than 350 in-person attendees, and at least 100 participating in a webcast. This Conference,
sponsored by MAPC, Northeastern University and The Boston Foundation's Boston Indicators
Project, helps communities and non-profits to expand their capacity to use technology and data
to advance their goals.
MAPC continues to incorporate cutting-edge planning and technology tools into our
region's planning processes. Using Google SketchUp and Community Viz, MAPC created a 3-D
computer model of Weymouth Landing to enable planning workshop participants to take a
"virtual tour" of the district - as it looks now and as it might look with different types of new
development. The visualization tool helped participants to focus future solutions and supported a
lively discussion about the types of development that should be encouraged. A Digital Media and
Learning grant from the MacArthur Foundation funded the development of the region's first
planning video game.
The Participatory Chinatown Project, a partnership with Emerson College and the Asian
Community Development Corporation, is exploring how a planning video game that utilizes a 3-
D virtual environment can facilitate citizen engagement in a neighborhood master planning
process. The 3-D virtual environment augments the debate about new development, bringing in
additional information, tracking effects of different decisions, and showing the results of those
decisions so participants can experience what the space would look like under varied scenarios.
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MAPC is an official Census affiliate, working with our municipalities and the Donahue
Institute at UMass Boston to prepare for a complete and accurate count during the 2010 Federal
Census, and to . ensure that subsequent annual Census estimates are also accurate. MAPC
provides training and assistance to municipalities and community-based organizations to help
ensure that everyone in our region is counted.
Getting Around the Region
Transportation - and equitable access to reliable transit - is a major focus of MAPC's
work. The agency serves as vice-chair of the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization
(MPO), which establishes transportation funding priorities for the region. We conduct studies
and develop plans to support transportation improvements, and advocate for a well-funded,
accessible transportation system that provides choice and mobility. We also encourage the
coordination of transportation and land use policies at the state, regional and municipal level.
MAPC is working along Route 9 - with Southborough, Framingham, Natick and
Wellesley - to plan for anticipated growth in that area. In Phase 1 of this study, MAPC estimated
the potential retail, office and industrial growth allowed under existing zoning adjacent to the
roadway. This allowed MAPC to estimate likely increases in daily vehicular trips, as well as
morning and evening peaks, for 56 zones in the corridor. In Phase 2, MAPC and the
communities are studying alternative land use patterns to determine. if these changes, along with
mitigation measures such as improved transit, can allow growth without gridlock along Route 9.
Future economic development along parts of the already congested Route 128 corridor could
lead to traffic increases of more than 50 percent on 128 and on local streets. In 2010, MAPC will
complete a corridor plan with Weston, Lincoln, Waltham, Lexington and Burlington calling for
establishment of a multi-modal transportation center along the Fitchburg commuter rail line,
along with other steps to increase bus, pedestrian, and bicyclist opportunities.
. To reduce existing and anticipated congestion and safety problems along Route 495
between Route 290 and the Mass Pike, MAPC and the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning
Commission (CMRPC) worked with area communities and local business groups to look at a
range of roadway, transit and land use options. The report's findings will be the starting point for
a more detailed follow-up study to identify the specific steps to relieve congestion, to improve
safety and to manage land use.
This year, MAPC broke new ground by working with Boston, Brookline, Cambridge and
Somerville to secure a vendor to establish a regional bike sharing network, modeled after a
successful system in Montreal. The system is projected to have several hundred bike-share
stations throughout Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Brookline, and Arlington within the next
several years. The goal of the program is to increase mobility options within the Inner Core and
to replace short automobile trips with biking. MAPC managed the procurement process and is
helping each city establish contracts with the vendor, The Public Bike System Company. Finally,
In 2010 MAPC will work with communities along Route 2 to better coordinate regional transit
service and prepare for the effects of large transportation changes along the corridor in the
coming years.
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Charting a Course to Regional Prosperity
MAPC's economic development work is based on a Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy, updated annually. This report presents current economic trends in a
format useful to public officials and community-based organizations. It is also an important
fundraising tool. In 2009, MAPC leveraged $3.5 million in funding from the U.S. Economic
Development Administration to help fund new research and development space for the
Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems in Cambridge. The Center is dedicated to
serving the research needs of the sustainable energy industry, helping established industry as
well as first time entrepreneurs move clean energy technologies from the laboratory to the
production line. MAPC also collaborated with North Shore InnoVentures, a life science business
incubator, to locate the new Cleantech InnoVenture Center (CIVC) in the heart of Lynn. CIVC
specializes in catering to the needs of clean energy and clean technology businesses that have
already proven the value of their new product and are preparing to manufacture.
MAPC is supporting the innovation economy in Massachusetts by working
collaboratively with business-driven organizations in every part of the region. Job creation
remains the goal. What has changed are the tools we use to create jobs: information technology,
transfer of knowledge, communication systems, and decision support tools that, together, harness
the creative energy of people from different industry sectors, professional backgrounds, and
cultures. MAPC is a regional information hub that catalogs commonly-held barriers to
component parts of the innovation economy and facilitates a unified response on how to best
mitigate these barriers.
From Beacon Hill to Capitol Hill
Making change on Beacon Hill requires dedication to advocacy and coalition-building.
Under the guidance of our Legislative Committee, MAPC works with the Patrick
Administration, legislators, and stakeholders of all stripes to advance legislation and policies
across a diverse set of issues. These issues include budgetary appropriations for programs as
wide-ranging as the Charles Shannon Community Safety Initiative, the. District Local Technical
Assistance Program, and the Census Estimates Program. MAPC advocated successfully for
passage of numerous bills, from legislation enabling cities and towns to locally opt for meals and
hotel taxes, to the recently passed reforms of our transportation system. We continue efforts to
make it easier for cities and towns to regionalize municipal services, to improve and better fund
the successful Community Preservation Act, to create a system to convey and reuse surplus state
land in ways that are consistent with smart growth, and to reform health insurance for municipal
employees.
MAPC is also increasingly active in Washington, working with the Obama
Administration and our Congressional delegation to revamp the way transportation is funded in
America, with an increased emphasis on lowering greenhouse gas emissions through a greater
emphasis on transit. We are collaborating closely with the National Association of Regional
Commissions and other allies to establish the so-called "sustainable and livable communities"
program, which will fund the development and implementation of regional plans like
MetroFuture.
Respectfully submitted,
Amanda Mantone Linehan, Communications Manager
Metropolitan Area Planning Council
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North Suburban Planning Council
Burlington, Lynnfield, North Reading, Reading, Stoneham, Wakefield, Wilmington,
Winchester and Woburn
The North Suburban Planning Council met nine times in 2009. The meetings covered a
wide range of topics and the schedule included two site visits to provide members with an
opportunity to view first hand some exciting projects in member communities.
The year began with a meeting that provided communities an opportunity to provide
input to MAPC on the priority implementation strategies for Metro Future. In. addition,
representatives from the US EPA New England Office attended to discuss the Mystic River
Watershed Initiative.
The February meeting was a discussion of zoning reform and the land use partnership act.
A new topic of interest this year was energy programs and policy. The March meeting
included a presentation on the Green Communities Act and the April meeting included
information about the Energy Efficiency Block Grant program. The April meeting also. included
a discussion of transportation reform and how stimulus money could be used to fund
transportation projects.
The first site visit was held in Winchester in May. The meeting focused on the town's
successful efforts to preserve Wright -Locke Farm, the last remaining historic farm in
Winchester. After meeting at Town Hall for a presentation by a number of Town boards and
organizations, members drove to the farm and toured historic buildings as well as being given an
overview of what parts of the farm would be developed to fund the preservation effort and what
parts would be preserved.
A variety of topics were covered in July including possible enhancements to the NSPC
presence on the MAPC web site, the Unified Planning Work Program and new developments in
the open space planning requirements.
The September meeting was largely devoted to transportation issues including the
Regional Transportation plan and the Transportation Improvement Program.
MAPC President Jay Ash attended the October meeting to meet the NSPC representatives
and to share his vision for MAPC and the subregions. Following that, Sara Cohen of DCR made
a very informative presentation on DCR Low Impact Development demonstration projects.
Following the presentation, the attendees drove to Silver Lake in Wilmington to view the Low
Impact Development work done around the lake to help reduce polluted runoff entering Silver
Lake, reduce beach closures, and increase groundwater recharge. The tour included a look at
rain gardens and other retrofit work done in one of the neighborhoods adjacent to the lake.
The final meeting of the year was held in Winchester and was a forum on the
regionalization efforts MAPC has been involved in through the District Local Technical
Assistance program.
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Community Services Department
MYSTIC VALLEY ELDER SERVICES
This report is a detailed inventory and value of services delivered to Reading's older
residents by Mystic Valley Elder Services during the past year. I believe that this accounting
demonstrates in a concrete way how your local contribution assists us in returning a substantial
amount of direct support to Reading. Without Reading's assistance and that of the other seven
participating cities and towns, Mystic Valley Elder Services would be unable to continue to
provide the level of crucial supportive services currently available.
As you may know, Mystic Valley Elder Services is both the federally designated Area
Agency on Aging as well as the State's designated Aging Service Access Point for the Town of
Reading. We received these designations through an application process approved by the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts' Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
For next Fiscal Year (2011), we are asking that you budget the same amount as this
year's contribution of $5,593. Our goal is to raise the additional money we need to meet the
increasing demand for services directly from private sources. However, your support is crucial to
our ability to provide needed in home and community based services to area residents.
I want to personally thank you for your community's continued support of MVES'
programs and services through good and bad economic times. We will always be here for you
and the residents of Reading who need help at home.
Respectfully submitted,
Daniel J. O'Leary, Executive Director
Mystic Valley Elder Services
Mystic Valley Elder Services, Inc.
19 Riverview Business Park
300 Commercial Street
Maiden, Massachusetts 02148
Title III-B (Social Services) and Title 111-C (Nutrition Services) provided to Reading elders in Fiscal Year
2009.
Title I11-C
Meals
Value of
Served
Services
Nutrition Program
Home Delivered Meals
21,021
$95,829
Congregate Meals
5,117
$32,432
Site Managers (Wages/Benefits).
$10,191
Home Delivered Meals Drivers
$25,325
(Wages/Benefits)
TOTAL TITLE 111-C VALUE
$163,777
Title III-Supportive Services
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Legal Services
Greater Boston Legal Services, Inc.
Total Cases/Consults
Total Reading Residents Served
Budget 10/08-09/09
% in Reading = 6.11%
13.5%
Reading's Cost (Budget x 6.11
Medical Transportation
Total Residents Served
Total Reading Residents Served
Amount Spent on Reading Elders
Services to Blind Elders
Mass. Association for the Blind
Total Residents Served
Total Reading Residents Served
Budget 10/08 - 9/09
% in Reading = 26.67%
3.6%
Reading's Cost (Budget x 26.67%)
Minority Outreach
Greater Boston Chinese Age Center
Total Residents Served
Total Reading Residents Served
Budget 10/08 - 9/09
% in Reading = 0.63%
3.6%
Reading's Cost (Budget x 0.63%)
TITLE III E FAMILY CAREGIVER
PROGRAM
MVES Caregiver Support and
Elder Care Advice
Cost 10/08-09/09
% in Reading
26.53%
Reading's Cost (Budget x 4.44%)
Title III Health Promotions
Title III Health Promotions Funding
Project Safe
Cost 10/08-09/09
% in Reading = 74.91%
19%
Reading's Cost (Budget x 74.91
Clients Total
Served Value
229
14
$51,000
60
2
60
16
$5,000
160
1
$15,000
$169,289
$49,979
132
Value of
Services
$3,118
$1,450
$1,333
$94
$7,524
$37,437
Clients Total Value of
Served Value Services
Friendly Visitor Grants
Awarded to Council on Aging during
FY 2009
Money Management Program
Total Residents Served
Total Reading Residents Served
Budget 10/08 - 9/09
% in Reading 4.17%
20.6%
Reading's Cost
SHINE Program
Total Residents Served
Total Reading Residents Served
Budget 10/08 - 9/09
% in Reading = .6.46%
7.2%
Reading's Cost
96
4
1889
122
TOTAL OF TITLE III AND COMMUNITY PROGRAM
SERVICES PROVIDED TO READING ELDERS
$2,597
$3,239
$2,151
$221,720
STATE HOME CARE PROGRAM $1,317,964
219 Reading residents received home care services for the
year ending June 30, 2009. These services include intake and
referral, case management, chore, transportation, social day
care, adult day health, personal care, home health aides,
laundry, personal emergency response, companionship,
homemaker and.respite care
TOTAL SERVICES PROVIDED TO READING
ELDERS
$1,540,684
TRAILS COMMITTEE
This is a report of the major accomplishments of the Trails Committee for the year 2009.
An Open House for adopters was held at the Senior Center. The Trails Committee
participated in the Friends & Family Day, Earth Day and the Library's Active Ingredient Fair.
The Committee started an Ambassador Program, assigning different areas to Committee
members to better connect with adopters. The Committee completed viewing platform at Bare
Meadow, and installed benches on the accessible trail leading to the viewing platform. This was
made possible by a grant from R.E.I. of $5,000, and a donation from Reading's Understanding
Disabilities of $1,400. The Committee also organized the dedication of the Mattera Area,
continued the eradication of Buckthorn, an invasive plant in various conservation areas.
$77,730
$33,302
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Community Services Department
Members attended D.C.R. Trail Workshops, the Ipswich River clean up. Dave Williams
led a walk of the Sludge Woods Area with,the Reading Open Land Trust. The Committee also
assisted Boy Scouts with various trail and boardwalk projects.
At the end of 2009, the Committee embarked on a very ambitious project of building a
boardwalk in the Bare Meadow Area made possible with a MA Recreation Trails Grant of
$15,600.
Get Up, Get Out, Get Moving!
Respectfully submitted,
Joan A. Hoyt, Chairman
Thomas S. Gardiner, Vice Chairman
WEST STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
The purpose of the West Street Historic Commission is to administer Section 5.18
Historic District Bylaw of the General Bylaws as it pertains to the West Street Historic District.
The District was created to preserve the distinctive characteristics and architecture of the West
Street area. Through its required review of all construction projects in the District, the
Commission seeks to maintain and improve the settings of the buildings within the District, and
to encourage building designs that are compatible with the historic character of the area.
The Commission is currently composed of five voting members and two alternates. The
voting members are Chairman Richard Schubert, Vice Chairman Steve O'Shea, Virginia Adams,
Everett Blodgett and Priscilla Poehler. The alternates are Ilene Bornstein and Sharlene Reynolds
Santo.
In 2009, the Commission received eight homeowner applications and issued five
Certificates of Non-Applicability and three Certificates of Appropriateness.
The Commission thanks our former members for their service: Rick Nazarro,.David Kruh
and especially former Chair Susan Patterson who has graciously made herself available to the
Commission to answer questions and provide guidance while the new Commission members
learn the ropes.
More complete information about the West Street Historic District and the Commission,
including the text of the Historic. District Bylaw and design guidelines for the District, can be
found on the Commission's webpage which is linked to the Town Of Reading's webpage under
Boards and Committees. Homeowners in the District or anyone with questions about the District
or the Commission should feel free to contact the Commission using the following email
wsh@ci.reading.ma.us.
Respectfully submitted,
Jean Delios, Community Services Director/Town Planner
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