Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-11-09 Board of Selectmen PacketPage .l of 4 j"p w N ~r s#r'pg e2, Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner, Peter Sent: .Tuesday, November 02, 2010 9:59 AM To: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Surveyors 93/95 TM report for next meeting Peter 1. Hechenbleikner Town Manager Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading MA 01867 Please note new Town Hall Hours effective June 7, 2010: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m. Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Friday: CLOSED phone: 781-942-9043 fax 781-942-9071, web www.readinyma_gov email Lownrnangg~er d. reading. ma. us Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at http;//read':.ngma- survey v_.irtualtownhall.net/surv y/sid/4a 123638fd4e28b8/ From: Frey, Bob (DOT) [mailto: Bob. Frey@state. ma. us] Sent: Thursday, October 28, 2010 9:58 AM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; Frey, Bob (DOT) Cc: Schubert, Rick; Zambouras, George Subject: RE: Surveyors 93/95 Pete, Rick, George: Quick update on this project: 1) The survey crew should be out there this week (and next if needed) picking up the control points and the wetland flagging in the interchange area. 2) MassDOT's Highway Division has not yet signed a contract with the consultant for the EIS and bulk of design work. They have agreed in principle on the scope, but are expecting some final minor revisions with an updated estimate, then fee negotiation will hopefully be wrapped up in December. Then the contract needs to be reviewed by MassDOT auditors. A notice-to-proceed is still probably months away. The main "problem" here is that existing available funds are still not in place to move this very large and complex contract/project forward at a faster pace. MassDOT is doing what it can through other existing contracts/agreements in the meantime (like wetlands delineation, aerial photography, etc.) 3) Next step is more wetlands delineation beyond the immediate interchange area - which will be all along Route 128 from Woburn to Wakefield. MassDOT will be sending out Right-of-Entry letters probably in early November, and then beginning the wetland flagging along Rt 128 in early December. Note: Hopefully by sometime next week, we will have a new website for this project that has officially moved to the Highway Division. Once that site "goes live," I plan to send out an update notice to all Task Force members and introduce the new project manager (I will still be involved as Planning's representative). 11/2/2010 6 Page 2 of 4 Stay tuned for that update notice, and let me know if you have any other questions. Thanks, Bob Bob Frey I Director of Transportation Analysis I Massachusetts Department of Transportation - Office of Transportation Planning 10 Park Plaza Room 4150 Boston MA 02116 1 phone 617.973.7449 1 email bob.freyOstate.ma.us I web www.mass. gov/massdot From: Hechenbleikner, Peter [mailto: phechenbleikner@ci. reading. ma. us] Sent: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 9:25 AM To: Frey, Bob (DOT) Cc: Schubert, Rick; Zambouras, George Subject: RE: Surveyors Bob I'm looking for a brief update on the 93/95 project. ♦ Can you tell. me what the status of the survey work is? Has a contract been signed with the consultant? What can we expect of next steps? Thanks. I'm looking forward to hearing from you. Peter. L Hechenbleikner Town Manager Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading MA 01867 Please note new Town Hall Hours effective June 7, 2010: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m. Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Friday: CLOSED phone: 781-942-9043 fax 781-942-9071 web www_readin ma.gov email townmanager ci. reading. ma. us Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at http://readingma- survev virtualtownhall net/survey/sid/4al23638fd4e28b8/ From: Frey, Bob (DOT) [mailto: Bob. Frey@state.ma. us] Sent: Tuesday, May 25, 2010 12:50 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; Frey, Bob (DOT) Cc: pelyide@aol.com Subject: RE: Surveyors Hello Peter and Lynda, Yes, the surveyors are out there as part of the preliminary environmental impact work - they are doing field checks of ground control points for detailed base mapping that is being developed (new aerial photos have been taken). Other survey efforts include wetlands delineation (although I don't believe that is occurring adjacent to 143 South Street). These are part of "early action" items that MassDOT is undertaking before a contract is finalized with our 11/2/2010 ~ a~ Page 3 of 4 consultant to perform the majority of the environmental impact and highway design work. The first formal step in this process will be a "scoping session," which will be publicized with an official announcement on www.9395info.com (plus via e-mail), but due to procurement procedures and debriefing of the other consultant teams, none of this will occur until our chosen consultant actually has a signed contract with the State. Members of the Planning Study's Task Force will receive invitations to remain involved throughout the environmental process. All information related to the completed planning study, environmental notification form, and, MEPA certificate is still available at www.9395info.com. I will continue to inform everyone of further significant news or milestones once available. Lynda - If you like, I can place you on the e-mail distribution list for further updates. Nearly three years ago, I remember speaking with your husband about his similar concerns. Simply put, there haven't been any significant developments or progress on this proposed project in the last couple years due to funding and other constraints. If there had been, you would have heard about it from us. Also, if a surveyor needs to access anyone's property directly, the property owner should receive a written letter or notice to that effect (this does not apply to adjacent properties). There is still a VERY LONG time frame for this project (at least seven more years until the start of construction), and still many more opportunities upcoming for public comment, potential design changes or adjustments, right- of-way negotiations with property owners, etc. Please feel free to contact me any time if you have additional questions or concerns. Thanks, Bob Bob Frey I Director of Transportation Analysis I Massachusetts Department of Transportation - Office of Transportation Planning 10 Park Plaza Room 41.50 Boston MA 02116 1 phone 617.973.7449 1 email bob.frev@state.ma.us I web www`mass. ov_massdot From: Hechenbleikner, Peter rma ilto: phechen bleikner@ci. reading. ma. us] Sent: Tuesday, May 25, 2010 10:53 AM To: Frey, Bob (DOT) Cc: pelyide@aol.com Subject: Surveyors Bob Lynda Nicolaides of 143 South Street. called today (she is copied on this email) concerned about surveyors next to her property. I assume that they are there as part of the Environmental Impact work being done for the interchange. Can you confirm that this is the case. Additionally, Lynda is concerned about what this process is, and what the time frame will be. Can you make sure that she is kept in the loop re meetings etc. Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading MA 01867 Please note new Town Hall Hours effective June 7, 2010: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m. Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Friday: CLOSED phone: 781-942-9043 fax 781-942-9071 web www.readingma.gov` email town mana er@ci.readiag.ma.us ~C/ 11/2/2010 8 L GR-Cedar Glen Limited Partnership c/o Equity Residential Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 400 Chicago, Illinois 60606 PRI Cedar Glen, LLC, c/o PRI Realty Investment, LLC Commerce Center 30 Exchange Terrace, 2nd Floor Providence, Rhode Island 02903 October 22, 2010 N G7 By Hand, Receipt Requested o Office of the Chief Counsel ° Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development 100 Cambridge Street c Boston, Massachusetts 02114 . Attention: Preservation Initiative w. Re: Sale of Cedar Glen Apartments, 2 Elderberry Lane, Reading, Massachusetts . (the "Cedar Glen Apartments") Ladies and Gentlemen: We are writing to request a preliminary Certificate of Exemption (the "Certificate") from the Department of Housing and Community Development ("DHCD") confirming that the proposed sale of the Cedar Glen Apartments (the "Sale") from GR-Cedar Glen Limited Partnership (the "Owner") to PRI Cedar Glen, LLC, a Massachusetts limited liability company (the "Buyer") is not subject to provisions of Sections 3 and 4 of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40T (the `Act") and the regulations thereunder at 760 CMR 64.00'et seq. (the "Regulations"), on the basis that the Sale falls into the exemption category listed in Section 6(a)(8) of the Act. Section 6(a)(8) of the Act expressly exempts the Sale from Sections 3 and 4 of the Act if a bona fide proposed sale pursuant to a purchase and sale contract was in effect prior to or on the effective date of the Act. Capitalized terms used and not otherwise defined herein have the meaning given in the Act or the Regulations. I. General Background - Sale The Owner and the Buyer entered into that certain Amended and Restated Real Estate Sale Agreement dated as of September 23, 2009 (as amended, the "Purchase Agreement") pursuant to which the Owner agreed to sell the Cedar Glen Apartments to the Buyer. 5& 13184791.1 9 Office of the Chief Counsel Department of Housing and Community Development October 22, 2010 Page 2 II. Requirements of 760 CMR 64.07(2)(a) (i) state the address of the Publicly Assisted Housing, the total number of units in the development, the total number of existing or previously existing Publicly Assisted Housing units, and the number available to and the number currently occupied by each of Low; Very Low, or Extremely Low Income households: Address: 2 Elderberry Lane, Reading, Massachusetts Total number of units: 114 Total number of existing-Publicly-Assisted Units: 113 Number of Publicly-Assisted Units which are: Available to: . Occupied by: Low 79 8 Very Low 113 34 Extremely Low 113 70 (ii) state the name and address of the Owner, the Third Party, and any Tenant Organization, and the name, address, phone number, and email of the designated contact person for the Owner and the Third Party: Owner: GR-Cedar Glen Limited Partnership; c/o Equity Residential, Two. North Riverside Plaza, Suite 400, Chicago, Illinois 60606 Third Party (Bu ear),: PRI Cedar Glen, LLC, c/o PRI Realty Investment, LLC, Commerce Center, 30 Exchange Terrace, 2nd Floor, Providence, Rhode Island 02903 Tenant .Organization: None Designated contact person for Owner: Matt Wakenight, Equity Residential, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 400, Chicago, Illinois 60606, (312) 282-1002, MWakenight@egrworld.com Designated contact person for Third Party (Buyer): Michael Hennessey, PRI Realty Investment, LLC, Commerce Center, 30 Exchange Terrace, 2nd Floor, Providence, Rhode Island 02903, (401) 225-8187, mhh@provri.net 13184791.1 10 Office of the Chief Counsel Department of Housing and Community Development October 22, 2010 Page 3 (iii) identify all the Affordability Restriction(s) to which the Publicly-Assisted Housing is or has been subject, and the Government Program that is the basis of each Affordability Restriction: . Cedar Glen Apartments contains 114 rental, units and 113 units are eligible to be assisted under a Section 8 Housing Assistance Payment Contract (the "Section 8 Contract") between the Owner and HUD. The Section 8 units are available to be leased to "Eligible Families" and at least 30% of the units are required to be leased to "Very Low Income Families". Currently only 112 units are being assisted under the Section 8 Contract. This is because the remaining Section 8 eligible units are currently occupied by households whose income was at or below 80% of AMI at initial occupancy, but whose income over time exceeded 80% of AMI (and are therefore no longer "low-income households"). (iv) identify and describe the grounds for the requested Preliminary Certificate of Exemption: The Act was effective on November 23, 2009 (the "Effective Date"). The Purchase Agreement was initially entered into by the Owner and the Buyer on May 8, 2009, was amended by a first amendment dated July 23, 2009 and a second amendment dated August 21, 2009, was amended and restated in its entirety on September 23, 2009, and was amended by first amendment dated October 8, 2009, a second amendment dated October 9, 2009, a third amendment dated November 24, 2009, a fourth amendment dated December 29, 2009, a fifth amendment dated February 16, 2010, a sixth amendment dated March 10, 2010, a seventh amendment dated March 19, 2010, an eighth amendment dated May 10, 2010, a ninth amendment.dated June 22, 2010, a tenth amendment dated June 24, 2010, an eleventh amendment dated August 13, 2010, and a twelfth amendment dated September 15, 2010. Accordingly, because the Purchase Agreement was in effect prior to the effective date of the Act, the proposed Sale is exempt under Section 6(a)(viii) of the Act. Since the Sale has not yet been completed, the Owner seeks a preliminary Certificate of Exemption under 760 CMR 64.07(3)(b) at this time. The Owner and the Buyer represent to DHCD that the Purchase Agreement was in full force and effect prior to, and on, the Effective Date and has continued to be in full force and effect as of the date hereof. To evidence the existence of the Purchase Agreement, enclosed please find a copy of the first page and the signature pages to the amended and restated Purchase Agreement dated as of September 23, 2009. To assist DHCD with its determination under Section 6(a)(viii) of the Act and under 760 CMR 64.07(4)(b) that the proposed Sale to the Buyer is "bona fide," enclosed please find a copy of the first page, signature pages, and "Schedule 2" of the tenth amendment to the amended and restated Purchase Agreement, showing the purchase price for Cedar Glen Apartments. III. Additional Information A copy of this letter is being sent simultaneously to the Board of Selectmen, CEDAC, and the applicable designated legal services organization. Please advise if you require proof of delivery. 13184791.1 11 Office of the Chief Counsel' Department of Housing and Community Development October 22, 2010 Page 4 . We would appreciate your prompt response to our request, and thank the department for its generous support for the transaction. Should you have any questions about this request, please call counsel for the Buyer,' Sarah Boehs at 617-345-6035. Thank you. [signatures on next page] l 0A 13184791.1 12 Office of the Chief Counsel Department of Housing and Community Development October, 2010 Page S 2 7 Sincerely yours, OWNER: GR-CEDAR GLEN LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, a Delaware limited partnership By: GPT-Cedar Glen, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, its general partner By: Grove Operating, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership, its managing member By: EQR-New LLC3, a Maryland limited liability company, its general partner By: EQR Holding, LLC2, a Delaware limited liability company, its managing member By: ERP Operating Limited Partnership, an Illinois limited partnership, its managing member By: Equity Residential, a Maryland. real estate investment trust, its general partner • I/-~Z B Y• Name: MATT WA ENIGHT Its: SENIOR VICE PRFWE U 13184791.1 13 Office of the Chief Counsel Department of Housing and Community Development October 2-Y, 2010 Page 6 as THIRD PARTY (BUYER): PRI CEDAR GLEN, LLC, a Massachusetts limited liability company By: PRI Cedar Glen Manager, LLC, a Massachusetts limited liability company, its manager B. N e: `aymon Uritescu Title: Member cc: Board of Selectmen, Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, Massachusetts 01867 Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation, One Center Plaza, Suite 350, Boston, MA 02108, Attn: Roger Herzog, Executive Director David Brown, Merrimack Valley Legal Services, 35 John St., Suite 302, Lowell, MA 01852 (all by Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested, and First Class Mail) 5 a6 13184791.1 14 L / ~C, ) 2010, OCT 3 AN II. 08 October 29, 2010 Selectmen Town of Reading Reading, MA 01867 Dear Board of Selectmen: Have you ever heard the expression "let's not reinvent the wheel?" Unfortunately, -that is exactly what takes place each time a new or existing business owner in our Town of Reading attempts to do business in town. However, it appears a solution is on the horizon. The EDC has volunteered to fill the position of ombudsman to each applicant, guiding them through the process and eliminating the extra footwork due to the_ applicant's lack of experience navigating the permitting process. Imagine trying to build something without a set of directions. An ombudsman liaison would make the process so, much less stressful ...not only for the appli.cant...but also 'easing the burden on the town offices and employees who must repeat the same things daily or attempt to calm an applicant who felt he was not treated fairly due to a lack of guidance. What a wonderful way of saying "Welcome, how may we help you?" Great customer service and, after all, isn't that what everyone wants? Please clear the way for the EDC, allowing them to make our community a better place to live, work and play in. Thank you for your time, Bobbie Botticelli 15 L/ G Mary Ann Quinn 42 Benton Circle QCT2 I1~ ®g Reading, MA 0186 October 28, 2010 Board of Selectmen Town of Reading Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 Dear Selectmen: Making Reading Better is writing to endorse the Economic Development Committee's (EDC) plan to assign a liaison to support every existing or future business in Reading. Section 5-3 of the Town Charter calls for appointment of an Ombudsman to serve as a day-to-day contact with residents and businesses to help them easily and efficiently navigate the complexity of working with Town government. The EDC Plan takes a significant and positive step beyond the Charter mandate. A formal EDC liaison program will provide continuity between businesses and various boards, committees and commissions which interpret and enforce diverse state and town laws impacting business success. This liaison role can streamline interactions by connecting processes and rulings of Town boards, committees and commissions which currently operate largely independently. The EDC liaison can help identify conflicts between interpretations and directions provided by various town entities and help ensure consistent application of state and town policy to all businesses. Improving Customer Service in Town, especially for complex, mulit-step processes, has been a major area of concern to Making Reading Better. MRB views the EDC liaison role as a major step toward making Reading stand out among peer communities as a business friendly town. MRB commends the EDC for their efforts to give Reading a competitive edge. as businesses are considering where to grow and expand their operations. Sincerely, Mary Ann Quinn On Behalf of the Participants in Making Reading Better cc: Mr. Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager Ms. Jean Delios, Town Planner Economic Development Committee 5 16 L/C October 28, 2010 Board of Selectmen Town of Reading Town Hall 16 Lowell Street Reading, MA 01867 Dear Selectmen: 2010.OCT 32 AM I I : 08 Making Reading Better is writing to endorse the Economic Development Committee's (EDC) plan to assign a liaison to support every existing or future business in Reading. Section 5-3 of the Town Charter calls for appointment of an Ombudsman to serve as a day-to-day contact with residents and businesses to help them easily and efficiently navigate the complexity of working with Town government. The EDC Plan takes a significant and positive step beyond the Charter mandate. A formal EDC liaison program will provide continuity between businesses and various boards, committees and commissions which interpret and enforce diverse state and town laws impacting business success. This liaison role can streamline interactions by connecting processes and rulings of Town boards, committees and commissions which currently operate largely independently. The EDC liaison can help identify conflicts between interpretations and directions provided by various town entities and help ensure consistent application of state and town policy to all businesses. Improving Customer Service in Town, especially for complex, mulit-step processes, has been a major area of concern to Making Reading Better. MRB views the EDC liaison role as a major step toward making Reading stand out among peer communities as a business friendly.town. MRB commends the EDC for their efforts to give Reading a competitive edge as businesses are considering where to grow and expand their operations. Sincerely, • c: Mr.. Pe echenbleikner, Town Manager Ms. Jean Delios, Town Planner Economic Development Committee 6~. 17 G /C GEORGE V. HINES ❑ 35 GRAND STREET ❑ READING, MA 01867 Mr. James Bonazoli, Chairman Reading Board of Selectmen Reading Town Hall 16 Lowell St. Reading, MA 01867 October 26, 2010 Dear Mr. Bonazoli, I am writing to notify the Board of Selectmen of my resignation as the Board's representative to the Reading Ice Arena Authority (RIAA) effective November 4, 2010. I have been serving the Board in that capacity since the inception of the project. It has been my distinct honor and privilege to serve the Town of Reading in many capacities including as the RIAA representative. I want to thank the Selectman for that opportunity and hope that the Board will continue support of RIAA. as the successful managers of the Burbank Ice Arena since Mr. Burbank's generous donation to the community. My only regret is not being able to complete the term for which you have appointed me but my wife and I are preparing to commence a new chapter in our lives in another community. I leave with one small word of advice and that is to honor the past for that is what has made Reading the great place it is today. Sincerely, George V. Hines 0 n 0 r 18 Page I .of 3 qc--, 3bS Schena, Paula From: Hechenbleikner; Peter Sent: Tuesday, November 02, 2010 1:34 PM To: Reading - Selectmen Cc: Schena, Paula Subject: FW: Telemarketing Fundraiser - All-Pro Productions I/c Board of Selectmen Peter I. Hechenbleikner Town Manager Town of Reading 16 Lowell Street Reading MA 01867 Please note new Town Hall Hours effective June 7, 2010: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 7:30 a.m - 5:30 p.m. Tuesday: 7:30.a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Friday: CLOSED phone: 781-942-9043 fax 781-942-9071 web www.readingma.goy email townmanager@ci.reading.ma.us Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at http1/readiincima- survgy._virtualtownhall.net/suivey/sid/4a l23638fd4e28b8/ From: Stamatis, Dave Sent: Tuesday, November 02, 2010 12:09 PM To: Hechenbleikner, Peter Subject: Telemarketing Fundraiser - All-Pro Productions Peter, I wanted to send out this information as a courtesy to you in the event any inquiries regarding this fundraiser are brought to your attention: THE* READING SUPERIOR OFFICERS ASSOCIATION SHALL COMMENCE A TELEMARKETING FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN ON OCTOBER 30, 2010. THIS EVENT WILL LOOK TO RAISE MONIES FOR VARIOUS CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH OUT THE TOWN OF READING AND FOR THE BETTERMENT OF THE SUPERIOR OFFICERS ASSOCIATION. THERE WILL BE A COMEDY SHOW TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 11, 2011 AT 7:30PM AT THE HILLVIEW COUNTRY CLUB IN NORTH READING, MA. THERE WILL BE A PERCENTAGE OF THIS FUNDRAISER THAT MUST BE PAID TO ALL PRO PRODUCTIONS FOR THEIR SERVICES AS THEY ARE A FOR PROFIT SOLICITATION COMPANY, HOWEVER, THEIR EFFORTS ALLOW THIS UNION TO PROVIDE FUNDING AND DONATIONS TO OTHER CHARITIES AND NEEDY ORGANIZATIONS IN READING THAT OTHERWISE WOULD BE TURNED DOWN BY THIS ASSOCIATION DUE TO LACK OF FUNDING. 1.) POINT OF CONTACTS - DO NOT CALL ALL PRO PERSONNEL DIRECTLY - PLEASE USE: LT. DAVID STAMATIS (SECRETARYITREASURER) - Cell Phone: 781.706.0145 - SGT. MARK O'BRIEN (PRESIDENT) - Cell Phone: (978) 771.5448 11/2/2010 19 Page 2 of 3 - . SGT. DET. MARK SEGALLA (VICE PRESIDENT) - Cell Phone (781) 858.6338 ALL PRO PRODUCTION PERSONNEL: - MAURICE RONDEAU (THROUGH LT. STAMATIS, SGT. O'BRIEN, SGT. DET. SEGALLA) - COMPLAINTS MANAGER TO ADDRESS ALL ISSUE OF MAJOR CONCERN AND COMPLAINTS. (508) 486.0008 EXT. 22 - JOHN DUMAS (THROUGH LT. STAMATIS, SGT. O'BRIEN, SGT. DET. SEGALLA) - COMPLAINTS/BUSINESS MANAGER TO ADDRESS ALL ISSUE OF MAJOR CONCERN AND COMPLAINTS. (508) 486.0008 EXT. 10. - PETER CARR - TELEMARKETING MANAGER (781) 942.0073. - MR. CARR HAS BEEN INSTRUCTED BY ME THAT HE OR ANY OF HIS REPRESENTATIVES ARE NEVER TO IDENTIFY THEMSELVES AS MEMBERS OF THE READING POLICE DEPARTMENT, OR TO EVEN REMOTELY IMPLY TO A POTENTIAL DONOR THAT THEY ARE SPEAKING WITH A POLICE OFFICER ON THE OTHER END OF THE TELEPHONE. 2.) RESIDENTS LOOKING TO VERIFY ANY DETAILS SURROUNDING THE LEGITIMACY OF THIS FUNDRAISING EVENT SHOULD BE DIRECTED.TO THE UNION REPRESENTATIVES LISTED ABOVE. 3.)- IN THE UNLIKELY EVENT THAT A COMPLAINT COMES INTO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT OR ANY TOWN OFFICE, INDICATING THAT THERE ARE HIGH PRESSURE TACTICS OR FALSE REPRESENTATIONS ON BEHALF OF THE SOLICITORS, LOG THE COMPLAINT AND INSTRUCT THEM TO IMMEDIATELY CALL ONE OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT CONTACTS LISTED ABOVE. THIS TYPE OF ACTION WILL NOT BE TOLERATED AND SHALL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY AND DIRECTLY. 4.) ALL CALLS TO RESIDENTS IN THE TOWN OF READING WILL BE MADE MONDAYS THROUGH THURSDAYS BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 9AM AND 8PM. THERE WILL BE NO CALLS ON THE WEEKENDS AUTHORIZED WITHOUT APPROVAL. WE EXPECT THIS SOLICITATION TO BE COMPLETED IN MID-DECEMBER. 5.) IT WAS NECESSARY TO RELAY THIS INFORMATION THROUGH THIS COMMUNICATION MEDIUM SO TO DIRECTLY AND IN A TIMELY MANNER ADVISE YOU OF THIS FUNDRAISER ONCE THE DETAILS WERE FINALIZED.. ANY FURTHER CORRESPONDENCE WITH THIS EVENT AS IT RELATES TO THE READING SUPERIOR OFFICER'S ASSOCIATION THAT IS NOT DIRECTLY RELATED TO OFFICIAL POLICE BUSINESS WILL BE HANDLED THROUGH PERSONAL E-MAIL ACCOUNTS AND NON-DEPARTMENT METHODS OF COMMUNICATION. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. FYI - Last year we ran this fundraiser with no complaints registered to the police department, hopefully All-Pro Productions can make it two years in a row with out a single complaint, which is the goal! Sincerely, Dave Lieutenant David M. Stamatis Day Patrol Division Commander Reading Police Department Reading, MA 01867 s (781) 942-6763 t 11/2/2010 20 Page 3 of 3 When writing or responding, please remember that -the Secretary of State's Office has determined that email is a public record. This communication may contain privileged or other confidential information, .lf you are not the intended recipient, or believe that you have received this communication in error, please do not print, copy, retransmit, disseminate, or otherwise use the information. Also, please indicate to the sender that you have received this email in error, and delete the copy you received.. 11/2/2010 21 Agenda Economic Development Summit November 9, 2010 - 7:00 PM - Reading Senior Center 1. Introduction - Ben Tafoya - Board of Selectmen 2. Goals Peter Hechenbleikner * Master Plan • Selectmen's/Town Manager's Goals • Town Values o Other 3. Status - Jean Delios • Initiatives ➢ Permitting Software ➢ Passport Booklet ➢ A Frame'Signs/Sign By-Law Amendments ➢ Non-Conforming Signs - Sign Enforcement ➢ Wayfinding ➢ Public/Private Partnerships (tree boosters; adopt-an-island...) • New Businesses • Projects in the Queue ➢ Former Atlantic Site 30 Haven Street ➢ Former Tambone Site - 80-100 Main Street ➢ Former Frame'Shop - Main Street ➢ MF Charles Building ➢ 18-20 Woburn Street ➢ Venetian Moon - Roof Deck 4. Trends - Meghan Young-Tafoya, EDC • Proliferation. of New Restaurants • SWOT (Strengths; Weaknesses; Opportunities; Threats) Analysis. • Outdoor Dining • Downtown Nodes Emphasized through Wayfinding 5. Next Steps - James Bonazoli Reading Massachusetts A Community Oj Excellence d Town ® eading Missi®n The Town of Reading strives for excellence in.all its services - from education to government - and seeks to. enhance and enrich the social, intellectual, and leisure life of the community. Municipal Government In support of the Town of Reading Mission, Reading Municipal Government will. help residents identify with their community by supporting volunteerism and civic engagement, ® create opportunities for public discourse about community issues and encourage citizen participation in planning and decision-making • commit itself to community-responsive services that incorporate best practices and a strong orientation to customer service • support open and transparent government with convenient avenues for communication and access • enhance the integrity and livability of its many fine neighborhoods by supporting community initiatives for preservation and improvements • uphold the character of Reading by actively encouraging efforts to document and preserve the history of the community, its historic buildings and areas, and prized open spaces. • embrace diversity by striving to provide varied housing choices and diversifying the municipal workforce by. recruiting, hiring, and promoting persons of all backgrounds and races • enhance the social, civic, and intellectual life of residents by offering a broad range of services and programs Values The municipal government of the Town of Reading will be guided by the following values: Integrity and Transparency • Reading municipal government and its employees and officials will be guided by the highest standards of ethics and integrity. • Municipal business will be conducted in an .open. manner with opportunities for public discussion and input into decisions. . • The community will be kept informed with open communication. • All official business will be' conducted in a civil, professional, and mutually respectful manner. Excellence • Excellence will be the standard for all municipal services, with continuous review and evaluation of best practices, incorporating new methods and technologies, striving for efficiency and cost effectiveness. • Reading municipal government will make decisions based on careful planning consistent with town-wide goals. Diversity ® Municipal government will encourage diversity and respect for differences in the conduct of its business and in recruiting and hiring personnel and in providing enrichment opportunities for the community. Community The following are values that the community holds in high regards: • Social, Environmental, and Financial 8ustainability • Tolerance, Civility and Cultural Diversity Volunteerism and Civic Engagement Historic Preservation and Open Space • Recreational, Cultural, and Educational Opportunities (9 2010 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan Town of Reading MA Finance Reading will continue to evaluate revenue sources, cost reduction, regionalization of services, and level of services with the goal of maintaining long term fiscal stability of the community while. providing a level of service that the community can sustain. 1. Complete labor negotiations for 2011 within the resources of the Town and its ability to sustain those labor agreements over time. 2. Limit reliance on non-recurring revenue including reserves. 3. Apply for stimulus funds and other outside resources to support operating and capital or other one time expenses. Services - Reading will continue to provide municipal services in as cost effective, efficient, and customer service:. friendly manner as possible. Where reasonable a self service element to Town services will be available for those who choose to use it. 4. Establish a universal customer service policy for use in all departments; train employees on . the customer service, policy; continue to measure customer satisfaction; identify and recommend changes to regulations that do not meet customer service goals, or that will'make them easier for customers to understand and use. 5. Implement a tracking and management system for Community Services permits and licenses 6. Establish a "customer, servuce request" module on the web site. 7. Review and improve the Town web site, including providing for customer. interaction wifh the Town electronically. Operations - Reading. will continue to provide as full a range of municipal services as'.resources allow. 8. Implement the elimination of snow plowing of church parking lots effective with the winter of 2010/2011, and communicate that direction to all of the effected organizations. 9. Complete each spring/summer a thorough review of sidewalk snow plowing for the previous winter, in accordance- with the Board of Selectmen policy on this process. 10. Continue to work on the priority items from the DPW Management study 11. Add additional ML NIs modules. 12. Expand the Records Management efforts including beginning to provide records as appropriate to the public via the web site. 13. Plan for the renewed bidding of rubbish collection and disposal and recycling contracts, enhancing Reading's recycling participation and taking advantage of opportunities to cooperate with other regional partners; and evaluating the use of l~'J improved technology to provide enhanced service and encouragement to improve recycling among our residents and within Town government including the School Department. Health and Safety - Reading will continue to focus on strong public health and safety services with a goal of making the community one of the healthiest and safest communities in suburban Boston. 14. Complete Continuity of Operations (COOPs) planning for all Town, School, and Light Department functions 15. Complete evaluation of regionalization of Public Safety.Dispatch. 16. Continue to work with the School Department on health and safety issues. 17. Focus public health, School, Substance Abuse, and other resources on a Healthy Community model with an initial focus on obesity prevention as one of the major health crises facing our country: Find ways to encourage. walking, cycling, and other activities. These efforts may involve:~any departments, with efforts led by the Health Division. Community Development / Sustainabilty>. _ . Reading has worked to maintain the character of the,,, community, while making planned and deliberate improvements to the Town. Major efforts have been led by the Board of Selectmen, the CPDC, the Economic Development Committee, and the Advisory Committee on Cities for Climate-Protection. The World Caf6 held in 2008 helped ;irift tM the abov&,:;bodies of public opinion on the future of Reading. The list below is intended to address major high priority action items for 2010 to implemert this vision. . 18. Continue progress ..towards .meeting the required 10% of housing units as affordable. This goal may be met through development of the Addison Wesley Pearson site, development of the Oaktree and/or Mawn projects downtown, additional units at Peter Sanborn Place, and additional units in downtown as feasible. 19. Work :towards the';' beginning of construction of major private downtown development projects'- Oaktree, Mawn, Lynch, and other opportunities. 20. CompleteSouth Main Street design guidelines and proposed amendments to zoning to acli eve those design guidelines. 21. Complete the'' design of "Way-finding" system for Downtown, and begin implementation as opportunities and resources allow. 22. Implement high priority parking recommendations for downtown: a. Expand Employee Parking; b. improve parking directional signs; c. sharing of private parking spaces;. d. valet parking; e. expand parking supply; f. bike racks; and bike routes throughout town g. bus shelters 23. Evaluate the acceptance of the Green Communities program in Reading. 24. Continue to work with Town, School, Facilities, and Light Departments to meet Sustainability goals for CO reduction, anti-idling, etc.. Asset Management - Reading will strive to maintain and improve the current and desired capital assets of the community through long term capital planning in a fiscally prudent manner. Where resources for major projects are not available within available resources, and grants and outside resources are also not available, the community may be-asked to support such improvements through additional taxes. 25. Complete Performance Contracting by the end of 2010; Work with the School and Facilities Departments to secure additional funding to expand performance contracting efforts, perhaps for things like windows. 26. Implement the ad hoc Municipal Building Committee, and as part of that process address the priorities and programming for, improvement to: a. Cemetery Garage b. Library . c. DPW vehicle maintenance d. Improvements to operation; safety/security, and aesthetics of DPW site e. Determine need for and disposition of Oakland Road property 27. Complete the Mattera cabin renovations and implement programs of use 28. Begin Memorial Park construction in.2010. 29. Complete Washington' Park and Kllam playground. construction by September 2010. 30. Complete .a Master Plan for Joshua Eaton site by summer 2010. 31. Secure the services of a Landscape architect for Birch Meadow site. 32. Continue efforts to add to the Town's trail system, including progress to implementing the Ipswich River Greenway; 33. Continue to work towards Rending for the West Street project., Governance, Regulation, and Policy Development - Reading will continue to address major emerging issues through bylaws, regulations, and Selectmen's policies. As a general rule, the fewer and simpler the regulations the better. Additionally, Selectmen's policies may be used to memorialize current and proposed administrative practices to provide an historical record and direction for the community in the future. 34. Develop a scope for review and revision of the Zoning Bylaw. 35. Complete the proposed revisions to the Sign By-law for action by 2010 Annual Town Meeting. 36. Complete the revisions to Article 6.3 of zoning on non conforming uses for action by 2010 Annual Town Meeting.. 37. Review the need for Junk regulations (primarily. precious metals) and determine the best way to implement regulations. 9 38. Review the need for Earth removal regulations and determine the best way to implement regulations. 39. Establish a common policy with the School Department on naming of facilities and sites in the community. 40. Establish a communications policy for the town working off the elements of a past Department. head retreat on communications. Specifically include in the policy and subsequent training, policies on the use of social media as part of the Town's efforts to communicate with its residents and others. 41. Conduct a complete review and re-write of the Traffic Rules and Regulations. 42. Complete with the Bylaw Committee, Town Clerk, and Town Counsel a full review of the general bylaws (required every 10 years by Charter) 4.3. Review LIP regulations and recommend amendments to the Board of Selectmen Human Resources/Personnel - The human capital of the community is the major resource that is necessary to achieve the provision of services to* the community. This human capital includes employees, officials, members of .Boards, Committees and Commissions;`'' and the human capital of the community as a whole. Human capital is to`--be: supported and respected by the Town. 44. Complete the negotiation of 6 labor contracts for FY 2011. 45. Evaluate the newly implemented Health Insurance program for active and retired employees, and determine what if any changes are required. 46. Evaluate the provision of a Disability Insurance program for active employees and the parameters of any such program. 47. Continue B/C/C ChairNice Chair training. 48. Implement' training on Ethics and Open,.Meeting law as required by the recent changes in law. { 0 Master Plan Advisory Committee 2005 Master Plan- CHAPTER 6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1 / 1 /2006 Page 58 of 199 The following Economic Development Plan incorporates the result of this workshop. Potential Locations for further economic development are discussed in Appendix A and shown in Map 10. FINDING Because of Reading's predominantly residential nature, its property tax base is heavily reliant on the value of residents' homes, which represent just over 93% of the town's total property .valuation. In Reading, the increases in valuation were particularly large in the late 1980s, and in the last few years. While Reading's shift from CIP to residential valuation is comparable to that experienced by most communities in the region, the relatively small base of business properties leaves the town well below the statewide average CIP share of 19%. 6.3 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES Downtown Revitalization Reading's Downtown enjoys.a low vacancy rate, significant public and private investment and a fairly diverse mix of commercial uses. However, the lack of parking is the major impediment to retail or mixed-use development. Also, mixed-use is currently prohibited by zoning by-law in the commercial areas. Improving the Downtown can be achieved primarily through good urban design. This includes improved streetscape; enhanced and enforced parking, more pleasing building facades, easier and safer pedestrian street crossing, and attraction of first rate restaurants and vibrant niche retailers. Goal 1 Improve Downtown Objectives: A. To enhance the economic development of Downtown, the CPDC will develop the appropriate mixed-use zoning changes and present them to Town Meeting for approval. B. Complete the planed streetscape modifications developed over the last 8 years and which is currently on the MassHighway Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) for fiscal year 2006 funding. This will provide additional parking, easier crossing of Main Street to improve access to the east side shops, provide improved traffic circulation for the Haven Street - Gould Street areas and generally beautify the Main Street area from the Common to Washington Street. 0 Master Plan Advisory Committee (/1/2006 2005 Master Plan- CHAPTER 6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Page 59 of 199 C. Investigate multi-level structured parking facilities in the parking area behind CVS, perhaps in conjunction with medical, commercial and/or residential facilities. Other areas for potential open or structured parking should also be investigated for a multi-leveled . structure, with some consideration for pedestrian, bicycle or alternative transportation. D.. Encourage specific beautification projects such as fagade improvement, window flower boxes, artwork on graffiti-prone walls and alleys, and shrubs and plantings for screening where needed. These to be accomplished by shop owners, landlords, church groups, service clubs, youth groups, and other volunteer organizations with assistance from the Town where appropriate. E. Apply for grants from all appropriate State and Federal programs to extend the streetscape program to the Haven Street/High Street/Depot areas. Economic Development The only organizations in Reading focusing specifically on economic development are the Downtown Steering Committee (DSC) and the Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce (R/NRCC). These are non-governmental volunteer groups. The DSC was formed to work with the streetscape architects performing under a State grant to study improvements to the downtown. (See Goal I above). The creation of an.official Town entity, such as a Development and Industrial Commission, formed under Chapter 40, Section 8A, would give the Town more clout in obtaining State and Federal grants for not only downtown improvements but Town -wide re-development of the commercial and industrial zoned areas. Goal 2 Establish an Economic Development Commission. Objectives: A. Study the various options available and recommend to the Board of Selectmen the type of official commission or standing committee to best meet the development'needs of the Town and to bring additional clout to-bear on obtaining State and Federal developmental grants. B. Explore the need for and legality of forming a "property based" and/or "business based" Business Improvement District(s) funded by assessments on all businesses within the individual district(s). C. To the extent feasible, encourage commercial development and office leases of downtown space nondisrupting to the traditional atmosphere of a New. England Village Center. D. Review options to funding economic development activities in cooperation with other civic organizations. 1~ Master Plan Advisory Committee 2005 Master Plan- CHAPTER 6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1 /l /2006 Page 60 of 199 Streetscape Improvements Main Street in the southern part of Reading has been characterized by a varied commercial mix, lack of investment, business turnover, and unappealing aesthetics. South Main Street is a major element of the commercial corridor in Reading and a gateway to the downtown and central core of the community. It represents an opportunity for future economic development. Goal 3 Improve South Main Street Streetscape. Objectives: A. Examine properties with regard to re-zoning with particular attention to reducing the current front setback requirements and expanding the use of PUD (B) overlay districts. B. The Town will pursue all possible state and Federal grants to hire consultants (landscape architects and traffic engineers) to generate a detailed streetscape beautification plan for the area from Washington Street south to 10511 A similar to the plan recently completed for the downtown. C. Present the plan to the public, and encourage the businesses and residents of the South Main Street area to make fagade and parking lot improvements consistent with the plan. D. Obtain state and Federal funding to implement the plan. Neighborhood Scale There is interest in encouraging small commercial nodes in neighborhoods. Such nodes should, however, be considered so as to not disrupt the neighborhoods or detract from the central downtown vitality. Some improvement in the appearance of South. Main Street Commercial ;areas has happened recently as a result of some attention by the Board of Selectmen but'the whole area needs a cohesive beautification plan, Goal 4 Recognize small commercial nodes in neighborhoods. Objectives: A. The CPDC to identify and recommend zoning changes to recognize existing non- conforming commercial nodes. t~ Master Plan Advisory Committee 2005 Master Plan- CHAPTER 6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT l / 1 /2006 Page 61 of 199 Commercial Development The commercial / industrial development potential is in a state of flux at present due to a planned MassHighway reconfiguration of the 195-193 cloverleaf intersection. The detailed plans are not yet firm and face an extensive public review and hearing process. When the ramifications of the new intersection are known, the zoning along 195/128 should be reviewed to maximize the development potential. Goal 5 Explore Zoning Chanim to enhance Development along 195/128. Objectives: A. During the new I95/193 intersection design, hearing, and approval process, the CPDC and, if formed in time, the Economic Development- Commission should give input and make suggestions to maximize the development potential. B. After the intersection is finalized, the CPDC should review and change the zoning as necessary to maximize the development potential to the Town. (2 Master Plan Advisory Committee l/l/2006 2005 Master Plan- CHAPTER 6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Page 62 of 199 CHAPTER 6 APPENDIX ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Potential Locations for Economic Development. Downtown retail core (#1 on map) o Would like it to extend (flow) all the way to Washington Street o Want businesses that attract pedestrians. Have stores up to the sidewalk line. o Maybe it should extend all the way south to Summer Street - this may not be realistic. o Parking garage has been mentioned for lot behind the CVS. o Could extend downtown to area around the depot - integrate lower Haven Street with Main Street. Needs better pedestrian access to make attractive for walking. Perhaps more parking behind Atlantic Market and make Haven a pedestrian way? o Current zoning precludes. o Gould Street has nice houses and a couple of businesses. Could be made attractive with streetscape improvements. South Main Street (#2 on map) o Parking in front of stores looks bad. Need greenery in front. Blend parking or put it behind buildings - probably need to change the zoning. o Preserve and enhance residential mixed in. Keep density about as it is. There are some existing apartment buildings. Mixed use in same building may work also. o Needs visual "edges" - e.g. greenery in front instead of cement from street to building. o Utilities need to be buried. o Traffic volume and. street design are inhospitable to pedestrians - there is no place to cross Main Street. There is not enough right-of-way to install median with turn lane. o. Car-dependent businesses there. Need traffic calming, maybe a light. South of South Street (along 128) (#3 on map) o Long-term potential to redevelop large areas along 128 from 28 to I-93 interchange. o Depending on the outcome of the I-93/95 studies, this area may become less desirable for residential use and may have more potential for economic development o Need to take care not to put all eggs in one basket, though, because area is so large, Town's fortunes would rise and fall in tandem if any single business/industry took it all over. o Would want to integrate it with the rest of the Town. o Also, in the long-term it would be useful to discuss with Woburn the landlocked area west of 93 and north of 128. Investigate some kind of swap with Woburn land farther north on 93 on the east side that can only be accessed through Reading. ■ Walkers Brook Crossing (old landfill) - The retail portion in the back is going ahead (Jordan's, Home Depot). The portion along the street is a mixed retail development. (44 on map) a3 Master Plan Advisory Committee 2005 Master Plan- CHAPTER 6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1/1/2006 Page-63 of 199 ■ General Way (former Frugal Fannie's) - Approved for mixed retail and a grocery store. Implementation TBA. (#5 on map) ■ DPW area - More intense development of some type. (#5 on map) ■ Strip mall (REI, Dunkin Donuts) - Good highway access. Self-help organization recently vacated? (#7 on map) ■ Home Goods strip mall - Should have a plan for-this area in case Home Goods leaves. Is a major auto-oriented node for the north of Town. Should have conven.ience store/local services. Suggested in previous workshop to link this area to High/Middle school area with walking path: (#8 on map) (N Master Plan Advisory Committee 1/1/2006 2005 Master Plan- CHAPTER 6 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Page 64 of 199 Map 10 EO-418 Economic Development Opportunities Map ED-416-MAP 5: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES R EAD I N.Ca . vRNNww,e• Q nvvvcr.v v,rcw wwrvw evRiev Rn.o.vicw...+c I . ~r 3 4 RM nwn..wx. /V (d/ nnNnR., F 1 ~f Btwcwrw J V Cn44cviw (HI Tv •44 ' ! 1«iaaN~rex«i Rrae.uw ~ Lana. /L ! Cwru cw R RiRw x ~ }i 2t* ¢ 4 off: 0 C=* t= Economic Development Summit Introduction Ben Tafoya, f Selectman Town W Raading - 1110/10 1 ~N :011 ® y Economic Development Summit Updates Jean Delios, Community Services Director/Town Planner lie o~,1 Town of Rndlq -11/8/10 3 Cam. Economic Development Summit L&P Needs Assessment- Inventory - 20 meetings with staff to identify needs - 115 unique forms - 11,000 individual forms issued annually - 6,000 inspections annually - Different Uses of Forms Some forms are stand-alone Some forms are complex & involve many Town departments Townof ..ftg-11/0110 5 e ~EJconomic Development Summit Goals Peter Hechenbleikner, Town Manager • Master Plan • Selectman's/Town Manager's Goals Town Values • Other Town of Rending -11/6/10 2 C= Economic Development Summit License & Permit System Needs Assessment i , t Town al Raading - 1119/10 4 Economic Development Summit L&P - Findings - UP system - Primary Users Building Health Engineering Town Clerk Town Manager Fire Conservation Planning - Forms Only Recreation; Assessors; Treasurer/Collector; Human Resources; Police/Dispatch T- of Raading -11/9/10 6 1 Economic Development Summit UP Recommendations . - Careful planning with new system initiatives including Master Address Database; Mass Communications; Assessors CAMA - Integration as needed with existing systems including GIS, MUNIS, Document Storage - Forms consolidation - Automated checklists - Flexible Electronic approval/notification - Eventual online interaction with customers Town of Reeding -11010 7 Recent New Businesses Sam's Bistro -107 Main St. Elite Free Style Karate -1349 Main St. Reading House of Pizza -1321 Main St. Encore Consignments -151 Ash St. O'Yes - 26 Walkers Brook Dr. Grumpy Doyle's - 530 Main St. Sammy Jo's Italian Bakery - 2 Haven St. Town d Reading -1119110 0 =0- Economic Development Summit Trends Meghan Tafoya Young, Chair, Economic Development Committee • New Restaurants • Outdoor Dining • Wayfinding as a Tool for Downtown • SWOT Analysis -Break Into Groups Town of Reading -11/9110 11 Initiatives • Passport Booklet • A Frame Sign Regulations • Sign By-Law Revisions • Enforcement of Sign By-Law • Educating about Sign By-Law (handouts) • Wayfnding • Public/Private Partnerships Town of Reading-1119110 0 PENDING • 30 Haven Street -SPR Granted 9/13/10 • 80-100 Main Street - SPR Granted 9/13/10 • 287 Main Street - SPR Granted 10/09; Conservation Approved Last Spring; Tank Removal Completed; Construction to Follow • 18-20 Woburn Street - SPR Extended, 2011 OTHER - MF Charles Building Venetian Moon Expansion Town of Rooding -1119110 10 ®6101"D SS E/Jconomic Development Summit Next Steps James Bonazoli, Chair, Board of Selectmen Town of Roeding -1119110 12 17 2