HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-08-12 Board of Selectmen HandoutDRAFT MOTIONS
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
AUGUST 12, 2014
Arena, West, Ensmineer, Halsey, Sexton LeLacheur
5b) Move that the Board of Selectmen close the hearing for a second
driveway at 420 Franklin Street.
Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the request for a second
driveway with a reduced separation at 420 Franklin Street.
6a) Move that the Board of Selectmen approve the minutes of July 29, 2014
as amended.
8a) Move to go into Executive Session to consider the purchase, exchange,
lease or value of real property, and that the chair declares that an open
meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the
body and not to reconvene in Open Session.
JA MW DE JH KS
orR4O'N..
READING POLICE DEPARTMENT
V •I
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF
4�'tMCax!oP:
15 Union Street, Reading. Massachusetts 01867
Janise W. Cormier Emergency Only: 911 All Other Calla: 781- 944 -1212 Fax: 781.944 -2893
Chief of Po&', E.Mail: JCormier @ci.roading.ma.us
PRESS RELEASE: ALCOHOL COMPLIANCE UPDATE
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF POLICE
Released on 817114
Reading, MA - Since 2008, there has been a multi- faceted effort spearheaded by Police, Town
and School Leaders working with the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse to improve
local liquor policy, responsible beverage service education, training, and alcohol enforcement.
These efforts range from specific compliance checks based on a variety of local information (such
as the anonymous Text -A -Tip program, keyword READINGPD sent to 847411) to community
wide compliance checks, and have led to improvements in our local compliance rate. The
average compliance rate from 2008 -2014 is 93% (pass) and 7% (fail).
On Tuesday August 5, 2014, the Reading Police Department Detective Unit conducted
community wide alcohol compliance checks at the licensed package stores, restaurants and clubs
in Reading. This operation involved underage operatives attempting to purchase alcohol at
twenty-four businesses. During this operation, 23 local establishments passed the compliance
check and the Reading Overseas Veterans Club was closed at the time of the operation. Overall,
there were no violations found with zero sales to a minor. The establishments that were 100%
compliant were:
American Legion Post 62
Bangkok Spice Thai Restaurant
Bertucci's Italian Restaurant
Busa's Reading Liquors
Cafe Capri
Chili's Grill & Bar
Fuddruckers
Grumpy Doyle's
Knights of Columbus
Liquor Junction
Longhorn Steak House
Mandarin Reading Restaurant
Meadow Brook Golf Club
Ricky's Liquors
Oye's Restaurant
Pamplemousse
Portland Pie Company
Ristorante Pavarotti
Romano's Macaroni Grill
Sam's Bistro
Square Liquors
The Wine Shop
Venetian Moon Restaurant
Communities like Reading that have reduced the availability of alcohol to underage drinkers have
experienced fewer crashes and fewer crimes. According to the Reading Youth Risk Behavior Survey
results, the rate of underage drinking declined from 48% in 2007 to 41% in 2013. Preventing underage
drinking in Reading is everyone's responsibility!
The Reading Police Department will continue to monitor local liquor establishments throughout the year
and into the future.
Funding provided by: 2014 Underage Alcohol Enforcement Grant Program Executive Office of Public
Safety and Security (EOPSS)
May 61h, 2014
Charles Robinson
Elaine Webb
Chris Caruso
Hal Croft
Jeanne Borawksi
Linda Snow Dockser
Dear Members of the School Committee:
Let us begin by thanking your for your service to our town. As residents since 1991,
we know that without volunteers like you, our town would not remain such a
sought -after community that offered opportunities for all children and families.
We have watched and listened to the ongoing debate regarding the school space
issues. As the parents of a child who is now in a wonderful college due in part to the
education he received while a student here (as well as being a student
representative to the School Committee with some of you during the 2010 -2011
school year), as well as the parents of a child who we felt needed to be removed
from the district due to the town not providing her an education that fit her
disabilities (as is her legal right), we feel that we have a strong grasp of the town's
education system and its strengths and weaknesses.
That being said, we feel we need to add our voice to the ongoing debate that has
stirred up emotions on all sides.
First of all, we think that full -day kindergarten is a great goal to have for our town.
I'm sure you know that in the past, until 2012, the town held a lottery for those
parents who wanted their child to attend full -day kindergarten. This was always a
sought -after "extra" for parents who had children of that age.
In the same vein, having your child's ability to enter the RISE preschool as a peer
role model was a wonderful opportunity for those who were lucky enough to be
able to do so. As mandated by special education laws, there was always at least 50%
of the population acting as peer models (but only 50 %), and the competition to get
in was tough! It was a wonderful opportunity for those whose children were
allowed in. It was also free, which for most of us with young children at the time,
was a welcome relief.
So what has changed since then? First, it appears that someone decided that our
town no longer needed to hold a lottery for full -day kindergarten slots. We
remember this as being confusing at the time, since we knew that there was always
debate about having regular classrooms for both art and music, and that had been a
bone of contention when the decision was made to build the Wood End School.
(3�
This decision, looking back, led us to where we are today. When was that decision
made? It had to have been after 2011, but looking back at the School Committee
minutes during that time do not seem to have an indication of when and how that
came about. Who made that decision? Was the School Committee consulted on
such a monumental policy decision that would have an enormous impact on the
total education system in our town? It seems that such a huge shift in policy could
only create space issues in the future, and any decision like that should have gone
through a thorough analysis, much like the analysis concerning building a new early
childhood center. If this wasn't done, why not?
The RISE preschool population explosion occurred in the same way. Who made the
decision to increase the population of peer models to a level that is not mandated?
How was that decision made, and was the School Committee included in this
decision? This seems to be a policy issue that falls under the committee's
responsibility.
So as a school system, a decision was made to let anyone who wanted have their
child attend full -day kindergarten, seemingly without concern to our schools' space
issues. At about the same time, a decision was made to open up the RISE Preschool
to children over and above the amount mandated by law. And now we don't have
enough space in our schools and there is a perceived need to build a new early
childhood center? And even more importantly, we are not out of compliance with
special education laws?
Those laws have not changed. The town has not been cited for this in the past.
This was not the result of a change in special education grouping levels. This is the
result of not having enough space because the total enrollment has been allowed to
increase. Remember, we are out of compliance in special education groupings, but
some people's main concern seems to be on adding classes that are not mandated
for kindergarten and preschool.
Of course, as a district we have added several new special education substantially
separate programs, but those programs take up a fraction of the total classrooms
needed because of early childhood policy changes, which are not mandated.
The total number of full -day kindergarten classrooms has gone from 5 to 12 (policy
decision - voluntary), RISE preschool classrooms increased from 4 to 7 due to
voluntary policy changes (although the need for special education programming
was stated as a reason, the numbers show that using June 1St enrollment numbers,
peer models constitute almost 73% of the RISE population! Once you add in the 25
students on the waiting list, the percent of peer models rises to over 78 %.) SpEd
law mandates 50% peer models. We do not need to go above that number. The
numbers show that the special education population at RISE in declining, not rising.
9
In contrast, our special education classrooms increased by a total of 5. So the one
educational mandate was not followed, but the decision was made to increase other
classrooms. This makes absolutely no sense.
This problem was created. It was the result of making sweeping changes to policies
without looking ahead.
As we stated in the beginning of this letter, we agree that at some point the Town of
Reading does need to address full -day kindergarten. It's the way things have been
heading for some time. However, we cannot allow this to happen while at the same
time we are not providing services to children that are mandated by law.
I know that some of you are worried about how our town looks because we do not
currently offer full -day kindergarten free of charge to all our residents. We are not
the only ones that are in this same position. Lynnfield, Wellesley, Andover, and
Hamilton, all towns with wonderful school systems, are struggling with this same
issue.
What we should be focusing on at this time, however, is fixing our existing problems.
We need to make our education settings accessible to all. We need to follow the
laws concerning special education in spacing issues and other areas. We need to
address the issues concerning common core changes.
Do we need full -day kindergarten for all? Yes, but now is not the time.
So what do we do? We loved Linda Snow Docker's comment at Town Meeting. Is
there a way to cut back on the amount of classrooms allocated to full -day
kindergarten for the upcoming school year? The same could be asked about peer
models and the number of classrooms needed for the RISE program.
While not having an early childhood center is not ideal in many eyes, it is necessary
to make changes based on priority. We believe being out of compliance with special
education laws trumps all else at this time.
Please accept this letter with our true intent. We care about this town, we care
about its students, we care about all the families who are affected by so many
administrative changes in such a short time. We hope you see that we care enough
to tell you when we feel enough is enough.
Thanks for your time reading this letter. We truly hope that you will be able to see
where we are coming from. We are thankful for your commitment to all students in
the Town of Reading.
Sincerely,
Lori and Chris Conway 6)
LEGAL NOTICE
O� OFg�O
c
Y
f b
PQ sS911NC0 Rp0��o
TOWN OF READING
To the Inhabitants of the
Town of Reading:
Please take notice that the
Board of Selectmen of the
Town of Reading will hold a
public hearing on August 12,
2014 at 7:30 p.m. in the
Selectmen's Meeting Room, 16
Lowell Street, Reading,..
Massachusetts Pn a request
from the property owner for a
second driveway at 420
Franklin Street.
A copy of the proposed•doc-
ument regarding this topic is
available in the Town
Manager's office, 16 Lowell
Street, Reading, MA, M -W-
T.hurs from 7:30 a.m. - 5:30
p.m., Tues from 7:30 a.m. -
7:00 p.m. and is attached to the
hearing notice on the website at
www.readingma.gov
. All *Interested parties are
Invited to attend the hearing, or
may submit their comments In
writing or by. email prior to 6:00
p.m. on August 12, 2014 to
townmanager @ci.reading.ma.0
S
By order of .
Robert W.LeLacheur
Town Manager
6/5
SL
Memo
TO: Robert W. LeLacheur, Jr., Town Manager
Frorm George J. Zambouras, Town Engineer
M Board of Selectman
Date: August 6, 2014
Re: 420 Franklin Street — Second Driveway Request
In review of the request by Mr. and Mrs. D'Ambrosio for relief from the Town's
driveway regulations to allow the installation of a second driveway with less than
adequate separation distance, the Engineering Division offers the following
comments:
• The proposed driveway would be installed with a driveway separation
distance of approximately 70 feet which is less than the 125 foot driveway
separation requirement.
• Due to the location of the existing dwelling and its position on the parcel the
expansion of the existing driveway to afford access to the proposed garage is
not possible.
• The location of the proposed second driveway has adequate sight distances
and will not cause vehicular safety issues.
• As the historic use of this area was a driveway to service an old bam, I
recommend the second driveway with a reduced separation be permitted.
• Page 1
2014 Special Town Meeting
Monday September 29, 2014
WARRANT OUTLINE REVISED 08/09/2014
Art. Mover/ Moderator
# Article Description Sponsor Comment Notes
1 Reports Board of Selectmen ♦ Update on Permanent Building
Committee — Stephen Crook,
Bylaw Committee Chair
♦ Zoning Advisory Committee —
Chair Marsie West
♦ Motion to Table — John Arena
2 Instructions Board of Selectmen ♦ Motion to Table — Dan
Ensmin er
3 Amend the Capital Board of Selectmen ♦ Motion — John Halsey
Improvement Program FY ♦ Presentation —Bob LeLacheur
2015 - FY 2024 ♦ FINCOM report —
4 Dispose of Surplus Tangible Board of Selectmen
Properties
5 1 Rescind Debt Authorization I Board of Selectmen
♦ Motion — Kevin Sexton
♦ Presentation — Bob LeLacheur
♦ FINCOM report —
♦ Motion — Marsie West
♦ Presentation — Bob LeLacheur
♦ FINCOM report —
6 Transferring previous Debt Board of Selectmen ♦ Motion — John Arena
Authorization in the amount ♦ Presentation — Bob LeLacheur
of $94,685 to the West Street ♦ FINCOM report —
Droiect
7 Debt authorization for $2.5 Board of Selectmen
million Water Main
8 1Amend the FY 2015 Budget IFINCOM
9 1 Zoning Bylaws —Section 1 JCPDC
8/9/2014
1
♦ Motion — Dan Ensminger
♦ Presentation — Bob LeLacheur
♦ FINCOM report —
♦ Motion — Mark Dockser
♦ Presentation — Bob LeLacheur
♦ FINCOM report — Mark
Dockser
♦ Motion -
♦ Presentation —
♦ Bvlaw Committee
001
2014 Special Town Meeting
Monday September 29, 2014
WARRANT OUTLINE REVISED 08/09/2014
8/9/2014
001
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, ss. Officer's Return, Reading:
By virtue of this Warrant, I, on , 2014 notified and warned the inhabitants of the
Town of Reading, qualified to vote on Town affairs, to meet at the place and at the time
specified by posting attested copies of this Town Meeting Warrant in the following public places
within the Town of Reading:
Precinct 1 J. Warren Killam School, 333 Charles Street
Precinct 2 Reading Police Station, 15 Union Street
Precinct 3 Reading Municipal Light Department, 230 Ash Street
Precinct 4 Joshua Eaton School, 365 Summer Avenue
Precinct 5 Reading Library, Local History Room, 64 Middlesex Avenue
Precinct 6 Barrows School, 16 Edgemont Avenue
Precinct 7 Birch Meadow School, 27 Arthur B Lord Drive
Precinct 8 Wood End School, 85 Sunset Rock Lane
Town Hall, 16 Lowell Street
The date of posting being not less than fourteen (14) days prior to September 29, 2014, the date
set for Town Meeting in this Warrant.
I also caused a posting of this Warrant to be published on the Town of Reading website on
, 2014.
, Constable
A true copy Attest:
Laura Gemme, Town Clerk
IN
TOWN WARRANT
0� OFJ?
N �
a b
f�
�O'639�INC00.4�P4�C
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Middlesex, ss.
To any of the Constables of the Town of Reading, Greetings:
In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are hereby required to notify and
warn the inhabitants of the Town of Reading, qualified to vote in elections and Town affairs, to
meet at the Reading Memorial High School Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, in said
Reading, on Monday, September 29, 2014, at seven -thirty o'clock in the evening, at which time
and place the following articles are to be acted upon and determined exclusively by Town
Meeting Members in accordance with the provisions of the Reading Home Rule Charter.
ARTICLE 1 To hear and act on the reports of the Board of Selectmen, Town
Accountant, Treasurer - Collector, Board of Assessors, Director of Public Works, Town Clerk,
Tree Warden, Board of Health, School Committee, Contributory Retirement Board, Library
Trustees, Municipal Light Board, Finance Committee, Cemetery Trustees, Community Planning
& Development Commission, Town Manager and any other Official, Board or Special
Committee.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 2 To choose all other necessary Town Officers and Special Committees
and determine what instructions shall be given Town Officers and Special Committees, and to
see what sum the Town will vote to appropriate by borrowing or transfer from available funds, or
otherwise, for the purpose of funding Town Officers and Special Committees to carry out the
instructions given to them, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 3 To see if the Town will vote to amend the FY2015 - FY24 Capital
Improvements Program as provided for in Section 7 -7 of the Reading Home Rule Charter and
as previously amended, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to sell, or
exchange, or dispose of, upon such terms and conditions as they may determine, various items
of Town tangible property, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
6
ARTICLE 5 To see if the Town will vote to rescind the remaining balances on the
following authorized but unsold debt that is no longer needed for the completion of the projects:
♦ $326,722 for Green School Repairs — November 8, 2010 Subsequent Town Meeting
Article 9;
♦ $110,607 for Green School Repairs —April 25, 2011 Annual Town Meeting Article 16;
Or take any other action with respect thereto
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 6 To see if the Town will vote to appropriate the sum of $94,684 for the
purpose of funding any associated costs with the West Street road construction project, and that
to meet this appropriation:
♦ 65.71 shall be transferred from the unexpended proceeds of the town's bonds dated
mm /dd /yy which were issued for the construction of the Barrows pursuant to the vote of
the town passed mm /dd /yy (Article x);
♦ $47,193.63 be transferred from the unexpended proceeds of the town's bonds dated
mm /dd /yy which were issued for the Green Repairs projects pursuant to the vote of the
town passed mm /dd /yy (Article xx);
♦ $7,728.07 be transferred from the unexpended proceeds of the town's bonds dated
mm /dd /yy which were issued for the purpose of Downtown Improvements pursuant to
the vote of the town passed mm /dd /yy (Article xxx); and
♦ $39,697.59 be transferred from the unexpended proceeds of the town's bonds dated
mm /dd /yy which were issued for the purpose of Technology Improvements pursuant to
the vote of the town passed mm /dd /yy (Article xxx);
and that the Board of Selectmen is authorized to take any other action necessary to carry out
this project; provided, however that no expenditures shall be made hereunder until the Board of
Selectmen determines (which determination shall be conclusive) that after the transfer of such
unexpended bond proceeds, the remaining amount of unexpended bond proceeds from all of
the above referenced bonds is sufficient to complete the project for which the bonds were sold,
or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 7 To see what sum the Town will raise by borrowing or transfer from
available funds, or otherwise, and appropriate for the purpose of making water main
improvements, including the costs of easements, consulting services, audits, plans, documents,
cost estimates, bidding services and all related expenses incidental thereto and necessary in
connection therewith, said sum to be expended by and under the direction of the Town
Manager; and to see if the Town will authorize the Board of Selectmen, Town Manager, or any
other agency of the Town, to apply for a grant or grants, to be used to defray the cost of all, or
any part of, said water main improvements; and to authorize the Town Manager to enter into
any and all contracts and agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this
Article, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Board of Selectmen
ARTICLE 8 To see if the Town will vote to amend one or more of the votes taken
under Article 14 of the Warrant of the Annual Town Meeting of April 28, 2014; and to see what
sum the Town will vote to appropriate by borrowing or transfer from available funds, or
otherwise, as the result of any such amended votes for the operation of the Town and its
government, or take any other action with respect thereto.
Finance Committee
ARTICLE 9 To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 1 (Authority and Purpose)
of the Town of Reading Zoning By -Laws as follows: (note — cross - through represents language
to be eliminated and bold represents new language):
AAA text
or to take any other action with respect thereto.
Community Planning and Development Committee
ARTICLE 10 To see if the Town will vote to amend Section 3 (Establishments of
Districts) of the Town of Reading Zoning By -Laws as follows: (note — cross - through represents
language to be eliminated and bold represents new language):
BBB text
or to take any other action with respect thereto.
Community Planning and Development Committee
ARTICLE 11 To see if the Town will vote to delete Section 4.5 (Wetlands Protection
District) of the Town of Reading Zoning By -Laws as follows: (note — cross - through represents
language to be eliminated and bold represents new language):
DDD text
or to take any other action with respect thereto.
Community Planning and Development Committee
ARTICLE 12 To see if the Town will vote to delete Section 4.6 (Mixed Use Overlay
District) of the Town of Reading Zoning By -Laws as follows: (note — cross - through represents
language to be eliminated and bold represents new language):
EEE text
or to take any other action with respect thereto.
Community Planning and Development Committee
ARTICLE 13 To see if the Town will vote to amend Section FFF (Medical Marijuana
District) of the Town of Reading Zoning By -Laws as follows: (note — cross - through represents
language to be eliminated and bold represents new language):
FFF text
or to take any other action with respect thereto.
Community Planning and Development Committee
9
ARTICLE 14 Reserved for Summer Avenue action (if any)
Board of Selectmen
and you are directed to serve this Warrant by posting an attested copy thereof in at least one (1)
public place in each precinct of the Town not less than fourteen (14) days prior to September
29, 2014, or providing in a manner such as electronic submission, holding for pickup or mailing,
an attested copy of said Warrant to each Town Meeting Member.
Hereof fail not and make due return of this Warrant with your doings thereon to the Town
Clerk at or before the time appointed for said meeting.
Given under our hands this -`h day of 2014.
, Constable
John Arena, Chairman
Marsie K. West, Vice Chairman
Daniel Ensminger, Secretary
John Halsey
Kevin Sexton
SELECTMEN OF READING
e)
�s Sc S
Zoning Bylaw Update
— Section 1
Existing
Proposed
1.0
PURPOSE
1.0 AUTHORITY AND PURPOSE
1.1 The purposes of this Zoning Bylaw include,
1.1This Bylaw shall be known and may be cited as
but are not limited to, the following:
the "Zoning Bylaw of the Town of Reading,
a
To promote the health, safety and general welfare of
Massachusetts," hereafter referred to as "Bylaw."
the inhabitants of the Town of Reading;
b
To lessen congestion in the streets;
1.2 The Zoning Bylaw is adopted pursuant to the
c
To conserve health;
authority granted by Chapter 40A of the General
d
To secure safety from fire, flood panic, congestion and
Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
other dangers;
(M.G.L.) as amended, hereafter called "The Zoning
e
To provide adequate light and air;
Act. „ Where the Zoning Act is amended from time
f
To prevent over - crowding of land;
g
To avoid undue concentration of population;
to time after the effective date of this Bylaw and
h
To encourage housing for persons of all income levels;
where such amendments are mandatory, such
i
To facilitate the adequate provisions of transportation,
amendments shall supersede any conflicting
water, water supply, drainage, sewerage, schools,
regulations of the Bylaw which are based on the
parks, open space and other public requirements;
Zoning Act in existence at the effective date of the
j
To conserve the value of land and buildings, including
Bylaw.
the conservation of natural resources and the
prevention of blight and pollution of the environment;
1.3 The purposes of this Zoning Bylaw include, but
k
To encourage the most appropriate use of land
are not limited to, the following:
throughout the Town of Reading, including
consideration of the recommendations of
comprehensive plans adopted by Town Meeting; and
a. To promote the public health, safety, general
To preserve natural conditions and historic sites and to
welfare, and convenience, of the inhabitants of the
enhance beauty and amenities.
Town of Reading;
b. To secure safety from fire, flood, panic, congestion
and other dangers;
c. To conserve the value of land and buildings,
including the conservation of natural resources and
the prevention of blight and pollution of the
environment;
d. To encourage compatible development and
appropriate use of the land and resources
throughout the Town of Reading, including
consideration of comprehensive plans adopted by
the Town of Reading;
e. To encourage an orderly expansion of the tax base
by utilization, development, and redevelopment of
land:
f. To encourage housing for persons of varying
income levels and individual needs;
g. To facilitate the adequate provisions of
transportation, water, water supply, drainage,
sewerage, schools, parks, open space and other
public infrastructure;
h. To preserve natural conditions and historic sites and
to enhance beauty and amenities;
i. To establish a fair and reasonable set of standards
for evaluating each development proposal
impartially;
j. To provide adequate light and air; and
k. To provide the Town with the full protection
�s Sc S
authorized by Massachusetts General Laws
Chapter 40A as may be amended.
Sc �
v
Zoning Bylaw Update — Section 3
Existing
Proposed
ESTABLISHMENT OF DISTRICTS
ESTABLISHMENT OF DISTRICTS
3.1 Districts
3.1 Districts
Type
Full Name
Short Name
Type
Full Name
Short Name
Residence
Single Family 15 Distrid
S-15
Residence
Single Family 15 District
S -15
Residence
Single Family 20 District
5-20
Residence
Single Family 20 District
S -20
Residence
Single Family 40 District
S-40
Residence
Single Family 40 District
S-40
Residence
Apartment 40 District
A -40
Residence
Apartment 40 District
A-40
Residence
Apartment 80 District
A -80
Residence
Apartment 80 District
A -80
Business
Business A District
Bus A
Business
Business A District
Bus A
Business
Business B District
Bus B
Business
Business B District
Bus B
Business
Business C District
Bus C
Business
Business C District
Bus C
Industrial
Industrial
Ind
Industrial
Industrial
Ind
Overlay
Flood Plain District
F
Overlay
Flood Plain District
F
Overlay
Wetlands Protection District
W
Overlay
Municipal Building Reuse District
MR
Overlay
Municipal Building Reuse District
MR
Overlay
Aquifer Protection District
AO
Overlay
National Flood Insurance
NF
Overlay
Planned Unit Development
PUD
Flood Management District
Overlay
Planned Residential Development
PRD
Overlay
Aquifer Protection District
AO
Overlay
Gateway Smart Growth District
GSGD
Overlay
Planned Unit Development
PUD
Overlay
Downtown Smart Growth District
DSGD
Overlay
Planned Residential Development
PRO
3.2 Intent of Districts
3.2 Zoning Map
Districts are shown, defined and bounded on the map dated April 8, 2013 entitled "Reading
3.2.1 The Single Family 15, Single Family 20 and Single Family 40 Districts are established to
Zoning Map ", as amended, consisting of an index map and 61
detailed maps, prepared and
set aside areas of the Town for single -family residences.
For new residential development,
signed approved by the Community Planning and Development Commission, which constitutes a
the SF -15 district has
a minimum lot size of 15,000 square feet; the SF -20 district has a
part of these Zoning Bylaw.
minimum lot size of 20,000 square feet; and the SF-40
district has a minimum lot size of
40,000 square feet.
The "Reading Zoning Map" map shall be kept on file and current by the Town Engineer who shall
v
supply copies to the Town Clerk, the Town Planner, the Building Inspector, the Board of Appeals
and the CPDC. The "Flood Insurance Rate Map, Town of Reading, Massachusetts Middlesex
County" consisting of 7 panels, dated June 4, 2012 and They are to be appended to the "Reading
Zoning Map" as Exhibits 1, 2, 3 and 4 the maps entitled "Flood Insurance Rate Map, Town of
Reading, Massachusetts Middlesex County" with an effective date of July 2, 1981 consisting of
Parnel 1 of 4, Panel 2 of 4, Panel 3 of 4 and Panel 4 of 4; and Exhibit 5 the map entitled "Aquifer
Protection Overlay District Map, Town of Reading" dated September, 1985 consisting of 1 panel
are incorporated into and made a part of the "Reading Zoning Map
3.3 Boundaries of Districts
3.3.1 Boundaries of zoning districts shall y. Interpreted as follows:
3.11.1 Where a boundary is indicated within a street or rafted right of way, the boundary
shall be the center line of such street or right of way.
Where a boundary is Indicated approximately parallel to a street or railroad right of
way, together with a single noted dimension, it shall be interpreted as parallel and
located the noted distance from the center line of such street or right of way.
Where a boundary is Indicated together with two or more dimensions, it shall be
Interpreted consistent with such dimensions.
Where an un- dimensioned boundary apparently follows property lines to existence at
the time of the establishment of such boundary, it shall be so interpreted.
All other boundaries shall be indicated upon the map.
3.3.1.2 Where a boundary of an Overlay District is indicated as a contour, the boundary shall
be the noted contour based on the mean sea level lines, the end of drainage structures
or other features, or extensions thereof, it shalt be so interpreted.
Where a boundary Is Indicated as approximately parallel to a street tine or bank of a
water body or watercourse, together with a single noted dimension, it shalt be
interpreted as parallel and located the noted distance from such street line or the
elevation, at the bank of a water body, where vegetation changes from predominately
terrestrial to aquatic, and along the bank of a watercourse where the annual high water
has left a definite mark In the channel.
3.41.ots In Two Districts
3.4.1 Where a district boundary tine divides a lot as existing at the time this Bylaw takes effect, and
the major portion of said lot is in the less restricted district, the regulations relating to said less
restricted district may extend to such portion of said lot as is not more than thirty (30) feet
The Apartment 40 District is established to set aside areas of the Town for single -family
residences, two -family dwellings, and multi- family dwellings. The A-40 District has a
minimum lot size of 40,000 square feet.
12.3 The Apartment 80 District is established to set aside areas of the Town for single -family
residences, two -family dwellings, and multi -family dwellings. The A-80 District has a
minimum lot size of 80,000 square feet.
3.2.4 The Business A District is established to set aside areas of the Town bordering
transportation corridors for business and commercial uses and suitable residential
development.
32.5 The Business C District is established to set aside areas of the Town adjacent to Town
borders and heavily traveled public ways for business, commercial, and Industrial uses.
3.2.8 The industrial District is established to set aside areas of the Town for utility services,
business, commercial, wholesale and industrial uses.
3.2.7 The Town has established overlay districts in certain areas of the Town that may specify
alternate use and/or dimensional regulations. See Sections _____, for the intent of these
districts.
3.3 Zoning Map
Districts are shown, defined and bounded on the map dated April 8, 2013 entitled "Reading
Zoning Map ", as amended, consisting of an index map and 81 detailed maps, prepared, signed
and approved by the Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC), which
constitutes a part of these Zoning Bylaw.
The "Reading Zoning Map" map shall be kept on file and current by the Town Engineer who shall
supply copies to the Town Clerk, the Town Planner, the Building Inspector, the Board of Appeals
and the CPDC. The "Flood Insurance Rate Map, Town of Reading, Massachusetts Middlesex
County consisting of 7 panels, dated June 4, 2012 and they are to be appended to the "Reading
Zoning Map" as Exhibits 1, 2, 3 and 4 the maps entitled "Flood Insurance Rate Map, Town of
Reading, Massachusetts Middlesex County with an effective date of July 2, 1981 consisting of
Panel 1 of 4, Panel 2 of 4, Panel 3 of 4 and Panel 4 of 4; and Exhibit 5 the map entitled "Aquifer
Protection Overlay District Map, Town of Reading" dated September, 1985 consisting of 1 panel
are incorporated Into and made a part of the "Reading Zoning Map"
3.4 Boundaries of Districts
Boundaries of zoning districts shall be interpreted as follows:
3.4.1 Where a boundary is indicated within a street or railroad right of way, the boundary shall
more
3.511ritent of Districts
3.5.1 Res*rved
3.5.2 Reserved
3.5.3 Reserved
3.5.4 Reserved
3.5.5 Reserved
3.5.5 'Reserved
3.51 Reserved
3.5.8 Reserved
3.5.9 Reserved
any
3.6 in addition to the purposes enumerated in Section 1.0, the purpose of the Floodpiain District Is to
provide that land in the Town of Reading subject to seasonal or periodic flooding shall not be
used for residence or other purposes in such a manner as to endanger the health or safety of the
occupants thereof.
3.6.1
a To provide that lams in the Town of Reading subject to seasonal or periodic flooding shall
not be used for residence or other purposes in a manner as to endanger the health or safety
of the occupants thereof, or the public generally or to burden the public with costs resulting
from the unwise individual choices of land use;
b To protect, preserve and maintain the water table and water recharge areas within the
Town so as to preserve present and potential water supplies for the public health and safety
of the Town and the Metropolitan Area,, and
c To assure the continuation of the natural flow pattern of the water courses within Reading
and to preserve natural float water storage areas so as to protect persons and property
against the hazards of flood inundation.
3.6.2 in addition to the purposes enumerated in Section 1.0, the purpose of the Municipal Building
Reuse District is to provide for the conversion of surplus municipal buildings and the land on
which they are situated to private use, in a manner which encourages residential development
�1
3.4.2 Where a boundary is indicated approximately parallel to a street or railroad right of way,
together with a single noted dimension, it shall be interpreted as parallel and located the
noted distance from the center line of such street or right of way.
3.4.3 Where a boundary is Indicated as approximately parallel to a street line or bank of a water
body or watercourse, together with a single noted distension, it shall be interpreted as
parallel and located the noted distance from such street line or the elevation, at the bank
of a water body, where vegetation changes from predominately terrestrial to aquatic, and
along the bank of a watercourse where the annual high water has left a definite mark in
the channel.
3.4.4 Where a boundary is indicated together with two or more dimensions, it shall be
Interpreted consistent with such dimensions.
3.4.5 Where an un- dimensioned boundary apparently follows property lines in existence at the
time of the establishment of such boundary, it shall be so Interpreted.
3.4.5 Where a boundary of an Overlay District is indicated as a contour, the boundary shall be
the noted contour based on the mean sea level lines, the end of drainage structures or
other features, or extensions thereof, it shall be so interpreted.
3,41 Ail other boundaries shall be as indicated upon the map.
3.5 Lots In Two Districts
3.5.1 If a lot is located in two zoning districts and more than fifty percent (50%) of the lot is located
In the less restrictive of the two districts, as defined by the Table of Dimensional Controls in
Section 5 (see graphic), the parcel owner may apply the dimensional requirements of the less
restrictive zoning district for up to thirty feet (39) within the more restrictive district. This
provision shall not apply to any lot used for multi-family housing.
For example, a lot with sixty percent (60 %) of the lot area located in Business A and 40% in
S-15, the applicant may extend the Business A regulations (less restrictive) up to thirty feet
(30) into the 5-15 district.
� �
0
Reading Bylaws — Finance Committee — Proposed Amendment
3.3.2 Finance Committee
3.3.2.1 Duties
The Finance Committee shall consider all matters of business included within the Articles of any warrant
which involve the expenditure, appropriation and raising or borrowing of money.
Additionally, the Finance Committee has the authority to investigate the books, accounts ,records and
management of any official town body or department for any reason as outlined in 3.3.2.3.
3.3.2.2 Recommendation to Town Meeting
The Finance Committee shall make a written recommendation on all Articles that it has considered, and
the Town Clerk shall make said written recommendations available to each Town Meeting Member at
least seven (7) days prior to the first business session of the Annual Town Meeting, seven (7) days prior
to the second Monday in November and four (4) days prior to any Special Town Meeting. The said
recommendations should be those of a majority of the entire Committee but recommendations may
also be made by a minority of said Committee. The Committee's report shall also state the total amount
of appropriations recommended by it on the entire warrant.
3.3.2.3 Investigation
The Finance Committee, or its duly authorized agents, shall have authority at any time, and upon the
petition of one hundred (100) inhabitants of the Town or a vote of Town Meeting, to investigate at once
the books, accounts, records and management of any official body, and to employ such expert and
other assistance as it may deem advisable for that purpose; and the books, records and accounts of any
department and office of the Town shall be open to the inspection of the Committee and any person
employed by it for that purpose. The Committee shall have no power to incur any expenses payable
by the Town without authority for such expenses having first been obtained from the Moderator, and
such expenses shall be paid from the Finance Committee Reserve Fund.
The Finance Committee shall make a report on every investigation setting forth its findings and
recommendations, and shall transmit such report(s) to Town Meeting and to the Board of Selectmen.
3.3.2.4 Cannot Hold another Office
Any member of the Finance Committee, who shall be appointed or elected to any official body, shall
forthwith upon his qualification in such office, cease to be a member of the Finance Committee. This
provision shall not apply to the appointment of a Finance Committee member to serve as a member of
any ad hoc board, commission or committee in the Town of Reading or to any board, commission or
committee upon which a member of the Finance.
0
O� OF f?
Office of the Town Manager
16 Lowell Street
6�9'fNCORP�pP Reading, MA 01867
To: Board of Selectmen
From: Bob Lel-acheur
Date: August 9, 2014
RE: Remote Participation Policy
781 - 942 -9043
townmanager @ci.reading.ma.us
www.readingma.gov /town - manager
Insert bold language below in Selectmen's Polices section 2.1 as item # 9.
9. All appointed and elected Boards, Committees and Commissions (hereinafter
`public body') are hereby authorized to conduct Remote Participation subject to the
requirements of The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law, G.L. c30A, §20(d), 940 CMR
29.10, and the Additional Regulations listed below.
h. sor -.Rd expiFes Gn Perembe! 39 201-4 if wed reAme.eei
Additional Regulations
(1) Remote participation is limited to members of a public body and is not available to
the general public;
(2) A member of a public body requesting remote participation must notify the Chair
or acting Chair in writing and in advance of the meeting, stating the reasons why;
(3) The person chairing the meeting may permit remote participation if he or she
determines that one or more of the following factors makes it unreasonably
difficult for the member requesting remote participation to physically attend the
meeting.
a. Personal illness;
b. Personal disability;
c. Emergency;
d. Military service; or
e. Geographic distance.
(4) Remote participation is allowed as audio only. The remote audio must be clearly
heard in the public meeting space to all participants;
(5) The Chair or acting Chair shall announce the presence of any remote participants
at the start of the meeting;
(6) If technical difficulties arise and persist during a meeting, the remote participant
will be declared to have left the meeting and the Chair of the public body may
decide to continue with the Agenda if there is a quorum still physically present;
(7) A quorum of the body, including the Chair or, in the Chair's absence, the person
authorized to Chair the meeting, shall be physically present at the meeting
location, as required by M.G.L. c. 30A, sec 20(d);
(8) All votes must be by roll call if there is a remote public body participant;
(9) All handouts or presentations must be made available to all remote participants in
advance. If used during the meeting, such documents shall be part of the official
record of the meeting, and shall be listed in the meeting minutes and retained in
accordance with M.G.L. c. 30A, sec. 22;
(10) A member participating remotely may participate in an executive session, but
shall state at the start of any such session that no other person is present and /or
able to hear the discussion at the remote location, unless presence of that person
is approved by a simple majority vote of the public body;
(11) Any costs associated with remote participation are born entirely by the remote
participant.
0
FY2O15 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
Note that three additional resources were used to help draft these Goals:
G1 `Reading 2020' working groups
G2 July 2014 Financial Forum
G3 Economic Development Self - Assessment Tool
I. Administration
The human capital of the community is the major resource that is
necessary to achieve the provision of services to the community and
as such should be supported and respected. This human capital
includes employees, elected officials and members of Boards,
Committees and Commissions (BCCs).
Implement final phase of Town Manager's reorganization plan
a. Hire Administrative Services Department HeadG1,G2
b. Hire Business Analyst G1
c. Consider shared Communications position with School department
2. Human Resources Planning
a. Finalize Non -Union Pay & Classification Study for November, 2014 implementation
b. Transition for new Human Resources Administrator
c. Identify Professional Development Needs (e.g., technology training)
d. Recodification/Review of Personnel Policies
3. Communication — Volunteer Boards /Committees /Commissions
a. Conduct a multi -BCC Summit meeting to discuss Reading 2020G1,G2
8/12/2014
i. Community Partners: Kevin Sexton (BOS), Dan Ensminger (BOS) and Bob LeLacheur
(Town Manager);
ii. Services & Performance Measurement: Marsie West (BOS) and Jean Delios (Assistant
Town Manager Community Services);
iii. Communication: Sharon Angstrom (Town Accountant) and Jeff Zager (Public Works
Director);
iv. Strategic Planning: John Arena (BOS), John Halsey (BOS), Jim Cormier (Police Chief),
Greg Burns (Fire Chief) and Ruth Urell (Library Director).
l/
FY2015 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
II. Regulation and Policy Development
Reading will continue to address major emerging issues through
development, modification, improvement and simplification of
local bylaws, regulations and Selectmen's policies. When in
doubt, fewer and simpler regulations are desired. 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.
4. Review Board of Selectmen Policies
a. Article I General Operating Procedures
b. Article 2 Volunteer Boards (BCCs)
c. Article 3 Licenses
d. Article 4 Public Works Related Policies
e. Article 5 Community Services Policies
f. Article 6 Personnel Related Policies
g. Article 7 Public Safety Related Policies
5. Organize and Review Town Manager Policies
6. Recodification of Town Charter (January '15 Town Meeting)
a. Implementation of the work by the Town Charter Committee
b. Other changes suggested by the Selectmen & staff
7. Comprehensive Update of the Zoning Bylaw (Sept & Nov '14 Town Meeting)
a. Implementation of the recommendations of the Zoning Advisory Committee
8. Review Other Town Bylaws
a. Conservation
b. Health
c. Other
4
8/12/2014
011-�
FY2015 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
III. Services
Reading will continue to provide as much friendly customer
service as is possible. Technology trends will be monitored to
change the delivery of information and services, in order for
customers to engage in as much self - service as they desire.
9. Create Inventory of ServicesG'
a. Provided by Town government
b. Provided by private sector (for overlap services)
c. Provided by non - profit sector (for overlap services)
1o. Suggest ways to gather data and measure Services provided G1
11. Provide easy to use community feedback methods
12. Provide sustainable temporary Library Services in Temporary Space G2
3
8/12/2014
9
FY2015 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
IV. Operations
Reading will continue to provide municipal services in a cost - effective
and efficient manner.
13. Conduct Technology Master Planning
a.
Consider the following over a five year horizon
i. Physical space needs
ii. Staffing
iii. Capital planning
iv. Software and Systems planning
v. Hardware planning
vi. Employee training
vii. Public outreach
b.
Financial systems review
c.
Permits & Licensing Review
d.
Records Management Review
e.
GIS systems Review
f.
Regionalization opportunities
g.
Emergency Management planning
h.
Disaster Recovery planning
14. Review
Current Regionalization efforts
a.
Assessors
b.
Housing Services Coordinator
c.
Public Health
Is. Consider Future Regionalization efforts
a. Veterans
b. Animal Control
c. Public Works/Enterprise Funds
d. Other
16. Review Newly Centralized Procurement
a. Identify process improvements for acquisition and disposition
b. Ensure public transparency
c. Ensure optimal long -term financial status �1
4 �i
8/12/2014
FY2015 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
V. Public Safety and Health
Reading will continue to focus on strong public health and public
safety services.
17. Review Public Health division
a. Review recommendations from the Board of Health on Staffing needs
b. Create Master Plan to accomplish optimal staffing
18. Review RCASA model
a. What additional resources are available?
b. What additional resources would be beneficial?
c. Examine coordination with School department efforts
19. Review Emergency Management Planning
a. What additional resources are available?
b. What additional resources would be beneficial?
c. Examine coordination with area community efforts
d. Review related staffing needs (especially for the Fire department)
20. Implement and Encourage Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan
s
8/12/2014
FY2015 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
VI. Community Development
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 EDC and the
Climate Protection Committee.
21. Implement Complete Streets Policy as opportunities arise
22. Examine role of Volunteer Boards in Community Development
23. Explore creative public /private ventures
24. Explore and recommend path forward on Community Preservation Act
25. Continue to strive for 10% Affordable Housing
a. Housing Production Plan
b. Trust Fund
c. CPA
d. Large/Medium scale development opportunities
26. Review use of Industrial Zone properties, including the current DPW site
a. Inventory current uses
b. Survey private owners for future plans
c. Create area Master Plan
27. Implement high priority parking and alternative transportation
recommendations for Parking, Traffic, and Transportation improvements
a. Downtown Parking
b. Vine Street lot
c. Other
6
8/12/2014
e
FY2015 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
VII. Facilities and Infrastructure Protects
I
28. Review
a.
b.
C.
d.
e.
Reading will strive to maintain and improve the community's
infrastructure through fiscally prudent long term capital
planning. For large capital needs, a temporary tax increase
(Prop 2% exclusion) will be requested so as to not `crowd out'
ongoing capital requirements.
Recreation Facilities
Examine current capacity
Project future demands
Explore space options
Explore Resource sharing options
Birch Meadow Master Planning
29. Review Public Works Facilities
a. Examine current capacity
b. Project future demands
c. Explore space options
d. Explore Resource sharing options
e. Enterprise Fund regionalization
3o. Library Building Project
a. Transparency — neighborhood impacts; budget/financial
b. Temporary Space
31. West Street Project
a. Public Communication
b. Public Safety
32. Permanent Building Committee
7 CV?
8/12/2014
FY2015 Town Manager's Goals and Action Plan
Town of Reading, MA
DRAFT version August 2014
33. VIII. Finance
Reading will continue to evaluate revenue sources, cost reduction,
regionalization of services, other methods of providing 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.
34. Long -term liability planning
a. Pension Fund
b. OPEB
c. Health Insurance
35. Review current bill printing and mailing policy.
a. Determine if customers and saving on postage
b. Investigate electronic option
c. present options to the BOS
36. Review Town -wide fee structure
a. Suggest any changes
b. Establish periodic review process
c. Distinguish local control versus state or federal law
d. Late fees /penalties /interest
37. Develop a Fund Balance policy in accordance with GASB 54.
8/12/2014
9
Financial Forum July 30th, 2014 Brainstorming
Bold indicates more than five votes (some items combined)
➢ Effective communication to community
➢ Full day Kindergarten/ Free full day Kindergarten
➢ Athletics —field space, lights, surfaces, revenues
➢ RISE preschool — room, space, revenues
➢ Fund innovative ideas toward 2020
➢ Active economic development
➢ Technology proactive planning
➢ Retain staff
➢ Private — Public partnerships /Collaboration with other organizations
➢ Shift in library programming
➢ Constant pruning activities philosophy
Services provided todav, needs being met
➢
Trash /recycling pick up
➢
Police and fire
➢
Town hall
➢
Library
➢
DPW — streets
➢
Youth activities
➢
Schools
➢
RMLD
➢
Capital
➢
Cultural opportunities
Services provided today, needs not being met
➢
Effective communication to community (13 votes)
➢
Full day K (11 votes)
➢
Athletics — field space, lights, surfaces, revenues (10 votes)
➢
RISE preschool — room, space, revenues (8 votes)
➢
Senior housing /transportation (5 votes)
➢
K -12 Special Ed space (5 votes)
➢
Student counselling — anxiety prevention (4 votes)
➢
Affordable housing — workforce, youth (3 votes)
➢
Youth activities (3 votes)
➢
Institute tech specialists (3 votes)
➢
Cultural space (2 votes)
032--
➢ Elder services (2 votes)
➢ RMHS programs (1 vote)
➢ Art /Music space (1 vote)
➢ Website (1 vote)
➢ Safe places for youths — informal and academic clubs
➢ Health programs
➢ Student social services
➢ Parking
➢ Signage for activities
➢ Diversity
➢ Cross generation activities
➢ Measure performance
➢ Grant funding — matching
Services not provided todav but should be
➢ Fund innovative ideas toward 2020 (13 votes)
➢ Active economic development (7 votes)
➢ Free full day K (7 votes)
➢ Technology proactive planning (6 votes)
➢ Retain staff (6 votes)
➢ Improve solar incentives — stretch code (3 votes)
➢ RAD (2 votes)
➢ Community policing — funding (1 vote)
➢ Infrastructure planning (1 vote)
➢ Small business
Services provided today but getting more funding than they should/ services that
should not be funded at all
➢ PVT— PUB partnerships (12 votes)
➢ Collaboration with other organizations (11 votes)
➢ Shift in library programming (10 votes)
➢ Constant pruning activities philosophy (8 votes)
➢ outsource student health and social issues — insurance funded (5 votes)
➢ Plant watering (4 votes)
➢ More grant funding from outside sources (3 votes)
➢ Veterans services — full funding State
➢ Some capital expenses at the margin in projects
➢ Snow plowing
e)