HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-01-28 Board of Selectmen PacketOFRF
Town of Reading
`r 16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
6J9:INCORPOpP
Stephen Goldy, Chairman
Ben Tafoya, Vice Chairman
Richard W. Schubert, Secretary
John Arena
James E. Bonazoli
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
)781) 942 -9043
FAX: (781) 942 -9071
Website:w .ci.readmg.ma.us
NOTICE OF MEETING — BOARD OF SELECTMEN
DATE: January 28, 2013
CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
PLACE: RMHS Performing Arts Center
62 Oakland Road, Reading, Massachusetts
1) Call to Order 7:00
2) Discussion/Action Items
a. Review of CPDC Proposed Substitute
Motion for Article 10
b. Request of Clear Channel to Table Article 10
C. Suggested Policy Establishing a Library
Building Committee
3) Adjourn 7:30
6
,_
L a
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D o
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m
L404 CLEARCHANNEL
OUTDOOR
Board of Selectmen
Town of Reading
Town Hall
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
Re: Zoning Amendment — Electronic Billboards
Clear Channel Outdoor respectively requests that Board of Selectmen table Article 10 of
the January 29, 2013 Special Town Meeting at this time in order for the applicant to
gather more information for the meeting.
Estate and Public Affairs — Boston
Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc.
781 13A • 9B9U r.i
Ci—Ch -nd Ou,d— 379 • 1993 In
89 MapIr Srtm • 5toneh—, MA 11 2190
:)bk
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 3:55 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Proposed Billboard on West Street
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 am - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday: CLOSED
phone: 761- 942 -9043
fax 781 -942 -9071
web www.readinuma.gov
email townmanagerCrDci.reading.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
survev virivaltownhall. net/survev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: Catherine Gray Imailto:grav catherineColvahoo.coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 2:07 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Proposed Billboard on West Street
Dear Selectmen:
We are writing to strongly oppose the proposed West Street billboard as well as possible future billboards along
the streets of Reading.
This billboard will impact many families and their home values as well as their
quality of life. It is shocking to think that this area of West Street - not loo very
long ago - was just on the edge of an Historic District! What a shameful image
for Reading to portray. We simply cannot afford any further decreases in
property values here in Reading.
Additionally it will be yet smother distraction in the already dangerous interchange of routes 93 and 95.
We respectfully ask that you vote against this most distressing proposal.
Catherine & Michael Gray
146 Summer Ave.
2bz
Schena, Paula
From:
LYNCH, MAUREEN < MAUREEN. LYNCHQreading.kl 2.ma. us>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 3:35 PM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electronic Billboard
To the Board of Selectmen,
I would like to let you know that I am very concerned about the electronic billboard that you are considering voting for
to be placed on West Street. Our town is quaint and we should all work hard to keep it that way. We should not consider
compromising many of our residents' quality of life with such an inappropriate form of advertisement. I teach in this
town and I work hard to send the message to our young students that we are a special community that works together
to solve problems in a positive way. If we need to raise money, there are many other ways to achieve this goal. I have
not found one person in this community who is for this proposal. Please vote against this.
Sincerely,
Maureen Lynch
,L 63
Schena, Paula
From:
k.goodreau@comcast.net
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 3:06 PM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Vote "No" for Electronic Billboard — Article 10
I'm writing to let you know that I OPPOSE the electronic billboard on West Street. This sign creates the wrong image of
our residential community, it is proposed for a location steps away from a historic district, it has been brought forward
without the necessary level of public discussion and it will be a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week eye -sore for residents of
Reading and the nearby community of Woburn. The mitigation payments are simply not adequate to offset these
disadvantages.
Please consider my vote.
Fondly,
Karla Goodreau
2b`i
Schena, Paula
From: Alan Beaulieu <alanbeaulieu @verizon.net>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 3:30 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Proposed Electronic Billboard
Dear Selectmen,
I am writing in OPPOSITION to the proposed electronic billboard. I appreciate the potential revenue, but it is not in the
best interest of the citizens of Reading - both those living near the 24/7/365 nuisance and those throughout the town. I
ask you to please consider the negative impact of such an endeavor for our town.
Sincerely,
Donna Beaulieu
Precinct 2
26S
Schena, Paula
From: Jeffrey P. Jadul, CPYB <jeff@nauticalneeds. net>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 3:32 PM
To: John Arena at Home; Steve Goldy forwarding account; Tofoya, Ben; Town Manager, James
Bonazoli forwarding account; Rick Schubert Multiple Addresses
Cc: 'Paul Casarano'
Subject: Electronic Billboard
To the Board of Selectmen - With regards to Mr. Paul Casarano's email that you received yesterday (copied below), I
couldn't have said it any better myself. I am amazed that discussions on this issue have gotten this far, all for just $25-
50K annually for the town7? At first glance, I was convinced that there were a few zeros missing from the town's
projected revenue potential.
I too am all for finding new ways to generate new revenue streams for the town, however this giant billboard is not the
right move for our town for many reasons. Instead, let's focus on trying to retain some of our current revenue
generators, companies such as Keurig who wanted to build a new office park at the Addison Wellesley site, but is now
leaving Reading and moving to Burlington Instead, and IeYs focus on retaining and attracting more small businesses and
building up Main Street and its numerous vacant lots. For example, I've heard of a small business owner in town that
has yet to install a sign over the front door or an awning, due in part to the town's signage restrictions, yet almost 600
sq. ft. of electronic billboards running 24/7 are ok ?? In my opinion, it will soon be yet another vacant store front along
Main Street if this trend continues.
Lastly, for those of you on the Board that are not yet unwaveringly opposed to this billboard idea, I would simply request
that you all consider what this billboard might look like from your own living room or kitchen window, or your backyard
patio or pool, like many of us here on the west side who will be able to see it from our homes .... and then, I think you'll
agree that it's a bad idea.
I join Paul in requesting that this item be removed from the agenda prior to town meeting.
Respectfully,
Jeff Jadul
112 Pine Ridge Road
Capt. Jeffrey P. Jadul, CPYB
Nautical Needs Yacht Sales
www.nauticalneeds.net
781.704.5202
To the Board of Selectmen,
I moved to Reading 5 years ago. I was very active in the town government of my former town, which was one of the
major reasons I left. The frustration of dealing with a group of people who were out of touch with reality, out of date
with their thinking, and unaware of the consequences of their actions was too much to handle.
I searched for a town with a solid track record of financial management and a group of decision makers with a vested
interest in the schools, and an awareness of how all of their decisions affect my property value, the reputation of our
town, and general quality of life.
I landed here in Reading, which met and continues to meet all the criteria above, and I promised myself I would stay out
of town government all together and trust that the excellent management would continue without my 2 cents.
Today, I must break that promise because it appears that you need my 2 cents, or at least my common sense
I can't understand why we are even considering allowing Clear Channel to erect a monstrous electronic billboard that
would shine on both sides 24/7 at the entrance to our city on West St— in return for the sum of $50K annually, or put
differently, 6 /100ths of a percent of our annual revenue budget.
I am all for new recurring revenue streams, but this idea should never have made it even this far. It is a wrong for
Reading on so many levels, but I will offer up a few of the thoughts that come to mind immediately:
• It will be virtually right above the "Welcome to Reading" sign. Is this really the first impression we want to
make?
• Image of our city takes an immediate and permanent hit.
• Property values in immediate area AND throughout town drop.
• How do we justify spending taxpayer $$ on Town Center updates for beautification and to attract new
businesses, and then advocate for something that will directly undermine those efforts?
• We didn't want Whole Foods and PF Changs at one end of South Street, but a Las Vegas style neon beacon is OK
at the other end?
• This sets a precedent and opens the floodgates for similar revenue opportunities EVERYWHERE in town.
• Would you rather be mentioned in the company of the Concords and Lexingtons of the world who are saying no
to these opportunities, or with the cities at the opposite end of the spectrum?
• We have no idea of the potential negative long term environmental effects of these new signs in residential
areas.
Finally, I came across a quote from a FINCOM Town Meeting/budget report earlier in 2012
"...Our financial strength was recently affirmed by Standard & Poor's when they re- issued a double -A credit rating
for Reading. The,key factors which they cited were: strong housing values, despite a soft housing market; a strong
financial position underpinned by strong financial management..."
Imagine the increase in our borrowing costs and the limits on our access to new capital if we were downgraded by that
same agency because our property values dropped as a result of this billboard decision. The $50K in revenue would pale
in comparison.
I respectfully ask that you vote on Thursday to remove this item from the agenda before it even gets to Town Meeting
on Monday.
Thank you,
Paul Casarano
Paul Casaranol Vice President - Finance I KesslerlGroup
855 Boylston Street I Boston, MA 02116
L0: 617.450.4027 1 800.262.6628 1 fax: 617.585.6995
Note: The information transmitted in this message is intended only for the person or entity to whom (or which)
it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, retransmission,
dissemination or other use of or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities
other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete
the material from any computer.
261
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 2:49 PM
To:
Sehena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Billboard
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 rn - 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 readinoma.cov
email townmanaaer(&ci.reading.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at httKO /readinama-
suwev. virtualtown hall. net/suwev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: katie scales [maitto:kscales74 @icloud.com]
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 2:38 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Billboard
Hello, I agree with Mr. Casuistic. Please consider removing this from the meeting agenda.
Thank you,
Katie Scales
Reading resident
From: Paul Casarano
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 5:29 PM
To: ' ibonazoli aci.reading.ma.us ;'jarenanaci. reading .ma.us ;'rschubertaci.reading maul;
'sgoldvna ci.readinB ma.u9 ; 'btafoya-Qci.reading ma.us'; 'townmanagee�ci.reading.ma.us'
Subject: Billboard
To the Board of Selectmen,
I moved to Reading 5 years ago. I was very active in the town government of my former town, which was one
of the major reasons I left. The frustration of dealing with a group of people who were out of touch with reality,
out of date with their thinking, and unaware of the consequences of their actions was too much to handle.
I searched for a town with a solid track record of financial management and a group of decision makers with a
vested interest in the schools, and an awareness of how all of their decisions affect my property value, the
reputation of our town, and general quality of life.
2b9
I landed here in Reading, which met and continues to meet all the criteria above, and I promised myself I would
stay out of town government all together and trust that the excellent management would continue without my 2
cents.
Today, I must break that promise because it appears that you need my 2 cents, or at least my common sense.
I can't understand why we are even considering allowing Clear Channel to erect a monstrous electronic
billboard that would shine on both sides 24/7 at the entrance to our city on West St — in return for the sum of
$50K annually, or put differently, 6 /100& of a percent of our annual revenue budget.
I am all for new recurring revenue streams, but this idea should never have made it even this far. It is wrong for
Reading on so many levels, but I will offer up a few of the thoughts that come to mind immediately:
It will be virtually right above the "Welcome to Reading" sign. Is this really the first impression
we want to make?
Image of our city takes an immediate and permanent hit.
Property values in immediate area AND throughout town drop.
How do we justify spending taxpayer $$ on Town Center updates for beautification and to attract
new businesses, and then advocate for something that will directly undermine those efforts?
We didn't want Whole Foods and PF Changs at one end of South Street, but a Las Vegas style
neon beacon is OK at the other end?
This sets a precedent and opens the floodgates for similar revenue opportunities EVERYWHERE
in town.
Would you rather be mentioned in the company of the Concords and Lexington of the world who
are saying no to these opportunities, or with the cities at the opposite end of the spectrum?
We have no idea of the potential negative long term environmental effects of these new signs in
residential areas.
Finally, I came across a quote from a FINCOM Town Meeting/budget report earlier in 2012
"...Our financial strength was recently affirmed by Standard & Poor's when they re- issued a double -A credit
rating for Reading. The key factors which they cited were: strong housing values, despite a soft housing
market; a strong financial position underpinned by strong financial management..."
Imagine the increase in our borrowing costs and the limits on our access to new capital if we were downgraded
by that same agency because our property values dropped as a result of this billboard decision. The $50K in
revenue would pale in comparison.
I respectfully ask that you vote on Thursday to remove this item from the agenda before it even gets to Town
Meeting on Monday.
Thank you,
Paul Casarano
Paul Casaranol Vice President - Finance KesslerlGroup
855 Boylston Street I Boston, MA 02116
tel : 617.450.4027 1 800262.6628 1 fax:617.585.6995
2,
Schena, Paula
From:
CARMODY, CATHY< CATHY .CARMODYc@reading.kl2.ma.us>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 12:09 PM
To:
Reading - Selectmen; ccarmody0@aol.com
Subject:
NO! To the Billboard
Dear Select Person,
Please be advised that I strongly oppose to the Billboard being erected on or near West Street or any location in the
Town of Reading. An electronic billboard would be unsightly and would provide an unsavory impression of our bedroom
community. High tax paying residents reside close to all borders and highways that encircle our community and should
be valued in the same way as those residents that live anywhereelse in Reading.
I appreciate your vote no on this decision.
Mrs. Catherine Carmody
25 Whitehall Lane Resident
Reading, MA 01867
ccarmodv0@aol.com
,�b1°
Schena, Paula
From:
amy gorman <jamm.gorman @verizon.net>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 1:03 PM
To:
James Bonazoli forwarding account; John Arena at Home; Rick Schubert Multiple Addresses;
Steve Goldy forwarding account; Tofoya, Ben; Town Manager
Subject:
Fw: Billboard
Dear Selectman,
I wanted to contact you to voice my opposition to the proposed electronic billboard above the Mobil sign on
West St. I feel this billboard would be a huge mistake for our community. It will impact property value and
neighboring families. My family being one. I live on James Road and will be affected by the constant glow and
flickering of light 24hours a day. My children's bedroom windows will have this constant light coming through
I urge you to oppose this billboard. I don't feel this is the overall image we want for our community.
Respectfully yours,
Amy Gorman
11 James Rd.
Reading, Ma.
Z60
Schena, Paula
From:
stevemeehan22@verizon.net
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 1:44 PM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Fwd: Billboard
----- Original Message- - - - - --
From: stevemeehan229Dverizon.net
Date: Jan 24, 20131:31:53 PM
Subject: Billboard
To: SelectmanCd)CI.Readlno.Ma.US
Hi I'm Steve Meehan, a 34 year resident of Reading and reside in Precinct 5.
1 am totally against a 9 story billboard being installed anywhere near Reading. I see nothing but negative value in even entertaining this
idea. The only time in all these years that I was more sure about something was when we voted in the Burbank Arena.
NO BILLBOARD!
Steve Meehan
22 Hanwck St.
26(2,
Schena, Paula
From:
Aimee Hoffman <aimeeehoffman@gmail.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 1:52 PM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electronic Billboard
Dear Selectmen,
I wasjust made aware that there is a proposal to erect an electronic billboard on West Street at the Mobil
station. I would like to state that my husband and I are strongly against this action. I believe this will cause a
constant annoyance for myself and my neighbors. It is essentially putting up a huge TV that will he on 24 hours
a day impacting our everyday lives. It will decrease property values. This will also affect the Reading Woods
property development, that is going on directly across the street from our house. Who would want to buy a
condo that looks directly at a large electronic sign? We ALL have a vested interest in making sure Reading
Woods is successful and this could affect that success.
I moved to Reading many years ago because of its reputation as a strong community that I wanted to raise my
children in. I like that our town has that positive reputation. I think putting this sign up hurts our reputation and
gives the wrong image of our residential community. There is a lot of positive development going on in
Reading, this is not one of those positive proposals. I appreciate your assistance in making sure that this sign is
not approved.
Regards,
Aimee and Ryan Hoffman (340 South Street Reading)
Zb13
Schena, Paula
From: Marilyn Jeknavorian <mpj0706@verizon. net>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:50 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: RE: Vote "No" for Electronic Billboard - Article 10
RE: Vote "No" for Electronic Billboard — Article 30
I'm writing to ask you to vote "No" on the proposed zoning amendment (Article 30) to allow for an electronic billboard
abutting the West Street neighborhoods. This sign creates the wrong image of our residential community and is
proposed for a location steps away from the Westside historical district. In addition, this amendment has been brought
forward without the necessary level of public discussion. It will be a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week nuisance for residents
of Reading and the nearby community of Woburn. The mitigation payments are simply not adequate to offset these
disadvantages.
Thank you for your efforts to keep Reading a town free of electronic pollution.
2614
Schena, Paula
From:
Kevin Flaherty <kevin.flahedy6@venzon.net>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:36 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Opposed to the proposed electronic billboard
I am writing to express my opposition to the proposed electronic billboard on West Street here in Reading. I feel that it
will decrease property values in Reading and would absolutely be an unattractive and unnecessary addition to our town.
Thank you,
Mary Houghton
2bjs
Schena, Paula
From: Elizabeth Cunniff <lacunniff@comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:54 AM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Say no to billboards in Reading
Attention - I am seconding the motions of many of my friends and neighbors. We strongly reject billboards
and tacky signage in Reading. Please keep our town classy and one we can be proud of
Regards,
Elizabeth Conniff
23 Eaton Street
I can't understand why we are even considering allowing Clear Channel to erect a
monstrous electronic billboard that would shine on both sides 24/7 at the entrance
to our city on West St — in return for the sum of $50K annually, or put differently,
6 /100ths of a percent of our annual revenue budget.
I am all for new recurring revenue streams, but this idea should never have made
it even this far. It is a wrong for Reading on so many levels, but I will offer up a
few of the thoughts that come to mind immediately:
It will be virtually right above the "Welcome to Reading" sign. Is
this really the first impression we want to make?
• Image of our city takes an immediate and permanent hit.
Property values in immediate area AND throughout town drop.
How do we justify spending taxpayer $$ on Town Center updates
for beautification and to attract new businesses, and then advocate for
something that will directly undermine those efforts?
We didn't want Whole Foods and PF Changs at one end of South
Street, but a Las Vegas style neon beacon is OK at the other end?
This sets a precedent and opens the floodgates for similar revenue
opportunities EVERYWHERE in town.
Would you rather be mentioned in the company of the Concords and
Lexington of the world who are saying no to these opportunities, or with
the cities at the opposite end of the spectrum?
We have no idea of the potential negative long term environmental
effects of these new signs in residential areas.
Finally, I came across a quote from a FINCOM Town Meeting/budget report
earlier in 2012 :
"...Our financial strength was recently affirmed by Standard & Poor's when they
re- issued a double -A credit rating for Reading. The key factors which they cited
were: strong housing values, despite a soft housing market; a strong financial
position underpinned by strong financial management..."
Imagine the increase in our borrowing costs and the limits on our access to new
capital if we were downgraded by that same agency because our property values
dropped as a result of this billboard decision. The $50K in revenue would pale in
comparison.
I respectfully ask that you vote on Thursday to remove this item from the agenda
before it even gets to Town Meeting on Monday.
Thank you,
Sent from my Whone
Zb I'1
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:26 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Billboard on West street
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.readinama.cov
email townmanazer@ci.readine.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinema-
su Ney.yi rtua ltown ha ll.net /su mey /sid /19a b55aed08fbc96/
- - - -- Original Message-----
From: Genie Backer [mailto:zbacker2 @vahoo.coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:24 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Billboard on West street
Please do not approve the billboard on West St. We live in a great community and this billboard will directly impact
many Reading residents. Would you like to have an electronic billboard flashing outside your window? I wouldn't)
Concerned resident,
G. Backer
2618
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:17 AM
To
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Mobil Sign on West Street
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 readinama.gov
email townmanaaeraci.readina.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htp1 /readinama-
su wey. virtua ltownhall. net/suNey /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: Salkins, Peter rmailto :Peter.Salkins(cblfg.com1
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:15 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Cc: amyotis28Caverizon.net
Subject: Mobil Sign on West Street
Dear Selectmen,
I was just made aware that there is a proposal to erect an electronic billboard on West Street at the Mobil
station. I would like to state that my wife and I are strongly against this action. I believe this will cause a
constant annoyance for myself and my neighbors. It is essentially putting up a huge TV that will be on 24
hours a day impacting our everyday lives. It will decrease property values (my house is already worth less than
what it was in 2006 due to the poor economy and cannot afford a civic action to drive it down further). This
will also affect the Reading Woods property development, that is going on directly behind my house. Who
would want to buy a condo that looks directly at a large electronic sign? We ALL have a vested interest in
making sure Reading Woods is successful and this could affect that success.
I moved to Reading many years ago because of its reputation as a strong community that I wanted to raise my
children in. I like that our town has that positive reputation. I think putting this sign up hurts our reputation
and gives the wrong image of our residential community. There is a lot of positive development going on in
Reading, this is not one of those positive proposals. I appreciate your assistance in making sure that this sign
is not approved.
Regards,
261
Peter and Amy Salkins (84 Curtis Street Reading)
Peter B. Salkins, CFP®
Integrated Financial Partners, Inc.
300 Fifth Avenue, 3rd Floor
Waltham, MA 02451
Ph.781- 373 -4490
Fax 781.890 -5624
Vets, B Sulkms is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors Cory. Securities and advisory services olrand through Lincoln Financial Advisors Cory., a
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Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:09 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Proposed Billboard on West St.
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 townmanagertg7ci. reading. ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readingma-
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From: Martell, Kerrl A. fmailto:KMARTELL@PARTNERS.ORGI
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 11:06 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Proposed Billboard on West St.
To Whom It May Concern.
As a resident of Reading, I am writing to oppose the building of an 8ft. Electronic bill board at the Mobile /Dunkin Donuts
on West St.
Sincerely,
Kern Martell
The information in this e-mail is intended only for the person to whom it is
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ZjI
Schena, Paula
From:
tamsalmei @comcast.net
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:59 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electronic Billboard
To the Reading Selectmen- I am e- mailing you to ask that you consider a "no" vote for the proposed
electronic billboard to be erected on the Reading/Woburn line. As a Reading resident, I am very
concerned about the negative effect this signage will have on the property values in Reading. Please
consider the overall aesthetic impact this will have on our town. Thank you for you consideration of
this issue.
Sincerely,
Tamsen J. Almeida
Zb22
Schena, Paula
From:
Knight, Maureen
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:56 AM
To:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Subject:
FW: electronic billboards
From: Frank Massiglia fmaiko• fmassialia (dElectricaldvnamics.mml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:52 AM
To: Knight, Maureen
Subject: electronic billboards
To Whom It may Concern, I am opposed to the electronic billboard. As a town official you need to be concerned about
the residents. Clear Channel will come and go. We already have enough instant information, do we really need more
advertisement in our lives. I would like to point out to you that if you take a ride down route 93 late at night and look at
the billboard in Stoneham and Medford these are mainly in commercial areas ... The changing glow of colors and flashes
of designs are not flashing in peoples windows. The revenue that they supposedly bring in is miniscule compared to the
housing values it will lower. The area this sign is going in is a residential area unlike the 2 on Route 93 south. It's similar
to the windmills that are being installed today. We assume it's a good idea other that the look of them it's really not
going to bother anyone. Well a year or so later as the seasons change and the sun is higher or lower in the sky imagine
sitting in your living room and dealing with a constant shadow every revolution that windmill makes it becomes
annoying. That is what will happen with these signs the flashing of colors we really do not need it. Let's do the right thing
and ban these signs from Reading so we do not need to deal with this issue in the future. If you do a little research many
towns across the country have banned them. Let's put Reading on that list.
Sincerely
Frank Massiglia
Vice President
108 Pine Ridge Road
Reading, Ma 01867
EDI
edscwlost
dynamics
Frank Massiglia
Electrical Dynamics, Inc.
72B Concord Street
North Reading, MA 01864
Email: fmassialianelectricaldvnamics .com (��1
i 210 v
Office: (978) 664 -1050
Fax: (978)664 -1219
Cell: (781) 710 -2146
htto: //w .electricaldynamics.com
Zbv�
Schena, Paula
From:
Ron <mclaughron @yahoo.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:50 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electric billboard on West Street
To whom it may concern,
I'm writing in opposition of the electric billboard proposed for the Mobil station on West Street. It will impact many local
families and decrease property values here in Reading. It will also cause a distraction on the highways to those exiting
and entering the 95/93 highway interchange and make traveling those roads even more dangerous. Not to mention this
sign gives the wrong image to our residential community. Please do not approve this billboard.
K. McLaughlin
Howard Street
Sent from my iPad
2b2S
Schena, Paula
From:
Jeknavodan, Brenda (New York -LIU) < Brenda .Jeknavorian@LibertylU.Com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10'47 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
vote no for electronic billboard— article 10
I am writing to ask you to oppose the proposed zoning amendment (Article 10) to allow for an electronic billboard
abutting the West Street neighborhoods. This sign creates the wrong image of our residential community, it is proposed
for a location steps away from a historic district, it has been brought forward without the necessary level of public
discussion and it will be a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week nuisance for residents of Reading and the nearby community of
Woburn. The mitigation payments are simply not adequate to offset these disadvantages. This will be an eyesore and
ruin the quaintness of our town, the very reason most people choose to live in Reading.
Brenda Jeknavorian
Lowell Street
Reading MA 01867
The information in this e-mail and in any attachments is confidential and may be privileged. If you are not the
intended recipient, please destroy this message and notify the sender immediately. You should not retain, copy
or use this e-mail for any purpose, nor disclose all or any part of its contents to any other person or persons.
Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifically
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Liberty International Underwriters may monitor the content of a -mails sent and received via its network for
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2b2b
Schena, Paula
From:
Frank Massiglia < fmassiglia @Electricaldynamics.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:49 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electronic Billboards
Gentlemen, I am opposed to the electronic billboard. As a town official you need to be concerned about the residents.
Clear Channel will come and go. We already have enough instant information, do we really need more advertisement in
our lives. I would like to point out to you that if you take a ride down route 93 late at night and look at the billboard in
Stoneham and Medford these are mainly in commercial areas ... The changing glow of colors and flashes of designs are
not flashing in peoples windows. The revenue that they supposedly bring in is miniscule compared to the housing values
it will lower. The area this sign is going in is a residential area unlike the 2 on Route 93 south. It's similar to the windmills
that are being installed today. We assume it's a good idea other that the look of them it's really not going to bother
anyone. Well a year or so later as the seasons change and the sun is higher or lower in the sky imagine sitting in your
living room and dealing with a constant shadow every revolution that windmill makes it becomes annoying. That is what
will happen with these signs the flashing of colors we really do not need it. Let's do the right thing and ban these signs
from Reading so we do not need to deal with this issue in the future. If you do a little research many towns across the
country have banned them. Let's put Reading on that list.
Sincerely
Frank Massiglia
Vice President
108 Pine Ridge Road
Reading, Ma 01867
EDl
tlynamlcs
Frank Massiglia
Electrical Dynamics, Inc.
72B Concord Street
North Reading, MA 01864
Email: fmassialia CrDelectricaldvnamics.com
Office: (978) 664-1050
Fax: (978)664 -1219
Cell: (781) 710 -2146
7 00
htti) //w electricaldvnamics.00m
IF
Schena, Paula
From: Doherty, Brenda <BDoherty@Massdevelopment.00m>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:48 AM
To: Town Manager
Cc: Lori Grayson (lagrayson @gmail.com)
Subject: Billboard
Mr. Hechenbleiknec
Please note, per the email below, I second the motion to remove this item from tonight's agenda. Additionally, I would like
to express concem regarding the current billboard that is further down on the left hand -side of Main Street as you
approach North Reading. Has the town ever considered removing this unsightly billboard?
Thank you,
Brenda Doherty
60 Blueberry Lane, Reading
To the Board of Selectmen,
I moved to Reading 5 years ago. I was very active in the town government of my former town, which was one of the
major reasons I left. The frustration of dealing with a group of people who were out of touch with reality, out of date
with their thinking, and unaware of the consequences of their actions was too much to handle.
I searched for a town with a solid track record of financial management and a group of decision makers with a vested
interest in the schools, and an awareness of how all of their decisions affect my property value, the reputation of our
town, and general quality of life.
I landed here in Reading, which met and continues to meet all the criteria above, and I promised myself I would stay out
of town government all together and trust that the excellent management would continue without my 2 cents.
Today, 1 must break that promise because it appears that you need my 2 cents, or at least my common sense.
I can't understand why we are even considering allowing Clear Channel to erect a monstrous electronic billboard that
would shine on both sides 24/7 at the entrance to our city on West St — in return for the sum of $50K annually, or put
differently, 6 /100ths of a percent of our annual revenue budget.
I am all for new recurring revenue streams, but this idea should never have made it even this far. It is a wrong for
Reading on so many levels, but I will offer up a few of the thoughts that come to mind immediately:
• It will be virtually right above the "Welcome to Reading" sign. Is this really the first impression we want to
make?
• Image of our city takes an immediate and permanent hit.
• Property values in immediate area AND throughout town drop.
• How do we justify spending taxpayer $$ on Town Center updates for beautification and to attract new
businesses, and then advocate for something that will directly undermine those efforts?
• We didn't want Whole Foods and PF Changs at one end of South Street, but a Las Vegas style neon beacon is OK
at the other end?
• This sets a precedent and opens the floodgates for similar revenue opportunities EVERYWHERE in town.
• Would you rather be mentioned in the company of the Concords and Lexingtons of the world who are saying no
to these opportunities, or with the cities at the opposite end of the spectrum?
2Vvli
• We have no idea of the potential negative long term environmental effects of these new signs in residential
areas.
Finally, I came across a quote from a FINCOM Town Meeting /budget report earlier in 2012
"...Our financial strength was recently affirmed by Standard & Poor's when they re- issued a double -A credit rating
for Reading. The key factors which they cited were: strong housing values, despite a soft housing market; a strong
financial position underpinned by strong financial management..."
Imagine the increase in our borrowing costs and the limits on our access to new capital if we were downgraded by that
same agency because our property values dropped as a result of this billboard decision. The $50K in revenue would pale
in comparison.
I respectfully ask that you vote on Thursday to remove this item from the agenda before it even gets to Town Meeting
on Monday.
Thank you,
Paul Casarano
-lib3°
Schena, Paula
From:
Martha Jane Gagnon <mjk@MIT.EDU>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:43 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Thoughts on Electronic Billboard on West Street
Dear Selectmen —
I write to encourage you to vote against the construction and installation of the electronic billboard proposed by Clear
Channel Communication on West Street by the Reading / Woburn line.
My husband and I have lived in Reading since 1996, and are currently raising our 3 children here in grades 9, 7, and
3. We love this town for its safe and non commercialized neighborhoods. We live in the heart of the west side on Pratt
Street, and are lovingly restoring our home, one of the homes featured in the town history, "At Wood End." Reading
proudly boasts its historic district status as you enter Reading on West Street, just over the town line. I treasure this
distinction every time I pass by, and shudder to think about the impact that an enormous 2 -sided brightly lit electronic
billboard would have on this community if Reading supports construction and installation. Not only would the sign
diminish the character of the historic district that so many have worked to preserve, and of which Reading is so proud,
but the sign would violate the peaceful dark at night for miles, negatively impact property values, and set precedent for
other unsightly developments in Reading.
I urge Reading's selectmen to think carefully about impact and take the best interest of Reading's families into
consideration. Is the related revenue worth the extreme negative impact to the community? I can only imagine that
our Reading forefathers and mothers would be horrified by such a proposal. Please let's keep the integrity of Reading's
safe and non - commercialized neighborhoods intact.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Regards,
Martha lane Gagnon
45 Pratt Street
Reading
Martha lane Gagnon
,c.ate Director, Standards and Strategy, and Lincoln Laboratory Audit Services
,4�,dit Division
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
77 Massachusetts Avenue, Huilding NE49 -3011
Cambridge, MA 02139
Ph (612) 253 -9720
Fax (6l7) 252 -1606
MISCONDUCT, FRAUD, POLICY VIOLATIONS. Use the Institute's Anonymous & Confidential Reporting System or
dial (866) 594 -5221 to report concerns.
2b3�
Schena, Paula
From:
Karen Hammond <tmkm4@verizon.net>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:36 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Cc:
Matt ; Matt
Subject:
NO ELECTRONIC BILLBOARDS
Please accept this correspondence as notice of our STRONG DISAPPROVAL - of the proposed electronic billboard on
West Street!!
Reading is a beautiful, RESIDENTIAL, suburban, community.. And the addition of a billboard of this type will certainly
decrease property values & change the way our community is viewed by surrounding towns! Billboards should remain
an "urban" means of advertising.. And is absolutely NOT RIGHT for READING!
Please vote NO when this proposal is brought before the panel !
Thanks in advance foryoursupport!
Sincerely,
Karen & Matt Hammond
17 Rachel Rd
Reading MA
Registered voters
Sent from my phone
.Lb3'i
Schena, Paula
From:
Chris Brungardt
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:32 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electronic Billboard
Hello,
I'd like to go on record saying that I am opposed to an electric billboard anywhere in town.
Reading needs to decide whether it wants to be a tacky, flashy kind of town or not.
According to Patch "If an electronic sign was allowed on the West Street property, two billboards on north Main Street would
be removed within a certain period of time"
Are we really going back to North side of town vs. South side of town? That certain parts of town will be preserved as quiet
residential and other parts are to be sold off to the highest bidder and the homes in that area sacrificed?
Thank you,
Christine Brungardt
324 South St.
Reading, MA 01867
233
Schena, Paula
From:
David <dmdwalsh @comcast.neb
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10.31 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
No to West St Billboard
Greetings:
As a Reading resident, I strongly urge the Board of Selectman to reject the electronic billboard proposed for West Street
The negative consequences of such a visual intrusion to the character and quality of our shared Reading landscape
cannot be overstated.
The Walsh family moved to Reading in 2006. We have been happy to pay an almost 25% property tax increase since
then because of the special qualities that make Reading such a livable community: the schools, the teachers, the trees,
and our caring neighbors, to name just a few.
I believe most Reading rsidents would be happy to entertain additional tax increases to negate any revenue increase
from such over - sized, commercial signage.
And, for our part, if we wanted to live in a community with eight -story electronic billboards, we would have moved to
Woburn!
Thank you,
David M. Walsh
77 Winthrop Ave
Reading, MA 01867
2b3'�
Schena, Paula
From: Brenda <bdj225 @yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:28 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Vote "No" for Electronic Billboard — Article 10
I'm writing to ask you to proposed zoning amendment (Article 10) to allow for an electronic billboard abutting the West
Street neighborhoods. This sign creates the wrong image of our residential community, it is proposed for a location
steps away from a historic district, it has been brought forward without the necessary level of public discussion and it
will be a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week nuisance for residents of Reading and the nearby community of Woburn. The
mitigation payments are simply not adequate to offset these disadvantages.
Brenda leknavorian
Lowell Street
Reading MA 01867
2b3s
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:55 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Bill Board
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.readinama.aov,
email townmanader(fti.readina.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
survev virtualtownhall. net/survev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: Dave Edwards [ mailto�dedwards (cbroveroeabody.coml
Sent:.Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:15 AM
To: jbonazoli(dci reading.ma.us'; iarena(@ci.readina.ma.us; rschubert0d.reading.ma.us; sooldv(aci.readlnd.mam
btafoya(alci.reading.ma.us; townmanager(olci.readinc.ma.us
Cc: nancy edwards; John Sullivan; vincentOshanley5ooes.com
Subject: Bill Board
As a lifelong resident of the Town of Reading, I am opposed to the Clear Channel proposal to erect the electronic
billboard at the entrance to our town on West St and anywhere else in town for that matter.
I respectfully ask that you vote today to remove this item from the agenda before it even gets to Town Meeting on
Monday.
Thank you,
David Edwards
General Manager
Land Rover Peabody
Phone 978.535.9200
Fax 978.535.8010
r. h rANG
-FOV! N
www.roveroeabodv.com
Like us on Facebook www .facebook.com /landmverpeabodv
2b3
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should forward, print, copy, or otherwise reproduce this message in any manner that would allow it
to be viewed by any individual not originally listed as a recipient. if the reader of this message
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2b3q
Schena, Paula
From:
Pamela Miller Jenks <jpjenks@verizon.neh
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013
9:66 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Billboard
Please note as a resident of Gleason Road I am opposed to this unsightly beacon representing the image and entrance to
our town.
As a former resident of Lexington for 3 generations I moved to Reading seeking similar values and attitudes toward our
community.
I have been pleased thus far, please continue to make the right choices and continue to uphold an outstanding image.
We can be more creative in finding funds.....
Thank you,
Pamela Miller Jenks
15 Gleason Road
2 1`3 5
Schena, Paula
From: Lori Hamlin <lorihamlin@oomcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:01 AM
To: James Bonazoli forwarding account; John Arena at Home; Rick Schubert Multiple Addresses;
Steve Goldy forwarding account; Tofoya, Ben; Town Manager
Subject: Opposition to Electronic Billboard
Board of Selectman / Town Manager,
I'd like to go on record and state my opposition to the proposal before you this evening regarding an Electronic
Billboard on West Street. I support the sentiments expressed by my fellow Reading resident, Paul Casarano, in
the below email and I respectfully ask you to vote against sending this item to Town Meeting.
Sincerely,
LORI HAMLIN
From: Paul Casarano
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 5:29 PM
To: ' jbonazoli 0ci.readma.ma.us';'larenaCZbci reading ma us';
'rschubert(@d,readinu.ma.us'; 'sooldy(dd,readina.ma.us';
'btafova(dci.reading.ma.us'; 'townmanager(dci.reading.ma.us'
Subject: Billboard
To the Board of Selectmen,
I moved to Reading 5 years ago. I was very active in the town
government of my former town, which was one of the major
reasons I left. The frustration of dealing with a group of people
who were out of touch with reality, out of date with their thinking,
and unaware of the consequences of their actions was too much to
handle.
I searched for a town with a solid track record of financial
management and a group of decision makers with a vested interest
in the schools, and an awareness of how all of their decisions affect
my property value, the reputation of our town, and general quality
of life.
2b3�
I landed here in Reading, which met and continues to meet all the
criteria above, and I promised myself I would stay out of town
government all together and trust that the excellent management
would continue without my 2 cents.
Today, I must break that promise because it appears that you need
my 2 cents, or at least my common sense.
I can't understand why we are even considering allowing Clear
Channel to erect a monstrous electronic billboard that would shine
on both sides 24/7 at the entrance to our city on West St — in return
for the sum of $50K annually, or put differently, 6 /100ths of a
percent of our annual revenue budget.
I am all for new recurring revenue streams, but this idea should
never have made it even this far. It is a wrong for Reading on so
many levels, but I will offer up a few of the thoughts that come to
mind immediately:
• It will be virtually right above the "Welcome to Reading" sign. Is
this really the first impression we want to make?
• Image of our city takes an immediate and permanent hit.
• Property values in immediate area AND throughout town drop.
• How do we justify spending taxpayer $$ on Town Center updates
for beautification and to attract new businesses, and then advocate
for something that will directly undermine those efforts?
• We didn't want Whole Foods and PF Changs at one end of South
Street, but a Las Vegas style neon beacon is OK at the other end?
• This sets a precedent and opens the floodgates for similar revenue
opportunities EVERYWHERE in town.
• Would you rather be mentioned in the company of the Concords
and Lexingtons of the world who are saying no to these
opportunities, or with the cities at the opposite end of the
spectrum?
2bN 0
• We have no idea of the potential negative long tern
environmental effects of these new signs in residential areas.
Finally, I came across a quote from a FINCOM Town
Meeting budget report earlier in 2012 :
"...Our financial strength was recently affirmed by Standard &
Poor's when they re- issued a double -A credit rating for Reading. The
key factors which they cited were: strong housing values, despite a
soft housing market; a strong financial position underpinned by strong
financial management..."
Imagine the increase in our borrowing costs and the limits on our
access to new capital if we were downgraded by that same agency
because our property values dropped as a result of this billboard
decision. The $50K in revenue would pale in comparison.
I respectfully ask that you vote on Thursday to remove this item
from the agenda before it even gets to Town Meeting on Monday.
Thank you,
Paul Casarano
Paul Casaranol Vice President - Finance I KesslerjGroup
855 Boylston Street I Boston, MA 02116
tel : 617.550.4027 1 800.262.6628 1 fax: 617.585.6995
Note: The information transmitted in this message is intended only b N
ti
Schena, Paula
From: Gemme, Laura
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:58 AM
To: Hechenbleikner, Peter; LeLacheur, Bob; afoulds @supremecouncil.org
Cc: James Bonazoli at work; James Bonazoli forwarding account; John Arena Forwarding
Account; Schubert, Rick; Schubert, Rick; Goldy, Stephen home account; Tafoya, Ben; Steve
Goldy forwarding account
Subject: FW: West St billboard
I am passing on comments from a citizen, please see below.
Laura A Gemme
Town Clerk
Town of Reading
16 Lowell Street
Reading, MA 01867
(P) 781- 942 -6647
(F) 781- 942 -9070
(E) Izemme @ci.readin¢.ma.us
(W) htto: / /www.readingma.goy
Town Hall Hours:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday - 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM Tuesday - 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM Friday - CLOSED
When writing or responding, please remember that the Secretary of State's Office has determined that email is a public
record. This communication may contain privileged or other confidential information. If you are not the intended
recipient, or believe that you have received this communication in error, please do not print, copy, retransmit,
disseminate, or otherwise use the information. Also, please indicate to the sender that you have received this email in
error, and delete the copy you received.
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: Sue Marquardt Imailto:suemarcuardt@vahoo.com1
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 8:32 PM
To: Gemme, Laura
Subject: West St billboard
I just found out about a proposal to allow clear channel to set up an electronic billboard on West St in Reading. I wanted
to voice my concern regarding this proposal and my strong opposition towards this billboard.
This billboard proposal concerns me as I live on Whitehall Lane in close proximity to the proposed site and it would
directly effect my property value in a negative way. I am also concerned that this proposal has been pushed very quietly
though the approval process with residents only learning about over the past few days.
Finally I would like to say that I feel this proposal is not up to the standards that I have come to expect from the elected
officials of Reading. Simply allowing Clear Channel to set up a billboard in exchange for money sends the wrong
message.
Sue Marquardt
617 - 291 -9275
2 bq2
Schena, Paula
From:
ethan.boston@gmail.com on behalf of Ethan Schwartz <ethanms @ethanms.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:55 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Proposed electronic billboard near Reading Commons
To Whom It May Concern,
Several of my neighbors are concerned about the proposed electronic billboard at the Mobil/Dunkin Donuts
new Reading Commons; after hearing about it I am also concerned.
These types of billboards are a huge contributor to light pollution in an area, and in my opinion of the ones
found near Rt93/Montvale Ave, as well as the WGBH sign over Rt90, they are generally a distraction and an
eyesore. We need ask ourselves: Do we really need giant, super bright, signs advertising the latest car sales or
laser skin treatment clinics?
Also, as a person fond of amateur astronomy, it's already extremely difficult to observe much in our town
because of local and nearby light sources, with additional local sources of pollution like this proposed billboard
it may become impossible to see much of anything beyond a few very bright objects at night, and that is a
tragedy when there are so many relatively low cost ways to minimize these problems.
I hope you are equally concerned about the effects on residents that this type of a sign would have, particularly
those who are nearby the sign. I urge you to vote against the current proposal. It would seem that at least a
compromise would be much better for all - -a more traditional type billboard, limited hours of operation
(example, rush hours only since it is directed at Rt93 travelers), and/or careful and monitored restrictions on the
levels and directions of light emitted by the sign.
Thank you,
Ethan Schwartz
282 South Street
Reading, MA 01867
Zbyll
Schell Paula
From:
David Maroney <djaymaroney@verizon.net>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:52 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electronic Billboard
Dear Selectmen,
I am strongly opposed to the building of an electronic billboard so close to my home on the West Side of Reading. As a
44 year resident of Reading, I don't believe the additional revenue generated to the town is an acceptable trade off to
the risk of decreased home values for the neighboring homes.
In addition, your home is your refuge from the stress of everyday commercial life. Placing a lighted billboard in a
residential neighborhood invades the quiet time your home provides and takes away the attraction Reading has as a
good residential community to live in.
Sincerely,
David J. Maroney
Oak Street
Reading
Zb4u
Schena, Paula
From
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:13 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: OPPOSE electronic billboard
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 readinama.goy
email townmanagerCalci. reading. ma.us
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From: Mary Pastore rmailto :moastore(a)oroaress.coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:12 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Cc: Dan (doastorel(dWerizon.net)
Subject: OPPOSE electronic billboard
Hello —
I am a resident of Reading, living on Old Farm road. I am OPPOSED to the electronic billboard in Reading. Please vote
AGAINST this billboard.
Lighting from the billboard directly impacts abutting and nearby neighborhoods. The impact is NEGATIVE. There is
nothing positive about this billboard.
Regards,
Mary Pastore
Old Farm Road
Reading, MA
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Schena, Paula
From
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:31 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Electronic Billboard - Article 10
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 townmanaaerColci.readinq ma.us
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suNey.virtuaftownhall.net/suwev/sid/19ab55aedOBfbc96/
From: Berg, Justin [mailto•lustin BeraComcoladrev.coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:26 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Electronic Billboard - Article 10
My wife and I recently moved to Reading in a neighborhood just off of West street. It came to my attention that there is
vote taking place shortly that could potentially place a large electronic billboard on top of the West Street Mobile
station. To be completely honest, I'm very concerned about this matter. Reading has earned a reputation as a thriving
residential community of tight knit neighborhoods. I fully understand that one of the most valuable aspects of Reading is
its location due to the close proximity of Boston and all the major highways, giving reason to the thought of a billboard,
but you need to understand that people love having those things without the commercialization that tends to come with
it. I feel that not only would this billboard be a major distraction and nuisance for residents of Reading and Woburn, but
it could potentially open the floodgates for additional advertisements of similar kind. What it boils down to is that this
billboard simply sends the wrong image for our community.
I appreciate you taking the time to read my email and considering what I have to say regarding this pressing issue
Thank you,
Justin Berg
Affiurance Associate
McGladrey LLP
80 City Square, Boston, MA 02129
R 617- 241 -1269 C: 781-605 -8509
N McGladrey
Experience the Power of Being Understoo i."
Zb4 b
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:31 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Opposition to Proposed Electronic Billboard at Mobil Station
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.readingmaoov
email townmanaaenc), .readina.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
suNev.virtualtownhall.net/suwev/sid/19ab55aedO8fbc96/
From: demartinisCalverizon. net [ mallto•demartinisCalverizon.netl
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:26 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Opposition to Proposed Electronic Billboard at Mobil Station
Dear Selectmen,
We wanted to contact you to voice our opposition regarding the proposed electronic billboard to be located on West Street. The
potential impact of this billboard to neighboring families and property values within the town are of great concern to us. We also feel that
this billboard would degrade the overall image of our community.
Best Regards,
Dr. Guy DeMartinis & Michele DeMartinis
33 Maple Ridge Road
Reading, MA
Zb��
Schena, Paula
From:
Jennifer Turner <mrsjennifertumer@yahoo.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:10 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
electronic billboard
I son writing to express concern over the possibility of a large electronic billboard being installed on West
Street. As a Summer Avenue resident not only am I concerned about the enormous light this billboard will
emit, but I am also worried about how such advertisement would affect our property value. Home values will
plummet in areas around the sign as a residential neighborhood and a designated historic district will be
undermined. As mentioned earlier, the dark sky initiatives of the town will be lost forever as the light pollution
from this 24/7 lit up sign will eliminate dark for miles around, and we will be recognized as a bad neighbor to
Woburn (who has pledged not to put up any of these signs). This is dangerous, as we may want to work with
Woburn in the future to keep the highway from expanding in Reading. In short, I ask you to please reconsider
this signage. In the long run, the town stands to lose money, as the declining property values, possibility of
highway expansion, and the difficulty finding residents for Reading Commons will all affect Reading's financial
future.
Thank you for your careful consideration of this matter.
Jennifer Turner
370 Summer Avenue
7,11 4q
Schena, Paula
From:
Mary Carbone <marycarbone @verizon.net>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:03 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Proposed electronic sign
I wanted to go on record as being against the proposed electronic sign to be placed on West Street.
Mary Carbone 62 Oak Street, Reading
10
Schena, Paula
From:
Laura O'Neill <casarano @hotmail.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:22 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Opposition to the electronic billboard
Dear Selectman,
An electronic billboard is neither necessary or desired in Reading.
Please put an end to this matter and remove it from the agenda.
Sincerely,
Laura O'Neill
23 Rachel Road
Schena, Paula
From Lori Grayson <lagrayson@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:22 AM
To: James Bonazoli forwarding account; John Arena at Home; Rick Schubert Multiple Addresses;
Steve Godly forwarding account; Tofoya, Ben; Town Manager
Subject: Billboard
Dear Selectmen and Town Manager,
As a Reading citizen, I would like you to know that I am against allowing Clear Channel Communication
Corporation to erect an
approximately 90 foot tall, 2 -sided (each side approx. 300 sq. feet) electronically illuminated billboard at
the location of the Mobile Gas Station / Dunkin' Donuts on West Street at the Reading -Woburn town line.
Sincerely,
Lori Grayson
145 Van Norden Road
2b61
Schena, Paula
From:
Katie Varney <elephshoel @yahoo.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 9:16 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Reading sign opposition
To Whom It May Concern;
I am writing this letter to let you know that my family and I are opposed to a large advertisement
sign being placed on West street near our neighborhood. We believe it
will detract from home values and will affect the light levels in the area. The has been little if any
advertisement or community involvement in the decision to place such a sign. Please as our
selectman, vote against the placement of a sign on West st.
Sincerely,
Katie and Brian Varney
15 Pine Ridge Circle
Reading, MA 01867
Sent from my iPhone
Zb�2
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 8:55 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Proposed Electric Billboard on West Street
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 readinamaoov
email townmanacerCojci.readino.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
survev. virtualtown hall. net /su wev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: Lisa Egan lmailto:hsaeaan(&comcast.netl
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 8:43 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Proposed Electric Billboard on West Street
Dear Selectman,
I am writing to strongly urge you to vote "no" for electronic billboards in Reading. I live close to the proposed location
on West street, and am extremely concerned about the effect of such a sign on the neighborhood and property values
all in a designated historic district in town. The potential revenues are not worth the trade -off. I think there are many
unintended consequences of the sign, including distracting drivers on the highway and ending our dark sky initiatives
with a 24 hour, 7 day billboard.
I am very committed to the town of Reading, particularly the West Side. I spearheaded the auction which raised $40K
for the Joshua Eaton Playground. I am now involved in the master plan and new Playground at Sturges Park. I believe
the sign will detract from our town and our neighborhood. Please vote "no ".
Thank you.
Lisa Egan
R Oak Ridge Road
11 year Reading resident
2 60
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 8:31 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Vote "No" for Electronic Billboard — Article 10
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 readinoma.cov
email townmanaaeriMci.readinc.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
suNey.virtualtownhall.net/suwev/sid/igab55aedO8ft)c96/
From: Christine Fleming rmailto•chnstine ffemino(amilliman.coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 8:30 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Vote "No" for Electronic Billboard — Article 10
Please vote "NO" to the proposed zoning amendment (Article 10) which if passed would allow an electronic billboard to
be placed abutting the West Street neighborhoods. The idea of having this gauche sign in our community is repulsive to
me and not why I moved here with my family. To add insult to injury, it would be placed in a location steps away from a
historic district. Moreover, it has been brought forward without the necessary level of public discussion and it will be a
24 hour a day, 7 day a week nuisance for residents of Reading and the nearby community of Woburn. No amount of
money is adequate to offset the offensive image that the residents of Reading would be forced to endure day after day.
Christine M. Fleming, J.D., ACAS, MAAA Claims Management Consultant cfirsfne fleminoremilliman.com
Milliman Building 201 Edgewater Drive Suite 289 Wakefield, MA 01880 USA
Tel 1 781 213 6249 Fax 1 781 213 6201 milliman.mm
Millman
This communication is intended solely for the addressee and is confidential. If you
are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken
or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. Unless
indicated to the contrary: it does not constitute professional advice or opinions upon 7 b l
Schena, Paula
From: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 7:37 AM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Apposes to the sign on west street To bright and an eye sore.
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 am - 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 readinnma.gov
email townmanacer(alci.reading.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
suwev. vinualtownhall. net/su wev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: JAADREANI2005Colcomco5t.net r mailto •]ADREANI2005Cu1comcast.netI
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 7:36 AM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Apposes to the sign on west street To bright and an eye sore.
I am a reading resident and I am apposed to the sign being considered for West street. It is an eye
sore and to commercial.
It is also to bright.
Jane Adreani 14 School street Reading resident for 14 years.
Thank you for your consideration.
6s-�
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 7:37 AM
To:
Schema, Paula
Subject:
FW. Please remove Electronic Billboard from Agenda!
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 am - 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:30 a.rrl. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday: CLOSED
phone: 781- 942 -9043
fax 781- 942 -9071
web www.readinoma gov
email townmanacerAci.reading.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at httml /readinama-
survev virtualtownhall. net/suwev /sid /19ab55aed0Bfbc96/
From: Rine Angelou rmailto •rineangelouCalgmail.coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 7:29 AM
To: lames eonazoli forwarding account; John Arena at Home; Rick Schubert Multiple Addresses; Steve Goldy forwarding
account; Tofoya, Ben; Town Manager
Cc: c ancelou(dedtc.com; Paul Casaranolalkessler.com
Subject: Please remove Electronic Billboard from Agenda!
To the Town Manager:
Please consider this email a "Second" to the sentiments made by our neighbor, Paul Casarano, in his email to
you.on January 23. We have forwarded his key points below, all of which we agree are valid and justified
concems. We urge you to remove this item from your agenda, as the character of our town and neighborhood
are things we are unwilling to sacrifice.
Thank You,
Catarina and Christopher Angelou
53 Fairview Avenue �SV
I can't understand why we are even considering allowing Clear Channel to erect a monstrous electronic
billboard that would shine on both sides 24/7 at the entrance to our city on West St — in return for the sum of
$50K annually, or put differently, 6 /100ths of a percent of our annual revenue budget.
I am all for new recurring revenue streams, but this idea should never have made it even this far. It is wrong for
Reading on so many levels, but I will offer up a few of the thoughts that come to mind immediately:
• It will be virtually right above the "Welcome to Reading" sign. Is this really the first impression we want
to make?
• Image of our city takes an immediate and permanent hit.
• Property values in immediate area AND throughout town drop.
• How do we justify spending taxpayer $$ on Town Center updates for beautification and to attract new
businesses, and then advocate for something that will directly undermine those efforts?
• We didn't want Whole Foods and PF Changs at one end of South Street, but a Las Vegas style neon beacon
is OK at the other end?
• This sets a precedent and opens the floodgates for similar revenue opportunities EVERYWHERE in town.
• Would you rather be mentioned in the company of the Concords and Lexingtons of the world who are
saying no to these opportunities, or with the cities at the opposite end of the spectrum?
• We have no idea of the potential negative long term environmental effects of these new signs in residential
areas.
Finally, 1 came across a quote from a FINCOM Town Meeting/budget report earlier in 2012 :
`...Our financial strength was recently affirmed by Standard & Poor's when they re- issued a double -A credit rating
for Reading. The key factors which they cited were: strong housing values, despite a soft housing market; a strong
financial position underpinned by strong financial management..."
2
-,P
Imagine the increase in our borrowing costs and the limits on our access to new capital if we were downgraded
by that same agency because our property values dropped as a result of this billboard decision. The $50K in
revenue would pale in comparison.
I respectfully ask that you vote on Thursday to remove this item from the agenda before it even gets to Town
Meeting on Monday.
Thank you,
Paul Casarano
Paul Casarano I Vice president - Finance I Kessler I Group
355 BoV(rto, 5veet I Boston, MA 02116
te1: 617.450.4027 1 800.262.6628 I fax: 617.585.6995
Schena, Paula
From:
Alicia Zessis <zessis00(o?gmail.com>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 7:06 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
Electronic Billboard
Good Morning,
I am writing to you today, as I know many of my neighbors are, for concern regarding the electronic billboard
that may be going up near our neighborhood. I do understand that it would bring much needed added revenue
to our town, but perhaps we could find a better spot for it then one that will shine directly into people's
homes? Would you want this glowing into your windows at night? would you want your home value to be
potentially impacted by this sign? Not to say that others have not endured challenges around town, we have had
more than our fair share. I have personally lived in my home for over 40 years, and my parents have owned
here for 45. I came back to came to this town because this is where I grew up, and it ranks amongst the
Lexington, Bedford, and Wayland towns, adding this billboard to this part of town would be a disgrace.
Please I ask you to consider our neighborhoods and vote against this billboard.
Thank you.
Respectfully yours,
Alicia & Steven Zessis
Sherwood Road Residents
2bSl
Schena, Paula
From:
donna testa <daaltesta @verizon.net>
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 6:25 AM
To:
Reading - Selectmen
Subject:
enough already
Please do not allow an electronic bill board to be erected near 128. There is already too
much going on around there. We would like to preserve the beauty of Reading not hinder
it with more oversized bright lights and signs.
Please vote against this.
Donna and Larry Testa
10 Melbourne Ave.
Reading
Z 6b0
Schena, Paula
From:
Valerie Wadell <valerie.wadell@pearson.com>
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 10:22 PM
To:
Steve Godly forwarding account
Cc:
Town Manager; Brian Wadell
Subject:
Fwd: Billboard
Please say NO to billboards in our New England town.
Valerie Wadell
43 Berkekey Street
From: Paul Casarano
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 5:29 PM
To: 'ibonazoli(plci.readino.ma.us'; 'iarena0ci.readina.ma.us'; 'rschubert(dci reading ma us';
'syoldvlacireadingri us;' btafova( a) cireading. ma .us';'townmanager(&d.readina.mam
Subject: Billboard
To the Board of Selectmen,
I moved to Reading 5 years ago. I was very active in the town government of my fortner town,
which was one of the major reasons I left. The frustration of dealing with a group of people who
were out of touch with reality, out of date with their thinking, and unaware of the consequences
of their actions was too much to handle.
I searched for a town with a solid track record of financial management and a group of decision
makers with a vested interest in the schools, and an awareness of how all of their decisions affect
my property value, the reputation of our town, and general quality of life.
I landed here in Reading, which met and continues to meet all the criteria above, and I promised
myself I would stay out of town government all together and trust that the excellent management
would continue without my 2 cents.
Today, I must break that promise because it appears that you need my 2 cents, or at least my b6
common sense. ,L
I can't understand why we are even considering allowing Clear Channel to erect a monstrous
electronic billboard that would shine on both sides 24/7 at the entrance to our city on West St —
in return for the sum of $50K annually, or put differently, 6 /100ths of a percent of our annual
revenue budget.
I am all for new recurring revenue streams, but this idea should never have made it even this
far. It is a wrong for Reading on so many levels, but I will offer up a few of the thoughts that
come to mind immediately:
• It will be virtually right above the "Welcome to Reading" sign. Is this really the first
impression we want to make?
• Image of our city takes an immediate and permanent hit.
• Property values in immediate area AND throughout town drop.
• How do we justify spending taxpayer $$ on Town Center updates for beautification and to
attract new businesses, and then advocate for something that will directly undermine those
efforts?
• We didn't want Whole Foods and PF Changs at one end of South Street, but a Las Vegas
style neon beacon is OK at the other end?
• This sets a precedent and opens the floodgates for similar revenue opportunities
EVERYWHERE in town.
• Would you rather be mentioned in the company of the Concords and Lexingtons of the
world who are saying no to these opportunities, or with the cities at the opposite end of the
spectrum?
• We have no idea of the potential negative long term environmental effects of these new
signs in residential areas.
Finally, I came across a quote from a FINCOM Town Meeting/budget report earlier in 2012
`...Our financial strength was recently affirmed by Standard & Poor's when they re- issued a double -
A credit rating for Reading. The key factors which they cited were: strong housing values, despite a
soft housing market; a strong financial position underpinned by strong financial management..."
2 6 41t,
b4z
Imagine the increase in our borrowing costs and the limits on our access to new capital if we
were downgraded by that same agency because our property values dropped as a result of this
billboard decision. The $50K in revenue would pale in comparison.
I respectfully ask that you vote on Thursday to remove this item from the agenda before it even
gets to Town Meeting on Monday.
Thank you,
Paul Casarano
Paul CasaranoI Vice President - Finance I Kessler I Group
855 aoyttton Street I Boston. M 02116
tel : 617,450.4027 1 800.262.6628 1 fax: 617,585 6995
Note: The information transmitted in this message is intended only for the person or entity to
whom (or which) it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any
review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of or taking ofany action in reliance upon,
this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. /fyou
received this in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computer.
XO
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:56 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Electronic Billboard
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 townmanazer@ci.readina.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
survev virtualtownhall .net /survey /sid /`19ab55aed08fbc96/
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: Alicia Zessis [mailto:zessis000demail.coml
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:55 PM
To: Delios, Jean; selectmantWci.readina.ma.us: Town Manager
Subject: Re: Electronic Billboard
My apologies for sending before I had a chance to sign my email.
Please help us to find a better solution, Sincerely yours, Alicia & Steve Zessis
Sent from my iPad
On Jan 23, 2013, at 4:53 PM, Alicia Zessis <zessis009Damail.com> wrote:
> Good Afternoon,
> I am writing to you today, as I know many of my neighbors are, for concern regarding the electronic billboard that may
be going up near our neighborhood. I do understand that it would bring much needed added revenue to our town, but
perhaps we could find a better spot for it then one that will shine directly into people's homes? Would you want this
glowing into your windows at night? would you want your home value to be potentially impacted by this sign? Not to
say that others have not endured challenges around town, we have had more than our fair share. I have personally lived
in my home for over 40 years, and my parents have owned here for 45. 1 came back to came to this town because this is
where I grew up, and it ranks amongst the Lexington, Bedford, and Wayland towns, adding this billboard to this part of
town would be a disgrace. 6 q
t 2b
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:57 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Billboards
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.readinama.cov
email townmanaoer aci.readino.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
survey virtualtownhall neVsuNev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: Edward Hackett [ mailto :EHackett(dJJRuddyInsurance.coml
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:52 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Billboards
Reading Selectmen
I has been brought to my attention that Clear Channel has proposed a billboard in Reading. I wanted to voice
my opposition to any type of billboard in Reading.
My family and I moved to Reading 11 years ago. There was a short list of things that originally drew us to
Reading at the time - great schools, lots of young families, great community, and its proximity to Boston. After
you live in a community for a decade plus you come to appreciate so many other things that you often take for
granted when you compare Reading to other towns. Reading has a small town feel. The commercial
development has been welcome in small doses with great restaurants and convenience retail and office space.
Other than the commercial complex on North Ave - Reading has preserved its character.
In my opinion, allowing billboards in Reading would take away from that character, impact localized property
values, infringe on historic neighborhoods and have the potential to lead to more commercial development in
the future. While I appreciate the fact that Reading would benefit financially from the move, I think its
insignificant when compared to the impact on our neighborhoods, the residents, and the entire town.
I am seeking the support of all selectmen to vote against the Clear Channel proposal and ban billboards from
Reading. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Regards 7)", (O1<
Ed Hackett
3 indiana Ave
(781) 942 -1572
Edward P. Hackett, CIC, CRM
Vice - President I J.J. Ruddy Insurance Agency, Inc.
153 Main Street
Medford, MA 02155
781.396.4900 Fax 781.391.7597
Visit us online at w v jiruddyinsurance.com
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copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify
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2b�`�
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:57 PM
To:
Schema, Paula
Subject:
FW: Article 10, Electronic Billboards
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 oov
email townmanace0,)ci.readino.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinoma-
suNev.virtualtownhall.net/suwev/sid/19ab55aedO8fbc96/
From: John Gorman rmaiIto:ioorman(cb1BGLASS.com1
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:47 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Cc: John Gorman; Amy Gorman
Subject: Artical 10, Electronic Billboards
Good Afternoon Selectmen,
My name is John Gorman and I live on lames Road. I am writing to express my opposition in regards to the electronic
billboard on West street and any other street in Reading. I moved here 6 years ago from Wakefield and I am originally
from Somerville. I moved here because of the school system, location, great town, great sports and was able to buy into
a beautiful neighbor.
I feel that I've moved to a better town because of the people who live in this town care about it and that this would
show that we are turning into a cheaper and less affluent town. I have kids 10, 8 and 2 -1/2 that are in the Reading school
systems, sports programs, etc. and am planning to spend the rest of my life in this house and in this town. If this
billboard goes through I know that I will not. I urge you to consider this statement and hope that you will see what this
would do to the community for a small amount of revenue that I'm sure we can find in other avenues.
Thank you for your time.
Respectfully,
John Gorman
James Rd.
ab0
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:35 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Billboard
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 am - 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.readinama.00v
email townmanaoer0ci.readinc.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
suwev virtuahownhall net/suwev /sid /19ab55aedOBfbc96/
From: David Mancuso fmailto :mancusomail(d)Yahoo.coml
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 4:15 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Cc: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Subject: Billboard
Dear Board of Selectmen:
As a resident of Precinct 4, I want to record my support for the continuation of the effort to pursue the potential
placement of an electronic billboard at the Mobile Station property on West Street. I would also respectfully
encourage the Board to come together to gather the facts that will enable the community make an informed
decision by fully and openly weighing the impact a billboard may or may not have against the long -term
benefits it could bring to the community. To that end, I hope the Board will encourage rather than discourage
robust conversation around Article 10 in the upcoming Town Meeting.
Respectfully,
Dave Mancuso
129 Howard St.
Reading, MA 01867
M
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 2:53 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: possibility of electronic billboards in Reading
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 townmanaoer(alci.readinc.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinoma-
survev virtualtownhall neVsurvev /sid /19ab55aedOefbc96/
From: Art Dulong rmailto•adulong(amssaa oral
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 1:25 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: possibility of electronic billboards in Reading
To all selectmen,
We strongly encourage you and every other Town of Reading municipal board to work on behalf of Reading
citizens to prevent any possibility of electronic billboards being erected and maintained within the town of Reading.
These billboards are a terrible eyesore as well as a potential traffic hazard. All one has to do to understand our point is
drive toward Boston on Route 93 and see the billboard in Stoneham near Montvale Ave. Truly an unattractive
monstrosity that reflects poorly on the town of Stoneham. Surely this must be seen negatively by the area businesses.
The situation in Reading would be far worse as the area in question is almost exclusively residential. The electronic
billboard would be unanimously reviled because of its appearance as well as the detrimental effect it would have on
property values. As citizens of Reading for nearly 40 years we strongly oppose such a structure and rely on you to work
on our behalf to oppose it.
Arthur and Karen Dulong
4 Louanis Drive
Reading, MA 01867
781 - 942 -0127
M
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 2:26 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Billboard
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 readinama.goy
email townmanaaer(Mci.readino . ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
survev.virtualtownhall. neVsurvev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc961
From: Bobbie Botticelli rmailto •bobbiebotticelli(olverizon.n
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 1:07 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Billboard
To The Board of Selectmen,
I am voicing my support for the placement of electronic billboard on West St.
From my research it appears the local selected may be perhaps less obtrusive in our own borders than if it were
placed in our neighbors.
I would suggest the Selectmen ask that a rendering be displayed showing the competing options allowing for a
more educated decision from town meeting .
Thank you.
Bobbie Botticelli
Sen! from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE DROID
?/ 610
From: Jennifer Hardin [mailto:hardinfamilvlCulverizon nett
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 12:15 PM
To: Delos, lean
Subject: Clear Com proposed billboard
Dear Ms. Delics,
My husband and I are writing to express our extreme disappointment in learning that there is a proposed plan in place to
erect a massive electronic billboard at the Mobil station down the street from our home. We live in a very quiet and
peaceful neighborhood, and we moved here because the neighborhood (like most of the neighborhoods in Reading) is
isolated from commercial traffic and noise. We realize that the highway is close by, but that does not mean that we
should make things worse by taking advantage of that fact. If a billboard that large and intrusive is going to be erected, it
should be done in the commercial/industrial area by the Woburn Mall where there are no neighborhoods that will be
affected by it. Our entire neighborhood is up in arms about the billboard, and especially about the fact that we were not
told about it sooner.
We know that as a town we have the right to say "no" to companies wanting to advertise at the expense of the
residents. Many other towns, such as Lexington, Concord, Lincoln, Westford and Winchester have done so. We are
asking you, as the Town Planner, to support the people of this town who don't want this billboard, or any others like it put
up.
Thank you for your time and understanding
Sincerely,
Jennifer and Scott Hardin
35 Avalon Rd.
bil I
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 11:52 AM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Article 10- January 28th Meeting (Electronic Billboard @ Mobil Street)
At the end of the day tomorrow please collect any of these we have and send them to the Board of Selectmen
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,readingma.gov
email townmanaeer@ci.readina.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
su"ev.virtualtownhall.net/suNey/sid/19ab55aedOBfbc96/
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: Justin Young f mailto •JYouneClcorcoranmemt.coml
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 11:27 AM
To: btafova@comcast.net; Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Article 30- January 28th Meeting (Electronic Billboard @ Mobil Street)
Hello Selectman Tafoya,
My name is Justin Young and I am the Senior Manager for The Reading Commons Apartment Community. I represent
the owners and as you can imagine, we are strongly opposed to such an installation. An electronic billboard in direct
view from our apartment homes would decrease the property value and marketability. In addition, it would adversely
effect our current residents with views in that direction. Given the proximity to the residential community, I was
surprised that this installation would be considered by the town.
Please let me know what we can do to help prevent this installation.
Thank You.
Justin M Young, CPM•
Senior Property Manager
Corcoran Management Co., Inc.
T. 781- 849 -0011
F. 781- 849 -0157
vo %/
Library Building Committee
There is hereby established a Library Building Committee.
Background & Mission
The Reading Library Board of Trustees has applied for and been awarded (in October 2012) an
approximately $5.1 million construction grant by the Massachusetts Library Board of Commissioners.
This grant award was as a result of an application and extensive planning effort by the Reading
Public Library through its Board of Trustees and staff, with it's OPM and Architect. The project is to
conduct a full renovation /reconstruction of the existing building, plus an addition of approximately
8,000 square feet. The project is intended to develop a building with a useful life of at least 50 years,
and a functional life of at least 20 years before any significant programmatic modifications are
required.
The Library Building Committee shall provide advice to the Facilities Director, who shall be
responsible for the management of the building project, and to the Town Manager who pursuant to
the Reading Home Rule Charter is responsible for the awarding of contracts and carrying out of
improvements to all public buildings except for the buildings of the School Department and the
Reading Municipal Light Department.
The Library Building Committee shall report periodically to the Library Board of Trustees, Town
Meeting, and other bodies as requested on the progress of the Library project.
The Library Building Committee shall:
(1) To the extent that it does not delay the process, give advice to the Town Manager on the
selection of the Architect and Owners Project Manager (OPM) selection for the project.
(2) Review the detailed options for renovation/reconstruction of existing space and addition of
additional space to the existing library building at 64 Middlesex Ave. including a discussion of
expected timelines and costs; and
(3) Developing a recommended proposal for the final design. The Library Building Committee will
base its recommendation on the detailed program needs developed as part of the application
process for State aid, and approved by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
(4) Monitor the bid process and make a recommendation as to the award of construction bids.
(5) Provide input into the arrangements for temporary space for the library during the construction
project.
(6) Monitor the construction process, working with the Facilities Director to determine how the project
is tracking with respect to the construction contract, timelines, and cost.
(7) Review change order and make a recommendation as to their approval
Committee Membership
The Library Building Committee shall consist of ten (10) members appointed as noted below.
♦ 2 members of the Library Board of Trustees appointed by the Board of Trustees
♦ 2 members of the Library staff, which may include the Library Director, and who shall be
appointed by the Library Director
• One member of the Finance Committee appointed by the Finance Committee
♦ One member of the Historical Commission appointed by the Historical Commission
P- c, l
2 members of Town Meeting appointed by the Town Moderator
2 residents of the community who have experience and expertise in construction projects as an
architect, structural or civil engineer, contractor, or construction manager
The terms of the members of the Library Building Committee shall be for three years, or until
the completion of construction and the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy of the building
project, or until the filing of a final report with Town Meeting, whichever comes first.
Adopted
2 C, 3
Schena,Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 6:42 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Bill Board
Importance: High
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.readinama.cov
email townmanaaer0ci.readino. ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
survev.virtualtownhall. net/suwev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: John Sullivan fmailto ;john.sullivan(cicbre- ne.com1
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 5:25 PM
To: Dave Edwards; ibonazoli(aci.readind.ma.us'; iarena(acI reading.ma.us; rschubert(olcLreadinc.ma.us,,
sgoldy(aci.readinc.ma.us; btafova(olcl.readmg.ma.us; townmanacer(aci readinq.ma.us
Cc: nancy edwards; vincent(oshanlevscaoes com
Subject: RE: Bill Board
Importance: High
Hello,
My name is John Sullivan and I live at 55 Whitehall Lane and I would also like to voice my extreme opposition to the
proposes signage. Not only is it inappropriate for the town but once again will negatively impact my property values.
I would also like to understand why it is that we continue to find about initiatives that could affect our neighborhoods at
the last minute. It once again seems eerily similar to how the neighborhood found out about the Highway interchange
proposal. Please keep in mind that I am all for the small business but it needs to be appropriate for the town and the its
surroundings. We faced the prospect of the highway project passing previously without any discussion and I happened
to find out about the hearing the day of the meeting at Stoneham High School. This process needs to change. We can't
continually find about proposed change when it is about to be voted on.
To be candid, all of our property values have already decreased because of the highway project in whatever shape that
will ultimately be. Now to face the prospect of even further reduced value is very troubling for my wife and I. 1 too am a
lifelong resident of Reading and I understand change occurs but at what expense. We are not a City we are not an urban
area and frankly I miss the small town that I grew up and haven chosen to raise my family in. We used to be a
community that rallied around and supported each other not one that was strictly looking for added revenue.
Please keep Reading a small town community with small town values and join us in OPPOSING this signage program.
Respectfully,
John and Mary Sullivan
John F. Sullivan. RPA, CCIM
General Manager
CBRE 1 New England I Asset Services
185 Franklin Street. 10th Floor 1 Boston, MA 02110
T 617 261 7876 1 F 617 261 7870 I C 617 780 9087
John. S u I livan(cpcbre- ne.com
Please weeder the environment before printing this email
From: Dave Edwards fmailto •dedwards(droveroeabody.coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 10:15 AM
To: jbonazoli(dci reading.ma.us'; iarena(5ci.readino.ma.us; rschubert(dci.reading.ma.us; Woldv(alci.reading.ma.us;
btafoya(dci reading ma us; townmanaaer(dci reading.mam
Cc: nancy edwards; John Sullivan; vincent(a)shanlevscaoes com
Subject: Bill Board
As a lifelong resident of the Town of Reading, I am opposed to the Clear Channel proposal to erect the electronic
billboard at the entrance to our town on West St and anywhere else in town for that matter.
I respectfully ask that you vote today to remove this item from the agenda before it even gets to Town Meeting on
Monday.
Thank you,
David Edwards
General Manager
Land Rover Peabody
Phone 978.535.9200
Fax 978.535.8010
'R9UlN lT let
t�ti 1�o,s G'3 ti
www.rovemeabodv.com
Like us on Facebook www.facellook.com/landroverpeabod
This message is the property of The Lyon -Waugh Auto Group and its affiliates. It may be legally
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should forward, print, copy, or otherwise reproduce this message in any matter that would allow it
to be viewed by any individual not originally listed as a recipient. If the reader of this message
is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any unauthorized disclosure,
dissemination, distribution, copying or the taking of any action in reliance on the information
herein is strictly prohibited. It you have received this communication in error, please immediately
notify the sender and delete this message. Thank you.
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 8:53 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Oppose billboard
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 townmanager(aci.readine.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinrtma-
suNey.virtualtownhall.net/sumey/sid/19ab55aedO8fbc96/
- - - -- Original Message---- -
From: Vincent Shanley rmailto�vincentftshanlevscaoes .coml
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 7:11 PM
To: James Bonazoli forwarding account; Rick Schubert Multiple Addresses; Steve Goldy forwarding account; Tofoya, Ben;
Town Manager; John Arena at Home
Subject: Oppose billboard
Dear town selectmen and town manager,
My name is Vincent Shanley and I live at 32 Whitehall lane, I along with everyone in Reading will be negatively impacted
by the proposed sign on west street.
I have thought about this issue quite a bit, and listened and read what the proponents have to say. I am having a
difficult time buying into the arguments in favor of placing a billboard that would over shadow hundreds of homes and
have a chilling effect on the town.
I have heard folks tying this to a full time town employee, do we do this with all projects and possible revenue. Perhaps
the expansion of the library should be put out to the public and alongside list how many jobs in town we could have
instead. Won't there be associated costs with new employees that the 50,000 can not cover. I have even heard
residents in favor as they are unhappy with something in their neighborhood. This is beyond irrational as we all should
care about the town as a whole. Whether reading goes forward or rejects this bad idea will not preclude any town from
conducting their town business as they see fit. We have a friend in woburn, lets continue to be a good neighbor.
It seems odd to me, that on the same night the town seeks funding for a new library through a tax increase they will also
be considering a sign that will reduce my property value. I am in favor of enhancing the beauty and desirability of
Reading, and in some cases that will require me to pay more. Asking myself and numerous others to vote in favor of a
tax increase will be difficult if you have voted to negatively impact my neighborhood and the values of our homes.
Reading has made great improvements in the center and strives to make the town better and more desirable, let's not
set that back. This is not part of sound management or a greater vision for Reading. This would amount to visual
pollution that we will be stuck with for years and years. The cost is too high for the negligible benefit.
I truly appreciate all that you do for the town and the amount of time and energy you give to make it a better place to
live and raise a family. That is what drives the towns value on many levels. I ask that you reject this proposal as it is a
short sighted approach.
Thank you,
Vincent Shanley
Sent from my Wad
Schena, Paula
From: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 5:07 PM
To Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Billboard
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.readinamaoov
email townmanaaerAci.readina.mams
Please let us know how we are doing -fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
suwev virtualtownhall net/sumev /sid /19ab55aedOBfbc96/
From: Mary Ellen Chamberlain fmailto ,mchamberlain(a)acmeoacket.com1
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 5:06 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Billboard
Hello,
I have been a Reading resident for over 10 years and was very sad to learn that there is the potential for a Neon
billboard to be added in our town. Although 1 understand that anything that brings in revenue can be intriguing the fact
that it was looked at more than just briefly is very disappointing. The idea that we are the type of community that
would put additional income in front of the community well being is very upsetting. Has anyone thought about what
this will do to the neighbors in the area that will have to endure the glare. Has any one thought of what type of Flood
gates we might be opening in the future. Why would we want to continue to invest money in making our community
more beautiful and then turn the corner to find a Vegas Billboard. I urge you to consider the implications of this
decision and turn it down.
Mary Ellen Chamberlain
Schena, Paula
From: Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 4:26 PM
To: Schena, Paula
Subject: FW: Vote "NO" for electronic Billboard - Article 10
Importance: High
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 am - 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.readinnma goy
email townmanacer(cbci . readina.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing - fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
su wey. virtualtown hall. net/suNev /sid /19ab55aedOBfbc96/
From: Jeknavorlan, Karen Imallto :KJEKNAVORIAN(aIPARTNERS.ORGI
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 4:20 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Vote "NO" for electronic Billboard - Article 10
Importance: High
Dear Town Selectman,
I grew up in Reading and just purchased my first home in the beautiful town of Reading. I purchased in
Reading because of the quality of living here. I'm writing to ask you to vote NO to a proposed zoning
amendment (Article 10) to allow for an electronic billboard abutting the West Street neighborhoods. This sign
creates the wrong image of our residential community, it is proposed for a location steps away from a historic
district, it has been brought forward without the necessary level of public discussion and it will be a 24 hour a
day, 7 day a week nuisance for residents of Reading and the nearby community of Woburn. The mitigation
payments are simply not adequate to offset these disadvantages.
The town of Reading is a very quaint, suburban and prestigious town, PLEASE, let's keep it that way. It is
those qualities that make people want to live and grow their families our community. We we away from all of
the "city" elements and light pollution. 1, and I'm sure our other town residents want to keep it that way. Please
vote "NO" on this amendment! Keep ClearChannel, and other outdoor media companies, out of our town.
They just want to sell more advertising space and distract the drivers on our roads as well as Rt. 93. They have
polluted the skylines south of our town, please, please do not let them seep into our neighborhoods!
THANK YOU!! for keeping this light pollution out of our quaint town.
Sincerely,
Karen Jeknavorian
(a very concerned Reading resident)
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dispose of the e-mail.
Schena, Paula
From:
Hechenbleikner, Peter
Sent:
Thursday, January 24, 2013 4:38 PM
To:
Schena, Paula
Subject:
FW: Electronic Billboard at West Street Mobil
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 readinama.cov
email townmanacer(4ci.reading.ma.us
Please let us know how we are doing -fill out our brief customer service survey at htto://readinama-
suwev virtualtownhall net/survev /sid /19ab55aed08fbc96/
From: dfxdesa(aaol.com rmallto:dfxdeso@aol mm1
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2013 4:32 PM
To: Reading - Selectmen
Subject: Electronic Billboard at West Street Mobil
Dear Selectmen,
I am writing to make my opposition known to an electronic billboard which has been proposed to be
constructed at the West Street Mobil Station. It is my understanding that this billboard would be on
24 hours 7 days a week casting a constant glow into the night and being a disturbance to the
neighborhood.
I strongly oppose the construction of this billboard and believe that this will adversely affect property
values in the Town of Reading
Many years ago, Lady Bird Johnson, the wife of the late President Lyndon B. Johnson, worked to
remove billboards from along highways and was instrumental in passing the Highway Beautification
Act in 1965. Unfortunately, the bill which passed was so watered down that much of Lady Bird's
dreams were never realized. The bill stated that billboards would be banned "except in those areas
of commercial and industrial use." Unfortunately loopholes have allowed the construction of many
more billboards
now than were present when President Johnson signed the bill into use. We do not need a billboard
of the size proposed. The amount of money that this might bring in to the town is insignificant
compared to the loss of property value for the houses which abut this area.
My wife and I urge you to deny this permit
Very truly yours,
Daniel F. Dowcett and Karen E. Doyle
80 Curtis Street, Reading, MA