Town of North Reading, MA - Board of Selectmen Minutes 12/17/2007

Board of Selectmen Minutes 12/17/2007


	MINUTES OF BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING MONDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2007 ___________________________________________________________________________ Chairman Mauceri called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. in Room 14 at the Town Hall in the presence of members Mr. Veno, Mr. Dardeno, Mr. O’Leary and the Town Administrator Greg Balukonis. Mr. Harris arrived at 6:05 p.m. #1. TREASURER/COLLECTOR CANDIDATE Mr. Balukonis opened the meeting introducing the candidate for appointment of Treasurer, Maryann J. MacKay. This appointment is voted on annually by the Board. Ms. MacKay is a long-time employee of the Town and comes with the recommendation from the Finance Director, as well as from Mr. Balukonis. Mr. Balukonis had Ms. MacKay come in and asked the Board if they had any questions for her. Mr. Veno said he had no questions, but that he too recommends her for this position, noting the Town is very lucky to have her and she has always done an outstanding job. The rest of the Board agreed as well. MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO APPOINT MARYANN J. MACKAY TOWN TREASURER WITH A TERM TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008. MOTION BY: MR. O’LEARY SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) Congratulations were given to Ms. MacKay. Mr. Balukonis noted the Swearing in Ceremony will be coordinated with Maryann and the Town Clerk. He was pleased to note the companion appointment of Town Collector was part of this position as well, and this was an indefinite appointment. He also stated that since the prior Treasurer left two months ago, Maryann has been filling in and doing a wonderful job. #2. WASTEWATER PLANNING COMMITTEE Mr. Mauceri introduced Gary Hunt, Chairman of the North Reading Wastewater and Storm Water Planning Advisory Committee. Mr. Hunt stated he and some of his colleagues from the Wastewater Planning Advisory Committee were here tonight to discuss their findings and recommendations for a comprehensive wastewater plan for the Town of placeCityNorth Reading. The Committee has been working on the plan for over five years, giving periodic updates to the Board, and the plan is now near completion. The plan consists of the construction of a wastewater collection, treatment and discharge system that will service approximately 1,100 of the Town’s more than 4,000 properties. He noted the four areas to be serviced as the Martin’s Pond area, the Concord Street areas and Center area. It is the hope of the Committee that the Board and the Town will agree with their plan, and provide them with some feedback as well, while the Committee continues to move forward. Mr. Hunt turned the presentation over to Denise Connery who is a member of the Wastewater Planning Advisory Committee. Ms. Connery gave a slide show presentation of the wasterwater planning process prepared by Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc., depicting the history of wastewater concerns and the major issue of the Ipswich River. Achievements to date were discussed including prioritization of wastewater needs, looking at different alternatives, investigating disposal sites, coordination with the J. C. Berry site and public outreach with wastewater and storm water. The slide show presentation was then turned back over to Mr. Hunt who continued the discussion of the various areas that needed to be serviced and the benefits that would be obtained as a result of the plan. -1- Issues discussed in the presentation were: 1. Areas to be serviced, which included various municipal facilities. 2. Anticipated costs of the project. 3. Obtaining the monies for the project. 4. The cost recovery method recommended of collecting 80% of the local project costs through betterments of those being serviced by the new system and the balance of 20% of the local project costs paid by taxes. 5. Reasons explaining the urgency of implementing this plan. 6. Opportunities and benefits to the Town, including environmental and economic benefits. 7. Property valuations. 8. Additional work still pending to complete the plan. Ken Nichols from Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc. then took over the presentation with a slide show of different proposals summarizing local costs and different cost allocation scenarios. He explained each proposal in detail. He also spoke about the importance of commercial/industrial properties coming to North Reading. Mr. Hunt then gave a brief summary of the presentation and answered questions from the Board members. Mr. O’Leary offered his congratulations on the time and effort that was put into this plan and that he is ready to endorse this plan. Mr. Hunt went on to say that a special Town Meeting should be held separately as a good hour presentation would be needed. Mr. Hunt then reiterated the urgency of having this plan approved and that he hoped it would be addressed no later than April, so it could be put on the May ballot. Mr. Dardeno feels the first, most important step is to sell this plan to the public and this should be addressed at the Town Meeting. Mr. Mauceri commented that he felt this plan was the only way the Town could expand their commercial base. The various options of how and when to vote on this plan were discussed. Mr. Mauceri suggested that it be addressed at the April Town Meeting and to vote in advance to put an “override question” on the agenda. He feels it is too costly to have a Special Town Meeting and the month of March does not attract a large number of citizens. He feels in order to get this passed in an “override”, there must be a good public turnout at the Town Meeting. Another option would be to put an Article on the April Town Meeting and then wait to put an “override vote” on the November ballot. Mr. Balukonis noted that legally the Town would have to dispose of any outstanding “override” by September 15^th. The only other option would be to have a special election sometime before September 15^th. Mr. Hunt feels an educational meeting for the public at some time in 2008 would be very beneficial. However, they would need the Board’s endorsement, and decision on the split prior to bringing the proposal to the public. After a lengthy discussion, all the Board members agreed to endorse the plan and felt that the 80%/20% split of costs would make the most sense. They also agreed on voting before April Town Meeting to put an override question on the agenda based on how things were moving along. The presentation ended at 7:12 p.m. #3. COMCAST PUBLIC HEARING Mr. Mauceri read the Notice of Cable Television Ascertainment Hearing to the audience. Mr. Dardeno stated that Comcast was up for renewal of their license, which expires January 4, 2008. This is the last Board of Selectmen meeting before the expiration and Comcast has a proposed contract. Ruth Kennedy the Chairman of the Cable Access Committee states that the Committee has voted to approve the proposed license. Questions from Board members were raised with regard to comparison with Verizon’s contract. Subscriber costs, percentage increases and services were discussed and Mr. Dardeno stated he was very excited about the competition between the two cable companies. Budget and employee issues with Norcam were also discussed. Mr. Mauceri asked if there were any other questions, and then closed the public hearing at 7:25 p.m. MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE THAT THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN OF THE TOWN OF NORTH READING, AS ISSUING AUTHORITY, GRANT TO COMCAST OF MASSACHUSETTS, INC. A CABLE TELEVISION RENEWAL LICENSE ON THE TERMS SET FORTH IN THE DOCUMENT NEGOTIATED BY, AND RECOMMENDED BY THE CABLE ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND BY THE TOWN COUNSEL. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) Prior to voting on the motion, Mr. Mauceri asked if there was a copy of the agreement in the Town Records and Mr. Balukonis replied yes, it was sent by the Board of Selectmen. There was a five minute recess. #4. PUBLIC COMMENT Before going on to the Show Cause Hearing, Mr. Mauceri asked if anyone had a public comment. Karen McCormack, addressStreet8 Turner Road stated she was at the meeting tonight as a citizen and Co-Chair of North Reading United for Education, a group of concerned parents in town who organized themselves and focus their efforts locally and at the State level to secure funding for public schools in placeNorth Reading. She urged the Board of Selectmen to fund the schools appropriately when developing the budget for next year. She told the Board members she had mailed packets of information to them detailing various things other communities were doing to alleviate the budget crisis, particularly at the school level. Mr. O’Leary commented that as a parent he too is concerned about education, as well as the Town as a whole. He stated the Board members are very much aware of the situation and the importance of maintaining quality education. Mr. Mauceri commented that Town employee benefits are a large cost area, particularly health insurance, and the Board is looking into alternative programs in the hope of cutting some of these costs while still providing the same level of benefits to the employees. #5. SHOW CAUSE HEARING – RT. 28 MOTORS The Board of Selectmen were asked to hold a show cause hearing with regards to three violations of M.G.L. Chapter 140 – Class II Dealership License and a violation of the Town’s permit against Rte. 28 Motors, 137 Main Street. Mr. Joseph Sordillo was in attendance, and the letter that was sent to him by the Town Administrator on November 20, 2007 was read aloud. Mr. O’Leary abstained from the discussion and deliberation given that he had a family member with a Class II license. Police Detective Thomas Romeo informed the Board of the various violations, and the Police Department’s recommendation to suspend the Class II license for a period of two weeks. He stated an agreement with the owner of Rte. 28 Motors had been reached and the violations resolved. The criminal violation, however, is still pending. The President of the Corporation asked why the corporation should be penalized as a result of the actions of one its members/employees, to which Mr. Mauceri clarified this issue for him. Detective Romeo commented that the owner had been very cooperative in resolving the violations. Mr. Veno and Mr. Dardeno expressed their opinions and recommendations. Legal issues of revoking vs. suspending the license were addressed, as well as noting that the violations other than the pending criminal charge had been resolved. MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO: SUSPEND FOR FOURTEEN DAYS DURING THE PERIOD OF dateYear2008Day2Month1JANUARY 2, 2008 THROUGH JANUARY 15, 2008 THE CLASS II LICENSE FOR RT. 28 MOTORS, 137 MAIN STREET. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO ABSTAINED: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) #6. CHINA CUISINE Mr. Mauceri read the Notice of Public Hearing with regards to an alteration of premises for the Common Victualer/All Alcohol License of China Cuisine, Inc. This alteration involves a new addition and a relocation of the bar. Mr. Victor Hui, the owner of China Cuisine, Inc. explained the proposed changes. The Building Inspector said the premises are about one-week away from obtaining their Certificate of Occupation. No issues needed to be addressed and no objections were made. MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO APPROVE AN ALTERATION OF PREMISES FOR THE COMMON VICTUALLER/ALL ALCOHOL LICENSE FOR CHINA CUISINE, 235 MAIN STREET SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) #7. MINUTES MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO APPROVE THE NOVEMBER 19, 2007 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES AS WRITTEN. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO ABSTAINED: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) Mr. O’Leary abstained from the motion to vote as he was not present for the November 19, 2007 Regular Session Minutes. MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO APPROVE THE NOVEMBER 19, 2007 EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES AS WRITTEN. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) ________________________________________________________________________________ MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO APPROVE THE DECEMBER 3, 2007 REGULAR SESSION MINUTES AS WRITTEN. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) A vote on the December 3, 2007 Executive Session Minutes was not undertaken as Mr. Veno asked that a correction be made to the minutes. #8. APPOINTMENTS/RE-APPOINTMENTS TAXATION AID COMMITTEE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO PLACE IN NOMINATION THE FOLLOWING NAME FOR REAPPOINTMENT AS A MEMBER OF THE TAXATION AID COMMITTEE FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 31, 2010: GLORIA MASTRO, CENTRAL STREET MOTION BY: MR. O’LEARY SECONDED BY: MR. HARRIS VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) PROCESS SERVING CONSTABLES - APPOINTMENT MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO PLACE IN NOMINATION THE FOLLOWING NAME FOR APPOINTMENT AS A PROCESS SERVING CONSTABLE FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 31, 2008: AUGUSTUS S. LAMONT, 272 PARK STREET MOTION BY: MR. VENO SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) Mr. Veno commented that Mr. Lamont was a Process Serving Constable several years ago, and an opening for this appointment had become available as a gentleman did not want to be reappointed. ___________________________________________________________________________ LIBRARY TRUSTEE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO PLACE IN NOMINATION THE FOLLOWING NAMES FOR APPOINTMENT/REAPPOINTMENT AS MEMBERS OF THE LIBRARY TRUSTEES FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 31, 2010: (2 OPENINGS) LORRAINE SHEEHAN, 177 HAVERHILL ST. (INCUMBENT) KATHRYN GEOFFRIN SCANNELL, 44 BURROUGHS RD. TRISH ST. GERMAIN, 7 SURREY LANE DAN SOLOMON, addressStreet72 MARBLEHEAD ST. MOTION BY: MR. DARDENO SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: MR. O’LEARY: LORRAINE SHEEHAN/KATHRYN GEOFFRIN SCANNELL MR. VENO: LORRAINE SHEEHAN/KATHRYN GEOFFRIN SCANNELL MR. DARDENO:LORRAINE SHEEHAN/KATHRYN GEOFFRIN SCANNELL MR. HARRIS: LORRAINE SHEEHAN/KATHRYN GEOFFRIN SCANNELL MR. MAUCERI: LORRAINE SHEEHAN/KATHRYN GEOFFRIN SCANNELL ___________________________________________________________________________ MARTIN’S POND COMMITTEE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO PLACE IN NOMINATION THE FOLLOWING NAMES FOR APPOINTMENT/REAPPOINTMENT AS MEMBERS OF THE MARTIN’S POND RECLAMATION STUDY COMMITTEE FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE ON DECEMBER 31, 2010: (5 OPENINGS) JANET NICOSIA, 2 POPLAR TERRACE (INCUMBENT) LAWRENCE SOUCIE,4 ALLSTON RD. (INCUMBENT) PAUL CAMERON, 37 BURROUGHS RD. (INCUMBENT) LORI LYNES, 4 COMEAU RD. KATHRYN GEOFFRIN SCANNELL 44 BURROUGHS RD. MOTION BY: MR. DARDENO SECONDED BY: MR. HARRIS VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) MUNICIPAL HEARING OFFICER MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO DESIGNATE THE TOWN ADMINISTRATOR AS MUNICIPAL HEARINGS OFFICER PURSUANT TO MGL CHAPTER 148A FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 2008 TO DECEMBER 31, 2008. MOTION BY: MR. DARDENO SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ EAST-MIDDLESEX MOSQUITO CONTROL REPRESENTATIVE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO PLACE IN NOMINATION THE FOLLOWING NAME FOR REAPPOINTMENT AS REPRESENTATIVE OF THE EAST-MIDDLESEX MOSQUITO CONTROL PROJECT FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2010. MARTIN FAIR – HEALTH AGENT, TOWN OF NORTH READING MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) #9. LICENSE RENEWALS Prior to the motions, Mr. Veno asked the Town Administrator if everyone for license renewals were all paid up on taxes, water bills, etc., to which he responded they were. COMMON VICTUALLER MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING COMMON VICTUALLER LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: CAPTAIN PIZZA DUNKIN DONUTS (13 MAIN ST.) DUNKIN DONUTS (6 WASHINGTON ST.) DUNKIN DONUTS (289 MAIN ST.) HORSESHOE CAFÉ, INC. placeNORTH READING CHRISTOPHER CLUB PAPA GINO’S RAPHAEL’S PLACE RISTORANTE DANIELA RYER’S STORE THE HORNET’S NEST WENDY’S MARIO’S RESTAURANT GATHERINGS MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. DARDENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ COMMON VICTUALLER/WINE AND MALT BEVERAGE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING COMMON VICTUALLER/WINE AND MALT BEVERAGE LICENSE TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: MARIO’S RESTAURANT MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. DARDENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ CLASS II LICENSE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING CLASS II LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: A & J MOTORS RT. 28 MOTORS MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO ABSTAINED: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) Mr. O’Leary abstained from the discussion and deliberation given that he had a family member with a Class II license. ___________________________________________________________________________ LIVERY LICENSE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING LIVERY LICENSE TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: NORTH READING TRANSPORTATION MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) JUKEBOX LICENSE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING JUKEBOX LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: LOYAL ORDER OF MOOSE PAPA GINO’S MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) FRATERNAL CLUB LICENSE/ALL ALCOHOL MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING FRATERNAL CLUB/ALL ALCOHOL LICENSE TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: LOYAL ORDER OF MOOSE NORTH READING CHRISTOPHER CLUB MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ CLASS I LICENSE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING CLASS I LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: DYAR SALES NORTH READING MOTOR SPORTS MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ PACKAGE STORE/ALL ALCOHOL MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING PACKAGE STORE/ALL ALCOHOL LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: EAST GATE LIQUORS ONE STOP LIQUORS MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) PACKAGE STORE/WINE AND MALT BEVERAGE MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING PACKAGE STORE/WINE AND MALT BEVERAGE LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: CHRISTOPHER’S MARKET CONVENIENCE PLUS HESS EXPRESS RYER’S STORE MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) Ryder’s Store needed two licenses; one for the old building and one for the new building, which were already approved by the Board. It is not a separate license, but an Alteration of Premises. This is a formality pending the ABCC approving the License Alteration of Premises. Once the new license is approved, the old license will be surrendered. ___________________________________________________________________________ COMMON VICTUALLER/ALL ALCOHOL MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING COMMON VICTUALLER/ALL ALCOHOL LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: HORSESHOE CAFÉ, INC. RISTORANTE DANIELA THE BIG DOG SPORTS GRILLE MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ AUTOMATIC AMUSEMENT DEVICES MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RENEW THE FOLLOWING AUTOMATIC AMUSEMENT DEVICE LICENSES TO EXPIRE DECEMBER 31, 2008 SUBJECT TO ALL REGULATORY DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS: CANDLEWOOD LANES PAPA GINO’S WAL-MART LOYAL ORDER OF MOOSE THE BIG DOG SPORTS GRILLE MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) RENEWAL CERTIFICATION MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO SIGN THE ABCC 2008 RENEWAL CERTIFICATION. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (5-0) #10. PUBLIC HEARING – TAX RATE AND CLASSIFICATION At 8:20 p.m., Mr. Mauceri read the Notice of Public Hearing – Tax Rate and Classification. Mr. O’Leary stated that he was informed by Town Counsel that it would be an intentional conflict if he voted on this matter, as a member of his family owns commercial/residential property, so he will excuse himself as a Board member and will not participate in the discussions or deliberations, but instead will sit in the audience and will reserve his rights as a taxpayer and citizen to make comments and express his opinions. Upon completion of deliberations, he will return to the Board. Paula Dumont, the Assessor addressed the audience that she was here tonight to discuss three classification options. These options and information were in a report presented by the North Reading Board of Assessors to the Board of Selectmen. 1. Selection of a minimum residential factor. 2. Selection of a discount for open space. 3. Granting of a residential and/or small commercial exemption. Paula then discussed the criteria for each option. The report included tax rate graphs and various exhibits, which included an Assessment/Classification Report FY2008, as well as a total levy by property class FY2005 – FY2008. Mr. Sebastian Tine, a member of the Board of Assessors then discussed the formulas that they used to come up with their figures in the report. Upon completion of the presentation, Mr. Dardeno stated it was good presentation, however, he wanted to hear what the public had to say. Joseph Tassone, the Finance Director, made a brief statement noting that all properties had to be revalued every three years by an outside company, making them one-month later than they normally would be. At 8:35 p.m., Mr. Mauceri opened the hearing for questions and comments. The first speaker was Chuck Carucci asked what the Assessor’s recommendation was and he was given a detailed response. Mr. O’Leary, 15 Meade Road, speaking as a citizen, not a member of the Board voice his opinion about the tax rate split, particularly with regard to commercial/industrial properties. Mr. O’Leary understands the good intent of giving the residential property owners only a 1% tax increase, however, he feels it is grossly unfair to increase the tax rate to 10% for commercial property owners. He feels the increased cost to commercial businesses would result in the cost being passed onto tenants and consumers, as well as becoming the final determination on a business owner’s decision to move into placeNorth Reading. John Healey, 96 North Street, feels that the tax split is a good gesture for the Town’s people. He favors the tax split even if the average savings to residential property owners is only $61. Mr. Harris and Mr. Dardeno stated that they both agreed with Mr. O’Leary, noting their reasons why they were not in favor of the tax split. Karen McCormack, Turner Drive, asked a question regarding the rationale other communities use for this tax split, using as an example the high commercial property tax in Wakefield. Mr. Mauceri responded to her question stating that a big deterrent in attracting new businesses to placeNorth Reading was that the Town did not have sewerage. New businesses would increase the Town’s revenue, however, the tax split would not and would only discourage new businesses from coming into the Town and possibly driving out the businesses they already have. He stated that he did not feel the tax split made sense and was not in favor of the split either. Mr. Dardeno noted that communities like Burlington and Wilmington attracted big businesses and outside businesses because of their locations and proximity to major routes such as Rte. 93 and Rte. 128, whereas North Reading is further away from any major routes, which affects their commercial base. Jack Hasham, Main Street, commented on the 1 to 1 system, noting that on Exhibit E it shows very little change in either the commercial or residential tax rates. Arthur Bailey, 9 Redmond Avenue, stated he was confused as to why over the past 10 years his land value had increased 387% over this timeframe, where the value of the building had only increased 58%. He wanted to know why the land values had increased so much. Mr. Mauceri responded that it was the Board of Assessors who determined property values and as a citizen he had the right to file for an abatement. Chuck Carucci elaborated as to why the land values had increased so much, noting that contractors could purchase properties, tearing down the existing dwellings and building bigger, more expensive homes on the same land. Michael Giacalone, President of the Reading/North Reading Chamber of Commerce and a resident of placeCityReading addressed the meeting, noting that the Town of Reading just went through this same issue. The towns were similar in that they both had small commercial bases, although Reading had a few larger retail stores. He did concur that if commercial businesses were taxed higher, they would in fact pass those costs along to the consumer in the way of fees, services and good, which would be an out-of-pocket expense for the consumer, whereas if the residential taxes were increased, the property owners could claim their real estate taxes on their Federal tax returns. He said the Chamber of Commerce was also opposed to a tax shift in both Reading and North Reading because the compositions of the towns did not warrant this because the commercial bases of both towns are small. Mr. Mauceri asked if there were any more comments or questions at this time. Mr. Veno stated that he too was opposed to the tax shift given a number of reasons expressed tonight, mainly the need to attract new business to the Town. At 8:58 p.m., Mr. Mauceri declared the public hearing was closed, however, commented that the businesses in the community have been extremely supportive of various youth activities in Town, helping to raise a lot of money for them. MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO ESTABLISH A TAX CLASSIFICATION FACTOR OF 1.0. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE NOT TO ESTABLISH A RESIDENTIAL EXEMPTION. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE NOT TO ESTABLISH A COMMERCIAL EXEMPTION. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RECOMMEND THE FY2008 PROPERTY TAX LEVY AT $30,849,278.52 WHICH IS $28,531.48 LESS THAN THE LEVY LIMIT. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) ___________________________________________________________________________ MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO RECOMMEND TO THE BOARD OF ASSESSORS THAT THE FY2008 TAX RATE BE SET AT $11.50 PER $1,000.00 OF VALUATION. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. VENO VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) Mr. O’Leary returned as a member of the Board upon completion of the motions and there was a short recess at timeHour21Minute49:04 p.m. Mr. Mauceri called the meeting back to order at 9:12 p.m. #11. FY2009 BUDGET UPDATE Mr. Mauceri noted that the Town Budget Books were now available. Mr. Balukonis asked Mr. Tassone to address the Board on the FY2008 tax rate. Mr. Tassone stated that the signed documents had to get to DOR tomorrow and then a tax rate should then be issued within a day or two. The files were also sent to the Billing Company and hopefully will be approved by the end of the week, which allows them five days to sort everything out. By the end of the following week, the tax bills can be sent out. Mr. Mauceri noted he had some volunteers to help stuff the envelopes as 6,100 bills were set to go out on the 28^th. This should take approximately 30 hours to do. A vendor usually stuffs and mails the bills, but there wasn’t enough time to hire a vendor this year. It took a great deal of effort to get the approval on the final values by The Department of Revenue on December 17^th. Mr. Mauceri thanked the Finance Committee on behalf of the Board. Mr Balukonis gave an overview of the FY2009 Budget handout. He stated this was not a precise balanced budget because of an extremely early due date, as well as the great uncertainty over revenues and certain fixed cost expenses. Also, as a result of using mid-December as the starting point, it becomes subject to major modifications and revisions, as was the case for the last two years. He reviewed the following information listed in the handout: 1. Municipal Department spending and budget cuts. 2. Revenue forecast. 3. Revenue projections. 4. Expenditure forecast. He concluded that many municipal department reductions will adversely impact the availability and quality of services provided to the public and, therefore, he would reluctantly have to cut non-essential services should it be necessary in order to balance the FY2009 budget. Mr. Mauceri and Mr. Dardeno both commented that this was an excellent summary and the Town Administrator did a great job on this proposal. The next budget hearing meeting will be held on Saturday, January 5^th at 8:00 a.m. with the Public Works Department, Police Department and the Fire Department. The other meeting dates were set for the 5^th, 7^th, 14^th and 28^th of January 2008. The meeting on January 14^th will be primarily for discussion of the budget. #12. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT 1. Unfortunately, Mr. Balukonis noted he did not have a cost comparison analysis for The Group Insurance Commission (GIC) health insurance program with placeNorth Reading’s health insurance program for tonight’s discussion. The GIC program is an option that is available to cities and towns. One of the analyses done showing the potential cost savings for the Town’s employees if this alternative health plan was chosen. The GIC for the five-year period 2001-2006, the average annual cost increase was about 8%. placeNorth Reading’s average annual increase during the same five-year period was 19.32%. The savings that the Town would have realized with the GIC program for that five-year period would have amounted to $1,057,700. The Town currently pays 70% of the health insurance cost and the employees pay 30%, and the savings would be split between the Town and the employees. Participation requirements for the GIC program were discussed. If an agreement were to be reached, the employees would be enrolled in the program on the next available GIC enrollment date. The Town would need a 70% weighted vote from the municipal employee labor unions to participate in the GIC. Strategies will be discussed in Executive Session. Mr. Mauceri feels that to be fair to the employees and the community, the Board’s responsibility is to make a cost comparison with of the two benefits package and perhaps schedule a presentation thereafter. Mr. Balukonis thinks that the Human Resources Department has undertaken this task. At timeHour21Minute459:45 p.m., Mr. Harris excused himself from the discussion as a family member is a Town employee with benefits, and as a full-time student, he is able to participate in the plan. The consensus of the Board members was to make sure they have all the necessary information, and have looked at all options available, prior to presenting this to the employees and to the public. Mr. Dardeno feels that this issue should be a priority, given it will be a long process. Mr. Balukonis will be attending a meeting with the Insurance Advisory Committee this week. Once all the necessary information has been obtained, the next step would be to have the GIC give an informal presentation to the employees. Mr. Balukonis would like to discuss the rest of the items in his report in the Executive Session. #13. OLD AND NEW BUSINESS Mr. Dardeno wished to again thank all the people involved in the negotiations with Verizon and Comcast, Ruth Kennedy and her group, as well as Josh Greenstein, the President of Norcam. He stated Norcam is looking for an Executive Director and to apply go to Norcam.org. Mr. Veno wished to thank the Committees as well, noting the hard work and long hours they put in. He also gave a special thank you to Mr. Dardeno and wished everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah or Happy Holidays and have a safe and Happy New Year. Mr. Harris also thanked Mr. Dardeno for resolution of the Comcast issue and also apologized for being remiss with the appointments and reappointments over the last few weeks. He stated he will be off from school for about a month and will be able to get to work on the Energy Committee and is really excited about that. He then wished everyone Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year. Mr. O’Leary wished everyone Happy Holidays and Happy New Year and noted how beautiful the Common looked with the Christmas lights. Mr. Mauceri commented on the fine job the Public Works Department has done on keeping the streets open and safe for driving this season. He also noted a number of fire hydrants buried in the snow and urged the residents that were near a hydrant to dig it out of the snow. He also wished everyone Happy Holidays and Happy New Year and noted that everyone was welcome at the meeting on Saturday at timeHour8Minute08:00 a.m. Mr. Dardeno also wanted to mention that North Reading Youth Services is holding a Meet and Greet for their new programs in Room 14 on December 19^th. Mr. Mauceri entertained the motion for Executive Session. Mr. Balukonis recommended the Board enter into Executive Session for: 1) Discussion concerning the value, lease or purchase of real property; 2) For the purposes of litigation strategy; 3) For the purposes of collective bargaining strategy. #14. EXECUTIVE SESSION (9:56 PM) MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSES OF DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING THE VALUE, LEASE OR PURCHASE OF REAL PROPERTY, LITIGATION STRATEGY AND COLLECTIVE BARGAINING STRATEGYAND FURTHER THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN WILL RETURN TO OPEN SESSION THEREAFTER FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF ADJOURNMENT. MOTION BY: MR. HARRIS SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: MR. O’LEARY: AYE MR. HARRIS: AYE MR. VENO: AYE MR. DARDENO: AYE MR. MAUCERI: AYE 11:05 PM The Board returned to open session. ADJOURN (11:05 PM) MR. CHAIRMAN, I MOVE TO ADJOURN. MOTION BY: MR. VENO SECONDED BY: MR. O’LEARY VOTED: UNANIMOUS (4-0) __________________ _________________________________ DATE MR. MICHAEL HARRIS, CLERK