Monthly Archives: December 2013

Office hours 9-10 Friday

I hold regular monthly office hours at The Center on the first Friday of every month from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, and will be there this coming Friday.

Residents are welcome to stop by to talk in person about any town matters.  Residents can also have coffee and see the Council on Aging in action (a vibrant organization with lots going on).  I can be reached via 508-359-9190 or my blog about Medfield matters  https://medfield02052.wordpress.com/, where any schedule changes will be posted.

Medfield’s new downtown dog

Jean Mineo explains Medfield’s new downtown dog (I personally think the choices for the first Art Box were brilliant)-

Jean Mineo also commented on her J.A.S. Monks Art Box album.
Jean wrote: “At an unknown date, Jack became the faithful canine companion of then 23 year-old Dr. Arthur Mitchell who arrived in Medfield in 1887 and served as the town’s beloved doctor for the next 47 years. During a storm of epic proportions (perhaps the one from October 12-15, 1895), the young doctor fell into floodwaters of what is assumed now to be the Charles River. Caught under the rapids, with his lungs filling with water, Dr. Mitchell glimpsed his ever-faithful dog Jack who had offered himself as a canine life-jacket. With his life in the balance, all Arthur remembered was holding onto Jack for dear life as they paddled for refuge. Reaching the river bank, Arthur grabbed onto tree branches and pulled himself to safety with Jack still by his side. Dr. Mitchell never forgot his own near drowning, or the fact that Jack saved him. For this memory and honor, Mitchell commissioned Medfield artist John Austin Sands Monks to paint a portrait of Jack which later hung in the doctor’s office. It appears that the portrait was painted sometime between the 1895 storm and Jack’s death in August 1899. After Dr. Mitchell’s death in 1934, his will stipulated that the painting become property of his housekeeper, Mrs. Mary Carver Haskell. She later donated it to the Medfield Historical Society before her death in 1951. Both the good doctor and his faithful dog were buried side by side in Temple, Maine’s Mitchell Cemetery. The other images on this Art Box are 1) the 1888 Monks Block (across the street) which the artist and his wife Olive built on property owned by her parents, Orson and Olive Wales (Thayer) Young, and 2) an etching of sheep for which John Austin Sands Monks became America’s painter par excellence. This Art Box was sponsored by M.E.M.O., the Medfield Employers and Merchants Organization. The Art Boxes are a program of the Medfield Cultural District and the remaining five will be installed in the spring, each telling a different story of Medfield’s cultural history.”
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Ron Griffin chairs CTSM (he did not resign)

Crowd sourcing works – Ron Griffin has not resigned from the Committee to Study Memorials (a copy of his email appears below) and I will see to it at tonight’s BoS meeting that the draft minutes of the 11/5 Selectmen meeting that I posted yesterday are corrected to reflect reality –

Hi Pete…

Several folks have spoken to me about resigning from the Committee to Study Memorials.  Bill Massaro was able to provide me the source of that information on your blog.  Perhaps it is also included in the official minutes.

I did not resign and currently serve as the chairman of the CTSM.

Who did resign was Rob Gregg.  Previously Frank Iafolla resigned from the committee as well.  So the committee now is comprised of Jane Lomax, David Temple, Richard DeSorgher and myself.  We would like to add one more member for which we are searching for a volunteer.

The CTSM planned to dedicate two streets on Veterans Day, Snyder and Lee roads.  However, we ran out of time while deciding on the wording of each sign, so we postponed that dedication until the spring.  Included in this effort is the replacement of 14 signs at our Civic and Honor Squares.  The smaller unreadable blue signs will be replaced by a larger sign just like the sign we installed at Robert Naughton Civic Square.  All will be replaced in the spring.

Well that is the news on the CTSM.

Ron

BoS minutes

Meeting Minutes
October 22, 2013 draft

PRESENT: Selectmen, Peterson, DeSorgher; Town Administrator Sullivan; Assistant Town
Administrator Trierweiler; Administrative Assistant Clarke; Selectman Fisher absent

The meeting convened at 7:00 PM in the Chenery Meeting Room
Due to Mr. Fisher’s absence Selectman DeSorgher nominated Selectman Peterson as acting
Chairman and it was so voted. Selectman Peterson nominated Selectman Desorgher to act as
Clerk of the Board and it was so voted

Chairman Peterson announced the meeting is being recorded. He asked for a moment of
appreciation for our brave servicemen and women serving in Afghanistan.

Chairman Peterson announced that the Board needs to meet in executive session at close of
meeting for the purpose of discussing the acquisition ofthe Kenny property

UPDATE STATUS ON PROPOSED SAFETY BUILDING
Permanent Building Committee member John Nunnari remarked that an architect has been
hired, however, we do not as yet have a signed contract. The proposal is for a 30-40,000
building that may take 12-18 months to construct. The best scenario would be to relocate the
police and fire departments as we tear down the present building; this would save us money.
On the other hand the cost of relocating to another site could far outweigh our savings. If we
have to phase the construction by letting the police remain on site there are concerns about
safety, confidentiality, prisoners, etc. He went on to say that a feasibility study concluded that
the North Street location for the public safety building is the right one. Chief Kingsbury, in
attendance said that both chiefs have met with the architect giving our wish list for the space.
We agree that having both departments side by side is a good plan. Discussion then continued
revolving around the topic of construction manager/general manager, and the design, bid, build
process.

STATE HOSPITAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE / VISIONING SCOPE
Ros Smythe member ofthe committee reported that an RFP was sent to several firms seeking
services focused on the potential reuse of the property. Two firms responded expressing
interest in the project, however, just one submittal. References were checked with positive
response. Ms. Smythe continued that the committee recommends the Selectmen vote to
award the proposal to Howard/Stein-Hudson Associates.

VOTE: On a motion made by Selectman Peterson, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher to award the proposal for Public Visioning Facilitation to Howard/Stein-Hudson Associates and as recommended by the State Hospital Advisory Committee. Vote was unanimous

EXECUTIVE SESSION
At the conclusion of the October 22, 2013 agenda items, Selectman DeSorgher, Clerk of the Board, stated the Medfield Board of Selectmen needs to meet in executive session for the
following purpose: to consider the purchase exchange, lease or value of real property: land of Kenny consisting of approximately 22 acres off Philip Street; I declare that an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position ofthe public body. The open session will not reconvene at the conclusion of the executive session.

Motion: I move that the Medfield Board of Selectmen go into executive session for the following purpose: to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property: land of Kenny consisting of approximately 22 acres off Philip street; if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the public body and the chair so declares.
And that the open session not reconvene at the conclusion of the executive session.
Mr. DeSorgher took a roll call vote; Selectman Peterson yes; Selectman DeSorgher yes.
Meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Meeting Minutes
November 5, 2013 draft
PRESENT: Selectmen Mark Fisher, Osler Peterson, Richard DeSorgher; Town Administrator Michael Sullivan; Assistant Town Administrator Kristine Trierweiler; Administrative Assistant Evelyn Clarke

The. meeting convened at 7:00 PM in the Chenery Meeting Room
Chairman Fisher announced the meeting is being recorded. He asked for a moment of appreciation for the brave servicemen and women serving in Afghanistan.
Chairman Fisher reported that at 7:30 we will conduct the FY2015 budget meeting. Also the Board needs to meet in executive session at close of meeting for the purpose of discussing the. acquisition ofthe Kenny property.

CULTURAL DISTRICT GRANT APPLICATION
Town Planner Sarah Raposa said that the Cultural District is making application for a grant
under the Massachusetts Downtown Initiative Program. This program provides consultant
services to a community to assist them with downtown revitalization efforts. Ms. Raposa
requests the Selectmen vote to authorize Chairman Fisher sign the application.
VOTE: On a motion made by Selectman Peterson, seconded by Selectmen DeSorgher it
was voted unanimously to authorize Chairman Fisher executive the Massachusetts
Downtown Initiative application

RESIGNATION LETTER
Committee to Study Memorials member Ron Griffin submitted his letter of resignation.
On a motion made and seconded it was
VOTED unanimously to accept the resignation of Ron Griffin with regret

RECLASSIFICATION STUDY
Ms. Trierweiler reported that several consulting firms submitted bids for the study. As the
lowest bidder was not favorable the Personnel Board went to the second lowest, HRS
Consulting; a very competitive bid and satisfied with the result. Ms. Trierweiler requests the
Selectmen vote to award the bid to HRS. On a motion made and seconded it was

VOTED unanimously to award the bid for the Reclassification Study to HRS Consultant
In the amount of $15,000.00 and as recommended by the Personnel Board
Ms. Trierweiler remarked that HRS will interview employees beginning in January.

GIS AERIAL FLYOVER
Ms. Trierweiler explained that this program will give the town a full website GIS system.
The capital budget appropriated some funds to cover the cost.
VOTE; On a motion made by Selectmen Peterson, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher it
was voted unanimously to authorize Assistant Town Administrator Trierweiler to sign a
Memo Of Understanding for the Mass GIS Aerial Flyover, estimated cost $12,000

RESIGNATION
Resident Rachel Brown, a member ofthe Personnel Board, Selectmen’s Insurance Advisory
Committee and Collective Bargaining has submitted a letter of resignation. Mr. Sullivan said
that she has given many years of her time and talent to the community and will be missed.
VOTE; On a motion made by Selectman Peterson, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher
it was voted unanimously to accept Rachel Brown’s resignation with regret

APPRECIATION LETTERS
The Selectmen are requested to vote to sign letters of appreciation for Brandi Erb who recently
resigned from the Downtown Study Committee after serving many years and to Rachel Brown
for their service to the community
VOTE: Selectman Peterson made a motion to sign appreciation letters for Brandi Erb and
Rachel Brown, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher. Vote was unanimous

TREE BID
VOTE: Selectman Peterson made a motion, seconded by Selectman DeSorgher to award
the bid for Tree Work to Hartney Greymont, a division of the Davey Tree Expert Company
according to bid specifications and as recommended by Superintendent Feeney

LICENSES & PERMITS
VOTED unanimously to grant a parade permit to MEMO to hold the annual Christmas
Parade on Saturday December 7,2013 beginning at 1:00 PM
VOTED unanimously to grant permission to New ‘N Towne Club to establish their annual
fundraising booth at the Tree Lighting Ceremony Friday December 6,2013
VOTED unanimously to grant permission to the Medfield Music Association to place signs
For two weeks advertising annual “Spaghetti with Santa” on Wednesday December 11, 2013
November 5, 2013
Page three
VOTED unanimously to grant permission to the Church of the Advent to place signs
announcing their Advent Holiday Bazaar to be held Saturday November 23, 2013
VOTED unanimously to grant Basil Restaurant a time extension on their liquor license
For November 27, 2013, Thanksgiving Eve

PENDING
Pocket Park Steering Committee: Candidates to include Sarah Raposa, Planning Board, Matt
McCormack Downtown Study Committee, Jim Snyder Park & Recreation, Bob Kennedy DPW
and Community member at-large Minta Hissong. The Selectmen agree to have Jean Mineo
nominate a local business owner and a landscape designer to be appointed to the committee.

Beaver dams; Mr. Sullivan reported that a South Street, Indian Hill Road neighbor told him
about a dam on the Stop River. Mr. DeSorgher commented that the devastation behind the
swim pond area due to the beavers building dams is serious. Mr. Sullivan will contact trapper
Barry Mandell who has helped with the ongoing problem in the past. Beaver trapping season
began on November 1st.

MEDFIELD State hospital status update
Ms. Trierweiler reported that a Public Involvement Plan (PIP) meeting is scheduled for Thursday
November 7 in town Hall at 7 PM. DCAMM will present the Phase IV remedy Implementation
Plan and provide information about the site activities.

SELECTMEN REPORT
Mr. Peterson said that he learned from the Lyme disease Committee that the deer culling
program has started and already seven deer were culled; Medfield Energy Committee is
working toward a town meeting article requesting that Medfield become a green community.
Thank to you to Fred Davis who assisted in Medfield receiving a $12,000 grant. He went on to
say that this Sunday November 10 a tour of the state hospital site will be conducted by Richard
DeSorgher and Michael Taylor; on January 11, 2014 the MSH Advisory Committee will hold a
Public Visioning meeting to discuss proposals for the reuse of the property. Congressman Joe
Kennedy held a public meeting this past Sunday at the library and I talked with Shawn Dooley,
Norfolk Town Clerk and candidate running to fill Dan Winslow’s seat. At my office hour held at
the CENTER Tracey Buckley who owns the Yoga Studio on Park Street talked with me regarding
a much needed sign to alert people to the businesses on Park Street. He suggested she meet
with the Planning Board to discuss such a sign.
7:30 PM FY 2015 Budget Meeting. Chairman Fisher introduced School Superintendent
Jeffrey Marsden and the newest Warrant Committee member Barbara Gips. He said that as
Warrant Committee Chairman Gus Murby is out oftown on business Mr. Sullivan will read his
prepared statement (see attached). It was noted that a 2.5% increase in budgets is
recommended.

SELECTMEN REPORT CONTINUED
Mr. DeSorgher reported that he met with Roche bros. representatives to discuss the sidewalk in
front of the store. He suggests a cement sidewalk with a brick border. Also present at the
meeting was Superintendent Feeney and Bob Kennedy to get their input as to how the DPW
could help with this project. Roche Bros was mostly agreeable to undertake the work. He
continued; met with Nstar, Verizon and Comcast to discuss the removal of double poles in
Medfield. The utility company had only 34 poles in their database, however, my number is at
least 104. We all agreed to meeting on a monthly basis until all wires are removed and the
double poles are down. Last night the Planning Board listened to the Roche Bros. presentation
and they announced the name for their new store, Bros. Marketplace. Planning Board also
heard from the proponents for the Clark Tavern, located on Main Street. John and Michelle
Linnert hope to open a bed and breakfast with five rooms and a tavern/restaurant. This house
is the oldest building dating back to 1740 when it was a family tavern in a family setting.
Neighbors raised concerns about a number of issues. The Board continued the discussion to
Monday December 2. Mr. DeSorgher was the tour guide for the visiting Chinese teachers taking
them to the CENTER which made a great impression on the group.
Selectman DeSorgher said that the Town has established and appointed a number of
boards/committees/commissions and perhaps I should consider not suggesting subcommittees
such as the Meeting House Pond which actually comes under the jurisdiction of Park and
Recreation. Please note that the Open Space and Recreation Planning Committee that is a sub
committee ofthe Conservation Commission is looking for volunt\!ers. Mr. DeSorgher requests
that selectmen goals be placed on the next meeting agenda for discussion and Attorney Cerel
should meet with us to discuss the town by-laws.
Selectman Fisher said that as he was on vacation last week it gave him the opportunity to
attend the early Tuesday morning meeting at the town garage site. It was great to see all the
progress so far and it is going to be a great facility when completed. He gave kudos to the DPW
for accomplishing the site work over the course of the summer, a terrific job. On the evening of
October 17 he attended the Indian Hill Road/Noon Hill neighborhood mini town hall meeting
hosted by Roger and Connie Sweeney. The discussion revolved around the ongoing beaver dam
problem and traffic issues. Altogether it was a nice conversation. Upcoming this week is First
Thursday, come enjoy and support the Zullo Gallery. Next Monday November 11 the first
Veterans’ Day Breakfast will be held at the CENTER and our own Michael Sullivan is one of the
cooks. Congressman Kennedy will be in attendance.

EXECUTIVE SESSION
Selectman Peterson Clerk read the following: Chairman, the Medfield Board of Selectmen
needs to meet in executive session for the following purpose, to consider the purchase,
exchange, lease or value of real property: land of Kenny consisting of approximately 22 acres
off Philip street and to discuss strategy with respect to litigation. I declare that an open
meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position ofthe public body. The
open session will not reconvene at the conclusion of the executive session.
Motion: I move that the Medfield board of Selectmen go into executive session for the
following purpose: to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property: and of
Kenny consisting of approximately 22 acres off Philip Street and to discuss strategy with respect
to litigation; if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of
the public body and the chair so declares. And that the open session not reconvene at the
conclusion ofthe executive session.
A roll call vote was taken; Mr. Fisher, yes; Mr. DeSorgher, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes. The
Selectmen went into executive session at 8:15 PM

BoS agenda for 12/3

Tuesday December 3,2013 @ 7:00 PM
AGENDA (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

7:00 PM Public Hearing and Vote:
Exercise of Town’s G.1. Chapter 61, Section 8 First Refusal Option, re: Land of Robin Kenny, et als., Trustees of Red Gate Farm Realty Trust, Containing Approximately 31 Acres on Fonndry and Philip Street for Purchase Price of$I,385,000.

7:20 PM Medfield Cultural Council
Discuss proposed municipal match to state allocation of $4,250 for FY 2015

ACTION
Selectmen are invited to attend Eagle Scout court of Honor for Nicholas James Sauro on Saturday January 4,2014 at the American Legion Post 4:00 PM

PENDING
Discuss nominations for the Pocket Park Steering Committee; Jean Mineo, Matt McCormack, Tim Larkin, Monique Allen, Minta Hissong, Jim Snyder, Sarah Raposa,

Any additional business that came in after the deadline