Agenda for the Board of Selectmen meeting on July 17, 2018, and ancillary materials:

Contract_Medfield_Goods and Services 2018_Weston and Sampson_ WWTP_DPW2018_03

Letter Agreement 06072018

Meeting Notice Agenda 07172018

Regulatory Draft Hillside Village Signature

Selectman Office Hours

My regular monthly selectman office hours are at The Center on the first Friday of every month from 9:00 to 10:00 AM (this 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 my cell phone at 508-359-9190 or this blog about Medfield matters, where any schedule changes will be posted

The PDF files have the backup materials for the June 26 meeting.

20180626-agenda

20180626-agenda-2

Board of Selectmen

January 2, 2018

7:00PM

Chenery Hall

Minutes

 

Present: Chairman Osler Peterson, Michael Marcucci, Gus Murby, Michael Sullivan, Mark Cerel, and Kristine Trierweiler

 

 

Chairman Peterson called the meeting to order at 7:00PM, announced the meeting was being recorded. Selectmen asked for a moment of appreciation for our Troops serving in the Middle East and around the world.

 

 

Appointments

 

7:00 PM School Committee and Permanent Planning and Building Committee

 

Dr. Jeffrey Marsden was present representing the School Committee to discuss Dale Street Project. Dale Street Project has received approval to proceed for a feasibility study per the MSBA program. Dr. Marsden reviewed the timelines for the feasibility study which will examine multiple locations within town for Dale Street School.

 

Tim Bonfatti stated that the sum of money requested for the feasibility study will investigate eleven or twelve options and then take the preferred option through the 30% of design phase. Town will then have enough information to estimate for construction costs on total appropriation per the MSBA rules.

 

Mike Quinlan stated that as part of this process the Board of Selectmen would need to appoint members of a new School Building Committee. A member of the Selectmen will need to be appointed as well. This is a committee process set out by the MSBA.

 

Selectmen Murby asked that if the State is looking at locations, what are the criteria that will be used in identifying the final locations. Mike Quinlan answered that is an outside consultant not the state that will conduct the feasibility study. A percentage of 38.84% will be reimbursed by the state to the Town.
Mr. Bonfatti stated that when you enter this program you do not want to predetermine the site, there will be a full six month review of all the sites, determine what works best for the town and then request state approval for the identified location.

 

Selectmen confirmed that the feasibility study and schematics amount requested has been identified at a cost of $1.2-$1.5 million with the 38.84% reimbursed by the state. Selectmen discussed how to fund the project and if a bond would be required. Michael Sullivan suggested that this project be bundled with the Affordable Housing Trust borrowing of one million dollars that was approved in April 2017.

 

Dr. Marsden thanked the Board of Selectmen for their continued support of the Dale Street project over the years.

 

7:30 Sarah Raposa and Brandie Erb, Medfield State Hospital

 

Sarah Raposa spoke with the Commonwealth about clarification on the 40R Grant, and the wording of the grant will be more vague and it will be phrased as zoning guidelines. Town can pursue 40R zoning, something like 40R zoning or our own zoning and does not have to be called 40R in order to use or accept the grant. Brandie Erb said the MSHMPC is planning to vote to accept the contract for the grant at the next meeting.

 

Ms. Erb stated there are two requests for authorization for Phase III of the McCabe Contract in the amounts of $22,500, and the $21, 54. The request is for the additional services including additional meetings and analysis.

 

Selectmen Murby discussed how much of the appropriation is left and if these requests will require an additional appropriation at Town Meeting. Selectmen Murby is concerned that if these change orders take the committee through March, what happens when the Special Town Meeting takes place at a later date. Ms. Trierweiler stated there is funding available for these change orders, as well as funding for the remaining mediation and environmental work. Ms. Raposa stated the grant for the 40R is reimbursable so she will work with the Town Accountant on process. Ms. Erb stated that if there is no Town Meeting in March, the Committee may need additional funds to continue.

 

Vote: Selectmen Marcucci made a motion to approve and sign the Phase III and the modification to McCabe contract as presented, seconded by Gus Murby and the vote was unanimous.

 

 

Action Items

Maurice Goulet, DPW Director, requests the Selectmen vote to sign the Contract with Weston and Sampson for WWTP Chief Operator Services.

 

Maurice Goulet informed the Selectmen this is a temporary contract for the Chief Operator. Mr. Goulet is still looking to hire an employee on a full time basis. The position has been advertised five times but it has proved difficult to fill. The hiring of a consultant as the Chief Operator is complying with the DEP requirements.

 

Vote: Selectmen Marcucci made a motion to approve and sign the Weston and Sampson contract for WWTP Chief Operator as presented, seconded by Gus Murby and the vote was unanimous

 

 

 

 

7:45 Chief Meaney, Civil Service List

 

Chief Meaney is requesting the Board of Selectmen request a Civil Service List to fill a vacancy. Recently the BOS sent three recruits to the Academy; one recruit was unable to fulfill the requirements of the Academy creating a vacancy. There is also a Sergeant vacancy created by the retirement of Sergeant Lorna Fabbo. The Selectmen need to vote to request the list for Sergeants as well. The Sergeants position is strictly internal and will be an internal promotion.  Selectmen briefly discussed the impacts of civil service on recruitment for the department.

 

Vote: Selectmen Marcucci made a motion to request the Civil Service List for patrol officer as well as Sergeant, seconded by Gus Murby and the vote was unanimous

 

 

Action Items (continued)

 

Mark Cerel, Town Counsel, request Selectmen to vote to sign Verizon Access Agreement at MSH Water Tower.

 

Selectmen Marcucci informed the Board he would recuse himself from the Board of Selectmen for this discussion and left the table.

 

Mark Cerel stated that the Town has been negotiations with Verizon about locating on the new State Hospital water tower; they have determined there were some environmental issues in the past on the site; this agreement is to authorize Verizon access to do their own testing on site. This evaluation is the next step in finalizing the agreement for location on the water tower. Agreement is for two (5) year options. Water and Sewer wants to put an additional RFP out in the future as there is more space for additional carriers. Additional location agreements could go to support the capital plan.

 

Selectmen Murby asked for clarification on the revenues from projects like this going to individual departments. Is there is a policy for departments such as COA or DPW having an asset like this tower, how do we know where the revenue goes? Mr. Sullivan clarified that Water and Sewer is an enterprise fund which makes this case different compared to COA for example where the revenue would go to the general fund. Mike stated that the revenue from Mount Nebo Water Tower was used to offset the purchase of the Holmquist Property. Mark Cerel stated some departments have care and control of their property such as Schools and Parks and Recreation.

 

Mr. Massaro requested that the lease be reviewed to ensure that there is protection for the water tower and no liability for the town when Verizon does maintenance on the Tower.

 

Vote: Selectmen Murby made a motion to approve the Access Agreement with Verizon as presented by Town Counsel, seconded by Selectmen Peterson and the vote was unanimous, 2-0.

 

 

 

MSH Building and Grounds Committee

Ms. Trierweiler informed the Board that John Thompson was not in attendance so she would present the request from Kendra Kannally for a 5K Trail run at MSH to benefit NewLife. Ms. Kannally has met with MSH Building and Grounds Committee and the committee recommends approval of the Trail Run. Ms. Trierweiler stated that Mr. Thompson also would like to request funding for fall clean up in the amount of $17,000 be paid for out of the MSH revolving fund. Given the impending snow storm it may be best to wait on this for more discussion with John and incorporate this into the next landscaping contract at MSH. Ms. Trierweiler will talk to Mr. Thompson and reschedule discussion of the car show at a future meeting.

 

Vote: Selectmen Marcucci made a motion to approve the request of Kendra Kannally for the 5K Trail Road Race at Medfield State Hospital on May 5, 2018, seconded by Gus Murby and the vote was unanimous.

 

 

Review of the 2018 Town Meeting Warrant

Mr. Sullivan reviewed the Town Meeting Warrant with the Selectmen.

 

Senior Housing

Selectmen discussed the five articles for senior housing on the Warrant. Senior housing survey is also underway. Town cannot reject a citizen’s petition for the ATM. Ms. Raposa is working with our housing consultant, COG, to draft a senior housing article that can be implemented.

 

Capital Budget

Selectmen Marcucci anticipates that the capital budget committee will operate as it has in the past. As Jerry McCarty stated he needs additional time to complete the twenty-year capital plan, still waiting for vehicle replacement plan as well as the pavement management plan. Once those are all in place the Town can develop at 5-10 year plan with mixed sources of funding. Selectmen Murby stated that he agreed the capital plan would remain the same this year for the Town Meeting.

 

Master Plan

Master Planning Committee requesting $150,000 in funding for completion of the plan.

 

Parks and Recreation

Parks and Recreation Committee needs to meet with the PPBC to discuss their plans for the building. COA will need to meet with the PPBC as well. Selectmen discussed how the PPBC will create a process through the bylaws that gives them actual authority over municipal buildings construction.  BOS still have the power over projects but review by the PPBC will be required. BOS would still like to be the ultimate authority on building projects so that a department could make application to the BOS with a building project and then be referred to the PPBC regardless of private or public funding. This is the process currently being utilized but addition to the bylaws would fully define and formalize the process.

 

 

 

North Street Construction

Selectmen discussed the status of this project, Moe Goulet has indicated he will not have a plan ready for the Annual Town Meeting; this project can be included in the work of the Master Planning Committee. Article was deferred and will be removed from the Warrant.

 

Advanced Life Support (ALS)

Selectmen Murby is also Chair of the ALS Study Committee and provided an update. After the initial presentation to the BOS, committee is continuing to investigate the addition of four paramedics, the net impact to the Town is $150,000, there will be a $300,000 increase to the Fire Department budget but will be offset by revenue. Committee met with another private ambulance provider, Alerts Ambulance, but it appears we would need to partner with Dover and Sherborn at a cost of approximately $600,000 in order to have the call volume to support the proposal. Still working on talking with other towns for interest, bottom line is that ALS service will not be free.

 

MSH Consultants

Selectmen discussed merits of holding this article until the STM. Selectmen Murby stated the need for a successor to the MSH Master Planning Committee which would be a development committee. Questions included when/if will the BOS endorse the MSHMPC proposal; what are next steps if the proposal does not pass the STM? Lot 3 can be completed with the Economic Development Committee but what committee will take over the MSH property?

 

Mr. Massaro asked the Selectmen to consider what happens if there is no STM, how do you fund for the next steps at the MSH? How would you hire a new consultant? There needs to be a plan for this now.

 

Selectmen Murby dos not want the BOS to entertain another year of master planning. Selectmen Peterson suggested changing the wording or the article, while Selectmen Marcucci did not advocate a contingency appropriation. If the article at the STM fails there will need to be money allocated for the continued stabilization of a town asset.

 

Mr. Harney stated that the Selectmen keep using the term redevelopment and he has a different sense of what that means for the Town. Mr. Harney believes that the plan for any intensive development will fail at town meeting.

 

Hinkley Property 

Discussion of the Hinkley property as a Town asset and as an appropriate site for housing. Selectmen discussed ability to combine this lot with others for more value. Selectmen asked Mr. Cerel to look into a few things: If the entire lot is for affordable housing, does it go to the COA, is there a need to reallocate the property between COA lot and the Hinkley lot?

 

Citizen Petition Articles for Senior Housing

Mark Cerel stated the articles all have a theme for housing but most of the petition articles have legal issues with the way that they are drafted. Cannot edit or delete articles that are submitted by citizen petition. Selectmen asked that the citizens proposing the articles be invited to a future meeting. Selectmen Marcucci stated that COG is sounding more positive in discussions with the Commonwealth about doing a subsidized project that is under the care, custody and control of the Selectmen. The discussions have centered on “Public Purpose” if the Town is going to lease the property.

 

Mr. Harney questioned the Selectmen how a subsidized project on Hinkley Lot is for public purpose.

 

Rail Trail

Discussion of how the rail trail will be funded. Selectmen Murby is concerned this is an advocacy group, appointed by the BOS, putting an article on the Warrant that one BOS member is dead set against when it comes to liability. Selectmen discussed that any town board or committee can place an article on the warrant. Selectmen Murby believes that no one should be appointed to a board or committee with a pre-determined view, committees should study; advocate and report to the BOS and the BOS decide if the article should move forward to the Warrant.

 

West Street Intersection

Michael Sullivan stated this is predominantly a commuter road and the state should bear some of the cost of updating this intersection. Selectmen discussed the timing of the intersection and suggested the State Reps be invited in to discuss it at a future meeting.

 

Dog Control Bylaw

Mark Cerel is working with John Thompson on updating this bylaw.

 

Town Garage Solar Panels

Project is anticipated to coast in the $450,000 range, could be phased in, expected to be revenue generating for the Town.

 

Wellfield Easement

Michael Sullivan explained that a resident has requested moving a three foot water easement that connects the wellfield to the MSH water tower. The easement currently makes the lot unbuildable, would be willing to trade an easement along the property line not thru the center of the property.

 

Mr. Massaro was concerned that it is an easement related to the disposition of the water tower and wellfield and asked Mark Cerel to examine further.

 

Recycling Committee

We are waiting for more information from the Recycling Committee whether the Committee or the Eagle Scout who proposed the project will submit this. Do not know the cost, the number of receptacles or location yet.

 

Street Lights Pleasant Court

This is currently a placeholder for a resident who may provide a citizen petition for this article.

 

 

 

Mount Nebo Water Tower Repainting

Estimates are coming in at million dollars for repainting, initial reports indicate might just need painting on the outside so the price could be reduced. This will be out of the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund.

 

Zoning Changes

Planning Board has hearing scheduled for these next Monday.

 

 

Mr. Sullivan and Selectmen Marcucci discussed free cash and how it is being spent and what limits should be put on free cash. Mr. Sullivan does not think we could stop relying on free cash without significant reduction in spending and this year. The Town is considering adding new positions, Dale Street School, budget increases are high, etc. Selectmen Marcucci stated that when school reimbursement money goes away we will be in trouble for having relied on free cash. No new positions added until the Department meets with the Board of Selectmen to discuss the budget. There needs to be some discipline in spending.

 

Mr. Cerel asked the Board if they would be interested in adding the CPA for the ATM in 2018 due to the election in the fall. Board discussed the CPA and whether it is a tax increase and if we can do it better by appropriating the money ourselves at Town Meeting without being tied to the three mandated categories. Medfield voters have been fair in for voting for legitimate projects there is a fear is that if there is a “pool” of money then the Town will look for projects just to spend.

 

 

Pending Items

Town Administrator Evaluation Process

Selectmen Murby has evaluated Mike’s goals that were sent out and had a few comments. Would like to see Mike hold more department head meetings for an inclusive process.

 

Town Wide Goals Distribution

Mr. Murby and Ms. Trierweiler continue to work on this.

 

Annual Appointments

Still awaiting an update from Board of Health

 

Veterans Service Officer

Mr. Sullivan should have a recommendation at the next meeting. Town Counsel is reviewing the contract between two towns.

 

Licenses and Permits (Consent Agenda)

Request from Katie Lioy for a one-day liquor license for a wedding (May 2018) to take place at Rocky Woods Reservation

 

Selectmen discussed the reason for the request. Rocky Woods is requesting that the Town issue the license. Mr. Cerel stated that there was no downside to issuing the license.

 

Vote: Selectmen Marcucci made a motion to issue a one day liquor license to Ms. Lioy for the wedding at Rocky Woods, seconded by Selectmen Murby and the vote was unanimous.

 

Selectmen are invited to attend the Eagle Court of Honor for Tadhg H. Matthews and Daniel P. Whelan on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 1:00PM at the United Church of Christ

 

Town Wide Goals

No Update

 

Town Administrator Update

Mr. Sullivan reported a sprinkler head was damaged at the High School and the newly refinished floor at the MHS was ruined. Mr. McCarty informed him a strip of the floor could be repaired but the Superintendent requested the entire floor be replaced again using the town’s insurance. Mr. Sullivan was concerned about increasing insurance rates.  Games will be rescheduled for the foreseeable future.

 

On Sunday a pipe froze at the Middle School in the cafeteria but the floor drains saved the floor from damage and it appears there is only the loss of an oven and some ceiling tiles.

 

 

Selectmen Reports

 

Selectmen Marcucci stated next is the Tuesday at 6:30 PM the Affordable Housing Trust will meet to hear an update on Tilden village and then at 7PM the updated Dale Street proposal.

 

Selectmen Peterson has office hours on Friday from 9AM to 10AM. Selectmen Peterson attended a multi town Selectmen’s meeting and had some concerns that the affordable housing and ensuring that people in the homes are still eligible.

 

 

Meeting adjourned at 10:20 PM.

 

 

Board of Selectman

February 27, 2018, 7:00PM

Chenery Hall

Minutes

 

Present: Michael Marcucci, Osler Peterson, Gus Murby, Mike Sullivan, Mark Cerel, Kristine Trierweiler

 

Minutes

 

Selectman Peterson called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm and disclosed the meeting is being video recorded.

 

Selectmen observed a moment of appreciation for our Troops serving around the world.

 

Notice of a date change – warrant hearing now scheduled for Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 7:30 pm

 

Barbara Gips,  Senior Housing Survey Discussion

A senior questionnaire is to be sent to all of the seniors in town.  Questionnaire was to get an idea of current living situations of seniors, desired housing, locations, etc.  BOS received copy of questionnaire.  The questionnaire was pre-tested and takes about 15 minutes to complete.  Carol Mayer, Town Clerk will be providing with census data. The questionnaire will be printed in booklet form and mailed.  There are approximately 1,500 households in Medfield with one senior residing in it.  Committee is hoping for a 30% response from the questionnaire. Two mailings will be done; first the initial mailing and the second will be to the households that didn’t respond.  The estimated cost is approximately $11,000.  The Committee is asking for an additional $1,000 slush fund.

 

BOS asked where the money is coming from.  Mike Sullivan and Gus Murby suggested the Downtown money.

 

Vote: Selectmen Marcucci made motion support the survey and appropriate the necessary funds up to $12,000, seconded by Selectmen Murby, and vote was unanimous.

 

BOS signed the proposal from Barbara Gips.

 

Carol Read, Board of Health Appointment

Ms. Read sent letter in September and has since met with the Board of Health.  Reed has offered to serve on the Board of Health. Checking in with Board of Selectman and hoping they will vote to appoint her.

 

Selectmen Murby has no reservation with Ms. Read serving, however wants to close the loop with the current Board of Health.

 

Vote:   Selectmen Marcucci made motion appoint Carol Read to the Board of Health.  Seconded by Selectmen Murby, vote was unanimous.

 

John Naff, Building Commissioner, Budget Presentation

The Building Department is looking to eliminate coming back at the end of the year for a shortfall year after year. The Building Department is asking for an increase of $26,360 to eliminate this shortfall.  The Warrant committee wanted fees reviewed and increase fees to provide additional revenue. Some fees will be increase: residential and increase to $1.50 per sq. ft., on commercial, and increase to $2.00 per sq. ft., and a fee is being added to Certificate of Occupancy. The plumbing inspection fees are to offset the budget.

 

Over the actual budget the Building Department has brought in $338,000 this year, to date.  The Building Department is projecting $557,000 over the budget.  The budget is currently covered by the fees.

 

Selectmen Marcucci does not favor the fee increases. If the budget is “more than enough” covered than a fee increase is not necessary.  Mr. Sullivan agrees with Marcucci.

 

Mr. Naff stated Medfield’s fee are higher than most of the towns in the area. Jack Wolfe, of the Warrant Committee, noted the Warrant Committee voted unanimously on the fee increase.  Mark Cerel, Town Counsel, noted charging fees for municipal services cannot offset other costs of the town like the school.

 

Selectmen Marcucci and Selectmen Murby noted the Building Commissioner cannot raise revenue in this fashion and disagreed with the warrant committee.   Jack Wolfe noted the Warrant Committee was not aware of the legal issues.

 

Maurice Goulet, Water and Sewer, Budget Presentation

 

The Sewer department is looking for a consultant to work as a chief operator at the treatment plant.  Vehicle maintenance will be accounted for differently moving forward. There was a 40% decrease in the budget last year.

 

Water Articles – Mt. Nebo repainting and maintenance are included in this year’s budget.  Exterior right now will need to do the interior in the future.

 

Iron Manganese Treatment facility cost estimate is lower than originally thought.  Cost is currently $650,000.

 

Looking forward, the department is looking for a fixed network system for the water reading.  This will enable more readings rather than the six month intervals so if problems exist they will be handled faster.  We currently bill semiannual, and would like to move to quarterly eventually.

 

Street signs need to be updated to conform to regulations including putting the town seal on the street signs.  It doesn’t make sense to keep buying signs that we will be replacing in the near future.  Old signs are currently used as backups.

 

The dam at Danielson Pond is out of compliance with DCR and we have received notification I it needs to be in Compliance by July.  Maurice Goulet is handling with conservation commission.  There are two registered damns in town.

 

Philip Street Bridge should be open by April or beginning of May.

 

Roberta Lynch, Council of Aging, Budget Presentation

Article 15 is for an expansion of the Center.  Article 15 is a request for funding for plans only, hiring a project manager. The cost is $150,000 just for plans.

 

Selectmen Marcucci said he is generally in favor of the article however, he would like more information the size of the expansion and justification for the size reqeust.  Ms. Lynch said she would follow up with more information.

 

Selectmen Murby and Marcucci would like to hear from the Permanent Building Committee on this project.  Selectmen Murby doesn’t think this is the right year to push for the expansion on such a new building because of the current state of town finances.

 

Eoin O’Corcora, IT Department Director of Town and Schools, Budget Presentation

 

With the explosion of technology on the town side and the school side, the work load has been increasing.  Mr. O’Corcora needs to be available 24/7 which has proven difficult, looking to expand to an additional network person to handle the increase in networked systems including the new public safety building and the DPW building.

 

BOS supports the new position as recommended by the Personnel Board.

 

Action items 

Request to approve contract amendment for a 25% increase to the Community Opportunities Group contract for affordable housing consulting.

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion to sign the contract amendment, seconded by Selectmen Peterson, and the vote was unanimous.

 

Request from Maurice Goulet to sign Chapter 90 request for , regarding Phillip Street Bridge.

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion to sign the Chapter 90 Reimbursement in the amount of 17,500, seconded by Selectmen Peterson, and the vote was unanimous.

 

 

Request for BOS to grant the relocation of poles by Eversource on Hospital Road.

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion grant the relocation, seconded by Selectmen Peterson, and the vote was unanimous.

 

Vote to open the 2018 Town Warrant for the purpose of adding Articles Dale Street feasibility study, Capital Budget and Operating override.

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion to open the 2018 Warrant to add the articles for Dale Street Feasibility, Capital Budget and Operating Override, seconded by Selectmen Peterson, and the vote was unanimous.

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion to close the 2018 Warrant, seconded by Selectmen Peterson, and the vote was unanimous.

 

 

Request to sign the Green Communities contract.

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion to sign the Green Communities Contract, seconded by Selectmen Peterson, and the vote was unanimous.

 

 

Request to the MSBA documents for Wheelock School boiler replacement project.

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion to sign MSBA documents as requested by the School Department, seconded by Selectmen Peterson and the vote was unanimous.

 

 

Selectmen Murby asked the Lot 3 RFP to be added to the next agenda for discussion.

 

Consent Agenda

 

 

Vote:  Selectmen Marcucci made motion to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Selectmen Peterson, and the vote was unanimous.

 

 

Selectmen Reports

 

Selectmen Marcucci updated the BOS on the 41 Dale Street Project. AHT Board has met with Mr. Kelly and has requested additional information.  Board is looking for clarification on parking etc.
Selectmen Murby stated the ALS Study Committee is meeting on Thursday night at 7PM. Tom Marie has resigned from the Committee due to his commitments on the Collective Bargaining Committee as well as the Warrant Committee.

Selectmen Peterson reminded the Board that the time to nominate volunteer of the year for Medfield Foundation ends on February 28^th.

 

Meeting adjourned at 10:40PM.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Board of Selectman

April 10, 2018

Medfield Public Library

Minutes

 

Board of Selectmen: Michael Marcucci, Osler Peterson, Gus Murby, Mike Sullivan, Mark Cerel Kristine Trierweiler

 

Warrant Committee: Tom Marie, Sharon Tatro, Barbara Gips, Tom Mulvoy, Abby Marble, Michael Pastore, Jack Wolfe

School Committee: Anna Mae O’Shea, Chris Morrison, Jessica Riley, Leo Braum, Superintendent Jeffrey Marsden

 

Joint Meeting with the Warrant Committee and the School Committee

 

 

Selectman Marcucci called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm and disclosed the meeting is being video recorded.

 

Selectmen observed a moment of appreciation for our Troops serving around the world.

 

School Committee and Warrant Committee Chairman called their meetings to order.

 

Marcucci stated there are three primary objectives of the joint meeting:

1. Get on the same pages procedurally with Articles 11 and Articles 45, which are the operating budget and the override. Copies of Warrant Committee tracking sheet with three scenarios and documentations of what the Articles will look like at Town Meeting.
2. Discussions and issues with budget issues
3. Discussions of Draft Capital with the School Committee

 

Procedural Issues with Articles –

Board and Panel reviewed tracking sheet and three scenarios. Mr. Chris Morrison, School Committee is advocating for a budget that will not affect other town services. What is the increase in the average tax bill?  Baseline is $10,800 average tax bill will increase $290. School Committee realizes the large amount being asked for.  The School Committee is trying to avoid “serial overrides” which would be the school committee asking for money yearly.  The School Committee is trying to level set the budget and will not be asking again for a long length of time.

 

Selectmen Murby and Selectmen Peterson agree with School Committee presentation.  The Warrant Committee had no comment.

 

Discussions and issues with Budget and Draft Capital

Selectmen Murby is concerned with the number of items piling up for voters consider with overrides.  The town is trying to help seniors to drive taxes down. There is a bigger issue of the impact on the taxpayers, not just schools. Murby said he is very troubled about the budget issues and does not want the town to be so focused on schools that once you become a senior, you will have to move.

 

Mr. Morrison said the School Committee doesn’t like asking for an override and they don’t want residents to have to leave the town because they can’t afford the tax bill.  Mr. Morrison said further that the schools are the heartbeat of the town; they keep the property values up and allow the town to grow.  Morrison said that education is not static…it is forever changing, needs to change, the way children live their lives change and in turn the budget need will change.

 

Selectmen Murby said he would like the town to figure out how to make the school sustainable as pretty soon we will have a town with only a school budget.  Mr. Morrison restated the school is proud of the fact that it has only had on override in the past seven years.   A 2 ½ % increase will not allow the School’s to maintain the level of education it is currently functioning at.  Murby stated he is not staking a position on this decision; he is simply trying to be the voice of the tax payer who’s income in not increasing annually.

 

Selectmen Peterson suggested a joint meeting at the beginning of the budget season to set some expectations early in the process.

 

Selectmen Marcucci noted the people at the ends of each spectrum are the ones that get hurt on either side.  For the most part, most kids and taxpayers will be fine…but it is the kids and taxpayers within the margins that won’t be fine.  It is unfortunate that we are limited to only raising the taxes in town, but unfortunately, that is where we are at this time.  These decisions are wrenching for the people that have been here a long time or people that are trying to stay here.

 

Mr. Sullivan mentioned issues coming up at Town Meeting: revenues are up 2.3%, budget up 9.1%, Dale Street Feasibility Study (1 million), Park and Recreation ($100,000), Council on Aging would like to expand, Water and Sewer looking for special water treatment, painting of the Mt. Nebo water tower (1.1 million), hiring Drug and Alcohol Prevention coordinator, Medfield State Hospital planning, Senior Housing concerns (5 Articles at Town meeting just on Senior Housing), and 40B Housing concerns.  All of these problems need to be addressed…all will bring future costs. Mr. Sullivan said we need to establish wants vs needs.  We need to keep up with the maintenance of the buildings. We have to continue to be cautious in our spending patterns.

 

Mr. Morrison noted the School Committee is in support of the Draft Capital Stabilization.  Marcucci said the Selectmen are still talking about it and are not in position to vote on it yet.

 

Vote: Selectmen Murby made a motion made adjourn the joint meeting.  Seconded by Selectmen Peterson, vote was unanimous.

 

Chairman Bill Harvey, Water and Sewer Board

About 93% of the homes in Medfield receive water and sewer services.  The enterprise funds are managed within the cost of the services given. The Articles for Town Meeting include treatment to reduce iron and manganese, Mt. Nebo Tank refurbishing, and Rules and Regulations of the operation itself.

 

Article 35: Refurbish Mr. Nebo Tank –refurbishing this tank was delayedin the past because of the State Hospital Water Tank construction.  State Hospital Tank was replaced and that needed to be done first before Mt Nebo.  Mt. Nebo tank needs to be drained, inspection needs to be completed and then refurbishing/repainting.  Outside of tank has been cost estimated, inside will not be estimated until the tank is drained.  The inspection should be completed in the Fall and that is when the finale cost will be determined.  The outside of the tank will be approximately $600,000.  May 2019 is the estimated timeframe when refurbishing will be completed.

 

Article 35:  Iron Manganese deposits in two wells in the system.  Well #6 is the largest well and is backed up by Well #3.  Well #6, is the largest and doesn’t require advanced treatments. The quality levels in Well #3 and Well #4 have been on the Boards mine for a while.  The Board has exhausted all other options.  Article is about two issues – designing and permitting – preparing the site and the second step is the overall design of the building, pipes etc.  The project is the development of Well # 3 in an adjacent location to have the water quantity/quality equal to Well#6.  The strategy of Well#4 will be to keep it in an emergency position for water back up.   The Water and Sewer Board is struggling over the cost of the iron manganese water treatment plant.  The Board is hoping the cost can come down from the estimated $8,000,000.

 

Tom Sweeney voiced his concerns that the water quality was not what it was when he was a  kid.

 

There is $250,000 from the State Hospital Tank that can be transferred to Mt. Nebo Tank.

 

Board is looking for alternatives and trying to offset costs. Overall construction could be pushed out to 2021.

 

Chairman Fire Chief Search Committee, Scott McDermott  

Started search 10 months ago, acknowledged Chief Kingsbury extraordinary 28 year career, and acknowledged entire capability, professionalism of Medfield Fire Services, acknowledged benefit that the hiring of Interim Fire Chief Robert Hollingshead has brought to the Town.

 

Originally 36 candidates applied for Fire Chief Position.  The candidates were then narrowed to 13, from there it was narrowed down to 8 interviews, and from there narrowed down to 4 finalists.

 

Recommended candidate will be introduced to BOS this week.  His name is William Carrico, currently the Fire Chief in Sandwich, MA.

 

Tom Sweeney voiced his concerns about the committee’s selection process.

 

The Board of Selectmen will make the decision based on their interview if we should move with candidate William Carrico.

 

Consent Agenda

 

Vote: Selectmen Murby made a motion to approve the items on the consent agenda as stated.  Seconded by Selectmen Peterson and the vote was unanimous.

 

Town Administrator Update

Mr. Sullivan stated that currently $115,000 of snow budget has been used.   In the budget, there is a $120,000 allotment so we are still okay.  Transfer Station is open on Sundays through April to help with brush removal.  BOS needs to take positions on Articles so they will be ready for the town meeting.

 

Selectmen Report

 

Selectmen Peterson

Volunteer name plates were missing from the Town House and people were concerned.  They were taken to an event, the Medfield Foundation, to recognize our volunteers.  The name plates will be returning after the event.

 

Selectmen Murby  

ALS public information study will most likely be during April vacation. Dale Street Public walk through is on April 25^th

 

Selectmen Marcucci –

Seconded all of Selectmen Murby and Selectmen Peterson’s comments about the Medfield Foundation event.

 

 

Selectmen Murby made motion for adjournment, Seconded by Selectmen Peterson.  The Vote: 3-0.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Board of Selectmen

The Center

Thursday, December 7, 2017

4:00PM

 

Minutes

 

Present: Selectmen Michael Marcucci, Selectmen Gustave Murby, Selectmen Osler Peterson,

Kristine Trierweiler, Mark Cerel

 

Meeting was called to order at 4:00.

 

Chairman Peterson read the meeting objectives and agenda into the record. He disclosed that he is not ethically allowed to discuss matter relating to Lot 3 and Hinkley but can discuss the State Hospital property. Selectman Murby shared his impressions from the Senior Housing forum from earlier this fall and wanted people to know what is proposed for senior housing in the MSH plan.

 

Mr. Centore expressed concern that there has been no representation from MSHMPC at the Senior Housing Study Committee’s meetings.

 

Mr. Nolan reviewed the status of the draft MSH master plan and uses for Lot 3, Hinkley, Core Campus and cottages, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC). He noted unit counts and timing concerns.

 

An audience member asked about CCRCs and the ability to amend the draft plan at this stage in the planning process. Mr. Nolan responded that the plan spells out the range of units and locations. There are 16-20 units proposed at Hinkley and 42 on Lot 3. There are a number of dedicated senior units at the Core Campus of the over 200 units proposed at the Core Campus. He was unsure of the number of units for the CCRC.

 

Another audience member asked about the MSHMPC surveys. Mr. Nolan described the mix of uses and types of residential units that are proposed. Chairman Peterson noted that the decision will be up to the residents of the Town at a town meeting, hopefully in March 2018. The audience member is concerned that surrounding towns are building senior units but not Medfield even though they have been paying the same taxes. Not enough work has been done for seniors.

 

Jerry Kazanjian requests that a special town meeting be scheduled immediately. Chairman Peterson responded that there are a number of complicated steps to do before a meeting may be confirmed.

 

Selectman Marcucci indicated that he would like to see Hinkley go to ATM but there are disposition and legal issues that need to be settled. He believes it is possible to make Hinkley work for at least 16 units of senior housing but the process is heavily regulated. He updated the group on the expansion of Tilden Village. He summarized the work that the Affordable Housing Trust is doing to produce Local Initiative Program units. The 40B process and local preferences were discussed.

 

Mr. Centore stated that the Senior Housing Study Committee (SHSC) survey indicates that the MSHMPC’s plan does not include as many as are needed. He prefers that the Town donate, not sell the land, in order to keep the prices low.

 

Selectman Murby believes that Lot 3 should be commercial and asked how do we drive down the cost of living in Medfield? He discussed topics such as: the diversification of the tax base; the SHSC report says that seniors want to be downtown; affordable housing versus community housing; 40B subsidy versus market rate; equity; and buying versus renting at older ages.

 

Selectman Marcucci asked the seniors to not discount 40B even if they feel like they don’t qualify for. We are trying to course direct the market for other types of housing in Medfield. There are differences between developing Town-owned land and private properties.

 

Lee Treadway said that taxes have gone up 30% in the last 5 years. He described the situation where a senior would sell their house but there is no place for them to go because everything in Medfield is so expensive. Chairman Peterson described the town meeting process and the predominance of single-family homes in Medfield and agreed that there aren’t many other options for housing types. He would like to see more choices but the Town can’t be the developer.

 

Mr. Wolfe asked if there was a better way to validate the need for housing types. Chairman Peterson said that 400 seniors would provide a statistically significant survey for Medfield. Mr. Wolfe thought it could be done for about $20,000. Selectman Murby agreed that the Board needs a survey to more accurately define senior housing needs. He stated that they are in the process of defining goals and overarching priorities for the town and would welcome feedback on them.

 

Mr. Centore spoke about removing Lot 3 from the MSHMPC charge and the need for a new 40S provision. Chairman Peterson clarified that he’s not referring to the existing state statute for school children but creating a new “s” for seniors. He further spoke about density being able to reduce costs. He agreed that rentals might be a good option for seniors.

 

Selectmen Marcucci indicated that Lot 3 and Hinkley will be handled sooner than the Campus. Authorization for disposition will need to be secured for Hinkley but it already exists for Lot 3. Mr. Centore asked about funding. Selectman Murby and expressed concern about selling Town land, the price, and having control in the product.

 

Attorney Cerel discussed the submitted petitioned articles and the disposition and legal issues associated with them.

 

Mr. Kazanjian is glad that Lot 3 and Hinkley are being focused on but thinks that we need to get started on the Campus and that the SHSC should issue an RFP for 120 units of senior housing next year. Chairman Peterson said that the process is extremely long. Selectmen Marcucci said that they can petition for what they want but disagrees with the statement that the MSHMPC doesn’t have their act together. He says the process is complicated and they are trying their best to come up with a plan for the 12,000 residents of Medfield. There are a lot of people with a lot of different interests in the process. Today’s meeting on senior housing is just for one of those interests. Selectman Murby has been to at least ¾ of the MSHMPC meetings and the complexity is not to be disregarded. It is a $500 million real estate project being worked on by dedicated citizens. The infrastructure cost to the Town is in the tens of million dollar range. He recommends that Mr. Kazanjian go to the preferred concept and figure out a way to put definition to the concept and add momentum. Chairman Peterson also appreciates the Committee’s work.

 

Lou Felini believes that the Town is chasing tails on housing. Seniors are asking for recognition. Seniors only get 27 cents on each dollar as 73% goes to the schools. They built this town. Lou asked the Board to stop the tax increases for seniors so seniors can live in this Town for the rest of their lives.

 

Chairman Peterson mentioned the movement in Sudbury to provide relief for seniors but the state constitution requires everyone pay the same taxes.

 

Patricia Treadway applauds the effort to figure out the complicated issue. She agrees that seniors should consider rentals. 67 North Street turned out very nice. She supports more apartments, condos, and assisted living options.

 

Selectmen Marcucci discussed the town budget and the reliance on residential taxes. Chairman Peterson stated that housing can be profitable but it would not be affordable.

 

Mr. Kazanjian stated that the Hospital plan can include commercial to diversity of tax base to offset residential taxes. Chairman Peterson noted that the plan includes too much commercial for the market. Mr. Nolan continued to say that commercial space is included at a higher amount than they are being told may be possible.

 

Mr. Nolan reviewed the streamlined process of 40R zoning for the campus and Lot 3 and Hinkley to dispose of and develop quickly.  Lot 3 and Hinkley can be started before the campus. Same is true of the Cottage Area as it requires less infrastructure and can be developed more swiftly.

 

Mr. Centore would like to see examples of floor plans, price points, and features of the homes to get more seniors excited about it. Selectman Murby responded that the MSHMPC is a planning committee but the one that comes after the MSHMPC next year is a development committee.

 

Brandie Erb described the master plan, zoning, and design guidelines. She discussed the timing and complexity of the plan.

 

Patty Foscaldo asked about building demolition. Brandie Erb discussed the MOU regarding the historic preservation and demolition. Ms. Foscaldo stated that we are nowhere because we don’t know which buildings are coming down. She asked when that will be determined despite the length of time the committee has been working on the project. She also asked about nursing homes. Mr. Nolan described the CCRC model which includes the spectrum of independent, assisted, and nursing. He clarified the process that has the committee putting out the preferences and the responses from the development community. The process is slow but there are many disparate objectives (nothing, senior housing, arts, housing for millennials) needs to be distilled into a 2/3^rds votes at town meeting. There is frustration on all sides. They are trying to finalize the plan and financials.

 

Mr. Wolfe stated that he would like to see the SHSC work with the MSHMPC rather than beat them up in order to create actions. He commends the quality of the work, not the timeframe but he believes they are getting close. He noted that the plan is not only about seniors, it is a balanced view. He also is supporting of an updated survey and action on Lot 3.

 

In closing, Chairman Peterson asked for a show of hands to gauge preferences:

• Rental consideration
• Detached
• Townhomes
• Multi-story building with elevator (over 3 stories)
• Downtown versus Hospital

 

Rich Ryder asked about the survey that Selectman Murby spoke about. The Board agreed it is worthwhile and will work on what that survey solicitation will look like for review at their 12/19/17 meeting.

 

An audience member asked what the Selectmen can do to make things more affordable. Selectman Murby reiterated his earlier points. The speaker prefers to stay where he is with a lower tax rate.

 

Mr. Kazanjian disagrees about the Selectmen’s survey.

 

The meeting adjourned at 6:00 pm.