Framingham Massachusetts
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I Framingham Massachusetts Framingham’s Town Seal In the year 1900, the Framingham Town Seal was redesigned for the Town’s bicentennial to recognize our community’s prominence in education and transportation. The Framingham State Normal School, a free public school and the first of its kind in America, is represented by the structure at the top of the design. Governor Danforth, the founder of Framingham and owner of much of its land, is acknowledged by the words “Danforth’s Farms 1662” on the shield at the center. The wheel on the shield with spokes drawn as tracks radiating in six different directions represents the steam and electric railroads and signifies the Town’s position as a transportation hub. Surrounding the words “Town of Framingham Incorporated 1700” is an illustrative border of straw braid, which honors the prominent role Framingham played in the manufacture of hats and bonnets in the 1800s. Information paraphrased from Memorial of the Bicentennial of Framingham (1900)
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Transcript of Framingham Massachusetts
I
Framingham Massachusetts
Framingham’s Town Seal
In the year 1900, the Framingham Town Seal was redesigned for the Town’s bicentennial to recognize our community’s prominence in education and transportation. The Framingham State Normal School, a free public school and the first of its kind in America, is represented by the structure at the top of the design. Governor Danforth, the founder of Framingham and owner of much of its land, is acknowledged by the words “Danforth’s Farms 1662” on the shield at the center. The wheel on the shield with spokes drawn as tracks radiating in six
different directions represents the steam and electric railroads and signifies the Town’s position as a transportation hub. Surrounding the words “Town of Framingham
Incorporated 1700” is an illustrative border of straw braid, which honors the prominent role Framingham played in the manufacture of hats and bonnets in the 1800s.
Information paraphrased from Memorial of the Bicentennial of Framingham (1900)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS DEDICATION………………………………………………………………………………..IV DIRECTORY VI TOWN OFFICIALS IX ELECTED OFFICIALS IX SENIOR MANAGER APPOINTMENTS X BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTED BY THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN XI OFFICIALS APPOINTED BY THE TOWN MODERATOR XIII MISCELLANEOUS APPOINTMENTS XIV SELECTMEN’S INTRODUCTION 1 TOWN MANAGER’S REPORT 4 TOWN CLERK 6 FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION 8 CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 8 ACCOUNTING 9 TREASURER/COLLECTOR 35 RETIREMENT 40 PURCHASING DEPARTMENT 41 BOARD OF ASSESSORS 42 TECHNOLOGY SERVICES 46 TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE 56 HUMAN RESOURCES 58 PUBLIC SAFETY 65 POLICE DEPARTMENT 65 FIRE DEPARTMENT 94 RECREATION AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS 107 PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION 107 COUNCIL ON AGING/CALLAHAN CENTER 108 CEMETERY COMMISSION 112 LORING ARENA 113 PARK MAINTENANCE DIVISION 114 RECREATION DIVISION 116 HUMAN SERVICES 118 COMMUNITY AND HUMAN RELATIONS/HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION 118 EDGELL GROVE CEMETERY 119 FRAMINGHAM HOUSING AUTHORITY 119 INSPECTIONAL SERVICES 122 DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING INSPECTION 122 DEPARTMENT OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES 125 LICENSING ADMINISTRATION 127 BOARD OF HEALTH 128 BUILDING SERVICES 142 MEDIA SERVICES 143 PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 144
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PLANNING DEPARTMENT 144 FRAMINGHAM ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION 154 START PARTNERSHIP 160 ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS 163 CONSERVATION COMMISSION 165
PLANNING BOARD 176 METROWEST GROWTH MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE 183 METROPOLITAN AREA PLANNING COUNCIL 185 PUBLIC WORKS 190 PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 190 ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT 190 EDUCATION 207 FRAMINGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS 207 KEEFE TECHNICAL SCHOOL 229 FRAMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY 232 TOWN COUNSEL 237 GENERAL COMMITTEES 258 FRAMINGHAM CELEBRATION COMMITTEE 258 FRAMINGHAM HISTORICAL COMMISSION 259 GOVERNMENT STUDY COMMITTEE 259 REAL PROPERTY COMMITTEE 260 CAPITAL BUDGET COMMITTEE 261 FINANCE COMMITTEE 262 HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION 265 FRAMINGHAM CULTURAL COUNCIL 265 FRAMINGHAM DISABILITY COMMISSION 266 CUSHING CHAPEL ADVISORY COMMITTEE 267 ELECTION RESULTS 269 2006 PRIMARY TOWN ELECTION 269 2006 ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION 271 2006 PRIMARY STATE ELECTION 273 2006 STATE ELECTION 278 PRECINCT MAP 281 TOWN MEETING JOURNAL 282 TOWN MODERATOR 283 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS 285 STANDING COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY 285 STANDING COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY SERVICES 285
STANDING COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS 286 STANDING COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS 288 STANDING COMMITTEE ON PLANNING AND ZONING 289 STANDING COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION 290 STANDING COMMITTEE ON RULES 291
ATTENDANCE 293 TOWN MEETINGS 297
APRIL 25, 2006 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING 297 MAY 3, 2006 SPECIAL TOWN MEETING 345 MAY 16, 2006 SPECIAL TOWN MEETING 348 JUNE 8, 2006 SPECIAL TOWN MEETING 350
IV
Dedication
Deborah Blumer October 18, 1941 - October 13, 2006
The Board of Selectmen dedicates Framingham’s 2006 Annual Town Report in memory of Deborah Blumer
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In October of 2006, Framingham lost a great friend and one of its most dynamic leaders when Representative Deborah Blumer passed away. The Representative was, of course, an exemplary State Representative, bringing leadership on our behalf to the State House on issues of Education, Health Care, Women’s Rights and so many other vital initiatives. Notwithstanding Debby’s great record of accomplishment at the State House, she was just as proud of her 30-year record of civic engagement as a volunteer citizen on many different fronts here in Framingham. Debby’s great versatility and breadth and depth of knowledge were very much in evidence as she moved along a long and winding course of community involvement. As she moved from assignment to assignment, Debby developed great expertise and gained the admiration and support of many. Prior to her election as State Representative in 2000, she shared her time, energy and commitment by actively participating as a member of many community committees and organizations including the League of Women Voters, PTO’s, Finance Committee, Capital Budget Committee, Town Meeting, Charter Commissions, Framingham Civic League, Danforth Museum, Framingham Education Foundation, MetroWest Community Health Foundation, Callahan Senior Center, and the Friends of Saxonville. And, while she was doing all of this, she put special effort into being a proud and dedicated wife, Mom and Grandmother. Debby also found the time in her busy schedule to make and sustain hundreds of wonderful friendships. Debby Blumer took great pride in having been a graduate of public higher education (Framingham State College) and further enhanced her skills and training by successfully completing her MBA degree at Simmons College. Debby brought her inquisitive nature and great energy to every one of her tasks and was a formidable force in the municipal affairs of our town for many years. Whether she was fashioning education policy or financial forecasting to help guide the town through delicate negotiations or fiscal distress, Debby put her every effort and engaging personality into what would always turn out to be a quality result. The morning of October 13th was a typical morning for Debby Blumer. After meeting at 9:00 a.m. with local human services groups to discuss the year ahead, Debby had a full schedule for the day ahead, meeting with students at the Potter Road School, other local officials to discuss budgeting, and several late afternoon events including meeting then Mayor Murray, a planning meeting for a fundraiser and some work on a local phone bank – her workday was not scheduled to end until late that evening – such was a usual day for Rep. Blumer. Debby did not arrive at her 10:00 a.m. meeting. Tragically, her great life and important work were cut short that morning. While all of the town of Framingham notes her passing with great sadness, it is fitting that we remember that civic life was of great importance to Debby. We can honor her memory and celebrate the committed, exciting, dynamic and values driven person that she was by contributing in whatever ways we can to promote, preserve and protect the well being of every person in our community to the betterment of all. Debby Blumer, the Town of Framingham salutes you.
Respectfully submitted, Friends of Debby Blumer
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TOWN OF FRAMINGHAM DIRECTORY
Town Manager Julian M. Suso 150 Concord Street, Room 121 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5400 [email protected] Assistant Town Manager Timothy D. Goddard 150 Concord Street, Room 123 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5404 [email protected] Chief Financial Officer Mary Ellen Kelley 150 Concord Street, Room 127 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5425 [email protected] Police Chief Steven B. Carl 1 William Welch Way Framingham, MA 01702 508-620-4927 [email protected] Fire Chief Ollie D. Gadson 10 Loring Drive Framingham, MA 01702 508-620-4950 [email protected] Director of Public Works Peter A. Sellers 150 Concord Street, Room 213 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5600 [email protected] Human Resources Director Monica A. Visco 150 Concord Street, Room B1 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5490 [email protected]
Director of Technology Services Kathleen F. McCarthy 150 Concord Street, Room B25 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5829 [email protected] Director of Inspectional Services Julian M. Suso (Interim) 150 Concord Street, Room 121 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5400 [email protected] Library Director Mark J. Contois 49 Lexington Street Framingham, MA 01702 508-879-3570 [email protected] Director of Parks & Recreation Robert Merusi 475 Union Avenue Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5960 [email protected] Planning Board Administrator Jay W. Grande 150 Concord Street, Room B37 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5450 [email protected] Director of Planning & Econ. Develop. Kathleen B. Bartolini 150 Concord Street, Room B2 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5455 [email protected] Town Clerk Valerie W. Mulvey 150 Concord Street, Room 105 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5520 [email protected]
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Town Counsel Christopher J. Petrini 150 Concord Street, Room 129 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5406 [email protected] Superintendent of Schools Christopher Martes, Ed., D. 454 Water Street Framingham, MA 01701 508-626-9117 [email protected] Treasurer/Collector Dennis E. O’Neil 150 Concord Street, Room 111 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5430 [email protected] Town Accountant Richard G. Howarth, Jr. 150 Concord Street, Room 205 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5410 [email protected] Chief Assessor Michael P. Flynn 150 Concord Street, Room 101 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5415 [email protected] Town Engineer William R. Sedewitz 100 Western Avenue Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-6010 [email protected]
Building Commissioner Michael F. Foley (Acting) 150 Concord Street, Room 202 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5500 [email protected] Director of Public Health Robert T. Cooper 150 Concord Street, Room 221 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5470 [email protected] Director of Building Services James W. Egan 150 Concord Street, Room 133 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5485 [email protected] Housing Authority Director William Casamento 1 John J. Brady Drive Framingham, MA 01702 508-879-7562 [email protected] Director of Veterans Services Paul L. Raffa 150 Concord Street, Room B35 Framingham, MA 01702 508-5325515 [email protected] Conservation Administrator Michele L. Grzenda 150 Concord Street, Room 211 Framingham, MA 01702 508-532-5460 [email protected]
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Massachusetts State Legislator Information State Senator: Karen Spilka: (D) District Office State House P. O. Box 2323 Boston, MA 02133 Framingham, MA 01703-2323 Telephone: (617) 722-1640 Telephone: (508) 872-6677 Email: [email protected] State Representative: DISTRICT 6 (Rep. Precincts 1 – 7, 9, 13, 14 & 17) Deborah Blumer: (D) State House District Office Room 134 7 Ledgewood Road Boston, MA 02133 Framingham, MA 01701 Telephone: (617) 722-2400 Telephone: (508) 879-0658 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] NOTE: Pam Richardson was elected to this position in November 2006 after the passing of Rep. Blumer. Since Rep. Richardson was not sworn in to office until January 2007, her name and information does not appear in this 2006 report but will appear in the 2007 report State Representative: DISTRICT 7 (Rep. Precincts 8A, 8B, 10-12, 15, 16 & 18) Tom Sannicandro: (D) State House Boston, MA 02133 Telephone: (617) 722-2425 Email: [email protected]
Federal Legislator Information US Senators: Edward M. Kennedy: (D) JFK Federal Office Building, Room 2400 Boston, MA 02203 Telephone: (617) 565-3170 John M. Kerry: (D) 1 Bowdoin Square, 10th fl. Boston, MA 02114 Telephone: (617) 565-8519 US Representative: Edward J. Markey: (D) Boston Office District Office 5 High Street, Ste. 101 188 Concord Street Medford, MA 02155 Framingham, MA 01702 Telephone: (781) 396-2900 Phone: (508) 875-2900
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ELECTED TOWN OFFICIALS
Town Clerk Valerie Mulvey 2008
Moderator
Joel Winett 2007
Board of Selectmen
A. Ginger Esty 2007 Charles J. Sisitsky 2007 Dennis L. Giombetti 2008 John H. Stasik 2008 Jason A. Smith 2009
School Committee
Cesar A. Monzon 2007 Richard J. Weader, II 2007 David F. Miles 2008 Diane M. Throop 2008 Philip A. Dinsky 2008 Andrew Limeri 2009 Pam Richardson 2009
Library Trustee
Ruth S. Winett 2007 Donna L. Howland 2007 Phyllis Jachowicz 2007 Robert M. Dodd 2007 Kurt Samuelson 2008 Marjorie C. Sisitsky 2008 Jo-Anne Thompson 2008 Danielle G. Barney 2008
Regional Vocational School Committee
John M. Kahn 2007 Larry Cooper 2007 Linda B. Fobes 2007 A. J. Mulvey 2008 Michael M. Rossi 2008 Nelson H. Goldin 2009 Argentina Arias 2009 Esther A.H. Hopkins 2009
Planning Board
Susan P. Bernstein 2007 Andrea Carr-Evans 2007 Ann Victoria Welles 2008 Thomas F. Mahoney 2009 Carol J. Spack 2009
Housing Authority
Stephen P. Starr 2007 Phyllis A. May 2008 Edward F. Convery 2009 Robert L. Merusi 2011
Edgell Grove Cemetery Trustee
Barbara W. Ford 2007 William F. Welch 2008 John J. Silva 2009 Nancy F. Bianchi 2010 Stanton T. Fitts 2011
Ann G. Arvedon 2009 Sheila Burke Fair 2009 Nancy Coville Wallace 2009 Janet L. Harrington 2009
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SENIOR MANAGERIAL APPOINTMENTS
Town Manager
Julian M. Suso 2009
Chief of Police
Steven B. Carl 2007
Fire Chief
Ollie D. Gadson Indefinite
Town Counsel
Christopher J. Petrini 2007
Chief Financial Officer
Mary Ellen Kelley 2008
Director of Technology Services
Kathleen McCarthy 2008
Town Accountant
Richard G. Howarth, Jr. 2009
Treasurer-Collector
Dennis E. O’Neil 2008
Chief Assessor
Michael P. Flynn 2009
Human Resources Director
Monica A. Visco 2008
Chief Procurement Officer
Timothy D. Goddard 2009
Building Commissioner
Michael F. Foley (Acting) 2008 Director of Planning & Economic Development Kathleen B. Bartolini 2008
Director of Inspectional Services
Julian M. Suso (Interim) 2007
Town Engineer
William Sedewitz 2007
Director of Parks and Recreation
Robert Merusi Indefinite
Director of Public Health
Robert Cooper Indefinite
Director of Veterans Benefits and Services
Paul Raffa 2009
Conservation Administrator
Michele Grzenda 2009
Director of the Callahan Senior Center
Mary Parcher 2006
Director of Public Works
Peter Sellers 2008
Director of Town Owned Buildings
James W. Egan 2006
Superintendent of Schools
Christopher H. Martes Indefinite
Keefe School Superintendent
Peter Dewar Indefinite
Planning Board Administrator
Jay Grande 2008
Housing Authority Director
William Casamento Indefinite
Director of Libraries
Mark J. Contois Indefinite
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OFFICIALS APPOINTED BY THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Cable Advisory Committee
William Peter Barnes 2009 James V. Divver 2009 Annabel Z. Dodd 2009 Anne Arvedon 2009 Valerie W. Mulvey 2009 Russell G. Ohanian 2009
Conservation Commission
Steven W. Orr 2007 Pam Helinek 2007 Vickie L. Staples 2008 Kevin D. O’Neill 2008 Robert McArthur 2008 Judith Perry 2009 William G. Merriam 2009
Community Development Committee
Anne Arvedon 2007 Beverly C. Good 2007 Robert Schecter 2007 Barbara J. Melendez 2007 John B. Steacie 2007 Lloyd Kaye 2007 Marlene Aron 2007 Edward J. Kross 2007 Ghafoor A. Sheikh 2007 Patricia Woodward 2007 Ellen Bellantoni 2007 Karolyne White 2007 David E. Morales, Esq. 2007 Roger Small 2007 Lisa Cabrera 2007
Council on Aging
Morton J. Shuman 2007 Howard Hill 2008 Thomas Pedulla 2008 Evelyn Langley 2008 Patricia Paganella 2008
Cultural Council
Amanda Fargiano 2007 Vacant 2007 Vacant 2007 Vacant 2007 Vacant 2007 Vacant 2007 Janice L. Kiley 2008 John B. Steacie 2008 Karen Sue Avery 2008 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008 James Rizoli 2009 Sarah K. Donato 2009 Anna Faktorovich 2009 Vacant 2009 Vacant 2009 Vacant 2009 Vacant 2009
Disability Commission
Karen Foran Dempsey 2007 Richard Finlay 2007 Kathleen T. McCarthy 2007 Elise A. Marcil 2008 Kathleen M. Hughes 2008 Thelma Berman 2008 Debra Freed 2009 Keith M. Marable, Sr. 2009 Dennis Polselli 2009
Economic Development & Industrial Corp
Glen Weisbrod 2007 John Stefanini 2007 Martin F. Mulvey 2007 Robert Snider 2008 John B. Steacie 2008 Andrew Rogers 2009 M. Phaldie Taliep 2009 Vacant 2009
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Board of Health
Michael R. Hugo 2007 Tammy C. Harris 2008 Nelson H. Goldin 2009
Historic District Commission
Charlene Frary (Alternate) 2005 James R. Kubat (Alternate) 2007 Vacant (Alternate) 2007 Julie A. Ferrarai 2007 Vacant 2007 Helen Lemoine (Alternate) 2008 Henry Field (Alternate) 2008 Christopher Walsh 2008 Todd S. Robecki 2008 Gerald Couto 2008 Adam Sisitsky 2009 Susan Bernstein 2009
Historical Commission
Todd S. Robecki 2007 Frederic Wallace 2007 Robert Snider 2008 Perry L. Bent 2008 David T. Marks 2008 Gerald Couto 2009 Elizabeth Funk 2009 Human Relations Commission Dawn Harkness 2006 Carlos Cunningham 2007 Mahmood M. Akhtar 2007 Vacant 2007 Vacant 2007 Robert Anspach 2008 Timothy Lee 2008 Laura Medrano-Carillo 2008 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008
John Schaefer 2009 Vacant 2009 Vacant 2009
Loring Arena Committee
Richard Callahan 2007 David Friday 2007 Robert Brown 2008 Joseph Tersoni 2008 John Hart 2009 Jack Jagher 2009 Joan Rastani 2009
Park and Recreation Commission
Robert L. Brown 2007 Daniel F. Jones 2008 Mark J. Goldman 2008 Joan Klan Rastani 2009 Robert P. Healy 2009
Board of Public Works
Wolf Haberman 2007 Ralph Robert Funk 2008 Jim Wade Hansen 2009
Zoning Board of Appeals
Christine Long (Associate Member) 2007 Robert Nislick (Associate Member) 2007 Karl B. Thober (Associate Member) 2007 Stephen Meltzer (Associate Member) 2007 Richard E. Paul 2007 Susan S. Craighead 2008 Philip R. Ottaviani, Jr. 2009
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OFFICIALS APPOINTED BY THE TOWN MODERATOR
Capital Budget Committee
William G. McCarthy 2007 Thomas O’Neil 2007 Edward V. Cosgrove 2008 Jeanne Bullock 2008 Kevin P. Crotty 2009 Brian C. Sullivan 2009
Finance Committee
Mary Z. Connaughton 2007 Denis E. Black 2007 Kurt T. Steinberg 2007 Laurence W. Marsh 2008 John A. Zucchi 2008 C. Duncan Fuller 2008 Linda W. Dunbrack 2009 Nancy Wilson 2009 E. Elyzabeth Sheehan 2009
Government Study Committee
Laurence M. Schmeidler 2007 Richard Lee 2007 Joel A. Feingold 2007 Theodore Anthony, Jr. 2007 Wesley J. Ritchie 2008 Melanie L. Goddard 2008 Melvin S. Warshaw 2008 J. Christopher Walsh 2008 Wolf Haberman 2009
Christine Long 2009 Edward Levay 2009 Michael Bower 2009
Personnel Board
Stanley L. Shindler 2007 Thomas Patria 2007 Creighton R. Nichols 2008 Burton R. Marmer 2009 Andrew P. Fontaine 2009
Real Property Committee
Martin Ned Price 2007 Linda Romero 2007 Laurence Schmeidler 2007 Robert Bolles 2008 Betty Muto 2008 Shelley R. Strowman 2008 David Longden 2008 Janet Leombruno 2009 Norman Snow 2009 Harold J. Geller 2009
Technology Advisory Committee
Margaret E. Groppo 2007 Brian C. Sulllivan 2007 Scott W. Wadland 2008 Andrew Limeri 2008 Robert A. Berman 2009 Kenneth M. Schwartz 2009
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MISCELLANEOUS APPOINTMENTS
Director of Emergency Management
Steven Trask Indefinite Appointed by Board of Selectmen
Asst. Director of Emergency Mgt.
John C. Magri Indefinite Appointed by Board of Selectmen
Council on Aging
Francis E. Leporati 2006 Howard Rouse 2006 Ray Shorey 2007 Richard Bonvini 2007 Elizabeth Matterazzo 2007 Martin I. Sack 2008 Appointed by the Council on Aging
Cushing Chapel Board of Trustees
Vacant 2006 M. Elizabeth Gavin 2006 Vacant 2006 Vacant 2006 Vacant 2006 Nicholas Paganella 2006 James W. Egan 2007 Vacant 2008 Stanton T. Fitts 2008 John Speranza 2008 Karolyne U. White 2008 Appointed by Board of Selectmen
Housing Authority
Mark R. Galante 2009 Appointed by the Governor
Housing Partnership
Vacant 2006 Faith C. Tolson 2006 Peter Cook 2006 Robert Stubbs 2006 Christopher Ross 2006 Robert P. Lamprey 2007 Marvin Siflinger 2007 Helen Lemoine 2007
Philip Giffee 2007 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008 Vacant 2008 Appointed by Board of Selectmen
Planning Board Associate Member
Sidney Gorovitz 2008
Registrar of Voters
Valerie Mulvey 2007 Eng Cho 2008 Linda A. Fields 2009 Bradford Freeman 2010 Appointed by Board of Selectmen Retirement Board Sydney Lebewohl 2006 Peter Rovinelli 2007 Mary Ellen Kelley 2008 Paul Barbieri 2008 Richard Howarth, Jr. Indefinite Two members appointed by Selectmen, Two elected by members, One appointed by Board
Town Assessors
William Figler 2007 Arthur Holmes 2008 Michael Flynn 2009 Appointed by the Chief Financial Officer with approval of the Town Manager
Town Historian
Vacant Indefinite Appointed by Board of Selectmen
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SELECTMEN’S INTRODUCTION
Board of Selectmen (L to R): Jason A. Smith, Charles J. Sisitsky (Clerk), Dennis L. Giombetti (Chair),
John H. Stasik (Vice Chair), and A. Ginger Esty 2006 was a year of management transition as Framingham welcomed, with much promise, a new Town Manager Julian Suso in June, along with Assistant Town Manager Timothy Goddard and Human Services Coordinator Alexis Silver at year’s end. A very special thanks should be given to Town Clerk, Valerie Mulvey, who graciously and unselfishly accepted the Interim Town Manager’s position. Her professional efforts provided a smooth transition to our new Town Manager. It is with deep sorrow the Board notes the sudden and tragic loss of a true Framingham Champion, Representative Deborah Blumer. For the first time in several years we were able to invest modestly in several significant areas to fund strategic initiatives within our operating budget. One such area, identified by the Board of Selectmen, was the Police Department where two new patrolmen were added as well as providing full funding for all
vacancies. A three year plan to continue to invest in new patrolmen was also formulated. Investing in ‘quality of life’ departments was also successful by supporting a reorganization of the Parks and Recreation Department. A much needed Sign Review Officer was hired in the Building Department to better enforce our sign by-law. Finally, as mentioned above, we were able to invest in a new position, Human Services Coordinator, as recommended by the PILOT Committee. These modest investments were a direct result of expense controls and revenue management by our very capable professional staff along with an increase in Local Aid, for which we thank our legislative delegation. Amid these successes, challenges still confront the town’s finances, as health insurance costs continue to escalate and legal costs continue to grow, especially in a year when the town begins re-negotiating all labor agreements.
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Maintaining our infrastructure is an ongoing concern. A few infrastructure projects were funded via the Town’s capital budget including: Phase 2 Tercentennial Park, necessary equipment replacement, mandatory building repairs, as well as Chapter 90 projects financed via state funding. We must remain mindful that the town owns an enormous set of assets, which will need significant investment over the coming years and includes: aged sewer and water systems, road improvements, Memorial Building rehabilitation, and ADA compliance to name a few. Selectmen have worked closely with the Town Manager, Chief Financial Officer, and staff to pursue opportunities for revenue enhancement, such as a plan to hold an auction for property taken as tax title by the town. The Board of Selectmen also voted to reduce the waiting period of foreclosure from two years to six months. This will allow our finance team to better manage the foreclosure process and generate revenue more timely. In mid-year the Board of Selectmen developed a vision statement for Framingham that reads in part that, “our town will become a recognized leader among municipalities across the state in being responsive to the challenges of the 21st century and a wonderful place to live, work, play and to do business.” The Board also developed a set of priorities to begin to actualize our vision for Framingham. The priorities fall within five areas: community development, transportation, long-term capital infrastructure (to address the infrastructure issues mentioned above) social services and PILOT Committee recommendations, and benchmarking. The Board has also made progress in several key areas. The board continues to
work with the professional team to develop an economic redevelopment plan, a targeted neighborhood housing revitalization plan that encourages owner-occupancy. The Board has assisted in rejuvenating the Economic Development and Industrial Committee by adding new members, providing funds, and empowering them. The Board continues to support and work closely with the professional staff to help ensure a successful Arcade project. The Arcade project, slated for ground-breaking in 2007, is the cornerstone of Downtown Revitalization. The START Partnership, with members appointed by the Board of Selectmen, continues to promote and energize the arts and culture in Framingham to help fuel economic growth. Thanks to funding from the state government in 2007, the START Partnership should be in an even better position to promote the arts in our community. In the area of transportation, the Board voted to form the long awaited Metrowest Regional Transit Authority with a goal of beginning operation in July of 2007. The Downtown Route 135/126 Rail Crossing Committee was formed by the Board of Selectmen to develop a long-term solution to the downtown traffic problem. In response to the Social Services and PILOT Committee recommendations, several priorities have been realized such as the closing of the wet shelter, hiring a Human Service Coordinator, the encouragement of regional solutions, and continuing to explore ‘payments in lieu of taxes.’ The Board has made less progress on the benchmark priority, but it is our hope that the Board of Selectmen will re-focus the effort in 2007. The Board of Selectmen has also made progress with several major legal cases,
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specifically Comcast and the Inter-Municipal Agreement (IMA) with Ashland. As a result of the Comcast agreement, the control of the public access studio operation was transferred to the Framingham Public Access Corporation (FPAC). The rather complicated and time sensitive transition went quite smoothly thanks to the efforts of the FPAC board members. The IMA will bring significant new revenues to Framingham of more than $600,000 annually. Several study committees were created by the Board of Selectmen to better understand significant issues and develop a set of recommended solutions. Three examples of such committees are the Overcrowding Committee, the Memorial Building Study Committee, and the Downtown Route 135/126 Rail Crossing Committee. The Board has not yet received reports from the latter two committees, but did receive one from the Overcrowding Committee at year’s end. The Board of Selectmen is now reviewing the recommendations with the Town Manager and professional staff to develop a specific action plan. Selectmen also look
forward to reviewing the final reports of the Sign By-law and Housing Plan Committees. A major strategic initiative, under the purview of the Planning Board, is the Master Plan. The Board of Selectmen welcomes the opportunity to work with the Planning Board to develop an outstanding and actionable Master Plan. As a result of meetings with the Planning Board, a section to address Economic Development has already been added to the Master Plan. The Board would like to recognize the many individuals who work tirelessly and without fanfare who make Framingham such a rich, diverse and exceptional community. Last but certainly not least, the Selectmen would like to thank those employees, volunteers, residents, visitors, workers and elected officials who “Take Pride in Framingham.” Respectfully Submitted, Dennis Giombetti Chairman
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TOWN MANAGER’S REPORT I had the privilege of beginning my tenure as Framingham Town Manager on June 5, 2006, with the Town completing the last month of its FY 2006 budget year. This provided me the opportunity to attend the June sessions of Town Meeting, at which the FY 2007 annual operating budget was adopted, setting the blueprint for programs and services from July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007. It has been an exciting and challenging opportunity; it’s great to be in Framingham! I want to thank Town Clerk Valerie Mulvey, who agreed to serve as interim Town Manager from the time when the former Assistant Town Manager left this position in February until my arrival in June, 2006. Valerie’s willingness to devote her time and professional expertise in an interim capacity for the Town of Framingham helped to assure a relatively seamless transition and provided the leadership necessary to move critical Town projects and programs forward. In addition, Valerie has provided extraordinary support and assistance to me during these early months as newly-appointed Town Manager. Her commitment and dedication to Framingham is an inspiration and is in the best tradition of public service. This year has provided some personnel opportunities for me as Town Manager. As noted, with the vacancy in the Assistant Town Manager position, one of my important appointments was that of a new Assistant. Following an extensive search and interview process, I was very pleased to appoint Timothy Goddard as my new colleague in this capacity in December. Tim joins us as an experienced manager, following a lengthy tenure as administrator in Littleton. I
have adjusted the duties of the Assistant Town Manager to include representing the Town Manager in collective bargaining sessions and serving as an internal liaison on all Town grant applications, in addition to the several ongoing duties of that position and those assigned by Town bylaw, specifically ADA coordinator and chief procurement officer. In August, Building Commissioner Joe Mikielian announced that he was leaving the administration to return to his hometown of Worcester in that same capacity. Assistant Building Commissioner Mike Foley has stepped in as acting Building Commissioner to ensure critical continuity during the search process, which is continuing into the following calendar year. The building and inspectional services function is indeed a critical one, with responsibilities assigned not only in the building permits and inspections areas, but also the nuisance bylaw and the sign bylaw. Coordination and teamwork is paramount to the success of this function. The year 2006 dawned with Framingham facing the same financial challenges as most other communities in Massachusetts. The growth in revenues continues to be exceeded by the ongoing pressure for enhanced local government services and the need to provide the fair and equitable compensation to retain the professionals critical to delivering a stable, cost-effective level of local services in our community. In addition, the continuing trend in unfunded mandates placed upon local government at both the federal and state levels presents us with new management challenges. The state and federal governments must both work in partnership with us to achieve long-term
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success, including the provision of a stable, reasonable level of revenue sharing. In closing, I want to underscore my belief that public service is a privilege. I appreciate the opportunity to serve as Framingham’s Town Manager. I thank the Board of Selectmen for their vote of confidence in me to serve Framingham in this capacity. I thank my colleagues who join me in service to the Town for their universal support and inspiring teamwork in service to the community. I also thank the many residents of Framingham who
have stepped forward to warmly welcome me, my wife Stephanie, and our sons Anthony and Michael to the Framingham community. I assure you that I and my colleagues take our responsibility to provide local government services to you, our fellow residents, very seriously. I look forward to the year to come with great anticipation! Respectfully yours, Julian M. Suso
6
TOWN CLERK
The Framingham Town Clerk’s office is the largest joint clerk/election operation in Massachusetts. We are also one of the busiest Clerk’s offices in the state. The presence of a birthing hospital, numerous nursing homes and assisted living facilities and a population of over 66,000 residents contribute to the substantial work load. The Board of Selectmen appointed me to serve as interim Town Manager last winter. It was an enriching experience both professionally and personally, and a genuine privilege. I am grateful to them and to the Division and Department Heads who assisted me throughout my tenure. I am especially grateful to Executive Assistant, Scott Morelli. Scott’s knowledge and understanding of town operations was a valuable resource for me. His dedicated work ethic helped the town through this transition period. I had assured the selectmen that the Town Clerk’s staff under the expert direction of Assistant Town Clerk Lisa Ferguson would continue to complete its tasks and provide excellent customer service in my absence and of course they did. Lisa manages the daily operations of the office and trains and supervises staff. She works closely with Technology Services staff to ensure that wherever possible, the operations of this office are automated. The two administrators, Lauren DiGiandomenico and Christopher Sullivan, focus the majority of their time processing vital records. In 2006, we issued 1901 birth certificates and 671 death certificates, 654 marriage licenses, 3,380 dog licenses and 696 business certificates. Our revenues were $294,985. Other administrative responsibilities include: collecting fines for the Board of
Health, Conservation Commission, Building and Public Works departments and Animal Control; filing Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Board and Historic Commission decisions; conducting genealogy searches and processing claims against the Town. The Elections Coordinator Michelle Antonio is responsible for most phases of the election process. In 2006, Michelle registered 2,557 new voters, removed 4,820 voters from our rolls and amended another 7,665 records. 1,912 absentee ballots were cast, 1100 of those for the state election in November. As of December 31, 2006 there were 33,703 registered voters in Framingham. Michelle assists in town meeting preparation, processes the annual census and prepares the street listings. We conducted four elections in 2006. The Town Preliminary drew 9% of our electorate, while 16% turned out to vote in the Town Election. The turn out was 27% for the State Primary and grew to 56% for the State Election. State Representative Debby Blumer’s sudden death on Friday, October 13th, 25 days before the State Election, deprived us of a dedicated, passionate public servant and friend. As we mourned, we also prepared for a write-in campaign for Debby’s seat. Forty-two adults and ten Framingham High School students volunteered to tabulate write-in results at the polls on election night. Because of their efforts, over 9,100 write-ins were tabulated and results were available before midnight. The Help America Vote Act (HAVA) has mandated the availability of accessible
7
voting machines at every polling location. Our voters used accessible voting machines for the first time at the State Election in November. We are very pleased to finally be able to provide this opportunity for our disabled community. Building Services and DPW staff helped deliver and setup these machines at the ten polling locations. One week prior to the November 7, 2006 election, Secretary of the Commonwealth, William F. Galvin, and his Director of Elections, Michelle Tassinari, spent an afternoon in Framingham to introduce the HAVA machines. They also provided large magnified copies of the ballot in poster form, with Representative Blumer’s race highlighted, for each of our polling locations. Director Tassinari remained and conducted workshops to familiarize our Election Wardens and Clerks with the accessible machines and to train our volunteers regarding the write-in tabulation process. We were very grateful to have their assistance during such a challenging election period. The Annual Town Meeting met over seven nights in May then adjourned until June so that the budget could be discussed and voted when state revenue numbers became available at the end of May. Three Special Town Meetings were also held in May during the Annual Town Meeting.
Many people have contributed to our success. Our town employees are professional, knowledgeable and always willing to help. We are especially grateful to Jim Egan and the Building Services staff for facilitating many of our activities particularly town meetings and elections. The Board of Selectmen, Town Officials and Town Meeting members provide consistent support to this office; it is a genuine pleasure to work with them and with all those who participate in our government. Our poll workers continue to work fourteen hour days to ensure that the public is well served when they vote. Through the Senior Tax Relief Program., we were fortunate to have the help of Irwin Alpert and Jean Engel. Finally and most importantly, I thank and salute my staff for their hard work and helpful, professional and friendly attitudes. Working together with our colleagues in town administration, we will continue to provide excellent customer service. Respectfully submitted, Valerie Mulvey Town Clerk
8
FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
The Office of the Chief Financial Officer has both financial and policy duties. It is staffed by the Chief Financial Officer and an Assistant Chief Financial Officer. The Office oversees the financial management activities of the Town with the assistance of the three Town departments that have direct responsibility for the primary financial management functions of Town government: assessing, accounting, auditing, collecting taxes and certain local receipts, cash management and investing. The Assessing Department is responsible for the administration of the property tax system including the valuation of real and personal property and the assessment of taxes against these parcels and accounts. The Office of the Treasurer/Collector is responsible for the collection of and accounting for all town revenues, the investment of all revenues, and the management of the Town’s debt. The Accounting Department maintains the Town’s accounting records, generates financial management information for use by all Town departments in the management of their operations, directs all audit activity and reviews compliance with internal controls. The Office of the Chief Financial Officer has direct responsibility for the development of the recommended annual operating and capital budgets. To accomplish this, the Office works closely with the Town Manager, Division Heads and department managers, the Board of Selectmen, the Town Finance Committee, the Capital Budget Committee, and the Standing Committee on Ways and Means.
Upon adoption of the annual operating and capital budgets, the Office of the Chief Financial Officer monitors the progress of those budgets throughout the year to insure that rates of spending will not create budgetary problems and adversely affect the fiscal condition of the Town. Other responsibilities of the Chief Financial Officer include participation in case management of workers’ compensation claims; membership on the Retirement Board, the Memorial Building Study Committee, and the ADA Transition Subcommittee. The CFO is also responsible for the recommendation of annual water and sewer rates, developed in partnership with the Department of Public Works and the Board of Public Works. Highlights of the Chief Financial Officer’s office major accomplishments in 2006 include: The adoption of a balanced $183 million FY07 operating budget and a $22 million FY07 Capital Budget. A long term financial forecast was presented to advise Town management, the Boards and Committees and the residents of the Town in which direction financial planning must tread. The Finance Division departments are working on revenue enhancement initiatives that include accounts payable audit, changes to the foreclosure policy, utilization of debt collection companies for increased collection of aged accounts and the tightening of internal controls over revenue to reduce the risk of uncollected funds.
9
This year brought a new Assistant CFO in Jennifer Pratt, who has proved critical to the operation of the Division. The completion of the duties of the Office of the Chief Financial Officer is highly dependent on the daily activities of the Finance departments. The CFO would like to thank Dennis O’Neil and his staff in the Office of the Treasurer/Collector;
Michael Flynn and his staff in the Assessing Office and Richard G. Howarth, Jr. and his staff in the Accounting Department. Respectfully Submitted, Mary Ellen Kelley CFO
ACCOUNTING
The Office of the Town Accountant is responsible for insuring that all expenditures of the Town conform to the requirements of Massachusetts General Laws, Town Meeting appropriations and grantors, and do not exceed Town Meeting appropriations or grant authorizations. The Office also accounts for all financial transactions of the Town - receipts and expenditures – in conformance with generally accepted accounting principles and the Uniform Municipal Accounting System promulgated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Department of Revenue. It then makes this accounting information available to (1) the Town’s municipal program managers to facilitate their management of program budgets, (2) independent auditors who must opine on the financial condition of the Town; (3) state and federal agencies for use in generating financial information for program and policy development, and, (4) credit rating agencies for their use in assessing the Town’s fiscal stability and creditworthiness and Residents. Significant activities of the Accounting Office include the submission of required financial reports, reconciliation of revenue and expenditure accounts, cash, and accounts receivable as well as auditing all
accounts payable invoices for accuracy prior to payment. One of the tasks of the Town Accountant’s Office is to close the books at the end of each fiscal year and submit the balance sheet as of June 30 to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) for the annual certification of available funds including general fund free cash and enterprise fund retained earnings. These available funds represent unrestricted surpluses that are available for appropriation by Town Meeting. They are generated from positive operating results in relation to the budget; that is, they are derived from annual receipts in excess of budget estimates and expenditures less than the appropriations authorized by Town Meeting. The June 30, 2006, (FY06) balance sheet was submitted to the DOR on October 6, 2006, for certification of available funds. On November 2, 2006, the DOR certified the following amounts as available for appropriation: General Fund Free Cash: $2,643,795, Arena Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings: $56,792, Sewer Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings: $4,142,764, Water Enterprise Fund Retained Earnings $1,188,686.
10
Fiscal Year 2006 was the third year fully utilizing the integrated financial management features of the Munis system authorized at the April 2002 Annual Town Meeting. We are currently utilizing the following modules in Munis: Tax, Utility Billing, Purchasing, Accounts Payable, General Ledger, and Payroll. To fully utilize these modules, the Town Accountant’s staff completed the following tasks: To develop policies and procedures, the Town Accountant’s staff tested processes in the Munis System. For uniform entry of data we trained individual departmental users, on purchasing and accounts payable modules. To utilize the data stored in the Munis database, we documented and designed various financial reports. For greater efficiency, we partnered with Munis System Developers to develop customized reports and processes to meet the Town of Framingham’s needs.
Successful program management is facilitated by the availability of current and accurate financial information for use by program managers. The conversion to the integrated Munis financial systems has improved this process as data is transmitted electronically through the individual modules providing real time financial data for reporting purposes. For Fiscal Year 2006, the Department processed over 8,500 purchase orders, reviewed over 55,500 invoices and issued over 20,700 accounts payable checks., On a monthly basis, the Town Accountant’s Office distributes reports to departmental and program managers that summarize actual expenditures and revenues versus budget for the general fund and enterprise funds (Water, Sewer and Arena) and for grant, gift, capital project and trust funds. These reports represent summaries of immense amounts of financial data maintained in the Town’s accounting system.
The top twenty vendors paid during Fiscal 2006 are as follows: US Bank $90,765,642 Blue Cross/Blue Shield 31,338,362 Framingham Retirement 7,859,328 Keefe Technical School 7,314,303 Eastern Contractors, Inc 5,318,947 Accept Ed Collaborative 2,252,397 Waste Management 2,173,537 W Walsh Company 1,919,141 First Student Inc 1,824,551 NStar Electric 1,703,079 Fleet Bank Withholdings 1,417,688 Mass Bay Limousine, Inc 1,166,286 SEA Consultants, Inc 1,137,810 Freightliner of Hartford, Inc 1,101,859 Beta Group Inc 1,015,963 PV Construction Corp 974,973 MHQ Municipal Vehicles 953,876 Learning Center for Deaf 800,195 Heller & Smith Corp 794,451 Metromedia Energy Inc 775,313 The Town Accountant and the Town Treasurer/Collector continue to develop procedures and various reports to reconcile cash and receivable balances in the general ledger to insure their accuracy. The cooperative efforts and ability to electronically transfer data and information between the Town Accountant and Treasurer’s office has resulted in an increased confidence in the accuracy of financial information maintained by both offices. During the next year, I hope to continue to provide timely and accurate financial information to all Town Departments. I will continue to document existing procedures as well as create additional policies and procedures necessary to safeguard the assets of the Town. In addition, I will implement any new pronouncements issued by the Massachusetts Department of Local
11
Services, Governmental Accountings Standards Board (GASB) and other regulatory agencies. I would like to thank all the departments who have assisted us during the past year. I would like to especially thank Chief Financial Officer, Mary Ellen Kelley, Assistant Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Pratt, Treasurer Dennis O’Neil, Chief Assessor Michael Flynn, Director of Technology Services Kathleen McCarthy and their staffs for their guidance and assistance during the past year
I would particularly like to highlight the invaluable efforts the members of my staff, Assistant Town Accountant Judy Moore, Nicholas Babineau, and Pamela Hache for their contributions throughout the year. Your obedient servant, Richard G. Howarth, Jr. Town Accountant
12
Tow
n of
Fra
min
gham
Sche
dule
of A
ppro
pria
tions
For t
he Y
ear E
nded
Jun
e 30
, 200
6
Prio
r Yea
rS
peci
al T
own
Enc
umbe
red
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
dIn
ter D
ivis
iona
lY
ear t
o D
ate
Clo
sed
toB
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsTr
ansf
ers
Tran
sfer
sE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Enc
. & E
xpen
ded
Fund
Bal
ance
-$
301,
457
$
-$
-$
-
$
29
9,77
9$
-
$
299,
779
$
1,67
8$
-
107,
542
22,0
00-
-12
2,38
6-
122,
386
7,15
6-
--
--
--
--
-65
,074
--
-64
,788
-64
,788
287
-98
,607
--
-98
,607
-98
,607
-
-$
572,
680
$
22,0
00$
-$
-
$
58
5,56
0$
-
$
585,
560
$
9,12
0$
116
$
1,
581,
124
$
-
$
-
$
(102
,428
)$
1,
428,
153
$
1,
215
$
1,42
9,36
8$
49,4
44$
306,
156
1,11
9,92
0-
-14
,090
1,13
4,93
824
7,09
81,
382,
036
58,1
29-
8,11
4,03
1(1
44,1
40)
--
7,96
9,89
1-
7,96
9,89
1-
72,9
0044
,250
--
64,8
3814
0,72
941
,260
181,
988
--
613,
914
--
-53
8,56
832
453
8,89
375
,021
--
--
23,5
0023
,500
-23
,500
--
868,
151
--
-86
8,15
1-
868,
151
--
--
--
4,65
2-
4,65
2(4
,652
)12
8,00
0-
128,
000
-12
8,00
0-
-11
3,80
0-
--
113,
800
-11
3,80
0-
379,
171
$
12
,455
,190
$
(1
44,1
40)
$
128,
000
$
-
$
12
,350
,381
$
28
9,89
7$
12,6
40,2
79$
177,
943
$
130
$
2,
194,
219
$
-
$
-
$
(25,
000)
$
2,00
4,47
1$
712
$
2,
005,
182
$
16
4,16
7$
12
4,93
11,
155,
660
--
(81,
311)
902,
203
111,
712
1,01
3,91
518
5,36
5-
6,12
2,51
7(1
06,7
33)
--
6,01
2,20
4-
6,01
2,20
43,
580
12,5
3744
,250
--
106,
049
76,1
0572
,358
148,
462
14,3
73-
1,12
5,45
4-
--
1,06
1,12
665
81,
061,
785
63,6
6972
,992
250,
000
--
263
313,
635
7,24
132
0,87
62,
379
-95
5,10
8-
--
955,
108
-95
5,10
8-
--
--
-12
,160
-12
,160
(12,
160)
-34
8,73
6-
--
348,
736
-34
8,73
6-
210,
591
$
12
,195
,944
$
(1
06,7
33)
$
-$
-
$
11
,685
,748
$
19
2,68
0$
11,8
78,4
28$
421,
374
$
Ente
rpris
esA
rena Per
sona
l Ser
vice
sO
pera
tions
Sm
all C
apita
lD
ebt S
ervi
ceIn
dire
ct C
osts
Tota
l Are
na
Sew
er Per
sona
l Ser
vice
sO
pera
tions
MW
RA
Ass
essm
ent
Sm
all C
apita
lD
ebt S
ervi
ceC
apita
lIn
dire
ct C
osts
Tran
sfer
s G
ener
al F
und
(Tax
Titl
e R
edem
ptio
ns)
Tran
sfer
s M
WR
A In
tere
st P
rogr
amTr
ansf
ers
RE
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
Tota
l Sew
er
Wat
er Per
sona
l Ser
vice
sO
pera
tions
MW
RA
Ass
essm
ent
Sm
all C
apita
lD
ebt S
ervi
ceC
apita
lIn
dire
ct C
osts
Tran
sfer
s G
ener
al F
und
(Tax
Titl
e R
edem
ptio
ns)
Tran
sfer
s C
apita
l Pro
ject
s
Tota
l Wat
er
13
Are
naSe
wer
Wat
erTo
tal
Fund
Fund
Fund
Mem
o
Rev
enue
sP
rope
rty ta
xes
-$
-
$
-$
-
$
Exc
ise
--
--
Pen
altie
s, In
tere
st a
nd O
ther
Tax
es-
--
-In
terg
over
nmen
tal (
Gra
nts)
-25
,289
-25
,289
Cha
rges
for s
ervi
ces
389,
521
14,4
31,2
0912
,215
,369
27,0
36,0
99In
tere
st e
arni
ngs
1,57
424
5,07
617
2,42
541
9,07
5Li
cens
es a
nd p
erm
its-
--
-Fi
nes
and
forfe
iture
s-
--
-M
isce
llane
ous
--
--
Tota
l Rev
enue
s39
1,09
514
,701
,574
12,3
87,7
9427
,480
,463
Expe
nditu
res:
Cur
rent
:P
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
299,
779
1,42
8,15
32,
004,
471
3,73
2,40
3O
pera
ting
Exp
ense
s12
2,38
71,
134,
938
902,
204
2,15
9,52
9In
terg
over
nmen
tal
-7,
969,
891
6,01
2,20
413
,982
,095
Cap
ital O
utla
y-
164,
229
389,
740
553,
969
Deb
t Ser
vice
64,7
8853
8,56
81,
061,
126
1,66
4,48
2
Tota
l Exp
endi
ture
s48
6,95
411
,235
,780
10,3
69,7
4522
,092
,478
Exc
ess
(def
icie
ncy)
of r
even
ues
over
exp
endi
ture
s(9
5,85
9)3,
465,
795
2,01
8,04
95,
387,
985
Oth
er F
inan
cing
Sou
rces
(Use
s)Tr
ansf
er fr
om O
ther
Fun
ds21
2,68
0-
-21
2,68
0Tr
ansf
er to
Oth
er F
unds
(98,
607)
(1,1
14,6
03)
(1,3
16,0
04)
(2,5
29,2
14)
Tota
l Oth
er F
inan
cing
Sou
rces
(Use
s)11
4,07
3(1
,114
,603
)(1
,316
,004
)(2
,316
,534
)
Exc
ess
(def
icie
ncy)
of r
even
ues
and
othe
rso
urce
s ov
er e
xpen
ditu
res
and
othe
r use
s18
,214
2,35
1,19
270
2,04
53,
071,
451
Fund
Bal
ance
, Jul
y 1,
200
538
,577
3,29
7,72
51,
426,
295
4,76
2,59
7
Fund
Bal
ance
Jun
e 30
, 200
656
,791
$
5,64
8,91
7$
2,
128,
340
$
7,83
4,04
8$
Una
udite
d
Tow
n of
Fra
min
gham
Com
bine
d St
atem
ent o
f Rev
enue
s, E
xpen
ditu
res
and
Cha
nges
in F
und
Bal
ance
- En
terp
rise
Fund
sFo
r the
Per
iod
Ende
d Ju
ne 3
0, 2
006
14
Sew
er E
nter
pris
eW
ater
Ent
erpr
ise
Tota
lA
sset
sA
rena
Fund
Fund
Mem
o O
nly
Cas
h an
d In
vest
men
ts61
,751
$
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5,75
1$
2,
255,
646
$
8,27
3,14
8$
W
ater
/Sew
er C
harg
es-
1,55
7,68
01,
179,
790
2,73
7,47
0O
ther
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eiva
bles
-92
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19,3
7411
2,17
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x Ti
tle a
nd C
harg
es A
dded
to T
axes
-29
9,22
019
4,96
949
4,18
9
Tota
l Ass
ets
61,7
51$
7,
905,
449
$
3,64
9,77
9$
11
,616
,979
$
Liab
ilitie
s, R
eser
ves
and
Fund
Bal
ance
s
Liab
ilitie
sP
ayab
le4,
958
$
306,
834
$
12
7,30
6$
439,
098
$
Res
erve
sFo
r Unc
olle
cted
Rec
eiva
bles
-1,
949,
698
1,39
4,13
33,
343,
831
Tota
l Lia
bilit
ies
and
Res
erve
s4,
958
2,25
6,53
21,
521,
439
3,78
2,92
9
Fund
Bal
ance
Res
erve
d fo
r Enc
umbr
ance
s (C
arry
over
s)-
289,
897
192,
680
482,
577
Res
erve
d fo
r Exp
endi
ture
s(C
apita
l Pro
ject
s FY
07)
-1,
100,
458
746,
975
1,84
7,43
3R
eser
ved
for O
ther
Ass
ets
-11
5,79
8-
115,
798
Unr
eser
ved
(Ret
aine
d E
arni
ngs)
56,7
924,
142,
764
1,18
8,68
65,
388,
242
Tota
l Fun
d B
alan
ces
56,7
925,
648,
917
2,12
8,34
17,
834,
050
Tota
l Lia
bilit
ies,
Res
erve
s
and
Fun
d B
alan
ces
61,7
50$
7,
905,
449
$
3,64
9,78
0$
11
,616
,979
$
Tow
n of
Fra
min
gham
Ente
rpris
e Fu
nd B
alan
ce S
heet
s
Una
udite
dA
s of
Jun
e 30
, 200
6
15
App
ropr
iatio
nTr
ansf
erR
eaut
horiz
edR
esci
nded
Exp
endi
ture
s Pr
ior Y
ears
E
xpen
ditu
res
Fisc
al 2
006
Enc
umbr
ance
s Fi
scal
200
6 B
alan
ceSc
hool
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
5/02
ATM
A15
H B
roph
y S
choo
l Roo
f 64
7,00
0$
-
$
-$
(8
9,71
0)$
557,
289
$
-
$
-$
1
$
4/03
ATM
A27
M B
oile
r Rep
lace
men
t Wal
sh S
choo
l57
5,00
0(8
,166
)-
-53
2,31
4-
-34
,520
4/04
ATM
A21
M W
alsh
Roo
f Rep
lace
men
t1,
610,
000
--
-1,
382,
972
224,
559
-2,
469
4/05
ATM
A26
B V
ertic
al H
andi
cap
Lifts
Sch
ool
160,
000
--
--
148,
490
-11
,510
4/05
ATM
A26
C E
leva
tor S
haft
& P
isto
n R
epai
rs S
choo
ls13
0,00
0-
--
-50
,188
-79
,812
4/05
ATM
A26
D S
tapl
eton
Sch
ool R
oof
108,
503
68,0
0035
1,49
7-
-23
,000
12,0
0049
3,00
04/
05 A
TM A
26F
Rep
lace
Em
erge
ncy
Gen
erat
or S
choo
l72
,000
--
--
-6,
000
66,0
004/
05 A
TM A
26Q
San
itary
Lin
e R
epla
cem
ent F
ulle
r Mid
dle
Sch
ool
108,
000
(68,
000)
--
--
-40
,000
4/06
ATM
A30
S S
tapl
eton
Roo
f Sup
plem
ent
130,
000
--
--
--
130,
000
4/06
ATM
A30
T B
oile
r Rep
lace
5 S
choo
ls48
0,00
0-
--
--
-48
0,00
0
Tota
l Sch
ool C
apita
l Pro
ject
s4,
020,
503
$
(8
,166
)$
35
1,49
7$
(89,
710)
$
2,
472,
575
$
446,
237
$
18
,000
$
1,33
7,31
2$
Mun
icip
al C
apita
l Pro
ject
s11
/93
STM
A18
Com
pute
r Equ
ipm
ent
587,
000
$
-$
-
$
-$
58
4,06
5$
-$
-
$
2,93
5$
5/94
ATM
A24
Roa
d R
econ
stru
ctio
n/U
pgra
de23
9,00
0-
--
183,
679
--
55,3
2111
/94
STM
A21
Mun
icip
al In
form
atio
n S
yste
ms
670,
406
--
-66
6,49
8-
3,90
8-
5/98
ATM
A31
C B
ackf
low
Pre
vent
ers
Par
k D
rain
age
25,0
00-
--
24,9
91-
-9
5/98
ATM
A31
F U
nder
grou
nd T
ank
Rem
oval
1,42
7,11
2-
--
1,42
1,11
2-
6,00
0-
5/00
ATM
A25
Q P
ark
Stre
et D
rain
age
300,
000
--
-18
,413
-1,
587
280,
000
5/00
ATM
A25
U P
ark
& S
choo
l Fen
ces
409,
425
--
-40
1,56
07,
713
-15
25/
01 A
TM A
21C
Sto
rmw
ater
Pla
n50
0,00
0-
--
465,
387
3,44
631
,167
-5/
02 A
TM A
15C
Hen
ry S
treet
Rem
edia
tion
62,0
00-
--
51,8
586,
500
-3,
642
5/02
ATM
A15
J Fi
nanc
ial M
anag
emen
t Sof
twar
e71
5,00
0-
--
399,
572
7,66
215
1,38
615
6,38
04/
03 A
TM A
27F
Mul
ti-pu
rpos
e S
idew
alk
Trac
tor w
ith A
ttach
men
ts98
,000
--
-91
,323
6,67
0-
74/
03 A
TM A
27L
Terc
ente
nnia
l Par
k P
hase
I42
0,00
0-
-(2
50,0
00)
73,9
9890
,150
5,85
2-
10/0
3 S
TM A
9 S
enio
r Cen
ter a
t 535
Uni
on A
venu
e1,
800,
000
--
-1,
325,
616
442,
947
-31
,437
10/0
3 S
TM A
10 T
erce
nten
nial
Par
k P
hase
II42
0,00
0-
--
27,3
2539
1,30
01,
375
-4/
04 A
TM A
21F
Ped
estri
an R
amps
75,0
00-
--
-75
,000
--
4/04
ATM
A21
G E
ngin
e 5
Fire
Pum
per
430,
000
--
--
429,
590
-41
04/
04 A
TM A
21K
For
d 65
0 J
Hoo
k D
ump
121,
000
15,5
00-
--
135,
792
-70
84/
04 A
TM A
21LL
Res
urfa
cing
of B
owdi
tch
Fiel
d Tr
ack
185,
000
--
-4,
000
178,
300
1,50
01,
200
4/05
ATM
A26
A P
edes
trian
Ram
ps60
,706
-14
,294
--
10,4
032,
446
62,1
514/
05 A
TM A
26E
Bea
ch S
torm
wat
er M
anag
emen
t26
7,41
0-
--
--
-26
7,41
04/
05 A
TM A
26G
May
nard
Sta
ir &
Wal
k R
epai
rs10
8,61
3-
66,3
87-
-14
5,30
44,
995
24,7
014/
05 A
TM A
26H
Boi
ler B
owdi
tch
Sch
ool
40,3
92-
--
-39
,175
-1,
217
4/05
ATM
A26
I Mun
icip
al D
ata
Sto
rage
Upg
rade
79,3
73-
12,3
97-
-91
,726
-44
4/05
ATM
A26
J F4
50 C
rew
Cab
Dum
p Tr
uck
42,1
07-
--
-41
,973
-13
44/
05 A
TM A
26K
F25
0 P
ick-
up T
ruck
4X4
28,9
1458
7-
--
29,5
01-
-4/
05 A
TM A
26L
Eng
ine
8-B
rush
Tru
ck60
,000
--
--
54,2
842,
500
3,21
64/
05 A
TM A
26M
880
0 G
VW
4W
D P
ick-
up T
ruck
36,9
00-
--
-36
,900
--
4/05
ATM
A26
N 1
5,00
0 G
VW
Util
ity T
ruck
45,3
00(1
,845
)-
--
43,4
55-
-4/
05 A
TM A
26O
8,8
00 4
WD
Pic
k-U
p Tr
uck
36,9
001,
845
--
-38
,745
--
4/05
ATM
A21
P B
owdi
tch
Ath
letic
Com
plex
Ren
ovat
ion
Des
ign
412,
188
-37
,812
--
--
450,
000
4/05
ATM
A26
R 4
0,00
0 G
VW
Dum
p Tr
uck
with
Slid
e In
San
der
142,
500
--
--
142,
500
--
4/05
ATM
A26
S 6
8,00
0 G
VW
Ref
use
Pac
ker w
ith P
low
157,
000
--
--
157,
000
--
4/05
ATM
A26
T R
epla
ce P
latfo
rm 1
850,
000
--
--
751,
151
8,70
090
,149
4/05
ATM
A26
U C
alla
han
Pha
se 2
Flo
or37
2,18
3-
1,81
7-
-18
,651
23,6
8833
1,66
14/
05 A
TM A
26V
Cas
e 57
0 Lo
ader
68,3
20(5
87)
--
-61
,696
3,90
02,
137
4/05
ATM
A26
W R
esur
faci
ng o
f Bow
ditc
h Fi
eld
Trac
k-
-17
,000
--
--
17,0
004/
06 A
TM A
30A
Eng
ine
2 Fi
re P
umpe
r39
8,75
0-
--
--
-39
8,75
0
Tow
n of
Fra
min
gham
Sum
mar
y of
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
As
of J
une
30, 2
006
16
App
ropr
iatio
nTr
ansf
erR
eaut
horiz
edR
esci
nded
Exp
endi
ture
s Pr
ior Y
ears
E
xpen
ditu
res
Fisc
al 2
006
Enc
umbr
ance
s Fi
scal
200
6 B
alan
ce
Tow
n of
Fra
min
gham
Sum
mar
y of
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
As
of J
une
30, 2
006
4/06
ATM
A30
B R
oof S
tatio
n 2
Rep
lace
men
t31
,375
--
--
--
31,3
754/
06 A
TM A
30C
Com
mun
icat
ion
Cab
ling
378,
485
--
--
--
378,
485
4/06
ATM
A30
D M
emor
ial B
uild
ing
Boi
ler
809,
339
--
--
--
809,
339
4/06
ATM
A30
E P
earl
Stre
et G
arag
e C
aulk
ing
45,0
00-
--
--
-45
,000
4/06
ATM
A30
F M
cAul
iffe
Bra
nch
Ren
ovat
ions
65,0
46-
--
--
-65
,046
4/06
ATM
A30
G F
450
4WD
Dum
p Tr
uck
46,0
60-
--
--
-46
,060
4/06
ATM
A30
H F
550
Tras
h C
ompa
ctor
68,5
06-
--
--
-68
,506
4/06
ATM
A30
I Kub
ota
Trac
tor
24,3
00-
--
--
-24
,300
4/06
ATM
A30
J B
aske
tbal
l Res
urfa
cing
Lor
ing
53,7
50-
--
--
-53
,750
4/06
ATM
A30
K P
C M
obile
Lap
tops
157,
850
--
--
--
157,
850
4/06
ATM
A30
L B
eave
r Dam
Sto
rmw
ater
Pla
n35
0,00
0-
--
--
-35
0,00
04/
06 A
TM A
30M
Pac
ker 2
Sno
w F
ight
er62
,500
--
--
--
62,5
004/
06 A
TM A
30N
Sid
ewal
k/A
cces
sibi
lity
100,
000
--
--
--
100,
000
4/06
ATM
A30
O M
ulti-
purp
ose
Sid
ewal
k V
ehic
le96
,824
--
--
--
96,8
244/
06 A
TM A
30P
68K
GV
W P
acke
r with
Plo
w17
7,10
0-
--
--
-17
7,10
04/
06 A
TM A
30Q
15K
GV
W 4
WD
Dum
p Tr
uck
52,2
96-
--
--
-52
,296
4/06
ATM
A30
R 1
5K G
VW
Dum
p Tr
uck
52,2
96-
--
--
-52
,296
4/06
ATM
A30
U V
oice
Mai
l-Tel
epho
ne U
pgra
de40
,000
--
--
--
40,0
004/
06 A
TM A
30V
Ter
cent
enni
al P
ark
Pha
se 3
420,
000
--
--
--
420,
000
Tota
l Mun
icip
al C
apita
l Pro
ject
s14
,722
,226
15,5
0014
9,70
7(2
50,0
00)
5,73
9,39
73,
437,
534
249,
004
5,21
1,49
8M
ass
Hig
hway
Cha
pter
90
Exp
endi
ture
s1,
211,
137
Bon
ding
Cos
ts fi
nanc
ed w
ith b
ond
prem
ium
s19
,353
Sen
ior C
ente
r - V
illag
e at
Far
m P
ond
Pla
nnin
g B
oard
Miti
gatio
n80
,000
Tota
l Exp
endi
ture
s M
unic
ipal
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
4,74
8,02
4$
Hig
h Sc
hool
Cap
ital P
roje
ct3/
00 S
TM A
1 H
igh
Sch
ool R
enov
atio
n54
,000
,000
$
-$
-
$
-$
48
,095
,765
4,58
0,01
2$
1,
265,
885
$
58,3
38$
10/0
4 S
TM A
13 H
igh
Sch
ool P
roje
ct A
dditi
onal
App
ropr
iatio
n5,
237,
000
--
-61
9,41
31,
675,
327
180,
035
2,76
2,22
5
Tota
l Hig
h S
choo
l Cap
ital P
roje
ct59
,237
,000
$
-$
-
$
-$
48
,715
,178
$
6,25
5,33
9$
1,
445,
919
$
2,82
0,56
3$
Are
na C
apita
l Pro
ject
s10
/04
STM
A12
Are
na L
ight
and
Ene
rgy
Impr
ovem
ents
-$
-
$
23,1
10$
-
$
-$
-
$
20,1
10$
3,
000
$
4/
06 A
TM A
30W
Das
her B
oard
Gla
ss R
epla
cem
ent
164,
710
--
--
--
164,
710
Tota
l16
4,71
0$
-
$
23,1
10$
-
$
-$
-
$
20,1
10$
16
7,71
0$
17
App
ropr
iatio
nTr
ansf
erR
eaut
horiz
edR
esci
nded
Exp
endi
ture
s Pr
ior Y
ears
E
xpen
ditu
res
Fisc
al 2
006
Enc
umbr
ance
s Fi
scal
200
6 B
alan
ce
Tow
n of
Fra
min
gham
Sum
mar
y of
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
As
of J
une
30, 2
006
Wat
er E
nter
pris
e C
apita
l Pro
ject
s
*5/
92 A
TM A
33 In
dian
Hea
d W
ater
32,8
66$
-$
-
$
-$
-
$
-$
-
$
32,8
66$
*D
EQ
E L
-4-0
30 L
eak
Det
ectio
n4,
623
--
--
--
4,62
35/
95 A
TM A
51-4
Dum
p Tr
uck,
Fou
r Whe
el D
rive
pick
up tr
uck
100,
000
--
-94
,921
--
5,07
9A
TM97
A73
Wat
er S
yste
m Im
prov
emen
t fun
ded
by M
WR
A G
rant
and
Bon
ds1,
002,
766
--
-99
7,35
0-
-5,
416
12/9
6 S
TM A
7 16
Inch
Wat
er M
ain
Sin
glet
ary,
Hod
der a
nd C
heck
erbe
rry
Lane
s87
5,00
0-
--
693,
435
--
181,
565
12/9
6 S
TM A
9 1
Ton
4 W
heel
Driv
e P
icku
p33
,500
--
-28
,308
--
5,19
25/
97 A
TM A
72 F
3560
Util
ity B
ody
Truc
k77
,609
--
-67
,638
--
9,97
15/
98 A
TM A
28 W
ater
Cap
ital P
roje
ct v
oted
from
Ret
aine
d E
arni
ngs
946,
074
--
-94
5,87
3-
201
-5/
99 A
TM A
32 W
ater
Cap
ital P
roje
ct v
oted
from
Ret
aine
d E
arni
ngs
337,
077
--
-33
6,31
0-
160
607
2,00
0,00
0-
--
1,88
8,33
210
6,16
2-
5,50
610
/00
STM
A10
A R
elin
e 8
Inch
Mai
ns in
Hol
lis, M
illw
ood
and
WIn
ch S
treet
s75
0,00
0-
--
498,
180
--
251,
820
10/0
0 S
TM A
10B
Inst
alla
tion
of 1
200
feet
8 In
ch M
ain
Und
er W
aush
akum
Lak
e17
4,00
0-
--
--
-17
4,00
05/
01 A
TMA
21Y
Wat
er M
ain
Rep
lace
men
t Rel
ine
1,40
7,00
0-
--
1,34
9,14
3-
17,6
4040
,217
5/02
ATM
A15
K W
ater
Mai
n R
epla
cem
ent
1,28
8,00
0-
--
1,17
4,33
311
3,00
0-
667
5/02
ATM
A15
L W
ater
Ser
vice
Rep
lace
men
t15
0,00
0-
--
149,
995
--
54/
03 A
TM A
27R
Vul
nera
bilit
y A
sses
smen
t of t
he T
own'
s W
ater
Sys
tem
50,0
00-
--
47,6
83-
2,31
7-
4/03
ATM
A27
S F
rank
lin S
treet
Wat
er M
ain
Rep
lace
men
t1,
386,
500
--
-1,
232,
586
119,
402
13,1
8021
,332
340,
000
--
-25
4,01
961
,387
12,0
0012
,594
4/04
ATM
A21
N F
rank
lin S
treet
Wat
er M
ain
Rep
lace
men
t Pha
se II
969,
000
--
-24
2,43
930
5,67
735
5,59
865
,286
4/04
ATM
21O
Cle
anin
g an
d Li
ning
of G
rove
Stre
et W
ater
Mai
ns1,
368,
000
--
-14
8,24
21,
027,
568
192,
190
-4/
04 A
TM A
21P
Wat
er S
ervi
ce R
epla
cem
ent
200,
000
--
--
113,
445
-86
,556
4/04
ATM
A21
Q W
ater
Sys
tem
Man
agem
ent P
hase
II30
4,00
0-
--
181,
538
91,2
2031
,242
-4/
04 A
TM A
21R
Car
ter D
rive
Wat
er M
ain
Rep
lace
men
t1,
120,
000
--
-54
,595
1,05
9,06
526
96,
071
4/04
ATM
A21
W 7
0,00
0 G
VW
14
Cub
ic Y
ard
Dum
p Tr
uck
145,
531
--
-14
5,48
1-
50-
4/04
ATM
A21
X T
rack
ed C
onst
ruct
ion
Exc
avat
or15
1,00
0-
--
138,
325
--
12,6
754/
04 A
TM A
21Y
Hyd
rant
Rep
lace
men
ts40
5,00
0-
--
136,
224
258,
481
10,2
95-
4/04
ATM
A21
Z B
irch
Roa
d W
ell R
eact
ivat
ion
300,
000
--
-23
6,60
663
,392
-2
4/05
ATM
A26
X B
irch
Roa
d W
ell R
eact
ivat
ion
600,
000
--
--
217,
438
382,
562
-4/
05 A
TM A
26Y
Will
iam
J H
eigh
ts W
ater
Sta
tion
Upg
rade
200,
000
--
--
24,9
8515
175,
000
4/05
ATM
A26
Z Fi
re H
ydra
nt R
epla
cem
ent P
rogr
am22
5,00
0-
--
-71
,338
13,7
7113
9,89
14/
05 A
TM A
26A
A W
ater
Ser
vice
Rep
lace
men
ts20
0,00
0-
--
-81
,351
-11
8,64
94/
05 A
TM A
26B
B 1
5,00
0 G
VW
Fou
r Whe
el D
rive
Util
ity T
ruck
45,3
00-
--
-45
,300
--
4/05
ATM
A26
CC
15,
000
GV
W F
our W
heel
Driv
e U
tility
Tru
ck45
,300
--
--
45,2
99-
14/
05 A
TM A
26D
D 1
5,00
0 G
VW
Fou
r Whe
el D
rive
Util
ity T
ruck
#61
745
,300
--
--
45,3
00-
-4/
05 A
TM A
26E
E C
lean
ing
& L
inin
g of
Edm
ands
Roa
d W
ater
Mai
ns2,
082,
000
--
--
1,33
6,51
767
3,84
471
,638
4/05
ATM
A29
Doe
skin
Hill
Rep
airs
143,
000
--
--
5,04
413
7,95
6-
4/0
6 A
TM A
30X
Birc
h R
oad
Wel
l Rea
ctiv
atio
n40
0,00
0-
--
--
-40
0,00
04/
06 A
TM A
30Y
Fire
Hyd
rant
Rep
lace
men
t22
5,00
0-
--
--
-22
5,00
04/
06 A
TM A
30Z
Bac
khoe
, Loa
der a
nd P
low
121,
975
--
--
--
121,
975
4/06
ATM
A30
AA
Cov
e A
ve W
ater
Mai
n R
epla
cem
ent
820,
000
--
--
--
820,
000
4/06
ATM
A30
BB
Fay
Roa
d W
ater
Mai
n R
epla
cem
ent
950,
000
--
--
--
950,
000
4/06
ATM
A30
CC
Wav
erly
Stre
et W
ater
Mai
n R
epla
cem
ent
530,
000
--
--
--
530,
000
Tota
l22
,550
,421
$
-$
-
$
-$
11
,041
,556
$
5,19
1,37
3$
1,
843,
288
$
4,47
4,20
4$
-
4/03
ATM
A32
Spe
cial
Ass
essm
ent D
oesk
in, C
arte
r, W
oods
tock
, Mou
ntai
nvie
w D
rives
an
d E
dman
ds a
nd W
aysi
de In
n R
oads
5/00
ATM
A31
Spe
cial
Ass
essm
ent D
oesk
in, C
arte
r, W
oods
tock
, Mou
ntai
nvie
w D
rives
an
d E
dman
ds a
nd W
aysi
de In
n R
oads
18
App
ropr
iatio
nTr
ansf
erR
eaut
horiz
edR
esci
nded
Exp
endi
ture
s Pr
ior Y
ears
E
xpen
ditu
res
Fisc
al 2
006
Enc
umbr
ance
s Fi
scal
200
6 B
alan
ce
Tow
n of
Fra
min
gham
Sum
mar
y of
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
As
of J
une
30, 2
006
Sew
er E
nter
pris
e C
apita
l Pro
ject
s*
11/8
6 S
TM A
17D
Far
m P
ond
Sew
er P
roje
ct27
3$
-
$
-$
-
$
-$
-
$
-$
27
3$
*
A19
D A
TM88
Inte
rcep
tor B
ates
Roa
d28
,054
--
--
--
28,0
54*
A44
ATM
90 S
axon
Sew
er P
ump
Sta
tion
432
--
--
--
432
*A
20 A
TM92
Impr
ovem
ents
Sew
er51
,710
--
-51
,009
--
701
*A
22 A
TM92
Rep
air W
ork
Sew
er L
ines
2,88
8-
--
273
--
2,61
54/
93 A
TM A
12 S
ewer
Sys
tem
Impr
ovem
ents
1,
200,
000.
00-
--
1,17
6,67
5-
23,2
0811
75/
95 A
TM A
51-4
F25
0 P
icku
p Tr
uck,
2 F
350
Ser
vice
Tru
cks
and
Bac
khoe
171,
000.
00-
--
151,
190
--
19,8
105/
95 A
TM A
35 S
ewer
Sum
p P
ump
Rem
oval
100,
000.
00-
--
23,6
60-
-76
,340
5/96
STM
A2
Sew
er In
flow
and
Infil
tratio
n in
Sub
-bas
ins
to S
udbu
ry R
iver
195,
000.
00-
--
179,
398
-15
,601
.68
-12
/96
STM
A8
Six
Whe
el D
ump,
1 1
/2 T
on D
ump
and
3/4
Ton
4 W
heel
Driv
e D
iese
l Pic
kup
142,
200.
00-
--
129,
786
--
12,4
145/
97 A
TM A
71 9
Foo
t Util
ity T
ruck
with
Tai
lgat
e Li
ft44
,204
.00
--
-40
,832
--
3,37
212
/97
STM
A9
16 In
ch S
ewer
For
ce M
ain
Rte
30
and
Spe
en S
treet
Inte
rsec
tion
140,
000.
00-
--
124,
466
--
15,5
3412
/97
STM
A10
Rep
lace
Sin
glet
ary
Lane
Sew
er P
ump
Sta
tion
550,
000.
00-
--
506,
355
--
43,6
455/
98 A
TM A
27 S
ewer
Cap
ital P
roje
cts
vote
d fro
m R
etai
ned
Ear
ning
s36
7,59
0.00
--
-36
6,30
8-
410
872
5/99
ATM
A31
Sew
er C
apita
l Pro
ject
s vo
ted
from
Ret
aine
d E
arni
ngs
300,
000.
00-
--
278,
803
-21
,197
-5/
99 A
44 M
onito
ring
Foss
Res
ervo
ir an
d M
ass
Turn
pike
Aut
horit
y R
ight
of W
ay25
,000
.00
--
--
--
25,0
0010
/00
STM
A9A
Rel
ine
Arth
ur S
treet
170
0 fe
et w
ith 1
8 In
ch M
ain
385,
000.
00-
--
--
-38
5,00
010
/00
STM
A9C
Rep
lace
6 In
ch U
nion
Ave
nue
Sew
er M
ain
50,0
00.0
0-
--
39,3
29-
-10
,671
10/0
0 S
TM A
9D T
V C
amer
a Tr
uck
170,
000.
00-
--
165,
200
--
4,80
05/
01 A
TM A
21Q
Sew
er M
ain
Reh
abili
tatio
n (S
udbu
ry R
iver
Inte
rcep
tor a
nd S
ub B
asin
s)31
2,69
5.00
--
-24
7,10
7-
18,1
8347
,405
5/01
ATM
A21
S V
aille
ncou
rt P
ump
Sta
tion
Elim
inat
ion
(Inst
alla
tion
of g
ravi
ty s
ewer
)13
0,00
0.00
--
-21
,441
15,0
0917
,657
75,8
9311
/01
STM
A27
Edg
ewat
er D
rive
Sub
mer
sibl
e P
ump
Sta
tion
148,
000.
00-
--
134,
494
-3,
677
9,82
95/
02 A
TM A
15M
Com
preh
ensi
ve S
ewer
Mai
nten
ance
Stu
dy35
0,00
0.00
--
-16
9,00
618
0,99
4-
-5/
02 A
TM A
15N
Odo
r Cor
rosi
on M
itiga
tion
Mea
sure
s35
0,00
0.00
--
-93
,526
94,0
686,
906
155,
500
4/03
ATM
A27
T Fo
ur W
heel
Driv
e U
tility
Tru
ck29
,010
.00
--
-29
,007
--
34/
03 A
TM A
27W
Six
Inch
Wat
er P
ump
and
Equ
ipm
ent
26,5
00.0
0-
--
24,8
851,
470
-14
54/
03 A
TM A
27Z
Fran
klin
Stre
et S
ewer
Impr
ovem
ents
1,05
0,00
0.00
--
-1,
049,
997
--
34/
04 A
TM A
21A
A 4
7,00
0 A
ll W
heel
Driv
e G
VW
Cra
ne16
5,00
0.00
--
-16
5,00
0-
--
4/04
ATM
A21
BB
Fra
nklin
Stre
et S
ewer
Pha
se II
451,
000.
00-
--
317,
043
112,
945
10,2
8310
,729
4/04
ATM
A21
GG
How
ard
Stre
et S
ewer
Rep
lace
men
t1,
100,
000.
00-
--
204,
359
525,
593
180,
668
189,
381
4/04
ATM
A21
HH
Infil
tratio
n an
d In
flow
Stu
dy37
5,00
0.00
--
-16
1,28
941
,253
172,
458
-4/
04 A
21II
Hem
enw
ay P
ump
Sta
tion
Reh
abili
tatio
n1,
200,
000.
00-
--
67,7
3067
,270
1,06
5,00
0-
4/04
ATM
A21
JJ 7
0,00
0 G
VW
Cab
& C
hass
is w
ith 1
2 C
Y V
acto
r Uni
t27
5,00
0.00
--
-27
4,65
5-
-34
54/
04 A
TM A
21K
K D
esig
n Fa
cilit
y E
xpan
sion
204,
000.
00-
--
-32
,088
12,9
1215
9,00
04/
05 A
TM A
26FF
Sw
ift R
oad
Sew
er M
ain
Rep
lace
men
t35
0,00
0.00
--
--
179,
326
12,7
0215
7,97
24/
05 A
TM A
26G
G H
emen
way
Pum
p S
tatio
n R
ehab
ilita
tion
1,00
0,00
0.00
--
--
91,9
7690
7,14
288
14/
05 A
TM A
26H
H G
rove
Stre
et S
ewer
Mai
n Im
prov
emen
ts20
0,00
0.00
--
--
--
200,
000
4/05
ATM
A26
II 15
,000
GV
W C
ab &
Cha
ssis
68,5
00.0
0-
--
-67
,958
542
4/05
ATM
A26
JJ 1
5,00
0 G
VW
4 W
heel
Driv
e U
tility
Bod
y45
,300
.00
--
--
45,2
991
Arc
ade
Miti
gatio
n-
250,
000
--
83,0
8216
6,91
8-
-4/
06 A
TM A
30D
D U
pgra
de S
ewer
Insp
ectio
n E
quip
men
t56
,010
.00
--
--
--
56,0
104/
06 A
TM A
30E
E 1
5000
GV
W 4
Whe
el D
rive
Util
ity B
ody
Truc
k48
,152
.00
--
--
--
48,1
524/
06 A
TM A
30FF
150
00 G
VW
Dum
p Tr
uck
with
Plo
w52
,296
.00
--
--
--
52,2
964/
06 A
TM A
30G
G G
rego
ry R
oad
Sew
er R
elie
f Des
ign
38,0
00.0
0-
--
--
-38
,000
4/06
ATM
A30
HH
Gre
gory
Roa
d S
ewer
Rel
ief S
RF
2954
por
tion
707,
000.
00-
--
--
-70
7,00
04/
06 A
TM A
30II
SS
ES
SR
F 29
4040
0,00
0.00
--
--
--
400,
000
4/06
ATM
A30
JJ P
ump
Sta
tion
Rep
lace
men
t Des
ign
396,
000.
00-
--
--
-39
6,00
04/
06 A
TM A
30K
K P
ump
Sta
tion
Rep
lace
men
t SR
F295
8 P
ortio
n3,
104,
000.
00-
--
--
-3,
104,
000
4/06
ATM
A30
LL W
ater
Stre
et R
epla
cem
ent D
esig
n51
0,00
0.00
--
--
--
510,
000
4/06
ATM
A30
MM
Wat
er S
treet
Sew
er S
RF
2957
Por
tion
6,78
5,00
0.00
--
--
--
6,78
5,00
0
Tota
l23
,849
,815
$
250,
000
$
-
$
-$
6,
275,
905
$
1,62
2,16
6$
2,
468,
005
$
13,7
33,7
37$
M
PA
T R
efin
ance
Not
es P
ayab
le
302,
294
Tota
l Sew
er E
nter
pris
e C
apita
l Pro
ject
s1,
924,
460
$
*B
alan
ces
carr
ied
over
from
prio
r acc
ount
ing
syst
ems
19
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amC
om
bin
ed S
tate
men
t o
f R
even
ues
, Exp
end
itu
res,
an
d C
han
ges
in F
un
d B
alan
ceC
apit
al P
roje
ct F
un
ds
Fo
r th
e F
isca
l Yea
r E
nd
ed J
un
e 30
, 200
6U
nau
dit
ed
Sch
oo
l M
un
icip
alH
igh
Sch
oo
lW
ater
En
terp
rise
Sew
er E
nte
rpri
seA
ren
a E
nte
rpri
seT
ota
lC
apit
al P
roje
cts
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
sC
apit
al P
roje
ctC
apit
al P
roje
cts
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
sC
apit
al P
roje
cts
(Mem
o)
Rev
enu
esP
rope
rty
taxe
s-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
Exc
ise
--
--
--
-P
enal
ties,
inte
rest
and
oth
er ta
xes
--
-2,
290
--
2,29
0In
terg
over
nmen
tal
-1,
211,
137
50,7
80,6
02-
189,
900
-52
,181
,639
Fee
s-
--
449,
997
--
449,
997
Lice
nses
& P
erm
its-
--
--
--
Cha
rges
for
serv
ices
--
--
--
-In
tere
st E
arni
ngs
-20
,121
--
101,
332
-12
1,45
3F
ines
and
forf
eitu
res
--
--
--
-M
isce
llane
ous
--
--
--
-C
ontr
ibut
ions
--
--
--
-
Tot
al R
even
ue-
1,23
1,25
850
,780
,602
452,
287
291,
232
-52
,755
,379
Exp
end
itu
res
Gen
eral
Gov
ernm
ent
-26
4,04
5-
--
-26
4,04
5P
ublic
Saf
ety
-1,
248,
415
--
--
1,24
8,41
5E
duca
tion
446,
237
-6,
255,
339
--
-6,
701,
576
Pub
lic W
orks
-1,
726,
949
-5,
191,
372
1,62
2,16
6-
8,54
0,48
7H
uman
Ser
vice
s-
533,
015
--
--
533,
015
Cul
ture
and
Rec
reat
ion
-88
5,45
0-
--
885,
450
Mis
cella
neou
s-
--
--
--
Deb
t Ser
vice
--
--
302,
294
-30
2,29
4In
terg
over
nmen
tal
--
--
--
-
Tot
al E
xpen
ditu
res
446,
237
4,65
7,87
46,
255,
339
5,19
1,37
21,
924,
460
-18
,475
,282
Exc
ess
(def
icie
ncy)
of r
even
ues
over
exp
endi
ture
s(4
46,2
37)
(3,4
26,6
16)
44,5
25,2
63(4
,739
,085
)(1
,633
,228
)-
34,2
80,0
97
Oth
er F
inan
cin
g S
ou
rces
(U
ses)
Pro
ceed
s of
Bon
ds30
7,00
02,
903,
153
-4,
752,
766
1,87
7,20
7-
9,84
0,12
6O
pera
ting
tran
sfer
s in
-38
8,97
7-
495,
626
241,
800
-1,
126,
403
Ope
ratin
g tr
ansf
ers
out
-(9
0,15
0)-
--
(48,
827)
(138
,977
)
Tot
al o
ther
fina
ncin
g so
urce
s (u
ses)
307,
000
3,20
1,98
0-
5,24
8,39
22,
119,
007
(48,
827)
10,8
27,5
52
Exc
ess
of R
even
ues
and
othe
r so
urce
s o
ver
(und
er)
expe
nditu
res
and
othe
r us
es(1
39,2
37)
(224
,636
)44
,525
,263
509,
307
485,
779
(48,
827)
45,1
07,6
49
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
, Ju
ne
30, 2
005
564,
039
1,16
0,46
4(4
5,71
5,01
3)2,
759,
876
3,78
0,36
971
,937
(37,
378,
328)
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
, Ju
ne
30, 2
006
424,
802
$
935,
828
$
(1,1
89,7
50)
$
3,
269,
184
$
4,
266,
148
$
23,1
10$
7,72
9,32
2$
20
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amC
om
bin
ed B
alan
ce S
hee
t
As
of
Jun
e 30
, 200
6U
nau
dit
ed
Sch
oo
l M
un
icip
alH
igh
Sch
oo
lW
ater
En
terp
rise
Sew
er E
nte
rpri
seA
ren
a E
nte
rpri
seT
ota
lA
sset
sC
apit
al P
roje
cts
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
sC
apit
al P
roje
cts
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
sC
apit
al P
roje
cts
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
s(M
emo
)
Cas
h &
Inve
stm
ents
Cas
h42
4,80
2$
36
5,75
9$
42
3,99
1$
3,
456,
684
$
4,
251,
780
$
23
,110
$
8,94
6,12
6$
Tot
al C
ash
& In
vest
men
ts42
4,80
236
5,75
942
3,99
13,
456,
684
4,25
1,78
023
,110
21,8
01,0
83
Rec
eiva
ble
sW
ater
Usa
ge R
ecei
vabl
es-
--
2,12
0,28
6-
-2,
120,
286
Inte
rgov
ernm
enta
l Rec
eiva
bles
-3,
062,
886
--
--
3,06
2,88
6T
otal
Rec
eiva
bles
-3,
062,
886
-2,
120,
286
--
5,18
3,17
2
Am
ts to
be
prov
ided
for
bond
s35
,416
,797
14,9
77,4
322,
850,
000
13,2
01,5
464,
337,
402
415,
000
71,1
98,1
77
To
tal A
sset
s35
,841
,599
$
18,4
06,0
77$
3,
273,
991
$
18
,778
,516
$
8,58
9,18
2$
438,
110
$
85,3
27,4
75$
Lia
bili
ties
, Res
erve
s, a
nd
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
s
Lia
bili
ties
Acc
ount
s P
ayab
le-
$
47,1
29$
31
3,59
1$
18
7,50
1$
-
$
-$
54
8,22
1$
B
AN
Pay
able
-79
,850
1,30
0,15
0-
-1,
380,
000
Due
to O
ther
Fun
ds-
--
-Lo
ans
Aut
horiz
ed93
3,02
34,
584,
393
4,15
6,08
42,
752,
055
11,0
97,3
3516
4,71
023
,687
,600
Loan
s A
utho
rized
and
Uni
ssue
d(9
33,0
23)
(4,5
84,3
93)
(4,1
56,0
84)
(2,7
52,0
55)
(11,
097,
335)
(164
,710
)(2
3,68
7,60
0)B
onds
Pay
able
35,4
16,7
9714
,977
,432
2,85
0,00
013
,201
,546
4,32
3,03
441
5,00
071
,183
,809
To
tal L
iab
iliti
es35
,416
,797
15,1
04,4
114,
463,
741
13,3
89,0
474,
323,
034
415,
000
73,1
12,0
30
Res
erve
sF
or U
ncol
lect
able
Rec
eiva
bles
-2,
365,
837
-2,
120,
286
--
4,48
6,12
3
To
tal R
eser
ves
-2,
365,
837
-2,
120,
286
--
4,48
6,12
3
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
sR
eser
ved
for
Exp
endi
ture
s42
4,80
293
5,82
9(1
,189
,750
)3,
269,
183
4,26
6,14
823
,110
7,72
9,32
2
Tot
al F
und
Bal
ance
s42
4,80
293
5,82
9(1
,189
,750
)3,
269,
183
4,26
6,14
823
,110
7,72
9,32
2T
ota
l Lia
bili
es, R
eser
ves
and
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
s35
,841
,599
$
18,4
06,0
77$
3,
273,
991
$
18
,778
,516
$
8,58
9,18
2$
438,
110
$
85,3
27,4
75$
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
Fu
nd
s
21
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amC
om
bin
ed S
tate
men
t o
f R
even
ues
, Exp
end
itu
res,
an
d C
han
ges
in F
un
d B
alan
c eS
pec
ial R
even
ue
Acc
ou
nt
Fu
nd
sF
or
the
Fis
cal Y
ear
En
ded
Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Un
aud
ited
Mu
nic
ipal
E
du
cati
on
Mu
nic
ipal
E
du
cati
on
Mu
nic
ipal
Ed
uca
tio
nS
cho
ol
To
tal
Fed
eral
Gra
nts
Fed
eral
Gra
nts
Sta
te G
ran
tsS
tate
Gra
nts
Sp
ecia
l Rev
enu
eS
pec
ial R
even
ue
Lu
nch
(Mem
o)
Rev
enu
esP
rope
rty
taxe
s-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
Exc
ise
--
--
--
--
Pen
altie
s, in
tere
st a
nd o
ther
taxe
s-
--
--
--
-In
terg
over
nmen
tal
742,
897
5,18
2,14
01,
583,
251
4,79
5,59
822
,615
37,5
001,
199,
100
13,5
63,1
01F
ees
--
--
--
--
Lice
nses
& P
erm
its-
--
--
--
-C
harg
es fo
r se
rvic
es-
--
-88
5,94
868
0,38
1-
1,56
6,32
9In
tere
st E
arni
ngs
--
764
-6,
524
269
1,81
79,
374
Fin
es a
nd fo
rfei
ture
s-
--
-26
,600
341
-26
,941
Mis
cella
neou
s-
-1,
305
-92
,303
-93
,608
Con
trib
utio
ns-
--
8,40
036
0,82
02,
798,
604
931,
441
4,09
9,26
5
Tot
al R
even
ue74
2,89
75,
182,
140
1,58
5,32
04,
803,
998
1,39
4,81
03,
517,
095
2,13
2,35
819
,358
,618
Exp
end
itu
res
Gen
eral
Gov
ernm
ent
637,
183
-92
3,41
4-
539,
783
--
2,10
0,38
0P
ublic
Saf
ety
88,4
68-
169,
422
-19
9,28
7-
-45
7,17
7E
duca
tion
-5,
341,
522
-5,
187,
451
-4,
803,
039
2,04
1,42
117
,373
,433
Pub
lic W
orks
--
--
21,0
29-
-21
,029
Hum
an S
ervi
ces
--
81,3
12-
43,2
49-
-12
4,56
1C
ultu
re a
nd R
ecre
atio
n-
-20
1,58
7-
376,
342
--
577,
929
Mis
cella
neou
s-
--
--
--
-D
ebt S
ervi
ce-
--
--
--
-In
terg
over
nmen
tal
--
--
--
--
Tot
al E
xpen
ditu
res
725,
651
5,34
1,52
21,
375,
735
5,18
7,45
11,
179,
690
4,80
3,03
92,
041,
421
20,6
54,5
09
Exc
ess
(def
icie
ncy)
of r
even
ues
over
exp
endi
ture
s17
,246
(159
,382
)20
9,58
5(3
83,4
53)
215,
120
(1,2
85,9
44)
90,9
37(1
,295
,891
)
Oth
er F
inan
cin
g S
ou
rces
(U
ses)
Pro
ceed
s of
Bon
ds-
--
--
--
Pro
ceed
s of
Not
es-
--
--
-O
pera
ting
tran
sfer
s in
--
-13
0,00
0-
130,
000
Oth
er F
inan
cing
use
s ch
ange
in a
genc
y ac
coun
t typ
es
--
Ope
ratin
g tr
ansf
ers
out
--
(250
,000
)(2
78,1
03)
--
(528
,103
)
Tot
al o
ther
fina
ncin
g so
urce
s (u
ses)
--
(250
,000
)-
(148
,103
)-
-(3
98,1
03)
Exc
ess
of R
even
ues
and
othe
r so
urce
s o
ver
(und
er)
expe
nditu
res
and
othe
r us
es17
,246
(159
,382
)(4
0,41
5)(3
83,4
53)
67,0
17(1
,285
,944
)90
,937
(1,6
93,9
94)
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
, Ju
ne
30, 2
005
(54,
370)
673,
149
418,
660
435,
479
1,49
3,39
81,
995,
621
5,50
84,
967,
445
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
, Ju
ne
30, 2
006
(37,
124)
$
51
3,76
7$
37
8,24
5$
52
,026
$
1,
560,
415
$
70
9,67
7$
96
,445
$
3,
273,
451
$
22
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amC
om
bin
ed B
alan
ce S
hee
t
As
of
Jun
e 30
, 200
6U
nau
dit
ed
Mu
nic
ipal
E
du
cati
on
Mu
nic
ipal
E
du
cati
on
Mu
nic
ipal
Ed
uca
tio
nS
cho
ol
To
tal
Ass
ets
Fed
eral
Gra
nts
Fed
eral
Gra
nts
Sta
te G
ran
tsS
tate
Gra
nts
Sp
ecia
l Rev
enu
eS
pec
ial R
even
ue
Lu
nch
(Mem
o)
Cas
h &
Inve
stm
ents
Cas
h(3
4,36
4)$
(1
3,13
7)$
23
0,89
5$
(3
,929
)$
1,62
7,82
9$
959,
895
$
11
4,09
3$
2,
881,
282
$
C
ash
(34,
364)
(13,
137)
230,
895
(3,9
29)
1,62
7,82
995
9,89
511
4,09
32,
881,
282
Rec
eiva
ble
sO
ther
Rec
eiva
bles
Dep
artm
enta
l Rec
eiva
bles
287,
684
--
--
24,1
81-
311,
865
Inte
rgov
ernm
enta
l Rec
eiva
bles
46,2
991,
188,
117
274,
561
291,
935
--
10,0
501,
810,
962
Tot
al R
ecei
vabl
es33
3,98
31,
188,
117
274,
561
291,
935
-24
,181
10,0
502,
122,
827
To
tal A
sset
s29
9,61
9$
1,
174,
980
$
50
5,45
6$
28
8,00
6$
1,
627,
829
$
98
4,07
6$
124,
143
$
5,00
4,10
9$
Lia
bili
ties
, Res
erve
s, a
nd
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
s
Lia
bili
ties
Acc
ount
s P
ayab
le49
,059
$
295,
576
$
127,
211
$
235,
980
$
67,4
14$
27
4,39
9$
27,6
99$
1,
077,
338
$
D
ue to
Oth
er F
unds
-36
5,63
7-
--
--
365,
637
To
tal L
iab
iliti
es49
,059
661,
213
127,
211
235,
980
67,4
1427
4,39
927
,699
1,44
2,97
5
Res
erve
sF
or U
ncol
lect
able
Rec
eiva
bles
287,
684
--
--
--
287,
684
To
tal R
eser
ves
287,
684
--
--
--
287,
684
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
sT
otal
Fun
d B
alan
ce(3
7,12
4)51
3,76
737
8,24
552
,026
1,56
0,41
570
9,67
796
,444
3,27
3,45
0
Tot
al F
und
Bal
ance
s(3
7,12
4)51
3,76
737
8,24
552
,026
1,56
0,41
570
9,67
796
,444
3,27
3,45
0T
ota
l Lia
bili
es, R
eser
ves
and
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
s29
9,61
9$
1,
174,
980
$
50
5,45
6$
28
8,00
6$
1,
627,
829
$
98
4,07
6$
124,
143
$
5,00
4,10
9$
Sp
ecia
l Rev
enu
e A
cco
un
t F
un
ds
23
Town of FraminghamCombined Statement of Revenues and Other Sources
and Expenditures and Other UsesBudget and Actual -- General FundFor the Period Ended June 30, 2006
FY06 Budget Including FY05 Carryovers
Actual FY06 Revenue and Expenditure &
EncumberedVariance
Favorable (Unfavorable)
RevenuesProperty taxes: Net of Reserve for Exemptions & Abatements 129,680,588$ 129,503,420$ (177,168)$ Excise 8,133,408 8,279,986 146,578Penalties, interest and other taxes 1,198,106 1,527,736 329,630Charges for services 1,230,343 1,242,176 11,833Fees 473,420 436,641 (36,779)Intergovernmental 24,931,158 25,069,249 138,091Licenses and permits 2,073,900 2,050,353 (23,547)Fines and forfeitures 522,500 455,695 (66,805)Interest 921,800 1,227,448 305,648Miscellaneous Non Recurring 101,000 396,599 295,599Contributions 20,000 22,500 2,500Transfers in and other financing sources
Enterprise Indirect Costs 1,921,866 1,921,866 -Transfers in 1,123,561 1,140,373 16,812
* Use of Fund balance-- Free Cash & Overlay Surplus 3,723,723 3,723,723 -* Teachers Pay Deferral 994,788 994,788 -* Use of Fund balance-- Premium on Borrowing 354,484 354,484 -* Use of Fund balance-- Prior Year Carryovers 1,319,792 1,319,792 -
Total Revenues 178,724,437 179,666,829 942,392
Expenditures:
General Government 2,611,076 2,582,615 28,461Finance 1,592,603 1,550,883 41,720Technology Services 1,088,934 1,084,536 4,398Human Resources 521,957 505,165 16,792Planning/Economic Development 841,861 835,738 6,123Police 9,954,321 9,583,864 370,457Fire 10,997,713 10,619,453 378,260Public Works 9,371,968 9,119,288 252,680Snow & Ice 1,013,996 1,013,996 -Park and Recreation 2,052,252 2,008,148 44,104Community Services 1,239,046 1,220,947 18,099Schools 75,716,367 75,709,922 6,445Keefe Voke Assessment 7,310,666 7,310,666 -Libraries 2,329,984 2,329,983 1Reserve Fund 4 - 4Planning Board 192,723 184,046 8,677Town Clerk Stipend 52,752 51,196 1,556Town Clerk 302,919 291,843 11,076Departmental/Unclassified 25,955,875 25,939,510 16,365Retirement 7,938,478 7,928,181 10,297Medicare 1,123,000 1,118,821 4,179Debt Service 7,894,072 7,893,675 397Cherry Sheet Charges 3,642,780 3,460,047 182,733Current Year Monetary Articles 1,125,340 1,125,340 -Expenses not requiring appropriation 68,257 53,108 15,149Excluded Debt: High School Project 1,660,726 1,660,726 -Snow & Ice Deficit 371,056 371,056 -Transfers: -
Stabilization Fund Transfer 347,285 347,285 -Arena Enterprise Subsidy 212,680 212,680 -
Other financing sources* Teachers Pay Deferral 1,193,746 1,193,746 -
Total Appropriations 178,724,437 177,306,464 1,417,973
Excess (Deficiency) of RevenuesOver Appropriations - 2,360,365 2,360,365
Fund Balance June 30, 2005 10,610,441
Less:* Use of Fund balance-- Free Cash & Overlay Surplus (3,723,723)* Use of Fund balance-- Premium on Borrowing (354,484)* Net Change Reserves and Other Financial Sources 1,203,586
Fund Balance June 30, 2006 10,096,185$
24
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amC
om
bin
ed S
tate
men
t o
f R
even
ues
, Exp
end
itu
res,
an
d C
han
ges
in F
un
d B
alan
ceA
ll G
ove
rnm
enta
l Fu
nd
Typ
es a
nd
Exp
end
able
Tru
st F
un
ds
Fo
r th
e F
isca
l Yea
r E
nd
ed J
un
e 30
, 200
6U
nau
dit
ed
Sp
ecia
l C
apit
al
Hig
h S
cho
ol
En
terp
rise
Cap
ital
E
nte
rpri
se
Hea
lth
Ins
To
tal
Gen
eral
Rev
enu
eP
roje
cts
Pro
ject
Pro
ject
sF
un
ds
Tru
st F
un
dT
rust
s(M
emo
)R
even
ues
Pro
pert
y ta
xes
129,
503,
420
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
12
9,50
3,42
0.00
$
Exc
ise
8,27
9,98
6-
--
--
-8,
279,
986
Pen
altie
s, in
tere
st a
nd o
ther
taxe
s1,
527,
736
--
2,29
0-
--
1,53
0,02
6In
terg
over
nmen
tal
25,0
69,2
4913
,563
,101
1,21
1,13
750
,780
,602
189,
900
25,2
89-
-90
,839
,278
Fee
s43
6,64
1-
-44
9,99
7-
--
886,
638
Lice
nses
& P
erm
its2,
050,
353
--
--
--
2,05
0,35
3C
harg
es fo
r se
rvic
es1,
242,
176
1,56
6,32
9-
-26
,957
,955
-1,
713,
706
31,4
80,1
66In
tere
st E
arni
ngs
1,22
7,44
89,
374
20,1
2110
1,33
141
9,07
515
0,97
723
0,63
52,
158,
961
Fin
es a
nd fo
rfei
ture
s45
5,69
526
,941
--
--
-48
2,63
6M
isce
llane
ous
396,
595
93,6
08-
-78
,143
--
568,
346
Con
trib
utio
ns22
,500
4,09
9,26
5-
--
32,0
10,5
341,
050,
497
37,1
82,7
96
Tot
al R
even
ue17
0,21
1,79
919
,358
,618
1,23
1,25
850
,780
,602
743,
518
27,4
80,4
6232
,161
,511
2,99
4,83
830
4,96
2,60
6
Exp
end
itu
res
Gen
eral
Gov
ernm
ent
7,04
6,70
82,
100,
380
251,
248
--
-12
,802
9,41
1,13
8P
ublic
Saf
ety
20,8
44,7
8045
7,17
71,
249,
258
--
-1,
510,
743
24,0
61,9
58E
duca
tion
83,0
15,2
3117
,373
,433
446,
237
6,25
5,33
9-
--
74,9
0510
7,16
5,14
5P
ublic
Wor
ks9,
468,
475
21,0
291,
729,
076
6,81
3,53
720
,005
,829
-27
4,87
038
,312
,816
Hum
an S
ervi
ces
897,
106
124,
561
541,
599
--
--
1,56
3,26
6C
ultu
re a
nd R
ecre
atio
n4,
049,
276
577,
929
837,
867
48,8
2742
2,16
5-
31,8
115,
967,
875
Mis
cella
neou
s34
,892
,305
--
--
31,4
62,3
9610
3,99
066
,458
,691
Deb
t Ser
vice
9,55
4,40
1-
-30
2,29
41,
664,
482
--
11,5
21,1
77In
terg
over
nmen
tal
3,46
0,04
7-
--
--
-3,
460,
047
Tot
al E
xpen
ditu
res
173,
228,
329
20,6
54,5
095,
055,
285
6,25
5,33
97,
164,
658
22,0
92,4
7631
,462
,396
2,00
9,12
126
7,92
2,11
3
Exc
ess
(def
icie
ncy)
of r
even
ues
over
exp
endi
ture
s(3
,016
,530
)(1
,295
,891
)(3
,824
,028
)44
,525
,263
(6,4
21,1
40)
5,38
7,98
669
9,11
598
5,71
737
,040
,492
Oth
er F
inan
cin
g S
ou
rces
(U
ses)
Pro
ceed
s of
Bon
ds-
-3,
210,
153
-6,
629,
973
--
9,84
0,12
6P
roce
eds
of N
otes
--
--
--
Ope
ratin
g tr
ansf
ers
in3,
062,
239
130,
000
340,
150
-73
7,42
621
2,68
045
8,24
834
7,28
55,
288,
028
Rec
ord
Edg
ell G
rove
Cem
eter
y T
rust
Fun
d-
--
--
-1,
633,
580
1,63
3,58
0O
pera
ting
tran
sfer
s ou
t(5
59,9
65)
(528
,103
)(9
0,15
0)-
-(2
,529
,214
)(4
58,2
48)
(1,1
22,3
48)
(5,2
88,0
28)
Tot
al o
ther
fina
ncin
g so
urce
s (u
ses)
2,50
2,27
4(3
98,1
03)
3,46
0,15
3-
7,36
7,39
9(2
,316
,534
)-
858,
517
11,4
73,7
06
Exc
ess
of R
even
ues
and
othe
r so
urce
s o
ver
(und
er)
expe
nditu
res
and
othe
r us
es(5
14,2
56)
(1,6
93,9
94)
(363
,875
)44
,525
,263
946,
259
3,07
1,45
269
9,11
51,
844,
234
48,5
14,1
98
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
, Ju
ne
30, 2
005
10,6
10,4
414,
967,
444
1,72
4,50
4(4
5,71
5,01
4)6,
612,
181
4,76
2,59
883
,623
5,11
6,01
8(1
1,83
8,20
5)
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
, Ju
ne
30, 2
006
10,0
96,1
85$
3,27
3,45
0$
1,36
0,63
0$
(1,1
89,7
51)
$
7,
558,
440
$
7,
834,
050
$
78
2,73
8$
6,
960,
252
$
36
,675
,993
$
25
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amC
om
bin
ed B
alan
ce S
hee
tA
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Un
aud
ited
Sp
ecia
l C
apit
al
Hig
h S
cho
ol
En
terp
rise
E
nte
rpri
se
Hea
lth
Ins
Tru
sts
and
To
tal
Ass
ets
Gen
eral
Rev
enu
eP
roje
cts
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
Cap
ital
Pro
ject
Fu
nd
sT
rust
Fu
nd
Ag
ency
(Mem
o)
Cas
h &
Inve
stm
ents
Cas
h17
,350
,747
$
2,
881,
282
$
79
0,56
0$
42
3,99
1$
7,
731,
574
$
8,
273,
148
$
2,
448,
704
$
7,88
4,80
6$
47,7
84,8
12$
In
vest
men
ts-
--
--
-1,
492,
559
1,49
2,55
9Le
tters
of C
redi
t-
--
--
--
304,
200
304,
200
Sec
urity
Bon
ds-
--
--
--
2,50
7,80
02,
507,
800
Tot
al C
ash
& In
vest
men
ts17
,350
,747
2,88
1,28
279
0,56
042
3,99
17,
731,
574
8,27
3,14
82,
448,
704
12,1
89,3
6552
,089
,371
Rec
eiva
ble
sT
axes Rea
l Est
ate
1,39
4,96
2-
--
--
-1,
394,
962
Per
sona
l Pro
pert
y97
4,70
3-
--
--
-97
4,70
3M
otor
Veh
icle
Exc
ise
1,67
1,82
6-
--
--
-1,
671,
826
Def
fere
d P
rope
rty
Tax
es a
nd T
ax F
orec
losu
res
404,
852
--
--
--
404,
852
Tax
Lie
ns a
nd C
harg
es A
dded
to T
axes
3,23
7,22
1-
--
494,
189
--
3,73
1,41
0
Tot
al T
axes
7,68
3,56
4-
--
494,
189
--
8,17
7,75
3
Oth
er R
ecei
vabl
es
Sew
er U
sage
Rec
eiva
ble
--
--
1,55
7,68
0-
-1,
557,
680
Wat
er U
sage
Rec
eiva
bles
--
--
2,12
0,28
61,
179,
790
--
3,30
0,07
6D
epar
tmen
tal R
ecei
vabl
es36
,304
311,
865
--
112,
172
-16
1,25
362
1,59
4In
terg
over
nmen
tal R
ecei
vabl
es-
1,81
0,96
13,
062,
886
--
--
-4,
873,
847
Tot
al O
ther
Rec
eiva
bles
36,3
042,
122,
826
3,06
2,88
6-
2,12
0,28
62,
849,
642
-16
1,25
310
,353
,197
Tot
al R
ecei
vabl
es7,
719,
868
2,12
2,82
63,
062,
886
-2,
120,
286
3,34
3,83
116
1,25
318
,530
,950
Oth
er A
sset
sD
ue F
rom
Oth
er F
unds
--
--
--
365,
637
-36
5,63
7T
ax F
orec
losu
res
273,
504
--
--
--
-27
3,50
4O
ther
Ass
ets
-- In
vent
orie
s61
,022
--
--
--
-61
,022
Tot
al O
ther
Ass
ets
334,
526
--
--
-36
5,63
7-
700,
163
Am
ts to
be
prov
ided
for
bond
s-
-50
,394
,229
2,85
0,00
017
,953
,948
--
-71
,198
,177
Am
ts to
be
Pro
v fo
r lo
ans
--
--
--
--
To
tal A
sset
s25
,405
,141
$
5,
004,
108
$
54
,247
,675
$
3,27
3,99
1$
27,8
05,8
08$
11
,616
,979
$
2,81
4,34
1$
12
,350
,618
$
142,
518,
661
$
Lia
bili
ties
, Res
erve
s, a
nd
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
s
Lia
bili
ties
Acc
ount
s P
ayab
le S
ecur
ity D
epos
its8,
025,
167
$
1,07
7,33
6$
47,1
28$
313,
592
$
187,
500
$
439,
099
$
2,03
1,60
3$
5,
390,
364
$
17
,511
,789
$
BA
N P
ayab
le-
-79
,850
1,30
0,15
0-
--
-1,
380,
000
Due
to O
ther
Fun
ds36
5,63
7-
--
365,
637
Loan
s A
utho
rized
--
5,51
7,41
64,
156,
084
14,0
14,1
00-
--
23,6
87,6
00Lo
ans
Aut
horiz
ed a
nd U
niss
ued
--
(5,5
17,4
16)
(4,1
56,0
84)
(14,
014,
100)
--
-(2
3,68
7,60
0)B
onds
Pay
able
--
50,3
94,2
292,
850,
000
17,9
39,5
81-
71,1
83,8
10
To
tal L
iab
iliti
es8,
025,
167
1,44
2,97
350
,521
,207
4,46
3,74
218
,127
,081
439,
099
2,03
1,60
35,
390,
364
90,4
41,2
36
Res
erve
sF
or U
ncol
lect
able
Rec
eiva
bles
5,01
3,57
428
7,68
42,
365,
837
-2,
120,
286
3,34
3,83
0-
-13
,131
,211
For
Aba
tem
ents
and
Exe
mpt
ions
2,27
0,21
5-
--
--
-2,
270,
215
To
tal R
eser
ves
7,28
3,78
928
7,68
42,
365,
837
-2,
120,
286
3,34
3,83
0-
-15
,401
,426
Fu
nd
Bal
ance
sR
eser
ved
for
Enc
umbe
ranc
es1,
866,
786
603,
547
1,00
6,47
61,
445,
919
4,33
4,87
448
2,57
738
033
,433
9,77
3,99
2R
eser
ved
for
Pet
ty C
ash
550
550
Res
erve
d fo
r In
vent
ory
61,0
2261
,022
Res
erve
d fo
r E
xpen
ditu
re3,
274,
922
92,1
49-
-1,
847,
433
198,
958
5,41
3,46
2R
eser
ve fo
r P
rem
ium
on
Issu
ance
of D
ebt E
xclu
ded
BA
Ns
73,2
4073
,240
Res
erve
for
Ove
rlay
Def
icit
(38,
813)
(38,
813)
Res
erve
d fo
r O
ther
Ass
ets
-11
5,79
811
5,79
8T
each
ers
Pay
Def
erra
l(9
94,7
88)
--
--
(994
,788
)
Und
esig
nate
d5,
853,
266
2,57
7,75
535
4,15
5(2
,635
,670
)3,
223,
567
5,38
8,24
278
2,35
86,
727,
863
22,2
71,5
36
Tot
al F
und
Bal
ance
s10
,096
,185
3,27
3,45
11,
360,
631
(1,1
89,7
51)
7,55
8,44
17,
834,
050
782,
738
6,96
0,25
436
,675
,999
To
tal L
iab
ilies
, Res
erve
s an
dF
un
d B
alan
ces
25,4
05,1
41$
5,00
4,10
8$
54,2
47,6
75$
3,
273,
991
$
27
,805
,808
$
11,6
16,9
79$
2,
814,
341
$
12,3
50,6
18$
14
2,51
8,66
1
26
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Gen
eral
Go
vern
men
t
Sel
ectm
enP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-$
353,
253
$
-$
-$
(45,
212)
$
306,
877
$
-$
1,16
4$
Ope
ratio
ns76
364
,495
--
21,7
9676
,594
6,67
53,
785
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t76
341
7,74
8-
-(2
3,41
6)38
3,47
16,
675
4,94
9
Lega
lP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
--
--
--
--
Ope
ratio
ns1,
502
537,
800
150,
000
-23
,416
707,
218
4,69
780
2
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t1,
502
537,
800
150,
000
-23
,416
707,
218
4,69
780
2
Tow
n B
uild
ings
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s1
483,
826
--
(11,
690)
468,
013
452
3,67
2O
pera
tions
7,65
257
8,35
020
4,00
048
,000
14,4
1384
2,07
510
,290
49S
mal
l Cap
ital
-33
,300
--
(2,7
23)
30,5
71-
6
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t7,
653
1,09
5,47
620
4,00
048
,000
-1,
340,
659
10,7
423,
727
Pur
chas
ing
Dep
artm
ent
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
58,8
49-
--
58,8
36-
13O
pera
tions
9,67
670
,998
--
-62
,894
2,83
314
,947
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t9,
676
129,
847
--
-12
1,73
02,
833
14,9
60
Com
mitt
ees
Cap
ital B
udge
t Com
mitt
ee-
1,50
0-
--
1,46
6-
34E
duca
tion
Com
mitt
ee-
15-
--
--
15G
over
nmen
t Stu
dy C
omm
ittee
-10
0-
--
3-
97P
ublic
Saf
ety
Com
mitt
ee-
75-
--
25-
50H
isto
rical
Com
mis
sion
557
1,00
0-
--
200
557
800
His
toric
Dis
tric
t Com
m.
-1,
000
--
-92
5-
75M
oder
ator
-10
0-
--
--
100
Pla
nnin
g/Z
onin
g-
75-
--
--
75P
ublic
Wor
ks-
500
--
-0
-50
0R
ules
-50
--
--
-50
Bic
ycle
& P
edes
tria
n -
125
--
-10
5-
20W
ays
And
Mea
ns-
100
--
-0
-10
0H
uman
Rel
atio
ns C
omm
issi
on-
500
--
-89
-41
1F
air
Hou
sing
Com
mis
sion
-25
0-
--
--
250
Dis
abili
ties
Com
mis
sion
651,
500
--
-39
4-
1,17
1T
echn
olog
y A
dvis
ory
Com
mitt
ee-
100
--
--
-10
0P
ay In
Lie
u of
Tax
Com
mitt
ee-
1,00
0-
--
826
-17
4
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t62
27,
990
--
-4,
032
557
4,02
2
Gen
eral
Go
vern
men
t
Tot
al P
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
189
5,92
8-
-(5
6,90
2)83
3,72
645
24,
849
Tot
al O
pera
tions
20,2
141,
259,
633
354,
000
48,0
0059
,625
1,69
2,81
425
,052
23,6
05T
otal
Sm
all C
apita
l-
33,3
00-
-(2
,723
)30
,571
-6
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
20,2
152,
188,
861
354,
000
48,0
00-
2,55
7,11
125
,504
28,4
60
Tot
al D
ivis
ion
20,2
152,
188,
861
354,
000
48,0
00-
2,55
7,11
125
,504
28,4
60
27
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Fin
ance
Fin
ance
Com
mitt
eeP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
--
--
--
-O
pera
tions
-2,
050
--
-1,
071
-97
9
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t-
2,05
0-
--
1,07
1-
979
Chi
ef F
inan
cial
Offi
cer
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
175,
915
(14,
500)
-(5
,000
)15
1,66
2-
4,75
3O
pera
tions
4,25
169
,320
5,00
073
,253
-5,
318
Sm
all C
apita
l-
--
--
--
-
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t4,
251
245,
235
(14,
500)
--
224,
916
-10
,071
Acc
ount
ing
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
235,
866
(8,5
00)
-(2
,000
)22
4,62
1-
745
Ope
ratio
ns-
5,21
0-
-17
,755
5,07
017
,410
485
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t-
241,
076
(8,5
00)
-15
,755
229,
691
17,4
101,
230
Tre
asur
er/C
olle
ctor
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
453,
535
--
2,00
045
0,66
6-
4,86
9O
pera
tions
28,2
7217
0,12
5-
-(6
,505
)16
7,38
619
,646
4,86
0
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t28
,272
623,
660
--
(4,5
05)
618,
051
19,6
469,
729
Ass
esso
rsP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-35
0,48
0(1
0,00
0)-
-33
3,94
4-
6,53
6O
pera
tions
3,44
411
1,66
5-
-(1
2,75
0)92
,237
1,94
08,
182
Sm
all C
apita
l-
15,4
70-
-1,
500
11,9
76-
4,99
4
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t3,
444
477,
615
(10,
000)
-(1
1,25
0)43
8,15
71,
940
19,7
12
Fin
ance
Div
isio
n
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s-
1,21
5,79
6(3
3,00
0)-
(5,0
00)
1,16
0,89
4-
16,9
03T
ota
l Op
erat
ion
s35
,967
358,
370
--
3,50
033
9,01
738
,996
19,8
24T
ota
l Sm
all C
apit
al-
15,4
70-
-1,
500
11,9
76-
4,99
4
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
35,9
671,
589,
636
(33,
000)
--
1,51
1,88
738
,996
41,7
21
Tec
hn
olo
gy
Ser
vice
s
Info
rmat
ion
Ser
vice
sP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-50
7,93
0-
-(6
,400
)50
0,26
4-
1,26
6O
pera
tions
36,7
8841
2,02
6-
-(2
2,11
5)40
8,32
715
,241
3,13
1S
mal
l Cap
ital
13,0
1211
9,17
8-
-28
,515
134,
562
26,1
42-
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t49
,799
1,03
9,13
4-
--
1,04
3,15
341
,383
4,39
7
Tec
hn
olo
gy
Ser
vice
s
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s-
507,
930
--
(6,4
00)
500,
264
-1,
266
To
tal O
per
atio
ns
36,7
8841
2,02
6-
-(2
2,11
5)40
8,32
715
,241
3,13
1T
ota
l Sm
all C
apit
al13
,012
119,
178
--
28,5
1513
4,56
226
,142
-
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
49,8
001,
039,
134
--
-1,
043,
153
41,3
834,
397
28
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Hu
man
Res
ou
rces
Per
sonn
elP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-30
3,96
6(1
4,00
0)-
-28
5,14
8-
4,81
8O
pera
tions
720
59,8
68-
--
46,0
216,
941
7,62
6S
mal
l Cap
ital
--
--
--
--
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t72
036
3,83
4(1
4,00
0)-
-33
1,16
96,
941
12,4
44
Vet
eran
s' S
ervi
ces
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
58,9
09-
--
58,9
08-
1O
pera
tions
528
111,
966
--
-10
7,04
51,
101
4,34
7S
mal
l Cap
ital
--
--
--
--
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t52
817
0,87
5-
--
165,
954
1,10
14,
348
Hu
man
Res
ou
rces
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s-
362,
875
(14,
000)
--
344,
056
-4,
819
To
tal O
per
atio
ns
1,24
817
1,83
4-
--
153,
066
8,04
311
,973
To
tal S
mal
l Cap
ital
--
--
--
--
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
1,24
853
4,70
9(1
4,00
0)-
-49
7,12
28,
043
16,7
92
Pla
nn
ing
an
d E
con
om
ic D
evel
op
men
t
Con
serv
atio
nP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-69
,395
--
(500
)67
,969
-92
6O
pera
tions
15,3
1337
,173
--
(1,4
76)
40,4
199,
578
1,01
3S
mal
l Cap
ital
--
--
1,97
61,
944
-32
Tot
al E
nviro
nmen
tal
15,3
1310
6,56
8-
--
110,
332
9,57
81,
971
Pla
nnin
g D
epar
tmen
tP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-36
1,94
7(2
5,00
0)-
(6,0
00)
330,
948
-(1
)O
pera
tions
2,06
732
0,16
3-
-(5
,531
)31
4,19
895
71,
544
Sm
all C
apita
l-
4,60
0-
-11
,531
3,95
611
,964
211
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t2,
067
686,
710
(25,
000)
--
649,
102
12,9
211,
754
Zon
ing
Boa
rd
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
37,6
44-
--
35,8
86-
1,75
8O
pera
tions
3,03
415
,525
--
(4,9
09)
10,4
972,
596
557
Sm
all C
apita
l-
--
-4,
909
1,19
83,
628
83
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t3,
034
53,1
69-
--
47,5
826,
224
2,39
8
Pla
nn
ing
an
d E
con
om
ic D
evel
op
men
t
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s-
468,
986
(25,
000)
-(6
,500
)43
4,80
3-
2,68
3T
ota
l Op
erat
ion
s20
,414
372,
861
--
(11,
916)
365,
115
13,1
303,
114
To
tal S
mal
l Cap
ital
-4,
600
--
18,4
167,
098
15,5
9232
6
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
20,4
1484
6,44
7(2
5,00
0)-
-80
7,01
628
,722
6,12
3
29
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Po
lice
Div
isio
n
Pol
ice
Dep
artm
ent
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s4,
481
9,15
1,02
1-
-(2
20,6
00)
8,65
3,48
34,
907
276,
512
Ope
ratio
ns25
,634
448,
150
--
215,
100
564,
161
41,1
6883
,554
Sm
all C
apita
l8,
331
140,
300
--
5,50
014
8,61
45,
467
51
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t38
,446
9,73
9,47
1-
--
9,36
6,25
851
,542
360,
117
Ani
mal
Con
trol
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s48
014
4,68
8-
--
140,
474
480
4,21
4O
pera
tions
4,67
125
,065
--
-16
,828
8,28
24,
627
Sm
all C
apita
l-
1,50
0-
--
--
1,50
0
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t5,
151
171,
253
--
-15
7,30
28,
762
10,3
41
Po
lice
Div
isio
n
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s4,
961
9,29
5,70
9-
-(2
20,6
00)
8,79
3,95
75,
387
280,
726
To
tal O
per
atio
ns
30,3
0547
3,21
5-
-21
5,10
058
0,98
949
,450
88,1
81T
ota
l Sm
all C
apit
al8,
331
141,
800
--
5,50
014
8,61
45,
467
1,55
1
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
43,5
979,
910,
724
--
-9,
523,
560
60,3
0437
0,45
8
Fir
e D
ivis
ion
Fire
Dep
artm
ent
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s51
,354
10,3
58,4
60-
-(1
8,00
0)10
,039
,907
7835
1,82
8O
pera
tions
43,3
2650
5,71
3-
-(6
5,03
6)42
5,37
035
,564
23,0
69S
mal
l Cap
ital
165
38,6
95-
-83
,036
105,
849
12,6
853,
362
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t94
,845
10,9
02,8
68-
--
10,5
71,1
2648
,328
378,
259
Fir
e D
ivis
ion
Tot
al P
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
51,3
5410
,358
,460
--
(18,
000)
10,0
39,9
0778
351,
828
Tot
al O
pera
tions
43,3
2650
5,71
3-
-(6
5,03
6)42
5,37
035
,564
23,0
69T
otal
Sm
all C
apita
l16
538
,695
--
83,0
3610
5,84
912
,685
3,36
2
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
94,8
4510
,902
,868
--
-10
,571
,126
48,3
2737
8,25
9
30
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Pu
blic
Wo
rks
Pub
lic W
orks
Adm
inis
trat
ion
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
456,
967
--
10,5
2846
7,49
5-
-O
pera
tions
12,1
6867
,394
--
(19,
451)
52,9
203,
167
4,02
4S
mal
l Cap
ital
10,3
9211
,500
--
8,92
35,
622
9,69
215
,502
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t22
,561
535,
861
--
-52
6,03
812
,859
19,5
25
Pub
lic W
orks
Hig
hway
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s20
01,
588,
229
(17,
500)
-(5
1,90
5)1,
483,
286
358
35,3
81O
pera
tions
124,
900
1,27
8,54
0-
-28
,242
1,14
1,55
7.36
260,
901
29,2
24S
mal
l Cap
ital
12,1
387,
500
--
38,6
6335
,649
19,6
612,
992
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t13
7,23
82,
874,
269
(17,
500)
-15
,000
2,66
0,49
228
0,91
967
,596
Fle
et S
ervi
ces
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
444,
412
--
-44
2,04
412
32,
246
Ope
ratio
ns19
,256
520,
672
--
(51,
512)
451,
736
27,9
618,
719
Sm
all C
apita
l16
,240
--
-51
,512
50,6
1317
,139
1
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t35
,496
965,
084
--
-94
4,39
245
,222
10,9
65
San
itatio
nP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
489
952,
739
--
(13,
000)
895,
554
491
44,1
83O
pera
tions
310,
071
2,73
8,30
1-
-(5
3,05
7)2,
725,
966
224,
366
44,9
84S
mal
l Cap
ital
85,9
727,
500
--
66,0
5756
,572
67,6
4835
,309
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t39
6,53
23,
698,
540
--
-3,
678,
091
292,
505
124,
475
Eng
inee
ring
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s7
648,
531
--
(117
,007
)52
2,58
135
38,
597
Ope
ratio
ns30
742
,290
--
61,0
3161
,874
21,9
6419
,790
Sm
all C
apita
l-
11,7
00-
-40
,976
37,3
3213
,808
1,53
6
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t31
470
2,52
1-
-(1
5,00
0)62
1,78
736
,125
29,9
24
Civ
il D
efen
seP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
2,00
42,
977
--
308
5,12
3-
167
Ope
ratio
ns3,
617
12,4
53-
-(3
,308
)12
,708
2727
Sm
all C
apita
l-
--
-3,
000
2,54
345
7-
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t5,
621
15,4
30-
--
20,3
7348
419
4F
Y05
Car
ryov
er b
udge
t tra
nsfe
rred
from
Fire
Div
isio
n
Pu
blic
Wo
rks
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s2,
701
4,09
3,85
5(1
7,50
0)-
(171
,076
)3,
816,
082
1,32
490
,573
To
tal O
per
atio
ns
470,
319
4,65
9,65
0-
-(3
8,05
5)4,
446,
760
538,
385
106,
768
To
tal S
mal
l Cap
ital
124,
743
38,2
00-
-20
9,13
118
8,33
112
8,40
555
,339
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
597,
762
8,79
1,70
5(1
7,50
0)-
-8,
451,
173
668,
114
252,
680
Sn
ow
& Ic
e R
emo
val
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
125,
000
-17
8,32
34,
999
308,
322
--
Ope
ratio
ns-
511,
500
20,5
0017
3,67
41
705,
674
--
Sm
all C
apita
l-
5,00
0-
-(5
,000
)-
--
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t-
641,
500
20,5
0035
1,99
6-
1,01
3,99
6-
-
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
-64
1,50
020
,500
351,
996
-1,
013,
996
--
31
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Par
ks a
nd
Rec
reat
ion
Par
k an
d R
ecre
atio
nS
alar
ies
& W
ages
393
1,36
4,56
2-
--
1,35
6,78
832
97,
839
Ope
ratio
ns32
,406
345,
599
--
771
356,
862
15,1
076,
806
Sm
all C
apita
l-
7,70
0-
-(7
71)
6,92
9-
0
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t32
,799
1,71
7,86
1-
--
1,72
0,57
915
,436
14,6
45
Cem
eter
yS
alar
ies
& W
ages
--
Ope
ratio
ns-
36,9
70-
--
23,6
79-
13,2
91
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t-
36,9
70-
--
23,6
79-
13,2
91
Cou
ncil
on A
ging
Sal
arie
s &
Wag
es-
247,
160
--
-23
1,71
9-
15,4
41O
pera
tions
1,82
314
,240
--
(377
)13
,901
1,51
427
1S
mal
l Cap
ital
-1,
400
--
377
1,31
63
458
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t1,
823
262,
800
--
-24
6,93
61,
517
16,1
70
Par
ks a
nd
Rec
reat
ion
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s39
31,
611,
722
--
-1,
588,
507
329
23,2
79T
ota
l Op
erat
ion
s34
,228
396,
809
--
394
394,
442
16,6
2220
,368
To
tal S
mal
l Cap
ital
-9,
100
--
(394
)8,
245
345
8
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
34,6
222,
017,
631
--
-1,
991,
194
16,9
5344
,106
Insp
ecti
on
al S
ervi
ces
Bui
ldin
g In
spec
tion
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
563,
398
--
(800
)56
1,11
4-
1,48
4O
pera
tions
322
42,9
51-
-80
040
,535
533
3,00
5S
mal
l Cap
ital
--
--
1,75
0-
1,71
436
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t32
260
6,34
9-
-1,
750
601,
649
2,24
84,
525
Hea
lth D
epar
tmen
tP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-48
6,73
0(7
0,00
0)-
(1,7
50)
404,
379
499
10,1
02O
pera
tions
3,59
478
,503
--
(20)
76,3
714,
264
1,44
1S
mal
l Cap
ital
3,45
0-
--
203,
466
-4
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t7,
044
565,
233
(70,
000)
-(1
,750
)48
4,21
64,
763
11,5
47
Sea
ler
of W
eigh
ts a
nd M
easu
reP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-95
,058
--
-95
,042
-16
Ope
ratio
ns57
10,1
40-
-(3
47)
7,84
0-
2,01
0S
mal
l Cap
ital
-24
,843
--
347
25,1
90-
-
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t57
130,
041
--
-12
8,07
2-
2,02
6
Co
mm
un
ity
Ser
vice
s
To
tal P
erso
nal
Ser
vice
s-
1,14
5,18
6(7
0,00
0)-
(2,5
50)
1,06
0,53
549
911
,602
To
tal O
per
atio
ns
3,97
313
1,59
4-
-43
312
4,74
64,
797
6,45
6T
ota
l Sm
all C
apit
al3,
450
24,8
43-
-2,
117
28,6
561,
714
40
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
7,42
31,
301,
623
(70,
000)
--
1,21
3,93
77,
010
18,0
98
32
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Fra
min
gh
am S
cho
ols
Sch
ool D
epar
tmen
tP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
57,5
69,0
67-
-(2
0,00
0)57
,021
,833
-52
7,23
4A
dditi
onal
Sal
arie
s2,
610,
291
--
(57,
865)
2,57
5,83
4-
(23,
408)
Ope
ratio
ns18
2,48
015
,354
,529
--
77,8
6516
,052
,530
59,7
25(4
97,3
80)
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t18
2,48
075
,533
,887
--
-75
,650
,197
59,7
256,
446
Fra
min
gh
am S
cho
ols
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
57,5
69,0
67-
-(2
0,00
0)57
,021
,833
-52
7,23
4A
dditi
onal
Sal
arie
s-
2,61
0,29
1-
-(5
7,86
5)2,
575,
834
-(2
3,40
8)O
pera
tions
182,
480
15,3
54,5
29-
-77
,865
16,0
52,5
3059
,725
(497
,381
)
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
182,
480
75,5
33,8
87-
--
75,6
50,1
9759
,725
6,44
5
Kee
fe V
oke
Ass
essm
ent
Kee
fe V
oke
Ope
ratio
ns-
7,39
6,74
0(8
6,07
4)-
-7,
310,
666
--
Tot
al K
eefe
Vok
e-
7,39
6,74
0(8
6,07
4)-
-7,
310,
666
--
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
-7,
396,
740
(86,
074)
--
7,31
0,66
6-
-
Lib
rari
es
Libr
arie
sP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-1,
801,
989
-27
,000
1,02
41,
830,
013
--
Ope
ratio
ns34
464,
754
36,2
07-
(2,0
57)
497,
651
1,28
6-
Sm
all C
apita
l-
--
-1,
033
1,03
3-
-
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t34
2,26
6,74
336
,207
27,0
00-
2,32
8,69
71,
286
-
Lib
rari
es
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
342,
266,
743
36,2
0727
,000
-2,
328,
697
1,28
6-
Pla
nn
ing
Bo
ard
Pla
nnin
g B
oard
Per
sona
l Ser
vice
s-
185,
661
(15,
000)
--
167,
055
-3,
606
Ope
ratio
ns5,
112
16,9
50-
-(1
,476
)13
,750
1,76
55,
071
Sm
all C
apita
l-
--
-1,
476
1,47
6-
-
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t5,
112
202,
611
(15,
000)
--
182,
281
1,76
58,
677
Pla
nn
ing
Bo
ard
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
5,11
220
2,61
1(1
5,00
0)-
-18
2,28
11,
765
8,67
7
33
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
To
wn
Cle
rk, E
lect
ion
s
Tow
n C
lerk
Ele
cted
Offi
cial
Stip
ends
-73
,952
(21,
200)
--
51,1
96-
1,55
6P
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-12
2,21
0-
-2,
300
123,
307
-1,
203
Ope
ratio
ns80
829
,485
21,2
00-
(12,
930)
35,1
49-
3,41
4
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t80
822
5,64
7-
-(1
0,63
0)20
9,65
2-
6,17
3
Ele
ctio
nsP
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-47
,297
--
1,20
048
,419
-78
Ope
ratio
ns3,
338
78,5
81-
-9,
430
84,9
68-
6,38
1
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t3,
338
125,
878
--
10,6
3013
3,38
7-
6,45
9
To
wn
Cle
rk, E
lect
ion
s
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
-73
,952
(21,
200)
--
51,1
96-
1,55
6
Tot
al P
erso
nal S
ervi
ces
-16
9,50
7-
-3,
500
171,
726
-1,
281
Tot
al O
pera
tions
4,14
610
8,06
621
,200
-(3
,500
)12
0,11
7-
9,79
5
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
4,14
627
7,57
321
,200
--
291,
843
-11
,076
Tot
al T
own
Cle
rk, E
lect
ions
4,14
635
1,52
5-
--
343,
039
-12
,632
Mis
cella
neo
us
Un
clas
sifi
ed
Pro
pert
y &
Lia
bilit
y In
sura
nce
-69
5,60
4-
-(1
,800
)69
3,52
516
911
0W
orke
rs' C
ompe
nsat
ion
-52
1,00
0-
-43
,150
554,
940
7,96
41,
246
Une
mpl
oym
ent
-30
0,00
0-
-(7
6,50
0)20
1,35
57,
167
14,9
77S
ick
Leav
e B
uyba
ck-
60,0
00-
-40
,550
100,
542
-8
Gro
up In
sura
nce
-24
,291
,359
--
-24
,291
,359
--
Med
ical
Inde
mni
ficat
ion
--
-3,
600
3,58
1-
19S
elf-
insu
ranc
e5,
000
30,0
00-
(18,
000)
-17
,000
-M
edic
aid
Par
t 1 C
ontr
act
12,9
1240
,000
--
9,00
054
,368
7,54
04
Sal
ary
Res
erve
--
--
--
--
Res
erve
for
Ene
rgy
Cos
ts-
--
--
--
-
Tot
al M
isce
llane
ous
Unc
lass
ified
17,9
1225
,937
,963
--
-25
,899
,670
39,8
4016
,364
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
17,9
1225
,937
,963
--
-25
,899
,670
39,8
4016
,364
Res
erve
Fu
nd
Res
erve
Fun
d-
400,
000
-(3
99,9
96)
--
-4
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
-40
0,00
0-
(399
,996
)-
--
4
Sta
biliz
atio
n F
und
Sta
biliz
atio
n F
und
-34
7,28
5-
--
347,
285
--
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
-34
7,28
5-
--
347,
285
--
34
To
wn
of
Fra
min
gh
amS
um
mar
y o
f E
xpen
dit
ure
s F
isca
l Yea
r 20
06A
s o
f Ju
ne
30, 2
006
Spe
cial
Tow
nF
inan
ce C
omm
ittee
Clo
sed
toF
Y05
Orig
inal
Mee
ting
Res
erve
Fun
d an
dIn
ter
Div
isio
nal
Fun
dC
arry
Ove
r B
udge
tB
udge
tA
djus
tmen
tsM
unic
ipal
Rel
ief T
rans
fers
Tra
nsfe
rsE
xpen
ded
Enc
umbe
red
Bal
ance
Ret
irem
ent
Ret
irem
ent
Con
trib
utor
y P
ensi
on-
7,75
5,37
0-
--
7,75
5,37
0-
-P
ensi
ons
non
cont
ribut
ory
-18
3,10
8-
-17
2,81
1-
10,2
97
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t-
7,93
8,47
8-
--
7,92
8,18
1-
10,2
97
Med
icar
e
Ope
ratio
ns-
1,15
0,00
0-
(27,
000)
-1,
118,
821
-4,
179
Tot
al-
1,15
0,00
0-
(27,
000)
-1,
118,
821
-4,
179
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
-9,
088,
478
-(2
7,00
0)-
9,04
7,00
2-
14,4
76
Deb
t S
ervi
ce
Deb
t Ser
vice
Prin
cipa
l and
Inte
rest
Gen
eral
Loa
ns-
7,67
5,94
4-
-(5
0,76
7)7,
625,
177
--
Inte
rest
on
Tem
pora
ry L
oans
-15
8,12
8-
-(9
0,07
8)67
,281
-76
9In
tere
st o
n A
bate
men
ts-
60,0
00-
-14
0,84
520
1,21
7-
(372
)
Tot
al D
epar
tmen
t-
7,89
4,07
2-
--
7,89
3,67
5-
397
Deb
t S
ervi
ce
To
tal A
pp
rop
riat
ion
-7,
894,
072
--
-7,
893,
675
-39
7
To
tal G
ener
al F
un
d A
pp
rop
riat
ed1,
115,
577
169,
184,
142
150,
133
--
168,
183,
787
1,04
5,97
31,
220,
088
Oth
er F
inan
cin
g U
ses
Tra
nsfe
r to
Are
na-
212,
680
--
-21
2,68
0-
-T
rans
fer
to C
apita
l Pro
ject
s -
--
-T
rans
fer
to M
ayna
rd B
uild
ing
--
--
--
--
To
tal O
ther
Fin
anci
ng
Use
s-
212,
680
--
-21
2,68
0-
-
No
n a
pp
rop
riat
ed it
ems
Unc
lass
ified
Tax
Titl
e3,
000
50,0
00-
--
35,2
812,
570
15,1
49U
ncla
ssifi
ed O
verla
y D
efic
it-
15,2
57-
--
15,2
57-
-C
herr
y S
heet
Offs
ets
--
--
--
-T
each
ers
Pay
Def
erra
l-
1,19
3,74
6-
--
1,19
3,74
6-
-S
now
& Ic
e D
efic
it-
371,
056
--
-37
1,05
6-
-C
herr
y S
heet
Cha
rges
-3,
642,
780
--
-3,
460,
047
-18
2,73
3D
ebt E
xclu
sion
Hig
h S
choo
l Deb
t-
1,66
0,72
6-
--
1,66
0,72
6-
-O
verla
y-
1,84
0,98
2-
--
(1)
-1,
840,
983
To
tal N
on
ap
pro
pri
ated
item
s3,
000
8,77
4,54
7-
--
6,73
6,11
32,
570
2,03
8,86
5
To
tal G
ener
al F
un
d O
per
atin
g1,
118,
577
178,
171,
369
150,
133
--
175,
132,
580
1,04
8,54
33,
258,
953
Art
icle
sA
1 S
TM
3/04
Leg
al C
ons
vs W
nchP
ndT
rst
142,
367
--
--
11,6
1713
0,75
0-
A19
Apr
il 20
04 M
edic
al In
dem
ni-
--
--
--
-A
4SA
7 A
7 S
TM
10/
04 D
isab
ility
Com
mis
sion
13
,849
--
-13
,849
--
A5
AT
M M
arch
200
5 W
alsh
Roo
f-
--
--
--
-A
40 A
TM
Tow
n M
aste
r P
lan
80,0
00-
--
-1,
500
78,5
00-
A27
AT
M S
elf-
Eva
luat
ion
& T
rans
ition
Pla
n15
5,00
0-
--
-14
9,59
05,
410
-10
/05
A9
Set
tlem
ent M
unic
ipal
Man
agem
ent A
ssoc
iate
s-
51,3
13-
-51
,313
--
10/0
5 A
6 F
ram
ingh
am D
isab
ility
Com
mis
sion
--
14,2
36-
-6,
104
8,13
2-
10/0
5 A
12 M
edic
al In
dem
nific
atio
n-
-2,
075
--
1,80
027
5-
5/16
/06
A3
Roa
d Im
prov
emen
ts-
-62
1,50
0-
--
621,
500
-5/
09 A
2 Lo
wes
and
Nat
ick
Lift
Ser
vice
s-
-45
,000
--
-45
,000
-
To
tal A
rtic
les
391,
216
-73
4,12
4-
-23
5,77
388
9,56
7-
To
tal G
ener
al F
un
d1,
509,
793
$
17
8,17
1,36
9$
88
4,25
7$
-
$
-
$
175,
368,
353
$
1,93
8,11
0$
3,25
8,95
3$
35
TREASURER/COLLECTOR
Fiscal Year 2006 was a good year in this busy office. The staff remained constant with no turnover this year. They have continued to improve in customer service and job performance. The total number of employees remained unchanged at 10. As always I am indebted to them for the first class job they do on my behalf as well as the Town’s. The implementation of updated versions of our operating software on Munis continues on a regular basis but we are up to the challenge and becoming very comfortable with it. We have continued to enjoy excellent in house support from the TS Department with Munis and are thankful for them. Because of the time sensitive nature of most of our operation from sending bills to posting payments disruptions can be disastrous. Water billing has been a difficult area but is now improving with the outsourcing of bill printing and the experience of the new Business Manager Jayne Gourdeau. Inter departmental cooperation continues to be a priority to insure the production of timely and accurate bills. Several services have been bid out to comply with legal requirements, minimize costs and improve service. Citizen Bank is now the Town’s main depository bank and Sovereign Bank won the bid for the Payroll and Accounts Payable accounts. Collection amounts and percentages were as follows. Real Estate taxes collected were $122,918,283.91 (98.39%) and Personal Property taxes were $6,520,005.31 (98.93%). Excise Taxes collected were $5,669,440.94 (78.11%). Excise tax is collected on a calendar year
basis which reflects the lower collection percentage. Tax Title collections were $563,397.97 including interest and penalties. We have continued to work hard on collecting delinquent taxes at every level and recently entered into a contract for third party collection of delinquent personal property taxes. Federal Fund interest rates hit 5.25% by the end of the fiscal year, an increase of almost 2% during the year. Earnings on investments for the year of $1,118,339.78 were 24% above budget because of this. We monitor the bank rates to maximize our earnings, as rate increases slow and our investible balance decreases. The Town continues to enjoy an Aa3 bond rating from Moody’s. The future will hold a challenge to maintain it but the goal is to work to that end. We need to improve our fund balances to help offset those areas that we have little control over such as per capita income levels. We went to the Bond Market in June and permanently borrowed $7,321,000 for multiple projects. The lowest net rate was 4.056219% among the 10 bidders. We issued 2 BAN’s (Bond Anticipation Notes) in FY 2006. In November we issued $13,264,000 for various projects at 3.0059%. In June we issued $1,380,000 on the rollover of High School notes and Tercentennial Park at 4.25%. These were very competitive rates in the face of rising Fed Fund rates. This department has worked diligently to meet the requirements of the laws, the challenges of the technology advances and
36
the Town’s customer service policy. We try to treat customers with respect while taking their payments, answering their questions regarding process and solving their problems as quickly and efficiently as possible.
As per Town By-Law I am reporting the following information regarding authorized debt schedules. The first schedule shows what is authorized and unissued as of June 30, 2006. The second schedule shows the debt issued and out standing during Fiscal Year 2006.
Authorized and Unissued Debt
Purpose Date of Vote Article No.
Amount Authorize
d
Less New Issues,
Retirements and /or Rescissions
=Balance Unissued 6/30/06
High School 3/1/2000 1 54,000,000
54,000,000
0
Drainage 5/11/2000 25 300,000
20,000
280,000
Water 10/25/2000 10 924,000
868,180
55,820
Sewer Mains 4/24/2001 21Q 312,695
312,695 0
Sewer 4/24/2001 21R 300,000
300,000
0
Sewer Pump Station 4/24/2001 21S 130,000
51,765
78,235
Water Mains 4/24/2001 21Y 1,407,000
1,393,665
13,335
Software 5/7/2002 15J 199,271
2,200
197,071
Arena Roof 5/7/2002 15Q 380,000
380,000
0
Comprehensive Sewer Study 5/07/02 15M 350,000 327,600 22,400
Equipment 6/12/2003 27M 575,000
540,480 34,520
Sewer 6/12/2003 27Z 716,300
716,300 0
Senior Center 10/07/03 9 1,800,000
1,800,000 0
Parks 10/7/03 10 420,000
79,850 340,150
School Roof 5/06/04 21M 1,610,000 1,610,000 0
Water Mains 5/06/04 21O 1,368,000 1,368,000 0
Water Plan 5/06/04 21Q 304,000 304,000 0
Water Mains 5/06/04 21R 1,120,000 1,120,000 0
Water Wells 5/06/04 21Z 129,502 129,502 0
Sewer 5/06/04 21BB 451,000 451,000 0
Sewer 5/06/04 21GG 1,100,000 1,100,000 0
Study I&I 5/06/04 21HH 375,000 375,000 0
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Sewer Pump Station 5/06/04 21II 307,881 307,181 700
Athletic Facility 5/06/04 21LL 185,000 185,000 0
High School 10/19/04 13 5,237,000 1,080,916 4,156,084
Library Land 1/12/05 9 675,000 675,000 0
Pedestrian Ramps 6/16/05 26A 60,706 0 60,706
Handicapped Lifts 6/16/05 26B 160,000 160,000 0
Elevator Repairs 6/16/05 26C 130,000 130,000 0
Stapleton Roof 6/16/05 26D 108,503 0 108,503
Beach Storm Water Management
6/16/05 26E 267,410 0 267,410
Generator 6/16/05 26F 72,000 0 72,000
Maynard Stairs 6/16/05 26G 108,613 108,613 0
Bowditch Boiler 6/16/05 26H 40,392 40,392 0
Data Storage 6/16/05 26I 79,373 79,373 0
F450 Dump 6/16/05 26J 42,107 42,107 0
F250 Pick up 6/16/05 26K 28,914 28,914 0
Brush Truck 6/16/05 26L 60,000 60,000 0
4WD Pickup 6/16/05 26M 36,900 36,900 0
4WD Utility 6/16/05 26N 45,300 45,300 0
4WD Pickup 6/16/05 26O 36,900 36,900 0
Bowditch Athletic Complex 6/16/05 26P 412,188 200,169 212,019
Sanitary Line Replacement 6/16/05 26Q 108,000 0 108,000
Dump Truck 6/16/05 26R 142,500 142,500 0
Refuse Packer 6/16/05 26S 157,000 157,000 0
Fire Truck 6/16/05 26T 850,000 850,000 0
Callahan Phase II 6/16/05 26U 372,183 372,183 0
Case Loader 6/16/05 26V 68,320 68,320 0
Bowditch Field Resurface 6/16/05 26W 0 0 0
Well Activation 6/16/05 26X 600,000 300,000 300,000
Heights Water Station 6/16/05 26Y 200,000 200,000 0
Fire Hydrant Replacement 6/16/05 26Z 212,164 212,164 0
Water Service Replacement 6/16/05 26AA 200,000 200,000 0
4WD Utility 6/16/05 26BB 45,300 45,300 0
4WD Utility 6/16/05 26CC 45,300 45,300 0
4WD Utility 6/16/05 26DD 45,300 45,300 0
Edmands Sewer 6/16/05 26EE 2,082,000 1,999,100 82,900
Swift Rd Sewer 6/16/05 26FF 350,000 350,000 0
Hemenway Pump Station 6/16/05 26GG 1,000,000 1,000,000 0
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Grove St Sewer 6/16/05 26HH 200,000 200,000 0
4WD Cab & 6/16/05 26II 68,500 68,500 0
4WD Utility 6/16/05 26JJ 45,300 45,300 0
Stapleton Roof 6/6/06 30S 130,000 0 130,000
Final School Boilers 6/6/06 30T 480,000 0 480,000
Cove Ave Main 6/6/06 30AA 820,000 0 820,000
Fay Road Main 6/6/06 30BB 950,000 0 950,000
Waverley St Main 6/6/06 30CC 530,000 0 530,000
Gregory Road Main 6/6/06 30HH 707,000 0 707,000
SSES SRF 2940 6/6/06 30II 400,000 0 400,000
Pump Station Replacement 6/6/06 30KK 3,104,000 0 3,104,000
Water St Replacement 6/6/06 30MM 6,785,000 0 6,785,000
Engine 2 6/6/06 30A 398,750 0 398,750
Station 2 Roof 6/6/06 30B 31,375 0 31,375
Communications 6/6/06 30C 378,485 0 378,485
Memorial Boiler 6/6/06 30D 809,339 0 809,339
Pearl St Garage 6/6/06 30E 45,000 0 45,000
McAulliffe Renovations 6/6/06 30F 65,046 0 65,046
F550 Compactor 6/6/06 30H 68,506 0 68,506
Kubota Tractor 6/6/06 30I 24,300 0 24,300
BB Resurface Long 6/6/06 30J 53,750 0 53,750
Police Laptops 6/6/06 30K 157,850 0 157,850
Stormwater Beaver 6/6/06 30L 350,000 0 350,000
Sidewalk Improvement 6/6/06 30N 100,000 0 100,000
Sidewalk Tractor 6/6/06 30O 96,824 0 96,824
Refuse Packer 6/6/06 30P 177,100 0 177,100
Dump #413 6/6/06 30R 10,712 0 10,712
Phone Upgrade 6/6/06 30U 40,000 0 40,000
Tercentennial Park 3 6/6/06 30V 420,000 0 420,000
Dasher and Glass 6/6/06 164,710 0 164,710
100,455,569
76,767,969 23,687,600
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Authorized Issued Debt
Long Term Debt Outstanding + Issued - Retired = Outstanding
Inside the Debt Limit July 1, 2005 June 30, 2006
Buildings 11,820,041 2,002,057 1,595,093 12,227,005 Departmental Equipment
2,157,652 617,941 624,652 2,150,941
School Buildings 8,609,892 17,000 738,571 7,888,321 School Other 820,000 0 140,000 680,000
Sewer 3,188,952 1,877,207 734,367 4,331,792 Solid Waste Landfill - - - -
Other Inside 3,097,816 573,155 548,084 3,122,887
SUB-TOTAL Inside 29,694,352 5,087,360 4,380,767 30,400,945
Long Term Debt Outside the Debt Limit
Airport - - - - Gas/Electric Utility - - - -
Hospital - - - - School Buildings 30,195,000 - 2,029,000 28,166,000
Sewer - - - - Solid Waste Landfill - - - -
Water 8,562,469 4,752,766 698,371 12,616,864 Other Outside - - - -
SUB-TOTAL Outside 38,757,469 4,752,766 2,727,371 40,782,864
GRAND TOTAL 68,451,821 9,840,126 7,108,138 71,183,809
As ever it is a pleasure to work for the Respectfully Submitted, Town of Framingham and its citizens. If you have questions on this report, please contact me at 508-532-5431.
Dennis E. O’Neil Treasurer/Collector
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RETIREMENT SYSTEM The Framingham Retirement System is a member of the Massachusetts Contributory Retirement System, governed by Chapter 32 of the Massachusetts General Laws, and is Managed by a five member Retirement Board which consists of: Richard G. Howarth, Jr. Town Accountant-Ex-officio Member Mary Ellen Kelley, CFO Selectmen Appointee Paul F. Barbieri Elected Member Peter J. Rovinelli Elected Member Sidney W. Lebewohl Board Member Appointee Bank of America, Sovereign Bank and MMDT $ 566,524.33 Pension Reserve Investment Trust $197,202,223.57 Total Assets on 12/31/2006 $197,768,747.90 Membership in the Retirement System: Active/Inactive members 1,407 Retired members and beneficiaries 794 Total Membership 2,201 Respectfully Submitted, Roberta E. Griffin Executive Director
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PURCHASING DEPARTMENT
The Department would like to thank all Town Departments for their continued contributions in making this year another successful, cost-saving venture in public bidding. For calendar year 2006, the Town issued 61 formal bids. There were several significant purchases and services procured during the year. The Callahan Senior Center Phase II was bid. Improvements will continue by building out the second floor. The largest volume of contracts were for Public Works infrastructure, such as building repairs, road reconstruction, and engineering or consultant services. Parks and Recreation also had a variety of bids this year for upkeep and renovation of various existing park locales. This year we also began the process of the renovation of the Bowditch Athletic Complex by issuing a bid for the selection of an architect to design the changes the Town is looking to make, and a separate bid for an Owner’s Project Manager (OPM), a position which is now required by MA General Law. Several bids were issued for the Town’s Finance Division this year, including bids for Auditing, Delinquent Tax Collection, Accounts Payable Banking Services, and Payroll Banking Services. We continue to monitor our property and casualty insurance and claims, as this is one of our fixed costs that we must fund each year. The Town continues to take proactive measures to reduce accidents and claims with training by, and departmental meetings with, our insurance
provider, MIIA (Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association). Worthy of note is the fact that MIIA allows credits against the Town’s annual premium for these proactive measures, for a maximum possible discount of six (6) percent. The fact that this past year our number of auto accidents was down from previous years coupled with maximizing the available credit on our premiums has significantly reduced the Town’s insurance costs. In the coming year, the Purchasing Department will continue to seek out the best available pricing, including leveraging our options and selectively participating in purchasing consortia. We realize that funds will continue to be limited over the next several years, and we will do our part to ensure that the Town gets the best value for its dollar. In February, 2006, Mark J. Purple, Chief Procurement Officer and Assistant Town Manager left the Town of Framingham after five years of dedicated service. We were sorry to see him go, and knew that his expertise and energy would be missed. In December, we were lucky enough to be joined by Timothy D. Goddard, the former Town Administrator of Littleton. Tim is now the Chief Procurement Officer and Assistant Town Manager, and brings extensive knowledge and experience to the position. Welcome, Tim! Respectfully Submitted, Patricia L. Morgan Procurement Administrator
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BOARD OF ASSESSORS
The Board of Assessors’ annual report for calendar year 2006 with statistics for FY06 follows: Because of the values established in FY06, we received 283 abatement applications. These applications represented only 1.37% of the total tax bills issued. In FY06, new construction in Town and growth in personal property accounts that translated into FY07 “new growth” to the tax levy was as follows. The Town added $42.1 million in residential new construction value. Thirty new homes were completed in 2006. It also added $26.9 million in commercial and industrial new growth value along with $23 million in personal property new growth value. Values were adjusted for FY07 due to a continued strong residential real estate market. The average value for a single-family home increased 2% to $386,176. The average value for a residential condominium increased 5% to $179,838. As in the past, I would like to thank the hardest working staff in Town Hall, Assessors William Figler and Arthur
Holmes, and staff members Cindy Lombardi, Jane Piacentini, Daniel Dargon, Jim St. Andre, Sharon Gagne, Paul D’Olympio, Jr. and Wendy Elassy. Additionally, very special thanks to Mr. Thomas Mulhern of Mulhern and Associates for his appraisal expertise. Tom has left our service. He was appointed as a Commissioner to the Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board by Governor Romney in September. Also, I would like to thank Mr. James Sullivan, Esquire for his legal assistance. After making a presentation to the Board of Selectmen on December 12, 2006 for the FY07 Tax Rate Classification Hearing, the Board voted to adopt an 83% shift in values of the Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property classes of property to maintain the share of the tax levy borne by these classes in FY06. The FY07 tax rates are: Residential - $11.85 and Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property - $28.41. They represent an increase of 4.5% for Residential and a decrease of 2.3% for commercial, industrial and personal property.
The Board of Assessors’ annual report for year 2006 with statistics for FY2006 PROPERTY AND TAXES ASSESSED AS OF FY2006 (7/1/05 – 6/30/06) TAX RATE: RESIDENTIAL $11.85 COMMERCIAL $28.41 VALUATIONS: REAL ESTATE $8,506,250,800 TAX ASSESSED $129,026,100.42 PERSONAL PROPERTY $235,186,805 TAX ASSESSED $6,590,374.82
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MOTOR VEHICLE ASSESSED 2004 BILLS AND TAXES COMMITTED IN FY06 270 $42,049.50 2005 BILLS AND TAXES COMMITTED IN FY06 12,808 $1,136,467.61 2006 BILLS AND TAXES COMMITTED IN FY06 58,519 $6,465,958.93 TOTAL MOTOR VEHICLE TAX ASSESSED 71,597 $7,644,476.04 FISCAL YEAR 2006 ABATEMENTS AND EXEMPTIONS GRANTED (7/1/05 – 6/30/06) CATEGORY NO.GRANTED AMT.TAX ABATED REAL ESTATE 76 $625,482.76 SURVIVING SPOUSE 45 $7,875.00 HARDSHIP 2 $1,297.77 VETERANS 302 $110,611.68 BLIND 46 $23,000.00 ELDERLY 29 $14,500.00 WIDOW OF POLICE 1 $4,339.82 TAX DEFERRALS 12 $42,856.54 FY06 REAL ESTATE ABATEMENTS GRANTED: ADDRESS Tax_Allow Owner 9 SCHOOL ST $ 35,140.39 SCHOOL ST 9, LLC 9 MAIN ST $ 904.70 CHAULK,WILLIS J TRUSTEE 858 WORCESTER RD $ 3,147.54 SCIARRA, JULIUS V 853 WAVERLEY ST $ 4,220.96 MCGRATH, SEAN P TR 85 NICHOLAS RD $ 9,074.27 LUOMA JR RONALD P & AUDREY A 8 AMY RD $ 343.60 CROSBY, POLLYANNE 77 ARLINGTON ST $ 2,194.29 MCGRATH, SEAN TR 76 LOCKLAND AVE $ 1,735.02 MIETT, SUSAN & CAVATORTA, RONALD 76 JOYCE RD $ 289.17 GROGAN ROBERT C & E PATRICIA 754 OLD CONN PATH $ 14,146.65 SHARMA MAHESH C & BIMLA 7 SLOANE DR $ 223.40 JACOBS ROBERT E 7 DOESKIN DR $ 1,770.17 MANION, HARRY L III & NOLAND, JAIME M 7 BISHOP ST $ 1,608.68 DENNISON MFG CO 68 CARTER DR $ 791.53 HARGROVE JAMES W 665 FRANKLIN ST $ 1,314.87 MCGRATH, SEAN P TR 661 FRANKLIN ST $ 4,351.86 MCGRATH, SEAN P TR 660 WAVERLEY ST $ 174.54 TAVARES, CARLOS A & MARIA L TRS 650 COCHITUATE RD $ 79,328.43 ROUSSEAU, ALBERT J 625 GROVE ST RR $ 2,559.43 SHORR, DAVID I 617 BELKNAP RD $ 1,327.91 HARRISON, JOHN L JR ET AL TRS 600 WORCESTER RD $ 3,656.61 OASIS REALTY LLC 58 CARTER DR $ 790.40 MILLER, KENNETH R & SANDRA L 502 GROVE ST $ 1,248.53 THOBER KARL B TR
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500 GROVE ST $ 1,089.77 ZREIN, IMAD A & MARITZA 5 SPEEN ST $ 56,702.23 FIVE SPEEN LLC 460 WAVERLEY ST $ 3,226.08 GAIED TR, JOSEPH
46 PRATT ST $ 5,520.31 SOUTH MIDDLESEX NON-PROFIT HOUSING CORP
46 MORTON ST $ 4,779.49 EINIS, DAVID B TR 45 FREEMAN ST $ 182.57 ACHOWICZ ROBERT J & PHYLLIS M 43 CLAFLIN ST $ 5,063.31 SHAPIRO, SIDNEY D & ALAN 42 LAKEVIEW RD $ 119.07 FINLEY JOYCE K 40 MELLEN ST $ 419.58 RAE MANAGEMENT INC 39 BEAVER ST $ 831.97 BEAVER COURT INC 380 WATER ST $ 2,670.57 AGOSTINELLI, VINCENT C 38 CLAFLIN ST $ 916.27 SHAPIRO, SIDNEY D & ALAN
360 UNION AVE $ 4,370.44 SOUTH MIDDLESEX NON-PROFIT HOUSING CORP
35 SALEM END LN $ 274.42 HACKER, JONATHAN L & MARJORIE TR 35 BLACKBERRY LN $ 1,495.74 SHINDLER, STANLEY L & ESTA H 345 OLD CONN PATH $ 153.09 LOMBARDO, KEVIN S 33 RIDGEFIELD DR $ 3,436.02 SLOTNICK GEORGE & JUDITH
32 WINTER PARK RD $ 78.25 OOSTERMAN, HENRY S & BARBARA LOUISE TRST
3 SPEEN ST $ 30,349.60 THREE SPEEN LLC 3 LOWRY RD $ 141.75 GELLER HAROLD J & GLORIA H 277 EDMANDS RD $ 2,345.11 LEFF,ALENA 275 EDMANDS RD $ 2,372.32 CALVER ELINOR D 271 EDMANDS RD $ 2,465.32 HOPKINS CHARLOTTE D 269 EDMANDS RD $ 2,772.63 CARLSON, MICHAEL A 266 WAVERLEY ST $ 9,012.08 PILAVIN REALTY LLC 256 WINCH ST $ 331.13 ROCKETT, C EDWARD & BARBARA 254 WINCH ST $ 331.13 ROCKETT, C EDWARD & BARBARA 252 WINCH ST $ 234.74 ROCKETT, C EDWARD & BARBARA 251 EDMANDS RD $ 2,822.53 MANCUSO, DONALD S & WOOD, LAURA A 249 EDMANDS RD $ 2,762.42 SULLIVAN RICHARD J & KATHLEEN 227 ARLINGTON ST $ 4,476.95 GOSSELS, WERNER F & ELAINE F TRS 201 EDGELL RD $ 7,138.69 SUDBURY RIVER TENNIS CLUB 199 BEAVER ST $ 759.78 ELIO, JACQUES 178 NEWBURY ST $ 376.48 DALY, CHARLES J JR & MEREDITH S 175 WALNUT ST $ 426.39 ARMSTRONG SHEILA ET AL 1668 WORCESTER RD $ 16,531.85 MOTEL 6 OPERATIONS LP 1651 WORCESTER RD $ 22,413.85 SLT REALTY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP 16 BREWSTER RD $ 52.17 CROCKER JR WALTER & JO ANN 1550 WORCESTER RD #619 $ 157.62 GREB MITCHELL J 153 WINTER ST $ 1,893.76 STEACIE, JOHN L TR 153 WINTER ST $ 4,567.13 STEACIE, JOHN L TR 1500 WORCESTER RD #408 $ 157.62
CHAPEL HILL ASSOCIATES LMTD PARTNERSHIP
15 MORTON ST $ 1,197.50 RIVERA, KEVIN & MICHELLE L 140 UNION AVE $ 4,506.52 MCGRATH, SEAN TR 14 WOODSTOCK DR $ 2,241.92 PAUL, MARIA T 12 MOHAWK DR $ 1,682.86 TOLLAND, SUSAN C & ALAN M 115 WOODLAND DR $ 3,718.39 GULL LAWRENCE E & HELEN 115 LINCOLN ST $ 181,326.69 VHS ACQUISITION SUBSIDIARY 11 TARALLI TERR $ 335.66 EINIS, DAVID B 11 DOESKIN DR $ 638.44 VALLELY JOHN P & PATRICIA J 100 CLINTON ST $ 11,342.19 DENNISON MFG CO 10 SPEEN ST $ 18,518.69 TEN SPEEN ST LLC
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1 SPEEN ST $ 23,408.72 ONE SPEEN LLC
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TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
The Mission of Technology Services is to develop and maintain efficient, cost-effective information and telecommunications systems for the Town of Framingham; to assure their successful utilization and enhance productivity by providing the necessary up-time and support services to its customer base; to uphold the Town by-law as it relates to Technology (Section 17); and to provide excellence in Public Service consistent with the Town’s Customer Service Policy. The Technology Services Department is organized by program into 7 service divisions and staffed by 7 full-time equivalents including the Director. Exhibit 1 provides a breakdown of the department’s FY ’07 budget by program. In addition to the budgeted service divisions, Technology Services also provides support to the Department of Public Works enterprise funds for which the general fund is reimbursed and in 2006 at the request of the Finance Committee and Town Meeting has worked closely with the new Library Director to identify the technology requirements of the Library and begin to assume responsibilities for their ongoing support with a $25,000 budget created by a one-time reduction in financial system maintenance. Although Web and Retirement Services are also provided by the department there are no corresponding personnel or operating budget appropriations nor is there a direct appropriation for School financials and payroll supported through the Applications/MIS division. Over the years of my tenure, the Technology Services budget as a % of the general fund budget has steadily held at
1%. In 2006, however, the budget calculates at .6% of the general fund budget; 8% of which ($83,044) is reimbursed through the enterprise funds. In fact, the DPW allocation is more than the entire budget for User Services which supports 375 users with a staff of one and a diversity of applications and requirements. (See Exhibit 2). Administration is responsible for the preparation of the department’s program-based budget, capital and project planning, overall operations management, policies and procedures; development and review of technology bids and requests for proposals (RFPs); advisory to Town Counsel on technology contract negotiations, town-wide technology acquisitions and research and development. The primary responsibility of Applications and Management Information Systems is support for the Town and School Financial system that includes general ledger, budget, purchasing and accounts payable, fixed assets, human resource payroll and personnel, tax and utility billing, and revenue collections. Support includes end-user administration and training to 57 Town and 170 School users along with systems administration; version control and release testing. The Town utilizes fully-integrated municipal software provided by Tyler-Munis. The ongoing development and support of property-based applications that include permits, licenses and inspections is the primary focus of Data Base Services. All Town departments share the same centralized property database and
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application provided by Accela, the same software used in New Orleans to expedite the processing of permits and inspections subsequent to their devastating hurricane, Katrina, in 2005. The ability to share data coupled with town-defined, rules-based workflow not only streamlines processes but has also enabled the integration of these on-line systems for real-time Internet access, display and mapping. In 2006, there were a per diem average of 466 assessing; 52 permits and 39 mapping inquiries per day. The availability of this information via the Framingham town website demonstrates significant gains in the delivery of customer service as well as productivity gains for the departments otherwise charged with providing this public record data. Additional customer service initiatives and examples of the division’s constant commitment to “best of breed” practices include an on-line customer service request form (CSR) and a list-service for town announcements and notifications of postings. 291 CSR requests including streetlight outages and pothole reports were received in 2006 and directed to the appropriate departments for follow-up while 303 web users have signed-up to receive postings and announcements from a variety of categories including town meeting. The division also provides support for GIS and department data bases. Examples are a web-based Cultural Council database of events, artists, organizations and venues and Parks and Recreation on-line program registrations. The Town’s technology infrastructure includes a municipal area fiber network (MAN or I-Net) connecting 50 town and school locations; within building local area networks (LANs) and the wide area network (WAN) that provides access to the Internet; all supported by Network
Services. Network Services is also responsible for all hardware planning, installations, maintenance and support including 39 servers, network switches in 30 town locations and the fiber I-Net head end supervisor switch located in Town Hall; 24 x 7 proactive monitoring and non primetime upgrades. In addition to network management and security, diagnosing computer viruses and filtering SPAM (unsolicited, unwanted email) are increasingly time consuming tasks for this one person division even with detection and filtering software. In this past year alone 81% of emails received by the Town were tagged as SPAM. The actual number of 4.4 million is up from 2.5 million from last year. Maintaining a 100% virus-free track record is a considerable effort with 1330 new viruses, worms and Trojans identified and researched and over 96,279 viruses blocked in 2006. User Services provides end-user Help Desk support, set-up and training, email, Internet, Windows and applications’ systems administration; peripheral troubleshooting, hardware and software inventory maintenance, policy and licensed software audits. User Services is also responsible for PC, printer and software upgrades, daily backups, and Town Meeting equipment and presentation assistance. In 2006, this one person division supported 316 PCs and 98 laptops with 375 users, including 53 new users; answered 1573 Help Desk calls of which 1428 were resolved on the same day; and installed 191 new or replacement PCs in conjunction with the upgrade of our 47 obsolete 400 MHz PCs. In addition to attendance at the annual and all special town meetings to ensure equipment in working order, User Services assisted in
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the development of 55 town meeting presentations in the course of the year. Voice and Office Services is responsible for day to day administration of the department including budget and payables, vendor quotes and administration, telephone contracts and billing audits for school and town local and long distance phone services. The Manager of User Services has also assumed responsibility for the planning, implementation and user training of the Town’s IP telephone and voice mail systems along with Town telephone adds, moves and changes previously contracted with the old system to outside vendors. The effectiveness of the system was proven in the overnight move of the Building Department from the basement level to the second floor of Town Hall earlier this year. In the absence of a designated webmaster, this position also has played a primary role in the development, timely postings and ongoing support of the town’s website www.FraminghamMA.gov. The Public Safety Systems Administrator provides computer and technical support for Police, Fire and the Emergency Operations Center. This position was consolidated and incorporated into Technology Services in 2001 to enable the Police and Fire Departments to focus their personnel on public safety. 2006 accomplishments are highlighted in goal 3 below, not the least of which was a multi-year due diligence effort to evaluate state of the art Pubic Safety computer technologies leading to a joint Police, Fire and Technology Services recommendation to stay with Keystone (the current vendor) and upgrade to their latest software release.
The driving force behind the systems upgrade is the need for new servers. The current Digital Equipment Alpha servers (one in Fire Dispatch and one in Police Headquarters) were purchased in 1994 and are obsolete. (The current single user PC standard, 3.0 Gigahertz, is considerably more powerful that these 244 Megahertz servers that support many more concurrent users). Because both Police and Fire use the same computer aided dispatch (CAD) software in a two server configuration, transactions continually post to both systems located in geographically different locations in town so that in the event one system is down the remaining server is capable of dispatching for both. A capital budget for the upgrades has been prepared and submitted as Technology Services highest priority for FY ’08 Capital Budget consideration. 2006 Accomplishments Goal 1 for 2006 was to develop and fund a plan for an electronic data archive of 20+ years of on-line data as well as data from disparate and obsolete systems currently stored on various forms of magnetic media. Storage Area Network (SAN) and Network Accessible Storage (NAS) devices were funded by Town Meeting in April, 2005 ($91,770) doubling storage capacity and providing the foundation for data redundancy and disaster recovery. The Storage Area Network (SAN) is installed in Town Hall and separates the data from the server enabling the configuration of lower cost servers and a consistent platform for data and recovery. It also enables the backup of this data via the fiber municipal area network to the NAS device located in the Library.
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A second component of the plan was the implementation of a Laserfiche document management system as a public documents repository. To date all meeting minutes received in electronic form (over 1000 dating back to Selectmen’s minutes for 1999) have been converted to text for improved ADA compliance; digitally encoded for optical character recognition (OCR’d) to enhance search capabilities; and made accessible from the web. The new system also enables internal users to post approved public meeting minutes directly to streamline operations and ensure timely availability. A new Munis feature that enables the scanning of paper attachments such as Human Resource employee certifications, resumes, performance reviews and licenses) along with Accounting vendor tax identifications and invoices has also been implemented. About 7000 attachments to date have been integrated with corresponding employee or vendor for easy look-up of original documents. Other initiatives completed in 2006 include the revision of the capital budget program to facilitate the evaluation and rating process and the decentralization of the operating budget process using Munis instead of spreadsheets. The next step in this document management and disaster recovery plan and a goal for spring 2007, is to install an off-site, “hot” spare for our financial and human resource systems modeling the same level of redundancy in place for Public Safety. Also in the plan are new reports to facilitate the year end closing of FY ’07 in June and the preparation of the School’s Department of Education report. The rollout of the second phase of the town-wide phone system upgrade initiated
in 2005 with funding from a Lifeline Grant as well as department and capital funding was identified as Technology Services 2006 Goal 2. The Cisco Voice over the Internet (VOIP) solution that was adopted as the standard for both town and school after much due diligence is currently installed on 89 Town desktops. In addition to the Council on Aging, Parks and Recreation and some Town Hall Departments installed in 2005, 60 new users were added in 2006 including the remainder of Town Hall and the Arena. Scheduled for early 2007 is the main library and budgeted for FY 2008 are all Police and Fire locations. One of the advantages of a Voice over IP solution in a multi-building environment is the reduction in operational costs. School and Town departments using the system can 4 digit dial each other via the municipal area network with no local charge. 58 Centrex lines have been cancelled this year for a total of 86 to date replaced by 344 direct inward dial lines including several at DPW. As part of the implementation strategy, switching local & long distance vendors thru the state contract has cut rates in half. Customer Service has also improved with the replacement of an obsolete voice mail system; enhanced auto-attendant capabilities; integrated voice and e-mail and a new Town of Framingham exchange. Goal 3 provides ongoing support for the network and end-users, existing town-wide applications and department-specific priorities. A performance goal of 99.999% (5 9’s) reliability translates to downtime of less than 5 minutes per year) but is essential to achieve and the highest priority goal of the department. By
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careful planning, software testing, scheduling off-hours maintenance and configuring server redundancy and separate test environments, 100% uptime during prime-time was again achieved in 2006 along with the completion of 91% of help desk calls on the same day. At the request of the Retirement Board, the department assumed a more active support role this year by assisting in the configuration and installation of a new server; adding it to the town network; implementing automated off-site backups and participating in contract reviews for new software. Other projects and accomplishments in 2006 include the implementation of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) as it relates to overtime compensation in the Police Department; the installation of network intrusion detection software to better secure our network; the installation of surveillance cameras at several strategic locations identified by Public Safety; the addition of 6 DPW water and sewer stations to the network; the development of a wireless field inspection module for the Board of Health; the upgrade to the Windows 2003 operating systems for all network servers; the replacement of 47 obsolete (400Mhz PCs); a pilot of wireless field access with the DPW Fixed Assets application and a server upgrade for the Assessing department in preparation for a Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal (CAMA) software upgrade. While the Police Department uses Keystone for reporting, booking and mug shot applications, the Fire Department uses Firehouse for reporting to the state Fire Marshall’s office. A new Firehouse upgrade to release 7 has been installed and is currently being tested. Scheduling and rostering enhancements along with screen changes should make it easier for the
deputy chiefs to do quality control checks of reports completed by the officers. Working in conjunction with the Detective division, police booking procedures, equipment, forms and work areas have been updated, including a new computer and software upgrade; a new label maker, camera and lighting to meet federal mug shot standards; and a new booking form to track “use of force” along with the ability to more readily differentiate adults and juveniles via a new check off box on the “summons complaint form”. The Police and Fire departments are also testing the Keystone “KeyMapp” system as the first step in the availability and use of maps in all public safety vehicles. The system will have the capability of tracking all units by global positioning (GPS) when all map files are verified as 100 percent accurate. In the meantime, the location of all fire hydrants is being made available from the current information to enable quicker set up and response to a fire. The mapping system is also being configured so that during a major Town of Framingham emergency when the Emergency Operations Center is open, a quick visual update of all calls and equipment (both Police and Fire) will be available at the command post. Replacement laptops for all Police cruisers were funded in FY ‘07 and have been purchased and installed in 24 cruisers. Keystone client software and wireless access cards have been added to facilitate preparation of reports from the cruisers. The outdoor wireless access points, deployed at several town locations, facilitate the uploading of these reports and in addition, provide access to the Internet, email and other desktop applications. In-service training of officers in the use of this new reporting
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capability is ongoing and very well received and a training data base has been set up for the Training Officer to track and report each officer's accomplishments. Space on the 3rd floor of headquarters has been designated by Police for an Intelligence Unit and Incident Command Center and designed to maximize the use of technology. A new large screen interactive display panel and equipment, phones and relevant software has been acquired and installed. The Police Department has also requested that several stand-alone data bases such as mug shot name changes, firearm reporting, accident reporting and overtime requests and usage be rewritten to integrate with Keystone so that data can be shared and maintenance of the data can be streamlined and are under consideration for development in 2007. Goal 4 for 2006 was the redesign of the Town’s website for ease of use and ADA compliance along with the conversion of the existing 1500 web pages that comprise the existing site to a content management system to enable decentralized department postings and support. Unfortunately these objectives were unachievable with existing funding and staff resources. This dilemma identifies the type of challenge and frustration faced by the department. Victims of our own success, we recognize the need and worth to the community but have been unable to meet expectation. This year there were 131,788 unique visitors from 61 different countries and over 600 different cities & towns, a tribute to the “best of breed approach” used in the development effort and the commitment to timely postings of materials. A recommendation and plan has been developed, and the project has
been deferred for FY ’08 funding consideration. Strategic Planning - Wireless Broadband Access to the Municipal Network and Internet Technology Services has been evaluating wireless broadband access to its municipal area network for several years, piloting various options and keeping abreast of evolving technologies through a variety of sources and has also undertaken several initiatives with various departments, including Public Safety, that have applications ready to deploy to the field. Only the Police Department currently has field access from their cruisers, however, the low band 150 MHz licensed radio spectrum is insufficient to support the majority of their applications including interactive database queries, reports and forms. In addition to the Police Department, there are Public Works water and sewer fixed asset inventories and Geographic Information System, Engineering and Conservation mapping applications; Fire, Health and Building inspections, permitting and licensing applications; Assessor property and owner/occupancy data, Public Safety hazardous materials and business alarm data, that would be valuable and time-saving to access from the field. Desktop applications including email; schedules and calendars; voice mail and access to the Internet as well as outreach applications from Council on Aging and Health, and surveillance and telemetry applications are some of the applications currently available and identified by their respective departments for field deployment. Municipal wireless access is no longer an option but a necessity. Given the financial impact to adding new employees,
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specifically health care and retirement benefits, and given that many of our larger departments, including Police, Fire, DPW and Inspectional Services have substantial numbers of mobile workers, the ability to bring their desktop to the field is a way for these employees to enhance productivity and complete more calls per day. By eliminating duplicate data entry and adding the ability to reschedule follow-up appointments; receive and respond to voice mail, email and phone calls from the field some communities have documented gains of up to two hours per employee per day (close to a 28% increase in productivity per employee). In addition to customer service, in a Police, Fire or emergency situation there are non-productivity gains as well if just one live is saved due to quicker response and availability of data. For DPW, saving gallons of water with the ability to quickly identify and close a shutoff in the field generates savings and reduces consumption. The question is more a matter of “how to” obtain broad-based consensus for goals, scope, design and funding. Technology Services has and continues to evaluate various alternatives, issues and funding options. Ubiquitous wireless access to meet municipal and especially public safety needs must blanket the entire town without “dead spots” and incorporate sufficient security and management to satisfy public safety including the ability to prioritize public safety over other applications during an emergency situation. In 2006, two successful pilots with two different vendors were undertaken to demonstrate mesh wireless technology and uncover previously unidentified issues to be addressed. One pilot demonstrated Tropos equipment along Edgell Road and
Water Street. Another pilot with Cisco Systems demonstrated the use of their technology along route 135 during the Marathon in April to manage onlookers, close off street intersections and time the re-direction of traffic as well as enhance data communications by providing access to on-line Public Safety systems and voice services via Voice over the Internet to the mobile emergency operations center set up for the duration of the event. Framingham is fortunate to have a fiber infrastructure connecting all town and school locations with additional locations such as water and sewer pumping stations currently being installed. The fiber network called an I-net for institutional network or a MAN for municipal area network was provisioned by RCN in conjunction with their cable franchise agreement. A second network, provided by Comcast, our second cable provider, is used as backup when the primary fails and provides redundancy particularly for Public Safety with automatic failover using the “open shortest path first” (OSPF) protocol. The fiber I-Net with wireless access points at each location provides an ideal infrastructure for the mesh wireless network using town-owned street light arms to house and power equipment. The 802.11 industry standard protocols make sense for no other reason than their ubiquity. Off the shelf wireless cards are 802.11 compliant and laptops currently come standard with these wireless cards at no additional cost. Multi-radio units also provide use of the newly FCC allocated 4.9 MHz licensed frequency for segregating Public Safety and as needed for performance, additional radios for backhaul. Although the primary goal is municipal services, a wireless network also provide
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opportunities to pilot other ventures such as residential wireless; educational initiatives to bridge the digital divide and economic development incentives to attract small businesses and to seek alternative funding sources for their rollout including public/private partnerships and grants through the master planning process currently underway and spearheaded by the Planning Board. Summary In closing, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge my staff including:
Ken Harper - Public Safety; Alan Holt - Data Base; Susan Joyce-Roy - User Services; Scott Jung - Applications/MIS; Jamie Schiavone - Network Services;
and Carly Premo - Voice/Office Services, this year’s recipient of a Customer Service award at the annual employee recognition dinner in October.
They are a talented group or people, each with years of individual experience and specialized expertise. Low staff turnover and a combined 152 years of expertise have enabled a continual increase of productivity, minimizing the learning curve while fostering cross-training, and reducing the need and associated cost of consultants to do more with less during fiscally difficult times. As Director of Technology Services, I continue to play an active role in the Massachusetts Government Information Systems Association (MGISA) as a past president and member of the board. For the past three years I have also served on the board of the MA Digital Government Summit for state and municipal government playing a leadership role in the planning of this annual conference. This past year, I partnered with the state CIO in founding the State/Municipal
Wireless Collaborative hosted and staffed by the MA Technology Collaborative to explore technologies and compare and share expertise. I also acknowledge the Technology Advisory Committee appointed by the Moderator for its support this year. One of our joint projects has been the evaluation and demonstration of electronic voting for Town Meeting and I look forward to other collaborations in the future. Exhibit 3 charts the paradigm shifts during my tenure from a few standalone PCs in 1993 through the installation of the municipal area network in 1996 and access to the world-wide-web in 1998. The Town’s official website was introduced in 2000; the advent of wireless local area networks replaced the need to hard-wire devices in 2002 and the municipal area network was used to deploy a town-wide, Internet based phone system in 2005. In the past year, we have seen a shift in requests for laptops over desktop PCs and a proliferation of interest in field applications as users recognize the versatility and portability of laptops to use both in the office and in the field. Despite many changes in technology over time and ever-increasing demands, staffing has remained constant at 7 FTE’s since 2000 and the budget which had been a constant 1% of the town general fund for several years has decreased from 1% to .6%. Nonetheless, Framingham continues to remain on the forefront of Massachusetts communities in the use of technology thanks to a dedicated, motivated and innovative staff who are interested in researching new technologies on their own and willing to work as a team to solve problems and create success and customer satisfaction.
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Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen F. McCarthy Director
Town of Framingham Technology Services Annual Report 2006 Exhibit 1 - FY ’07 Program Based Budget
Technology Services
Department AdminBudget
$100,047
Network Services
Budget
$252,028
Public Safety Systems
Budget
$192,702
Database Services
Budget$71,780
User Services
Budget$81,912
Applications Services
Budget$255,544
Voice and Office Services
Budget$70,912
Library Services
Budget$25,000
Web Services
Budget$0
Retirement
Budget$0
DPW IndirectCost Allocation
($83,044)
School200 Users
Budget$0
GIS
Budget$17,173
Total Budget $1,067,098*Total FTEs 7
*Includes DPW Indirect Cost
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2006 Calls By Department Number of calls and percentage of total
Arena, 11, 1%
Assessors, 19, 1%
Board Of Health, 80, 5%
Building Inspector, 69, 4%
Building Services, 40, 3%
Chief Financial Officer, 19, 1%
Colltrea, 36, 2%
COA, 56, 4%
Fire Department, 53, 3%
Human Resources, 46, 3%
Engineering, 95, 6%
Cultural Council, 60, 4%
Conservation, 37, 2%
Planning Board, 30, 2%Library, 18, 1%Legal, 1, 0%
Planning Department, 107, 7%
Animal Control, 1, 0%Accountant, 12, 1%
ZBA, 30, 2%
Town Clerk, 58, 4%
Tech Services, 18, 1%
Retirement, 59, 4%
Recreation Department, 87, 6%
Purchasing Department, 47, 3%
Public Works, 230, 15%
Police Department, 125, 8%
Veterans Services, 45, 3%
Selectmen/Town Manager, 38, 2%
School Department, 0, 0%
Sealer Of Weights/Measures, 13, 1%
Town Meeting, 33, 2%
Town of Framingham Technology Services Annual Report 2006
Exhibit 2 – Help Desk Calls by Department
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Town of Framingham Technology Services Annual Report 2006
Exhibit 3 – Paradigm Shifts
FY 94 FY ‘96 FY ‘01 FY ‘03 FY ‘06 FY ‘07
Paradigm Shifts Standalone PCs
Municipal Area Network (I-Net)
World Wide Web/ Internet Access
Wireless Local Area Networks
IP Telephony
Field Access to Desktop and Public Access to Public Info
Op. Budget (% Town G.F.)
$318,656 (0.7%)
$633,213 (1.2%)
$714,034 (1.0%)
$825,844 (1.0%)
$1,039,134 (1.1%)
$1,067,098 (.6%)
Capital Budget
$617,000 PCs, Net
$1.352M PS, MIS
$584,500 MIS Upgrade
$91,770 Data Storage
$40,000 IP Phones for Library
FTE’s 3 6 7 (PS transfer)
7 7 7
Users/Web Visitors/ PCs/Wireless
33 / 0 33 / 0
274 / 0 204 / 0
350/no stats/ 354/0
391 / 77,300 351 / 15
377/ 118,625 350 / 50
375/131,188/316/98
Servers/Locations/ Wireless Access Points/Cameras
1/1/0/0 7/8/0/0 13/24/0/0 24/26 /2/0 28/29/6/11 39/30/12/12
TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE The purpose of the Technology Advisory Committee (TAC) is to provide technical advice to the Town Meeting Standing Committees, the Finance Committee, and the Capital Budget Committee relating to the acquisition by the Town of technology. The committee also reviews budget articles in the warrant which relate to technology, and report their recommendations to Town Meeting. The committee also serves as a resource for the Town to review and recommend the use of technology in the operations of Town functions. The TAC had its first meeting in February of 2005. Six Members are appointed by the Town Moderator. Currently, the
committee is made up of three town meeting members (Peggy Groppo, Brian Sullivan and Ken Schwartz) and three residents (Bob Berman, Andy Limeri and Scott Wadland). The TAC has worked closely with the Town Technology Director to understand the challenges the department faces in providing the technology services required by each of the town departments, as well as its citizens. Budget cuts have left the department understaffed and forced to support aging hardware that is ill equipped to run many of the software programs required by the police, fire and public works departments. This past year, the Rules Committee asked the TAC to investigate options for electronic voting by town meeting
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members during town meetings. The intent was to find an affordable, easy to use solution that would allow recording of every vote by every town meeting member. Not only would this recording allow precinct residents to see how their members voted on every article, it would also speed up the process of determining whether the required majority voted for or against an article. The TAC investigated several options, and recently demonstrated a proposed solution to the Rules Committee. The TAC has lobbied town meeting to increase the staff of the Technology Department. The Department has not added staff since 1996, while their customer base has increased to include the library system and a town website. The
School Department is currently without a technical director, and the Technology Department has offered assistance to the schools as well. In 2007, we intend to continue to lobby for either more staff or a clear redefinition of the services the department can and should offer. We are investigating the feasibility of a wireless internet capability for town employees which has the potential of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our police, fire and public works departments, as well as enhance town wide communications in case of an emergency. Respectfully submitted, Margaret Groppo Chair
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HUMAN RESOURCES
The Human Resource Division consists of the Department of Veterans’ Benefits and Services and the Department of Human Resources. Monica Visco, Human Resource Director is the divisional manager. Human Resources The Department of Human Resources maintains the Town’s municipal departments’ classification and pay plan, manages all phases of the recruitment process for both exempt and nonexempt positions, personnel policies and procedures, labor relations, cost analysis, staff development, employee relations, employee recognition, staffing analysis and training. The Human Resource department also administers the Town’s (all departments) benefits, workers’ compensation, unemployment, and payroll. While Human Resources plays a key role in the negotiations of all collective bargaining agreements, the Department also has the responsibility of translating those collective bargaining agreements for payroll actions and personnel practices throughout the year. Cindy McKellick is the Department’s Benefits Coordinator. She administers health, dental and life insurance programs for Town, School and retirees. Claudia Araujo is the Administrative Assistant for the Department. She sits at the front desk and provides customer service and generalist support. Aimee Carnicelli is the Human Resource Analyst. She has the responsibility of managing the Town’s workers’ compensation cases, budget tracking and cost analysis of benefits expenditures. Anne Wynne, Payroll Administrator, maintains and processes
the Town’s weekly payroll, provides reporting and analysis of all payroll related data and year end functions. Judith Caron is the newest employee assigned to the Department. She is our Human Resource Generalist who manages the employment and recruitment process including advertising, interviewing and unemployment. The Department has spent lots of time and effort being cross trained and integrating our systems. Everyone in the Department can answer a benefit or a payroll related question. Although each staff member has her specialty, we are becoming well versed in all phases of human resources. We work as a team. Veterans’ Benefits and Services Paul Raffa recently joined the Town as the Director of the Veterans’ Benefits and Services Department. The many functions of this office include counseling, advocacy, emergency financial and medical assistance and outreach on behalf of veterans and their dependents. Please refer to the Veterans Services portion of this Annual Report for more details.
Personnel Board The Personnel Board serves in an advisory capacity to the Town Manager and Human Resources Director, who has jurisdiction over personnel functions. This 5 member Board is appointed by the Town Moderator. Board members must be Framingham residents, serve for 3 year terms and may not hold other Town offices. This year, the Personnel Board was very active. Meeting regularly they worked on rewriting and updating the Personnel By-Law and the Affirmative Action Plan.
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The updated Bylaw has been approved by Town Meeting and is in compliance with the Town Manager Act, Collective Bargaining Agreements as well as State and Federal Law. The Board also took an active role in the drafting of the Town’s Affirmative Action Plan. The Plan was brought before the Board of Selectmen and underwent several revisions. The Personnel Board will give the final approval of the Plan in early 2007. The Board also approved the minimum requirements of the Town Manager position which became vacant in 2006. They also approved the finalists in the Assistant Town Manager search which also occurred in 2006. Recruitment 2006 was a busy year for recruitment. The Board of Selectmen hired a consultant to work with the Town Manager hiring committee to find us a new Town Manager with the departure of George P. King Jr. Mark Purple, the Assistant Town Manager worked for a few months as the Interim Town Manager. When he left to take a job in Ashland, Valerie Mulvey was appointed to the position of Interim Town Manager. The search was quite extensive and the process detailed. We wound up with three finalists. The members of the Board and the Human Resource Director did site visits to each of the towns of the final candidates. They, in turn, visited us here in Framingham. Finally, the Board of Selectmen voted to offer the job to Julian M. Suso of Mentor Ohio. He brings twenty eight years of experience in public sector management. He was the City Manager of Mentor Ohio for sixteen years. Julian started working for the Town of Framingham in early June. The Assistant Town Manager vacancy was also filled in 2006. A committee
consisting of the Town Manager, the Director of the Department of Public Works, the Chief Financial Officer and the Director of Human Resources interviewed eight candidates. Those eight were reduced to four finalists. Of those, Timothy Goddard was hired for the position. Timothy comes to Framingham with twenty years of municipal experience. The last nine years were spent as the Town Administrator in Littleton, MA. As presented by the Pilot Committee during the last annual Town Meeting and as voted by that Town Meeting, the Town of Framingham began its search for a Human Services Program and Policy Coordinator. One of the members of the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manger, the Police Chief and the Human Resource Director interviewed several candidates for the position. Two finalists were selected and the offer was made to Alexis Silver. Alexis has more than twenty years of experience in the Human Services field. She starts working for the Town on January 8, 2007. Employee Recognition According to the Board of Selectmen’s Customer Service Policy, the mission of every division and department is to provide quality customer service to both internal and external customers. The policy provides guidelines on employee responsibility, standards of performance and measurement of performance. In conjunction with the Customer Service Policy, an Employee Recognition Program was established. This program recognizes employees for promoting the Town’s commitment to operate in an efficient customer service orientated manner and awards special recognition to employees who have demonstrated extraordinary efforts in the delivery of customer service. We amended the Recognition program
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this year by eliminating the Employee of the Quarter. The annual Employee Recognition Dinner was held on October 18, 2006. This year, the event was held at the Joseph P. Keefe Technical School. The students were involved in every aspect of the event. The graphic design class designed and created the program which was distributed that evening as well as the banner which was draped across the hall. The culinary arts students helped set up the dining room and prepare as well as serve the food. The food was excellent and the environment was welcoming and warm. Over 200 employees, family and friends participated in the festivities while enjoying dinner and recognizing those employees who reached milestones in their employment with the town as well as those who received coveted Customer Service Awards. Employees who, this year, reached the milestones of completion of five, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five, thirty, thirty-five and forty years of service were awarded service pins in recognition of their commitment to the Town. Thirty-three employees received five year pins, twenty-two received ten year pins, nine received fifteen year pins, eighteen received twenty year pins, eleven received twenty-five year pins, four received thirty year pins and one received a thirty five year pin. Nominations for recipients of the Customer Service awards are made throughout the year. In the month of October, a committee comprised of Town employees, Managers and Town officials met to select the winners. The group was faced with the daunting task of reviewing the many nominees and choosing those efforts that stood out among the many
accomplishments of our colleagues. Ultimately, the following employees were selected as recipients of the award: Nancy Lomas has worked for the Town for over 10 years. After having worked in the Accounting Department for several years, Nancy recently transferred to the Library as an Administrative Assistant. She was nominated by Technology Services staff for her consistent customer service orientation and getting her job done proficiently and accurately. “Nancy is always cheerful, helpful & interested in learning how to make tasks more efficient and less cumbersome on all.” “Nancy is a pleasure to work with.” Lucinda (Cindi) Natoli is a tremendous asset to the Treasurer/Collectors office as well as the Town of Framingham where she has worked for the past 4 years. “Cindi is the paragon of what a customer service representative should be. She comes to work with a smile every day and consistently faces adversity with patience and kindness.” Scott Morelli is the Executive Assistant to the Town Manager. His position demands customer service orientation, but Scott goes above and beyond to be helpful as opposed to demanding. “His goal is to be shown once; to take notes and to learn so that he only needs to call once. From there, he is able to handle the reoccurrence of the problem on his own.” Scott was nominated and selected for making all of our jobs easier and being a great asset to the Town. Amy Putney is the Fiscal Coordinator for the Department of Public Works. She accepted this position in November 2004 and had to learn the system with very little training. She took the initiative, registered for additional MUNIS training and has attended several Business and Professional
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Development classes. Once proficient, Amy trained and supervised the division Program Managers in the use of the MUNIS accounts payable system. Amy rises to the occasion each and every time she is asked. She is truly an exceptional employee. Nery Otero is the Payroll Coordinator of the Department of Public Works. She was nominated for her roll in the snow operations this past winter and her participation as a member of the Framingham Emergency Management Agency team. Last winter, a 9 month old baby fell, hitting her head at school. Metro West Medical Center was called. Nereida, who also works as a translator for the team, comforted both mother and child during their ordeal. Thanks for going above and beyond Nery. Joanne Panarelli is assigned to the Water Department. On a daily basis, many elderly customers visit the DPW for assistance with their bills. Joanne goes out of her way to lend an ear and offer an explanation in a language everyone can understand. She not only solves their issues, but gives them other options that would help them. Joanne has a heart of gold, she offers to hold the door for them and help them to their cars. “The world would be a nicer place with more Joanne’s in it!” Robert Burlingame is the Highway Supervisor for Traffic Systems in the Department of Public Works and has worked for the Town for 20 years. While assessing the icy road conditions on the West side of Framingham during a snow storm last December, he observed an elderly man lying in his driveway in shorts and a tee shirt. He was barely conscious and covered in blood from a head wound. Bob immediately called for an ambulance to be dispatched while tending the man’s
badly bleeding head. After several days in the hospital, the man was released. The following is an excerpt from a letter from the injured man: “It’s hard to express how profoundly appreciative I am for the help he gave me. God only knows how long I could have been there, semi-conscious and unable to move. To have first hand knowledge that “Good Samaritans” are still out there is very comforting.” “We should all be gratified that someone with his compassion and sense of caring is out there on the streets of Framingham, not only doing his job, but unafraid to go above and beyond.” Carly Premo is the Systems Project Manager for the Technology Department. She has worked for the Town since 1997. Recently, Carly was able to identify modifications that would be made to the existing pay phone in the Memorial Building to make it TTY accessible. She worked closely with Verizon to ensure the install went according to the established timeline that was established by the Architectural Access Board. “Not only was Carly’s customer service exemplary in this case, but her assistance has also helped to ensure that the pay phone is accessible to more of our community.” She also saw the Town offices through a major telephone system conversion and did so with professionalism & patience. Phyllis Clopper has provided extraordinary customer service in the Circulation Department of the Library for over 30 years. She is unfailingly cheerful and enthusiastic in her work and demonstrates a high level of patience and empathy whenever she interacts with library patrons. Her creativity, sound judgment, and integrity are qualities Phyllis has shared with her co-workers and the community. Phyllis is a model of customer service for all of us and we are
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most grateful for her many years of service with the library. Ann Steacie is the Supervisor of Social Services Outreach at the Council on Aging and has worked for the town for over 25 years. At times, Ann works with difficult and needy clients. She always tries to find a resolution to their problems whether they are in need of housing, legal advice, financial assistance, or medical information. Ann never denies service to or makes and unfounded diagnosis concerning a seniors’ lack of abilities. She is committed to bringing seniors and young children together in an Intergenerational Program that she has organized with Brophy Elementary School. Ann is very invested in her commitment to the Customer Service Policy of the Town of Framingham and is well deserving of this award, as she serves brilliantly in her position. Officer John Vizakis has been a Police Officer in the Town of Framingham since 1987. One night this past August, Officer Vizakis was the first to respond to a 911 call in the middle of the night. A resident called to report her son was having trouble breathing, her husband was out of town and she was alone with her two boys. Officer Vizakis took immediate control of the situation, first by assessing the boy’s condition, then calming the mother by sharing a personal experience. The ambulance came and it was necessary for the boy to go to the hospital. Officer Vizakis sent a cruiser to the residents’ parent’s house to wake them up so they could come and watch her other son. Until they arrived, the officer stayed at the resident’s house to look after the sleeping boy. The resident was sincerely grateful: “I couldn’t think of anyone better to keep him safe! He really saved the day. We are so grateful that you have such a fine office
like Office Vizakis on the Framingham Police Department.” James St. Andre is a Data Collector in the Assessors Office. On a daily basis, he demonstrates great customer service skills. He always goes above and beyond. When dealing with elderly residents, he has a very calming effect on them when they are upset over the rising values and taxes on their homes. He consistently helps each customer to the fullest of his ability, regardless of how busy he is with other office-related duties. He is meticulous in his preparation and dedication to this office and the Town. It’s always nice to see Jim’s smiling face around the Memorial Building. Brian Rogan has been the Special Education Director for the Department of Parks and Recreation for 25 years. He spends numerous hours training, evaluating and working with the staff as well as special needs students. His leadership, dedication, passion and style go beyond the day to day job description. In addition to his directorship of the McCarthy Camp, he has taken it upon himself to help supervise the School Departments Learning Adventures program, which is designed for autistic children. His day doesn’t end at 3:30 when camp gets out; he spends time checking back with parents and teachers regarding his participant’s activities for the day. Quite often Brian will be at the office until 6 or 7PM after a long day with the children. Words cannot express the gratitude our department feels for the impact Brian has made in the lives of the children in Framingham. Officer Edward Burman has been a Police Officer in the town since 1994 and everyone knows him. This summer, Officer Burman gave a safety talk to the Oaks Neighborhood Association at St.
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Georges Church. He made quite an impression on the neighborhood group. He was extremely enthusiastic in his delivery of the information. The Co-President of the organization wrote: “You could see his passion for his job just by the way he told us how the Police Department works to ensure the town’s safety. If everyone could be as passionate about what they do as Officer Burman, this world would be a much happier place.” Officer Burman provided extremely useful safety tips and changed the way the Neighborhood Association viewed the police force. He made it clear that the goal of the force was to actively and aggressively fight crime. “Officer Burman deals outwardly with the public because of his job as a safety officer, and I must say, he is a wonderful ambassador for the Framingham Police Department. This example, along with numerous other letters continually received by the Police Department, reflects Officer Burman’s daily performance, passion and extraordinary service to the community and is reflective of the town’s slogan “Dedicated to Excellence in Public Service.
Recipients of the 2006 Customer Services Award, presented at the annual Employee Recognition Dinner Workers’ Compensation Improving our management of work related injuries continues to be a focus in 2006. We continue to closely monitor all
claims as they are filed and actively track the progress of all employees who are injured in the workplace. We have dramatically lessened the number of open cases for the Town. We’ve tried to more closely work with departments to get employees back to work by utilizing light duty assignments, retraining them or sending them to physical therapy. The focus on avoiding injuries all together and medically examining repeat injuries has been established though case analysis and safety training. We also are involved in ongoing medical case management for all claims, coordinating with utilization review standards to assure all bills we pay are reasonable and medically necessary for the work related injury. Working with our third party administrator, we discount all bills paid using the maximum allowed discount. We have practices in place that assure reporting is done timely, avoiding penalties, and we continue to hold quarterly reviews of all open cases to assure that care continues to reasonable and necessary and that we are doing everything possible to return the employee safely to the work force although it is sometimes impossible to do so. These cases are carefully evaluated by legal and claim representatives to assure that settlement is the best option for the town before any settlements are made.
Payroll The payroll process runs smoothly. Anne Wynne, Payroll Administrator, oversees the entire process. She trains new staff and is a guide for all users. Her ability to audit the payroll and oversee the system is outstanding. Employees track their leave accruals on their pay stubs as well as see their detailed and cumulative deductions. Group Insurance
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The seventh annual Health, Wellness and Benefits Fair was held in Nevin’s Hall on November 2, 2006. Employees and retirees were given access to dozens of local health related businesses and organizations as well as the Town’s benefits providers. Those employees who attended were able to have their blood pressure tested, have five minute massages, cholesterol and glucose screening, try acupuncture, donate blood and learn about the many services provided locally which exist to improve their health and wellness. As an added bonus, winners were drawn all day long for gift certificates, free services and other prizes. As the event was held in conjunction with open enrollment, employees and retirees were given the opportunity to meet with and learn about the benefits available to them. We are in year two of the three year agreement between the Town of Framingham and the Health Care Coalition. The increased co-payments have been beneficial in saving the Town money. We are also in year three of the Town’s wellness plan. BlueCross BlueShield of Massachusetts has assigned a wellness coordinator to assist us in helping our employees to focus on developing healthier habits, become consumer driven health care users to reduce the number of claims and illnesses. We provided training to the staff in topics like Ergonomics, proper lifting, Lyme disease and how to use your medical coverage. Unemployment Another focus of the Department has been to improve the unemployment costs incurred by the Town. A training class was offered to all division and department heads on how to avoid these costs. Better personnel management, progressive discipline and documentation were the
focus of the class. Although some of these charges are unavoidable, we have taken an active role in making those that are avoidable obsolete. Training We offered a course to managers on how to conduct a performance evaluation and how to effectively refer an employee to the Employee Assistance Program. We also offered classes on working with difficult people and conflict resolution, respect for differences and avoiding harassment. We hosted several healthy luncheons for Town employees. Speakers presented information on fitness and exercise, health screenings and discounts on local fitness facilities. We also hosted a twelve week breakfast group that met weekly, weighed in, shared recipes and tips on fitness and weight loss. Speakers visited that group to offer support and guidance in those areas as well. The employee who lost the most pounds at the end of the twelve weeks won a prize. We also organized and tracked a “Walk at Work” program. BlueCross BlueShield provided pedometers and employees were given an additional thirty minutes to walk every day. The personal health assessment was promoted to staff as a way of tracking habits and providing tips for improving wellness. In conclusion, the Human Resources Division and Personnel Board wish to extend sincere appreciation to all employees and members of the Town’s boards, committees and commissions for their continued support in assisting us to fulfill our goals and objectives. Respectfully submitted, Monica Visco Director
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PUBLIC SAFETY
POLICE DEPARTMENT
A Message from Chief Carl The Framingham Police Department is charged with protecting and serving those who live, work and travel in Framingham. The Department accomplishes its mission by establishing partnerships with the community, using innovative problem-solving approaches, and recognizing the value of strong leadership and organizational accountability. In an environment of lean budgets, the Department continues to aggressively seek revenues through grant funding to assist in accomplishing its mission. Our town-wide community survey is one of the core tools used to identify areas upon which to focus our resources. In conjunction with crime and call analysis we deploy officers into the community with purpose and direction. As the Department embarks on a new era of policing, we face significant challenges reflective of large urban communities; our greatest resource continues to be our personnel. To capitalize on this we recruit and hire only the best individuals to be Framingham police officers. Approximately 60% of all persons attempting to become Framingham Officers are disqualified from the process. Only the best and the brightest earn the opportunity to wear a Framingham Police badge. The Department is responsive in its efforts to address issues such as domestic terrorism, homeland security, gang activity, an increase in crime and calls for service, and the ongoing obligation to maintain discipline, order, and accountability within the agency. To meet
these challenges, the Department has reorganized to increase its operational capacity; we have strengthened our relationships with outside law enforcement agencies and developed an extraordinary relationship with both the Fire Department and the Department of Public Works. This close and seamless relationship has allowed us to implement a public-safety based team response to incidents of any scale. The coalescence of all of these efforts provides Framingham's citizens with a high degree of safety, security, and excellence in public service Personnel 2006 Police Personnel Resources Chief 1 Deputy Chiefs 3 Captain 1 Lieutenants 11 Sergeants 12 Administrative Aide 1 Assistant to the Chief 1 Patrol Officers 87* Civilian Staff 12 Animal Control Officers 2FT, 2PT Crossing Guards 19 *this figure can change due to injuries and military duty status. The Deputy Chiefs and Captain Chief Carl is ably assisted by three Deputy Chiefs, Craig Davis, Kenneth Ferguson, and Steven Trask. All three are capable of assuming the duties of the Chief in his absence. Deputy Chief Craig Davis is a 20 year veteran, beginning his career with the department in 1985. Soon after he started,
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he was assigned to the Detective Bureau, where he worked for many years, several of those in the Narcotics Unit. Davis held the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain in various capacities before his promotion to Deputy Chief in 2001. Deputy Davis primarily oversees the administrative functions within the department. He has initiated many innovative programs within the department, to include one of the state’s first DARE school-based drug education programs, the Jail Diversion Program (a new approach to police response to people with mental illness), and the Special Operations Unit (SOU). Davis completed a systematic evaluation of the department’s policies, procedures, and protocols. He ensured compliance with the highest law enforcement professional standards leading to the State Accreditation. Davis graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Davis holds a Bachelors degree from Northeastern University in Criminal Justice, and a Masters degree from Framingham State College in Public Administration. Deputy Chief Kenneth Ferguson began his career with the department in 1985 as a Patrol Officer. Within six years, he was assigned to the Detective Bureau, where he worked both as a general duty Detective and in the Narcotics Unit. In January of 1996 he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and returned to the Patrol Division as a Patrol Supervisor. Promoted to Lieutenant in July of 1998, Deputy Ferguson remained in Patrol Division management until May of 2004, when he was promoted to his current rank of Deputy Chief of Operations. Deputy Ferguson holds both a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Criminal Justice from Western New England College, and is a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum Senior Management Institute. As
the Commander of the Patrol Division he has dedicated himself to collaborating with citizens. He fosters respect from the public and the members of the department. Deputy Ferguson is dedicated to Community Policing and Problem Oriented Policing principles. Deputy Chief Steven Trask is a 20 year veteran of the Framingham Police Department As the emergency services director he is responsible for the Town of Framingham’s Emergency preparedness. He is highly organized and brings a wide scope of policing experience to this important position. Captain Paul Bridges is the Patrol Division Commander and has served with the Framingham Police Department over 37 years. The three Patrol Shift commanders report directly to him. He is responsible for the integration of patrol strategies through the use of crime analysis. He has worked in many positions within the department. His past assignments have included Patrol Commanding Officer, Commanding officer of the Bureau of Investigations, Administrative Services Commander, and training coordinator. Captain Bridges encourages decision making in his subordinates. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Law Enforcement from Northeastern University. Retirements Lieutenant Steven Wuorio was a 19 year veteran. He transferred from Maynard Police in 1982. Lt. Wuorio has served in the detective bureau from 1984 to 1998. In 1998, Lt. Wuorio established the Citizens Police Academy and was named the liaison officer for Framingham State College. He served as the departments Safety Officer. He also headed up the Elder Affairs programs for the department, establishing the RUOK
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program. Lt. Wuorio is a 1992 graduate of the F.B.I. National Academy and holds an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from Middlesex Community College. Officer James Smith retired after 32 years of excellent service with the Framingham Police Department. During his tenure he was honored by the South Middlesex Men’s Club, with their “Leadership Award for Community Service”. Officer Smith was honored for his meritorious service to the community and his mentoring of juvenile offenders. Officer Smith has played an active role in the lives of youthful offenders through his participation in various Community Service Programs. We wish Officer Smith a wonderful retirement.
Newly retired Officer James Smith (L) and Detective Paul Kelley (R) at their retirement party
Detective Paul Kelley joined the Framingham Police Department on September 9, 1973. During his tenure with the Framingham police department he received many commendations for his police work. As a detective he became known for his skilled and compassionate work with child victims. His expertise in investigations will be sorely missed.
Officer Michael Degnan was a well-liked officer that wouldn’t hesitate to offer his help. His optimistic attitude and
commitment to serving the public was put to the test in 2005. He and Officer William Fuer were investigating a minor crime and ambushed and brutally stabbed. Despite being repeatedly stabbed they fought and subdued their attacker eventually taking him into custody. Mike suffered life threatening injuries. Drawing on his training, skill, courage and tenacity, both survived and received the George L. Hanna Award Medal of Valor. Mike returned to work as an inspiration to his peers. Officer George Carey was a 34 year veteran of the Framingham Police department. He started his career walking a beat as did newly hired officers those days. He ended his career the same way. He was a true community police officer before the term was coined. A visible presence at the train station, he made it his personal business to reduce fear and crime. His easy going and approachable personality will be missed by the citizens and his peers. Officer James Finn returned to policing after a long absence as an insurance claim adjuster. His career in Law Enforcement spans three decades. He was a respected “Old School” officer that relied upon knowledge of law blended with large doses of common sense. He liked to work the downtown business district where he quietly went about to identify community problems. He made it a point to identify persons that would benefit from social service resources within the community. He helped many individuals right themselves from addictions and illnesses through his contacts. Lieutenant Vincent Alfano left to become the Chief of Police of Bolton, Massachusetts. Lieutenant Alfano and was promoted to Sergeant in 1995. Lt. Alfano has served as the department’s violence
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prevention and juvenile officer and was the department’s firearms instructor and a team leader for the CIRT Team. Lt. Alfano has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration from Norwich University. The citizens of Bolton are lucky to have such a positive leader, he will be missed here. Officer Benjamin Grigg resigned to accept a position as a consultant and trainer for DynCorp. He came to Framingham Police as a career marine. He was a soft spoken and driven man. Ben was a hardworking and well-liked officer. Officer Thomas Myers came to Framingham as a lateral transfer from Arlington Police. His affable and engaging personality was an advantage on the streets. He could talk to anybody and diffuse volatile situations. His communication skills surely prevented many situations from going from bad to worse. Tom retired due to an injury he received on duty that prevented his return to work. Promotions Deputy Chief Steven Trask started his career with the Framingham Police in 1987 as a patrol officer. He holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Westfield State College and a Master of Arts Degree in Public Administration from Framingham State College. Prior to his promotion he was the department’s Safety Officer. He also served as the department’s Prosecutor. He has also served as the D.A.R.E., and juvenile officer. Deputy Chief Trask is now the towns’ emergency management director. Lieutenant Michael Hill began his career in 1974 as a patrol officer. He was assigned to the detective Bureau in 1980. Mike was the longest serving detective in recent department history. He is
considered one of the best investigators and has been tasked to perform the most sensitive of all investigations. Lt. Hill attended the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Framingham State College and a graduate degree from Westfield State College. Lt. Hill is the departments Bureau of Professional Standards investigator. Lieutenant Patricia Grigas has previous policing experience in Sudbury, Groton and Lunenburg. She has dedicated herself to learning. She is an instructor for the Mass. Police Training Council. She was the first computer crimes investigator in the Framingham Police Dept. She has the distinction of being the first female lieutenant in the history of the Framingham Police Department. Patty is assigned as the assistant commanding officer for the evening shift. Lieutenant Michael Siaba began his career in 1986 as a patrol officer. He became the departments D.A.R.E. officer before being assigned to the detective bureau. Lieutenant Siaba holds a B.A. in Sociology from U-MASS Boston, a M.A. in Public Administration from Framingham State College, and a M.S. in Criminal Justice from Western New England College. He has been very active with the Pelham Housing Substation. He is also a member of the Special Operations Unit as a Crisis Negotiator. He is assigned to the Midnight shift as assistant Commanding Officer. Sergeant Robert Downing is an 11 year veteran of the Framingham Police Department. He is also in the Army Reserves and in the spring returned from active military duty in Iraq. He was promoted after his return. He has extensive experience in weapons and is the department’s primary M-16 weapons
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instructor. He is an expert in Chemical Weapons and devices as well. His instruction as the Officer in charge of the Firearms training unit is unparalleled. His outstanding leadership and motivational qualities are an asset to the patrol force. He has a B.S. in Criminal Justice with a double minor in Psychology and Sociology from Westfield State College. He is assigned to the evening shift. Sergeant Michael Loughman started his career in 1986 as a patrol officer. Sergeant Loughman was instrumental in developing the Motorcycle Unit. Through Sergeant Loughman’s vision, he has developed the Framingham Police motorcycle unit into one of the safest, efficient, and best equipped, motor units in the state. Mike is assigned to the Midnight shift as a patrol supervisor. Sergeant Kathryn Esposito started her career as a dispatcher in the Framingham Police Department. As her interest in Law Enforcement grew she became a Framingham Police Officer in April of 1994. She has shown interest in developing her career by attaining several important positions. She served as a Domestic Violence Investigator, Crisis Negotiator, and is presently one of our Defensive Tactics Instructors. Her assignment is Midnight shift patrol supervisor. Sergeant Christopher Montuori has extensive experience in evidence collection and preservation. He has received many accolades from private citizens, businesses, and government agencies for his efforts. Prior to the Framingham Police, he has worked for the Boston Park Rangers. He has a B.S. degree from Unity College in Environmental Science and Conservation Law. Chris is assigned to the Midnight shift as a patrol supervisor.
New Hires Christopher Burrell is a lateral transfer from Northbridge Police. Prior to Northbridge, he worked for the Truro and Provincetown Police Departments. He has experience as a School resource officer. He has a Bachelors Degree in Sociology with a focus on Criminal Justice. He presently works the day shift. Brian Curtis is a student Officer attending the Transit Police Academy. He will join the force after his graduation in February, 2007. His prior employment was with Bose Corporation. He was a Senior Security Officer responsible for directing the private security company charged with facility and employee protection. He is highly respected by his former supervisors. Brian has a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice from Worcester State College. Paul Duncan is a lateral transfer from the Shrewsbury Police Department. He had various assignments there such as Traffic Unit, and Detective unit. He has extensive narcotics investigation experience. Prior to Shrewsbury, he worked for Mendon Police and attained the rank of Sergeant. Paul has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Curry College. He presently works the day shift. Christopher Eliadi is a lateral transfer from Shrewsbury Police Department. He has a Bachelors of Science Degree from U-Mass Dartmouth and a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice and is completing his Masters degree at Anna Maria College. He is a focused and dedicated officer. He is presently assigned to the day shift.
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Officer Richard Fuer (L) and Officer Jason Lurie (R) at their swearing in ceremony
Richard Fuer is the son of veteran Framingham Police Officer William Fuer. Officer William Fuer is a recipient of the Hanna Award for Valor. Richard was previously employed by the Department of Defense Police Dept. at the Natick Army Labs. Richard was described as a man that leads by example. Richard attended the 23 week Lowell Police Academy and Bill proudly pinned his sons badge to his chest at the Nov. 13 graduation. Richard is presently assigned to the evening shift with a Field Training officer for ten weeks. James Girotti is a student officer and class president at the Transit Police Academy. He served with the Army National Guard and completed his service as a Lieutenant stationed at Natick Army Labs. Upon discharge he started with the Department of Defense Police and was promoted to Lieutenant. Joseph Godino was hired as a communications specialist. His background in sports and coaching displays an attitude of teamwork. The dispatcher environment is fast paced and requires those assigned to work well with their peers in order to provide immediate emergency response. Jason Lurie started his career as a communications specialist for the
Framingham Police Department in 2000. Jason’s calm demeanor and courteous manner served him well in the hectic dispatch area. He is a skilled martial artist and has assisted the Framingham Police Department defensive Tactics instructors as well as the Special Operations Unit countless times. He developed a burning desire to become an officer after immersing himself in his dispatch duties. He attended the 23 week Lowell Police Academy and graduated in November. He is presently assigned to the evening shift with a Field Training Officer for ten weeks. Felipe Martinez is a lateral transfer from the Leicester Police Department. He began his career in Law Enforcement as an intern for the Worcester Police Dept Identification Unit and Gang units. He moved on to Somerville Police Dept. as an Auxiliary Police Officer. He also served with the Brewster Police Department. Felipe is a Defensive Tactics instructor working on his own time for the Mass Police Training Committee and Lowell Police Academy. Felipe has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University. Thomas McCarthy is presently a student officer at the Transit Police Academy. His desire to be a police officer began early in his childhood. His dedication to the community has been demonstrated by his volunteer efforts. He was an intern for the Framingham Police when he was in high school. He then volunteered his time as an Auxiliary Police Officer in Framingham. In addition to his running own successful landscaping business he was also working for the Hull Police as a seasonal police officer. He learned to speak Portuguese feeling that he could better serve Framingham’s’ Portuguese speaking community. Thomas graduated from Boston College with a Bachelor of Science
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Degree, and is completing his Masters program there as well. Christian Miller is a lateral transfer from the Transit Police Department. He started his career in 2002. He distinguished himself as a level headed and smart officer. He was well respected and recognized for excellent Police work while at the “T.” He was commended for his outstanding ability to dispatch and manage a murder investigation that led to the arrest of the murder suspect. He was also commended for his involvement in the arrest of a robbery suspect. Because of his ability to coordinate and work with other officers, this led to the arrest of three suspects and recovery of property. We welcome Christian’s dedication to the core values of policing and his perseverance. Christian is assigned to the day shift. John Moore started his career in 1998 as a volunteer for the Framingham Auxiliary Police. He later accepted employment as a communications specialist. Along with his service to Framingham he was a reserve in the U.S. Army. In 2003 John attended the Police Academy and was a Police Officer for Millville Mass. John went to Iraq and proudly served as an advisor to the Iraqi Army. John became a Framingham Police Officer in April. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree from U-Mass Boston. He is assigned to the evening shift. Timothy O’Toole is a lateral transfer from Shrewsbury Police. He has extensive policing experience. He was an intern then an officer in Pepperell. At his own expense He put himself through the Police Academy He holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Salem State College. He is completing his Masters in Criminal Justice at Anna Maria College. Tim is assigned to the evening shift.
Paul Patriarca transferred from Newton Police Dept. He was a young teenager when he started working for Provincetown & Edgartown Police Department’s. He paid his own way through the Police Academy and was immediately hired by Northeastern University Police. After a year he was hired by Newton Police and specialized in communications technology. He was a department instructor as well as worked with the explorer post and auxiliary police. He earned a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice from Western New England College. He also earned a Masters Degree in Law Enforcement from Western New England College. He is assigned to the Midnight Shift. Steven Patriarca is a lateral transfer from Newton. He is the brother of Paul Patriarca. Steven started his career in 2003 at the Newton Police Department. He has experience as an Auxiliary Officer for Newton and Randolph Police since 1998. Steve has an Associates degree in Criminal Justice from Mount Ida College. He continued schooling at Northeastern University majoring in Criminal Justice. His education continued at Western New England College where he was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. Steve presently works the day shift. Arthur Sistrand transferred from Ashland Police after ten plus years of policing. Arthur is a highly trained motor vehicle crash investigator having attended many schools involving crashes of Motor Vehicles, Pedestrians, Motor Cycles, Rail grade crossings and commercial vehicle enforcement. Arthur has a background in Civil engineering from Roger Williams College. He is completing his degree at Westfield State College in Criminal
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Justice. Arthur is assigned to the midnight shift. Stephanie Sheehan was hired as a dispatcher and works the evening shift. She has volunteered her time as an Auxiliary Police Officer in Framingham. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University. She spent 2 years with Brookline Police as an intern. Stephanie is a calm reassuring voice for many callers. She is presently assigned to the evening shift. Patrol Division The foundation of any Police department is the Patrol Division. This is the largest subdivision within our organization, and provides what most citizens regard as traditional police services. Except for what is known as the “Swing Shift,” several Officers who work slightly modified hours to cover the overlap period between traditional shifts, most Officers in the Patrol Division are assigned to one of three shifts. Standard shift hours are the “Day Shift” (7.45am-4.10pm daily), the “Evening Shift” (4.10pm-12.10am), and the “Midnight Shift” (12.10am-8.10am). Officers work a rotating weekly schedule, working for 5 days, then off for 3 days, and then back working for 5 days, etc. This alternating schedule means Officers have different days off every week, but it is necessary to provide daily round the clock and weekend Police coverage. There is no question shift work places a strain on Officers and their families, particularly on weekends and holidays. However, it is necessary to provide adequate police coverage with the staffing levels available, and a characteristic of the public safety profession. Officers may request a shift change once a year during a “Shift Bid” process, which is contractually based upon seniority of time with the department.
In 2006 the Department has gone through significant changes. The most challenging of all are issues of maintaining staffing levels. We have seen an increase in calls for service and have met the challenges of continuing to deliver the best in quality policing. The Framingham Police enjoys the reputation as being one of the best police departments to work in the state. Recruitment and training are top priorities that attract men and women to join our department. As you will see later in this report significant personnel changes have occurred as we strive to better serve the citizens that live, pass through or work in Framingham. Day Shift The day shift is commanded by Lieutenant Paul Farley, a senior department veteran. His executive officer, Lt. Kevin Slattery is pro-active and his knowledge of narcotics enforcement is second to none. They are responsible for managing a shift that is traditionally busy due to the extraordinary vitality of our community. The day shift must provide police services to the tremendous influx of employees working in the town’s huge commercial, industrial, and retail base, the thousands of shoppers who patronize our local businesses, the commuting students who attend Framingham State College, and the countless thousands who pass through our community on the major routes of the Massachusetts Turnpike, Routes 9, 126, 135, and the commuter rail services. This is also the period of the day when our schools are in session, with thousands of children making the daily trek to school and back. Besides providing response to emergency 911 and non-emergency calls for service, the Day Shift is responsible for traffic enforcement, general patrol, prisoner transport to court, foot patrol of the Downtown area, and a model Community Police Substation
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located within the Pelham Apartments complex. The shift “Downtown Initiative” responds to the needs of residents, customers, and merchants in the downtown area. Officers are seen riding bicycles, or walking a beat downtown and at the train station. The Pedestrian/Crosswalk safety Project enforced safety compliance of both drivers and pedestrians to obey the rules of the road, and insure a safe smooth flow of traffic. The Community Policing Unit within the Pelham Apartments Substation continues its popular summer reading program, and maintains a library for young children. Officers are not only engaged in the regimen of daily police activity, but work on other projects/assignments that affect the quality of life in our community. Homeland Security has become an added responsibility, with Officers monitoring high risk areas. Shift Officers also conduct directed patrols, compliance checks, and focusing on citizens concerns, or intersections/roadways with high accident rates. Lt. Paul Farley Lt. Kevin Slattery Sgt. Donald Spaulding Sgt. Scott Brown Sgt. Richard Pomales Officer Owen Babineau Officer Christopher Burrell Officer David Carlo Officer Deborah Capobianco Officer Delores Coots Officer Paul Duncan Officer Chris Eliadi Officer James Finks Officer Peter Galvani Officer James Gavin Officer Philip Hurton Officer Larry Linehan Officer Felipe Martinez Officer Michael McCann
Officer John Moore Officer Christian Miller Officer Brad Newman Officer Paul O’Connell Officer Steven Patriarca Officer Peter Tessicini Evening Shift The Evening shift is commanded by Lieutenant William Delaney. His experience and insight is a great asset to this busy shift. He is assisted by his executive officer, a most capable department veteran, Lt. Patricia Grigas. Her background as an instructor with the Mass. Police Training Committee, as well as investigatory background is a resource to the men and women of this busy shift. Lt. Delaney believes that pro-active policing with compassion is not only a theme for the Town of Framingham, but for the individual officers of the evening shift. The large volume of calls for service and self initiated activity exemplify the tireless work ethic. Officers are engaged in both the regimen of daily police activity and work on other projects/assignments that affect the quality of life in our community. Homeland Security has become an added responsibility, with Officers monitoring high risk areas. Shift Officers also conduct directed patrols, focusing on compliance checks of places of worship, hotels, motels and other areas of citizens concerns. The Evening Shift will continue to devise new strategies to address the problems and issues encountered in building a great community into an even better one. Lt. William Delaney Lt. Patricia Grigas Sgt. Blaise Tersoni Sgt. Victor Pereira Sgt. Robert Downing Officer Denis Avila Officer Joe Besardi
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Officer Douglas Bevilacqua Officer Kenneth Blass Officer Steve Casey Officer Jeff Derosa Officer Eric Essigmann Officer William Fuer Officer Matthew Gutwill Officer Val Krishtal Officer Chris Langmeyer Officer Stacey Macaudda Officer Michael McCloy Officer John Norton Officer Timothy O’Toole Officer Gregory Reardon Officer James Sebastian Officer Michael Sheehan Officer Robert Sibilio Officer Robert Tibor Officer Chris Toscano Dispatcher Joseph Godino Midnight Shift The Midnight Shift is commanded by Lieutenant Frank Divittorio, a 21 year veteran of the department. The Midnight Shift's then Commanding Officer, Lt. William Delaney assumed the duties of Evening Shift Commanding Officer. Law enforcement and public safety are both 24 hour responsibilities. While most people sleep, local businesses continue to function and traffic continues to flow. This shift uses crime analysis, directed patrol, and innovative tactics, such as placing uniformed Police Officers in unmarked cruisers to apprehend burglary suspects. Officers may be assigned to plainclothes foot patrol in targeted areas, as well. This shift’s officers constantly explore new ways to deliver vital services. The dedicated group of men and women assigned to the Midnight Shift are a diverse group of Police Officers who each bring special skills and talents to their mission of protecting the streets of Framingham after dark. Many Officers are
members of the department’s specialized units, such as the Bicycle Patrol, Special Operations Unit (SOU) Crisis Negotiation Unit, and Defensive Tactics Instructors, to name a few. Together, they form a highly trained professional team, who work physically demanding hours, yet remain focused on their mission of providing essential police services throughout the early morning hours. Lt. Frank Divittorio Lt. Michael Siaba Sgt. Kathryn Esposito Sgt. Michael Loughman Sgt. Christopher Montuori Officer James Antonio Officer Albert Blais Officer Robert Connolly Officer Maria Crane Officer Jeannette Dones Officer Martin Keith Officer Kim Kelleher Officer Robert Kelleher Officer Brett Poirier Officer Paul Patriarca Officer Eduardo Rivera Officer Hector Sanchez Officer Arthur Sistrand Officer John Skinnion Officer William Vargas Officer John Vizakis Dispatcher Sheryl Werner
The Bureau of Investigation The Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Lieutenant Edward Yarosz, works regularly in conjunction with numerous other law enforcement and governmental agencies. Department investigations include, but are not limited to, crimes against both persons and properties. Of the crimes investigated by the Bureau, most are initiated by the Patrol Division, and forwarded to the Bureau for follow-up. The Bureau provides specialized services in
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department criminal investigations, supporting the Patrol Division in the investigation of major crimes such as homicide, rape, domestic violence, child abuse, armed robbery, fraud, and other felonies. Special investigations are initiated by the Bureau itself, or as directed by the Chief of Police. Components of the Bureau of Investigation are: General Duty Unit – These Detectives investigate patterns/profiles of unknown offenders in violent crimes, crime scene reconstruction, threat assessments, interview/interrogation techniques, search warrant affidavits, and prosecution strategy. They are; Detective Larry Hendry Detective Paul Kelley Detective Darren Crawford Detective James Green Detective DelPrete Detective Duarte Calvao Detective Pamela Bufford Narcotics Unit – Aggressively targets, investigates and brings to prosecution individuals or groups involved in the distribution of illegal drugs. The unit regularly interfaces with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, creating a bond of cooperation in the fight against illegal drugs at all levels. Sergeant Michael Esposito and the Officers assigned to this task are respected investigators. They go quietly about their duties under high scrutiny. These detectives are; Detective James Green Detective Vincent Stuart Detective Sean Riley
Identification Unit – Two highly trained Officers who utilize crime scene processing equipment to identify, collects, forensically examine, photograph, preserve evidence at crime scenes, and give expert court testimony. Officers Jeff
Eadie and David Studley share this critically important function. Prosecution Unit – Sergeant Richard Thompson is assigned to this unit. He reviews upcoming criminal complaints, provides training and legal expertise to the department, prepares and presents criminal complaints to the District Attorney’s Office and Clerk Magistrates Office of the various Trial Courts. He is also the executive officer for Lt. Edward Yarosz. Street Crimes Unit – Sgt. Harry Wareham directs the activities of Officers Keith Kaplan, Leonard Pini, and Middlesex County Deputy Sheriff Michael Kelley. These Officers blend in with both uniformed patrol and detectives. They aggressively enforce quality of life crimes in Framingham. They use Crime intelligence gathered from the Sheriff’s department as well as the Framingham Police Department crime analysis unit to initiate, identify and investigate street crime activity. Their focused strategies include warrant service, surveillance of suspects and locations involved in ongoing narcotics and criminal activity. Bureau of Professional Standards Lieutenant Michael Hill is the Commander assigned to, investigate, identify, or oversee investigation of all complaints of misconduct made against members of the Framingham Police Department, uncovered from internal or external sources. Complaints may be violations of rules, regulations, policies, procedures, or criminal statutes. Allegations of possible misconduct are taken very seriously and investigated. It is the policy o the department to investigate all complaints against the department and its employees. This ensures the integrity of the deportment and protects the rights
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and interests of both the citizens and departments employees. It is the departments’ commitment to strive at all times to be courteous and professional in all dealings with the citizens we serve and protect. Licensing Bureau This Bureau is commanded by Lieutenant Ronald Brandolini, a 14 year veteran of the department. He is responsible for the following areas: Alcohol Licenses - In 2006 the Police Department’s Patrol Division conducted hundreds of compliance checks to insure the Town of Framingham alcohol policy and Ma general Laws are not violated. In 2006 the Licensing Bureau developed alcohol compliance guidelines in order to conduct compliance checks “stings” which would be upheld by the Alcohol Bureau Control Commission upon appeal. During 2006, the Licensing Bureau conducted two compliance stings of 118 alcohol establishments where underage operatives attempted to purchase alcohol resulting in fourteen violations which resulted in license suspensions ranging from 3 days to 60 days. Numerous other alcohol investigations were conducted over the course of 2006 resulting in everything from written warnings to recommendations of revocation of alcohol license. This bureau also conducts investigations into prospective managers and assistants as well as ensuring servers are properly trained and record of such is maintained. In March of 2006 the annual alcohol seminar took place at town hall. This is an informative session which all managers/owners of licensed establishments are invited to attend where town policies, laws and legal issues are discussed.
Sex Offender Registry - The Licensing Bureau is charged with maintaining the status of all Level -3 and Level -2 Sex Offenders living and or working in Framingham. All Level – 3 and Level – 2 Sex Offenders are required to register annually on their birth month in the city or town that they live in as well as any changes throughout the year. There are currently 17 level 3 sex offenders living or working in Framingham, 75 level 2 offenders. Photographs of level 3 offenders are maintained on the departments’ web page and Community notifications are made through distributing fliers, cable television and newspaper articles, mailings and emails. In 2006 the Licensing Bureau conducted hundreds of six month reviews of all Level - 3 and Level – 2 Sex Offenders living and or working in Framingham with the assistance of the street crimes unit. This program consists of a police officer physically checking the home and or work address of every Level -3 and Level-2 sex offenders in Framingham. This verification is conducted six months after their annual registration date to verify the accuracy of the information presented at their annual registration. If the information is inconsistent, the sex offender is subject to being placed in violation or arrested. License to Carry Firearms - Class A - renewed 237, new 38 Class B - renewed 5, new 1 Class C – new 8 Class D - renewed 8, new17
The Licensing Bureau also suspended and denied a number of licenses to carry for various reasons.
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An additional responsibility of the Licensing Bureau is the law enforcement supervision of the four tow companies under contract with the Town of Framingham. The Licensing Bureau also oversees the two Taxi Cab Companies that are licensed to operate within the Town of Framingham and all drivers. All complaints or issues are investigated by the Licensing Bureau. At the conclusion of the investigation, if any disciplinary action is recommended, the recommendations are presented to the Board of Selectmen. The Licensing Bureau is also involved in the process of granting entertainment licenses, hawkers/peddlers, sale of second hand articles, common victualers, inn holders and constables. Housing Officer The Framingham Police and the Framingham Housing Authority formed their partnership in 1996. Since creating the partnership, there has been a marked decrease in calls for service to the Housing Authority’s properties, freeing officers to respond to other calls in Town. While this program was formed to enhance the “Quality of Life” for the residents, it has also created a network between residents, the Housing Authority and the Police department. This allows the Housing Liaison Officer to interact with the residents more effectively. Officer Brad Newman is assigned as the full-time Housing Liaison Officer. He has developed a working knowledge of the policies and procedures that govern the Housing Authority, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the State Department of Housing and Community Development. This enables him to effectively enforce governing regulations. The Police and the Housing Authority have worked closely with the
Pelham Apartments, developing the Computer and Recreation Center for resident youths. A Police Sub-Station is located within Pelham Apartments. The Sub-Station is funded by the FHA and Pelham Apartments. A number of officers are assigned to the Sub-Station, Officers McCann during the Day Shift, and Officer Sebastian evenings. Lieutenant Mike Siaba, Sgt. Pomales, provide strong supervision. These officers work closely with management and residents to provide a higher quality of life. The Framingham Police Housing Liaison Program has become a model, emulated by other communities. Many Police departments have sent their officers to Framingham to work with Officer Newman in an effort to develop similar programs in their respective communities. Newman reviews all police reports that involve public housing or the rental assistance program, and forwards that information to the FHA for action. Any crimes that are committed in or on FHA property involving narcotics or violence are handled immediately and results in filing of eviction notices or the termination of rental assistance. Hearings were also held for those individuals who were declared ineligible for housing due to the CORI (Criminal Offender Records Information) checks done on all applicants. Housing can be denied if there is a history of violent of drug related criminal activity, however all applicants are entitled to a hearing in which they may present their case. Officer Newman also issues “No Trespass” notices on behalf of the FHA to guests or unwanted guests of housing residents. The notices are issued only after discussion with the families involved. “No trespass” notices are automatically issued to those involved in violent or drug
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related crimes. There is a “No Trespass” list that is continually reviewed and updated. Emergency Management Framingham Emergency Management has undergone some significant changes during 2006. On March 3, 2006, Deputy Police Chief Steven Trask was appointed the Emergency Management Director and Assistant Fire Chief John Magri was appointed as the Assistant Emergency Management Director. The Town of Framingham still maintains one of the first fully certified LEPC’s (Local Emergency Planning Committee) in the State. The LEPC consists of members of specific disciplines to include elected officials, law enforcement, emergency medical services, emergency management, fire service, public health, local environmental, hospital, transportation, media, community groups, public works and facilities using extremely hazardous substances. The LEPC develops hazardous material emergency response plans, reviews the plan annually and provides information about chemicals in the community to residents. Deputy Chief Trask and Assistant Chief Magri are both members of the State Emergency Response Commission Liaison Committee. Magri currently is the Chair of that committee. On November 14, 2006, the LEPC performed a table top exercise with specific objectives. The exercise brought together many of the Town’s departments and personnel as well as outside agencies to include members of MEMA (Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency). In an effort to remain NIMS compliant (National Incident Management System),
all members of the Fire, Police, Public Works and Board of Health were trained in Incident command to the 100 level. Supervisors were trained to the 200 level in accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directives.
Chief Carl (L) congratulates Deputy Chief Trask (R) on his promotion
The Framingham Emergency Management Agency also launched two projects in 2006. The first was the agency website framinghampd.org/ema. The website contains information relative to sheltering in place and preparing emergency kits for your home. It also contains links to many state and federal organizations. The second was the purchase of a mass notification service; Connect CTY. This service will allow public safety personnel and local government employees to contact businesses and residents in Framingham to alert them and give information in case of an emergency. This system is much less expensive and much faster than reverse 911. We will continue these endeavors into 2007 and will continue to prepare and train for a quick and professional response to all emergency situations. Safety Division The Safety Division is comprised of the Safety Officer, Assistant safety Officer, Parking Enforcement, Traffic Enforcement Unit, and Crossing Guards.
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Lieutenant Steven Cronin is the Safety Officer. Lt. Cronin took over these duties from newly promoted Deputy Chief Steven Trask. Assisting Lt. Cronin is Assistant Safety Officer Edward Burman. The Safety Officer is a member of the Traffic and Roadway Safety Committee, advising on issues of safety and traffic flow, as well as coordinating all marches, walks, and parades through town. He also coordinates the safety aspects of the Boston Marathon as it passes through town. The Safety Officer works closely with the Town Engineer, Department of Public Works and Planning Board, conducting site reviews for existing and proposed construction projects. He is also a member of the Local Emergency Planning Committee, involved in disaster preparedness and Emergency Operations Center staff. School Resource Officers Kathy McGrath and Bennie Ottaviani are assigned to the middle schools and high school, respectively. Their strong commitment to children combined with their patience and tolerance has created a positive atmosphere for learning. They have helped many children through their gentle interventions as well as adherence to strict rules for personal behavior. The Assistant Safety Officer handles issues relating to school buses, working with the Director of School Transportation, coordinating safe walking routes, bus routes, and stops. He also oversees the town’s 19 School Crossing Guards, and assists each school Principal with developing an emergency action plan for their school. The Parking Enforcement Officer is a member of the Safety Division, and diligently enforces town parking regulations.
The Traffic Enforcement Unit responds to citizen complaints, as well as data collected from the departments Crime/Statistics Analysis Unit. The Traffic Unit is staffed by Officers Lester Baker, George Ruiz, and Keith Strange. They operate town wide in an effort to reduce accidents and improve traffic safety through education and enforcement. Trailer mounted speed sign boards and “stealth” radar are strategically placed throughout town to render an accurate vehicle count and speed. Residents can request either pieces of equipment be stationed temporarily in their neighborhood by contacting the Safety Officer. Revenue The fiscal responsibilities of day-to-day operations of the department fall under the direction of the Administrative Aide to the chief, Officer Michael Donnelly, and his assistant, Mary McGonagle. The Police Department generates monies for the Town of Framingham through the issuance of licenses, permits, administration fees, and fines associated with parking tickets and traffic citations. Money is also received from the Framingham District Court for fines associated with penalties imposed upon those convicted of various crimes. This revenue is not entered into the Police Department budget, but is deposited into the Town General Fund. Calendar year 2006 revenues are as follows:
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Bureau of Administrative Services This division is commanded by Lieutenant Paul Shastany. Lt. Shastany took command in February 2006 when Lieutenant Vincent Alfano left and became Chief of Police of Bolton, Mass. Lt. Shastany is a 24-year veteran officer. He has served as a patrol officer, Detective, Patrol Supervisor and shift Commander. Shastany is the lead negotiator for the Special Operations Unit. He has a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from Western New England College as well as a Masters of Science in Law Enforcement from Western New England College. The responsibilities of this bureau are to support operations and administration. Lt. Shastany supervises the Records personnel Priscilla Patuto and Annette Convery. The immense amount of reports generated by officers is cataloged, copied, and filed. Lt. Shastany supervises extra work assignments or “details,” as well as evidence, and property control functions. Those functions are administered by Officer Alan Dubeshter. Dubeshter is responsible for the receipt, cataloging, maintenance including delivering evidence to various state labs for testing, and destruction of closed
cases. This function requires exacting control and attention. Lt. Shastany is the public information officer. Police officers are public servants, as such we believe that it is the public’s business to know what we are doing. Policing activities generate interest by the public. The Framingham Police Department’s activities are closely monitored by media outlets. The public deserves honest and factual information regarding what is occurring in our community. Factual information reduces fear, crime and dispels inaccuracies and myths. Not all information can be released due to laws and limitations regarding privacy, right to know and other factors. It is our philosophy however to have open lines of communication to the public about our activities. Training is a primary focus of the Chief and the department’s command staff. The Framingham Police Department has always been a leader in providing the best available training programs to its personnel. Our frequent In-Service training programs are supplemented by a daily reinforcement of “High Risk, Low Frequency” event topics. Training not only helps develop and maintain a better Police Officer, but provides for safer, more efficient delivery of services. In-Service Training The departments’ annual 40 hour in-service training program consisted of the following training programs:
• Incident command, • Defensive Tactics III, • Oleoresin policy and procedure
review and re-certification training,
• Legal Updates,
Alarms $ 103,198 Animal Control 10,468 Auctions 484 Court 54,048 Details 81,394 Fingerprints 1,110 Hackney 580 MV Violations 202,405 Other Dept. Revenue 7,198 Parking Fines 224,805 Permits to Carry Firearms 8,287 Reports 8,244 Subpoena Fees 122 Total Revenue $ 702,343
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• Use of Force Policy and Procedure review,
• Firearms annual qualification and Simunitions / tactical firearms training,
• CPR / First Responder annual re-certification,
• Electronic crash and report writing,
• Enhanced 911 telecommunications training
This year’s in-service training curriculum is designed to keep officers up to date on recent statutory and case law changes and technical advances. Policing in today’s society requires proficiency and skill. We incorporate the latest and best practices in our training. Our reputation for quality training has attracted officers from other communities to join our ranks. Firearms Training Unit The Firearms Training Unit is responsible for the on-going training and qualification of all sworn department personnel with the various weapons systems used by our Officers. This would include service handguns, special weapons used by the department’s Special Operations Unit (SOU) Tactical Team, and the various non-lethal and less-lethal weapons systems we employ, such as O.C. (Pepper Spray). This unit is commanded by Sergeant Robert Downing, with Sergeant Michael Esposito as its Executive Officer. The 7 Training Unit Instructors are certified as both MA Criminal Justice Training Council and FBI Firearms Training Instructors. The Unit conducts intensive spring and fall in-service training programs utilizing both live-fire range exercises, and reality based training programs involving extensive use of role-playing scenarios. In these scenarios, Officers train with our
state of the art “Simunitions” plastic cartridge type weapons training system. This type of high intensity training best prepares Officers for situations in which they may, at any time, be called upon to defend their lives, or the life of another. Should town residents have questions or concerns regarding any type of firearm, safety practices, or firearms training, Firearms Training Unit members will gladly assist you. Special Operations Unit Established in 2001 to enhance the department’s ability to respond to critical incidents, this all volunteer unit is comprised of 22 highly trained Officers from all divisions within the department. The unit trains rigorously to respond to high risk situations such as hostage situations, armed barricaded subjects, high risk warrant service, and the apprehension of armed or violent suspects. All team members are certified in the use of the various special weapons and equipment available to support the Patrol Division in high risk situations. The team members maintain rigorous physical standards to prepare them for the hazardous situations they may encounter. The Crisis Negotiation Unit members are a crucial part of the team. The negotiators are highly skilled communicators. Their training is augmented with their internship at Psychological Emergency Services answering the crisis lines. A specially equipped vehicle is available for rapid deployment of the unit and its equipment. The team conducts frequent, reality based training to maintain a proficient skill level in tactical operations and specialized equipment. There were three incidents this year that required that call out response of the SOU.
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Public Safety Dive Team The combined Framingham Police and Framingham Fire Department Dive Team train, practice, and respond as a single, effective unit. These highly qualified public safety divers are ready at a moments notice. This spirit of cooperation is demonstrated in the incorporation of firefighters into the Police Department’s Special Operations Unit (SOU) as Tactical Emergency Medics (TEMS), who provide specialized on scene emergency medical support to the police tactical team.
Jail Diversion Program The Framingham Jail Diversion Program revolutionizes the manner in which mental health services are delivered to individuals who have interaction with the Framingham Police Department. The program re-directs appropriate non-
violent offenders out of the punitive criminal justice system into community based mental health and substance abuse services. Often, these subjects would have no other ways or means of accessing medical treatment for medically based/caused behavioral problems and offences. Outcomes: January 1st 2006 – December 31st 2006 During the year 2006, there were a total number of 559 joint JDP clinician
responses with the Framingham Police Department to members of the Framingham community. During the year 2006, an average of 73% of those eligible for arrest by the police, were diverted from arrest, as a result of the Framingham JDP clinician’s
Number of JDP evaluations
62
39
60
4752
47 4637 37
49
40 43
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Jan-06 Feb-06 Mar-06 Apr-06 May-06 Jun-06 Jul-06 Aug-06 Sep-06 Oct-06 Nov-06 Dec-06
% of arrests diverted
63%
100%
68% 73% 69%58%
69%85%
73% 68%76% 74%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
120%
Jan-06 Feb-06 Mar-06 Apr-06 May-06 June-06 July-06 Aug-06 Sep-06 Oct-06 Nov-06 Dec-06
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intervention. During the year 2006, an average of 48% of all JDP evaluations were conducted in the community. This is dramatically increased from the baseline of 11% prior to the inception of the JDP. During the year 2006, an average of 63% of the individuals evaluated by the Framingham JDP was referred to community based treatment.
Community Survey In keeping with the department’s focus on customer service and commitment to developing in-depth understanding of community issues, the Framingham Police routinely conduct surveys. This program is managed by Deputy Chief Ferguson and coordinated by Lieutenant Mike Siaba. As part of the on-going Post-
Contact Customer Satisfaction Survey, individuals having contact with department personnel are randomly selected to complete a questionnaire to determine their level of satisfaction with department services, as well as other questions concerning their overall perceptions of fear and crime within the town. In addition to the Post-Contact survey, other surveys are conducted throughout the year
as needed to address specific issues. Most prominent among these surveys is the Downtown Merchants Survey. The questionnaire utilized in this initiative was designed to measure the impact of numerous crime and quality-of-life issues impacting the downtown area. Results from this survey are routinely utilized in
Location of JDP intervention
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%
Jan-06 Feb-06 Mar-06 Apr-06 May-06 June-06 July-06 Aug-06 Sep-06 Oct-06 Nov-06 Dec-06
Community Based Framingham-ER
Evaluation outcome
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%
Jan-06 Feb-06 Mar-06 April-06 May-06 June-06 July-06 Aug-06 Sept-06 Oct-06 Nov-06 Dec-06
Inpatient Outpatient
84
17641707
1885 1930 1924
1596
1382 1439
1606
1922
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
1800
2000
Num
ber o
f Inc
iden
ts
Part 1 Part 2
Part 1 and Part 2 Crime - 5 Year Trends
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006
10% 2%3% <1%4%13% 20%12%
developing police responses targeting the downtown area. Responses have included increased traffic enforcement, directed foot and bicycle patrols, and the assignment of the Street Crimes Unit to this area. Customer satisfaction results from the most recent completed year include:
Survey Question Very ExcellentWas Officer Helpful? 54% 14% Was Officer Knowledgeable?
52% 19%
Was Officer Fair? 54% 20% Was Officer Professional?
53% 25%
Was Officer Responsive?
53% 20%
Was Officer Concerned for Well-being?
52% 19%
Was Officer Competent?
55% 21%
Was Officer Sensitive to Cultural Background?
53% 24%
Crime/Statistics Analysis Analysis of statistical data is an extremely valuable tool for law enforcement agencies. Geo-based mapping, and tracking incidents by location, has enabled
the department to quickly identify emerging crime trends. The use of sophisticated computer and mapping equipment allows us to utilize this valuable information. The officers assigned to this task are Officer Chris Murtagh and Ted Piers. We can identify and implement enforcement, preventative, educational or intervention strategies. The command staff can then best allocate our limited resources most effectively and deploy Officers accordingly. The following Part 1 and Part 2 crime analysis is based upon the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) standards as defined by the FBI. One limitation is that should a number of crimes be connected, only the most serious one is included in the statistics. For instance, if someone were murdered during a car theft, they would only list murder.
Analysis of Part 1 and Part 2 Crime
2002 2003 2004 2005 2006Part 1 Crime
1,764
1,707
1,885
1,930
1,924
Part 2 Crime
1,596
1,382
1,439
1,606
1,922
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2005 Part 1 Crime Breakdown
Rape, 11, 1%
Larceny, 1040, 53%
Burglary, 333, 17%
Assault, 266, 14%Motor Vehicle Theft, 224,
12%
Homicide, 0, 0%Arson, 5, 0%
Robbery, 51, 3%
2006 Part 1 Crime Breakdown
Rape, 7, 0%
Larceny, 1161, 60%
Burglary, 242, 13%
Assault, 283, 15%
Motor Vehicle Theft, 189, 10%
Homicide, 3, 0%
Arson, 4, 0%Robbery, 35, 2%
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2006 Part 2 Breakdown
Offenses Against Family & Children, 261, 14%
Driving Under the Influence, 86, 4%
Liquor Laws, 38, 2%
Drunkenness, 4, 0%
Disorderly Conduct, 90, 5%
** Other Incidents, 430 , 22%
Prostitution, 4, 0%
Sex Offenses, 51, 3%Drug Offenses, 126, 7%
Weapons, 47, 2%
Vandalism, 753, 39%
Fraud, 8, 0%
Stolen Property, 10, 1%Forgery and Counterfeiting,
14, 1%
2005 Part 2 Breakdown
Offenses Against Family & Children, 277, 17%
Driving Under the Influence, 71, 4%
Liquor Laws, 24, 1%
Drunkenness, 7, 0%
Disorderly Conduct, 87, 5%
** Other Incidents, 330 , 22%
Prostitution, 3, 0%
Sex Offenses, 49, 3%
Drug Offenses, 98, 6%
Weapons, 31, 2%
Vandalism, 592, 38%
Fraud, 7, 0%
Stolen Property, 11, 1%
Forgery and Counterfeiting, 19, 1%
** For both charts, Other Incidents primarily reflect breaches of the peace, disturbance of the peace, town by-law violations, investigations, and Jail Diversion Program interventions
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2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Arrests 1,894 1,553 1,690 1,935 2,027 Log Entries 37,833 38,618 39,444 46,168 51,324 Citations 12,549 9,735 7,645 9,646 10,955 Collisions 1,557 1,675 1,8 61 2,003 1,749
12549
9735
10955
7645
9646
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
12000
14000
Citations
2002200320042005200622% 26%21% 14%
46168
51324
3783338618 39444
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
60000
Log Entries
20022003200420052006
17%2% 2% 11%
1894
1553
1690
2027
1935
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
Arrests
200220032004200520069%
18% 5%14%
15571675
1861
2003
1749
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
Collisions
20022003200420052006
11% 8%8%13%
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Fleet Maintenance Emergency vehicles operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The severe service they endure requires constant maintenance, and repair. Tom Bowen is responsible for maintenance and administration of 53 town vehicles, including marked and unmarked cruisers, police motorcycles, and specialized vehicles such as prisoner transport, animal control, and Special Operations vehicles, and trailers. He is also responsible for fleet specifications, design, supply, and warranty management. Animal Control The Animal Control Department is under the direction of Katherine J. MacKenzie, employing 2 full-time, and 2 part-time Officers. The Animal Control administrative offices and kennel are located at 50 Western Avenue. Animal Control Officers provide year round service to the town’s residents, and respond to off-hour emergencies as needed. During the year Officer Katherine MacKenzie completed a K-9 first aide course, and Officer Paul Hagerty completed the Massachusetts Animal Control Officers Course. A rabies and microchip clinic was conducted in April with over 85 animals vaccinated or chipped. Canine There were approximately 1,335 calls regarding dogs. The types of calls are listed below. 190 reports of lost dogs 624 complaints of loose dogs 199 complaints of barking dogs 46 dog adoption inquiries
106 owners reported recovering their dogs 42 surrender inquiries 78 well being checks 24 dog bites 10 dog v. dog 1 dog v. raccoon 14 dogs hit by cars 1 dog killed a cat Feline There were approximately 434 calls were fielded regarding cats. 84 stray cat complaints 75 cats hit by cars (deceased) 123 lost cats reported 21 adoption inquiries 18 surrender inquiries 31 complaints of feral cats 21 well being checks 14 cat bites 1 cat tested for rabies
Wildlife Activities
Animal control responded to approximately 718 calls regarding wildlife. The particulars of those calls are listed. 89 calls regarding dead wildlife 74 problem wild life calls were referred to PAC 74 complaints of sick or injured raccoons 94 complaints of sick or injured skunks 37 coyote complaints 23 opossum complaints 113 complaints of injured birds 77 fox complaint 32 complaints of injured deer 33 squirrel complaints 18 wildlife rabies tests 9 snake complaints 10 bat complaints 12 woodchuck complaints
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41 waterfowl complaints 6 turkey complaints 17 rabbit complaints 29 turtle complaints Other 182 Animal quarantines (issued and releases) 17 Framingham Police assists 2 MSPCA Assists 2 Framingham Fire Assists 28 livestock inspections 1 loose ferret Framingham Auxiliary Police I, Captain Marc Spigel, am pleased to report to you on the activities of the Framingham Auxiliary Police for the year ended December 31, 2006. As you know the Framingham Auxiliary Police is committed to making Framingham a better and safer place to live and work, and is dedicated to excellence in public service. Our commitment to Framingham has been part of the fabric of this organization for the past 64 years. The year 2006 was another active period of volunteer community service for the members of the Framingham Auxiliary Police. Personnel There has been an expected turnover of personal. We started 2006 with 23 active and ended the year with 23 active officers, and one officer on a Leave of Absence, but within there was turnover of 5 experienced auxiliary officers. This year we lost a bit of experience as Charlie Duncan retired after 28 years of service while Tina Sousa and Paul Griffin resigned for personal reasons. We are very pleased that two of our officers Tom McCarthy and Phil Bird were hired as police officers in Framingham and Weston, respectively.
Liesa Healy-Miller is on an extended leave of absence. In order to achieve excellence we start with a selection process that helps choose only the finest recruit officers. We again administered a law enforcement entry-level examination to candidates. Our goal is that any officer that we accept should be of the same caliber as you would hire for the Framingham Police. Candidates who successfully pass the test (to date approximately 50% of candidates are passing the examination) are then subject to a background investigations and are interviewed by a board of auxiliary officers, and our FPD liaison officer. Our recruiting process helps us select quality volunteers for our organization to continue achievement our goal of excellence and professionalism. During 2006 we had 6 recruit officers complete the reserve academy. In the spring, Joseph Godino, Stephanie Sheehan, Rachel Mickens and Duncan Fuller completed their academy training. In December, Derek Petersen and Michael Drake completed their academy training. We are pleased that two of our new officers have been employed as Framingham Police dispatchers, and one more is being considered for the position as well. It’s nice when our recruiting efforts also pay off with great candidates for the department. One of our officers, Sean Lando, continues to work as part-time officer in Groton and continues his volunteer efforts with us. Active Roster Captain - Marc Spigel Exec. Lt. - Alan Walis Lt. - Wayne Larkin, Stephen Reitter
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Sgt. - Stephen Gilman, Tom Levenson, Bryant Tarr, Gerald Blanchette Ptl. - Matthew Askin, Tory Fiske, Ernest Moreau, Sean Lando, Scott Penrod, Jeffrey Cosgrove, Andrew MacQueen, Steven Bonder, Cliff Moreland, Joe Godino, Stephanie Sheehan, Rachel Mickens, Duncan Fuller, Derek Petersen, Michael Drake. LOA - Liesa Healy-Miller Training One of our primary missions, as part of Emergency Management, is to be trained in the event of natural or civil disaster. The Framingham Auxiliary Police receive the finest training available to auxiliary police units in Massachusetts. Our training has us to a level of professionalism that makes us proud. All recruit officers graduate from the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee Reserve Intermittent Academy (120 hours), and receive first responder and CPR/AED training before receiving their uniforms. Classroom and practical training on use of force, Oleoresin Capsicum (pepper) spray, ASP baton and firearms begins after completion of the Academy. Officers do not carry the related equipment until FPD training officers certify them. After the classroom, practical training ensures that our officers will be ready to assist in an emergency. Our Field Training program has been operating on Friday and Saturday nights, when two auxiliary officers patrol the Town, and the ride along program, where an auxiliary officer rides on patrol with a Framingham officer. Both of these provide hands on training experiences that the classroom does not bring. Medical and range training is on going during the year to maintain our
certification and proficiency. Our monthly meetings also have a training component. In 2006, in conjunction with the department we have again subscribed to the “In the Line of Duty” video in-service training program. At each monthly training meeting we either have a guest speaker or learn from one of the training videos. In addition our officers are trained in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS). During January through February of 2006 we completed an 8 class in-service training series coordinated through the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee. This year's program included the following topics: Incident Response to Terrorist Bombings, two sessions of Defensive Tactics, Knife Defense, Officer Survival, Legal update, Ch. 90 Update, and Crisis Intervention / Conflict Resolution. We are grateful to Lt. Patty Grigas and Attorney Brian Simoneau who instructed two of our in-service classes. During the year Officer Burman provided us with our medical re-certification training, and the firearms unit provided us our firearms re-certification. In April 2006, I attended an international auxiliary and reserve police conference in Canada sponsored by the RCMP. Information learned from this conference was shared with the auxiliary officers. In November 2006 we sponsored the first Massachusetts VIPS Auxiliary/Reserve Police Best Practices Conference. This was a great training event attended by about 60 separate agencies. There were several out-of-state
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agencies represented including the Florida Highway Patrol Auxiliary. We had speakers from around the country as well as from the FPD. Many thanks to Deputy Chief Davis and Attorney Brian Simoneau for presenting about accreditation, and laws related to auxiliary police. Also a thank you should be extended to Officer Michael Donnelly and the Town accountants for handling the financial end of the conference. Community Commitment The Framingham Auxiliary Police is committed to a community policing philosophy. Our very existence is community policing in action. We demonstrate our commitment by contributing actively to the quality of life in Framingham through our role as auxiliary police officers by providing our volunteer services for many community activities and events. It is through these efforts that we help support the Framingham Police in its community policing strategy. There are several on-going activities that we provide services for regularly. During the summer we are proud to provide traffic assistance at the Concerts on the Green and every year during our Craft Fair we also hold a child safety-fingerprinting event. This year we assisted the department and distributed level 3 sex offender notifications to impacted neighborhoods. This program was recognized as a model program in an International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) publication about citizens helping with sex offender management. We also distributed winter parking notifications prior to the annual winter parking restrictions.
In addition to these on-going activities, this year we provided assistance with 30 separate community, charitable and safety events in Framingham. Without our assistance some of these events would be difficult to conduct safely, or the resources of the Framingham Police would have needed to be stripped from patrol to service the following events: • PTO Creative Arts Council Show • Framingham Center Nursery –
Fingerprinting • Temple Beth Am – Fingerprinting • YMCA - Fingerprinting • Boston Marathon • March of Dimes Walkathon • Art Doyle Road Race • MOMM Road Race (Framingham
High) • Memorial Day Services • MetroWest Medical Safety Day • Walsh Middle School Road Race • McAuliffe Library “Truck Day” • Learning Center for Deaf Children-
Fingerprinting • OI (Brittle Bones) Fingerprinting
and Walkathon • Flag Day Festival • 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk • Latino Health Fair – Fingerprinting • Scout Expo • Jimmy Fund Walk • Circle of Friends Pre-school • Pheasant Hill Kids Parade • Cabbage Night Patrol • Halloween Night Patrol • Veterans Day Services • Representative Debby Blumer’s
Funeral • Thanksgiving Bonfire • Turkey Trot • Scott Bailey Road Race
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• Christmas Caroling – Framingham Center
• Santa’s Visit to Framingham This year we were also able to assist our neighbor Holliston with resources for their annual Holliston Day Parade. This mutual aid benefits us by gaining experience working with other communities, as may be the case in a disaster. We also provided site security for a Special Operations Unit training exercise. As you can see during 2006, the members of the Framingham Auxiliary Police put forth another superior effort in making Framingham a better place to live and work. We do not have the volunteer hours tallied yet for 2006, but as you know we generally collectively average approximately 4,000 hours of community service to Framingham each year. Homeland Security The Civil Defense Acts of 1950, that auxiliary police units are organized under, still has significant relevance in our efforts to support homeland security. The Acts create the Emergency Management infrastructure that is needed to assist with civil or natural disasters. In May 2002 the Citizen Corps' Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) initiative was created. The VIPS program is a response to President George W. Bush's call to all Americans to dedicate time to serving our communities and our nation. VIPS is one of several opportunities emerging through the new Citizen Corps initiative to enhance local homeland security efforts and make emergency preparedness a part of our daily lives.
The Framingham Auxiliary Police is registered with, and is part of the VIPS initiative. You can find our organization listed with about 1,500 other similar programs around the nation at www.policevolunteers.org. Long before homeland security became a household term, the officers of the Framingham Auxiliary Police made a commitment to community service. Our mission remains the same - to be prepared to assist Framingham in case of an emergency, however our mission now has a renewed focus. During our field training patrols we check critical infrastructure identified by the department. In 2006 we applied for a Homeland Security Grant for the Framingham LEPC Citizen Corps Council. We received notification that we were awarded part of what we applied for, and it will provide some equipment to both the auxiliary police and the newly formed Framingham Medical Reserve Corps. Our auxiliary officers are proud to be part of a homeland security organization that is trained and prepared to respond to local emergencies. Each of our auxiliary officers has worked diligently to make our unit a professional auxiliary police organization. Emergency Management Support This year upon Deputy Chief Trask’s promotion to Emergency Management Director, and assignment as our liaison officer, we became very closely aligned with Emergency Management. I foresee that under his leadership we will continue to see additional resources and training that will help us in our quest for excellence and professionalism.
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In November 2006 the auxiliary police were part of the LEPC table top exercise. The auxiliary police unit understands its role during an emergency and continues its dedication and training in the event we are needed to assist. Framingham Police Support I want to personally thank Chief Carl and each and every officer of the Framingham Police for all the support we received during the past year. We strive to keep an excellent working relationship with all Framingham officers. Without a supportive environment, an outstanding program like ours could not exist. We especially would like to extend an extra special thank you to Deputy Chief Steven Trask for all his help and support to the Framingham Auxiliary Police as our liaison officer. Deputy Chief Trask does an excellent job in representing the Department, providing training, keeping us motivated and feeling a part of the Framingham Police organization. In summary, the men and women of the Framingham Auxiliary Police provided another outstanding year of professional community service to the Town of Framingham. It is a combined effort of all of these officers that make the Framingham Auxiliary Police the fine organization that it is. The Framingham Auxiliary Police is dedicated to excellence in public service.
Mission Statement The Mission of the Framingham Police Department is to protect and improve the quality of life for all who live, work, or visit our community, by delivering the highest quality of public safety service. The men and women of the Framingham Police Department are dedicated to accomplishing this mission by: Maintaining peace and order, through the fair and impartial enforcement of Law and quality police service. Fostering an environment of cooperation and trust between your police department and our community. Valuing our employees as our most important resource. Conducting business efficiently and effectively. Challenging the future with a spirit of optimism and innovation, in the continuous pursuit of excellence. Our determination and effectiveness will be measured by providing a sense of security through the absence of fear, and improving the quality of life, within the community. The Framingham Police, through professionalism and integrity, dedicate ourselves to this mission.
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FIRE DEPARTMENT The Framingham Fire Department is an organization of dedicated professionals who are committed to protecting the citizens of Framingham from loss of life and property caused by the ravages of fire, and to respond in a quick and efficient manner to medical emergencies. Through fire prevention education, our mission is to prevent disastrous incidents from occurring and to minimize damage to life, property, and the environment. In addition to fire suppression duties, this Department responds to medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents,
water problems, and other calls for assistance. The Fire Prevention Division provides safety education, code enforcement, plan review, and inspections. We are committed to delivering these services through proper staffing strategically placed through the community and to do so in a cost effective manner. The annual report of the Framingham Fire Department for the year ending December 31, 2006 is as follows:
PERSONNEL/155 :
Avon Street FireThis Department experienced several changes in 2006 caused by the retirement of one (1) member, three (3) new hires and Five (5) active military deployments. Retirements Firefighter Frank Bozyczko retired after 32 years of faithful and dedicated service. Military Deployments Firefighter Robert Morrison served 26 months with the U.S. Army
Firefighter Julio Feliciano served 12 months with the U.S. Marine Corps
Firefighter Joseph Neiberger served 12 months with the U.S. Marine Corps
Firefighter Will Gingras serving 12 months in the U.S. Army
Firefighter Luis Torres active deployment for 5 weeks with the U.S. Army New Hires Firefighter William Almeyda Firefighter Derek Fosberg Firefighter Chad Boylan
Chief 1Assistant Chiefs 2Deputies 4Fire Marshal 1Assistant Fire Marshal 1Training Officer 1Captains 8Lieutenants 24Firefighters 106Civilians 7
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Total AlarmsThe Framingham Fire Department responded to a total of 9,261 emergency calls in 2006, this is an 8% increase since 2003.
Nipmuc Road Fire
AdministrationPreparedness is not a black and white concept. It is an organization’s continuing capacity to detect, respond to, recover from and mitigate a wide variety of emergency situations. It is administration’s responsibility for that organization to persistently reassess and prepare itself for the future. The leadership of Framingham Fire Department has recognized this and continually establishes reasonable and valuable guidelines to meet organizational objectives and federal mandates. This restructuring of the administrative staff is ongoing with emphasis placed in Fire Prevention. This reorganization will permit the Fire Department to develop and take advantage of inspectional programs that we currently do not participate in. All this continues as demands in Fire Suppression and Fire Prevention have steadily increased. A total of $194,187.61 was collected in revenue and deposited in the general fund in 2006. $104,246.46 was collected in non-permit fees, such as master box annual fees and site inspections. $89,941.15 was collected in permit fees. Training The effectiveness of emergency operations and critical services performed is dependent on the quality and relevance of the departments training program. The Training Division has developed and implemented a comprehensive training program that is based on nationally and regionally accepted consensuses standards. The training programs delivered focused on critical skills, safety, and reducing areas of liability. Some of the major programs delivered include; Incident Command, Emergency Vehicle Operations, Fireground Accountability, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Gas Emergencies, and Firefighter Rescue. In the Fire Service imposed training mandates come from the State and National level. A department that ignores these mandates assumes a great liability. The Framingham Fire Department has a rigorous and comprehensive training schedule that addresses the current needs of the department, complies with imposed
Emergency Responses 9,261
Non-Emergency Responses 9,423
Total Responses: 18,684
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mandates, and looks ahead to anticipate the dynamic changes in the delivery of Public Safety Services.
STATIONS Loring Drive Station/Headquarters (1994): This station is in good condition. Replacement of life limited components is ongoing, including replacement of HVAC components, carpeting, furniture and flooring. The slate roof is in need of general repair. Worcester Road Station/Engine 1 (1968): This station is in good condition; however, this station is in need of interior maintenance and exterior finishes including fascia and paint. Concord Street Station/Engine 5 (1961): This station is in fair condition, replacement of life limited components is ongoing. Asbestos flooring tiles are disintegrating and need to be recovered. Watson Place Station/Engine 2 (Approximately 1890): This station has begun initial upgrades. The Hose Tower at this station was condemned and is no longer in use. The basement has been quarantined due to an asbestos problem and the windows throughout the building are in poor condition and in need of replacement. The roof has been replaced and remodeling is needed on the second floor. Replacement of overhead doors and windows is needed. Water Street Station/Engine 7 (1961): This station is in good condition. Asbestos flooring tiles are disintegrating and need to be recovered. The parking lot will need to be repaved soon. Signal Division Building 1055 Worcester Road (1974): This building is in good condition. The exterior siding and fascia has been repaired and upgrades are ongoing. APPARATUS Engine 1: 2000 Pierce Quantum; 1,250 G.P.M. two stage pump, equipped with all wheel steer. Engine 1 is in good condition. This apparatus is located at the Worcester Road Station. Engine 2: 1986 Pierce; 1,250 G.P.M. two stage pump and is in poor condition. Replacement of Engine 2 was approved at Fiscal Year 2006 Town Meeting and construction is underway. This apparatus is located at the Watson Place Station. Engine 3: 1993 Pierce; 1,250 G.P.M. two stage pump is in fair condition. This truck fits in all stations and would be a viable spare in the future. This apparatus is located at the Loring Drive Station. Engine 4: 2006 Ford F-350 Forestry Truck with a water tank, class “A” foam system and a twenty horsepower portable fire pump, used for brush fires. This apparatus is used extensively during details and as a fire watch. This apparatus is located at the Watson Place Station.
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Engine 5: 2006 American LaFrance; 1,500 G.P.M. two stage pump, equipped with a dual agent compressed air foam application unit, which is in new condition. This apparatus is located at the Concord Street Station. Engine 6/Spare: (Formerly Engine 5) 1989 Pierce 1,250 G.P.M. two stage pump with class “B” foam. This apparatus is in poor condition and needs major upgrades to comply with NFPA 1901 Standards. Engine 7: 2001 Pierce Quantum; 1,500 G.P.M. two stage pump with a compressed air foam system, all wheel steer, is in good condition. This apparatus is located at the Water Street Station. Engine 8/Spare: 1986 Pierce, 1250 G.P.M., dual stage pump. This apparatus is in poor condition and is need of replacement. Maintenance has been extensive including the motor, body, and electrical system. The open cab design does not meet current NFPA standards, although this piece is be used as a reserve piece when first line apparatus is under repair. Rescue 1: 1991 Salsbury Heavy Rescue. This apparatus is in fair condition and is equipped with a 15,000 watt generator, 2,036 cubic feet of breathing air, Jaws of Life, air bags, cold water rescue suits and various rescue tools. In 2006 this rescue received an engine replacement. Platform 1: 2005 American LaFrance 100 foot platform, 2,000 G.P.M. single stage pump with an 8,000 watt generator. This piece of apparatus is in excellent condition and located at the Worcester Road Station. Platform 2/Spare: (Formerly Platform 1) 1987 Pierce 100 foot Aerial Platform with a 1500 G.P.M. two-stage pump. This aerial is in fair condition needing repair to its hydraulic system and aerial stabilization. The reconditioning of this apparatus will allow us to meet ISO recommendations. Ladder 3: 1998 Pierce Quantum, all-wheel steer; 105 foot aerial ladder with a 300 gallon polypropylene water tank. The aerial ladder is pre-piped with a 1000 G.P.M. flow and a 500 lb. tip load. It has a 7,500 watt diesel generator and a 1,500 G.P.M. pump with 800 feet of 4 inch hose. This piece of apparatus is in good condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station. Mobile Command Post: 1990 National RV Corp/Chevrolet, Motor Coach equipped with all band radio interoperability (8 radios supported by ACU 1000), 10kw generator and numerous other emergency management pieces of equipment. This vehicle is in good condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station. DEPARTMENT VEHICLES: Fire Chief’s Car (Car 1): 2005 Ford Explorer is in excellent condition. This vehicle is located at the Loring Drive Station.
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Deputy Chief’s Car (C-2): 2004 Ford Explorer is in excellent condition. This vehicle is used by the shift deputy and is in use 24 hours per day, 365 days a week. This vehicle is located at the Concord Street Station. Assistant Fire Chief’s Car (C-3): 2004 Ford Explorer is in excellent condition. This vehicle used by the Assistant Fire Chief of Administration, is located at the Loring Drive Station. Assistant Fire Chief’s Car (C-4): 2001 Ford Expedition is in fair condition and is used by the Assistant Fire Chief of Operations. This vehicle is located at the Loring Drive Station. Fire Marshal’s Car (FP-1): 2004 Ford Taurus is in excellent condition. This vehicle is located at the Loring Drive Station. Assistant Fire Marshal’s Car (FP-2): 2000 Ford Crown Victoria is in good condition. This vehicle used by the Assistant Fire Marshal, is located at the Loring Drive Station. Fire Inspector’s Car (FP-3): 1995 Ford Crown Victoria is in fair condition. This vehicle is located at the Loring Drive Station. Fire Inspector’s Car (FP-4) 1996 Ford Crown Victoria is in poor condition. It is located at the Loring Drive Station. Training Officers Truck (C-8): 1997 Ford F350 used by the Training Officer. It is in good condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station. Pick Up Truck (S-1): 1999 Ford F150 is used by the Fire Alarm Division for equipment transportation. It is in excellent condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station. Fire Alarm Service Truck (S-2): 1995 International 400SER Diesel Bucket Truck for fire alarm and traffic light repair, maintenance, and installation. This apparatus is in good condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station. Facilities Manager’s Truck (C-5): 1997 Dodge Pick-up 2500 is equipped with a snow plow for use in station maintenance. It is in good condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station. This truck required its transmission replaced in 2005. Mechanic’s Truck (C-6): 1990 Ford Utility Truck, which is used by the mechanics. This vehicle is in fair condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station. Dive Rescue Vehicle (DR-1): A 2001 Workhorse Van is in excellent condition and is located at the Loring Road Station. Fire Safety House: 2005 Mobile Trailer. This Fire Prevention training tool will enable fire safety education to all age groups. Training Division Vehicle (C-8): A 1996 Ford Bronco which was funded through the MWRA Tunnel Project is utilized by the Training Division. This vehicle is in fair condition and is located at the Loring Drive Station.
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FIRE ALARM DIVISION The Fire Alarm Division is responsible for the general maintenance of traffic signals, controls, underground cable, the municipal fire alarm system, underground and aerial cable, master boxes, and street boxes. Nine new master boxes were added in 2006. We now have a total of 864 boxes in service in strategic locations throughout Framingham. Of the 864, 503 are master boxes that protect individual properties, and 361 are street boxes. The following new master/street boxes were added in 2006: Box # Location 4213 264 Waverly Street 528 640 Worcester Road 399 1223 Worcester Road 398 14 Temple Street 3314 1 Badger Road 539 522 Concord Street 593 206 Warren Road 479 25 Loring Drive 4214 85 Hollis Street
In addition to the regular duties of maintaining and installing the fire alarm and communication system, the Fire Alarm Division was also responsible for maintaining and repairing forty-two (42) traffic signals, six (6) 4-way flashing signals, twenty-eight (28) school zone signals and two (2) 30mph ‘S’ curve signals. The following is a breakdown of traffic signal repairs: 59 calls for traffic signals not working; 13 calls for signal heads turned;
18 calls for re-lamping traffic signals; 104 calls for changing of time, checking preemption, Opticom, repair broken pedestrian buttons, repair knock downs, meetings with contractors digging up roads to mark underground pipes, meetings with contractors doing traffic signal improvements, preventive maintenance, and investigations; 10 traffic signals knocked-down in motor vehicle accidents: 4 were reported to the Police Department, 6 were hit and run; 72 calls for school zone signals not working properly that required time adjustments, new lamps and new clock installations. This also included time adjustments made at the beginning and the end of the school year; The Division also installed approximately 4,990 feet of new fire alarm cable for new master boxes and replacement of deteriorated cable and 120 pole transfers for Verizon were completed. The Fire Alarm Division worked jointly with Fire Prevention in reviewing all fire alarm plans submitted to the Department. In addition, the Division attended meetings with contractors for new interior fire alarm installations and master box locations. Both Fire Alarm and Fire Prevention worked together to perform interior fire alarm system inspections in new and existing building including, 60 meetings, 231 plans reviewed and 150 fire alarm inspections.
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FIRE PREVENTION DIVISION The Division of Fire Prevention is comprised of one Fire Marshal, Assistant Fire Marshal and two Inspectors that have the following responsibilities: The Fire Marshal is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the fire prevention office. He is also responsible for conducting fire investigations and coordinating activities between the Framingham Police Department and the State Fire Marshal’s office. Other responsibilities of the Marshal include giving safety talks for Framingham’s schools, citizens groups, group residences, and setting up tours of the fire stations. The Marshal also meets on a regular basis with other town departments to assist in the planning of the town’s future. The Assistant Fire Marshal is responsible for reviewing the construction plans that are submitted to the Fire Department and meeting with contractors for fire alarm and sprinkler systems, as well as conducting meetings with contractors, engineers and property owners for up-coming projects and any problems that arise during construction. He coordinates with other Town Departments on important issues such as overcrowding, boarding and lodging house issues. The Inspectors are responsible for issuing permits and conduct the inspections required by state and local codes. They also inspect and test all new homes, new
and remodeled commercial buildings as well as renovation projects. The Inspectors investigate and work in conjunction with other town departments to handle complaints by citizens and town departments to assure the safety of Framingham’s residents, their guests, and the ever-increasing Framingham business community. The Fire Prevention Office performed the above-mentioned duties with pride and professionalism. However we are concerned that with the growth of the town and the abundance of remodeling taking place, there is a considerable need to increase the size of this Division if we are going to continue to meet the community’s requirements. The finalized remodeling of the Framingham High School consumed a considerable amount of time on a weekly basis but was time well spent for the safety of the students and staff. The completion of this project in particular had required Fire Prevention’s daily attention. Fire Permits issued increased twenty-five (25%) since 2002 and the number of inspections increased over 40% percent (40%) from 2003. This increase has pushed the Fire Prevention Division beyond its maximum working capacity, and although the quality of the division’s performance remained at a professional level, the time earmarked for public education was unavoidably sacrificed.
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The following is a summary of the work conducted by the inspectors during the year 2006:
Permits Issued: 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Certificate of Compliance MGL sec 26F 1,216 1,184 1,410 1,304 983 Certificate of Compliance MGL sec 26.5 F 0 0 0 0 721 Ansul systems 26 24 24 26 25 Back flow prevention devices 0 3 5 3 0 Black powder 4 6 5 3 4 Blasting 12 14 6 3 3 Commercial sprinkler systems 267 288 392 257 287 Commercial Fire alarm systems 637 606 673 650 552 Flammable fluids 6 38 58 74 73 Above/Underground storage Installation 12 6 31 2 3 LPG (propane) 41 44 61 46 48 Maintain above and underground storage 6 25 30 51 65 Miscellaneous Permits 9 6 10 8 82 Oil, repairs and installation of oil burners 209 180 238 235 258 Overnight parking for flammable liquids 39 11 46 16 50 Fire alarm systems & smoke detectors 117 117 219 243 147 Residential sprinklers 4 11 7 4 5 Tank transport/Tank Pulls 28 42 54 51 31 Vapor recovery 1 0 1 0 0 Waste oil tanks 2 1 5 6 2 Welding and cutting 62 78 52 55 59 Total permits 2,698 2,684 3,327 3,037 3,398 Inspection Completed: 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 21 E site assessments 61 29 5 1 Above and underground tanks 15 44 51 81 Blasting 4 8 0 3 Commercial testing & inspections 382 467 586 623 Complaints 48 36 31 55 Fire alarm meetings 14 15 15 12 Fire drills 228 146 166 76 Fire investigations 20 18 14 19 Flammable liquids and LNG 11 71 98 93 Hazardous waste inspections 3 1 73 765 License renewal inspections 331 321 332 351 Meetings with departments 201 324 340 241 Construction plan review 488 525 521 345
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Oil burner inspections 150 256 393 277 Public life safety classes 96 57 25 17 Quarterly inspections 118 133 263 154 Residential fire alarm 26B, E, C, F 183 160 276 244 Residential sprinklers 7 21 31 4 School & seminars attended 9 18 47 21 Tank removal & inspection 6 104 32 62 Tank truck inspections 11 46 13 42 Total Inspections: 2,386 2,800 3,312 3,486
The goal of the Framingham Fire Department is to establish a fire and safety education programs that will be delivered to preschool, day care, grades K-6, Boy and Girl Scout troops as well as church and community groups. By visiting these groups on an annual basis, the safety message that they receive will become part of their lives and each child as they grow will always be aware of fire safety. They will also be bringing this message home to their families, which ultimately, would prevent fire related accidents in their lives and the lives of their family and friends. As Framingham has such an ethically and demographically diverse community, it is important for us to be able to develop and deliver our fire prevention message to our diverse population. Without proactive preplanning many of the people who need this type of education the most would be unable to understand the message. To date, bilingual firefighters have been trained in the S.A.F.E. Program and are available to help deliver this curriculum to our community. The S.A.F.E. Program is designed to educate boys and girls from preschool up to the sixth grade. This program includes lectures, presentations and videos on, Lighters and Matches, Stop Drop and Roll, “EDITH” along with Smoke Detectors Saves Lives.
The Elderly Program is designed to be given to Housing Unites for the Elderly. Which includes lectures, presentations and videos on Smoking Safely, Cooking Safely, “EDITH” and Get Out Alive. The Fire Safety House is a mobile travel trailer that is a scaled down kid-sized house. The Fire Safety House enables you to walk through a kitchen, living room and bedroom and spot fire hazards. The Fire Safety House is designed to demonstrate fire safety and prevention techniques to all members of a community. The Fire Department is committed to providing a fire safe future for our community. We would consider our programs a success when the citizens of Framingham are learning our safety and health messages and bringing them home to share with their families on a regular basis.
SMOKE DETECTORS PROTECT LIVES AND EXIT PLANS SAVE
LIVES Respectfully Submitted, Ollie D. Gadson Fire Chief
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Alarm Date Between {01/01/2006} And {12/31/2006} FFD Incident Type Report (SummaryJCM)
Incident Type Count % of Inc Total Est Loss % of Loss
Framingham Fire Department
1 Fire111 Building fire 54 0.58% $2,846,250 94.84%
113 Cooking fire, confined to container 194 2.09% $7,241 0.24%
114 Chimney or flue fire, confined to chimney or flue 6 0.06% $2,050 0.06%
116 Fuel burner/boiler malfunction, fire confined 20 0.22% $2,050 0.06%
117 Commercial Compactor fire, confined to rubbish 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
118 Trash or rubbish fire, contained 8 0.09% $1,050 0.03%
131 Passenger vehicle fire 22 0.24% $136,000 4.53%
140 Natural vegetation fire, Other 5 0.05% $100 0.00%
141 Forest, woods or wildland fire 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
142 Brush or brush-and-grass mixture fire 56 0.60% $501 0.01%
143 Grass fire 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
150 Outside rubbish fire, Other 10 0.11% $100 0.00%
151 Outside rubbish, trash or waste fire 13 0.14% $600 0.02%
154 Dumpster or other outside trash receptacle fire 5 0.05% $3,000 0.10%
155 Outside stationary compactor/compacted trash fire 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
160 Special outside fire, Other 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
162 Outside equipment fire 2 0.02% $1,400 0.04%
405 4.37% $3,000,342 99.98%Total 1 Fire
2 Overpressure Rupture, Explosion, Overheat(no fire)210 Overpressure rupture from steam, Other 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
212 Overpressure rupture of steam boiler 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
222 Overpressure rupture of boiler from air or gas 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
243 Fireworks explosion (no fire) 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
251 Excessive heat, scorch burns with no ignition 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
6 0.06% $0 0.00%Total 2 Overpressure Rupture, Explosion, Overheat(no fire)
3 Rescue & Emergency Medical Service Incident300 Rescue, EMS incident, other 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
311 Medical assist, assist EMS crew 121 1.31% $0 0.00%
321 EMS call, excluding vehicle accident with injury 4,973 53.70% $0 0.00%
322 Motor vehicle accident with injuries 314 3.39% $0 0.00%
323 Motor vehicle/pedestrian accident (MV Ped) 45 0.49% $0 0.00%
324 Motor Vehicle Accident with no injuries 207 2.24% $0 0.00%
331 Lock-in (if lock out , use 511 ) 18 0.19% $0 0.00%
341 Search for person on land 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
342 Search for person in water 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
350 Extrication, rescue, Other 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
352 Extrication of victim(s) from vehicle 5 0.05% $0 0.00%
353 Removal of victim(s) from stalled elevator 19 0.21% $0 0.00%
5,708 61.63% $0 0.00%Total 3 Rescue & Emergency Medical Service Incident
4 Hazardous Condition (No Fire)400 Hazardous condition, Other 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
410 Combustible/flammable gas/liquid condition, other 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
411 Gasoline or other flammable liquid spill 23 0.25% $0 0.00%
412 Gas leak (natural gas or LPG) 58 0.63 $0 0.00
01/17/2007 11:17 1Page
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Alarm Date Between {01/01/2006} And {12/31/2006} FFD Incident Type Report (SummaryJCM)
Incident Type Count % of Inc Total Est Loss % of Loss
Framingham Fire Department
4 Hazardous Condition (No Fire)422 Chemical spill or leak 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
424 Carbon monoxide incident 64 0.69% $0 0.00%
430 Radioactive condition, Other 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
440 Electrical wiring/equipment problem, Other 49 0.53% $0 0.00%
441 Heat from short circuit (wiring), defective/worn 14 0.15% $0 0.00%
442 Overheated motor 16 0.17% $0 0.00%
443 Breakdown of light ballast 8 0.09% $0 0.00%
444 Power line down 74 0.80% $0 0.00%
445 Arcing, shorted electrical equipment 42 0.45% $500 0.01%
460 Accident, potential accident, Other 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
461 Building or structure weakened or collapsed 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
462 Aircraft standby 18 0.19% $0 0.00%
463 Vehicle accident, general cleanup 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
471 Explosive, bomb removal (for bomb scare, use 721) 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
480 Attempted burning, illegal action, Other 5 0.05% $0 0.00%
396 4.28% $500 0.01%Total 4 Hazardous Condition (No Fire)
5 Service Call500 Service Call, other 33 0.36% $0 0.00%
510 Person in distress, Other 9 0.10% $0 0.00%
511 Lock-out 66 0.71% $0 0.00%
520 Water problem, Other 55 0.59% $0 0.00%
521 Water evacuation 7 0.08% $0 0.00%
522 Water or steam leak 26 0.28% $0 0.00%
531 Smoke or odor removal 6 0.06% $0 0.00%
540 Animal problem, Other 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
541 Animal problem 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
542 Animal rescue 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
550 Public service assistance, Other 56 0.60% $0 0.00%
551 Assist police or other governmental agency 29 0.31% $0 0.00%
552 Police matter 113 1.22% $0 0.00%
553 Public service 198 2.14% $0 0.00%
554 Assist invalid 264 2.85% $0 0.00%
561 Unauthorized burning 28 0.30% $0 0.00%
571 Cover assignment, standby, moveup 10 0.11% $0 0.00%
909 9.82% $0 0.00%Total 5 Service Call
6 Good Intent Call600 Good intent call, Other 147 1.59% $0 0.00%
611 Dispatched & cancelled en route 128 1.38% $0 0.00%
621 Wrong location 32 0.35% $0 0.00%
631 Authorized controlled burning 12 0.13% $0 0.00%
632 Prescribed fire 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
641 Vicinity alarm (incident in other location) 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
650 Steam, Other gas mistaken for smoke, Other 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
651 Smoke scare, odor of smoke 138 1.49% $0 0.00%
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Alarm Date Between {01/01/2006} And {12/31/2006} FFD Incident Type Report (SummaryJCM)
Incident Type Count % of Inc Total Est Loss % of Loss
Framingham Fire Department
6 Good Intent Call653 Smoke from barbecue, tar kettle 10 0.11% $0 0.00%
661 EMS call, party transported by non-fire agency 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
671 HazMat release investigation w/no HazMat 5 0.05% $0 0.00%
497 5.37% $0 0.00%Total 6 Good Intent Call
7 False Alarm & False Call700 False alarm or false call, Other 58 0.63% $0 0.00%
710 Malicious, mischievous false call, Other 98 1.06% $0 0.00%
711 Municipal alarm system, malicious false alarm 7 0.08% $0 0.00%
712 Direct tie to FD, malicious false alarm 5 0.05% $0 0.00%
713 Telephone, malicious false alarm 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
714 Central station, malicious false alarm 18 0.19% $0 0.00%
715 Local alarm system, malicious false alarm 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
721 Bomb scare - no bomb 2 0.02% $0 0.00%
730 System malfunction, Other 114 1.23% $0 0.00%
731 Sprinkler activation due to malfunction 13 0.14% $0 0.00%
732 Extinguishing system activation due to malfunction 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
733 Smoke detector activation due to malfunction 188 2.03% $0 0.00%
734 Heat detector activation due to malfunction 18 0.19% $0 0.00%
735 Alarm system sounded due to malfunction 112 1.21% $0 0.00%
736 CO detector activation due to malfunction 21 0.23% $0 0.00%
740 Unintentional transmission of alarm, Other 93 1.00% $0 0.00%
741 Sprinkler activation, no fire - unintentional 15 0.16% $0 0.00%
742 Extinguishing system activation 4 0.04% $0 0.00%
743 Smoke detector activation, no fire - unintentional 387 4.18% $0 0.00%
744 Detector activation, no fire - unintentional 54 0.58% $0 0.00%
745 Alarm system activation, no fire - unintentional 95 1.03% $0 0.00%
746 Carbon monoxide detector activation, no CO 28 0.30% $0 0.00%
1,337 14.44% $0 0.00%Total 7 False Alarm & False Call
8 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster813 Wind storm, tornado/hurricane assessment 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
814 Lightning strike (no fire) 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
2 0.02% $0 0.00%Total 8 Severe Weather & Natural Disaster
9 Special Incident Type900 Special type of incident, Other 1 0.01% $0 0.00%
1 0.01% $0 0.00%Total 9 Special Incident Type
Total Incident Count: 9261 Total Est Loss: $3,000,842
01/17/2007 11:17 3Page
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PARKS, RECREATION, AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS
PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Joan Rastani served as chairman with other members Robert Brown, Mark Goldman, Barry Bograd, and Dan Jones. The annual Town Meeting voted $1,957,750 for Park Administration, Park Maintenance, and Recreation. Included in the budget this year was a reorganization that allows the Park and Recreation Director to better manage the expanded 5 department Division. The Division consists of Park Maintenance, Recreation, Callahan Senior Center, Loring Arena, and Cemeteries. The reorganization allowed for the addition of one new position, Division Operations Manager, and the restoration of two positions lost to budget cuts in previous years. The reorganization is well under way with the hiring of a Division Operations Manager successfully completed in August 2006, and the Recreation Supervisor position filled as of January 2007. A Laborers position is currently posted and a qualified candidate pool is being reviewed. With support from the Capital Budget Committee and Town Meeting the Division was able to upgrade its vehicle fleet, in addition to undertaking some
much needed infrastructure improvements. The fleet upgrades included a new Dump Truck, Mini Refuse Packer, and Kubota Turf Tractor. Some infrastructure improvements undertaken include; Master Planning and Design for the Bowditch Field Athletic Complex, Beach Storm Drainage Improvements, and the Resurfacing of Longs Basketball Courts. The resurfacing of the Mary Dennison Basketball Courts was completed with the assistance of CDBG funds. Tercentennial Park improvements remain a Division priority. The majority of Phase II was completed in 2006, providing significant improvements including: the relocation and redesign, of the vehicle entrance off Winter St., creation of two new handicapped accessible vehicle parking areas on the southwest side of the park, redevelopment of several thousand square feet of existing bituminous into passive park land and walking paths, and a wetlands replication area that will include informative signage in the near future. Phase 3 design is currently underway as the department was successful in gaining another $250,000 in Urban Self Help Funds. This design phase will include the removal of old and unnecessary pavement, additional green space, pedestrian corridors, park benches, tree plantings, drinking fountains, and pedestrian alert systems. The Bowditch Master Plan Development was the main focus toward the end of the year. In May the Parks and Recreation
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Division secured Lincoln Consultants LLC as an Owner Project Manager to assist with the Master Plan development. After a competitive process, and with the assistance of Lincoln Consulting, the department chose Kaestle Boos & Associates of Foxboro, an architectural design firm. Under the guidance of the Division Director, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and Lincoln Consultants, Kaestle Boos & Associates is currently conducting extensive review and design planning to finalize a Master Plan for the Bowditch Field property. Coordination of building code issues, ADA compliance, conservation issues, fire codes, neighborhood interests, and drainage issues, are some of the many concerns that need to be addressed in the planning process. Of added concern is the need to coordinate property usage with the Callahan Senior Center which is now adjacent to Bowditch. The success of the
center is presenting parking concerns which may need to be addressed in the Bowditch Master Plan. Community and public input is already underway. We would like to thank Town Meeting, the many Town boards, committees, and departments for supporting our services. We would also like to thank the hundreds of user organizations for their continued support. Parks & Recreation Commission Joan Rastani, Chair Robert Brown Barry Bograd Mark Goldman Dan Jones Robert L. Merusi Director, Parks & Recreation
COUNCIL ON AGING/CALLAHAN SENIOR CENTER
The Raymond J. Callahan Center is a multi-purpose, multi-functional senior Center. The Callahan Center maintains paid staff, the Council on Aging, the Friends of Callahan and numerous volunteers. The advisory board (the Council on Aging) includes 11 appointed members who are responsible to the
Framingham Board of Selectmen. The principal function of the Council is to act in the best interest of all older citizens. Council meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month, eleven months a year, at the Callahan Center and are open to the public. Staffing Staffing at the Callahan Center includes under municipal funding: the Director of Elder Services, an Office Manager, a Customer Service Representative, and a Supervisor of the Outreach/Social Service Department, an Outreach Aide and a Bi-Lingual Outreach Aide. Through various State and Federal Grants, there are several part-time positions filled which include, but are not limited to, a Coordinator for the Minor Home Safety Repair Program
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and the Senior Property Tax Work Off Program, a Program Aide, a Coordinator for the Computer Learning Center, a Specialized Population Coordinator and the Assistant Director of the Metrowest Regional SHINE Program and an Outreach SHINE Worker. Funded through private grants are a Bereavement Coordinator, a Grandparent Support Coordinator and an Activity Coordinator who works out of housing units in the community. Volunteer Staff Volunteers assist in providing tours and answer questions in the reception area of the new Center. They assist with the administration of the Flu Clinic, parties and other special events as well as collating, mailing and distributing the monthly Callahan Courier newsletter. Volunteers manage and work in the Friend’s consignment shop (Heritage Gallery.) Volunteers provide ongoing instructions in computers, card activities, golf, table tennis, income tax assistance, and assist in other venues of activities. The Center receives from its volunteers a yearly in-kind value. Change in Services and New Programs As a result of a Needs Assessment Survey, changes in services and programs occurred. We now include support groups which meet weekly, bi-weekly or monthly for Bereavement, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, Stroke Victims, Parkinson’s Disease, and Low Vision. In addition, we are collaborating with the Jewish Family Services of Metrowest regarding seniors “aging in place” in housing units in Framingham. Presently we are involved in bringing services and programs to Hastings House on Cochituate Road, and Claflin House on Taylor Street. Growth at New Center
The Center celebrated its first year at its new location in September 2006. This transition to 535 Union Avenue has brought about a constant increase in the numbers of new users each day. More people want to be part of this Center and as a result more requests are made to us for additional daytime and evening programs. An example of this change is that ninety individuals signed up for our Tai Chi class when we expected no more than twenty five. Sixty people attended our evening program of a 3-part mini-series on World Religions. This particular program is part of our Lifelong Learners Series which is in partnership with Framingham State College. Our minority population is growing as well - Latinos and Asians are coming to the Center two or three times a week whether to learn English in order to prepare them to become Americans citizens, to learn to sew or to make a craft or just for socialization. Space Management Even though we have more space at this location than at our former address, we are anxiously awaiting the rehabbing and outfitting of the second floor and the Jack & Shelley Blais Function Room. The second floor will be completed in the spring of 2007, and the function room to be completed in 2008. By opening up these spaces, we will then be at full capacity. The front part of the second floor will house a reading area and a Wellness Clinic providing multiple services: massage therapy, podiatry, a cardiovascular clinic, blood pressure clinic and medical consultations. The back part of the second floor includes space for a pool room, table tennis area and a sewing room. Access to this area of the building will be by a three-stop elevator. The large function room downstairs (the Jack & Shelley Blais Function Room) will contain a stage with a dressing room, additional
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storage space and will be used for presentations and other activities. Operations Our role as an “aging agency” must be continually reviewed and updated. We address issues raised by ethnic diversity, an increasing population of 85 plus and those “aging in place”. We anticipate a developing “boomer population” and we know that we have a growing multi-lingual, multi-cultural population who want to be integrated into the programs and services of the Center.
Aging in Place – A Special Program honoring those residents over ninety called “The Jewels of Framingham” This year, we invited those ninety and older to come and re-acquaint themselves with the Center. We discovered, through our Needs Assessment Survey and through the Voters List, that we have many residents who are ninety and over. We invited 179 senior residents to this function. We secured a sponsor (Legal Sea Food) and utilized our local technical school (Keefe Technical High School) to partner with us on this new undertaking. This event was an extraordinary day for us, for the high school students and for the caterer. It was even a wonderful day for the families in our community who saw this as a way to honor their relatives who have contributed so much in building
this community. We will be repeating this program annually.
The Center operates with a Town of Framingham budget of $273,282, along with Federal, State, and private foundation grants to provide more than 200 programs and services monthly. Friends of Callahan The Friends of Callahan is a non-profit organization. They raise funds and provide the Center with much needed items. They do most of their fundraising by sponsoring Heritage Gallery, a consignment shop, which they manage with the assistance of an all-volunteer staff. Anyone can utilize the Gallery, whether to buy or sell. This summer Friends purchased a much needed photocopier for the center and covered the cost of all of the electronics that were needed here: televisions, VCR’s and digital equipment. They have taken over the cost of mailing out our newsletter. They subsidized the cost of the Framingham State Lifelong Learners Programs. The Friend’s rallied their members to donate items for our local veteran’s hospitals and collected toiletries and small necessities for St. Bernard's Parish Senior Center in Louisiana because this community was devastated by hurricane Katrina. They raised funds to buy phone cards for young men and women serving
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active duty in Iraq, and they donated money to several local shelters, to assist residents with other necessities not provided by the state or federal government. Information There is no fee to join the Center but there are minimal charges for some programs. The Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 A.M to 4:30 PM and for some special evening programs. The Center welcomes all residents 59 plus to join in the many activities and services it offers. In addition, we are now finding out that some younger residents are interested in attending our programs. The staff provides information about programs and services as well as travel, health insurance, housing issues, volunteerism, recreational and educational opportunities at the Center. The Callahan Center’s monthly newsletter (the Callahan Courier) the Metro West Newspaper’s Sunday edition, the TAB (a weekly newspaper) the Framingham.com and the Town of Framingham web sights announce trips, special events, services and programs. Transportation Busy Bee, is a contracted service paid by the Town that provides rides to medical appointments and shopping trips. Services of Busy Bee Transportation can be obtained by calling 508-881-2120 between the hours of 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. To access rides to and from the Center, seniors can call the Center at 508-532-5980 for information - this service is limited. Community, State, and National Involvement SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) based at the Center is a
state program which offers information free-of-charge to seniors in order to make a sound decision regarding health coverage. Once again, the staff of the Center and the SHINE volunteers were involved in assisting seniors deal with the changing complexities of Medicare. The Center is also connected to outside organizations including schools and businesses such as: the Framingham Garden Club, McCarthy, Brophy, Cameron and Fuller Middle Schools, The MA Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Framingham Union Hospital, Keefe Technical High School, Framingham State College and local and state veteran’s associations. In addition, we participate in special projects of the USO, Oxfam International and the AIDS Baby Blanket Project. Programs and Class Options Educational Programs are offered on health issues, consumerism, retirement, aging issues, creativity, cultural seminars, and discussion groups. The Computer Learning Center has developed into a comprehensive training facility. Senior students receive training by volunteer instructors. Twenty computers are on-line and currently classes are offered at both beginning and intermediate levels. Fitness Programs include aerobics, tai chi, yoga, line dancing, bowling, golf, bocce, table tennis and volleyball. Recreational Activities include bridge, poker, pinochle, mahjongg, bingo, crafts, sewing, painting, drawing and pool. Travel includes trips, both daytime, overnight or week long events. Some trips are out-of-state or international. Cultural Classes currently include the twice weekly meeting of the Asian and South Pacific Islanders, and the weekly and bi-weekly programs of the Latino Social Club.
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Services The Outreach/Social Service Department is an important component of the Center. Advocacy is provided to seniors and their families regarding financial and medical issues, housing and legal issues. This department addresses many other problems and refers seniors to other area agencies regarding securing additional benefits. The Outreach Department operates a loan closet for free medical equipment for Framingham residents. Health Screening – Massage, podiatry, cardiovascular and blood pressure clinics are available. Screenings such as ophthalmology, audiology, cancer detection and other health issues are held annually in cooperation with Framingham Union Hospital and other health providers. The Wellness Clinic offers weekly services in regards to blood pressure, heart, diabetes counseling, osteoporosis and other health issues. Support Groups - Peer support groups meet weekly, bi-monthly or monthly for Stroke Survivors, Low Vision, Parkinson’s Support, and Bereavement Support.
Clubs - The new Center hosts the Friends of Callahan and the local chapter of the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons). Intergenerational Programs are ongoing with all the schools in Framingham. Center’s Staff and Volunteers Role in the Community The Callahan Staff and Volunteers know they play an essential role in this community. They serve one of the largest and fastest growing populations. We invite all residents to come and familiarize themselves with the services and programs of the Callahan Center. We believe that they will be very pleased to see what their financial support has accomplished for the senior residents of our community. Respectfully Submitted, Mary Elizabeth Matterazzo Chairperson Mary Parcher Director of Elder Services Robert L. Merusi Director, Parks & Recreation
CEMETERIES
The Cemetery Commissioners were scheduled to meet on December 28, 2006. Due to a lack of quorum the meeting was cancelled. This report is being filed by the Division Director on behalf of the Cemetery Commission. The current grounds maintenance contract for Edwards Cemetery, Main St. Cemetery, and Old South Cemetery, is with TruGreen LandCare. The
Commission originally awarded TruGreen LandCare the contract in 2005 with an option to renew on an annual basis. TruGreen provided quality grounds maintenance service during the 2005 contract and the Commission renewed the annual option for 2006. A review of the Cemetery grounds has identified some needed tree work, and gravestone repair. The Parks
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Superintendent is in the process of planning for required maintenance. The Parks Maintenance staff continues to perform grave openings with occasional assistance from the DPW. In the past few years there has been a decline in burial activities. This decline is in part due to the moratorium placed on lot sales. There are limited lots remaining. Fee schedules for associated cemetery activities are up to date, and on par with surrounding communities. Over the past few years there has been a noticeable increase in requests for historical records associated with cemetery activities. The Department is currently reviewing the extent of historical information contained in Library records, in an attempt to provide more complete information to inquiries. The Cemetery Commission consists of a three member board appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Currently there is
one vacancy on the Commission. This opening should be filled early in 2007 by the Board of Selectmen. Report submitted on behalf of the Cemetery Commission by: Respectfully Submitted, Robert L. Merusi Director, Parks & Recreation Cemetery Commission Robert Brown-Chairman Mark Goldman Vacant
LORING ARENA
This is the 44th year of operations for Loring Arena. In addition to our normal services, we are continuing to create a user-friendly atmosphere.
The Loring Arena Committee members are appointed as an advisory board. The members appointed by the Board of
Selectmen this past year were co-chairs Joe Tersoni and David Friday, John Hart, Jack Jagher, Bob Brown, Richard Callahan, and Joan Rastani. There were some significant lighting improvements to the facility this year. The new multi level lighting system installation was completed in March. This new system allows for Arena Maintenance staff to more effectively and efficiently adjust lighting levels according to current user needs. The emergency lighting system was upgraded to include emergency lighting in the locker rooms, bathrooms, stands, and doorways. This year the Arena installed an ice surface temperature gauge. This instrument will constantly monitor the current
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temperature at ice surface level and operate the associated cooling system more efficiently. Wooden equipment cubbies were donated to the Arena anonymously. The Arena maintenance staff installed the cubbies in locker room A at the front of the Arena. The cubbies provide much needed storage space for teams and groups using the facilities. Town Meeting and the Capital Budget Committee voted funding for Loring Arena Dasher Boards and Glass Replacement. As of December the design specifications are developed and being put out to bid with an anticipated project completion in April, 2007. The following is financial information relating to business conducted through the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006: Total net income as of June 30, 2006 $391,094.57
Total Rink Operational Expenditures $381,831.07 Debt Service $65,075.00 Total Rink Indirect Cost Assessment $98,607 Joe Tersoni and David Friday Loring Arena Co-Chairs Robert Drake Arena Director Respectfully Submitted, Robert L. Merusi Director, Parks & Recreation
PARK MAINTENANCE
In keeping with the Divisional Mission Statement, the Parks Maintenance Department continues to provide well maintained and safe facilities in support of our very diverse user requirements. Our staff conducts daily visits and routine playground safety checks to remain constantly aware of changing maintenance requirements throughout the Town.
Sports turf maintenance and improvement is an area to which we remain committed. These efforts can be seen through out the Town at our sport complexes. With our pro-active approach to turf maintenance including, aeration, fertilization, over-seeding, proper irrigation, and mowing, we have been able to keep the majority of our turf areas in a state of high quality.
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Increased demand for practice and game field facilities continues to be a concern. This increased demand is resulting in overuse, and associated decline in conditions at some facilities. This overuse accelerates the need to shut down fields for costly renovations. A short term solution that has had some success is our field rotation program. A Long term solutions to increase carrying capacity may include the addition of irrigation systems. With the recently approved reorganization of the Division, we have restored one previously cut laborers position to our maintenance staff. This position will be integral to our operations as we begin the incremental implementation of our School Field Improvement program. Our maintenance department continues to provide support to the athletic programs of three high schools, Framingham High, Marian High and Keefe Vocational High School, as well as the Framingham Middle School athletic programs. Other schools that rely on our department for a portion of their athletic program needs are Framingham State College and Mass. Bay Community College. In addition to School Athletics, the Department provides scheduling and facilities for hundreds of other user groups from the Framingham Community Through a collaborative effort with Keefe Technical School, we’ve continued our renovations of the Academy Building at Tercentennial Park. This mutually beneficial relationship provides the Town of Framingham with access to cost effective, professionally supervised, electrical, carpentry, plumbing, and metal fabrication, while affording students the benefit of practical “real world” learning experiences in a commercial setting. To date this year the department has
accomplished the installation of new bathrooms, HVAC, finished woodwork, electrical, and a new floor. Painting is currently underway, and the building should be operational by late spring. Phase II of Tercentennial Park was successfully completed. We are currently awaiting the Governor’s reinstatement of a supplemental budget that will fund the new parking lot lighting, and a vehicle access gate. Continued improvements to the landscape in this Phase will be conducted as funding becomes available. We completed a CDGB grant project consisting of resurfacing of the Mary Dennison Basketball Courts. New asphalt, seal-coating, lining, and aluminum bleacher seating completed a much needed improvement to this highly used area. Through the Capital Budget funding we are in the process of bidding Phase I of the Beach Storm Water Improvement project. Phase I consists of improvements to Learned’s Pond. Through improvements to the run off/erosion control system, this project will bring the Town closer to compliance with several Local, State, and Federal policies associated with storm water management. Other important beach improvements included the installation of an emergency pull station and call box to the Sax Beach. The staff also constructed retaining wall above the beach to prevent wash outs that were occurring due to heavy rains and the steep slope. This wall has made a much needed improvement to this area. I would like to thank all our volunteers and volunteer groups that supplied us with help on projects this past year. Their support was tremendous.
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We continue to give support and resources to other Town departments including the School Dept., Building Services, the Department of Public Works, and Conservation. We would like to thank all of the Town departments for the cooperation they have provided throughout the year. It would be very difficult for us to achieve the success we have with out their help.
Respectfully Submitted, Chris McGinty Superintendent, Parks Maintenance Robert L. Merusi Director, Parks & Recreation
RECREATION
A mid-year reorganization of the department has brought new vitality to the Division. A new Recreation Supervisor will begin working at the start of next year, increasing the administration staff to three. This will allow the division to provide additional quality control and to increase the number of program offerings. The Department continues to offer an array of over 200 programs for ages 6 months to 99 years. There was an increase in numbers for senior aerobics, Wednesday night track meets and tennis. Noteworthy events included the retirement of our playgroup instructor Debbie Gehrke after 20 years of service. Miss Deb will be missed by many of the toddlers, parents, and supportive staff alike. One other honor to mention is that Brian Rogan, our special needs director of McCarthy Day Center, received the Town Customer Service Award. Brian has been an exceptional employee of the division and deserves the recognition. Once again, the Sudbury River Tennis Club donated monies to defer the cost of lessons for youths to participate in our Tennis Program. Due to their generosity, we have seen a significant
increase in numbers in this very popular program.
Thanks to the Framingham Grants panel of the MetroWest Community Health Care Foundation, the division will receive monies to implement a kid fit program. A new program designed for ages 7-18 will target the much needed area of childhood obesity offering fitness as well as nutritional components towards a healthy lifestyle. The program is scheduled to be implemented at the start of the new year. The Recreation Department, assisted by the Friends of Framingham Recreation, sponsored several special events throughout the year including the Fiesta Shows Festival, the Flag Day Celebration, the Fifth Anniversary 9/11 Ceremony, the Mary Mespelli dedication, and the Hayward Taylor dedication. In addition, a Memorial fund in memory of Ray Swanecamp, a former park
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commissioner, was established. As a tribute to Ray, the funds will be used to provide scholarships and assist in park improvements. A highlight of the year was the return of the Bonfire. This year was the 100th
anniversary Football game of Framingham vs. Natick. The fire starter this year was Bill Brooks, a Framingham alumnus who played in the NFL. Many thanks to Town Meeting members, all town staff, and numerous volunteers for their continued support. Without your help we could not deliver programs of the same quality to the residents of Framingham. Respectfully Submitted, Trisha Powell Superintendent of Recreation Robert L. Merusi Director
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HUMAN SERVICES
HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
From the General Bylaws of the Town of Framingham: There shall be a Human Relations Commission of thirteen (13) members who are residents of the Town of Framingham. The membership of the Commission shall be broadly representative of the community in such areas as housing, employment, and education, and representative of the several religious faiths and racial groups. The purpose of the Commission shall be to deal with the causes of disunity which underlie the urban crisis, including, but not limited to, the elimination of conditions of bias discrimination and prejudice against minority groups, and to establish affirmative action programs to insure equal enforcement of law, and equal protection of law, for all groups regardless of race, color, religious creed, sex, age, handicap, national origin or ancestry. The Commissioners: Robert B. Anspach (Chair) Mahmood Akhtar (Vice Chair) Tim Lee (Clerk) Dawn Harkness Laura Medrano-Carrillo John Schaefer Advisors: William Robinson Ralph Woodward We would like to preface our report with a thank you to Edwina Weston-Dyer who served as Chair of the Commission for several years before retiring this current year. Her efforts and energy are greatly
appreciated and her work for the Town will be missed. The Commissioners began this year by reviewing its bylaws in an attempt to re-establish our understanding of the responsibilities we have to the Town. Having done so we realized that there is a strong need to increase the number of Commissioners to be in compliance with the allowed thirteen members. This is an ongoing process, and it is our hope that as the programs of the Commission gain exposure, more members of our community will wish to participate in the activities of the Commission. The major project for this year was to develop a forum on the issue of immigration. An informational meeting was held with Framingham attorneys Kirk Carter and John Creedon, Valerie Fiske of Cambridge Community Legal Services and Kristin Filipic and Jennifer Rocha, staff members of South Middlesex Legal Services. From that meeting a forum was planned in November. The panel was comprised of Kirk Carter, Kevin Swope of the Framingham Historical Society, Thomas Keown from the Irish Immigration Center and Cynthia Tschampi, Senior Legislative Organizer for MIRA (Mass. Immigration and Refugee Advisory Coalition). The program was very successful and has been aired on Access Television numerous times since. The Commission also participated in the Framingham Planning Board’s Master Plan Scope Meeting in the spring. We attended an immigration forum held in
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Newton, and we have also met with the Fair Housing Committee, and the Community Services Standing Committee. In addition to planning another forum on immigration, the Commission is also
assisting in the planning of an Immigrants Day activity in the spring of 2007.
EDGELL GROVE CEMETERY
The Trustees of the Edgell Grove Cemetery submit, herewith, their annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006. In April 2006, the Board of Trustees reorganized, electing Stanton Fitts as Chairman, Barbara Ford as assistant Chair, William F. Welch, Treasurer and John Silva as Secretary. During the year 2006, Edgell Grove Cemetery had 119 interments, 23 family lots were sold, 16 single graves were sold, as well as 6 cremation graves. There were
3 entombments in the mausoleum along with 2 nice sales. During 2006 a major upgrade to the electrical system in the Chapel was completed as well as upgraded electrical work in the garage. A study continued on improving the water lines. An extensive rehabilitation of the summer house (gazebo) was completed in the summer and fall of 2006, rendering that structure very impressive, colorful, and eye-catching. A new sign was installed at the cemetery entrance enumerating the cemetery regulations and hours.
HOUSING AUTHORITY
Submitted herewith is the Annual Report of the Framingham Housing Authority for the year 2006. The Annual Meeting of the Authority was held on April 10, 2006 and the organization was voted: Chairman – Stephen Starr; Vice Chairman – Edward Convery; - Treasurer – Phyllis May; Asst. Treasurer – Robert Merusi; Member – Mark Galante. State aided programs administered by the Authority are: Chapter 200-C Family Housing – 185 units, Chapter 705-C Family Housing – 64 units. Locations: Concord Street, Anzio Road, Arsenal Road, Corrigidor Road,
Guadalcanal Road, Normandy Road, Pearl Harbor Road, St. Lo Road, Hollis Street, Beaver Park Road, Marian Road and Taralli Terrace. Chapter 667C Elderly Housing, Chapter 667-1, 667-8, Elderly Housing 561 units. Locations: Everitt Avenue, John Gallagher Drive, Grant Street, Rose Kennedy Lane, Normandy Road, Arsenal Road, Guadalcanal Road, Cochituate Road, Hollis Street. Chapter 689 Handicapped Housing: Chapter 689, Chapter 689-1 – 8 units; Chapter; Chapter 689-2 – 8 units; Chapter 689-3 – 8 units. Locations: Temple Place, Alexander Street, Underwood Avenue.
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Rental Assistance: Mass Rental Voucher Program (MRVP); Scattered Site – 12 units – Gordon Street; SRO/DMH – 26 units – Gordon Street; Union Avenue; SRO/DPH – 15 units – Evergreen Street; SRO/Advocates – 4 units – Clark Street. These units are located in privately-owned apartments. Federally-aided programs administered by the Authority are: MA028-001 Family Housing – 125 units. Locations: Beaver Street, Carlson Road and Pusan Road; MA0028-002 Elderly Housing – 110 units, Location: John J. Brady Drive. Federal Rental Housing: Section 8 vouchers – 787; Section 8 New Construction – 40. The Section 8 vouchers are located in privately-owned apartments in scattered sites in Framingham and surrounding towns. The Section 8 New Construction is a 40-unit elderly development located on Taylor Street. The Authority once again applied and was awarded $371,000 from HUD under its Capital Improvement Plan. The Authority will be replacing outdated windows at our Family Federal Project. In 2006 an architect was selected. Specs are in the process of being prepared. In 2003, the Authority received notification of award for 1.5 million in a state modernization award. In 2004, the Authority secured an architect and specs. are being designed for bid to redesign the Oran Road Development, which was constructed in 1957. In 2005 bids were secured for work at the Oran Road site. In 2006, construction began with an expected date of completion of January, 2007. In 2006 the Authority received notification of award of ten million dollars
for renovations to the kitchens and baths to 185 units of State Public Family Housing from Department of Housing & Community Development. The Authority has continued in 2006 its successful Housing Liaison Officer Program. Officer Brad Newman is assigned as full-time Housing Liaison Officer. He has been assigned to the Authority since the conception of the Program in 1996. He has developed a working knowledge of the policies and procedures that govern the Housing Authority, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the State Department of Housing and Community Development. This enables him to effectively enforce governing regulations. While this program was formed to enhance the “Quality of Life” for the residents, it has also created a network between residents, the Housing Authority and the Police Department, allowing the Housing Liaison Officer to interact with the residents more effectively. The Homeownership Program has been well received. The Program is designed to permit the use of Section 8 Voucher assistance for home ownership. Eligible Section 8 Program participants, who are also participants in good standing in the family Self-Sufficiency Program, can apply their monthly assistance payments toward a monthly mortgage payment. To date thirteen families have purchased homes under this Program. The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) is designed to assist Section 8 families in becoming self-supporting so they no longer need public assistance. The program is voluntary and open to all families receiving Section 8 assistance through Framingham Housing Authority. The head of household enters into a five year contract with the Housing Authority. This contract contains a service plan that identifies the goals of the
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participants and the steps necessary to achieve these goals. The goals may be revised as necessary. The FSS Coordinator helps the family locate the services and resources listed in the plan. The Housing Authority will establish an escrow savings account for the families that increase their earned income. Presently, there are 32 FSS participants in the Framingham Housing Authority Program. There are 16 who are working full-time and 9 are working part-time. Nine participants are taking courses to better their career. There are only 5 who are not working at this time, 2 of which are trying to get into a career certificate program at Mass. Bay. One person moved back to Santa Domingo and one terminated voluntarily. The FSS Program has had three graduates in 2006 and two went on to become homeowners without any Section 8 assistance. The other graduate used her escrow funds to pay off credit cards in preparation for homeownership. There are 13 Section 8 homeowners, with one going off the program and taking over the full mortgage payment. This was our first homeowner,
who purchased a lottery home in Wayland in November, 2002. We expect to increase the FSS Program to 40 participants in 2007. It is with regret we inform the Town of the retirement of Bill Casamento, Executive Director for eight years with the Authority. Bill’s replacement is Kevin P. Bumpus. For the past 5-1/2 years, Kevin has been the Deputy Executive Director of the Somerville Housing Authority. Prior to his tenure in Somerville, Kevin was Deputy Director at the Bromley Heath Tenant Management Corp for ten years. Respectfully submitted, Kevin P. Bumpus Executive Director Commissioners: Stephen Starr Robert Merusi Phyllis May Edward Convery Mark Galante
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INSPECTIONAL SERVICES
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING INSPECTION
In 2006, the Department of Building Inspection continued its pursuit of high quality public service with top-notch public safety by emphasizing the importance of Code Enforcement: Our primary mission is to enforce State Construction Codes for the benefit of the general contractor his clients, town residents, commercial tenants and property owners. From zoning issues to code review, from field inspections to structural conformity, from a hole in the ground to completion, your inspector is looking out for the Town of Framingham peoples best interests! In order to reach our goal of superior public service, the Department of Building Inspection uniformly enforces all mandated State and local regulations in a fair and equitable manner, as well as reviews and approves all the life safety aspects of construction to protect the general welfare of our residents and business people. We ensure that all Town of Framingham construction projects meet the highest standards of the State construction codes and focus on protecting property values. In addition, Town regulations require us to collect all construction fees due to the town in a consistent and legal manner. Furthermore we conduct a thorough investigation of all inquiries to determine responsibility and take appropriate actions for all civil infringements. Finally, we take all efforts to educate and inform the public regarding construction code or by-law changes and make most of this public information available on the
Internet through the Town’s Web site in a timely manner. Last year the Department of Building Inspection furthered our transition with a critical staff addition as part of our departmental re-organization. Jennifer Baum-Wiseman, a Paralegal and resident of Framingham who possesses excellent oral and written communication skills that are proven to be critical when communicating with the public about the sign by-law joined our team this past fall. Jennifer is the new Assistant Sign Officer, a position that had been vacant for many years due to budget constraints. The lack of a qualified Asst. Sign Officer led to a decrease in effective Sign By-Law enforcement. Prior to filling this position the sign enforcement process was shared with the related assignments of several inspectors. As a temporary measure, the Assistant Director and a Building Inspector were assigned the duties of permitting and enforcement. This course of action coincided with our mission statement and a strong desire to continue our commitment to quality customer service from a knowledgeable and professional staff. This stopgap measure helped in our enforcement but it was only a temporary measure that worked until we could hire a permanent Asst. Sign Officer. The department underwent a major change in 2006 by relocating to the 2nd floor, Room 203. The move advanced the accessibility of the office, by providing convenient access to the elevator, an accessible entrance and service counter.
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The relocation improved accessibility to the other Departments within the Division where we are no longer spread out on three different floors of the Memorial Building. The move also included relocating the Weights & Measures Department to the same area. The Division of Inspectional Services also experienced a major management change with former Director Joseph Mikielian, accepting the position as the Director of Code Enforcement for the City of Worcester. Joe had been the Director/Building Commissioner for the town for over eight years and is credited with elevating the present level of professionalism of the office. Another recent change to our management team occurred when Local Inspector Mark Brodeur, accepted the offer to be the Building Commissioner for the Town of West Boylston. Mark had been employed with the town for over five years and the service he provided illustrated his years of experience. The advancement of these two individuals continues to demonstrate that other municipalities recognize the Town of Framingham commitment when seeking seasoned personnel to deliver necessary client services. One of our successful programs over the last six years continues to be our Nuisance By-Law enforcement which met and exceeded the goals to assist in improving town property valuations by ensuring higher levels of quality maintenance for residential and commercial property. The program has also generated and collected for the town more than $16,000 in fines and other legal fees for the General Fund. Since 2002, the Town of Framingham has employed a Nuisance Officer to enforce
the town by-laws with a strong commitment to improve the quality of life for the people of our community. The Nuisance Officers continues to demonstrate his effectives with the number of citations issued for offences that degrade the integrity of our neighborhoods, through the issuance of warning notices, on site periodic monitoring, the thousands of dollars collected in fines and the numerous appearances before the judicial authority of the Framingham District Court. To continue with this strong effort, the department is becoming more and more focused on the specific aspects of each position and the contributions each inspector provides. To facilitate this process and improve our Code Enforcement abilities, a pilot program is being explored where a local inspector will be re-assigned the duties as a Code Enforcement Inspector. The responsibilities will overlap those of the Nuisance Officer to focus on Zoning, Building and Life Safety. In addition to the pilot program for Code Enforcement with the local inspector, I anticipate for FY08 operating budget proposing a minimum of two (2) and a maximum of three (3) additional positions for the Inspectional Service Division. With the ever increasing request for service the office receives daily, it is sometimes difficult to provide timely responses, and with the need to provide written notice to property owners the work load is becoming more difficult for one individual. The building department has been without an administrative assistant for many years. If approved by Town Meeting, this re-funded position will greatly improve our overall effectiveness in Code Enforcement but also in other aspects Building Code and Town By-Law enforcement. Filling
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this position will enable and ensure that our inspectors have sufficient time to concentrate on the State Building Code and their local zoning enforcement responsibilities. . In addition to the Administrative Assistant, The budget proposal will include for two Code Enforcement Officers for another pilot program where they will work off hours from of our present town hall schedule, with particular emphasis for after Five PM (5:00 pm) and at least one (1) week end day. The Code Enforcement Officer(s) responsibilities would include all aspects of the code enforcement charges of the Inspectional Service Division. As stated last year, and with the Town Manager’s continued support, we continue to improve our implementation of a town wide joint code enforcement task force. This innovative team-approach survey works together with the members of the Fire, Police and Public Health officials as well as other Town departments as needed to proactively deal with neighborhood issues that involve the commitment of more than one department. Our primary goal of the Task Force is to investigate and respond to any town code violations before they become serious problems that negatively affect the quality of life of our residents and neighborhoods. In addition, several times this year we made a concerted effort to survey the downtown business area with this enhanced code enforcement. Our main concerns are the proliferation of illegal,
over -crowded and/or unsafe apartments that have been increasing throughout the entire community. We deal with these problems using a “zero tolerance” methodology that concentrates a high visibility profile with strong code compliance enforcement. In addition to the fines collected for Nuisance violations, strong aggressive action is demonstrated in the numerous citations and $8,225 in fines collected for violations of the sign by-law infractions. Furthermore, the department has collected significant permit fees for the General Fund consistent with our last five years receipts. This clearly, indicates that we have done an excellent job with our very limited resources. Our overall cost-benefit analysis shows that we provide the Town with a better than two to one positive ratio of fees collected to service costs. Overall, I want to commend the entire Department of Building Inspection staff for their hard work, dedication and improved public service in the difficult customer service area of construction code enforcement.
Respectfully submitted, Michael F. Foley, C.B.O. Assistant Director of Inspectional Services/ Acting Building Commissioner The following is a list of permits and valuations for the calendar year of 2005 with a Five Year Activity Summary:
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Five-Year Record of Building Activity
Number of Permits Issued 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Single Family Dwellings 35 28 46 124 31 Two Family Dwellings 1 3 2 2 4 New Buildings 4 2 5 5 8 Alterations & Additions 683 695 698 826 744 Miscellaneous 949 1,007 1,748 1,118 1,161 Total Building Permits 1,672 1,735 2,499 2,075 1,948 Valuation on Permits 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 New Residential 6,580,831 6,527,771 9,739,630 21,301,613 6,786,081 New Commercial 5,807,000 1,779,112 475,030 19,312,194 11,042,878All Others 103,441,196 39,139,590 53,911,916 47,045,339 59,986,288 Total Valuations 115,829,027 47,446,473 64,126,576 87,659,146 77,815,247 Fees Received and Turned Over to General Fund 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Building Permits 933,228 556,933 643,989 1,069,996 827,916 Wire Permits 84,646 86,840 108,299 208,731 152,931 Plumb.& Gas Permits 76,436 100,606 109,658 171,626 132,320 Occupancy Permits 7,410 6,840 5,050 6,725 3,450 Certificates 20,707 19,943 22,614 21,377 28,547 Miscellaneous 150 1,630 13,216 14 40 Sign License Fees 37,578 15,344 1,185 172 38,729 Total Fees 1,160,155 788,136 904,011 1,478,641 1,183,933
Average receivable over five years: $1,102,975
DEPARTMENT OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
In compliance with Section 34, Chapter 98, General Laws of the Commonwealth, I submit my annual report of the Department of Weights and Measures for the year ended December 31, 2006. The Weights and Measures Department is required by state statute to inspect all weighing and measuring devices in the
Town of Framingham each calendar year. In 2006, the Department inspected 1420 weighing and measures devices, including scanning audits. This was an increase of 6 % from the previous year. These included: retail scales, heavy capacity scales, gasoline dispensing meters, fuel oil meters, weights, fabric and cordage measuring devices, yardsticks, timing
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devices, and reverse vending machines. In addition, besides enforcing the regulations in regard to scanning, item pricing, unit pricing, and the motor fuel sales act, the Department continued to check random weight packages in stores, price signs at gasoline service stations, taxicabs, and spot check fuel oil deliveries. The Department also checked adjusted, sealed or condemned scales in all of the Framingham schools to ensure that the weights of Framingham children are accurate. Once again, our experienced part-time inspector, Ed Gentili, was a critical asset to the Department in conducting additional inspection work. The Department collected $ 37,285.00 in inspection and sealing fees during 2006. This is the most revenue ever collected by this Department and a 7 ½ % increase over the previous year. The Department issued 44 civil citations in calendar year 2006 for the following: unsealed meters, unsealed devices, non-conforming devices, pricing errors (scanning), item pricing, price misrepresentation, no motor fuel license, missing price signs on fuel dispensing units, and missing consumer notice. The total fine amount was $ 26,587.50 for calendar year 2006. The average non-criminal fine was $ 604.26 per violation. This was the most non-criminal fine money taken in by the Department in any calendar year and an increase of over $ 10,000.00 from the previous year. Revenues resulting from the issuance of civil penalties belong to the issuing city / town but must be used to enhance weights and measures enforcement in that community. The Department also issued 90 violation warning letters for weights and measures violations. The Department had no criminal cases in Framingham District Court. The Department will continue to vigorously enforce the weights and measures
regulations in order to protect the businesses and consumers in the community and “keep the playing field level”. The Department during 2006 saved consumers and businesses in Framingham well into the hundreds of thousands of dollars by conducting both mandated and spot inspections. This is in addition to the fees and fines collected for the town. Errors were found and corrected which resulted in sufficient savings to consumers. These savings are often overlooked by the community, but they are real. For example: when an error is found by the Weights and Measures inspector concerning a delivery of gasoline into your car, an adjustment to that meter is made by either the Weights and Measures inspector or a service company. The consumer, or in some cases the business, benefited immediately from that adjustment. Every fuel dispenser was inspected last year in Framingham. Last year the department made 127 such adjustments to fuel dispensing meters. The Department checked 3,325 items in local retail stores to ensure that they scanned correctly. The Department found that 95.25 % were correct, 2.74 % were under priced, and 2.01 % were over priced. This was an improvement over last year but this number is still below the 98% accuracy (correct) rate required by National Institute of Standards and Technology. During the year, Weights and Measures Department personnel met with corporate individuals from several national corporations to rectify pricing issues and problems. These corporations found these meeting / training sessions very useful and planned to implement changes in all their Massachusetts stores based on these training sessions.
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The Department continues its scanning education program with merchants. During educational inspections each retail store was given a copy of the statute, copies of the official notice, information on the new regulations, telephone numbers to call with questions, and the inspector answered any questions the retail store manager or owner had concerning these new regulations or any other weights and measures regulation. We continue to provide this service as new retail stores open each year in our community. The Director of Weights and Measures and the Inspector of Weights and Measures have both been trained in electronic pricing inspections (scanning) by the United States Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and have taken numerous other weights and measures courses which are mandated under The Consumer & Merchant Protection Act State Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations. The Department received a grant for $ 7,500.00 from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations, to
conduct “item pricing” inspections. The Department received a grant from the MetroWest Community Health Care Foundation for $ 260.00 to purchase a scale for the Framingham Board of Health. Complaints from the public included the following areas: adulterated fuel, water in fuel, incorrect pricing at retail stores, short measure, short weight, price sign violations, cash register visibility, item pricing, electronic pricing systems (scanning), unit pricing, and octane posting. Also, we referred numerous people to state and federal consumer protection agencies for issues that needed to be resolved at that particular level. I want to thank the town’s part-time Inspector, Ed Gentili, and our part-time Administrative Support Person, Mary Tiziani, for their help and assistance during the past year. Respectfully Submitted, Jack Walsh Director of Weights and Measures Department
LICENSING ADMINISTRATION
The Licensing Office issued with the Board of Selectmen and/or Town Manager’s approval the following categories of licenses and permits. Liquor License for Restaurants, Hotels, Clubs and Retail Stores – 93 One-day Liquor License for events held at the various function halls throughout town – 44
Common Victualer Restaurant License - 161 Innholder’s License - 8 Lodging House License - 13 Class I, II, III Auto Dealers License. New/Used/Junk Car Dealers Class I – 14
Class II – 33 Class III - 3
Junk/Old Metals/Second Hand License – 18
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Entertainment License (Yearly) – 33 Entertainment License (One-day) – 14 Sunday Entertainment License - 26 Coin-Operated Machine License - 28 Auctioneer’s License – 2 Hawker’s and Peddler’s License - 10
Street Opening/Obstruction Permit – 348 Taxi Cab Permit – 2 Taxi Cab License - 33 Livery License – 3 Carnival License - 1 Bingo Permit - 1
BOARD OF HEALTH
In the summer of 200, Nelson Goldin was re-appointed to a three-year term on the Board of Health. The Board of Health reorganized--electing Michael R. Hugo, Esq as Chairman and Tammy Harris, MD as secretary. Lise N. Mespelli, R.S., MPH was appointed to replace Todd O’Connell, RS, MPH, as Chief Sanitarian. 2006 was Ms. Mespelli’s first full year as the head of the Environmental Health Group. Ms Mespelli is a 15 year veteran in the environmental health section.
In September we were able to hire Jane Anderson, R.S., MPH. Ms Anderson is a former director of health and also a former MDPH educator. Registered Sanitarians are highly-trained technicians are hard to hire. With Ms. Andersons hiring, our environmental health staff is at full strength. This year, the staff has overseen septic system installations and repairs in areas of the Town with no public sewers and well installations in areas with no Town water. The plans reviewed were more numerous and complicated than in previous years. The Board of Health investigated 311 housing complaints in 2005. Recreational camps, public beaches, swimming pools, tanning and body piercing establishments are also routinely inspected by Board of Health sanitarians.
The Environmental Health Section has seen a high workload over the past year from both food establishments changing owners and totally new establishments Homeland Security has placed a great emphasis on local Boards of Health as the first line of defense in a bio-terrorist attack and now CDC has local Boards of Health preparing for a flu pandemic. Both State and Federal officials have provided the Health Department’s staff with training and expertise in order to be better prepared in the event of a wide-spread flu pandemic. The Board has spent and is spending much staff time in order to be prepared for such an event. Health Department staff participated in numerous trainings during 2006 to begin planning for an incident that requires mass vaccinations or drug distributions to the citizens of Framingham. The Town is a member of Emergency Preparedness Region 4A, along with 33 area towns—ranging from Wilmington to Wrentham. Region 4A has been formed to share resources and planning expertise in order to better serve to citizens in our area. Our planning includes working closely with the certified L.E.P.C. Framingham should be very proud of the Town’s establishment of a certified L.E.P.C. that could be used to address terrorism, flu pandemics, as well as natural disasters that may occur. The L.E.P.C. can bring tremendous resources and
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expertise together to address these types of events should they happen in Framingham. The Board of Health has provided the community with literature, seminars and other educational tools so that the citizens of Framingham can be knowledgeable and vigilant in their daily lives to not only terrorist events but to communicable diseases that have emerged as threats to one’s health this year.
A major task of the Board of Health is the surveillance of communicable diseases within the community. The public health nursing staff follows and tracks all diseases deemed dangerous to the public health by the Mass. Dept. of Public Health. This activity allows us to see and evaluate trends in disease within the community with the goal of preventing its spread from the source of infection. This activity is especially important in this new age of bio-terrorism. We can detect trends in infection in the community so that we can address them in their earliest stages. The Public Health Nurses continue to offer immunizations to children and adults during nurse office hours. Immunization clinics for high-risk groups are conducted throughout the year to provide services for residents in need. Tuberculosis surveillance and prevention remain a high priority at the Board of Health as well as our cardiovascular clinic and our educational activities. In the summer of 2005, the Board of Health received a grant from the Metrowest HealthCare Foundation to start a Cholesterol Screening Program for high-risk to residents. This program was re-funded for 2006 by the Metrowest Healthcare Foundation. As part of our Skin Cancer Awareness Program, our public health nurse provided educational material, sunscreen and hats at
the Town beaches this summer. This educational program was to create awareness among beach goers about the dangers of sun exposure. Framingham Rotary partnered with the Board of Health in this successful program. In response to a large increase in the number of Lyme Disease cases among Framingham residents and employees, the Health Department staff created and presented a Lyme Disease Prevention and Awareness Program that was presented to town employees and residents. The Board has continued to seek grants to keep the enforcement portion of Tobacco Control Program intact. We have secured grants to keep you “youth Access” compliance checks intact for 2006.We are vigorously enforcing the regulations relative to sales of tobacco to minors. Some retailers continue to sell to minors and we have fined retailers for sales during our "sting" operations. We have received great cooperation from the business community in complying with this smoke-free workplace law. The Board is committed to enforcing youth access regulations and the workplace smoking ban. The Board of Health would like to express its appreciation to the staff, the medical community, especially Ralph Sherman, MD, the Metrowest HealthCare Foundation, Framingham Rotary, and all the other Town departments for their assistance and cooperation in the past year. Respectfully submitted, Michael R. Hugo, Esq., Chairman Tammy C. Harris, MD, Secretary Nelson Goldin
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ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH – 2006
The mission of the environmental health division of the Board of Health remains the same. The staff works to protect the community from any chemical, physical or biological agent that could adversely affect the health of the citizens of Framingham. The major sub-divisions of this section include inspection of food establishments, bathing areas (Public beaches, semi-public swimming pools, and whirlpools), and inspection of residential housing units within the Town. The main focus of the food related inspections is the prevention of food-borne and water-borne diseases. These diseases are easily and commonly acquired through the introduction of contamination into food and water. Inspection and education of food service and bathing area personnel are the main tools used in this prevention activity. Inspections related to the food and water sanitation account for approximately 60% of the man-hours available in this division. In addition to routine inspections, the staff investigated 94 food establishment related complaints. Under Chapter II of the State Sanitary Code, environmental health staff must investigate all housing complaints received by the Board of Health. These complaints must be closely followed until compliance is attained. In 2006, the Board received 311 complaints, which required approximately 4 inspections per complaint to gain compliance with the code.
The Board of Health staff participated in the “Overcrowding Committee” and the development of a report that was presented to the Board of Selectmen on December 12, 2006. The Health Department received approximately 62 overcrowding complaints in 2006. Only three dwelling units were found to be in violation of the regulations. Lead paint determinations are also required in units where children under six reside. Trash improperly put out for collection, especially large items and restricted items, have created many complaints to the Board of Health. A trash education and enforcement program targeted at problem areas has shown great success. The Title V regulations governing subsurface sewage disposal have resulted in more inspections and longer, more detailed reviews of septic system installations and repairs. The Board of Health has 4 Licensed Soil Evaluators on staff for this work. As the more rural areas of Town are developed the Board of Health will see more septic work as well as the installation of private water supplies. Miscellaneous actions, primarily garbage and rubbish complaints, coupled with air and water pollution, noise and odor complaints also add to the total number of inspections accomplished by this section.
EAST MIDDLESEX MOSQUITO CONTROL PROJECT – 2006
The East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project conducts a program in Framingham consisting of mosquito surveillance, larval and adult mosquito control, ditch maintenance and public education.
The risk of mosquito borne disease remained the primary concern as 5 residents in eastern Massachusetts contracted EEE including 2 fatally and 3 residents contracted West Nile Virus.
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Mosquito populations peaked in mid summer following the emergence of floodwater mosquitoes after heavy rains in May and early June. The adult mosquito surveillance program used traps to collect mosquitoes from as many as 5 Framingham locations per night. Between June and September, information was used from 19 mosquito trap collections from 6 different nights. Selected trap collections were tested for EEE and West Nile Virus by the Mass. Dept. of Public Health. The larval mosquito control program relies on the larvicides Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) in wetlands and Bacillus sphaericus and methoprene in catchbasins. An April helicopter application of Bti controlled mosquito larvae at 35 wetland acres. Field crews using portable sprayers applied Bti in the spring and the summer to 22 wetland acres when high densities of mosquito larvae were found breeding in stagnant water. During the summer, Project personnel applied larvicides to control Culex mosquito larvae at 5,835 roadside catchbasins. To control adult mosquitoes, Sumithrin was applied to 4,204 acres at night by truck mounted aerosol sprayers when
survey traps indicated high populations of mosquitoes. Advance notification of the spray program was done through notices on the Framingham web site and via a recorded telephone message at 781- 893-5759. The Project used an excavator to remove sand and sediment from waterways in Framingham including 540 linear feet of Hop Brook by Edmands Rd., 540 linear feet of Course Brook by Merchant Rd. and 93 linear feet of a ditch in Edgell Grove Cemetery off Grove St. The Project’s public education program is designed to develop awareness within the public and the private sectors as to their roles in mosquito control. The Project serves as a resource to residents, municipal officials and the local media on controlling mosquitoes, breeding sites and mosquito borne diseases. A web page www.town.sudbury.ma.us/services/health/emmcp provides residents with information on mosquitoes, control programs and related topics.
PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING—2006
In 2006, the Framingham public health nurses continued to advocate for the Framingham community, offering programs that promote and protect the health of the residents of Framingham. This report will review our efforts this year to maintain a healthy environment in our community. During our 12 hours of nurse’s clinic each week, we offer blood pressure monitoring, lead screening, TB skin-testing and immunizations for adults and children. We provide health information, offer
referral services and track and investigate communicable disease in the community. [In an effort to reach out to the community, we also offer our nursing services at off-site clinics through the year.] Nurses’ Clinic Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30-9:30 am, 4:00-4:45pm, Monday Evening; 6:00-8:00pm This year, four new vaccines have been approved for use. These vaccine offer adults and children protection from; Pertussis, Rotavirus (which can quickly dehydrate an infant with deadly results),
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cervical cancer caused by the Human Papilloma Virus and Shingles. New
combination vaccines are now available which provide immunity to multiple
diseases in one vaccine thus reducing the number of shots children need to receive the same protection. In 2006, over 200 Framingham residents attended our Cardiovascular Clinic, where the public health nurses monitored their blood pressure. This clinic is held in the Callahan Senior Center in partnership with the Metro-West Medical Center and the Framingham Board Health. Our monthly clinic also offers residents a chance to speak with a doctor with whom they can discuss their cardiovascular concerns. Such easy access to a doctor has prompted increased interest in the clinic in recent years. Also in 2006, we continued to offer cholesterol screening, testing 307 people. This screening is considered a highly effective method of detecting illness and disease. Cholesterol screening is available weekly at our office, monthly during the Cardiovascular Clinic and frequently at off-site locations about town (in an attempt to identify and serve high risk populations in our community). During 2006, a second year grant was approved and we effectively coordinated this program with our walking program. Residents should call this office for more information or to make an appointment. Investigating Communicable Disease is the role and responsibility of the public health nurses. We monitor illness, manage outbreak investigations and record statistical data. We collaborate with local and state agencies. We make home visits to clients/families. We strategize with the state department of public health to determine the etiology of disease and work to prevent the spread of infection. We note trends such as the increased incidence of Hepatitis B in Framingham
over the last decade. Our efforts are then directed to planning and implementing health programs and activities that impact specific populations that are vulnerable to this increase. We routinely offer Hepatitis B vaccine to contacts of active cases of Hepatitis B and all guests of the local shelters.
The public health nurses monitor cases of Tuberculosis in the community, often meeting with patients in the hospital to develop their individual care plan before discharge and monitoring their treatment in the community through home visits to assure directly observed therapy. In addition we identify contacts of active cases and refer them for follow-up through state sponsored Tuberculosis clinics. This year, distribution not the supply of Influenza vaccine offered a challenge to this and other boards of health and health agencies throughout the country. We distributed flu vaccine via multiple off-site clinics and during nurse’s clinic hours at the board of health. At the end of the flu season, we held two flu clinics for the general public ages 9 yrs and up. We opened up our clinics to out of town residents (for a fee) to better serve the general public and promote a healthier community. In 2006, the Framingham Board of Health held 12 flu clinics and provided influenza vaccine to more than 2800 residents of Framingham and the greater metro-west community. Healthy Habits for Life ‘Dermatology Clinic’; This Skin Cancer Screening’ is offered annually to residents for Free in the BOH office. Our thanks to Dr. Asvadi for providing this valuable service.
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During ‘National Infant Immunization Week’, the Framingham public health nurses, reinforced the need for all ages to be protected from vaccine preventable disease. The PHN’s, in their role as health educators, traveled throughout the greater metro-west area visiting local businesses, talking with the general public, offering brochures, pamphlets and goodies. Our message to parents with young children; if you love them, immunize them! Through our annual ‘Keep Moving’ program, this office continued to encourage physical fitness and promote participation in our Walking Program. We provided education regarding the benefits of regular exercise, offered guidance in creating an individual exercise plan and coordinated cholesterol screening for each member. Participants also received pedometers and sunscreen. Goals were set and progress was monitored by the public health nurses. The Board of Health encourages the healthy habit of walking several times a week. Our annual ‘Ban the Burn’ program again promoted safe sun behaviors this past summer through public education. Give-a-ways of sunscreen and floppy hats, and t-shirts were distributed to residents at local pools, beaches and at the local ‘Concerts’ on the green. Whether you are at work or play, remember to;
Slip on a t-shirt! Slop on sunscreen!
Slap on a hat!
Annually, we celebrate ‘Deaf Awareness Week’, by providing information about hearing impairment that speaks to the attitudes, myths, and misconceptions regarding hearing loss. This information is available in our office, appeared on our
web-site and was featured at the main library. Our goal is to educate the public regarding all barriers to health services. We are as committed to identifying physical obstacles in our community as we are dedicated to reducing and eliminating general disparities such as access to health care. Our office offers all health services for Free to Framingham residents and maintains a list of community resources and health clinics in the greater metro-west area. The public health nurses work to assure the public has full access to their community. Special Presentations offered in 2006 ‘The Review of State Offered Vaccine and Vaccine Storage and Handling Policy’; offered to all health providers to whom we distribute state provided vaccine in our role as a vaccine depot for the Town of Framingham. Environmental Health Issues; ‘Lyme Disease, The Prevention of Excessive Sun Exposure’; presented to the staff of the DPW, Town Owned Buildings, and the Park and Recreation Department. ‘Review of Tuberculosis, Immunization issues and Communicable Disease’; offered to FSD nurses. ‘Tuberculosis Review’; presented to multiple groups of medical professionals at the Metro-West Medical Center. Acknowledgments We would like to thank the members of the Framingham MRC for their hard work. We received many compliments on how smooth our flu clinics operated this year. We also acknowledge the staff of the Callahan Senior Center and the Retired Teachers Association for their cooperation in helping us reach out to
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seniors in town and their help with our flu clinics. We maintain strong partnerships with municipal departments and extend our thanks to these other local health agencies and organizations for their cooperation.
Many of our programs are funded through state and federal grants and are enhanced by contributions we have sought. Framingham businesses, health agencies and other local organizations have helped support our programs with their generous donations. This year, we would especially like to thank AMR, American Medical Response, who enabled our high risk needy clients to continue receiving life-saving follow-up medical care by providing their transportation to state funded clinics. We thank all the staff of the BOH for their willingness to help with any project and remain grateful to have staff members who have multi-language skills. The public health nurses are active in our professional organization, MAPHN. We exceed the standards of professional accreditation and licensure through the various education, training programs and conferences that we attend throughout the year. We stay current and informed as we monitor the general health of the community, determine its needs and work towards the well-being of all its citizens.
Pandemic Planning In 2006, this office and the public health nurses in particular were very involved with Pandemic Planning for the town of Framingham. The PHN’s continue to play a prominent role in preparing Framingham’s EDS response plan. We attended multiple conferences, strategy and training sessions and participated in several table top exercises. Framingham Medical Reserve Corps This year, our office organized this town’s local Medical Reserve Corps, a group of volunteers from this community on whom we would call for support in the event of a public health threat. The FMRC is made up of over a hundred Framingham residents, with and without medical experience. Many of these emergency volunteers have taken advantage of the free trainings now available to all FMRC members such as; the Incident Command System, Family Preparedness, First Aid and CPR courses. Members of the FMRC played a huge role in the successful operation of the flu clinic this year.
The objective of this program is to maintain a list of volunteers trained in emergency preparedness who, through their involvement with flu clinics and other events in town, will have the knowledge, confidence and experience to help their fellow neighbors if/when called upon in an emergency event. If you are interested in joining the Framingham Medical Reserve Corps please call the office of the Framingham Board of Health; 508-532-5470.
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TOBACCO CONTROL PROGRAM – 2006 The Framingham Board of Health’s Tobacco Control Program (the “Program”) is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) through the Health Protection Fund. The Health Protection Fund was established upon passage of voter referendum Question 1 in November 1992. Partial funding is also provided by the Master Settlement Agreement, an agreement between the Attorneys General of most states and the tobacco industry. The Program enforces the Framingham Board of Health’s “Rules and Regulations Relative to the Sale, Vending and Distribution and Use of Tobacco within the Town of
Framingham,” and the State-wide smoking ban for all workplaces in Massachusetts. In December of 2004, the Board of Health was successful in getting the grant program re-activated. In January of 2006, our efforts to eliminate youth access to tobacco products and enforcement of the state-wide smoking ban was re-started on a limited basis
Twice each year the Board of Health conducts compliance checks in all licensed tobacco sales establishments in order to gain compliance with our youth access regulation.
Revenues to the General Fund Food Service Permits $83,934 Massage, Tanning, Body Piercing $ 5,067 Milk, Frozen Desserts $ 960 Septic,Well Permits $ 3,875 Copies $ 6 Test Strips $ 924 Rubbish Transportation $ 3,150 Recreational Camps/Motels $ 1,050 Pools/Whirlpools $ 6,409 Restitution Fees $ 0 Medical Re-imbursement $31,596 Other Dept. Revenue $ 1,439
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Hep
ati
tis
A
1 1
2
0
2
0
2
0
0
1 0
0
9
Hep
ati
tis
B
12
69
41
10
26
10
11
26
19
11
6
5
246
DT
aP
1
3
2
1 0
0
0
2
2
3
0
0
14
Td
10
42
8
3
13
8
9
14
26
11
5
7
156
Td
aP
1
6
12
10
6
5
10
24
20
2
12
10
118
Hib
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
IPV
5
37
10
5
11
3
2
15
18
9
8
8
131
MM
R
7
44
20
12
47
41
11
20
14
9
14
12
251
PC
V7
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
2
Vari
cell
a
9
34
10
8
11
5
7
16
20
5
3
4
132
PP
V 2
3
2
0
2
0
16
1 2
1 0
0
2
6
32
Lead
Test
ing
1
3
0
1 0
1 0
0
2
0
1 2
11
PP
D/
TB
Sk
in T
est
ing
27
20
31
16
15
13
20
48
34
10
6
9
249
IGg
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
TO
TA
L
77
259
138
67
147
87
74
166
156
61
57
63
1352
OF
FIC
E V
ISIT
S
Jan
F
eb
Marc
hA
pri
lM
ay
Jun
e
July
A
ug
Sep
tO
ct
No
v
Dec
Fo
r Im
mu
niz
ati
on
s (p
op
ula
tio
n)
31
110
89
51
45
52
29
70
64
11
57
49
658
Off
ice T
B (
+)
foll
ow
-up
/evalu
ati
on
s 1
3
3
4
1 2
2
3
6
0
11
27
Off
ice B
P,
Heig
ht,
Weig
ht
vis
its
4
0
6
4
4
6
23
12
8
7
812
94
137
Em
plo
yee (
min
or)
in
jury
/aid
0
2
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
1 1
17
TB
D
OT
(o
r su
perv
isio
n)
52
40
45
40
40
21
35
7
0
515
300
Ou
tbre
ak
In
vest
igati
on
s 0
1 2
3
2
2
2
0
0
0
00
12
Stu
den
t/In
tern
/O
ther
Vis
its
1 0
0
0
0
1 1
0
1 1
20
7
Off
ice f
lu s
ho
ts
27
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
034
61
TO
TA
L
116
156
145
102
92
63
80
120
86
20
74
112
1166
CO
MM
UN
ICA
BL
E D
ISE
AS
E
INV
ES
TIG
AT
ION
S
Jan
F
eb
Marc
hA
pri
lM
ay
Jun
e
July
A
ug
Sep
tO
ct
No
v
Dec
Bab
esi
osi
s 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Bit
es
0
0
1 0
4
0
1 0
0
0
0
6
12
Cam
pylo
bacte
r 0
1 0
1 1
2
1 1
2
0
0
1 10
Ch
ick
en
Po
x (
Vari
cell
a)
0
0
1 2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
Cry
pto
spo
rid
osi
s 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1 1
1 0
0
3
Den
gu
e f
ever
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
E.C
oli
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
1 0
0
0
3
En
cep
hali
tis
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Gia
rdia
0
1 0
0
0
1 0
1 1
1 0
0
5
Gu
illi
an
-Barr
e S
yn
dro
me
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Hep
ati
tis
A
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Hep
ati
tis
B
1 2
5
1 0
2
0
2
1 4
3
2
23
Hep
ati
tis
C
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Infl
uen
za
0
0
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
1
Leg
ion
ell
a
0
0
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
1
Lis
teri
a
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Lym
e D
isease
1
1 0
1 1
2
7
6
8
0
2
0
29
138
Mala
ria
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Men
ing
itis
(V
iral)
0
1 0
0
0
0
1 0
1 4
1 0
8
Men
ing
itis
(B
acte
rial)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mu
mp
s 0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Ro
ck
y M
ou
nta
in S
po
tted
Fever
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Salm
on
ell
a
0
0
1 0
0
0
2
0
1 0
0
1 5
Sh
igell
a
0
0
0
0
1 2
0
0
0
0
1 0
4
Str
ep
(G
rou
p A
)(G
rou
p B
) 0
0
0
0
1 4
0
0
0
1 0
2
8
Str
ep
Pn
eu
mo
nia
0
0
1 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
To
xic
Sh
ock
Syn
dro
me
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
To
xo
pla
smo
sis
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Tu
berc
ulo
sis
1 0
3
1 0
2
2
0
0
0
0
0
9
Typ
ho
id F
ever
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Vib
rio
0
0
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
1
Wh
oo
pin
g C
ou
gh
(P
ert
uss
is)
3
2
1 0
0
0
0
1 1
1 1
0
10
To
tals
7
9
14
9
10
15
17
14
17
12
8
12
144
PU
BL
IC/
CO
NT
AC
T
CL
INIC
S
Jan
F
eb
Marc
hA
pri
lM
ay
Jun
e
July
A
ug
Sep
tO
ct
No
v
Dec
Typ
e (
Flu
, D
erm
, H
ep
A,
IgG
,oth
er)
F
lu
0
0
0
MM
R
Derm
F
lu+
Date
(s)
9
0
0
0
27
19
0
0
0
0
7
cli
nic
s
4
cli
nic
s
Po
pu
lati
on
serv
ed
83
0
0
0
11
30
0
0
0
0
1703
1827
GE
NE
RA
L S
EN
IOR
HE
AL
TH
Ja
n
Feb
Marc
hA
pri
lM
ay
Jun
e
July
A
ug
Sep
tO
ct
No
v
Dec
Pts
fo
r C
ard
io-V
asc
ula
r C
lin
ic (
+su
b)
X
sno
w
4
4
4
5
95
N/
AN
/A
68
8
8
6
202
Pts
scre
en
ed
fo
r ch
ole
stero
l 4
22
32
14
16
12
6
23
50
53
2
42
276
139
VA
CC
INA
TIO
N C
LIN
ICs
(Hep
A &
Hep
B,
IgG
, T
d,
Pn
eu
mo
nia
)
Date
(s)
0
0
3/
23
4/
24
5/
11
6/
15,
6/
19n
on
en
on
en
on
en
on
en
on
e
no
ne
Typ
e
Hep
H
ep
MM
R
+
MM
R
Co
nta
cts
, G
rou
ps,
Pu
bli
c (
po
p.)
0
0
17
5
0
11
0
0
0
0
0
0
tow
n,
Sch
oo
l an
d B
uil
din
gs
(po
p)
0
0
7
0
17
18
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sh
elt
ers
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
To
tal
Serv
ed
0
0
24
5
17
29
0
0
0
0
0
0
Pro
gra
ms
Pre
sen
ted
Pre
sen
tati
on
s/ H
ealt
h F
air
s/P
rom
oti
on
s 2
3
5
5
5
5
5
4
5
55
49
Insp
ecti
on
s (C
am
p,
Lab
, B
oH
) 0
0
0
0
0
5
2
0
0
0
00
7
140
141
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ACTIVITY - 2006
NN
UA
L ST
ATS
Janu
ary
Feb
ruar
y M
arch
Apr
il M
ay
June
Ju
ly
Aug
ust
Sep
t. O
ctob
er
Nov
. D
ec.
Tot
als
Food Service Inspections
37
39
33
32
4144
31
3526
5742
3545
2 F
ood
Ser
vice
Re-
Insp
ectio
ns
63
52
73
2451
3152
27
2041
5851
543
Food Service Complaints
10
43
22
48
410
133
366
Food Service FBI Complaints
10
10
52
0 0
01
32
15
Food Service Disposal Complaints 0
00
31
00
00
00
04
0Retail Food Inspections
19
11
910
1514
10
214
1425
3318
5 R
etai
l Foo
d R
e-In
spec
tions
22
18
22
1415
1822
25
515
1314
203
Retail Food Complaints
23
40
01
4 6
281
23
54
Housing Inspections
14
17
17
1120
1920
81
2827
2418
296
Hou
sing
Re-
Insp
ectio
ns
13
31
10
2021
158
1111
3113
1519
9 Housing Trash & Rubbish
Complaints
16
26
40
2023
2322
29
4632
1219
308
Other (lodging, group home etc.) 2
10
1217
03
00
10
036
Lead Paint Determinations
00
00
00
0 0
00
00
0
Routine Swimming Pool
Inspections
01
13
13
944
60
55
817
15
13
248
Ann
ual S
wim
min
g P
ool I
nspe
ctio
ns
01
00
26
12
0
00
00
039
0
00
Title V Inspections
00
00
12
01
38
23
534
Soil Evaluation Appointments
20
17
00
00
0
12
00
040
# of Deep Test Holes & Perc Tests 0
09
00
00
67
00
022
Bathing Beaches
00
00
02
0
20
00
04
Recreational Camps
00
00
05
2 0
00
00
7 0
00
00
00
00
00
00
Mobile Vending Inspections
02
11
01
0 0
00
01
6
142
BUILDING SERVICES Building Services is a department of the General Government Division. Our main mission is the care and maintenance of town buildings under the jurisdiction of the Board of Selectmen. In addition to our core duties, we have been involved with many projects this past year. We have participated in the RFP process for our town buildings, served on the ADA committee, the Memorial Building study committee, and Callahan Senior Center phase II build out committee. We have proposed many needed capital projects this year and some of those will be included in FY/08 capital budget. The department is also responsible for the scheduling and setting of all polling equipment and work closely with the Town Clerk’s office to insure elections run smoothly and efficiently. All town operated parking functions are under the jurisdiction of Building Services. We can report that the Waverly Lot is enjoying a sold out status for the past six months and we have a waiting list. Pearl Street garage, Hollis Court daily lot and the meter program are also under our management. We are very involved with the ADA transition plan and are working closely
with the competent committee established by the Board of Selectmen and Chief Financial Officer to put the town in compliance in a reasonable time. Our summer concert program continues to grow and we are on schedule for this coming summer to present an enjoyable program for our citizens. As in past years it must be noted that Building Services relies on the professionalism and capabilities of many others. I would like to extend my grateful appreciation to the Public Works department, Parks & Recreation department, Finance Division, the Administration, Police and Fire Divisions for their assistance throughout the year. I would like to acknowledge my staff who continue to attend to thousands of requested tasks annually with courteous and prompt attention. Building Services is looking forward to the coming year with the challenges the town faces and the commitment to the town philosophy “Dedicated to Excellence in Public Service”. Respectfully Submitted, James W. Egan
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MEDIA SERVICES
The mission of The Government Channel is to serve the community as a valued resource by providing timely news and events to inform Framingham residents on town programs and services. We do this by producing video coverage of public meetings, development of original series, and displaying important town announcements on our municipal electronic bulletin board. The Government Channel is dedicated to programming which supports the goals and objectives of the various town departments, also to make the proceedings of local government more accessible to the public. Some of the outreach, engagement activities, and production support that the government channel has participated in this year includes Spring Into Arts, HeART of Winter, Memorial Day Observance, Flag Retirement Ceremony, Bird Flu Education, Mass Wildlife Education, Medi-Care Part D forums, ADA Self Evaluation and Transition Plan, Fire Prevention and Emergency Preparedness Outreach, Fair Housing Education, Park & Recreation Updates, Live Election Night Analysis and Downtown Summer Concert Series.
The Government Channel also carries regular live coverage of the Board of Selectmen Meetings, Planning Board and Town Meeting. Monthly coverage of the Framingham Disability Commission, Downtown Railroad Crossing Taskforce, Human Relations Commission are an important component of the channel line up that gives residences instant access to Framingham government both on their cable system and via the internet. The Government Channel schedule can be viewed on RCN channel 13 and Comcast Channel 9. Programming schedules are available on the town website, by accessing the government access portion of the department’s directory. The Government Channel through its programming is compiling the most complete and accurate Public Records for the Town of Framingham government. This provides greater ability to assess the accuracy of official print records of meeting minutes. All programming is available to the public upon request. Respectfully submitted, Ron J. Rego Director
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PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT The Division of Planning and Economic Development Division is comprised of the Planning and Economic Development Department, Conservation Department, Zoning Board of Appeals, Community Development Block Grant Department, Housing Rehabilitation Office, and the LIFT Public Transit System. The Division experienced few personnel changes in 2006. In January 2006, Lynne LaMotte, the Planning Department Administrative Assistant and Deborah Grampietro, the Zoning Board of Appeals Administrative Assistant, both left to pursue other endeavors. Karen Hayes, former intern, joined the Division in February 2006 as the Administrative Assistant for the Planning Department. In March Katherine O’Brien was hired as the Zoning Board of Appeals Administrative Assistant. The Planning Department manages an intern program to carry out previously planned community projects, and develop plans for the community’s future. During the 2006 calendar year interns provided countless hours of unpaid work, resulting in a substantial amount of work being completed that would not have been done otherwise. Interns assist senior staff with a variety of planning issues, including public transportation, economic development, downtown merchant outreach, urban design, and affordable housing. For the third year in a row the LIFT office received funding for part-time customer service representatives enabling some interns to apply for these paid part-time positions. The LIFT Office duties
have been divided amongst three part-time customer service representatives, and schedules are designed to ensure there is adequate coverage throughout the week. Customer Service Representatives handle a variety of duties, including reports, billing and handling the high volume of telephone inquiries and issues regarding the LIFT service as well as assisting the customers who come to the Planning Department and LIFT Office for information. New Division Website: The Division overhauled its website in 2006. Our new and improved site contains detailed information on all Division programs, including business assistance, housing assistance programs, and LIFT Public Transit, and links to affiliated boards and commissions such as the Economic Development and Industrial Corporation, Framingham Downtown Renaissance, Conservation Commission and the START Partnership. Town planning documents and maps can be accessed from the new site, as can links to useful planning-related resources and websites. To visit the site, go to: www.framinghamma.org/planning_dept/ In addition to the changes reported above, we are pleased to report the following progress within the Division. Downtown Revitalization Revitalization of downtown Framingham continues to be a key focus of the Board of Selectmen and the Division of Planning and Economic Development. Downtown planning and economic development activities are guided by the Downtown
145
Framingham Economic Development Strategic Plan and the Community Development Plan. Our goal is to establish Downtown Framingham as a center of business and cultural activity that is functionally vibrant and active, and perceived to be an attractive designation visited by residents throughout Framingham and the surrounding communities. Descriptions of key projects are provided below. Downtown Streetscape Improvements: This Department regards improvements to public infrastructure in Downtown Framingham as much needed investments that will soon make a major difference in the appearance and economic viability of South Framingham. Over the next several years improvement projects in downtown will improve pedestrian circulation, safety, handicapped accessibility, and the overall appearance of the Downtown area. The improvements are crucial to project a positive image of the Downtown area, and will play a major role in the Town’s
economic development and Downtown revitalization efforts. During 2006 the Division worked with Framingham DPW to move forward the Period Streetlight Installation Project, which involves replacement of existing cobra-head light fixtures and concrete light poles with new period light posts and light fixtures. Mixed Use Development: In 2000, Town Meeting adopted Mixed Use zoning regulations for the Central Business District which allows for the redevelopment of downtown properties to include residential and commercial uses in one area. Mixed use development will aid in the Town’s long-term revitalization efforts by establishing a vibrant business climate that provides tax revenues. Residential use will bring much needed vitality and consumer demands that require a better market mix than is currently seen in our Downtown. Three mixed-use projects are currently underway downtown Framingham.
146
Dennison Triangle: This project is also known as 4 Bishops Street. It is being done in 2 phases. The first is 76 condos in Building 2 and the second is 84 condos in Building 1 fronting on Howard Street. In 2006, Phase 1 saw the completion of the 3 story garage and condo construction begun. By the end of the year, 30 condos were completed and 22 were sold. Rosewood Development, the project developer, has filed for his occupancy permit for the 30 condos. Arcade: This mixed use, historic preservation project has been in the planning and design stage for several years. It received both its special permit from the Planning Board in late March 2004 and a variance from the ZBA. This almost 5 acre site is directly across from Town Hall on Concord Street and also fronts Frederick and Kendall Streets. As proposed there would be 290 apartments (1-2 bedrooms), 50,000 sq. ft of retail/commercial space, a 6-story, 580 space garage, plus courtyard, roof top garden, swimming pool, and other amenities. Its special permit was renewed most recently in September for 6 months and will expire again in late March 2007. While special permit is good for 2 years when first issued, a variance is only good for one year unless construction commences. A variance may only be extended once, so in September 2006, the ZBA issued a new variance for the Arcade project. More importantly MassHousing voted in September 2006 conditional approval for Arcade project as designed. In order for MassHousing to offer a final financing agreement to the developers, Framingham Acquisition, LLC, the developers must complete final architectural drawings, get Planning Board okay for that design and
calculate total cost to construct project as approved. Kendall Building: In 2006, the first floor commercial space (8500 sq. ft) and 25 upper story condos were complete. This leaves only the required exterior, historic façade work to be done, as well as, minor streetscape improvements. Land Use and Environmental Planning Project Review: Division staff provides regular technical support to the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals. In carrying out this support function the staff conducts compliance reviews of development plans looking specifically at, Off-Street Parking, subdivision design, and other issues. Staff also reviews applications for variances and special permit requests and comment on proposed zoning amendments. The Planning Department continues to provide planning assistance to Town Committees, Boards, and residents for land use and growth management activities in the Town. Environmental Impact Analysis: The Department is responsible for reviewing Environmental Impact Reports, Environ-mental Notification Forms, and other plans and documents for projects under the Massachusetts Environmental Protection Act (MEPA), the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, and other state agencies, for their environmental impacts to the Town. Open Space Preservation, and Green-way and Trail Development: The Department coordinates Town resources with regional, State and Federal resources in order to protect Framingham’s remaining open spaces and develop new local and regional outdoor recreational opportunities and open spaces for ecological health. Greenway development is a focused approach to open space protection, and is
147
a key strategy for the Department. Greenways contain sprawl, generate recreational opportunities, and enhance community character. They also support tourism and the development of small businesses, and provide an alternative transportation option. Overall, greenways and trails support economic development and translate to increased tax revenues, jobs, and a healthier community. Eventually, Framingham will have a greenway and trail system linking Town open spaces, state and regional open spaces, neighborhoods, employment centers, schools, and other amenities. Cochituate Rail Trail: The proposed Cochituate Rail Trail is one of the first multi-functional trail developments for Framingham. The project is a 3.9-mile corridor stretching along an abandoned railroad right-of-way from Saxonville to Natick Center, with spurs connecting to the Natick Mall. The trail will provide commuting opportunities for Saxonville residents and employees at the several major businesses along the right-of-way, and will also provide recreational opportunities for all nearby residents and employees. The Planning Department provides focused support to the Framingham Cochituate Rail Trail Committee, the group charged with implementing the creation of the Trail. In 2006, planning staff helped to hire a legal consultant and then coordinated the activities of the consultant with Commit-tee; this included overseeing negotiations for securing trail right-of-way for use as a trail, and negotiating easements with various private entities that abut or use trail right-of-way. In 2006, Division staff applied for grant funding to conduct a species inventory of the trail right-of-way, and began working with Natick town staff to get the entire length of the Cochituate Rail Trail into the queue for state transportation funding.
Hazard Mitigation Planning: Division staff worked with other Multiple Hazard Mitigation Working Group members to implement the proposed mitigation actions outlined in Towns Multiple Hazard Mitigation Plan. Towards the end of 2006, Division staff worked with other working group members to identify several funding sources to support the implementation of several projects described in the plan; planning staff will work in coordination with other departments to complete these funding applications in early 2007. Regional Planning MetroWest 495 Corridor Partnership: Since its inception, the primary focus of the I-495 Initiative has been the creation and maintenance of a “regional forum where regular dialogues occur between and among municipalities, and between the public and private sectors along the highway Corridor. Until the creation of this Initiative, no entity provided an opportunity for regular, open dialogue across all sectors that have a stake in the preservation of the quality of life in this region. Serving the region, this Partnership branded the area as the Arc of Innovation and mobilized task forces comprised of public and private sector stakeholders to find shared solutions to several critical areas of concern: water supply and water quality; development; permitting; economic development; housing; and transportation. In 2002 the four Chambers of Commerce with member communities along I-495 decided that it was time for the 495 Initiative to come of age. The MetroWest Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Marlboro Chamber of Commerce, the Corridor Nine Area Chamber, and the United Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce
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worked diligently with MAPC (Metropolitan Area Planning Council), NAIOP (the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties), the Mass Technology Collaborative and all the 495 municipalities (defined as communities through which the interstate highway passes and all communities abutting those host communities from Littleton in the north to Foxborough to the south) to officially incorporate the MetroWest 495 Corridor Partnership. By-laws were developed; a Board of Directors was established equally representing corridor business corporations, municipalities and regional and environmental interests; and, an Executive Steering Committee was elected that also maintained that tripartite partnership. Thirty-two communities comprise the region with a population of 538,926 residents, and the 4 chambers have over 2500 member businesses. In 2004 the Milford Chamber of Commerce petitioned the Partnership to be brought on as a member and this was voted adding more business clout. The Partnership has branded itself the “Arc of Innovation” since the segment of I-495 within the region arcs out around these Metrowest communities and is fast becoming the center of technological innovation for the Commonwealth.
The members share three strategic goals: 1.) establish a Regional Identity and Political Impact that is known throughout the State and the nation; 2.) help retain, expand and recruit businesses to the area; and 3.) develop plans to enable economic growth while sustaining our environment. Framingham’s Planning and Economic Development Director, Kathleen Bartolini, served for three years on the Executive Steering Committee, stepping down in June 2006 in compliance with bylaws that limit members to a three year
term on Steering Committee. She was re-elected to the Board of Directors, since bylaws allow a six year term maximum before at least a one year hiatus must occur. Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, Dennis Giombetti, was elected to his first term on the Board of Directors in December 2006.
Bartolini continued to co-chair the Partnership’s Transportation Task Force with Robert Nagi of VHB Associates. The Partnership did a lot of work to help pass legislation that enabled MetroWest communities to form their own Regional Transit Agency, and then created a marketing program which was taken to the chief elected officials of potential member communities. December 19, 2006 the Framingham Board of Selectmen voted to form a Regional Transit Authority and so notified the Massachusetts Secretary of Transportation, John Cogliano. As 2007 commences, communities such as Ashland, Wayland, Natick, Milford, and others are taking up the issue at their meetings. Neil Pierce, noted Washington columnist, spoke at their June annual meeting held in Hudson. He spoke about the need for municipalities to collaborate to survive in the new worldwide economy. He spoke of New England as one region and that the MetroWest 495 Corridor needed to see itself as a part of the Greater Boston and New England Regions. He challenged the Partnership to take collaborative risks and see how the region fits in a much larger spectrum.
Community Development Block
Grant
Since 1975 Framingham has received over $18,641,164 through the Federal
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Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). The program is designed to achieve the following CDBG objectives: To arrest deterioration in the existing housing stock and to stabilize neighborhoods through ongoing financial and technical housing rehabilitation assistance to property owners. To develop programs to preserve, and expand affordable housing for low and moderate income residents. To facilitate economic empowerment and increased employment opportunities for low and very low income residents and those businesses which serve low and very low income persons. To eliminate architectural barriers which prevent access to public and private facilities. To improve Town owned facilities and public infrastructure to prolong their useful life and contribute to neighborhood stabilization. To improve the quality of life for low and very low income residents through provision of public services. To administer the CDBG program effectively and equitably and to ensure that all members of the community can participate in or benefit from program activities. Each year the Department is responsible for preparing the Community Development application and an environmental review of all projects prior to receipt of funds. Staff also provided technical assistance to individuals, organizations, and agencies who, in 2006, undertook the broad range of programs described below. Public Facilities Improvements: New safety surfacing was applied in play areas at the Woodrow Wilson School and existing equipment was adapted, and new equipment was installed to upgrade this heavily used school and neighborhood facility. Funds have been set aside to support lighting upgrades and related
sidewalk repairs in the Burkis Square, Hollis Street area. Further funding was made available to be added to previously earmarked funds to implement phases of the Downtown Streetlight Improvement Project. Funds will be used to install streetlights, restore sidewalks, and install accessible ramps in areas adjacent to the streetlights. Funding was made available to repair, re-pour, and paint two lit basketball courts at Mary Dennison Playground in June and July 2006.
Basketball Court Dennison Park Architectural Barriers Removal: Funds were awarded to the Framingham Literacy Unlimited Program, sponsored by the Public Library, to construct a private office and tutoring space for program instructors and enrollees. Work was completed in October, 2006. An accessible ramp and doorway entrance with an automatic opening system was constructed for Athenaeum Hall in Saxonville. Additional funding was earmarked to build a Handicapped Accessible Bathroom on the first floor of the Athenaeum Hall that will assist in enhancing the candidacy of the facility for funds for historical restoration that will lead to active use of the building by the community. Memorial Building Accessibility Improvements have been planned and partially carried out with grant set-asides. Grant funds were used to make the McAuliffe Library front and
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side entrances accessible. Funds remained budgeted to cover that part of the cost of constructing and installing an access ramp, and other access improvements to the parish hall for St. George Church. Assistance is to be provided, proportionate only to its CDBG eligible public use, as now permitted under U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development regulations and guidelines pertaining to faith-based organizations. Grant funds were part of the resources assembled to create a stunning new play area at the Hemenway School Playground, in May and June, 2006. Existing barriers were removed and a new accessible playground was constructed to allow special needs students to participate freely in an array of recreational activities. Public Services: The following initiatives were undertaken with CDBG funds to serve youth: a summer employment and counseling program (Community Connections Summer Work Program); a special counseling, tracking and mentoring program for high school students who faced issues that have impeded their abilities to learn and achieve (Resiliency for Life); a program to provide resources to youth to gain them job training and employment (Career Resources for Youth); and partial support for an outreach activity to identify the actual needs of Portuguese Speaking Brazilian students, their families, and the schools (Framingham Brazilian Family and Education Outreach). Adult programs included: literacy training (Literacy Unlimited); English-as-a-Second Language training adults (Framingham Adult ESL Plus); an outreach program for newcomer households and families (Outreach Project); and limited financial assistance to prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless (Homeless Prevention Program).
Fair Housing: The Town developed a Fair Housing Plan and established a Fair Housing Committee (FHC) that is representative of a broad range of community interests. The FHC met frequently to formulate a strategy for highlighting community-wide housing needs and promoting open housing opportunities. In 2006 the FHC continued production of a series of videos on landlord-tenant relations and other housing issues of importance to moderate income tenants and homeowners. Collaborating with our Media Services Department, the Committee hopes to develop programs in English, Spanish, and Portuguese and make them available through community outlets. A program was put together in May, 2006 for prospective homebuyers that dealt with all the elements of assuming ownership, featuring information provided by professionals in law, real estate, and finance. The Homebuyer Fair was organized with the following objectives in mind: provide basic information to first time buyer aimed at those with little to moderate sophistication; provide in a mode that engages and is useful to prospective buyers at level of first exploration as well as more advanced; provide information on how and where to access additional information and resources; provide service and basic information for households for those who have English and for those whose primary language is not English (Spanish and Portuguese); and capture information via video tape for re-broadcast in the community.
Intense, coordinated, community outreach touched many segments of the community, resulting in a significant turnout of would be first time homebuyers, who received valuable,
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practical advice and assistance on entering the homebuyer market Housing Planning and Assistance As noted above, Framingham has participated in the CDBG program since 1975. Over that period, the Town’s predominant investment was over $7.7 million dollars in housing assistance. The Department has administered a host of housing projects over 31 years resulting in the rehabilitation of over 1,360 housing units throughout the Town. Up to 30 households receive housing rehabilitation assistance each year, involving the commitment of approximately $150,000. Typically, assistance is evenly distributed between owner- and renter-occupied units. Rehabilitation funds have helped low income homeowners to replace heating systems, install energy efficient windows, rebuild porches and upgrade bathrooms. Low and moderate income homeowners throughout Framingham have improved their homes using an array of rehabilitation programs offered by and through the Department which include the following. Homeownership Opportunities Program: The Department under-took efforts to combine CDBG funds with other public grants, and funding from private lenders, to create homeownership opportunities for low and moderate- income households. Programs were provided in neighborhoods that would benefit from the special kind of investment that ownership brings. During the past year the Department applied for and received grant funds from Department of Housing and Community Development/ Massachusetts Housing Partnership Soft Second Loan Program, which were combined with CDBG homeownership assistance (partial down payment and closing costs).
The Soft second Program works to provide “soft second” loans to first-time home buyers to reduce their first mortgage amounts and to lower their initial monthly costs so that they might qualify for bank financing to purchase a home. Those households with annual income at 80% of median or below for the Greater Boston area can receive help with closing and down payment costs. Households with income between 81% and 100% of median, can receive just “soft second” loan financing help. Since the beginning of overall Town CDBG staff administered affordable homeownership efforts in 1995, sixty-six (66) total purchases have been assisted through these funds, thirty eight (38) have been by racial or ethnic minority households: 31 Latino American, 5 African American, 2 Asian American. In this sense, the Homeownership Assistance Program has been strongly inclusive of the segments of Framingham’s population. The capacity provided by the program helped ten (10) households with income levels of 81% to 100% of median achieve homeownership by participating in the Soft Second Loan Program in the last year and one-half. Of the ten (10) households served, five (5) have been racial or ethnic minorities. Homeownership Assistance has proven to be a resource in increasing ownership and upgrading housing in downtown neighborhoods. There continues to be great interest in and need for the program. With the receipt of additional funds through the Federal Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME), beginning in July, 2006, staff has designed an enhanced homeownership opportunity program that features a substantial
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principal buydown subsidy (reducing the amount needing to be borrowed) plus closing cost and down payment assistance. Intense promotion and outreach to make households aware of this resource to purchase a home affordably in Framingham. Housing Rehabilitation Assistance Program (HRAP): This program provides technical and financial assistance for the rehabilitation of housing units. A total of sixty five (65) living units were helped or in the process of being helped through the HRAP assistance and related services in 2006. A sum of $305,093 in CDBG funds was expended related to the provision of grants and loans to property owners who were of low or moderate income or the majority of whose tenants were of low or moderate income. Staff has helped owners secure additional resources to undertake repairs and improvements such as through MassHousing Get the Lead Out grants. Exploration of Joining the Westmetro HOME Consortium: Community Development staff filed an application and the Town was accepted as a member of the twelve community, Newton based, Metrowest HOME Consortium. The Town qualified to begin receiving HOME funds July 1, 2006. The Town will be eligible to receive on a continuous annual (entitlement) basis, federal Home Investment Partnership Act (HOME) funds ($398,266 in FY ’07). These funds, often seen as a companion piece to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) moneys, could be used to support a broad range of housing activity for moderate and low income households. Among other activities, HOME funds could be used for the following housing activities: Provide financing assistance to
low-income homeowners and new homebuyers for home purchase or rehabilitation; Rehabilitate rental or owner-occupied housing; Acquire property; Construct new housing for rent or homeownership; Improve sites for HOME assisted development or demolish dilapidated housing on such sites; Pay relocation costs for households displaced by HOME activities; Provide tenant-based rental assistance or help with security deposits to low-income renters; and meet HOME program planning and administration expenses. The Town’s emphasis in the initial year of funding is on the provision of additional homeowner assistance to low and moderate income first time buyers and the provision of grants and low interest loans to low and moderate homeowners to undertake qualified, comprehensive building and health code related repairs and improvements. CDBG Supported Economic Development Initiatives Microenterprise Lending: Two programs were operated in 2006 with CDBG funds to promote and support small business development as a job creation/self-help strategy, to revitalize the Framingham area, and provide economic opportunity to the area’s low-to-moderate income residents. These were the ACCION USA Framingham Outreach and Lending Initiative and the Microenterprise Loan Fund offered by Community Development Program staff. Both programs were aimed at providing entrepreneurs access to capital routinely unavailable from traditional financial sources. The fund provides low-to-moderate income residents and businesses access to capital to start new or bolster existing businesses. A total of six (6) loans were made by these programs in 2006. These lending initiatives remain
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tools for use by the Town to encourage and support business development in the Downtown in particular. Facade and Sign Improvement Program: This project is funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and offers assistance to business and property owners, as well as merchants, located in and around the Framingham Central Business Zoning District and surrounding commercial core, to undertake façade, signage, and storefront improvements. Through the efforts of the Community Development Program, the Façade and Sign Improvement program was operated throughout 2006. Four (4) sign improvement and two (2) façade improvements projects were completed in 2006 with $7,425 in CDBG assistance. Commitments to provide grant assistance of up to an additional total $27,000 were in the process of being finalized for five (5) additional sign and two (2) additional façade of substantial scope. If all commitments are met, at this point in time, the sign and façade initiatives combined, with their separate and differing leveraging ratios and related mixes of private to public funds can result in an aggregate total of new investment in the downtown of over $1.04 million, with over $854,000 thousand of the investment in private funds planned. Since the inception of the program eight years ago, over $234,000 in CDBG funds will have been directly committed in grants to assist in the improvement of seventy-one (71) signs and sixteen (16) facades. Great interest has been shown in the program. Additional applications are being received. Downtown Management: Senior Planning staff has been working to sustain current
Downtown initiatives and implement the “Downtown Framingham Economic Development Strategic Plan”. Position responsibilities have included implementing and managing existing programs (Facade, Microenterprise Loan and Business Assistance), technical assistance and capacity building (Downtown Solutions, EDIC, FDR), and Strategic Plan execution. Downtown Solutions: Downtown Solutions is a spontaneous grassroots coalition of residents, merchants, businesses, property owners, agencies, and Town officials working together to improve the Downtown to benefit the whole community. As the organizational Mission Statement states: The Mission Statement “Downtown Solutions is an inclusive organization of residents, business people, service providers, and public and private community leaders, striving in common to make Downtown Framingham a better place to live and work. We seek solutions to create a unique, progressive, and vibrant downtown community. We are committed to promoting, safety, beautification, and economic revitalization.” Activities undertaken included the presentation of a summer concerts series on the Downtown Common and the Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony. Downtown Concerts: The Planning Department worked with Downtown Solutions to provide a series of free early evening concerts on the Downtown Common, during the months of June, July and August. These concerts had up to 60 persons per concert and offered a dynamic reflection of Framingham's rich diversity, with a range of musical offerings such as traditional Brazilian, Blues, Jazz, Rock, and Framingham High School
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Battle of the Bands: Free raffles were given out at each concert, donations by local merchants. This Concert Series is made possible through efforts from the Downtown Solutions Committee, the Planning and Economic Department, and a grant from the Framingham Rotary Club. Holiday Tree Lighting: Downtown Solutions along with the Framingham Planning and Economic Development Department staff Jim Egan, Director of Building Services and his entire staff, the Framingham Rotary Club, the Framingham Coalition, the Boys and Girls Club, Metro West Medical Center, and many other people helped to make the 15th Holiday Tree Lighting a great success. The event was held on December 1, 2006 at the Memorial Building. Everyone young and old from the neighborhoods of the downtown gathered to celebrate the winter holiday period through traditional tree lighting. Over 2200 people attended. Nevins Hall was transformed into a winter wonderland, and musical entertainment was provided by our own Elementary schools, Hemenway, Charlotte Dunning, Miriam McCarthy, and Woodrow Wilson, under the direction of Bob Mangan. One hundred (100) Framingham Girl Scouts provided singing of holiday music, and PAC performed Holiday revelry singing. Scott Gibbons was the MC outside the building (introducing Santa and Mrs. Claus) and Valerie Mulvey was the MC during the evening. Santa (Charlie Sisitsky) and Mrs. Claus (Beverly Kaplan) arrived in style via fire truck complements of the Framingham Fire Department. Polaroid photos with Santa were offered were $1.00 apiece. Coloring tables, face painting, hot chocolate, and cookies, (baked by Keefe Tech), candy canes were provided. Ron Rego from Media Services filmed the entire evening. Ron along with
Carly Premo from Tech. Services put flyers on the Web/TV cable in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Outreach to the community for volunteers and donations resulted in participation by Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, WROR, MIX 98.5, Framingham.com, the MetroWest Daily News and the TAB. It was the best and largest HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING celebration.
Economic Development
Framingham is an important center for business and employment in MetroWest. Framingham’s economy has transitioned from a manufacturing based economy to develop a diverse base of businesses, including health care, retail, information technology and corporate headquarters. With over 45,000 jobs, Framingham ranks sixth among Greater Boston communities in employment. Framingham is home to the headquarters of three large companies, Bose Corporation, Staples, and TJX. Other major employers include Lifeline, Natural Microsystems, Perini, Genzyme, ADESA, and the MetroWest Medical Center. Framingham is home to hundreds of small businesses as well, an important contributor to the local economy. In 2006, Economic Development staff supported a variety of initiatives and participated in the efforts of many local groups including Framingham Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (EDIC), Framingham Downtown Renaissance, Downtown Solutions, the START Framingham Partnership, MetroWest/495 Corridor Partnership, MetroWest Growth Management Committee, and the MetroWest Chamber of Commerce to promote economic activity throughout Framingham. A summary of key economic development initiatives follows.
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The Division worked with the Town CFO’s office to organize a tour of Framingham for representatives of Moody’s Investors Service who visited Framingham to reassess the Town’s bond rating. Moody’s analysts were driven around Town in order to get a first hand look at Framingham’s development projects, economic development, and cultural activities. An emphasis was placed on showing short-, mid- and long-term projects. The tour was a success, and resulted in the Town protecting its bond rating. Published a new edition of Start Smart: Small Business Guide to Licensing and Permitting, a guide to help entrepreneurs navigate the Town’s licensing and permitting process. Print copies of Start Smart are available in the Planning and Economic Development office and at various Town Departments. The publication is also available on-line on the Planning and Economic Development Division website. Town Map Project: The Division worked with Framingham’s GIS Coordinator and City Map, Inc. to produce a 4-color
resource guide and street map of Framingham. The map, which was paid for through business advertising, promotes major points of interest in Framingham, regional amenities, and provides information on Town programs, a directory of important phone numbers and other community information. The maps will be available, free of charge, at Town buildings and other high-traffic areas. Each participating advertiser received maps for distribution as well. Thank you to all of the businesses that sponsored an ad to make production of the map possible.
EDIC: The purpose of the Framingham Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (EDIC) is to create a pro-active capacity within the Town of Framingham’s governmental structure to plan for and carry out economic development where it is most critically needed. The EDIC assists the Town in its efforts to broaden the tax base, enhance long-term economic vitality, improve the quality of life of residents, and improve the business climate by encouraging investment that will create employment and economic
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opportunity, and attract other private investment and improvements. EDIC Membership: The EDIC is comprised of seven members appointed by the Board of Selectmen. In accordance with state law, the EDIC’s members have expertise in industrial development, finance, real estate, and municipal government, with two members appointed from the community at large. The Board of Selectmen appointed three new members to the EDIC in 2006, Martin Mulvey, Drew Rogers, and John Stefanini. State Representative Deborah Blumer was appointed as an Ex-Officio member. Glen Weisbrod, Chair – Industrial Development Robert Snider – Industrial Development Martin Mulvey – Finance Drew Rogers – Real Estate Phaldie Taliep – Government John Steacie – At Large John Stefanini – At Large EDIC Planning: The EDIC develops an annual work plan to identify projects to carry out with the assistance with Planning and Economic Development Division staff. The annual work plan is a combination of ongoing, long term, and short term action strategies based on the following goals: Continue to implement projects and programs that will bring to life the following vision for Downtown Framingham. Establish Downtown Framingham as a center of business and cultural activity that is functionally vibrant and active, and perceived to be an attractive destination visited by residents throughout Framingham and surrounding communities. Work to develop (or redevelop) vacant or underutilized properties. Work to retain and expand current Framingham businesses by identifying technical and financial resources
that can be made available to further their development. Provide a forum for discussion of town-wide economic development issues and the formulation of goals, objectives, and action plans. The EDIC met monthly in 2006 to discuss implementation of its FY07 Plan, review the status of ongoing projects and programs, assign tasks to members, discuss current economic development priorities and issues, and guide and assist Planning and Economic Development Division staff with implementation of various economic development programs and projects. EDIC Projects: In accordance with its annual work plan, the EDIC achieved the following accomplishments in 2006: Initiated discussions with the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority to redevelop the Park and Ride lot at 1672 Worcester Road near Interchange 12 of the Mass Turnpike. The EDIC will continue to work with the Turnpike Authority on this project in 2007 Worked with Planning and Economic Development Division staff to launch a brownfields redevelopment program and attended the Brownfields National Conference in Boston November 12-16, 2006 to become more educated on brownfields-related issues. Continued the business outreach program established in 2005 which utilizes postcard mailings to publicize economic development programs to Framingham-based small businesses. Two mailings were completed in 2006 advertising the Town’s Sign and Façade Improvement Program and Mass Development’s New Markets Loan Fund. The Sign and Façade Improvement Program provides rebates to business and property owners to defray a portion of the cost of a new sign or façade rehabilitation project. The New Markets
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Loan Fund offers low fixed-rate and longer term loans to support small businesses and non-profit organizations seeking to grow and create jobs in federally designated census tracts. Framingham’s New Markets Loan eligibility area is census tracts 3831, 3833, and 3834 in southeast Framingham. Sponsored free workshops on various topics relevant to small businesses. The EDIC worked with SCORE, a program of the U.S. Small Business Administration, to offer a two workshop series on business plan writing and marketing. The EDIC sponsored a third workshop, “Making Your Store Front Work for You.” The workshop was given by retail consultants from AP Associates, CS Designs, and Retail Concepts and provided information to downtown business owners on branding, signage, and window marketing. Worked with State Senator Karen Spilka to secure a $500,000 earmark in the Economic Stimulus Bill. The bill passed the legislature in the spring with the earmark in tact. Funds will support development of a capital plan to assess infrastructure enhancement needs in downtown Framingham and other projects to further downtown revitalization efforts and the development of the Cultural Triangle. Project implementation will begin in 2007. Began working with property owners to determine redevelopment plans for priority redevelopments areas identified by the EDIC in 2005. Provided recommendations to the Planning Board on economic development issues that should be addressed in the Master Plan update. Launched a new website this year to better communicate with Town residents about the work of the EDIC:
http://www.framinghamma.org/planning_dept/EDIC_main.htm Served on the Downtown Railroad Crossing Task Force. Continued to serve as administrator of the Town’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Provided technical assistance to support Planning and Economic Development Division grant writing activities. Framingham Downtown Renaissance: Framingham Downtown Renaissance (FDR) is a broad-based coalition of community groups with the mandate to strengthen economic development in downtown Framingham. The mission of FDR is: To promote, communicate and facilitate downtown revitalization, through a collaboration of business owners, residents and community activists representing organizations supporting a shared vision for Downtown Framingham. In 2006, FDR’s third year, FDR achieved tremendous success: Secured a $50,000 earmark in the Economic Stimulus Package passed by the State Legislature in the spring 2006. FDR will use the funds to commission a downtown market study, create a plan for attracting investment into downtown, secure legal services to assist FDR to institutionalize its structure and operations, and to develop a strategy to expand FDR’s membership base. Implementation of this project will begin in 2007. Conducted an analysis of downtown and identified priority redevelopment areas, urban design, and pedestrian mobility issues. FDR will provide a summary of its work to the Downtown Railroad Crossing
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Task Force to help inform the downtown design component of the Task Force’s work. FDR will continue to work on this project in 2007. Established the Restaurant Discount Program, which provides discounts to downtown restaurants to patrons of START Partnership’s cultural festivals. The Restaurant Discount Program is designed to capture economic development benefits from the Town’s cultural activities. This year, the Restaurant Discount Program was offered during the HeART of Winter, Spring into Arts, and Harvest the Arts festivals. Established a sub-committee to explore strategies for redeveloping Nevins Hall into a premier entertainment center. EDIC will use a portion of its Economic Stimulus funds to conduct a market analysis to determine the market potential for cultural activities in downtown Framingham. The market analysis will enable the Town to design a rehabilitation plan around the Hall’s potential end use. FDR will continue to be a part of this process in 2007. Launched its first ever web page: http://www.framinghamma.org/planning_dept/FDR_main.htm Supported Planning and Economic Development Division grant writing activities by providing technical assistance and letters of support. Provided volunteer support to the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony which took place on December 1, 2006. Overall, 2006 was FDR’s most successful year to date. The projects started this year will provide a strong foundation from which to build on in 2007.
Brownfields Redevelopment Program: A brownfield is a property on which real or perceived environmental contamination inhibits its redevelopment. In 2006 the Planning and Economic Development Division established the Brownfields Redevelopment Program to facilitate the redevelopment of brownfields sites in the Town of Framingham. The Division is working with a number of organizations on brownfields redevelopment including the EDIC, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), MassDevelopment, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The clean up and redevelopment of Framingham’s brownfield sites offers an opportunity to put land back into productive use, thus serving as a catalyst for economic development. However, brownfields redevelopment is a complex process that can present substantial barriers to owners and developers. The Division began conducting outreach to owners of a subset of properties listed on MassDEP’s Waste Site Inventory to begin to understand owners’ plans for clean up, reuse, or redevelopment of the sites. The Waste Site Inventory is a database of sites where contamination must be reported in accordance with the Massachusetts Waste Site Clean-up Program, which was created under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 21E. This was an important first step toward beginning dialogue between the Town and property owners regarding the brownfields issue, and to educate property owners about their options and opportunities for their property. Planning and Economic Development Division staff attended the Brownfields National Conference at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center on November 12-16, 2006. The conference
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was a tremendous opportunity to learn from experienced brownfields practitioners about the components of successful brownfield redevelopment projects from around the country. Major topic areas addressed at the conference included the legal framework for brownfields redevelopment, real estate development challenges, funding and financing strategies, urban design innovations, and the critical importance of community involvement. In December 2006, the Division applied for a $200,000 grant from the US EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant Program. The grant will enable the Division to hire an environmental consultant to conduct inventory work to fully document the extent of the brownfield issue in Framingham, and to conduct Phase I and Phase II site assessments on contaminated properties. A Phase I assessment is historical research on past land uses. A Phase II assessment involves soil testing, and is done on those sites where the Phase I results indicate possible contamination. The EPA will announce grant winners in May of 2007. Tax Increment Financing (TIF): The Town is part of the Framingham-Marlborough Regional Economic Target Area which allows Framingham to use state and local tax incentives to attract new businesses, expand existing businesses, and stimulate job growth in Framingham. Framingham has established eight Economic Opportunity Areas (EOAs) and entered into tax increment finance agreements with Adesa, Computer Associates, Triangle Realty Trust, Staples, Inc., Natural MicroSystems, Lifeline, and Framingham Acquisition, LLC. Framingham’s earliest TIF agreements with Adesa, Computer Associates, and Triangle Realty Trust have now expired.
Map of EOA’s/TIF Locations The Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Program (UCH-TIF) was established in 2003 under M.G.L. Chapter 40, Section 16 to encourage increased residential growth, affordable housing and commercial growth in urban and commercial centers. The UCH-TIF Program gives the Town of Framingham the ability to offer tax increment financing to promote residential and commercial development in commercial centers. In 2005, the Town of Framingham designated the Central Business District as its first housing tax increment financing district and authorized the first Urban Center Housing TIF agreement with Framingham Acquisition, LLC to redevelop the Arcade Building at 111 Concord Street. In 2006, final project documents were submitted to the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Approval of the agreement is pending. Transit Oriented Development: Transit oriented development (TOD) is compact, mixed-use, walkable development planned around public transit. Because TOD does not typically generate the same level of traffic and congestion associated with conventional development, it allows for growth in already built-out areas. As a result of this principle, TOD is the cornerstone of Framingham’s efforts to
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revitalize its downtown. The central location of the MBTA commuter rail station and hub of the LIFT Public Transit System, the mixed-use character of downtown, and the increasing viability of downtown as a residential as well as commercial district combine to provide an unparalleled opportunity for revitalization. In 2006, Planning Staff applied for and won a $50,000 TOD planning and design grant from the Office of Commonwealth Development. The grant will fund the creation of preliminary design plans for pedestrian enhancements between transit and the housing and services located in the Downtown.
TOD Map from Grant Application Specifically, the preliminary design plan will create safe, comfortable, attractive and identifiable pedestrian linkages along public right-of-ways between the MBTA Commuter Rail Station, the LIFT bus
hub, and downtown’s mixed use developments. When the design has been completed, Department staff will seek funding (up to $2 million is available from the same source) for project implementation. When the project has been completed, it will make downtown's transit resources more visible and accessible to pedestrians, bicyclists, residents, employees, and visitors, thus ensuring the success current and future downtown redevelopment projects such as the Arcade, Dennison, and the Kendall Building. Downtown Railroad Crossing Task Force: The Downtown Railroad Crossing Task Force continued its work in 2006 to identify the optimal solution to the congestion caused by the grade crossing at the intersection of Routes 126 and 135 in downtown Framingham. The project was expanded in 2006 to include work on the downtown design and economic development components of the traffic solution. This work of the Task Force will have a tremendous impact on downtown revitalization efforts once completed.
START Framingham Partnership
2006 has been a period of significant growth for the START Framingham Partnership as many of the Goals identified at the 2005 Retreat and implemented throughout 2006 were accomplished and basic organizational practices were institutionalized. This time period has been marked by a focus on finances and financing, as START recognized that its early grant support would not last forever and new funding streams would have to be created. The central work of stimulating partnerships among arts and cultural
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organizations has continued and in some ways has taken on a life of its own. In addition, START’s internal structure has been fortified by the implementation of good practices for recruiting members and conducting meetings. These processes have moved START into a developmental stage that is more organizationally grounded and less open to interpretation. At the same time, START has experienced some of the pains that are inevitable to a community-based organization and has become a passenger on the roller-coaster that characterizes state political and budget processes. The organization lost one of its biggest supporters on Beacon Hill when State Representative Debby Blumer passed away suddenly and prematurely in October 2006. Her work, along with that of State Senator Karen Spilka, had secured a state grant in the 2007 budget that put START in the position of having a projected surplus at the end of the fiscal year and enabling the organization to contribute significantly to its mission within the town. Then, just days after the election, when the Governor cut $425 million out of that budget, 75% of START's grant was terminated along with those of innumerable other programs across the state. At the end of the calendar year, as we await changes in our legislative delegation and in state leadership, we are told that the cuts will be restored when the new Governor assumes leadership. Having become a more structured organization, START is weathering these ups and downs and is learning to use its resources to support decision-making. Organizational Structure and Goals: The Goals established by START’s Steering Committee at the 2006 Retreat were as follows; promote and support artists and cultural organizations to improve the quality of life in Framingham; Utilize Arts
and culture to promote economic development; and Sustain & Strengthen START Framingham Partnership. Activities associated with these Goals were converted into a Work Plan for implementation by START’s various committees. If the events of last year are any indication, the activities identified as top priorities will receive the majority of attention in 2007. This was our experience in 2006. Accomplishments from 2006 include the following:
Finance: Among the most significant of START’s accomplishments in 2006 was to have gotten our financial house in order. START enters the year in an adequate position to conduct business in 2007 and is currently expecting to be a somewhat better position financially once the new state administration begins and budget funds are restored.
In addition to the two initial grant awards that still form the basis for operations and the above-mentioned STATE funds, START received a grant from the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority in 2006 as part of its collaboration with Friends of Saxonville. These funds will be used to develop a plan for using the Framingham Cultural Directory and marketing the material gained from its entries. We also received our third and final distribution from the CARLISLE Foundation, which has been extremely helpful in building START’s foundations of the past three years.
Fund-Raising: As part of its financing plans, START ran its first two fund-raising programs in 2006, a direct mail Appeal and a Fund-raising event on the grounds of one of our partner organizations, Garden in the Woods. These two activities netted START over $10,000. Such efforts will continue to be
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an integral part of our planning in future years.
Partnerships: Back in 2004, START and some other local organizations formed a group called the Cultural Triangle Partnership in order to encourage people to travel downtown to experience cultural events and patronize local businesses. The Cultural Triangle Partnership has developed its commitment to support two seasonal festivals a year – in addition to Spring into Arts – with the express purpose of promoting the organizations and events in the downtown. Marketing: These festivals, one in October (Harvest the Arts) and one in February (HeART of Winter), built up this year and are becoming institutionalized along with the partnership among the Cultural Triangle organizations. In 2006 the group implemented a Discount Dining Coupon campaign with local restaurants to encourage attendees at events to expand their stay downtown for a snack or a meal. The Discount Dining Coupon program has been well accepted by local restaurants who publicize their participation in the program. For their part, the cultural performance presenters direct their audiences to these businesses. The Discount Dining Coupon functions as a marketing tool with a clearly marked map of the event locations and the participating restaurants. The program, which is part of START’s work on cultural/economic development, will continue with the festivals in 2007. Branding: One goal identified at the 2005 Retreat was for START to begin making inroads into branding itself as an arts and cultural organization within Framingham. The Marketing Committee was charged with creating a logo for START, as well as writing a brochure incorporating critical information for multiple uses and other
START Partnership members with Chair, Elizabeth Roop at the Main Library, one of the stops in the Downtown Framingham Cultural Triangle items which would carry forth a developing START brand. START was fortunate to have recruited David Roth, a local artist working out of Fountain Street Studios. After several discussions and iterations of ideas and drafts, Mr. Roth and the committee created a beautiful logo for the organization, seen below in its full-color version for use on labels, banners, posters and other singular and large formats and in its 2-color version for use on letterhead, note cards and other smaller formats where it appears with identifying and contact information. Spring into Arts: Spring Into Arts, which remains START’s signature festival, had a very successful run in its second year from April 17, 2006 – May 21, 2006. This year, 44 individual events were listed, in addition to a variety of on-going activities at our partners’ venues Garden in the Woods, Amazing Things Art Center, the Danforth Museum and the Framingham Public Library. New this year was a professionally-designed brochure with a map of Framingham listing each venue in the centerfold. It was distributed widely including being on the Town website and the www.framingham.com website. The
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committee was able to secure an in-kind donation of brochure printing on high quality paper from Bose Corporation. The result was a well-designed, well-produced document that made a very good impression and reflected positively on the organization and the town.
During the course of Spring into Arts 2006 several new collaborations developed, between two separate artists’ studios in town and between marketing partners, as well as with businesses who returned to sponsor the festival and clearly see the value in their association with the Framingham arts community.
Membership: The total START Partnership membership is 59 as of December 13, 2006. The Membership Committee, Director and other partners will continue to recruit individuals who balance out the sectors of business, cultural organizations, social/ethnic groups and government. New members are appointed for a 3-year term and bring fresh ideas and interests into the organization. START has become a strong, sustainable organization which has become more integrated into the community as it concludes its first 3 years of operation. Local support and recognition from the Town Manager, Board of Selectmen, related committees and town businesses; state support from legislators and arts advocates and growing relationships with corporate sponsors and donors are all helping to build this base. START is at heart a community organization and relies on maintaining and growing strong relationships for the fulfillment of its Mission “to strengthen community life in Framingham and contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of the town, by broadening, deepening and diversifying
participation in the arts and cultural activities.”
Zoning Board of Appeals The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is the Permit Granting Authority and the Special Permit Granting Authority for those projects not meeting the requirements of the Framingham Zoning and Sign Bylaws. The ZBA’s function is to approve or deny requests for variances and special permits, and issue findings through the public hearing process by determining if the required criteria, as stated in the Zoning Bylaw, has been met. In addition, the ZBA administers the Comprehensive Permit process for affordable housing as set forth under M.G.L. Chapter 40B. The Zoning Board of Appeals is a three-member Board, appointed by the Selectmen. In 2006, Full Members of the Board were Philip R. Ottaviani, Jr., Chairman, Attorney Susan S. Craighead, Vice Chairman and Richard E. Paul, Clerk. Christine Long continued to serve as an Associate Member. Karl Thober began serving as an Associate Member early in 2006 and Robert Nislick was appointed as an Associate Member in August 2006. Eugene Kennedy continued his duties as Senior Planner and ZBA Administrator. Mr. Kennedy prepared the legal decisions and advised the Board on procedural and other issues. Katherine O’Brien began her duties as full-time Administrative Assistant to support the Zoning Board of Appeals in March 2006. Town Counsel continued to advise the Board as required. Eighty-five (85) petitions were filed with the Zoning Board of Appeals office in 2006. Eight petitions that were filed in 2005 were decided in 2006. Fifteen
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petitions that were filed in 2006 will be decided in 2007. This total of ninety-three (93) cases is slightly less than the total of ninety-eight (98) cases processed in 2005. Eleven (11) of the 85 petitions filed in 2006 will be heard in January 2007. Primary reasons for the continued high level of ZBA filings are as follows: The Town has reached build-out, with little vacant, buildable land available; The strict requirements of the Town's Sign Bylaw; Due to past rezoning, 80% of lots are now non-confirming, requiring variances and special permits to meet the more restrictive setbacks, and; Due to low interest rates more homeowners are choosing home-improvement projects to increase and enhance their living space over the purchasing or building of new homes. Of the 82 cases heard in 2006, 23 were requests for Variances, 43 for Special Permits, 12 for Findings, 1 for Finding & Variance, 2 for Variance & Special Permits and 1 Appeal of the Decision of the Building Commissioner. Variance and special permit requests included those for relief from dimensional requirements for construction of, and additions to, single family homes; for placement of sheds on residential properties, for construction of two-family residences, for automotive uses and for changes of use for local business owners. Some of these filings were the outcome of changes in zoning districts in past years resulting in non-conforming lots. Several unique projects were decided by the Board. A proposed church at 80 Newbury Street required 9 meetings over 7 months and ten special permits were granted for businesses located at 350 Irving Street.
The Zoning Board continued the cost saving measures that were initiated in 2005. Postcards, instead of envelopes are now used for hearing and decision notices. The 20 year database of ZBA decisions that was loaded into Permits Plus in 2005 continued to be updated and maintained during 2006. Recent staff research has included summaries of zoning permits issued with term limits and two family properties approved by the Board. Associate Board member Christine Long and Eugene Kennedy and Katherine O’Brien, ZBA Staff Members attended training sessions sponsored by the Massachusetts Citizen Planner Training Collaborative. The Board meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month at 7:00 P.M. in the Public Hearing Room of the Memorial Building. Decisions and discussion items are scheduled on the second Tuesday of the month and new hearings are scheduled for the fourth Tuesday of the month. Members of the public are welcome and encouraged to attend Zoning Board of Appeals meetings. Respectfully submitted, Philip R. Ottaviani, Jr., Chairman Zoning Board of Appeals Eugene Kennedy Zoning Board of Appeals Administrator Housing Policy Liaison Committee At the direction of the October 2004 Town Meeting a four person Housing Policy Liaison Committee (HPLC) was established including representatives from the Framingham Board of Selectmen and Planning Board. The HPLC’s role is to prepare a comprehensive, town wide,
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housing plan for Framingham. The HPLC continued to meet regularly during 2006 to complete the plan. To assist the HPLC a Citizens Advisory Committee on Housing (CAC) was created. The CAC met regularly during 2005 and four times in 2006. This Committee is charged with providing input and feedback to assist the HPLC. The HPLC synthesized the Citizen Advisory Committee’s varying perspectives, questions and concerns on housing issues and incorporated them into the housing plan. The HPLC has been assisted in this effort by Judi Barrett from the consulting firm Community Opportunities Group (COG) and Division of Planning and Economic Development staff. The comprehensive, town wide housing plan was completed in December 2006. The HPLC expects the plan to be discussed during spring 2007.
Conservation Commission In 1962, Framingham set up a Conservation Commission under the Conservation Commission Act, G. L. Ch. 40 §8C. The Commission was charged with the promotion and development of natural resources, protection of the Town’s watershed, education of the public about the value of wetlands, and the preservation of open space through acquisition and management. In 1972 the state gave Conservation Commissions responsibility for administering the Wetlands Protection Act, i.e., issuing permits for work in or near the 100-year floodplain, streams, banks, vernal pools, water bodies, and wetlands. In 1992, Town Meeting adopted the Framingham Wetlands Bylaw expanding the responsibilities of the Commission; now
all proposed work within 125 feet of the aforementioned areas (excluding the 100-year floodplain) requires Conservation Commission approval. In 1996, the state law was expanded to include review of any work within 200 feet of perennial streams.
Commission Members and Staff: In 2006, Kevin O’Neill joined the Conservation Commission in March, after George Millman resigned from the Commission when he relocated to Duxbury. As an abutter to Lake Washakum, Mr. O’Neill brings knowledge and expertise on lake management issues. Two members were reappointed: Bill Merriam, (Vice-chair and member since 1997) and Judy Perry (member since 2005). Other Commission members include: Pam Helinek (Chair, member since 2004), Robert McArthur (member since 2001), Steve Orr (member since 2003) and Vickie Staples (member since 2003).
The Commission employs one full-time Conservation Agent, Michele Grzenda, one part-time Conservation Agent, Jennifer Steel, and one part-time Office Assistant, Nicole White. Ms. White’s position was created in 2006 to assist with numerous administrative tasks. In 2006, GIS mapping was provided by Conservation Intern Jill Kern.
Commission members and staff attended workshops and classes on the following topics: Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions Annual Meeting, Stormwater and Low Impact Development, Developing the Record for Wetland Bylaw Appeals, Farming and Wetland Resource Areas, and Advanced Wetland Delineation. Additionally, Pam Helinek, Kevin O’Neill, Steve Orr, and Michele Grzenda completed an 8-unit course entitled “Fundamentals for Conservation Commissioners”.
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Commissioners wit h Katy Weeks, Framingham’s Stormwater and Env. Engineer
Commission members and staff participated in the following local committees: Community Planning Team, Farm Pond Task Force, Local Emergency Planning Committee, Town-Owned Land Task Force, Sudbury River Task Force, Greater Callahan Open Space Committee, Housing Policy Liaison Committee, Invasive Species Forum, Framingham’s Natural Hazard Mitigation Community Planning Team, and Mass. Society of Conservation Professionals.
Spotted Salamander
Volunteers/Interns: The following people have donated many hours and great effort on behalf of the Commission and the Town. Theresa Portante and Jenna Smith, students at Framingham State College, participated in our intern program, donating countless hours to office assistance, field assistance, and special outreach and education projects. Office assistance was provided by Virginia Hatch. Trail maintenance and land stewardship assistance were provided by Bill Fadden, Bob Moore, Maria
Muszynski, George Dixon, Scott Sterling, and Michele Lemettais.
Changes to the Framingham Wetlands Protection Bylaw Regulations: In January, the Commission created a waiver form that is required for work proposed within No Alteration Zones. Commission members also amended the Regulations to require stricter protection of the land surrounding vernal pools. Minor changes to the local wetlands filing fees were adopted in March.
Implementation of Regulations: In 2006, the Commission: reviewed over 286 Building permits, 59 ZBA permits, and 46 Planning Board permits; held 28 Public meetings to discuss project applications, land management efforts, and public education efforts; reviewed and permitted 40 Notices of Intent applications; reviewed and permitted 32 Requests for Determination applications; performed over 80 inspections to gain first-hand information on site conditions and verify wetland delineations; and issued 5 Emergency Certifications.
The Commission continued to oversee active projects from prior years. It issued 3 Amended Orders of Conditions for project changes; 5 Permit Extensions; and 28 Certificates of Compliance.
Enforcement of Wetland Regulations: Wetland violations continue to be an on-going problem. The Commission investigated 43 new violations; issued 28 Enforcement Orders; wrote 26 tickets; collected $7,700 in fines; and addressed 9 on-going enforcement actions from previous years. Selected Large Projects Preserve at Emerald Valley, Winch Pond Trust: In 2005, the Commission opened the hearing on this project which involves the construction of 1,500 feet of a
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subdivision roadway with associated utilities and drainage system. The proposed roadway includes a bridge across a wetland and intermittent stream. The Commission held 14 meetings over 10 months before closing the hearing. After extensive deliberation, the Commission voted to approve the project, citing that the project as proposed and conditioned met the performance standards for work under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (310 CMR 10.00) and Framingham Local Wetland Protection Bylaw. Subsequently, appeals to both the Dept. of Environmental Protection and Superior Court have been filed by abutters and other concerned residents. Decisions on the appeals should be rendered in 2007 or 2008.
Illegal clearing and dumping in a wetland
Danforth Green; Pulte Homes: In May, the Commission opened the hearing on this project which involves the construction of approximately 525 residential units consisting of townhouses and condominiums. The 130-acre site, formerly known as Sudbury River Landing, is located at the former New England Sand and Gravel site, off Riverpath Drive in Saxonville. Discussions continue, since the project involves work within Riverfront Area of the Sudbury River, Buffer Zones to Wetlands and several vernal pools.
Proposed mitigation being considered includes restoration of degraded riverfront area and vernal pool buffers, open space and trail creation, and interpretative environmental signage.
Aerial Photo of NE Sand & Gravel site
Genzyme: The Commission has reviewed and approved two projects that Genzyme has proposed in 2006. One involved the expansion of an existing parking facility and drainage improvements at 74-80 New York Ave, the other involved changes to the steam line installation for the new Science Building at 45 & 49 New York Ave approved in 2005.
Town Projects: The Commission reviewed and approved several Town projects this years including sewer-line work on Hemenway Road, parking lot and drainage improvements adjacent to Learned Pond, roadway improvements along Franklin Street, playing field improvements at the High School, and on-going monitoring and data collection at the Birch Road Well site.
Trail Maintenance: The Conservation Commission partnered with Sudbury Valley Trustees, New England Wildflower Society, and Department of Conservation and Recreation to create a general permit that would allow routine maintenance of and, in some instances, creation of new trails in jurisdictional areas without additional filings. The general permit is
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available as a model for other groups or towns with similar needs.
Municipal Pond Stewardship: The Commission continued, through its contract with Aquatic Control Technology, Inc., its pond management program of testing and treating Waushakum Pond, Norton Pond, Learned Pond, Gleason Pond, Mohawk Pond and Farm Pond. The primary management objectives have been to control the spread of exotic (non-native) vegetation, improve fish and wildlife habitat, slow the eutrophication (filling-in) processes accelerated by development, and maintain access to public beaches and boating areas. Standard summer treatments and one extra treatment were applied. Continuing efforts are being coordinated with DPW, lake associations, and the Town of Ashland to identify and reduce the non-point source discharges that are adversely impacting pond health and public access.
Municipal Land Stewardship: The Commission owns and manages over 405 acres of open space. The largest parcels include Wittenborg Woods (87 acres) Macomber Conservation Land (58 acres) Cochituate Brook Reservation (24 acres) Mohawk Dr/Edmands Rd (24 acres) and Morency Woods (14.5 acres).
The Conservation Commission dedicated many hours to its on-going land management efforts. This spring, volunteers and staff began to walk and map the boundaries of Town’s Conservation land. Boundaries of a third of all parcels were delineated, mapped, and marked using the Town’s GPS. Numerous encroachments have been documented which the Commission will address as time and resources allow.
Intern Jenna Smith posting Town property
An educational kiosk was installed near the Danforth Street Bridge and the Carol Getchell Nature Trail. The project was a joint effort of the Commission, the Planning Department, the Friends of Saxonville, and the Wild and Scenic River Stewardship Council.
Brimstone Estates: The Conservation Commission continues to work with Sudbury Valley Trustees and Pasquale Franchi, Applicant of Brimstone Estates Subdivision to permanently protect a 21-acre parcel of woodland and wetland off Brimstone Lane abutting Wittenborg Woods.
Macomber Forest Stewardship Plan: In 2006 the Commission hired forester John Robbins to develop a Forest Stewardship plan for the Macomber Conservation Parcel to improve forest health and manage the spread of invasive species. The Plan will be finalized in 2007.
Public Education/Engagement: Over 40 volunteers assisted with three work days held this year. George Dixon and Friends of Saxonville coordinated work days in May and September to reconstruct the boardwalk along the Carol Getchell Nature Trail in Saxonville. Over 35
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volunteers assisted in boardwalk repairs and river clean-up.
Kiosk along Sudbury River in Saxonville
Flooded boardwalk along the Carol Getchell Nature Trail
Several residents assisted Michele Lemettais in November on a work day at Macomber Woods in southwest Framingham. Several wheelbarrows of trash, broken glass, metal, and car batteries were removed from an old trash dump near the trail entrance. DPW staff graciously assisted in the disposal of the trash collected during the work days.
Trash removed from the Sudbury River
The Commission recognizes and thanks the Park and Recreation Department and the Department of Public Works for their great help in maintaining the Town’s Conservation Properties. We also greatly appreciate the Engineering Department’s continuing assistance and support in many of the Commission’s efforts.
Nature Walk at Cochituate Brook Reservation
Public Education: The Commission sponsored 10 environmental programs, including the Christmas Bird Count, Salamander Big Night, family spring and fall scavenger hunts, and RiverFest held on Conservation Land and adjacent areas.
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Roughly 182 residents attended these programs.
The Conservation Office continued to expand and improve its municipal web site.
Numerous letters were sent to residents living near wetlands and streams informing them of their legal obligations and responsibilities to protect these resources.
The Commission continued to collaborate with local organizations such as Sudbury Valley Trustees, New England Wildflower Society, Bay Circuit Trail Alliance, SuAsCo Wild and Scenic River Stewardship Counsel, and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation to protect the Town's wetland resource areas and open space.
Transportation Planning Strategic and long-range transportation planning and project implementation are key functions of the Planning Department. During 2006, Department Staff have participated in regional transportation planning activities as a member of the Regional Transportation Advisory Council (Boston MPO Advisory Board), the Metrowest Growth Management Committee Transportation Task Force, and the City of Marlborough’s Transportation Task Force. In additional to advocating for Framingham in regional transportation planning, the department manages several ongoing projects in Framingham. Downtown Railroad Crossing Task Force: The traffic snarl in Downtown Framingham, long associated with the at-grade railroad crossing at the intersection of Routes 126 and 135, was cast into the spot light in 2005 when the Mayor of Worcester’s vocal advocacy for increased
Commuter Rail service on the Framingham-Worcester line began to gain traction with MBTA. While increased service will provide much needed relief on the already over-crowded commuter rail, the impact of new train crossings on Downtown Framingham could devastate downtown redevelopment efforts by creating constant gridlock. In 2005, recognizing the leveraging opportunity the circumstances could provide, the Board of Selectmen established the Downtown Railroad Crossing Task Force to identify the optimal solution to the congestion caused by the grade crossing. The Task Force consists of 35 voting members and six ex-officio members. The first of the Task Forces’ monthly meetings was held in November 2005. A seven member Steering Committee develops the agenda for the Task Force and serves as the contact point for Task Force consultants. Both the Task Force and the Steering Committee are staffed by the Planning Department. As part of the first phase of work in late 2005, Kathy Bartolini secured a $40,000 grant from the Executive Office of Transportation to fund an update the 1997 “Route 126 Corridor Study,” completed by Rizzo Associates. The original study examined the highly congested area around the intersection of Route 126, Route 135 and the Commuter Rail and freight tracks in Downtown Framingham and discussed several possible solutions. In 2006, Rizzo was contracted to perform the update, and made substantial progress on the project. Most importantly, they provided the Task Force with updated traffic counts for downtown. During 2006, the Task Force gathered momentum and made substantial progress towards identifying a traffic solution for downtown. Using Rizzo’s data and
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research and information gathered by the Planning Department, the Task Force began to evaluate options for downtown. The Task Force started with the twelve alternative solutions proposed in the original 1997 Rizzo Report; through member, staff, and public input, four additional alternatives were developed. The alternatives range from an underpass on Route 126, to an underpass on Route 135, to bypasses to the east and west of downtown to help siphon through-traffic out of the central business district. As the scope and magnitude of the potential impacts of their decision emerged through extensive discussion, the Task Force decided to hire consultants to provide expert input into the design and economic development components of the downtown traffic solution. Planning staff helped DPW to initiate an RFQ process. The Task Force, with input from the Board of Selectmen, ultimately chose a team headed by BETA engineering that also included the Cecil Group, an urban design firm, and FXM Associates, an economic development consulting firm. Planning staff is currently working with DPW, who will be funding the work, to finalize the BETA team’s contract so that they will be able to begin work in January 2007. While the consultant interview and selection process was underway, the Task Force used criteria that they had developed in early 2006 to evaluate each of the sixteen options along with a seventeenth solution proposed by the BETA team during their interview. The Task Force, with the input of the Board of Selectmen, narrowed down the field of options to four alternative solutions for further study.
Above map shows the remaining 4 alternatives under consideration by the Task Force Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): Each year, the Federal and State Governments appropriate tax dollars for transportation projects. These dollars are prioritized annually by regional planning authorities based on project characteristics such as need for the project, impacts of the project, and project readiness. Framingham is located in the Boston Region, so Framingham’s TIP dollars are allocated by the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). In the past, Town staff has gathered annually to determine which local roadway projects to seek funding for, and then the Planning Department, with input from Engineering and DPW, has compiled TIP applications. New State Highway Design Guidelines promulgated in 2005, however, demand significantly more up-front planning and public input than in the past. In order to best address the Guideline’s requirements, and to foster a higher level of inter-departmental coordination, in 2006, Framingham staff and elected officials formed an informal TIP Committee that meets monthly to assess and inform progress on transportation projects that will require TIP funding in the future. Committee members include staff from Planning, Engineering, DPW, and the
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Planning Board, as well as two members of the Board of Selectmen. The Committee is staffed by the Planning Department. While the Planning Department will still manage the TIP application process, it is our hope that the open, interdisciplinary communication fostered by the TIP Committee forum will strengthen Framingham’s applications, and help the Town to compete with larger, wealthier communities for the limited TIP funds. The TIP Committee has already begun to identify which projects will be included for consideration for the March 2007 application cycle. Projects include the Edgell Road Corridor, Concord Street between downtown and Route 9, and the solution to the Route 126/135 grade crossing. Public Transit Services Since 1984, the Department has managed a bus service, the “LIFT” (Local Intra-Framingham Transit) Public Transit System, which services Framingham and portions of surrounding communities. The LIFT Public Transit System is an affordable source of public transportation for many residents of the Metro West area accommodating a wide range of passenger and transportation needs. All LIFT buses, including backup vehicles, are ADA accessible and have wheelchair lifts. During the last 7 fiscal years (FY00-FY06), over 1.2 million passengers have ridden the LIFT Public Transit System services. This has supported many who do not own their own vehicle, as well as reduced traffic congestion, noise and air pollution, and dependence on fossil fuels. During 2006, LIFT ridership continued to increase due to increased funding in 2005. FY06 brought annual ridership nearly up
to the same level it was at before substantial funding and service cuts in 2004. Throughout 2006, the LIFT Public Transit System operated LIFTs 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and since August 2006, LIFT 9. LIFT bus routes 2 and 3 comprised fifty percent of the system’s total passengers and revenue produced during 2006. LIFTs 2 and 3 predominantly serve Framingham; stops include the “Golden Triangle” commercial center along Routes 9 and 30 in Framingham and Natick, Saxonville, Nobscot, and Downtown Framingham. LIFTs 2 and 3 each operate for 13 hours on weekdays, and 8 hours each on Saturdays. LIFT 5 provides 13 hours of service each weekday, and follows Route 135 in southern Framingham, Ashland and Hopkinton. LIFT 6 provides 26 hours of service each weekday and runs along Route 16 from Milford to Hopkinton, and north on Route 126 through Ashland into southern Framingham. LIFT 6 also provides service to the Beaver Park and Grant Street areas, as well as the Natick Mall, Shoppers World, and Sherwood Plaza. LIFT 7 consists of two buses operating for a total of 22 hours of service each weekday. LIFT 7 provides bus service to Marlborough, Southborough, and Framingham with stops in Downtown Framingham, Framingham State College, and the Solomon Pond Mall. On August 28, 2006, LIFT 9 services began. Many years in the making, LIFT 9 fills what used to be a glaring gap in service along the Route 9 corridor. LIFT 9 consists of two buses operating for 26 hours each week day. LIFT 9 is funded through a Federal Congestion
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Management Air Quality grant with matching contributions from several local corporations and institutions including Framingham State College, National Development, Staples, and Genzyme. The route runs along Route 9 between the Natick Mall and Crossing Boulevard, with stops at Shoppers World, Framingham State College, Stop and Shop on Temple Street, and the Genzyme and Staples campuses. Additional shuttle service to the West Natick Commuter Rail Station during morning and evening rush hours defines LIFT 9 as a commuter resource. Additionally, one of the LIFT 9 buses provides service to 10:00 p.m., making the new route a viable transportation alternative for students, shoppers, and residents traveling to entertainment destinations in the evening and to employees in the Golden Triangle. Early marketing efforts helped to ensure that LIFT 9 hit the ground running. The LIFT conducted extensive outreach through mailings, newspaper ads in multiple languages, radio announcements, cable television announcements, specially designed T-shirts, and the LIFT’s redesigned, user-friendly website. The marketing campaign culminated with a highly publicized launch party at Framingham State College that featured the many local, regional, and state employees that helped to make LIFT 9 a reality as well as a local band, the Jingle Sells, that debuted the LIFT’s first ever theme song. Although there were some kinks to be worked out at the very beginning, the first four months of LIFT 9 services have been a success. Each month, ridership has increased suggesting that LIFT 9 is fulfilling an existing demand. Ridership growth is anticipated to continue as ongoing marketing and word-of-mouth spreads awareness of LIFT 9 throughout the community.
LIFT 9 Launch Party
Marketing and Outreach Activities: The LIFT runs an ongoing marketing, public relations, and appearance improvement campaign. Efforts in 2006 included a state-wide bus wrap design competition. Art students throughout Massachusetts were invited to submit designs that promoted public transit and enhanced the community image of the LIFT. The Town received twenty-five outstanding entries, which were judged by a panel of experienced local arts professionals. The winner was a local Framingham State College student, Yuko Kurakowa. The event generated positive press and one beautiful bus.
Photo above shows Yuko Kurakowa in front of the wrapped bus that she designed; April 2006 Other marketing efforts included, highly publicized free-ride days on Patriots Day and over the holiday season. For the Patriots Day free-ride day, LIFT staff set
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up tables along side the marathon route and distributed LIFT schedules, free ride passes, and assorted LIFT promotional items such as LIFT water bottles, pens, portable radios. During the holiday season, despite some uncertainties regarding funding from the state, the LIFT provided two free-ride days and increased hours of service between Thanksgiving and Christmas to provide better service to holiday shoppers. Survey: During July and August of 2006, the LIFT conducted a customer service survey. LIFT employees distributed surveys on buses, covering every route and every hour of service, in order to reach a broad sampling of ridership. The questions were designed to gather information about the LIFT’s ridership that could help to improve service and access appropriate funding streams. The survey revealed some interesting and important characteristics of the LIFT’s ridership. For instance, 43% of those surveyed reported that they used the LIFT because they did not own a personal vehicle. 68.4% of those surveyed lived in Framingham, and 55.1% worked in Framingham. 52.4% of those surveyed use the LIFT to commute to work. These statistics, in combination with others gathered, help the LIFT to better tailor service to the needs of its ridership, while simultaneously identifying new groups of riders that are not yet served. The complete survey report is available on the LIFT’s website. System and Infrastructure Improvements: In 2006, the LIFT made many strides towards becoming a comprehensive, multi-modal transit system. LIFT staff designed and purchased equipment for bicycle lockers across the street from the MBTA Commuter Rail Station in
downtown Framingham. The LIFT also purchased bicycle racks that will be installed throughout downtown, to make bike-transit transfer convenient and safe for commuters. In 2006, LIFT staff successfully applied to the State’s Mobility Assistance Program (MAP) for funding for ten new buses and communication equipment. By owning its own buses, as opposed to using a contractor’s buses, the LIFT set the stage for the creation of an independent Regional Transit Authority, and also substantially widened the field of contractors who will be able to provide LIFT service. In addition to the MAP buses, the LIFT secured a federal appropriation that will fund the purchase of two additional large buses, bicycle racks for the MAP buses, and pay for the installation of the bicycle lockers and bicycle racks purchased this year. Both the MAP funding and federal funding will become available in 2007. Regional Transit Authority (RTA): In December 2006, the Framingham Board of Selectmen voted to initiate MetroWest’s first independent RTA. This vote, in coordination with the preparation already undertaken by the LIFT, means that an RTA could be up and running as early as July 2007. Surrounding Towns already served by the LIFT will also need to vote in the coming months about whether or not they want to opt into the new RTA. Regional Transit: The Metrowest region is in continuing need of alternative means of transportation. The level of service on local and regional roadways is poor, especially during peak morning and evening commute hours. Although the RTA will go a long way to improving the reliability of funding and bus service,
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investments in alternative transportation infrastructure will be of increased importance as the region continues to expand and grow. As part of the LIFT’s efforts to stay connected to transit planning in the region, the Transportation Coordinator and LIFT staff regularly attend monthly meetings of the MetroWest/495 Transportation Management Association (TMA) where contact is made with Framingham firms such as Staples, Bose, TJX, EMC, Computer Associates, Genzyme, National Development, Fidelity, Raytheon, Natural Microsystems, and Boston Scientific. These contacts prove helpful for economic development issues as well as transportation. The TMA works with us to accept mitigation monies for promotions and similar work, then implements the work on our behalf. TMA corporations are supportive of our E.O. 418 work to link transportation with jobs, housing, and economic development. Information about the LIFT Public Transit System is available online at www.framinghamma.gov/LIFT, or by calling LIFT customer service at 508-532-5459. If no one is available to answer your call, you can access an automated voice system with route details, schedules,
fare information, and connecting services. Paper copies of LIFT schedules are available at many locations including Town Halls, libraries, hospitals, social service agencies, and schools that lie along the LIFT routes. Elderly Transportation: Department staff manages two Town contracts for elderly transportation service in Framingham. Tommy’s Taxi provides service to elderly needing to get to and from the Callahan Senior Center. Busy Bee Transportation provides all of Framingham’s elderly or disabled residents with weekday door-to-door para-transit service. Kathleen B. Bartolini Director, Planning and Economic
Development Dorothy Barroso Rita Collins Carla Fink Michele Grzenda Bill Hallissey Karen Hayes Beverly Kaplan Eugene Kennedy Katherine O’Brien Lily Pollans Jennifer Steel Sam Swisher Bryan Taberner KimbraAWellock
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PLANNING BOARD This year a number of proposals came before the Planning Board. The Board strives to work with both project proponents and the public to shape projects that minimize impacts to the community while accommodating new growth. Such growth provides excellent employment opportunities and a growing tax base to the Town. Framingham continues to be an attractive market for significant new development, as well as reuse of existing sites. Highlights of the year and of the range of projects before the Planning Board in 2006 are provided below: The Board On April 5, 2006, Thomas F. Mahoney and Carol J. Spack were re-elected to the Planning Board. Following the election, the five (5) member Board reorganized and Ann V. Welles was elected to the position of Chair, Thomas F. Mahoney was elected to serve as Vice-Chair, and Carol J. Spack was elected as Clerk to the Board. Sidney Gorovitz was jointly appointed by the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board to serve as the Associate Planning Board member. The Planning Board Office is staffed with three employees. John W. Grande served as Planning Board Director. Jessica Levengood served as Senior Planner and Mary Ruth Reynolds served as Administrative Assistant. The Planning Board regularly met on Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m. in the Memorial Building. In calendar year 2006, the Board held 45 regular meetings and 11 additional meetings (working sessions, site visits or joint meetings with other Boards or Committees). The Planning Board held 46 public hearings to consider
applications for site plan review, off-street parking plans, special permits for use, special permits for parking relief, subdivision review, scenic ways, public way access permits, as well as public hearings for zoning amendments. The type and the number of projects and hearings reviewed in the year 2006 are provided in the following table:
Project Review A summary of larger projects are as follows: 350 Cochituate Road – The Lowes Home Improvement Center was completed with a building with a gross
PROJECT TYPE NUMBER
Site Plan Review 13
Special Permit for Use 6
Special Permit for Reduction
Required # of
Parking Spaces
6
Special Permit for
Dimension Relief in Parking
3
Special Permit for Bonus Proje 1
Subdivision 2
Zoning Amendment 2
Public Way Access Permit 10
Erosion Control 1
PUD (Definitive) 1
Modification to a Scenic Way 1
Approval Not Required 23
TOTAL 68
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floor area of approximately 132,888 square feet and a garden center of approximately 24,135 square feet (uncovered portion). There is parking on the rooftop as well as in the lot and the proposed site configuration of the project, building architecture, landscaping, lighting, drainage and engineering, access and circulation, and traffic impact and mitigation were extensively reviewed by the Planning Board and its consultants and also by Town Departments. Assuming the projections are accurate, total annual local tax revenues from the site should increase by approximately $226,000.00. It is anticipated that a daily average of 50 jobs will be created during the construction phase of this Project and, following completion of the Project, approximately 200 full and part-time employee jobs will be created. Significant mitigation funds were used to enhance traffic signalization in the area, plant additional trees along Cochituate Road, contribute to the LIFT and implement streetscape improvements. Danforth Green – The definitive application for the Planned Unit Development (PUD) by Pulte Homes of New England, LLC, was reviewed during 2006 and will be completed during 2007. The project was modified from the preliminary submission and proposes to include 525-units of residential construction in a variety of housing types, both attached and detached, including a senior component and 10% affordable as required under the PUD By-Law. There will also be limited commercial and community uses, including a club house and an extensive trail system and permanent open space adjacent to the Sudbury River. Considerable review has been devoted to the architectural style of the buildings and the physical layout of the site, so as to blend this large-scale development into Saxonville. The
proposal is planned to be built in phases over a ten year period. The estimated value of proposed improvements of the PUD is $89 million dollars. Anticipated tax revenue is $1,701,807 in the first year of development over the current assessed value of the property. In addition, the PUD will contribute significant off-site mitigation improvements, valued at a minimum $2,670,000 (3% of development cost) pursuant to the Zoning By-Law. As part of the project, traffic mitigation and upgrades to the existing water and sewer systems will be carried out by the Applicant which will directly benefit the adjacent neighborhoods in the area. This project is still under Planning Board review. Fox Creek Lane Subdivision – Approved at the last Board meeting of the year, National Development’s 12-lot definitive subdivision plan will be served by a cul-de-sac and located off of Meadow Street. In response to comments made during the hearing process, the plans were revised to use the existing portion of Meadow Street for access rather than creating a second extension. Improvements to the existing portion of Meadow Street are proposed. All lots will be greater than the 8,000 square feet required by zoning. This subdivision is adjacent to the PUD. 624 Waverly – A Walgreen’s was approved at the former Long Motors Cadillac site. Extensive review by the Board of site layout for this project prompted the applicant to redesign their original submission and the revised site plans provide for the retention of the existing dealership building at the corner of Waverly Street and Mellen Street with the exception of a small addition that had been added to the westerly side of the building along Waverly Street. The building was partially demolished and will
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be renovated and re-used for one or more commercial tenants. As a result of the architectural review process and the requests and recommendations of the Board members and their consultant, the Applicant’s architect substantially re-designed the proposed building to reflect neighborhood scale and materials in its architecture and to incorporate a more traditional architectural design. Assuming the projection is accurate, total annual local tax revenues from the site would increase by approximately $26,000 to approximately $93,000.00. 380 Waverly – The proposal to construct the Framingham Community Health Center at 380 Waverly Street was ultimately denied by the Planning Board. Other projects include the following: 92 Worcester Road – The Melting Pot Restaurant filed an application for Modification to Special Permit for Use and Special Permit for Reduction in the Required Number of Parking Spaces in connection with the Applicant's plan to renovate a 5,000 square foot portion of the existing DeScenza Jewelers building and operate a full service restaurant at 92 Worcester Road. 159 Prospect Street – Metrowest Jewish Day School filed an application for Site Plan Approval in connection with the Applicant's plan to change the use of an existing single-family house and lot to religious, educational, recreational and accessory uses and to construct off-street parking spaces on a parcel of land situated at 159 Prospect Street, zoned Single Family Residence District (R-3). This project received protection from a full review under the Dover Amendment (G.L. 40A §3).
598 Worcester Road – Middlesex Savings Bank filed an application for Site Plan Approval, Public Way Access and Special Permits for Use and Dimensional Relief in connection with the Applicant’s plan to renovate the existing building located on the property known as 598 Worcester Road to accommodate the proposed bank. Renovations included cosmetic improvements to the front entrance, upgrades to the landscaping, including the addition of larger planter beds, the addition of a two lane drive-thru facility, and changes in the architectural details to make the building design contemporary and consistent with the character of the surrounding Framingham businesses and the nearby residential community. The Property is zoned Business (B) and Highway Overlay District (HC). 20 Vernon Street – The Advocates, Inc. filed with the Planning Board applications for Site Plan Approval and Public Way Access in connection with the Applicant's plan to rehabilitate and renovate the building and improve the landscaping, lighting, drainage and utilities on a parcel of land situated at 20 Vernon Street, which is zoned R-3 Single Family Residence. This historic structure is to be renovated for use as a residence that will contain nine separate living units to provide housing for a total of eight mentally ill individuals, with the ninth unit being reserved for use by a staff member of the Applicant. This project received protection from a full review under the Dover Amendment (G.L. 40A §3). 517 Winter Street – South Middlesex Non-Profit Housing Corporation filed with the Planning Board an application for Site Plan Approval and Public Way Access in connection with the Applicant’s plan to rehabilitate and renovate the building and site located at 517 Winter Street, which is zoned R-1 Single Family
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Residence. This project would establish the Sage House Family Treatment program in a former nursing home. This project is seeking protection from a full review under the Dover Amendment (G.L. 40A §3) and is pending a final vote by the Board. Interchange 12/Gates House – Boston Properties Limited Partnership filed with the Planning Board applications to Amend or Modify Site Plan Review Approval for Office Development in connection with the Applicant's plan to construct two office buildings having a combined floor area of 302,000 square feet and a 150 room hotel and relocation of an existing building on parcels of land owned by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority zoned Light Manufacturing (M-1) and located at Interchange 12 of the Massachusetts Turnpike. They also applied to renew and reissue Special Permits for Use, Reduction in the Required Number of Parking Space, Reduced Dimensioned Parking Spaces and Site Plan Approval. The Rugg-Gates House is the structure now in the process of being relocated. 74-80 New York Avenue – Genzyme Corporation on behalf of 74 New York Avenue Limited Partnership filed with the Planning Board an Application for Site Plan Approval and Public Way Access in connection with the Applicant's plan to modify the parking facility at 74-80 New York Avenue, Framingham. The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of the site is .40. The land has an area of 15.17 acres. The parcel is located within a Technology Park Zoning District. The improvements associated with these Applications included the relocation of the existing driveway farther to the east, the creation of an additional row of parking in the parking field to the east of the buildings and the construction of a new parking
area in the southeasterly corner of the Site which is to be accessed by the installation of a bridge over an existing wetland area. 1701 Worcester Road – Amerada Hess Corporation filed with the Planning Board an application for Site Plan Approval in connection with the Applicant's plan to reconstruct an existing gasoline dispensing station, including new gasoline pumps and canopy, a one-story, 1,200 square feet convenience store and landscaping, lighting, drainage and utilities on a parcel of land situated at 1701 Worcester Road, zoned Business (B) and Highway Overlay District (HC). Project related improvements are estimated to be valued at 1.5 million dollars. 730 Cochituate Road – Cumberland Farms, Inc., filed with the Planning Board applications for Site Plan Approval and Public Way Access in connection with the Applicant's plan to reconstruct an existing gasoline dispensing station, including new gasoline pumps and canopy, a one-story, 3,240 square foot convenience store and landscaping, lighting, drainage and utilities on a parcel of land, known and numbered as 730 Cochituate Road and located in both the General Manufacturing (M) and Regional Center (RC) Highway Overlay District. Project related improvements are estimated to be valued at $1.2 million dollars. 749 Worcester Road - Henley Enterprises, Inc. filed with the Planning Board applications for Special Permit for Reduction in the Required Number of Parking Spaces and Special Permit for Bonus Project for Site Plan Approval in connection with the Applicant's plan to demolish an existing gasoline/automotive repair station, and construct a Valvoline Instant Oil Change facility consisting of 3 bays and landscaping, lighting, drainage and utilities on a parcel(s) of land situated
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at 749 Worcester Road, zoned Business (B) and Highway Overlay District (HC). Project related improvements are estimated to be valued at $300,000.00 dollars. Maple Street – An application was filed by the Town of Framingham for Modification of a “Scenic Way” for Maple Street at Franklin Street. The Applicant proposes to remove some existing trees and modify the roadway. The public hearing was necessary because Maple Street is designated by the Town as a "Scenic Road" and the alteration of same requires prior public notice and review.
Paulini Loam Subdivision - Paulini Loam, LLC filed with the Planning Board an Application for Approval of Definitive Subdivision Plan and Public Way Access in connection with the Applicant’s proposal to subdivide property owned by them at 597 Old Connecticut Path into 3 lots, one of which is a drainage lot. The subject parcel consists of approximately 2.7 acres. At a Town Meeting on December 7, 2005, the Town approved amendments to the Zoning By-Law and Zoning Map reclassifying the zoning of the subject parcel (and the two abutting parcels at 601 and 615 Old Connecticut Path) from General Manufacturing (M) to Office and Professional (P). However, the Applicant filed a preliminary subdivision plan in November, 2005, before the effective date of the zoning change. They also filed their application for approval of a definitive plan within seven months thereof. Accordingly, pursuant to the zoning freeze provisions of MGL c. 40A, Section 6, the land shown on the plan is governed by the applicable provisions of the Zoning By-Law in effect on the date the preliminary plan was filed, (General Manufacturing), “while [the definitive] plan or plans are being processed under the subdivision control
law and, if such definitive plan or an amendment thereof is finally approved, for eight years from the date of endorsement of such approval.” Swift Road – Christopher Torti, Trustee of A, N & M Realty Trust filed with the Planning Board an Application for a Special Permit for Erosion Control and Public Way Access in connection with the Applicant’s plan to construct a single family residential home and driveway at Lots 29 and 86 Swift Road, zoned Single Family Residence District (R-1). The Applicant removed the pool and constructed two retaining walls and will re-vegetate the sites prior to house construction to eliminate the potential for more erosion. Zoning Zoning remained a priority of the Planning Board during 2006, with zoning discussions making an appearance on the Board’s agenda 20 times, seven of which were working sessions on evenings separate from regularly scheduled Thursday night meetings. Manufacturing Amendment – The Planning Board held a public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment for consideration as a warrant article for the 2006 Annual Town Meeting. Said proposal was to amend the Zoning By-Law Section III, Subsection F Light Manufacturing Districts to reformat and insert a new III.F.2.a. “Uses set forth in subsection 1. herein, with 8,000 or greater than 8,000 square feet of gross floor area.” thereby reclassifying the existing III.F.2.a as the new III.F.2.b. This amendment received support and was approved by Town Meeting and the Attorney General. The addition creates uniformity in the Zoning By-Law for reviewing this scale of project and does not take away a review currently afforded
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to any other board; rather, the process provides oversight and limitations on projects currently unregulated by special permit for use. Review as a Special Permit allows for the Planning Board to verify that the use meets the conditions of Section V.E.3.a. of the Zoning By-Law ensuring that the site is appropriate for the proposed use, that adequate parking and buffering are provided and that municipal services will not be overburdened. Further, additional analysis on traffic and neighborhood impact can be requested and conditions imposed under the special permit so that there will not be any adverse impacts from the use. Low Impact Development – Discussion continued on the Low Impact Development By-Law from calendar year 2005. A subcommittee continued revising the model by-law to fit the needs of Framingham and a public hearing was scheduled to include the By-Law on the 2006 Annual Town Meeting warrant, however the article was pulled by request of the Planning Board. The technical regulations that accompany this By-Law at the time of publication were in conflict with regulations currently held by other Town departments. DPW began the process of updating and revising their regulations, resulting in the decision to hold on this LID By-Law so that the two sets of regulations can be developed to be consistent with one another. Land Disturbance – The Planning Board held a public hearing to consider an amendment to the Zoning By-Law intended for consideration as a warrant article for the 2007 Annual Town Meeting. Said proposal was to delete existing Sections IV.H.2. Earth Removal, IV.H.3. Erosion Control and IV.H.4. Land Clearing, and insert a new IV.H.2. Land Disturbance. The purpose of the
amendment is to combine and father modify these three existing by-laws into one to protect natural resources including but not limited to land, water, wetlands, trees and vegetation, wildlife, and scenic vistas and historic resources by preventing or minimizing the negative impacts of erosion, sedimentation, land clearing, earth removal and fill and stormwater runoff. Significant feedback was received during the hearing from Town departments and Committees and as a result the Board closed the hearing. The By-Law will be re-advertised in a revised format and is still intended for consideration at the 2007 Annual Town Meeting. Other Zoning – The Planning Board developed a list of zoning projects for the future. These upcoming zoning projects for 2007 may include allocation of mitigation funds, expiration of Special Permits, designating an Affordable Housing Trust, Historic Reuse, continued rezoning on Old Connecticut Path/Speen Street, Municipal Services definition, Lighting Standards in Parking Regulations, Residential On-Site Parking Regulations, Cultural Overlay District, Rail Trail Rezoning, Illusory Frontage, Farm Pond/Recreational Zoning and Average Grade definition. Special Projects Master Plan - During 2006, the Planning Board issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for consultants to develop a Scope of Services for the upcoming Master Plan update (last done in 1988). Rick Taintor of Taintor & Associates was selected and worked with input from town staff, Boards, Committees and Commissions to create a Scope of Services and budget that was accepted by the Planning Board and Board of Selectmen. From the original budget of $80,000 allotted by Town Meeting for the Master Plan, an amount
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of $12,000 was given to complete the Housing Plan and $5,000 was allocated to the development of the Scope of Services. An amount of $63,000 remains to begin Phase 1 of Taintor & Associates’ Master Plan process. This initial phase focuses on gathering widespread public participation on future goals and objectives and will begin in early 2007. Administration The Planning Board has continued to work with the Town Treasurer’s Office to require prospective developers to obtain certification from the Town’s Treasurer/Tax Collector that no local taxes, fees, assessments or other municipal charges are outstanding prior to submission of an application. As a result of this process, many applicants have been obligated to bring unsettled accounts up to date before the Board would consider their development proposals. Since first employed in May of 1993, this noteworthy process has been a source of substantial uncollected taxes for the Town. By the end of calendar year 2006, $1,899,460.34 had been collected to date. The Planning Board continued improving the webpage this year to increase availability of information to the public. The Zoning By-Law was updated in both its paper copy as well as online and now contains amendments through December Special Town Meeting 2005. Weekly agendas and approved minutes can now be accessed directly from the Planning Board website. The “Projects” page has changed substantially, with a list of development projects included. Submissions for review for the Danforth Green PUD were also provided to the Planning Board on CD and then these maps, plans, documents and images were transferred to a this page on the website. Visitors can access updated presentations and project information from their own
homes. A special “Master Plan” page is currently under construction. The Board intends for this to be an important component of the Master Plan update with citizens having the ability to keep updated on the status of the Plan, find out where and when public participation sessions will occur and hopefully be able to provide comments or questions from this page. In calendar year 2006, the Planning Board reviewed 68 different development applications. In the course of the year, the Board collected a total of $43,111.86 in associated project review fees as well as the sale of Zoning By-Laws, Zoning Maps, Subdivision Rules and Regulations, and minor miscellaneous revenues. In addition to these contributions to the General Fund, the Planning Board obtains significant Town-wide amenities through the process of negotiated mitigation. In the course of its review the Planning Board requires applicants to provide improvements such as roadway widening and reconstruction, signalization, enhancements for public transportation and landscaping to offset adverse project impacts. Upcoming Projects Calendar year 2007 promises to be another challenging year for the Planning Board, with a major focus on proposals for commercial and residential development in the Town. The single largest project that is anticipated for the Board’s agenda is the ongoing review of the Danforth Green PUD. Projects seeking protection, or an “abbreviated” review process, by means of the Dover Amendment have received increased scrutiny by staff as well as residents. Establishing a procedure for appropriate review and documentation will be an
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endeavor by several key Town departments. The Planning Board will also continue to implement changes in the Zoning By-Law and to the Zoning Map to achieve the Policies of the Comprehensive Plan. The Board will focus on zoning map amendments to provide additional housing opportunities and to protect
residential neighborhoods. The Board also intends to update the Framingham Master Plan to be presented to the Town in the latter half of 2007. Respectfully submitted, Ann V. Welles Chair
METROWEST GROWTH MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
MetroWest Growth Management Committee (MWGMC) was formed in 1985 and includes leaders from Ashland, Framingham, Holliston, Marlborough, Natick, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, Weston and Wellesley. MWGMC helps local elected officials and planning staff meet growth management challenges by facilitating inter-local collaborative planning and problem solving to enhance the quality of life and economic competitiveness of the MetroWest region. In addition, MWGMC is the oldest of the eight subregions of the regional planning agency, Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC). One selectman/mayor or city council member and one planning board member represent each member community. MWGMC is funded by member assessments, grants and contracts. MWGMC maintains an office in Natick and employs a staff of two to deliver core services to member communities. Framingham’s representatives to the Committee are Selectman John Stasik and Planning Board Member Carol Spack. Technical Assistance – In FY06, the Technical Assistance to our member communities expanded.
Low Impact Development - MWGMC developed Low Impact Development, Stormwater & Erosion Control, Earth Removal and Illicit Discharge Bylaws. In April, the Town of Southborough Annual Town Meeting voted to adopt the Lower Impact Development, Stormwater & Erosion Control, Earth Removal and Illicit Discharge Bylaws drafted by MWGMC staff. The Attorney General approved all of the bylaws that were adopted by the Southborough Town Meeting. Additionally, MWGMC prepared LID Rules and Regulations for the town, which were adopted by the Southborough Planning Board. MWGMC continues its work with the Conservation Commission to finalize the draft regulations for the Stormwater and Erosion Control Bylaw. A draft Low Impact Development bylaw has been prepared for the Framingham Planning Board. The bylaws and regulations are available on our website (www.metrowestgrowth.org). Housing – MWGMC assisted the Towns of Wayland, Holliston and Framingham by drafting Affordable Housing Rules and Regulations. MWGMC also assisted several member communities in the formation of Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Funds. In 2006, the
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Natick Housing Plan and Planned Production Strategy, which were drafted by MWGMC, were approved by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. MWGMC is currently developing a Housing Plan for the Town of Ashland. Regional Pre-Disaster Mitigation - MAPC and MetroWest staff are working with communities to identify areas within each community that are at risk of damage from natural hazards, evaluate existing protection measures, and develop a multiple-hazard mitigations strategy to reduce future damages. MWGMC is providing an in-kind match rather than asking each community to provide the $3,000 local match. Completion of the grant work and development of a regional disaster mitigation plan approved by FEMA will make each community eligible to receive federal disaster mitigation monies. We are working with Framingham to determine if there are any changes they would like to make to their all-hazards mitigation plan, and to incorporate it into the regional plan. Legislative Breakfasts - Our ties with the MetroWest legislative delegation are strong. The semi-annual Legislative Breakfasts held in April and November are always well attended by legislators and municipal staff and leaders. Planners Roundtable – Our monthly Planners’ Roundtables for local planners and planning board members provide staff and officials with technical information and training on planning and growth issues. It also provides planners with the opportunity to share expertise, experience, and questions with their colleagues. In FY06, MWGMC held its first meeting of a MW Housing Task Force, and has arranged for a series of discussions about how to derive the most
benefit from the scarce dollars available for affordable housing. MWGMC is working closely with CHAPA and its legislative delegation on several pieces of legislation for housing. Regional Impact Review (RIR) - One of the core services MetroWest Growth Management provides to its members is the Regional Impact Review (RIR). Regional Impact Reviews provide local leaders an opportunity to comment on the impacts of proposed commercial, industrial, and residential development projects, and provides administrative services to citizen advisory boards. This allows for regional development impacts to be considered early in the development project. Regional Impact Reviews were conducted for the proposed EMC expansion in Southborough and Westborough, the Wayland Town Center project, and Beacon@495 in Marlborough. NYANZA - In late summer, the MWGMC voted to establish a Nyanza Task Force to develop strategies to further study and mitigate the plume that has affected the Sudbury River in the past and may continue to adversely impact this valuable environmental resource in the future. MWGMC is hoping to obtain a grant to study whether the plume should be addressed as a public health hazard that may impact the Sudbury River and the many MetroWest communities along the river. The MetroWest Transportation Taskforce focuses on analyzing and advocating for MWGMC communities on transportation matters. Chaired by Framingham Selectman John Stasik, the Transportation Task Force advocates for improved transportation services to the region, and strategies to influence transportation planning and decision-making by the
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Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization. The task force held the second annual transportation event, “Gridlock or Green Light?” in 2006. The goal of this effort is to elevate the transportation discussion (adequacy of transportation infrastructure and adequate funding of transportation) to a higher level and connect it to the Smart Growth/Sustainable Development movement. RTA Efforts
Over the summer, the “495/MetroWest Alliance for Transit Services” was created to discuss new opportunities that are available to MetroWest communities as a result of recent statutory reforms allowing suburban communities served by the MBTA to join an existing or new Regional Transit Authority. Alliance members include: 495/MetroWest Corridor Partnership, MetroWest Growth Management Committee, Marlborough
Regional Chamber of Commerce, MetroWest Chamber of Commerce, MetroWest/495 Transportation Management Association, and TransAction Associates. The Alliance is conducting an outreach campaign to communities to discuss the need for each municipality to prioritize its transportation needs and inform local leaders about the RTA choices available. MWGMC is offering technical assistance to the 37 communities covered by the alliance in determining their transportation needs. The Framingham Board of Selectmen voted to establish a new regional transit authority (RTA) on December 19th. The new RTA is the 15th regional transportation authority in Massachusetts and paves the way for local control of the LIFT bus system and other public transit options in the area.
METROPOLITAN AREA PLANNING COUNCIL
Created in 1963, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) promotes inter-local cooperation and advocates for smart growth by working closely with cities and towns, state and federal agencies, non-profit institutions, and community-based organizations in the 101 cities and towns of Metropolitan Boston. MAPC strives to provide leadership on emerging issues of regional significance by conducting research, building coalitions, and acting as a regional forum for action. MAPC provides technical assistance and specialized services in land use planning, water resources management, transportation, housing, environmental protection, economic development, public safety, geographic information systems
(GIS), collective purchasing, data analysis and research, legislative and regulatory policy, and the facilitation and support of inter-local partnerships. More information about MAPC’s services and ongoing activities is available at www.mapc.org. MAPC is governed by 101 municipal government appointees, 21 gubernatorial appointees, and 13 appointees of state and City of Boston agencies. An Executive Committee comprising 25 elected members oversees agency operations. The agency employs approximately 40 professional staff under the leadership of an executive director. Funding for MAPC activities is derived from governmental contracts and foundation grants, and a
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per-capita assessment on member municipalities. To better serve the people who live and work in Metro Boston, MAPC has divided the region into eight subregions. Each subregion is overseen by a council of local leaders and stakeholders, and a staff coordinator provides organizational and technical staff support. Smart Growth Across Municipal Boundaries MAPC’s MetroFuture: Making a Greater Boston Region initiative is planning for Metro Boston’s growth and development through 2030. In 2006, the project involved nearly 2000 people. At more than 50 briefings, participants analyzed “Scenario 1: Current Trends to 2030,” MetroFuture’s “base case” of what the region might look like if current trends continue. We also hosted two working sessions in June 2006, where participants designed alternatives to the “base case,” and two in December 2006, where participants chose the scenario they liked the best. In 2007, after additional public input and a May 1, 2007 Boston College Citizens Seminar, the project will complete a regional strategy to achieve the preferred scenario. MAPC assisted cities and towns in a variety of ways throughout 2006. The agency helped over 70 cities and town to rewrite zoning by-laws, evaluate smart growth uses for key parcels, keep traffic under control and expand transit, deal with crime, and prepare for natural disasters. As a member of the Massachusetts Smart Growth Alliance, MAPC worked with six allied organizations to advocate for sustainable development throughout the Commonwealth. MAPC participated
in a successful Alliance campaign to recapitalize and reform the state’s Brownfields Tax Credit; researched, analyzed, and reacted to significant state land use and transportation policy proposals, including Governor Romney’s 20-year transportation plan; and advanced research about the impact of sprawling development in Massachusetts. In partnership with the 495/MetroWest Corridor Partnership, MAPC produced the Massachusetts Low Impact Development Tool Kit, which presents state-of-the-art practices for managing stormwater and increasing the recharge of water to aquifers. MAPC also produced Once is Not Enough: A Guide to Water Reuse in Massachusetts, a manual that describes techniques for non-potable reuse of treated wastewater and provides case studies of several successful water reuse projects in Massachusetts. In partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, MAPC began work on a hydrologic modeling project that simulates the impacts of future development on the water resources of the Charles River and Assabet River watersheds. Getting Around the Region In March 2006, MAPC sponsored a conference on the impact of transportation emissions on public health. The workshop began a process to build connections, raise awareness, and stimulate action around the issue of air pollution adjacent to major roadways and rail corridors. The content and results of this workshop are available at www.mapc.org/air_quality. MAPC developed a Regional Bicycle Plan in 2006 to assess current conditions and to guide future improvements to bicycle transportation in the region. The
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plan reviews goals set in previous plans, and proposes six general goals and strategies for the region, including encouraging more trips by bicycle in each community, working with state and federal agencies to simplify and coordinate funding programs, and increasing regional knowledge about bicycling. The plan can be accessed at www.mapc.org/transportation/transportation_alternatives.html. A consistent complain of bicyclists is the lack of parking. To address this need, MAPC worked with the MPO and EOT to develop the Regional Bike Parking Program. Under this program, MAPC negotiated discount group purchasing contracts with three leading vendors of bicycle parking equipment, funded through federal transportation funds. More information about MAPC’s bicycle and pedestrian planning activities, and the bike parking program, is available at www.mapc.org/transportation/transportation_alternatives.html.
Collaboration to Address Shared Municipal Challenges MAPC, through its Metro Mayors Coalition, played a leading role in developing legislation to create a statewide anti-gang initiative known as the Senator Charles E. Shannon Jr. Community Safety Initiative, which supports regional and multi-disciplinary gang and youth violence prevention and law enforcement efforts. MAPC coordinated Shannon grants totaling $1.2 million for 10 Metro Boston communities and 7 Essex County communities. These communities used the funds to enhance public safety through targeted workforce development, after-school mentoring, re-entry initiatives, gang-prevention education, and collaborative community policing.
MAPC facilitated the work of the Municipal Health Insurance Working Group, which drafted and proposed landmark legislation to let cities and towns purchase their health insurance through the Group Insurance Commission. Collaboration for Safety MAPC carries out and project management duties for the Northeast Homeland Security Regional Advisory Council (NERAC), a network of 85 cities and towns north and west of Boston. In 2006, NERAC distributed more than $1.5 million in emergency equipment and supplies to member communities, and trained hundreds of first responders in various roles in the United States Department of Homeland Security incident command system. In 2006, MAPC advanced Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) plans for cities and towns throughout the region. These plans are designed to help communities reduce their vulnerability to damages due to natural hazards. The plans include an inventory of critical facilities and infrastructure in each community, a vulnerability analysis, and a mitigation strategy with specific recommended actions and projects that will protect the communities from future damages. Collaboration for Savings MAPC’s Consortiums Project administered 37 procurement contracts for 42 municipal clients in 2006, saving cities and towns up to 20% on the purchases. As the administrator of the more than 300-member Greater Boston Police Council (GBPC), MAPC concluded 7 procurement contracts for public safety, public works and general use vehicles. In all, 142 municipalities purchased 180 vehicles. MAPC staff also
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collaborated on procurements that advanced MAPC’s environmental and transportation objectives, helping communities to buy bicycle racks, hybrid vehicles, and water leak detection services at a favorable cost. Charting a Course to Regionwide Prosperity MAPC developed its annual Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), an assessment of current regional economic trends and conditions. The report includes background about trends and conditions in the regional economy, including a discussion about the relationship between the economy and factors such as geography, population, labor force, resources, and the environment. MAPC’s 2006 CEDS report can be downloaded at www.mapc.org/economic_development/comprehensive_economic.html. Tools to Improve Planning and Decision-Making MAPC’s Metro Data Center partnered with The Boston Foundation to develop the MetroBoston DataCommon, a new online data and mapping tool for residents and leaders in the region. The resource, which helps individuals to create customized maps and charts, is available at www.MetroBostonDataCommon.org. The Data Center partnered with MAPC’s Legislative Committee to advocate for the establishment of a statewide population estimates program at the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute. The program, funded at $100,000 in the FY2007 budget, lays the foundation for the Commonwealth to analyze Census estimates in a more robust way. MAPC's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Lab provides professional services and products and technical
assistance in support of local and regional planning projects. In 2006, MAPC’s GIS team completed extensive projects for the Northeast Homeland Security Regional Advisory Council (NERAC) region, and maps associated with the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program, both of which are described above. The GIS Lab also made major contributions to the MetroBoston DataCommon and the MetroFuture planning project. The Lab also began mapping areas suitable for economic development throughout the region, in accordance with smart growth principles. In 2006, MAPC transitioned from a paper to an electronic newsletter, the Regional Record¸ which is distributed quarterly, and provides updates on the latest regional projects and thinking, and provides opportunities for residents and communities to get involved in various events. People interested in receiving the e-newsletter can send their e-mail addresses to [email protected]. On Beacon Hill: 2005 – 2006 Legislative Session • Brownfields Redevelopment:
The Legislature recapitalized the Brownfields Redevelopment Fund with $30 million, and extended and enhanced the Brownfields Tax Credit so that non-profit development projects can raise equity by selling the credit to taxable entities.
• Expedited Permitting: The Legislature passed a law to expedite permitting of commercial/industrial developments in “priority development sites” designated by cities and towns. In part as a result of MAPC’s advocacy, the new law includes funding for technical assistance to municipalities,
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development of a statewide expedited permitting model, and criteria to steer priority development sites toward smart growth locations.
• GIS Data Layer: MAPC successfully advocated for $400,000 in the FY2007 budget to update and improve the quality of Mass GIS data linking aerial photographs to land uses on the ground.
• Statewide Population Estimates Program: MAPC led the advocacy effort to establish a statewide population estimates program at the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute. The program was funded at $100,000 in the FY2007 budget.
• Shannon Community Safety Initiative: The Legislature created a new $11 million grant program to encourage the creation of regional, multi-disciplinary initiatives to combat gang violence, youth violence, and substance abuse.
• Sewer Rate Relief: The Legislature included $25 million in the FY2007 budget for water and sewer rate relief, which will help lower costs for residential consumers and businesses served by sewer districts, including the MWRA.
• Surplus Land: Both the House and Senate passed legislation to reform the state’s surplus land disposition policy. Both bills included an assignable municipal right of first refusal to purchase the parcel at a discount; a professional smart growth review for larger parcels; a Surplus Land Coordinating Council to oversee disposition; and a municipal share of 10%-25% of proceeds in instances where the municipal right of first refusal is not exercised. Unfortunately, the Conference Committee did not advance the bill to final passage, but significant progress was made setting the foundation for the 2007-08 legislative session.
MAPC Annual Report prepared and submitted by Marc D. Draisen, Executive Director, Metropolitan Area Planning Council.
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PUBLIC WORKS
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
ENGINEERING AND TRANSPORTATION DIVISION
The Engineering and Transportation Program is responsible for providing technical expertise to the operational divisions of the Public Works Department, to other Town Departments, and to various Boards and Commissions relative to capital planning, roadway and utility infrastructure study, design and construction, and environmental planning. The Division also manages the on-going development of an extensive Geographical Information System (GIS) and a large collection of irreplaceable paper plans and documents. The Division is organized into four major program areas: Traffic & Transportation, Stormwater & Environmental, Water & Wastewater, and GIS & Asset Management. Through aggressive recruiting efforts, the Division was able to fill several critical vacancies in 2006. These included the appointment of a permanent Director of Engineering -Town Engineer, the acquisition of a Stormwater & Environmental Engineer, and late in the year, a Transportation Engineer. The ability to attract and retain highly qualified individuals to these positions is essential as the Town embarks on a major infrastructure improvement program. In 2006, the Division also filled the positions of a GIS Specialist who will check and maintain large quantities of water, sewer and drainage GIS information; and a Street Opening Permit Coordinator who will implement the Town’s new street opening permit program.
In 2006, the Division relocated from the Memorial Building to the DPW facility on Western Avenue. This major undertaking involved moving thousands of fragile paper plans and records. A major goal of 2007 will be to begin the process of transferring these irreplaceable documents to an electronic media for long term storage and improved accessibility. Moving the Division to Western Avenue was intended to bring improved coordination and efficiency between Engineering and the Water, Sewer, Highway and Sanitation Operational Divisions. The effects of the move were felt almost immediately. All facets of Department’s work – capital project planning and execution, routine maintenance, subdivision and commercial development oversight – have been greatly enhanced by have the engineering and operational resources housed in the same location.
Traffic & Transportation Projects in 2006
Franklin Street: This project runs along Franklin Street from Main Street to Howard Street and includes geometric improvements, roadway widening, pavement reconstruction, traffic signal reconstruction and installation, sidewalk construction/reconstruction, drainage improvements, new pavement markings and signage, and streetscape improvements (brick paver accent strips and crosswalks, and street trees). The design of this $6,000,000 project was completed and advertised in 2006. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2007.
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Edgell Road/Main Street: This project, located at the intersections of Edgell Road at Pleasant Street and Main Street at High Street, includes roadway widening, traffic signal reconstruction, sidewalk reconstruction, pavement markings and signage, drainage improvements and streetlights. Bids for this $900,000 project were opened in December 2006. Contract award and the start of construction are expected in early 2007. Concord Street (Route 126)/ Waverley Street (Route 135) The Department has been working on two fronts to address the problems at this intersection. In addition to working with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MTBA) to address documented problems with the work they performed at the Concord Street/Waverley Street and Concord Street/Howard Street intersections, the Department has hired a consultant to identify short and intermediate term improvements to the traffic signals and intersection geometry at Concord and Waverley. Implementation of the short term improvements is scheduled for early 2007. The Division also coordinated with the Massachusetts Highway Department (MHD) on bridge improvements projects over the Sudbury River at Main Street and at Worcester Road (Route 9). Both projects were in construction at the end of 2006. The Main Street Bridge is expected to be completed in 2008 and the Worcester Road Bridge in 2009. Other projects completed in 2006 included assisting the Highway Division with curbing, sidewalk, and crosswalk improvements and the repaving of Dudley Road; geometric and utility improvements at the Hardy Street/Concord Street intersection; and the repaving of Swift Road. A structural evaluation of the
Salem End Road Bridge was also completed. Administrative and technical support was also provided to the Traffic and Roadway Safety Committee (TRSC) in its review of traffic issues. These concerns or requests can range from adding or removing signage, signage placement, pavement markings, sight distance concerns, excess speed, traffic calming measures, street light additions, and adding crosswalks and pedestrian curb ramps. Stormwater and Environmental projects in 2006 NPDES Phase II. One component of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Program is to regulate the stormwater discharges from small and medium size municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s) such as Framingham’s. This five year permit requires actions relative to public education and outreach, illicit discharge control, construction and post-construction stormwater management and good house keeping procedures. Activities completed in 2006 included the following. • Public education and outreach was
made in the form of mini-summits for targeted groups of town residents including the Lions Club, the Rotary Club, the Ministers’ Interfaith Alliance, and the League of Women Voters, as well as individual meetings with residents who have drainage problems.
• Draft bylaws and regulations were developed for managing illicit discharges and illicit connections.
• The scope, schedule, and budget for the stormwater planning study for Beaver Dam Brook and Farm Pond were developed, submitted to DEP for approval, and approved for DEP for implementation in 2007.
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Learned Pond. In 2006, the Parks and Recreation Department asked the Division to manage a project to improve water quality at Learned Pond. The goals of the project are to decrease the number of times the beach is closed and to improve water quality in the roadway drainage system that outfalls at the end of Shawmut Terrace. The Division used in-house staff to prepare the design plans and specifications. The specifications include the following. • Water quality structures will be
installed at the end of Shawmut Terrace to remove sediment, petroleum hydrocarbons (gasoline and oils), and bacteria such as fecal coliform.
• The drainage ditch at the end of Shawmut Terrace will be replaced by an extension of the existing pipe to a new headwall, located within 30 feet of the pond. The area will be filled and seeded with grass.
Other stormwater projects completed in 2006 included designing replacement pipe for the damaged culvert under Edmands Road at Hop Brook and installing additional drainage at the lower end of Dudley Road. The Division worked closely with the Conservation Commission and other DPW divisions on a number of projects including: • Recycle Center improvements; • Restoration of Course Brook as part
of a mosquito control project; • Soil removal at the Henry Street Salt
Shed; • Beaver dam problems at Edgebrook
Road and Florita Drive; • Water quality at the Crossing
Boulevard Landfill discharge point; and
• Town-wide catch basin and outfall maintenance using the Supplemental Stormwater Services Summary Report (report delivered to the town in November 2006).
A number of older DPW projects were also formally closed out in 2006, including Conservation Commission and Department of Environmental Protection filings. Water & Wastewater projects in 2006 Birch Road Well Re-Activation: Work progressed on the multiple year program of re-activating the Birch Road well field. Once on-line, this well field will supply a significant portion of the Town’s daily water demand and result in a considerable cost savings to the Town. Significant progress was made in 2006 as summarized below. The DPW underwent the permitting process and received DEP approval to conduct the prolonged pump test to access the capacity of the aquifer. The long-term pumping test was conducted. Water was extracted from the four pumping wells at a combined rate of over 1,500 gpm for over 14 days. The test was successful and the aquifer reached “stability” at the completion of the test. The DPW also permitted and received DEP approval to pilot test three treatment technologies. These technologies were selected based on their ability to treat secondary contaminants including iron and manganese. After the completion of the prolonged pumping test, water was pumped from the well which exhibited the “worst” water quality and diverted to the three pilot units for testing. The results of the pilot testing indicate favorable results and the water can be successfully treated.
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The data collected during the long-term pumping test is being integrated into a numerical model which will be used to predict the groundwater flow regime under pumping conditions. The model will also be used for the MEPA permitting and final permitted flow of the full-scale treatment facility. The data collected during the pilot testing will be used to initially generate a conceptual design and ultimately the full-scale design of the treatment facility. Edmands Road: The water lining project was completed in 2006. This project included the cleaning and lining of over 8,000 feet of water main. In addition, multiple hydrants, valves and service connections were replaced as well. Grove/Lavelle Sewer: Using an in-house design, approximately 200 feet of new sewer line was installed through the intersection of Grove Street and Lavelle Road. This project included considerable rock excavation to eliminate public sewer flow that ran through residential properties and under structures. Sewer SRF Projects: The DPW completed the designs and funding applications for three appropriated sewer projects: Water Street, Gregory Road, and Fenwick Pump Station. The Water Street and Gregory Road projects were combined into a single design/application process. All the designs were completed within a tight time frame and the application was submitted within the deadline. The DEP approved the applications with minimal comments, none of which affect the design. The DEP approval is the critical step in attaining approximately $10M in state funding. Updating the Town’s construction standards has been a major undertaking.
Updates to the water standards have completed internal DPW review and the sewer updates should be reviewed in early 2007. Also in 2006, the Town was compelled to pursue legal action against the Natick Mall developer to protect Framingham sewer easements and associated sewer mains located within the Town of Natick. A court order protecting Framingham rights relative to these critical mains was obtained through the combined efforts of the DPW and the Town Counsel’s Office. GIS & Asset Management in 2006: The Geographical Information System (GIS) is a critical component of infrastructure management. The Town’s system includes numerous data layers such as parcels, roadways, the water, sewer and drainage infrastructure, utility easements, water resources, floodplains, topography, and several other natural features and Town owned assets. Maintaining this extensive collection of data is the major focus of the GIS Manager. In 2006, the Town procured a flyover to obtain digital orthophotography of the entire Town. These aerial photographs will have a much greater resolution than previous available imagery and will allow for improved research, planning and mapping by all Town Departments. Data capture began on two new layers for the Fire Department, street pull boxes and master alarm boxes. When completed, these layers will enhance the Fire Departments ability to pinpoint and respond to emergency call locations. Numerous mapping projects were completed for the Public Works and other Town Departments. Some examples include mapping and research for the Downtown Railroad Crossing Task Force, population and automobile density maps (Building Department), detour maps for
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proposed CSX maintenance work (Police Department) and plot maps for the water main flushing pilot program (Water Department). Other projects included preparing maps to support the Traffic and Roadway Safety Committee (TRSC), assisting the Historical Society in research of early Town boundaries, providing support to the Police Department in traffic accident mapping, and preparing and providing address range GIS data to the Fire Department’s contractor for 911 support. The GIS Manager also assisted the District Attorney on numerous criminal cases, and provided GIS training to various departments. Formal acceptance of GIS water, sewer, and drainage layers from our consultants is expected in 2007. The services of our GIS Specialist will be critical as the Town finishes the quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) checks of this data and then assumes the maintenance responsibilities for future updates. General Engineering Services in 2006 Plan Review: The Division, in collaboration with staff from the Water, Sewer and Highway Divisions, devotes significant resources to reviewing plans for compliance with subdivision control requirements and Approved Not Required (ANR) provisions; State and Federal regulations relative to environmental protection, traffic signalization and signage, and accessibility for those with disabilities; and Department and industry construction standards. In 2006, the Division reviewed over 200 separate submittals. These ranged from single family homes to commercial development/redevelopment projects and subdivisions. Examples of specific projects included the Walgreens on Waverly Street, Middlesex Savings Bank and Metropolitan Credit Union on Route 9, Lowes on Cochituate Road, new
Genzyme buildings on New York Ave, Framingham Community Health Center on Waverley Street, Fox Creek Lane subdivision off Meadow Street, a commercial subdivision of Old Connecticut Path and the Planning Unit Development (PUD) in Saxonville. The Department was also involved in the review of off-site traffic and utility mitigation projects associated with some of these projects. Street Opening Permits: In late 2006, administration of the Town’s Street Opening Permit (SOP) program was transferred to this Division. The Division is finalizing a new SOP policy and is expected to bring this before the Board of Selectmen for approval in early 2007. Better control of roadway excavations by utility companies and private contractors is needed to maximize the life expectancy of our roadway infrastructure. In 2006, the Town processed 348 street opening and obstruction permits. This represents a 67% increase over 2005. Survey: Numerous property line determinations are performed each year for the Public Works Department and other departments such as Park & Recreation, and the Conservation Commission. These are done to determine whether land, trees, fences, walls, and other features are located on town or private property. The Division also conducts surveys and prepares easement plans and property descriptions as may be needed to support town projects or Town Meeting zoning changes.
HIGHWAY AND SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS
Highway Management Program
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The Highway Management Program of the Department of Public Works is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the Town’s roadway and sidewalk infrastructure including; pavement markings, granite and bituminous curbing, street and regulatory signage, storm water utilities, traffic islands, and street trees. The Division’s reorganization which was completed during FY2004, created operational sub-divisions to create programmatic maintenance management of specific elements of the Public infrastructure.
Storm Water Management
The Storm Water Management System consists of more than 200 miles of surface and subsurface drainage systems, 12,200 catchbasin and manhole structures, and more than 600 drainage outfalls. In order to maintain compliance with the EPA Storm Water Phase II Permit, the Highway Division made a vigorous yearlong effort to clean and inspect the stormwater structures, and with aid of contract services, removed silt, sand, and debris from approximately 8,600 catchbasins. The storm drain cleaning program has continued to produce a significant repair list as the inspection process proceeds. In order to minimize the intrusion of sand from entering the system, the Division has implemented strict control practices for the use of deicing materials during the winter months. In addition to that practice, a comprehensive street cleaning program has been instituted to remove as much winter sand from the streets as rapidly as possible at the close of each winter season. The Division also implemented the routine overnight sweeping of the streets
and sidewalks of the commercial areas to minimize the entry of materials into the drainage system and to provide a cleaner environment in the downtown area. The surface drainage system continues to be plagued by Beaver Dams that are costly and time consuming to remove. The damming of these local waterways causes a significant rise in the water table and is frequently the source flooding to abutting homes and roadways. The waterways, having had little or no maintenance over the past several years have become overgrown and in some cases significantly encumbered by silt. The Division was able to work with the Conservation Agent and the Conservation Commissioners to establish a standard order of conditions that provide minimum maintenance guidelines for which a duration permit was subsequently issued. The permit allows for routine maintenance by the Department of waterways, culverts, catchbasin and manhole structures and headwalls maintained by divisional personnel within guidelines of best management practices. For decades the Town had allowed the construction of a large and ill planned stormwater infrastructure that produced more than 600 stormwater outfalls. The condition of the Town’s surface and sub-surface drainage system is in over-all poor condition due to decades of neglect coupled with the construction of large scale developments that continually added run off to the system. The Division has permanently assigned a portion of its resources to provide essential maintenance to the system and to respond to hazards as they develop. The Division also successfully completed the annual inspection by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers which oversee the Town’s operation of the Saxonville Flood Control Station. The Department is required to maintain this facility with its
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large gates and hydraulic pump systems and routinely performs maintenance to the equipment located therein.
Pavement Management The Highway Division continued to provide pavement restorations services to the Water and Sewer Division throughout the year, repairing the more than 400 street excavations caused as a consequence of their utility work. In addition, the Division continued its own extensive program of pavement repair that, despite the high level of effort, maintains an extensive backlog of outstanding repair work The Division worked throughout the construction season to repair the large volume of damage caused by the severity of the weather experienced during the last two winter seasons. This was in addition to the already existing substantial challenge of the outstanding pavement management work. The backlog of pavement maintenance has grown each fiscal year as the local funding level for the past decade has met only 20 percent of the annual Capital funding necessary to maintain the roadway infrastructure reconstruction at a reasonably sustainable level. During 2006, the Division completed pavement restoration or surface treatment work on approximately 25 miles of Framingham roadway. The work included significant drainage inspection and repair work which was primarily performed by the Department using its own staff and specialized equipment. The 2006 Construction projects included elements which had not historically been included within the roadway maintenance and construction program. During construction this year, other roadway elements and appurtenances were replaced and upgraded so that both regulatory
guidelines, and directives, were adhered to, and visual enhancements could be made. New pavement markings, street signs, sidewalks, granite and bituminous curbing, wheelchair ramps and curb-cut control measures were addressed during the construction. The Division also provided construction assistance to the School Department in order to assist them in the construction of a playground at the Hemenway School that was partially funded through donations and grants.
Winter Storm Management
The Highway Division is responsible for the provision of a safe automotive and pedestrian environment both during and after winter storm events. This effort involves the plowing and treating of 550 lane miles of Public roadway, 22 municipal parking facilities, and 115 miles of sidewalks and public pathways. The Division has integrated the Town’s Geographical Information System (GIS) with an Incident Command Structure to manage the progression of each event. The purpose of this strategic effort is to provide a high level of accountability while applying the minimum amount of resources to each storm event. The addition of a refurbished 1998 68,000 GVW Snowfighter with 11 cubic yard sander from a former refuse packer chassis, together with the completion of automated spreader control installations, had provided the Department with a greatly extended range and capability, especially on the north side of Town, where we are very distant from our supply of sand and salt. It is reasonably estimated that the addition of these automated spreader controls conserved as much as half of the typical level of material
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distribution that had historically been dispensed. The 2005-2006 winter season was extremely mild and the Department responded to only 5 winter weather related events that required a significant level of remediation by Department and/or contract personnel and equipment The Division continued to struggle in the winter of 2005-2006 to keep up with the demand for sidewalk plowing both during and after a snow event. The Department plows approximately 115 miles of sidewalks and has a fleet of sidewalk tractors/plows whose average age is 24 years. This factor, coupled with a limited staffing level for this function, caused frequent delays in the Departments over-all response time. Tree Warden & Forestry Management The Highway Division Program is responsible for the maintenance management of the Town’s estimated 12,000 street trees and for the development of a Public Shade Tree program for the community. The purpose of this program is to promote, preserve, and enhance the shade tree environment of the community through the application of best management practices and public education campaigns. In 2006, the Highway Division also oversaw the Town’s roadside vegetation management program that was permitted by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. This program allowed the Department to apply best management practices for the control of curbside vegetation that otherwise would grow uncontrollably and require the commitment of substantial and sustained labor to control growth.
The Tree warden conducted frequent hazardous tree assessments, prescribes treatment, oversees removals, and participates in public hearings on issues related to trees within scenic ways. The Department routinely responded to citizen inquiries and requests for service. The Forestry Management Section removed, without incident, 198 dead or diseased street trees in 2006. The Department Staff also returned to each site and ground the remaining stumps below the existing grade.
Traffic Systems Management
The Traffic systems section of the Highway Division manages the maintenance, fabrication, and placement of the Town’s regulatory and street signage, steel beam safety guardrail, installation of new and annual refreshing of pavement markings, and the work zone safety program for Division operations. In 2003, the Division began the multi-year systematic replacement of the older green street signs with a new high visibility blue street signs that comply with the current Federal Highway Administration Standards. The new signs have a higher level of reflectivity and larger lettering to enhance readability in periods of minimal luminescence. In 2006, the Traffic Systems Group managed the repainting of 86 miles of yellow centerline, 92 miles of white edge line, and 562 crosswalks throughout the Town. In addition, the Division installed and or replaced hundreds of regulatory signs and advisory signs either by direction of the Board of Selectmen or as required through routine maintenance practices.
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The Division continued in 2006 to replace and install new highway guardrail as part of the three year initiative program to upgrade our safety rail to an improved level of effectiveness, durability, compliance, and curb appeal. The new fencing is a low maintenance and highly effective steel guardrail on wooden posts. In 2006, the Division replaced more than 2,000 feet of fencing at locations including, Badger Road, Grove Street, Elm Street, Kellogg Street and Mt. Wayte Ave. Solid Waste Management Program The Solid Waste Management Program of the Department of Public Works is responsible for the management and oversight of the Town’s Municipal Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Programs. Materials are collected by means of curbside and containerized collection programs, the leaf and yard waste drop-off area, and the operation of a Municipal Recycling Facility located on Mt. Wayte Avenue. The Division collects refuse and recycling materials from 18,462 individual dwelling units each week and disposes of more than 142,000 pounds of residential refuse each day. The Department’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day was held in May of 2006. The Town contracted with Clean Ventures/General Chemical Corporation of Framingham to conduct the event. Residents were invited to bring their hazardous waste to the drop off site where technicians greeted them and evaluated the material for disposal classification. The items were then containerized, hauled away, and disposed of at EPA & DEP approved disposal sites. This year’s event also saw our first public/ private partnership for the disposal of televisions and computer monitors (CRTs). Computer Recycling USA (CRUSA) based here in Framingham
accepted CRTs at a discounted price for residents and free to seniors. We hope to see them again at this year’s event. Based on the enormous amount of participation in last year’s event, the division will be requesting funding to hold the event twice in 2007. 2006 also saw the beginning of the Division’s Town wide comprehensive recycling initiative. This was initiated to address the poor compliance with the State Waste Bans regulations and the resultant relatively low town wide recycling rate. In addition, by increasing our recycling rates we decrease the overall solid waste program costs to the taxpayers. The initiative encompasses four major components: 1. School and Municipal participation;
the first phase of the program focused on increasing the municipal recycling rate to an acceptable level. The Department placed Abitibi Consolidated paper recycling containers at all Municipal and Public School Facilities and worked to establish recycling protocols and awareness with facility personnel. The Town receives payments based on the tonnage for all paper recycled. In addition to the avoided disposal costs, the revenue generated is credited directly to the Public School Programs. The Department received a $10,000 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for the implementation of an advanced recycling program at the High School and to generate a system wide recycling policy.
2. Public Awareness; The dissemination
of recycling information and the increase of Public awareness are key elements of a successful recycling
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partnership within a Community. The Department successfully applied to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for a grant and received more than three thousand dollars worth of educational materials for public dissemination. This included Junk Mail Reduction Kits, informational brochures, water conservation kits, and subsidies for the purchase of Rain Water Recovery Barrels. We also were able to host a DEP workshop on healthy lawns focusing on techniques for limiting the use of fertilizer and increasing the use of compost. Of the eight workshops held statewide, Framingham had the highest Public attendance. In addition to the DEP brochures, the Department has also produced various multi-lingual informational brochures that were made available at the Memorial Building, the DPW Operations Center located on Western Avenue and at the Recycling Center located on Mt Wayte Avenue.
3. Recycling Opportunities; The
Department began to focus on the establishment opportunities to make recycling easier in order to encourage a greater participation rate. The most important initiative was the curbside single stream collection program in which materials no longer needed to be separated by type at the curb. All recyclable materials may now be placed into one container designated for collection and the sorting is performed at the designated waste disposal site. The Division is also now encouraging the use of larger recycling bins or marked waste containers for curbside collection. Recycling Container stickers were made available at no charge to
residents so that they may label barrels for recycling.
4. Compliance Programs; The
Department is required by Massachusetts Statute to comply with the Waste Ban regulations or face considerable penalties and fines. The Department proceeded in 2006 to gain greater compliance with these regulations through a Public Information initiative followed by progressive non-compliance house by house review. In 2006, the Division issued over 3,400 non-collection and/or non-compliance notices to property owners. These were issued for various reasons such as; the inclusion of excessive recyclables or yard waste set out for regular refuse disposal (in violation of State Waste Bans), the placement of items for disposal that required a fee, and the placement of hazardous waste items for curbside collection. In the later part of the year the Division also began the progressive enforcement of the Waste Collection Policy limiting placement volume to three (3) 35 Gallon barrels or an equivalent volume of bagged refuse, as a means to encourage the further diversion of recyclable items from the trash stream. The early results have been promising with an upsurge in curbside recycling and several hundred tons less of curbside trash collected compared to the same time period last year.
The recently constructed Recycling Center located on Mount Wayte Avenue has continued to improve and expand upon the services provided in previous years. The improved facility opened in the fall of 2005 and the division has continued to make the operation as streamline and efficient to the 6,200 registered customers
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of the facility. In most cases, the average wait time is 10 minutes or less; with typically no waiting for recycling drop-off. In 2006, the Department also expanded upon the items that may be dropped off for recycling to include textiles, shoes, books (both hard and soft cover), DVDs, CDs, and VCR tapes. All of these are then sold to a vendor to benefit local non-profit groups. This year we also provided over 100 cubic yards of screened compost to residents free of charge. This was done as part of our yard waste drop-off management program that turns a portion of the waste deposited at the facility into compost and then returns it the residents completing the recycling cycle.
WATER AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM The Water and Wastewater Management Program of the Department of Public Works is responsible to the Community for the provision of a Public Water Supply, the operation of a water distribution system, the provision of fire suppression devices, and the operation of a wastewater collection system. The Water Division is responsible for the distribution of a public potable water supply and for the provision of fire suppression service to the 17,000 residential and commercial accounts within the Community. The average daily water demand of nearly eight million gallons per day (mgd) is purchased from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) and is subsequently distributed throughout the Town by means of a complicated system of pumps, pipes, valves, and reservoirs. The Water Department program provides for the maintenance and repair to the water distribution infrastructure that includes; 250 miles of pipe, 17,000 service connections, 2000 hydrants, 4,800 gate
valves, 22,000 meters, four pumping stations, three booster stations, and six above ground water tanks having a storage capacity of nearly nine million gallons. The Wastewater Division is responsible for the collection and transport of 10 million gallons of wastewater each day, a significant portion of which is from infiltration and inflow (I/I) from sources such as leaking pipes and manholes, as well as, sump pump discharges during wet weather events. Wastewater is conveyed through our municipal systems to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) which is charged with the transport and treatment of sewerage from its forty-three member communities. The Town’s collection system consists of 226 miles of gravity mains, 18 miles of force mains, 51 pump stations, 6,600 manholes, and over 40 miles of cross-country sewer-line easements. The Division’s capital improvement programs had been historically under funded in recent decades and as a consequence, the critical infrastructure had experienced increasing incidents of system failure. The system continued to grow and expand over time, but the funding of maintenance for the aging and expanding infrastructure did not keep pace with maintenance or capital replacement needs. As a consequence of this disparity, the Division had been primarily engaged in performance of unscheduled emergency maintenance and was unable to devote resources to scheduled maintenance of critical components of the system. The failure to adequately maintain this large Public Utility created circumstances where significant system failures became common and recurrent. This is underscored by the recent decision of the Massachusetts Department of
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Environmental Protection (MA DEP) to issue an Administrative Consent Order and Notice of Noncompliance. This order, which is expected to be finalized in early 2007, will require that the Town undertake major sewer construction and rehabilitation projects over several years with the primary focus of alleviating reoccurring sanitary sewer overflows, a violation of State and Federal law. In recent operating budgets, the Department has acquired the resources to provide a sustained scheduled maintenance program of the major components of the operational systems. This was accomplished through the implementation of a Program Budget and a reorganization of the Division to professionalize the staff at all functional levels. The Department adopted a “Management by Objective” strategy and implemented an aggressive maintenance program for each operational function. The focus now is to address the need to provide the necessary level of critical resources needed to maintain well developed maintenance programs and to establish additional program elements that will further improve customer service and distribution system longevity. This ongoing effort is reflected in all aspects of the Division including the optimal use of personnel, materials, and capital equipment. During 2006, the Water Division’s programs worked towards improving system assets including added security for the water pump stations achieved by completing the installation of fencing, 24-hour surveillance, and audible alarms at all of the primary stations. The Division installed analyzers to monitor the level of chlorine residual in the water supply were also installed at the stations, a key element in eliminating potential bacteria problems.
The Water Department piloted a unidirectional flushing program during 2006. Unidirectional flushing systematically removes deposits and stagnant water from the distribution system and increases disinfection while allowing for the evaluation of hydrants and valves operated during the process. Nearly 3 million gallons of water was flushed from 29 miles of water main utilizing 97 hydrants and 250 valves. Department efforts led to the in-house repair of 90 water system failures, 209 operating valve repairs or replacements, 96 hydrants replaced or rebuilt, 1209 water meter replacements, and 3,319 backflow-devices tested, as well as, several thousand pump station inspections and the repairs associated therewith. In 2006, the BETA Consulting Group completed a two year analysis of Framingham’s water distribution system and submitted a Draft Water Distribution System Master Plan, which is currently under review. The nucleus of this plan was the development of the water Geographic Information System (GIS) and the working Hydraulic Model. The GIS coupled with ongoing demand data analysis produced a dynamic calibrated hydraulic model of the system. The plan includes prioritized recommendations intended to be carried out over a 20 year Capital Plan to provide sufficient fire flows, system wide pressure, and uniform water quality throughout the Town. During 2006, the Sewer Department continued with aggressive preventive maintenance measures to provide scheduled cleaning of known problematic sewer pipes. As system analysis improves, the Staff continues to develop a corresponding and effective proactive approach to programmed maintenance and thereby an enhanced customer service
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capability. The Department’s programs worked toward the maintenance and improvement of system assets including the systematic renewal of the electronic controls and pump components at many of the sewer pump stations. To mitigate the impact of sulfide generation and associated corrosion, a chemical feed system was installed at the Worcester Road Pump Station. Department efforts led to the in-house completion 89 easement maintenance tasks, the repair of 81 manholes, the completion of 16 miles of sewer inspections, and 92 monthly scheduled preventive maintenance assignments yielding 32 miles of cleaned sewer pipes. In 2006, SEA Consultants completed their three-year study of the Town’s sewer system and the preparation of the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP). The CWMP was presented in public forums and is currently under review by the MA DEP. It will be finalized once their comments and recommendations are received. As part of the CWMP, VUEWORKS Asset Management Software, which utilizes the sewer GIS, performed a risk analysis of the Town’s sewer infrastructure and produced prioritized capital improvement recommendations. By completing each of these projects the level of service will dramatically increase by reducing the number of annual violations of state and federal laws, coming into compliance with MWRA sulfide limitations and eliminating existing hydraulic problems that lead to sewer back-ups overflows. In addition, a Work Order Management System was developed and will provide electronic dispatch and tracking capabilities to all Division field work. The Division’s future operational efforts will be guided by its Water Master Plan and CWMP prioritization criteria. Focus
will be directed toward specific Town water and sewer respective assets including tanks, hydrants, valves, metering systems siphons, pump stations, force mains and areas known to display problems associated with the production of sulfide and grease. FLEET, FACILITIES & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGEMENT The Fleet, Facilities and Communications Management Program of the Department of Public Works provides a critical support service to the other public works programs and provides vehicle maintenance support to other agencies within the Town. The Program is accountable for; the development and implementation of professional fleet management standards and practices, the design and procurement of all public works vehicles and equipment, and for the provision of standardized maintenance management practices for all Public Works facilities including Water and Sewer Pumping Stations. The Division is also charged with the technical management of the telecommunications network and thereby provides a critical service component to the Department’s Emergency Management response plan. The Fleet, Facility, and Communications Division’s role is to provide logistical support to the Department through the provision of fully operational equipment, facilities, and telecommunications that together, ensure the effective and efficient delivery of essential services to the residents of the Community. These vital services include the provision of public safety, public works, and public utility functions for a population of 70,000 residents. In 2006, it remained the mission of the Fleet Management Program to support the operational programs that provide these critical services through the
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efficient management of Public Works facilities and fleet equipment so that it may provide safe, dependable, and a fully functional operation and that it effectively meets or exceeds its anticipated service life. In 2006, the Division managed the installation of a Nortel PBX Telecommunications System at the Public Works Facility on Western Avenue. The system will provide the Department with a flexible telecommunications platform that will enhance operational characteristics, provide more efficient customer service capabilities, and allow the creation of specialized call centers during emergencies. The Departments radio network was upgraded with the installation of a new base station radio and repeater for the Department’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Channel 3. The Division prepared specifications for the procurement of the following specialized equipment in 2006; one refuse packer chassis conversion to a seasonal snow fighter, one multi purpose sidewalk tractor, one 68,000 GVW Refuse packer, three 15,000 GVW four wheel drive dump trucks with plows, one backhoe with plow and one 4WD wheel drive utility body truck with plow. In 2006, the Fleet Service section completed 1,923 repair orders, performed 451 scheduled preventative maintenance services, and performed 136 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles Enhanced Emissions state inspections of Town vehicles. In 2006, the Division also managed the acquisition and distribution of more than 260,000 gallons of gasoline & diesel fuel in over 13,000 individual transactions.
The Division managed the repair, maintenance, and upgrade of several Public Works facilities including the security improvements to Pump Stations and Water Tanks as a component of a Federally Mandated vulnerability assessment by the Department of Homeland Security. The improvements included fencing and gates, intrusion alarms, network connections, enhanced lighting, signage, security cameras. The work is ongoing and it is anticipated that two additional years of work will be required to reach an acceptable level of compliance. The Division also managed the renovation of a portion of the Public Works Facility, funded by a MassHighway State Aid grant, to relocate the Engineering Division from the Memorial Building to the Public Works Operations Center on Western Avenue. The move greatly enhanced the ability of the operational divisions to access engineering plans and coordinate construction management within their programs. The work involved the renovation of sections of the former facility at Henry Street to house the displaced operations of the Traffic Systems Group and the Construction Trades group and carpentry shop.
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EDUCATION
FRAMINGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCHOOL COMMITTEE
(Front row from left): Administrative Assistant Ann Greenberg, School Committee members Diane Throop,
David Miles, Andy Limeri; (Second row from left): School Committee members Philip Dinsky, Cesar Monzon, Richard Weader, Student Representatives Matt Handverger, Andy Feldman and Superintendent Chris
Martes.
Budget The School Committee began the FY07 budget development process in February with the goal of maintaining a level-service budget. Projected FY07 budget increases in special education, transportation and utilities were offset by position freezes, consolidations and cuts totaling $1.7 million. These cuts would impact students at all grade levels and staffing in many departments including central office administration, curriculum, guidance, bilingual, special education and other support services. Due to the difficult fiscal climate, the Committee reluctantly voted to approve a bus fee, a
high school interscholastic athletic fee and a full-day kindergarten fee. A sliding scale was provided for families seeking the full-day kindergarten option and exceptions for the busing and sports fees were made for children who qualified for Free and Reduced Lunch to ensure access for all families. In May, the School Committee voted an FY07 budget request of $78,216,178, which was a 3.6% increase over FY06. In June, Town Meeting approved the School Department’s FY07 budget request. In November, only five months into the fiscal year, Superintendent Chris Martes
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declared a budget freeze as the district faced substantial deficits in its special education services and out-of-district tuition budgets due to a number of newly enrolled Framingham students who needed in-house special education programs and out-of-district placements. The fiscal dilemma was compounded when Governor Romney cut anticipated state grants including $370K for English Language Learner programs and $250K for Enhanced School Health Services. As the calendar year drew to a close, the Superintendent reported that the district faced a projected deficit of $1.9 million. The Superintendent hoped that the early budget freeze would enable the district to close the budget gap during the remainder of the fiscal year. Framingham High School Renovation On November 25, 2006, the School Committee participated in the formal dedication of the renovated Framingham High School. A series of FHS Homecoming events included public tours of the newly renovated high school facility and the gala opening of the Framingham High School Performing Arts Center. Progress on the high school renovation is almost complete. The bulk of the remaining work will be accomplished during the first three months of 2007. Landscaping should be completed next spring. To date, the Town has received 95% of the state reimbursement. The remaining funds will be reimbursed to the Town upon project completion and the follow-up state project audit. Once again, the School Committee would like to thank the entire community for their support of this important project. District Goals In June, the School Committee dedicated its annual planning retreat to a preliminary discussion of district goals for the upcoming school year. In September, the
School Committee voted 2006/2007 goals: (1) Improve student achievement in English Language Arts MCAS at all grade levels; (2) Improve Mathematics achievement for all students in all subgroups; (3) Increase Fine Arts opportunities for students; (4) Long-Range Strategic Planning; and (5) Successful conclusion of collective bargaining negotiations with nine bargaining units. Superintendent of Schools In March, the School Committee updated its policies on the Superintendent’s annual performance evaluation. The updated performance evaluation includes a simplified five-point rating scale. This year, School Committee members gave Superintendent Martes high marks in all seven responsibility areas. Members commented on the Superintendent’s educational leadership and focus on continued improvement of the school system. Strengths cited included the Superintendent’s excellent relationship with municipal leaders, parents, civic and community groups; his ability to keep the district moving forward despite major budget issues; and his active involvement at the state level as a leader who influences policies and decisions which affect all students in Massachusetts public schools. The Committee In April, Pam Richardson was re-elected to a second term and newly elected Andy Limeri joined the seven-member board. At the reorganization meeting, the School Committee elected David Miles as Chair, Pam Richardson as Vice Chair, and Diane Throop as Secretary. The untimely death of State Representative Deborah Blumer, just three weeks before the November election, precipitated a town wide write-in
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election campaign. Pam Richardson stepped forward to offer her candidacy and won election as State Representative to the 6th Middlesex District. Subsequently, Ms. Richardson resigned from the School Committee. The School Committee voted not to fill the vacant seat and, by consensus, agreed that the voters should fill the vacant seat in the April 2007 election. In November, Philip Dinsky received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees at the annual MASC/MASS Joint Conference in Hyannis. Mr. Dinsky has served on the Framingham School Committee since 1993, including three years as Chair. The School Committee would like to thank the faculty, staff, and the administration for the superb work that they do each and every day for our outstanding school system. In addition, the Committee would like to thank the citizens of the Town of Framingham for their continued support of the Framingham Public Schools. David F. Miles, Chair Diane M. Throop, Secretary Andy Limeri Philip A. Dinsky Cesar Monzon Richard J. Weader II SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS 2006 was another busy and successful year for Framingham Public Schools. The variety of programs and the pace of activities are clear in the School Committee and departmental reports. The hallmark of good schools is student achievement and I am pleased with the performance of our students in 2006. An
important result of standardized testing over the past year was the impressive number of Grade 10 students passing the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) test. The Class of 2008, sophomore class in their first attempt at the 10th grade exam, scored higher than any other previous class on the MCAS exam. These students and their teachers have much to be proud of. 81% of students scored in the proficient or advanced category in English and 82% scored in the proficient or advanced category in Math. This continues to be a trend that began as soon as the MCAS was elevated to “competency determination” status, i.e., must be passed to receive a diploma, in 2001. The overall MCAS results in 2006 were: 97% Framingham High School students passed the English-Language Arts MCAS; 95% passed the Mathematics MCAS test. This compares to 2005 when 92% passed the English-Language Arts portion and 92% passed the Mathematics component of the MCAS test. Those who did not pass the MCAS are receiving extra support and can take up to five re-tests prior to graduation. The College Board’s Advance Placement Program (AP) offers students the opportunity to take challenging, college-level courses while still in high school and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. Since 2002, the number of students taking the AP exams has doubled with three hundred and fifteen participating in Advanced Placement Exams, in eighteen subjects, in 2006. This compares with two hundred and one students who took four hundred and nine Advanced Placement tests in 2005. Through continuing aggressive efforts of the FHS Guidance Department, 96% of
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the junior class and 97% of the sophomore class took the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT). This compares to 2005 when 93% of the junior class and 91% of the sophomore class took the PSAT. Even more impressive is the fact that 65% of the junior class and 46% of the sophomore class took the test in 2004. 92% of the graduating class participated in the SAT. Framingham students averaged 509 on the Critical Reading portion, 541 in the Mathematics portion, and 507 on the Writing Component, which is above the national averages of 503, 518 and 497 respectively. The community should be proud that so many students take and pass a wide variety of these college-level exams, and that they do so well. One result of the high student achievement is acceptance at a college or university to continue education. In keeping with past years, more than 86% of the graduates in the Class of 2006 continued their education at an impressive variety of institutions of higher learning, including some of the most selective colleges in the country. Framingham High School hosted a decennial evaluation visit from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc. (NEASC) in the fall of 2006. Accreditation relies on a twelve to eighteen month self-study process undertaken by schools and colleges in regular review cycles. The process does not rank institutions but rather, establishes a level of acceptable quality for all accredited institutions. The Commission standards are high and focus on virtually every aspect of a school or higher education institution’s operation. A visiting team spent several days monitoring classes, meeting with district administration, school staff, parents and students, reviewing curricula, technology and the physical structure. The team was
impressed with the renovation of the facility, specifically with the science wing and the library and multi-media facilities. We expect to hear a favorable report sometime in the spring of 2007. Student support programs are critical and the district is proud of those serving our high school population. The Academic Development Center (ADC) is a peer-tutoring center in which approximately one hundred and twenty-five juniors and seniors tutor struggling freshmen and sophomores. The Resiliency for Life Program, in its eighth year, continues to provide support for academically challenged students with potential who need a smaller school-within-a-school approach. The mentoring programs provided by the Mazie Foundation and the Step Up To Excellence Program are some of the other exciting support opportunities available for our students. Framingham Public Schools was selected as one of two school districts selected to participate in a study of school leadership practices that led to MCAS scores that exceeded demographic expectations. In 2006, the district hosted a visiting team from the University of Massachusetts’ Center for Education Policy. The visiting team spent four days verifying the data by interviewing many people in the school district. The district and town can be pleased with the results of the report. Many areas had already been addressed in our goal setting. The mathematics initiative focusing on upper elementary and middle schools is a great example. The UMass Executive Director was very positive as he noted that the visiting team was very impressed with district initiatives and articulation. The report states “the Framingham Public Schools have a reputation for consistent success with a diverse student population” which is something we all can be proud of.
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Framingham High School won the 2006 Massachusetts High School Drama Guild State Champion Title. Although FHS has frequently earned honors, this was the first state title win. The FHS Jazz Band was selected to participate at the prestigious Berklee College Jazz Festival. The band also performed at the International Association of Educators Northeast Jazz Festival earning a Bronze Medal. The FHS String Orchestra and A Cappella Chorus were invited to perform at the anniversary celebration at the State House for the Doric Docents, the tour guides serving the State House. The FHS Chorus was the only high school chorus selected to perform at the State House holiday gathering for state leaders. Framingham High School Television Studio earned three EMMY Awards at the National High School EMMY competition. Students placed first in Technical Achievement for their production of Flyer News; first in the News category for their production of the “Entwistle Trial”; and first for the program “Sports Update.” The television studio has earned seven EMMY awards to date. Flyer News is broadcast LIVE Monday through Friday on RCN Channel 15 and Comcast Channel 8 at 7:15 AM. It is rebroadcast at 5:00 and 7:30 PM. The high school was highlighted in the quarterly magazine Opening the Gateway: School Districts Leading the Technology/Engineering Revolution published by the National Center for Technological Literacy sponsored by the Museum of Science, Boston. Building renovation funds have greatly enhanced the technology capabilities available at the high school overall and in the Technology Education/Engineering/Sciences Department specifically. The article was a wonderful recognition of that facility
which is referred to as a “multimillion dollar cutting-edge facility” and of the staff working in the department at the high school. The New England League of Middle Schools (NELMS) nominated Fuller Middle School for a “Spotlight School” Award. The Spotlight School Award honors schools that have a record of powerful learning for young adolescents and consistently observe middle school level best practices. The Abrahams Group was engaged to compare Framingham school spending and performance with communities with similar demographics. A working group of representatives from the School Committee, Town Meeting and various town committees identified performance and demographic indicators as a basis for comparison. Ultimately, the factors used were: median family income, percent age of low-income students, and percentage of Limited English Proficient (LEP) learners. The LEP factor provided additional perspective in Framingham but correlated only modestly with effectiveness in other communities. The group selected communities comparable to Framingham, and communities that achieved high levels of cost-effectiveness. Performance was compared using a three-year average of MCAS scores. The following conclusions are drawn from the Executive Summary: Framingham has a strong performance record relative to its demographic peers. Five communities with lower costs – Ayer, Woburn, Holbrook, Stoughton and Westport outperformed Framingham in the 4th grade MCAS but not on the 8th and 10th grade MCAS.
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Given its high performance levels, it is reasonable to conclude that community dollars are being well spent to deliver a strong and effective educational program in Framingham. Framingham’s costs, based on 2004 per pupil expenditures, with and without grant dollars, are in the higher range relative to its demographic peers. Of 21 communities with similar median family income, Framingham falls in the middle performance range – 11th of 21 for 4th grade. For 10th grade, Framingham was 9th of 21. Of 21 communities with similar median family income levels, Framingham had the 7th highest percent of graduating seniors who plan to attend a four-year college. Framingham also has the highest percent heading to four-year colleges when compared to districts with similar LEP percentages. Of 21 communities with a similar percentage of poverty indicators, Framingham has the highest percentage of graduating seniors who plan to attend a four-year college. Of 21 communities with similar percentage of poverty indicators, Framingham has the third highest 4th grade MCAS scores. Only one of the 21 communities outperformed Framingham on all three performance dimensions and spent a similar or lesser amount. Of 17 communities with similar LEP percentages Framingham produced the 2nd highest average 4th grade MCAS; and the highest 10th grade MCAS for LEP students. No community with a higher
percentage of LEP students scored better than Framingham. I think it is important to mention the Framingham Adult ESL Plus Program and its continued success. While the majority of funding is from state and federal grants, community donations, private donations as well as fundraising activities, the district continues to support this program and its outreach by providing space and support for its classes. Framingham Adult ESL has been providing English language instruction for over twenty years and during that time has grown from thirty students to over five hundred and fifty students each semester with morning and evening components. Of note, Verizon recently donated the installation of a new state-of-the-art language lab. The program itself is housed at the Fuller Middle School and faculty and staff have been instrumental in the success of the program. The community at large has been a strong participant in increasing programs and activities at all academic levels. The partnership with the New England Eye Institute continues through the operation of a Vision Clinic at the Fuller Middle School. This was opened in 2004 and continues to be the only school-based vision center in Massachusetts. Through a partnership with Boston University School of Dental Medicine, second grade students, with parental consent, receive dental screenings and dental sealants, if needed. Plans are underway with Great Brook Valley Health Center to open a health clinic at FHS. I believe that community support is vital to school districts and I am proud of the relationships that the district has developed with numerous public and private companies, foundations and organizations over the last several years. I also remain proud of the collaborative
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relationship between the Framingham School Department, and the Police and Fire Departments. I believe the relationship in Framingham between municipal and school departments is one of the best in the Commonwealth and is something we can all be proud of. The Transportation Department provides a vital service for the Framingham Public Schools. Seven thousand students utilize bus transportation on a daily basis. The transportation office continues to work diligently to ensure our students safe transport. Massachusetts General Law requires School Departments to provide transportation to all children within each respective district. To that end, Framingham provides school transportation to six hundred students in non-public schools in Framingham. Due to budget constraints, the School Department moved to a fee-based transportation program four years ago for only those students in grades 7-12. Fees are waived for special circumstances such as children placed in Framingham foster care homes, homeless students, special education students and students on medical waivers. In 2006, approximately twenty-one hundred students, of the forty one hundred plus students, in grades 7 through 12, purchased bus passes. The budget is the foundation of all educational programs. The School Department is grateful for Town Meeting support of its budget requests and the outpouring from the community at-large for increasing activities and programs in our public schools. The investment that the community makes in our young people is something that continues to pay dividends. Christopher H. Martes, PhD Superintendent of Schools
HUMAN RESOURCES We continue to be committed to recruiting the best educators for the best school system in Massachusetts. Our efforts this year began on January 30th. Staff attended eight job fairs and fourteen college campuses. Through these efforts, eighty-eight new teachers were hired. Of these new staff members, fifty-five had a masters degree or higher. They truly are of a high quality. These eighty-eight new teachers join a very talented staff. This year, Minerva Gonzalez, Barbieri Elementary School Principal, received the League of Latin American Citizens Distinguished Educator’s Award for her efforts in founding the two-way bilingual program. The listing below of other staff accomplishments this year also highlights the high caliber of dedicated professionals in the district: Juan Rodriguez, Fuller Middle School Principal, participated in the Curriculum for College and Career Readiness Committee. The Department of Education, the MA Board of Higher Education and UMASS are jointly working on this committee. Susan McGilvray-Rivet, Director, and Sara Hamerla, Assistant Director of the Bilingual, ESL and Sheltered English Department respectively were invited to present a paper regarding supports for diverse learners by the Education Alliance at Brown University at a national conference. Genoveffa Grieci, Department Head and teacher at Framingham High School, received the Secondary English Language Learners Teacher of the Year award from the Massachusetts Association for
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Bilingual Education and Massachusetts Association of Teachers of Speakers of Other Language State Conference. Tracy Manousaridis, Potter Road Elementary School Teacher, was a semi-finalist for the 2007 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. Ellen Sowa, Framingham High School physical education teacher was named Coach of the Year Field Hockey Carey Division. Michael Foley, FHS physical education teacher was named the Boston Globe Division 2 Coach of the Year Girls’ Swimming. Framingham High School science educators Harvey Gendreau, Robert Langdon, Gerald Moss, and Matthew Corcoran were asked to present their expertise at national and regional professional conferences. Stapleton Elementary School Psychologist Daphna Malinsky was awarded a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology. There are only six School Neuropsychology Diplomates in Massachusetts. Tracy Padula, Speech and Language Therapist at Cameron Middle School, presented a paper at the 2006 ASHA Convention. The local Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year Award was presented to Carol Skaggs, Occupational Therapist at Walsh Middle School. Cristina Lund, Social Worker at Barbieri Elementary School, received a citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives for her work with the school’s Big Brother/Big Sister program. The National Science Teachers Association magazine, Science and
Children, Reaching the Hard to Reach, published an article authored by Barbieri Elementary School teachers Nancy De Romero and Patricia Slater. Congratulations are extended to the following staff members whom attained Professional Teacher Status in 2006: Julie Alejandre; Janet Anderson; Ildelfanso Arellano, Miria Benicio, Jennifer Bremer, Elvira Chaves, Robert Connolly, Diana Fabbri, Vanda Figueiredo, Christopher Finan, Joshua Fox, John Gallagher, Clara Garcia, Jeffrey Hajjar, Kenneth Hamm, Christopher Hepp, Manjula Karamcheti, Dyan Lally, Robert Langdon, Christopher Lee, Mark Leonard, Richard Linet, Catherine MacIsaac, Diane MacMillan, Kelli Malo, Kathleen McGurk, Paula Melville, Emily Miller, Jodi O’Rourke, Caryn O’Toole, Emily Parks, Erin Powers, Amy Rensko, Arlene Schrager, Kirstin Sheen, Ema Silva, Marguerite Simpson-Lackard, Mark Spillane, Lisa Streck, Joceyln Tennant, Geralyn Thompson, Cynthia Villanueva, Carol Virdinlia, and Monica Viteri-Harutunian. It is a privilege at this time to express the School Department’s gratitude to our retiring faculty of 2006: Carol Bearse, Rachel Berkowitz, Marcia Buckminster, Jane Bugg, Barbara Canal, Ronald Chick, Judith Dallamora, Judith Davis, Ellen DiLauro, Katharine Doherty, Joan Donovan, John Farias, Carol Ferreira, Denise Gallagher, Harvey Gendreau, Mary Goldstein, Susan Goyette, Robert Hutton, Leonard Johnson, Robert Johnson Jr., Bonnie Kelly, Ellen Little, Phyllis May, Walter McClennen, Roger McDevitt, Catherine McLaughlin, Judith Miller, Roberta Molliver, JoAnn Morse, Patricia Nichol, Deborah Noonan, Marietta Phillips, Richard Rebecchi, Catherine Rubeski, Paul Saponaro, Charles Sposato, Dawn Wallace, Barbara Weinzimer, and Margaret Williams.
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They have served our community with dedication and professional commitment. We thank them and we wish them the best in their future endeavors. Paula J. Ceglowski Director of Human Resources BILINGUAL EDUCATION During 2006, the Framingham Public Schools has continued to serve as a leader in educating English language learners. With at least sixty different languages represented in our school district, it has been our goal to ensure that each student achieves in all academic areas while acquiring English. This year, teachers across the district have participated in a wide variety of professional development opportunities including: assessing English language learners, sheltering content, and observing effective instruction. This year, as in past years, we were pleased to have a number of staff members selected to present papers on effective instruction at several important educational conferences. The mark of any effective program is continued analysis and self-reflection. This year, we have undertaken a major study of our elementary Two-Way program, resulting in some program design changes aimed at improving this nationally recognized program. Similar self-studies of the programs at Brophy and Walsh are now underway. The elementary Sheltered English Programs for Spanish and Portuguese speakers continue to be housed at Woodrow Wilson, Potter Road, and Brophy schools. Bilingual Spanish and Portuguese programs, which have been maintained for newcomers, continue to be offered at Wilson, Potter, Brophy, Fuller
and Framingham High School. At the elementary level, English as a Second Language classes are based at Dunning. The co-teaching model is in its third year of implementation in grades 3-5. In this model, native English-speaking students and English language learners are integrated and taught by highly qualified standard curriculum and ESL certified teachers. ESL programs at the secondary level continue to be offered at Fuller and Framingham High. Students develop their English skills by progressively advancing through five levels of ESL at Fuller and 6 levels at Framingham High. The Spanish/English Two-Way Program, housed at Barbieri, Walsh, and Framingham High, will be highlighted in a new book soon to be published by the Center for Applied Linguistics. Parent involvement is an important element in all four programs. Parental Involvement Facilitators at each school outreach to families throughout the year. Events that have been well attended include: Homework and Study Skills Workshop, Helping Children with Literature, Family Math Night, Benefits of Bilingualism, College Planning Night, MCAS planning at orientation, Two-Way self-study discussion and Brazilian family night. The success of our programs is due to the dedication and expertise of a highly qualified professional and paraprofessional staff. Results from standardized assessments, language proficiency tests, and report cards indicate that our students are making great gains. Students in our programs perform consistently above the state average. Professional development initiatives in conjunction with the Office of Curriculum and the Office of Equity and Achievement have increased awareness of issues in the education of English
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language learners. The support of the Superintendent, Christopher Martes, and the members of the Framingham School Committee has been an important factor in the continued success of our programs. Susan J. McGilvray-Rivet, Ed.D. Director of Bilingual, ESL and Sheltered English Programs CURRICULUM AND STAFF DEVELOPMENT The major responsibilities of this department include 1) curriculum development, review and implementation; 2) assessment of student achievement and analysis of data; 3) resource and program support; and 4) professional development. Curriculum The Curriculum Frameworks from the Massachusetts Department of Education continue to guide our curriculum implementation and revision process. This year, a committee of PreK through grade 12 teachers are meeting monthly to review and revise the district English Language Arts curriculum guide, as well as review existing materials that are used in this content area. Karen Waldstein, K-8 English Language Arts/Social Studies Curriculum Specialist, chairs this committee. A draft of the updated English Language Arts curriculum guide has been distributed to all staff members and revisions are under consideration. This new curriculum document will have clear connections to the Massachusetts English Language Arts Curriculum Framework (June 2001) and reflect the special characteristics of our Framingham community. A new PreK through grade 12 Science Curriculum Committee has been formed this year and is chaired by Matthew Corcoran, Framingham High School
Science Department Chair. The committee is identifying strengths and areas of need in science throughout all grade levels and will make recommendations for future actions to ensure the currency of the curriculum and instructional program. An Elementary Math Study Group is continuing its work from last year. The committee is chaired by Sarah Guernsey, K-8 Math Specialist, and is looking at the two math programs that are currently in use in the elementary schools, Investigations (used at Hemenway, Brophy, McCarthy, and Potter Road Elementary Schools) and Everyday Math (used at Dunning, Stapleton, Barbieri, and Woodrow Wilson Elementary Schools). The group is identifying strengths and weaknesses of each program, as well as making recommendations that will lead to improved student achievement. This year, the three middle schools are implementing a new math program, Impact. Professional development has been an essential component of this implementation process. A three-credit graduate course was offered in June 2006, entitled, Algebraic Thinking. Faye Ruopp, author of Impact, was the instructor for this course and thirty-four middle school math teachers participated, including special education and ESL teachers. In addition, teachers in each of the three middle school grades met in summer curriculum workshops with Paul Maiorano, 6-12 Math Coordinator, to develop curriculum maps that outlined this year’s program in advance. Throughout this school year, professional development has been provided for math teachers, both during the school day and in after school sessions. Faye Ruopp continues to meet with grade level staff in after school bimonthly meetings. During these sessions, teachers review the existing
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curriculum map, make modifications and plan for the upcoming weeks. During October, January and March, Faye also visited each middle school for a full day, working in classrooms with teachers and math specialists, planning, modeling lessons, and discussing successful instructional strategies. Faye also met with special education and ESL teachers on a regular basis to discuss strategies for modifying the curriculum to meet the needs of these populations. Bill Paquette, Middle School Math Specialist, meets with special educators on a monthly basis to review the mathematics in upcoming lessons and develop modified lesson plans to meet the needs of special needs students. Implementing a new program is challenging, but through this extensive, ongoing professional development program we are confident that we will see improvement in student achievement. New Social Studies materials were purchased last year for all fifth grade classrooms and are currently in use. These materials were selected by a committee of teachers after a variety of materials were examined and some piloted. The program will be evaluated at the end of 2007. Assessment State MCAS results have been received, reviewed and analyzed for the district and each school. The district results are strong, especially in mathematics. Framingham students scored above the state average in mathematics in grades 3, 4, 5, 8, and 10. Fifty nine percent of Framingham tenth graders scored advanced in mathematics on the 2006 MCAS, compared to 52% last year, 44% in 2004 and 41% in 2005. Forty percent of tenth graders scored advanced statewide in 2006. Framingham high school students also scored higher than the state in English Language Arts.
Common grade level assessments that are aligned with curriculum standards are used across all schools in the district. These assessments, developed by teacher representatives from all schools, are used to identify specific strengths and weaknesses of students and the curriculum. Teachers use this information to plan their instruction and to provide support in areas of need. By providing targeted assistance in areas of demonstrated need, student achievement will improve. This year, SchoolBrains by Aptium was introduced. This is a new internet-based test building and performance analysis system that was purchased through grant funding. This system enhances a teacher’s ability to manage and analyze data, leading to differentiated instructional groupings. Resource and Program Support Curriculum and staff development in the district are enhanced through the expertise and efforts of support staff. Curriculum specialists, literacy specialists, teachers of gifted and talented, program directors and librarians provide leadership in curriculum development and delivery through courses, workshops, study groups, as well as ongoing classroom support for teachers and students and curriculum integration. Staff Development Professional development is ongoing and occurs in the classroom with curriculum support personnel and beyond school hours through courses, workshops, study groups and curriculum development committees At all three levels, individual, building and district, staff had opportunities to improve their content knowledge and teaching skills. Approximately fifty graduate level courses will be offered during the 2006-2007 school year, including “The Creative
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Classroom: Teaching with the Arts”, “Enhancing English Language Learning in the Elementary Classroom”, “Brazilian Portuguese Conversational Language”, “Studying Your Latino Students via Latin-American Literature”, “From Text to Concepts: Reading Comprehension Strategies for Secondary Science, Social Studies and English Teachers”. In addition, over sixty workshops will be offered, many that are school based, developed to address the unique needs of a particular school. Examples of these workshops include “Closing Achievement Gaps: Creating Safe Schools for All Students” offered at Framingham High School; “Examining Equity in Our School” offered at Cameron Middle School; “Listen Hear! Teaching Effective Listening Comprehension Skills” at McCarthy Elementary School. Some workshops were also offered in conjunction with the Framingham Teachers’ Association and the Massachusetts Teachers’ Association, including License Renewal Workshop and “I Can Do It!” for paraprofessionals. All professional development offerings are listed online at www.framingham.k12.ma.us. Click “Professional Development” and then “About” to view this year’s complete list of offerings. Nancy Sprague Director of Curriculum and Staff Development FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS The department of Family Support Programs, which includes the: Parent Information Center, Framingham Family Central, Community Partnership for Children, the McKinney–Vento Program for Homeless Children and Families and the Parent-Child Home Program continued to expand services and
programs for families of young children in 2006. Over $900,000 in grant funding support the activities and programs under the Family Support Programs umbrella. The Controlled School Choice program entered its ninth year in 2006. All families with incoming kindergarten children registered through the Parent Information Center (PIC). The Center continues to be the hub of a number of activities that meet the needs of families. Over 1200 students in grades K-8 registered through PIC in 2006. Six hundred children entered Framingham kindergartens, 90% received their first choice school. The demand for full day kindergarten continues to be strong and each year the district has added full day classes where space and funding would allow. Approximately 90% of those who requested full day were accommodated. The $2500.00 tuition, plus a limited amount of state funding, made it possible to cover the additional costs incurred for a full day program. The Fourth Annual Early Childhood Fair was held at the McCarthy School in early November. Once again exhibitors, which included local businesses as well as non-profit programs, provided information for families about services and resources for young children and families. Children enjoyed the antics of Rosalita and her troop of puppets as well as music, food and activities throughout the day. The Framingham Public Works Department staff and their collection of “Big Trucks” continued to be the greatest draw of all. All the attendees appreciated their enthusiasm and generosity. A number of other programs including the Lets Go to Kindergarten program, the annual Kindergarten Expo and the Let’s Go to K newsletter continued to focus on providing families with the tools to transition to kindergarten and ensure that their children have successful and positive learning experiences.
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Framingham Family Central/ Community Partnership for Children, funded through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, served over 100 children by providing scholarship support for families seeking quality preschool and childcare programs. In addition to scholarships, the CPC also supported professional development activities for over 60 staff members, mentoring and consultation support for programs seeking National Association for the Education for Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation, a professional development series for community program directors and on-going mental health and behavior consultation for children identified by program providers. The CPC program plays a pivotal role in linking families, early education and care programs and the Framingham Public Schools. We anticipate a number of changes will occur in 2007 that may impact the future of this program as the Commonwealth moves forward on its commitment to early childhood education. The Parent Child Home Program (PCHP) provided critical literacy and language development support for families with children ages 18 months to 3 years of age. PCHP’s mission is built around the concept that the parent is the child’s first teacher. A well trained cadre of home visitors provide on site training and support for parents and their children in their own homes. In addition PCHP provided English as a Second Language classes for PCHP parents. This has been extremely successful and has helped the entire family build their literacy skills. The Department of Early Education and Care as well as a grant from the “Break the Cycle of Poverty Foundation” fund PCHP.
The McKinney-Vento Program for Homeless Children continued to expand services for homeless children and families in 2006. The McKinney program is a federally funded program that ensures that families receive the services and additional supports needed for their children to achieve in school. In addition to providing on-going support for families the McKinney coordinator also developed a tutoring program for children who are experiencing homelessness, delivered several workshops for staff about the effects of trauma and homelessness on families, served as a liaison to community programs serving homeless families and coordinated transportation needs of homeless students with district’s Homeless Liaison located in the Parent Information Center. Family Support Programs is committed to assisting families and children to ensure a successful school experience and continuing to build the school-community relationships that have been developed. Anna Carollo-Cross Director of Family Support Programs SPECIAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT The Department of Special Education provides a broad array of services for children and youth identified with disabilities from the ages of three through twenty-two. The referral, evaluation and placement procedures are governed by state and federal special education laws and regulations, namely The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Framingham Public Schools is committed to the goal of providing an appropriate education for students with special needs in the least restrictive setting.
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During the 2005-2006 school year, the following array of programs and services were offered by the Framingham Public Schools from Pre-School to High School: Special Education Resource Rooms are available in each school. The Resource Room model provides direct teaching in both special and regular class settings, through inclusion, supportive teaching and/or consultation to the regular classroom teacher of identified children. There are thirty-six Substantially Separate classes from Pre-School through High School. These students require comprehensive programming which is provided outside of the regular education classroom for more than 60% of the school day. These classes are located at the High School, three Middle Schools, at seven Elementary Schools, and at the Pre-School serving the special education needs of students throughout the District. Where appropriate, these students are included in standard curriculum classes and ancillary activities. Related services, namely speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, adaptive physical education and services from the teachers of the visually impaired may be included in a student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and are available by itinerant personnel at all schools. Inclusion programs have been established using a variety of approaches throughout the district. Some classes are team-taught, some classes meet for specific periods, and some special education teachers are assigned to a group of classes. In addition, some teachers who are dually certified in special education and regular education have full time responsibility for inclusion classes at the elementary level. Woodrow Wilson has continued to increase
Inclusion Programs. Hemenway, McCarthy and Stapleton have co-taught inclusion classes at each grade level. Framingham High School and all Middle Schools have co-taught classes serving students on IEPs. Framingham is a model for Pre-School Programs for both children with special needs and typical children ages three to five. The placement of children with special needs in the Pre-School Programs emphasizes language, communication and social skills development. The majority of children with special needs in the BLOCKS Pre-School Program are integrated throughout their school day with children without special needs. In addition, Framingham increasingly has been serving young children with significant special needs within the BLOCKS Program, thereby reducing the number of potential out-of-district placements and promoting inclusion with typical peers. Framingham is providing special education programs and services to 20% of the total school population. It is important to note that nearly 70% of these students are spending most, if not all, of their school day in regular education classes with support. Of the one hundred and eighty students in out-of-district placements, Framingham has been successful in either cost sharing the cost of the program with Human Services agencies, such as the Department of Social Services or receiving funding from the State Department of Education to pay for some of the costs through the Circuit Breaker. Framingham received a grant for school year 2005-2006 to provide training and consultation opportunities to selected schools and staff focused on the development of classroom instructional
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modifications in the regular education setting. This grant supported many summer workshops in which regular and special education teachers participated. Areas Of Growth Framingham continues to see a significant increase in the number of children with autism, with multiple disabilities and medical needs, with significant social/emotional disabilities, particularly at the Pre-School and Elementary level. The severity of these disabilities presents challenges to the school district to develop new and additional programs in order to maintain these children in the public schools. The continued increase of children with disabilities whose first language is other than English presents significant challenges in recruiting and hiring qualified Bilingual Special Education Staff. Areas of ongoing needs include: strategies for bridging and coordinating curriculum and materials among regular and special education staff; increased co-taught inclusion classes at the middle and high school levels and increased programming for children with autism at the elementary and middle school levels. Consultation and staff training are necessary in the areas of: teaching students with learning disabilities, strategies for inclusion, community inclusion, strategies for classroom management and implementation of alternate assessment; ongoing coordination among the Bilingual and Special Education offices, particularly relating to assessment and identification of special education for students whose first language is other than English; students with disabilities participation in the statewide Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System
(MCAS), with particular focus on accommodations and alternate assessment. In conclusion, Framingham has continued to implement and provide a comprehensive continuum of programs, services, and placement options for students with disabilities. Framingham is fortunate to have an active Special Education Parent Advisory Council whose role is to advise the special education department and to engage parents of children with disabilities in the schools through meetings and town wide newsletters. Pamela Kaufmann Director of Special Education TITLE I The Title I Program is the nation’s largest federally funded education program for schools across the country and assists millions of elementary and secondary students across the United States. Its goal is to help provide a high quality of education for every child. With Title I grant funds, school districts are able to provide extra help for those children in need of supplemental support. Title I staff assist districts and schools in their efforts to provide services that address identified student needs. Programs use scientifically based research methods to enable low performing students to achieve the State learning standards. The intent of the Title I Program is to help ensure that all students have equal opportunity to obtain a high quality education and reach proficiency on state academic standards. Resources are targeted to districts and schools where the need is the greatest. Title I funding provides additional instructional staff, professional development for staff, extended day programs, and other
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opportunities for increasing student achievement in especially low-income families. Determining what funds the district will receive is based on the poverty rate, which is determined by information generated by the census of individual states. The federal government allocates the funds to the state, who in turn, distributes those funds based on each city and town’s poverty rate, as determined by the “Free and Reduced Lunch Federal Guidelines.” Based on those parameters, Framingham has six schools that meet the criteria for Title I funds: Barbieri, McCarthy, Woodrow Wilson and Brophy Elementary Schools, as well as Cameron and Fuller Middle Schools. It must be noted that schools with a poverty rate greater than or equal to forty percent of their population, must plan and implement a “Schoolwide Program.” This would entitle all students in the school to receive Title I support services. There are four “Schoolwide Programs” in Framingham. They are at Barbieri Elementary School, McCarthy Elementary School and Woodrow Wilson Elementary School as well as the Cameron Middle School. Schools with less than forty percent and greater than the district’s average poverty rate must implement a “Targeted Assistance Program.” A “Targeted Assistance Program” is one where all students are tested and those most in need of support (targeted) are serviced in a variety of ways. Any student meeting the academic criteria for support may receive services regardless of family income. Brophy Elementary School and the Fuller Middle School have “Targeted Assistance Programs.” Parent involvement is a major factor in the Title I Program with very specific guidelines established by both state and federal government. Framingham’s Title I grant funds the Family Learning Center at
the Juniper Hill School. This is a place where parents and children can visit for information about Title I. All Title I information is made available in three languages. Books and other educational materials are made available to all families. Our Family Learning Center also plans and presents a variety of parent training program and a weekly playgroup. Title I staff, programs and services are fully funded with federal funds. In addition to the teaching staff and the Family Learning Center activities, Framingham’s Title I program also offers: Small group instruction In-class assistance Hiring additional teachers and aides Additional professional development for staff Supplemental materials Software Tutoring programs Transportation for Title I programs Overall, the Title I Program is aimed at helping those students who are at-risk and who would benefit from an additional academic support whether inside or outside the traditional classroom setting. The value of Title I cannot be overstated. It is the dedicated staff that makes the difference working with the children. Framingham is fortunate to have highly qualified teachers supporting students in the Title I program. John Foscaldo Director of Title I OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY The Office of Technology is responsible for all administrative and instructional technology for the Framingham Public Schools, and includes the Computer
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Center and the Television Production Studio. Seventeen locations are supported on our fiber optic wide area network (WAN), over 9,000 users (5,500 accounts) and almost 3,000 computers. The focus of the Office of Technology remains two-fold: 1) to address the continued consolidation of the district’s network infrastructure and information management system, and 2) to address the issues surrounding integration of technology within the instructional environment to enhance students’ educational experiences. The Office of Technology continues to advance the district’s level of technology integration in day-to-day instruction by collaborating efforts with the Office of Curriculum and Professional Development. It also is responsible for ensuring the district remains in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act and other applicable regulations to promote a safe environment through the district’s Acceptable Use Policy Guidelines for Internet usage. The Framingham Public School system’s Technology Plan establishes clear goals and strategies, specifically, strategies for using information technology systems and increasing professional development options. As required by the Massachusetts Department of Education, the evaluation of the district’s progress toward meeting technology driven goals include submission of annual reports for each of the district schools by technology specialists. Framingham has had a strong history of supporting the purchase of technology for our schools. This technology plan is designed as a foundation to support the hardware and software that is in place, provide on-going professional development for all staff so the technology is effectively utilized, and provide a support network that will lead
to seamless usage of technology in all schools and by all departments. As the Framingham Public School District moves ahead with many initiatives associated with education reform, our entire school community is aware that we can enhance learning opportunities for all students by providing enriched technology learning environments that support high performance teaching and learning in all disciplines. One of the guiding principles directing the district’s technology plan is that the use of technology must be educationally driven. Making fundamental changes in teaching and learning that technology can provide and not simply trying to fit technology into current practices continues to be a primary goal. The Office of Technology is responsible for all data reporting to the Massachusetts Department of Education. These reports include enrollment, special education, and English Language Learner statistics, which play an important role in determining funding. The Office of Technology continues to submit electronic reports to the state at several points throughout the year. Over the past year the Office of Technology has worked to increase the efficiency of the district’s data handling systems. This includes migrating applications to current technologies, such as web-based systems. Office of Technology staff meets with district members to review and upgrade the data systems on an on-going basis. This past year the Office of Technology has upgraded the district’s network facilities including expanding Internet access, installing an upgraded web server, and increasing network security. These changes allow students and staff to work more efficiently.
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Implementation of IP Phones continues across the district. Currently, approximately thirty percent of the school district buildings are on IP telephones. Over the past year we added McCarthy Elementary School and the BLOCKS Preschool to our IP telephone system. Next year the Office of Technology hopes to increase communications across the district by expanding the IP Phone system. We also will be reviewing and planning additional data security. Through the use of renovation funds, the High School was able to purchase fifty ActivBoards. Framingham High School staff enthusiastically embraced the technology. The boards are a great benefit and have greatly enhanced the educational experience for our students. ActivBoard use was so impressive that the high school was chosen as a demonstration site. Technology directors, principals, and superintendents from schools and systems across the state visited Framingham High School on a demonstration day in October to view some of our teachers’ work. Next year, we look forward to expanding the district-wide data system, which will allow staff to review data more efficiently and streamline reporting to the Department of Education. Christopher H. Martes Superintendent of Schools on behalf of the Office of Technology BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT The School Business Administration Department provides support to the overall educational goals of the School Department. The primary functions of
the office are to provide accounting for Town appropriated School Department budgeted funds and over 70 Revolving Funds and State and Federal Grants. Also, to provide direction/specifications for procurement issues by bidding and requests for proposals, management of Accounts Payable and Receivable funds, and purchasing and management of contracts. There are yearly end of the year fiscal reports that are given to the Department of Education. Food Services, Transportation and Building and Grounds Departments report to the Director of Business Administration. The Town and School have worked together implementing new joint Accounting software called Munis. We are continuously working with Munis to fully utilize all features, including Payroll Projections and specialized Crystal reports. A Crystal report that has begun to show advantages is a salary projection report. The report allows us to generate year to date expenditures for individuals and compare the salary projection to the budget. One important goal is to allow the RC Directors the capability to run financial reports through Munis for their own departments. The RC Directors in FY07 should begin training to run their own accounting reports. This will give them more control of their budgets and the ability to provide better service to the students. An updated version of the electronic purchase order system was implemented in the school departments this fiscal year. This allows the school department to electronically encumber funds for any and all items and contracted services they need for their school operations, resulting in a more efficiently run and more fiscally responsible department/school. Special Education costs will continue to be monitored throughout the next fiscal
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year. The Circuit Breaker SPED State funding formula has helped Framingham support rising SPED costs. At this point we feel there will be no new funding or significant increase in the formula. The state will continue to adjust the formula for local school districts. This is an area that the School system will monitor in FY07. Our new student database has permitted us to take full advantage of applying for State and Federal government programs that will help support local contributions. We have seen a decrease in funding from State and Federal grants in the past year. These grants have supported many programs and salaries. We will continue to look for more funding through them as well as other sources. Fiscal Year 06 had its challenges in many areas of the school budget. We continue to be challenged by an increasing number of students moving to Framingham with costly needs. Utilities were also a challenge with the high cost of energy. Maintenance of the school buildings and grounds was difficult last year due to high cost of maintenance of building accounts. The operating school budget was able to fund these overages by freezing spending, not hiring replacement personnel, and utilizing grants and revolving accounts. In addition, the School Business Office has computerized all accounting functions for school appropriations, grants and revolving accounts. The goal is to improve services and fiscal accountability. David C. Proule Director of Business Administration BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS 2006 was a very hectic year with the final Phase IV turnover and occupancy of the
Framingham High School Renovation Project, Special Projects and several capital projects underway. School utilization over the summer months by FPS athletic programs, summer school programs and outside organizations, continue to make it a challenge in scheduling traditional summer maintenance and cleaning completed in a very short period of time. The maintenance personnel were especially busy during the summer months remodeling, repainting and rearranging classrooms, installing new data and electrical receptacles in many classrooms and offices throughout the school district. There were numerous staff relocations over the summer due to program changes and relocations to allow better utilization of facilities. The restructuring of the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs effected Barbieri Elementary School, Brophy Elementary School, Hemenway Elementary School, Fuller Middle School, and the King Administration Building creating additional workload for Buildings and Grounds department staff. The annual cleaning and sanitizing program in all our school buildings has become more challenging due to the extensive utilization of our facilities. The custodians should be commended for arranging their schedules to creatively accommodate building needs. I want to commend all the custodians for their hard work, diligence and dedication to their buildings in efforts to accomplish the exemplary results with short staff and the constant juggling of spaces and programs. Capital Projects Capital Projects over the past year consisted of the continuation of the replacement of the underground sanitary lines and fixtures at Fuller Middle School.
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This work was done in-house rather than subcontracting the work to a private contractor. New boilers were installed in five schools and the new roof was installed on the Stapleton Elementary School. The replacement of the five boilers completes the district’s long-range boiler replacement program. All school buildings now have state of the art boilers and electronic controls. The Stapleton Elementary School was scheduled for a new roof last year. When the project went out to bid, the bids came in significantly higher than funding. Supplemental funding was approved by Town Meeting last year, which allowed the project to move forward in 2006. The roof is now installed and recently underwent final inspection by the manufacturer’s representative. Special Projects Even with a limited Special Projects budget, numerous Special Projects were undertaken this past year. Despite the distractions associated with the untimely departure of the High School project’s General Contractor before building turnover, the extraordinary maintenance staff was able to have the building ready for the opening of school. Special Projects were undertaken at various other schools and are listed below. Barbieri Elementary School The summer months at Barbieri Elementary School saw the installation of new ventilation equipment for two art rooms, the installation of a new rooftop heating unit with ductwork and new ceilings and lights for these spaces. State mandated fire alarm testing of the entire system was accomplished over the summer involving our fire alarm contractor, elevator contractor, Framingham Fire Department and sprinkler subcontractor, where applicable,
and our school department electrician to help coordinate all parties being present at one time. Brophy Elementary School The Brophy Elementary School also had the entire fire alarm inspected and tested as described for the Barbieri School. As part of the window upgrades, one section of the school had the existing clouded Lexan panels removed and replaced with clear glass panes. We also contracted with a private contractor for pothole and minor paving repairs to be completed over the summer months. Dunning Elementary School The fire alarm was tested and certified over the summer and some minor repairs were done to the smoke detector part of the system. A private general contractor was hired to make repairs to several pothole areas in the parking lot and driveway areas around the school. Numerous windows had the clouded Lexan panels replaced with new glass panes in an effort to provide more natural light for several classrooms. Fuller Middle School The Fuller Middle School had five classrooms carpeted over the summer to accommodate incoming hearing-impaired students. As part of our ongoing glass replacement program, the courtyard windows, adjacent to the administration area, were replaced with new glass, replacing the clouded Lexan panels. In addition, NStar installed a new gas service line from Route 9 to the building. The service required reconfiguring the new dual fuel burners on the recently installed boilers and our heating mechanic worked with the Wilkinson Company to make the changes and add new gas lines from the boilers to the front of the building where the new gas meter was located. Fuller Middle School had a roof inspection and
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minor repairs done as part of their annual manufacturer’s inspection and it allowed us to extend the roof warranty for an additional five years. Framingham High School Although the General Contractor defaulted on the project just days short of trying for final inspection for occupancy, the Buildings and Grounds Department completed several critical repairs and installations in the auditorium and kitchen wing of the building necessary for an occupancy permit prior to the first day of school. The school is fully occupied but punch list work remains to be completed before the building will be accepted in its entirety. Some of the work we performed included installing locks and hanging medical storage cabinets in the Health Suite, replacing winch hoists and locking equipment in the gymnasium, removing and relocating temporary Family Consumer Science classrooms from the C Wing to the F Wing, furnished and installed new sinks in the J Wing ceramics room, relocated the Copy Center from the King Administration Building to the K Wing Graphic Arts section and had the upper parking lot markings repainted after the final course of paving was installed. Buildings and Grounds coordinated and supervised the site work and concrete pier installation for a new playground for students in the Blocks Program in one of the rear courtyards. Hemenway Elementary School Over the summer, Hemenway Elementary School received a new playground thanks to the efforts of the PTO in conjunction with some key site demolition, reshaping and paving performed by the Framingham Department of Public Works (DPW). The DPW did an excellent job regrading and restoring nearly the entire side of the school parking lot. The playground is probably the finest in Town and is the
result of the PTO raising nearly $100,000.00 combined with some grant funds over the past couple of years. The students at Hemenway are very fortunate to have such a spectacular playground. Also, one entire side of the school had all new glass panes installed to remove the clouded Lexan panels installed years ago. Juniper Hill School Juniper Hill continues to be home to several School Department administrators and only minor touch up painting was required this year. Juniper Hill also underwent the annual fire alarm testing that has been described above. King Administration Building In an effort to expand teaching space, the Special Education Department was relocated to the Maynard Building and the original kitchen area was transformed into a staff meeting/workroom. The original stoves and exhaust hood were removed, patched and repaired the tile floor, painted the entire space, installed upgraded lighting, electrical outlets and receptacles. This allows for better use of the old offices as small individual learning spaces. The old office spaces had the walls repainted, carpets cleaned and electrical and data upgrades done. Blocks expanded the playground at the rear of the building and Buildings and Grounds personnel supervised and coordinated the site expansion and restoration. The King Building also had a complete fire alarm test and inspection this past summer as outlined above. Jonathan Maynard Building Although the Maynard Building does not belong to the School Department, the Town permitted the School Department’s utilization of several vacant office suites on the third floor for the relocation of the Special Education Department. This relocation accommodated the expanding
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need for space in the Blocks Program at the King Building. We repaired the damaged walls left by previous tenants, repaired and replaced ceilings tiles as necessary, updated the data and telephone systems, repainted the suites and cleaned and shampooed the carpets. As needed, we also replaced some old, damaged lighting fixtures. McCarthy Elementary School A new gas line was put in place along Flagg Drive to service McCarthy Elementary School as part of the gas line expansion from Route 9 and the recently installed boilers had the burners converted over to natural gas operation. Buildings and Grounds personnel worked with the Wilkinson Company to install a new gas line and pad at the front of the school to service the burners. The school now operates solely on natural gas. Potter Road Elementary School A section of clouded Lexan window panels was replaced with clear glass panes over the summer months. Potter Road Elementary School was the recipient of some new wood benches and easel outside of the building, thanks to FHS student John Savino as part of his Eagle Scout Project. John did a fine job and the benches and easel look great. As with the other schools, Potter Road had its entire fire alarm system tested and certified over the summer. In conjunction with several other schools, a private contractor was hired to do minor repairs to numerous potholes in the parking lots. Stapleton Elementary School The new Stapleton Elementary School roof was installed over the summer. Because of the anticipated roof replacement, very little work was scheduled for the summer months, but we were able to get the entire cafetorium repainted and also installed several new
panes of glass to replace the clouded Lexan panels. The Stapleton School entire fire alarm system was tested and certified over the summer months as part of our annual testing program. Thayer Campus This building underwent interior classroom painting and expansion of the second floor bathroom to improve the functionality of the second floor spaces. The Thayer Campus fire alarm system was also tested and certified during the summer. Transportation Office Buildings and Grounds Department carpenters fabricated and installed cubicles for the bus drivers to store their fire extinguishers, flashlights and cell phones. Walsh Middle School The Home Economics spaces were repaired with new counters and reconfigured to make the spaces more user friendly and to accommodate new teaching methods. The Walsh School fire alarm system was tested and some repairs were necessary to resolve some issues. The repairs were successful and the system was re-tested and certified as operational. Eleven rooftop ventilation fans were replaced in different locations to improve the air flow in the building and upgrades were performed on the original units that were worn out or inoperable. Clouded Lexan panels were removed and clear glass panes were installed in the foyer of the building providing a more enhanced entrance to the school. The entrance now brightens up the foyer and front offices. The Health Suite received new Venetian blinds to replace the old worn out units. Woodrow Wilson Elementary School Although Woodrow Wilson Elementary School is relatively new, a section of
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driveway in the front of the school began to sink. Upon further inspection, it was discovered that some of the underground rainwater storage chambers had failed. The end result was that approximately one hundred and twenty five feet of the parking lot had to be removed and new concrete underground chambers were used to replace the failing polymer chambers installed during construction. Due to the safety issues involved the damaged area was excavated and the existing damaged underground retention chambers were removed. These were then replaced with concrete chambers, refilled, compacted and repaved. This work was performed while school was in session. Students in the classrooms adjacent to the front parking lot were able to observe up close some interesting underground construction work and the teachers used it to their benefit.
In closing, I would like to express the appreciation of all Buildings and Grounds personnel to all FPS staff and administrators for their patience and understanding during the constant disruptions and activity relocations created by the High School Renovation Project over the past four years. For Matt Torti, Assistant Director, and myself, I want to offer our thanks and appreciation to our staff of custodians and maintenance personnel for their performance, professionalism and dedication during a very hectic, busy year. Hopefully things will return to a somewhat normal routine in our schools, gymnasiums and playing fields. John T. Kubitza Director of Buildings and Grounds
KEEFE TECHNICAL SCHOOL
In June of 2006, the School Committee reorganized and elected the following officers: Chairperson, William Gaine (Ashland); Vice Chairperson, Nelson Goldin (Framingham); Treasurer, Jack Keating; Assistant Treasurer, Larry Cooper (Framingham); and Secretary, A.J. Mulvey (Framingham). The School Committee holds its regularly scheduled meetings on the first Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the committee meeting room at the school. Keefe Technical School has been removed from the “Watch” list under the State Office of Educational Quality and Accountability. The status was assigned to the school in November 2003. The school was removed from the status due to:
A dramatic shift in the culture of the school to one where academic and vocational learning have become more rigorous and the preparation for life long learning and success has become the goal. A dramatic increase in the graduation rate as indicated by the number of students meeting the state competency determination. The Class of 2007 will meet our goal of having 100% of the students achieve competency determination. They will graduate with a fully approved diploma as a result of meeting the school and state standards. A dramatic increase in the MCAS passing rate in English Language Arts (ELA) and math for students taking the Grade 10 test after only one and one-half years of Keefe
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Tech instruction. The passing rate has increased from 21% ELA and 16% in mate in 2002 to 83% in ELA and 69% in math for the spring 2006 Grade 10 test administration. The majority of these students had not passed the MCAS tests prior to enrolling at Keefe. Keefe Technical School is a regional public vocational technical high school serving Ashland, Framingham, Holliston, Hopkinton and Natick. Out of 381 school districts in Massachusetts, Keefe has a significant population of: -students who are special education with an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), -students who are classified as “Limited English Proficient”, and -students who do not have English as a first language.
Despite these challenges, Keefe Tech is delivering an outstanding education. Keefe ranked in the top 10 among all high schools in the state in improving in MCAS test scores between 2002-2006. In the spring of 2006, our Grade 11 students took the Stanford Diagnostic Reading and Mathematics series as a post-test. They had taken this as a pre-test prior to beginning at Keefe in grade nine. For the second straight year, the average grade level improvement, with only two and one half years of instruction, exceeded three grade levels in both reading and mathematics. Our ability to measure individual student growth efficiently has improved significantly and allows us to do in-house scoring thus reducing the previous waiting time to receive scores. This is an important tool.
The vocational technical programs continue to be strong. Currently, our major initiative is to participate actively in the development and implementation of the new Massachusetts Vocational Curriculum Frameworks. These frameworks have been validated by our advisory board members. They have been submitted to the Department of Education and have now been approved for each of our vocational technical programs. This initiative is a major step forward as we continue to provide state-of-the-art vocational technical training programs that both meet the needs of students and also achieve the goal of positioning them for immediate employment or further education. We aggressively seek and meet industry recognized standards through independent third party validation. Over 75% of our vocational/technical programs have achieved or are connected to an independent third party validation. Each of the 14 programs also meets current Massachusetts Department of Education Chapter 74 approval standards. The following programs have achieved third party validation: Automotive Technology
National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF)
Business Technology Business Professionals of America
(BPA) Microsoft Office User Specialist (MOUS)
Cosmetology Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Board of Cosmetology in cosmetology, Aesthetics, and Manicuring
Culinary Arts American Culinary Federation (ACF)
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Serv Safe Certification Electrical
Mass. Board of Electrical Examiners Graphic Arts PrintEd Certified Health Careers Mass. Department of Public Health Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Information Technology A+Computer Technology
Certification Cisco Certified Academy for
Networking & Telecommunications Metals Technology American Welding Society (AWS) Plumbing Mass. State Board of Examiners of
Plumbing and Gas Fitters
Early Education and Care is now a full three year vocational technical program. The program has secured Department of Education approval and is working on developing a third party validation. This exciting addition to our offerings will eventually include an in-house pre-school. The money for renovations to create the facility is included in the budget as of this date. Training to become a teacher in the rapidly expanding field of early education and care is the goal. The first graduation class from EEC will be in June of 2007. In June of 2007, the carpentry students and staff completed the 29th house building project on Nixon Road in Framingham with an added distinction of being the first home to earn the prestigious “Energy Star” rating. This is another example of providing our students with training that matters. Graduation Saturday, June 3, 2006, marked Keefe Tech’s 33rd commencement exercise. Ninety-seven percent (97%) of the class
of 2006 met the competency determination (CD) having passed the MCAS test in English Language Arts and mathematics; students therefore received a full diploma, having met both the graduation requirements of the school and of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Our graduates received over $300,000 in scholarships and awards; 35% of the class indicated that they would be pursuing further education. Over 90% had secured employment as of graduation day. Graduation day for the Class of 2007 is scheduled for June 2, 2007. Student Enrollment On August 29, 2006, Keefe Tech welcomed 178 grade nine students to our school. The school population of 715 includes students from Ashland (46), Framingham (532), Holliston (31), Hopkinton (23), Natick (62), and 21 students accepted from out-of-district communities. Continuing Education Our extremely popular continuing education program continues to attract over 5,000 adults each year to a diverse and affordable array of courses. Continuing education brochures can be obtained by calling (508) 935-0202 or by going to our website: www.keefetech.org and clicking on continuing education. We currently offer the construction supervisor’s license preparation course via distance learning and are always looking for suggestions for additional courses. E-mail us. Student Activities Vocational Student Activities (VSO’s) include: SkillsUSA, Business Professionals of America (BPA), FFA (Agricultural Education) and American Culinary Federation Access (ACF). These are national professional organizations for
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career and technical students that promote leadership, citizenship, and character development through programs and activities. There are also opportunities for awards and scholarships at the local, state, and national level. Members also participate in activities, workshops, and conferences to develop their job skills, communication abilities, and leadership skills. Nearly 100% of our students participate in a VSO. Siemens Energy Project The Siemens Energy Project is nearing completion and represents a major overhaul to the energy related components of a 33 plus year old facility. The costs for this 7.5 million dollar project are included as part of our utilities project and is a lease to purchase agreement which is covered under Massachusetts State Law Chapter 25 A and B. Siemens guaranteed savings in utilities are used to make the lease to purchase payments. A creative way to improve our facility for many years to come without having to ask our communities to fund an expensive bond issue. FY08 Budget The school committee has completed the budget sub-committee process. The sub-committee recommended preliminary budget represents an increase of 8.6% over the FY’08 budget. A public informational session was held on January 16th. A public hearing and full committee consideration and vote will take place in February. The most significant increases
are in the areas of health insurance, miscellaneous insurance and utilities costs. All employee groups will be negotiating contracts for FY’08. All costs resulting from these negotiations must be borne within the approved budget. When line items, such as health insurance, that are not normally included in a school budget are subtracted, our total increase is actually 4.6% over FY’07. The Keefe budget is all inclusive. As of October 1, 2006, 532 students from Framingham were enrolled in our regular high school program. Your representatives to the Keefe Tech School Committee are: Argentina Arias, Larry Cooper, Linda Fobes, Nelson Goldin, Esther Hopkins, John Kahn, A.J. Mulvey, and Michael Rossi. We continue to enjoy an excellent relationship with the Framingham Public Schools and are working cooperatively to provide the best opportunities for youth and adults in the South Middlesex District. Keefe Tech has proudly served the needs of secondary level and adult learners for thirty-three plus years. I have always had Keefe Tech pride. I humbly report to you that I have never been more proud of our school as we meet the myriad of challenges that come our way. Respectfully submitted, Peter D. Dewar Superintendent-Director
FRAMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY Improvements to facilities, advancements in technology, increased programming and
securing of grants highlighted a successful 2006 at the Framingham Public Library.
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The year began with Assistant Library Director Jeanne Kelley also serving as Acting Director of Libraries. Jeanne performed both roles with energy and enthusiasm making for a smooth transition for the new library director. Staff, patrons and trustees of the library are indeed indebted to Jeanne for her dedication and generosity. Building challenges continued to be at the fore front throughout the year. The library continued to address the ramifications of burst pipes and water damage at the main library resulting in damage to two thousand books and furnishings. Library staff did an outstanding job salvaging books and finding replacements for lost items. Handicapped access violation corrections at the McAuliffe Branch were completed with the installation of automatic doors and the construction of a handicapped ramp. The understanding and patience of patrons and staff during these projects was most appreciated, as was the coordination of the work by the Town Building Services Department. Capital improvement requests for the Branch received favorable action from the Capital Planning Committee and Town Meeting members. Funding was authorized for a new HVAC system, carpeting, staff workroom improvements, replacement windows and a new building security system. These improvements address basic health, safety, security and operational issues at this facility. At the main library, an upgrading of all interior and exterior lighting, including in the parking garage, was accomplished through an energy saving program administered by the Town’s electricity supplier. The changing out of decade old light bulbs and ballasts has resulted in considerable savings in these times of escalating energy costs. This project was
made possible with funding secured by the Town’s Chief Financial Officer. Other improvements included the humane removal of pigeons (a long-standing problem) from the parking garage. Repairs to rain gutters, roof top HVAC units, plumbing fixtures, the boiler, and doors were all accomplished with the generous coordination of the Town Building Services Department. Improvements to landscaping, including the removal of several overgrown trees was accomplished by the Town’s Department of Public Works. As at the branch library, a Capital Improvement Plan for the main library addressing basic health, safety, access and security issues has been developed. Many enhancements to the library’s computer network, including new hardware and software, was accomplished with the generous cooperation and direction of the Town’s Technology Services Department. The library continued to do an outstanding job of meeting the needs of its patrons. In FY2006, the total system-wide circulation, including interlibrary loans was 982,212. A total of 388,587 visits were made to the library this year, an average of 7,483 visits per week. A typical week recorded 852 uses of Internet and electronic resources and 2,211 reference transactions. Presently, there are 35,362 town residents with an active Framingham Public library card.
Reaching Out To The Community
In 2006, the library launched a new effort to increase adult programming. An Adult Programs Committee comprised of library staff, trustees, and members of the community was formed early in the year, and as a result, the library realized a 500%
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increase in programming. The library offered events with popular authors such as Elinor Lipman and Linda Barnes, several classic film series, six scholar-led book discussions, a Portuguese documentary film, and a two-part program of Hitchcock films led by film scholar Dr. Arthur Nolletti, Jr. In April, the Framingham Public Library celebrated its 150th anniversary year with a weekend of popular activities that included a talk by crime writer Robert B. Parker, a Dixieland jazz concert, and family crafts and storytelling. This initiative has been met with enthusiasm from patrons and members of the community. The library staff continues to have a strong commitment to community outreach. This year, staff members participated in three health fairs, contributed to panel discussions on two local television shows, and helped celebrate the town’s first Earth Day event. The library also took part in “National Night Out,” an anti-crime event designed to promote community spirit. On an ongoing basis, the library offers group tours for patrons, particularly adult ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) students. In addition, the library continues to collaborate with other town agencies, including the START Framingham Partnership, the Cultural Triangle Partnership, Framingham Adult ESL (FAESL), the Framingham Historical Society and Museum, the Cultural Council, and local public schools.
Welcoming New Patrons
The Newcomers and Neighbors Center is a new initiative of the Framingham Public Library. Established with a planning grant from the CARLISLE Foundation, the
Center is designed to be a physical and virtual “Help Desk” for all newcomers—new to the area from other countries, other states, or other parts of Massachusetts. The Center addresses the immediate, practical information and referral needs of new residents, particularly in areas such as employment, housing, education, health care, and other topics of concern. It also provides an umbrella primarily for people who live or work in Framingham to come together in a positive way, share information, and generally help to acclimate and educate those who are new to our community. The Center is staffed by a part-time coordinator, Community Advisory Board, and trained volunteers, many of whom are bilingual. The Center is located in the main lobby of the library and is open 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., Monday – Thursday and 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturdays. We are very excited about this new project and its potential to fill a real void in the community. Recently, the CARLISE Foundation recognized the Center’s progress and awarded a grant for $30,000 to fund the program for its first year.
Library Trustees News
At the annual town election in April 2006, Trustees Ann Arvedon, Sheila Burke Fair and Jan Harrington were re-elected. Nancy Coville-Wallace was elected to her first term replacing long-serving Claire Friel. Ruth Winett was elected for a one-year term created by the resignation of Jake Bajakian in 2005. The Board of Trustees saw the departure of two dedicated and hard-working Trustees – Claire Friel and Karen LaChance. To recognize their combined service of over 50 years, the Trustees hosted a reception in their honor.
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The vacancy created by the resignation of Karen LaChance was filled at a joint meeting of the Board of Selectmen and the Library Trustees. Danielle Barney was appointed to serve for one year to complete the remainder of Ms. LaChance’s term. At the annual re-organization meeting in April, the Trustees elected the following officers: Donna Howland, Chair; Jan Harrington, Vice-Chair; Bob Dodd, Treasurer; Ann Arvedon, Secretary. This year the Trustees launched several new initiatives and increased the scope of their work, which is reflected in an expansion of committee assignments. Thanks to Jo-Anne Thompson for her work as Chair of the expanded Trust Funds and Donations Committee, Kurt Samuelson, Chair of Building and Grounds Committee, Jan Harrington, Chair of the Long-Range Planning Committee; Ann Arvedon, Liaison to both Literacy Unlimited and the Newcomers and Neighbors Center; Phyllis Jachowicz, Co-Chair of the Personnel Committee; and Sheila Burke Fair, Co-Chair of Personnel, Chair of the new Governance Committee and Liaison to the Friends of the Framingham Library. This was a year of change and transition for the library and the Board of Trustees as a result of the addition of three new Trustees and the departure of our long-serving and well-respected Director, Tom Gilchrist, who retired in December 2005. The Trustees wish to thank Assistant Director, Jeanne Kelley, who served so capably as Acting Director in the interim period prior to the start of our new Director, Mark Contois. The Trustees are very pleased that Mark chose to serve Framingham as he has brought a new level of energy and excitement to the library.
This feeling of excitement was much in evidence on the weekend of April 29 and 30 when the library officially celebrated both the 150th Anniversary of the founding of the library and the 50th Anniversary of the Friends of the Framingham Library. April 29th was designated as McAuliffe Day with craft activities held at the McAuliffe Branch and Sparky’s Puppet Show at the main library. The events of April 30th began with a Gala Tea in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the Friends. Joining the festivities were Mr. Dennis Giombetti, Chair of the Board of Selectmen; Ms. Valerie Mulvey, Acting Town Manager; State Senator Karen Spilka; and the late State Rep. Deborah Blumer who presented The Friends and the library with a proclamation from the State Legislature. Following the tea, the public was welcomed to a performance of the Wolverine Jazz Band, stories by storyteller Betty Lehrman, tours of the library and a special appearance by author Robert Parker. Several hundred people joined in this celebration making it a very special day in the history of the library. One new initiative begun in 2006 brings both a sense of joy and sorrow to the library. It was the dream of the late Rep. Deborah Blumer to create a center in the library that would be a welcoming place at which newcomers to Framingham could find information to help them feel at home. Through the combined efforts of many people, including Rep. Blumer and the library staff, the Newcomers and Neighbors Center held its official opening on October 17. Sadly, this occurred just a few short days after the tragic passing of our beloved Representative. A second initiative begun in 2006 will carry the library forward for many years. In April, the Trustees launched a long-
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range planning process led by Vice-Chair Jan Harrington. Jan recommended that we follow a new approach to planning which would rely extensively on community involvement. Following her advice, the Trustees appointed a planning committee comprised of four library staff members including the Director and Assistant Director; the Chair, Vice-Chair and Treasurer of the Library Board; and ten members of the community selected to represent a cross-section of the population and community interests. The plan from the committee is expected to be completed in the fall of 2007. As an outgrowth of the Anniversary Celebration, the Trustees created an Adult Program Planning Committee, Co-Chaired by Trustee Bob Dodd and Community Services Librarian, Michelle LeMonde-McIntyre. Together with the committee, they have organized many more programs than can be listed in this report. Some of the highlights include a summer classic film series featuring ice cream generously donated by Mad Willie’s of Framingham; a Hitchcock film series with guest speaker Dr. Arthur Noletti of Framingham State College; a scholar-led book discussion series on the theme of “They Made a Difference” managed by Dr. Mary Murphy; and a classic romantic film series enriched by pastries donated by B & J Bakery. The Trustees were also pleased to host a staff appreciation luncheon in honor of the many hours of dedicated service provided by the library staff and the first Town Meeting Day, which was organized by Town Meeting Moderator Joel Winett. This event was held to recognize the numerous contributions that Town
Meeting members make to the community of Framingham. During the year the Trustees welcomed several guests to their meetings. In September, Human Resources Director, Monica Visco, attended the Board meeting at which she assisted the Trustees in developing a process by which the new Director will be evaluated. In October, the Board was very pleased to welcome new Town Manager, Julian Suso. The Trustees look forward to working together with him in the future. In December, the Trustees invited Ms. Sunny Vandermark, Administrator of the MetroWest Regional Library System, to attend the monthly meeting. Ms. Vandermark is an expert in long-range planning and she has graciously offered to lend her expertise to our efforts. This brings me to the end of the year and the end of the Trustee’s Report. As this will be my last year serving on the Board of Trustees, I would like to conclude with my sincere thanks to the citizens of Framingham for giving me this opportunity to serve the interests of the library. I would also like to express my deep appreciation to Trustee Phyllis Jachowicz, who also is retiring from the Board, for her many years of service. As I leave the Board I know that the library is being led by wise and caring people who always put the interests of the library first. Respectfully submitted, Donna L. Howland Chairperson Mark J. Contois Director of Libraries
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TOWN COUNSEL
Introduction & Overview I am pleased to provide the 2006 Annual Report of the Office of the Town Counsel. I operate the Office of the Town Counsel in accordance with Article II, Section 5 of the General Bylaws. I represent the Town in various litigation in which the Town is involved, and appear on behalf of the Town before all courts and administrative agencies of the Commonwealth. In addition, I serve as a liaison and a resource to various special counsel and insurance counsel representing the Town in a variety of legal matters. I also attend meetings of all boards, committees and commissions of the Town that I am requested to attend. I also draft all documents and review legal contracts, deeds and agreements to which the Town is a party. I provide advice and opinions to the Board of Selectmen, Town Manager, and various division heads and department heads in accordance with the Town bylaws and the Policy for Access to Town Counsel adopted by the Board of Selectmen in January of 2002. I also report quarterly on pending litigation to the Litigation Liaison Committee (consisting of two Selectmen, two Finance Committee appointees, one representative each from the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Town Manager and myself). I attend the Annual Town Meeting and all special town meetings, and am available to provide opinions at such meetings upon request. I review all non-petition warrant articles prior to inclusion in the warrant, and also am available to review and comment upon written motions submitted to me in advance in conjunction with specific warrant articles.
Over the past several years, the litigation in which the Town is named as a party has grown in volume, scope and complexity. I historically have found that a variety of the Town’s features make it attractive to developers, social service agencies, and corporations, and these proponents usually pursue their proposed projects full bore. If the proponents’ development projects are not permitted by our land use boards, the proponents often expend substantial resources to challenge the denial of the permits in court. Litigation filed by Paulini Loam, Wayside Youth and Family Services, and the Great Brook Valley Health Center in 2006, all discussed in further detail below, all are examples of this. This office has continued to handle the increasingly complex and heavy volume of litigation in which the Town is involved with efficiency, focus and positive results. Included in Section II of this report is a comprehensive list describing the status of litigation or substantial matters that were active in 2006, as required by Town bylaws. Included in Section III of this report is a Budgetary Overview section that analyzes the Town Counsel budget as compared to other municipalities, and which also summarizes the positive revenue streams that the efforts of this office has helped yield in 2006 and in prior years. Positive accomplishments which this office achieved or helped to achieve in 2006 include the following: Successful negotiation of a new 20-year Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) with the Town of Ashland, whereby Framingham will continue to transport Ashland’s wastewater to the MWRA system (as it has since 1963), and receive in return approximately $600,000 on an annual
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basis. In addition to the annual payments received by Framingham for wastewater transport, the Town will receive an additional $200,000 per year for five years, until one million dollars is paid, in settlement of litigation pending in Middlesex Superior Court that was filed seeking compensation for system impacts caused by Ashland’s sewage flow through the Framingham system. Between 1963 and 2003, the Town of Framingham received only $5500 per year for providing this service, but the successful prosecution of litigation filed with the Department of Telecommunications (DTE) by this office resulted in a 100-fold annual increase of the prior annual payments, and the new formula approved by the DTE has been incorporated into the new IMA. The new IMA was approved by overwhelming margins by the Framingham and Ashland Town meetings in the spring of 2006, and the IMA should be executed by the respective boards of selectmen of the two towns in January of 2007. As discussed further in Section III below, the settlement of various litigation and disputes in 2006 helped bring in additional revenue streams over and above the continued revenue streams realized by the Town as a result of other litigation efforts. In 2006 the Town settled longstanding litigation with Comcast and resolved breach proceedings against RCN. In the litigation between the Town and Comcast, this office was able to help secure capital payments to the Town and the newly created Public Access Corporation (PAC) of sums totaling $375,000, payment of a percentage of Comcast’s annual revenue stream to the Town or PAC for purposes of offering public, educational or government cable programming, the continued provision of free cable service to the Town and School Department, and conveyance to the Town of Comcast’s existing studio equipment and mobile
production van. This office also assisted the Board of Selectmen in resolution of license breach proceedings instituted against RCN, resulting in a payment of $100,000 by RCN to the Town and RCN’s agreement to forgive and forego credits in the amount of $55,335 owed by the Town. Collectively, the settlement of pending litigation and breach proceedings with Comcast and RCN resulted or will result in well over $500,000 in one-time settlement or capital payments, and an additional revenue stream on an annual basis so that the Town or the PAC can continue to offer public, educational and governmental programming. In FY 2006 the Town continued to reap the benefits of past litigation successes. For instance, as described in more detail in Section III below, the Town received $554,489.29 from Ashland in FY 2006 for sewage transport after the successful completion of the DTE sewer litigation in 2004. The Town also received payments for mitigation from Natick Mall developer General Growth Properties in FY 2006 in the amount of $250,000 obtained by way of a settlement of litigation brought by the Town and the Planning Board challenging the Natick Planning Board’s issuance of a special permit in connection with the construction of improvements at the new Natick Mall and associated residential expansion. As set forth in last year’s Annual Report, this settlement includes various cash payments to Framingham for designated mitigation purposes, such as open space preservation and the construction of the Cochituate Rail Trail, funding various signalization and traffic studies, and performing various in-kind work. The Natick Mall litigation settlement realized tangible benefits in FY 2006 and will realize continued benefits in future fiscal years.
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In FY 2006, I also brought separate litigation against General Growth Properties at the request of the Department of Public Works and the Board of Selectmen, challenging the developer’s installation of private sewer lines in and adjacent to a sewer easement on General Growth’s property within which Framingham’s sewer lines were installed. This litigation resulted in the issuance of an order of permanent injunction against General Growth, requiring that the developer install its sewer lines in a manner that would not unreasonably interfere with Framingham’s use of and enjoyment of the easement, and further requiring the developer to assume the cost of future repairs to the Framingham sewer lines within the easement in the areas where the private lines crossed the Framingham sewer lines, without proof of causation of responsibility. The developer also agreed to assume certain costs of monitoring the installation of the private sewer lines that had been incurred by the Framingham Department of Public Works, and further agreed to record instruments at the Middlesex (South) Registry of Deeds establishing certain relocated sewer easements. Along with the Town Manager and the Building Commissioner, I participated in and contributed to the successful negotiations with South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) in 2006, whereby SMOC agreed to voluntarily close the Common Ground Shelter, commonly known as the wet shelter,
located at 105 Irving Street in Framingham. I was able to avoid substantial expense to the Town by persuading the Town’s insurance provider, the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA), to defend the Town in civil rights litigation brought by Wayside Youth and Family Services that presently is pending in federal district court. Wayside brought this action against the Town and the Board of Selectmen after the Board denied Wayside’s application for a public way access permit in connection with the development of its proposed campus facility off of Lockland Avenue in Framingham. MIIA initially resisted assuming the defense on coverage grounds, but subsequently agreed to defend the town pursuant to a reservation of rights letter. MIIA’s assumption of the Town’s defense in this civil rights case will save the Town tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees, although it is uncertain whether the insurance will cover any damages that may be awarded in favor of Wayside and against the Town in the future. 2006 Report on Status of Framingham Cases In accordance with Art. II. Secs. 5.8 and 1.5 of the General Bylaws, set forth below is a list of the Framingham cases that were active in 2006. I have included the case name, type of case, and a brief description of the case with the 2006 activities summarized in the last column on the right.
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A. TOWN COUNSEL CASES
MATTER TYPE 2006 STATUS/DISPOSITION
Amerada Hess v. Zoning Board of Appeals
Zoning Gasoline station corporation appealed denial of special permits to add convenience store to gas station on Hollis Street. In 2005, applicant dismissed prior appeal and filed application for smaller convenience store. The ZBA denied the revised proposal and Hess appealed this denial. Trial was held in the Land Court on October 16, 2006. Post-trial briefs are due January 22, 2007. A decision is expected in late 2007.
Balboni v. Town of Framingham
Handicap Discrimination
The claimant filed this claim with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination alleging that the Town discriminated against him on the basis of an alleged handicap. The matter arose after the Town declined to hire the complainant for a laborer's position in the DPW after the complainant revealed he had a back condition. The claimant argued the Town violated G.L. 151B after failing to properly examine the claimant. The Town's position is that the complainant cannot perform the essential duties of the position. In 2006 the Town filed its Position Statement in response to the claimant’s Charge of Discrimination. The matter is presently under advisement before the MCAD.
Bicalho, et al. v. Framingham Zoning Board of Appeals I and II
Zoning The plaintiffs, owners of a transmission repair shop on Howard Street, filed an application with the ZBA in the fall of 2005 to expand the terms of their 2001 Special Permit to authorize the conduct of general automotive activities in addition to transmission repair work. The ZBA denied the application and issued a finding that the original 2001 Special Permit had lapsed and been abandoned. The plaintiffs filed an appeal of the Board’s denial of the special permit application. Subsequently, after the ZBA upheld the Building Commissioner’s issuance of an order and citation commanding the plaintiffs to cease all activities at the property (including transmission repair), the plaintiffs filed a second land action appealing that decision. Soon after the second appeal the plaintiffs sought and obtained a preliminary injunction to enjoin the Town from prohibiting the plaintiffs from performing transmission repairs upon the property. Discovery is ongoing in both cases and motions for summary judgment may be filed.
Blais Civil Service Appeal Civil Service In 2004 Officer Albert Blais appealed various internal suspensions to the state Civil Service
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Commission. The Commission has scheduled a full hearing in this matter for March 19, 2007.
Calvao, Duarte and all others similarly situated v. Town of Framingham
Fair Labor Standards Act Statutory Claim
This action was filed in the United States District Court on May 5, 2005, under the Fair Standards Labor Act (“FLSA”), by Framingham police officers against the Town of Framingham alleging that the Town Police Department failed to appropriately compute and pay overtime wages as required by FLSA. The plaintiffs specifically claim that that the Town failed to include in their hourly overtime rate regular amounts received by the plaintiffs for educational incentives, shift differentials, specialty assignment payments, and other regular elements of compensation received by plaintiffs as required by the FLSA. The plaintiffs’ claim that the Town’s conduct amounts to a willful violation of FLSA, which would allow for the award of liquidated damages, attorney fees and other costs. Depending on whether or not the Town’s conduct is determined to be willful, the plaintiffs may be able to recover FLSA wage differentials from two (regular violations) to three years (willful violations) prior to the date of filing of the complaint. The parties are in the process of exchanging discovery and have agreed to attempt to resolve this matter through mediation, presently scheduled for March 6, 2007.
Comcast License Revocation Administrative Proceedings
Regulatory This case involved Comcast’s appeal of the Board of Selectmen’s decision upholding the Town’s Preliminary Assessment of Denial of Comcast’s request for a new license in 2004. In the summer of 2006, the parties reached a settlement whereby the Town granted Comcast a renewal license and agreed to no long require Comcast to operating the public access studio in exchange for a variety of concessions by Comcast, including, among others: (a) capital payments by Comcast to the Town and the newly created Public Access Corporation (PAC) of sums totaling $375,000, (b) payment of a percentage of Comcast’s annual revenue stream to the Town and/or PAC for purposes of providing public, educational or government cable programming, the continued provision of free cable service to the Town and School Department, and conveyance to the Town of Comcast’s existing studio equipment and mobile production van. The renewal license has been executed and this matter was resolved in 2006.
Common Ground Shelter Zoning The Common Ground Shelter at 105 Irving Street was a 32 bed shelter operated by SMOC at 105 Irving Street. SMOC had claimed that the Shelter was exempt from zoning regulation under the Dover Amendment, which provides that religious and educational uses are exempt from Town
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zoning bylaw provisions governing use. Questions were raised in 2006 as to whether the primary use of the Shelter was educational, as required for Dover Amendment protection. Along with the Town Manager and the Building Commissioner, I participated in and contributed to the successful negotiations with South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) in 2006, whereby SMOC agreed to voluntarily close the Common Ground Shelter, commonly known as the wet shelter, located at 105 Irving Street in Framingham.
Corcoran Management Co., Inc., Pelham I and Pelham II v. Town of Framingham
Municipal/
Contract
Action before the Superior Court seeking to enjoin Town from discontinuing trash pick-up. Town filed counterclaim to recover cost of services provided. In 2003, summary judgment entered in favor of Town on all of plaintiffs' counts, as well as on its counterclaims. Approximately $100,000 in escrow funds were released to Town upon favorable summary judgment decision. In 2004, the Court awarded the Town judgment totaling approximately $350,000 on its counterclaim after a three day assessment of damages hearing. Plaintiffs have appealed this decision to the Appeals Court, and briefs are expected to be filed sometime in 2007.
Danforth Farms (PUD) Litigation
Land Use This matter constitutes three court cases in the nature of appeals of the Planning Board's 2003 grant of a Planned Unit Development special permit, allowing a significant development of the New England Sand & Gravel site in Saxonville. Separate cases were filed by the Town of Wayland, the Bergers, and several abutters. In 2004, National Development reached settlements with the Bergers and the abutters. National Development subsequently reached a settlement with the Town of Wayland and a stipulation of dismissal was filed in 2006. Pursuant to the March 19, 2003 PUD Riverpath Agreement with National Development, the developer’s counsel took the lead in defending each of these cases. Also pursuant to the PUD Riverpath Agreement, the first $100,000 of the Town’s legal expenses with respect to these matters has been paid by National Development.
In December of 2005, National Development sold its interest in the PUD project to Pulte Homes of New England, LLC. Pulte presumably will seek the remaining permit approvals necessary to move forward to construct this project. Pursuant to Section 1(d) of the PUD Riverpath Agreement, National Development is obligated to pay the Town an additional $1.5 million dollars upon final
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site plan approval for Phase One of the project by the Planning Board.
Dones Overtime Arbitration
Overtime Pay Dispute
The union filed this grievance in support of Officer Dones's claim for overtime pay. The parties scheduled a hearing for December, 2006 but the Department settled with Ms. Dones by paying certain overtime wages prior to the arbitration. This matter is now resolved.
Essigman Arbitration Employment This matter was resolved favorably for the Town in November 2006 when an arbitrator ruled that the Town had just cause to terminate Mr. Essigman from his post in the Department of Public Works. Essigman argued the Town's termination of him was too harsh and that the Town's instructions to the claimant to work a full shift on October 15, 2005 were not clear. The arbitrator agreed with the Town that termination was appropriate in this case and that the Town's work orders to the claimant during the emergency situation were clear.
Framingham Planning Board and Town of Framingham v. General Growth Properties and Natick Planning Board (Natick Mall Expansion)
Land Use The Planning Board and the Town of Framingham challenged the grant of permits and the underlying Natick zoning allowing a major expansion of the Natick Mall. The developer filed a motion to dismiss, arguing that Framingham lacked standing to challenge the expansion. This matter was settled in 2005 whereby the developer agreed to pay Framingham $1,065,000 in mitigation upon the completion of various milestones, consisting of various cash payments for purposes such as open space preservation of the Cochituate Rail trail, funding various traffic and traffic signalization studies, and performing in-kind work. Various cash payments were received by the Town from the developer in 2006.
Franchi, Pasquale v. Town of Framingham
Land Use Planning Board denied endorsement of two ANR plans for proposed 12-lot project. Landowner appealed to Land Court. Case was tried in November, 2004. In January of 2006, the Land Court (Lombardi, J.) issued a decision in favor of the developer in which it instructed the Planning Board to endorse the two ANR plans at issue. The Town and Planning Board have appealed this decision, and the parties filed their respective briefs in the fall of 2006. The appeal is currently pending as the parties await the Court’s scheduling of a hearing on their briefs.
Great Brook Valley Health Center, et al. v. Town of Framingham
Civil Rights This case is a civil rights suit against the Town, claiming numerous civil rights violations and seeking declaratory and injunctive relief, as well as attorney’s fees in connection with the Planning Board’s denial of the plaintiffs’ application for a series of special permits to build a proposed
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health center on Waverly Street. Town Counsel tendered this civil rights case to the Town’s insurance carrier but the insurance carrier denied coverage. The Town will contest the denial of coverage. The action is currently pending in Federal Court and the parties are preparing preliminary discovery and other matters in anticipation of an initial scheduling conference scheduled for February 7, 2007.
Great Brook Valley Health Center, et al. v. Framingham Planning Board
Land Use The plaintiffs brought this complaint to appeal the Planning Board’s denial of a series of special permit applications sought in connection with the proposed development of a health center on Waverly Street. Both the plaintiffs and the Town have propounded discovery to one another. A trial in this case is likely in 2007 or 2008.
Grontzos, Arthur and Fotini v. Town of Framingham Eminent Domain The plaintiffs brought three separate eminent
actions to contest the pro tanto damage awards for eminent domain takings on three of the plaintiffs’ abutting properties. Plaintiffs’ appraiser opined that the plaintiffs was entitled to damages of $260,000 plus interest of 12% per year and more than $350,000 plus interest of 12% for year if commercial values are taken into account. The Town’s appraisers opined that the plaintiffs were entitled to damages of $44,000-$68,000. After negotiations over a period of time, the Board of Selectmen agreed to settle this case for $102,000. Town Meeting approved this settlement at the 2006 Annual Town Meeting and this case has been dismissed with prejudice.
Highway Safety Systems v. Town of Framingham
Contract This is an action brought by Highway Safety Systems, Inc. against the Town alleging breach of contract due to the Town's alleged failure to pay the plaintiff $13,487.59 for work allegedly performed for the DPW in May of 2005. The plaintiff filed its complaint on September 26, 2005 in Framingham District Court. The Town and plaintiffs recently agreed to a settlement of this case and the case likely will be dismissed in 2007.
Howland, Kenneth v. Town of Framingham
Handicap Discrimination/
Arbitration
This case involved a complaint filed at the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination asserting handicap discrimination, as well as a labor arbitration alleging wrongful discharge. In 2006 the parties agreed to settle these cases and have requested that further arbitrations be placed in abeyance pending finalization of the settlement.
Jemida Corp. v. Framingham Planning Board, et al.
Land Use This case involves the plaintiff’s appeal of the Planning Board’s April 14, 2005 decision approving a definitive subdivision plan filed by Pulte Homes of New England in connection with the proposed development of 136 acres of property as a planned unit development. This matter is pending as the parties pursue a potential
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settlement.
Levin, Martin and Carol, et al. v. Framingham JCHE Elderly, Inc. and Zoning Board of Appeals
Land Use Zoning Board of Appeals granted a special permit pursuant to G.L. c. 40B to construct an elderly affordable housing project on Edmands Road. Abutters and neighbors filed appeal in the Land Court. The Court dismissed the appeal for lack of standing in accordance with the Supreme Judicial Court’s ruling in Standerwick v. Andover Zoning Board of Appeals. An appeal of the dismissal has been filed and the matter is now pending before the Appeals Court.
Local 1652 Discipline Arbitration Labor Local 1652 filed this grievance in 2006 in protest of a two day suspension given to a firefighter captain. The parties held an arbitration in this case on October 27, 2006. The Town's position was that it had ample evidence to support its position and that there was just cause for the suspension. The union argued the evidence supporting the charges was lacking. The parties submitted Post Arbitration Briefs in December 2006 and are currently awaiting the arbitrator's decision.
Local 1652 Assignment of Non-Firefighter Duties Arbitration
Labor Local 1652 filed this grievance in early 2006 to object to management's order to strip and clean the floors on the first floor of the Fire Department Headquarters. The parties held an arbitration on September 26, 2006. The Town's position was that the fire fighters had always been responsible for maintaining those floors and did not previously grieve the issue after being ordered to strip the floors in 2004 and 2005. The union's position is that the past practice was to have the firefighters mop the floors only and not strip them. The parties filed Post Arbitration Briefs in December of 2006 and are currently awaiting the arbitrator's decision.
Local 1652 Failure to Pay Overtime Arbitration Labor This matter involved an arbitration that was
sought by Firefighter Paul Harding for compensatory time. The matter was settled in July, 2006 and is now closed
Local 1652 Promotional Exam Arbitration
Labor Local 1652 filed this grievance in 2006 to protest the Department’s calling of a promotional exam in November 2006 after having the same exam in November 2005. The union believes it is an established past practice that the promotional exam is taken only every two years. The Town's position is that it is a management right to schedule promotional exams and the Department was required by law to call the exam to fill an open lieutenant's position. The union has agreed to withdraw the grievance because no members took the exam.
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Framingham Firefighters Local 1652 v. Town of Framingham Unfair Labor Practice
Labor Local 1652 filed this unfair labor practice with the Massachusetts Labor Relations Commission concerning the Town's coverage of medical payments for a firefighter who was out on injured on duty status. The parties disputed the cause of the firefighter's injuries. In July 2006, the parties reached a settlement whereby the Town would cover the cost of a specialist to examine the firefighter's injuries. The parties also agreed that if all parties complied with the July 2006 settlement agreement, then the union would withdraw with prejudice its unfair labor practice charge in late January 2007.
Madden, James Handicap Discrimination/
Civil Service Appeal
The parties resolved this handicap discrimination and civil service appeal in December 2006 After the Superior Court denied the Town's Motion for Summary Judgment of the handicap discrimination claim in September of 2006, the Town entered a settlement agreement whereby the plaintiff would be placed at the top of the Civil Service Commission's list for the next available fire fighter position and reimbursed a portion of his attorneys fees, in exchange for dismissal of the handicap discrimination action and the civil service appeals. These two proceedings were resolved in 2006 and the matters are now closed.
Paulini Loam v. Zoning Board of Appeals/597 Old Connecticut Path
Zoning In December of 2005, the Zoning Board denied applicant’s request for a special permit or a determination that the proposed use, a concrete batching plant, was a permitted use in the zoning district. That month, a Special Town Meeting also approved an amendment to the Zoning By-law which changed the zoning designation of the property to Office Professional, such that the proposed use became prohibited and could not be authorized even through a special permit. Paulini filed two subsequent lawsuits in the Land Court. The first lawsuit was an appeal seeking to overturn the ZBA’s denial of the special permit and to obtain a declaration from the Court that the proposed project did not require a special permit. The second lawsuit was a challenge to the validity of the Zoning By-law Amendments The Town moved for partial summary judgment in the first action on the grounds that the plaintiff could not dispute its need to obtain a special permit because it had not timely appealed the determination of the Building Commissioner that a special permit was necessary. The Court denied the Town’s motion and remanded the matter back to the ZBA exclusively for a determination as to the need for a special permit. The remainder of the first action is currently pending and is scheduled for trial in the summer of 2007. The
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second action is presently stayed but Paulini’s counsel has refused to dismiss it notwithstanding the Planning Board’s issuance of a decision approving Paulini’s Definitive Subdivision Plan and thereby effectively freezing the zoning status of the property under the prior zoning for 8 years.
Public Works Supply, Inc. v. Town of Framingham
Public Procurement This lawsuit was filed by Public Works Supply, Inc. (“PWS”), a supplier of fire hydrants, after the Town awarded a contract for fire hydrants to one of PWS's competitors. PWS filed a complaint and motion for preliminary injunction against the Town in Middlesex Superior Court, alleging that the Town's specifications for a particular hydrant were illegal. This office opposed PWS’ motion. After oral argument, the Court ruled in favor of the Town on the grounds the Town had legitimate public policy reasons to decide which type of fire hydrant it wanted, an in requiring the same type of fire hydrant throughout town for purposes of uniformity, even if it had the effect of reducing competition.
Along with its answer to PWS complaint, the Town filed a counterclaim for interference with its contractual relationship with the successful bidder. PWS recently has filed a motion to dismiss the counterclaim on the grounds that the counterclaim violates the Anti-SLAPP statute. The motion to dismiss hearing is scheduled for late January of 2007. After the hearing, the case will proceed to discovery. If liability is found against the Town, the lost profits of the contract awarded to the successful bidder could be assessed against the Town. This case is in its infancy and it is premature to offer an assessment as to whether or not liability will be assessed against the Town or the amount thereof.
RCN Dispute Cable The Town initiated license breach proceedings against RCN in connection with its alleged failure to adhere to the terms of its license with the Town. This matter was resolved through negotiations with RCN which yielded a variety of concessions and benefits to the Town, including RCN’s commitment to pay the Town $100,000 and RCN’s agreement to forgive credits in the amount of $55,335 owed by the Town.
R.M. Technologies v. Eastern Contractors, Inc. v. Framingham
Construction This action was filed by an asbestos abatement subcontractor, R.M. Technologies, Inc. (“R.M.”) who performed work on the Framingham High School Renovation and Addition project (“the Project”). In 2003, R.M. filed suit against Eastern Contractors, Inc. (“Eastern”), the general contractor, claiming breach of contract and seeking recovery in quantum meruit for Eastern’s alleged failure to compensate R.M. for work
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performed on the Project. Eastern in turn brought a third party claim against the Town of Framingham (“Town”) in 2004 for indemnification and contribution towards R.M.'s claims. Counsel for Eastern’s surety, USF & G, is attempting to negotiate a global settlement with R.M. If a settlement cannot be reached, it is possible that this case will be reached for trial in 2007.
Rourke, Daniel, Trustee of Fifth Realty Trust v. Zoning Board of Appeal
Zoning Pursuant to G.L. c. 40A, §17, the applicant appealed the denial of variance to construct a house at 743 Salem End Road on a lot lacking required frontage. A bench trial before the Middlesex Superior Court was held on January 30, 2006. After trial, the Superior Court issued a written decision affirming the Zoning Board's denial of a variance and the case was dismissed. The plaintiff did not appeal the Superior Court's ruling and the case is now closed.
Route 30 LLC v. Town of Framingham Eminent Domain The plaintiff is an abutter to Route 30 and the Town took a strip of the plaintiff's land as part of the Route 30 widening project. The plaintiff has claimed the Town's pro tanto initial damage award for the taking of $16,292 was inadequate. The plaintiff claimed in the litigation that its damages were actually $122,000 plus interest of 12% per year based on a professional appraisal. The Town hired an appraiser who put the damage figure at $33,000, including the $16,292 initially paid the plaintiff. For the taking. After negotiations back and forth, the plaintiff and the Town agreed in principle to settle this case for $40,000. A Special Town Meeting has been called for February 13, 2007 so that Town Meeting can decide whether to approve this settlement.
South Middlesex Non-Profit Housing Corporation/517 Winter Street
Zoning Applicant, South Middlesex Non-Profit Housing Corporation, submitted an application for a change of use of an existing property for a use the Building Commissioner and Acting Building Commissioner have determined are protected under the Dover Amendment. The Application for Change of Use initially was denied for failure to comply with certain state and local building requirements. The Town amended its local zoning by-law in August of 2005 to require Dover-protected uses be subjected to limited site plan review. The applicant petitioned the Attorney General’s Office to disapprove the amendment. In November of 2005, the Attorney General’s Office upheld the 2005 zoning amendments requiring limited site plan review for exempt uses. The applicant has submitted an application for site plan review per the new zoning by-law requirements, which resulted in a number of legal issues being raised throughout the year as to the proper nature and scope of this limited site plan review. This application is still pending. Based on
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the current positions of the parties, there continues to be a likelihood of future litigation by either the applicant or the abutters, depending on the outcome of limited site plan review before the Planning Board.
S & S Realty Trust v. Zoning Board of Appeals Zoning
Zoning This is an appeal from a decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals granting Xtreme Performance and Audio, Inc., a special permit to allow the sale and rental of motor vehicles at 277 Worcester Road. Xtreme sought to purchase the other half of the building where its business is now located, convert it from a former futon store to a motorcycle showroom, and expand the existing repair business. S & S Realty Trust, owner of abutting property, appealed the Board’s decision to Middlesex Superior Court. We filed a motion to dismiss on the grounds that S & S failed to name Xtreme as a defendant as required by state law. The court required S&S to amend the complaint to add Xtreme. Since Xtreme is the real party in interest, and is now a co-defendant with the Board, our involvement in this appeal should be minimal in the future.
Tessicini Arbitration (600-153) Employment This police patrolmen’s union filed this grievance after the Department suspended Officer Tessicini. The union disputes whether the department had just cause for the suspension while the department states that it did have such just cause. This matter is in it initial stages. The arbitration is scheduled for May 2, 2007.
Terrill, Richard and Fafard, Madelyn, as Trustees of the Winch Pond Trust v. Conservation Commission (Fafard Wetlands Litigation)
ConCom Wetlands Appeal/DEP Appeal
In 1999 ConCom denied an order of conditions for a wetlands crossing to enter his parcel of land to construct subdivision of between 40-45 homes. Winch Pond Trust appealed decision under bylaw to Superior Court and obtained Superceding Order of Conditions from the DEP, which the Town appealed. In 2004, the Town opposed the Trust’s motion to substitute a revised plan in the DEP proceeding showing certain changes to the wetlands crossing plan shown to the Conservation Commission in 1999. After hearing oral argument, the Administrative Law Judge ruled that the Trust must either proceed under the original plan or file a new notice of intent with the Conservation Commission. The Trust filed a new notice of intent with the Conservation Commission on or about February 18, 2005. After extensive hearings, the new notice of intent was approved by the ConCom with extensive conditions in August of 2006. The ConCom’s Order of Conditions was appealed to the DEP and the Middlesex Superior Court by certain abutters, and both appeals are currently pending.
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Town of Framingham v. Town of Ashland
Regulatory/ Contract
Action was filed by Framingham before the Department of Telecommunications and Energy (DTE) to establish a new sewer rate under a 1963 Intermunicipal Agreement to compensate Framingham for transporting Ashland’s sewage through Framingham to the MWRA Extension Sewer on Arthur Street. After extensive briefing, filing of prefiled testimony, and several days of hearings and testimony before the DTE, the DTE issued a decision in February of 2004 that awarded Framingham virtually complete relief on most of its claims, and adopted nearly the entirety of the sewage transport rate formula proposed by Framingham for the time period covering December 19, 2003-December 18, 2008. In 2004, the Town of Framingham commenced a second action in Middlesex Superior Court against the Town of Ashland seeking to obtain further recovery from Ashland for past sewage transport and damage caused to the Framingham system. In 2006, a new 20-year Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) was negotiated between Framingham and Ashland, whereby Framingham will continue to transport Ashland’s wastewater to the MWRA system (as it has since 1963), and receive in return approximately $500,000-$600,000 on an annual basis. Between 1963 and 2003, the Town of Framingham received only $5500 per year for providing this service, but the successful prosecution of this litigation and subsequent negotiations with Ashland have resulted in more than a 100-fold annual increase in the amounts of annual payments received from Ashland. The favorable flow-based formula approved by the DTE has been incorporated into the new IMA. In addition to the annual payments received by Framingham for wastewater transport based on Ashland’s pro rata share of flow contributed to the Framingham system, the Town will receive an additional $200,000 per year for five years, until one million dollars is paid, in settlement of the pending Middlesex Superior Court litigation. The new IMA was approved by the Framingham and Ashland Town meetings in the spring of 2006, and the IMA should be executed by the respective boards of selectmen of the two towns in January of 2007.
Town of Framingham v. General Growth Properties, et al.
Property/ Sewer Easement In May of 2006 the Town brought an action in
Middlesex Superior Court to seek a temporary restraining order and preliminary this action to enjoin General Growth Properties, the developer of the new Natick Mall, and its contractors, from performing work within certain of the Town’s
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sewer easements. This litigation resulted in the issuance of a court order of permanent injunction against General Growth, requiring that the developer install its sewer lines in a manner that does not unreasonably interfere with Framingham’s use of and enjoyment of its easements, and further requires the developer to assume the cost of future repairs to the Framingham sewer lines within the easement in the areas where the private lines cross the Framingham sewer lines, without requiring Framingham to prove causation or responsibility. The order also requires the developer to assume certain costs of monitoring the installation of the private sewer lines that had been incurred by the Framingham Department of Public Works, and further agreed to record instruments at the Middlesex (South) Registry of Deeds establishing certain relocated sewer easements.
Vasquez, Lee v. Town of Framingham Handicap Discrimination
This is a handicap discrimination claim pending before the MCAD. Mr. Vasquez's original complaint of discrimination based on the Town's decision not to hire him in early 2005 was dismissed by the MCAD based on a lack of probable cause. However, Mr. Vasquez recently filed a retaliation complaint. The Town has submitted a Position Statement to the MCAD stating that the Town's actions were not in retaliation for Mr. Vasquez's petitioning activities. The retaliation claim is currently pending before the MCAD.
Whitkin, Steven et. al v. Ottaviani (Wayside Youth and Family Services Land Court Appeal)
Zoning Abutters appealed the issuance of a building permit for the construction of a non-profit educational facility that had inadequate frontage. The Building Commissioner determined that the building permit should issue despite this deficiency as the facility is afforded protection pursuant to the Dover Amendment from frontage requirements. Abutters appealed this decision to the Zoning Board, but failed to obtain a unanimous vote as required by state law to overturn the Building Commissioner decision. The abutters then appealed this decision to the Land Court. In December of 2005, Wayside moved for summary judgment. In the spring of 2006, the Land Court heard arguments on Wayside’s motion for summary judgment and took the matter under advisement. The parties are presently awaiting a ruling from the court.
Whittemore v. Framingham Zoning Board of Appeals
Zoning/Land Use This case involves an abutter’s challenge of the Zoning Board of Appeals’ grant of a variance authorizing the construction of a dwelling upon property located at 765 Edmands Road. The Court recently completed a trial and conducted a
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viewing of the Property on December 28, 2006. The parties are presently awaiting receipt of the trial transcript, for use in connection with the preparation of their respective post-trial briefs. Such briefs shall be due for filing within 30 days of the parties’ receipt of the transcript. Because this case involves the issuance of a variance, the Office of the Town Counsel has maintained only limited involvement in this case, instead requiring the real party in interest, the successful variance grantee, to prosecute this litigation.
B. Insurance Defense Counsel Cases
Below is a list of significant cases that presently are being handled by Town of Framingham insurance defense counsel. I have included a brief description of the status of these cases as well.
MATTER TYPE STATUS
Gorman, Jean v. Verizon of New England and Boston Edison; Verizon of New England v. Town of Framingham (3rd Party Complaint)
Tort This action concerns a third party complaint brought against the Town of Framingham arising from a personal injury claim asserted by the plaintiff against the defendants, seeking recovery for injuries stemming from a bicycle accident near a Verizon work site on Town property. The case is in discovery with the plaintiff and defendant's depositions scheduled in the coming months. The Town denies liability and damages have not been quantified to date, but any damages exposure should be limited to $100,000 pursuant to G.L. c. 258.
McColgan v. Town of Framingham
Tort A Middlesex Superior Court action was filed by Ms. McColgan in June of 2003 alleging personal injury due to negligence of the Town and its employees. This case was settled in 2006.
Gould v. Town Civil Rights Claim brought by an individual who was arrested during a routine traffic stop because a search of the Police Department’s “Warrant Management System” (WMS) indicated, apparently erroneously, that an outdated warrant against the plaintiff was still active. The Court recently entered judgment on stipulated facts in favor of the Town on a motion to dismiss on the grounds that the Town’s reliance upon information in the WMS was reasonable.
Verizon v. Town of Framingham Tort This case alleges that Verizon suffered economic and other injuries, including having to reinstall a utility pole, as a proximate result of the Town’s alleged violation of “dig-safe” laws.
Wayside Youth and Family Services Appeal Civil Rights Wayside brought this civil rights action in superior court
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v. Town v. Town of Framingham in May of 2006 against the Town and the Board of Selectmen after the Board of Selectmen denied Wayside’s application for a public way access permit (PWAP) in connection with the proposed development of its proposed campus facility off of Lockland Avenue in Framingham. The complaint alleges that the Board’s decision was motivated by discriminatory animus in violation of various federal statutes and in contravention of constitutional protections set forth in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution. Upon receipt of the complaint, I tendered this case to MIIA, the Town’s liability insurer. MIIA initially resisted assuming the defense on coverage grounds, but subsequently agreed to defend the town pursuant to a reservation of rights letter. MIIA’s assumption of the Town’s defense in this civil rights case will save the Town substantial legal fees, although it is uncertain whether the insurance will cover any damages that may be awarded in favor of Wayside and against the Town in the future.
As to the litigation itself, the Town’s insurance defense counsel removed the case to federal court in view of the federal claims asserted in the litigation. Wayside recently moved for partial summary judgment, arguing that the Selectmen’s denial of the PWAP was arbitrary and capricious and in violation of law. Insurance counsel opposed Wayside’s motion for summary judgment Oral argument was held in early January of 2007 and the matter was taken under advisement by the Court. Depending on the outcome of the summary judgment motion, it is likely that litigation and discovery in this matter will continue through 2007.
Budgetary Overview As in past years, I would like to conclude this report with a discussion of budgeting and legal expenses. It has been my experience that a proper commitment to adequate municipal funding for legal services is essential to maintaining the quality of life within a community. Generally speaking, the more a community prudently spends per capita for legal services, the more likely it is that a community will be a desirable place to live and protective of its citizens’ rights and interests.
As is its job, Town Meeting properly analyzes the spending of all town departments to ensure that the Town receives commensurate public benefits for the funding provided. An analysis of the legal spending in Framingham as compared to other communities (especially in light of the results obtained) shows that Framingham has continued to obtain excellent value for its legal dollars. Based on data provided by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue Division of Local Services, Framingham’s per capita spending for legal services and judgments in FY 2005 (the most recent year for which such data is available from
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DOR) was $9.98, well below the $10.34 average per capita expenditure among Massachusetts municipalities in FY 2005. As the below chart illustrates, the disparity In per capita expenditures was even more dramatic relative to other municipalities which are comparable to the Town with respect to criteria such as size, location and sophistication:
The average per capita FY 2005 expenditure among the above-depicted municipalities, other than Framingham, is $16.47, approximately 65% more than Framingham’s actual 2005 expenditures of $9.98 per person. It is worth noting that, to the extent that the Town’s actual population is higher than DOR’s most recent estimate of 65,060 (some have informally estimated that the actual population of Framingham at 70,000 people or more) it is likely that the Town’s per capita expenditure for legal services is lower than reported.
The track record of successes I have developed as Town Counsel since my appointment in December of 2001 has vindicated Town Meeting’s increased financial commitment to legal services in recent years. While it is not reasonable to expect that a cost center such as the legal budget will yield positive net revenue on an annual basis, this office in fact has helped procure new revenue for the General Fund or helped avoid additional costs that, on an annual basis, far exceed the total annual legal budget spent by the Town in recent years. The services provided by the Office of the Town Counsel have resulted in monetary
Municipality FY 2005 Legal Expenditures (according to Massachusetts Division of Local Services website)
2005 Population (according to Massachusetts Division of Local Services website)
2005 Per Capita Legal Expenditure
Arlington $844,279 41,224 $20.48 Beverly $615,242 39,876 $15.43 Brookline $625,460 55,590 $11.25 Cambridge $1,765,479 100,135 $17.63 Everett $536,851 36,837 $14.57 Framingham $649,591 65,060 $9.98 Holyoke $420,656 39,958 $10.53 Lexington $392,202 30,266 $12.96 Marlborough $847,353 37,444 $22.63 Melrose $714,101 26,365 $27.09 Natick $328,301 31,943 $10.28 Newton $1,132,375 83,158 $13.62 Stoughton $478,217 26,692 $17.92 Waltham $660,878 59,556 $11.10 Wayland $371,758 13,002 $28.59 Woburn $480,608 37,147 $12.94
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benefits to the Town that has, in terms of direct revenue, mitigation and avoided expenses, resulted in annual revenues and value more two to three times greater than the Town’s FY 2006 appropriation of $537,800.
To elaborate on this point, I attach below a chart I have prepared summarizing the revenue, mitigation and avoided expenses achieved in FY 2006 and likely to be achieved in FY 2007 by the efforts of the Office of the Town Counsel, or through the substantial assistance of the Office of the Town Counsel.
A. FY 2006 Revenue, Mitigation and Avoided Expenses
Matter: Description: Payments Received from Ashland from FY 2006 – Present $554,489.29 (Revenue)
Payments received in FY2006 for sewage transport under the February 13, 2004 Decision issued by the Department of Telecommunications and Energy. This represents roughly a 100-fold increase over what Framingham received from 1964-2003 under the 1963 Intermunicipal Agreement with Ashland.
Pelham Apartments and Framingham Housing Authority Trash Collection $300,000 (Avoided Expense)
By virtue of a prior year’s favorable summary judgment ruling achieved in the Pelham litigation, the Town was able to cease trash collection at the 550 units at the Pelham Apartments, which results in avoided expenses estimated at more than $100,000 per year. By virtue of the Pelham ruling, the Town also was able to cease trash collection at approximately 1,000 units owned by the Framingham Housing Authority, thus realizing savings of approximately an additional estimated $200,000 per year. These savings amount to approximately $300,000 per year on an annual recurring basis.
Natick Mall Settlement $250,000 (Revenue)
In FY 2006, General Growth Properties, Inc., the developer of Natick Mall, continued to make payments in satisfaction of the $1,065,000 sum it agreed to pay in settlement of litigation that the Town had initiated against General Growth. The payments received in FY 2006 included $150,000 for open space preservation and $100,000 for the Cochituate Rail Trail, for total payments of $250,000.
Subtotal FY 2006 $1,104,489.29
B. FY 2007 Revenue, Mitigation and Avoided Expenses Matter: Description: Natick Mall Settlement $355,000.00 (Revenue/Mitigation)
The total value of the Natick Mall mitigation package is $1,065,000, consisting of various cash payments to the Town for designated purposes such as open space preservation or the Cochituate Rail Trail, funding various studies and performing in-kind work. I have attributed $355,000 of this mitigation package to FY 2007,
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as it is likely that most of the payments and mitigation will continue to be made in FY 2007 and FY 2008, depending on the progress of the work. The above-referenced total mitigation package was obtained at no net legal cost to the Town because General Growth reimbursed the Town for its legal expenses incurred in prosecuting the appeal and in negotiating the settlement agreement.
Judgment on Pelham Counterclaim $350,000+ (Revenue)
At the time the Town received summary judgment in 2003 defeating Pelham’s claim for continued trash collector, the Town also was awarded summary judgment on its counterclaim to recover the cost of certain trash collection services delivered to Pelham. After a three day bench trial, the Superior Court awarded the Town approximately $350,000 (inclusive of interest) for this claim. Pelham has appealed this decision. Appeals briefs likely will be filed in 2007 and it is likely that some or all of the above-referenced sum will be received by the Town in FY 2007 or FY2008, assuming the Appeals Court upholds the Town or a settlement is reached.
Payments Received from Ashland in FY 2006 $754,489.29 (Revenue)
The Town expects to receive at least an equal payment from Ashland in FY 2007 as it did in FY 2006 ($554,489.29), given that the amount of Ashland sewage transported through Framingham in FY 2007 is expected to be at least as large as it was in FY 2006, and the amount paid to Framingham is based on a quantity of flow formula. Payment of the first FY2007 invoice to Ashland in the amount of $269,167.00 was received on October 16, 2006. An additional invoice will be issued shortly and should be paid in FY 2007. Moreover, assuming that both Boards of Selectmen executed the new IMA, an additional settlement payment of $200,000 will be due from Ashland on February 28, 2007, and again on January 31, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. By adding the settlement payment of $200,000 to the reasonably anticipated flow revenues of $554,489.29, it is reasonable to expect that Framingham will receive at least $754,489.29 in revenue from Ashland in FY 2007.
Pelham Apartments and Framingham Housing Authority Trash Collection $300,000 (Avoided Expense)
The savings seen in FY2005 will continue in FY2006 on an annual recurring basis absent reversal of the summary judgment decision in favor of the Town by the Appeals Court.
MIIA Defense in Wayside Youth Federal Action $100,000 (Avoided Expense)
The Town will avoid the costs of litigating this federal civil rights action by virtue of the successful demand upon MIIA that it defend the Town in this matter We estimate that MIIA’s defense will likely save the Town approximately
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$100,000 in legal expenses. Payments from Comcast $175,000 (Revenue)
In settlement of the litigation between the Town and Comcast, Comcast agreed (among other concessions) to provide capital payments to the Town and/or the Town Access Corporation of sums totaling $175,000 for FY 2007 and $50,000 annually thereafter through 2011. The $175,000 in revenue does not include the quarterly payments due from Comcast in an amount totaling 5% of gross annual revenues for use by the Town, School Department and Public Access Corporation to utilize in connection with providing public, educational, and governmental cable programming.
Payments from RCN $100,000 (Revenue) $55,335 (Avoided Expense)
In resolving its dispute with the Town, RCN paid Town $100,000, and to forgive credits in the amount of $55,335 owed by the Town.
Subtotal FY 2007 $2,189,824.29 TOTAL FY 2006 & 2007 $3,294,431.58 By virtue of the foregoing, the Office of the Town Counsel has either procured, or made a substantial contribution towards procuring, $1,104,489.29 in revenue for the General Fund or the Sewer Enterprise Fund, or via direct payments by developers for mitigation to enhance the quality of life in Framingham, or in avoided expenses in FY 2006. In addition, the Town has received or is likely to receive up to $2,189,824.29 in direct revenue, mitigation and avoided expenses in FY 2007. The total sum of received or anticipated revenue, mitigation or avoided expenses is more than three times the amount appropriated to fund the entire regular Legal Services budget in FY 2006 and FY 2007 combined. While I certainly cannot promise the revenue results of the nature and extent achieved to date on an ongoing basis in the future, I will continue to exercise creativity, diligence, and employ my best legal skills to make the most of the opportunities that do arise as I advocate
on behalf of the best interests of the taxpayers of the Town of Framingham. As always, I will steadfastly endeavor to deliver cost-effective, proactive, and quality legal services to the Town of Framingham at the lowest achievable costs, consistent with the requests and policy objectives of the Board of Selectmen, the Town Manager, and other boards, officials, committees of the Town, and continue to protect the interests of the residents of the Town of Framingham in the many cases, proceedings and matters of which the Town is named as a party. Conclusion In closing, I wish to thank the Board of Selectmen and the residents of the Town for the opportunity to serve as your Town Counsel. I look forward to a long and productive relationship with this fine community, which is also my hometown.
Christopher J. Petrini Town Counsel
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GENERAL COMMITTEES
FRAMINGHAM CELEBRATION COMMITTEE
The Framingham Celebration Committee departed from tradition in 2006 by organizing and delivering the first ever Flag Day Festival held on Sunday, June 11th, 2006 on the grounds of Tercentennial Park. The festival replaced the Flag Day Parade of past years. It was with much angst that we made the decision to depart from the Flag Day Parade format and we thank the many volunteers and supporters of past parades. Thankfully, the Flag Day Festival was well received by the crowds in attendance. We were graced with good weather and sunshine after many days of rain. Our first Flag Day Festival included a flea market promenade with 50+ vendors, live local entertainers, food, and fun games for the kids. The Jim Pillsbury Show was there taping his show for cable broadcast. There was also a patriotic veteran’s procession around the perimeter on the park that was reminiscent of past parades.
The kids especially liked the clowns, the balloons and the Space Walk jumper attraction. The entertainment was well received with performances from the Framingham High School Band, Fair’s & Squares Dancers, MetroWest Performing Arts Center (PAC), the Natick American Legion Band just to name a few. The committee gave away hundreds of flags and sold hundreds of hot dogs, sodas and cotton candy. The Celebration Committee worked hard to deliver a first class festival that has set a standard for coming years.
The traditional Flag Retirement Ceremony run by the Framingham Veteran’s Council was the closing event of the festival at the end of the day. It was a fitting cap to a day celebrating our flag. We thank and salute the veteran’s who assisted in the ceremony. The committee thanks the following organizations for their support and assistance: Framingham Park & Recreation, Framingham Selectman, Framingham Elks, Framingham Rotary, Framingham Public Schools, Framingham Building Services, Friends of Park & Recreation and the Framingham Police. We also thank our lead sponsors, Jack & Rochelle Blais whose generous support of the festival was invaluable. We look forward to producing future Flag Day Festivals and truly hope that it can grow to be a town wide day to celebrate our patriotism and love for the country and community in which we live. Doug Freeman Chair
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FRAMINGHAM HISTORICAL COMMISSION
The Framingham Historical Commission spent 2006 continuing the effort to preserve Framingham's historical and architectural heritage by careful implementation of the Town's Demolition Delay By-law. We reviewed dozens of Demolition Permit applications this past year. For most of the buildings over 50 years old that were before us, The FHC was able to release the Demolition Permit quickly. For those properties that were determined to be worthy of preferential preservation, the Commission worked with the applicants to seek alternatives to demolition during the delay period mandated by our by-law. By working closely with the applicants, the FHC was able to arrive at an alternative to demolition in all but one case this past year. Despite significant
efforts from the applicant, and much work by the FHC, unfortunately no alternative could be found and the building was demolished. The members of the Commission remain dedicated to the task of preserving our past each and every day of the year, and advocate for the buildings that are most important to the Town. Respectfully submitted, David Marks, Chair Todd Robecki, Vice-chair Perry Bent, Secretary Gerald Couto Elizabeth Funk Robert Snyder Fred Wallace
GOVERNMENT STUDY COMMITTEE
The Government Study Committee continued to experience membership fluctuation throughout 2006. The spring town-wide elections declared long time member Joel Winett the new Moderator, replacing incumbent Ed Noonan. In addition, Robert Halliday, another long time committee member, passed away unexpectedly on November 8, 2006. The committee was deeply saddened by this loss and extended its sincerest sympathy to Rob’s family. Nonetheless, the new Moderator quickly adapted to his new role by not only filling long existing vacancies but also took a very proactive stance in leading town meeting. The majority of membership largely became comprised of newly appointed individuals who brought
a different dynamic to the committee regarding how agenda items were viewed. Highlights of 2006 include proposals that had long awaited attention such as a Citizens’ Initiative Petition bylaw. This proposal offers a separate way to approach the existing referendum process which is already part of the Town’s bylaws. This particular proposal remains tabled for further discussion. Proposals initiated by the Chair, Christine Long, included expansion of the Zoning Board of Appeals, which would provide the Board with 5 voting members and 2 associate members rather than the current 3 voting members and 4 associates. This proposal is currently being reviewed for
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presentation at Spring Annual Town Meeting 2007. The Chair also presented a bylaw to change the term of the moderator from one year to a three year term. This will be presented at Spring Annual Town Meeting 2007 as well. Finally, the committee has been working closely with the new Town Manager, Julian Suso, as well as the standing committees on Public Safety and Planning and Zoning to look at the current structure of the Department of Inspectional Services to seek solutions that will improve not only its functioning but address ongoing bylaw enforcement issues. Probably the most controversial yet most important initiative taken up by the Government Study Committee at the request of the Chair was to write a charter which could be adopted by town meeting to gain better local control of town bylaws. Initially the Chair, Christine Long, along with Doug Freeman had proposed that the committee look at this proposal. Later, a subcommittee was formed to research the matter including Wes Ritchie and Christopher Walsh since Doug Freeman found it necessary to resign due to time constraints. This proposal is still being deliberated in committee. Research involves looking at other local municipal structures which have adopted charters in the past ten years such as Weymouth, Franklin and Plymouth. As part of the process leading
to this discussion the committee had already interviewed officials from those communities to see how the transition worked and was progressing as a measure of comparative analysis. The issue of charter is ongoing in committee and currently includes a proposal to reduce the number of town meeting members. This initiative will no doubt take many years for town meeting to come to a consensus as to what would best suit the needs of a diverse, ever changing municipality. As always, I want to extend my sincerest appreciation to past and present members of this committee for the time commitment that they, as volunteers, have devoted and continue to devote, to this committee. Each member individually and collectively deliberates the material at hand with the sole intent to strive towards the goal of continually improving our town government. In conclusion, I want to recognize the current committee members which include myself, Edward Levay, vice-chair; Richard Lee, Clerk, Ted Anthony, Michael Bower, Joel Feingold, Melanie Goddard, Wolf Haberman, Wes Ritchie, Laurence Schmeidler, Christopher Walsh, Mel Warshaw. Respectfully submitted, Christine Long Chair
REAL PROPERTY COMMITTEE
The Real Property Committee is entrusted with the responsibility of advising Town Meeting on all matters involving the sale, transfer, acquisition or lease of real property by the Town. It
is composed of ten Town Meeting members appointed by the Moderator and seven representatives of Town boards. The committee met twice in 2006. It recommended the following
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actions to Town Meeting: approval of easements for the Franklin Street roadway improvement project and approval for placing a parcel of land under the jurisdiction of the Park Commissioners in order to renew an agreement for its use by Keefe Tech for athletic and recreational purposes. The
Committee also met to discuss potential amendments to its by-law, but no action was taken. Respectfully submitted, Linda M. Romero Chair
CAPITAL BUDGET COMMITTEE
The Capital Budget Committee (CBC) consists of six Town Meeting Members appointed by the Town Moderator, and one representative from the Finance Committee. The role of the CBC is to recommend to Town Meeting for approval all capital projects with a cost of at least $25,000 and an expected useful life of five years. This year at the Annual Town Meeting, the CBC recommended for approval twenty-two General Fund projects. The total amount of these projects amounted to $4,039,477. The actual projects ranged from a $25,000 tractor to $809,339 for the Memorial Building boiler replacement. The source of funding for these General Fund projects was $202,440 from free cash and $3,837,037 from bonding. The twenty-two requested projects included the following departments: Fire, Building Services, Library, Parks and Recreation, Police, Public Works, Highway, Sanitation, Schools and Tech Services. The Committee is pleased to report that Town Meeting listened and agreed with our recommendations and approved all twenty-two General Fund projects. In addition the CBC recommended to Town Meeting a total of seventeen Enterprise Funds projects totaling $15,308,143. The projects were as
follows: Arena Enterprise Fund $164,710, Water Enterprise Fund $3,046,975 and Sewer Enterprise Fund $12,096,458. The projects ranged from a $38,000 sewer relief design to the $6,785,000 Water Street sewer replacement. The sources of funding were $1,847,433 from Water and Sewer retained earnings and $13,460,710 from bonding. Approximately 83% of the bonding projects will be at interest rates of 2% or less. The Committee is pleased to report that Town Meeting approved all seventeen of our recommended Enterprise Funds projects. It was a very challenging year for the CBC. The Committee made some very difficult decisions due to limited Town funds and a never ending list of capital projects requested by the various Town departments/divisions. The Committee plays a very critical role in the long-term future of the Town’s infrastructure. This year’s approved Capital Budget, including the General Fund and Enterprise Funds was in excess of $19,300,000. We will continue to work closely with the Chief Financial Officer in order to make recommendations of projects that benefit our Town, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. CBC members this year were Dennis Black, Jeanne Bullock, Ted Cosgrove,
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Kevin Crotty, Tom O’Neil and Brian Sullivan. The Chairman thanks each member for their time and efforts during the year. It is a privilege to serve with such dedicated members.
Respectfully submitted, Bill McCarthy Chairman
FINANCE COMMITTEE
The Finance Committee consists of nine members, each of whom is appointed by the Town Moderator for a term of three years. The Finance Committee working with the Chief Financial Officer, the Town Manager, the Board of Selectmen and other administration officials, and town boards and committees, monitors the budget process, reviews all departmental budgets, and considers requests for additional appropriations outside the regular budget process. The Committee authorizes disbursements from the Reserve Fund for emergency expenses, monitors and appropriates funds for emergency winter related expenses, approves the expenditure ceiling for revolving funds and works with the Town's auditors to facilitate the annual audit, and reviews audit results. The role of the Finance Committee is primarily advisory. It is the responsibility of the Finance Committee to advise Town Meeting regarding financial issues that come before it, and to recommend action on warrant articles based on these issues. When appropriate the Finance Committee can propose amendments or make additional motions at Town Meeting. The Committee also may make motions to Town Meeting for or against appropriations. The Finance Committee is primarily concerned with the financial impact of various warrant articles and other matters. There is less focus by the Finance Committee on non-fiscal aspects of these matters. The Finance Committee
also reviews and approves all requests for transfers from the Reserve Fund. During 2006 the Committee approved a Reserve Fund transfer of $352,000 to fund the Snow and Ice deficit for fiscal year 2006. The fiscal year 2006 Reserve Fund was also used to make $48,000 in emergency repairs on the Danforth Building roof. The Finance Committee may consider any matter that will have a financial impact on the Town, as well as any other matters the Committee feels are relevant. The Committee has the authority at any time to investigate the books, accounts, and management of any department of the Town, and to require officers and employees of the Town to appear before it and provide information reasonably related to any matter within the responsibility of the Finance Committee. The books and accounts of all departments and officers of the Town shall be open for the inspection of the Committee and of any persons employed by it for that purpose. Members are also called upon to serve on other Town committees as representatives of the Finance Committee. At December 31, 2006, these assignments were as follows: Audit- Mary Connaughton,
Lyz Sheehan Nancy Wilson
Benchmarking- Linda Dunbrack
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John Zucchi Capital Budget- Linda Dunbrack Human Resources- Lyz Sheehan Litigation- Larry Marsh Nancy Wilson Memorial Building- Larry Marsh Worker’s Compensation- Lyz Sheehan Deliberations began in February for the fiscal year 2007 budget. It was clear from the outset that increases in fixed costs would exceed revenue increases by an even wider margin than they had in fiscal year 2006, when the initial gap had been $2M. Most of the projected revenue increase of $5.1M would be needed to cover escalation in major fixed cost components, the largest of these being healthcare at $2.7M, the Keefe Technical School assessment at $.7M, and retirement at $.4M. Altogether, fixed cost increases amounted to $4.6M, leaving only $.5M to fund other non-discretionary cost increases, which amounted to $5M on the school side and $2.2M on the town side. Wage increases associated with the final (and most expensive) year of three-year union contracts accounted for more than half of these non-discretionary costs, followed by escalation in both energy costs and contract renewals (busing for the schools and solid waste removal on the town side). In addition, the Chief Financial Officer was recommending that $.5M be spent to expand the Parks & Recreation and Police budgets with additional manpower. For the second year in a row the budget deliberation article for Town Meeting was deferred from April to June. This was done to give the schools time to
determine where they would make budget cuts to offset their non-discretionary expense increases and to see if further State Chapter 70 funding would be available once the House budget was known and the Senate budget underway. The Finance Committee spent February, March, April and May reviewing the budgets of all Town Divisions. The major groups (by size and dollar expenditure) made presentations to the full Finance Committee. Departments included Schools, Police, Fire, Public Works and Keefe Technical Vocational High School. All other divisions were initially reviewed by individual Finance Committee members who brought back to the Committee information which was the basis for determining whether further discussion was necessary. During this period the Finance Committee met 19 times. By the time of June Town Meeting deliberations, most of the budget gap had been closed. The School Department had removed $4.0M from its budget, principally through hiring freezes and cuts in administrative staff. The Town had taken a 1% across the board cut on department budgets, and the Finance Committee had negotiated with the Keefe Technical School Committee to reduce the increase in its assessment by $.6M. The Finance Committee also worked in concert with the Chief Financial Officer to identify $.6M in additional savings in healthcare costs. Town Meeting approved the General Fund budget with only a $.3M revenue gap, which by Fall of 2006 had been eliminated through a state aid increase higher than projected. One of the budget initiatives that the Finance Committee advanced was to recommend that stabilization fund reserves be increased consistent with the
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Free Cash Policy. For fiscal year 2007, the policy required an infusion into the fund of $769,242. The Chief Financial Officer responded by increasing the fund’s allocation to $750,000 from the $200,000 that had been budgeted initially. Another budget initiative that the Finance Committee advanced related to group health insurance costs. It was possible to recommend reducing funding by $.6M due to the healthcare coalition’s agreement to increase co-payments for drugs and medical service from $5 to $10. This illustrates the fact that a relatively small change in the benefit can produce substantial reduction in the Town’s cost. The Finance Committee also reported to Town Meeting that contractual pay increases, the result of union negotiations, were outpacing revenue growth. At $5.3M, (Town and Schools) this was the largest cost increase in the fiscal year 2007 budget. It amounted to an increase of over 6% to the Town’s largest category of expense in a year when revenues were expected to increase less than 4%. To remedy this situation, and with a view toward contract renewal negotiations upcoming in 2007, the Finance Committee recommended that pay raises and other forms of compensation be limited to the expected rise in revenues, which historically has been about 5%, though less since 2002. Accordingly, Town Meeting passed a resolution to limit such increases in compensation, consistent with the Finance Committee’s recommendation. Three initiatives were also set forth by the Finance Committee’s three member Audit sub-committee, which met with the Town’s external auditors on March 3, 2006 to review the annual audit report on the Town’s financial statements. The first
initiative was to support the auditor’s management letter recommendation that fraud prevention training be provided to town employees. This recommendation was implemented and the training supplied by the Town’s auditors Melanson and Heath in December, 2006, at no additional cost. The second initiative was to review with the Finance Committee a financial reporting change consistent with Statement # 45 issued by the Government Accounting Standards Board. In addition to the current reporting requirement related to pension costs, implementing the new standard in fiscal year 2008 would require the Town to disclose the present value of other post employment benefits to retirees, including health care costs, in the notes to its financial statements based on an actuarial assessment. The Finance Committee met with a representative from the State’s retirement commission in December 2006 and expects to report to Town Meeting on this matter at the 2007 annual Town Meeting. The third initiative was to recommend that bids be solicited from audit firms in a manner consistent with the Town’s purchasing policy. As a result of this competitive bidding process, three audit firms responded in the Fall of 2006 and the current audit firm, Melanson and Heath, was contracted for another annual period. Members of the Finance Committee as of December 31, 2006: Nancy Wilson, Chair (2009); Mary Z. Connaughton, Vice Chair (2007); C. Duncan Fuller, Clerk (2008); Denis E. Black (2007); Linda Dunbrack (2009); Laurence W. Marsh (2008); E. Elyzabeth Sheehan (2009); Kurt Steinberg (2007); and John A. Zucchi (2008). Other members who served on the committee in 2006: Donald Bloch (2007) who resigned December 2007 and was replaced by Kurt Steinberg.
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HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
The Historic District Commission administers both the Jonathan Maynard Historic District and the Center Common District. The purpose of the Commission is fivefold: To preserve the historically important structures and relationships that compose the historic landscape that Framingham Town Meeting has established as culturally significant. To ensure that changes and additions are compatible with the existing structures and pattern ensuring and that they enhance rather than detract from the aesthetic and historic character of the districts. To conduct public hearings in response to applications for changes to the visible nature of the protected buildings and patterns by conferring with applicants on the proposed changes and issuing a Certificate of Appropriateness for work that meets the by-law’s criteria. To act as a resource and knowledge base on architecture, landscaping and construction for residents of the Districts and as general consultants for the town on such matters.
To propose the expansion of the existing districts and creation of new districts as the situation warrants and to act as an advocate for the culturally significant historic fabric of the town. The Commission will be meeting monthly on the second Tuesday at 7:30 in the Memorial Building. This last year the Commission continued the process of filling in “missing” properties to the Centre Common District, advocating a refurbishing of the Centre Common which would include the burying of the power and data lines, advocating for a permanent solution to the need for performance space, restoring a well defined border around the Common, adding trees and lighting and reconfiguring the parking around the Common to better reflect its significant nature as Framingham’s premier pubic space. Respectfully submitted, Christopher Walsh, AIA Chair
FRAMINGHAM CULTURAL COUNCIL
The Board of Selectmen appoints members to the Framingham Cultural Council. Present members are: John Steacie, Chair, Amanda Fargiano, Vice-Chair & Secretary, Janice Kiley, Treasurer, Karen Avery, James Rizoli, Sarah Donato,
and Anna Faktorovich. The Committee encourages volunteers to join us in our mission. Appointments are for three years. Our Committee receives funding from the
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Massachusetts Cultural Council to "promote excellence, access, education, and diversity in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences, in order to improve the quality of life for local residents". Other funding is raised through local efforts, such as sales of the Framingham Bracelet. This year's State award was $17,070 and along with local receipts, we were able to award a total of $17,641 - some for PASS grants to allow students to attend events outside of town, and the larger balance to fund local presentations, i.e. - art classes, a theater event, concerts, art history, and a health & diet performance.
We wish to thank our administrative assistant, Rita Collins, for leading us through the granting process. For new initiatives, we intend to personally audit each grant to ascertain its effectiveness, and may host the Yale Whiffenpoofs as a fund-raiser this spring. We are also working closely with the START Partnership to further promote our goal of increased activity in arts and culture to benefit all the citizens of Framingham. Respectfully submitted, John Steacie Chair
FRAMINGHAM DISABILITY COMMISSION
On July 1, 2005 David Lieb of Lieb Studios began the Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan of the towns’ buildings and programs and services. The plan was completed in April 2006 after a community open forum was held. In June 2006, Commissioners were presented with the completed draft of the document. The Plan was made available in alternate format for persons with print disabilities. On August 8th, 2006, the Plan was made available to the public through the Board of Selectmen and a public comment period began. An Implementation Task Force was set up to work on implementing the recommendations outlined in the Plan. The Task Force is comprised of town department heads, town meeting representatives and members of the Disability Commission appointed by the Town Manager, Julian Suso. After outreach to various outlets such as the MA Commission for the Blind, the
Massachusetts Radio Reading Network, Framingham local access government channel advertisements, the Framingham Tab and the MetroWest Daily News a public hearing was held on October 25, 2006 to conclude the period of public comment. The work of the Implementation Task Force has begun and the Board of Selectmen, upon the recommendation of the Disability Commission, will provide the town with an annual report every July 26th, the anniversary of the signing of The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Disability Commission contributed some of the handicapped parking fines collected to various projects such as; automatic door openers for the McAuliffe Branch library and the Callahan Senior Center and for accessible playground equipment at the Hemenway Middle School. On June 4, 2006 Thelma Berman, Elise Marcil, Kathie McCarthy and myself
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attended the playground dedication ceremony. On July 26, 2006 the Disability Commission celebrated the 16th anniversary of the ADA at our July 26th meeting. The Chair of the Framingham Human Relations Commission, the town Manager and Ginger Esty from the Board of Selectmen attended the recognition ceremony. On October 11, 2006 we hosted a training with the MA Architectural Access Board regarding the 2006 addition of the MA Architectural Access Board Rules and Regulations. Several town employees from various town departments were in attendance.
It is with great pleasure that we announce that our Vice-Chair, Karen Foran Dempsey gave birth to twin boys, Joseph and William Dempsey on September 11,
2006. (William- left & Joseph- right). Karen and her husband Mark Dempsey are also Town Meeting members for Precinct 3. On a sad note we wish to acknowledge the passing of two former Commission members, Sara Ludwig and Patty Prell. Both Sara and Patty were long time community activists advocating for the civil rights of persons with disabilities. They will be truly missed and forever remembered. The Framingham Disability Commission, would like to thank the following town employees for their continued support and efforts on behalf of the Disability Commission; Julian Suso, Town Manager, Valerie Mulvey, Town Clerk, Scott Morelli, Executive Assistant, Ron Rego, Director of Media Services. We look forward to 2007 when the Framingham Disability Commission will mark the fifth anniversary of the establishment of the Disability Commission. We also wish to thank the Board of Selectmen and town meeting for their continued support of our activities. Sincerely Yours, Dennis Polselli Chair
CUSHING CHAPEL The Cushing Chapel Advisory Committee has welcomed new members to its committee and looks forward to a productive year. The Framingham Garden Club continues to grace the Chapel with beautiful spring
and fall plantings. The Chapel committee placed a small bronze plaque at the beginning of the footpath to the Chapel door for their dedication and generosity over the years to showplace the Chapel as a place to reflect and enjoy. We salute the Garden Club!
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Other projects we will be working this coming year will be a fundraiser to replace the hot-top walk with a more aesthetic path leading up to the Chapel door. We are still working with the Planning Board to acquire the two small parcels in front of the chapel as they are not owned by the town. Hopefully in the next year that will become a reality. This spring will offer an opportunity to showcase the Chapel to area funeral
directors with an open house. The serene setting and historic past will provide a fitting tribute for such services. The Cushing Chapel Committee would like to thank the Framingham Board of Selectmen and the town administration for its support this past year. Respectfully Submitted, Stanton T. Fitts
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TOWN MEETING JOURNAL
VALERIE W. MULVEY TOWN CLERK
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TOWN MODERATOR
The Town Moderator has two major responsibilities: to conduct Town Meeting in a fair and impartial manner and to make appointments to permanent committees as specified in the Town bylaws. The Moderator conducts town meeting according to the Massachusetts General Law (MGL) statutes and the Town bylaws, guided by Town Meeting Time (a book published by the Massachusetts Moderators Association). The Moderator is expected to run an orderly meeting giving the opportunity for Town Meeting Members to ask questions and express their opinions. In addition, the Moderator may recognize citizens of the Town who wish to speak. The Moderator-appointed committees are the Finance Committee, the Capital Budget Committee, the Real Property Committee, the Technology Advisory Committee, and the Government Study Committee, as well as the Personnel Board. The Moderator filled all open positions on these committees and made the appointments to committees when the term of a member expired. On occasion, Town Meeting votes to create an ad-hoc committee with the Moderator charged with appointing the members to this committee.
There may be 216 Town Meeting Members; however, a number of precincts do not have 12 Town Meeting Members as allowed by law.
At the beginning of this year’s Annual Town Meeting, the Moderator recognized for their dedication and service those Town Meeting Members who were first elected 30 or more years ago. These were
Patricia E. Woodward (1969), Michael G. Berardi (1971), Louis V. Cintolo (1971), Gerald Couto (1971), Elizabeth L. Funk (1971), Theodore C. Anthony, Jr. (1972), Wolf Haberman (1972), John B. Steacie (1973), Sheila Ann Pinn (1975), Elizabeth K. Sleczkowski (1975), Edward T. Levay Jr. (1976), Betty H. Muto (1976), and Norman L. Snow, Jr. (1976).
Kathie McCarthy, of the Framingham League of Women Voters, organized a site caravan to visit various buildings and parks in Framingham that Town Meeting has supported or for which additional support was requested. The hosts for this tour were Kathleen Bartolini, Bob Merusi, Jim Eagan, Ollie Gadson and Robert Drake.
This year the Town Moderator had assistance from selected Town Meeting Members who ran the time clock and helped to keep track of those who spoke. The Moderator appreciates the work of the Standing Committee on Rules, especially the chair, Teri Banerjee. The committee reviews the Town Meeting process and recommends ways for making Town Meeting more effective and informative. Also this year, the Moderator designated mentors for new Town Meeting Members to help them learn about the Town Meeting procedures. During the year, the Moderator hosted a cable TV show called the Moderator’s Forum, which is shown on RCN and Comcast public access channels. The guests were the chairs or vice-chairs of the Moderator-
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appointed committees and the Town Meeting Standing Committees. These guests described their committees and what they have accomplished during the past year. Other guests were Town Meeting Members who have served over 30 years. These guests discussed how Town Meeting has changed over the years. When the Town Clerk was a guest, she discussed the Town Clerk’s role as it relates to Town Meeting. On Sunday, October 22, 2006, Framingham held a Town Meeting Day in the main library. Fred Wallace of the Historical Society gave a talk on the history of Town Meeting locations in Framingham. The first meeting house was identified in 1698, which was a requirement for Framingham to be chartered as a town. The governor approved the charter on June 21, 1700. Subsequently, Town Meeting was held at Village Hall, the Elmwood Opera House, the Armory which at one time became a Casino, and the Danforth High School. In February of 1928 Nevins Hall in the new Memorial building became the location for Town Meeting, and it has been the location for Town Meeting ever since then.
Attendees at Town Meeting Day
Fred Wallace and a poster for a dance at the casino where Town Meeting was once held Also at the Town Meeting Day, a representative from Rep. Debby Blumer’s office read a proclamation from the Governor, and the Town Manager read a proclamation from the Board of Selectmen. The Moderator has given these proclamations to the Library for display and storage. Respectfully submitted, Joel Winett Town Moderator
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STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
STANDING COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY
In 2006, Town Meeting Standing Committee on Public Safety continued in its role to analyze, vote on and make recommendations to Town Meeting on all articles relating to the Police, Fire, and Inspectional Services department. The committee worked closely with Chief Carl of the Framingham Police department and is pleased to report that funds requested for addition officers was passed by Town Meeting and that the department is well on it way to meeting the desired staffing goal. In addition, the committee work closely with Chief Gadson of the Framingham Fire Department and is pleased to report that requests for funding to purchase a new Engine and replace the ageing roof at
Station 2 in Saxonville were also approved. Inspectional Services is an area that will require much attention in the coming year. There is currently a search underway to replace the Director, who left with short notice to take a position in Worchester. In addition, the current staffing levels are being looked at to determine if the appropriate amount of resources are available to do the job that the department is tasked with. All members of the committee have volunteered much of their free time to make this committee and Town Meeting a success, and as such I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to each member and look forward to another productive year.
STANDING COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY SERVICES
We are pleased to report on our mission of expanding communication to town meeting members and the public on numerous services to our community. We would also like to extend a warm welcome to Mr. Julian Suso, our new Town Manager, and look forward to a long and cooperative working relationship. With his guidance and assistance we will strive to accomplish goals bringing forward all the best that Framingham can become with a bright future ahead. The Community Services Standing Committee (CSSC) is comprised of representatives from each precinct in town, and we seek active participation from all members. Not only do members represent their precinct and
neighborhoods within our discussions and actions, but they also are asked to be a liaison to a related town commission, board, or committee. Liaisons act as a direct link to CSSC providing updates of pertinent information, news, and ongoing activities. In the past, we have organized and cosponsored informational forums encouraging community understanding of town government, departments and issues. Presentations from associated departments are made to CSSC on upcoming town meeting articles, and the liaison presents our report at Town Meeting on our findings, motions and votes taken on that particular article.
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We offer a wide variety of opportunities for members to become involved in a topic that interests them. To name a few of the areas of interest where CSSC members act as liaisons are: the Council on Aging and Friends of Callahan Senior Center, Community Housing Plan and Fair Housing, Farm Pond Task Force, Human Relations Commission, Veterans Services, Disability Commission, Parks and Recreation, Loring Arena, Cultural Affairs & Start Partnership, Edgell Grove Cemetery, Celebration Committee, Public Works, Downtown Revitalization and Transportation, Community Development Block Grant, Social Services Impact, Emergency Services, Rail Trails, and neighborhood committees. Chair, Dave Hutchinson continues to reach the public with his cable show Town Meeting Views. As an example of our cooperative efforts within our community, we would note the work of our Chair, Dave Hutchinson, Town Meeting Member Ned Price and the Veterans organization headed by Mal Schultz. After the death of Hayward Taylor, a well-known, long-standing and memorable Town Meeting Member and Physician at the former Cushing Hospital, we joined forces to honor his service to
our community. Monies were raised for a monument to be erected on Cushing grounds in Tercentennial Park and this dedication was made recently. With the agreement of Hayward’s family, the additional money was given to the veterans association for direct services to veterans. Several of our long-standing and dedicated town meeting members have passed away this year. Their work for our community has been treasured and appreciated, and in many cases can be seen in improvements in town. Sara Ludwig gave so much to make our community more accessible, and Bob Halliday also worked tirelessly to improve our government. The legacy of those who’ve gone before us is placed in our hands to continue to make a difference and serve our community well. Open communication, cooperation and our generous spirit can and will continue to guide Framingham to its finest future. Join us in being involved in Framingham, as you’ll be happy that you did! Respectfully submitted, Kathie McCarthy Clerk
STANDING COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS
The Standing Committee on Public Works actively continued in its role of oversight of the Dept. of Public Works by meeting with the Director, Peter Sellers and his staff on regular intervals to review, discuss and vote on recommendations to be presented to town meeting. Capital Budget: The SCPW supported the Dept. of Public Works FY07 Capital Budget by recommending that $350,000 be allocated to the Beaver Dam Brook and Farm Pond Storm Water study to find solutions for one of the most serious
flooding problems in the Town. Excessive storm water run-off originating from these two bodies of water has resulted in uncontrollable flooding on Irving and Alexander Streets. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) granted Framingham a $12 million 20 year loan @ 2% interest providing the funding for this study. In addition, the SCPW recommended that the DPW request for $100,000 for Sidewalk/Accessibility Improvement Program be funded by town meeting in order to continue with ADA compliance.
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Other projects that the SCPW supported for funding included the Gregory Road sewer relief to reconstruct and re-route the sewer lines to address the longest overflow in the Town’s system. SCPW recommended that $3.5 million be appropriated for the Fenwick Pump Station and force main replacement project to correct surcharging problems. The Water St. sewer design and force main replacement project was appropriated $7,295,000 as well. Water Enterprise Fund: The Birch Road Well Activation Project continues and the recommendation was made for $400,000 to be appropriated for FY07. The Public Works Committee continues its follow up in the progress of the monitoring of PCE levels found in the wells, working towards the goal to re-open the well field. In addition, $225,000 was approved for a 3 year program to replace faulty fire hydrants as well as ongoing preventative maintenance. Finally, $1.4 million was approved for the Fay Rd. water main and Waverly Street water main replacements. At the May 2006 Special Town Meeting SCPW recommended positive action on Article 3, a request for approval of funding an $800,000 Chapter 90 grant. The funds will be applied to roadway construction improvements for Cochituate Rd., Edgell Rd., High St., Main St. and Hardy St. The committee voted unanimously to support this Article. Article 37 – Inter-Municipal Agreement: 2006 was an important year for the Dept. of Public Works and particularly for the Standing Committee on Public Works. The SCPW, together with Selectman Ginger Esty, initiated the investigation into this issue years earlier and thanks to their combined effort, Article 37 of the 2006 Annual Town
Meeting became a reality. This was a victory in the form of a 20 year Inter-Municipal Agreement (IMA) between Framingham and Ashland which concluded a 2 year law suit. The courts awarded Framingham retroactive recovery of operating and maintenance costs from 1998-2003 as well as compensation for damage to Framingham’s sewer system caused by Ashland users. Although the IMA has not been finalized to date, it potentially will provide between $12 to $13 million dollars to Framingham over the next 20 years. As Chair of the SCPW, I want to express my gratitude to the entire committee for their work on this issue and a special thanks to Frank Reilly, Selectman Ginger Esty and Town Counsel, Christopher Petrini, for making this agreement a reality for Framingham. Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan (CWMP): The Standing Committee on Public Works reviewed the presentation of this program by Peter Sellers in November 2006. The CWMP is a compilation of all the projects that have been ongoing as well as those that are needed to be included to provide ongoing maintenance and reconstruction. The SCPW learned that the town is under a Department of Environmental Protection Consent Order to submit this overflow response plan which includes all the capital projects previously discussed. In addition, the DPW is charged with submitting a sewer system evaluation study, a staffing and operations plan and sump pump elimination plan. This program greatly benefits the residents of the Town. As in past years, the SCPW continues to persist in seeking answers regarding corrections to the current billing system as well as question the progress made on payments, abatements, and adjustments
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with regards to out of town water and sewer customers. As always, I wish to recognize and thank each member for their individual and collective contribution to the committee and town meeting: Steven Orr, Precinct 1; George Dixon, Precinct 3; Laurence Schmeidler, Precinct 4; Judith Perry, Precinct 5; Frank Reilly, Precinct 7; Joe Connolly, Precinct 8; Shelley Strowman, Precinct 9, Clennie Burnett, Precinct 10; Christopher McGinty, Precinct 11; Harold Johson, Precinct 12; Elizabeth Stone, Precinct 13; Dan Gittelsohn, vice-chair, Precinct 14; Louis Demers, Precinct 15; Norman Snow, Precinct 18. On behalf of the Committee, I want to express our gratitude for the level of commitment that the entire Department of Public Works has made towards the goal of improving the town’s infrastructure as well as providing a preventative maintenance program that will eventually become more proactive rather than reactive to the town’s needs. A special thanks to Peter Sellers, Director, for continually seeking out initiatives and financial solutions that work toward excellence in public service reflecting daily improvement in the quality of life for the residents of Framingham.
Department of Building Services: In 2006 the Board of Selectmen appointed members to form the Memorial Building Study Committee to address growing concerns about the safety of the Memorial Building as well as its failing heating system and associated infrastructure. . The SCPW was designated one member as part of this committee. Although the committee has not completed its assignment to date, members are charged with reviewing, researching and making recommendations regarding necessary repairs as well as estimating costs for those repairs. The committee will continue to be involved in this project oversight. On behalf of the SCPW I want to express the committee’s sincere appreciation to the Director, Jim Egan, and his staff for their commitment to devoting the necessary time and effort to continue to strive towards solving many difficult problems that his department is faced with on a daily basis. Respectfully submitted, Christine Long Chair
STANDING COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS
As defined in the Town by-laws, the Ways and Means Standing Committee, one of the seven standing committees of Town Meeting, is responsible for making recommendations to town meeting on warrant articles sponsored by and/or related to the Finance Committee, the Finance Division, the Human Resources Division, the Information Services Division, the Selectmen, the Town Clerk, Town Elections, the Legal Department,
the Retirement Board, Capital Budget Committee, Permanent Building Committee, and the Government Study Committee The Ways and Means Standing Committee held nine meetings during 2006 to discuss Annual and Special Town Meeting Warrant Articles and other issues pertaining to the areas under its purview. At the first meeting on March 2, 2006, the
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FY 2006 preliminary Town Operating budget was reviewed with the Chief Financial Officer. Beginning April 3, eight meetings were held to review and vote on 11 of the articles taken up at the Annual Town Meeting. Seven articles were reviewed and voted for the Special Town Meetings held on May 3 and May 16, 2006. The committee reviewed the articles for these Town Meetings with the sponsors and others, including the Operating and Capital budgets, which were voted by Town Meeting in June. While favorable action was recommended on most of these articles, the committee recommended against two articles dealing with benefits for disabled veterans, on which Town Meeting voted the committee’s recommendation. During the 2006 Annual Town Meeting, members from 13 of the 18 Town precincts were re-elected to the Standing Committee on Ways and Means. Five precincts did not elect representatives to this committee. Wolf (Bill) Haberman stepped down from his role as Chairman. The committee thanked him for his seven years of outstanding leadership as Chair. Audrey M. Hall (Precinct 3) was elected Chair after serving as Vice-Chair for three
years. Thomas J. Sherwin (Precinct 4) was elected Vice-Chair, and Barry Kling (Precinct 9) was re-elected as Clerk. At the conclusion of the 2006 annual town meeting, the committee was comprised of the following members: R. Kathy Vassar (Precinct 1), David J. Longden, Jr. (Precinct 2), Audrey M. Hall (Precinct 3), Thomas J. Sherwin (Precinct 4), Rebecca A. Connelly (Precinct 5), Penny K. Wortham (Precinct 7), Bill Haberman (Precinct 8), Barry Kling (Precinct 9), William G. McCarthy (Precinct 10), Diane Montgomery (Precinct 11), Kurt Steinberg (Precinct 12), John B. Steacie (Precinct 13), and Joe Fonseca (Precinct 17). Committee members make a significant contribution of time and effort with a particular focus on thoroughly evaluating the articles and making thoughtful, concise recommendations to Town Meeting. Recommendations will continue to be based on serving the needs of Framingham in the most productive, cost-effective manner, while fostering the highest quality of life. Respectfully submitted, Audrey M. Hall Chair
STANDING COMMITTEE ON PLANNING AND ZONING
During the calendar year 2006, our committee again attempted to address the issue of bylaw enforcement. The Building Dept. is the primary enforcer of the Zoning, Nuisance, Sign Bylaws and overcrowding of residential use. In the years 2004 and 2005, the chair, at the request of the committee, asked for a listing of complaints and status of enforcement. The report that we received
was not useful since we did not have the key code to read the report. That comment was conveyed to the building commissioner. Since that time both the nuisance and sign bylaws are under study by the Selectmen to determine what changes should be made. The compliance date of 2006 (a ten year grace period) has been extended and as of this writing a
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final decision has not been made concerning proposed changes. In the year 2006, we discussed the Housing Policy as it relates to the Master Plan. We have requested more input before making any formal recommendation. Town Meeting had asked, by a Home Rule Petition, to make any Housing Policy subject to a two-thirds vote of our town legislative body. Our committee was a co-sponsor of the home rule petition.
“Expedited Permitting”, enabled by a Mass Gen Law, has been a subject of our discussion. This legislation, introduced by the Governor, is site designated and may require Town Meeting approval before acceptance by the town. The new legislation does appear to overrule local zoning. Tom O’Neil Chair
STANDING COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
The Standing Committee on Education has had a transitional year, with a change in Chair and Vice Chair positions and the majority of the Committee members newly appointed. Currently the Committee is under the direction of the Vice Chair. Our Chair is no longer participating in Town Meeting. Nonetheless, the Committee did meet twice in the 2006 fiscal year. The Framingham School Department budget was reviewed and discussed. Particular attention was given to the School Department’s transportation contract, which was up for review. Despite efforts on the part of the School Department and several of the School Committee members, only one vendor ultimately chose to offer the Town a contract. Other potential vendors sited the size of the necessary fleet and their lack of proximity to Framingham as reasons that they could not offer a cost-effective bid. The Committee was satisfied that the School Department had negotiated the best possible contract, and understood that much of the increase in the cost was attributable to the significant fuel cost increases.
The full budget of the School Department again was presented along with a list of cuts in positions and services. The Superintendent indicated that cuts were made as much as possible from Administrative and support positions. The budgets of both Keefe Tech and the Public Library were presented and discussed in detail. The Library has turned it attention to necessary capital improvements on both buildings in light of the Town Meeting decision not to fund a new branch library building. The trend of belt tightening and increased expenses caused by significant increases in fuel, heating oil and electricity will continue to be a factor in the upcoming fiscal 2007 budgets. The School Department continues to wrestle with special education costs that are not neatly predictable, and seem to be on the rise. We anticipate that the coming year will be additionally challenging and will continue to work with the Schools and Library to present the most fiscally responsible budgets to the Town. We welcome the
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attendance of all interested residents and Town Meeting members and encourage your comments and questions. Feel free to contact Clerk, Melanie Goddard at [email protected] or by phone at (508) 904-4307.
Respectfully submitted, Melanie Goddard Clerk
STANDING COMMITTEE ON RULES
As in past years, the Standing Committee on Rules has been active, meeting monthly, except for August, seeking ways to make Town Meeting run more efficiently and smoothly. This year, we elected a new vice chair, Gloria Geller when our incumbent VC (Joel Winett) ran for and won the office of Town Meeting Moderator. As Moderator, Joel continues to work closely with the Rules Committee. In our continuing effort to encourage and foster communication within our town government, we have met with precinct chairs, standing committee chairs, various citizens, the Government Study Committee, and our new CFO. We had several successful meetings last year with Mary Ellen Kelley, CFO, to create a “score card” to use as we proceed through the annual budget article. We look forward to working with her again this year. I look forward to working with our new Town Manager, Julius Suso, to arrange the warrant articles for the annual town meeting. I am happy to report that as of this year, we no longer have to make a motion to defer the acceptance of the selectman’s annual report (traditionally article 1 of the annual warrant) because we are now placing it at a more logical position in the order of articles.
We received much positive feedback on the new Article 1 of the annual town meeting, our “Reporting Article” which we hope will become a tradition for the annual town meeting, if not for specials as well. The reporting article is meant to keep town meeting informed about issues and items from previous business conducted in town meeting, such as the status of Capital Budget items, the disposition of by-law changes approved by Town Meeting, a report on the major departmental transfers in the current fiscal year budget, report on the Master Plan and from various boards on the status of their projects. In fact, for the upcoming special town meeting we included a reporting article which pertains to reports that town meeting members requested in resolutions at the Annual Town Meeting. A new task for the Rules Committee is to supply a timekeeper/assistant to the Moderator each evening that town meeting is in session. Thanks this year to Donald Chute, Gloria Geller, Christine Long, Pam Roberts, Sheila Ann Pinn, John Speranza and the several others who served in this capacity. If any town meeting member would like to volunteer, please contact me, Teri Banerjee, the Rules Committee Chair. It is a broadening experience, giving town
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meeting members a view from the stage which, we never before experienced. Other items on which we are currently working include:
adding a section to the information by-law regarding archiving which we will introduce at the annual meeting.
a reporting warrant article regarding topics that were covered in previous Town Meetings (as appropriate),
encouraging all town meeting members as public servants to post email addresses and telephone numbers so their constituents can contact them easily. This is also a goal of the Government Study Committee • on-the-fly amendments - thanks to the
IS department for providing the computer and printer and to Ed Kross for helping town meeting members create and print their amendments
• information table – again thanks to Bernice Strom for the superb job she does!!
• updating the Town Meeting Members’ handbook - The Moderator and Chair of the Standing Committee on Rules have made revisions (should be available by the time you read this).
• electronic voting – feasibility is increasing. We will be seeking support as we are ironing out issues and logistics arising with this possible new form of voting at town meeting. Our electronic voting subcommittee includes: Bernice Strom, Ed Kross, Larry Griffin and Teri Banerjee. Thanks to the Information Technology Committee for their persistence.
• approaching the concept of standing committees, their purposes and how they should operate. We seek feedback on this subject.
• creating a by-law to hold a Fall Meeting at a specified time each year.
Thanks to the League of Women Voters for reinstating the invaluable site caravan, the tour of the locations involved in warrant articles for the annual town meeting. The better informed we are, the better town meeting will run. You will learn something new every time!! I encourage ALL town meeting members to attend the site caravan as well as any Town Meeting Member orientation. Thanks again to the wonderful core of Rules Committee members: Don Chute, Bernice Strom, Mark Dempsey, Gloria Geller, Larry Griffin, Elsa Hornfischer, Ed Kross, Archie Lyon, Michael Berrardi. Don continues in his role as clerk extraordinaire and I appreciate all he does for the committee. And finally, thanks to Town Meeting for having nominated and elected me as Temporary Town Moderator during Moderator Joel Winett’s absence this spring. It was a pleasure and an honor to have served in this capacity. As always, please let us know if you have any issues concerning the conduction of town meeting that you would like us to pursue. We’d also love to have you on the committee. Currently we have vacancies from precincts 5, 6, 7, 8, 16, 17, and 18. Respectfully submitted, Teri S. Banerjee Chair
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TOWN MEETING ATTENDANCE
Name Address Term Expires Meetings Attended
Eligible Meetings
Precinct 1 Steven W. Orr 41 Wayside Inn Road 2009 12 13 Margaret E. Groppo 301 Brimstone Lane 2009 10 13 Janet L. Gill 32 Wayside Inn Road 2009 12 13 Christopher S. Lorant 1806 Windsor Drive 2009 11 13 John R. Dwyer 51 Eaton Road West 2008 13 13 Sheila Ann Pinn 29 Juniper Lane 2008 13 13 Laurie A. Lee 25 Carter Drive 2008 13 13 Roberta C. Flax 1010 Windsor Drive 2008 5 6 R. Kathy Vassar 22 Carter Drive 2007 13 13 Steven A. Kruger 38 Garvey Road 2007 4 13 Theodore C. Anthony, Jr. 111 Edgell Road 2007 12 13 Teri S. Banerjee 248 Winch Street 2007 12 13
Precinct 2 Kenneth M. Schwartz 14 Hillside Street 2009 12 13 Melanie L. Goddard 43 Little Farms Road 2009 13 13 Leonard J. Hoffman 4 Corrine Drive 2009 13 13 Stephen W. Dressler 41 Hemenway Road 2009 10 13 Nancy Cooper 9 Griffin Road 2008 10 13 Harold J. Geller 3 Lowry Road 2008 13 13 Duncan R. Duval 4 Catherine Road 2008 0 13 Maryelaine F. Sullivan 24 Griffin Road 2008 5 13 Stephen Shull 16 Sloane Drive 2007 13 13 Christine A. Long 10 Hemenway Road 2007 13 13 David J. Longden, Jr. 1070 Old Connecticut Path 2007 11 13 Gloria H. Geller 3 Lowry Road 2007 12 13
Precinct 3 Mark E. Dempsey 10 Bellefontaine Avenue 2009 11 13 Patricia E. Woodward 3 Springhill Road 2009 5 13 Mary McCarty 45 Chouteau Road 2009 13 13 Harold J. Moran 7 Chouteau Road 2009 11 13 Carol E. Casselman 48 Florissant Avenue 2008 12 13 Audrey M. Hall 18 Salmi Road 2008 12 13 Norma B. Shulman 22 Forest Road 2008 9 9 C. William Cook 148 Danforth Street, #2 2008 8 13 Wesley J. Ritchie 214 School Street 2008 7 13 Karen L. Foran 10 Bellefontaine Avenue 2007 6 13 Richard E. Paul 933 Old Connecticut Path 2007 9 13 George T. Dixon 56 Delmar Avenue 2007 13 13 Marilyn Zimmerman 875 Old Connecticut Path 2007 11 13
Precinct 4 Paula L. Schmeidler 27 Claudette Circle 2009 8 13 Dawn F. Harkness P. O. Box 1723 2009 13 13 Arlene V. Semerjian 13 Janice Circle 2009 5 13 Karl B. Thober 502 Grove Street 2009 12 13 Joyce A. Tolman 82 Flanagan Drive 2008 0 13 Thomas J. Sherwin 7 Lavelle Lane 2008 10 13 Waldo B. Lyon 1 Rolling Drive 2008 13 13 Richard E. Shapiro 9 Brook Meadow Circle 2008 0 13 Laurence M. Schmeidler 27 Claudette Circle 2007 10 13 Katherine Murphy 16 Powder Mill Road 2007 4 11 Diane Z. Pabst 18 McAdams Road 2007 7 13 Amy M. Weader 24 Amy Road 2007 7 13
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Name Address Term Expires Meetings Attended
Eligible Meetings
Precinct 5 Elizabeth K. Sleczkowski 27 Townsend Terrace 2009 12 13 Richard A. Finlay 11 Francine Road 2009 8 13 Michael Bower 18 Edith Road 2009 13 13 Norman B. Shulman 13 Alfred Road 2009 13 13 Jeanne I. Bullock 22 Pinewood Drive 2008 12 13 James P. Capobianco 5 Chesterfield Street 2008 10 13 Yaakov Z. Cohn 5 Harvard Road 2008 9 13 Paul King 62 Linda Avenue 2008 2 7 Paul G. Gosselin 27 Townsend Terrace 2008 0 5 Janet Leombruno 2 Cider Mill Road 2007 13 13 Rebecca A. Connelly 20 Francine Road 2007 6 13 Judith M. Perry 4 Doris Road 2007 11 13 Adam S. Blumer 27 Lowe Circle 2007 13 13
Precinct 6 Nicholas J. Paganella 20 Antrim Road 2009 1 13 John D. Styles 23 Terri Road 2009 12 13 Kathleen M. Stefanini 15 Cunningham Drive 2009 11 13 Mary C. Healy 3 Poplar Street 2009 10 13 Peter J. DeVito 9 Gilmore Road 2008 8 13 John Speranza 66 Spruce Street 2008 13 13 Edward T. Levay, Jr. 13 Summer Street, #2 2008 13 13 Robert H. Bolles 35 North Lane 2008 13 13 Antoinette K. Burrill 5 Myrna Road 2007 6 13 John C. Howland 5 Scott Drive 2007 0 6 Elizabeth L. Funk 1242 Concord Street 2007 8 13 Nancy A. Sweeney 29 Brook Street 2007 10 13
Precinct 7 Henry W. Ohrenberger 16 John M. McQuinn Circle 2009 11 13 Peter A. Poulos 41 Pleasant Street 2009 8 13 Lawrence J. Griffin 38 Pine Lane 2009 12 13 Morton J. Shuman 582 Pleasant Street 2009 13 13 Kevin P. Crotty 79 Pleasant Street 2008 13 13 Janice L. Kiley 146 Maynard Rd., #503G 2008 9 13 John Christopher Walsh 113 Pleasant Street 2008 6 13 Todd S. Robecki 108 Pleasant Street 2008 0 13 Paul J. McGowan 6 Joanne Drive 2007 6 13 Francis X. Reilly 534 Edgell Road 2007 12 13 Penny W. Wortham 4 Warren Place 2007 12 13 Kathleen J. Reilly 534 Edgell Road 2007 8 13
Precinct 8 Arthur J. Mills 79 Beacon Street 2009 13 13 Laurie Jean Carroll 57 Indian Head Road 2009 9 13 Dorothy Collier 146 Lockland Avenue 2009 12 13 Thomas H. O'Neil 107 Lockland Avenue 2008 13 13 Linda M. Romero 20 Donna Road 2008 9 13 Philip Romine 6 Pitt Road 2008 12 13 Robert J. Halliday 27 Dana Road 2008 12 13 Joseph B. Connolly 3 Sylvester Drive 2007 9 13 Robert J. Walcott 18C John J. Brady Drive 2007 0 13 Douglas S. Rich 96 Oaks Road 2007 8 13 Wolf Haberman 41 Crestwood Drive 2007 12 13
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Name Address Term Expires Meetings Attended
Eligible Meetings
Precinct 9 Barry S. Kling 18 Femia Road 2009 8 13 C. Patrick Dunne 174 Old Connecticut Path 2009 7 13 Kimberly Ann Lombardo 345 Old Connecticut Path 2009 6 13 Kitty Crone 165 Old Connecticut Path 2009 12 13 Maureen E. Dunne 174 Old Connecticut Path 2008 13 13 Brian C. Sullivan 16 Olympic Street 2008 13 13 Bruce Leish 7 Randy Road 2008 8 13 Shelley R. Strowman 9 Longview Road 2008 11 13 Steven H. Friedman 2 Woodward Road 2007 9 13 Bernice W. Strom 12 Longview Road 2007 12 13 Rita K. Blum 60 Dinsmore Avenue 412 2007 10 13 Phyllis A. Dunn 50 Williams Street 2007 11 13
Precinct 10 Patricia de Weever 67 Gates Street 2009 0 13 Diana Bailey 26 Westgate Road 2009 2 13 Pamela V. Roberts 1321 Worcester Rd., 605 2009 13 13 Gwendolyn Holbrow 65 Gates Road 2009 7 13 Margo B. Deane 1500 Worcester Road, 615E 2008 11 13 George L. Drummey 10 Woodleigh Road 2008 9 13 Lois L. Herman 135 Oakcrest Drive 2008 0 13 William G. McCarthy 25 Westgate Road 2007 11 13 Kathleen T. McCarthy 25 Westgate Road 2007 12 13 Clifford Moreland 1321 Worcester Road, 104 2007 11 13 Clennie M. Burnett 1321 Worcester Road, 111 2007 3 13
Precinct 11 Douglas B. Freeman 28 Hodder Lane 2009 10 13 Edward V. Cosgrove 597 Winter Street 2009 7 13 Christopher A. McGinty 49 Salem End Lane 2009 11 13 Peter Pleshaw 10 Gryzboska Circle 2009 13 13 Enzo F. Rotatori 550 Winter Street 2008 12 13 Arsene G. Bajakian 34 Gryzboska Circle 2008 11 13 Debbie Chase 85 Salem End Lane 2008 10 13 Robert Snider 11 Cahill Park Drive 2008 6 13 Diane M. Montgomery 3 Badger Road 2007 7 13 Philip R. Ottaviani, Jr. 228 Salem End Road 2007 11 13 Bradford Douglas Freeman 28 Hodder Lane 2007 3 13 Martin F. Mulvey, Jr. 7 William J. Heights 2007 11 13
Precinct 12 Edward J. Kross 559 Union Avenue 2 2009 7 13 Carlos A. Cunningham 26 Prescott Street 2009 10 13 Caraline R. Levy 73 Barber Road 2009 11 13 Allan D. Smith 568 Franklin Street 2009 12 13 Betty H. Muto 35 Neville Road 2008 13 13 David I. Hutchinson 36 Day Hill Road 2008 11 13 Veronica A. Smith 568 Franklin Street 2008 11 13 Thomas Scionti 12 Maple Street 2008 10 13 Cheryl L. Gordon 600 Union Avenue 2007 10 13 Glenn R. Chambless 54 Prescott Street 2007 5 13 William F. Boone, Jr. 26 Neville Road 2007 6 13 Harold E. Johnson 16 Neville Road 2007 9 13
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Name Address Term Expires Meetings Attended
Eligible Meetings
Precinct 13 Philip L. Reitz 34 Shawmut Terrace 2009 10 13 Faith C. Tolson-Pierce 4 Arch Street 2009 7 13 Elsa Hornfischer 29 Arch Street 2009 11 13 Michael J. Campion 26 Arthur Street 2009 3 13 Louis V. Cintolo 358 Grant Street 2008 1 13 Gerald Couto 25 Dennison Avenue 2008 13 13 Anita P. O'Neil 49 Warren Road 2008 11 13 June P. Robertson 69 Dennison Avenue 2008 7 13 Elizabeth J. Stone 14 Arthur Street 2007 12 13 John B. Steacie 35 Hartford Street 2007 12 13 Jeffrey WT Buck 2 Belvidere Road 2007 5 13 Charles E. Brody 278 Bishop Street, #1 2007 8 13
Precinct 14 Kurt Thomas Steinberg 80 Pond Street 2009 4 13 Isabel L. Chute 36 Everit Avenue 2009 13 13 Jamie M. Ordway 199 Bishop Drive 2009 11 11 Judith P. Callahan 158 Arthur Street 2009 9 13 Robert B. DeShaw 124 Lawrence Street 2008 9 13 Agnaldo Lopes Da Cruz 107 Mansfield Street 2008 3 13 Courtney Elgart 45 Lawrence Street 2008 7 13 Robert D. Cushing P. O. Box 225 2008 11 13 Donald R. Chute 36 Everit Avenue 2007 13 13 Daniel D. Gittelsohn 16 Bishop Drive 2007 12 13 James M. Rizoli 94 Pond Street 2007 13 13 Cheryl A. Greene 98 Bishop Drive 2007 6 13
Precinct 15 Beverly C. Good 24 Hayes Street 2 2009 7 13 Louis X. Demers 64 Bethany Road 2009 11 13 Harold Weaver 133 Winthrop Street, #3 2009 13 13 Joseph F. Milan 54 Fay Road 2009 5 13 Sidney Pires 24 Coburn Street 2008 4 13 Michael G. Berardi 78 Bethany Road 2008 8 13 Roberta Roberti 101 Winthrop Street, #2 2008 11 13 James C. Bauchman 73 Hollis Street, #1 2008 9 11 Alexander R. Capone 29 Seminole Avenue 2007 10 13 Thomas J. Driscoll, Jr. 89 Bethany Road 402 2007 12 13
Precinct 16 David T. Marks 82 Leland Street 2009 12 13 Kathleen T. DeMarco 92 South Street 2009 9 9 Frank N. DeMarco 92 South Street 2009 7 9 Paula M. Correia 33 Taylor Street 2008 3 13 Catherine T. Bohn 75 Irving Street, #309 2008 2 13 William J. LaBarge 11 East Street 2007 13 13
Precinct 17 Joe C. Fonseca 248 Beaver Street 2008 10 13 Martin Ned Price 250 Beaver Street 2008 13 13 Isabel Fonseca 248 Beaver Street 2008 5 13 Gigi Anita Rust 22B Interfaith Terrace 2007 12 13
Precinct 18 Norman L. Snow, Jr. 35 Lindsay Street 2009 10 13 Ilene Hofrenning 24 Wood Avenue, 1 2009 8 13 Alan Crane 43 Pratt Street 2007 7 13
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APRIL 25, 2006 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Article Subject Vote Date 1 Reports from Departments, Boards, etc. Voted 5/9/06 2 General Bylaw Amendment – Distribution of Literature to TMM Voted w/ Amend. 5/2/06
3 General Bylaw Amendment - Annual Town Meeting Adjournment Referred Back 5/2/06 4 General Bylaw Amendment – Table of Appointments Voted 5/2/06 5 General Bylaw Amendment –Addition and Reorder to List of Historic Districts Voted 5/2/06 6 General Bylaw Amendment – Addition to List of Historic Districts Referred Back 5/9/06 7 General Bylaw Amendment – New Historic District Referred Back 5/9/06 8 General Bylaw Amendment – Hunting Bylaw Failed 5/3/06 9 General Bylaw Amendment – Hunting Bylaw: Archery Restriction Failed 5/3/06 10 General Bylaw Amendment – Hunting Bylaw Fines Referred Back 5/3/06 11 General Bylaw Amendment – Occupancy of Buildings Referred to
Committee On Overcrowding
5/3/06
12 Procedural Change for Opening New Restaurants Referred Back 5/4/06 13 Personnel Bylaw Pay Plan Voted 5/4/06 14 Indemnification of Retired Firefighters & Police Officers Voted 5/9/06 15 General Bylaw Amendment – Personnel Bylaw Voted 5/9/06 16 Crossing Guards Collective Bargaining Agreement Referred Back 5/9/06 17 Accept Title I CDBG Voted 5/10/06 18 Annual Report of the Board of Selectmen Voted 5/10/06 19 Rescind Authorized but Unissued Borrowing Votes Voted 5/10/06 20 Funds - Unpaid Bills Referred Back 6/6/06 21 Funds – FY06 Budget Voted 6/6/06 22 Funds - FY06 Water Department Referred Back 5/10/06 23 Funds – FY06 Sewer Department Referred Back 5/10/06 24 Funds – FY06 Loring Arena Voted 6/6/06 25 MCAD Litigation Voted 5/16/06 26 Funds – FY07 Budget Voted w/
Amendments 6/15/06
27 Funds – FY07 Water Department Voted 6/7/06 28 Funds – FY07 Sewer Department Voted 6/7/06 29 Funds – FY07 Loring Arena Voted 6/7/06 30 Capital Projects Voted 6/6/06 31 Revolving Funds Voted 5/10/06 32 Open Space Stabilization Fund Voted 5/9/06 33 Cochituate Rail Trail Voted 5/11/06 34 Chapter 157, Acts of 2005 – Veteran’s Benefits Failed 5/11/06 35 Retroactive Payments of Veteran’s Benefits Failed 5/11/06 36 Lease Agreement – Athletic Facilities and Parking Voted 5/11/06 37 Ashland Wastewater Agreement Voted 6/8/06 38 FY07 Community Economic Development Plan Voted 5/11/06 39 Zoning Bylaw Amendment Voted
(93 in favor, 12 opposed)
5/11/06
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ARTICLE 1 To see if the Town will hear reports from various Departments, Boards, Committees and Commissions including but not limited to the following: 1) Report from the Town Clerk on the status of bylaw changes approved by Town Meeting, 2) Report from the Board of Selectmen on petitions to the Legislature approved by Town Meeting, 3) Report from the CFO on transfers in the FY2006 operating budget, 4) Report from the Director of Parks and Recreation or Council on Aging on the new Callahan
Senior Center, 5) Report from the High School Building Committee on the High School building project, 6) Report from the Town Counsel on the taking of land at Temple Street, 7) Report from the Library Board on the purchase of land in the Pinefield Shopping Center, 8) Report from the Board of Selectmen regarding the Master Plan 9) Report from the Planning Board regarding plans and costs for development in the town, Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Standing Committee on Rules May 9, 2006 Voted: That the following reports be heard: 1) Report from the Town Clerk on the status of bylaw changes approved by Town Meeting, 2) Report from the Board of Selectmen on petitions to the Legislature approved by Town Meeting, 3) Report from the CFO on transfers in the FY2006 operating budget, 4) Report from the Council on Aging on the new Callahan Senior Center, 5) Report from the High School Building Committee on the High School building project, 6) Report from the Town Counsel on the taking of land at Temple Street, 7) Report from the Library Board on the purchase of land in the Pinefield Shopping Center, 8) Report from the Planning Board regarding the Master Plan 9) Report from the Planning Board regarding plans and costs for development in the town, 10) Report from the Pilot Committee 11) Report from the Task Force on Town Owned Buildings or the CFO in regard to RFPs for Town owned buildings. Further, that with the request of the committee the Pilot Impact Committee be dissolved at the end of the 2006 Annual Town Meeting and we thank them for their efforts. ARTICLE 2 To see if Town Meeting will vote to amend the Town Bylaws, Article III, Section 1.8.1 governing the distribution of literature to Town Meeting members, by amending the current bylaw as follows: 1.8 Distribution of literature to Town Meeting Members. 1.8.1 Any committee, board or officer of the Town of Framingham or any sponsor of a warrant
article may submit backup material to the Board of Selectmen at the time and in the manner
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specified by the Board of Selectmen for inclusion in the Warrant and Background Material. Any material so submitted must bear the number of the warrant article to which it refers, and the name of the entity that submits the material. The Board of Selectmen shall be responsible for delivery of same to each Town Meeting Member not less than 7 days before the commencement of Town Meeting.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Town Clerk May 2, 2006 Voted: That the Town Bylaws, Article III, Section 1, subsection 1.8.1 be amended as presented in the warrant. Further, that the words “7 days” in the last sentence be changed to “14 days”. Approved by Thomas F. Reilly, Attorney General on September 26, 2006 ARTICLE 3 To see if Town Meeting will vote to amend the Town Bylaws, Article III, section 1.3 by adding the following words after “ the fourth Tuesday of April;”:
unless the Board of Selectmen shall deem it necessary to defer adjournment until the first Tuesday in May;
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Town Clerk May 2, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town Bylaws to reflect changes in committee and commission appointments as stated in (A) Article I, Section 1.3 and (B) Article II, Section 23.2. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Government Study Committee May 2, 2006 Voted: That the Town Bylaws, Article I, Section 1.3 be amended as described in the background material (and attached) relating to the following: Council on Aging Civil Defense Advisory Council Economic Development and Industrial Corporation Commission on Disability Historical Commission
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Further, that the Town Bylaws, Article I, Section 1.3 be amended by deleting the entry relating to the Permanent Building Committee. Further, that the Town Bylaws, Article II, Section 23.2 be amended as described in the background material (and attached) relating to the Commission on Disability. Article I, Section 1.3 Change: Council on Aging --- Two Years --- See Art. II, Sec 13 To: Council on Aging 3-5
2-8 Total: 7-11
Two Years Two Years
BOS Council on Aging
See Art. II, Sec 13
Change: Civil Defense Advisory Council
--- --- Town Manager See Article V, Section 4
To: Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)
As necessary --- Town Manager See Article V, Section 4
Change: Economic Development and Industrial Corporation
- - Board of Selectmen See Chapter 124 of the Acts of 1995
To: Economic Development and Industrial Corporation
7 Three Board of Selectmen See Chapter 124 of the Acts of 1995
Change: Commission on Disability
Nine Three Years; Also, see Article II, Section 23.3.1.
Town Manager with approval of Board of Selectmen
Three
To: Commission on Disability
Nine Three Years; Also, see Article II, Section 23.3.1.
Board of Selectmen
Three
Change: Historical Commission Minimum Three,
Maximum Seven Three Years Town Manager with
approval of the Board of Selectmen
Approximately One-Third
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To: Historical Commission
Minimum Three, Maximum Seven
Three Years Board of Selectmen Approximately One-Third
Article I, Section 1.3
Delete: Permanent Building Committee
Six Members Three Years Moderator Two
One Member Project Duration Project Oversight Authority
Not Applicable
Article II Commission on Disability, Section 23.2 Change:
Said Commission shall consist of nine (9) members and be appointed by the Town Manager subject to the approval of the Selectmen.
To: Said Commission shall consist of nine (9) members appointed by the Board of Selectmen.
Approved by Thomas F. Reilly, Attorney General on September 26, 2006 ARTICLE 5 To see if the Town will vote to amend the by-laws of the Town, Article VII, Section 5, Historic Districts 5.7.1, by recording under “Properties Included in the Framingham Centre Common Historic District” the following two properties, numbers 9 and 10 in the current by-law, with their proper addresses: 9. Plymouth Church, 87 Edgell Road 10. Otis Boynton House, 85 Edgell Road and by striking the entire list of such properties included in the Framingham Centre Common Historic District, numbers 1 through 32, and restating said list as follows:
1. Framingham Centre Common 2. Village Hall 3. Memorial Library 3a. Civil War Monument 4. Capt. Eliphalet Wheeler House, 18 Vernon Street 5. The Jonathan Maynard School, 12 Vernon Street 6. Framingham Academy, 14 Vernon Street 7. First Parish Church, 24 Vernon Street 8. First Parish House, 24 Vernon Street 9. Plymouth Church, 87, Edgell Road 10. Otis Boynton House, 85 Edgell Road 11. The Crane House, 65 Edgell Road 12. The O’Brien House, 63 Edgell Road
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13. The Grossman House, 61 Edgell Road 14. The Shawmut Bank Branch, 39 Edgell Road 15. The Framingham Trust Co. Branch, 35 Edgell Road 16. Plymouth Parsonage, 125 Edgell Road 17. The Williams House, 121 Edgell Road 18. The Johnson House, 151 Edgell Road 19. The Brandolini House, 2 Auburn Street 20. The Dorr House, 4 Auburn Street 22. Newsclipping Service, 5 Auburn Street 23. The Maddocks House, 6 Vernon Street 24. The Clark Builders Trust, 8 Vernon Street 25. The Rinaldo House, 31 Grove Street 26. The Merser House, 33 Grove Street 27. The Tarbox House, 4 Warren Place 28. The White’s House, 3 Warren Place 29. The Stalker House, 8 Warren Place 30. The Larson House, 11 Warren Place 31. The George A. Weeks House, 122 Edgell Road 32. The General George Henry Gordon House, 936 Central Street
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Historic District Commission May 9, 2006 Voted: That the Bylaws of the Town, Article VII, Historic Districts, Section 5.7.1 be amended by recording under “Properties Included in the Framingham Centre Common Historic District” the following four properties, numbers 5, 6, 9 and 10 in the current Bylaw, with their proper addresses:
5. The Jonathan Maynard School, 14 Vernon Street 6. Framingham Academy, 16 Vernon Street 9. Plymouth Church, 87 Edgell Road 10. Otis Boynton House, 85 Edgell Road
and by striking the entire list of such properties included in the Framingham Centre Common Historic District, numbers 1 through 32, and restating said list as in the background materials and listed below:
1. Framingham Centre Common 2. Village Hall 3. Memorial Library 3a. Civil War Monument 4. Capt. Eliphalet Wheeler House, 18 Vernon Street 5. The Jonathan Maynard School, 14 Vernon Street 6. Framingham Academy, 16 Vernon Street 7. First Parish Church, 24 Vernon Street 8. First Parish House, 24 Vernon Street 9. Plymouth Church, 87 Edgell Road
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10. Otis Boynton House, 85 Edgell Road 11. The Crane House, 65 Edgell Road 12. The O’Brien House, 63 Edgell Road 13. The Grossman House, 61 Edgell Road 14. The Shawmut Bank Branch, 39 Edgell Road 15. The Framingham Trust Co. Branch, 35 Edgell Road 16. Plymouth Parsonage, 125 Edgell Road 17. The Williams House, 121 Edgell Road 18. The Johnson House, 151 Edgell Road 19. The Brandolini House, 2 Auburn Street 20. The Dorr House, 4 Auburn Street 22. Newsclipping Service, 5 Auburn Street 23. The Maddocks House, 6 Vernon Street 24. The Clark Builders Trust, 8 Vernon Street 25. The Rinaldo House, 31 Grove Street 26. The Merser House, 33 Grove Street 27. The Tarbox House, 4 Warren Place 28. The White’s House, 3 Warren Place 29. The Stalker House, 8 Warren Place 30. The Larson House, 11 Warren Place 31. The George A. Weeks House, 122 Edgell Road 32. The General George Henry Gordon House, 936 Central Street
123 voting in favor, 2 opposed. Approved by Thomas F. Reilly, Attorney General on September 26, 2006 ARTICLE 6 To see if the Town will vote to amend the by-laws of the Town, Article VII, Section 5, Historic Districts 5.7.1, by adding under “Properties Included in the Framingham Centre Common Historic District”; 33. The Whitney-Wiggins House, 10 Auburn Street 34. The Train-Vernon House, 20 Vernon Street
35. Gordon’s Corner; intersection of Edgell Road and Central Street and by striking the entire list of such properties included in the Framingham Centre Common Historic District, numbers 1 through 32, and restating said list with the addition of these three properties. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Historic District Commission
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May 9, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor, with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 7 I move that the Town amend the by-laws of the Town, Article VII, Section 5, by amending section 5.2 to establish a new Historic District to be known as the Sarah Clayes Historic District and by adding a new section 5.9 entitled “Properties Included in the Sarah Clayes Historic District”, with the following property to be listed in that district:
1. The Sarah Clayes House, 657 Salem End Road Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Historic District Commission May 9, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor, with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 8 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Bylaws of the Town by deleting the current Article V, Sections 10.2 and 10.3 and replacing it with the following:
Article V Section 10.2
“No person shall discharge a firearm in the Town except a law enforcement official in the performance of his/her duties. This bylaw shall not restrict the discharge of firearms on an established firing range, nor the discharge of a firearm in the legal defense of persons or property, nor any discharge of a firearm which has been specifically authorized by the Commonwealth on state-owned property.”
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsors: David Rosenthal and Eric Rosen May 3, 2006 Voted: This article failed. ARTICLE 9 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Bylaws of the Town by deleting the current Article V, Sections 10.2 and 10.3, accepting the provisions of the proposed Article V Section 10.2 above and adding:
Article V Section 10.3
“No person shall utilize archery in the Town. This bylaw shall not restrict archery in an established archery range authorized by the State nor any use of bow and arrow which has been specifically authorized by the Commonwealth on State-owned property.”
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Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsors: David Rosenthal and Eric Rosen May 3, 2006 Voted: This article failed. ARTICLE 10 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Bylaws of the Town by increasing the fine for violation of Article V Section 10 bylaws to “not to exceed $2500.” The precise wording of these articles may be modified by the sponsors in response to comments and suggestions of the various boards and committees by which these articles are reviewed prior to Town meeting. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsors: David Rosenthal and Eric Rosen May 3, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 11 To see if the Town will vote to amend the town bylaws to add a new Section 24 in Article V Occupancy of Buildings. Section 24. Occupancy of Buildings 24.1 Definitions. As used in this Article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
PERSON – The owner of any building and the owner’s agent and employees, and includes an individual, partnership, corporation, trust or association.
TENANT – Tenant, lessee, holder of a lease and any licensee or invitee of such tenant, and includes an individual, partnership, corporation, trust or association.
24.2 Certificate of Registration Required; Posting No person shall rent or lease, or offer to rent or lease, any building or any portion of a building to be used for human habitation without first registering with the Board of Health, which shall determine the number of persons such building or portion of a building may lawfully accommodate under the provisions of the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code and applicable Board of Health Regulations, and without first also conspicuously posting within such building or portion of a building a certificate of registration provided by the Board of Health specifying the number of persons such building or portion of a building may lawfully accommodate. 24.3 Number of Persons Restricted
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No tenant shall lease, rent or occupy any building or any portion of a building subject to the provisions of this chapter if, at the time of such lease, rental or occupancy, the number of persons occupying such building or portion of a building exceeds the number of persons authorized to occupy such building or portion of a building by a certificate of registration, if issued and posted, the number of persons that may be lawfully accommodated as determined by the Board of Health under the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code. 24.4 Fee There shall be a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) to procure a certificate of registration, which shall be valid for one (1) year or to December 31 of each year, whichever is sooner. Thereafter the permit shall be annually renewed at a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) per year. 24.5 Revocation or Suspension of Permit A permit issued under this chapter shall be revoked if, at any time, the licensing authorities are satisfied that the licensee is unfit to hold the license. They may suspend and make inoperative, for such period of time as they may deem proper, the permit mentioned herein for any cause deemed satisfactory to them. The revocation and suspension shall not be made until after investigation and a hearing or after giving the licensee an opportunity to be heard. Notice of the hearing shall be delivered to the permittee not less than three (3) days before the time of said hearing. 24.6 Penalty Any person or tenant violating any provision of this chapter shall be punished by a fine of not more than three hundred dollars ($300.00). Each day’s violation constitutes a separate offense. 24.7 Non-applicability This chapter shall not apply to boarding and lodging houses licensed under Chapter 140, Sec. 23, of the General Laws; motels licensed under Chapter 140, Sec. 23, of the General Laws; establishments licensed under Chapter 140, Sec. 2, of the General Laws. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Jim Rizoli May 3, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the new Committee on Overcrowding for presentation of an article at the Fall 2006 S.T.M. ARTICLE 12 To see if the Town will add to the Board of Health application, “Procedure for Opening a New Food Service Establishment Restaurant” the following paragraph: As condition of this license, in the interest of public health, the licensee shall not employ or allow to work on the licensed premises any person not present in the United States in compliance with applicable law. Pass any vote or any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Jim Rizoli
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May 4, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor. ARTICLE 13 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Personnel Bylaw of the Town by striking the following pay plans: Schedule M – Municipal Employees Schedule T – Temporary Employees Schedule DH – Division Heads Schedule PSM – Public Safety Management Schedule LO – Library Pages Schedule DPS – Dispatchers Schedule FF – Firefighters Schedule FDC – Deputy Fire Chiefs Schedule L – Library Schedule PS – Police Superiors Schedule PD – Police Officers Schedule PW – Public Works Supervisors Schedule W – General Local 1156 Schedule WH – Police and Fire Mechanics And adopting in their places the proposed pay schedules as presented to the Special Town Meeting of June 7, 2005, effective July 1, 2006 and January 1, 2007: Schedule M – Municipal Employees Schedule T – Temporary Employees Schedule DH – Division Heads Schedule PSM – Public Safety Management Schedule LO – Library Pages Schedule DPS – Dispatchers Schedule FF – Firefighters Schedule FDC – Deputy Fire Chiefs Schedule L – Library Schedule PS – Police Superiors Schedule PD – Police Officers Schedule PW – Public Works Supervisors Schedule W – General Local 1156 Schedule WH – Police and Fire Mechanics Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Human Resources May 4, 2006 Voted: That the Bylaws of the Town be amended by striking the following pay plans: Schedule M – Municipal Employees
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Schedule T – Temporary Employees Schedule DH – Division Heads Schedule PSM – Public Safety Management Schedule LO – Library Pages Schedule DPS – Dispatchers Schedule FF – Firefighters Schedule FDC – Deputy Fire Chiefs Schedule L – Library Schedule PS – Police Superiors Schedule PD – Police Officers Schedule PW – Public Works Supervisors Schedule W – General Local 1156 Schedule WH – Police and Fire Mechanics And adopting in their places the proposed pay schedules as presented to the Annual Town Meeting of April 25, 2006 and attached: Schedule M – Municipal Employees Schedule T – Temporary Employees Schedule DH – Division Heads Schedule PSM – Public Safety Management Schedule LO – Library Pages Schedule DPS – Dispatchers Schedule FF – Firefighters Schedule FDC – Deputy Fire Chiefs Schedule L – Library Schedule PS – Police Superiors Schedule PD – Police Officers Schedule PW – Public Works Supervisors Schedule W – General Local 1156 Schedule WH – Police and Fire Mechanics Further, that the Schedules M, T, DH, PSM, LO, DPS, FF, FDC, L, PS PD, PW, W and WH become effective July 1, 2006 and January 1, 2007. ARTICLE 14 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money, for certain hospital, medical and surgical, pharmaceutical and other related expenses incurred by retired fire fighters and or police officers after their retirement pursuant to the provisions of MGL Chapter 41, Section 100B. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Human Resources
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May 9, 2006 Voted: That the Town raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide the sum of $3,246.63 for certain hospital, medical, surgical, pharmaceutical and /or other related expenses incurred by retired fire fighters and/or police officers after their retirement pursuant to the provisions of MGL, Chapter 41, Section 100B, to be paid from the current fiscal year appropriation. ARTICLE 15 This article authorizes the amendment of the Personnel By-Law as presented. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Human Resources May 9, 2006 Voted: That the Town’s Personnel Bylaw be amended by replacing it with the Bylaw attached and presented to Town Meeting by the Personnel Board whose purpose it was to make the Bylaw in concert with the Town Manager Act as provided by Chapter 27 or the Acts of 1996. PERSONNEL BYLAW TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE SECTION PAGE Purpose and Authorization 1 1 Application 2 1 Definitions 3 1 - 4 Classification Plan 4 4 Pay Plan 5 4 Amendments to Classification and Pay Plans 6 4-5 Personnel Board and Human Resources Director 7 5 - 8 Continuing Review 8 8 Class Definitions 9 8 Interpretation of Class Definitions 10 9 Records and Requisitions 11 9
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Titles of Positions 12 9 Step Rate Increases 13 9 - 10 Payrolls 14 10 Recruitment, Selection and Employment 15 11-12 Allowance for Vacation Leave 16 13 Leave of Absence 17 13 Sick Leave 18 13 Longevity Pay 19 13 - 14 Work Week 20 14 Employee Review 21 14 Civil Service Law 22 14 Americans With Disabilities Act 23 14 Disciplinary Actions 24 15 Dispute Resolution 25 15 Employment Contracts 26 15 PERSONNEL BYLAW Section 1. Purpose and Authorization
The purpose of this Bylaw is to assure the establishment of fair and equitable personnel policies for the Town of Framingham, together with a system of personnel administration based on merit principles that will guarantee uniform, fair and efficient application of those policies. This Bylaw also recognizes the Town's moral and legal obligations to treat fairly and equitably, all of its citizens and employees, whether past, present or future, without regard or consideration to race, sexual orientation, color, religious creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry or disability.
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This article is adopted pursuant to the authority contained in Section 108A and 108C of Chapter 41 of the General Laws and the Town Manager Act, Chapter 27 of the Acts of 1996. It shall be the duty of the Personnel Board to administer, govern, and interpret this Bylaw in such a manner as to accomplish said purpose.
Section 2. Application
All Town departments and positions shall be subject to the provisions of the article except positions under the supervision of the School Committee and positions which are filled by direct election. Employees subject to the Massachusetts Civil Service Laws or collective bargaining agreements are subject only to those provisions in this article which are not specifically regulated by Civil Service Law or bargaining agreement. Nothing in this article shall be construed to limit any rights of employees pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 150E. This article is intended to be in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws. In the event of inconsistencies, the state or federal law shall apply.
Section 3. Definitions
As used in this article, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings unless a different construction is clearly required by the context or by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Appointment - The placement of a person in a position in the service of the Town.
Base Pay - The rate of pay established for a position by the Compensation Plan (hourly for hourly positions; weekly for weekly positions; annual for salaried positions), prior to inclusion of any employee-related longevity, differential or other special pay types.
Civil Service Law - M.G.L. Chapter 31 as amended and all rules and regulations made thereunder; and any special law enacted by the General Court regulating classifications, compensation and conditions of employment in service of the Town under M.G.L. Chapter 31.
Class - A group of positions in Town service sufficiently similar in respect to duties that one position title may be applied to all, that the same requirements may be used to determine qualification of employees, and that the same test of qualification may be used to choose qualified employees, and that the same scale of pay may be applied to all positions in the group.
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Classification Plan - The classification plan established by the Town Manager under the authority of Chapter 27 of the Acts of 1996 and approved by Town Meeting.
Compensatory Time - Paid authorized absence from work during normally-scheduled working hours administered to employees in lieu of payment for worked overtime hours, at the discretion of the appropriate Department or Division Head, and pursuant to the provisions of this article, any collective bargaining agreement and the United State Fair Labor Standards Act and Town Policy Continuous Employment - Uninterrupted employment in one or more consecutive regular full time or regular part time positions in Town service, from the first date of hire until the date of termination subject to adjustment due to unpaid leaves of absence, where appropriate: used as the standard of measure for determining benefit and leave eligibility.
Department - Any department or other agency of the Town subject to this Bylaw. Department Head - The person having immediate supervision and control of a department and reporting to a Division Head or elected Board. Division Head - The person having immediate supervision and control of a division within the Town, and reporting directly to the Town Manager. Employee - Regular full-time - one who fills a position which is considered to be ongoing for an indefinite period and who works the daily and weekly schedule of hours required for that department. Regular part-time-one who fills a position which is considered to be ongoing for an indefinite period and whose job/position requirements are such that he or she is scheduled for 20 or more hours per week, but less than full-time hours. Temporary full-time - one who fills a position which is considered to be of limited duration with the employee working the daily and weekly scheduled hours for that department. Temporary part-time - one who fills a position which is considered to be of limited duration, filling a need in a Town department where the daily and/or weekly hours scheduled are less than that for full-time employees. Exempt Employee - An employee whose position is not regulated by the provision of the U.S. Fair Labor Standards Act although defined by the FLSA. Fair Labor Standards Act - The United States Act first adopted in 1938, enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor, that sets minimum wage, overtime pay, equal pay, recordkeeping, and child labor standards for employees who are covered by the Act and not exempt from specific provisions.
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Lateral Transfer - Transfer to a position of the same compensation grade as the original position before transfer. Longevity - The length of an employee's continuous employment. Non-exempt Employees - Employees whose employment is regulated by the provisions of the U.S. Fair Labor Standards Act. Non-represented Employees - Those employees whose position titles are not included in a collective bargaining unit. Overtime - Time worked in excess of a non-exempt employee's normally scheduled number of hours per day or week. Pay Plan - The compensation plan established by Section 5 of this article and by votes of the Town Meeting in relation thereto, under authority of M.G.L. Chapter 41, Sections 108A and 108C, as amended. Position - A post of employment established in the Classification Plan of this article, with assigned duties and responsibilities. Probationary Period - The first six months of employment is a probationary period. Prior to completion of the probationary period, an employee evaluation is completed, including a written recommendation relative to the retention or termination of the employee. If the employee's job performance is found to be unacceptable, the service of the employee may be terminated. The probationary period may be extended by the Town with the approval of the Human Resource Director and the Department Head. Promotion - A change from a position of lower class and compensation grade to a position with greater responsibilities in a higher class and compensation grade. Rate - A sum of money designated as compensation for hourly, weekly, monthly or annual employment services. Reclassification - A change made to a position title within the Classification Plan as a result of a change in duties required to be performed by the position. Represented Employees - Those employees whose position titles are included in a collective bargaining unit. Step/Step Rate - The rate(s) in the range of a pay grade.
Section 4. Classification Plan
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The official Classification Plans or positions in the service of the Town shall consist of the classes listed by titles in Schedule A which is incorporated as a part hereof.
Section 5. Pay Plan
The official schedule of pay rates of each position defined in the Classification Plan shall consist of the pay grades showing the minimum and maximum salaries or wages, with step rate increases therefore, to be paid to employees in positions allocated to the various classes in the Classification Plan. This is referred to as Schedule B of the Personnel By-Law. The pay grade for each class shall be the pay grade assigned to such class, as shown in Schedule A. Additional compensation shall be paid to employees in positions in certain classes, as provided in Schedule B or as authorized by the Town Manager.
Section 6. Amendments to Classification and Pay Plans
The Personnel Board shall have the right to review any amendments to the Classification and Pay Plans, to the provisions for administering such plans, and to this Bylaw, as it may deem the facts to warrant such review. The pay grades and additional compensation as provided in Schedule B, when and as adjusted by vote of the Town at Town Meeting shall be effective on the dates so recommended and approved by Town Meeting, including those provided in labor agreements between the Town and the various bargaining groups.
Section 7. Personnel Board and Human Resources Director
There shall be a Personnel Board consisting of five members appointed by the Moderator. In making his/her appointments, the Moderator shall take into consideration the personal qualifications of those citizens who will best meet the responsibility of the Personnel Board to administer this Personnel Bylaw in the best interest of the employees and the citizens. All members of the Personnel Board shall be residents of the Town and shall serve without compensation. Each member of the Personnel Board appointed by the Moderator shall serve for a term of three (3) years beginning on the July 1st date following the expiration of the previous term. Each such member shall hold office until his/her successor is appointed in the manner provided above. The term of service for two members shall expire on June 30th of the even year; the term of service for two members shall expire on June 30th of the odd year;
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and the term of service for one member shall expire on June 30th of the even year following the above odd year.
Any member while serving on the Personnel Board shall not at the same time be a Town employee, Town Meeting member, elected official of the Town, or member of any standing board, committee, or commission of the Town. If any member shall resign or otherwise vacate his/her office (whether by ceasing to be a resident of the Town or by his/her candidacy and/or election as Town Meeting member, Town official, or by accepting other voluntary or paid Town position), his/her successor shall be appointed forthwith in the same manner as was the member so resigning or vacating. Such successor shall serve until the expiration of the term of the member so resigning or vacating. The Personnel Board shall organize annually, as soon after July 1st or as soon as possible after the close of the Annual Warrant, whichever comes later, at the call of either the then Chairperson or the Town Moderator, and shall elect a Chairperson and a Clerk from among its members. The Chairperson and Clerk shall each hold office until his/her respective successor has been elected. In the event of a vacancy in the office of the Chairperson or Clerk prior to the organization meeting, the Personnel Board shall elect a successor Chairperson or successor Clerk from among its members, such successor to serve until the next organizational meeting of the Personnel Board and until his/her successor has been elected. The Personnel Board shall hold meetings as it deems appropriate to serve the Town and administer its role in accordance with this by-law.
By-Law Administration - The Personnel Board may monitor the administration of all aspects of this article and may make recommendations to the Town Meeting and to the Town Manager in respect thereto as said Board deems necessary, proper and prudent, to maintain the integrity of the operation and policies of this by-law. Personnel Records Access and Maintenance - The Personnel Board shall have access to all facts, figures, records and other information as granted by MA Public Records Law.
7.1 The Town shall have a Human Resources Director who shall be appointed by the Town Manager, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, who shall hold office for a term of three (3) years from the first day of July following appointment until a qualified successor is appointed, or until resignation or removal for cause on written charges preferred by the Town Manager. The person appointed by the Town Manager to fill any vacancy, shall serve as interim from the date of appointment and qualification until the following July unless the
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Human Resources Director is appointed to serve a full term in addition to the interim term. The Human Resources Director's compensation shall be as established annually by the Town Manager, but shall not exceed the amount appropriated therefore by the Town.
7.1.1 The person appointed by the Town Manager shall possess ability and experience
in the field of personnel administration, and shall devote the entire time during regular business hours to the duties of this office. The Director shall hold no other Town office or position, and upon becoming a candidate for any elective office in the Town, shall be deemed to have resigned as Human Resources Director.
7.1.2 Subject to the direction and supervision of the Town Manager, the Human
Resources Director shall perform the following duties with respect to all positions and Departments having employees whose positions are subject to this By-Law:
(a) Shall maintain the personnel records of all Town employees. (b) Shall provide liaison between all Town Departments and the Personnel
Board so as to keep its members fully informed of the policies and work rules of management and to provide them with information on matters before them for consideration.
(c) Shall assist the Personnel Board in making studies and in the
administration of personnel matters under its jurisdiction. (d) Shall have custody of all job descriptions and shall see that they are
complete and current and accurately describe the duties which each employee is responsible for performing.
(e) Shall regularly review the Classification Plan and as required by the
budget making process, shall prepare recommendations as to assignment of new positions and reassignment of existing positions within the Plan.
(f) Shall regularly review the Pay Plan and, as required by the budget
making process, shall prepare recommendations as to adjustments in pay scales required generally by reason of changes in the cost of living or otherwise and as to specific adjustments required by reason of changes in the nature of the duties and responsibilities of particular positions or classes of positions.
(g) Shall, upon the request of any Town Department Head, prepare and
assist in conducting training programs for the employees of that Department for the purpose of improving their effectiveness in their jobs.
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(h) Shall, to the extent consistent with applicable grievance procedures,
investigate the facts giving rise to grievances and make recommendations to the Town Manager at any step of the grievance procedure.
(i) Shall make studies and recommendations to the Town Manager and
the Personnel Board concerning action to improve working conditions and employee morale.
(j) At the request of the Town Manager, to act for the Town in collective
bargaining, shall make such studies as may be requested and shall participate to the extent requested by the Town Manager or those persons in collective bargaining on behalf of the Town.
(k) Shall maintain a record of all persons seeking employment with the
Town and shall conduct a program of recruitment to obtain for the Town best qualified prospective employees. All Departments of the Town, subject to this Bylaw, shall forthwith notify the Human Resources Director of all vacancies as they occur in positions under the Town Pay and Classification Plans. Upon request from a Department Head or appointing authority, shall assist in the recruitment of prospective employees, and shall within 14 work days of receipt of such a request, provide a list of any persons who have signified interest in the vacant position, and then shall assist in the screening and selection as hereinafter more fully described in Section 16 of this Bylaw.
(l) Shall provide liaison as fully as may be permitted by law between
Town Departments and those agencies of the Commonwealth, including the Civil Service Commission, having jurisdiction over any employee of the Town.
(m) Unless otherwise provided by law, shall administer all Town,
including School Department employee benefit programs, including without limitation, workers' compensation, safety, and hospital and medical and life insurance programs.
(n) Shall administer the payroll system for the Town. Section 8. Continuing Review
The Personnel Board, at the request of the Town Manager, shall conduct studies of general pay rates in the areas, in comparable municipalities in the state and in comparable positions outside the service of the Town. The Town Manager and/or the Personnel Board shall also consider such other factors as the change in the
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cost of living index and any other factors which in the opinion of the Town Manager and/or the Personnel Board may affect the general economic situation.
Section 9. Class Definitions
The Personnel Board may review from time to time, written definitions of the classes in the Classification Plan, and may suggest to the Town Manager, amendments to each including statements describing the kind of work, the distinguishing features of the work and such illustrative examples of duties as may be deemed appropriate as well as placements in the appropriate class and grade. Any changes made to the Classification Plan will be presented to Town Meeting for approval in accordance with the By-Law.
Section 10. Interpretation of Class Definitions
The definitions of the classes shall be interpreted as descriptive only and not restrictive. The definitions for any class shall be construed solely as a means of identifying positions properly pertaining to the class, and not as prescribing what the duties or responsibilities of any position of the class shall be, nor as modifying or in any way affecting the power of any administrative authority as otherwise existing, to assign duties to, or to direct and control the work of any employee under the jurisdiction of such authority.
Section 11. Records and Requisitions
The Human Resources Director shall keep such personnel records of all employees of the Town subject to the Classification and Pay Plan in accordance with law and Town policy. These records shall include the name, age, date of employment, Civil Service classification, if any, Town classification, title, and other pertinent data.
Section 12. Titles of Positions
No person shall be appointed, employed, or paid as an employee in any position under the Classification and Pay Plans under any title other than that of the class to which the position is allocated. The title of each class shall be the official title of every position allocated to the class for all purposes having to do with the position as such, and shall be used to designate the position in all payrolls, budget estimates, and official records and reports, and in every other connection involving personnel and fiscal processes.
Section 13. Step Rate Increases
A step rate increase between the minimum and maximum salaries or wages for all pay grades shall be the amount shown in the Pay Plan as amended.
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Employees who are employed in any full-time or part-time positions within the Classification and Pay Plans and who have achieved a satisfactory performance review shall be eligible to receive a step increase on the anniversary date of appointment to said positions.
No employee shall be entitled to any step rate increase authorized by this section except upon recommendation of his/her Department Head, subject to approval of the Human Resources Director. If a Department Head and/or the Human Resources Director refuses to recommend any increases authorized by this section, or fails to recommend such an increase within ten days following the date when any employee in the Department would otherwise be eligible therefore, such employee shall have the right of appeal to the Personnel Board who shall confer with such employee, and the Department Head before making a recommendation thereon.
An employee in a seasonal position within the Classification and Pay Plan shall be entitled to a step rate increase when he/she has completed a full season in the same position.
A step rate increase, as provided in this Section, shall be granted only until the employee attains the maximum salary or rate of the pay grade within the class to which his/her position has been allocated.
Section 14. Payrolls 14.1 All departments employing hourly, temporary full-time or temporary part-time
personnel shall certify their hours worked by submitting an authorized time sheet documenting such hours.
14.2 For the purposes of cost analysis and compilation of pertinent data and statistics,
the Town payroll shall accurately itemize and separately reflect at least, the following information for all employees:
(a) Hours Worked (b) Hours Paid for Sick Leave (c) Hours Paid for Personal Day(s) (d) Hours Paid for Bereavement Leave (e) Hours Paid for Vacation Leave (f) Holiday Pay
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(g) Hours Paid for Compensatory Time
(h) Hours Paid Under Workers Compensation Section 15. Recruitment, Selection and Employment 15.1 All Department Heads shall give advance notice to the Human Resources
Director, in such form as the Director may require, of all intentions to fill any vacancy within the Department. All requests for personnel will be made in accordance with Town Policy and Procedures.
15.2 Except as otherwise provided in labor agreements between the Town and the
various bargaining units, or by Civil Service requirements, the Human Resources Director shall initiate and assist the Department Head in the search for well-qualified applicants.
The process of searching out and finding well qualified applicants shall be
instituted among Town employees as well as all applicants. 15.3 With the exception of Department Heads, all job qualifications shall be
established jointly by the Human Resources Director and the Department Head and shall be adhered to as a minimum in filling the position. Such qualifications shall be delineated and described in terms of the minimum requirements necessary for an applicant to possess to qualify for the position. The specific qualifications shall relate to the functions and duties of the job to be performed.
15.4 The Human Resources Director and staff shall assist the Department Head in the
processing and screening of all applicants and the arrangement of interviews of all well qualified applicants.
15.5 Vacancy in any position within the Classification and Pay Plans may be filled by
the Department Head with the consent of the Town Manager 15.6 A vacancy in any Department Head, Division Head or managerial position shall
be filled by the appointing authority with the review by the Personnel Board. The Personnel Board may review the qualifications of the finalists for the position.
15.7 When an employee is appointed on an acting or temporary basis, until such time
as a permanent appointment is made, the employee may be paid on a temporary basis at a rate recommended by the Department Head and approved by the Human Resources Director yet included in the Pay Plan. When there is a need to fill any position listed within the Classification and Pay Plan on a temporary basis, except part-time designated seasonal employees, the period of temporary employment for any person filling such a position shall not exceed a period of three months and no more than one temporary assignment may be made to an individual within one twelve month period. Any extension of the above three month period or additional
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assignment within a twelve month period may be made only with the prior approval of the Town Manager.
The Human Resources Department shall be notified forthwith as to all vacancies
to be filled in both temporary and permanent positions and the Human Resources Department shall assist in the recruiting, screening, and selecting of the persons to fill these positions.
15.8 With regard to new personnel: 15.8.1 The starting compensation rate shall be step 1 of the grade level authorized for the
job on the Classification Plan for which the new employee is hired unless otherwise authorized by the Town Manager.
15.8.2 For new personnel be they regular full time or regular part time, the first six
months (or more if determined necessary) of employment shall be a probationary period. The employee while in the probationary period shall be eligible to participate in benefits
for Town employees in the manner described below: 15.8.3 Employee Benefits (a) Health Insurance - The Town will assume the costs of health plans it may offer
its employees at the percentage agreed to in the manner established by M.G.L. Chapters 32B and 150E.
(b) Life Insurance - The Town will assume the costs of the basic group life and
accidental death and dismemberment insurance it may offer its employees at the percentage agreed to in the manner established by M.G.L. Chapters 32B and 150E. Employees may purchase additional coverage at their own expense.
(c) Contributory Retirement System - Funds shall be deducted for retirement
purposes and applied to retirement from the date of deduction. (d) Vacation, Personal Days, Longevity - The initial date of hire will be the date
used for determining eligibility for vacation leave, personal days, and longevity for such employee in accordance with Town policy.
(e) Sick leave - Any employee will be permitted to use accumulated sick leave in
accordance with the Town Policy on Sick Leave. (f) Holidays- The employee who is in pay status the work day prior to and
following the holiday will be paid for the holiday and in accordance with the Town policy on Holiday pay.
Section 16. Allowance for Vacation Leave
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Vacation leave shall be granted in accordance with the Town’s policy on Vacation Leave, the Collective Bargaining Agreement and applicable State and Federal Laws.
Section 17. Leave of Absence The Town Manager may grant leaves of absence in accordance with Town Policy
and Collective Bargaining Agreements. Section 18. Sick Leave 18.1 Sick Leave may be granted as outlined in the Town’s policy on Sick Leave. 18.2 Any employee who fraudulently reports illness or injury in order to secure the
benefit of sick leave with pay shall be subjected to disciplinary measures up to and including discharge.
18.3 Accrued personal sick leave may be used to supplement Workers' Compensation
benefits. Section 19. Longevity Pay Longevity pay shall be paid to any regular employee in the Town service covered
by the Classification Plan, at the rate of two hundred dollars annually after the completion of ten years of continuous service, and only after the completion of each successive year of service thereafter. An additional fifty dollars shall be paid annually for the completion of each additional five years of continuous service
thereafter. Said longevity pay shall be due and payable within thirty (30) days
after the anniversary date of completion of said service. The continuous service of an employee shall not be deemed to have been broken
by service in the Armed Forces of the United States providing such employee returns to the Town employment within two years of his/her service termination date, and provided further that the employee's time in the Armed Forces is limited to four years of service time unless it is involuntary service, in which case it may exceed four years.
Section 20. Work Week Full-time employees of Town departments, except as provided in the respective
labor agreements, shall work thirty-seven and one-half hours. Any overtime hours shall be paid, over forty hours, and in accordance with
Federal Fair Labor Standards Act.
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Section 21. Employee Review Each employee covered by the Personnel By-Law shall have his/her work
performance and attendance record reviewed at least once each year. Such review shall be made immediately prior to the employee's work anniversary date with the Town. Said review, made by the employee's Department Head or appointing authority, shall be discussed with the employee and the employee shall be requested to sign his/her review sheet stating that he/she has read said review and further that his/her Department Head or appointing authority has discussed the contents thereof with him/her. After the employee has signed said review sheet, it shall then be forwarded to the Human Resources Department which department shall be responsible that said reviews are, in fact, done.
Section 22. Civil Service Law Nothing in this By-Law shall be construed to conflict with Massachusetts General
Laws, Chapter 31 as to those employees under the jurisdiction of Civil Service. Section 23. Americans with Disabilities Act As of July, 1992 all provisions of this By-Law must conform to the requirements
of the Americans with Disabilities Act. In keeping with the recommendation of the Report of the House Committee on Education and Labor (Report No. 101-485) the Town shall take all action necessary to comply with the Act.
Section 24. Disciplinary Actions 24.1 The Town shall follow a progressive disciplinary policy of oral and written
warnings, suspensions, and terminations. Department Heads may start the disciplinary process at any stage of the process with the approval of the Human Resources Director.
Section 25. Dispute Resolution 25.1 Any employee who feels aggrieved by the administration of any provision of the
By-Law or Town policy may take the matter up with his/her immediate supervisor.
25.2 If the matter is not cleared up following a discussion with the immediate
supervisor, the employee may submit a written complaint to his/her Department Head. The Department Head may give the employee an informal hearing and attempt to reach a mutually satisfactory adjustment.
25.3 If the matter is not satisfactorily settled within two weeks after a written
complaint is made, either party may submit the question to the Personnel Board.
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The Personnel Board shall take the matter under advisement, may hold a public or private hearing at the written request of the employee and shall provide a recommendation to the Human Resources Director within thirty days.
Section 26. Employment Contracts
All employment contracts must be executed in accordance with the applicable state statute and be in compliance with both state and federal law.
ARTICLE 16 This article authorizes the Crossing Guards’ Collective Bargaining Agreement covering July 1, 2005 through June 30, 2008. Pass or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Human Resources May 9, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor. ARTICLE 17 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to accept and expend funds in accordance with the provisions of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, and regulations promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 10, 2006 Voted: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to accept and expend funds in amount of $645,355 in accordance with the provisions of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, and regulations promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and in accordance with the “Proposed Statement of Community Development Objectives and Projected Use of Funds” approved by the Board of Selectmen on February 28, 2006. ARTICLE 18 To see if the Town will hear the Annual Report of the Board of Selectmen for the year preceding this Annual Meeting. Printed copies of this report shall be made available to the inhabitants of the town pursuant to MGL C. 40 §49. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen
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May 10, 2006 Voted: That the Town hear the Annual Report of the Board of Selectmen for the year proceeding this annual meeting. Printed copies of this report have been made available to the inhabitants of the Town pursuant to MGL, Ch. 40, §49. ARTICLE 19 To see if the Town will vote to rescind various authorized, but unissued borrowing votes of the Town. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 10, 2006 Voted: That the following authorized, but unissued balances of Town borrowing votes be rescinded: Project Manager Project Date Authorized Article Number Amt. Authorized Amt. Unissued Parks Arena Roof
Replacement 4/23/02 15Q 380,000 12,768
Chief Procurement Officer
Pinefield Shop. Center Land for Library Project
1/12/05 9 675,000 675,000
Sewer Main Rehab 4/24/01 21Q 312,695 78,173.75 Sewer I & I Evaluation 4/24/01 21R 300,000 75,000 Sewer Franklin Street
Mains 5/6/04 21BB 451,000 202,950
Sewer Howard Street Mains
5/6/04 21GG 1,100,000 495,000
Sewer I & I Evaluation 5/6/04 21HH 375,000 168,750 Sewer Swift Road Sewer 4/26/05 26FF 350,000 157,500 Sewer Grove Street
Sewer 4/26/05 26HH 200,000 32,400
$1,897,541.75 ARTICLE 20 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the purpose of paying unpaid bills of prior years of the Town. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 6, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor, with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 21 To see if the Town will vote to determine what sum or sums of money the Town will appropriate and raise, or transfer from available funds, for the operations of the Town of Framingham, including debt and interest for FY’06 (July 1, 2005 – June 30, 2006) and to see what budgets for Fiscal Year 2006 will be reduced to offset said appropriations. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
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Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 6, 2006 Voted: That the Town amend the vote under Article 19 of the April 2005 Annual Town Meeting by: Increasing the following line items: General Government, Legal $50,000 General Govt., Building Services $104,000 Town Clerk/Elections $21,200 Snow & Ice $20,500 Library $36,206.55 and, decrease the following line items: Finance, CFO $14,500 Finance, Accounting $8,500 Finance, Assessing $10,000 Human Resources $14,000 Town Clerk Stipend $21,200 Planning Economic Development $25,000 Planning Board $15,000 Inspectional Svcs., Board of Health $70,000 Public Works, Highway $17,500 and transfer from: Insurance Reserve Greater than $20,000 $36,206.55 ARTICLE 22 To see if the Town will vote to determine what sum or sums of money the Town will appropriate and raise, or transfer from available funds, for the operations of the Water Department, including debt and interest for FY’06 (July 1, 2005 – June 30, 2006) and to see what budgets for Fiscal Year 2006 will be reduced to offset said appropriations. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 10, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor, with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 23 To see if the Town will vote to determine what sum or sums of money the Town will appropriate and raise, or transfer from available funds, for the operations of the Sewer Department, including
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debt and interest for FY’06 (July 1, 2005 – June 30, 2006) and to see what budgets for Fiscal Year 2006 will be reduced to offset said appropriations. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 10, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor, with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 24 To see if the Town will vote to determine what sum or sums of money the Town will appropriate and raise, or transfer from available funds, for the operations of the Arena Department, including debt and interest for FY’06 (July 1, 2005 – June 30, 2006) and to see what budgets for Fiscal Year 2006 will be reduced to offset said appropriations. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 6, 2006 Voted: That the Town amend the vote under Article 22 of the April 2005 Annual Town Meeting by: Increasing the following line item: Operations, Loring Arena $22,000 and that this amount be raised from arena enterprise fund retained earnings. ARTICLE 25 To see if the Town will accept the settlement of litigation pending before the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) in the amount of $55,000.00, as recommended by the School Committee. Further, to see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to pay the cost of the aforementioned MCAD settlement. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: School Committee May 16, 2006 Voted: That the sum of fifty-five thousand dollars ($55,000.00) be approved for the settlement of a complaint filed against the Town of Framingham, Docket No. 00-BEM-0547, pending at the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), and that said sum be expended under the direction of the School Committee from the FY07 School Department appropriation.
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ARTICLE 26 To see if the Town will vote to hear and act on reports and recommendations of the Selectmen and other officers and committees of the Town and Boards of Trustees and to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the support of the operations of the Town, for a Reserve Fund, for any other purposes included in said reports, for the payments of notes and bonds of the Town, if any, which mature before the next annual meeting, for the payment of pensions and for all other necessary expenses of the Town for the Fiscal Year 2007 (July 1, 2006 – June 30, 2007). Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 15, 2006 Voted: That the amounts set forth under Article 26 of the Annual Town Meeting of April 2006 be separately appropriated for the purposes recommended herein as follows: Unclassified 27,931,556 Retirement 9,537,730 Debt Service 8,167,988 Fire 11,303,941 Police 10,940,090 Public Works 9,088,696 Framingham Public Library 2,414,287 Planning Board 208,460 Town Clerk/Stipend 80,968 Town Clerk/Elections 319,571 General Government 2,549,819 Parks & Recreation/Cultural Affairs 2,258,324 Finance 1,596,565 Inspectional Services 1,387,849 Planning and Economic Development 875,622 Information Services 1,067,098 Human Resources 542,932 Framingham Public Schools 78,216,178 Keefe Technical Assessment 7,900,000 Stabilization Fund 750,000 Reserve Fund 400,000 Snow & Ice 641,500 Total Town Meeting Appropriation 178,179,174
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and to meet said appropriations, the Town approves the following to support the budget, Transfer from Free Cash 2,822,482 Transfer from Parking Meter Receipts 66,000 Transfer from Stabilization Fund 198,958 Transfer from Sewer Enterprise Fund Revenue 924,839 Transfer from Water Enterprise Fund Revenue 1,014,914 Transfer from Arena Enterprise Fund Revenue 100,579 Transfer from Consumer and Merchant Protection Act Funds 26,149
And the balance to be raised from taxation. ARTICLE 27 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the operation of the Water Department, including capital outlay and debt service, and for all other necessary expenses for the Fiscal Year 2007 (July 1, 2006 – June 30, 2007) Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 7, 2006 Voted: That the following sum be expended in FY07 in the Water Department under the direction of the Town Manager or his designee: Operating Budget (Personnel, Expenses and Debt Service) $11,775,262 and that the $11,775,262 be raised as follows: $11,775,262 from Water Receipts. ARTICLE 28 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the operation of the Sewer Department, including capital outlay and debt service, and for all other necessary expenses for the Fiscal Year 2007 (July 1, 2006 – June 30, 2007) Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen
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June 7, 2006 Voted: That the following sum be expended in FY07 in the Sewer Department under the direction of the Town Manager or his designee: Operating Budget (Personnel, Expenses and Debt Service) $12,461,771 and that the $12,461,771 be raised as follows: $12,461,771 from Sewer Receipts. ARTICLE 29 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for the operation of the Loring Arena Department, including capital outlay and debt service, and for all other necessary expenses for the Fiscal Year 2007 (July 1, 2006 – June 30, 2007) Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 7, 2006 Voted: That the following sum be expended in FY07 in the Loring Arena Department under the direction of the Town Manager or his designee: Operating Budget (Personnel, Expenses and Debt Service) $485,663 and that the $485,663 be raised as follows: $285,421 from estimated Loring Arena Receipts and the remainder from a transfer from the general fund. ARTICLE 30 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money for various capital projects including purchase of equipment, purchase of land, repair, rehabilitation, design or construction of buildings and infrastructure. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 6, 2006 Voted: That the Town raise and appropriate the sum of $19,347,620 for the following purposes, to be spent under the direction of the Town Manager or his designee, with the exception of items proposed by the School Department, which will be spent under the direction of the School Superintendent or his designee, and further, that the Town Manager shall be allowed to exceed the appropriation for individual capital projects to be spent under his direction so long as the total amount to be spent under his jurisdiction does not exceed the total amount appropriated and that such adjustments are in compliance with MGL, Chapter 44.
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Project Division Total Project Cost
Department Vote
A Engine 2 Fire Pumper Fire $398,750 Fire 130-1-0
B Replace Station 2 Roof Fire $31,375 Fire 130-0-0
C Communications Cabling Fire $378,485 Fire 128-2-0
D Memorial Building Boiler Replacement
General Gov’t. $809,339 Building Services 128-2-0
E Pearl Street Garage T truss Caulking
General Gov’t. $45,000 Building Services 140-0-0
F McAuliffe Branch Renovation Library $65,046 Library 132-3-0
G Vehicle replacement F450 4WD Dump Truck
Parks & Recreation
$46,060 Parks & Recreation
130-3-0
H Vehicle replacement F550 Trash Compacter
Parks and Recreation
$68,506 Parks and Recreation
132-1-0
I Vehicle replacement Kubota Tractor Parks and Recreation
$24,300 Parks and Recreation
130-2-0
J Basketball Resurfacing Long Parks and Recreation
$53,750 Parks and Recreation
140-0-0
K PC Mobile Laptops Police Department
$157,850 Police Department
139-1-0
L Stormwater Planning (Beaver Dam) SRF 2956
Public Works $350,000 Public Works 135-0-0
M Packer Conversion Snow Fighter Public Works $62,500 Highway 134-1-0
N Sidewalk/Accessibility Improvement Program
Public Works $100,000 Highway 140-0-0
O Multi-purpose Sidewalk Tractor #471
Public Works $96,824 Highway 130-1-0
P 68,000 GVW Refuse Packer with Plow #518
Public Works $177,100 Sanitation 132-1-0
Q 15,000 GVW 4WD Dump Body Truck #412
Public Works $52,296 Highway 120-2-0
R 15,000 GVW 4WD Dump Body Truck #413
Public Works $52,296 Highway 135-1-0
S Stapleton Roof Supplemental School Department
$130,000 School 132-8-0
T Final Stage Boiler Replacements, 5 Schools
School Department
$480,000 School 138-2-0
U Town Voice Mail/Telephone Upgrade
Tech. Services $40,000 Tech. Services 135-3-0
Project Division Total Project Cost
Department Vote
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V Tercentennial Park Phase 3 Parks and Recreation
$420,000 Parks and Recreation
135-4-0
W Dasher Road and Glass Replacement
Parks and Recreation
$164,710 Parks and Recreation
130-3-0
X Birch Road Well Reactivation Public Works $400,000 Water 140-0-0
Y Fire Hydrant Replacement Program Public Works $225,000 Water 140-0-0
Z Backhoe/Loader with Plow #651 Public Works $121,975 Water 140-0-0
AA Cove Avenue Water Main Replacement
Public Works $820,000 Water 140-0-0
BB Fay Road Water Main Replacement Public Works $950,000 Water 140-0-0
CC Waverly Street Water Main Replacement
Public Works $530,000 Water 140-0-0
DD Upgrade of Sewer Inspection Equipment
Public Works $56,010 Sewer 130-4-0
EE 15,000 GVW 4WD Utility Body Truck #625
Public Works $48,152 Sewer 130-0-0
FF 15,000 GVW 4WD Dump Truck with Plow #626
Public Works $52,296 Sewer 130-2-0
GG Gregory Road Sewer Relief Design Public Works $38,000 Sewer 135-0-0
HH Gregory Road Sewer Relief (SRF 2954)
Public Works $707,000 Sewer 139-1-0
II SSES SRF 2940 Public Works $400,000 Sewer 130-1-0
JJ Pump Station Replacement Design Public Works $396,000 Sewer 130-0-0
KK Pump Station Replacement SRF 2958
Public Works $3,104,000 Sewer 140-0-0
LL Water Street Sewer Replacement Design
Public Works $510,000 Sewer 130-4-0
MM Water Street Sewer Replacement SRF 2957
Public Works $6,785,000 Sewer 126-6-0
$202,440 be appropriated from Free Cash for items G, M, Q and a portion of item R, $746,975 be appropriated from Water Retained Earnings for items X-Z, $1,100,458 be appropriated from Sewer Retained Earnings for items DD-GG,JJ and LL; and the Treasurer be authorized, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to issue from time to time bonds or notes in the amount of $17,297,747 pursuant to the provisions of MGL, Chapter 44, Sections 7 and 8 or any other enabling authority; and provided further that the Phase 3 Tercentennial Park Rehabilitation be for park and recreation purposes under the care and control of the Park Commissioners, that the Park Commissioners be authorized to seek reimbursement for $250,000 of the cost of the project by way of the State of Massachusetts Urban Self Help Program and to enter into any contracts necessary thereto, and that should any additional funds become available in connection with this project, including, but not
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limited to, mitigation, grant funds and private donations, said sums shall be used to offset and/or defray the amounts to be borrowed to finance this project. 140 voting in favor, 0 opposed, 0 abstentions. ARTICLE 31 To see if the Town will vote to authorize or re-authorize several revolving funds as defined by M.G.L, Chapter 44, Section 53 E ½ for FY 07 beginning July 1, 2006, including but not limited to the following:
A) Town Owned Building Civic Use (Maynard Building) Fund; B) Town Owned Building Civic Use Fund; C) Town Owned Building Civic Use (Cushing Chapel) Fund; D) Concert on the Common Fund; E) School Bus Fees Fund; F) Pavement Management Fund; G) Town Wetland Protection Fund;
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 10, 2006 Voted: That the Town establish revolving funds as listed below for certain Town departments under MGL, Chapter 44, Sec. 53E ½ for the following purposes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2006, with the specific receipts credited to each fund, the purposes for which each fund may be spent and the maximum amount that may be spent from each fund for the fiscal year and the disposition of the balance of each fund at the end of the current fiscal year: Fund Manager Purpose FY06
Spending Ceiling
Disposition of FY05 Fund Balance
Town Owned Building/Civic Use Fund – Maynard Building
Building Services Department of the General Government Division
To receive funds from rental fees and other similar charges for the use of the Jonathan Maynard Building and to authorize the Building Services Department to spend these funds for direct expenses associated with the general maintenance of this building such as custodial costs, utilities, maintenance supplies and other similar expenses
$175,000 Balance available for expenditure
Town Owned Building/Civic Use Fund – Danforth and Memorial Buildings
Building Services Department of the General Government Division
To receive funds from rental fees and other similar charges for the use of the Danforth and Memorial Buildings and to authorize the Building Services Department to spend these funds for direct expenses associated with the general maintenance of these buildings such as custodial costs, utilities, maintenance supplies and other similar expenses
$40,000 Balance available for expenditure
Town owned Building/Civic Use Fund - Cushing Chapel
Building Services Department of the General Government Division
To receive funds from rental fees and other similar charges for the use of the Cushing Chapel and to authorize the Building Services Department to spend these funds for direct expenses associated with the general maintenance of these buildings such as custodial costs, utilities, maintenance supplies
$20,000 Balance available for expenditure
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and other similar expenses Town owned Building/Civic Use Fund - Concerts on the Common
Building Services Department of the General Government Division
To receive funds from the sale of food and other similar charges during Concerts on the Common and to authorize the Building Services Department to spend these funds for direct expenses associated with the sale of food and other concert-related charges such as staff costs, utilities, maintenance supplies and other similar expenses.
$4,000 Balance available for expenditure
Framingham School Committee-School Bus fees
Framingham School Committee-School Department
To receive and spend funds for direct expenses associated with the transportation of students to and from school.
$280,000 Balance available for expenditure
Town Wetland Protection Fund
Conservation Commission
To receive and spend funds to pay services associated with processing Permits and Requests for Determination.
$8,000 New Fund
Pavement Management Fund
Department of Public Works
To use funds secured from contractors and utility companies to complete the repair of roads at permitted locations where the applicant has failed to perform, or maintain, the work in accordance with the Town of Framingham’s Street Opening Permit requirements, or in accordance with the Town of Framingham’s Street Opening Permit requirements, or in accordance with the Town’s established minimum Construction Standards.
$50,000 New Fund
ARTICLE 32 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to establish a Stabilization fund for the purposes for open space acquisition, pursuant to MGL Chapter 40 Section 5B. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 9, 2006 Voted: That the Town create a stabilization fund under MGL, Chapter 40, Section 5B for open space acquisition and to transfer from Free Cash $150,000 into such fund. ARTICLE 33 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to develop the Cochituate Rail Trail Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 11, 2006 Voted: That the Town transfer from Free Cash $100,000 to the General Fund for the purpose of developing the Cochituate Rail Trail. ARTICLE 34 To see if the Town will accept the provisions of Chapter 157 of the Acts of 2005, an Act that provides Section 7 accidental disability retirees with a veteran’s benefit and to fund such acceptance. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto.
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Sponsor: Retirement Board May 11, 2006 Voted: This article failed. ARTICLE 35 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to make retroactive payment due upon acceptance of Section 2 of Chapter 157 of the Acts of 2005. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto Sponsor: Retirement Board May 11, 2006 Voted: This article failed. ARTICLE 36 To see if the Town will vote to place in the jurisdiction of the Park Commissioners to be used for recreational purposes Parcel C as described in a release deed from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the Town of Framingham dated July 30th, 1998, and described as Lot 9 on a plan entitled “Plan of Land Framingham, Middlesex Co., MA” dated May 8, 1995, and filed with the Middlesex South County Registry District of the Land Court as Plan No. 10940K, excluding the Chapel and the Land on which it is located which is under the jurisdiction of the Board of Selectmen, and to authorize the Board of Park Commissioners to enter into a non-exclusive license with the South Middlesex Regional Vocational Technical School District upon such terms and conditions as the Board of Park Commissioners deems appropriate and for a period of up to ten (10) years for the use of certain property as athletic, playground facilities, and parking, which properties are a portion of the properties described in the deed from Richard H. Long to the Town of Framingham dated January 8, 1914, and recorded with the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds Book 3852, Page 85, and Parcel C as described above. The above authorization shall apply to such portion of said premises as the Board of Park Commissioners in its discretion deems appropriate. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Park Commissioners and South Middlesex Regional Vocational
Technical School District Committee. May 11, 2006 Voted: That the Town place in the jurisdiction of the Park Commissioners to be used for recreational purposes Parcel C as described in a release deed from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the Town of Framingham dated July 30th, 1998, and described as Lot 9 on a plan entitled, “Plan of Land Framingham, Middlesex Co., MA” dated May 8, 1995, and filed with the Middlesex South County Registry District of the Land Court as Plan No. 10940K, excluding the Chapel and the Land on which it is located which is under the jurisdiction of the Board of Selectmen, and to authorize the Board of Park Commissioners to enter into a non-exclusive license with the South Middlesex Regional Vocational Technical School District upon such terms and conditions as the Board of Park Commissioners deems appropriate and for a period of up to ten (10) years for the use of certain property as athletic, playground facilities, and parking, which
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properties are a portion of the properties described in the deed from Richard H. Long to the Town of Framingham dated January 8, 1914, and recorded with the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds Book 3852, Page 85 and Parcel C as described above. The above authorization shall apply to such portion of said premises as the Board of Park Commissioners in its discretion deems appropriate. ARTICLE 37 To see if the Town will approve, in furtherance of the provisions of Chapter 86 and Chapter 546 of the Acts of 1946 and of Chapter 406 of the Acts of 1960, and pursuant to G.L. c. 40, §4A, the entering into an Intermunicipal Agreement with the Town of Ashland for twenty (20) years, with the option for an additional five (5) year extension, for the purposes of allowing the transport of wastewater from Ashland through the Framingham Sewerage System to the MWRA Sewerage System, at rates of compensation as described in said Intermunicipal Agreement. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 8, 2006 Voted: That Town Meeting authorize the Board of Selectmen pursuant to MGL, c. 40, §4A and Article I, Section 3.4 of the General Bylaws to enter into a new Intermunicipal Agreement with the Town of Ashland for the transport of wastewater for a duration of up to 25 years, allowing continued transportation of Ashland sewage through the Framingham sewer system under the terms and conditions described within the proposed new Intermunicipal Agreement provided by Town Counsel in the backup materials dated May 30, 2006. ARTICLE 38 To see if the Town of Framingham will vote to approve the Community Economic Development Plan for the Fiscal Year 2007 submitted to it by the Economic Development and Industrial Corporation of the Town. Copies of the Community Economic Development Plan may be examined at the Office of the Board of Selectmen, Town Clerk, Planning Department and the Main Branch of the Library. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Economic Development and Industrial Corporation May 11, 2006 Voted: That the Town approve the Community Economic Development Plan for Fiscal Year 2007 as submitted by the Framingham Economic Development and Industrial Corporation and adopted by the Board of Selectmen, March 14, 2006 as shown in the background material and attached.
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EDIC’s FY07 Work Plan is a combination of ongoing, long term, and short term action strategies, and will have long lasting impacts on the economic viability of Downtown Framingham and other key commercial districts in Framingham. Positive long term results will be obtained through the coordination and continuing efforts of the EDIC, Framingham Division of Planning and Economic Development staff, other Town departments, commissions, and boards, Framingham Downtown Renaissance organizations, and the Town’s many business leaders. Goal 1. Continue to implement projects and programs that will bring to life our Downtown Framingham vision.
Objective 1-A: Continue to sponsor and promote Framingham Downtown Renaissance (FDR) Actions Timeline Responsible Party Develop FDR meeting agendas, and chair meetings.
Monthly EDIC member appointed as FDR Chair; staff support provided by Division of Planning and Economic Development (DPED).
Implementation of FDR Work Plan. Ongoing,. See FDR Work Plan.
FDR Chair, with assistance from DPED staff and FDR organizations
Objective 1-B: Support the Framingham START Partnership in efforts to create cultural economic development opportunities in Framingham Actions Timeline Responsible Party Identify funding sources to support the START Partnership.
Nov. 2006, & Ongoing
DPED Staff, EDIC member appointed to START Partnership
Assist with grant preparation. Ongoing. DPED Staff, EDIC as needed Objective 1-C: Continue towards creation, enhancement, promotion, and funding of the Cultural Triangle in Downtown Framingham Actions Timeline Responsible Party Identify grants and other funding sources for physical improvements in the Cultural Triangle, including Nevins Hall, Danforth Museum, and streetscape improvements.
Feb. & March 2006, and ongoing
DPED Staff, EDIC members as needed
Identify grants and other funding sources for programming that will promote cultural economic development in the Cultural Triangle
Ongoing DPED Staff, EDIC members as needed
Assist with grant preparation. Ongoing. DPED Staff, EDIC as needed Objective 1-D: Continue to encourage mixed-use development in Downtown Framingham Actions Timeline Responsible Party Continue to assist with the Arcade development project and similar projects in Downtown Framingham
Ongoing DPED Staff, EDIC members as needed
Market Downtown Framingham to potential developers
March 2007, & Ongoing
DPED Staff, EDIC members as needed
Identify and seek funding for Transportation July – Dec DPED Staff
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Orientated Development 2006 Objective 1-E: Assure the railroad crossing at Routes 126 and 135 and related traffic problems are properly addressed, and a plan to solve problems are implemented Actions Timeline Responsible Party Serve on the Downtown Railroad Crossing Committee, and Steering Committee
Ongoing EDIC appointed member
Goal 2. Work to develop (or redevelop) vacant or underutilized properties Objective 2-A. Identify all vacant and underutilized industrial and commercially zoned properties and assess potential future uses. Actions Timeline Responsible Party Identify, map, and assess industrial and commercially zoned properties with highest potential for reuse/redevelopment.
August – Sep. 2006
DPED Staff
Contact owners of key properties and inquire about future plans for property.
Oct. – Dec. 2006
DPED Staff
Objective 2-B: Identify Brownfields needing redevelopment Actions Timeline Responsible Party Review EOEA/DEP Brownfield Inventory March 2006,
& Quarterly DPED Staff
Identify, map, and assess brownfield properties that could be redeveloped
April – May 2006
DPED Staff
Identify funding sources that could be used to assess and clean brownfields.
April 2006 DPED Staff
Contact owners of key properties and inquire about future plans for property.
July- Sep 2006, & ongoing
DPED Assistant Director, EDIC
Develop partnership with property owners and appropriate government agencies to assure clean up and redevelopment of sites.
Oct. – Dec 2006, & ongoing
DPED, EDIC
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Objective 2-C: Assess Tax Title Properties Actions Timeline Responsible Party Review current and future tax title listings Quarterly DPED Staff, EDIC members as
needed Work with Tax Foreclosure Committee to identify properties ideal for commercial and industrial development
Annually DPED Staff, EDIC
Goal 3. Work to retain and expand current small businesses by identifying technical and financial resources that can be made available to further their development Objective 3-A. Continue to support CDBG managed small business assistance programs Actions Timeline Responsible Party Façade Improvement Program Ongoing DPED Staff (CDBG) Sign Improvement Program Ongoing DPED Staff (CDBG) Micro-enterprise Loan Program Ongoing DPED Staff (CDBG) Objective 3-B: Continue to support Downtown merchant outreach Actions Timeline Responsible Party Review New Business Listings (DBA certificates)
Weekly DPED staff
Review of Commercial Development Activity Monthly EDIC, DPED staff Door to door distribution of Merchant Outreach Packets
Ongoing DPED staff
Post card and letter/brochure distribution Every 5 to 7 weeks
DPED staff
Workshops for small businesses Every 5 to 7 weeks
DPED staff
Objective 3-C: Implement the MassDevelopment Business Visitation Program Actions Timeline Responsible Party Research Framingham businesses that could benefit from MassDevelopment programs.
Quarterly DPED staff
Contact (letters, phone calls) business owners or upper management to inform them of MassDevelopment programs and to arrange meetings.
Quarterly & ongoing
DPED staff
Visit businesses to introduce MassDevelopment programs and discuss economic development issues impacting Framingham’s business community.
Ongoing DPED Assistant Director, MassDevelopment Senior Vice President, and EDIC
Objective 3-D: Educate and inform the public about the EDIC and related economic development issues. Actions Timeline Responsible Party Improve EDIC Web Page Jan. - March
2006 DPED staff, EDIC review and editing
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Develop FDR Web Page Feb. - April 2006
DPED staff, EDIC review and editing
Edit Downtown Framingham Business Web Site, and link to EDIC and FDR web pages
April – May 2006
DPED staff, FDR review and editing
Improve Planning and Economic Development Web Site
Feb. - March 2006
DPED staff
Link economic development and business assistance web resources to above mention web pages
May – July 2006
DPED staff, EDIC review and editing
Update EDIC and DPED related web pages Ongoing, Quarterly review
DPED staff, EDIC and FDR review and editing as necessary
Objective 3-E: Develop informational documents and other activities that will attract new business and guide new businesses through the development and permitting process. Actions Timeline Responsible Party Edit and reprint “Start Smart” Business Guide to Local Permits
May – July 2006
DPED staff, other Town departments to provide input
Add “Start Smart” Business Guide to Town web sites
July 2006 DPED staff
Develop Permitting Handbook August – Oct. 2006
DPED staff
Add Permitting Handbook to Town web sites Oct. 2006 DPED staff Develop Development Incentives Brochure/Package
Jan. – March 2007
DPED staff
Create and implement Public Relations program to attract corporations to Framingham.
March – June 2007
DPED staff
Goal 4. Provide a forum for discussion of town-wide economic development issues and the formulation of goals, objectives, and action plans Objective 4-A. Obtain input from organizations and general public regarding economic development issues Actions Timeline Responsible Party Obtain input on EDIC Work Plan March &
April of each year
EDIC Members
Objective 4-B: Undertake continued economic development project planning, and keep EDIC goals and objectives current and representative of Framingham’s needs and desires. Actions Timeline Responsible Party Review current EDIC Work Plan and implement stated actions.
Ongoing EDIC members, DPED staff
Review EDIC work plan status and assure goals and objectives current and representative of Framingham’s needs and desires
July & October 2006
EDIC members, DPED staff
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Update EDIC Work Plan Jan. – Feb. 2007
EDIC members, DPED staff
Objective 4-C: Provide Input into Master Planning Process Actions Timeline Responsible Party Develop draft concepts to be included in the scope of services for the Town’s master planning process.
March – April 2006
EDIC members
Develop draft Economic Development policies for consideration during Master Planning Process.
April 2006 EDIC members
Develop strategies to focus economic development and housing at transportation hubs (e.g., Transportation Orientated Development)
First quarter FY07
EDIC members, DPED staff
Pursue rezoning of mill village centers and other important underutilized commercial centers.
Second quarter of FY07
EDIC members, DPED staff
Pursue rezoning of manufacturing zones in southeast Framingham to better reflect current uses.
Second quarter of FY07
EDIC members, DPED staff
ARTICLE 39 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-Law of the Town of Framingham as follows: Amend Section III, Subsection F Light Manufacturing Districts to reformat and insert a new III.F.2.a. “Uses set forth in subsection 1. herein, with 8,000 or greater than 8,000 square feet of gross floor area.” Thereby reclassifying the existing III.F.2.a as the new III.F.2.b. And further amend Section III, Subsection G General Manufacturing Districts to insert a new III.G.3 “The following uses shall require a special permit from the Planning Board:” and III.G.3.a. “Uses set forth in subsection 1. herein, with 8,000 or greater than 8,000 square feet of gross floor area.” Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Planning Board May 11, 2006 Voted: That the Zoning Bylaws of the Town of Framingham, Sections III.F., Light Manufacturing District and III.G. General Manufacturing District be amended as set forth under Article 39 of the April 25, 2006 Annual Town Meeting, as provided in the warrant. 93 voting in favor, 12 opposed. Approved by Thomas F. Reilly, Attorney General on September 26, 2006
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RESOLUTION May 9, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that the appropriate state agencies and the Legislature place a moratorium on new and increased spending on the many social service agencies in the Town of Framingham until a more equitable system is in place to better share the many needs in more communities then ours. It is apparent from the Pilot Study that we are shouldering a larger burden then all other comparable communities, by a large margin, and are not being fairly compensated in grants and payments to balance the discrepancy. Gloria Geller, Precinct 2 RESOLUTION May 4, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that Town Meeting instruct the Town and School Department bargaining agents to conduct collective bargaining with the goal of limiting aggregate increases in salaries, wages and benefits to not more than the anticipated percentage increase in tax and fee revenue of the Town. Also, be it resolved that the Chief Financial Officer be instructed to recomputed the budget for Fiscal Year 2007 to reflect a reduction of the total increase in Town payroll so that the aggregate increase be five percent and present to Town Meeting, for informational purposes, not later than the time Article 26 is taken up, the reduced budget amount and effect of that reduction upon employment by the Town. Margaret Groppo, Precinct 1 RESOLUTION June 7, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that the Police Chief report at the fall town meeting the status of the police department budget in relation to the following items: Medical fund for disabled officers Overtime budget New hire situation Any other concerns the police chief feels appropriate to discuss. Kenneth Schwartz, Precinct 2 RESOLUTION June 7, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that the Police Chief study the practice of using private companies to tow and store vehicles, with the intent of providing that service directly by the Town, and report those results back to town meeting in the fall 2006. Kenneth Schwartz, Precinct 2
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RESOLUTION June 7, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that Framingham’s Advanced Life Support and Ambulance services currently supplied privately by AMR be reviewed in order to determine what the pros and cons of providing those services via the Town’s Fire Department and that the results be reported back to Town Meeting as soon as possible. Kenneth Schwartz, Precinct 2 RESOLUTION June 13, 2006 Voted: Whereas the budgetary needs of all Town departments and the budget priorities of this Town Meeting are not static and continually under review; Be it resolved that Town Meeting requests that Board of Selectmen, as the policy making board of the Town, to re-examine and re-evaluate the current longstanding policy of an automatic preset division of yearly budget resources between the school department and all other Town departments; And, further, that the Board submit a report at the fall special town meeting outlining the basis for either the confirmation of the current policy or for changes to the policy; And, further, that a side by side comparison of the final FY07 Town of Framingham budget breakdown by department or service type; with those towns most commonly compared to Framingham be submitted for review and evaluation. Theodore C. Anthony, Jr., Precinct 1 RESOLUTION June 13, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that the Board of Selectmen and the Town Manager, or his designee, maintain a continuing presence in the State Legislature to lobby State Legislature Leadership on matters related to the well being of Framingham, and to ensure fairness in the allocation of State Revenues to the Town in support of the many services that the Town provides to its citizens and the citizens or the Commonwealth. Harold Geller, Precinct 2 RESOLUTION June 15, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that the Town of Framingham should immediately pursue advertising opportunities for the Lift bus service and then return to town meeting in the fall with an update and a determination as to what type of fund would be necessary to receive these funds from this advertising and income opportunity. Cheryl Gordon, Precinct 12 Philip R. Ottaviani, Jr., Precinct 11 Caraline Levy, Precinct 12
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Douglas Freeman, Precinct 11 Dawn Harkness, Precinct 4 Janet Leombruno, Precinct 5 RESOLUTION June 6, 2006 Voted: Be it resolved that Town Meeting request the Board of Selectmen to create a comprehensive energy policy for the Town. The policy should address conservation measures as a means of offsetting rapidly rising energy costs and their impact on the Town, for example the doubling of electricity costs to 9.7 cents per kilowatt hour from 4.5 cents per kilowatt hour. Barry Bograd, Finance Committee Chair
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MAY 3, 2006 SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
ARTICLE 1 To see if the Town will raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to settle the litigation pending in Middlesex Superior Court in three cases styled Arthur Grontzos v. Town of Framingham, Civil Action No. 04-1723, Arthur Grontzos & Fontini Grontzos v. Town of Framingham, Civil Action No. 04-1724, and Arthur Grontzos, as Trustee of the 209 Realty Trust v. Town of Framingham, Civil Action No. 04-1725, and to approve said settlement pursuant to Article II, Section 1.4 of the General Laws. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 3, 2006 Voted: That Town Meeting authorize the Board of Selectmen to settle the three Grontzos cases as set forth in Article 1 on the May 3, 2006 Special Town Meeting and as more fully described in the back-up materials submitted by the Town Counsel. Further, that Town Meeting authorize the use of $102,000 to be reimbursed from the Town’s Chapter 90 Highway Funds account to fund this settlement. ARTICLE 2 To see if the Town will authorize the Board of Selectmen, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 82, § 33, and in compliance with M.G.L. c. 79, to purchase, accept as a gift, or take by eminent domain the following permanent easements for sidewalk purposes: 1. Sidewalk Easement F-SW-1 as shown on a plan entitled “TOWN OF FRAMINGHAM
SIDEWALK EASEMENT F-SW-1, FRAMINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS”, scale 1:250, FEBRUARY 2005; BETA Group, Inc. Said easement containing approximately 14 +/- square feet.
2. Sidewalk Easement F-SW-2 as shown on a plan entitled “TOWN OF FRAMINGHAM SIDEWALK EASEMENT F-SW-2, FRAMINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS”, scale 1:250, FEBRUARY 2005; BETA Group, Inc. Said easement containing approximately 16 +/- square feet.
3. Sidewalk Easement F-SW-3 as shown on a plan entitled “TOWN OF FRAMINGHAM SIDEWALK EASEMENT F-SW-3, FRAMINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS”, scale 1:250, FEBRUARY 2005; BETA Group, Inc. Said easement containing approximately 15 +/- square feet.
4. Sidewalk Easement F-SW-4 as shown on a plan entitled “TOWN OF FRAMINGHAM SIDEWALK EASEMENT F-SW-4, FRAMINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS”, scale 1:250, FEBRUARY 2005; BETA Group, Inc. Said easement containing approximately 31 +/- square feet.
5. Sidewalk Easement F-SW-5 as shown on a plan entitled “TOWN OF FRAMINGHAM SIDEWALK EASEMENT F-SW-5, FRAMINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS”, scale 1:250, FEBRUARY 2005; BETA Group, Inc. Said easement containing approximately 65 +/- square feet.
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6. Sidewalk Easement F-SW-6 as shown on a plan entitled “TOWN OF FRAMINGHAM SIDEWALK EASEMENT F-SW-6, FRAMINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS”, scale 1:250, FEBRUARY 2005; BETA Group, Inc. Said easement containing approximately 69 +/- square feet.
Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 3, 2006: That the Town authorize the Board of Selectmen, pursuant to MGL, c. 82 sec. 33 and in compliance with MGL, c. 79, to purchase, accept as a gift, or take by eminent domain the six permanent easements for sidewalk purposes as presented under Article 2 in the warrant. ARTICLE 3 To see if the Town will authorize the Board of Selectmen, in accordance with M.G.L. c. 82, §§ 21-25, and in compliance with M.G.L. c. 79, to acquire such land by purchase or otherwise, or adopt an order for the taking of such land by eminent domain, all permanent and temporary easements for the Franklin Street Roadway Improvement Project, shown on a plan entitled “Town of Framingham Easement Plan for Franklin Street Improvements,” prepared by Beta Group, dated 3/04/2005 more specifically described as follows: Permanent Highway Easement: • Newton Place: #17, Land now or formerly of Breda, Donald J. and Ann M., Trustees Permanent Drainage Easement: • A triangular piece of land on the east side of Franklin Street at the Sudbury River on the Parcel
shown on the old Assessor’s Map 201 block 1 lot 4, now or formerly owned by the Mt Wayte Realty LLC, also known as the Perini Building lot.
Temporary Construction Easements: • Franklin Street from #38 to #776, both sides of the stret. • Main Street: #27 and #33 • Moulton Park Road: #1 and #14 • Goddard Road: #22 • Maple Street: #57 and #76 • Wood Terrace: #43 • Mt. Wayte Avenue: #73 and #89 • Arch Street: #3 and #4 • Otis Street: #3 and #4 • Linden Street: #4 and #7 • Melrose Street: #3 and #8 • DeLoss Street: #3 • Brewster Road: #4, #5 and #9 • Beech Street: #6 and #11 • Henry Street: #27 • Lexington Street: #4 • Proctor Street: #34 and #46
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• Howard Street: #39 and #47 • Park Street: #15 Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 3, 2006 Voted: That the Town authorize the Board of Selectmen, in accordance with MGL, c. 82, sec. 21-25, and in compliance with MGL, c. 79, to acquire such land by purchase or otherwise, or adopt an order for the taking of such land by eminent domain, all permanent and temporary easements for the Franklin Street Roadway Improvement Project, shown on a plan entitled, “Town of Framingham Easement Plan for Franklin Street Improvements”, prepared by Beta Group dated March 4, 2005 and as further described under Article 3 in the May 3, 2006 Special Town Meeting warrant.
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MAY 16, 2006 SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
ARTICLE 1 To see if the town will vote to amend the Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Agreement (TIF), originally voted at the 2005 Annual Town Meeting to reflect requested modifications from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 16, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor with the consent of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 2 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to enhance and supplement the LIFT Public Transit System operated by the Town of Framingham. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 16, 2006 Voted: That the Town raise and appropriate $45,000 for the purpose of funding enhanced LIFT services per agreements with Lowe’s and the Natick Mall Settlement. ARTICLE 3 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to construct roadway improvements for the following named streets: Cochituate Road Edgell Road High Street Main Street Hardy Street Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen May 16, 2006 Voted: That the Town approve the sum of $621,500 being held in Planning Board off-site mitigation bonds from 100 Crossing Boulevard, 1 Staples Drive, 45 New York Avenue, 54 New York Avenue and 350 Cochituate Road to be used by the Department of Public Works to construct roadway improvements for the following named streets: Edgell Road
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High Street Main Street Hardy Street Pleasant Street. ARTICLE 4 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the School Department and/or Chief Procurement Officer to enter into contracts for school bus transportation for a period not to exceed five (5) years in accordance with the Massachusetts General Laws. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: School Department May 16, 2006 Voted: That the Town authorize the School Department and/or Chief Procurement Officer to enter into a contract for school bus transportation for a period not to exceed five (5) years in accordance with Massachusetts General Law.
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JUNE 8, 2006 SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
ARTICLE 1 To see if the town will vote to amend the Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing Agreement (TIF), originally voted at the 2005 Annual Town Meeting to reflect requested clarifications from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 8, 2006 Voted: That this article be referred back to the Sponsor with the concurrence of the Sponsor. ARTICLE 2 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to enable the Gregory Road Sewer Relief Project to go forward. Pass any vote or take any action relative thereto. Sponsor: Board of Selectmen June 8, 2006 Voted: That the Town raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or otherwise provide a sum or sums of money to enable the Gregory Road Sewer Relief Project to go forward.
