June 18, 2018

Chairman Dalton called the meeting to order at 7:32 p.m. He announced that the meeting will be recorded for cable television transmission and left those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Quarterly update by Town Accountant/Assistant Director of Finance

Town Accountant/Assistant Director of Finance Julianne McCarthy appeared before the Board to give an update on the Fiscal Year 2018 budget and the golf and emergency medical services enterprise funds.

Town Administrator Dolan said these quarterly updates were part of the Board’s goals for this year.  He said FY18 revenues marks are being reached and tax collections are at a high rate of success. There will be no snow and ice deficit carry-over to FY19. There will be several end-of-year transfers to balance the budget, including payments of accrued time due to the departure of the Conservation Administrator and library staff. Dispatchers will receive one year of a retroactive pay increase due to the recent agreement reached with the Town and their bargaining unit.

Chairman Dalton said that some line items show variances in the percentage of the appropriation expended versus last year, most of which are minor. Ms. McCarthy said that the largest variance was due to a late billing from the Town of Wakefield for share inspectional services personnel.

Selectman Crawford said he was gratified to see funds left in the town counsel account, which indicates a reduction in the number of frivolous lawsuits filed against the Town.

Mr. Dolan said that that he expects an increase in revenue collected for the emergency medical services (EMS) enterprise fund, and that the fund will reimburse the Town for indirect costs as in past years. Chairman Dalton noted that some residents were asking about how it is determined which indirect costs are charged to the enterprise accounts. Ms. McCarthy said that the method used has been consistent. After the last payroll, the amount of indirects is determined based on the amount of the surplus in the account. In some years, the Town charged less due to the surplus being too small to cover all indirect costs, as making such charges would [out those accounts into deficit. Indirect costs applied include insurance, unemployment, a fraction of the salaries for Town Hall personnel who work on related tasks. Fringe benefit costs are not charged to the enterprise accounts.

Mr. Dolan said that golf has increased revenues by $100,000 over the previous year. Favorable weather and the new trailer at King Rail helped increase the revenues. King Rail revenues were up by 14 percent. Off-season staffing will be reduced this season.

Adoption of hazard mitigation plan

The state requires the adoption of a local Hazard Mitigation Plan and regular updates. Town Engineer Charles Richter and Public Works Director John Tomasz and representative Sam Cleaves of the Massachusetts Area Planning Council (MAPC) made a presentation to the Board.

Mr. Cleaves said that adoption of a hazard mitigation plan makes the Town eligible for Federal Emergency Abatement Agency (FEMA) grants. He said that the plan addresses only natural disasters, with the aims of preventing or reducing loss of life, injuries and property damage. MPAC worked with Town officials over the last year to compile the proposed plan. The Planning Board held public meetings om the topic. The draft planned has been approved by FEMA and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). Examples of local areas under consideration are Saugus River and Reedy meadow, the Summer Street overpass, Hawkes Brook, Bates Brook and other areas subject to flooding, and areas subject to brush fires. Critical facilities are mapped, including municipal buildings, churches, wells, dams, elderly housing complexes, etc. Existing mitigation measures were reviewed.

The next step is adoption by the Board. A certificate of adoption is sent to MEMA and FEMA, and the certification is good for five years. Board members thanked those who works on the plan.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Chairman Dalton: I move that the Board of Selectmen adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan as presented. Vote was 2-0 (Mr. Barrett not present for this agenda item).

Adoption of Complete Streets policy

Massachusetts municipalities that adopt a Complete Streets policy are eligible for state funding for roadway improvement projects. Town Engineer Charles Richter and Public Works Director John Tomasz made a presentation on the proposed policy. Town Administrator Rob Dolan discussed the adoption of a similar policy in Melrose.

Mr. Dolan said observing the activities of bike riders, joggers and pedestrians on Town streets as well as information gleaned form the master Plan survey indicates that infrastructure needs in Town should be addressed. A Complete Streets policy makes the Town eligible for state funding of improvements for all modes of transportation with safety as the goal. Melrose received $3000,000 in funding as a result of adopting this policy, as the state is investing in these projects.

John Fitzgerald of Environmental Partners Group made a presentation on ways roadways can be improved to accommodate all users, regardless of age and ability. They enhance safety for pedestrians and bicycle riders and allow for exercise, boost the local economy and reduce carbon monoxide emissions. He said a lack of pedestrians and bicycle riders on Town streets may be an indication of unsafe conditions, not lack of interest.

Mr. Fitzgerald said that there are many styles in which pedestrians and bicycle safety measures can be introduced, based on street conditions and community preferences. He showed slides of several configurations. Other measures include traffic calming to help slow traffic to the appropriate speed, and include bump-outs, curb extensions, median island. State funding is available, and communities may receive up to $50,000 in technical assistance for a five-year plan, and up to $400,000 per community annually for implementation. Maintenance funds are not available.

The steps that need to be taken are adoption of a Complete Streets policy, prioritization of improvements, and applying to the state for approval. There are exceptions made when the cost of accommodations is to costly or not justified by use. The Department of Transportation will review the plan according to what is most beneficial and feasible and awards funds on a competitive basis Communities of all sizes are receiving funding, which is based on median income of residents, district equity, and safety and accident data. Projects that are not funded can be resubmitted in future rounds. Project deadlines are rolling for Tier 1 proposals, with the primary plan deadlines in April and September and construction applications in May and October.

Mr. Richter said Lynnfield has a draft policy to be sent for certification. Mr. Dolan said sidewalk improvements would be a major focus to improve beauty and safety, as well as safety improvements to intersections.

In response to questions from Chairman Dalton, Mr. Richter said that the sidewalks policy is a guide, and there is no binding commitment. Mr. Dolan said there would be extensive neighborhood input into any programs adopted.

Selectman Crawford aid this would be a fantastic complement to the existing roads program, and does not commit the Town to any strict designs or mandates.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move that the Board of Selectmen adopt the Complete Streets policy as presented. Vote was unanimous.

Perley Burrill encroachment agreement

Selectman Barrett recused himself from this portion of the meeting, as he has an ownership interest in abutting property.

A previous owner of the property at 914 Salem Street encroached on an abutting property at 898 Salem Street by placing a structure on it. Town Engineer Charles Richter and Town Counsel Thomas Mullen have drafted an agreement with the abutting property owner that would require the purchaser of the property at 914 Salem Street to remove the structure that encroaches on the abutting property.

Chairman Dalton sad the item would be taken up at the next meeting of the Board as the property owner has not yet signed the agreement.

Summer Street improvement plan

Town Engineer Charles Richter and Public Works Director John Tomasz discussed the proposed Summer Street Improvement Plan, which would be eligible for state and federal funds through the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). A public form was held last week.

Mr. Dolan said that TIP is a highly competitive program that identified important transportation issues. He is proposing a plan to reconstruct Summer Street from Town Hall to Salem Street with sidewalks, granite curbing and improvements to drainage and pedestrian, bicycle and handicapped access. He said a Town appropriation of $1 million would leverage $15 to $20 million from the state, which would be the largest state assistance to a Lynnfield project since the building of the Middle School. He said the approval process sis a lengthy one and would address the concerns of residents. If the project moves forward, construction is likely to be six years away. He said it is time to create a dialogue with the state on this project. State funding would allow the Town to direct its resources to other areas.

Mr. Tomasz said about 25-30 people attended the recent forum, and a good discussion ensued. Funds would be needed for design work. Residents had concerns about widening of streets, creation of bakes lanes narrowing the vehicle lanes, and the removal of trees.

Selectman Dalton said that the amount of state funds Lynnfield could realize from this project would be significant. He said he understands the issues raised by residents but hopes they will keep an open mind and a continued dialogue. Selectman Crawford said that road reconstruction expense will be borne by the Town if state funds are not sought. He said if the Town can get Summer Street redone for only $1 million in Town contribution, it is a big win. Residents will have a lot of input into the design. Selectman Barrett agreed with these sentiments of his colleagues.

Appointment of assistant building inspector and assistant electrical inspector

Inspectional Services Director Jack Roberto has recommended that James DeCola be named an assistant building inspector and assistant electrical inspector. Mr. DeCola performs these same duties in the Town of Wakefield, with whom we share inspectors. Assistant inspectors provide service when the inspector is unavailable due to vacations, illness, etc.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move that the Board of Selectmen appoint James DeCola as assistant building inspector and assistant electrical inspector.

Appointments to boards/committees

Several Town officials have their terms expire on June 30. The Town Administrator’s office has compiled a list of officials seeking reappointment.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move that the Town officials listed in the document as read be reappointed for the positions and terms indicated. Vote was unanimous.

ONE-YEAR APPOINTMENTS

BUILDING INSPECTOR

Roberto, Jack

ASST. BUILDING INSPECTOR

Luther, John; Colantuoni, Richard; DeCola, James

CLERK, Town

Reid, Trudy

ASST. TOWN CLERK

Hammerbeck, Diane

CONSTABLES

Minsky, Paul; Ruerwhein, John; Small, Ronald

DOG OFFICER

Crockett, David

ASST. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIR.

Burnham, Kenneth

GAS/PLUMBING INSPECTOR

Donohoe, Paul

ASST. GAS/PLUMBING INSPECTOR

LoConte, Donald; Kulacz, Stanley; Flores, Paul

IPSWICH RIVER WATERSHED ADVISORY BOARD

Pezzella, Jerry

LOCK-UP KEEPER

Breen, David

POLICE SPECIAL OFFICERS

Lamusta, Richard; Peabody, Charles

TREASURER/TAX COLLECTOR/PRETAX PLAN ADMINISTRATOR

O’Sullivan, Christine

WIRE INSPECTOR

Sardella, David

ASST. WIRE INSPECTOR

DeCola, James; Metell, Alfred; Skinner, Arthur

TWO-YEAR APPOINTMENTS

TOWN ACCOUNTANT

McCarthy, Julianne

THREE-YEAR APPOINTMENTS

AGING, COUNCIL on

Galante, Steven

CONSERVATION COMM.

Gentile, Donald; Lovell, Melanie

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Kayola, Thomas

HISTORICAL COMM.

Richard, Stephen; Todisco, Steven

LIFE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Yerardi, Sal

MEMORIAL DAY PARADE COMM.

Lukas, John

PERSONNEL BOARD

Griffin, Michael; Sanford, Kip

RECREATION COMM.

Morelli, Frank; Relihan, Robert

REGISTRARS, Board of

Feinberg. Michael

Appointment of election officers

Election officers must be reappointed annually. Town Clerk Trudy Reid has forwarded the names of elections officials she is recommending for reappointment.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move that the election officials listed in the document be reappointed for the positions indicated, for terms expiring on June 30, 2019. Vote was unanimous

Summer meeting schedule

The Board traditionally schedules one regular meeting in each of the months of July and August, and schedules additional meetings as needed. The scheduling of meetings is the purview of the chair. A calendar for the two summer months has been provided. Chairman Dalton will schedule the meetings based on the Board member availability.

Board of Selectmen Updates

Heathy Lynnfield (Selectman Crawford): 350 parents responded to the survey. $900 was raised from the Whole Foods fundraiser. A grant for $625,000 is available over a five-year period to new coalitions addressing substance abuse issues.

Recreational Path Committee (Chairman Dalton): Mr. Dolan said he attended a meeting in Wakefield. The Friends of the Lynnfield Rail Trail applied for a $100,000 grant to assist in getting to the 75 percent design phase. The Recreational Path Committee continues to look at benefits and challenges. Wakefield has agreed to an even split of the expense of reaching the 75 percent design plan. The total estimated cist is $5000. Sixty percent of the proposed trial is in Lynnfield.

School Capacity and Enrollment Committee (Selectman Barrett): The first meeting was held on Friday and the committee voted to conduct a demographic study including the impact of proposed new housing developments and their alternatives.

Town Administrator Update

Mr. Dolan gave very brief updates on citizen transparency, the resurfacing of the Middle School track, and the Strategic Planning Committee formation.

Use of Town Facilities

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move the Board approve the raising of a banner for the Reid’s Ride event from July 5-15, 2018 and approve the use of streets for the event on July 4 road race on July 15, 2018. Vote was unanimous.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move the Board approve the use of the Common for the annual Rotary Summer Concert Series on the following dates: July 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, and August 1, 2. Vote was unanimous.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move that the Board approve the use of the Common and Town streets for the Horribles parade by Lynnfield Recreation on July 3, 2018. Vote was unanimous.

Public participation

Resident Patricia Campbell asked for an estimate of annual expenses for maintenance of the rail trail by department. She said the meeting on the Summer Street TIP proposal was a good one and suggested those who did not know about pick up one of the packages distributed at the meeting.

Lynnfield Center Water District issues

Chairman Dalton said that while the LCWD is an independent governmental entity and not part of Town government, officials are keeping a close eye on water quality issues. He urged residents of that district with concerns to attend Board of Water Commissioners meetings. He said the LCWD will collect samples to be sent for analysis by an independent laboratory if residents have concerns about the quality of their water. Valves are being changes in the Apple Hill area. It is possible that LCWD will eventually bring in MWRA water to supplement its wells.

Executive Session under MGL. c. 30A, section 21(a)(2) to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel and/or to conduct contract negotiations with nonunion personnel, to wit, the Fire Chief

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move the Board enter Executive Session under MGL. c. 30A, section 21(a)(2) to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel and/or to conduct contract negotiations with nonunion personnel, to wit, the Fire Chief.

Roll call vote: Crawford – yes; Barrett – yes; Dalton – yes.

The Board plans to resume regular session at the conclusion of the executive session.

The Board entered executive session at 9:06 p.m. The Board resumed public session at 9:58 p.m.

Fire Chief contract

I move that the Board determine not to renew the Town’s employment contract with Mark Tetreault as Fire Chief; that written notice be given to him not later than June 30, 2018 of the Board’s intent not to renew the said contract; that as a result, his term of office shall expire on December 31, 2018; and that pursuant to the said contract the Town shall pay him three (3) months’ severance immediately following such expiration of the term of his appointment.

MOTION by Selectman Crawford, duly seconded by Selectman Barrett: I move that we adjourn.

Vote was unanimous.

The Board adjourned at 9:59 p.m.