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http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/lifestyle/columnists/x2025178527/Steps-spokes-Rail-trail-opens

Steps & spokes: Rail trail opens Steps & spokes: Rail trail opens

By Karen TaylorThu Sep 03, 2009

CHELMSFORD - The Chelmsford Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee

(BPAC) is excited about the Aug. 29, ribbon cutting and grand opening of Phase1 of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, part of the larger Bay Circuit Trail and Green-way. It has culminated after more than 20 years of planning and hard work bymany organizations and individuals involved throughout the entire developmentof this wonderful recreational trail. The BPAC would like to thank all of those keyorganizations that made the trail possible for the residents of Chelmsford.

This 6.8-mile section of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail from Cross Point Towers in Lowell, to Route 225 inWestford, is a wonderful multi-use trail beckoning all to enjoy this local treasure. If you, your family, orfriends have the pleasure of an outing on the trail, the BPAC wants to remind users of some safety meas-ures to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the trail. If planning to driving to the trail to ac-cess it, be certain to park in a designated area, as many intersecting streets do not allow for on streetparking. Designated parking areas in Chelmsford are located at the Old Town Hall, the Municipal Lot,Pond Street and Byam School, after school hours.

Trail reminders for pedestrians· Keep to the right when possible.· Pets must be under the owner’s control at all times. Keep pets on a leash as a bike can come up frombehind fast, and a loose dog poses a hazard. The leash should be no longer than 6 feet. Clean up afteryour dog.· If walking side by side, be aware of oncoming bikes or skaters approaching from both directions. Move

to the right and fall in single file to allow safe passage.· If you hear an individual call out that they are passing from behind, stay to the right.

Reminders for bikers and skaters· Bikers and skaters should yield the right-of-way to walkers.· Ride single file.· Call out and announce your intent when passing from behind. A polite “on your left” is sufficient. Keep inmind that pets and young children tend to quickly change direction without looking for oncoming individu-als behind them, and very well may not realize you are approaching from behind.

· Wear protective headgear. Approved helmets are the law for anyone 16 years of age or younger.· Keep a reasonable and safe speed when using the trail. Bikers and skaters are responsible for staying incontrol at all times.· Dismount and walk bicycles across crosswalks.

Reminders for all· Stop at all intersecting streets, look both ways and proceed only when safe to do so.· Obey all traffic control signs and signals, especially at larger intersections.· Be considerate to all trail “neighbors.” Stay on the designated trail, as much of the land on either side ofthe trail is privately owned.· Respect the wildlife around the trail. Do not damage, destroy or remove

any portion of the habitat of any species of wildlife.· Carry out any trash you may accumulate along the trail.· If stopping along the trail, be certain to step to the side of the trail to allowother users to safely pass by.· Utilize designated signals at crossings in Chelmsford Center.We hope you enjoy the trail; a safe alternative to walking and biking on theroads.

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Residents protest 40B plan Residents protest 40B plan for wetland area for wetland area

http://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_13340163

By Rita Savard, [email protected]/15/2009

CHELMSFORD -- Charlie Whiting doesn't believe good things always come in small packages.Whiting, of 8 Arlington Road, and nearly two dozen others, packed into the selectmen's meeting last night

to protest a 40B project they say is using the affordable-housing law to circumvent town bylaws to build onprotected wetlands.

Developer Glenn Kohl of Chelmsford has requested to construct a two-family Gambrel-style house locatedon Arlington Street. The 72,300-square-foot parcel is mostly wetlands. Kohl's attorney, Joseph Shanahan,said Kohl is seeking to build the two, three-bedroom units on 12,000 feet of upland.

The 40B law gives developers the freedom to skir t local zoning regulations in communities where less than10 percent of the housing stock is classified as affordable. Developers must agree to sell 25 percent of thehousing units at affordable prices.

Although building on wetlands is prohibited, the 40B law allows developers adding to a community's afford-able-housing stock some wiggle room.

"Without 40B, you could never build anything on this lotWithout 40B, you could never build anything on this lot ," Shanahan told selectmen.

State Sen. Robert Hedlund, a Weymouth Republican, recently filed a bill to require 40B projects to meetlocal wetlands bylaws, following a proposal to build a project along Salt Marsh in Scituate.

Shanahan told selectmen that towns that shoot down 40B projects based on local wetlands bylaws are typ-ically overruled at the state level in conjunction with the state law on affordable housing.

A petition signed by 65 registered voters opposing Kohl's project was presented to selectmen last night.

Whiting and others said even the "uplands" section of the parcel is visibly wet.

"We were just up there today and were able to fill a bottle of water in that area that's supposedWe were just up there today and were able to fill a bottle of water in that area that's supposed

to be uplandto be upland," Whiting said. "When you can do that, it's not rightWhen you can do that, it's not right."

Shanahan said one unit would be rented at market rate for about $1,205, and the other at an affordablerate for about $883. Both units would count toward the town's affordable-housing stock.

Kohl filed his application as a Local Initiative Program (LIP). Under an LIP, a developer works with town offi-cials and abutters in a cooperative manner to gain approval. In the end, a LIP is endorsed by the local mu-

nicipality.

Selectmen said they will revisit the proposal at theirSelectmen said they will revisit the proposal at their Oct. 5Oct. 5 meeting.meeting.

CLICK HERE CLICK HERE to hear from residents & abutters of the proposalto hear from residents & abutters of the proposal

http://www.viddler.com/explore/re007hq/videos/43/






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PROPOSED 40B SITE TOURPROPOSED 40B SITE TOURby Tom Christiano

September 20, 2009

In an effort to better understand the proposed two unit 40B Glenn Kohldevelopment off of Fair Street and Arlington Street, I was given a tour ofthe site by Precinct six Town Meeting Representative Colleen Stansfield.

Colleen had toured this site previously with our Town Manager andJoe Shanahan (a representative of the developer).

A few photos of the site are shown to give you an ideawhat this area looks like now.

At the end of Fair Street there is a small fenced in town utility service area,as shown in one of the photos.

The closest abutter's house, on 9 ArlingtonStreet, is also shown, along with the grassyarea next to this home which is owned bythe town.

The proposed new road anddriveway would by located inthat area.

Colleen gave me a GIS map of this area (available on our town website CLICK HERE CLICK HERE ) which shows thatthe largest portion of this proposed 40B site is designated wetlands, and the reminder of this particular par-cel is within the 50 foot wetlands buffer zone, which means that under our town zoning bylaws, no housingcan be built on this land.

That's why the owner of this property is pro-posing a 40B two unit development, as the

40B Law allows developers to build in areasnot normally allowed under existing zoning by-laws, as long as at least 25% of the develop-ment is designated as affordable housing.This particular proposal is for rental housing,with one unit designated as affordable and theother unit as market rate.

Photos By Tom Christiano

http://host.appgeo.com/chelmsfordMA/





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Submitted by John BelskisJohn Belskis

Another 40B option Another 40B option

For those of you whose Town has yet to establish Inclusionary Zoning with perpetuity,For those of you whose Town has yet to establish Inclusionary Zoning with perpetuity,

I'd like to pass along two issues I raised at the 40B hearing.I'd like to pass along two issues I raised at the 40B hearing.

If your ZBA is engaged in a comprehensive permit situation, it could influence theIf your ZBA is engaged in a comprehensive permit situation, it could influence the

process if you formally present that a State Law defines "affordable housing" with aprocess if you formally present that a State Law defines "affordable housing" with a

stipulation that it must have a Registry of Deeds filing committing the affordable units tostipulation that it must have a Registry of Deeds filing committing the affordable units to45 years.45 years.

This definition is found in MGL Ch 60 Section 1.This definition is found in MGL Ch 60 Section 1.

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/60-1.htmhttp://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/60-1.htm

As another item to be entered into the hearing, you may want to inform the ZBA thatAs another item to be entered into the hearing, you may want to inform the ZBA thatdespite 40B regulations (they can't overrule State law) the Town's assessor must be madedespite 40B regulations (they can't overrule State law) the Town's assessor must be made

aware that per MGL Ch 59 Sec 52.aware that per MGL Ch 59 Sec 52. http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/59-52.htmhttp://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/59-52.htm anyany

filing of tax base assessment must be based on its full and fair cash value, or his signingfiling of tax base assessment must be based on its full and fair cash value, or his signingmay make him subject to a perjury finding. As common practice, 40B affordable units aremay make him subject to a perjury finding. As common practice, 40B affordable units are

being assessed at the affordable price which is lower than the market rate valuationsbeing assessed at the affordable price which is lower than the market rate valuations

thereby detracting from the town's tax revenue.thereby detracting from the town's tax revenue.

************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

As reported by Banker & Tradesman Attorney General CoakleyAs reported by Banker & Tradesman Attorney General Coakley

today filed suit against the Acton Developer for falsifying costtoday filed suit against the Acton Developer for falsifying coststatements and profits.statements and profits.

We have given Inspector General Sullivan similar examplesWe have given Inspector General Sullivan similar examples

and perhaps this could be the first of a number of suits.and perhaps this could be the first of a number of suits.

If this doesn't wave a red flag at predatory developers,If this doesn't wave a red flag at predatory developers,

I don't know what will.I don't know what will.

For those of you whose Town has had projects certified but notFor those of you whose Town has had projects certified but not

audited this shows tha documentation by the developer must beaudited this shows tha documentation by the developer must be

closely supervised as apparently certification is not sufficient toclosely supervised as apparently certification is not sufficient to

expose incorrect charges.expose incorrect charges.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

AG sues builder of low-cost unitsAG sues builder of low-cost unitsAccused of padding profitsAccused of padding profits

By Christine McConville | Friday, September 18, 2009By Christine McConville | Friday, September 18, 2009

Attorney General Martha Coakley is going after affordable housing developers for allegedly paddingAttorney General Martha Coakley is going after affordable housing developers for allegedly padding

their profits on a controversial complex in Acton - the first legal action by a Massachusetts top coptheir profits on a controversial complex in Acton - the first legal action by a Massachusetts top copsince the state’s inspector general launched a probe of such projects five years ago.since the state’s inspector general launched a probe of such projects five years ago.

Coakley announced yesterday that her office filed a civil lawsuit against Crossroads DevelopmentCoakley announced yesterday that her office filed a civil lawsuit against Crossroads DevelopmentLLC, a company controlled by James Fenton and Michael Jeanson that built a 12-unit complex at 244LLC, a company controlled by James Fenton and Michael Jeanson that built a 12-unit complex at 244

Main St. in Acton. The suit, filed in Middlesex Superior Court, says the developers violated the state’sMain St. in Acton. The suit, filed in Middlesex Superior Court, says the developers violated the state’s

False Claims Act by falsifying cost statements and profits for the project.False Claims Act by falsifying cost statements and profits for the project.

Inspector General Gregory Sullivan started probing potential abuses of the state’sInspector General Gregory Sullivan started probing potential abuses of the state’s

Chapter 40B affordable housing law in 2004. He first raised questions aboutChapter 40B affordable housing law in 2004. He first raised questions aboutCrossroads in 2006, claiming Fenton and Jeanson inflated expenses and skirtedCrossroads in 2006, claiming Fenton and Jeanson inflated expenses and skirted

the law’s profit limits.the law’s profit limits.

The probe prompted the town of Acton to sue the developers in October 2007 andThe probe prompted the town of Acton to sue the developers in October 2007 and

demand a payment of $763,000. Sullivan issued a follow-up report on Crossroads ademand a payment of $763,000. Sullivan issued a follow-up report on Crossroads a

year ago and referred the case to Coakley’s office.year ago and referred the case to Coakley’s office.

Diane McGlynn, the developers’ lawyer, did not respond to a request for comment.Diane McGlynn, the developers’ lawyer, did not respond to a request for comment.

John Belskiswill be a guest onPolitically Incorrect Politically Incorrect

October 6th

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/60-1.htm






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The 40-year-old Chapter 40B law encourages affordable housing development by relaxing zoning rulesThe 40-year-old Chapter 40B law encourages affordable housing development by relaxing zoning rules

for developers who set aside a portion of the unit for lower-income residents. But the law alsofor developers who set aside a portion of the unit for lower-income residents. But the law alsorequires 40B developers to limit profits, generally to 20 percent of total project costs.requires 40B developers to limit profits, generally to 20 percent of total project costs.

Excess profits are typically required to be given to the community, for the creation of more lower-costExcess profits are typically required to be given to the community, for the creation of more lower-costhousing.housing.

“It’s extremely disturbing that money that could have gone to build more affordable housing lined“It’s extremely disturbing that money that could have gone to build more affordable housing lineddevelopers’ pockets,” said Sen. Jamie Eldridge, an Acton Democrat.developers’ pockets,” said Sen. Jamie Eldridge, an Acton Democrat.

John Belskis, a critic of the Chapter 40B law who has questioned why state authorities haven’tJohn Belskis, a critic of the Chapter 40B law who has questioned why state authorities haven’tcracked down on developers, said he was pleased by Coakley’s move.cracked down on developers, said he was pleased by Coakley’s move.

But he wondered why it took so long for Coakley, who recently launched a campaign for U.S. Senate,But he wondered why it took so long for Coakley, who recently launched a campaign for U.S. Senate,to take action on the inspector general’s probe.to take action on the inspector general’s probe.

“I bet when they started getting into the paperwork, they didn’t have much of a choice,” he said.“I bet when they started getting into the paperwork, they didn’t have much of a choice,” he said.

A Coakley spokeswoman said the AG’s office started its own investigation as soon as it received theA Coakley spokeswoman said the AG’s office started its own investigation as soon as it received the

referral from Sullivan’s office.referral from Sullivan’s office.

Sullivan has said that unscrupulous 40B developers may owe Bay State communities as much as $100Sullivan has said that unscrupulous 40B developers may owe Bay State communities as much as $100

million in ill-gained profits.million in ill-gained profits.

In the Acton case, Sullivan began investigating the pair’s profit reports, which were submitted to theIn the Acton case, Sullivan began investigating the pair’s profit reports, which were submitted to the

town in 2005. Sullivan’s team found that they bolstered costs by billing the project for carpeting thattown in 2005. Sullivan’s team found that they bolstered costs by billing the project for carpeting thatone of the partners installed in his private New Hampshire vacation home and by paying their ownone of the partners installed in his private New Hampshire vacation home and by paying their own

companies well above competitive rates for project work.companies well above competitive rates for project work.

Fenton and Jeanson’s legal troubles aren’t limited to Acton. In 2002, the neighboring town of BoxboroFenton and Jeanson’s legal troubles aren’t limited to Acton. In 2002, the neighboring town of Boxboro

sued them for $2.4 million, saying they padded the books when reporting profits on Boxboroughsued them for $2.4 million, saying they padded the books when reporting profits on Boxborough

Meadows, another 40B development. The developers settled the case for $1.2 million.Meadows, another 40B development. The developers settled the case for $1.2 million.

The developers are known for their charitable works. Last year, they were featured on ABC’s “ExtremeThe developers are known for their charitable works. Last year, they were featured on ABC’s “Extreme

Makeover: Home Edition” reality TV show renovating a home for a disabled man and his family inMakeover: Home Edition” reality TV show renovating a home for a disabled man and his family inMaynard.Maynard.

Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/business/general/view.bg?articleid=1198297Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/business/general/view.bg?articleid=1198297

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Dennis Ready’s Town Talk Town Talk

Paul Cohen talks with Dennis

about the special election Octo-

ber 6th involving the proposed

DPW facility and new center fire

station

CLICK H ERE CLICK HERE for video clip

Former Selectmen Philip Eliopoulos

talks with Dennis about the political

election season coming up.

And also about the property his fam-

ily has purchased next to the center

fire station.

CLI CK HERE CLICK HERE for video clip

***********************************************************************Submitted by Kathy Duffett - Scholl Committee member

Support Chelmsford : Spend Locally Spend Locally Please join me on Thursday October 1st in showing support for our local business owners and our town.Local option taxes, an incremental increase on meals and hotel rooms will become effective in Chelmsfordon that day. All revenue from these changes will go directly to Chelmsford and will be used tomaintain local services; Chelmsford’s Fire, Police, Public works, and School System. Although theincrease in the meals tax is very low, .75% or 75 cents for a $100 meal, many are worried about thepotential impact to our local business owners.

Chelmsford is a great town, and now is a perfect time to demonstrate that we are truly “One Town, Oneteam”. Our Town Government needs the additional revenue to maintain services already severelyeffected by budget reductions, and business owners need to know that their restaurant can be successfulin Chelmsford, now and in the future. Lets help each other. Simply stated, support Chelmsford and our

business owners – spend locally!

I am encouraging everyone to make a special effort on October first to support our own restaurants,coffee shops, deli’s and diners. (Keep in mind that the increase in a Duncan Donuts coffee is a penny!)Perhaps that is the day to pick up coffee on the way to work, meet friends for lunch, or have a relaxingdinner with family and friends. Personally, I plan on starting my day with a coffee at the Java Room.While enjoying any one of our great spots, wear something maroon, and let the proprietor knowhe can count on you.

Kathy Duffett, 47 Thomas Drive, Chelmsford.











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FRIENDSHIP PARKFRIENDSHIP PARK

CLEAN UPCLEAN UP

9/13/099/13/09

Photos by Phil StanwayPhotos by Phil Stanway

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STATE REPS DO THE COOKINGby Tom ChristianoSeptember 20, 2009

Last Monday there was a BBQ for Senior Citizens sponsored by twoof our State Representatives, Tom Golden & Jim Arciero. It washeld at the Chelmsford Senior Center on September 14th, 2009.Over 160 Senior Citizens stopped by to enjoy the BBQ with ourState Reps and other town officials.

In addition to State Reps Golden and Arciero, many other town andstate leaders came by for a bite to eat, including: State Rep CoryAtkins...Town Manager Paul Cohen...Selectmen Clare Jeannotte,Pat Wojtas, Eric Dahlberg & George Dixon...School SuperintendentDon Yeoman...State Senator Susan Fargo's Assistant Don Siriani(Senator Fargo just had hip replacement surgery and she is still recovering)....School Committee member Angie Taranto....and Selectman candidateMatt Hanson (he helped with the cooking for everyone).

Photos By Tom ChristianoPhotos By Tom Christiano

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Submitted by Evan BelanskyEvan BelanskyFrom: "Belansky, Evan" <[email protected]>From: "Belansky, Evan" <[email protected]>

Date: September 18, 2009 10:35:44 AM EDTDate: September 18, 2009 10:35:44 AM EDT

To: "Roy (home) Earley" <[email protected]>To: "Roy (home) Earley" <[email protected]>

Subject: Chelmsford - 25 katrina Road - letter of supportSubject: Chelmsford - 25 katrina Road - letter of support

Roy:Roy:

Hope you can help me out……Hope you can help me out……

The Town will be submitting a grant for the brownfield clean up forThe Town will be submitting a grant for the brownfield clean up for

25 katrina Road.25 katrina Road.

I would like a letter of support from the Westlands Watchdogs,I would like a letter of support from the Westlands Watchdogs,as a community organization, if possible.as a community organization, if possible.

We are also holding a public meeting –see attachmentWe are also holding a public meeting –see attachmentThanksThanks

EvanEvan

TOWN OF CHELMSFORDTOWN OF CHELMSFORD

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICEPUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The Community Development Department will conduct a Public Meeting onThe Community Development Department will conduct a Public Meeting on

Monday, September 28, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at the Town Hall, 50 Billerica Road inMonday, September 28, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at the Town Hall, 50 Billerica Road inRoom 204.Room 204. The purpose of the meeting will be to provide notice of the Town’s intent toThe purpose of the meeting will be to provide notice of the Town’s intent to

apply for an EPA brownfields cleanup grant for the property located at 25 Katrina Road.apply for an EPA brownfields cleanup grant for the property located at 25 Katrina Road.

The meeting will present the draft grant application, seek public comments and answerThe meeting will present the draft grant application, seek public comments and answer

questions. Public comments on the draft application will be accepted at the meeting.questions. Public comments on the draft application will be accepted at the meeting.

Copies of the draft grant application will be available for public review at the hearing andCopies of the draft grant application will be available for public review at the hearing and

are also available for review at the Community Development Office and on the town’sare also available for review at the Community Development Off ice and on the town’s

webpage. The meeting room is fully accessible and accommodations will be made for inwebpage. The meeting room is fully accessible and accommodations will be made for in--

dividuals with special needs.dividuals with special needs.

KOHLSKOHLS

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www.chelmsfordmassnews.com www.chelmsfordmassnews.com

Chelmsford BOS talks trash Chelmsford BOS talks trash Kevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter 09.SEP.09

With about nine months left in the current contract, officials recently started to talk about one of the fewservices every Chelmsford resident uses -- trash collection.

"Do we need an ad-hoc committee on solid waste or is this something the town managerDo we need an ad-hoc committee on solid waste or is this something the town manager

can do?can do?" asked Board of Selectmen Chairman Clare Jeannotte.

Town Manager Paul Cohen suggested because of the "unique history of solid waste collectionunique history of solid waste collection" intown, the board should form another committee to study the issue.

""We need to educate the community about what the current practices are then develop aWe need to educate the community about what the current practices are then develop a

plan and implement it,plan and implement it," said Cohen.

In 2007, the Solid Waste and Recycling Task Force issued a report that urged the town to adopt a limit onthe number of barrels a trash hauler would pick up. If residents went over the two-barrel limit, they couldpurchase specially tagged bags.

Nothing happened with that report, said Cohen, because of the strong lobbying by residents who insisteda 1992 override vote was the final word on trash collection.

According to Cohen, the town can proceed with trash collection in one of three ways: It could keep thecurrent system; it could try to form a collective agreement with neighboring communities; or it could switchto a "real" pay-as-you-throw program.

Jeannotte said no matter what a new committee decides, she wants it to honor the work that's alreadybeen done by the Solid Waste and Recycling Task Force.

Selectmen also discussed the possibility of reinstating leaf pickup during the fall.

"There are leaf pick-up groupies in this townThere are leaf pick-up groupies in this town," said Selectman Eric Dahlberg.

Once the town collects leaves, however, it has nowhere to take them,said Cohen.

Jeannotte suggested dumping them at the town-owned Lewis propertyon Robin Hill Road, but that comes with its own problems.

"You have to have something to deal with itYou have to have something to deal with it ,," said Cohen.

"And there's a cost with thatAnd there's a cost with that."

Other issues a new study would need to consider includes switching toa weekly recycling schedule and whether to expand services tobusinesses in town.

Residents would also be surveyed about their preferences during a pub-lic input session set for sometime in November, said Cohen.

"We want this bid in a February timeframeWe want this bid in a February timeframe," said Cohen.

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CrowdedCrowded

ChelmsfordChelmsford

busbusa concerna concernhttp://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_13314816

By Rita Savard, [email protected]/11/2009

CHELMSFORD -- A Chelmsford dad is trying to obtain copies of school-bus tapes after hearing his son's bus wasso overcrowded that children were forced to sit on the floor.

School officials confirmed that there were 16 extra students on bus No. 15, en route to the McCarthy MiddleSchool on Tuesday, Sept. 1, but said the problem on that bus has since been corrected. Superintendent ofSchools Donald Yeoman said an additional 72 students registering for the bus during the first week of school

threw some routes into "a state of confusiona state of confusion."

"It created a domino effect, where we had to make changesIt created a domino effect, where we had to make changes," Yeoman said. "During the first coupleDuring the first coupleof weeks of school, when you're dealing with many new changes, there's bound to be a littleof weeks of school, when you're dealing with many new changes, there's bound to be a little

confusionconfusion."

School officials said they were very concerned about parents' complaints, but could not confirm that students hadto sit on the aisle of the bus. Although cameras are present on some busses, not every bus is equipped with arecording device, they said.

Parent Matthew Cilento said he personally observed students standing in the aisles while the bus was drivingaway, and would like to view any recorded video tapes to see just how many students were forced to sit or standin the aisle that day.

"When I learned the bus routes were being changed this year, I was hoping it might actually helpWhen I learned the bus routes were being changed this year, I was hoping it might actually help

solve what's been an ongoing problem for years,solve what's been an ongoing problem for years," Cilento said. ""Then on the first day of schoolThen on the first day of school

there's another fiasco. I have zero confidence that they're going to cure the problem.there's another fiasco. I have zero confidence that they're going to cure the problem."

Cilento said he's even more angry about the situation because, "it's much more than a scheduling conflict.it's much more than a scheduling conflict.

It's compromising our kids' safety.It's compromising our kids' safety."

A law enacted in 1998 prohibits students from standing on school busses, according to the School TransportationAssociation of Massachusetts. Before that, state law allowed kids to stand on the bus as long as the number ofstanding students didn't exceed 25 percent of the bus's seating capacity, and there were straps or other hand-holds provided.

School Committee member Nick DeSilvio said in past years there havebeen problems with students arriving to school late because buses werelate.

DeSilvio said that not only were buses on time, they appeared to be level-loaded. The influx of last-minute students registering to ride the bus didn't

help with making scheduling smooth, he added, and the committee is look-ing to enforce a stricter registration deadline by the end of June to setroutes in July.

Bus drivers should be checking passes, and above all, not driving the bus ifthere is no room for students to sit.

"A bus driver cannot leave a child standing on a cornerA bus driver cannot leave a child standing on a corner ,,"DeSilvio said. "But if there is no room for a student to sit, the busBut if there is no room for a student to sit, the bus

driver has to call dispatch because the bus is not supposed todriver has to call dispatch because the bus is not supposed to

move under any circumstancesmove under any circumstances .."

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Master plan committee collects input on transportation Master plan committee collects input on transportation

By Chloe Gotsis/ staff writer Chelmsford Independenthttp://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/x1358731127/Master-plan-committee-collects-input-on-transportation

GateHouse News ServicePosted Sep 18, 2009

Chelmsford —

Bike lanes, parking for Bruce Freeman Rail trail and improvements in busy town intersections are some ofthe changes Chelmsford residents say they would like to see in the town’s master plan.

Thursday night’s session focused on transportation. It drew about 25 people, down from the session inearly June focused on land use, zoning, housing and economic development. That June 3 session drew acrowd of 65.

During the meeting, residents express a desire to see better parking for the rail trail and better traffic flowaround the schools, among other issues.

“At the high school there is unbelievable congestion,”“At the high school there is unbelievable congestion,” said Karen DiDonarto. “Old Westford“Old WestfordRoad and David Road, that’s a really bad intersection. We can’t get in and out to get theRoad and David Road, that’s a really bad intersection. We can’t get in and out to get the

kids to school on time because it’s so crowdedkids to school on time because it’s so crowded.”

Tom Christiano said he would like to see bike-safety lanes on the town’s main roads. Doing that woulddovetail with the rail trail and the overall push toward environmental friendliness.

“Three or four feet, even one or two feet for [bike safety]Three or four feet, even one or two feet for [bike safety],” he said. “Whatever we can do toWhatever we can do to

facilitate more of a shoulder on the main roads on Route 27, Boston Road, Route 129 andfacilitate more of a shoulder on the main roads on Route 27, Boston Road, Route 129 and

Route 110.Route 110.”

Master Plan Committee Chairman Jim Lane and other members of the committee expressed some disap-pointment with the turnout at the meeting.

“These sessions are more for the residentsThese sessions are more for the residents,” said Lane.“It’s tough topics in terms of services, facilities and transportation.It’s tough topics in terms of services, facilities and transportation.”

Committee member Linda Prescott said she was disappointed in the evening’s low turnout.

“We don’t know if it’s that people just don’t feel they have a lot to say on transpor tation,We don’t know if it’s that people just don’t feel they have a lot to say on transpor tation,”said Prescott, who also serves on the Community Preservation Committee.

“We certainly expected to have more feedback. Especially on [topics like] transportationWe certainly expected to have more feedback. Especially on [topics like] transportationand traffic.and traffic.”

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


www.chelmsfordmassnews.com www.chelmsfordmassnews.com

Monday'sMonday's insuranceinsurance meetingmeeting

postponed for nowpostponed for now

Kevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter 18.SEP.09

The joint meeting between the Board of Selectmen and School and Financecommittees to discussemployee insurance options scheduled for Sept. 21 has been postponed.

BOS Chairman Clare Jeannotte originally planned the session so members ofthe boards could beprovided with the history of insurance costs in town, what the current benefits

are and what otheroptions exist.

“Health insurance is the No. 1 issue for this year,Health insurance is the No. 1 issue for this year,” said Jeannotte.“This was so all board members understood the choices. It madeThis was so all board members understood the choices. It made

sense to bring in the School Committee and Finance Committee.sense to bring in the School Committee and Finance Committee.”

Union representatives did not see the meeting as an educational opportunity, but rather believed thiswas a way to turn public support against its members.

“We view such a meeting as negotiating in public and a violation of good faith bargain“We view such a meeting as negotiating in public and a violation of good faith bargain--ing under M.G.L. Chapter 150Eing under M.G.L. Chapter 150E,” reps wrote in a letter received at Town Hall Wednesday. “As weAs we

did at the August IAC (Insurance Advisory Committee) meeting, we want to make it clear,did at the August IAC (Insurance Advisory Committee) meeting, we want to make it clear,

in no uncertain terms, that we oppose the holding of this event and feel that such anin no uncertain terms, that we oppose the holding of this event and feel that such an

event will be counter-productive to any and all negotiations concerning health insurevent will be counter-productive to any and all negotiations concerning health insur--

ance.”ance.”

Some Finance Committee members also questioned the timing of such a meeting.

“Are you drawing a line in the sand?Are you drawing a line in the sand?” Finance Committee member Jon Kurland asked Town Man-ager Paul Cohen. “All the unions are saying are give us more time. Will this have a negativeAll the unions are saying are give us more time. Will this have a negative

impact on your ability to negotiate?impact on your ability to negotiate?”

Chelmsford currently pays $10.4 million in employee and retiree health benefits. The state run GroupInsurance Commission would cost the town $9.3 million. A comparable Blue Cross alternative wouldcharge the town about $8.8 million. Both the alternative and GIC programs come with higher co-paysfor most office visit, hospital stays and some procedures now completely covered.

Kurland suggested it might make sense to delay the tri-board meeting untilmid-October when thetallies its September revenue collection and, as some have suggested, an-nounce 9C cuts to local aid.

“It seems to me there is one person in this room that has to negoIt seems to me there is one person in this room that has to nego --

tiate with all these people,tiate with all these people,” said Kurland. “Does it benefit him to tick Does it benefit him to tick

off these people? The forum may be educational, but it doesn’toff these people? The forum may be educational, but it doesn’t

have to be next week have to be next week ..”

On Thursday night, Jeannotte said she wanted to speak with the other fourmembers of her board before changing Monday's meeting.

Members of all three boards received an e-mail Friday morning saying themeeting was postponed and no future date had been selected.

Clare JeannotteClare Jeannotte

Jon Kurland

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


On the BorderOn the Borderhttp://www.wickedlocal.com/westford/news/business/x581520345/Asphalt-plantair-quality-stirs-debate-in-Westford

Asphalt plant air quality stirs debate in WestfordAsphalt plant air quality stirs debate in WestfordBy Conrad Hinckley/Correspondent WESTFORD EAGLE

Thu Sep 10, 2009, 08:49 AM EDT

WESTFORD -

An asphalt manufacturing plant at 540 Groton Road,

proposed by Newport Materials, LLC and 540

Groton Road LLC, drew much discussion at the

Planning Board meeting Tuesday concerning air

quality and increased traffic.

Representatives for the proposed plant said,

“emissions are an important issue for consideration.

We believe we have completed all of the data

requested by the Board of Health and

the Department of Public Health.”

Ross Altobelli, Town Planner, said an ultimate decision on the proposed plant would require mobile

sources of emissions (vehicles) modeling, a fugitive emissions study and a health risk assessment,

which would require the hiring of a “well-known toxicologist.”

Kelly Begia, Westford’s air quality consultant, said two air quality studies have been completed and areundergoing review. She expects an expanded model later this week.

A major concern was raised by the board, as well as by townspeople regarding the nearby Miller School

and the effect of pollutants on children. Speakers noted that asthma rates at the school appeared high

and sought a comparison with other schools in the state. Green noted that Westford Schools has four

years of health data. "We need that data." Another board member asked what constituted an acceptable

risk of the additional pollution load.

The issue of safety and increased traffic on theGroton Road was discussed. Representatives

for the plant said that the bulk of traffic would

“be seen between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.” Earlier

stated concerns about increased traffic volume,

crash rates and growth rates were raised. Green

said, “More study is needed. [There are] some

mitigation measures that could be advanced.”

Westford’s traffic consultant stated that he did not

foresee “excessive cueing or delays on

Groton Road.”

Representatives for the proposed asphalt plant’s neighboring community urged the Planning Board to

“reconsider that this [proposal] falls under the zoning bylaws governing light manufacturing. It will be a

perversion of the bylaws if it goes through.”

“That question is under consideration. We need to wait for the Town Counsel to respond."

The discussion was continued until the October Planning Board meeting.

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


A sign of revenue to comeA sign of revenue to comeBy John Collins, [email protected]

http://www.lowellsun.com/todaysheadlines/ci_1337618609/19/2009

TYNGSBORO -- A newly erected 65-foot high bill-board on the northbound side of Route 3 will gen-erate more than $200,000 for Tyngsboro's generalfund over the next 10 years, and will include a dig-ital message-board attachment for police to issue"Amber alerts," according to the billboard andproperty owner Walter Erickson.

"We're excited about it. It's a win-win situation forus and the town," said Erickson, a Tyngsboro resi-dent and owner of Applewood Construction. "I cansee towns up and down the highway looking at(copying the idea)."

Ericksonfirst approached the town's ZoningBoardofAppeals two years ago seeking a variancetoplace abillboard on the seven-acre parcel heowns behindMakepeaceRoad,with400feetof frontage Route 3northbound, just southofExit 34.

In exchange for a zoning variance, the deal Erickson struck with town officials calls for him to pay the town $20,000 annually for 10years, and 2 percent of the advertising revenue generated by the billboard annually thereafter. Plus, the town will receive yearlyproperty tax revenue from the land, which otherwise he would've left vacant, Erickson noted.

"This was a unique piece of property on industrially zoned land that had some real difficult topography and wetlands issues.Youcouldn't put a building on it," said Erickson. The billboard is doubly good for the town, he added, "because it didn't have to spendany upfront money, or worry about maintenance. And it gets theproperty on the tax rolls."

Selectman Robert Jackson, a former ZBA member, supported Erickson's billboard proposal from the start.

"It's not uncommon to see when you drive around the country that people use billboards to raise revenue.Chelmsford is doing it.Lowell does it. We should do it, too," said Jackson.

Jackson said the lengthiest discussions during the approval process focused on monitoring content. The variance granted by theZBA includes a covenant stating that adult-oriented businesses or products may not be advertised on the billboard.

"We wouldn't put anything up there that was offensive anyway," said Erickson, who has contracted with New York City-based SplashMedia Group to solicit advertisers, and paste the content on both 720-square-foot panels of the V-shaped billboard.

It should make Tyngsboro residents feel good to know they are sharing in the proceeds from the town's one and only highway bill-board "in perpetuity," said Selectman Rich Lemoine. "As a selectman and member of the Economic Development Committee, I viewit as a tremendous opportunity to have that money coming back to us every year -- especially in these trying economic times."

Erickson has obtained a permit from the Massachusetts Highway Department's Outdoor Advertising Board. As of Thursday, how-ever, he told The Sun the billboard construction project was incomplete. Electrical wiring and the digital message-board attachmentstill need to be installed and inspected, he said.

Tyngsboro's new billboard is lagging slightly behind the construction schedule of another new billboard on the northbound side ofRoute 3 in Lowell, which was erected this summer by Alpine Butcher Shop owner Peter Doyle in back of his store at 963 Chelms-ford St. Although the city won't share in the ad revenues from the billboard, Doyle will have to pay higher property taxes, according

to Assistant City Manager Adam Baacke.

In Chelmsford, selectmen are backing the construction of two new billboards on Route 3In Chelmsford, selectmen are backing the construction of two new billboards on Route 3

that residents will be asked to approve at Town Meeting on Oct. 19. Because both of thethat residents will be asked to approve at Town Meeting on Oct. 19. Because both of the

proposed billboards would be located on town-owned land -- at Chelmsford High School,proposed billboards would be located on town-owned land -- at Chelmsford High School,

and at Oak Hill near the Scotty Hollow townhouses -- the town stands to collect 100 perand at Oak Hill near the Scotty Hollow townhouses -- the town stands to collect 100 per --

cent of the estimated revenue of $90,000 per year.cent of the estimated revenue of $90,000 per year.

"We could see the billboards in place as early as next spring," said Town Manager Paul"We could see the billboards in place as early as next spring," said Town Manager Paul

Cohen.Cohen.

In light of Chelmsford's looming billboard windfall, Jackson, Tyngsboro's freshman seIn light of Chelmsford's looming billboard windfall, Jackson, Tyngsboro's freshman se--

lectman, said he's open to discussions about possibly erecting a second revenue-generlectman, said he's open to discussions about possibly erecting a second revenue-gener --

ating billboard on one of four existing town-owned parcels on the Route 3 corridor.ating billboard on one of four existing town-owned parcels on the Route 3 corridor.

But Lemoine said he'd be opposed to a second billboard.

"Mr. Erickson's continued cooperation in giving back to the community was instrumental in getting this billboard idea realized, andthanks goes to everyone who was involved in the process. But right now I believe one sign on Route 3 in the town of Tyngsboro isas much as I want to see." said Lemoine.

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


Anger as man who raped boy man who raped boy

in 1990 freed freed with no GPS no GPS By Lisa Redmond, [email protected]

09/14/2009

CHELMSFORD -- Nearly two decades of pain and anger flow down the Lowell mother's face as she tear-fully recalls the night in 1990 when her 7-year-old son was kidnapped, held captive overnight and repeat-edly raped by Ralph W. Goodwin.

"It was horrible,'' said the woman, who asked that her name not be used to protect the identity of her now-27-year-old son. "My son's innocence was ripped away.''

The pain of that night and its aftermath have come back to haunt the mother, as Goodwin, now 47 and aLevel 3 sex offender, was recentlyreleased from prison, after 19 years in custody, when a jury found he is no longer a sexually dangerous

person.

One mental-health expert testified that Goodwin, who is schizophrenic, is not dangerous as long as hestays on his medication.

"I thought he'd be in prison forever,'' the mother said as she sat in a Chelmsford coffee shop.

Goodwin, a Lowell resident, could not be reached directly for comment.The Sun tried to contact himthrough a family member but received no reply.

The family's painful story began on the night of Feb. 3, 1990.

CLICK HERE CLICK HERE for the whole storyfor the whole story

******************************************************************

Q&A with a victim advocateQ&A with a victim advocate

LAURIE MYERSLAURIE MYERS is the Co-founder of Community VOICES.is the Co-founder of Community VOICES.

VOICES offers advocacy, resources and educational VOICES offers advocacy, resources and educationalinf ormation to community groups, individuals andinformation to community groups, individuals and

community leaders, with the goal of raisingcommunity leaders, with the goal of raisingawareness regarding sexual assault, child sexualawareness regarding sexual assault, child sexualassault, internet predators and missing andassault, internet predators and missing and

endangered children.endangered children.

http://www.lowellsun.com/todaysheadlines/ci_13332834






8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


In-Town Report:In-Town Report:

How do decisions like the latest involving the GPS tracking systemsHow do decisions like the latest involving the GPS tracking systems

no longer being used on sex offenders affect the work that youno longer being used on sex offenders affect the work that youare trying to do?are trying to do?

Laurie Myers:Laurie Myers:

The SJC decision affects my work with victims because victims and membersThe SJC decision affects my work with victims because victims and members

of the community find comfort in knowing probation and parole had anof the community find comfort in knowing probation and parole had anextra tool to help them monitor offenders.extra tool to help them monitor offenders.

Massachusetts probation has no specific guidelines in the way they monitor Massachusetts probation has no specific guidelines in the way they monitor sex offenders and consider a visit every two weeks to be “intensive”sex offenders and consider a visit every two weeks to be “intensive”supervision.supervision.

Sex offender management/supervision is the only way to prevent recidivismSex offender management/supervision is the only way to prevent recidivismand GPS tracking is an extra set of eyes. It’s worth noting that the SJCand GPS tracking is an extra set of eyes. It’s worth noting that the SJC

decision still al lows judges discretion for offenders sentenced before 2006.decision stil l a llows judges discretion for offenders sentenced before 2006.

In-Town Report:In-Town Report:

In your opinion where or what is the State lackingIn your opinion where or what is the State lackingin dealing with sex offenders?in dealing with sex offenders?


Massachusetts is in desperate need of sentencing guideline reform.Massachusetts is in desperate need of sentencing guidel ine reform.

Current sentencing guidelines set forth by the Massachusetts SentencingCurrent sentencing guidelines set forth by the Massachusetts SentencingCommission are inadequate and allow what amounts to a slap on the wrist.Commission are inadequate and allow what amounts to a slap on the wrist.

Many lenient judges use the guidelines as a justification for a light sentenceMany lenient judges use the guidelines as a justification for a light sentenceand on the flip side, the guidelines sometimes prevents other judges fromand on the flip side, the guidelines sometimes prevents other judges from

adding prison time above the recommended guidelines because they don’tadding prison time above the recommended guidel ines because they don’twant to make a statement that could be overturned.want to make a statement that could be overturned.

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


******************************************************************http://www.lowellsun.com/ci_13157252http://www.lowellsun.com/ci_13157252

Town bylaw sett ing limits on where some convicted sex offenders may l ive.Town bylaw sett ing limits on where some convicted sex of fenders may live.

08/19/200908/19/2009

TOWNSEND -- Selectmen voted to hold a Special Town Meeting Sept. 1 to decide sevenTOWNSEND -- Selectmen voted to hold a Special Town Meeting Sept. 1 to decide seven

articles, includingarticles, including

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ar ticle 7 is a proposed bylaw sett ing l imits on where some convicted sex offenders may live. Art ic le 7 is a proposed bylaw sett ing limits on where some convicted sex offenders may l ive.

"There was a citizen who was concerned about this issue and selectmen asked town council to"There was a citizen who was concerned about this issue and selectmen asked town council to

provide us with a bylaw and the police chief was very interested in having a bylaw," Barnesprovide us with a bylaw and the police chief was very interested in having a bylaw," Barnes

said.said.

Under the proposed bylaw, Level 3 offenders -- considered most likely to reoffend -- would beUnder the proposed bylaw, Level 3 offenders -- considered most l ike ly to reof fend -- would be

forbidden from living within 1,000 feet of the town library, any schools, day-care centers, forbidden from liv ing within 1,000 feet of the town l ibrary, any schools , day-care centers ,

parks, elder ly-housing facil it ies or places of worship in the town.parks, elder ly-housing facil it ies or places of worship in the town.

The bylaw would not limit their movements around town, just where they may live, Barnes said.The bylaw would not limit their movements around town, just where they may l ive, Barnes said.

Selectman Robert Plamondon is supporting the bylaw change.Selectman Robert Plamondon is supporting the bylaw change.

"Anything we can do to make people more accountable and help the police do what they need"Anything we can do to make people more accountable and help the police do what they need

to do I'm in favor of doing," Plamondon said. "To me it's a public safety issue, I think it's a reato do I'm in favor of doing," Plamondon said. "To me it's a public safety issue, I think it's a rea--

sonable b ylaw."sonable bylaw."

******************************************************************In-Town Report:In-Town Report:

Would a by-law like the one Townsend recently passed work for Chelmsford? Would a by-law like the one Townsend recently passed work for Chelmsford? Why or Why not? Why or Why not?


We are not currently supporting by-laws or legislation that would create We are not currently supporting by-laws or legislation that would createresidency restrictions in Chelmsford.residency restrictions in Chelmsford.

It’s difficult to say exactly what would prevent these crimes, but we feelIt’s difficult to say exactly what would prevent these crimes, but we feelthat adequate prison sentences, intensive probation/parole upon releasethat adequate prison sentences, intensive probation/parole upon releaseand educating children and communities is the best way. We have never and educating children and communities is the best way. We have never

advocated against residency restrictions, but see it as a last resort.advocated against residency restrictions, but see it as a last resort.

One of the biggest obstacles for communities that currently have residencyOne of the biggest obstacles for communities that currently have residency

restrictions is enforcement. Police departments are underfunded and manyrestrictions is enforcement. Police departments are underfunded and manyof these by-laws lack the language that would make them enforceable.of these by-laws lack the language that would make them enforceable.

We will continue to advocate for stronger laws to protect our communities We will continue to advocate for stronger laws to protect our communitiesand children with the hope that addressing the real problems will ease theand children with the hope that addressing the real problems will ease the

frustration our town officials feel when they see that yet another sex of frustration our town officials feel when they see that yet another sex of --

fender has served little time in prison and is released into our community fender has served little time in prison and is released into our communitywithout adequate supervision.without adequate supervision.

This is the first case being challenged in Massachusetts.It will be interesting to watch.

Barnstable Patriot

ACLU fighting town sex offender lawACLU fighting town sex offender law

CLICK HERE CLICK HERE for Story

http://www.barnstablepatriot.com/home2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18999&Itemid=30




8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


EXTRA

EXTRAS

EXTRAS

************

************ Dear Family and Friends:

Community VOICES would like to invite you to our annual fundraiser on Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. (Doors

open at 6:00 p.m. awards are at 6:45) at the Roma Restaurant, 29 Middlesex Street, Bradford, Massachusetts.

We thought that we would try something new and exciting this year by having a comedy night. There will be three

Boston Comedians there: Mike Donovan, Jim Colliton and Steve Guilmette.

The donation is $25.00 per person. If you are coming to this event, we ask that you purchase your tickets in advance to

help us know how many people will be attending. If the show is not sold out, tickets may be purchased at the door.

Please come and enjoy the evening with us. You are invited to bring as many people with you as you would like, but

please remember this show is for mature audiences only.

If you are unable to attend, but would like to make a donation, that would be appreciated as well.

Checks for the tickets and/or donations should be made out to Voices of Involved Citizens Encouraging Safety and mailed

to:

Sandra DiBacco

51 Cleveland Street

Norfolk, MA 02056

You can also make donations through PayPal. Go to our website: www.communityvoices.net and follow the links to the

donation section.

If you have any questions or would like to order tickets, please call me at 508-541-6360 or e-mail me at

[email protected] .

As you know, without your continued support and contributions, we would not be able to achieve our goal.

VOICES offers advocacy, resources and educational information to community groups, individuals and community leaders,

with the goal of raising awareness regarding sexual assault, child sexual assault, internet predators and missing and endan-

gered children.

Thank you for all your help.

Very truly yours,

Sandy DiBacco, Treasurer/Fundraiser ChairpersonLaurie Myers, President

Debbie Savoia, Vice President

Kris Silva, Secretary

http://www.communityvoices.net/

http://www.communityvoices.net/

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


Chelmsford Residents OnlyChelmsford Residents Only2009 Seasonal Flu

and Pneumonia Vaccine Clinic: Administered by the Chelmsford Board of HealthThis vaccine is for the regular yearly seasonal flu.

The three viruses that it provides protection against are: A/Brisbane/59/2007, IVR-148

A/Uruguay/716/2007, NYMC X-175CB/Brisbane/60/2008 like virus

THIS VACCINE DOES NOT PROVIDE PROTECTION AGAINST THE NOVEL H1N1 FLUTHIS VACCINE DOES NOT PROVIDE PROTECTION AGAINST THE NOVEL H1N1 FLU

Location: Chelmsford Senior Center Route 40, North ChelmsfordDate and Time: Thursday, October 8, 20092:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.(This first clinic is limited to residents ages 65 or older and

residents under age 65 with a chronic illness.)

Date and Time: Thursday, October 15, 20092:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.(for all other Chelmsford residents ages 6 months +)For those ages 65 + Bring ALL of your HEALTH INSURANCE CARDS with you.If you have any questions you may call Sue Rosa, RN at the Chelmsford Board of Health (978) 250-5243

*****************************Chelmsford Women of today Chelmsford Women of today

Food DriveFood DriveCome on down to Market Basket and donate food to help the Chelmsford CommunityExchange Food Pantry. Shoppers will be given a suggested shopping list fromwhich to purchase as many items as they are able and then, simply drop themoff with the volunteers as they exit the store. Any monetary donations collectedwill be used to purchase items from the suggested list.

We hope to see you at Market Basket , 288 Chelmsford St. on Oct 17 9am-3pm

****************************Submitted bySubmitted by Pat MaloneyPat Maloney

PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUMPUBLIC INFORMATION FORUMThe public is invited to come to an informational sessioninformational session

on the Fire Center Fire Station & DPWFacilityFire Center Fire Station & DPWFacility

Tuesday, September 29 at 7:00 pmPolice Station - 2 Olde North RoadTraining Room

--------------------------------------------------

Center Fire Station & DPW Facility

Open HousesOpen Houses

Thursday, September 24 - 5 PM - 7 PMSunday, October 4 - 12 PM - 3 PM

*****************************

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


Submitted bySubmitted by Pat MaloneyPat Maloney

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09



8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


The Fire Station Proposal: I was wrongI was wrongBy Sean Scanlon / Board of Selectmen

09/16/09

Simply stated, I’m writing to say I was wrong. Since my vote on thefire station project nearly two months ago, I’ve had a good deal oftime to consider the proposal. The presentation has also improved

since I first viewed it. I have always felt like a runner entering amarathon at lap 23 with this project, and while I appreciate thecourtesy my fellow Selectmen offered me in pushing forward theboard’s vote so that I could participate before being activated with thenational guard, a few more weeks of thought on the matter hasenabled me to understand a few things I could not previously justify.Given that there is still time before the public vote on October 6th,I hope you will afford me a moment of your time to share mythoughts.

My initial apprehension about the fire department proposal was that I did not see the justification ina slumped economy for a station three times the size of our current one, given that manning levelshave remained relatively unchanged for the past twenty five years. The problem with that argumentis that manning levels have little to do with the building’s size requirement.

I recently toured the station, and studied the plans for the proposal in greater detail. As is widelyknown, the basement ceiling is being held by wooden bracers. I did not realize netting also keepspieces of concrete from falling on the heads of inhabitants. With an unusable basement, theequipment once stored in that space has been diverted to other areas of the building or to satellite

stations where they are not centrally available if needed. Filling in the basement does not solve thisproblem.

The floor plans for the new station are conservative. I paid particular attention to the size of certainadministrative spaces because taxpayers should not pay for the luxury of even senior public offi-cials. The plan initially had a private bathroom for the Fire Chief, but that idea was scrapped. Now,despite my initial assumption, the Chief’s proposed office is roughly the size of his current one.This conservative use of space is carried throughout the plan.

The demand for equipment storage is really where the proposed building gains its size. The current

building is inadequate because, in essence, the equipment made for today’s job is larger and thereis more required for a department fighting fewer fires and taking on more emergency management,fire prevention, and rescue functions. In the past, the town has had to custom order (at greaterexpense) at least one truck because the current garage doors are not tall enough for a standardtruck’s cab.

Admitting to being wrong is never easy, and there will inevitably be those who call me a “flip-flopper”on this issue. A good friend of mine once told me that a flip-flopper changes position to better theirpersonal circumstance, regardless of actual belief. In telling you that I now support the fire stationproject, I do so because I believe it is a good solution to a problem that is not going away, and

sitting in silence has weighed on my conscience. I view replacing the fire station the way a womanonce explained replacing the roof of her home. She didn’t want to spend the money, but eventuallyknew that all the tar in a bucket would not save her roof.

I encourage anyone who has not done so already to take advantage of the fire station tour offeredon either September 24th or October 4th. After doing so, I am confident you will see the need for anew station is real.

Thank you for reading.

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


Chelmsford Historical Society

5th Annual Farm Fair5th Annual Farm FairSaturday, Sept 26

Noon - 4:00 PMBarrett-Byam Homestead

Rain Date: Sunday, Sept 27

Chelmsford Historical Society Farm Fair:The Chelmsford Historical Society is holding itssixth annual Farm Fair.Come and see what life was like in the rural farming village of Chelmsford in earlier times. TheBarrett Byam Homestead Museum will be open for self-guided tours of the house, its militaryroom and a recreated old -time general store. Chelmsford Historical Society members will beavailable to answer any questions you may have about the antique treasures you will discoverwithin the homestead. Outside, there will be hay rides, pony rides and demonstrations of honeyand cider making, as well as spinning, weaving, and farming techniques new and old. Local

farm produce, penny candy for the children, Chelmsford Historical Society books and col-lectibles, and refreshments for all will be available for sale. Musical folk group “Two Cat Folk”will entertain throughout the day. This and much more are available to you for the day, admis-sion free- donations are gratefully accepted.

*****************************

2009 Book Sale2009 Book SaleThe Chelmsford Friends of the Library Book Sale

will take place in the gym behind the Town Office building,50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford

Friday, Sept. 25th 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.Saturday, Sept. 26th 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Sunday, Sept. 27th 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

*****************************Fall brush drop -off:

Sat. Oct. 3, 2009Sat. Oct. 3, 2009

from from 9:00 a.m.9:00 a.m. toto 2:00 p.m.2:00 p.m.Location: Community Tree 163 Billerica Road

Bring brush and branches up to 6 feet long and up to 8 inches indiameter.

Chelmsord residents onlyChelmsord residents only - bring proof of residency.

Call 978-250-5203 for information.

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


LEST WE FORGETLEST WE FORGET

Remembering

September 11th 2001

CLICK HERE

"It's God's responsibility to forgive Bin Laden ..."It's God's responsibility to forgive Bin Laden ...

It's our responsibility to arrange the meeting!"It's our responsibility to arrange the meeting!"

-- United States MarinesUnited States Marines

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBVeYvt4QC8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBVeYvt4QC8

8/3/2019 ITR_09-20-09


In-Town Report NEWS LINKS In-Town Report NEWS LINKS

Lowell Sun Lowell Sun

Chelmsford Independent Chelmsford Independent

Kevin Zimmerman’s Chelmsford Mass News Kevin Zimmerman’s Chelmsford Mass News

Boston Herald Boston Herald

Westford Eagle Westford Eagle Town of Chelmsford Website Town of Chelmsford Website

If you have friends, family or neighbors If you have friends, family or neighbors

who you think would like to be who you think would like to be

added to this news update list added to this news update list

just have them drop us a line at just have them drop us a line at

[email protected] [email protected]

In-Town Repor t is on Facebook In-Town Repor t is on Facebook

CLIICK HERE : CLIICK HERE : http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=68800427919&ref=ts http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=68800427919&ref=ts

For Back Issues of the In-Town Repor t For Back Issues of the In-Town Report

CLIICK HERE : CLIICK HERE : http://www.slideshare.net/re007hq/documents http://www.slideshare.net/re007hq/documents

http://www.lowellsun.com/


http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/homepage


http://www.chelmsfordmassnews.com/default.asp?sourceid=&smenu=1&twindow=Default&mad=No&sdetail=&wpage=&skeyword=&sidate=&ccat=&ccatm=&restate=&restatus=&reoption=&retype=&repmin=&repmax=&rebed=&rebath=&subname=&pform=&sc=3106&hn=chelmsfordmassnews&he


http://www.bostonherald.com/


http://www.wickedlocal.com/westford


http://www.townofchelmsford.us/


http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=68800427919&ref=ts






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ITR_09-20-09

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