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Chelmsford's In-Town Report - 1-9-11

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Page 1: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11
Page 2: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

What a year it was -- turning back news pagesThe Lowell Sun

www.lowellsun.com01/01/2011

Chelmsford-

* Trinity Ambulance is investigated over EMT fraud.

* Ferreira's Towing sets a state record by payingChelmsford the most money for a tow -- $90.

* The battle over the Eliopoulos building on North Road.

* Local resident Roland Van Liew stirs a controversy bytrying to recall Planning Board members.

* Pat Wojtas is the comeback kid, first losing the elec-tion in the spring only to get the most votes in the fallspecial election, putting her back in the saddle again.

* Superintendent of Schools Don Yeoman locks in afour-year contact in June, only to resign abruptly in October.

* Chelmsford's new slogan, "Chelmsford Gets itDone" -- some loved it, others said it backfired.

Read more: http://www.lowellsun.com/ci_16987430?IADID=Search-www.lowellsun.com-www.lowellsun.com

Page 3: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

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nneeww ee lleecctteedd ooff ff ii cc iiaa llss iinn ttoowwnnKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Mon, Jan 03, 2011

www.chelmsfordmassnews.com

You're going to need a program to keep the political players straight as Chelmsford gears up for a guar-anteed turnover of its elected boards.

April 5th's Election Day may be more than three months away, but the 2011 races kicked off back in Oc-tober when Town Moderator Dennis McHugh announced he would not seek another term. McHughserved as moderator for 30 years-predating the switch from open to elected Town Meeting.

In November, several office holders added their names to the retirement list.

Selectman Eric Dahlberg confirmed one was enough when it comes to the town's top board. Dahlbergsaid he was "not going to have the timenot going to have the time" to commit to another three-year term on the board if resi-dents re-elected him.

Although School Committee member Angie Taranto could probably have earned a fifth term on theschool board, he too opted to call it quits in 2011."It's time for me to step back and let others get a chance at it,It's time for me to step back and let others get a chance at it," Taranto said last fall.

Current School Committee Chairman Kathy Duffett's term also ends in April, but she has not announcedif she will run again.

After four years on the Planning Board, current Vice Chairman Jim Lane said he would not seek re-election this spring."I accomplished what I said I would do when I ran,I accomplished what I said I would do when I ran," Lane said in November.

Over at the Chelmsford Public Library, Trustees Eric Grove and Charlie Wojtas both decided to an-nounce their retirements in mid-November as well.Groves has served nine years on the library board while Wojtas is finishing his third year as a trustee.Current Library Board of Trustees Chairman Maggie Marshall has already confirmed she plans to seekanother three years on the board.

Earlier last month, Library Trustee Diane Severin resigned from her post. The Board of Selectmen andthe remaining trustees plan to name someone to her seat at the next selectmen's meeting Jan. 10.

In the meantime, residents interested in running for any of the other town-wide boards or Town Meetingrepresentative positions-of which a third are up for re-election in April-can pick up nomination papers atthe Town Clerk's Office later today.

Nomination papers must be picked up by the potential candidate during regular Town Clerk Officehours. In order to secure a spot on the ballot for one of the town-wide boards, candidates must collect50 certified signatures.

Town Meeting rep candidates-not running for re-election-need 25 certified signatures from registeredvoters in the candidate's precinct.

All nomination papers must be filed by 5 p.m. on Feb. 15.

The last day to register to vote in the April 5 election will be Wednesday, March 16. The clerk's office will be open until 9 p.m. that day for voter registration.

Page 4: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

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Kevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Mon, Jan 03, 2011www.chelmsfordmassnews.com

A little more than one dozen non-police employees earned six-figure salaries during fiscal year 2010according to data recently published in the Town of Chelmsford Annual Report.

Former School Superintendent Donald Yeoman remained at the top of the pay scale earning $169,537for fiscal 2010, which ran from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010.

Town Manager Paul Cohen placed second on the list earning $141,379 for the same period.

Recently retired Fire Chief Jack Parow finished third on the list with a total salary of $137,014.

Former Deputy Fire Chief James Sousa earned $130,647 in total compensation for the same period.

Over at the Department of Public Works, four employees including DPW Director Jim Pearson made more than $100,000 in fiscal 2010.

Pearson earned $126,603 but the department's top income went to Highway Department ForemanLarry Ferreira who netted $133,840. The other Highway Department Foreman, Joe Eriksen, earned$116,674. Highway Supervisor John Long earned $110,301.

Although the three highway employees remained in the top earning list, each of the men's salariesdropped around $20,000 from fiscal 2009.

Cohen believes last year's milder winter helped keep overtime pay lower at the highway department.Fiscal 2009, which ran from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009, included the December 2008 ice storm anda snowy winter through early 2009, said Cohen.

The remaining five top earners were current and former school department employees.

Chelmsford High School Principal Anne O'Bryant earned $120,520; former Business Manager BobCruickshank earned $114,208; then Assistant Superintendent Frank Tiano received $110,000 in com-pensation; recently retired Technology Director Bruce Forster made $105,168; and Parker MiddleSchool Principal Denise Rainis earned$104,205.

More than two dozen Police Departmentemployees received compensation totalingmore than $100,000. Most of the policeemployees earn overtime pay through de-tail work.

Although the town pays officers for detailwork, the company or individual requiredto hire the detail reimburses Chelmsford.

Page 5: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

How Does Chelmsford's Tax Rate Compare in the Merrimack Valley?How Does Chelmsford's Tax Rate Compare in the Merrimack Valley?A look at the new tax rate.

By Krista Perry

1/5/11

The state Department of Revenue recently approved the town's new tax rate at $16.72 per $1,000 of home value, but howdoes that match up against surrounding towns?

Chelmsford has a unified tax rate, which means both homes and businesses are taxed at the same rate. Town ManagerPaul Cohen has said the town has had a unified tax rate for the past decade and does not expect that to change anytime soon. Selectmen made the decision to keep it the same this year so the tax rate would not adversely affect small businesses.

Cohen said the value of the average single-family home has decreased from$347,659 to $324,600 for the current fiscal year.

Here's a look at how the town stacks up against other municipalities.

Town Tax rate per $1,000 of home valueChelmsford $16.72Chelmsford $16.72*Tewksbury $13.45Westford $15.23Carlisle $16.13*Billerica $13.47Tyngsborough $14.17 *

* denotes a unified tax rate.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Library To Add Quiet Study RoomsAt the request of patrons, the library will add more of these rooms.At the request of patrons, the library will add more of these rooms.

www.chelmsford.patch.com

January 4, 2011

The Chelmsford Public Library will be undergoing a small renovation project starting

this week.

One of our frequent patron requests is for additional small study room space -- forpeople to either study quietly on their own, meet with a tutor, or to have a small meet-

ing. The library currently has one room available for this purpose, but in order to respond to this growing need of our patrons,

we'll be building three new small study rooms with internet accessibility on the library's lower level.

Working with Chelmsford's Director of Public Facilities Gary Persichetti, and utilizing a combination of town employees andpaid contractors, we will be able to accomplish the project (renovation and furnishings) at a very modest cost. The Board of

Library Trustees have approved this project, funding it with a combination of endowment and state aid money. In difficult fi-

nancial times, it is particularly gratifying that the library is able to meet user needs without requesting additional municipal

funding.

To make room for the new study rooms, we'll be modernizing our approach to our reference collection. There is a growing

trend in public libraries to interfile reference titles with the regular circulating collection. We will integrate a large portion of our

heavily-used reference materials into the regular library stacks and de-accession titles that are now available via the Internet

and in our on-line databases. With this change, many reference titles will now be available for circulation for one week. This

also addresses a growing need of patrons to use library materials in their own homes, instead of in the library. The shorterloan period (one week instead of three weeks) will also mean the material will still spend time on the library shelves, and thus

be available when people need it.

We will still have a small collection of non-circulating reference books, such as encyclopedias, which will be housed on index

tables where some of the reference shelves currently are. We'll also use these index tables to highlight certain subject areas,such as genealogy, career resources, and auto repair, that are sometimes hard to find in the regular circulating collection.

Also, these additional tables will increase the seating space for wireless access, a service need that has greatly increased in

the last year. We'll be moving things around for the next few months to accommodate both the renovation and the new loca-

tions of items. Hopefully patrons will pardon the transition, and will enjoy the new study space and access to the collectionwhen it is completed. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to talk to the reference staff, library trustees or to

Becky Herrmann, Library Director.

Page 6: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

CHELMSFORD ON ICEThe Community Ice Project

Neighbors,

A big "thank you" to all the volunteers who came out to the Mac-Farlin softball field this past Sunday (19 December) to help withthe construction of Phase I of Chelmsford's outdoor ice rink. Despite the cold weather, more than 10 people joined in--manyothers stopping by to offer their support. Together, as a team, we will make this project a success. I am grateful for the outstanding support.

The following list highlights thehands-on volunteers who supportedlast Sunday's Phase I build (alphabetical by last name):Jeff ApostolakesAlex BuckAlex EarleyRoy EarleyMike Gillette (Construction Lead)Paul McDougallDave Melanson Santiago RiosPhil Stanway

Brian TarantoJay TarantoJim Tribou

Phase II details:

We will undertake Phase II of this project (ourfinal construction phase) thiscoming week, after the rink's plastic lining ar-rives in Chelmsford. As thingscurrently stand, this item is scheduled for de-

livery on Wednesday, 29 December. With this in mind, we'll look to commence with Phase II thisThursday, 30December, at 9:00am. If issues arise with the delivery of ourplastic lining, Iwill send out an e-mail no later than Wednesday evening dis-cussing Thursday's events. Conversely, if our lining arrives priorto Wednesday, I will keep everyone posted on our way-aheadvia e-mail.

Maintenance:Maintenance:

The biggest challenge we face--with regard to this project--isrink maintenance throughout the winter season. We're looking for a coalition of volunteers willing to step-up andhelp out with this portion of the effort.

Photos by Scoop & Phil StanwayPhotos by Scoop & Phil Stanway

Page 7: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

We need your help!

Mike Gillette([email protected]) willserve as the rinkMaintenance Coordinatorthroughout the month of Janu-ary.

Small maintenance teams willbe formed (2-3 personnel) to

oversee the maintenance actions throughout a week-long period of time.

All-in-all, this season'smaintenance effort willbe broken down intoeight primary chunks:

8-14 January, 15-21 January, 22-28 January, 29 January-4 February, 5-11 February, 12-18 February,

19-25 February, and 26 February-4 March.

Maintenance actions will include thefollowing tasks: rink snow removal, ice "mow-

ing," and ice resurfacing (we willmow/resurface the ice every other day,or as determined by the MaintenanceCoordinator). Please let me know if you would like tovolunteer.

Donation support:Donation support:Thanks to a few generous residents, we've gathered approximately $1,000 insupport of this project. This is an outstanding milestone; however, we'relooking to raise $5,000 before the month of January is out.

This money will be used to procure maintenance equipment and to sustain this project for years to come.

Sean Kenny has done an outstanding job as our Fundraising Lead. Please see below for donation instructions concerning our Sponsorship Program. Please spread the word!

Opening Day is still scheduled for Saturday, 1 January. Further specifics willbe distributed via e-mail andthrough the town's local media out-lets this week.

...and, if you've made it this far,thanks for reading! I appreciateyoursupport very much.

Most Sincerely,Phil

//SIGNED//PHILIP J. COHENDirector, The Community Ice ProjectCell: 719-439-8489

CAPTAINCAPTAIN

PHILIPPHILIP

COHENCOHEN

Photos by Scoop & Phil StanwayPhotos by Scoop & Phil Stanway

Page 8: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Outdoor ice rink gains traction in Chelmsford

By Rita Savard, [email protected]

12/26/2010

CHELMSFORD -- A simple sheet of ice. Phil Cohen said he believes itcan bring a community together.

"I grew up playing ice hockey and spent a lot of time on outI grew up playing ice hockey and spent a lot of time on out--

door rinksdoor rinks," Cohen said."I was struck by the camaraderie these rinks evoked.I was struck by the camaraderie these rinks evoked."

So when winter's chill hit the air this year, Cohen said the time is now.

He put out a call for help on Facebook, a page named "I Support Chelmsford on IceI Support Chelmsford on Ice." Within a week hehad 100 friends. Donations and volunteers snowballed, and now the town's first outdoor ice rink is underway.

If weather cooperates, the ice at MacFarlin Park softball field should be open for skating by next Saturday.

Not bad for a guy that hasn't laced up his skates in about ten years.

"I don't even own skates anymore,I don't even own skates anymore," he said. "This effort has been about the kids but I may haveThis effort has been about the kids but I may have

to throw some skates on now.to throw some skates on now."

Cohen, an Air Force captain, grew up in Philadelphia. He attended a preparatory high school in Vermont andafter graduating, packed his bags for Minnesota to play Junior A hockey in the United States Hockey League.

After about five months, he was traded to the only Canadian team in theleague. It was living in Minnesota and Canada that opened his eyes to theimportance of outdoor, community-run rinks.

They help build and nurture "new and meaningfulnew and meaningful" friendships," Cohensaid.

He and his wife, Jess, moved to Chelmsford in April 2009. His idea of creat-ing an outdoor rink in town has already brought many neighbors together.

The biggest gift, about $1,000, came by way of Jay and Brian Taranto. TheTarantos gave the lumber needed to complete the first phase of the rink.Mike Gillette, who works in construction and is also Cohen's friend andneighbor, offered his building expertise. Local dentist Michael Sargent contributed a $500 gift.

Several more Chelmsford residents have contributed $10 to $25. Every donation counts, said Cohen.

Support Chelmsford on Ice has raised about $1,000 of its $5,000 goal. The money will not only help maintainthe rink once it's completed, but ensure its return in winters that follow.

"I'm just so grateful for the support of so many people inI'm just so grateful for the support of so many people in

town,town," Cohen said. "The ice rink has been a real communityThe ice rink has been a real community

effort and I hope it will help make a lot of memories foreffort and I hope it will help make a lot of memories for

people in town for many winters to come.people in town for many winters to come."

To make a donation to the ice rink effort, checks can be made out tothe Town of Chelmsford with "community ice project" written in the memo line, and sent to TownOffices, 50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA 01826. For more informa-tion and project details, visit the "I Support Chelmsford on IceI Support Chelmsford on Ice"Facebook page.

Phil & JessPhil & Jess

CohenCohen

Photos by Tom Christiano & ScoopPhotos by Tom Christiano & Scoop

Page 9: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

ON  THIN   ICEClearing the rink after the blizzard

Laying down Laying down

the plasticthe plastic

Just add water an ChillJust add water an Chill

Photos by Tom Christiano & Phil StanwayPhotos by Tom Christiano & Phil Stanway

Page 10: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Friends,

First, I'd like to say thank you to all those who supported Phase II of our rink build this past Thursday, 30 December. The following individuals put in a great amount of time and effort to makePhase II a success (alphabetical by last name)--THANK YOU:

Alex BuckDavid McLachlanBarry MooreBrian Ross John SmithBrian TarantoJay Taranto

*Others stopped by to offer kind words of support--thank you!

I'd also like to say thank you to those who have supported this effort monetarily (alphabetical listing):Tom ChristianoDr. & Mrs. Alden GagnonExpress Sign & GraphicsHarrington Wine & LiquorHorizon Air Services Inc.Sean & Jill KennyRobert & Susan LippmanFrances McDougallDavid & Jean McLachlanNancy RogersMichael SargentJay & Brian TarantoThomas & Michelle ThorntonJohn TubridyElizabeth TwomblyZesty's Pizza

Due to unseasonably high temperatures, we were unable to open the rink this past weekend; however, weatherpermitting, our tentative Opening Day is currently scheduled for Saturday, 8 January.

As many of you know, I will be heading to Alabama for about a month with the military. Jay Taranto([email protected] & [email protected]) will be taking over as Project Lead while I'm away, and will be "honcho-ing" our Opening Day proceedings. Asthe week progresses, Jay will provide applicable status updates to this group and our local media outlets.

John Smith ([email protected]) has graciously accepted the role of Lead Maintenance Coordinator forthis project. Mike Gillette ([email protected]) will serve as John's deputy. In his role as Lead Maintenance Coordinator, John will oversee all of the rink's maintenance and sustainment actions. As discussed in previous e-mails, we're still looking for a coalition of volunteers willing to be "on call" for rink maintenance actions throughout the season. Maintenance actions will include the following tasks: rink snow removal, ice resurfacing, and area clean-up (the rhythm of these actions will be determined by the Lead Maintenance Coordinator). If you'd like to volunteer, please reachout to John Smith and Mike Gillette.

This has been, and will continue to be, a true team effort. Thank you to all those who have stepped up tosupport this project. I am indebted.

Enjoy the ice!

Most Sincerely,Phil

PHILIP J. COHENDirector, The Community Ice ProjectCell: 719-439-8489

Page 11: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Community Ice Project Hoping for ColdVolunteers Jay Taranto and John Smith say the community ice rink scheduled to open on Jan. 15.Volunteers Jay Taranto and John Smith say the community ice rink scheduled to open on Jan. 15.

By Julia Gavin www.chelmsford.patch.com

1/6/10

If you've visited the center of town in the last few weeks, you've probably noticed anew addition to the landscape of McFarlin Softball Field: an ice skating rink justwaiting to be used.

"Now it's just Mother Nature fighting us,Now it's just Mother Nature fighting us," said John Smith, Lead Maintenance Coordinator for the Community Ice Project.

Unseasonably warm weather has delayed the opening of the rink for a few weeksas anxious skaters wait for several inches of water to become ice.

The opening events are now scheduled for The opening events are now scheduled for Jan. 15 at 11 a.m.Jan. 15 at 11 a.m.

"We're watching the weather closely,We're watching the weather closely," said Jay Taranto, who is coordinatingthe activities while Project Director Captain Phil Cohen is in Alabama for a month ofmilitary duty.

The idea for a community ice skating rink came to Cohen in mid-November. Cohen recently moved to the town with his wife, Jessica, andwanted to bring the sense of camaraderie he found on the ice as a hockey player to his new home. He sent out an email to neighbors andfriends to gauge interest and it's been a whirlwind of activity ever since.

"We worked two weekends straight,We worked two weekends straight," Taranto said. "Some volunteers had helped set up similar rinks, so we all comparedSome volunteers had helped set up similar rinks, so we all compared

what we knew and chose what seemed to work best.what we knew and chose what seemed to work best."

Taranto has been involved since the first meeting and was instrumental in getting the rink built. He said that hockey is in his blood and playedthe sport from the age of 4 in Chelmsford. Taranto said that Cohen's idea has already created a community around the project.

"My favorite part has been seeing all of the community involvement and all of the volunteer support,My favorite part has been seeing all of the community involvement and all of the volunteer support," Taranto said. "I've also met lots of great new people and I'm enjoyingI've also met lots of great new people and I'm enjoying

the sense of camaraderie.the sense of camaraderie."

Many of the volunteers have already put several hours of their owntime into the project and are expecting to help more once the rink isopened. Smith and Taranto both said that volunteers and donationsare still welcome for the project.

"Once the rink opensOnce the rink opens," Smith said, "we'll need funds towe'll need funds to

cover gas for the equipment, people to help with rinkcover gas for the equipment, people to help with rink

maintenance, and volunteers to enforce the rules andmaintenance, and volunteers to enforce the rules and

scheduleschedule."

Smith, an active member of Chelmsford Open Space Stewardship,knew he could help after hearing of the rink's need for snow-clear-ing equipment. He has donated the use of his equipment and manyhours of his time.

"The day after a snowstorm,The day after a snowstorm," Smith said, "we'll want thewe'll want the

rink clear, so hopefully my equipment can save some backsrink clear, so hopefully my equipment can save some backs."

Both men are looking forward to seeing the results of the volunteer crew's hard work when the rink opens. The rink will have a schedule andequipment for skaters of all ages and abilities to join in the fun.

“My biggest hope is that people use the rink once it's frozen and have a great time," said Taranto. "I'm looking forward“My biggest hope is that people use the rink once it's frozen and have a great time," said Taranto. "I'm looking forward

to seeing the rink as part of Winterfest and continuing to help the Chelmsford community.to seeing the rink as part of Winterfest and continuing to help the Chelmsford community."

Smith also said he's looking forward to seeing people on the rink and is already thinking about next year. He would like to see improvementsmade to the rink equipment and a process put in place to make it easier to put up and down.

"I'd really like to see it continue," said Smith. "It can belike a block party- you do it one year, everyone has fun,and then you pass it to another neighbor for the nextyear."

If you would like to donate to the Community Ice Proj-ect, checks are currently being handled by the townuntil the project obtains 501c(3) status. Checks may bemade out to the Town of Chelmsford with the note "icerink" on the memo line. Any funds received in this waywill be considered tax-deductible gifts to the town butwill go toward the ice rink. Checks can be sent to thetown hall at 50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824.

If you would like to donate your time to the project,please contact John Smith at (978) 580-0170.

Photos by Julia GavinPhotos by Julia Gavin

Page 12: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

WWAATTCCHHDDOOGG   AALLEERRTT!!

A CRACK IN THE ICEVANDALS  HIT ICE RINKVANDALS  HIT ICE RINK

ITRITR●●1/8/111/8/11

Friday night sometime after 11 PM the locked gate to thefeild was kicked in and vandals broke areas of the iceand threw chunks of asphalt on it.The Ice crew were ableto clean off most of the rink and will be trying to repairsome of the cracks that occurred Friday night from thevandals going on the ice.

The Community Ice Project is reaching out to the Chelmsford Police Departmentand all of you to help report anysuspicious activity at the rink,especially at night.

Page 13: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Public MeetingNotice of Cleanup Alternatives Analysis

Town of Chelmsford, 27 Katrina Road, Chelmsford, MAOn Monday, December 10, 2010Monday, December 10, 2010, the Town of Chelmsford will hold a public meeting, at 7:30 pmat 7:30 pmin Room 204 of the Town Offices, 50 Billerica Roadin Room 204 of the Town Offices, 50 Billerica Road, to discuss the draft Analysis of BrownfieldsCleanup Alternatives (ABCA) for 27 Katrina Road (the former “Silicon Transitor site”) and hearpublic comments. The ABCA is available for a 30 day public review and comment period and isavailable for review at the Community Development Office, located at 50 Billerica Road, duringbusiness hours (Mon-Fri: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) and the Town’s webpage atwww.townofchelmsford.us. The spokesperson for the Town is Evan Belansky, CommunityDevelopment Director, who can be reached by phone at (978) 244-3341, via email [email protected] , or by mail at Chelmsford Community DevelopmentDepartment, 50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824. The Town has hired NobisEngineering of Lowell, MA to complete the alternatives analysis and develop a plan for sitecleanup. Comments on the draft Alternatives Analysis may be made at the public meeting orsubmitted in writing to Mr. Belansky

From: "Belansky, Evan" <[email protected]>Date: January 4, 2011 9:02:57 AM ESTTo: Roy Earley <[email protected]>, Colleen Stansfield <[email protected]>Subject: FW: Chelmsford Brownfields - 27 Katrina Road - EPA clean up Grant - public meeting - January 10 at 7:30 pm

As you may recall, per the Town's EPA brownfields clean up grant for Katrina Road, the Westlands Watchdog Neighbor-hood Association agreed to serve as a community based organization by helping post community outreach material ontheir websites and newsletters and participate in public meetings.

On Monday, January 10, 2011, at 7:30 pm, as part of the regularly scheduled BOS meeting, the Town will hold a publicmeeting and provide a 30-day public comment period on the Analysis of Brownfields Cleanup Alternatives (ABCA) toprovide an opportunity for the public to ask questions and comment.

Please distribute this email accordingly and contact me if you have any questions.

Evan BelanskyChelmsford Community Development Director

Page 14: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Resident sued Resident sued as 9 North Road falloutas 9 North Road fallout

continuescontinuesBy Monica Jimenez/staff writerGateHouse News Servicewww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford

Dec 27, 2010

Chelmsford —

Chelmsford resident Roland Van Liew is suing resident Frances McDougall forputting his address and phone number online and suggesting people contacthim.

This move brought him harassing letters and calls, claims Van Liew, who issuing McDougall for $100,000. He first brought up her name when he called foran investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s office in early November, accusing herand several town officials of intimidating voters in the Nov. 4 election. Van Liewclaimed their efforts stymied his petition to recall two Planning Board members,whom he had condemned for approving a controversial development at 9 NorthRoad.

Although McDougall didn’t physically approach voters or interfere with petitioners on election day, VanLiew claims she caused him personal harm simply by saying what she did online.

Van Liew’s address and phone number are publicly listed and McDougall’s online remarks, posted in thecomment section of a local blog, didn’t explicitly instruct people to harass him. In those comments, she

pointed out Van Liew has long sent mailings to residents’ homes and thoseresidents might think about returning the favor.

But McDougall refrained from defending herself in a phone interview Mondaymorning, saying she hesitates to speak without the advice of her lawyer. Sherevealed her unhappiness with most media coverage of this matter, which included her among those accused of voter intimidation although she neverwent to the polls that day.

McDougall did suggest Van Liew’s suit says more about his state of mind thanabout herself.

“After all that’s gone on, after all the different people he’s chosenAfter all that’s gone on, after all the different people he’s chosen

to be in his previous paperwork, he chose the elderly grandto be in his previous paperwork, he chose the elderly grand--

mother two days before Christmas,mother two days before Christmas,” McDougall said. “I’m disappointed and saddened thatI’m disappointed and saddened that

another human being would do something like this.another human being would do something like this.”

Still, McDougall doesn’t view herself as such an easy target.

“You don’t know how angry this old lady gets,You don’t know how angry this old lady gets,” she laughed. Then she corrected herself: “I should be serious about this.I should be serious about this.”

Van Liew declined to comment.

McDougall’s summons gives her 20 daysto respond to his accusations, after whichthe matter goes to court.

Copyright 2010 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Fran Fran

McDougallMcDougall

RolandRoland

Van LiewVan Liew

Page 15: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

North RoadNorth Road

Lawyer Lawyer

to defend to defend

NanaNana

ITR Facebook●1/3/11

Philip Eliopoulos of North Road fameand former Selectmanhas agreed tobe Fran McDougall’s lawyer and de-fend her against the lawsuit broughtforth by Roland Van Liew and hislawyer Richard McClure.

Van Liew is seeking $100,000 from McDougall 73, a retired schoolteacher and grandmother to eightgrandkids, alleging that Fran inten-tionally caused him severe emotionaldistress resulting in physical harm byposting his home phone number andaddress on the ChelmsfordMass-News.com blog.

"I look forward to bringing to light that the allegations against Fran, areI look forward to bringing to light that the allegations against Fran, are

baselessbaseless." Eliopoulos said "Clearly this suit is nothing more than an attemptClearly this suit is nothing more than an attempt

to intimidate those who disagree with Van Liews tactics. It is to bad heto intimidate those who disagree with Van Liews tactics. It is to bad he

chose a wonderful woman like Fran whom we all respect to make thischose a wonderful woman like Fran whom we all respect to make this

point.point. "

When asked for a comment for the ITR on the situation Fran McDougall had this to say"This will be remembered as a very sad time in our town's political This will be remembered as a very sad time in our town's political

history. We have always been a better place in which to live than whathistory. We have always been a better place in which to live than what

these individuals have tried to depict.these individuals have tried to depict."

Fran McDougallFran McDougall Philip EliopoulosPhilip Eliopoulos

Richard McClureRichard McClure Roland Van LiewRoland Van Liew

Page 16: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

RReessiiddeenntt ssuueess 99 NNoorrtthh RRooaadd aatt ttoorrnneeyy

By Monica Jimenez/staff writerGateHouse News Service

www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordJan 04, 2011

Chelmsford —Chelmsford resident Roland Van Liew has filed suit against resident and attorney Phil Eliopoulos in Middlesex Superior Court,claiming Eliopoulos made statements that harmed his reputation and possibly his business.

Van Liew recently asked the state Office of Bar Counsel to investigate Eliopoulos’s practice of law while town boards were considering a project on 9 North Road. Previously, Van Liew urged the U.S. Attorney’s Office to look into the behavior of some town officials during an election, saying they discouraged voters from signing his petition to recall two Planning Board members.

This more personal action comes on the heels of a summons resident Fran McDougall received around Christmas – Van Liew hasalleged she brought him harassing calls and letters by posting his address and phone number online.

“Since October, 2009, the plaintiff, Roland Van Liew, has been an outspoken and public critic [of the 9 North Road Since October, 2009, the plaintiff, Roland Van Liew, has been an outspoken and public critic [of the 9 North Road

development,development,” reads Van Liew’s latest suit.

Eliopoulos is quoted publicly calling Van Liew a liar, which Van Liew is calling defamation. He argues fewer people would want todeal with him after hearing him described as dishonest.

“The defendant, Philip Eliopoulos, knew at the time he made said defamatory statements that such statements wouldThe defendant, Philip Eliopoulos, knew at the time he made said defamatory statements that such statements would

damage the plaintiff’s reputation in the community and/or deter third persons from associating or dealing with him,damage the plaintiff’s reputation in the community and/or deter third persons from associating or dealing with him,”reads the text.

Eliopoulos has a low opinion of Van Liew’s latest lrgal salvo.

“With all the people Mr. Van Liew has maligned in our town over the last several years,I find all of his recent legal With all the people Mr. Van Liew has maligned in our town over the last several years,I find all of his recent legal

actions against our residents to be lacking of all credibility much like all of his past mailingsactions against our residents to be lacking of all credibility much like all of his past mailings ..” Eliopoulos said. “This is just another attempt by him to try to intimidate those who speak out against his tactics. I am cofident the This is just another attempt by him to try to intimidate those who speak out against his tactics. I am cofident the

evidence will show that he has in fact lied in numerous occassions in his mailings.evidence will show that he has in fact lied in numerous occassions in his mailings.”

He also expressed skepticism about the economic damage Van Liew suggested he experienced.“I look forward to reviewingduring this lawsuit all of Mr. Van Liew’s business records from the last several years to I look forward to reviewingduring this lawsuit all of Mr. Van Liew’s business records from the last several years to

see if in fact he has suffered any loss in business as he so claims,see if in fact he has suffered any loss in business as he so claims,”Eliopoulos said.

Van Liew stuck to his statement, pointing outhe’s been questioning the town’s decision-making for the past three years.“During this time, Philip Eliopoulos has used personal attacks, false statements, slander, and libel to counter dissentDuring this time, Philip Eliopoulos has used personal attacks, false statements, slander, and libel to counter dissent

over the project,over the project,” he said. “He’s effectively derailed formal inquiry to date,and used defamation to successfully deflectHe’s effectively derailed formal inquiry to date,and used defamation to successfully deflect

news analysis away from him and other town officials and onto me, a private resident.news analysis away from him and other town officials and onto me, a private resident.”

Van Liew added the outcomeof the suit isn’t significant solely to him.”The defamation lawsuitis not, just about my rights, The defamation lawsuitis not, just about my rights,

but the rights of every person to be able to voice their concerns when something isn’t right in their community.but the rights of every person to be able to voice their concerns when something isn’t right in their community.” Van Liew said.

Attorney Richard McClure, who signs off on the document, is representing Van Liew in this suit and in his action against McDougall.

McClure is also waiting on the results of his own action – a few months ago, he filed a lawsuit in state court accusing town boardsof not properly informing the public about the 9 North Road project.

Copyright 2011 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Philip Eliopoulos Philip Eliopoulos

Architects' Rendering of 9 North RoadArchitects' Rendering of 9 North Road

Page 17: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

9 9 North RoadNorth Road deposition approachesdeposition approachesBy Monica Jimenez/staff writer

GateHouse News Servicewww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford

Jan 06, 2011

Chelmsford —New information on a development at 9 North Road in Chelmsford may come to light tomorrow morning.

Today, Jan. 6, a state land court denied Epsilon LLC’s request for a protective order blocking the deposition of an EasternBank employee involved in the sale of the 9 North Road property. Hours later, counsel for Epsilon requested the court re-consider granting the protective order. The request for reconsideration is still pending, but as of now the deposition willoccur as planned Friday, Jan. 8, at 10 a.m.

Attorney Richard McClure, who is suing Epsilon and a number of town officials for not properly notifying the public aboutthe 9 North Road project, said Epsilon’s actions show how badly they want to keep the deposition of Eastern Bank’s Sen-ior Vice President of Corporate Operations Frank Dunn, from being heard.

McClure said he’s been pushing to hear Dunn’s deposition for three weeks because he believes it can reveal why the 9North Road property, which Town Manager Paul Cohen has said he was eyeing for a new Center Fire Station in Februaryand March of 2009, ultimately went to Epsilon.

On Wednesday, Jan. 5, counsel for Epsilon argued Dunn shouldn’t have to give a deposition because Eastern Bank hasdone its part by submitting documents subpoenaed by McClure. McClure, who also attended the hearing, insisted thedeposition is necessary because Dunn’s testimony will complete the story started in the documents.

Furthermore, McClure argued, if Epsilon had a problem with the deposition, the company should have said somethingthree weeks ago, not two days before Dunn was scheduled to speak.

McClure believes Epsilon’s actions indicate the company is hiding a conflict of interest. Philip Eliopoulos has been repre-senting Epsilon in the company’s efforts to buy the property and has become the target of sharp public criticism because,at the time sale of the property was being discussed, held a seat on the Board of Selectmen.

“I think there was a conflict of interest and it will become clear tomorrow,I think there was a conflict of interest and it will become clear tomorrow,” McClure said.

For his part, Eliopoulos denies there was a conflict. According to Eliopoulos, Eastern Bank was not entertaining compet-ing proposals from Epsilon and the town for the 9 North Road property. He said the bank had been discussing the sale ofthe property with his father, Michael Eliopoulos, owner of Epsilon LLC, as early as fall 2008 and had come to an agree-ment to sell the land to Epsilon that same year.

When the town did express interest in 9 North Road the following year, he continued, he himself was not part of the pro-ceedings.

“I was not involved in or privy to those discussions,I was not involved in or privy to those discussions,” Eliopoulos said.

Cohen agreed, saying Eliopoulos was absent from the Board of Selectmen exec-utive session when acquiring 9 North Road was discussed and was leaving theboard by the time the town was told the property would go to Epsilon. Any conflictof interest was avoided, Cohen said.

Cohen also said Dunn made it clear from the beginning that 9 North Road,specifically the Emerson house, had been promised to Epsilon. The town, seek-ing only the portion of the property behind the fire station, stopped pursuing theplan when Epsilon clarified its intention to build offices on the land.

“We have no concern that would warrant sending someone to theWe have no concern that would warrant sending someone to the

hearing on the protective order or to the deposition,hearing on the protective order or to the deposition,” Cohen said.

Cohen said he believes Dunn will dispel McClure’s theories that Eliopoulos wasusing his position as a town official to Epsilon’s benefit and that the town was of-fered 9 North Road for free.

Copyright 2011 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Where’s Judge Judy when you need her?

Page 18: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

9 North9 North deposition keeps disagreements goingwww.chelmsfordmassnews.com

Kevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Sat, Jan 08, 2011

Attorney Richard McClure believes yesterday's deposition of an Eastern Bank official shows town officials acted to benefitEpsilon Group LLC and former Selectman Phil Eliopoulos in the purchase of 9 North Road.

"Based on the deposition testimony of Thomas Dunn yesterday, I must insistBased on the deposition testimony of Thomas Dunn yesterday, I must insist

that the BOS demand Paul Cohen's immediate resignation,that the BOS demand Paul Cohen's immediate resignation," McClure wrote in an e-mail Saturday morning.

In a later phone interview, McClure said Dunn, Eastern Bank's senior vice president of corporate oper-ations, testified he never believed an agreement with Epsilon Group LLC was a legitimate offer.

"He never thought the signed agreement with Eliopoulos was valid,He never thought the signed agreement with Eliopoulos was valid," said McClure."There was no price on it and there was enough verbiage that either party could walk away.There was no price on it and there was enough verbiage that either party could walk away."

During his deposition Friday, Dunn reportedly stated he contacted Town Manager Paul Cohen in December 2008 to see ifthe town would be interested in purchasing the property at 9 North Road, said McClure.

"He calls Cohen and tells him, 'we don't want the land or Emerson House,He calls Cohen and tells him, 'we don't want the land or Emerson House,'" said McClure. "He offers it to the town.He offers it to the town."

According to McClure, Dunn did not discuss price with Cohen. Dunn also described Cohen's response to the offer as luke-warm, said McClure.

Dunn went on to say Cohen never responded to the initial offer, said McClure. A few months later, said McClure, Dunncontacted Cohen again.

"At that point, Cohen said the town might be interested in the tiny parking lot behind the fire station that firefighters use,"said McClure. "At that point Dunn said, 'forget it.forget it.'"

But that's not how Cohen remembers it.

"The first time I know about the land was through Hank Houle,The first time I know about the land was through Hank Houle," Cohen said Saturday. "Dunn never called me.Dunn never called me."

According to Cohen, Fire Capt. Houle first approached the town manager about the bank's interest in unloading the property.

At that point Cohen said he contacted Dunn to discuss the North Road parcel but was told the bank was in talks with a po-tential buyer.

Cohen then asked Dunn if the bank would be willing to discuss selling a portion of the land behind the Center Fire Stationto the town.

But the buyer, Epsilon Group, expressed interest in the entire parcel.

"Their story keeps changing. First, they say the land was offered to the town for free,Their story keeps changing. First, they say the land was offered to the town for free," said Cohen. "They continue to twist and turn the facts. It's a fabrication of history with 20/20 hindsight.They continue to twist and turn the facts. It's a fabrication of history with 20/20 hindsight."

McClure wants to know why Cohen would not consider an offer to purchase the land behind the Center Fire Station whenthat property was initially included as a potential location for a new station.

"In the interim, the fire station study report had a red line through the North Road site,In the interim, the fire station study report had a red line through the North Road site," said McClure."Who did that? The bank would have sold it to the town. There's no doubt in my mind that Cohen actedWho did that? The bank would have sold it to the town. There's no doubt in my mind that Cohen acted

to behoove Eliopoulos.to behoove Eliopoulos."

Cohen said that is not true.

He did not attend any of the original meetings of the Fire/DPW study group, said Cohen. Nor did heknow anyone was interested in purchasing the Emerson House and the adjacent property from thebank.

"Where's the conflict of interest?Where's the conflict of interest?" said Cohen. "I don't see the contradiction. I don't see the contradiction.

This isn't about the land but a continued attack on town officials.This isn't about the land but a continued attack on town officials."

RichardRichard

McClureMcClure

Paul Paul

CohenCohen

Page 19: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

EE--vvoott iinngg ccoouulldd bbee kkeeyy ttoo TToowwnn MMeeeett iinnggRepresentatives' positions would become public recordRepresentatives' positions would become public record

By Rita Savard, [email protected]

12/25/2010

CHELMSFORD -- Traditional New England democracy might get a 21st century makeover as officials mull bringing electronic votingto Town Meeting.

By punching votes in on a hand-held keypad system, the names of individual Town Meeting representatives would appear on a pro-jection screen along with how they voted. Town Manager Paul Cohen said the $10,000 system would create a public record of indi-vidual votes for the first time in town history.

A handful of Town Meeting representatives said yesterday they like the idea because it would hold the town's legislative body ac-countable.

Although each representative is required to sign in at every meeting, there is no way of telling when a person arrives to vote orwhen a person leaves. There are 162 elected representatives in Chelmsford, but according to Town Clerk Betty Delaney, none ofthe four Town Meetings held this year had a full house.

"I don't know who would oppose electronic voting,"I don't know who would oppose electronic voting," said Laurie Myers, a representative in Precinct 6. "I've seen people leave early all the time. It's our responsibility to be there. We ran, we're elected and we'reI've seen people leave early all the time. It's our responsibility to be there. We ran, we're elected and we're

supposed to sit through it. It's how it goes.supposed to sit through it. It's how it goes."

The electronic voting system, based on the Microsoft Powerpoint computer pro-gram, would display votes on a projection screen as soon as they are cast. Votinghistory, said Cohen, would be saved and retrieved online.

Besides transparency, Cohen said electronic voting would also help move TownMeeting along at a steadier pace, eliminating the need for manual head countsduring votes that are too close to call by a show of raised tickets.

According to the Massachusetts Municipal Association, 298 of the state's 351 com-munities have the traditional board of selectmen and Town Meeting, with an admin-istrative assistant to take care of day-to-day issues; 40 communities have a mayorand town council; seven have a manager and a council; and three have a so-called"strong" mayor and city council.

Cambridge, Lowell and Worcester have a ceremonial mayor with no operationalpower, putting authority in the hands of the city manager and the city council.

While Chelmsford officials are content with a representative Town Meeting form ofgovernment, some say the 200-year-old tradition could benefit from a little moderntechnology.

"I think it's great because it will give the public an idea how their representatives are voting,I think it's great because it will give the public an idea how their representatives are voting," said Deborah Dery, of Precinct 6.

According to Chelmsford bylaws, Town Meeting representatives are required to attend more than 50 percent of the meetings. Out ofthis year's four meetings, 18 representatives missed two or more meetings and have received notices in the mail, according to thetown clerk.

They have until Jan. 25 to meet with Delaney and the town moderator to offer a valid reason for their absences, or they will be re-lieved from their duties.

While Cohen said he's received some positive feedback from representatives, he realizes the price tag could pose a problem.

Dennis Ready, of Precinct 8, said he likes the idea of electronic voting, but believes there are ways of making the system more cost-effective, such as sharing it with other towns.

"Town Meetings are held on different days in different communities,Town Meetings are held on different days in different communities," Ready said. "You're talking about using itYou're talking about using it

three or four times a year. If we shared it with other towns, our cost would be much less.three or four times a year. If we shared it with other towns, our cost would be much less."

Jeff Hardy, of Precinct 6, said that while he doesn't have a problem with electronic voting, he thinks others might.

"It could discourage some people from running if they have to answer for every vote they take,It could discourage some people from running if they have to answer for every vote they take," Hardy said. "I cansee some people being concerned with having their record scrutinized."

Other representatives don't think that's necessarily a bad idea.

"It would quiet those who think Town Meeting is just a rubber stamp for the BoardIt would quiet those who think Town Meeting is just a rubber stamp for the Board

of Selectmen,of Selectmen," Myers said.

Adopting electronic voting requires approval for a one-time appropriation from Town Meeting, aswell as an amendment to the Town Meeting bylaw to incorporate the system.

The measure will most likely appear on the spring Town Meeting warrant, Cohen said.

CLICK HEREfor SLIDE SHOWPRESENTATION

Page 20: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Back to drawing board for a possible new fire station

By Rita Savard, [email protected]

12/29/2010

CHELMSFORD -- As the new year rolls in, so will a new plan for a modernized Center Fire Station.

Voters overwhelmingly rejected a $12 million fire station headquarters in October 2009, along with a $13million proposal to relocate the Department of Public Works.

But after a cheaper, scaled-down plan for the DPW was approved just six months later in April, officials areback at the drawing board for another fire station proposal.

"We're still in a favorable construction market, but at some point that's going to recedeWe're still in a favorable construction market, but at some point that's going to recede

and building will become more expensive,and building will become more expensive," said Town Manager Paul Cohen. "We'd like to haveWe'd like to have

a plan put together by the end of January. That will give ample time for public input bea plan put together by the end of January. That will give ample time for public input be--

fore the spring Town Meeting.fore the spring Town Meeting."

Revised plans will aim to keep the cost under $10 million, especially after the previous $12 million proposalwas hard for voters to swallow, Cohen said.

"Taxes aren't going down and a lot of people are still out of work,Taxes aren't going down and a lot of people are still out of work," resident Michael Phinneysaid. "Town officials have to learn to live within their means.Town officials have to learn to live within their means."

But supporters of a new fire station headquarters said the current building on North Road has been neglected for far too long.

Built in 1952, the station was designed to serve a population of 10,000. Since then the town has grown toabout 33,000 residents with the fire department responding annually to about 5,000 calls.

When the town recently had to purchase a new ladder truck, taxpayers ended up paying $150,000 morefor a smaller vehicle that would fit through the station's garage doors, according to former Chelmsford FireChief Jack Parow.

During several open-house tours of the station prior to the 2009 vote, the public was invited into the base-ment that also doubles as the firefighters' locker room.

Residents saw rows of wooden support braces hoisting up the basement ceiling, and a giant net hangingabove heads to catch falling pieces of concrete.

When a new headquarters was shot down, the town spent about $40,000 on floor repairs to "buy somebuy some

more time,more time," Cohen said.

"But it's not a permanent solution,But it's not a permanent solution," he added.

With new plans under way, officials are still eyeing the Little League fields now at the corner of Wilson andChelmsford streets and expanding the current site on North Road.

The parcel across the street from St. Mary'sChurch, also on North Road, is also on theirradar, Cohen said.

"There's no question that a headquarThere's no question that a headquar--

ters needs to remain in the center ofters needs to remain in the center of

town,town," he added. "We're looking at all possible locationsWe're looking at all possible locations

there.there."

Page 21: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Another new plan for Center Fire Station in worksAnother new plan for Center Fire Station in worksKevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Tue, Jan 04, 2011

www.chelmsfordmassnews.com

The Permanent Building Committee voted to pursue a plan that would keep the Center Fire Station onNorth Road-just a little bit closer to Interstate 495-at its session Tuesday night.

Committee Co-Chairman Pat Maloney presented a plan to the committee that would have the town pur-chase two buildings currently owned by St. Mary'sChurch, move them across the street onto RodgerCurrie's land and then turn the church properties intothe new Chelmsford Fire Department Headquarters.

"The town was approached by The town was approached by St. Mary'sSt. Mary's

ParishParish,," said Maloney. "They are looking to putThey are looking to put

a parish hall on as an addition and theya parish hall on as an addition and they

need funding.need funding."

Although plans remain in the early stages, Maloney expects the town to spend about $9 million on the pro-posal.

That would allow the town to purchase St. Mary's classroom building, the white building next to the church,and another structure the church owns on the corner of Crosby Lane and North Road.

Both buildings are more than 75 years old, the classroom building was constructed in 1815, said Maloney.Getting approval to demolish each structure would be difficult, he added.

Nine million dollars would also cover the costs of constructing a new fire station and demolishing the cur-rent North Road facility, said Maloney.

Phase Two of the proposal would utilize Community Preservation Funds to purchase the Currie property.The two church buildings would be moved across the street to that land and converted into affordablehousing units, said Maloney.

He believes Chelmsford Housing Director David Hedison would either team up with the CPC for the neces-sary funding to turn the St. Mary's buildings into housing. Hedison, however, might be able to fund the con-version through housing grants, said Maloney.

Phase Three of the plan would require the Chelmsford Library to pay to move the Dutton House from itscurrent location to 7 North Road—the site of the current Fire HQ. The town would pay to pour a new DuttonHouse foundation, said Maloney.

"David Hedison would take that building over,David Hedison would take that building over," said Maloney. "He would move the HousingHe would move the Housing

Authority's office over to that building. That would open up eight units of affordable housAuthority's office over to that building. That would open up eight units of affordable hous--

ing at Wilson Street.ing at Wilson Street."

Maloney recognized some residents may question why the town should spend money on land for a fire sta-tion when it already owns the parcel at Chelmsford and Wilson streets.

He points to the recently adopted Master Plan that calls for that parcel to be left alone for future economicdevelopment. It also does not make sense to build on what is currently open space, said Maloney.

The St. Mary's proposal would also allow the fire department to remain close to its current home. Firefight-ers are part of the Fourth of July activities and Christmas celebrations on North Road, but that would not bethe case on Wilson Street, said Maloney.

"Not building on current open space is a good thing. Preserving future economic developNot building on current open space is a good thing. Preserving future economic develop--ment is a good thing,ment is a good thing," said Maloney. "Keeping the fire station as part of its community is aKeeping the fire station as part of its community is agood thinggood thing."

Maloney wanted the Permanent Building Committee to "buy into" the proposal to allow officials to bring theplan to spring Town Meeting and the April ballot.

"There's a long, long way to go before we can say this project is totally viable,There's a long, long way to go before we can say this project is totally viable," said Maloney. "We think it is. It's a way to put to bed a lot of issues along that stretch We think it is. It's a way to put to bed a lot of issues along that stretch

(of North Road) and to give us a much needed fire station.(of North Road) and to give us a much needed fire station."

Architects' Rendering of new Parish centerArchitects' Rendering of new Parish center

Page 22: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Chelmsford church chided for handicapped rampBy Monica Jimenez/staff writer

GateHouse News Servicewww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford

Jan 04, 2011

Chelmsford —A new handicapped-access ramp in front of Saint Mary’s Church in Chelmsford is being criticized forcompromising the look of the building’s facade.

The 34-foot steel ramp, located to the left of the main doors, doubles back in a U-shape and has blackrailings. Built by a Billerica company, the ramp was in-stalled to provide handicapped access to the churchafter a few too many parishioners got trapped in thebuilding’s balky elevator.

Members of the town Historic District Commission rep-rimanded Saint Mary’s staff member Paul Firicano, whoserves the church in many capacities – including busi-ness manager – for ruining the building’s historical aes-thetic.

“It looks like something you’d see while It looks like something you’d see while

waiting in line for the Ferris wheel,waiting in line for the Ferris wheel,” said Jack Handley.

Cynthia Acheson said she would have preferred a ramp at the side of the building instead of in front –or better yet, a ramp in which the Historic District Commission had a say. She chided Firicano for notcoming to the commission before changing the appearance of the building.

Firicano said the ramp is a temporary solution and will be removed in two or three years. In the spring,church personnel will try to mitigate the visual impact of the ramp by placing soil in front of it and plant-ing something green.

Firicano explained the ramp must be up for at least two years because leaders at Saint Mary’s are con-ducting a feasibility study for a new parish center, plans for which involve installing a new elevator. Itlooks doable so far, but getting the project approved will be a lengthy process.

For now, Firicano said, a metal ramp is the best the church can do. A wooden ramp would cost twice asmuch, while re-grading the parking lot to slope up to the front door would be time-consuming as well ascostly. They vainly sought a parishioner with carpentry skills to do some work for free, but none wasavailable.

A lack of funds has affected Saint Mary’s Church in other ways. Its front steps are decaying and its wellpump is broken, meaning the sprinkler system is down and the vegetation is suffering. Handley saidfront grounds look terrible.

Firicano agreed the grounds didn’t look appealing.

“It’s sad because we’ve always prided ourselves on looking beautifulIt’s sad because we’ve always prided ourselves on looking beautiful,” he said.

The Historic District Commission sympathized with the church’s financial plight and finally voted toallow the ramp to stay for six more months, as it’s particularly needed in the winter. They plan to revisitthe matter in June.

In the meantime, commission members will want to review possible plans for Saint Mary’s new parishcenter. Looking at a depiction of the new elevator, Acheson commented the shaft was too square andmodern-looking. Firicano assured her it could be changed.

“Just come to us firstJust come to us first,” Acheson said.

Copyright 2011 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Page 23: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

22001100 CCHHEELLMMSSFFOORRDD CCIITTIIZZEENNSS

OOFF TTHHEE YYEEAARRIn an effort to thank and recognize a few of the public spirited citizens of Chelmsford, the panelists and host ofthe most recent "Politically Incorrect" Cable TV Show have selected the following individuals as our 2010CHELMSFORD CITIZENS OF THE YEAR. Because of space limitations I will only mention a few of their many ac-complishments and volunteer activities. For a more complete description of all that they have done for our townand country please tune in to the current "Politically Incorrect" TV Show. A link to the show video can be foundon my Facebook Wall. (and below)

ROY EARLEY devotes many hours every week to his “In-Town Report” newsletter. This is a free, non-profit, electronic pub-lication all about the town of Chelmsford, and it includes: original photographs of our local events; links to videos of selectedcable TV Shows & town meetings; original stories; and a compilation of articles from other local publications. Roy also is:the founder of the Westlands Watchdogs (a neighborhood protection group); an open space Steward; a manager of at leasttwo Facebook Groups about our town; and an elected Town Meeting Representative.

MARY FRANTZ was an elected member of the Chelmsford School Committee for nine years, including two years as Chair-woman; Mary is: a member of the Chelmsford Finance Committee from 1999 to the present time (she is currently theChairwoman); Mrs. Frantz has been a member of the league of Woman Voters since 1980, including being the EducationSpecialist for Massachusetts for 12 years. Mary has volunteered countless hours to our town, including as a Town MeetingRepresentative since 1989, and she has a passion for always doing what is right for the people of Chelmsford.

BOB GREENWOOD has served as a volunteer on the Chelmsford Conservation Commission for 25 years, and the Boardof Health for ten years. He helped out the town as a Sewer Inspector for 15 years after he retired. Mr. Greenwood is aWWII and Korean War Veteran. One would be hard pressed to find someone who has dedicated as much of himself to histown and his country as Bobby Greenwood.

RALPH HICKEY & BARBARA RENISON have devoted hundreds of hours to the town of Chelmsford and its citi-zens. Ralph has served as the ADA Director and an elected Town Meeting Representative for many years. BothRalph and his wife Barbara have served on the Boards of Directors of many charitable organizations, including thePaul Center and the Lowell Humane Society. Barbara has cooked dinners for the homeless and baked untold num-bers of delicious cupcakes for them. They both are very concerned about those who struggle to get by in life andthey are always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

GEORGE MERRILL has been a very active Town Meeting Representative since 1989. George attends many finance com-mittee & other town board meetings to insure that he always has a complete understanding of the town budget, and all theother issues, before he casts his votes at the Town Meetings. He is also a long time member of the Chelmsford HistoricCommission. Mr. Merrill devoted 30 years of his life to the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.

2010 GREEN CITIZENS OF THE YEAR2010 GREEN CITIZENS OF THE YEAR

JENNIFER ALMEIDA has been the recycling coordinator for Chelmsford for many years. In that capacity Jennifer hashelped our town lower the amount of solid waste that gets throw away, which resulted in the town saving thousands of dollarsin trash hauling costs. At the same time, Mrs. Almeida has done everything possible to help the residents increase the amountof trash they recycle, thereby helping our environment stay cleaner and healthier.

BOB MORSE has been a member - and Chairman - of the Community Preservation Committee since 2001. He helped thetown: save many historic buildings; preserve its open spaces; and procure clean environmental equipment. Mr. Morse hasalso been a member of the Planning Board for 12 years, and he had been a Town Meeting Representative and a member ofthe Middlesex Canal Association for many years.

The above noted selections for 2010 CHELMSFORD CITIZENS OF THE YEAR were presented by the under-signed Host of the P.I. Show, along with the following "Politically Incorrect" Show panelists: Town Manager PaulCohen, Selectman Chairman George Dixon, Conservation Commission Chairman Dave McLachlan & Town Meet-ing Representative Sheila Pichette. We thank and commend these outstanding public spirited citizens for theirmany years of service to the town of Chelmsford.

Tom “TC” ChristianoProducer & Host

POLITICALLY INCORRECT

WATCH WATCH  CHELMSFORD CITIZENS OF THE YEAR

CCLLIICCKK  HHEERREE

Submitted by

Tom Christiano

LetterLetterto theto theEditor Editor UneditedUnedited

Page 25: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Opinion: Time for health plan design authorityOpinion: Time for health plan design authority

By Eric Dahlberg and Nick DiSilvioGateHouse News Service

www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/opinionsDec 27, 2010

Chelmsford —Last week, Chelmsford kicked off fiscal 2012 budget planning with ajoint meeting of the Board of Selectmen, the School Committee, and theFinance Committee. This joint meeting, which occurs annually each De-

cember, serves as an opportunity for the town manager, accountant, and finance director to pro-vide an overview of the town's fiscal situation.

Two figures regarding the FY 2012 budget stood out. The first is that we expect a $1.4 million de-crease (10 percent) in state aid. The second is we expect a $520,000 increase (10 percent) in healthinsurance spending.

The situation is unsustainable. Spending on health insurance continues to grow at a rate fargreater than overall expenditures. Chelmsford will spend 11 percent of its entire budget — 11 centsof every dollar that we pay in taxes — on health insurance in fiscal year 2012. That figure will growto 25 percent — fully a quarter of our operating budget — in just a few years if this trend continues.The consequences are dire: more and more taxpayer dollars swallowed by health insurance meansless and less for schools, public safety, and other critical municipal services.

We would like to get a handle on out-of-control health insurance spending at the local level, butstate law prohibits us from making changes to our health plans without agreement from our townemployees' unions. It's a stupid law that local officials would like to see changed. Unfortunately, theLegislature has been unwilling to do so, even as the economy has deteriorated, state aid has beencut and local officials across the commonwealth scream for something to be done. The reason forBeacon Hill's intransigence on this issue is obvious: many legislators are terrified of offending theunions.

Fortunately, the grave fiscal facing our state and its 351 communities in fiscal year 2012 presentsthe members of the Legislature with an opportunity to put their fears aside and implement astraightforward reform: they can pass a simple one-page bill that grants health insurance plan de-sign authority to cities and towns. [It should be noted that Chelmsford’s four state reps, to theircredit, have previously expressed a willingness to consider such legislation.]

Plan design authority would empower local officials to make cost-saving changes to municipalhealth plans without having to go through the collective-bargaining process. If we were to exercisethis authority in Chelmsford by amending our health plan so that it resembles the typical plan of-fered by the state itself (the type of plan, incidentally, that's offered to our state reps and senators -hardly shoddy coverage), we would save an estimated $1 million annually. In fiscal year 2012, thatwould almost make up for the expected 10 percent cut in state aid. In the longer term, that's moneywe could use to improve deficient services, to restore school infrastructure, or to replenish our sta-bilization fund.

It is high time that the 200 members of the Legislature put aside special-interest politics, step up,and pass this commonsense, cost-saving reform. If not now, when?

Eric Dahlberg is a member of the Chelmsford Board of Selectmen. Nick DeSilvio is a member of the Chelmsford School Committee.

Copyright 2010 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Eric DahlbergEric Dahlberg Nick DiSilvioNick DiSilvio

Page 26: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

New school chief Tiano stresses New school chief Tiano stresses

opening lines of communicationopening lines of communication

By Rita Savard, [email protected]

12/31/2010

CHELMSFORD -- Some conversations are hard to start.

But as the new superintendent of Chelmsford Public Schools, Frank Tiano said creating adialogue with parents and students is necessary -- even if the topics are a little unnerving atfirst.

Tiano found himself stepping into the district's lead role shortly after the start of the schoolyear in September, when Donald Yeoman abruptly resigned. Since then, Tiano has given

presentations to parents about bullying and has openly discussed teen suicide and drug use.

Chelmsford made headlines earlier this month following results from a youth risk-behavior survey that showed more than 100high school students had reported attempting suicide in 2009.

Tiano and the School Committee spoke candidly about the surveys and has even posted results online.

"We're not afraid to put out the information,We're not afraid to put out the information," Tiano said. "Chelmsford shares the same problems and issuesChelmsford shares the same problems and issues

as any other school district in the state. But we also think it's important to share what we find with theas any other school district in the state. But we also think it's important to share what we find with the

community. The more we talk about the issues we face, we can work on finding solutions together.community. The more we talk about the issues we face, we can work on finding solutions together."

Talking with parents about bullying, which studies show often links with teen suicide, took an emotional turn in October at McCarthy Middle School.

Some parents in the audience had children who had been bullied at school.

"It's easy to understand why people become frustrated when they're trying to fix a problem, especially oneIt's easy to understand why people become frustrated when they're trying to fix a problem, especially one

that's affecting their child,that's affecting their child," Tiano said. "But we're listening, learning and we will get better. I'm grateful for allBut we're listening, learning and we will get better. I'm grateful for all

the feedback from students and parents. This is a community that truly cares about students' success.the feedback from students and parents. This is a community that truly cares about students' success."

School officials, working with parents, students and educators, have spent the past year hammering out a plan to address harassment in schools as well as reduce depression and suicidal behavior.

In October, the school district toughened its bullying protocol with a new policy on how to handle harassment. The two-part policy tackles prevention and intervention, through new and improved training and education, and changing reporting and response procedures.

The policy was in response to the new state law on bullying that went into effect in May. The mandate requires school districtsacross the state to submit detailed proposals by today on how they address bullies and their victims.

The first week of November was declared "Live Smart" week in Chelmsford schools. Educators and experts were invited to talkto the community about health-risk behaviors, including bullying and drug use.

The forums drew hundreds to the Chelmsford High Performing Arts Center.

Bringing parents, students, teachers, psychologists and law enforcement together is key to understanding and meeting theneeds of students, Tiano said.

Tiano, who has worked in the district for 10 years, started out as principal of the Westlands Elementary School. In 2006, he became the principal at McCarthy Middle School and was later hired as assistant superintendent in 2009.

Moving forward as the new superintendent, Tiano said he plans to use technology to help keep the lines of communicationopen.

The district's technology director, Anne-Marie Fiore, has already made some significant changes to the dis-trict's website, making it easier to navigate and find information about each school. School presentations on a variety of is-sues, and public documents including the district's budget, are all available with the click of a button.

A plan is already under way to use the website for gathering feedback and sending out regular surveys toparents and students to help shape new policies and programs tailored to the district's needs.

"Getting the conversation started is the important first step,Getting the conversation started is the important first step," Tiano said. "It helps all of usIt helps all of us

better guide our kids so that they can be better prepared for life.better guide our kids so that they can be better prepared for life."

To learn more about Chelmsford schools, visit www.chelmsford.k12.ma.us.

Frank Frank TianoTiano

Page 27: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

A half-century in Chelmsford's schoolsBy Monica Jimenez/staff writer

GateHouse News Servicewww.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford

Dec 25, 2010

Chelmsford —A gray-haired woman stops by the table. “Trevor’s found a job,Trevor’s found a job,” she tells Chelmsford School Committee member Angie Taranto. “He’s doing great.He’s doing great.”

Taranto nods. “Good to hear.Good to hear.”

“You’re the best,You’re the best,” the woman says. “You really supported him when he needed it.You really supported him when he needed it.”

This isn’t the first time Taranto has heard words like this. Recently a young man took him out to dinner as athank-you for suggesting the college he attended and for keeping him there when he considered dropping out.Others have sent Taranto e-mails, telling him he’s done a lot of good in the district and pleading for him to seekre-election in April.

Taranto has already decided to leave the committee, apparently marking the end of an association with theschool system that began in 1959. After moving on to become middle school department head, then house-master, then a high school dean, Taranto can claim credit for the success of countless alumni – among his oldstudents are Planning Board member Jim Lane and CHS Athletics Director Jack Fletcher.

As the mother of his latest success story heads away from the table, Taranto turns around, beaming.

“What was I talking about?What was I talking about?” he asks.

A life in education

Chelmsford schools, circa 1960. Classrooms were sparsely furnished with metal desks that swung open instead of tables, blackboards andchalk instead of whiteboards and markers and textbooks teachers read from as they taught lessons. Students wore uniforms, no one daredtalk during lunch, real bells sounded to end class — and college admissions officers were unimpressed by the acronym CHS.

There were fewer schools, fewer students and fewer complications, said Taranto, who remembers it all. Students still saw their teachers as un-approachable instructor figures who occasionally patrolled school dances to separate couples.

“That changed once they stopped requiring us to wear shirt and tie,That changed once they stopped requiring us to wear shirt and tie,” Taranto said.

Kids are much more relaxed around teachers now, he said, and will joke around in the classroom. Of course, the flip side is Taranto has seenchildren act out in ways students never dreamed of in his day.

Part of that is a larger social shift. Divorce rates have gone up and there’s more trouble at home. Drug use has become more common andT.V. shows more violent. Kids nowadays are dealing with more issues than they were before, Taranto said.

But then again, they’re getting more help. Teachers’ attitudes toward students have changed over the decades, as well, according to Taranto.Instead looking at a class and seeing rows of receptacles waiting to be filled with knowledge, teachers now pay attention to children’s socialand emotional needs.

Taranto remembers a kid in one of his classes who couldn’t sit still. His vocabulary lacking the term “Attention Deficit Disorder,Attention Deficit Disorder,” Tarantohad the student sit on an upside-down wastebasket by the door.

The School Committee, too, was a different entity altogether. Back then, it was the committee deciding whom to hire and fire – getting a teach-ing job was sometimes as simple as making a phone call to the right person. Taranto recalls the tension that would fill a classroom as a com-mittee member walked by.

Taranto approves of the current system giving the superintendent and the school principals more power. It takes the politics out of the pictureand keeps micromanagement from getting out of hand, Taranto said. Not to mention it’s allowed him to become chummy with some teachersand students – he has often been invited into classrooms to observe some new project.

To be sure, Taranto isn’t enthusiastic about some changes. The state has been handing down more mandates, he pointed out, while holdingeducation funding hostage. And he isn’t crazy about the rise of cyber-bullying, which he said gives kids the opportunity to pick on each otherthe second it occurs to them, wherever they are.

But with schools offering a greater variety of courses and more advanced levels, Chelmsford students are flourishing. New technology hasmade learning faster and richer – Taranto’s own granddaughter has downloaded images from the Internet, printed them out and finished theentire project while Taranto was still cutting pictures out of magazines.

The past survives as it informs the future. Many Chelmsford students have returned to serve the schools that helped raise them, such as CHSGuidance Director Carol Pilat, Parker Middle School Vice Principal Jeff Parks and CHS Principal Anne O’Bryant.

Taranto himself has gone back in time for answers to School Committee questions. When the suggestion was made to have one principal forChelmsford’s two middle schools, Taranto opposed it, recalling crises only a full-time principal could resolve. When the need for high schooldeans was called into question, Taranto defended his old job, remembering kids often came to him because he was there specifically for them.

Both these decisions boiled down to one thing.

“With complex issues, you need immediacy,With complex issues, you need immediacy,” Taranto said. “Students need to know they can go to someone directly. That’sStudents need to know they can go to someone directly. That’s

how you provide the perspective that’s needed. That’s how you connect and develop relationshipshow you provide the perspective that’s needed. That’s how you connect and develop relationships.”

Although he knows he’s leaving, Taranto will live in the moment for the rest of his time on the School Committee. He’ll continue playing the partof the wise, nostalgic old-timer, bringing his schoolroom experience to bear on the district’s present-day concerns – and, he hopes, bringing hispresent-day perspective back to those schoolrooms.

“I’d like to visit classes again,I’d like to visit classes again,” Taranto said. “Next time I’m invited by a teacher to see a new project or just to come in, I’llNext time I’m invited by a teacher to see a new project or just to come in, I’ll

be there. But not to say goodbye,be there. But not to say goodbye,” he added. “To say, ‘I’ll be seeing you guys.’To say, ‘I’ll be seeing you guys.’”

Copyright 2010 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

AngieAngie

TarantoTaranto

Page 28: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Chelmsford redistricting committee Chelmsford redistricting committee

set to get workingset to get working

By Monica Jimenez/staff writerGateHouse News Service

www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsfordJan 05, 2011

Chelmsford —

As the state legislative sessions begins, Chelmsford’s Legislative Redistricting Committee plans tomake Chelmsford’s voice heard on Beacon Hill.

In the past, the town has been treated as a whole district, along with a few precincts from adjacenttowns such as Carlisle or Tyngsboro. The redistricting 10 years ago marked the first time the town wasbroken into four different sections.

“We really got carved up,We really got carved up,” committee member Sam Poulten said.

Poulten said Chelmsford’s representation was diluted and he and the committee will do whatever ittakes to restore it. They’ll be looking at their representation both at the state and the federal level.

The state allots one representative for every 40,000 people. In December, the census results revealedChelmsford has 34,000 residents, not enough to qualify. Poulten said the committee plans to ask forone representative and if that isn’t possible, for two.

They committee has met with Chelmsford’s four representatives – Tom Golden, Cory Atkins, Jim Arcieroand David Nangle – and plan to meet with them again. Poulten said the representatives have been ex-tremely helpful and emphasized the committee is pleased with their service to Chelmsford; neverthe-less, they hesitate to gamble on being so lucky in the future.

The committee plans to go with Chelmsford’s representatives to Beacon Hill and directly address thepeople who will soon be responsible for redistricting the town. They also intend to meet with theChelmsford selectmen who were on the board during the last redistricting process 10 years ago to seewhat insights and advice they can offer.

The committee includes Democratic and Republican members, citizens and town officials – a good mix,according to Poulten. They’ve had two productive meetings so far, where they’ve pored over geographyand mathematics and received public input, and Poulten is pleased with their progress.

“We’re really doing our homework,We’re really doing our homework,” he said. He encouraged Chelmsford residents to attend their meetings.

How often will they convene as March approaches?

“As often as it takes,As often as it takes,” Poulten said. “We’ll meet every week ifWe’ll meet every week if

we have to.we have to.”

The committee’s next session will be in early January.

Copyright 2011 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Sam PoultenSam Poulten

Page 29: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Doubts raised about tow contractsDoubts raised about tow contractsBy Evan Lips, [email protected]

www.lowellsun.com12/31/2010

CHELMSFORD -- Town offi-cials plan to terminate theircontract with Ferreira's Towingafter four out of five trucksfailed a state inspectionWednesday.

Town Manager Paul Cohensaid yesterday he agrees withPolice Chief Jim Murphy's rec-ommendation to sever towingties with Ferreira's.

"There's a lack of confidence on mine and Chief Murphy's part following these failed inspections,There's a lack of confidence on mine and Chief Murphy's part following these failed inspections," he said.

Dick Mason, an operations manager for Ferreira's, said his company plans to fight the town's decision.

Ferreira's already had been suspended from town towing operations for 60 days following an Oct. 24 accident in which a Ferreira tow truck ruptured a gas line outside the Best Western Hotel at 168 Chelmsford St.

An investigation revealed that the truck had a defective parking brake and leaf-spring assembly, inoperable head lamps and license-plate lights, and that the driver did not possess a required medical certificate.

The 60-day suspension would have expired Monday.

Cohen said state police investigators discovered brake problems and fuel and oil leaks on four trucks. He added that three ofthe trucks failed due to "serious failures.serious failures."

Since the 60-day suspension began, Christopher's Towing has handled the town's towing jobs. Cohen said Christopher's willcontinue to handle the town's needs "for the foreseeable future.for the foreseeable future."

Ferreira's landed the town's three-year towing contract last May after bidding an unprecedented $90.25 pertow, the highest amount ever offered to a Massachusetts municipality. Christopher's, which had landed the town's previousthree-year contract, submitted a bid that checked in at $50.01 per tow.

Mason said yesterday that his company is held to a different standard. He also had a different take on Wednesday's inspection.

"First of all, they inspected six trucks, not five,First of all, they inspected six trucks, not five," he said. "And there were actually three trucks that passedAnd there were actually three trucks that passed

inspection, the same three trucks we use for Chelmsford jobs.inspection, the same three trucks we use for Chelmsford jobs."

Mason said the contract calls for having two conventional wrecker-style trucks and one flatbed truck available to the town. He said those three trucks passed.

"A couple trucks had brakes that needed adjustment, but I dare you to find any other trucking country A couple trucks had brakes that needed adjustment, but I dare you to find any other trucking country

that doesn't have that problem,that doesn't have that problem," he said.

Mason added that a fuel leak on one of the trucks was microscopic.

"I wish I could show it to you,I wish I could show it to you," he said.

Mason said another truck failed inspection because a wooden block used for parking was marked as an unsecured load.

"I'll stake my daughter's life on this -- for some reason, we're being held to a different level,I'll stake my daughter's life on this -- for some reason, we're being held to a different level," he said.

Christopher Ferreira, the owner of Christopher's Towing, said he doesn't know if his company will be covering the remainder of the three-year contract. But he said he thinks the inspections were fair.

"That's why they brought in the State Police,That's why they brought in the State Police," he said. "To have the inspections done by a separate entity.To have the inspections done by a separate entity."

Cohen said he and Murphy will recommend to the Board of Selectmen at its next meeting that it terminate the town's contractwith Ferreira's. The board will meet on Jan. 10.

Page 30: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Chelmsford kills towing contract after repeated violationsChelmsford kills towing contract after repeated violationsBy Rita Savard, [email protected]

www.lowellsun.com01/06/2011

CHELMSFORD -- Following a second round of failed safety checks by state police, and two citations for performing fraud-ulent motor-vehicle inspections, the town has officially terminated its three-year tow contract with Ferreira's Towing Inc.

Based on reports from the state police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Sec-tion, also known as the "truck team," and a recommendation from ChelmsfordPolice Chief James Murphy, the town pulled Ferreira's from the job and re-placed it with Christopher's Towing, which was named the alternate companylast May in case something went wrong with the primary contract holder.

Ferreira's had already received a 60-day suspension from towing operationsafter an Oct. 24 accident in which a Ferreira truck crashed into a wall at theBest Western Hotel and ruptured a gas line.

The state police truck team investigated Ferreira's tow fleet after that crashand found all of the vehicles had equipment and registration violations.

At that time, Town Manager Paul Cohen said he didn't believe the incident warranted termination of the company's three-year contract. But when vehicle inspectors returned last week, what they found prompted Cohen to change his mind.

"We were very surprised to see the vehicles fail inspection the second time around,We were very surprised to see the vehicles fail inspection the second time around," he said. "Public safety is always our top priority and we expected that they would take better care of Public safety is always our top priority and we expected that they would take better care of

their vehicles.their vehicles."

According to state police troopers, several of the violations discovered on Dec. 29 were problems that were not correctedfrom the previous inspection completed on Oct. 29.

Some of the violations cited included brake-system problems, drive-shaft problems, fuel/oil-tank leaks and a defective tire.

Of five trucks inspected, four were placed out of service, Murphy said.

Documents obtained from the Registry of Motor Vehicles also showed that Ferreira's has been charged on two separateoccasions, Oct. 20 and Oct. 28, with conducting improper inspections, Murphy added.

In one of the RMV reports, an investigator notes that on Oct. 20, Ferreira's conducted six commercial-vehicle inspectionsin 33 minutes, placing an "unlikelyunlikely" average time frame of five minutes for checking each vehicle.

A hearing is pending for those citations.

Ferreira's also recently inspected and passed six Department of Public Works trucks that had expired inspection stickers,finding no problems on any of the vehicles.

Cohen said he had no reason to think those inspections were conducted improperly, adding that town mechanics alsocheck town-owned vehicles.

"We wouldn't put our own drivers or the public at any risk,We wouldn't put our own drivers or the public at any risk," Cohen said.

Dick Mason, an operations manager at Ferreira's, previously told a Sun reporter his company plans to fight the town's de-cision. Mason said three of the company's trucks passed inspections and those vehicles were being used for Chelmsfordtows.

"A couple trucks had brakes that needed adjustment, but I dare you to find any other trucking companyA couple trucks had brakes that needed adjustment, but I dare you to find any other trucking company

that doesn't have that problem,that doesn't have that problem," he said.

Ferreira's was awarded the contract last May after bidding an unprecedented $90.25 per tow, the most ever offered to aMassachusetts municipality. Christopher's Towing, which previously held the town's three-year contract, offered the sec-ond-highest bid of $50.01 per tow.

The change in contract holder will also mean a change in amounts per tow, falling back on Christopher's bid of $50.01.

Ferreira's will take up the issue with selectmen Monday night during their regularly scheduled meeting at 7 p.m., at 50 Billerica Road.

But Cohen said the decision is final.

"The terms of the contract have been broken,The terms of the contract have been broken," Cohen said."We gave them a second chance, but they failed inspections again. We gave them a second chance, but they failed inspections again.

There's not much more to say than thatThere's not much more to say than that."

Page 31: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

ASK THE MANAGERASK THE MANAGER

In-Town Report : In-Town Report :

At the last "special" Town Meeting the town At the last "special" Town Meeting the town

was promised monthly updates from the sewer was promised monthly updates from the sewer

commissioner. Are the updates in writing or just commissioner. Are the updates in writing or just

verbal? Are the updates to the Selectmen so there verbal? Are the updates to the Selectmen so there

is a video record of the updates?is a video record of the updates?

PAUL COHEN :

Town Accountant Darlene Lussier provided the attached (CLICK HERECLICK HERE) monthly financial update on the sewer project at the end of November. Her December reportwill be issued soon. Due to the winter conditions, there is no activity of note takingplace on the sewer projects. Therefore, there is essentially no significant news to report since the time of the Special Town Meeting, which explains why there has beenno formal presentation to the Board of Selectmen. This will all change come the spring time.

In-Town Report : In-Town Report :

If the Sewer Commission once again comes up short on cash before the projectIf the Sewer Commission once again comes up short on cash before the project

is finished, what is the bare minimum price tag that wouldis finished, what is the bare minimum price tag that would

require Town Meeting to approve the money? In other words if they are shortrequire Town Meeting to approve the money? In other words if they are short

$500 would it require Town Meeting? If they are short $5000?$500 would it require Town Meeting? If they are short $5000?

$20,0000? You get the picture. $20,0000? You get the picture.

PAUL COHEN :

Any request for any additional funding would need to come before Town Meeting. At this point, I have not seen any evidence that such a need would arise.

Town ManagerTown Manager

PaulPaulCohenCohen

Page 32: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Finance Committee pondersFinance Committee pondersgoing on the airgoing on the air

Kevin Zimmerman/Staff Reporter • Thu, Jan 06, 2011www.chelmsfordmassnews.com

The Finance Committee will take the next few weeks to decide if it's ready for its close-up.

Before the holidays, Chairman Mary Frantz polled board members on what they thought about televising

their meetings on Chelmsford TeleMedia.

Members' reviews were decidedly mixed when they discussed the issue Thursday night.

Although a few questioned whether anyone would watch, other Finance Committee members wondered

why the board would go public.

"What is the benefit of being televised?What is the benefit of being televised?" asked Finance Committee member Donald Van Dyne.

"Is it going to increase public input? Increase education?Is it going to increase public input? Increase education?"

Van Dyne said it made sense for elected boards to conduct all business on camera but it wasn’t sure they

same proved true for officials appointed to serve.

Frantz suggested televising meetings would mostly serve to provide Town Meeting representatives and

other residents a lot more background on why the Finance Committee makes its recommendations.

"There are times when it would help people to know whence our decisions come,There are times when it would help people to know whence our decisions come," said

Frantz.

In particularly, the recent Sewer Commission hearing held prior to November’s special Town Meeting that

appropriated more funding for the project would have benefited from an airing, said Frantz.

"It would have been helpful if people had seen the scrutiny we put them through,It would have been helpful if people had seen the scrutiny we put them through," she said.

Frantz first brought up the issue after she attended a municipal conference and discovered plenty of Mas-

sachusetts towns broadcast Finance Committee meetings for residents on local access.

Currently, only Room 205 at the Town Office Building is equipped with cameras but that is about to

change. TeleMedia plans to upgrade those cameras and has recommended moving the older ones into

Room 204, where the Finance Committee meets.

Although only one municipal meeting could be shown live, the other would be taped for airing later.

Board of Selectmen member Jon Kurland, who attended Thursday's meeting, suggested some of the

hearings the committee holds with department heads would be interesting to residents.

The Finance Committee opted not to commit to anything just yet.

"Let's just wait until there are cameras,"Let's just wait until there are cameras," said Frantz. "It is still our decision.It is still our decision."

Page 33: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

WHO LET THE DOGS OUT! WHO LET THE DOGS OUT!

WHO, WHO, WHO!WHO, WHO, WHO!

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

Open Space Steward: Open Space Steward:

Being clear on leash lawsBeing clear on leash laws

By Joanne Stanway / correspondentGateHouse News Service

www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/opinionsJan 06, 2011

Chelmsford —It’s been a ruff couple of days. My husband Phil, Jerry the Open Space Dog and I are in the doghouse. My attempt lastweek to write a light chronicle of Jerry’s adventures running along the open space trails, sitting in streams and gettingmuddy may have come across as a disregard for the leash law in town which was not my intention. So, with my tail be-tween my legs, I want to make sure readers know that leashes are required for all dogs at all times — for their safety andthe safety of others. Specifically, “No owner or keeper of any dog shall permit such dog to run at large at any time.”

My interpretation of “run at large” is that I open the door every morning before going to work to let Jerry out and say, “ByeJerry, have fun with the other puppies today. Be good. See you tonight.” Obviously that’s not what I do and that is not themeaning of the phrase. We do respect that, however it is a gray area based on interpretation. That didn’t stop Phil fromrunning to Town Hall Monday morning to update Jerry’s dog license lest it be refused (and he made like John Belushifrom the movie“Animal House” dodging behind cars when he saw Animal Control Officer Eric Merrill out in the parking lot.)

Inadvertently, my column caused a flurry of questions and concerns about the use of conservation and open space land,the future of the proposed Dog Park, safety on the Rail Trail and the possible need to change the Town Bylaws becauseof dogs running amuck. I was just writing with the image of my fluffy, tan and white dog running through the meadow hap-pily with a big puppy smile on his face.

Jerry spends between six to eight hours outside each weekend day as a mascot of sorts for the Chelmsford Open SpaceStewardship, keeping an eye on progress at work parties, sniffing out teen party spots, and pointing out irregularities onthe trails. We feel like we can’t take Jerry to all the tempting, wooded, interesting sites and tie him up to a tree the entiretime – it doesn’t seem fair, which is why we’ve let him run around early in the morning with his leash at the ready. He al-ways comes to us when we call. And, you can’t play fetch on a leash. Under these circumstances, is he really “at large?”Please know that Jerry doesn’t get a pass or special consideration because he’s a “Steward” – he’s just a dog.

For the record, Jerry is on his leash at all times in our yard. We tried early on to let him run and play freely, but a squirrel,chipmunk or butterfly would always catch his eye and he’d be off like a rocket through the woods toward Westford Streetor across Lantern Lane to say “hello” (in a loud barky way) to our neighbors.

In all seriousness, there are 4,000 dogs in the Town of Chelmsford - and the leash law must be respected. The heart ofthe regulation really is to keep our canines safe so they don’t get hit by cars, lost, stolen, bitten or otherwise hurt. Oh yea,and the law also protects residents from those few dogs that might not be as friendly as my Jerry.

And, it should also be known that whenever COSS looks at prospective open space sites, we always consider it first foragriculture, then as a possible Dog Park – both a section of Sunny Meadow Farm and the new Roberts Field Park havebeen offered – then as open space land. We respect the efforts of the Chelmsford Dog Park Association who have beenworking hard for almost two years to raise money and create an authorized, fun place for dogs to run freely. Thanks alsogo out to Officer Merrill who cares for the safety of all animals 24/7.

My contact information is below and I am always happy to discuss points made in my columns. I have no ulterior motiveexcept to write about COSS in a light, sometimes funny (also up for interpretation) and informative way. I can only hopethat this column clears up any misunderstandings and that I am not referred to as the word commonly used to describe afemale dog.

Joanne Stanway can be reached at 978-273-1473 or [email protected]. Information about the Chelmsford OpenSpace Stewardship can be found at www.thechelmsfordian.com and on facebook.

Copyright 2011 Chelmsford Independent. Some rights reserved

Page 34: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Town election season opens in ChelmsfordTown election season opens in ChelmsfordBy Rita Savard, [email protected]

01/08/2011 www.lowellsun.com

CHELMSFORD -- Nomination papers are available for town offices and this year's electionpromises to bring some changes, with several officials bowing out of races.

In November, Eric Dahlberg said his first term would be his last, leaving one, three-year seaton the Board of Selectmen open without an incumbent to battle.

Two seats are also up for grabs on the School Committee. Long-time member Angelo Taranto announced last year that he wouldn't seek a fifth term.

School Committee Chair Kathy Duffett told The Sun that she was still deciding whether tothrow her hat into the ring for another term.

Duffett said she was "thrilledthrilled" to see retired Chelmsford High School Principal Al Thomas pull papers for one of the seats.

"I think he would make an excellent addition to the School Committee,I think he would make an excellent addition to the School Committee," Duffett said.

After holding the town moderator seat for 30 years, Dennis McHugh also announced last yearthat it was time for him to step down.

Two more seats are open on the Planning Board, including Jim Lane's, who has already saidhe will not seek re-election after four years of service.

Other open seats include the Cemetery Commission (1), Board of Health (1), Housing Author-ity (1), Library Trustee (3) and Sewer Commission (2).

Openings for Town Meeting representatives can also be found in each of the town's nineprecincts.

All nominations papers must be returned by Feb. 15 at 5 p.m.

Fifty signatures from registered Chelmsford voters are required for elected boards and com-missions, and 25 signatures are required for Town Meeting seats. The clerk's office recom-mends obtaining at least 10 signatures beyond the minimum.

The last day to register to vote in the April 5 election is Wednesday, March 15.

For more information and to view who is running for town offices, visit www.townofchelmsford.us, and click on voter/election information.

Page 35: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

EXTRA EXTRA ExtrasExtras

Submitted by Mary Patricia Westcott Submitted by Mary Patricia Westcott

Volunteer of publicity at COA ChelmsfordVolunteer of publicity at COA Chelmsford

Tommy Rull, singer/entertainer: A Musical Journey Thourgh the YearTommy Rull, singer/entertainer: A Musical Journey Thourgh the Year

FREEFREE , January 12, 1-2 pm Chelmsford Senior Center, , January 12, 1-2 pm Chelmsford Senior Center,

75 Groton Rd. N Chelmsford,75 Groton Rd. N Chelmsford,

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

FREEFREE Glucose Screening, Thursday, January 20 from 10-2Glucose Screening, Thursday, January 20 from 10-2

REGISTER at 978-251-0533REGISTER at 978-251-0533

Chelmsford Senior CenterChelmsford Senior Center

75 Groton Road, N. Chelmsford, MA 0186375 Groton Road, N. Chelmsford, MA 01863

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Diabetic Support Group, Last Thursday of Every Month, 6:30-8 pm,Diabetic Support Group, Last Thursday of Every Month, 6:30-8 pm,

Chelmsford Senior Center, 75 Groton Road, N. Chelmsford, MA 01863Chelmsford Senior Center, 75 Groton Road, N. Chelmsford, MA 01863

_____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________

Circuit Breaker Law Explained: Join Senator Susan Fargo and BrianCircuit Breaker Law Explained: Join Senator Susan Fargo and Brian

Lunch from the Dept. of Revenue, Thursday, February 3 at 10 am. Lunch from the Dept. of Revenue, Thursday, February 3 at 10 am.

FREEFREE Coffee and Donuts at the Chelmsford Senior Center, Coffee and Donuts at the Chelmsford Senior Center,

75 Groton Road, N. Chelmsford, MA 0186375 Groton Road, N. Chelmsford, MA 01863

Page 36: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

Support Our Town CoffeeSupport Our Town Coffee

with ChelmsfordChelmsford Patch Patch and Tom Christiano

Free Free coffee,

Free Free mugs,

Free Free totes, raffles,

conversation, gossip, and more!

Stop by to meet the faces behindChelmsford Patch and enjoy amorning together with Chelmsfordresidents.

All areAll are

invited!invited!Time: WednesTime: Wednes--

day, January 12 ·day, January 12 ·

8:00am - 10:00am8:00am - 10:00am

Location:Location:

TheJava Room TheJava Room These "Support Our Town Coffee" events are organized primarily to show ourThese "Support Our Town Coffee" events are organized primarily to show our

support for our local small businesses and to informally talk with some of oursupport for our local small businesses and to informally talk with some of our

political leaders and representatives about ways we can improve our town. political leaders and representatives about ways we can improve our town.

Page 37: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

WINTERFEST 2011Friday, February 4, 2011Friday, February 4, 2011

5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. - Friday Night Lights: Night Snow Shoeing at Russell Mill Forest (waiting for details to be confirmed)

Join The Chelmsford Open Space Stewards and New England Mountain Bike Assoc for a special edition of "Friday Night Lights". We meet at themain parking lot of Russell Mill Soccer Fields at 5:30 pm and explore the over 6 miles of snowshoe trails on the 120 acres of town conservation landthat stretches along Russell Mill Pond. Groups are broken up by ability from slow enjoyable walks to ones that will give even the best athletes a chal-lenge. Hot Chocolate and light snacks will be waiting in the parking lot when groups return. You need to bring your own snowshoes and a night head-lamp. Like all Chelmsford Open Space events, its is free and family friendly.7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. - WinterFest Social at the Chelmsford Library: "Let the Games Begin"

This annual WinterFest social is also the kick-off for One Book Chelmsford community reading campaign. This year the Library will present anEvening Social; local restaurants and bakeries will provide delicious sweet and savory finger foods. Harrington's Wines & Liquors will offer dessertwines for tastings. Beer and wine will also be available for purchase. Coffee, tea and soft drinks and light refreshments will be served. $10 per person

donation. 

Saturday, February 5, 2011Saturday, February 5, 2011

For More CLICK HERECLICK HERE

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

What's Coming Up at the CCA...

Jan. 22 - Premiere of Fred Barzyk's "The Journey", 7 pm

Feb. 5 & 6 - WinterFest Photo Exhibit in CCA Gallery

Feb. 5 - "Music of the Gas Light Era" with John Root,2pm

Feb. 12 - The Wendee Glick Quartet, 7:30 pm

Feb. 13 - Illumination Opera Presents: Opera Scenes, a galacelebration 3:00 pm

Page 38: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

So Long To Ya, 2010 So Long To Ya, 2010 The JibJab 2010 Year in Review!

CLICKCLICK

HEREHERE

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

A New Year's resolution is

something that goes in one year

and out the other. ~Author Unknown~Author Unknown

Page 39: Chelmsford's In-Town Report  - 1-9-11

If you have any comments on the If you have any comments on the In-Town Report In-Town Report drop me a line atdrop me a line at

[email protected]@gmail.com

In-Town Report News Links:

LOWELL SUN

CHELMSFORD INDEPENDENT

CHELMSFORDMASSNEWS.COM

CHELMSFORD PATCH

ROY EARLEYROY EARLEYTown Meeting Representative Precinct 6Town Meeting Representative Precinct 6In-Town ReportWestlands Watchdogs

ITRITR on FACEBOOK link