Chelmsford's In-Town Report: 11-24-13

7th Annual Day Before Thanksgiving Walk to Take Place November 27th

The 7th Annual Day Before Thanksgiving Walk will take place Wednesday, November 27th at 2 p.m. at Thanksgiving Forest in Chelmsford. This popular family event was the first event created by the Chelmsford Open Space Stewardship to help build awareness of our town’s open space sites.

Participants need to gather at the Janet Road entrance to Thanksgiving Forest by 2 p.m. to take part in a guided (less than) one mile walk through the woods to a well-known natural rock outcropping. There, you can enjoy a fire, cookies and hot chocolate as well as some local history by historian Becky Warren. Boy Scout Troop 74 once again is helping to sponsor the event along with local talk show host Tom Christiano.

People who need to take advantage of an easy shortcut can meet at the Gary Road entrance to the Forest at 2:15 p.m. Please dress for weather and wear proper shoes for being out in the woods. The walk will take place rain or shine (unless it’s a downpour.) The event is free and everyone is welcome, so take a break from baking pies and attend!. For more information, contact Joanne Stanway at [email protected] or 978-273-1473.

CHELMSFORD OPEN SPACE STEWARD: Kudos for community gardens

By Joanne Stanway/[email protected]

Wicked Local ChelmsfordPosted Nov 22, 2013 @ 08:18 AM

http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/x919108214/CHELMSFORD-OPEN-SPACE-STEWARD-Kudos-for-community-gardens?zc_p=0

Chelmsford —As I wrote this week’s column, I saw I had an email from an intern at Medford's Office of Energy and Environment inquiring about Chelmsford’s community gardens. It looks like they are researching different community garden models in advance of building one, and want to determine which is the best model for a community garden’s relationship to the city and for management.

I’m fascinated by this – first because they reached out to me, and second because I need to figure out how to answer the inquiry.

The model we have in Chelmsford with our four community gardens – three at Sunny Meadow Farm and one at Wotton Street in North Chelmsford – is unique. Spearheaded and managed by the Chelmsford Open Space Stewardship and many, many community volunteers and local businesses, the gardens are under the guidance of the town manager and the Board of Selectman because the gardens sit on town-owned land under their purview. This has worked pretty successfully since we created the first garden in 2009. I’m not certain what we have can be duplicated in other communities simply because of the COSS volunteer structure, our close ties with businesses and Scout groups, our extremely involved battalion of gardeners, and the willingness of town officials to let us take this ball and run with it. Still, it’s flattering to be asked, so I’ll let you know what I come up with.

This coming Sunday, Nov. 24 beginning at 9 a.m., we’ll be clearing trails at Thanksgiving Forest to get the site ready for the COSS seventh annual Day Before Thanksgiving Walk the following Wednesday. The Conservation Commission already did a nice job leaf blowing the rocks and area where we will have our fire, as well as the spot where we will set up our refreshment tables – thank you! On Sunday we will clear the trails from Janet Road and Gary Road to the rock outcropping where we will congregate for some history and goodies. We will also do a trash sweep so everything in hunky dory for one of my favorite COSS events. Phil Stanway has walked the site using his new mobile app called MapMyWalk, so if you are interested in viewing the route, visit www.facebook.com/ChelmsfordOSS.The details of the Day Before Thanksgiving Walk are that it starts at 2 p.m. the day before turkey day. People can gather at either the Janet Road or the Gary Road entrance for a short walk to the rocks. Historian Becky Warren will share some local lore, and Boy Scout Troop 74 will provide refreshments. It’s a wonderful break from cleaning the house and baking pies, so please join us.

This past weekend, some additional work was done on our greenhouse project at Sunny Meadow. Farmer Phil Jones and his crew did some great work, and we went through and added some special clamps and connectors between the wood and metal framing. Steward extraordinaire Jim Tribou is making sure the greenhouse is sound enough for extreme weather since this is where we will store our equipment during the winter months.

Once again, our engineering Steward Mike Riley swung by Sunny Meadow to see what was going on and was recruited for an assignment – transporting the Santa Shack to the Town Common in advance of the Holiday Prelude and tree lighting. Phil grabbed him by the arm, and then asked the Scouts working on the irrigation system if they’d like to "save Christmas."

Then he "recruited" gardener Jamie Dergay, who was trying to enjoy a walk down the street. Needless to say, everyone lent a hand to load the shack pieces onto Mike’s truck for the ride. At Town Common, Phil even recruited a complete stranger who was walking by to help unload it (thank you, complete stranger).

Despite the brief interruption, Eagle Scout candidate Stephen Kender and his crew made some good progress on the irrigation system they are constructing for the plant nursery. It’s actually pretty cool because the pipes between the plants can be disconnected so we can uproot, divide and/or weed as necessary. Stephen also used white tubing so the pipes will heat at a higher temperature to help burn algae and prevent clogging. Smart. Stephen said he would tweak the irrigation system in the spring to make sure it’s perfect. Has also has committed to keeping an eye on it for us.

Steward and Land Conservation Trust honcho Ken Dews spent about six hours cutting Proctor Pasture to get it ready for winter and to reduce the tick population. COSS has promised to lend a hand for spring cleaning of the pasture when the time comes. I even personally operated a sickle bar cutter at Proctor one time – lucky I didn’t lose a foot! Maybe I’ll do it again.

For anyone who is interested, we have at least two Eagle Scout projects up our sleeves at Sunny Meadow Farm. To learn more, contact Phil at [email protected].

Cool Eagle Scout project close to done.

Affordable housing plan debate to continue in Chelmsford

By Molly Loughman/ Wicked Local Staff ReporterChelmsford Independent

Posted Nov 13, 2013 @ 01:36 PMhttp://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/x1275642276/Affordable-housing-plan-debate-to-continue-in-Chelmsford

Chelmsford —Debate concerning a proposed 40B affordable housing project at 276 Mill Road was tabled after the Zoning Board of Appeals voted to resume public input at its next meeting Dec. 5.

A roomful of residents filled the ZBA’s meeting room last Thursday, when developer Hancock Associates presented the project’s background and layout details on behalf of the applicant, Princeton Properties Management, Inc., of Lowell. After, board members briefly asked questions before several neighbors voiced their strong opposition to a comprehensive permit for 120 rental units in three buildings at the undeveloped 4.86-acre parcel.

The state’s chapter 40B law allows developers of affordable housing to skirt certain zoning restrictions and other local regulations if a municipality’s affordable housing percentage is below 10 percent.

Princeton Properties principal director of engineering for Hancock Associates Joe Peznola delivered an update on the project. The project’s engineer, an attorney for Princeton Properties and a company vice president accompanied him. Peznola said he thinks the team and landowner understand Chelmsford. Unique topography issues were a challenge for the industrial zoning at the 276 Mill Road location, he said.

"Mill Road was deemed appropriate for high-density multifamily at 11 units or plus an acre," said Peznola, referring to Chelmsford's 2011 affordable housing master plan, which examined affordable housing project locations, including three privately-owned parcels on Mill Road. These require land assembly to maximize plan production by a 40B or local zoning action, he added.

Peznola noted rezoning to a moderate multifamily district is recommended to achieve the 120 rental units, consisting of one and two bedrooms. Princeton Properties owns and manages over 5,000 rental units within a two-hour radius of the Chelmsford-Lowell area, he said, explaining it understands the housing market. Twenty-percent of the proposed units would be offered to people with low-to- moderate incomes. The remaining 80 percent would be market rate units. Rent would range from $880 to $2,150 a month.

Peznola put the site into context by summarizing its isolated location and the area’s topographic elevation, which posed challenges for the site’s design. Most businesses surrounding the wooded buffered area are manufacturing with parking lots, not open operation areas, he added, calling it a "compatible spot."

The proposed 120-unit project would be 51 percent one-bedroom apartments and 49 percent two-bedrooms, said Peznola, explaining it as a reflection of today’s market demand. A steep driveway would lead to a clubhouse and pool at the entrance of the grounds, with maintenance located at the lower level.

The first building would have 36 units, with parking in front. Two sub-parking lots would lead to building two, which would have an underground 36-space parking lot. The fourth building would be four stories with 48 units, also with underground parking. A gated emergency entrance way would be located toward the back of the property.

Storm water would be routed primarily underground. Sewer connections would go to Mill Road’s pump station. The area would be serviced by Chelmsford Water District, with a water main looped through the site. Peznola also provided board members with findings from a traffic analysis.

After, board members briefly asked questions before ZBA member Paul Haverty read aloud letters of support and disapproval from the planning board, fire and police departments, water district, Board of Health, Conservation Commission and DPW. The Board of Health and Planning Board expressed notable concerns.

"Our master plan is quite clear when we made this industrial," said Vincent Road resident Bill Martin during the public input period. He and others said they agree with affordable housing in town, but only at fitting sites.

"It’s industrial, it’s chemicals, it’s manufacturing. It’s not conducive to commercial, retail and certainly not conducive to residential. It’s absurd…. This site was at the bottom of the plan. There are dozens ahead of it more appropriate," he said.

Planning Board alternate and Town Meeting member Jeff Apostolakes summarized what he claimed are the project’s flaws. They include significant safety issues pertaining to the blind corner entering Mill Road from Turnpike Road causing increased traffic issues. He also covered the overall impact to a steep and winding road dealing with hazardous site lines. The lack of playground and amenities for children was also major concern, along with pedestrian safety. A disruptive blasting effect, especially with lots of area ledge, is also a concern, said Apostolakes, who received applause after he concluded.

Town Meeting member Maria Karafelis, who grew up near Mill Road, said building 30-plus units per acre shouldn’t be considered a low-to-medium density district, especially with no play area for children.

"We understand the need for the project… This site doesn’t make sense… There are other possibilities that have inventive solutions," said Town Meeting member Bill Griffin, of Bishop Street, who suggested a solar farm instead. "We really do want you to understand why we’re so concerned about this project."

The board agreed to plan a public site visit through the property Saturday, Nov. 16 at 9 a.m. On Thursday Dec. 5, the ZBA will resume public discussion on the plan before voting.

Methadone clinic: City ZBA 'sandbagged' agreementBy Lisa Redmond and Lyle Moran, [email protected] [email protected]

UPDATED:   11/20/2013 10:14:11 AM ESTLowell Sun

http://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_24560975/methadone-clinic-city-zba-sandbagging

BOSTON -- The company operating Lowell's lone methadone clinic and the city recently developed an "agreement in principle" to settle two cases the clinic operator filed against Lowell and its Zoning Board of Appeals for rejecting Habit OpCo's plan to move to a new location near the Chelmsford line.

But an attorney for Habit OpCo has accused some members of the five-member ZBA of scuttling the deal, which he says could prompt a public-health crisis in the city.

"Unfortunately, now that certain defendant members of the Zoning Board recently sandbagged what was reported to be the formality of 'official ratification' of the settlement ... all of the time spent attempting to prevent it has proven wasted and a public-health emergency looms this spring," David Klebanoff, an attorney representing Habit OpCo, wrote in a recent federal-court filing.

ZBA Vice Chairman Corey Belanger said he disagreed with the characterization of the ZBA's actions by Habit OpCo's attorney, though he could not comment on the specifics of any closed-door settlement talks.

"I have not strayed from my original concerns about public safety and transportation at the proposed new site, and they have not been satisfied," Belanger said. "I've stayed consistent."

ZBA Chairman William Bailey did not respond to a request for comment.

City Solicitor Christine O'Connor declined to comment specifically on the assertions by Habit OpCo's attorney or address any settlement talks between the two sides.

"Any discussions or attempts at resolution are intended to be confidential," O'Connor said. "If such efforts take place, the city respects the confidentiality of those discussions."

The ZBA has held several executive sessions in recent months about the methadone-clinic litigation, sources have told The Sun.

In a Nov. 5 court filing, Assistant City Solicitor Kenneth Rossetti wrote, "The parties, operating through their respective legal counsel, have put together an agreement in principle to resolve both this pending case and the related litigation in Massachusetts Land Court."

Rossetti also wrote that the "agreement in principle is still subject to official ratification on each side" and requested that a Nov. 6 court hearing be rescheduled "as the parties are nearing completion of settling their differences."

The city has requested a hearing Thursday before U.S. District Court George O'Toole Jr. to decide on its motion to "stay" or put on hold the federal case, pending resolution of the case in Land Court.

The medical director for Habit OpCo has submitted an affidavit warning Lowell officials will create a "public-health emergency'' if they trigger the clinic's closure.

"Termination of the medication-assisted program for opiate dependence in Lowell and the region it serves will undoubtedly create a public-health emergency and result in unnecessary death...,'' Habit OpCo Medical Director Dr. Wayne E. Pasanen wrote in his nine-page affidavit filed Monday in U.S. District Court.

While Habit OpCo remains open at its Wannalancit Mills location long past the end of its lease on Sept. 30, the facility doesn't know how long it can stay.

A new location off Stedman Street was chosen, but the ZBA denied the necessary permit that would allow the clinic to relocate.

Without a new location, the clinic could be forced to close after 26 years, Pasanen writes.

Habit OpCo has filed two lawsuits against the city related to a rejection by the city for the permits to relocate to the proposed site off Stedman Street near the Chelmsford town line.

Follow Lisa Redmond on Tout and Twitter@lredmond13_lisa. Follow Moran on Twitter @lylemoran.

ITR FACEBoOK CHATTER

Debbie Dery There is a building on Technology Drive that would serve this clinic better than the Stedman Street location. There are sidewalks, parking and there is bus service that patients could take with their children. It has been for lease for months and I don't understand why the owners of the clinic have not looked into this property. They are a for profit organization so maybe they should reduce their profits for the safety of all concerned.

Christine Olenchak Ralls The city should be partnering with the company to find a mutually agreeable location. This is an important clinic for many families and it can keep a loved one from death. People need to wake up and understand that addiction is a disease and people who suffer from it are not second class citizens. They are children, brothers/sisters, parents and spouses - human beings. It does not matter where the clinic is located, it matters that it is available to residents who need its services. This "not in my neighborhood" mentality is ridiculous. It is a horrible idea to have a high school in the middle of downtown with all the kids jaywalking and loitering - yet that stays. If this clinic closes your crime rate will skyrocket and that is a fact. Be part of the solution and not the problem people.

Sherry Skinner Technology Drive is just off Drum Hill in Chelmsford where an Alzheimer's facility, a 55+ community, apartment building, Lowell General satellite building, and a few companies are located. The clinic wants to remain in Lowell. The Stedman St. location was a great option but Lowell buckled to the pressure from Chelmsford. So tell me, where do you think the best location is now?

Paul Haverty To be fair, it seems that the best option was in downtown Lowell, as that was the spot most easily accessed by the majority of the patients. The impetus for the move appeared to be the result of the City of Lowell not wanting an undesirable use in the dowtown.

Debbie Dery You are right Paul. I did attend the meetings and what I learned was that there are mothers pushing baby carriages, people are dropped off while the people that drove them there circle around because of the lack of parking. The majority of the patients are from Lowell and the property that I am referring to is in the downtown Lowell. There is no bus service to the Stedman Street proposed facility, no sidewalks and one of the busiest roads in Chelmsford. The hours of operation is from 6:00-2:00 daily. There are more than 500 patients per day using the current facility. Sherry I'd like you to sit on Stedman Street for one morning and than imagine more 500 cars and people walking with children on this road with no sidewalks, snow piled high, no lights to enter or exit, trucks and cars that drive about 45 MPH until the traffic comes to a complete stop. It is a safety issue. There are homes with residents from Lowell and Chelmsford that live in the Stedman Street area. The closest bus stop is at Smith Street at our elderly housing and on Westford Street in Lowell. I can't imagine patients with children walking up the steep grade with carriages without sidewalks. It's just plain dangerous.

Paul Haverty For the record, the concern I have with the potential settlement between the applicant and the Lowell Board of Appeals, is the potential that it simply acts to grant the variance requested by the applicant. If this occurs, rather than a remand back to the Board to issue the variance, abutters could be denied their rights to an appeal of the grant of the variance.

Laurie Myers Maybe that's the reason for the "settlement". Ridiculous!

Paul Haverty That is what struck me Laurie. I know that if I were representing the applicant, I would be trying to avoid a trip back to the board, which would open up appeal routes to the abutters. I imagine the applicant here is seeking the same result. I have no idea whether the City would be willing to do so, or whether the Court would allow it (the Land Court would almost certainly require a remand to provide the opportunity for abutters to appeal the grant of the variance).

Debbie Dery Do you think the University might be helping to push this along? I think your right Paul but they have to go some where and why would they want to open the can of worms again? They do provide a service but I still say there has to be a better location that will service the majority of their clients without the dangers they will be faced with on a daily basis. Earlier today it was mentioned that there is a company relocating to Chelmsford from the Wannalancit Mills. Maybe they are the only tenant that is preventing the University from completing their plans.

Capping of Chelmsford landfill to beginBy Grant Welker, [email protected]

UPDATED:   11/17/2013 11:17:01 AM ESTLowell Sun

http://www.lowellsun.com/news/ci_24541778/capping-chelmsford-landfill-begin?source=rss_viewed

CHELMSFORD -- Work will soon restart on capping the long-dormant Glenview landfill just east of Drum Hill after a delay of years, requiring an estimated 21,000 truck trips to bring enough soil to raise the height of the landfill nearly 50 feet.

Town officials, who were given details of the plan earlier this month, expressed concern about both the amount of traffic that will be added to a congested area, and how visible the taller landfill will be to neighbors.

"The odds are not favorable that nothing will happen in 21,000 trips," Selectman James Lane said in a recent meeting with an official whose company will oversee the project.

The landfill is privately owned. This means the town does not have control over the project, including requesting police details or other measures to ensure that each of those truck trips are made without incident.

The town will still work to ensure as little effect on roadways, Town Manager Paul Cohen said. But the town's immediate goal is to make sure the landfill is capped this time.

"Everyone's goal is to get the landfill capped properly," he said.

Trucks filled with soil, which will pass through on average at least every 10 minutes during weekday business hours, are expected to take Drum Hill Road to an entrance to the site roughly across from the entrance to Technology Drive.

"That's a terribly congested area to begin with," Selectman George Dixon said. Cohen expressed concern especially about left turns out of the site, which are difficult to nagivate even without driving a large dump truck.

The state-mandated project could finally provide the town with nearly $400,000 in back taxes owned on the property from the former owner. The current owner, Sandbanks LLC, has proposed a payment plan for the back taxes, Cohen said.

A new cap will be placed on the Glenview Landfill in Chelmsford (SUN/ David H. Brow)

Sandbanks LLC bought the 30-acre property in 2011. The previous owner, listed as Perry Kasner, got 60 percent through capping the landfill about a decade ago using materials dug up by the Big Dig project in Boston, said Bruce Haskell, a vice president for the engineering firm CDM Smith.

But the project was then abandoned, and the Department of Environmental Protection has said the site no longer meets its environmental standards. It has required the property, bordered by Steadman Street, Drum Hill Road and Route 3, to be properly capped and closed.

The current cap has been damaged over the years by wind, fire and erosion, Haskell said.

Chelmsford recorded a tax lien on the property in 2005 but did not foreclose because it would have assumed any liability for remediation costs, town Finance Director John Sousa said. Sandbanks LLC did not return a call seeking comment Friday.

The landfill will be raised by about 50 feet not for environmental reasons but because it will allow for bringing in enough soil, which contractors pay to dispose, to help pay for the project.

In its application, CDM Smith said it will cap the landfill with 420,000 cubic yards, or more than 67,000 tons, of soil.

The Glenview landfill, which has an elevation of about 164 feet, will not be as tall as the neighboring Lowell landfill, Haskell said. The estimated elevation at the completion of the project is about 210 feet.

Town Engineer Stephen Jahnle raised concerns about the number of truck trips that will be required to bring in so much soil, as well as how visible the higher peak will be.

"I think it will be pretty visible down Drum Hill Road and possibly some parts of Old Westford and Davis roads," he said in an email to town officials last month.

Engineers for the project are expected to create renderings of what the taller landfill will look like from nearby vantage points.

Engineers said they also could ultimately fill in an area between the Chelmsford and Lowell landfills, which could allow for more space for solar panels or other uses. Lowell was interested in that potential, they said in their application, because it could provide more revenue for the city, which has added 6,000 panels to its landfill.

The 1.5-megawatt Lowell project is estimated to give the city revenues of $1.5 million to $2.5 million over the 20-year life of the contract. The city purchases at a discounted rate the energy produced by the solar panels.

Capping the Chelmsford landfill, which could also eventually be used for solar energy, is "still in a very conceptual phase," Haskell told selectmen.

Safety measures such as police details aren't planned, but similar projects don't typically include much spillage of material, Haskell said. A long access road to the site from Westford Street in Lowell will allow for truck-washing facilities to ensure all materials stay on the site, he said.

The project is expected to cost more than $7.5 million, according to the project application. Most of the project cost will be covered by fees contractors pay of roughly $11 per ton to get rid of soil. In all, the project will lose an estimated $137,000.

Engineers plan to start stockpiling soil on the western portion of site this fall. Material will be added to the top of the landfill in March and continue through April 2015. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2015.

Already, the first groundwater monitoring in more than five years has begun. Cyanide has been detected on the site in the past but it remains unknown how much exists, according to CDM Smith.

Cyanide is likely a byproduct of coal gasification waste, the firm said.

Follow Grant Welker on Twitter and Tout @SunGrantWelker.

Art groups see a venue in the Old Town Hall

By Grant Welker, [email protected]:   11/15/2013 09:23:13 AM EST

Lowell Sunhttp://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_24529520/art-groups-see-venue-old-town-hall

CHELMSFORD -- The Old Town Hall stood across North Road from the town common, crumbling and largely unused since the town stopped using it for government offices in 1981.

It took $2.6 million in community preservation funds and dedication from a team of volunteers to make the 134-year-old building become the gem that is the Chelmsford Center for the Arts.

It was Susan Gates, a 28-year Chelmsford resident, who oversaw the year and a half of renovations and now leads the center as its chairwoman. The center, which hosts the Chelmsford Art Society, Chelmsford Community Band and Illumination Opera, among others, opened in July 2013.

Q: How did you get involved in renovation plans for the Chelmsford Center for the Arts?

A: I started in November 2009, so I was there in the beginning. Before that, even, when the town manager had a study committee look at what to do with the old town halls. It was also one of my goals, when I was on the Board of Selectmen, to turn the building into an arts center.

Q: What was most challenging about it?

We did the best job we could with the money available to us. I don't think there's anything else we left out that we could have paid for. I really enjoyed it. We have a gorgeous building.

Q: Did you learn much from the experience?

A: Well, I can read building plans now. I don't look like a deer caught in the headlights.

Susan Gates oversaw the renovations at what is now the Chelmsford Center for the Arts. It took $2.6 million in community-preservation funds to make it happen. SUN/Bob Whitaker

Q: How much of a full-time job is this for you?

A: I may be here for between 30 and 60 hours a week. There have been days I've been here from 7 a.m. to 11 at night.

Q: It's been almost a year and a half since the center opened. Has it been challenging or easy booking events so far?

A: It's kind of mixed. I'm always impatient and I want things to be better sooner rather than later. But we've been busy. The building is always in continuous use, with the Community Band, the Community Jazz Band, the Art Society, the artists-in-residence. I'm surprised because I get calls from groups who aren't on my radar. For the Kaleidoscope Chamber Ensemble, which is playing two shows in January and April, I didn't solicit that.

Q: Has it been challenging to get people to go to events at the center?

A: We still haven't got the word out successfully that we have lots of entertainment going on here that people can come to when they want to go out in the evening. One challenge is that a lot of people don't understand, I'm a volunteer, everyone who is here is a volunteer, and the town does not support this financially in any way. When we have to pay the electric bill, we have to raise the money to do that. So we need people to come to events not just for the art of it but also to raise the money to keep the building going.

Q: How is the artist-in-residence program going?

A: We have four offices, and all are full. We have three residents: Rita Thompson, Trina Teele and Donna Berger. Chelmsford TeleMedia has an editing suite here, too.

Q: You also got funding for a Steinway grand piano?

A: Illumination Opera had originally borrowed the piano from a dealership in Boston. If we don't have a good instrument, it's difficult. They always ask what kind of piano we have. We really just had a piano-shaped instrument. It truly needed to go to the junk pile, but I needed something to replace it with. We put down $21,000 and got a loan for $60,000.

Q: Has it gotten a lot of use?

A: As soon as we reported we had it, the phone started ringing. Over 650 children performed with it in the month of June for recital season.

Q: What notable events are coming up for the center?

A: We have the Illumination Opera's performance of "The Magic Flute" on Friday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 8. We'll also be having our gift shop open for the holiday season for the second year. It'll open Nov. 30 through Dec. 22, on Saturdays and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. and Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. It has all hand-created works and gifts, with jewelry, prints and other mediums, all from local artists.

Follow Grant Welker on Twitter and Tout @SunGrantWelker.

Susan Gates is a 28-year Chelmsford resident.

Chelmsford Woods affordable housing slated for state, federal funds

By Molly Loughman/ Wicked Local Staff ReporterChelmsford Independent

Posted Nov 20, 2013 @ 01:56 PM Chelmsford Independent

http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/x919107709/Chelmsford-Woods-affordable-housing-slated-for-state-federal-funds

Chelmsford —

Chelmsford is one of 17 communities across the state to receive part of the Patrick administration’s commitment of $73 million in affordable housing resources and tax credits.The state Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) last week awarded funding for the first phase of a 116-unit construction project, Chelmsford Woods Residences, to be located at 233-273 Littleton Road. The DHCD will support this phase with Low Income Housing Tax Credits, federal HOME funds, and state bond subsidies. When finished, the first project phase will offer 58 affordable units for families, including six units reserved for families earning less than 30 percent of the area's median income.

Sponsored by Chelmsford Housing Authority’s non-profit CHOICE, Inc., and Stratford Capital Group LLC, a funding request of $12.55 million was made for phase one of Chelmsford Woods Residences, which has a total cost estimate of $17.2 million. A conventional loan through Enterprise Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank would also provide additional funds.

"This is a major success, as it is very rare that 9 percent tax credits are awarded to a project in the first round of funding. DHCD has two rounds – a fall round and a spring round. We submitted this past fall and to hear this amazing news made our team very happy," said CHA Executive Director David Hedison, who added the land would be purchased in January. Construction is expected to start between April and May.

"We will be submitting the request for phase two in March 2014 and will know by summer 2014 regarding funding. So we are on track to get it built and ready for initial occupancy in about 16 months," Hedison said.

The $73 million in affordable housing resources and tax credits for statewaide projects are said to build on the Patrick administration’s goal of advancing housing infrastructure to support growth and opportunity. Some $2.18 million of Community Preservation funds was leveraged to secure millions in state funds, according to Hedison.

Benefits from the affordable housing project and its residences are that, unlike other larger scale chapter 40B rental developments, this will have 100 percent affordable and not just 20 percent, he said. The development will provide Chelmsford with at least a one-year reprieve from any other 40B developments because it will meet the state’s Planned Production goals.Chelmsford Wood Residences will be affordable to a wide range of families, seniors, veterans and the disabled, ranging from low- to moderate income.

In all, the 24 projects across Massachusetts will create 1,145 units of housing and an estimated 1,935 construction jobs. DHCD funding involves 228 units reserved for extremely low-income families, including those making the transition from homelessness.

"The Patrick administration has taken a comprehensive approach to housing in the commonwealth that prioritizes permanent solutions that lead to stable, appropriate housing," said Aaron Gornstein, undersecretary for the Department of Housing and Community Development. "By committing to expanding and improving affordable housing stock in Massachusetts, we are reducing homelessness and creating new opportunities for families."

Moderator Welcomes New FinCom, MARCOM Members

Posted by Andrew Sylvia (Editor) November 14, 2013 at 10:34 AM

Chelmsford Patchhttp://chelmsford.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/moderator-welcomes-new-fincom-marcom-members_2fa3510c

This week, Town Moderator Richard DeFreitas issued statements welcoming a new member to the Finance Committee as well new members of the Moderator's Advisory Rules Committee, or MARCOM.

Replacing outgoing Finance Committee chairwoman Patrice Garvin, Claire Jeannotte was appointed by DeFreitas on Monday to fill the vacancy due to her experience on Finance Committees in the past as well as her experience as a Town Meeting Representative.

This week he also welcomed Sam Chase, Judy Metz, Michael McCall, Brian Latina, Beverly Barrett, Jeremiah Mead, Katherine Duffett, Mary Tiano, and Francis Barre to represent precincts 1 to 9 respectively on the MARCOM.

The group of nine were elected by Town Meeting Reps in their own precincts will organize to recommend rules for all future Town Meetings.

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PRESS RELEASE... November 21, 2013, Chelmsford MA

MARCOM (Moderator’s Advisory Rules Committee) had its organizational meeting Wednesday, November 20, 2013. The result is as follows:

The committee unanimously electedChairman: Mike McCall, Vice Chairman: Sam Chase, Clerk: Judy Metz

The Committee members are listed below:Precinct 1 Sam Chase 978-256-5617 [email protected] Vice ChairmanPrecinct 2 Judy Metz 978-251-4752 [email protected] ClerkPrecinct 3 Mike McCall 978-251-3157 [email protected] ChairmanPrecinct 4 Brian Latina 978-256-0721 [email protected] 5 Beverly Barrett 978-250-0396 [email protected] 6 Jere Mead 978-256-2110 [email protected] 7 Kathy Duffett 978-244-2546 [email protected] 8 Mary Tiano 978-244-0353 [email protected] 9 Frank Barre 978-256-3942 [email protected]

The Town Moderator and the Town Clerk are (non-voting) ex officio members who will serve in an advisory capacity.

The committee requests that, henceforth, all requests for press information be made through the Chairman Mike McCall at 978-251-3157 or Email [email protected] RELEASE... November 21, 2013, Chelmsford MA

MARCOM (Moderator’s Advisory Rules Committee) had its organizational meeting Wednesday, November 20, 2013. The result is as follows:

The committee unanimously electedChairman: Mike McCall, Vice Chairman: Sam Chase, Clerk: Judy Metz

The Committee members are listed below:

Precinct 1 Sam Chase 978-256-5617 [email protected] Vice ChairmanPrecinct 2 Judy Metz 978-251-4752 [email protected] ClerkPrecinct 3 Mike McCall 978-251-3157 [email protected] ChairmanPrecinct 4 Brian Latina 978-256-0721 [email protected] 5 Beverly Barrett 978-250-0396 [email protected] 6 Jere Mead 978-256-2110 [email protected] 7 Kathy Duffett 978-244-2546 [email protected] 8 Mary Tiano 978-244-0353 [email protected] 9 Frank Barre 978-256-3942 [email protected]

The Town Moderator and the Town Clerk are (non-voting) ex officio members who will serve in an advisory capacity.

The committee requests that, henceforth, all requests for press information be made through the Chairman Mike McCall at 978-251-3157 or Email [email protected]

With Chelmsford’s town election season a little over a month away Chelmsford Selectman Jim Lane announces he will not seek re-election

From: "Jim Lane" Date: November 18, 2013 at 3:53:39 PM ESTTo: [email protected]: Many Thanks!

Roy,

Over the past several months many residents have asked me if I intend on seeking re-election this coming April.

I would first like to say, that in my opinion, there is no greater honor than to serve the residents of this community and to have served with such hard working and dedicated folks as my colleagues on this board.

During the past several weeks my wife and I have had lengthy discussions with regards to my seeking another term on the board and the time commitment it takes to perform this job correctly while trying to balance a quality family life. In addition to my family, my business has been very successful with significant growth which has caused my travel schedule to increase.

It is for these reasons, I am informing the community that I will not be running for re-election to the Board of Selectmen this April. I thought it was important to announce this early to provide ample time for anyone that may be considering a run, an opportunity to organize their campaign. I do intend to continue my volunteerism and remain active in our community.

In closing, I would like to take a moment and thank the residents of Chelmsford for providing me this opportunity to serve as one of your elected selectmen. I have always been honored to hold this position and put my heart and soul into the research, asking tough questions and getting all sides to an issue before casting a vote in the best interest of the community. I would also like to thank our town manager, each of my colleagues (both past and present) and our town employees for everything you do and the dedication you give each day for the town of Chelmsford. It has truly been my pleasure to work with each of you.

Many Thanks,Jim Lane

Chelmsford parents complain about school lunches

By Molly Loughman/ Wicked Local Staff ReporterChelmsford Independent

Posted Nov 12, 2013 @ 11:27 PMLast update Nov 13, 2013 @ 11:09 AM

http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/newsnow/x2132755823/Chelmsford-School-Committee-hears-a-need-for-a-better-feed

Chelmsford —Problems surrounding undesirable lunches at Chelmsford’s elementary schools were addressed during Tuesday’s School Committee public input session at Chelmsford High School.

During the 90-minute discussion, committee members heard from concerned elementary school parents and lunch aids. All four elementary schools are tied into the district’s annual food service contract with Preferred Meals.

Tasked with ensuring restrictive federal and state standards are met is April Laskey, Chelmsford and Billerica’s shared food service director. Now into her second year, Laskey’s worked to see her districts meet the required nutrient consumption per meal. According to the School Committee, if the district, which hires internally for food service, doesn’t meet these standards, it doesn’t receive federal reimbursement.

Chelmsford's schools are in desperate need of critical kitchen upgrades to provide wholesome meals to all students, Laskey said. Currently, meals are transported from Chelmsford High School to McCarthy and Parker middle schools due to inadequate kitchens and equipment. The capital projects would require significant funding from the district and town, said the committee.

Two lunch aids in two schools reported constantly witnessing a large amount of food being wasted every day by turned-off students. Food service may be receiving a skewed perception on student feedback because kids aren’t always comfortable and honest when asked if they had a satisfying meal, said one lunch aid. Dislike for the elementary food has become such a popular trend, it’s been known to result in the teasing of some students forced to pay into the subpar meals, said one mother.

As suggested by parents, the School Committee agreed to notify Laskey of the night’s vocalized concerns and look into an advisory board to help determine the quality of the next annual food service contract.

April Laskey at the Sept 25th School Committee meeting.

Around the 18:00 minute mark you can watch the food service manager, April Laskey, give an outline of the quality of kitchens in our schools. If you really listen to her presentation, you will find that its about $250K to bring all the kitchens to a point where they can serve the food they are currently serving!! No plans are in place to revamp the kitchens completely, just to fix them to where they can better serve the food they have.

CLICK HERE

Chelmsford students learn Power of One to stop bullying

By Molly Loughman/ Wicked Local Staff ReporterChelmsford Independent

Posted Nov 13, 2013 @ 11:22 AM http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/x1275642252/Chelmsford-students-learn-Power-of-One-to-stop-bullying#ixzz2kwnEG700

Chelmsford —Taking form anywhere in the world involving people of all ages and occurring anytime, bullying has no boundaries, but Chelmsford kids are learning to change that.

South Row Elementary School students recently witnessed a social competency presentation illustrating how to address bully behavior through the school-wide anti-bullying program, Power of One. Prevalent in school climates, bullying can yield lifelong negative consequences - both for students who bully and for their victims.

"I felt it would be a really powerful program to bring here. It’s a very age-appropriate program addressing the true definition of bullying, but also defines the role within the bullying situation. And how within each of those roles, people have the power of one within themselves to stop bullying and stand up to it," said second-year South Row Principal Molly McMahon.

"We’re not bringing it here because we have problems with bullying; it’s here as a pro-active approach… It’s to truly understand the impact bullying can have and what it really means."Each year South Row offers a couple of whole-school programs, covering the arts, music, nutrition and other areas applying to elementary students, explained McMahon.

Delivering the two 40-minute programs at South Row last week were 23-year-old Latisha Divenuto, of New Jersey, and 25-year-old Topher Wilson, of New York, who performed two separate sessions of skits. The first session, appropriate for kindergarteners through second-graders, was presented at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, during which actors wore colored masks to represent their role in bullying scenarios. At 10 a.m. third- and fourth-graders were given a similar presentation, except masks weren’t used and a cyber bullying component was added.

Defining a bullyKicking off the third and fourth grade presentation, Wilson broke down the meaning of bullying. Bullying can be defined as using superior strength or influence to intimidate someone, typically to force him or her to do what one wants. All students raised their hands when asked if they knew what bullying is.

Using five wooden boxes and only a handful of props, Wilson and Divenuto resonated a profound message to students through simple and engaging skits. The pair acted out common bullying scenarios for older students, including conditional bullying, physical bullying, verbal bullying, group bullying and lastly, cyber bullying. Students were told to notify a teacher if they were victim of or knew of bullying taking place.

Through participation in a Power of One student program, children learn to depict a range of peer-to-peer harassment and how to prepare to take non-violent action when they see bullying unfold. By introducing these concepts early on, the program targets an end to harassment and other forms of violence found in schools. Now in focus are today’s online social networking tools, instrumental factors fueling bullies. Students were taught how to respond to this form of abuse.

"It could be someone annoying or harassing you online. It could be someone sending you photos you don’t want, or it could be someone threatening you online. If any of those things are happening, what you don’t want to do is respond," said Divenuto, noting before blocking or deleting the bully online, copies of the incident should be documented as evidence for parents and police for a proper investigation to ensure the victim’s safety and to solve the issue.

The role of the bystander was also explored. Bystanders can be anyone. They are those who observe the bullying, but do nothing to stop it. Often times they’re the ones cheering on the bully, Wilson said, before demonstrating how bystanders behave.

Peer powerAfter the presentation, students recited an anti-bullying pledge. Moving forward, McMahon will return to each classroom to review the pledge’s meaning before students sign the pledge poster. The poster will then be hung visibly for all to see the promise and power of fellow peers.

"If the whole school’s been exposed to it, it’s something I can review. I hold monthly grade-level meetings, so I can review it there or on the loudspeaker in the morning… The poster will also be a great visual for students to have in their mind," said McMahon, adding students will be given a survey in the spring for the second time to determine if students feel respected and a sense of belonging at South Row.

"It’s important they learn young so as they get older, they really do see the impact bullying can have, as well as their own strength to stand up against it," said McMahon. "That’s why I think it’s important we start at the elementary age."

Power of One engrains principles of character development and focuses on respect, tolerance and acceptance of others. The Power of One Foundation Inc. assists adults in identifying troubled youth unable to control their aggressiveness or are victims of harassment of any kind.

"Our plain and simple message is when every single one of you stands up to bullying and helps others out, it means your community is safer and stronger," said Divenuto.

"If all the roles we saw were eliminated, it means everyone’s equal. We want everyone to feel safe… We want everyone to use their voice as the power of one to stand up to bullying."

For more information on the Power of One, see powerofonefoundation.com.

Power of One actors Latisha Divenuto and Topher Wilson present skits to students on bullying and ways to stop bullies at South Row Elementary School.

Understanding Common Core: A Breakdown of the Pros and Cons

A big change is underway in the world of American education.

Posted by Catherine Crawford , November 10, 2013 at 09:14 AMChelmsford Patch

http://chelmsford.patch.com/groups/schools/p/understanding-common-core-a-breakdown-of-the-pros-and-cons-chelmsford

Forty-five states have voluntarily adopted Common Core State Standards (CCSS), an educational initiative “designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers.” Common Core is meant to streamline state curricula through a set of universal specifications so that kids all over the country will be learning the same things. Some states have already introduced the new standards, and it’s scheduled to be fully implemented by the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year.

But the mass-standardization has led to a huge backlash, including talk of a protest on November 18. Angry parents in states across the country have organized a walkout around that date.

It’s not surprising that a change this significant would rouse very strong opinions, yet just over two months ago, almost two in three Americans had never heard of Common Core. You can bet that as we draw closer to full implementation, we will all hear plenty. To prepare you for the onslaught, here is a breakdown of the most frequently voiced pros and cons of the new educational standards:

Pros:

1. More rigor: According to Kate Gerson with Regents Research Fund, a group that advises the New York education department, “Historically, in American education, we have done every concept in the world a mile wide and an inch deep.” The Common Core focuses on fewer concepts, but with more concentration. The hope is that this will foster deeper understanding.

2. International benchmarking: International benchmarking was used in the development of the standards for mathematics and English Language Arts/Literacy in an attempt to raise the international ranking of American education. The goal is that American students from all over the country will compare positively with students in other top performing countries.

3. National continuity: For children who move around a lot, when schools teach roughly the same thing, students will likely have better luck staying on track with their studies. Additionally, the costs of test development in each state could decrease with all participating states using similar materials, and teachers across the country can more easily join forces and share ideas.

Cons:

1. Too Much federal control: For many who believe that the federal government already has too much power, the Common Core Standards seems like just another instance of central government usurping control from local school government.

2. A blow to the arts: While conservatives may fear a governmental takeover, many liberals fear that the change will cause even more testing that, worse yet, will focus mostly on math and science at the expense of art and creative writing. Faced with pressure to meet the standards, teachers will increasingly teach to the test, critics say.

3. Wasted resources: Both sides of the debate argue that money is a factor. Detractors of Common Core point out that, due to the revamp, many textbooks now being used will need to be replaced. Additionally, there are frequent reports of veteran teachers opting out and retiring early.

TN Student Speaks Out About Common Core, Teacher Evaluations, and Educational Data

CLICK HERE

Politically Incorrect

With Tom Christiano

GUESTS:

State Senator Mike Barrett

Chelmsford Selectwoman Janet Askenburg

and State Representative Jim Arciero.

Inside CPSUnsung Heroes

CLICK HERE

for Show

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

The topics discussed on the show included: Grinder Pumps in Chelmsford...Domestic Violence...the Minimum Wage..... Governor Chris Christie and the 2016 Presidential Election...Student Debt and Education...etc.

CLICK HEREfor Show

EXTRA EXTRAS:

For Chelmsford friends and family: to join the ITR email list, write to [email protected]. And if you would like to read all of the articles in this newsletter and more as they happen, please join the ITR Facebook page which is linked here…

CHELMSFORD’S IN-TOWN REPORT

Upcomng events at the

Chelmsford Community Center

at North Town Hall

Restorative Yoga and Sound Session with Janine Sousa and Diane Eastwood. Thursday, 12/12 from 7:00-8:15.

Yoga Classes:

Tuesday evening from 6-7:15pm with Shakti Wellness Yoga – a gentle, moderate class. $88 per 7 week sessions, drop in $15 if space allows. Sessions run from 9/17-10/29 and 10/30-12/17.

Wednesday morning from 9:45-11am with Shakti Wellness Yoga – a gentle, moderate class. $88 per 7 week sessions, drop in $15 if space allows. Sessions run from 9/18-10/30 and 10/31-12/18.

Saturday morning from 9:30-10:45am with Christy Finn. Move Your Body…Calm Your Mind. $15 drop in, $120 for 10 weeks 9/7-11/16.

Illumination Opera Presents a Holiday Family Production of THE MAGIC FLUTEStart the holiday season with Illumination Opera’s Family Production of Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” with an English translation by Jeremy Sams. This magical production with chamber orchestra is a wonderful accessible introduction to the world of opera. Join us at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts to experience Mozart’s fairy tale with dragons, spirits, and a prince on a quest! Dec. 6 at 7 pm and Dec. 8 at 2Get your tickets now at the CCA or on-line

Applause Academy Presents: Christmas Eve in Dobb’s Diner

An Applause Academy Original Musical about a bus load of kids on the way home from a field trip when they get caught in a New England blizzard and have to take shelter in a local diner on Christmas Eve. Meanwhile the North Pole is experiencing a crisis of its own. Santa’s sleigh won’t fly and Christmas may have to be cancelled. A fun family show to celebrate the holidays!Friday, December 13th at 7:00 pm; Saturday, December 14th at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Tickets General Admission $13Tickets available at the CCA Office or on-line HERE

Laugh while you can...

“For time and the world do not stand still. Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or the present are certain to miss the future.” - John F. Kennedy

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