Chelmsford's In-Town Report:02-24-13

7/29/2019 Chelmsford's In-Town Report:02-24-13

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George Dixon,Jon Kurland

Brendan Berger State Senator

Mike Barrett

DavidMcLachlan,

Janet Askenburg

Pam ArmstrongMatt Hanson, KathleenO'Brien Frances

McDougall

Melissa

Oothout

Supportour Town

CoffeeFebruary14, 2013

photosbyTom Christiano

Nick DeSilvio

Len Doolan George Simonian Pamela Davies

MollyLoughmanof theChelmsfordIndependent

Andy Sylvia

of the

Chelmsford

Patch

Angie Taranto Pat Maloney

Gail Kruglak

Tom Christiano

https://www.facebook.com/melissa.oothout?group_id=0


https://www.facebook.com/pappy.desilvio

https://www.facebook.com/pamela.davies.948

https://www.facebook.com/andy.sylvia

https://www.facebook.com/pat.maloney.79025?group_id=0

https://www.facebook.com/gail.kruglak

















Joe Heider

Diane Gray Sandy Parkhurst

Owner of

Weston Nurseries,

Peter Mezitt

Library Trustee

Lisa Daigle

Town Manager

Paul Cohen Susan

Graves

Michael Kowalyk

Pat Wojtas

Charles Keane Rick

MahoneySusan Gates

Nick Parlee

Evelyn Thoren

Peggy Dunn

https://www.facebook.com/ann.welles.1?group_id=0

https://www.facebook.com/paul.cohen.75


https://www.facebook.com/susan.s.graves.5


https://www.facebook.com/michael.kowalyk

https://www.facebook.com/rick.mahoney.902




















Review of Upcoming Fire Station Could Conclude Before End of Month

The Planning Board continued its review of the plans on Wednesday night.By Andrew SylviaChelmsford PatchFebruary 13, 2013

http://chelmsford.patch.com/articles/review-of-upcoming-fire-station-could-conclude-before-end-of-month

The upcoming new Chelmsford Fire Department station attached to town hall and its

surrounding site plan continued to evolve after its latest review by the Planning Board on

Wednesday night.

After the last hearing on the facility, various architectural spokespeople working for the

town answered attempted to answer various questions left by the board.

However, the board continued to have concerns with the amount and location of parking

spots on the site, in addition to possible congestion onto Chelmsford Street near the

beginning and end of work days at the station and town hall, the beginning and end of

meetings held at town hall and the beginning and end of baseball and softball games held

near the lower parking lot, which will be more extensively used.

Concerns were also given from Kevin Ross, an abutter on Billerica Road, who noted 35

cars parked at the current lower lot for an event at the Center School a day earlier.

“ I’ve lived here 30 years, and there will be different cars. You’re underestimating the

amount of people using this parking lot,” said Ross, who also had concerns about the

lighting of the facility and water runoff. “The extra dirt area, you consider it overflow, but

it’s pretty normally used.”

After Planning Board member Susan Carter stated her belief that it would become difficultfor people living in South Chelmsford to work at town hall given the reduced amount of

parking on the upper parking lot on the southern side of the building, Town Manager Paul

Cohen challenged the allegation that there will be congestion at certain times of the day.

“ I’m in this building as much as anyone else, and in my six-and-a-half years in this

building, I’ve never seen a considerable (car) queue (near closing time),” said Cohen.

“This isn’t a plant where a whistle blows and everyone puts on their coat to leave

simultaneously. I just don’t see that happening.”

The site will have 77 parking spaces during construction of the fire station, with a total 149spaces upon completion of the project between regular and overflow parking near the new

town hall/fire complex and the baseball fields.

Other changes included a smaller apron

from the station onto Billerica Road, the

addition of a “stormceptor” device to aid

with drainage, less extensive landscaping

to save money and a new architectural

design.

The site plan was continued to the board’s

next meeting with requests on additional

information on drainage calculations, an

antenna on the plan, information on the

building’s cornbelling and a bikepath

going around the ballfields, with the

possibility that the hearing could conclude

at the next meeting.

http://chelmsford.patch.com/users/andrew-sylvia


http://chelmsford.patch.com/listings/town-of-chelmsford-assessors-office

http://chelmsford.patch.com/articles/planning-board-shares-concerns-over-billerica-road-fire-station-site-plan











I-495 traffic lights

for Chelmsford By Grant Welker, [email protected]

Updated: 02/18/2013 07:13:53 AM ESTLOWELL SUN

http://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_22613379/i-495-traffic-lights-chelmsford

CHELMSFORD -- Traffic lights will soon beadded to Interstate 495 interchanges on NorthRoad and Chelmsford Street, initiated by thestate Department of Transportation after acorridor study done along the highway.

There isn't yet a timetable for when the lights

will be installed, according to the town. Signalswill be added at each of two sets of off- and on-ramps on Chelmsford Street (Exit 34), andsignals at off-ramps onto North Road (Exit 33).Exit 33 is only from east I-495 lanes.

"The traffic signals will certainly help," TownManager Paul Cohen said. "It's a welcome

project."

The lights are being funded by the state. TheChelmsford Street work, which will also include

new left-turn lanes, is expected to cost $1.2million, Cohen said. The North Road signal willcost $328,000.

Chelmsford has also been approved for aplanning grant from the Northern MiddlesexCouncil of Governments, the area's planningagency. Cohen announced the traffic lightsand planning grant approval at the Feb. 11Board of Selectmen meeting.

The grant, valued at more than $10,000, willpay for a study to look at a broad range of issues in the Vinal Square area, includingparking, bicycle and pedestrian access andamenities, land use, zoning and economicdevelopment, said Evan Belansky, thetown's community-development coordinator.

A study of the town's historical and cultural assets released in December recommended the town look intoachieving a National Register of Historic Places designation for the Vinal Square/North Chelmsford area. Theupcoming study may help the town in that goal but will not necessarily provide certainty on whether the townwould qualify for the designation, Belansky said.

The town will soon appoint a seven-member committee to oversee the planning process. It is expected to start

in March and finish before the end of the year.

In an unrelated vote, selectmen have approved a low bid of around $336,000 to build a salt shed at the town'snew public-works building on Alpha Road. The 80-foot-by-120-foot structure should be complete around thetime work is finished on the main building, which is part of a $13 million project.

The existing salt shed on Swain Road will remain, allowing the town to increase its capacity to treat roadsduring the winter, Cohen said.

Follow Grant Welker at Twitter.com/SunGrantWelker .

mailto:[email protected]


http://twitter.com/SunGrantWelker









“Show Your Love” Fundraiser for

Woodcrest Fire Relief 2/15/13-raised over $24,000 Photos by

Eric Sciacca

https://www.facebook.com/eric.sciacca







Contributions pour in for Chelmsford's Woodcrest relief By Molly Loughman

Wicked Local ChelmsfordPosted Feb 19, 2013 @ 07:05 PM

Last update Feb 19, 2013 @ 07:39 PMChelmsford Independent

http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford/news/x171150266/Contributions-pour-in-for-Chelmsfords-Woodcrest-relief#axzz2LQd1bAZn

Chelmsford —Community contributions poured in last Friday night for the Woodcrest Condominium Fire Relief Group, whosefundraiser at the Chelmsford Elks raised $23,209, with two more checks coming in, totaling $24,000 indonations for victims of the Jan. 5 fire.

More than 200 attended the four-hour "Show Your Love" Valentines-themed benefit, thanks to the fire relief group and its fundraising committee. The fire relief group partnered with CHOICE, Inc. - Chelmsford HousingOpportunities for Intergenerational and Community Endeavors - a non-profit corporation dedicated to the

betterment of those served by the Chelmsford Housing Authority, to host the benefit.

The event featured live and silent auctions, cash bar and live music by Chelmsford’s own AttiK and Stefani Bush. According to Bush, a fire relief group member helping to spearhead the effort, the group’s hope was to raise atleast $20,000 and members were ecstatic when they exceeded the goal.

The January two-alarm blaze took the lives of Susan Astle, 67, and Paul Deslauriers, 77, who lived in the 21-unitapartment located off Littleton Road. A 7-year old boy was injured in the fire and is being treated in a Boston

hospital. The fire destroyed the building four’s apartments, which left 31 people displaced.

The Woodcrest Condominium Fire Relief Group formed to assist fire victims getting back on their feet. Long-term endeavors include helping residents furnish new residences and purchase necessities. Chelmsford Housing

Authority Executive Director David Hedison said the CHA has already helped housed multiple families and only four victims did not have insurance.

The fire relief group has an account with Enterprise Bank. So far, the group has collected more than $64,000,according Bush.

Quotes"On behalf of the family of Sue Astle and Paul DesLauriers, I would like to commend Stefani

Bush, Karen Uttect, Shannon Anderson and Debra Sirani of the Woodcrest Fire Relief Effort for

all of their work on the ‘Share the Love’ Fundraiser and for all of their work prior to the

fundraiser. These caring and compassionate individuals have been willing to assist our familyat a moment’s notice from the very beginning. Their selflessness and compassion toward our

family in our time of need was unparalleled. It has been said that a small group of thoughtful

people can change the world. These ladies are the epitome of that statement. They havedefinitely changed the world for all of the individuals affected by the fire at the Woodcrest

Condominiums. A simple ‘Thank You’ does not seem enough to describe our heartfelt gratitude

towards them." -The Astle and DesLauriers families " It was an incredible night - one that we should celebrate and recognize for sure! Our community does amazing things for those in need and,

if we could spread just a fraction of that to the world, it would be a better place for sure!" -Stefani Bush, relief group member and Town Meeting representative

"We stepped in to sort of help with distributing of the funds, but the fundraisers itself wasreally done by the Woodcrest Condominium Fire Relief Group.. We came in to sort of help out,

but they put everything together. Our mission is to help the people of Chelmsford… CHOICE

always wants to be involved in anything that will help the community." - Connie Donahue,executive director of CHOICE, Inc.

"We will be wrapping our involvement by the end of this month. As with emergencies, you

never know when the next one may occur. We will be there again if our help is needed. This

town has an amazing group of people that are willing to contribute resources, their time and open their hearts. I grew up here and must say I am very proud of this community." -

Chelmsford Housing Authority Executive Director David Hedison

" We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and property and to see it all happen in front of us was devastating… I hope to keep the union involved in any charity that affects our members andor residents. We have a great group of guys that are willing to donate time and money… I feellucky to work in such a great department."

- Chelmsford firefighter Tim Shanahan

For more information visit woodcrestfirerelief.com.

http://www.wickedlocal.com/chelmsford

http://woodcrestfirerelief.com/







CHELMSFORD ELECTION SEASON: Politics is the art of

looking for trouble,finding it everywhere,diagnosing it incorrectlyand applying the wrongremedies.

- Groucho Marx

Welcome to the first round ofquestions

in the annualITR Q&A

with the Selectmen

Candidates

There will be 3 rounds totalbefore election day Tuesday,

April 2ndEverything is changing. People aretaking their comedians seriouslyand the politicians as a joke.

- Will Rogers



BOB JOYCE

ITR: Why do you want to (put yourself through this and) runfor Selectman?

BJ:Having served as a Selectman from 1993-96 I have an

apprecia;on for what is involved to serve in this posi;on.

I have no;ced over the past five years that the current

Boards have been less concerned about the residen;altaxpayers and more concerned about building the

infrastructure of the Town. While this is an admirable

thing to invest in our infrastructure, we have come to a

point where the taxpayers cannot handle any more

increases in taxes. We are now resor;ng to replacing old

sewer debt, and other re;red debt with new debt. They

jus;fy this by saying that the annual debt service

payment will not go up, this is true but why not let our debt service payments go down and pass those savings onto

the taxpayers. If Projects need to be funded they should be subjected to a Proposi;on 2 ½ Debt exemp;on vote.

While this will add to the Debt service, it will only be for a set period of ;me and then the debt payment will drop.

Some examples of this are the new $7.7 million Fire Sta;on on Billerica Road and the new $13.5 million DPWBuilding on Alpha Road. In both these cases they have absorbed the debt into the debt structure by replacing old

debt with debt on these projects. In the case of the DPW we passed a Prop 2 ½ debt exclusion for $4.5 million but

there are no plans to ask for another Prop 2 ½ debt exemp;on for the remaining $9 million to complete the project.

That will be covered by replacing old debt and moving money from the Town’s free-cash each year, rather than

using that free-cash to reduce the tax rate. As the campaign gets into full swing I will be discussing ways of

providing relief to the residen;al taxpayers.

ITR:With State aid drying up more and more each year what would you suggest to keepour taxes in control?

BJ:According to the Town Manager, “State aid is uncertain”. And under Governor Patrick’s current proposed budget, it

doesn’t get any beYer. In fact, we have a poten;al of paying significantly more in State income taxes as well asloosing many deduc;ons. In order to keep our taxes in control we need to stop the spending, par;cularly in the

area of debt as stated earlier. Our collec;ve bargaining contracts have not been seYled and are not funded in the

proposed budget, this may be an area where we will need to “;ghten” our belt. We also should take a look at

“deferring” major purchases in the capital budget. We should also look at our long standing prac;ce of single rate

classifica;on



ITR:Tax Classification/Split Tax Rate: It’s been almost a decade since the last time thetown studied classification. Do you think we should form a study committee to giveanother look at classification? Why or why not?

BJ:es, I believe it is ;me to re-evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of a split tax rate. If a new commiYee were

appointed, I would require that none of the people who served on previous Classifica;on Study commiYees would

be appointed. This commiYee should be appointed immediately a^er the sea;ng of the new Board of Selectmen in

April so that a report could be available by early November. If due to reduced state aid the town was forced to raise

taxes, it may be more effec;ve to shi^ the tax rate of less than 20% of proper;es in town where it would give

residen;al taxpayers no increase.

ITR:What is your opinion on the new fire station and it’s location(connected to the town ofces on Billerica Road)?

BJ:It is no secret that I am opposed to building the New Fire Sta;on next to the Town Offices on Billerica Road, but I

have NEVER been opposed to building a new sta;on. The loca;on is not appropriate because of it’s residen;al

layout. I have always tried to protect the residen;al neighborhoods in Chelmsford. Whether it is in the Westland’s,

on High Street or in North Chelmsford. We are building this sta;on just to get it done. We are building a sta;on that

does not have “drive-thru” bays which were recommended by a study made by MMA several years ago. The currentloca;on has major traffic issues during rush hours and poten;al problems naviga;ng Wilson Street which is a very

narrow street. It forces all the employees in Town Offices to park in the lower level near the gym and forces

addi;onal traffic out the dirt road next to Lussier Insurance and the LiYle League fields eventually having to get out

into traffic on Chelmsford Street (Rte. 110) If we have all this extra money to fund this project without funding it

thru a Prop 2 ½ Debt exemp;on, then why didn’t we just build it on the Wilson Street ball field site.



JANET

ASKENBURGITR: Why do you want to (put yourself through this and) runfor Selectman?

JA:I am running for Chelmsford Selectman becauseI want to offer my experience as a businessleader, community volunteer, and advocate for transparency and fiscal responsibility to helpmaintain and improve the quality of life for allChelmsford residents.

For the past three years I have thoroughlyenjoyed serving as a member of the ChelmsfordSchool Committee, serving as Chairman for thelast two consecutive years. There have beenmany changes implemented in our schoolsystem over the past three years, and I amproud of all that we have accomplished. I believemy years on the School Committee haveprovided me with knowledge and experience that will be beneficial in dealing with issues we face as a town.

My husband Bill and I are raising two sons in Chelmsford and are proud to call Chelmsford home. I have aB.A. from the University of West Florida. I am a principal at Ryan, LLC, a global tax services firm, and haveworked in the financial and corporate tax consulting industries for over twenty years and in variousleadership roles., My goal as a member of the Board of Selectmen will be to work as a team member toensure that excellence is achieved and sustained through transparent, efficient, fiscally responsible, andhighly effective means.

I encourage people who would like more information about my candidacy to email me at [email protected] or call me at (978) 764-8037. Please join me at my campaign party on Friday,March 15th at Princeton Station from 6pm-10pm.,

ITR:With State aid drying up more and more each year what would you suggest to keep our taxes incontrol?

JA: Growing up, my father instilled in me the importance of living within your means, and the importance of spending wisely and making every penny count. As a member of the School Committee, we proactivelyfaced looming budget reductions with strategic priorities and goals, efficiency audits, transparency, andaccountability.

We made some very difficult budget decisions which resulted in over $1 million in savings, which was usedto offset reductions in state aid, contract increases, and strategically reinvested back into our schools toensure we deliver excellence in education. I believe this same approach will improve the performance,effectiveness, and accountability of our town government.

To help reduce the heavy tax burden on residents we need to create new revenue opportunities anddecrease our commercial vacancy rate. We currently have many empty buildings that need to be filled withtenants, which will provide new tax receipts and jobs for Chelmsford citizens. Also, new revenuegenerating opportunities should be explored and developed. For example, the current proposal to createturf fields in Chelmsford will provide new opportunities for Chelmsford to host regional and state athletic

http://www.janetaskenburg.com/accomplishments/








competitions, which will result in revenues from field rentals and visitors filling our hotels, restaurants, andstores.

ITR:Tax Classification/Split Tax Rate: It’s been almost a decade since the last time thetown studied classification. Do you think we should form a study committee to giveanother look at classification? Why or why not?

JA: After reviewing Chelmsford’s last presentation on tax classification, presentations from other Massachusetts towns, and research papers on the long term effect of tax classification, I believe taxclassification is not the answer to tax relief for our citizens. Based upon a review of the November 2012tax classification presentation to the Board of Selectmen, in order to achieve a significant tax reduction to

the average single family homeowner, the corresponding shift in taxes would result in an increase of over $7,000 to the average commercial business owner, and almost $15,000 per year for industrial properties.For our businesses in town, this would be a very significant increase and one that could be the differencebetween staying in Chelmsford or leaving for another town. For our small businesses, this is a burden thatcould jeopardize their ability to stay in business, especially during these tough economic times. Increasingthe tax commercial tax rate could cause our current businesses to relocate, thereby increasing the futureresidential tax burden.

Our local businesses are great partners with our schools. I have seen firsthand through my time on theSchool Committee how generous our local businesses are to our schools, with their donations of money,technology, goods, and their employees’ time. Now is not the time for us to be divisive and turn upon one

another. Therefore I believe our time could be better spent on working together to find answers tocontrolling property taxes for the entire town.

ITR:What is your opinion on the new fire station and it’s location(connected to the town offices on Billerica Road)?

JA:The location has been chosen and it is time for us to work together to make it a fire station that we can beproud of as a community. It is critical that we not only involve the abutters, but listen to their concerns and

make compromises whenever possible. We need to take our time during this process and fully evaluatethe long term impacts of all decisions, being careful not to rush the process for the goal of meeting aproject deadline.



PAT MALONEY

ITR:

Why do you want to (put yourself through this and) runfor Selectman?

PM:For the past 23 years, as owner and CEO of a

Chelmsford-based construction management firm, I’ve

learned what it takes to show fiscal constraint, weather

economic downturns and move forward in the face of

adversity. I’ve put that experience to good use by

overseeing building investments made by the towntotaling close to $60 million. With the exception of the

new fire headquarters currently in the final planning

stages, all of the projects I have been involved with

have been completed on time and within budget while

returning more than $17 million in State reimbursement

to the taxpayers – money that stays in your wallet.

While collaborating on the various town projects over

the last 13 years, I have worked with several different Boards of Selectmen, School Committees, Planning

Boards, Conservation Commissions, various town departments, three school superintendents, and twotown managers.

I understand how town government, schools, town boards and departments operate. I understand the

dogged determination it takes to form successful relationships with state reps and to advance efforts to

increase state funding and reimbursement/grants to the taxpayers.

I really love this town. I grew up here, raised my children here, operate a business here and I believe my

experience makes me uniquely qualified to help guide the town in moving forward to preserving the greatquality of life we enjoy here, maintaining fiscal conservancy, and protecting our investments.

I am proud of this town and all of its accomplishments produced by wonderful people who share a sense of community that propels us to achieve what sometimes seems impossible. Serving the town has been an

extremely rewarding and enriching experience and I look forward to the possibility of using that experience

as one of your next Selectmen. That is why I respectfully ask for one your two votes for the Board of

Selectmen on April 2, 2013.

ITR:

With State aid drying up more and more each year what would you suggest to keep our taxes in control?

PM:While understanding that change is the only constant, I do believe that the economy is starting to turn

around. We have seen small increases in State aid this year, but we must work hard to aggressively lobby

for increased State aid and grants to ensure that the Town of Chelmsford receives what is rightfully due and

fair to the taxpayer.

During a very depressed economy we have been fortunate to rebuild our stabilization fund to the mandatedgoal of between 5-10% of our overall budget resulting in an improved bond rating (twice) that saves the

town money when borrowing. We have been able to fund the design and construction of a new fire



headquarters within the budget, eliminating the need for a debt exclusion that would otherwise requiretaxes above and beyond the overall budget.

Understanding that there is always room for improvement in the pursuit of higher efficiency and lowering

costs, I believe we should continue doing all the things we do well now and continue to enhance savings

by:

• Maintaining the Stabilization Fund at the appropriate levels.

• Increasing efforts to obtain State aid and grants.

• Advancing our Green Community standards and rewards for increased efficiencies.

• Pursuing all energy grants available by providers.

• Obtaining lowest possible cost in the procurement of goods and services for the town.

• Protecting and maintaining town investments and our infrastructure.

• Maintaining low debt.

In an improving economy, and due to past fiscal constraint, the town is well positioned to take advantage of

emerging opportunities that could likely result in controlling and lowering costs for the taxpayers.

Throughout my life in business and in many town projects, many have heard me say something my father

always told me, “watch out for the pennies and the dollars will take care of themselves.” I believe in this

philosophy and will apply it in all town endeavors.

ITR:

Tax Classification/Split Tax Rate: It’s been almost a decade since the last time the town studiedclassification. Do you think we should form a study committee to give another look atclassification? Why or why not?

PM:I am not opposed to forming a study committee to review classification, however I think it is appropriate

and reasonable to ask the BOS to begin with a review of past studies, and gather information to ascertain

whether any changes or shifts in economics or the town’s demographics warrant a new study. This review

should detail any findings or reasons for or against commissioning a new study.


PM: After years of knowing something needed to be done, the town voted on a solution that was a cost-

effective compromise while meeting the needs of the firefighters and the community. Two efforts to locate

the headquarters at Wilson and Chelmsford Streets were rejected by the voters. The Billerica Road site

passed both at Town Meeting and the ballot box. This location meets the criteria of the original study in that

it is less than a ¼ mile from the original site, it is on town owned land, and meets the needs of a modernfire headquarters for our town. The new site also offers further efficiencies in cost due to locating the Fire

Chief’s Administration and Fire Prevention offices in space at the adjacent town offices being vacated bythe DPW, Sewer, and Engineering departments. This decreases the amount of new construction required

to meet the need, resulting in savings of more than $1 million to the taxpayers.

While there will never be a perfect solution to address every concern, I do believe this project meets the

long term needs of the community at a fiscally conservative cost.



MATT HANSONITR: Why do you want to (put yourself through this and) runfor Selectman?

MH:Serving as a member of the Board of Selectmen for the past three years has truly been an honor andprivilege. Having grown up in Chelmsford and recentlypurchased my first home in town, I have a deepconnection with my community. Working as aSelectman is the perfect way for me to serve mycommunity while utilizing my passion for publicservice and my academic experience. I hold aBachelor’s Degree in political science and a Master’sDegree in regional economic and social developmentfrom the University of Massachusetts at Lowell, andsee a political career in my future.

As a member of the Board of Selectmen, I am able towork collaboratively with countless residents andcommunity volunteers on a daily basis to ensure thatChelmsford remains the superb town that we all love.I remain passionate about public service and my roleon the Board of Selectmen, and I am hopeful that youwill allow me the opportunity to continue serving inthis capacity for another 3 years. For me, there is nobetter or more exciting way to learn how to manage challenges or to make a meaningful impact than to beaccountable to residents in a thriving community.

During the past three years as a Selectman, I have learned to listen to all sides of an issue, ask the toughquestions, respect the views of others and cast my vote in the best interest of the community. Someexamples are the restoration of our two historic Town Halls, the preservation of more than 267 acres of open space land for public and agricultural use, and securing the first residential property tax relief inmore than 10 years. I am truly grateful that the residents of our town had the confidence to elect me asSelectman three years ago, and I would be honored to serve as your Selectman for another term. Ipledge to continue working tirelessly on issues important to you, the voters, and our community.

ITR:With State aid drying up more and more each year what would you suggest to keep our taxes in control?

MH:During my first term as Selectman, I have secured nearly a million dollars in property tax relief andfostered financial best practices to ensure the town’s overall financial stability. The town’s bond rating hasimproved twice in the past two years (now AA) during one of the worst recessions our country has seen. Isupported the State Healthcare Reform saving the town more than $1 million in the first year. This is just afew examples of how I have contributed to “keep our taxes in control.”

Moving forward, I will continue to work hard to accomplish further savings through increased efficiencies,budget cost control, regionalization of services, and economic development/redevelopment activities. For example, Chelmsford could save more than $200,000/year by participating in a regional public safetydispatching center. I serve as a councilor on the Northern Middlesex Council of Governments asChelmsford’s Board of Selectmen liaison, where I have been working on this project for the past twoyears. The substantial savings realized though this and other regionalization efforts could be used toenhance other areas of public safety and create additional property tax relief. Additionally, through mywork on the Energy Conservation Committee, I have worked to increase the use of solar and other alternative energy sources in our schools and public buildings. I have supported the recent EnergyServices Management Agreement with Johnson Controls. This project will make “cutting edge”investments in 26 of our public buildings, such as temperature controls, energy efficient lighting, and solar

panels. These investments will be fully funded through reductions in energy consumption and they willeliminate future capital cost for replacement equipment, further reducing the tax burden.



Creating savings is extremely important, but in order to keep taxes in control, elected officials must maketax relief a priority. Creating savings in one area and spending it somewhere else will not keep “taxes incontrol.” That is why I fought hard during my first term to successfully achieve tax relief by offsettingproperty tax bills with nearly a million dollars in unspent funds from the previous year’s budget. The cost of running the town increases every year, and achieving tax relief is a constant challenge. Tax relief must beweighed against maintaining or increasing services, paying off outstanding debt, investing in newtechnology for our schools and public safety personnel, and maintaining our quality of life. I guarantee thatI weigh all options with expert and public input.

During the past three years, the list of projects we have completed as a community to increase efficiencies,

reduce the residential tax burden and make our government more efficient is remarkable. If re-elected, I

promise to continue working on projects that will save the town money, without sacrificing the high quality

of services that residents expect.

ITR:

Tax Classification/Split Tax Rate: It’s been almost a decade since the last time the town studiedclassification. Do you think we should form a study committee to give another look at

classification? Why or why not?

MH:Every year the Board of Selectmen studies the issue of Tax Classification and decides whether the townwill keep a unified rate or create a split tax rate. During the planning process for the Master Plan, the ideaof utilizing a committee to study tax classification every few years was discussed in great detail. It wasultimately decided to not include something like this in the Master Plan and instead, the Board of Selectmen should continue to review the issue every year before making a decision.

This review includes analyzing the data on tax rates from surrounding and comparable communities,

reviewing the possible exemptions that could be utilized, reviewing different possible variations of a splittax rate (up to the 50% allowed by State Law), and reviewing the actual dollar amount changes that wouldbe realized on the average tax bill. Every year the Town Assessors make a presentation to the Board of Selectmen explaining the intricacies of the previously mentioned issues, and the Board accepts publicinput from both residents and business owners. I am sure that people will always have differing opinions onthis issue; however, I am confident the issue is thoroughly reviewed on an annual basis. Any informationthat the Board of Selectmen, a resident or a business owner has asked for before a decision is made hasalways been made available. If anyone believes that there is more the Board of Selectmen should consider before voting on the tax rate, I would encourage them to contact me. To date, no one has asked me toconsider creating a study committee or change the current process that the Board of Selectmen alreadyconducts thoroughly on an annual basis.

I seek input from residents and business owners on this issue every year, so if you have any concerns you

would like to share with me, please contact me at (978) 319-5383 or [email protected]


MH:The new fire station headquarters is a great example of what can be achieved when the members of thetown government listen to the residents. On two occasions, residents turned down fire station proposals atWilson Street. The feedback I heard from residents was loud and clear, stating that the project was initiallytoo expensive and they did not like the Wilson Street location for a variety of reasons. After hearing thisfeedback, the Town took a deeper look at ways to save money and find a new location.

The current location connected to the town offices on Billerica Road was approved by the voters. Inaddition, we were able to develop a proposal that would fund the construction within the budget andwithout a proposition 2 ½ tax override. This will be made possible by renovating and utilizing vacant spacein Town Hall for fire station administration and training areas, lowering the overall cost of the project. Ibelieve that the combination of these factors is what resulted in the residents of Chelmsford ultimately

supporting this proposal and will provide a state of the art public safety facility for the next fifty years.






I would like to briefly mention that my fellow Board members and I made a conscious choice to give votersthe opportunity to voice their opinion about the Billerica Road proposal on Election Day. Many people,including myself, did not feel it would be fair for the residents to vote on the Wilson Street fire stationproposal without the same opportunity for the Billerica Road location and plan. I also want to thank themany Town Meeting Representatives who called to share this same concern with me.

To contact me on any of these issues or about any other topic, I can be reached at (978) 319-5383 or [email protected]. To be an effective public servant I need input from residents like you, so pleasedon’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you very much for taking the time to read my responses today. I

respectfully ask for one of your two votes on April 2nd.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆An invita(on was extended to all 5 candidates to par(cipate in the Q&A, but the In Town Report

did not receive any response from the 5th candidate by the ITR deadline.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Round 2 of the Selectmen Q&Ain the next ITR

Question 1:What is your opinion ( based on cost and revenue production ) of the turf field warrant article and the use of community preservation funds for the project?

Question 2:What is your opinion of licensing stores (grocery,convenient,specialty) other than liquor stores sell beer and wine?

Question 3:What is your opinion of the work done by the Oak Hill Study Committee?

And do you think the town meeting should accept their recommendationto put the land under the control of the Selectmen for three years first beforeturning it over to the control of the Conservation Committee? Why or Why Not?

Question 4: In your opinion how is Town Manager Paul Cohen doing? What would you want him to do differently, if anything?






CLICK HERE

for VIDEO

Pat Maloney for Selectman CampaignKick Of Chelmsford Lodge of Elks300 Littleton Rd

Sunday, March 10, 2013

2:00pm until 5:00pm

Irish Treats await you at thisfundraising event to help elect PatMaloney for Selectman. Tickets areavailable at Chelmsford Copy &Secretarial or by emailing Pat at

[email protected]

Matt Hanson's Board of Selectmen CampaignKickoff Party

will be held on March 3rd at Princeton Station4:00pm until 7:00pm.Please feel free to invite your family and friendsto this event. Also, please bring your ideas aboutwhat you would like to see accomplished in

town during the next few years and share themwith Matt!This event will feature appetizersand a cash bar.

Princeton Station147 Princeton StreetNorth Chelmsford, MA 01863

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbXHQAag7yk


https://www.facebook.com/events/532065513500897/



https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chelmsford-Lodge-of-Elks/111683518866868

https://www.facebook.com/events/calendar/2013/March/10























Chelmsford, Westford to createvets housing

By Grant Welker, [email protected]: 02/20/2

013 06:35:37 AM ESTLOWELL SUN

http://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_22627192/chelmsford-westford-create-vets-housing

CHELMSFORD -- The town will build eight new housing units for veterans, and Westford willcreate five, thanks to funding from both communities, the state Department of Housing andCommunity Development and other grants.

"It will be an amazing opportunity for both communities to come together and support our troops," said David Hedison, director of the Chelmsford Housing Authority, whose nonprofitarm, known as CHOICE, administers housing funds across the area.

The projects are both fully permitted, with construction expected to start this spring and be

completed within about a year.Westford has given $400,000 from its Community Preservation Committee, which usessurcharges on local property-tax bills, and $115,000 from its Affordable Housing Trust. Thefive Westford units, both one- and two-bedroom, will be built on Carlisle Road by theintersection with Acton Road, by renovating an existing building, the former Tara Hall.

Chelmsford's eight units will be built in a single building on a vacant lot at 9 Manahan St., off Chelmsford Street, west of the Kohl's plaza. Each unit will have a stove, private bathroom andliving room, and the units will share a common kitchen. The town of Chelmsford contributed

$408,000 to the project cost through Community Preservation Act funds. At least 10 percent of Preservation Act funds must be spent on housing, and the veteranshomes will help Chelmsford reach that threshold, Hedison said. It will not take any funds awayfrom open-space or historic preservation projects.

Other funding came from the state Department of Housing and Community Development,which contributed $1.7 million, and TD Bank, which gave a $100,000 grant.Some additional state funds were also secured by designating the housing units as drug-,alcohol- and smoke-free.

The need for veteran housing in both towns is great, according to the Housing Authority andveterans agents.

Options for veterans in need of affordable housing who can't qualify for senior housing are"extremely limited," the authority said in an announcement of the program.

Approximately 4,500 veterans live in Chelmsford and Westford, a number expected to growas more troops return from service in the coming years.

There is currently a wait of one to two years for a veteran with a local preference for subsidized housing, and a wait of three to five years for other veterans.

Westford's veterans services office is able to offer financial assistance for returning veteransseeking housing but because house prices are limited and costly in town, sometimes veteranshave to move out of town, said Terry Stader, the town's veterans agent.

"It's just tough," he said. "It's tough for them."













Chelmsford eyes full-day kindergarten

By Grant Welker, [email protected]: 02/18/2013 07:05:46 AM EST

LOWELL SUNhttp://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_22613353/chelmsford-eyes-full-day-kindergarten

CHELMSFORD -- The town is looking into whether it couldfinally join a trend toward offering full-day kindergarten in itsschools, something nearly every other school district inGreater Lowell has.

Not much more than a decade ago, more than two-thirds of the state's kindergartners were enrolled in half-dayprograms. More than four out of five now do.

"We're definitely in the minority," said Chelmsford Superintendent of Schools Frank Tiano,who is co-chairing a committee looking into the feasibility of adding full-day kindergarten.

Chelmsford has been considering expanding kindergartenhours for a few years, but among the factors to consider arespace and staffing, something a consultant is helping thedistrict with. Whether the schools have even the space tohave kindergarten full-day is not yet determined, Tiano said.

"Right now, it's an investigation," he said.

Mitchell Chester, the state commissioner of elementary and

secondary education, said in a report last year that full-daykindergarten is a "key component " of an early-care andeducation system for children through third grade.

"Kindergarten is the threshold year in children's livesand education," he said, "merging home, nonpublic and

public early-education and care and preschool programs into the public-education system."

In 2000, 29 percent of Massachusetts kindergarten studentswere enrolled in full-day programs. That year, the statebegan a grant program to help school districts in the costlytransition to full-day.

By 2012, 83 percent of students were in full-daykindergarten.

A number of Lowell-area school districts were among 162 statewide that received $22 millionin grants in 2012, mostly to keep full-day programs free, but 11 received grants to transition tofull-day.

Dracut, Lowell and Wilmington were grant recipients but each kept the same number of full-day classes offered free to students. Ayer-Shirley added an extra full-day class.

Other districts charge for students to enroll in full-day programs, from $3,000 a year inBillerica to $4,730 in Groton and Dunstable.

The state average charge is $2,970, according to the state Department of Elementary andSecondary Education. Of the state's 283 districts that offer full-day kindergarten, 77 chargeextra for it.

Chelmsford Superintendentof Schools

Frank Tiano


http://www.lowellsun.com/local/ci_22613353/chelmsford-eyes-full-day-kindergarten







Chelmsford is practically alone in the Lowell area as a district that does not offer full-daykindergarten, according to the state education department and local school districts. A few districts that now offer full-day only with an added tuition are looking to offer it withoutthe extra charge.

Rosamond Dorrance, principal of the Heath Brook School in Tewksbury, said parents at theschool seem to be happy with whichever option they chose, either full- or half-day. Some

parents prefer having their children in school for only half-days because they like to have moreone-on-one time with them at home, she said.

"Really, it's what best fits the family," Dorrance said.

The Tewksbury school district has been working hard to find a way to offer full-day free for families, Dorrance said.

In Littleton, the school district is also looking to find whether full-day programs are feasible,

said Rich Faherty, the principal of the Shaker Lane Elementary School, where about 84 of theroughly 100 students enrolled in kindergarten attend full-day.

Some parents prefer only half-day, Faherty said, but more would likely opt for full-day if tuitionwere removed.

Chelmsford has made full-day kindergarten one of the main initiatives in its five-year strategicplan. The committee overseeing the work will visit area school districts that offer full-daykindergarten, explore grant options and develop a proposal for a pilot. Results from a parentsurvey are being reviewed.

Michael LaCava, the principal of the Harrington Elementary School and member of the districtcommittee, said he's heard from parents who appreciate the measured approach to extendingkindergarten and for seeking public input.

" As a principal, I hear pretty consistently every year, 'Why isn't there a full-day kindergarten' or 'Are you looking into doing full-day?' " he said.

Whether full-day kindergarten in Chelmsford would be free is among the details being

considered, Tiano said. According to the district's strategic plan, full-day kindergarten couldstart on a pilot basis in the 2013-2014 school year and be in place by the following year.







with

DennisReadyand

Mary

Gregoire

WN Lk

CLICK HERE for Feb.13th Show

Guests include:

Karen Uttecht & Janet Askenburg

CLICK HERE for Feb. 20th Show

Guests include: Selectman Jim Lane

http://vp.telvue.com/preview?id=T01497&video=143688














Politically

Incorrect With Tom ChristianoGUESTS:

School Committee candidateBarbara SkaarSelectwomanPat WojtasSelectman candidate Janet AskenburgSelectman candidateBob Joyce

CLICK HERE for show

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6dGCM8DyBg






© Chelmsford TeleMedia 75 Graniteville Road Chelmsford MA 01824 Phone:978-251-5143

Fax: 978-251-5173Email: [email protected]

Town Manager’s Roundtable With your Town Manager Paul Cohen

Subject - Fiscal Year 2014 Budget

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 thisnewsletter and more asthey happen, please join the

ITR Facebookpage which is

linked here…

CHELMSFORD’S

IN-TOWN

REPORT

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆


https://www.facebook.com/groups/intownreport/


















TURF FIELD COMEDY NIGHT FUNDRAISER

FEBRUARY 287PM AT THE

PRINCETON STATION

TICKETS ARE $25 AVAILABLE AT THE DOORDOORS OPEN AT 7PM @ THE PRINCETON

SPONSORED BY THE CHELMSFORDSYNTHETIC FIELD COMMITTEE

MORE INFO @ WWW.CHELMSFORD.K12.MA.US

http://www.chelmsford.k12.ma.us/





Check out what’s happening at

Chelmsford Community Center

at North Town Hall this March!!

See our website for more details and the full calendar

www.chelmsfordcommunitycenter.org

reach us at 978-656-1853 or by email at

[email protected]

ScoJsh Country Family Dance on the first Friday

of the month, 3/1 and 4/5 from 7-9pm. Dancelessons and dancing for all ages with new livemusic this month! $3 per person, $10 familymaximum.

B. Rankin Presents Playing with Sound Sunday

3/3 from 3-4pm. Where arts and science collidefor children ages 7 and up Cost is $15 per child andparents are free!

Healing Sound ourney with anine Sousa of

Healing Touch, Thursday, 3/7 from 7-8pm. Bringa blanket or yoga mat to lie on and pillows and

blankets for support and warmth while Janinetakes you through a sound and vibra;on journeyusing crystal singing bowls and other instruments.

Irish Family Pub Night on Friday, 3/8 from 7-9pm.

Featuring live Cel(c music by Cliff McGann and

the DNE Cel(c Dancers.

$5 per person, $20 family maximum. Cash bar.

Varney Playground Commi]ee Presenta(on

Thursday, 3/14 at 7pm. Presenta;on on theCommiYee’s proposal for Varney Playground.

Zentangle on Monday, 3/18 from 7:15-9pm.Crea;ng art from repe;;ve paYerns to relax,unwind and create!

Fitness Classes:

FitMamas: A kid-friendly complete body workout just for moms of young

children with Rachel Rader, Personal Trainer. Tuesdays 11:30 – 12:15am.

Ac(veKids: A fun fitness class for boys and girls ages 5-8 with Rachel Rader,

Personal Trainer. Wednesdays 4:00 – 4:45pm.

Girl Power: An age-appropriate cardio and strength training class for girls

ages 9-12 with Rachel Rader, Personal Trainer. Wednesdays 5:00 – 5:45pm.

Circuit Training: A great alterna;ve to your typical aerobics class with RachelRader, Personal Trainer. For all fitness levels. Fridays 11:30 – 12:30am.

Yoga Classes:

Tuesday evening from 6-7:15pm with Shak; Wellness oga – a gentle,

moderate class.

Wednesday morning from 8-9am and 9-10am On the Edge oga. Kripalu

yoga with Donna Harrington.

Wednesday evening from 6:15-7:30pm oga for Vitality and Increased Energy

(moderate level, beginners welcome) with CharloYe OY.

Thursday morning from 9:45-11am with Shak; Wellness oga – a gentle,

moderate class.

http://www.chelmsfordcommunitycenter.org/








Laugh while

you can...



- Q u o t e o f t h e w e e k -

“Truth is generally thebest vindication against

slander”

- Abraham Lincoln



In-Town ReportNews Links

LOWELL SUN

Chelmsfordindependent

chelmsford Patch

Chelmsford TeleMedia

ITR ONFACEBOOK LINK

If you have any comments or suggestions for

the In-Town Report write Roy at

[email protected]

Roy Earley

T M ti R t ti P i t 6

http://www.lowellsun.com/

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


http://chelmsford.patch.com/

http://www.chelmsfordtv.org/





















Chelmsford's In-Town Report:02-24-13

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