BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Natick Town Hall
May 18, 2009
6:30 p.m.
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman John Ciccariello at 6:30 p.m.
PRESENT: John Ciccariello, Joshua Ostroff, Kristine Van Amsterdam, Carol A. Gloff. Absent: John Connolly.
ALSO PRESENT: Martha L. White, Town Administrator; Donna Challis, Secretary
WARRANTS: Payroll warrants were signed by the Board of Selectmen on April 21, 2009 in the amount of $595,978.45. This figure was included in total warrants signed by the Board of Selectmen of $3,055,369.33.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Ms. Gloff, seconded by Mr. Ostroff, moved to enter into executive session to discuss matters pertaining to collective bargaining. By roll call vote the motion passed on a 4-0-0 vote. At 6:32 p.m. the Board entered into executive session after announcing that the meeting would return to open session.
The open session was reconvened at 7:10 p.m.
THE MATHWORKS SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: MICHAEL GIBSON, AVIVA SIEGEL
Speaking on behalf of The MathWorks Scholarship Committee was Howard Wilcox. Also in attendance was Lawrence Dick.
Mr. Wilcox noted that each year the Committee did this. It was very pleasurable and the Committee enjoyed honoring these students. This year’s process was quite a challenge with 11 highly qualified candidates including eight from Natick High School and three from private schools. During the evaluation the Committee reviewed all applications and ranked them according to criteria which included academic achievement, a student essay, and a demonstrated commitment to math and science. The top seven candidates were then interviewed.
Mr. Wilcox continued that academically and socially the students were amazing with high GPA’s, numerous AP Courses, athletes, band members, tutors. The contest was particularly close this year but the Committee identified two students whom they felt were most deserving of the MathWorks award. The students were Aviva Siegal and Michael Gibson.
Mr. Wilcox highlighted Ms. Siegal’s accomplishments noting that she was a true lover of mathematics. She began taking math classes as an extra-curricular activity in middle school and has been honing her skills ever since. As a student at Natick High School, she has been chosen to represent the school in the New England Math League competition and the Women in Science competition. Aviva was an accomplished figure skater as well as a member of the Natick HS Pit band and Key Club. She also works in Framingham at the Wilson Wizards program, a science, math and leadership program for girls. Aviva will attend MIT next fall pursuing mathematics.
Michael Gibson was also headed for MIT in the fall where he will pursue engineering. Michael has been President of his class for all four years of high school and as a member of the National Honors Society, Math Team, and Debate Team has made quite an impact on all who know him. He is the Captain of the NHS Wrestling team and is on the Lacrosse team as well. Additionally he has spent many hours volunteering with Camp Arrowhead.
In conclusion Mr. Wilcox noted that both students were National Merit finalists and both have amazing GPA’s. Their activities were a little different. It was with great pleasure the Committee recommended these two accomplished students to receive the MathWorks Scholarship.
A motion was made by Ms. Van Amsterdam to award The MathWorks Scholarships to Michael Gibson and Aviva Siegel. Seconded by Ms. Gloff and unanimously voted.
The students were given a standing ovation.
Ms. Siegel thanked the MathWorks Scholarship Committee for this honor.
THE MATHWORKS SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: MICHAEL GIBSON, AVIVA SIEGEL (contd)
Mr. Gibson extended his thanks to the MathWorks Scholarship Committee and to The MathWorks for sponsoring this program. He saw this as a wonderful opportunity to get such a high level education and thanked everyone.
Ms. White noted that the Town’s contact with MathWorks wanted to be here tonight. She was unable to make it, but the people at MathWorks looked forward to meeting both students.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Deputy Town Administrator Michael Walters Young referred to a handout given to the Board summarizing the status of sediment and fish studies at Natick Soldier Systems Center and the proposed treatment for Pegan Cove. A thirty day comment for this plan has begun and a hearing will be held on May 21, 2009 at the Morse Institute Library at 7:00 p.m.
Mr. Walters Young noted that the proposal identified the hot spot areas where there were the highest levels of contaminated sediment and the proposal was to remove it by removing ½ foot and in some cases 1 foot of sediment and treat it. The Board had several options. The one recommended by the Administration would be to direct the Town Administrator to draft something and have it available for the June 1 meeting.
Mr. Ostroff inquired about links on the web site. Ms. White thought if people wanted to speak to someone from the Town she would encourage them to contact the Environmental Compliance Officer Robert Bois. A summary page could be put on the web site, but this was an Army Labs project and while the Town had an interest questions should go to the Labs.
INTERVIEW FOR APPOINTMENT AS NATICK’S REPRESENTATIVE TO KEEFE TECHNICAL SCHOOL
Tass Filledes told the Board he was Vice-President of the Keefe Technical School Board. He recalled the last time he met with the Board of Selectmen three years ago he made a statement that Keefe Tech was the best kept secret in MetroWest, but that was no longer the case. The school has made some great progress in the last three years. It was well known by the five communities served by the School – Natick, Framingham, Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton.
Mr. Filledes continued that there were now five honors courses at the school and they were affiliated with Framingham State and students can take AP courses. Keefe Tech was fully accredited by NEAFC and was in the fifth year of a 10 year evaluation. Unlike a comprehensive high school which was geared toward training students for college, Keefe trains for college as well as trains students for a career. In last year’s class 52% went onto college.
Mr. Filledes noted the School held two open houses each year for parents and students. There was a 16 member school committee – 8 from Framingham and 2 from each of the other towns. Natick had 65 students attending and was assessed $1,280,158 out of the $15,170,709 overall budget. Approximately 700 students were attending Keefe Tech at this time.
Mr. Filledes further noted that Keefe Tech did community projects. Last year in Natick, Keefe Tech built the deck around the golf course and constructed a house in Natick at 24 Appleton Road. He invited each member of the Board to take a tour of the school.
A motion was made by Ms. Van Amsterdam, seconded by Mr. Ostroff, to appoint Mr. Filledes as Natick’s representative to the Keefe Technical School Committee. Unanimously voted.
INTERVIEW FOR APPOINTMENT TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Joseph Kiggen told the Board that the posting jumped out at him because of his professional and personal background. Professionally he was involved in a couple of small businesses that started and grew. Currently he was at IBM and was trying to get a reverse commute from Boston. He was working with the public and the private collaboration.
Mr. Ostroff inquired if he had any idea for how to fulfill the goals of the committee, but Mr. Kiggen said he didn’t have any specific thoughts. He didn’t want to come into it with this has to be done. He had been reading
INTERVIEW FOR APPOINTMENT TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (contd)
over the Natick 360 and was trying to keep an open mind and work with the group.
Benjamin Greenberg noted he was a lifelong resident of Natick and owner of Debsan. He has been running his business for 37 years, was a member of the Natick Center Associates Board for over 20 years, on the Parking Study Committee, served on the Board of Temple Israel over 20 years, and had recently been appointed to the Natick Service Council. He was also a Town Meeting member for at least 12 years and a behind the scenes cheerleader for downtown Natick.
Mr. Greenberg continued that he filled his building with artists because he recognized that businesses would require parking. He brought The Center for Arts in Natick to Natick and provided them space without rent. Bringing the arts to Natick was a no brainer. As a retailer in the downtown he realized without parking Natick wasn’t set up for retail.
Mr. Greenberg pointed out that within 15 miles of here four movies were being filmed. One thing that could be done was to make known the old houses in the area and the commercial space available. A new studio was being planned for Plymouth and if the Town could get in on that in early it would be beneficial.
In conclusion Mr. Greenberg stated that he had a long history of being involved and would like to have an opportunity to serve.
Mr. Ostroff asked if Mr. Greenberg was comfortable with the idea this committee was intended to promote Natick generally not just the downtown. Mr. Greenberg’s reply was, “absolutely”, noting he was born and bred in Natick. There were a lot of empty spaces on Route 9 and businesses needed to be brought in.
Mr. Ostroff mentioned filing a disclosure of a potential conflict of interest, and Mr. Greenberg said he didn’t have a problem with it.
Mr. Ciccariello noted that Mr. Greenberg and his family had some historic structures in downtown Natick and he wondered how Mr. Greenberg felt about possibly trying to create some kind of historic tourist industry. Any thoughts as to how he (Mr. Greenberg) would consider that being part of economic development.
Mr. Greenberg responded that when Stan Winter’s building became available he toured it. It was beautiful, but nobody has seen it. There were lots of those buildings in Town and he was spending a good part of his day showing people around.
THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY: PETITION FOR CHANGE IN OFFICERS & DIRECTORS
The local manager of the Cheesecake Factory was not available for tonight’s meeting, but Mr. Ciccariello explained that this was a petition for a change in the corporate officers and directors. The Board could either vote tonight or wait for the manager to be available.
Ms. Gloff noted this was a corporate change that had nothing to do with the local management. She didn’t feel the manager needed to be here.
On a motion by Ms. Van Amsterdam, seconded by Ms. Gloff, the Board unanimously voted to approve the change in officers and directors.
COCHITUATE RAIL TRAIL: DESIGN RFP
Mr. Ostroff presented the Board with a revised RFP for the Cochituate Rail Trail design noting there were no substantive changes from the one in the briefing book. The RFP had been put together with the help of the Procurement Officer and was approved by the Cochituate Rail Trail Advisory Committee. If approved by the Board of Selectmen, he (Mr. Ostroff) suggested that it be put in the Central Register.
Ms. Van Amsterdam inquired as to the source of funding. Mr. Ostroff explained that in early 2006 General Growth Properties, the owners of the Natick Collection, negotiated with Mass Highway to provide up to $500,000 for the rail trail project as mitigation. Some of the money has been expended. Town Meeting appropriated money for title, security gates and barriers. No taxpayer funds have been expended or contemplated to be spent in any of this project. The conceptual design purpose was to give the community some input into what it might look like. It didn’t commit the
COCHITUATE RAIL TRAIL: DESIGN RFP (cont)
Town to doing it. The CRT Committee has been in existence for about three years and this was an important milestone but the project could take many more years to get to fruition.
Mr. Ostroff continued that with the Board’s approval, it would go to Town Counsel for review. The thinking was to issue within the next few weeks and have a conference the middle of June with a deadline of June 30. The contract would be awarded in July and the work done in about three months.
Mr. Ciccariello inquired if there would be a committee to review the responses to the RFP. Mr. Ostroff noted that the thought was to have them be evaluated by the Advisory Committee and brought back to the Board.
Mr. Ciccariello asked Ms. White if she was comfortable having the Advisory Committee doing the evaluating without the administration. Ms. White noted that Community Development Director Patrick Reffett would be involved and he was the administration representative.
A motion was made by Ms. Van Amsterdam to issue an RFP for the Cochituate Rail Trail conceptual design subject to review by Town Counsel. Seconded by Ms. Gloff and unanimously voted.
PUBLIC HARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – RCN
The Board was joined by members of the Cable Advisory Board – Hank Szretter, Arthur Pinsley, Rod Feak, Edward Hudson and special counsel for cable matters Peter Epstein.
The hearing notice was read and Ms. Van Amsterdam moved to open the public hearing. Seconded by Ms. Gloff and unanimously voted.
As Chair of the Cable Advisory Board, Mr. Szretter called his board to order at 8:05 p.m.
Mr. Ciccariello read the following opening remarks:
Good evening. My name is John Ciccariello. I am chairman of the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Natick. I will be conducting this evening’s public ascertainment hearing along with the other Selectmen. Before going further, let me introduce the Selectmen and other representatives of the Town who are in attendance here this evening.
Notice of tonight’s hearing has been duly published in the MetroWest Daily news on May 4, 2009 and May 11, 2009. I will provide a copy of that notice for the public record.
Tonight’s hearing is mandated by the renewal provisions of the federal Cable Act. The current cable television license held by RCN will expire on April 10, 2010. The Town is currently involved in the federally required ascertainment process. The purpose of tonight’s hearing is to (i) identify future cable-related community needs and interests, and (ii) review the performance of RCN under its current cable television license.
Once the Town has gathered community input, it will forward the results to RCN in what amounts to a Request for Proposal, or RFP. This RFP will basically inform RCN of the kinds of services and facilities that the Town expects will be provided during any possible renewal term. Thus, the testimony that you will give this evening is very important, and I encourage all of you to speak candidly and specifically about any cable-related matters. You must come up and provide testimony in order for your views to count and be a part of the official record. So, please come up and testify.
When you come up to speak, please give your name and address. Because this is an ascertainment hearing for the Town, I ask that you not pose direct questions for RCN to answer. All testimony and/or inquiries should be directed to me.
Finally, I would like to clarify that while this is an ascertainment hearing on cable television matters, there are two (2) related subjects over which the Board of Selectmen, as Issuing Authority, have no authority to regulate. The first is the rates that RCN charges for its services; the second is the commercial programming that RCN chooses to show on its cable systems. I realize that these are two important issues for cable subscribers. While people are certainly
PUBLIC HARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – RCN (contd)
free to comment on these matters this evening, it is important for everyone to realize that the Selectmen cannot mandate the specific rates that RCN can charge, nor can the Selectmen mandate the commercial programming that RCN carries on its Natick cable system.
With those introductory comments, I would now like to call on any Town representatives, including members of the Town’s Cable Advisory Committee to present testimony. After that, I will open up the hearing to comments and testimony from the public. Please come up to the microphone to speak.
Speaking on behalf of the Cable Advisory Board, Mr. Szretter stated his board was trying to gain as much information about the renewal process as possible. Next week on May 27 was another public hearing at 7:00 p.m. for Comcast and at 7:45 p.m. for RCN. In addition there was a survey on the Town web site and paper copies were available at Town Hall and the library.
Irma DeBruyn told the boards that when she went to the web site she couldn’t print off the second page of the survey. Following up on Ms. DeBruyn’s comment, Ms. Gloff suggested charging the Deputy Town Administrator with trying to get it fixed so people can print the second page – hopefully tomorrow.
There was no one from the Board of Selectmen wishing to testify. The floor was open to the public.
Jay Ball of 11 Russell Circle understood there were efforts afoot by RCN and other providers to have a licensing process re-arranged such that the state would have the ability to control the licensing process and he would urge that be opposed.
Mr. Ball noted that he was an RCN subscriber and was extremely pleased with the service. He got RCN’s cable, internet and telephone and on a few occasions with the internet he managed with relative dispatch to get through to technical help and he gave high marks on that.
Erica Ball also of 11 Russell Circle stated that she was Chairman of the Board of Selectmen when the first cable contract was negotiated and there was a vast improvement since the first 15 year contract. She thought the biggest was in local origination programming. Originally it was done inhouse and didn’t work too well. It was picked up by an independent Pegasus and it has come a very long way in terms of equipment and live broadcast. If control was lost over local origination chances were it would regress to what it was in the beginning if lucky. She strongly urged the Board to vigorously oppose any changes.
Ms. Van Amsterdam asked Attorney Epstein to explain the loss of control to local authorities and Mr. Epstein advised there was a measure that was proposed by Verizon several years ago which would have changed state law and shift the responsibility for licensing to the State. It came before the Legislature and there was widespread opposition. It failed. That was just a Verizon bill. It was not put forth or supported by RCN or Comcast. Verizon has introduced another bill coming up for hearing in July. It would not change the licensing scheme. It would change state regulations to require that if a new entrant came in the parties would have to complete the licensing process within 90 days. Right now state law requires it to be finished within 12 months. Ninety days was not
realistic.
Mr. Epstein noted that the second part of the bill would change the funding mechanism for local programming. It was probably not something municipalities want to support. Hopefully the Town will oppose it because the current system works. Any company that gets close to 100 franchises in little over three years was doing pretty well. Verizon has also moved to change the reporting Form 500. It tells about subscriber complaints and the number of outages and the change would strike that information from the form.
Mr. Ostroff advised that last year when the hearing was held on the proposed legislation, he testified against it as a board member for MMA and he would expect to do so again. If there was anything in the legislation that was not consistent he would need the Board’s authority to do so.
Former Natick resident Jim Pillsbury supported the public access studio and its fine work. Whatever happened in the future he would hope the appropriate funding went to the right changes in regard to the public access
PUBLIC HARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – RCN (contd)
studies. It was an asset to the Town. Some great programs came from there and he would hope the Board would make sure the funding was there to keep the studio going.
Reverend Seth Asare of Fiske Methodist Church also supported the work of Pegasus which has been a force for the religious community and a benefit of the weak and elderly. It was one of the few means by which they can get the programming that goes on in the church. He favored anything that could be done to support the work of Pegasus as we must protect the weak and the poor.
Paul Serface of 8 Hopewell Farms said he was involved in Pegasus and wanted to support the staff and the people that work there in helping a novice. The quality of the equipment was high and the staff was very helpful not just in a technical way but a supportive way.
Natick Pegasus station manager Randy Brewer stated that he had a financial interest as an employer that receives funding through pass throughs. He also disclosed that Jim Pillsbury was the host of his show and the producer was a Natick resident.
Mr. Brewer told the Board that a lot of the equipment was getting older. High definition was coming in and he wanted to be sure capital funding was left at the level it was. The equipment had about an eight year life span on it. Looking to the future, discussions have started with the schools of putting in a satellite station at the high school. He needed to be sure the funding was there.
Ms. Gloff felt some obligation to represent the population that only had one choice. The majority of the community had three choices but for those that live in either multi dwelling units or underground, there was only one choice. All pay the same price, but it was important to keep in mind the need to lean toward companies providing the choice of service to all the residents. She understood the reasons why it wasn’t done and wasn’t faulting anyone, but there was a need to move forward. As new developments come in, they were all underground.
Mr. Ostroff noted that many consumers need more than just cable TVN from their company, but tonight’s hearing was just about cable TV service. Mr. Epstein confirmed that to be correct.
Mr. Ostroff stated that he would be working with a few of the companies to deal with the issue of wires left coiled around poles and wondered if contract language might be considered to prevent companies from doing this. He would ask the Cable Advisory Board if that was something they want to explore.
Mr. Epstein asked if there was no by-law language and Mr. Ostroff responded that there was none as of yet but there could be.
Representing RCN was Thomas Steel, Vice President and Regulatory Counsel for RCN. Mr. Steel told the Board he was looking to working with the Advisory Committee over the next year for a renewal. A lot has happened over the past nine years. They started with a lot of great enthusiasm; their corporate parent went through bankruptcy and managed to survive and was doing well; RCN brought competition when no one else did. RCN was particularly proud of the partnership with the Town with the provision of the fiber I-net. It reaches 25 locations and 275 miles of fiber which has helped the data needs of the Town. RCN maintains that at no charge. He thought it has been reliable and hoped it was something the town has come to appreciate.
Mr. Steel continued that RCN was completely digital and he pointed out that a lot of things drive rates. The benefit of competition was that service improves. When Verizon shows up with FIOS it makes RCN go digital. They appreciated their competition and worked hard against two large companies. He was looking forward to working with the Town for another 10 years.
Mr. Ciccariello recalled that when RCN ran into financial difficulties, a lot of multi dwelling units never got wired and he questioned if there were any plans to try to implement the original program.
Mr. Steel responded that the task hadn’t gotten easier with the addition of another competitor. An amendment was done in 2005. During this period they (RCN) would like to see where they could reach some of the larger MDUs.
PUBLIC HARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – RCN (contd)
Increasingly they were working within He couldn’t make any promises particularly for underground cul de sacs when there were two other competitors. It would be a daunting challenge but one they would address and would take a serious look.
Mr. Ostroff inquired if foot print was defined as the Town of Natick or homes where RCN’s service currently passes. Mr. Steel responded that it was the Town of Natick, noting RCN did get some relief and would revisit it.
DPW Director Charles Sisitsky made a pitch for additional lines. He noted that in the existing agreement RCN was required to provide drops at different public buildings and he would like to perhaps get those drops to include the sewer pump stations. The Town had about 33-35 stations that had to be alarmed and it was difficult. They used to use the fire alarm and that was very unreliable so they switched to wireless, but that required in some locations to have ugly antennas and there have been some complaints. The problem could be solved if fiber optic drops were at the pump stations.
Mr. Ciccariello asked Mr. Sisitsky to provide the list and the locations of the stations.
Mr. Ostroff pointed out that it didn’t need to be fiber optic. It could be copper. Mr. Sisitsky indicated he would be satisfied with whatever worked.
Regarding the drops, Mr. Szretter advised that the existing license could be reviewed. He believed there was the ability to have additional drops at existing locations. If not, that could be looked for in the new license as well.
Mr. Epstein noted that it had to be deviated between the downstream drops that were provided to public buildings so basic service can be received and I-net drops. In Natick RCN provides I-net and it was fully interactive. That might be something that was more appropriate as an I-net drop as opposed to service drops. The request would be to extend the I-net to those stations so the network could be used for those purposes.
Mr. Ciccariello read the following concluding remarks:
If there is no further testimony that concludes tonight’s public hearing, I will keep tonight’s hearing open for seven (7) days in order to receive additional testimony. Interested parties are encouraged to submit written testimony on any renewal-related issue discussed tonight or, indeed, regarding any cable-related issue.
Written testimony or comments may be submitted to the Office of the Board of Selectmen by Tuesday, May 26, 2009 (The prepared remarks had Monday, May 25, but it was pointed out that Monday was a holiday). Those comments should be sent to the Office of the Board of Selectmen, Town Hall, 13 East Central Street, Natick, MA 01760.
If you have any questions about tonight’s hearing or the cable television renewal process, please call the Selectmen’s Office at (508) 647-6410.
Thank you all for attending this evening’s public ascertainment hearing.
Mr. Epstein suggested that the Board may want to mention to people that testified that this was the RCN hearing and it was equally important for people to testify at the Comcast hearing so it was on the Comcast ascertainment log as well.
A recess was called at 8:40 p.m. and the meeting was again called to order at 8:48 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – COMCAST
The Board was joined by members of the Cable Advisory Board – Hank Szretter, Arthur Pinsley, Rod Feak, Edward Hudson and special counsel for cable matters Peter Epstein.
The hearing notice was read and Ms. Van Amsterdam moved to open the public hearing. Seconded by Ms. Gloff and unanimously voted.
Mr. Ciccariello read the following opening remarks:
PUBLIC HEARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – COMCAST (contd)
Good evening. My name is John Ciccariello. I am chairman of the Board of Selectmen of the Town of Natick. I will be conducting this evening’s public ascertainment hearing along with the other Selectmen. Before going further, let me introduce the Selectmen and other representatives of the Town who are in attendance here this evening.
Notice of tonight’s hearing has been duly published in the MetroWest Daily news on May 4, 2009 and May 11, 2009. I will provide a copy of that notice for the public record.
Tonight’s hearing is mandated by the renewal provisions of the federal Cable Act. The current cable television license held by RCN will expire on February 2, 2011. The Town is currently involved in the federally required ascertainment process. The purpose of tonight’s hearing is to (i) identify future cable-related community needs and interests, and (ii) review the performance of RCN under its current cable television license.
Once the Town has gathered community input, it will forward the results to Comcast in what amounts to a Request for Proposal, or RFP. This RFP will basically inform Comcast of the kinds of services and facilities that the Town expects will be provided during any possible renewal term. Thus, the testimony that you will give this evening is very important, and I encourage all of you to speak candidly and specifically about any cable-related matters. You must come up and provide testimony in order for your views to count and be a part of the official record. So, please come up and testify.
When you come up to speak, please give your name and address. Because this is an ascertainment hearing for the Town, I ask that you not pose direct questions for RCN to answer. All testimony and/or inquiries should be directed to me.
Finally, I would like to clarify that while this is an ascertainment hearing on cable television matters, there are two (2) related subjects over which the Board of Selectmen, as Issuing Authority, have no authority to regulate. The first is the rates that Comcast charges for its services; the second is the commercial programming that RCN chooses to show on its cable systems. I realize that these are two important issues for cable subscribers. While people are certainly free to comment on these matters this evening, it is important for everyone to realize that the Selectmen cannot mandate the specific rates that Comcast can charge, nor can the Selectmen mandate the commercial programming that RCN carries on its Natick cable system.
With those introductory comments, I would now like to call on any Town representatives, including members of the Town’s Cable Advisory Committee to present testimony. After that, I will open up the hearing to comments and testimony from the public. Please come up to the microphone to speak.
Hank Szretter stated that he was Chair of the Cable Advisory Board and also a resident at 53 Mill Street. This hearing was to gain information about performance of Comcast with regard to their renewal process and doing research. Another hearing would be held on May 27, 2009 starting at 7:00 p.m. with Comcast and RCN. There was a survey that can be accessed through the Town web site and paper copies were available at both Town Hall and the library. We have been advised there was a printing problem with the web site and that will be taken care of in the next day or so.
Ms. Van Amsterdam asked Mr. Epstein to expound on any bills or legislative action that may have an impact on the licensing process.
Mr. Epstein advised that right now before the General Court there was no legislation proposed that would change the licensing scheme for the local communities. There was a measure put forth a year ago by Verizon that would have shifted the licensing from the Board of Selectmen to the state. That did not pass. The current measured proposed by Verizon would do two things. It would establish a period of 90 days to negotiate with a new applicant and come to an agreement which was a very fast time. The towns can be pretty quick but 90 days was very quick.
The second part would change the funding mechanism for public programming and part of that would have the capital provided by cable operators. All three of the cable providers in Natick have provided capital money. In
PUBLIC HEARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – COMCAST (contd)
Verizon’s proposed legislation it would be a percentage of gross revenue – up to 5% for annual funding and 1% for capital. Now Natick gets basically 5% with maybe a little less than that from Comcast, but was getting cash.
A hearing was scheduled for July 22 and Mr. Epstein hoped the Board could weigh in with the legislation. The legislature was sensitive about municipal needs and needs to hear if this was a good bill or not. Verizon seems to be pushing the bill aggressively.
Mr. Ciccariello asked if Mr. Epstein would assist in drafting a letter to the legislature. Mr. Epstein said he would be happy to. He added that the measure as far as he knew had not been supported by Comcast or RCN. It was a Verizon supported bill.
Mr. Ostroff asked the Cable Advisory Board to consider whether contract language would be appropriate to limit the use of wires wrapped around the utility poles or if a by-law change should be made. He noted the good cooperation received by all three of the cable vendors.
Ms. Gloff noted that Comcast provides service to underground utilities and MDU so her comment during the previous hearing wasn’t relevant.
If wires were underground and there was a request for change in service and the wires need to be accessed on several people’s property, Ms. Gloff asked if there was any requirement or could there be that those whose properties would be crossed would be notified.
If RCN or Comcast had to cross a neighbor’s property to get to a particular piece of property, Mr. Epstein believed they would need the neighbor’s permission to do so.
Ms. Gloff gave the example of there needed to be a wire put along next to the street. It was Town property. The plan was someone further down the street wanted service and the wire had to go across the new driveway she put in. She got them to tunnel under the new driveway, but the only way she found out what was planned was because she made a lot of telephone calls when she saw the Dig Safe.
Mr. Epstein believed Ms. Gloff was asking if the Town could require operators to provide residents notice even if work was on the Town median strip. He didn’t know why that couldn’t be requested. It would be a negotiated item and he would make note of it. That was something the Board would want common to all three (cable licenses). He couldn’t think of anything offhand that would prohibit it and thought Ms. Gloff’s example was a good one.
Ms. Gloff added that very recently she came home and found Dig Safe signs across her lawn. By making a number of telephone calls she found it was to provide someone across the street either cable or internet access and because the main box was out by the street, they had to cross her driveway. It would have helped tremendously if someone put a notice in her front door.
Jim Pillsbury of Framingham told the Board he was a host of a show that was played in Natick. Whatever deal was made (he was OK with) as long as the public access studio remained.
Reverend Seth Asare of Fiske Methodist Church and Bacon Street resident stated that he was pleased by the weak in the community being able to access activities in the church through the programming. Anything that could be done to help Pegasus and other access programs to continue would be appreciated.
Paul Serface of 8 Hopewell Farms stated that he was here to support Pegasus.
Randy Brewer lifelong resident of Natick disclosed that he had a financial interest in this matter as an employer that receives funding from cable companies. Pegasus came about in 2002 and used capital funding to set up. They were facing the life span of the equipment and now there was high definition and the need to replace that equipment. There have also been informal discussions about putting a satellite in the high school, but the funds were needed to do that. By leveling funds from the cable companies the funds didn’t have to come from the taxes.
Irma DeBruyn of 6 Indian Ridge Road said she was here to voice her husband’s complaints. He has an illness which makes it impossible to run around and
PUBLIC HEARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – COMCAST (contd)
depends on TV. Since having Comcast they noticed the stations they had access to decreased. Three weren’t there any more. There were four Spanish stations. She knew there was some requirement under the FCC that different groups can be access to the broadcast but she spoke to the FCC today and he didn’t think the Town would have to have four channels.
Ms. DeBruyn questioned if they have to have each and every channel. Four seemed like a lot considering there wasn’t an extensive Spanish population here. If they had to have another channel maybe a Portuguese channel. The programming on some of the Spanish channels was not something you would want your children to see. They (DeBruyn’s) had basic cable and a lot of older people have basic because they can’t afford more.
DPW Director Charles Sisitsky repeated what he said at the previous hearing. He would like to see if the Town can work with the cable companies to pursue the coordination of data drops for sewer pump stations to send signals back to the SCADA systems that receive all the alarms for the sewer pump stations.
Representing Comcast was the Senior Manager of Government and Community Relations Frank Foss.
Mr. Foss stated that he was mindful of his Special Municipal Employee status to which he was acting as an agent for his company. The ascertainment hearings were for the purpose of hearing from the public. He would like to enter into the record that the notice was read. Mr. Foss referenced a memo from Deputy Town Administrator Michael Walters Young to the Board of Selectmen dated May 9 having to do with the process of renewal. There were a couple of attachments he did not have and he would like to enter those into the record and attach to the stenographer’s report. There was a copy of the ascertainment survey and he would like to enter that into the record. In addition Mr. Foss had a copy of the license which was executed eight years ago under AT&T that he would like to enter into the record. An electronic copy would be supplied to the stenographer.
Mr. Foss had a couple of things to note. With respect to the bills before the State at this time, Mr. Foss noted that Comcast had its advocate Communication and Cable Telecommunication Association speak on behalf of a number of companies that were members. They spoke very eloquently about a bill Verizon placed before the State and was planning to speak on the 22nd. Comcast Association’s comments were unchanged. They (Comcast) have been doing this for over 25 years since 1984. It was a process that worked and they (Comcast) believed strongly with keeping it with the local government and closest to the customers. He didn’t believe there would be any change in the process.
With respect to the coiled wires, Mr. Foss thanked Mr. Ostroff for bringing it to their attention. Comcast has a policy that if there was a request for a drop to be removed, they remove the whole drop and if it was being left that was operating outside their rules.
Mr. Foss continued that Comcast services the entire town. He knew of no area where they didn’t serve. There may be some areas where an easement couldn’t be obtained but if there were they were very few. With respect to flagging yards, Mr. Foss noted that Comcast was required to Dig Safe any time they were going to dig. They would do everything necessary under the by-laws to notify any resident. He didn’t know if the DPW had any regulations but would look into it.
With regard to the channels, Mr. Foss acknowledged that some channels have been moved. At this point they were attempting to move a number from analog to digital. Some companies have gone all digital, but Comcast’s philosophy was not to do that at this time. Some residents have TVs that were analog only and if the company moved to all digital they would be required to have a box. For the foreseeable future the residents weren’t being required to have a box, but that may change in the future. For the expanded service Concast will provide a free box and 2-3 other digital adapters at no charge.
It was Mr. Foss’ understanding that Comcast chose to carry one Spanish channel and three they did not, but they were carried under the must carry rules. If a cable operator was requested to carry their signal, the operator was required.
Mr. Foss noted that the renewal process was a review of past performance – if Comcast has substantially complied with the license and they believed
PUBLIC HEARING: CABLE TELEVISION LICENSING – COMCAST (contd)
they did. Under their predecessor there were issues with answering the phone and customer service and he believed Comcast was exceeding. He believed going forward Comcast had the technology, management, and legal requirements to operate their cable system and would hopefully request to be granted a renewal after taking the time to explore the needs of the community after taking into account the cost of those needs.
Mr. Epstein clarified that Mr. Foss had mentioned that the current license was initially granted to AT&T. It was granted to Media One.
Mr. Ciccariello read the following closing statement:
If there is no further testimony that concludes tonight’s public hearing, I will keep tonight’s hearing open for seven (7) days in order to receive additional testimony. Interested parties are encouraged to submit written testimony on any renewal-related issue discussed tonight or, indeed, regarding any cable-related issue.
Written testimony or comments may be submitted to the Office of the Board of Selectmen by Tuesday, May 26, 2009 (The prepared remarks had Monday, May 25, but it was pointed out that Monday was a holiday). Those comments should be sent to the Office of the Board of Selectmen, Town Hall, 13 East Central Street, Natick, MA 01760.
If you have any questions about tonight’s hearing or the cable television renewal process, please call the Selectmen’s Office at (508) 647-6410.
Thank you all for attending this evening’s public ascertainment hearing.
Mr. Ostroff inquired if residents of Natick Housing Authority properties were notified through the same channel as every other resident. They may have a particular interest in these hearings and he believed some provision was made.
Mr. Epsteins suggested the committee could follow up to see if there were representatives that might be interested in coming to future hearings. The service area was the Town and he assumed those buildings were included.
Mr. Foss stated that he could confirm that Comcast services those areas.
At 9:25 p.m. Mr. Szretter adjourned the Cable Advisory Board meeting.
TOWN ENGINEER: AWARD CONTRACT CHAPTER 90 ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS
Town Engineer Mark Coviello explained that the Board was being asked to award a contract for roadway improvements at various locations for 2009. The project was advertised in the newspaper and the Central Register and four contractors submitted bids.
Based on their review of bids received and the references of the low bidder, the Procurement Officer and Department of Public Works recommended that the contract be awarded to D&R General Contracting, Inc. in the amount of $708,018.00 as the lowest responsive and eligible bidder.
Mr. Coviello advised that the roads included in this contract were based upon the five year roadway plan: Mercer, Strathmore, neighborhood of Virginia, Curtis, Vernon and Pilgrim. Boden Lane was on the web site but taken off the contract this year. With the potential of West Natick train station coming forward there may be some mitigation work. It was taken off until there was a decision of whether the station work will go forward.
Mercer and Strathmore will be reclaimed and resurfaced with new berms. Vernon and Curtis will receive chip seal along with sidewalk and grass strips.
Mr. Coviello noted that he had received a letter from a resident last year when some of the roads were chip sealed. The resident was involved in a bicycle accident on a road that had been recently chip sealed and not swept. This year signs will be posted. The practice was to wait a week from the chip seal to sweeping.
Ms. Gloff asked if this was FY09 chapter 90 funds. Mr. Coviello responded that this was money the Town already had that was encumbered.
In follow-up Mr. Ostroff inquired if this was the full allotment or if a little was left over from Chapter 90 and was told by Mr. Coviello there was
TOWN ENGINEER: AWARD CONTRACT CHAPTER 90 ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS (contd)
about $450,000 uncommitted plus there were some old projects that were in the process of being closed out.
If there was a road used heavily by tractor trailers, Mr. Ostroff questioned if there was any approach made to companies that contribute to the degradation of a roadway. Mr. Coviello noted it was part of doing business. For an industrial park the roads were to be designed to take that.
In the neighborhood where he lived, Mr. Ostroff noted there was a mulch place that receives a lot of trucks and he wondered if there was a process that might deal with commercial enterprises. Mr. Coviello wasn’t aware of any way to get them to contribute to the impact on the road. The DPW tries to determine what kind of use the road gets. The chip seal was for low volume low traffic typically neighborhoods.
Ms. Van Amsterdam inquired if Mr. Coviello had familiarity with D&R and if so what was his assessment. Mr. Coviello advised that D&R completed a section of Speen Street and did the streets from Hartford to Mill that was resurfaced and reconstructed. In two previous years they got the roadway improvement contract. He was familiar with them and they do acceptable work.
Mr. Ciccariello pointed out that in the bid document the Natick Police detail was listed as $38 per hour, but the contract said $41. Mr. Coviello advised that $41 was the general rate. Considering that this was a Town detail Ms. Van Amsterdam questioned if the $41 was the correct rate. Mr. Coviello responded that $41 was a base rate in the contract depending on who filled the position. It may be out-of-town.
A motion was made by Ms. Gloff to award the contract for the 2009 road improvement to D&R General Contracting in the amount of $708,018.00.
DPW WATER & SEWER SUPERVISOR: AWARD CONTRACT PRECAST BUILDINGS
Appearing before the Board were DPW Director Charles Sisitsky and Water & Sewer Supervisor Jack Perodeau.
Mr. Sisitsky requested the Board to award the contract for a precast building in the amount of $84,714. He advised that in April 2007 Town Meeting appropriated $450,000 for draining, cleaning, and providing chemical equipment at both the Town Forest and Broad Hill reservoirs. Some of the work was very specialized and the Town wanted to be careful to get qualified people to do it. The work was bid separately. That contract was bid in October 2007 for draining, cleaning and installing chemical pipes and the penetrators on the roof of the reservoirs.
In July 2008 the rest of the project was bid which includes the building, the slabs and the electrical work. The lowest bid came in at $409,000 which put the bid over the appropriation and it was not awarded. They talked to the contractors to find out why they came in so high and got some good reasons. They (DPW) realized it could be done a lot cheaper inhouse so just the building was rebid and that was in front of the Board tonight. There were three companies in the area that do this and two submitted bids.
In terms of the budget, Mr. Sisitsky explained that if the $84,000 was awarded, an additional $50,000 for each of the three was anticipated for equipping bringing the total to $234,000. The end result would be a net savings of approximately $100,000 by just buying the equipment and have Town forces install it.
Mr. Ostroff inquired as to the impact on the water & sewer budget if the contract as originally appropriated was awarded. Mr. Sisitsky advised that when the money was appropriated by the Town the money was built into the water & sewer rates at the time.
If there was a potential to save $100,000, Mr. Ciccariello questioned if the savings on this project could be used to help fund one of the projects in the Town Forest – maybe putting off one of the projects until the fall so the rates didn’t have to be raised now and come back in the fall.
As the actual figures of this project wouldn’t be available until everything was completed, Mr. Walters Young preferred to have the projects recommended now and if money was left close it out next year. He couldn’t recommend using the balance until he had the actual figures.
DPW WATER & SEWER SUPERVISOR: AWARD CONTRACT PRECAST BUILDINGS (contd)
Mr. Ciccariello pointed out that the base bid between the two contractors was not significant, but the alternate was extremely significant.
Mr. Ciccariello then asked about ceiling wall panels and insulation and DPW Supervisor Jack Perodeau responded that one contractor said that would drive the price up and it was decided to put it in as an alternate. One contractor said he didn’t have to paint the inside. To Mr. Perodeau it made sense to go with the paneling. Mr. Perodeau added that the town already dug the trenches for the conduit, cleared the area, built the road and there was no problem with access.
CITIZENS CONCERNS
Dick Foley of Gilbert Road told the Board that he strongly hoped the Selectmen would open up the selection process for the new Police Chief as much as possible to get the widest possible applicants. The only way to know the Town had the best was to open it up.
FINANCIAL CONTROLS UPDATE
Mr. Ciccariello noted that as the result of the report issued by the Comptroller it was obvious the Board of Selectmen and administration had to take some action to see what was occurring and how we can move ahead. The Town Administrator met with the Comptroller, Deputy Town Administrator, and Finance director to talk about controls. The Town administration met with the individual firms working on the audit and had a discussion with them last Friday to review some issues at hand and how improvements could be made.
He noted that Ms. Van Amsterdam spoke with Sullivan & Rogers regarding the process of what’s occurred and moving forward. The Board was going to talk about some of the results and as part of that there was still ongoing work being done to determine how things went awry or didn’t get done. He didn’t want to talk about specific individuals or bring up any names. At some point in time the Board may invite individuals from the Comptroller’s office to speak with the Board but at this point he wanted to avoid making allegations or pointing fingers until the Board decided if it wanted to meet with the parties involved.
Ms. White said she wanted to state to the Board and the community that as the Town Administrator her responsibility was to make sure all the operations happen smoothly and timely and to the extent it didn’t happen, she took responsibility and would ensure going forward there can be confidence among the Board of Selectmen and public that all operations were handled timely. She was confident making that commitment to the Board and had every confidence there were tremendous opportunities to make improvements. This was a work in progress.
Ms. White referred to a list prepared by the Comptroller of requirements for reporting, milestones, timeframes, and the personnel responsible. Her intention was to use this as a tool and to meet with the Comptroller monthly to ensure this was happening. Again she stressed that she had every confidence the timelines would be met and expected over time the meetings would become quarterly.
Ms. White continued that there was a section listed in the list of requirements with respect to the annual audit identifying certain milestones. She met with the auditor on Friday and he presented a summary of the current status and the items that were still outstanding and those that were resolved. The auditor expected to have an internal draft copy in the office the week of Memorial Day. It was on track for the Board to get it pretty quickly and on track to have a system of checks and balances. It was moving in the right direction and she expected this to be an agenda item at least through the completion of the audit so the Board can be kept updated.
Mr. Ostroff commended the people working on this issue – Mr. Panagopoulos, members of the Board and the administration for wresting with these complex issues. At a previous meeting a statement had been made that the audit had an effect on local aid which he wanted to clarify. It was schedule A that had an impact and that was on track. The audit didn’t have any bearing on whether the Town receives its state aid.
Ms. White confirmed that was correct noting that was an important distinction.
FINANCIAL CONTROLS UPDATE (contd)
Ms. Van Amsterdam reported that she had a conversation with Chris Rogers (of Sullivan & Rogers) today and was informed of everything and she would continue to meet with Ms. White, the Finance Director and Comptroller as this was worked through. She had every confidence they would collectively seize the opportunities to improve the financial reporting of the Town. It all came down to communication and execution. The Finance Director, administration, Comptroller, and auditors were making certain all staff in the Comptroller’s office were at the highest level of training to execute the functions for which they were responsible. She thought much would be learned once an internal draft of the audit was seen next week.
Ms. Van Amsterdam noted that she had asked if the Board was allowed to see the internal documents and if each Board member could talk to Mr. Rogers about questions. It may help in the education process of all the Board. There will be a number of material weaknesses and it was important to understand the weaknesses and the remedies moving forward.
Ms. White agreed to notify the Board members when the draft audit came in.
REQUEST FOR PERSONNEL EXEMPTION: KERRY BOGLE
Before the Board was a request from Kerry Bogle for an exemption from the provisions of Article 41, Section 4 of the Town of Natick By-Laws in order that Mr. Bogle could work for Sassamon Trace Golf Course as a clubhouse attendant in addition to employment with the Natick School Department.
Ms. White advised that the Board would most likely be seeing these requests more often. She has been working with Human Resources Director of the Schools and one of the benefits of collaborating was dealing with the issue of a person holding two jobs within the Town.
On a motion by Ms. Van Amsterdam, seconded by Ms. Gloff, the Board unanimously voted to grant Mr. Bogle the personnel exemption as requested.
PLEASANT STREET BRIDGE UPDATE
Ms. White noted it was a very dramatic event when the Town was notified of the six ton weight restriction on the Pleasant Street bridge, but that she has been so encouraged by the local state and federal officials to help with this problem. It has been a tremendous effort. A six ton weight restriction which the State felt needed to be imposed would be extremely difficult for the ambulance, fire truck, and school buses.
Ms. White continued that there had been many discussions and meeting in an effort to avoid this restriction or to minimize its impact and duration. First, an on-site meeting was held on April 29 with representatives from MHD including the District 3 Bridge Engineer as well as the Town Engineer, Fire Chief, DPW Director, Highway Superintendent, Selectman Ostroff and herself.
The District 3 Bridge engineer Mohammed Nabulis recognized the significant public safety implications of this weight restriction, as both ambulances and fire engines exceed the 6 ton limit. The MHD attendees were presented a map prepared by the Town’s GIS Division depicting the lengthy detours necessary if these vehicles cannot directly access the Natick neighborhoods on the other side of the bridge. The impact on neighboring communities using that bridge en route to the Metro West Medical Center was also explained. Mr. Nabulsi suggested that, even if the weight limit was imposed, the Town may be able to get a waiver for these vehicles and perhaps school busses as well.
There was a discussion of interim improvements that could at least delay imposing a weight restriction, and an inquiry was made to see if Mr. Nabulsi could assist in designing such measures. On May 6 an email was sent to the Town Engineer indicated that the State has proceeded to have their consulting engineers prepare a procedure for remedial repairs to address the immediate deficiencies with the bride.
On May 5 Ms. White said she had a conference call with the Governor’s Office, Congressman Markey’s staff and representatives from the Executive Office of Transportation and Construction. At that time there were indications of MHD’s willingness to help with interim repairs. There was a willingness to help with interim repairs so the conversation was focused on longer term remedies. The connection between the historic bridge and the nearby dam that was also in need of work was emphasized and Congressman Markey’s office will look for funding for a large design and planning project for holistic improvements to these structures.
Most recently notification was received that through the efforts of Representative Alice Peisch’s office, the Lt. Governor has obtained $200,000 for the necessary remedial repairs.
In conclusion Ms. White noted that the immediate crisis had been averted, but that much work remained to effectuate both the short term remedial measures as well as the long term major repairs that were needed. Hopefully that stage would include the dam as well as the bridge.
Ms. White recognized the efforts of the elected officials, most notably Representative Peisch and Congressman Markey’s office.
Mr. Ostroff noted that at the meeting everyone was struck by how frequently heavy trucks use this historic bridge and it would be extraordinarily disruptive if the bridge had to be closed for any period of time and he was glad these repairs would allow the Town to preserve this historic bridge. This was great work and he commended the Town Administrator.
Ms. Van Amsterdam didn’t know if the traffic sitting on the bridge at peak traffic times was discussed. It would affect the weight requirement. She also referred to the mention of five years in terms of a holistic approach and asked if remedial repairs would hold for that period of time and if the state would give that much time.
Ms. White’s reply was, “yes”, noting the State Engineer was thinking the remedial repair was a 7-10 year solution.
POLICE TRANSCRIPTION POSITION
Police Chief Dennis Mannix requested permission to fill the vacancy of Department Assistant (transcriptionist) created by the death of Marsha Kelley. In a memo to Ms. White he described the benefits of transcribing police reports and spoke of the constant flow of activity in the police records room.
On a motion by Ms. Gloff, seconded by Mr. Ostroff, the Board unanimously voted to authorize the Police Chief to fill the transcriptionist position.
MEETING SCHEDULE
A motion was made by Ms. Gloff to establish the following meeting schedule for the July through December 2009 period with the understanding that changes were possible: July 13, July 27, August 10, August 24, September 8, September 21, October 5, October 19, November 2, November 16, November 30, December 14, December 21, 2009. Seconded by Mr. Ostroff and unanimously voted.
MINUTES
On a motion by Ms. Gloff, seconded by Mr. Ostroff, the Board unanimously voted to approve the minutes of the October 20, 2008 meeting.
A motion was made by Mr. Ostroff, seconded by Ms. Gloff, to approve the minutes of the May 7, 2009 meeting. The motion passed on a 3-0-1 vote. Mr. Ciccariello, Mr. Ostroff, Ms. Gloff voted in favor of the motion. Ms. Van Amsterdam abstained.
BACON FREE LIBRARY: REQUEST TO CLOSE MILL ST.
On a motion by Ms. Van Amsterdam, seconded by Ms. Gloff, the Board unanimously voted the Bacon Free Library’s request to close Mill Lane on June 21, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for a concert.
BREAST CANCER 3DAY: REQUEST FOR PERMIT
On a motion by Mr. Ostroff, seconded by Ms. Gloff, the Board unanimously voted to approve the Boston Breast Cancer 3Day’s request to conduct the Breast Cancer Day through Natick on July 24, 2009 subject to compliance with Lieutenant Lauzon’s requirements.
ROTARY CLUB OF NATICK: REQUEST FOR BANNER
Mr. Ostroff disclosed that he was a member of the Rotary Club of Natick.
A motion was made by Ms. Van Amsterdam to approve the Natick Rotary’s request to hang a banner across Main Street for the week of June 15-21, 2009 in advertisement of the Tour de Natick bike ride.
LINCOLN ST. EXTENSION: BLOCK PARTY
The Board was in receipt of a request from Terri Schafer to block a portion of Lincoln St. Extension from 6:30 p.m.-11:00 p.m. on June 5, 2009 for a graduation party.
In an e-mail to the Board, Safety Officer Lieutenant Brian Lauzon raised a number of concerns, i.e. the lateness of the event, the day of the week, the availability of lighting in the roadway, alcohol being served, the proximity of a Town field.
The Board tabled the matter to the next meeting.
SELECTMEN’S CONCERNS
Mr. Ostroff reminded everyone of the upcoming Memorial Days events including the dedication of Grupposo Square.
Mr. Ostroff advised that the Town Administrator had arranged to have some prints signed by members of the community that participated in the Natick 360. The prints were in the Board of Selectmen’s office.
- Boards and Committees Vacancies
Mr. Ostroff requested that a list of boards and committees with vacancies be posted.
- Expense Control Task Force & Revenue Enhancement Task Force
Ms. Van Amsterdam advised that the Expense Control Task Force had taken a hiatus and had now resumed. She would like an update from the Revenue Enhancement Task Force sometime in June.
Ms. Van Amsterdam voiced concern about some comments from the Fire Chief that appeared in the press over the weekend on the lack of overtime and possible closing of the stations. She felt it was important to have the Chief come back before the Board as an agenda item and articulate his concerns and talk about remedies. That dovetailed into items the administration was working on with the group of managers and what they were doing with the ambulance, etc. She asked if the Board would get an update on the regional group.
Ms. White advised that the group had broken into subgroups. Natick, Framingham, and Sherborn were meeting with the consultants around June 5 and she would report back then. Ms. Van Amsterdam suggested that maybe that would be the time to have the Fire Chief in.
Ms. Van Amsterdam then inquired about the ambulance study. Ms. White responded that she promised the Board that after the budget and the water & sewer rates, the ambulance study would be the next priority. It was high on the administration’s priority list.
- Charter & By-Law Review Committee
Ms. Gloff informed the Board that the Charter & By-Law Review Committee would begin meeting again the week of June 1. They went through all the Charter and By-Laws once and would go back through them. Issues have been raised and she would love to have them in writing.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
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Kristine Van Amsterdam, Clerk
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