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Canton Annual Town Report — 2024
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Source page 81
Town of Canton
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING #1
MONDAY, THE EIGHTEENTH DAY
OF NOVEMBER 2024
In accordance with the warrant the Special Town Meeting was convened on November 18TH, 2024 at Morse Auditorium, on the
grounds of the Canton High School, 900 Washington Street, and called to order by Town Moderator, Richard R. Staiti at 7:03pm with
1,022 voters present.
The Moderator introduced Reverend Dr. John Tamilio III, Pastor of77
the Congregational Church of Canton, who offered the invocation.
ARTICLE 1
ADOPT THE RULES TO GOVERN SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
Article 1 To see if the Town will vote to adopt certain procedures to govern the conduct of the 2024 Special Town Meeting; or to
take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION
MOTION 1
MOVED: This Special Town Meeting is the first of two special town meetings on the same day; accordingly, this
Special Town Meeting shall hereafter be referred to as Special Town Meeting No. 1 (STM No. 1) and that this 2024 Special
Town Meeting No. 1 shall meet on Monday, November 18, 2024, to begin at 7:00 o’clock P.M. and if necessary on
Wednesday, November 20, 2024, to begin at 7:00 o’clock P.M. and if necessary the Monday and Wednesdays thereafter
at 7:00 o’clock P.M. in the Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of the Canton High School until the business of this Special
Town Meeting No. 1 has been concluded, and to adjourn at 11:00 o’clock P.M., or as near that hour as may be feasible,
according to the nature of the business pending at the said hour.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 1, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 1, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED BY VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following individuals be granted all of the rights and privileges of participation in this Special
Town Meeting No. 1, except the right to vote, under any article of this warrant which affects matters within their
jurisdiction:
Alyssa Chantani, Project Manager, LeftField
Steve Choiniere, Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel, Brooks & DeRensis
Jeremiah Driscoll, Project Manager, Consigli Construction
Timothy Ericson, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Paul Feeney, State Senator
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Arafat Knight, Veterans’ Agent
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
Alfons Koka, Town Engineer
Linda Liporto, Director of Interiors, LeftField
Brian M. Lynch, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, School
Brian Lynch, Director of Facilities and Grounds/Maintenance
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
M. Regen Milani, Conservation Commission Agent
Kristy Lyons, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Jonathan Mulhern, Principal, William H. Galvin Middle School
William O’Rourke, Project Executive, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Jonathan Quell, Associate, Project Manager, Ai3 79
Tyler Radicioni, Parks & Recreation Director
Helena Rafferty, Police Chief
Barbara Reardon, Board of Health DirectorSource page 82
VOTED: Article 1, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED BY VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following individuals be granted all of the rights and privileges of participation in this Special
Town Meeting No. 1, except the right to vote, under any article of this warrant which affects matters within their
jurisdiction:
Alyssa Chantani, Project Manager, LeftField
Steve Choiniere, Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel, Brooks & DeRensis
Jeremiah Driscoll, Project Manager, Consigli Construction
Timothy Ericson, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Paul Feeney, State Senator
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Arafat Knight, Veterans’ Agent
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
Alfons Koka, Town Engineer
Linda Liporto, Director of Interiors, LeftField
Brian M. Lynch, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, School
Brian Lynch, Director of Facilities and Grounds/Maintenance
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
M. Regen Milani, Conservation Commission Agent
Kristy Lyons, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Jonathan Mulhern, Principal, William H. Galvin Middle School
William O’Rourke, Project Executive, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Jonathan Quell, Associate, Project Manager, Ai3
Tyler Radicioni, Parks & Recreation Director
Helena Rafferty, Police Chief
Barbara Reardon, Board of Health Director
E. Wendell Robery, Fire Chief
William Scollins, Finance Director
Patricia Sherrill, Deputy Police Chief
Justin Thibeault, Principal, Project Architect, Ai3
Taylor Torres, Town Planner
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of the Department of Elder & Human Services
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 1, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 1, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
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ARTICLE 2
GALVIN MIDDLE SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION PROJECT FUNDING
Article 2 To see if the Town will vote to appropriate, borrow or transfer from available funds, an amount of money to be expended
under the direction of the Canton School Building Committee for a new construction project of the William H. Galvin Middle School
located at 55 Pecunit Street, Canton, MA 02021 with an agreed upon design enrollment of 1,020 students in grades 5-8 which school
facility shall have an anticipated useful life as an educational facility for the instruction of school children of at least 50 years, and for
which the Town may be eligible for a school construction grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”). The Town
acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA,
and any project costs the Town incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility
of the Town. Any grant that the Town may receive from the MSBA for the Project shall not exceed the lesser of (1) 47.21 percent (%)
of eligible, approved project costs, as determined by the MSBA, or (2) the total maximum grant amount determined by the MSBA.
Select Board for School Committee
Select Board Position: The Select Board voted unanimously to support the Galvin Middle School Construction Project Funding.
(Vote: 5-0).
Capital Planning Committee (CPC) Position: CPC voted to support the Galvin Middle School Construction Project Funding. (Vote: 5-0-
1).
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION
MOVED:That the Town of Canton appropriate the amount of Two Hundred and Forty One Million Seven Hundred and Sixty
Four Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Five ($241,764,835) Dollars for the purpose of paying costs of the construction
of a new William H. Galvin Middle School located at 55 Pecunit Street, Canton, MA 02021 with an agreed upon design
enrollment of 1,020 students in grades 5-8, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto (the
“Project”), which school facility shall have an anticipated useful life as an educational facility for the instruction of school
children for at least 50 years, and for which the Town of Canton may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts
School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be expended under the direction of the Canton School Building
Committee. To meet this appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, is authorized to
borrow said amount under M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to any other enabling authority. The Town of Canton
80
acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined
by the MSBA, and any project costs the Town of Canton incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the
MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the Town of Canton; provided further that any grant that Town of Canton may
receive from the MSBA for the Project shall not exceed the lesser of (1) 47.21 percent (%) of eligible, approved projectSource page 83
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
ARTICLE 2
GALVIN MIDDLE SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION PROJECT FUNDING
Article 2 To see if the Town will vote to appropriate, borrow or transfer from available funds, an amount of money to be expended
under the direction of the Canton School Building Committee for a new construction project of the William H. Galvin Middle School
located at 55 Pecunit Street, Canton, MA 02021 with an agreed upon design enrollment of 1,020 students in grades 5-8 which school
facility shall have an anticipated useful life as an educational facility for the instruction of school children of at least 50 years, and for
which the Town may be eligible for a school construction grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”). The Town
acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA,
and any project costs the Town incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility
of the Town. Any grant that the Town may receive from the MSBA for the Project shall not exceed the lesser of (1) 47.21 percent (%)
of eligible, approved project costs, as determined by the MSBA, or (2) the total maximum grant amount determined by the MSBA.
Select Board for School Committee
Select Board Position: The Select Board voted unanimously to support the Galvin Middle School Construction Project Funding.
(Vote: 5-0).
Capital Planning Committee (CPC) Position: CPC voted to support the Galvin Middle School Construction Project Funding. (Vote: 5-0-
1).
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION
MOVED:That the Town of Canton appropriate the amount of Two Hundred and Forty One Million Seven Hundred and Sixty
Four Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Five ($241,764,835) Dollars for the purpose of paying costs of the construction
of a new William H. Galvin Middle School located at 55 Pecunit Street, Canton, MA 02021 with an agreed upon design
enrollment of 1,020 students in grades 5-8, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto (the
“Project”), which school facility shall have an anticipated useful life as an educational facility for the instruction of school
children for at least 50 years, and for which the Town of Canton may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts
School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be expended under the direction of the Canton School Building
Committee. To meet this appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, is authorized to
borrow said amount under M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to any other enabling authority. The Town of Canton
acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined
by the MSBA, and any project costs the Town of Canton incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the
MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the Town of Canton; provided further that any grant that Town of Canton may
receive from the MSBA for the Project shall not exceed the lesser of (1) 47.21 percent (%) of eligible, approved project
costs, as determined by the MSBA, or (2) the total maximum grant amount determined by the MSBA; provided that any
appropriation hereunder shall be subject to and contingent upon an affirmative vote of the Town to exempt the amounts
required for the payment of interest and principal on said borrowing from the limitations on taxes imposed by M.G.L. 59,
Section 21C (Proposition 2½); and that the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to this vote shall be reduced by
any grant amount set forth in the Project Funding Agreement that may be executed between the Town of Canton and the
MSBA.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 4-0 (A quorum was present.)
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 2 as printed in the warrant.
Mr. Mauro state that the Finance Committee supports this article.
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools, gave a presentation explaining the design and funding for the Galvin Middle School
construction project.
Mr. Mauro moved to recess Special Town Meeting #1 at 7:30pm. Motion seconded.
APPROVED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING #2
MONDAY, THE EIGHTEENTH DAY
OF NOVEMBER 2024
In accordance with the warrant the Special Town Meeting was convened at 7:30pm on November 18TH, 2024 at Morse Auditorium, on
the grounds of the Canton High School, 900 Washington Street, and called to order by Town Moderator, Richard R. Staiti at 7:30pm
with 1,022 voters present.
ARTICLE 1
ADOPT THE RULES TO GOVERN SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
Article 1 To see if the Town will vote to adopt certain procedures to govern the conduct of the 2024 Special Town Meeting; or to
take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION
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MOTION 1
MOVED: This Special Town Meeting is the second of two Special Town Meetings on the same day, accordingly, this
Special Town Meeting shall hereafter be referred to as Special Town Meeting No. 2 and that this 2024 Special Town
Meeting No. 2 shall meet on Monday, November 18, 2024, to begin at 7:30 o’clock P.M. and if necessary on Wednesday,
November 20, 2024, to begin at 7:00 o’clock P.M. and if necessary the Monday and Wednesdays thereafter at 7:00 o’clock
P.M. in the Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of the Canton High School until the business of this Special Town Meeting
No. 2 has been concluded, and to adjourn at 11:00 o’clock P.M., or as near that hour as may be feasible, according to
the nature of the business pending at the said hour.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 1, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 1, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following individuals be granted all of the rights and privileges of participation in this Special
Town Meeting No. 2, except the right to vote, under any article of this warrant which affects matters within their
jurisdiction:
Alyssa Chantani, Project Manager, LeftField
Steve Choiniere, Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel, Brooks & DeRensis
Jeremiah Driscoll, Project Manager, Consigli Construction
Timothy Ericson, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Paul Feeney, State Senator
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Arafat Knight, Veterans’ Agent
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
Alfons Koka, Town Engineer
Linda Liporto, Director of Interiors, LeftField
Brian M. Lynch, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, School
Brian Lynch, Director of Facilities and Grounds/Maintenance
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
M. Regen Milani, Conservation Commission Agent
Kristy Lyons, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Jonathan Mulhern, Principal, William H. Galvin Middle School
William O’Rourke, Project Executive, Consigli Construction Co., Inc.
Jonathan Quell, Associate, Project Manager, Ai3
Tyler Radicioni, Parks & Recreation Director
Helena Rafferty, Police Chief
Barbara Reardon, Board of Health Director
E. Wendell Robery, Fire Chief
William Scollins, Finance Director
Patricia Sherrill, Deputy Police Chief
Justin Thibeault, Principal, Project Architect, Ai3
Taylor Torres, Town Planner
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of the Department of Elder & Human Services
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 1, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 1, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
Mr. Mauro moved to recess Special Town Meeting #2 at 7:31PM. Motion seconded.
APPROVED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING #1
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Mr. Mauro moved to recess Special Town Meeting #2 at 7:31PM. Motion seconded.
APPROVED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING #1
The Moderator recognized State Representative William Galvin in attendance.
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ARTICLE 2 continued
David Emhardt, Chairperson of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Committee supports this article by a vote of 5-0-1.
Michael Loughran, Chairperson of the Select Board, stated that the Board unanimously supports this article.
VOTED: That the Town of Canton appropriate the amount of Two Hundred and Forty One Million Seven Hundred and Sixty Four
Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Five ($241,764,835) Dollars for the purpose of paying costs of the construction of a new William
H. Galvin Middle School located at 55 Pecunit Street, Canton, MA 02021 with an agreed upon design enrollment of 1,020 students in
grades 5-8, including the payment of all costs incidental or related thereto (the “Project”), which school facility shall have an anticipated
useful life as an educational facility for the instruction of school children for at least 50 years, and for which the Town of Canton may
be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (“MSBA”), said amount to be expended under the direction of
the Canton School Building Committee. To meet this appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, is
authorized to borrow said amount under M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to any other enabling authority. The Town of Canton
acknowledges that the MSBA’s grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA,
and any project costs the Town of Canton incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole
responsibility of the Town of Canton; provided further that any grant that Town of Canton may receive from the MSBA for the Project
shall not exceed the lesser of (1) 47.21 percent (%) of eligible, approved project costs, as determined by the MSBA, or (2) the total
maximum grant amount determined by the MSBA; provided that any appropriation hereunder shall be subject to and contingent upon
an affirmative vote of the Town to exempt the amounts required for the payment of interest and principal on said borrowing from the
limitations on taxes imposed by M.G.L. 59, Section 21C (Proposition 2½); and that the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to
this vote shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Project Funding Agreement that may be executed between the Town
of Canton and the MSBA.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE PASSED BY MORE THAN TWO-THIRDS VOTE
A motion was made and seconded to adjourn Special Town Meeting #1 at 7:54pm.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
SPECIAL TOWN MEETING #2
Special Town Meeting #2 reconvened at 7:56pm.
ARTICLE 2
APPROPRIATION FOR NEPONSET WATER TREATMENT FACILITY REPLACEMENT FILTRATION SYSTEM
Article 2 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from any available funds or borrow pursuant to any applicable
statute, a sum of money to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the
Department of Public Works Superintendent and the Select Board for the purpose of designing, permitting, and constructing a granular
media filtration and ancillary treatment system modification to the Neponset Water Treatment Facility, or take any other action related
thereto.
Select Board
Select Board Position: The Select Board vote unanimously to support the Appropriation of $4,200,000 for the Water Treatment
Facility Replacement Filtration System. (Vote: 5-0).
MOVED:That Four Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($4,200,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board for the purpose of the replacement of the ultrafiltration membrane racks at the
Neponset Water Treatment Plant with a granular media pressure system and to meet said appropriation the Town
Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other
enabling authority as may be, the sum of Four Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($4,200,000). It is the intent that
the said bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town but are to be repaid in the
first instance from water revenues.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 2 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chairperson of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Committee unanimously supports this article.
VOTED: Article 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE PASSED BY A NEARLY UNANIMOUS VOTE
ARTICLE 3
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MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE PASSED BY A NEARLY UNANIMOUS VOTE
ARTICLE 3
SET SALARY OF TOWN CLERK
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Article 3 To see if the Town will vote, in accordance with the provisions of section one hundred and eight of chapter forty-one (G. L.
chapter 41, §108) to fix the salary and compensation of the elected Town Clerk of the town; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Select Board Position: The Select Board voted unanimously to support the corrected salary for the Town Clerk. (Vote: 5-0).
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for the Town Clerk be fixed at $122,541.64 for the 2025 Fiscal Year
beginning July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 3 as printed in the warrant.
Mr. Mauro stated that this article is to correct a typographical error for the Town Clerk’s salary and compensation set under Article 7
of the 2024 Annual Town Meeting. Per Article 7 of the 2024 Annual Town Meeting, the salary and compensation for the Town Clerk
was approved at $107,223.03. However, this amount was incorrect. The correct amount is $122,541.64 and was previously supported
and voted favorably by the Select Board and Finance Committee, as well as voted at the 2024 Annual Town Meeting under the Budget
Article 37. As such, there is no financial impact to the Town. Town Counsel stated that the above is a technical correction and should
be voted on, so it is transparent.
VOTED: Article 3 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS, MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE ADOPTED UANIMOUSLY
ARTICLE 4
ADJUST FISCAL ’25 ACCOUNTS
Article 4 To see if the Town will vote to increase/decrease or otherwise adjust the appropriations heretofore made for the Fiscal Year
2025 beginning on July 1, 2024 and ending on June 30, 2025 and the revenue sources to meet those appropriations, as voted pursuant
to Article 37 of the warrant for the 2024 Annual Town Meeting, and to raise and appropriate, or borrow pursuant to any applicable
statute, transfer from available funds or transfer from Free Cash to meet any such increases or adjustments; or to take any other
action related thereto.
Select Board
Select Board Position: The Select Board voted unanimously to support the $222,244 supplement to the School Department Budget
voted under Article 27. (Vote: 5-0).
MOVED:That Two Hundred Twenty Two Thousand Two Hundred Forty Four Dollars ($222,244) be raised and appropriated
from FY25 State Aid to the Town to supplement the voted School Department Budget voted under Article 37 of the
warrant for the May 2024 Annual Town Meeting.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 4 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 4 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED MAJORITY SHOW OF VOTER CARDS, MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE ADOPTED
ARTICLE 5
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE SPECIAL EDUCATION RESERVE ACCOUNT
Article 5 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute, a sum of money in order to increase any Special Education Reserve Account or to take any other action related
thereto.
Select Board for the School Committee
Select Board Position: The Select Board voted unanimously to support the $1,600,00 transfer from Free Cash $1,600,000 to the
Special Education Reserve Account. (Vote: 5-0).
MOVED: That the sum of One Million Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,600,000) be appropriated to the Special Education
Reserve Account (#250) and to meet this appropriation, One Million Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,600,000) be
transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0
Emilio Mauro, Chairperson of the Finance Committee moved Article 5 as printed in the warrant.
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools, stated that the funds will only be used after operational and state aid is exhausted.
VOTED: Article 5 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED MAJORITY SHOW OF VOTER CARDS, MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE ADOPTED
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ARTICLE 6
AMEND ZONING BY-LAW SECTION 11.0
Article 6 To see if the Town will vote to amend Zoning By-Laws Section 11.0 as follows, with new word definitions being
incorporated into the existing text in order alphabetically with the existing word definitions:
1. By amending the definition of “Accessory Apartment” as follows:
Accessory Apartment: A secondary dwelling unit located within a detached single-family dwelling. The accessory apartment shall
be subordinate in size to the principal unit and separated from it in a manner that maintains the appearance of the structure as a
single-family house. A preexisting nonconforming dwelling unit created in a single-family dwelling by special permit
granted by the zoning board of appeals and recorded at the Norfolk county registry of deeds prior to the adoption of An
Act Relative to the Affordable Homes Act by the 193rd Massachusetts General Court on August 6, 2024.
2. By amending the definition of “Accessory Building” as follows:
Accessory Building Structure: A subordinate building structure located on the same lot as the main, or principal building or
principal use, the use of which is customarily incidental to that of the principal building or use of the land.
3. By adding the definition of “Lot Coverage” as follows:
Lot Coverage: The portion of a lot, expressed as a percentage, that is occupied by buildings or structures, including accessory
structures.
4. By adding the definition of “Accessory Dwelling Unit” as follows:
Accessory Dwelling Unit: A secondary dwelling unit, but not a mobile home, located either within or on the same lot as a detached
single-family dwelling. The accessory dwelling unit shall be subordinate in size to the principal dwelling unit and separated from it in
a manner that maintains the appearance of the structure as a single-family house.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law, Section 11.0, Definitions, be amended as set forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning Board to Town Meeting for Special Town
Meeting No. 2 Article 6 be adopted as printed in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0
Emilio Mauro, Chair of the Finance Committee, deferred to the Planning Board.
Kathy McCormack, a member of the Planning Board, moved Article 6 as printed in the warrant.
Taylor Torres, Town Planner, gave the following report:
This article was published in the Canton Citizen on September 26th and October 3rd, 2024. It was placed on file with the Planning
Board Office, Town Clerk’s Office, Select Board Office and the Canton Public Library. A public hearing for Article 6 was held by the
Planning Board on October 11, 2024. The Board voted 4-0-0 to send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting. This article updates
the definitions section of the Zoning By-Law regarding accessory dwelling units.
Mr. Mauro stated that the Finance Committee voted 7-0 in support of this article.
VOTED: Article 6 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
ARTICLE 7
AMEND ZONING BY-LAW SECTION 4
Article 7 To see if the Town will vote to amend Zoning By-law Section 4 as follows, with bolded and underlined language indicating
changes, or take any other action related thereto:
SECTION 4.0 DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS
4.1 GENERAL
4.1.1 Compliance Required. In each district, no land shall hereafter be used, occupied or changed and no structure or
building shall hereafter be erected, altered, moved or used or occupied unless it complies with the provisions set forth in the Table of
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Dimensional Requirements, except as provided in G.L. c. 40A, s. 6 for non-conforming circumstances. Variations and exceptions
from these minimum requirements may be specifically provided elsewhere in this By-law.
4.1.2 Reduction of Occupied Lots. No lot on which a building is located in any district shall be reduced or changed in size or
shape so that the building or lot fails to comply with the lot area, frontage, coverage, setback, yard or other provisions of this By-law
applicable to the construction of said building on said lot. This prohibition shall not apply, however, when a portion of a lot is taken or
conveyed for a public purpose.
4.1.3 Limitation on Dwellings. Not more than one building constructed as a dwelling, or so used, shall be located on any lot
except as provided by Section 8.0 Special Residential Regulations that a multifamily dwelling may, subject to the conditions of
a special permit, be authorized to consist of more than one building on a lot. See Section 8.2.
4.1.4 Table of Dimensional Requirements – Residence Districts
REQUIRED SRAA SRA SRB SRC GR
Min. Lot Size (sq. ft.) 45,000 30,000 15,000 10,000 10,000
Min. Non-wetland Area 30,000 20,000 12,000 7,500 7,500
(sq. ft.)
Lot Width (through the 200’ 150’ 115’ 100’ 100’
principal dwelling)
Lot Frontage and frontage 125’ 100’ 100’ 100’ 100’
lot width (ft.)
Max. Lot Coverage (%) 25 25 25 25 30
All Dwelling Units
Front Yard Setbacks 60’ 40’1 30’1 30’ 1 30’ 1
2
Rear Yard Setbacks 35’ 35’ 35’ 35’ 35’2
Side Yard Setbacks 40’ 20’ 15’ 10’ 10’
Maximum Height1 25’ 25’ 25’ 25’ 25’
Accessory Structures (Non-Dwelling)
Accessory Structure Front 60’ 40’ 30’ 30’ 30’
Yard Setbacks
Accessory Structure 20’ 20’ 5’ 5’ 5’
Rear Yard Setbacks
Accessory Structure Side 20’ 20’ 5’ 5’ 5’
Yard Setbacks
Maximum Height 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’
1
60’ for properties along Turnpike Street
2
25’ for enclosed single-story porch
4.1.5 Table of Dimensional Requirements – Nonresidential Districts
REQUIRED B CB LI I
Min. Lot Size 1.5 acres
Lot Width (through the principal
building)
Lot Frontage and frontage lot 100’ 100’
width (ft.)
Max. Lot Coverage (%) 90 50 90 40 50
Principal Building
Front Yard Setbacks 25’1 15’ 60’ 60’
1
See Section 4.3.6 for exceptions
84
86Source page 89
Rear Yard Setbacks2 5 5’ 25’7,8 10’7,8
Side Yard Setbacks 5 5’ 25’7 20’7,8
Maximum Height3 40 40 40 40
Accessory Structure
Accessory Structure Front Yard 25’ 15’ 60’ 60’
Setbacks
Accessory Structure Rear Yard 5’ 5’ 5’9 5’9
Setbacks
Accessory Structure Side Yard 5’ 5’ 5’9 5’9
Setbacks
Maximum Height 15’ 15’ 15’ 15’
(Footnotes 1 and 2 are found in Section 4.1.4)
7
35’ when rear property line abuts residential district or a lot with a residential building as the primary structure
8
35’ if side yard abuts a railroad right-of-way
9
Only for accessory structures less than 15’ in height
4.1.6 Notes to Tables of Dimensional Requirements. The following notes shall be construed as requirements of this By-Law.
1. Computation of Non-Wetland Area. In computing the "Non-Wetland Area" required for a Residential Lot, no portion of
any brook, creek, stream, river, pond, lake or reservoir or portion thereof, nor any freshwater wetland as defined by the
Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, MGL Chapter 131, Section 40, not any portion of a way or street, as defined by the
By-law may be included in the minimum required Non-Wetland Area.
2. Not Used Dwellings in Business Districts - Area Required. In a Business District, no building shall be constructed or used
as a dwelling on a lot having less lot area than the amount required for its construction in the abutting Residential District
(or, where more than one such district abuts, in the particular district nearest to the building in question).
3. Residential Accessory Structures on Residential Lots (Non-Dwelling).
a. Permitted and required accessory uses to residential properties shall be on the same lot of record as the
principal use to which they are necessary and shall be such as not to alter the character of the premises on which it
is located.
b. On lots less than three acres, no freestanding residential accessory structure building shall occupy part of the
required Front Yard.
c. In no case shall an accessory structure be allowed that is larger in size or height than the principal building.
d. See the Table of Dimensional Requirements – Residence Districts for rear and side setbacks (Section 4.1.4)
e. Residential accessory building size may not exceed the size and number requirements outlined below 4 5
Lot Size Maximum individual Maximum number of Maximum total
accessory structure accessory structures accessory structure
building footprint area
Less than ½ acre No greater than 800 3 1,000 s.f.
sq. ft.
½ an acre to 1 acre No greater than 1000 4 1,000 s.f.
sq. ft.
1 acre to 3 acres No greater than 1,500 4 2,000 s.f.
sq. ft.
3 or more acres Must be smaller than No specific limit, lot No specific limit, lot
principal building, may coverage applies coverage applies
be located in any
yard(front, side, or
rear)
4.2 SPECIAL REGULATIONS
2
Setback shall be no less than thirty-five (35) ft. when rear property line abuts residential district or a lot with a residential
building as the primary structure
3
See Section 4.3.4 for exceptions
4
Ground mounted solar panels are exempt from footprint size limitations of this Section 4.1.6, but not lot coverage limitations.
5
Historic storage or accessory structures on properties identified on the Massachusetts Cultural Resource Information System
(MACRIS) or by the local or state Massachusetts Historical Commissions will not count towards maximum allowable square footage
for the purposes of adding new accessory structures: however, expanding an existing historic structure will be counted towards the
allowable square footage.
85
87Source page 90
4.2.1 Setbacks.
1. Determination of Setback. For the purposes of this Section, the required setback distance shall be measured from the
nearest exterior line of the street in question, provided, however, that where the street has a right-of-way width of less
than forty (40) feet, the setback distance shall be measured from a line on the lot twenty (20) feet from and parallel to said
center line.
2. Setback Exceptions. In all districts (except where subject to the provisions hereof on "Corner Clearance"), a building
may be constructed as near to the line of any street as the average of the set-backs of the dwellings or other main buildings
nearest thereto on either side of the building in question. Where, in determining the average setback, the nearest main
building on either side is more than three hundred (300) feet from the building in question, such side building shall not be
counted, but instead the intervening space shall be considered as though occupied by a main building having the required
setback (whether or not said space is laid out as a separate lot).
3. Setback for Other Uses. In all districts, no open storage or display of goods, products, materials or equipment, and no
gasoline pump, vending machine or similar commercial device, and no sign over one square foot in area (except above a
height of ten feet) shall be located nearer to the line of any street than either fifteen (15) feet or the permitted setback
distance for a building on the lot, whichever distance is the lesser.
4. Side Yard Exceptions. On an existing lot in a Residential District specifically exempted from the lot width requirements
hereof pursuant to G.L. c. 40A, s. 6, para. 4, the required side yard width for a dwelling or other main building may be
reduced one foot for each ten (10) feet by which the width of said lot is less than the minimum specified for its district, such
width being measured across the lot at the required setback line or through that part of the building where the lot Is
narrowest, whichever distance is the greater; provided, however, that the side yard distance shall not be so reduced to less
than sixty (60) per cent of the required minimum.
5. Railroad Right-of-Way. Where a lot line abuts a railroad right-of-way, the setback of the that side shall be
no less than thirty-five (35) feet.
4.2.2 Projections.
1. Nothing herein shall prevent window sills, belt courses, eaves, chimneys and cornices not exceeding eighteen (18) inches
in width from projecting into any required yard or other required open space nor uncovered steps and unroofed porches
from projecting six (6) feet into required side yard width or ten (10) feet into required set back distance or required rear
yard depth.
2. No unconditioned, single story, roofed porch shall project more than eight (8) feet into the required front yard setback,
or more than ten (10) feet into the required rear yard setback.
4.2.3 Corner Clearance. In all Residential District, no building shall be constructed within the triangular area formed by the
exterior lines or intersecting streets and a line joining points on such lines twenty-five (25) feet distant from their point of
intersection (or, in the case of a rounded corner, the point of intersection of their tangents), and no structure other than a building,
no tree, shrub or other planting, and no open display, storage or other open use shall be located within said triangular area in such a
manner as to interfere with traffic visibility across the corner.
4.2.4 Corner Lots. In all Residential Districts, in the case of a corner lot, no dwelling structure shall be constructed so as to
be nearer to the line of any street than the "Required Front Yard Setback Distance" or nearer to the side lines or rear lines of its lot
than the "Required Rear Yard Depth" specified for the district in which the corner lot is located.
1. With respect to side and rear yards of a corner lot, the side opposite the Post Office address front setback shall be
considered a "Rear Yard" and the side opposite the other front setback shall be considered a "Side Yard". All setback
distances shall comply with the required distances specified for the district in which the corner lot is located.
4.2.5 Swimming Pools. In all residential districts no swimming pools shall be placed so as to be nearer the line of any street
than the required setback distance for the main building in that district. In all residential districts no swimming pools shall be placed
nearer than 10 feet from any abutting property lines.
4.2.6 Not Used Hotel or Motel. A hotel or motel shall be a permitted use by special permit if located on a lot containing not less
than two (2) acres in a non-residential zone.
4.2.7 In-patient Medical Facilities: Hospitals, Long-term care Facilities, or Substance Abuse Detoxification or Treatment
Centers.
1.General: An in-patient medical facility, hospital, long-term care facility, or substance abuse detoxification or treatment center may
be allowed by special permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals upon determination that all of the conditions set forth below have
been met. The following conditions are the minimum which must be met for the approval of a Special Permit. This list is not intended
to exclude the imposition of any additional conditions by the Zoning Board of Appeals or the Planning Board. In-patient facilities with
out-patient components shall be subject to Section 4.2.7.
2.Infrastructure
a. Water and Sewer. The facility shall be connected to municipal water and
sewer systems. All costs associated with the extension of these services shall
86
88Source page 91
been met. The following conditions are the minimum which must be met for the approval of a Special Permit. This list is not intended
to exclude the imposition of any additional conditions by the Zoning Board of Appeals or the Planning Board. In-patient facilities with
out-patient components shall be subject to Section 4.2.7.
2.Infrastructure
a. Water and Sewer. The facility shall be connected to municipal water and
sewer systems. All costs associated with the extension of these services shall
be borne by the developer or applicant. be borne by the developer or applicant.
b. Roads. All newly created traveled ways shall be privately 86 maintained
b. Roads. All newly created
with traveled ways shall be privately maintained with
y maintained with respect to roadway upkeep and snow and ice removal. respect to roadway upkeep and snow and ice removal.
c. Refuse. Collection and disposal of all refuse shallc. beRefuse.
providedCollection
privately.and disposal of all refuse shall be provided privately.
vided privately. d. Utilities. All utilities on the site shall be installed d. Utilities. All
underground pursuant
utilities to
on the site shall be installed underground pursuant to
round pursuant to approved methods of installation and construction. approved methods of installation and construction.
e. Safety. The facility shall have an integrated emergency e. Safety.
call,The
security,
facility shall have an integrated emergency call, security,
call, security, telephone, and other communication system to provide telephone,
monitoringand for
other communication system to provide monitoring for
monitoring for its residents and direct line connection to the CantonitsFire residents
Department.
and direct line connection to the Canton Fire Department.
e Department. f. Open Space. At least twenty percent (20%) of the f. Open
parcel Space.
shall beAt open
least
space,
twenty percent (20%) of the parcel shall be open space,
l shall be open space,which is any land not containing a building, structure, which
or impervious
is any landsurface
not containing a building, structure, or impervious surface
impervious surface material. The open space shall have a shape suitablematerial. to assure Theits open
use forspace
areasshall have a shape suitable to assure its use for area
assure its use for areas of scenic beauty, landscaping and/or useable recreational of scenic
purposes.
beauty,At landscaping
least and/or useable recreational purposes. At least
al purposes. At least ten percent (10%) of the open space shall be for recreational ten percent use(10%)
by patients
of the open
and visitors,
space shall
suchbe
asfor
looped
recreational
pathways,
use by patients a
ional use settings for physical
by patients therapy,
and visitors, suchplay-
as looped pathways, settings for physical therapy, play-
ground, courtyard, or gardens for walking. Outdoor ground, areas should
courtyard,
be visible
or gardens for walking. Outdoor areas should be visible
s should be visible from patients’ rooms, interior public spaces and corridors.from patients’
Seventy-fiverooms, interior public spaces and corridors. Seventy-five
s. Seventy-five percent (75%) open space shall be contiguous, and percent no piece(75%)
shall be open
included
space shall be contiguous, and no piece shall be included
iece shall be includedin the calculation of open land unless at least two hundred in the calculation
square feetofinopen size.land unless at least two hundred square feet in size.
ed square feet in size.Preserving existing stands of trees, trees at site perimeter, Preservingandexisting
contiguous stands of trees, trees at site perimeter, and contiguous
er, and contiguous vegetation with adjacent sites are a priority. vegetation with adjacent sites are a priority.
g. Bonding procedures and requirements for roadways, g. Bonding procedures
utilities, structures, and requirements for roadways, utilities, structures, a
and
site amenities for a facility shall be the same as those
utilities, structures, and site
established
amenities by for the
a facility shall be the same as those established by the
stablished by the Planning Board for subdivisions in the Town of Canton. Planning Board for subdivisions in the Town of Canton.
3. Dimensional Regulations 3. Dimensional Regulations
Hospital, Long-term care facility, or Substance Hospital, Abuse Detoxification
Long-term care or Treatment
facility, orCenter
Substance Abuse Detoxification or Treatm
toxification or Treatment Center Dimensional Regulations Dimensional Regulations
Minimum Lot Size Minimum
1.Six to Lot
ten Size
beds:21,780 square feet (0.5 acre). 1.Six to ten beds:21,780 square fe
beds:21,780 square feet (0.5 acre). 2.Eleven to 20 beds: 43,560 square feet (1 acre). 2.Eleven to 20 beds: 43,560 squar
20 beds: 43,560 square feet (1 acre). 3.Every ten beds (or fraction thereof) over 20 beds:3.Every ten beds (or fraction there
beds (or fraction thereof) over 20 beds: 21,780 square feet (0.5 acre). 21,780 square feet (0.5 acre).
re feet (0.5 acre).
Minimum Non-wetland Area Minimum
Same asNon-wetland
minimum lot size.Area Same as minimum lot size.
nimum lot size.
Lot Width Lot200
Width
feet 200 feet
Frontage (ft.) Frontage
100 feet(ft.) 100 feet
Lot Coverage (%) Lot25Coverage (%) 25
Open Space (%) Open
20 Space (%) 20
Setbacks Setbacks
Determined by underlying zone Determined by underlying zone
by underlying zone
Proximity to existing residential zone Proximity
500 feet to existing residential zone 500 feet
Proximity to existing hospital, long-term care Proximity 500 feet to existing hospital, long-term care 500 feet
facility, or substance abuse detoxification or facility, or substance abuse detoxification or
treatment center treatment center
Maximum Number of Beds Maximum
115 bedsNumber of Beds 115 beds
Maximum Height Maximum
40 feet or Height
3 floors, whichever is less 40 feet or 3 floors, whichever is les
floors, whichever is less
4. Landscaping Requirements 4. Landscaping Requirements
a. Buffer zone: The side and rear lot lines shall be a. screened
Bufferbyzone:
a tenThe
(10)
side
foot
and
width
rearof
lotdense
lines natural
shall begrowth
screenedor landscaping.
by a ten (10)Plant
foot width of de
materials
n (10) foot width ofcharacterized
dense naturalby denseor
growth growth which will
landscaping. form
materials
Plant an effective
characterized
year-round
by dense
screen
growth
shall which
be planted
will form
to form
an effective
the screen.
year-round screen sha
Screening
year-round screen shall beconsist of natural
planted to formmaterials.
the screen. To the extent
Screening
practical,
shall consist
existingoftrees
natural
andmaterials.
vegetationToshall
the be
extent
retained
practical,
and used
existing
to trees and vege
satisfy
existing trees andthe provisions
vegetation of this
shall section. All
be retained andrequired
used to plantsatisfy
material
the provisions
shall be maintained
of this section.
by theAllowner
required
in healthy
plant material
condition
shall
andbereplaced
maintained by the
with new
be maintained plantings
by the owner whenever
in healthynecessary to insure
condition and continued
replaced with newcompliance
plantings whenever
with screening
necessary
requirements.
to insure continued compliance with screening requ
a. All outdoor
nce with screening refuse collection and loading areas shall
requirements. a. All
be outdoor
screenedrefuse
from adjoining
collection streets
and loading
and abutting
areas shall
properties
be screened
by a visually
from adjoining streets
impermeable
from adjoining streets six
andfoot high landscape
abutting properties screen or fence.
by a visually impermeable six foot high landscape screen or fence.
b. All parking areas shall be screened from adjoining b. streets
All parking
and abutting
areas shall
properties.
be screened from adjoining streets and abutting properties.
utting properties.
4.2.8 Out-patient Only Medical Facilities: Healthcare 4.2.8 Out-patient
Facilities/Clinics
Only Medical
or Out-patient
Facilities:
Substance
Healthcare AbuseFacilities/Clinics
Detoxification oror Out-patie
/Clinics Treatment
or Out-patientCenters.
Substance Abuse Detoxification Treatment or Centers.
1. General: An out-patient healthcare facility/clinic 1. or General:
out-patientAnsubstance
out-patient
abuse
healthcare
detoxification
facility/clinic
or treatment
or out-patient
center may
substance
be abuse detoxif
allowed
ubstance abuse by special permit
detoxification from the
or treatment Zoning
center mayBoard
be of Appeals
allowed by
uponspecial
determination
permit from
that
the
allZoning
of the Board
conditions
of Appeals
set forth
uponbelow
determination
have been that all of
met.
termination The
that allfollowing conditions
of the conditions setare thebelow
forth minimumhavewhich
beenmet.
must
Thebefollowing
met for the
conditions
approval
areofthe
a Special
minimum Permit.
whichThis
must
listbe
is not
metintended
for the approval
to of a Sp
exclude
or the approval ofthe imposition
a Special of any
Permit. Thisadditional
list is not conditions
intended toby
exclude
the Zoning
the imposition
Board of Appeals
of any additional
or the Planning
conditions
Board.
by the
In-patient
Zoningfacilities
Board ofwith
Appeals or the P
out-patient
ard of Appeals or the components shallIn-patient
Planning Board. be subjectfacilities
to Section
with4.2.7.
out-patient components shall be subject to Section 4.2.7.
2. Infrastructure 2. Infrastructure
a. Water and Sewer. The facility shall be connected a. toWater and Sewer.
municipal water andThe
sewer
facility shall be connected to municipal water and sewer
water and sewersystems. All costs associated with the extension of these
systems.
services
All costs
shallassociated
be borne bywith the extension of these services shall be borne by
theby
es shall be borne developer or applicant. the developer or applicant.
89
87 87Source page 92
met. The following conditions are the minimum which must be met for the approval of a Special Permit. This list is not intended to
exclude the imposition of any additional conditions by the Zoning Board of Appeals or the Planning Board. In-patient facilities with
out-patient components shall be subject to Section 4.2.7.
2. Infrastructure
a. Water and Sewer. The facility shall be connected to municipal water and sewer
systems. All costs associated with the extension of these services shall be borne by
the developer or applicant.
b. Roads. All newly created traveled ways shall be privately maintained with respect to
roadway upkeep and snow and ice removal. 87
c. Refuse. Collection and disposal of all refuse shall be provided privately.
d. Utilities. All utilities on the site shall be installed underground pursuant to approved
methods of installation and construction.
e. Safety. The facility shall have an integrated emergency call, security, telephone, and
other communication system to provide monitoring for its residents and direct line
connection to the Canton Fire Department.
f. Bonding procedures and requirements for roadways, utilities, structures, and site
amenities for a facility shall be the same as those established by the Planning Board
for subdivisions in the Town of Canton.
3. Dimensional Regulations
Hospital, Long-term care facility, or Substance Abuse Detoxification or Treatment Center
Dimensional Regulations
Minimum Lot Size Determined by underlying zone
Minimum Non-wetland Area Same as minimum lot size.
Lot Width 200 feet
Frontage (ft.) 100 feet
Lot Coverage (%) 25
Setbacks Determined by underlying zone
Proximity to existing residential zone 500 feet
Proximity to existing healthcare facility/ clinic 500 feet
or out-patient substance abuse detoxification
or treatment center
Maximum Height 40 feet or 3 floors, whichever is less
4. Landscaping Requirements
a. Buffer zone: The side and rear lot lines shall be screened by a ten (10) foot width of
dense natural growth or landscaping. Plant materials characterized by dense growth
which will form an effective year-round screen shall be planted to form the screen.
Screening shall consist of natural materials. To the extent practical, existing trees and
vegetation shall be retained and used to satisfy the provisions of this section. All re-
quired plant material shall be maintained by the owner in healthy condition and re-
placed with new plantings whenever necessary to insure continued compliance with
screening requirements.
c. All outdoor refuse collection and loading areas shall be screened from adjoining
streets and abutting properties by a visually impermeable six-foot-high landscape
screen or fence.
d. All parking areas shall be screened from adjoining streets and abutting properties.
4.2.9 Retaining Walls Along Scenic Ways. Retaining walls along frontage facing a scenic way (in any district) shall be
constructed to a maximum height of six (6) feet. If site conditions require elevation changes of greater than six (6) feet,
retaining walls along frontage facing a scenic way (in any district) shall be terraced and landscaped. Retaining walls along
frontage facing a scenic way (in any district) shall be solid fieldstone or fieldstone veneer or other similar material or
appearance, and vertical cast in place concrete or concrete blocks shall not be permitted.
4.3 HEIGHT REGULATIONS
4.3.1 Maximum Height of Buildings. In all districts, no building shall be constructed to exceed the "Maximum Height" specified
in tables 4.1.4 and 4.1.5 except as provided below in section 4.3.
District Maximum Height
Residence AA 25 ft plus one foot for each additional foot by
Residence A which: (a) the setback exceeds the required
4.3.2 Height Residence B setback distance, or (b) the narrower side width, or
Determination Residence C (c) rear yard depth, whichever of the three
of Structures General Residence additional distances is the smallest; provided,
and Buildings. however, the height shall not in any case exceed 40
Maximum feet.
building height Limited Industrial 40 feet or four stories, whichever is lower
shall be Industrial 52 feet or four stories by Special Permit
determined in Business 40 feet
accordance with
the Massachusetts State Building Code.
90
88Source page 93
1. When located on the ground, the maximum height of structure other than buildings, shall be the highest point on the
structure and shall not exceed the maximum height for buildings in feet as set forth in Section 4.3.1. Structures may be
located in a required front, rear or side yard provided the height of the structure is not greater than its horizontal distance
from the lot line, except that a fence or wall not greater than seven (7) feet in height may be located on, or closer to a lot
line than seven (7) feet.
4.3.3 Exception for Structures Not Used for Human Occupancy. Structures erected on a building and not used for human
occupancy, such as chimneys, heating, ventilating or air conditioning equipment, solar or photo-voltaic panels, elevator housings,
antennas, skylights, cupolas, spires and the like may exceed the maximum height of building in feet provided that no part of the
structure is more than fifteen (15) feet higher than the upper elevation of the building and the total horizontal coverage of such
structures on the building does not exceed twenty-five (25) percent.
4.3.4 Exception for LI or I Districts. In a Limited Industrial District or Industrial District, the Board of Appeals may, in a
specific case, issue a special permit to allow a maximum height of fifty-two feet (52') for a building, notwithstanding the height limits
otherwise set forth in Section 4.0, in accordance with the following provisions
1. The maximum height for any building may be increased by one foot for each two feet by which the required setback
otherwise required under Section 4.1; and
2. The maximum increase in allowable height available hereunder shall be twelve feet, so that in no event shall the
maximum height of any building exceed fifty-two feet (52’) (except for non-habitable structures as provided in Section 4.4)
or provide for more than four stories, and
3. The required side yard width for any building that exceeds forty (40) feet in height shall not be less than sixty feet (60’),
and
4. The minimum lot area for any building that exceeds forty (40) feet shall be eight (8) acres, and
5. The provision of this Section 4.3.4 shall not apply to any above grade structured parking
4.3.5 Additional Height Limitation Where Side Yard Exception. Where the side yard width for a main building in a
Residential District is reduced below the minimum specified for its particular district by an authorized side yard exception (as
permitted in Section 4.2.135), no portion of said main building nearer to the side line of its lot than the specified side yard distance
shall exceed fifteen feet (15’) in height.
4.3.6 Exception for Residence Districts. The maximum height for dwelling structures in all Residence Districts shall
be twenty-five (25) feet plus one foot for each additional foot by which: (a) the front yard setback exceeds the
required front yard setback distance, or (b) the side yard setback exceeds the narrower side yard setback distance, or
(c) the rear yard setback exceeds the required rear yard setback distance, whichever of the three additional distances
is the smallest; provided, however, the height shall not in any case exceed 40 feet.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law, Section 4.0, Dimensional Requirements, be amended as set forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning Board to Town Meeting for Special Town
Meeting No. 2 Article 7 be adopted as printed in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0
Emilio Mauro, Chair of the Finance Committee, deferred to the Planning Board.
Kathy McCormack, a member of the Planning Board, moved Article 7 as printed in the warrant.
Taylor Torres, Town Planner, gave the following report:
This article was published in the Canton Citizen on September 26th and October 3rd, 2024. It was placed on file with the Planning
Board Office, Town Clerk’s Office, Select Board Office and the Canton Public Library. A public hearing for Article 7 was held by the
Planning Board on October 11, 2024. The Board voted 5-0-0 to send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting. This article updates
the Dimensional Requirements section of the Zoning By-Law.
Mark Porter asked for clarification that the proposed setback and height changes would not make an existing structure which is currently
conforming, non-conforming.
Mr. Torres responded that the height and setback requirements for accessory structures and principle dwelling units has not changed.
89
91Source page 94
Mr. Mauro stated that the Finance Committee voted 7-0 in support of this article.
VOTED: Article 7 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
ARTICLE 8
AMEND ZONING BY-LAW SECTION 8.1
Article 8 To see if the Town will vote to delete Zoning By-law Section 8.1 ACCESSORY APARTMENTS IN SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING
and replace with the following text:
8.1 ACCESSORY APARTMENT IN SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING
8.1.1 Special Permit Required. The Board of Appeals may issue a Special Permit for an accessory apartment in a detached, single
family dwelling in all residential districts provided that each of the following requirements are met.
1. The “effective date of this by-law” is January 1, 1989.
8.1.2 Requirements.
1. The owner of the dwelling in which the accessory apartment is created shall occupy either of the dwelling units in the
structure. For the purposes of this section, the "owner" shall be whoever holds title directly to the dwelling, and for whom the
dwelling is the primary residence for voting and real estate purposes.
2. There shall be not more than one (1) accessory apartment within a single family dwelling.
3. There shall be no boarders or lodgers within either unit of a dwelling with an accessory apartment.
4. The lot shall be at least ten thousand (10,000) square feet in area; or the minimum required for each residential zone,
whichever is greater.
5. The existing floor area of the dwelling shall have at least two thousand (2,000) square feet as of the effective date of this
by-law, which amount shall be verified in the records of the Building Inspection Department or on a document, "Total Living
Areas of Dwellings as of the effective date", prepared by the Board of Assessors.
6. The maximum net floor area of the accessory apartment shall not exceed thirty (30) percent of the net floor area of the
dwelling as of the effective date of this by-law.
7. There shall not be more than two (2) bedrooms in an accessory apartment.
8. Approval shall be obtained from the Board of Health, Sewer and Water Department and Conservation Commission and
other Boards, as required.
8.1.3 Exterior Appearance of a Dwelling with an Accessory Apartment. The accessory apartment shall be designed so that
the appearance of the structure remains that of a single family dwelling, subject further to the following requirements:
1. All stairways to second or third stories shall be enclosed within the exterior walls of the dwelling.
2. There shall be no enlargements or extensions of the dwelling in connection with any accessory apartment except for
minimal additions necessary to comply with building, safety or health codes, or for enclosure of any entryway, or for enclosure
of a stairway to a second or third story.
3. Any new entrance shall be located on the side or in the rear of the dwelling.
4. Where there are two (2) or more existing entrances on the front facade of a dwelling, if modifications are made to any
entrance, the result shall be that one (1) appears to be the principal entrance and other entrances appear to be secondary.
8.1.4 Off Street Parking. There shall be provided at least two (2) off-street parking spaces for the principal dwelling unit and at
least one (1) off-street parking space for the accessory apartment. In order to maintain the appearance of a single-family neighborhood
all parking spaces on the lot shall be subject further to the following conditions and requirements:
1. Each parking space and the driveway leading thereto shall be bituminous concrete paving or other approved surface.
2. No motor vehicles shall be regularly parked on the premises other than in such a parking space.
3. Where there are more than two (2) outdoor parking spaces, there shall be provided suitable screening with evergreen or
dense deciduous plantings, walls, fence or a combination thereof in the area between the parking spaces and the nearest side
lot line and, if the parking space is in the front yard parallel to the street, in the area between the parking space and the front
lot line. Screening shall be sufficient to minimize the visual impact on abutters and to maintain the single-family appearance
of the neighborhood.
90
92Source page 95
8.1.5 Procedures.
1. No accessory apartment shall be constructed without issuance of a building permit by the Building Commissioner.
2. No use of an accessory apartment shall be permitted prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the Building
Commissioner. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued after the Building Commissioner determines that the accessory
apartment as constructed is in conformity with the approved plans and with the provisions of this by-law.
3. A Special Permit for construction of an accessory apartment shall be issued to the person or persons named in the
application and shall not be deemed to run with the land and shall be for a term not to exceed three (3) years. Said permit
shall be automatically renewed for a subsequent three year term unless the Zoning Board of Appeals determines before the
end of any said term that the permit should be reviewed by the Board and by the Building Commissioner. If After said review
the Board determines that there may be violations of the terms of the permit, the Board shall hold a hearing pursuant to
M.G.L. c. 40A, s.11. If after said hearing the Board determines that there have been violations the Board may amend the
permit to address the violations, rescind the permit or recommend that the Building Commissioner take other enforcement
action. The permit holder shall have a right of appeal pursuant to M.G.L. c.40A , s.17.
4. A Special Permit may be transferred to a new owner occupant upon application to the Board of Appeals, subject to the
provisions of this by-law. The transfer of the Special Permit shall not be arbitrarily withheld by the Board of Appeals.
8.1.6 Affordable Accessory Apartments. For the purpose of promoting affordable housing in the Town of Canton and in
accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development Local Initiatives Program (LIP) one (1)
affordable accessory apartment may be allowed per single family lot by special permit by the Zoning Board of Appeals subject to the
following conditions and requirements:
1. The lot contains a minimum of ten thousand (10,000) square feet of contiguous upland, except that existing accessory
apartments shall have no minimum lot size requirement.
2. An Owner of an existing accessory apartment built prior to the adoption of this zoning by-law may apply for an Affordable
Accessory Apartment special permit.
3. As a condition of this special permit, Owners of existing and proposed accessory apartments shall strive to meet the
conditions and requirements of Section 8.1.
4. The Owner permitted under this by-law shall be subject to a minimum fifteen (15) year use restriction and the maintenance
of affordable rents, as defined in subsections 5 and 6 herein. No Affordable Accessory Apartment shall be occupied until the
Owner provides a copy of said use restriction, recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds to the Building Commissioner,
the Canton Housing Authority, and to any monitoring agent designated by the Town. The special permit will be issued to the
Owner and as such is not transferable to successors. No affordable accessory apartment shall be separated by ownership from
the principal dwelling.
5. The Owner shall be in compliance with local zoning except where specifically exempted by the Zoning Board of Appeals.
The Owner shall meet all state building codes, the Wetlands Protection Act, Groundwater Protection District, Floodplain and
Title V. regulations.
6. The Owners shall be responsible for submission to the Canton Housing Authority and any town designated monitoring
agency, information that includes, but is not limited to, verification of Owner occupancy status, income eligibility of the tenant,
copy of the lease agreement specifying the rent amount to be charged each month. Leases shall be issued for a period not to
exceed one (1) year. Submission of all required information must be provided to the Canton Housing Authority or designated
monitoring agency prior to executing a lease.
7. Affordable Accessory Apartments created under this provision shall only be rented to a person or persons meeting the
Canton Housing Authority guidelines for moderate income households, in accordance with the Massachusetts Department of
Housing and Community Development Local Initiative Program (LIP). For purposes of this Section, moderate income
households shall have annual incomes of no more than eighty percent (80%) of the median family income as reported in the
most recent LIP guidelines within the Boston SMSA.
8. The Owner shall not charge rents exceeding the maximum permitted by the latest Massachusetts Department of Housing
and Community Development Local Initiative Program (LIP) regulations.
9. Failure to comply with the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development LIP regulations may result
in Board of Appeals suspending the Owner's Affordable Accessory Apartment Special Permit.
10. The Zoning Board of Appeals may set filing fees to cover administrative costs related to the special permit procedure.
8.1 ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS
8.1.1 Purpose.
1. To provide for housing options that reduce maintenance costs and are more affordable than traditional single-family
dwellings;
2. To provide a mechanism for development of a range of housing types that are responsive to the sociocultural, health care,
and recreational needs of residents;
3. To use energy, water, and materials more efficiently by increasing
91 the housing supply through concentrated, small-scale
development;
4. To establish residential development standards and procedures that will support these objectives; and
5.
93
To facilitate housing production, diversity, and affordability in the Town’s neighborhoods.
8.1.2 Limitations on Use. One Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) shall be allowed as-of-right in all zoning districts in which single-
family homes are allowed as-of-right, subject to the following restrictions:Source page 96
3. To use energy, water, and materials more efficiently by increasing the housing supply through concentrated, small-scale
development;
4. To establish residential development standards and procedures that will support these objectives; and
5. To facilitate housing production, diversity, and affordability in the Town’s neighborhoods.
8.1.2 Limitations on Use. One Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) shall be allowed as-of-right in all zoning districts in which single-
family homes are allowed as-of-right, subject to the following restrictions:
A. The ADU maintains a separate entrance, either directly from the outside or through an entry hall or corridor shared
with the principal dwelling sufficient to meet the requirements of the state building code for safe egress;
B. The Lot contains a minimum of 5,000 square feet of area;
C. The ADU is not larger in gross floor area than one half (1/2) the gross floor area of the principal dwelling or 900
square feet, whichever is smaller;
D. The ADU is subject to the same dimensional setbacks as the primary residence, as provided in Section 4.0 of this
Zoning By-Law;
E. No ADU shall be constructed without issuance of a building permit by the Building Commissioner; and
F. No use of an accessory apartment shall be permitted prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the Building
Commissioner. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued after the Building Commissioner determines that the
accessory apartment as constructed is in conformity with the approved plans and with the provisions of this by-
law.
8.1.3 Additional Accessory Dwelling Units. The Board of Appeals may issue a Special Permit for additional ADUs over and
above the first ADU allowed as-of-right on a lot.
8.1.4 Exterior Appearance of a Dwelling with an ADU. The ADU shall be designed so that the appearance of the structure
remains that of a single-family dwelling, subject further to the following requirements:
A. All stairways to second or third stories shall be enclosed within the exterior walls of the dwelling;
B. Any new, additional entrance to an existing dwelling shall be located on the side or in the rear of the dwelling; and
C. Where there are two (2) or more existing entrances on the front facade of a dwelling, if modifications are made to
any entrance, the result shall be that one (1) appears to be the principal entrance and other entrances appear to
be secondary.
8.1.5 Dimensional Requirements. Accessory Dwelling Units shall be subject to all applicable dimensional requirements in
Section 4.0 of the Town of Canton Zoning By-Laws.
8.1.6 Parking.
A. There shall be a minimum of one (1) off-street parking space per ADU in addition to the parking spaces that are
required by the underlying zoning district for the single-family residence;
B. No additional parking spaces over and above that of the underlying zoning district shall be required if the ADU is
located within 0.5 miles from a commuter rail station, subway station, ferry terminal, or bus station;
C. A single driveway shall serve both the single-family residential structure and the ADU, provided that a detached
ADU may have a separate parking area.
8.1.7 Severability. If any provision of this Section 8.1 Accessory Dwelling Units is found to be invalid by a court of competent
jurisdiction, the remainder of Section 8.1 shall not be affected but shall remain in full force. The invalidity of any provision of this
Section shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the Town of Canton’s Zoning By-Law.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law, Section 8.1, Accessory Apartments in a Single Family Dwelling, be amended as
set forth in the Warrant, with the following change: The text of Section 8.1.3 shall be deleted and replaced with “Not
Used”.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning Board to Town Meeting for Special Town
Meeting No. 2 Article 8 be adopted as printed in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0
Emilio Mauro, Chair of the Finance Committee, deferred to the Planning Board.
Kathy McCormack, a member of the Planning Board, moved Article 8 as printed in the warrant.
Taylor Torres, Town Planner, gave the following report:
This article was published in the Canton Citizen on September 26th and October 3rd, 2024. It was placed on file with the Planning
Board Office, Town Clerk’s Office, Select Board Office and the Canton Public Library. A public hearing for Article 8 was held by the
Planning Board on October 11, 2024. The Board voted 5-0-0 to send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting. This article proposes
to delete Section 8.1 ACCESSORY APARTMENTS IN A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING and replace the text with Section 8.1 ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS.
Mr. Mauro stated that the Finance Committee voted 6-0 in support of this article.
VOTED: Article 8 adopted as printed.
92
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
94 9
ARTICLE
AMEND ZONING BY-LAW SECTION 8.5
Article 9 To see if the Town will vote to delete Zoning By-law Section 8.5 CARRIAGE HOUSE and replace with NOT USEDSource page 97
VOTED: Article 8 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
ARTICLE 9
AMEND ZONING BY-LAW SECTION 8.5
Article 9 To see if the Town will vote to delete Zoning By-law Section 8.5 CARRIAGE HOUSE and replace with NOT USED
8.5 CARRIAGE HOUSE NOT USED
In any residential district, the Board of Appeals may allow by special permit, the conversion of any accessory structure, such as a barn,
carriage house or other such building that predates the adoption of Zoning Regulations by the Town of Canton in 1937, into a separate
dwelling unit. All of the following conditions must be met for the Board of Appeals to issue a Special Permit:
1. No exterior enlargement in footprint may be permitted. Essentially the structure must contain the same cubic volume pre
and post conversion.
2. Exterior change to fenestration or doors must be designed to imitate the original use of the structure, and to conceal the
converted use.
3. A dwelling unit created under this section of the By-Laws shall be limited to two (2) bedrooms.
4. No more than one (1) additional dwelling unit may be created per lot under this section of the by-law irrespective of how
many eligible accessory structures may exist on a lot.
5. Approval shall be obtained from the Board of Health, Sewer and Water Department and Conservation Commission and other
Boards, as required.
6. There shall be provided at least two (2) off-street parking spaces for principal dwelling unit and at least one (1) off-street
parking space for the carriage house per bedroom. In order to maintain the appearance of a single family neighborhood all
parking spaces on the lot shall be subject to the following conditions and requirements:
a) Each parking space and the driveway leading thereto shall be bituminous
concrete paving or other approved surface.
b) No motor vehicles shall be regularly parked on the premises other than in such a parking space.
c) Where there are more than two (2) outdoor parking spaces, there shall e provided suitable screening with evergreen
or dense deciduous plantings, walls, fence or a combination thereof in the area between the parking spaces and the
nearest side lot line and, if the parking space is in the front yard parallel to the street, in the area between the
parking space and the front lot line. Screening shall be sufficient to minimize the visual impact on abutters and to
maintain the single-family appearance of the neighborhood.
Select Board for the Planning Board
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law, Section 8.5, Carriage House, be deleted as set forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning Board to Town Meeting for Special Town
Meeting No. 2 Article 9 be adopted as printed in the warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0
Emilio Mauro, Chair of the Finance Committee, deferred to the Planning Board.
Kathy McCormack, a member of the Planning Board, moved Article 9 as printed in the warrant.
Taylor Torres, Town Planner, gave the following report:
This article was published in the Canton Citizen on September 26th and October 3rd, 2024. It was placed on file with the Planning
Board Office, Town Clerk’s Office, Select Board Office and the Canton Public Library. A public hearing for Article 9 was held by the
Planning Board on October 11, 2024. The Board voted 4-0-0 to send a positive recommendation to Town Meeting. This article,
pertaining to carriage house conversions, becomes obsolete with the new changes to accessory dwelling units.
Mr. Mauro stated that the Finance Committee voted 7-0 in support of this article.
VOTED: Article 9 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
ARTICLE 10
AMEND ZONING MAP
Article 10 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Canton Massachusetts dated September 2024 as
follows, or take any other action related thereto:
By inserting an overlay to delineate the Canton Junction Overlay District, as described in Section 9.10 of the Zoning By-law and voted
approved in Article 32 of 2024 Annual Town Meeting.
Select Board for the Planning Board
93
95Source page 98
PLANNING BOARD
PLANNING
MOTION:
BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: MOVED:
That the Zoning
That Map
the Zoning
of the Town
Map of
ofthe
Canton
TownMassachusetts
of Canton Massachusetts
dated September
dated 2024,
September
be amended
2024, be
asamended
set as
forth in the Warrant.
forth in the Warrant.
PLANNING BOARD
PLANNING
VOTE:
BOARD
5-0-0
VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE
FINANCE COMMITTEE
RECOMMENDATION:
RECOMMENDATION:
The Finance The Financerecommends
Committee Committee recommends thatpresented
that the motion the motionbypresented by the
the Planning Planning
Board Board
to Town to Town
Meeting MeetingTown
for Special for Special To
Meeting No. Meeting
2 ArticleNo.
10 2
beArticle
adopted10 as
be printed
adoptedinas printed
the in the warrant.
warrant.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0 VOTE: 7-0
Emilio Mauro,Emilio
Chair Mauro, Chair ofCommittee,
of the Finance the Financedeferred
Committee, deferred
to the to Board.
Planning the Planning Board.
Kathy aMcCormack,
Kathy McCormack, member of a member
the of Board,
Planning the Planning
movedBoard,
Articlemoved Article 10
10 as printed as printed
in the in the warrant.
warrant.
Taylor Torres,Taylor
Town Torres,
Planner,Town
gavePlanner, gave the
the following following report:
report:
Thispublished
This article was article was published
in the CantoninCitizen
the Canton Citizen on26th
on September September 26th 3rd,
and October and October
2024. It3rd,was2024.
placedItonwas
fileplaced on Planning
with the file with the Plan
Board Office, Board Office, Town
Town Clerk’s Office,Clerk’s
Select Office,
Board Select Board
Office and theOffice
Canton andPublic
the Canton
Library.Public Library.
A public A public
hearing hearing
for Article 10 for
wasArticle
held by 10 the
was held by
Planning BoardPlanning Board 11,
on October on October
2024. The 11,Board
2024.voted
The Board
5-0-0 voted
to send5-0-0 to send
a positive a positive recommendation
recommendation to Town
to Town Meeting. ThisMeeting.
is a This
housekeepinghousekeeping article that
article that updates updates
the Zoning theofZoning
Map Map of
the Town ofCanton
the Town of Canton
in order in order
to reflect the to
newreflect theJunction
Canton new Canton Junction
Overlay Overlay Dis
District
that was passed
thatatwas
Annual
passed
Townat Annual
MeetingTown
2024.Meeting 2024.
Mr. Mauro
Mr. Mauro stated stated
that the thatCommittee
Finance the Finance Committee
voted voted 7-0
7-0 in support in support
of this article.of this article.
VOTED:
VOTED: Article Articleas10
10 adopted adopted as printed.
printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOWCARDS
SHOW OF VOTER OF VOTER CARDS
Moderator Richard
Moderator
StaitiRichard
thankedStaiti
Moderator
thanked
Alan
Moderator
Hines forAlan
his many
Hines years
for hisofmany
service
years
to the
of service
Town. to
Mr.
the
Hines
Town.
willMr.
be retiring
Hines will
as be retiring as
Moderator. Moderator.
A motion wasAmoved
motionand
wasseconded
moved and
to adjourn
seconded
thetoSpecial
adjournTown
the Special
Meeting.Town Meeting.
VOTED: ThatVOTED:
the 2024That
Special
the 2024
Town Special
MeetingsTown
be adjourned
Meetings be
sine
adjourned
die. sine die.
th
Adjourned at Adjourned
8:50pm onatNovember
8:50pm on , 2024. 18th, 2024.
18November
94 94
96Source page 99
Town of Canton
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
MONDAY, THE 13th DAY OF MAY 2024
In accordance with the warrant the Annual Town Meeting was convened on May 13TH, 2024 at Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of
the Canton High School, 900 Washington Street, and called to order by the Town Clerk, Tracy K. Kenney at 7:00pm with 447 voters
present.
Tracy K. Kenney, Town Clerk, introduced Reverend Dr. John Tamilio III, Pastor of the Congregational Church of Canton, who offered
the invocation.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
The reading of the warrant was dispensed with on a motion duly made, seconded and unanimously voted.
The reading of the Constable’s return was dispensed with on a motion duly made, seconded and unanimously voted.
ARTICLE 1
ELECT A MODERATOR
Article 1 To elect a Moderator to preside at this Town Meeting to serve until the commencement of Annual Town Meeting in 2025; or
to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
A motion was made and seconded to elect Richard Staiti as Moderator to preside at this Town Meeting to serve until the commencement
of Annual Town Meeting in 2025.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 2
ADOPT RULES TO GOVERN TOWN MEETING
Article 2 To see if the Town will vote to adopt certain procedures to govern the conduct of the 2024 Annual Town Meeting; or to take
any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOTION 1
MOVED: That this 2024 Annual Town Meeting shall meet on consecutive Monday and Wednesday evenings in the
Morse Auditorium on the grounds of the Canton High School, 900 Washington Street, until the business of this Annual
Town Meeting has been concluded, each such session to begin at 7:00 o’clock P.M. and to adjourn at 11:00 o’clock P.M.,
or as near that hour as may be feasible, according to the nature of the business pending at the said hour.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 2, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 2, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following individuals be granted all of the rights and privileges of participation in this Annual
Town Meeting, except the right to vote, under any article of this warrant which affects matters within their jurisdiction:
Susan Black-Donelan (Interim), Director of Student Services, Canton Public Schools
Steve Choiniere, Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
Paul Feeney, State Senator
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
Tom Houston, Professional Services Corporation, PC
Alfons Koka, Town Engineer
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Arafat Knight, Veterans’ Agent
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
95
97Source page 100
Brian Lynch, Director of Facilities and Grounds
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
Steve Marshall, Assistant Superintendent, Director of Finance & Operations, School Department
Paul McKnight, Principal, Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School
M. Regen Milani, Conservation Commission Agent
Shelley Needle, Rodman Early Childhood Coordinator
Allison Neff, Canton Community Preservation Committee Administrator
Kristen Phelps, Revere & Son Heritage Trust Administrator
Cody Pratt, Assistant Town Accountant
Tyler Radicioni, Parks & Recreation Director
Helena Rafferty, Police Chief
Barbara Reardon, Board of Health Director
Michelle Resendes, Asst. Supt. for Business & Personnel, Blue Hills Reg. Technical School
E. Wendell Robery, Fire Chief
Debbie Rooney, Director of Teaching and Learning PreK-8
Mark Roy, Executive Director, Canton Housing Authority
William Scollins, Finance Director
Sarah Shannon, Interim Asst. Superintendent of Schools
Julianne Shore, Director of Technology and Digital Learning
Jeffrey Sperling Principal of Canton High School
Walter Timilty, State Senator
Taylor Torres, Town Planner
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of the Department of Elder & Human Services
Saundra Watson, Principal of John F. Kennedy Elementary School
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved the following revised motion.
MOVED: That the following individuals be granted all of the rights and privileges of participation in this Annual Town Meeting,
except the right to vote, under any article of this warrant which affects matters within their jurisdiction:
Susan Black-Donelan (Interim), Director of Student Services, Canton Public Schools
Steve Choiniere, Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
Paul Feeney, State Senator
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
Tom Houston, Professional Services Corporation, PC
Alfons Koka, Town Engineer
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Arafat Knight, Veterans’ Agent
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
Brian Lynch, Director of Facilities and Grounds
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
Steve Marshall, Assistant Superintendent, Director of Finance & Operations, School Department
Paul McKnight, Principal, Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School
M. Regen Milani, Conservation Commission Agent
Shelley Needle, Rodman Early Childhood Coordinator
Allison Neff, Canton Community Preservation Committee Administrator
Isabel Nolan, Program Manager, CAASA, Article 3
Kristen Phelps, Revere & Son Heritage Trust Administrator
Cody Pratt, Assistant Town Accountant
Tyler Radicioni, Parks & Recreation Director
Helena Rafferty, Police Chief
Barbara Reardon, Board of Health Director
Michelle Resendes, Asst. Supt. for Business & Personnel, Blue Hills Reg. Technical School
E. Wendell Robery, Fire Chief
Debbie Rooney, Director of Teaching and Learning PreK-8
Mark Roy, Executive Director, Canton Housing Authority
William Scollins, Finance Director
Sarah Shannon, Interim Asst. Superintendent of Schools
Julianne Shore, Director of Technology and Digital Learning
Jeffrey Sperling Principal of Canton High School
Elizabeth Sugameli, Director of Revere & Son Heritage Trust, Article 28
Walter Timilty, State Senator
Taylor Torres, Town Planner
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of the Department of Elder & Human Services
Saundra Watson, Principal of John F. Kennedy Elementary School
VOTED: Amended motion adopted.
96
98Source page 101
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
MOTION 3
MOVED: That whenever during discussion under any article in this warrant during this year’s annual town
meeting, irrespective of which session such discussion is reached during the progress of the annual town meeting, a
motion is made, the effect of which is to increase the total amount to be appropriated beyond that which is recommended
by the Finance Committee or which changes the method of obtaining funds to meet that appropriation, the moderator
shall not accept such motion unless said motion also contains a corresponding decrease in another appropriation as
contained in an appropriation article on this specific warrant or a corresponding transfer from any other available funding
source or borrowing as an alternative funding source, so that the total amount to be appropriated by the town, at this
town meeting, and to be expended thereafter, for all the appropriation articles contained in this warrant, shall not in any
event exceed the total dollar amount recommended by the Finance Committee as set forth in the published Report of the
Finance Committee Recommendations as may be increased by any transfer from available funds provided, however that
nothing in this motion shall prevent an increase in appropriation funding contingent upon the passage of a Proposition
2½ override.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 2, Motion 3 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 2, Motion 3 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 3
HEAR REPORTS OF COMMITTEES APPOINTED AT PRIOR TOWN MEETINGS
Article 3 To hear the reports of committees appointed at previous town meetings, which have not yet been discharged; or to take any
other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That reports of the following committees appointed at previous Town Meetings be heard:
Economic Development Committee (ATM 2004, Article 14)
Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) (ATM 2016, Article 32)
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Eugene Manning, representing the EDC, and Isabel Nolan, representing CAASA, each gave oral reports.
REPORTS ACCEPTED, VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 4
ACT ON “CONSENT AGENDA”
Article 4 To see if the Town will vote to dispose of certain articles in this warrant by a single vote, in accordance with a so-called
“consent agenda” or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the following articles be disposed of by a single vote, in accordance with the Finance Committee
motions as written in the report of the Finance Committee: 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 21 and 23.
FINCOM
Article Description Motion VOTE Reason
Collective Bargaining There are no
Postpone
5 Agreements under the 7-0-0 collective bargaining
Indefinitely.
Select Board. agreements to fund.
There are no
6 Personal Service Contracts Postpone
7-0-0 personal service
under the Select Board. Indefinitely.
contracts to fund.
There are no bills to
Pay Bills of Prior Fiscal Postpone
8 8-0-0 pay for a prior fiscal
Year. Indefinitely.
year.
Postpone There are no
9 Adjust Fiscal ’24 Accounts. 8-0-0
Indefinitely. accounts to adjust.
There are no
Postpone
11 Insurance Proceeds. 6-0-0 insurance proceeds
Indefinitely.
to appropriate.
97
99Source page 102
Accept General or Session
12 Postpone There are no laws to
Laws Enacted by General 7-0-0
Indefinitely. accept.
Court.
Community Recognition
Accept this article. 8-0-0 Non-controversial.
14 Supplemental Funding.
4th of July Community
Celebration - $35,000 Free
16 Accept this article. 6-0-0 Non-controversial.
Cash Funded
Appropriation.
Rescind Unused Borrowing
21 Accept this article. 8-0-0 Non-controversial.
Authorization.
There are no funds
TNC Per Ride Assessment Postpone
23 6-0-0 needing to be
Proceeds Appropriation. Indefinitely.
appropriated.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE:
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 4 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 4 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 5
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS UNDER THE SELECT BOARD
Article 5 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or transfer from Free Cash, a sum of
money for the purpose of funding any new cost items contained in any collective bargaining agreements entered into by the Select
Board, on behalf of the Town, with any group of employees, serving under its jurisdiction; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 5 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 6
PERSONAL SERVICE CONTRACTS UNDER THE SELECT BOARD
Article 6 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or transfer from Free Cash, such sums
of money as may be necessary to fund new cost items contained in contracts for personal services with any individual employee; or
take any action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 6 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 7
SET SALARIES OF ELECTED OFFICERS
Article 7 To see if the Town will vote, in accordance with the provisions of section one hundred and eight of chapter forty-one (G. L.
chapter 41, §108) to fix the salary and compensation of all elected officers of the town; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Article 7 - MOTION 1
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for the Town Clerk be fixed at $107,224.03 for the 2025 Fiscal Year
beginning July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Emilio Mauro, Vice-Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 7, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 7, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 7 - MOTION 2
98
100Source page 103
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for all part-time elected officials of the Town be fixed for the 2025
Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, as follows:
Board of Assessors $2,400.00, for each member
Board of Health $600.00, for each member
Select Board $1,400.00, for each member, with an additional $200.00 to chairperson
Planning Board $0.00
School Committee $0.00
Library Trustees $0.00
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
Emilio Mauro, Vice-Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 7, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 7, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 8
PAY BILLS OF PRIOR FISCAL YEAR
Article 8 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, transfer from Free Cash, or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum or sums of money to pay any unpaid bills of any prior fiscal year; or to take any other
action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 8 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 9
ADJUST FISCAL ’24 ACCOUNTS
Article 9 To see if the Town will vote to increase/decrease or otherwise adjust the appropriations heretofore made for the Fiscal Year
2024 beginning on July 1, 2023 and ending on June 30, 2024 and the revenue sources to meet those appropriations, as voted
pursuant to Article 31 of the warrant for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting, and to raise and appropriate, or borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute, transfer from available funds or transfer from Free Cash to meet any such increases or adjustments; or to take
any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 9 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 10
AUTHORIZE CERTAIN REVOLVING FUNDS
Article 10 To see what new or additional revolving funds, pursuant to c. 44, section 53E ½ of the General Laws of the
Commonwealth, the Town may establish by amendment to Article VIII (“Financial Regulations”), Section 16 (“Departmental Revolving
Funds”) of the General Bylaws of the Town and to see what amendments if any the town may vote to existing revolving funds contained
in the Town’s Bylaw, and to determine the limit on total amounts that may be expended from the Town’s revolving accounts, for
various boards, commissions or departments of the town, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2025; or to
take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the spending limits for the revolving funds established pursuant to General By-Laws Article
VIII, Section 16 pursuant to the provisions of MGL chapter 44, section 53 E ½ for the 2025 fiscal year beginning July
1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 as set forth below, and that each Revolving Fund shall be credited with the balance
remaining in such fund at the end of the FY 2024 as follows:
Revolving
Fund # Name of Revolving Fund FY25 Spending Limit
110 Veteran’s Services Special Revenues $100,000
119 Library Revolving Fund $75,000
130 Recreation Revolving Fund $650,000
134 Pequitside Farm Rentals $50,000
99
101Source page 104
135 Greenlodge Street Parking Fees $100,000
136 Beautification Fund $10,000
137 Animal Control Special Revenues $50,000
138 Library Building Rentals $50,000
140 COA Revolving Fund $150,000
141 Board of Health Special Revenue $50,000
Paul Revere Heritage Site Rolling
142 Mill and Open Space Fund $250,000
145 Traffic Mitigation Fund $50,000
Paul Revere Heritage Site Museum
152 Fund $100,000
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 10 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 10 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 11
INSURANCE PROCEEDS
Article 11 To see whether the Town will vote to appropriate all sums over $150,000 recovered under the terms of any insurance
policy and any other insurance proceeds paid to the Town in connection with any losses suffered by the Town; or to take any other
action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 11 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 12
ACCEPT GENERAL OR SESSION LAWS ENACTED BY THE GENERAL COURT
Article 12 To see if the Town will vote to accept any general or session laws enacted by the General Court for the benefit of cities
or towns or of benefit to the Town of Canton; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 12 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 13
APPROPRIATION TO SUPPLEMENT THE COMMONWEALTH’S CHAPTER 90 PROGRAM
Article 13 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from Free Cash, transfer from available funds, transfer from
water enterprise surplus (retained earnings), or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money to be spent by the Select
Board acting as the Board of Public Works to supplement the amount received from the Chapter 90 Roads Program with improvements
done in accordance with improvement specifications as determined by and subject to, the approval of the Board of Public Works and
consistent with locations identified in the Town’s Pavement Management System, or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Board of Public Works to
supplement the amount received from the Chapter 90 Roads Program with improvements done in accordance with
improvement specifications as determined by and subject to the approval of the Board of Public Works and consistent
with locations identified in the Town’s Pavement Management System and to meet said appropriation One Million Dollars
($1,000,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town with the intent
that said funds shall be available in FY24.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 13 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 13 adopted as printed. 100
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE 102
ARTICLE 14
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDINGSource page 105
VOTED: Article 13 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 14
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING
Article 14 To see if the Town will raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute,
a sum of money in order to increase the appropriation voted in Article 32 of the 2017 Annual Town meeting for the purposes
named in said article for community recognition for present or former town employees and town officials, subject to all the terms and
conditions set forth in that 2017 appropriation; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the sum of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund
Balance) to Fund 100 to increase the appropriation voted in Article 32 of the 2017 Annual Town Meeting for the purposes
named in said article for community recognition for present or former town employees and town officials, subject to all
the terms and conditions set forth in that 2017 appropriation.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
VOTED: ADOPTED UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 15
“OMNIBUS” CAPITAL OUTLAY PROGRAM
Article 15 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, transfer from Free Cash, or to authorize
the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow (and to issue bonds or notes therefore) any sum or sums of
money, or by any combination of these methods of financing, as may be necessary or desirable, make available funds for the purpose
of purchasing, leasing, re-conditioning, improving or replacing any motor vehicles or other items of equipment or machinery or other
items of personal property for any town agency, or for the purpose of contracting for any service, or for the design, repair, acquisition,
construction, replacement or relocation or improvement to any town building or other structure, public works facility (including highway
needs and traffic safety items), any other town owned facility or real property, or for any other purposes for which borrowing may be
authorized, to purchase, or to take by eminent domain, any land or easements necessary for any such purposes and, where applicable,
to authorize the trade-in of any presently owned motor vehicles, equipment or machinery to reduce the purchase or acquisition cost
of any item to be acquired, and to include in any new capital project borrowing authorization and/or to amend such borrowing
authorizations from prior years Town Meetings to provide for the application of any bond premiums to reduce the cost of such
borrowings or to apply same to payment of project costs; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for Capital Planning Committee
Article 15 - MOTION 1
MOVED: (a) The acquisition of all vehicles and other motorized equipment that is authorized to be purchased or
otherwise acquired by any motion made under this warrant article shall be under the responsibility of the Finance
Director/Chief Procurement Officer. In addition to the procurement, the “trade-in” or other disposition of all vehicles
and other motorized equipment being replaced is also authorized and shall be under the responsibility of the Finance
Director/Chief Procurement Officer. In all cases where by a motion made under this warrant article, a vehicle or other
piece of motorized equipment is to be acquired by a town agency such purchase or acquisition shall be subject to and
bound by the detailed specifications regarding such purchase or acquisition on file in the office of the Town Clerk;
provided, however, the Finance Director/Chief Procurement Officer, may, in appropriate circumstances, waive or modify
the said detailed specifications, subject to a vote of the Finance Committee, taken within 30 (thirty) days following a
decision to waive or to modify the foregoing provision requiring full compliance with the specifications on file.
(b) All building related projects which are approved and or funded by any motion made under this article shall
be under the responsibility of the Building Renovations Committee appointed pursuant to Canton By-law, Article X,
section 4, except as may be provided by any specific motion made pursuant to this article.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 - MOTION 2
MOVED: That One Million Forty Six Thousand Dollars ($1,046,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal Year 2025 tax
levy and other general revenues of the Town to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement
Officer) with the approval of various Municipal Departments designated below and with the approval of the Select Board
for the purposes set forth below as follows:
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Conservation
101
103Source page 106
MOVED: That One Million Forty Six Thousand Dollars ($1,046,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal Year 2025 tax
levy and other general revenues of the Town to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement
Officer) with the approval of various Municipal Departments designated below and with the approval of the Select Board
for the purposes set forth below as follows:
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Conservation
Land Survey of Wardwell Conservation Area $50,000
101
Planning
Town Signage Replacement 65,000
MIS
Cameras/Recorder for 1860 Washington Street (St. Gerard’s) 36,000
Phone Systems Interface Cards 7,000
Surface Tablet Replacements – Select Board 12,100
3 Desktop Computer Replacements – Engineering 7,750
Office Suite Software Update – Library 10,000
Fire Department
Washer & Dryer Replacements at Stations 1 & 2 20,217
Parks & Recreation
New 4WD Compact Tractor w/Aerator 42,000
Gibson Field Drainage Project 82,000
24” Sod Cutter and 20” Tiller 10,500
Police Department
14 Bullet Resistant Vests & Carriers 25,872
4 Police Cruiser Replacements, 1 Hybrid 229,000
Audio Video Recording Equipment – Police Station 39,188
APEX Officer Training Simulator 64,522
9 Defibrillators – In Cruisers and Police Station 34,323
Property Maintenance
Ponkapoag School Building Roof Replacement 50,000
HVAC Testing & Balancing – Police Station 17,000
Memorial Hall Carpet
32,028
Department of Public Works
Truck 2 – Chevy Tahoe 4WD 4DR LS 75,000
Bolivar St. Mobile Garage Truck Lifts (1988 Vintage) 50,000
Unit 55 Brush Chipper – Replacement 48,000
Revere & Son Heritage Trust
Security System for Revere Barn / Museum 18,500
Wireless Audio System – Multi Floor Revere Barn / Museum 20,000
_________
GRAND TOTAL $1,046,000
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual appropriations. The sums
shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount appropriated is one line item in the total sum of
One Million Forty Six Thousand Dollars ($1,046,000). The Finance Director and Town Administrator, acting jointly, are
hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such a manner as may be needed to accomplish the foregoing list of
purchases; provided, however, that each item contained in the list is procured and that the excess funds are available
because one or more items cost less than estimated and not because an item intended to be procured is not so procured.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 - MOTION 3
MOVED: That One Million Fifty Six Thousand Dollars ($1,056,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal Year 2025 tax
levy and other general revenues of the Town, for the Canton School Committee to expend for the purpose of purchasing
certain items of property set forth below for the School Department as follows:
FINCOM
AMOUNT
Building Repairs/Improvements
Luce Exterior Door Replacement (4) C1.B2.D1.KP $23,000
CHS Auditorium Painting 41,000
Rodman Staircases (3) – Tile & Paint 27,650
Grounds Improvement
Luce Sidewalk Repair 104 25,000
102Source page 107
Luce Exterior Door Replacement (4) C1.B2.D1.KP $23,000
CHS Auditorium Painting 41,000
Rodman Staircases (3) – Tile & Paint 27,650
Grounds Improvement
Luce Sidewalk Repair 25,000
Warehouse Lot Paving 65,000
Landscaping Design and Construction (Year 2)
102 16,000
Information Technology
Grade 4 & 5 Chromebooks/Replacement Cycle – Districtwide 90,000
WiFi Printers 7,880
Replacement Staff Laptops 171,310
K-2 Ipads 23,900
CHS Art Laptops 12,516
World Language Lab 33,280
ESXI Server Upgrades 115,073
Safety & Security
Security Servers 68,355
Security Firewalls 36,500
Electronic Access Points 16,000
JFK Vehicle Barrier Gate 7,500
LUCE Vehicle Barrier Gate 7,500
Additional Security Cameras (10) 8,500
Hansen Interior Door Shades 5,900
Exterior Signage 18,000
Program Improvements
Veterans Memorial Field Lighting 123,064
CHS Gym Scoreboard Replacement 29,500
CHS Science Robotics Upgrades 17,000
Orbital Scrubber -2 18,000
Stander Mower 8,200
Classroom Based Instruments 11,000
Furniture & Fixtures
CHS Kiln Replacement 9,372
Elementary Library Furniture Enhancement (Year 2) 20,000
________
GRAND TOTAL $1,056,000
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual appropriations. The sums
shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount appropriated is one line item in the total sum of
One Million Fifty Six Thousand Dollars ($1,056,000). The Town Finance Director and the Assistant Superintendent of
Finance and Operations for the School Department, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such
a manner as may be needed to accomplish the foregoing list of purchases; provided, however, that each item contained
in the list is procured and that the excess funds are available because one or more items cost less than estimated and
not because an item intended to be procured is not so procured.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 3 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 3 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 4
MOVED: That One Million Six Hundred Nineteen Thousand Seven Hundred Dollars ($1,619,700) be appropriated
to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Select Board
to pay for the cost of replacing the radio communications system for the Police and Fire Department and to meet said
appropriation, One Million Six Hundred Nineteen Thousand Seven Hundred Dollars ($1,619,700) be transferred from Free
Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 4 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 4 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 5
MOVED: That One Million Ninety Thousand Dollars ($1,090,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Fire Chief with
the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of replacing Fire Engine 6 and to meet said appropriation the Town
Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other
103
105Source page 108
enabling authority as may be, the sum of Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000) with the intent that the bonds and notes
issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town and that Eight Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Three
Hundred Twenty Five Dollars ($838,325) be transferred from surplus funds in the Memorial Hall Fund Project #390 and
that One Hundred Sixty-One Thousand Six Hundred Seventy-Five Dollars ($161,675), associated with the Memorial Hall
Project, also be transferred from the General Fund #100.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 5 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 5 adopted as printed.ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 6
MOVED: That Three Hundred Fifty-Two Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Six Dollars ($352,886) be appropriated
to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Select Board
to pay for the cost of purchasing Police Department audio video recording equipment for police cruisers and body cams
and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Three Hundred Fifty-Two
Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty-Six Dollars ($352,886). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 6 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 6 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 7
MOVED: That One Hundred Fifty-Eight Thousand Dollars ($158,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Director of Facilities/Central Maintenance
and the Select Board to pay for the costs of purchasing an F550 dump truck and to meet said appropriation the Town
Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other
enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Eight Thousand Dollars ($158,000). It is the intent that the
bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 7 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 7 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 8
MOVED: That One Hundred Sixty-Two Thousand Dollars ($162,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the costs of replacing the Bolivar Street Garage 6,000 Gallon Fuel Cell
and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred Sixty-Two
Thousand Dollars ($162,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general
obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 8 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 8 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 9
MOVED: That Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance Director (in
his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works Superintendent and the
Select Board for the purpose of Randolph Street and York Street intersection improvements and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Dollars ($102,000)
with the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town and that
Two Hundred Ninety-Eight Thousand Dollars ($298,000) with the approval of the Select Board be transferred from the
Randolph Street Mitigation Fund #144.
104
106Source page 109
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 9 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 9 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 10
MOVED: That Two Hundred Forty-Six Thousand Dollars ($246,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the cost of purchasing a Dump/Sander Truck to replace a 1999 Sterling
Dump/Sander Truck #15 and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be
authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Two
Hundred Forty-Six Thousand Dollars ($246,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 10 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 10 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 11
MOVED: That Two Hundred Forty-Six Thousand Dollars ($246,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the cost of purchasing a Dump/Sander Truck to replace a 1999 Sterling
Dump/Sander Truck #24 and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be
authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Two
Hundred Forty-Six Thousand Dollars ($246,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 11 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 11 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 12
MOVED: That Sixty Thousand Dollars ($60,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance Director (in his
capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works Superintendent and the
Select Board for the purpose of replacing Unit 55 Brush Chipper and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with
the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling
authority as may be, the sum of Sixty Thousand Dollars ($60,000) with the intent that the bonds and notes issued
pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town and to supplement the replacement of Unit 55 Brush Chipper
under ATM 2024 Article 15 Motion 2.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 12 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 12 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 13
MOVED: That Five Hundred Thirty Two Thousand Dollars ($532,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Chief
Procurement Officer with the approval of the Fire Chief and the Select Board for the purpose of replacing Ambulance 2
and to meet said appropriation the sum of Five Hundred Thirty Two Thousand Dollars ($532,000) be funded from the
Ambulance Receipts Reserved for Appropriation Account (#170).
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 13 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 13 adopted as printed.
105
107Source page 110
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 14
MOVED: That Two Hundred Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($215,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Department
of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of Lead Service Line Inventory and
Replacement Planning and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be
authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Two
Hundred Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($215,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority
be general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first instance from Water Receipts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 14 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 14 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MORE THAN TWO-THIRDS VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 15
MOVED: That Two Hundred Eighty Thousand Dollars ($280,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Department
of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of supplementing the Water System
Management Plan Contract 4 Design and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select
Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of
Two Hundred Eighty Thousand Dollars ($280,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first instance from Water
Receipts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 15 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 15 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 16
MOVED: That One Hundred Eleven Thousand Dollars ($111,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board for the purposes of various water capital purchases as set forth below and to meet
said appropriation One Hundred Eleven Thousand Dollars ($111,000) be transferred from water enterprise surplus
(retained earnings).
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Purchase Hot box Infrared Paver $98,000
Purchase CAT 27 Loader Attachments – Forks & Booms 13,000
TOTAL $111,000
The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be appropriated is one line item in
the total amount of One Hundred Eleven Thousand Dollars ($111,000). The Finance Director and the Town Administrator,
acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such manner as may be needed to accomplish the
foregoing list of projects; provided, however, that each project contained in the list set forth above is undertaken and
that any excess funds are available because one or more of the listed projects cost less than was estimated and not
because a project intended to be undertaken is not so undertaken.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 16 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 16 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 17
MOVED: That One Million Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,700,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of Year 1 of the Sewer
System Capital Improvement Plan and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select
Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of
One Million Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,700,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to
this authority be general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first instance from
Sewer Receipts.
106
108Source page 111
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 17 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 17 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 18
MOVED: That One Hundred Twenty Four Thousand Dollars ($124,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board for the purposes of various sewer capital purchases as set forth below and to meet
said appropriation One Hundred Twenty Four Thousand Dollars ($124,000) be transferred from sewer enterprise surplus
(retained earnings).
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Purchase Skid Steer Loader w/Brush Attachment & Snow Plow $110,000
Purchase Tilt Deck Trailer 14,000
TOTAL $124,000
The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be appropriated is one line item in
the total amount of One Hundred Twenty Four Thousand Dollars ($124,000). The Finance Director and the Town
Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such manner as may be needed to
accomplish the foregoing list of projects; provided, however, that each project contained in the list set forth above is
undertaken and that any excess funds are available because one or more of the listed projects cost less than was
estimated and not because a project intended to be undertaken is not so undertaken.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 18 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 18 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 19
MOVED: That Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) be appropriated to be spent by the School Committee
to pay for the cost of a Phase 1 Core Infrastructure Switch with Transceivers and DAC Cabling and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000). It
is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 19 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 19 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
Article 15 – MOTION 20
MOVED: That Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) be appropriated to be spent by the School Committee
to pay for the cost of replacement of roof top HVAC Unit #10 for the Canton High School and to meet said appropriation
the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or
any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000). It is the intent that
the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, moved Article 15, Motion 20 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 20 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 16
APPROVAL OF FUNDING FOR THE ANNUAL 4TH OF JULY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Article 16 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, transfer from available
funds or transfer from Free Cash, a sum of money to be expended by the Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Director
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of Parks and Recreation, and with the approval of the Select Board, for the purpose of funding the annual July 4th community celebration
in 2024; or to take any other action related thereto with the intent these funds be available in FY24 in anticipation of July 4, 2024.
Select Board for the Canton Recreation Commission
MOVED: That the sum of Thirty Five Thousand Dollars ($35,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated
Fund Balance) to be expended by the Director of Parks and Recreation with the approval of the Select Board, for the July
4th community celebration in 2024 with the intent that said funds shall be available in FY24 in anticipation of July 4,
2024.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
VOTED: ADOPTED UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 17
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
Article 17 To see if the Town will vote to adopt and approve the recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee for
Fiscal Year 2025 and to see if the Town will vote to implement such recommendations by appropriating a sum or sums of money from
the Community Preservation Fund established pursuant to Chapter 44B of the General Laws, or otherwise to raise and appropriate,
transfer from available funds or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute a sum of money for such purposes; to authorize the Select
Board, with the approval of the Community Preservation Committee, to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain such real property
and property interests in the name of, or enforceable by the Town, including perpetual affordable housing restrictions, conservation
restrictions and historical preservation restrictions, and to dispose of Town property or portions thereof or interests therein, all as may
be required by the Community Preservation Act and Chapter 184 of the General Laws and as may be necessary or appropriate to carry
out the recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Community Preservation Committee
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 1
MOVED: That the sum of Forty-Five Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Six Dollars ($45,196) be appropriated from
the Community Preservation Fund revenues for the administrative expenses of the Community Preservation Committee
in Fiscal Year 2025 provided, however, that any amounts not used during the year for administrative expenses shall
revert back to the CPA Undesignated Fund Balance at the end of Fiscal Year 2025.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following fund transfer be hereby made in FISCAL YEAR 2025 as recommended by the
Community Preservation Committee in accordance with Community Preservation Act statute:
Ninety Thousand Three Hundred Ninety-Three Dollars ($90,393) be transferred from FISCAL YEAR 2025 receipts of the
Community Preservation Fund into the Fund Balance Reserved for Historic Resources.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 3
MOVED: That the sum of Two Hundred Twenty -Three Thousand Seven Hundred Forty Dollars ($223,740) be
appropriated from the Community Preservation Fund revenues for the purposes by the Chief Procurement Officer with
the approval of the Select Board for debt service and expenses associated with the Open Space land acquisition of the
Paul Revere Heritage Site for the Fiscal Year 2025
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 3 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 3 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 4
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VOTED: Article 17, Motion 3 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 4
MOVED: That the sum of Forty Thousand Dollars ($40,000) be appropriated from the Community Preservation
108 Housing Trust for the purpose of continuing to pay the
Fund reserved for Community Housing to be spent by the Canton
salary of the part-time Affordable Housing Trust Coordinator.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 4 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 4 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 5
MOVED: That the sum of Five Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($502,500) be appropriated from
Community Preservation Funds as listed below to be spent by the Canton Public Schools for the purpose of installing
lighting on the Gibson Athletic Field at the Canton High School.
A. Two Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand Three Hundred Eighty-Six Dollars ($228,386) be appropriated from the
Community Preservation Fund reserved for Open Space and Recreation.
B. Two Hundred Seventy-Four Thousand One Hundred Fourteen Dollars ($274,114) be appropriated from the
Community Preservation Undesignated Fund Reserve.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 5 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 5 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 6
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Forty Thousand Nine Hundred Eight Dollars ($140,908) be appropriated
from the Community Preservation Fund reserved for Community Housing to be spent by the Canton Housing Authority
for the purposes of the replacement of windows and accompanying work as planned in Phase 3 for the Hemenway
Building.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 6 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 6 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 7
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($175,000) be appropriated from the
Community Preservation Undesignated Fund to be spent by the Canton Public Schools for the purposes of replacing,
rehabilitating, and/or restoring the playground at the JFK Elementary School.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 7 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 7 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 8
MOVED: That the sum of Four Hundred Fifty-Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($452,500) be appropriated
from the Community Preservation Undesignated Fund to be spent by the Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of
the Canton Public Library Board of Trustees for the purposes of completing Phase 1 of the Library Park.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 8 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 8 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 9
MOVED: That the sum of Three Hundred Fifty Thousand ($350,000) be appropriated from the Community
Preservation Undesignated Fund to be spent by the Chief procurement Officer with approval of the Canton Parks and
Recreation Department, for the purposes of replacing, rehabilitating, and/or restoring the playground at Pequitside
Farm.
109
FINANCE COMMITTEE111 VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 9 as printed in the warrant.Source page 114
Recreation Department, for the purposes of replacing, rehabilitating, and/or restoring the playground at Pequitside
Farm.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 9 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 9 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 10
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Thousand ($100,000) be appropriated from the Community Preservation
Undesignated Fund to be spent by the Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Canton Conservation
Commission for the purposes of the engagement of professional consultants to create a Master Plan for the Wardwell
Conservation Area in Canton and Stoughton, MA.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 10 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 10 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
Article 17 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MOTION 11
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Thousand ($100,000) be appropriated from the Community Preservation
Undesignated Fund to be spent by the Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Canton Walk, Bike, Hike
Committee for the purposes of the engagement of professional consultants to create a Master Plan for the Wentworth
Recreational Facility.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
George Comeau, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, moved Article 17, Motion 11 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 17, Motion 11 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 18
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE SPECIAL EDUCATION RESERVE ACCOUNT
Article 18 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute, a sum of money in order to increase any Special Education Reserve Account or to take any other action related
thereto.
Select Board for the School Committee
Select Board Position The Select Board acknowledges special education costs continue to rise and Canton's costs exceed the
appropriation from the state. This fund serves to close that gap. School officials, the Finance Director and the Town Administrator met
to establish the amount necessary to provide these vital services to our students. The Select Board supports this article unanimously.
(Vote: 5-0)
MOVED: That the sum of One Million Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,600,000) be appropriated to the Special
Education Reserve Account (#250) and to meet this appropriation, One Million Six Hundred Thousand Dollars
($1,600,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 18 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 18 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 19
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE CAPITAL STABILIZATION ACCOUNT
Article 19 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate or transfer from any available funds or borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute, a sum of money in order to increase the Capital Stabilization Account, or to take any action related thereto.
Select Board
Select Board Position The Select Board supports the Finance Director’s recommendation for appropriating funds to the Capital
Stabilization Account. (Vote: 5-0)
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MOVED: That the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated to the Capital Stabilization Account
(#801) and to meet this appropriation, One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated
Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 19 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 19 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 20
ESTABLISH 1860 WASHINGTON ST. REDEVELOPMENT STABILIZATION FUND
Article 20 To see if the town will vote to establish an 1860 Washington St. Redevelopment Stabilization Fund pursuant to section 5B
of chapter 40 of the General Laws, which Fund shall be in addition to the Stabilization Funds presently in existence for the town of
Canton, for the purpose of redevelopment of the 1860 Washington St. property, and further to see if the town will vote to raise and
appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money to be deposited in the new
1860 Washington St. Redevelopment Stabilization Fund, or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Select Board Position The Select Board believes it makes fiscal sense to establish a fund that will allow the Town to start setting aside
funds for the property's eventual use. The Town employed the same strategy for the Galvin Middle School. Creation of the stabilization
fund will reduce the amount of money the Town will eventually have to borrow to redevelop the site. There are several steps prior to
seeking funds to develop the property including hiring a consultant to conduct a feasibility study and engineer plans. (Vote: 5-0)
MOVED: That an 1860 Washington St. Redevelopment Stabilization Fund be established in the Treasury of the
Town pursuant to Chapter 40 section 5B of the general laws for the purpose of redevelopment of the 1860 Washington
St. property, and that this 1860 Washington St. Redevelopment Stabilization Fund be funded by the transfer of One
Million Dollars ($1,000,000) from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-1-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 20 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 20 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 21
RESCIND UNUSED BORROWING AUTHORIZATIONS
Article 21 To see if the Town will vote to rescind unused borrowing authorizations previously voted by the Town; or to take any
other action related thereto.
Select Board
Select Board Position The Select Board supports the Finance Director’s recommendation to rescind unused borrowed funds. (Vote: 5-
0)
MOVED: That the following unused borrowing authorizations previously voted by the Town be hereby rescinded:
Bond
Premium
Authorized Authorized Bonds Debt Previously Used for To Be
Date Art. Mot. Purpose Debt Issued Unissued Rescinded Project Rescinded
District
Improvements
(Plymouth
5/11/2015 14 - Rubber Site) $8,597,000 $6,044,000 $2,553,000 0 $553,000 $2,000,000
Replace Water
Mains for
5/22/2021 11 12 Seven Streets $4,350,000 $3,451,000 $899,000 0 $165,000 $ 734,000
TOTAL $12,947,000 $9,495,000 $3,452,000 0 $718,000 $2,734,000
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
VOTED: ADOPTED UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
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ARTICLE 22
APPROPRATION TO TRANSFER OPIOID SETTLEMENT FUNDS INTO THE OPIOID SPECIAL REVENUE FUND
Article 22 To see if the Town will vote to transfer Opioid Settlement Funds from Free Cash into the Opioid Special Revenue Fund
pursuant to Chapter 44 section 53 clause 4; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Select Board Position The Select Board supports the transfer of opioid funds out of the general fund to a special revenue account.
These funds are to be used to combat substance use disorder and are part of a class action suit against the pharmaceutical companies
and pharmacies. Settlement funds will be paid to Canton over a 16-year period. There are several departments and committees that
will be able to utilize these funds to provide support and programming to residents across the age spectrum who have been impacted
by the opioid epidemic that continues to this day. (Vote: 5-0)
MOVED: That the sum of One Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Nine Hundred Thirty-Six Dollars and Ninety Seven
Cents ($153,936.97) be appropriated to the Opioid Special Revenue Fund (#260) and to meet this appropriation, One
Hundred Fifty-Three Thousand Nine Hundred Thirty-Six Dollars and Ninety Seven Cents ($153,936.97) be transferred
from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 22 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 22 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 23
APPROPRIATION OF PROCEEDS FROM THE TNC PER RIDE ASSESSMENT FUNDS
Article 23 To see if the Town will vote to appropriate proceeds from the TNC Per Ride Assessment funds; or to take any other action
related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 23 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 24
AMEND BY-LAW ARTICLE IV SECTION 12 (VOTING) AND SECTION 17 (MOTION TO REQUIRE THE USE OF WRITTEN
BALLOTS)
Article 24 To see if the Town will vote to amend Article IV of the Town of Canton General By-laws as follows, or to take any other
action related thereto.
1. By amending Article IV, Section 12. Voting by deleting the first unnumbered paragraph of Section 12 and replacing it with the
following:
Voting shall, at the discretion of the moderator, utilize electronic voting technology, when available. If electronic voting
technology is not used, when a question is put to the voters the sense of the meeting shall, in the first instance, be
determined by the voices of the voters, and the moderator shall announce the vote as it appears to the moderator by the
sound. If the moderator is in doubt, the sense of the meeting shall next be determined by display of voting cards by the
voters, and if the moderator is in further doubt, the sense of the meeting shall finally be determined by a repeat of display
of voting cards by the voters. If the announcement of a vote by the moderator is immediately doubted by seven or more
voters displaying their voting cards for that purpose, the moderator shall , without debate, determine the vote by ordering
a new display of voting cards and shall appoint tellers to make and return the count, as provided in section 15. At the
discretion of the town moderator, the voice vote may be eliminated. There is no appeal from the results of a new display
of voting cards and return of count by the tellers.
2. By amending Article IV, Section 17. Motion to Require the Use of Written Ballots by deleting the following text:
Notwithstanding the requirements of Article IV, section 5 of these General Bylaws, whenever the town meeting votes to
cause the vote under any article in the warrant to be taken by written ballots the vote shall be suspended for not less
than thirty-six week day hours in order to allow time for ballots to be prepared and procedures to be put in place for the
conduct of said voting. The town moderator shall place said motion on the calendar for action as the first order of business
at the next session of the town meeting held more than thirty-six weekday hours after the time the said motion has been
voted.
Select Board
Select Board Position The Select Board unanimously supports amending the by-law to include the option to utilize electronic voting
at future annual or special town meetings. (5-0-0)
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MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 24 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 24 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 25
AMEND BY-LAW ARTICLE VII PART B (FINANCE COMMITTEE)
Article 25 To see if the Town will vote to amend By-Law Article VII Part B as follows:
Section 1: strike the phrase “involving an appropriation” and replace it with the phrase “having a financial impact on the Town
including but not limited to appropriations”
Section 4: add the phrase “and those having a financial impact on the Town” after the word “appropriations” in the last sentence; or
take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Finance Committee
Select Board Position The Finance Committee has historically opined on articles that do not have specific appropriations but may have
a financial impact in the future. This amendment will codify this long-standing practice by updating the by-law to allow the Finance
Committee to provide its opinion on all articles. (5-0-0)
MOVED: That By-Law Article VII Part B be amended as follows:
Section 1: the phrase “involving an appropriation” shall be replaced with the phrase “having a financial impact on the
Town including but not limited to appropriations”
Section 4: and the phrase “and those having a financial impact on the Town” be added after the word “appropriations”
in the last sentence.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 25 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 25 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS
ARTICLE 26
ARTICLE TO TRANSFER SHEPARD POND, BOLIVAR POND, SILK MILL, & MESSINGER POND LAND FROM SELECT BOARD
TO CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Article 26 To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Select Board pursuant to Chapter 40, Section 15A of the General Laws of the
Commonwealth, to transfer the care, custody, jurisdiction, and control of the below listed parcels of land to the Canton Conservation
Commission and be hereafter dedicated to conservation and passive recreation, or to take any other action related thereto.
Canton Assessor’s Map and Parcel Number and Address:
Map Number Parcel Number Address
24 43 0 Pond Street
24 44 236 Washington Street
24 70 0 Messinger Street
24 71 0 Messinger Street
24 72 0 Messinger Street
24 156 0 Messinger Street
24 157 0 Messinger Street
41 40 0 Bolivar Pond
Select Board for the Conservation Commission
Select Board Position The Select Board agrees that the Conservation Agent has the expertise to care for natural resources like open
space, rivers and ponds. Conservation oversight will ensure that these bodies of water are monitored and maintained to keep them
viable for our community. (Vote: 5-0)
MOVED: That the Select Board pursuant to Chapter 40, Section 15A of the General Laws of the Commonwealth,
be authorized to transfer the care, custody, jurisdiction, and control of the parcels of real estate printed in the warrant
to the Canton Conservation Commission and that these parcels of real estate be hereafter dedicated to conservation and
passive recreation.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-1
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 26 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 26 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MORE THAN TWO-THIRDS
113
ARTICLE 27
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE THE CONSERVATION LAND FUND
Article 27 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate,115
or appropriate and transfer from available funds, the sum of seven
thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500.00), or any other sum, to be added to the balance remaining in the Conservation Land Fund;
or take any action relative thereto.
Select Board for Conservation CommissionSource page 118
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE, MODERATOR DECLARED MORE THAN TWO-THIRDS
ARTICLE 27
APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE THE CONSERVATION LAND FUND
Article 27 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, or appropriate and transfer from available funds, the sum of seven
thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500.00), or any other sum, to be added to the balance remaining in the Conservation Land Fund;
or take any action relative thereto.
Select Board for Conservation Commission
Select Board Position The Board voted to support the article. (Vote: 5-0)
MOVED: That Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($7,500) be appropriated and added to the balance in the
Conservation Land Fund and to meet said appropriation Seven Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($7,500) be transferred
from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 27 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 27 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 28
APPROPRIATION TO FUND MUSEUM IMPROVEMENTS AT THE PAUL REVERE HERITAGE SITE
Article 28 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, to transfer from available fund or funds, to authorize the Town
Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow (and to issue bonds or notes therefor) any sum or sums of money or, by
any combination of these or any other methods of financing as may be necessary or desirable, make available funds to be expended
under the direction of the Select Board for the construction, fabrication and installation of museum improvements to the property
known as 2 Rolling Mill Way in the Paul Revere Heritage Site in accordance with the district improvement financing program and fund
authorized by Article 3 of the Special Town Meeting of May 11, 2015 and the Special Act of the Legislature, Chapter 150 of the Acts of
2020; or to take any action related thereto.
Select Board for Revere and Son Heritage Trust Corporation
Select Board Position The proponent requested that the Select Board postpone its vote in lieu of an amended article that will be
presented at a future meeting. The Board will provide its recommendation on the amended article at Annual Town Meeting.
MOVED: That the Town appropriate the sum of Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000), to be expended under the
direction of the Select Board, in consultation with the Revere & Son Heritage Trust Corporation, to pay costs of
constructing, fabricating and installing improvements to the property known as 2 Rolling Mill Way in the Paul Revere
Heritage Site, and that to meet this appropriation, the Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, is authorized to
borrow said amount under and pursuant to G.L. c. 44,§7(1), or any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or
notes of the Town therefor, all in accordance with the district improvement financing program, fund and district
authorized by Article 3 of the Special Town Meeting of May 11, 2015 (the District) and the Special Act of the
Legislature, Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2020 to effectuate the purposes set forth in the said special act; and further,
that the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, is authorized to allocate to the general fund any
portion of the fiscal year taxes collected in the District in excess of the appropriations required for the annual bond
servicing costs associated with this Motion and Article 3 of the May 11, 2015 Special Town Meeting.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-1-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee, moved Article 28 as printed in the warrant.
Betsy Sugameli, Director of Revere & Son Heritage Trust gave a presentation.
The Select Board Chair and School Superintendent each spoke in favor of the article.
VOTED: Article 28 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS, MODERATOR DECLARED MORE THAN TWO-THIRD VOTE
ARTICLE 29
REMOVE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE DIVISION FROM DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS TO ESTABLISH A CENTRAL
MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT
Article 29 To see if the Town will vote to rescind its vote pursuant to Article 41 of the 2015 Annual Town Meeting "Consolidation of
Department of Public Works and Property Maintenance Department" so that the present Property Maintenance Division of the
Department of Public Works becomes its own free standing separate Department of the Town, as it was prior to the vote pursuant to
said Article 41 of the 2015 ATM, now reporting directly to the Selectboard and Town Administrator, hereinafter to be known as Central
Maintenance Department, or take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
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116Source page 119
Select Board Position The Board supports reestablishing the Building and Grounds Department under a new name – Central Maintenance
Department. A Central Maintenance Director has been hired but currently works under the DPW Superintendent. This article seeks to
return Central Maintenance to its previous status as a stand-alone department. Because Central Maintenance was put under DPW by
ATM vote, it must be reestablished by an ATM vote.
(Vote: 5-0)
MOVED: That the Town rescind its vote pursuant to Article 41 of the 2015 Annual Town Meeting “Consolidation
of Department of Public Works and Property Maintenance Department” and that the Property Maintenance Division of
the Department of Public Works becomes its own free standing Department to be known as Central Maintenance
Department of the Town reporting directly to the Select Board and Town Administrator.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 29 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 29 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 30
BYLAW MODERNIZATION STUDY COMMITTEE CREATION
Article 30 To see if the Town will vote to establish a Town Meeting Bylaw Modernization Study Committee to conduct a review of the
Town of Canton’s General By-Laws for possible town meeting articles to adopt changes thereto (but not the town’s Zoning By-laws)
and to bring forth recommendations for adoption of changes at the 2025 Annual Town Meeting; and to appropriate Twenty Thousand
Dollars ($20,000) to be transferred from Free Cash in the Treasury of the Town, for the Chief Procurement Officer with the approval
of the Committee to engage a consultant to support the Committee in its review and town meeting recommendations. The membership
of this Town Meeting Committee shall be appointed by the Town Moderator and is to be convened no later than July 1, 2024. The
Committee shall be comprised of 7 members to include:
• A Member of the Selectboard, or designee of the Selectboard member;
• Director of Finance or designee of the Finance Director;
• Director of Information Technology or designee of the Director of Information Technology
• Town Administrator or designee of the Town Administrator; and
• 3 citizens of the Town as members at large
Or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for the Finance Committee
Select Board Position The Select Board agrees that a modernization study is a good idea as the Town’s By-Laws have not been reviewed
in a number of years. The assistance of a consultant is recommended to help guide and define the project. At the request of the
Finance Committee Chair, the Select Board voted to defer the article until the Finance Committee could finalize a motion to amend the
article. The Board will provide its recommendation on the amended article at Annual Town Meeting.
MOVED: That the Town Meeting establish a Government Modernization Study Committee to conduct a review of
the Town of Canton’s bylaws (excluding zoning bylaws) for possible town meeting articles, or other recommended
changes within the jurisdiction of Town Meeting. This aforementioned committee shall update the Town Meeting
regarding its progress at the 2025 Annual Town Meeting and bring forth its recommendations for adoption of changes
by the 2026 Annual Town Meeting. To implement this article, the Town Meeting shall appropriate Twenty-Two Thousand
Dollars ($22,000) to be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund) in the Treasury of the Town, for the Chief
Procurement Officer, with the approval of the committee, to engage a consultant to support the committee in its review
process and town meeting recommendations, and any other action related thereto. The membership of this Town Meeting
Committee shall be appointed by the Town Moderator and is to be convened no later than July 1, 2024. The Committee
shall be comprised of nine (9) members to include:
• A member of the Select Board, or designee of the Select Board;
• Director of Finance, or designee of the Finance Director;
• Manager of Information Technology, or designee of the Director of Information Technology;
• Town Administrator, or designee of the Town Administrator; and
• Five (5) citizens of the Town as members at large.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-1-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 30 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 30 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS, MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE ADOPTED
ARTICLE 31
ACCEPT SADDLEBACK LANE AND HORSESHOE LANE AS TOWN WAYS
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VOTED: Article 30 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF VOTER CARDS, MODERATOR DECLARED ARTICLE ADOPTED
ARTICLE 31
ACCEPT SADDLEBACK LANE AND HORSESHOE LANE AS TOWN WAYS
Article 31 To see if the Town will vote to accept Saddleback Lane and Horseshoe Lane in Canton as public ways where they intersect
with Randolph Street, as recommended by the Planning Board and 115laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G.L. c.41 and c. 82, more
particularly described by the plan entitled “Saddleback Land and Horseshoe Lane” dated December 14, 2023, prepared by Hancock
Associates and on file with the Town of Canton Select Board; to see if the Town will authorize the Select Board to acquire by purchase,
gift or eminent domain the land or easements in all or any portions of those parcels of land abutting Saddleback Lane and Horseshoe
Lane and listed below, as show on the above referenced plan for access, grading, drainage, utilities, sloping, trails, public access and
all purposes related to the creation and maintenance of a public way; to see of the Town will vote to appropriate, borrow pursuant to
any applicable statute or transfer from available funds, a sum of money for such purposes; and further to authorize the Select Board
and Town officers to take any and all related actions necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article; or to take any
other action related thereto.
Property Address Town Assessor ID
Saddleback Lane Map 105
Horseshoe Lane Map 106
Paul Schneiders and 22 others
Select Board Position The Select Board is opposed to this article for several reasons. First, by accepting these roads, the Town may
become responsible for the maintenance and repair of a sewer pumping station and stormwater retention basin. These costs are not
included in the FY 25 budget and are currently unknown. Secondly, approving this article will set a precedent for the over 80 additional
unaccepted roads to make the same request. Finally, because the neighborhood was constructed as a 40B project, the road itself does
not meet all of the requirements of the Town’s Land Subdivision Rules and Regulations. The Select Board unanimously opposed this
article. (Vote: 0-5)
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: Motion was made to send a negative recommendation due to the article, as presented, having deficiency
in the language, which needs to be more specific of what the town is accepting.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 5-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: The Finance Committee will make their recommendation at Town
Meeting.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved the following motion:
“Saddleback Lane and Horseshoe Lane in the Town of Canton are hereby accepted as public ways where they intersect with Randolph
Street, as recommended by the Planning Board and laid out by the Select Board pursuant to G.L. Chapter 41 and chapter 82, more
particularly described by the plan entitled, “Saddleback Lane and Horseshoe Lane” dated December 14, 2023, prepared by Hancock
Associates and on file with the Town of Canton Select Board as described below but do not include the sewer pump stations or
stormwater detention/infiltration basins as shown on an as-built plan of land entitled “Saddleback Lane and Horseshoe Lane”
prepared by Hancock Associates dated May 21, 2020 and do not include any landscaped areas along the Lanes being accepted, as
will hereafter be shown in a plan of land to be submitted to the Select Board within 90 days of the close of the 2024 Annual Town
Meeting; and further that the Canton Select Board is hereby authorized to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent domain the land or
easements in all or any portions of those parcels of land of Saddleback Lane and Horseshoe Lane and listed below, as shown on the
above referenced plan for access, grading, drainage, utilities, sloping, trails, public access and all purposes related to the creation
and maintenance of a public way, being Property Address Town Assessor ID Saddleback Lane Map 105 and Horseshoe Lane Map 106
except as follows:
(a) the pump stations for stormwater detention/infiltration basins shown on Town of Canton Assessors maps Storm Parcel A –
located at 1125 Randolph Street, parcel 106-36; Storm Parcel B located at 0 Randolph Street, Parcel 104-54 and Sewer Pump Parcel
A located at 85 Saddleback Lane Parcel 105-61, as also shown on an as built plan of land entitled “Saddleback Land and Horseshoe
Lane” prepared by Hancock Associates dated May 21, 2020, provided however that within ninety (90) days of the close of the 2024
Annual Town Meeting a written Agreement is to be executed between the Canton Hills Homeowners Association and the Town of
Canton by which these pump stations and stormwater detention/infiltration basins shall continue to be owned and maintained solely
by the Canton Hills Homeowners Association and not by the Town of Canton.
(b) the conveyances shall not include any landscaped areas, to be identified and described in a plan of land to be presented to
the Canton Select Board within 90 days of the close of the 2024 Annual Town Meeting together with a written Agreement to be
executed between the Canton Hills Homeowners Association and the Town of Canton by which the Homeowners Association shall
continue to own and maintain solely, without any involvement by the Town of Canton, such landscaped areas to the standards as
presently in place which standards shall be further defined in such written agreement;
And further to authorize the Select Board and Town officers to take any and all related actions necessary or appropriate to carry out
the purposes of this article.”
Paul Schneiders, proponent of the article, gave a presentation.
The Select Board Chair spoke in favor of the article.
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