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2016 Annual Report
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ae ete TOWNOFCANTON 2016 ANNUAL REPORT [Original embedded text, retained for comparison] TOWN OF CANTON 2016 ANNUAL REPORT
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Ponkapoag Fire Station #2 Re-dedicated to Chief James A. Fitzpatrick, Jr. 2016 Canton's longest serving career fire chief July 31,1978 to September 30, 2007 ERECTED BY THE CITIZENS THE TOWN OF CANTON Siu Sate s of Canton D edicated in mem ory of retired Firefighter’ On the cover: F ire Station 2 Located at7 Sassam on St. Photos taken by: L inda Sacram ona & Chief C harles D oody [Original embedded text, retained for comparison] Dedicated in memory of retired Firefighter’s of Canton On the cover: Fire Station 2 Located at 7 Sassamon St. Photos taken by: Linda Sacramona & Chief Charles Doody
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ANNUAL TOWN REPORT
TOWN OF CANTON
2016Source page 4
Dedication
This Annual Report is dedicated to
WILLIAM T. FRIEL
For 26 years of dedicated service to the Town of Canton and its
citizens as Town Administrator
1Source page 5
IN MEMORY WE HONOR
In recognition of their years of service to the Town and their
dedication to public service, we wish to recognize the retirement of
the individuals listed below.
Executive Office
William T. Friel, Town Administrator
Department of Public Works
Jo-anne Cole, Utilities Maintenance Technician
Antonio Pinheiro, Heavy Equipment Operator
Albert Vasconcellos, Highway Foreman
Karen Welch, Water/Sewer Office Administrator
Library
Bernadette Lenehan, Library Technician
Police Department
James Quigley, Detective Sergeant
Donald Wolffe, Jr., Police Officer
School Department
Nelson Batchelder, M.D. School Physician
Nicole Brodeur – School Psychologist
Audry Busa – Teacher, CHS
Janet Chamberlain – Teacher – JFK
Barbara Edson – Teacher – GMS
Patricia Falcione – Administrative Assistant – GMS
William Grant – Custodian
Elaine McCarthy – Teacher – Dept. Advisor – GMS
Margaret Surran – Teacher – JFK
Katherine Swanson – Wellness Coordinator – K-12
2Source page 6
In Memoriam
Harold Drake – Republican Town Committee Member,
Master Plan Study Committee, Council on Aging Member
Barbara Perkins – Secretary
Department of Public Works
Eileen T. Smith – Food Service
Canton Public Schools
Daniel J. Therriault – Town Engineer
3Source page 7
CANTON ALMANAC IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Settled 1650 United States Senators
Incorporated 1797 Elizabeth Warren, Boston
John F. Kerry, Boston
Location Representative in Congress
Southeastern (8TH Congressional District)
Massachusetts at Stephen Lynch, Boston
The Foot of the Blue Hills
Population: Councilors:
20,878 (Second District – Precincts 1-6)
Robert L. Jubinville, Boston
Form of Government State Senators
Open Town Meeting (Norfolk, Bristol & Plymouth District)
Total Number of Registered Walter F. Timilty
Voters: 14,984
Tax Rate: Representative in General Court
Residence - $12.79 (6th Norfolk District)
Commercial - $26.36 William C. Galvin, Canton
Taxable Property Annual Town Election Date
$4,320,712,300 First Tuesday after the
First Monday in April
School System: Annual Town Meeting:
3 Elementary, 1 Middle Second Monday of May - 7:00PM
1 High School, 1 Parochial
Elementary, Blue Hill Highways
Regional Technical School Town: 91 miles
State: 5.3 miles
Police:
Chief, Deputy Chief, 3 Lieutenants Altitude
6 Sergeants & 32 Patrolmen 126.8 feet above sea level
1 Animal Control Officer
1 Aide to Police Chief
Fire:
Chief, Deputy Chief, 5 Captains,
5 Lieutenants, 40 Firefighters,
1 EMS Coordinator; 1Administrative
Aide to the Fire Chief
4Source page 8
APPOINTMENTS
Town Administrator Executive Assistant
William T. Friel/Charles J. Aspinwall Christina A. Carlton
Town Accountant Emergency Management Director
Kathleen Butters Fire Chief Charles E. Doody
Superintendent of Public Works M.B.T.A. Advisory Member
Michael T. Trotta Edmund Franklin
Fire Chief Constables
Charles E. Doody Kenneth N. Berkowitz
Helena Findlen
Police Chief Patty Sherrill
Kenneth N. Berkowitz Thomas Keleher
Paul Close
Town Counsel James Farris
Paul DeRensis Charles E. Penders
Robert D. Churchill
Building Commissioner Harold March
Edward Walsh Walker C. Farrar, Jr.
Robert N. Witt
Finance Director/Collector/Treasurer Bradford Slocum
James Murgia
Director of Library Town Planner
Mark Lague Tim Richard/Laura Smead
Custodian of Tax Title Board of Health Director
James Murgia John Ciccotelli
Assistant Collector/Treasurer Veteran’s Service Agent
Susan Desjardins Anthony Andreotti
Deputy Assessor Tree Warden & Pest Control
Karen Zukauskas Dan Teague
Workers Compensation Agent Parking Clerk
Jody Middleton Tracy Kenny
Sealer of Weights & Measures Superintendent of Fire Alarms
State Bureau of Standards Charles Doody
5Source page 9
Plumbing & Gas Inspector Animal Control Officer
Marc Zade Stacy Nee
Donald Sasin – alternate
Wiring Inspector Moderator (alternate years)
Paul Reynolds/Jonathan Levis Richard Staiti/Alan Hines
Paul McCarthy
Town Engineer Assistant Engineer
James Donovan Lisa Grega
Building Commissioner
Ed Walsh
6Source page 10
TOWN OFFICERS
SELECTMEN, BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS Elected Term Expires
& LICENSING BOARD April of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Robert E. Burr, Jr., Chair 2017
Mark J. Porter, Vice-Chair 2018
Kevin T. Feeney, Clerk 2018
Victor D. Del Vecchio 2017
John J. Connolly 2019
TOWN CLERK
Tracy Kenney 2018
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
Rocco Digirolamo 2018
William C. Galvin 2019
Daniel Flood 2017
BOARD OF HEALTH
Ruth Slattery, Chairman 2019
Dr. Richard Levreault, Vice-Chairman 2018
Dr. Julie E. Goodman, Clerk 2017
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
John Bonnanzio, Chairman 2017
Mike Loughran, Vice-Chairman 2019
Reuki B. Schutt 2017
Kristin Mirliani, Secretary 2018
Meghan M. Gannon 2019
PLANNING BOARD
Jeremy Comeau, Chair 2017
Thomas Scully, Vice-chair 2021
Michael Mitcheroney, Clerk 2019
George F. Jenkins, Jr. 2020
Robert E. Panico 2017
TRUSTEES OF LIBRARY
George T. Comeau 2017
Joyce Wiseman 2018
Margaret Mead 2019
Susan Cogliano 2017
7Source page 11
Emily Prigot 2019
Bernard Mendillo 2018
Dorothy Shea 2017
Kathy Fox Alfano, Chairman 2019
Joan Schottenfeld 2018
CANTON HOUSING AUTHORITY
Adam Brothers 2019
Janet Walrod 2018
John McSweeney, Chairman 2020
Joseph DeFelice (State Appointee) 2021
Glen Hannington, Vice-Chairman 2021
BOARD, COMMISSIONS & COMMITTEES Appointed Term
Expires April of
APPOINTED BY THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Beautification Committee Term/Expires 3 Years
Michael McHugo 2019
Peter Pineo 2018
Jilian B. Hayes 2019
Cayenne Isaksen 2019
John Mahoney 2019
Blue Ribbon Traffic Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
James Fitzpatrick (Precinct 1) 2017
Gary Ronan (Precinct 2) 2017
Kathy McCormack (Precinct 3) 2017
Peter Pineo (Precinct 4) 2017
Armin Azar (Precinct 5) 2017
Matthew Donohue (Precinct 6) 2017
Mark Porter (BOS) 2017
Kevin Feeney (BOS) 2017
Laura Smead (Town Planner) 2017
Cable Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Jim Sims 2017
Vacancy (3)
Canton Alliance of Substance Abuse
Police Chief, Kenneth Berkowitz 2019
Fire Chief, Charles Doody 2019
Nick Pirelli 2019
8Source page 12
Ryan Gordy 2018
Terri Khoury 2018
Kevin Pratt 2017
Janet Donnelly 2017
Canton Veteran’s Council Term/Expires 1 Year
Robert DeYeso 2017
Walter Molis 2017
Arline Love 2017
Frank LaBollita 2017
Dan Teague 2017
Jack O’Neil 2017
Robert Witt 2017
Vacancy (3)
Canton Walk, Bike & Hike Committee Term/Expires 3 Years
Joshua Cohen 2019
Debra Stein-Sharpe 2019
Darren Shaffer 2019
Richard Allen 2019
Laura Smead 2019
Phil Barows 2019
Dave Biggers 2019
Commissions on Disabilities Term/Expires 3 Years
Nancy Gowe 2017
Lynn Findlen Valkanas 2016
Laura Findlen Lane 2016
Vacancy (2)
Comprehensive Water Resource Term /Expires 1 Year
Management Plan Comm.
Cynthia O’Connell (Con Comm) 2017
John Ciccotelli (Board of Health) 2017
Jim Murgia (Finance Director) 2017
Michael Trotta (Supt. Public Works) 2017
Joe Shea (Citizen) 2017
Dennis Morton (W/S Supervisor) 2017
William T. Friel/Charles J. Aspinwall (BOS) 2017
Jeremy Comeau (Planning Board) 2017
Mike Fabbiano (CAI) 2017
9Source page 13
Conservation Commission Term/Expires 3 Year
Deb Sundin 2017
James A. Fitzpatrick 2019
Robert MacDonald 2018
Elizabeth Sugameli 2018
Donald E. McAdams 2017
Joshua Cohen 2019
Gerald Carmichael 2019
Council on Aging Term/Expires 3 Years
James Fitzpatrick 2019
Elaine Gilmore 2019
Elizabeth Lethin 2018
John M. Crowe 2017
Janet Walrod 2017
Ann Resca 2019
Ellen Donovan 2019
Economic Development Comm Term/Expires 1 Year
Gene Manning 2017
Kristen Draper 2017
Robert Panico 2017
Brian Mahoney 2017
Alan Rapoport 2017
Emilio E. Mauro, Jr. 2017
Manuel Montrond 2017
Fair Housing Committee Term/Expires 1 year
Vacancy (3)
Canton Cultural Council Term/Expires 3 Years
Elizabeth Ryan 2017
Drusilla Sanusi 2017
Jean Keddy 2018
Theresa Bielecki-Owens 2018
Ruth Pinkus 2018
Joyce Lauro 2018
Barbara Erickson 2018
Joseph Paru 2020
10Source page 14
Community Preservation Committee 9 Members Term/Expires 3 years
Lisa Lopez - Designee – Board of Selectmen 2019
Kathy Fox – Alfano - Designee – Board of Selectmen 2019
Reuki Schutt 2017
Emilio E. Mauro, Jr. 2017
John McSweeney 2017
Deb Sundin 2018
George Comeau 2018
Stacey Gorman 2018
Michael Mitcheroney 2018
Historical Commission Term/Expires 3 Years
George T. Comeau 2017
James A. Fitzpatrick 2017
Michael Nourse 2017
Gerald Carmichael 2017
Sue P. Gibbs 2018
Paul Mitcheroney 2019
Sepp J. Bergschneider 2019
Industrial Development Finance Authority Term/Expires 5 Years
Vacancy (5)
Liason to State Ethics Commission Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles J. Aspinwall 2017
Metropolitan Area Planning Council Rep Term/Expires 3 Years
Brian Mahoney 2017
Master Plan Monitoring Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
Mike Nourse 2017
Diane Glenn 2017
Peter Pineo 2017
Vacancy (9)
Paul Revere Heritage Commission* Term/Expires 1 Year
Bruce Beckham 2017
George T. Comeau, Clerk 2017
Jeremy J. Comeau, Chair 2017
Victor D. Del Vecchio 2017
Mike Nourse 2017
Thomas C. Scully, Vice-Chair 2017
Donald McAdams 2017
Janet Maguire 2017
11Source page 15
*Building Use Committee
John Bonnanzio, Clerk 2017
Jeremy J. Comeau 2017
Victor D. Del Vecchio 2017
Kathy Fox Alfano, Chair 2017
John Mahoney 2017
Paul Mitcheroney, Vice-Chair 2017
Robert Panico 2017
*Open Space Committee
Marilyn Curran 2017
Fredrick Fairfield, Vice-Chair 2017
Carl Lavin 2017
Alan Leary, Clerk 2017
Lisa Lopez, Chair 2017
Tom Scully 2017
Nick Pirelli 2017
Permit Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 year
William T. Friel/Charles J. Aspinwall (BOS) 2017
Robert McCarthy (Citizen at large) 2017
Ed Walsh (Building Commissioner) 2017
Jeremy Comeau (Planning Board) 2017
Tim Richard/Laura Smead (Town Planner) 2017
Paul Carroll (Zoning) 2017
Cynthia O’Connell 2017
Robert Panico 2017
Chief Berkowitz (Police) 2017
Chief Doody (Fire) 2017
Vacancy (Moderator appointed Citizen at large)
Playground & Recreation Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
Debra Kelly 2017
Alison Grossman 2019
Thomas W. Theodore 2019
Richard Eckler 2019
John McCourt 2019
Cabot Devoll 2019
Stacy Gorman 2019
12Source page 16
Recreation Open Space Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles J. Aspinwall 2017
Deb Sundin 2017
Debra Stein-Sharpe 2017
Debra Kelly 2017
Ruth Slattery 2017
Vacancy (5)
Non-Voting Members
Cynthia O’Connell 2017
Janet Maguire 2017
Laura Smead 2017
Kevin Feeney 2017
Vacancy (1)
Registrars of Voters Term/Expires 1 Year
Marilyn C. Curran 2017
J. Daneen Pate 2019
Edward Marshall 2017
Tracy Kenney – Town Clerk N/A
Reservoir Pond Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Janet Maguire (Recreation Rep) 2017
Gerald Carmichael (Conservation Rep) 2017
Chief Ken Berkowitz (Police Rep) 2017
Chief Charles Doody (Fire Rep) 2017
William Walsh (DPW Rep) 2017
Sandy Denehy (RP Rep) 2017
Ann Holden (PCIA Rep) 2017
David Cahill (William/Parrish/Breton Rep) 2017
Bill Cohen (WCC Rep) 2017
Melvin Darack (Orchard Cove Rep) 2017
Jim Fitzgerald (Citizen at large) 2017
John Dillon (Citizen at large) 2017
Scott Winter (Citizen at large) 2017
Pauline O’Leary (Citizen at large) 2017
13Source page 17
Traffic Study Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Chief Ken Berkowitz 2017
Michael Trotta 2017
Lisa Grega 2017
Chief Charles E. Doody 2017
Frank Labollita 2017
Peter Pineo 2017
Robert Panico 2017
Vacancy (1)
Water/Sewer Rate Policy Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
James Murgia 2017
Michael Trotta 2017
Patricia Cawley 2017
Denis Morton 2017
Jerry Dorfman 2017
Gerald Carmichael 2017
(Vacancy 2)
Youth Commission Term/Expires 3 Year
Renee Hanscom 2019
Brenda Lee Boris 2019
Kerry Ann Callahan-Mofford 2019
Meg Kennedy 2017
Cayenne Isaksen 2019
Zoning Board of Appeals Term/Expires 3 Years
Greg Pando 2017
Gary Vinciguerra 2018
Paul B. Carroll 2019
Zoning Board of Appeals
Associate Members Term/Expires 1 Year
Gary Vinciguerra 2017
John McCourt 2017
Town Sick Bank Committee
Jody Middleton Human Resources Administrator
Kathleen Butters Town Accountant
Christina Carlton Executive Assistant - BOS
Lisa Grega Assistant Town Engineer
Linda Brooks Adm. Aide to Police Chief
Diane Tynan Council on Aging Director
Mark Zade Plumbing & Gas Inspector
14Source page 18
Health Insurance Advisory Committee
Diane Tynan, Administrative Employees Association
Thomas Keleher, Superior Officers
Jeff O’Brien, Canton Firefighters Association
James Murgia, Finance Director
William T. Friel/Charles J. Aspinwall, Town Administrator
Jay Peters, AFSCME
Jane Consalvi, Retiree
Jody Middleton, Human Resources Administrator
Robert Quirk, Police
Ryan O’Hare, CTA
Maureen Dickie – Secretary Schools
UNION PRESIDENTS
Jeff O’Brien, IAFF
Charles Rae, Superior Officers
Glen Piro, Police
Jay Peters, AFSCME
Edward Walsh, AEA
APPOINTED BY THE PLANNING BOARD
Canton Center Design Review Board
Michael Nourse, Historical Commission 2018
Peter Pineo 2018
Diane Glenn 2018
APPOINTED BY MODERATOR
Finance Committee
Dianne Gustafson 2019
Robert Barker, Vice-Chair 2015
Gerald Dorfman 2018
Barbara Saint Andre, Chair 2017
Nicola Gallagher 2017
Stephanie Leach 2017
Tim McKenna 2018
Cynthia Holcombe 2019
Cynthia Thomas 2019
Sepp Bergschneider 2019
Vacancy (3)
15Source page 19
Capital Planning Committee
Bob Panico 2017
Pat Johnson 2017
Jeremy Comeau 2019
Emilio E. Mauro Jr. 2019
Stephanie Doughty 2019
Building Renovations Committee
Robert McCarthy, Chairman 2019
Charles J. Armando 2018
Maureen A. McDonough 2019
John McCourt 2018
Chris Podgurski 2017
Robert Carmody 2017
Mike Loughran (School Comm.)
John Connolly (BOS)
Kathleen Butters (Finance Dept.)
Associate Members: Barry Nectow, Chief Kenneth Berkowitz, Chief Charles
Doody and Mark Lague. Freida Domaingue, Secretary
16Source page 20
BOARD OF SELECTMEN - 2016
The Canton Board of Selectmen, in 2016, continued its mission of delivering
quality public services to the residents of Canton in the most cost efficient and safe
manner possible. The goal of the Board remains striking the proper balance
between meeting the needs of a diversified community and pragmatically
managing a limited number of resources. The Board considers itself fortunate for
two reasons. First, we believe we have a citizenry that is cooperative and
understanding. Second, we believe we have top - notch employees and citizen
volunteers who help to create an environment for success. Because of this, Canton
is recognized in Massachusetts as a leading community in which to work, live and
raise a family.
2016 was a very busy year for the Board. Below, I have outlined the major
achievements, followed by a listing of noted accomplishments.
First, 2016 was a year of transition in the Selectmen’s office. William T. Friel,
Town Administrator for many years, retired at the end of fiscal year 2016.The
Board thanks Bill for his dedication and professionalism and we wish him well in
his retirement. The Board welcomed our new Town Administrator, Charles J.
Aspinwall, to Canton on July 6, 2016. Mr. Aspinwall joins Canton after a
successful career as Town Administrator in the Town of Millis for over 25 years.
Next, the Board held several hearings over the summer of 2016 to identify proper
rules and regulations for the town-owned Reservoir Pond. The Board relied on not
only the findings of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) study but
also on the comments made by those residents who attended several hearings
regarding the Pond. In adopting Pond rules and regulations the Board struck a
balance between the history of use by abutters and the desires of non-abutters. The
result was rules that regulated usage based on speed of watercraft at different
distances from the shore as opposed to regulations based on type of watercraft
used, noting the disparity of those who live on the pond and those who visit the
pond. The Board also supported the future use of Community Preservation Act
funds to improve the Williams Estate Access Point and to promote greater parity
among the abutters and non-abutters. In the end, the Board supports fundamental
fairness and safety for all residents.
Finally, the Board successfully negotiated with Eversource Energy and filed a
petition with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities to turn net metering
credits that could only be used as a credit toward town utility bills into actual cash
payable to the Town of Canton. The cash results from compensation paid to the
Town for the addition of energy from the landfill solar array to the Grid. The
result was a payment in excess of $2,000,000 payable to the Town of Canton.
17Source page 21
Other activities and accomplishments the Board has worked on or participated in
include:
- Awarded Water Main Improvement Project Contract - $1,984,000 for the
replacement of old undersized water mains in the center of Town on
Mechanic, Rockland, Walnut, Messenger, Beverly, Lehan, and Feldman
Way.
- Paved Leonard, Capper, Morris, Prospect, Oak Hill, Pleasant (from
Sherman to Bolivar), Roberts, Lawrence, and Sherman Ave. at a cost of
approximately $900,000.
- Plymouth Rubber Project/Paul Revere Heritage Site – A Consultant was
selected for a study of market and use options. The Board worked with
the developer and descendants of Paul Revere’s company to provide a
copper roof for the Rolling Mill.
- The Town supervised traffic signal and intersection geometry
improvements at the Chapman/Washington St. and Dedham/Washington
St. intersections.
- The Town conducted a recruitment search that resulted in the hiring of
new Town Planner, Laura Smead.
- The Town conducted a recruitment search that resulted in the hiring of
new Building & Grounds Supervisor, Steve Choiniere.
- The Town expanded hours of the Leaf & Yard Waste/Bulk drop off
facility Mon-Sat 7 am – 4 pm. Bulk drop off includes overflow of trash,
CRT’s, and household burnable bulk.
- The Town has noted that Reebok will soon be leaving Canton. We look
forward to working with them on future economic development
opportunities.
- The Town began the process of negotiating a Special Tax Agreement
with Fresenius Kabi, a European drug compounding company that will be
making an $8.5 million dollar investment at 20 Dan Rd.
- The Town has retained its AAA bond rating with $14.7 million in
reserves. The Finance Department received a Certificate of Achievement
for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
18Source page 22
- In April 2016 the Town received a report that the Metropolis Rink is
repairable - $2.1 million. The Selectmen met with the Commissioner of
DCR on September 15, 2016 who promised quick action on a location
feasibility study.
- The Town is examining a proposal for improvements to the Bolivar pool
area proposed by Chestnut Hill Realty.
- The Board of Selectmen approved joining the Massachusetts Community
Compact Initiative, seeking to work on the best management practices in
the following areas:
o Cyber security review
o Citizen engagement study
o Open space plan update
- The Town has increased its use of social media platforms for
communication, including Facebook and Twitter. The Selectmen
embraced technology through its tablet initiative, saving thousands of
copies of meeting materials per year. The Board reactivated the Canton
Communications Forum increasing dialogue among Boards, Committees
and staff.
- The Board held meetings on the Spectra/Algonquin Pipeline project and
continues to monitor the status of the project.
- The Town conducted collective bargaining meetings and partially
implemented Collins Center findings with:
o AFSCME
o Police Officer Union
o Police Superior Officer Union
o AEA Union
o Contract Employees
o Personnel Board Employees
- The Board approved the commencement of an update to the Town Hazard
Mitigation Plan.
- The Board formed a Verizon Cable TV License Renewal Committee and
tasked the Committee with negotiating the renewal of the license.
- The Board attended several meetings about the MBTA South Coast Rail
project. Two options have emerged to provide service south of Canton:
19Source page 23
o Stoughton/Taunton/Fall River Option
o Hyde Park/Middleboro/Fall River Option
The Board will continue to monitor the project and advocate for the
Middleboro option due to the impact the Stoughton option would have on
Downtown traffic.
- The Board dedicated the Town Hall small conference room to long time
public servant and Zoning Board Chair Paul B. Carroll. The Board also
dedicated Fire Station #2 (Ponkapoag) to retired Fire Chief James A.
Fitzpatrick. The Board recognized Veterans Agent Tony P. Andreotti for
being named a Hometown Hero by Blue Hills Bank. The Board recognized
Jamie Meier’s receipt of Paramedic of the Year Award.
In April 2016, at our Annual Town Election, John J. Connolly was elected to a new
three - year term. Congratulations John! Immediately following the 2016 Annual
Town Meeting, the Board reorganized as follows: Robert E. Burr, Jr., Chairman,
Mark J. Porter, Vice Chairman, Kevin T. Feeney, Clerk,
Victor D. Del Vecchio, Member, and John J. Connolly, Member.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow board members for their
faith in me evidenced by their vote electing me Chairman this year. It has been an
honor to work with you. I would also like to thank the Citizens of Canton for your
support of all board members this year and your willingness to work with us to
provide for a nice community.
Also, it goes without saying that the town enjoys one of the best groups of dedicated
employees a public entity could have. Your dedication and hard work make Canton
the community it is. We hope you are proud of your achievements and that your
time with us is both fulfilling for you and beneficial for your families.
Finally, a community cannot perform at its best without dedicated volunteers. The
Board thanks you all for the countless hours you have put in this year. We also
thank our servicemen and servicewomen for protecting us at home and around the
world.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert E. Burr, Jr., Chairman
Canton Board of Selectmen
20Source page 24
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
William C. Galvin, Chairman 801 Washington St.
Daniel Flood, Member Canton, MA 02021
Rocco DiGirolamo, Clerk Telephone 781-821-5008
Karen Zukauskas, Director of Assessing Fax 781-575-6624
E-mail: Assessing@town.canton.ma.us
Hours of Operation:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Tuesday 8:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
The Board of Assessors hereby submits its annual report:
Gross Amount to be Raised by Taxation: 106,083,229
Total Estimated Receipts and Available Funds: 35,136,459
Net Amount to be Raised by Taxation: 70,946,770
Residential Valuation: 3,508,576,688
Commercial, Industrial & Personal Property Value: 989,828,192
Total Taxable Valuation: 4,498,404,880
Residential Tax Rate: $12.79
Commercial Tax Rate: $26.34
The Board of Assessors was notified by the Department of Revenue that our tax
rates were approved. The total taxable valuation of the Town is almost 4.5 billion
dollars this year. The next revaluation of the Town will take place in Fiscal Year
2021. We would like to thank our current staff Karen Zukauskas, Director of
Assessing, Carolyn Floyd, Assistant to the Director of Assessing, Mary Tynan-
Cassidy, Assessing Technician, Patricia Brooks, Board Secretary and Katherine
Barry, Assessing Clerk for all of their hard work and dedication throughout this
past year. We would also like to thank Sheila McNeely who works for us through
the senior work program.
21Source page 25
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
801 WASHINGTON STREET
CANTON, MA 02021
TEL: 781-821-5003 FAX: 781-575-6574
EDWARD T. WALSH
BUILDING COMMISSIONER/ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
INSPECTION STAFF OFFICE STAFF
Paul McCarthy, Local Building Inspector Marie Brennan, Admin. Assistant
Marc Zade, Plumbing/Gas Inspector Tamra Stock, Department Secretary
Jonathan Levis, Electrical Inspector
OFFICE HOURS
Monday - 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Tuesday thru Friday – 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Submitted herewith is the Annual Report of the
Building Department for the Year 2016.
PLUMBING AND GAS DIVISION
Plumbing permits issued - 591 Fees collected - $44,006
Gas permits issued - 564 Fees collected - $26,751
ELECTRICAL DIVISION
Electrical permits issued -796 Fees collected $92,239
22Source page 26
BUILDING DIVISION
SUMMARY REPORT OF BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED
1. New Single Family Dwellings 35
2. New Two Family Dwellings 0
3. New Multi-Family Dwellings (9 Units) 0
4. New Commercial/Industrial Buildings 1
5. Additions to Residential Dwellings 34
6. Additions to Commercial Buildings 2
7. Alterations and Repairs to Residential Dwellings 712
8. Alterations and Repairs to Comm/Ind Buildings 195
9. Signs 29
10. Swimming Pools 10
11. Renewed, Replace Permits 29
12. Occupancy Permits 90
13. Temporary Occupancy 11
14. Stoves 4
15. Accessory Buildings, Sheds, Barns, etc 9
16. Demolition Permits 17
17. Temporary Structures, Tents, etc 54
18. Foundation Permits 7
19. Amendments to Permits 32
TOTAL 1271
TOTAL Valuation on Building Permits Issued $61,956,390
Fees collected on Building Permits Issued $719,888
Fees collected on Annual/Assembly Certificates Issued $4,355
Fees collected on Plumbing/Gas Permits Issued $70,756
Fees collected on Electrical Permits Issued $92,239
TOTAL REVENUE $887,238
Respectfully submitted,
Edward T. Walsh
Building Commissioner
23Source page 27
BUILDING RENOVATION COMMITTEE
Town of Canton, Massachusetts
801 Washington St.
Canton, Massachusetts 02021
Bob McCarthy Chairman, Chuck Armando, Chris Podgurski, Maureen McDonough,
John McCourt, Robert Carmody At Large Members.
Mike Loughran, School Comm; John Connolly BOS; Kathy Butters, Finance Dept,
During the 2016 year the Building Renovation Committee (“BRC”)
continued its management of the projects approved at earlier Town Meetings. The
Following is a list of some of the projects that were addressed by the Building
Renovation Committee in the past year:
1) Hansen School Expansion: The addition of eight (8) additional
classrooms has been substantially completed. The new classrooms
were completed in time to open when school began in September.
2) David Tilden House (Little Red House). Phase 1 of this project was
awarded to the Architect Spencer & Vogt Group. The project has
been put on Hold. We met with the architect and reviewed their
finding after they had investigated the condition of both the interior
and exterior of the house and felt that at this time we could not
recommend going forward with this project
3) Senior Center: The parking lot has been resurfaced. Roof lattice has
been placed in from of the HVAC units.
4) Memorial Field: A new turf field has been installed on Memorial
Field. The track field will be resurfaced in the spring of 2017
5) Canton High School: The Gym floor has been refinished.
6) Pequitside Farm Parking Lot Redesign: Gale Associates Has been
awarded this project: This project has begun in November. We hope
to be able to get cost figures from this study to be brought to Town
Meeting in May 2017
24Source page 28
7) Hansen Roof Project: The Massachusetts School Building Authority
(MSBA) has invited The Town of Canton into the Accelerated
Repair Program to partner with the MSBA into conducting a
Schematic Design Study at the Hansen School for a potential roof
replacement. A cost study will be presented to Town Meeting in
May 2017
I would like to thank our associate members Barry Nectow, Mark Lague,
Police Chief Ken Berkowitz, Fire Chief Charles Doody and all the other
professional employee’s at Town Hall. As a volunteer committee these people
keep us informed and perform the day to day work necessary to allow these
projects to be completed on time, on budget.
I would like to thank my fellow committee members. Their knowledge and
expertise is what makes this committee functions so well.
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert J. McCarthy, Chairman
Building Renovation Committee
25Source page 29
CANTON ALLIANCE AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE (CAASA)
Prevention. Intervention. Treatment. Recovery.
www.cantonalliance.org
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Nick Pirelli, Department of Parks and Recreation, President
Charlie Doody, Fire-Rescue Department, Clerk
Janet Donnelly, Community Member, Secretary
Kenneth Berkowitz, Police Department
Ryan Gordy, School Department
Kevin Pratt, Community Member
MISSION
To reduce the demand and the abuse of drugs and alcohol in the Canton
community, with a special focus on middle and high school age students, while
creating a culture of good decision making.
REPORT
The Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) was originally
established in 2013 to address youth substance abuse. CAASA consists of a
diverse representation of invested community partners from Public Health, the
Schools, Fire Rescue, Police, Parks and Recreation, Norfolk County DA’s office,
students, clinicians, and parents. Our collaboration allows for a 360 degree
perspective on the issues affecting Canton and how best to address them.
At 2016 ATM, CAASA was adopted as an official town committee and was
allocated the sum of $10,000 to conduct data, execute programs, and provide
educational resources. The members of CAASA, appointed by the Board of
Selectmen, embody a cross section of municipal departments and residents. This
year, CAASA attended the Health Fair, facilitated the Sticker Shock program,
hosted discussions on marijuana legalization, created a website, placed information
centers throughout the community, established drop-in centers.
CAASA is a part of a grant funded Substance Abuse Prevention Collaborative
(SAPC), a cluster of coalitions representing the communities of Stoughton,
Canton, Holbrook, and Walpole.
Respectfully submitted,
Nick Pirelli, President
Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse
26Source page 30
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
801 Washington St
Canton, MA 02021
Tel: 339-502-5729
ccpc@town.canton.ma.us
Canton Community Preservation Committee (CCPC) Members
George Comeau, Chair, Historical Commission Representative
Lisa Lopez, Vice-Chair, Community Representative
Deb Sundin, Treasurer, Conservation Commission Representative
John McSweeney, Clerk, Housing Authority Representative
Kathy Alfano, Board of Selectman Designee
Stacey Gorman, Recreation Commission Representative
Michael Mitcheroney, Planning Board Representative
Reuki Schutt, School Committee Representative
Robert Panico, Capital Planning Committee Representative
Kristen Phelps, Administrator
The CCPC welcomed two new members to their ranks in the spring/summer of
2016. Recreation Commission member Larry Bogue stepped down after more
than two years on the Committee. He was replaced by Stacey Gorman. Changes to
committee assignments on the School Committee saw Reuki Schutt replacing
Michael Loughran as that boards designee to the CCPC. Both new members were
appointed by the Board of Selectmen in time to fully participate in the FY18 round
of CPA funding decisions. The CCPC extends its appreciation to Larry and
Michael for their service to the Town and their commitment to community
preservation.
Purpose
The role of the CCPC is to administer Community Preservation Act funds for
projects that benefit the public in the areas of open space protection, historic
preservation, community housing and outdoor recreation. Voters approved the
statewide Community Preservation Act (CPA) at the 2012 General Election
through a 1% surcharge on all real estate property tax bills with two exemptions:
residential property owned and occupied by any person who qualifies for low-
income housing, or low- or moderate-income senior housing and the first $100,000
of taxable value of all residential real property. At the 2014 Annual Town Meeting
(ATM), residents voted to extend the $100,000 tax exemption to commercial and
industrial property owners.
27Source page 31
2016 Major Accomplishments
With two CPA funding rounds approved and executed since Canton adopted the
statute in November of 2012, the CCPC is pleased to report that several projects
were completed in the past year. Among these was the restoration of the Canton
Firefighters Memorial Bell (see photo below); a bronze William Blake Bell dating
back to 1888. The refurbished bell was installed in front of the Ponkapoag Fire
Station this past fall.
Projects at the Canton Corner Cemetery – the nation’s oldest public cemetery in
continual use – were also advanced over the past year. Gravestone cleaning and
resetting proceeded in the oldest section of the cemetery, while an engineering
study of the receiving tomb and adjacent vaults (shown below) produced design
specifications for the restoration of these historic features.
28Source page 32
On the Community Housing front, the Canton Housing Authority concluded the
preservation work on 26 Veterans Housing units on Pequit Street (smoke detector
and electrical panel upgrades). A total of $193,700 of CPA funding for this work
was approved in two different fiscal years. The CCPC is happy to announce that
the project came in well under budget and more than $111,000 was re-allocated to
the affordable housing reserve capacity.
Beyond the projects note above, progress was made on several other CPA projects
over the past year. The following table provides a summary of the projects funded
to date with a note regarding project status at the conclusion of the 2016 calendar
year.
Project Fiscal Category CPA Status
Year Funding
Canton Corner complete/awaiting final
2016 Historic $11,000.00
Cemetery, Phase II invoices
Ponkapoag Station complete/awaiting final
2016 Historic $15,000.00
Bell Restoration invoices
Tilden House historic structures report
2016 Historic $414,150.00
Restoration complete
Historical Document complete/awaiting final
2016 Historic $10,000.00
Master Plan invoices
Martha Howard
2016 Historic $5,895.00 complete
Petticoat Restoration
FPUU Steeple and awaiting approval
2016 Historic $99,120.00
Spire Restoration from MHC
Veteran’s Housing complete and
2016 Housing $100,000.00
Supplemental Funds under budget
Plymouth Rubber – 10-year bond will be
Land Acquisition 2016 Open Space $1,740,000.00 issued per development
agreement
High School
2015 Recreation $200,000.00 complete
Tennis Courts
Veteran’s Housing - complete and under
2015 Housing $30,000.00
Electrical Boxes budget
Veteran’s Housing – complete and under
2015 Housing $63,700.00
Smoke Detectors budget
Canton Corner minor restoration work
2015 Historic $25,000.00
Cemetery, Phase I remains
Friendship Quilt 2015 Historic $2,705.00 complete
Civil War Soldier
2015 Historic $30,000.00 complete
Restoration
In addition to monitoring the ongoing projects funded over the last two years, the
CCPC reviewed a new round of applications and recommended a total of five
29Source page 33
projects (across all three funding categories) to Town Meeting in 2016. Total
CPA- funding requests for FY 2017 came in at $385,815. The CCPC is pleased to
report that all five projects recommended for funding were approved at the May
2016 Town Meeting. An outline of the most recent CPA-funded projects follows:
Historic Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Canton Corner Cemetery Receiving Tomb & Vault $160,000
Restore and preserve receiving tomb (1882) and adjacent
vaults (1837)
Old English Burial Ground $36,915
Clean, repair and/or reset a total of forty-four headstones in
Canton’s first and oldest cemetery
Limited tree removal and way-finding
Crane’s Guard Militia Flag $18,900
Restore hand-painted silk flag dating to early 1800s
Preserve this unique textile in an archival housing to allow
display
Community Housing Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Hagan Court $120,000
Preserve 48 units at senior housing complex
Install GFI outlets to comply with building codes
Install ventilation systems in bathrooms to prevent mold
Open Space/Recreation Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Master Plan for Outdoor Recreational Facilities $50,000
Funds will be used to hire a consultant to:
Assess existing (outdoor) recreational facilities
Quantify demand for recreational opportunities
Develop cost estimates and schematics for facility
improvements/expansion
30Source page 34
In the Fall of 2016, the CCPC received twelve eligible applications for CPA
funding totaling $1,416,793. The CCPC held four public meetings in November
and December to entertain presentations from project proponents and to consider
which projects to recommend to Annual Town Meeting in 2017. Final decisions
as to recommendations will be reported in early January and voted at ATM in
May.
Financials
Total CPA revenues in fiscal year 2016 were $673,465.96. This includes the State
Match totaling $145,336. FY 2016 numbers are detailed below:
Canton Community Preservation Committee
FY2016 Cash Balance Sheet
Previous Balance* $764,709.56
Revenue
CPA Tax $520,788.81
State Match $145,336.00
Investment Income $7,341.15
Total Revenue $673,465.96
Total Cash Balance $1,438,175.52
Expenses
Administrative Expenses $14,393.06
Project Expenses for FY 16 Approved Projects
Community Housing $100,000.00
Historic Preservation $555,165.00
Open Space/Recreation $0.00
Total FY16 Project Expenses $655,165.00
Total FY16 Expenses $669,558.06
Set-aside for Debt Service** $234,900.00
Unallocated Funds Available for Future Projects $533,717.46
Total Expenses + Appropriations + Unallocated Funds $1,438,175.52
*Revenue carryover from prior fiscal years that was not allocated to a project or
expended from the administrative budget.
**FY 2016 ATM approved a 10-year bond for the $1.74 million purchase of the Paul
Revere Heritage site. The bond was not executed in FY 2016, thus that expenditure is not
reflected in this report.
31Source page 35
Additional financial information can be found on the Community Preservation
Committee website at: http://town.canton.ma.us/631/Financial-Reports
A Guide for CPA at Town Meeting
In addition to voting on projects recommended by the Committee, there are several
other CPA motions put forth at Town Meeting. The first motion is for
administrative expenses, which by law shall not exceed 5 per cent of the annual
revenues in the Community Preservation Fund. The second CPA motion voters
will see is a breakdown of monies being transferred between CPA accounts.
Under the State’s CPA legislation, in each fiscal year and upon the
recommendation of the Committee, the legislative body shall spend, or set aside
for later spending, not less than 10 per cent of the annual revenues in the
Community Preservation Fund for open space, not less than 10 per cent of the
annual revenues for historic resources and not less than 10 per cent of the annual
revenues for community housing. This motion ensures that some monies are
allocated to each category, whether or not a project in that category is
recommended for funding in that year. In 2016, voters agreed to allocate $60,000
to each CPA subaccount, which represents 10% of expected revenues for fiscal
year 2017. Each motion for a proposed project will specify the amount taken from
the previous year’s subaccount balance and once that account is depleted, any
monies coming from the main CPA fund.
Ongoing Initiatives
In 2017, the Committee will continue to build relationships with the community
and community leaders to solicit project ideas that will benefit the Town.
Additionally, the Committee will work with project sponsors to steward those
projects through completion. Some projects will be completed quickly and others
will be more long term in nature. In all cases, the projects selected and put forward
will support the Community Preservation Plan and the edicts of the Community
Preservation Act. The Canton Community Preservation Plan is available on our
website. We encourage anyone with project ideas to apply using the forms also
available on our webpage, or to reach out directly to a member of the Committee.
The Committee wishes to thank past and current project sponsors, Canton citizens,
Town officials, the law firm of Deutsch/Williams, the Massachusetts Community
Preservation Coalition and each of its Committee members for their continued
dedication to CPA.
Respectfully submitted,
George T. Comeau, Esq.
Chairman
32Source page 36
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Pequitside Farm
79 Pleasant Street second Floor
Canton, Ma. 02021
Office (781) 821-5035 Fax (781) 821-7456
concom@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Conservation Agent Hours:
Monday – Thursday Monday - Thursday
8:300 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. 7:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Friday 8:00 to 11:30 Appointment Only
Conservation Commission Members: Pequitside Sub-Committee:
Joshua Cohen – Chairman Debra Sundin – Chairman
Donald MacAdam – Vice - Chairman Gerald Carmichael – Conservation
Robert MacDonald – Treasurer Historical Commission
James Fitzpatrick – Clerk Steven Choiniere – Facilities Supervisorr
Debra Sundin Janet Maguire – Recreation Director
Gerald Carmichael Cynthia O’Connell – Conservation Agent
Janna Shub (resigned Oct. 2016)
Conservation Agent: Office & Recording Secretary:
Cynthia O’Connell Heather Cahill
The Conservation Commission administers both the state and local by-law
regulations for the Wetland Protection Act as well as the local by-law regulations
for Storm Water and Soil Erosion and Sediment Control. The Conservation
Commission works directly with developers, town departments and residents
regarding new or redevelopment projects, new subdivisions, construction of new
single-family homes and building additions to ensure an understanding of the
requirements for compliance with the regulations.
The Commission holds public hearings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of
every month at Pequitside Farm in the Tavern Room located at the rear of the main
house. Public Hearings begin at 7:00 P.M. All hearings are open to the public and
recorded by Canton Community Television. Copies of current regulations and
forms are available on the Conservation Department website
town.canton.ma.us/335/Conservation-Commission or the Conservation Office
(781) 821-5035.
33Source page 37
Members of the Conservation Commission also serve on the Pequitside Sub-
Committee, the Community Preservation Committee, the Permit Advisory
Committee, the Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee, the Paul Revere
Heritage Commission, the Walk, Bike and Hike Committee, the Water and Sewer
Rate and Policy Committee and the Reservoir Pond Advisory Committee.
The economy continued its upswing in 2016, keeping the Commission busy
reviewing permit applications. There were 19 Public Hearings issuing a total of 84
permits which consisted of 42 Wetland Permits, 19 Stormwater Permits, and 23
Land Disturbance Permits.
The Commission also updated its Stormwater Management Rules and Regulations,
holding public hearings on the proposed changes in March and April culminating
in an approval on April 16, 2016. The regulations now incorporate the requirement
to address the increase in rainfall documented by the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration as well as an Administrative Approval process for
smaller projects that does not require a public hearing.
The Town of Canton is rich in natural resources which provide protection for
public water supplies and wildlife habitat as well as scenic beauty. The most
important natural resources have been identified as the Neponset River and its
tributary streams, ponds, and associated wetlands; the large Fowl Meadow and
Ponkapoag Pond Area of Critical Environmental Concern, and the remaining
undeveloped areas of natural vegetation in town. Currently, public access to many
of Canton ponds is difficult or limited. It is important to the town to continue to
protect and enhance the quality of surface and ground waters, flood protection and
wetland resources as well as improve wildlife habitat and provide recreational
amenities. Despite the increasing fragmentation of the Town’s natural areas, the
existence of large areas of undeveloped land gives Canton the opportunity to plan
now to create open space linkages.
To that end in 2016 the Commission petitioned the Board of Selectmen to create
an Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee, charged with updating the 1997
Open Space and Recreation Plan. Members of the committee include
representatives from the Board of Selectmen, the Conservation Commission, the
Planning Board, the Historical Commission, the Board of Health, the Playground
and Recreation Committee, The Community Preservation Committee and the
Walk, Bike and Hike Committee. The Commission also submitted an application
to the Canton Community Preservation Committee for funding for a consultant to
assist in updating the plan. Once a new plan has been approved at the state level,
Canton will be eligible for a number of grant programs. In December the CCPC
voted to recommend funding this project.
34Source page 38
The Commission has also continued to work with the Board of Selectmen and the
Reservoir Pond Advisory Committee to develop the Earl Newhouse Waterfront on
Reservoir Pond. New rules and regulations for the use of the waterfront were
adopted by both the Board of Selectmen and the Conservation Commission during
2016.
The Pequitside Sub-Committee oversees projects and improvements to the
Pequitside Properties - Pequitside Farm, including the Edward J. Lynch Jr. House,
and Pequitside Woods. The Sub-committee meetings are held on the third Monday
of every month, 9:30 A.M., second floor of the Edward J. Lynch Jr., Main House
of Pequitside Farm. Pequitside Sub-Committee meeting dates are posted on the
Town of Canton website and at the Town Clerk’s office at Town Hall. All are
welcome to attend.
At Town Meeting in 2016 Canton residents voted to appropriate $100,000 for an
engineering study of Pequitside Farm, following the update to the Master Plan
completed in 2015. The end product of this study will be a complete existing
conditions survey of the entire property, including topography and wetland
delineation, as well as design plans for the northern end of the site reconfiguring
the parking, vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems to reduce conflicts and
provide better access for public safety vehicles.
In addition, the Commission submitted an application to the Community
Preservation Committee for the funding of a study for the re-use of the Pequitside
Barn, which has not been accessible to the public for many years. The study, if
approved by Town Meeting, will provide a building code evaluation of the existing
structure, and recommendations for future uses that will retain the buildings
historic elements as a contributing structure of the Canton Corner Historic District.
It is the Commissions’ sincerest wish that all Canton residents be allowed to enjoy
their own property and the public lands throughout the town. It is also our wish
that we all come to understand the great responsibility that we have as a
community to protect our natural resources for ourselves and for the many
generations to follow. When using public lands for recreation, please abide by the
rules and regulations that have been established for the protection of the land and
the people who use it.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Janna Shub, who resigned her
position as Treasurer of the Commission in Oct. 2016. Janna also served on the
Walk, Bike and Hike Committee and the Water and Sewer Rate and Policy
Committee. Her public service to the Town of Canton is much appreciated.
35Source page 39
We would also like to thank Steve Choiniere (Facilities and Grounds Supervisor),
Ed Butler (Building and Grounds Technician), and the Canton Board of Selectman
without whose assistance we would not be able maintain and repair our buildings
and grounds. In addition, we would like to thank our secretary, Heather Cahill, for
her support of the Commission and work to maintain the Commission Office,
manage the building and grounds rentals and supervise our senior volunteers.
Our sincerest thanks to Conservation Agent Cynthia O’Connell for all that she
accomplished this year for the Commission, her dedication to improving the
environment of Canton and her commitment to planning for Canton’s future.
Best wishes to all Canton residents,
Joshua Cohen – Chairman, Canton Conservation Commission
36Source page 40
COUNCIL ON AGING
500 Pleasant Street
Canton, MA 02021
781-828-1323
Diane Tynan, Director COA Board Members:
Robin Tobin, Outreach Worker
Marylou Sullivan, Program Coordinator Janet Walrod, Chairman
Administrative Personnel: Elaine Gilmore, Vice Chairman
Dale Rushworth James Fitzpatrick,
Secretary
Peggy Cibotti Betty Lethin, Member
Linda Friel Dr. John Crowe, Member
Ann Resca, Member
Ellen Donovan, Member
Hours of Operation:
8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday – Friday
COA Mission
The Canton Council on Aging (COA) continues to promote a holistic approach to
address the physical, social and economic needs of older adults and to encourage a
sense of emotional and social well-being. The Center offers relevant information,
a number of targeted program and services as well as a variety of social activities
toward that end. Our goal is to offer specific programs, services and assistance
that optimize their quality of life; and enable meaningful connections and
collaborations. Canton seniors are encouraged to participate in all of these aspects
of community life. In addition to senior services the Center has increasingly
become the go-to agency for the community-at-large by providing assistance for
economic services and programs. Over the years, the COA has become the
primary resource for the Canton community with a focus on outreach support,
advocacy groups, and support for caregivers, educational seminars. Of late, these
dual roles are being handled successfully since we are committed to providing
access to all who chose to come. If any programs need to be postponed or limited
we hope it is understood by all those who participate.
37