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ATM 2013 WARRANT
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Source page 1
Recommendations of the Finance Committee
to the Voters of Canton, Massachusetts
2013
TOWN OF CANTON
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
MONDAY, MAY 13, 2013 @ 7:00 p.m.
Morse Auditorium
Canton High School
900 Washington Street, Canton
Study this report and come to Annual Town Meeting.
Bring this report with you.
__________________________________________
$89 million will be appropriated by YOUR VOTE at Town Meeting is important
Canton Town Meeting Voters for because it establishes the priorities for our schools,
Next Year’s expenditures. public works, public safety, town government and
future direction for our environment.
For Emergency Preparedness Information, log The Town, upon request, will endeavor, to the
onto www.town.canton.ma.us and click on greatest extent possible, to make available any
“Emergency Planning Guide” or Call and all visual and audio devices and assistance for
1-800-480-2520 for a free FEMA Emergency the disabled. For more information, please call
Preparedness Handbook. 781-821-5000.Source page 2
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page #
Reports
Finance Committee Report ……………………………………………………………….… 4
Charts and Exhibits
Figure 1 – Historical Summary of Expenses – FY01-FY13 Estimated ………. 6
Figure 2 – Reserve Accounts & Bond Rating Agency Expectation ……….…… 7
Town Finance Terminology …………………………………………………………………. 12
A Guide to Participating at Town Meeting …………………………………………….. 12
Note to All Voters Concerning Town Meeting Procedures ……………………….. 13
Summary of Revenue and Expenditures ……………………………………………….. 14
Revolving Funds ………………………………………………………………………………… 22
Votes to Transfer Available Funds ……………………………………………………….. 76
Operating Budget by Voting Category FY 2014 ……………………………………… 78
Operating Budget by Department – Detail FY 2014 …………..…………………… 80
Five Year Municipal Capital Plan for FY 2014-2018 ……………………….………. 88
Five Year School Committee Capital Plan for FY 2014-2018 …………………… 89
Five Year Self-Supporting Capital Plan for FY 2014-2018 ……………………….. 89
Annual Town Meeting Articles
Art. Page #
1 Elect a Moderator ………………………………………………………………………………. 15
2 Adopt Rules to Govern Town Meeting …………………………………………………… 15
3 Hear Reports of Committees Appointed at Prior Town Meetings ……………… 17
4 Act on “Consent Agenda” ……………………………………………………………………. 18
5 Set Salaries of Elected Officers ……………………………………………………………. 19
6 Pay Bills of Prior Fiscal Year ……………………………………………………………….. 20
7 Adjust Fiscal 2013 Accounts …………………………………………………………….. 20
8 Transfer Unexpended Prior Year Appropriations …………………………………… 21
9 Authorize Contracts of More Than Three Years Duration ……………………….. 21
10 Authorize Certain Revolving Funds ……………………………………………………… 22
11 “Omnibus” Capital Outlay Program …………………………………………………….. 24
12 Temporary Moratorium, Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers …….………. 35
13 Amend Zoning Map by Placing Parcels along Revere St. & Neponset St.
Within the VHOD………………………………….……………………………………………… 38
14 Amend Zoning By-Laws to Revise, Update and Correct Spelling, Grammar,
and any other Administrative Errors ……………..…………………………….……… 39
15 Amend Zoning By-Laws by Altering The Canton Center Design Review
Board ………………………………………………………………………………………..……. 40
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Art. Page #
16 Amend Zoning By-Laws to Permit Areas for Senior Housing Overlay
District (SHOD) …..……………………………………………………………………………. 41
17 Amend Zoning Map to Create a Senior Housing Overlay District (SHOD) …. 49
18 Amend Zoning By-Laws Section 11 by Adding Definitions Relating to
the Senior Housing Overlay District (SHOD) …..……………………………………. 50
19 Amend Zoning By-Laws by Adding “Priority Revitalization Area “C”
to Sec. 9.8 (Canton Center Economic Opportunity District By-Law) …….….. 51
20 Amend Zoning Map by Placing Parcels along Revere Street and
Neponset Street in the CCEOD …………………………………………………………… 59
21 Amend Zoning Map by Changing Designation of Approximately 0.14 Acres
on Royal Lane from Single Residence AA to Limited …………………..…….….. 60
22 Amend Zoning Map by Changing Designation of Approximately 1.1 Acres
on Royal Lane from Single Residence AA to Limited Industrial ………….…… 61
23 Amend Table of Use Regulations – Section 1 by Changing “N” to “BA” ….... 62
24 Amend Zoning By-Laws Section 11.0 Definitions “Trade Shop” …….………… 62
25 Amend Zoning Map by Changing Designation of Approximately 1.7 Acres
On Royal Lane from Single Residence AA to Limited Industrial ……..……….. 63
26 Community Preservation Committee Recommendation for Administrative
and Operating Expenses ……………………………………………………..…………….. 63
27 Community Preservation Exemption for Commercial/Industrial Property
Excluding $100,000 ………………………………………………………..……………..…. 64
28 Accept Funds Held in Escrow Regarding Knob Hill …….…………………………… 65
29 Amend General By-Laws Article III, Section 3.1 – Timing of Filing of
Zoning and Non-Zoning Articles ……………………………………………..…………… 65
30 Establish A Blue Hills Regional Technical School Stabilization Fund ….…….. 67
31 Amend General By-Laws, Article XIV (Police Regulations: Sec. 39/39A)
Regulation of Dogs ………………………….………………………………………………. 67
32 Vote to Apply to MSBA for Reimbursement of Funding for Hansen
Elementary School Window Replacement/Repairs. .……………………………… 70
33 Vote to Apply to MSBA for Reimbursement of Funding for Galvin Middle
School Window Replacement/Repairs ……………………………………………….... 70
34 Additional 43D Priority Development Sites …..…………………………….……….. 71
35 Accept General or Session Laws Enacted by the General Court ……..………… 73
36 Approval of Funding for the FY14 Assessing Revaluation Project ………….. 73
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37 Approval of Funding for the Annual 4 of July Community Celebration ……. 74
38 Insurance Proceeds …………………………………………….…………………………….. 74
39 Vote to Rescind Unused Borrowing Authorizations ……………………………….. 74
40 Increase Stabilization Fund ……….……………………………………………………… 75
41 Appropriate Funds to Meet Expenses for Next Fiscal Year ……………………… 75
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Overview of the Issues to Consider in this Year's Warrant
First, please visit http://town.canton.ma.us/Canton%20Fincom/Fincom%20Home.htm to access more
comprehensive documents that were reviewed by the Finance Committee and other Town Officials in
coming to the conclusions found in this warrant. Special thanks to Jim Sims and Louis Jutras for building
the website and keeping it up to date.
As the economy continues to improve, Canton’s sound fiscal management has put us in a position to
continue to restore services and increase our reserves without the traditional maximum increase to the
levy. With new growth, Canton’s property taxes could have increased by as much as 3.7% but the
Finance Committee’s budget plans an increase of 2.4%. As a result, residents should anticipate a smaller
increase in their property tax bills than in the past. However, it should noted that in the fall the Board of
Assessors will recommend the actual rate to the Board of Selectman for final approval.
The $76.5 million FY14 budget recommended by the Finance Committee in this year’s warrant is
expected to marginally increase our current level of Town and School services and pay
contractual increases to our public
employees. The recommended budget Finance Committee Budget Recommendations
represents a 3.5% increase over the FY13 • 3.3% Average Increase in Operating Budgets
budget approved at the 2012 ATM and a • 1.3% Increase in Fixed Cost
3.3% increase in Operating Budgets. The • 4.2% Municipal Budget Increase
FY14 budget recommended by the Finance • 4.4% School Budget Increase
Committee assumes that property taxes will
be increased by less than the maximum 2.5% allowed under Prop 2 ½, and that revenue will be
supplemented with an increase in State Aid, Local Receipts (including the Solar Farm, Meals and Hotel
Taxes) and New Growth.
While there is not as much uncertainty in FY14’s budget as in the past, there still is uncertainty with
regards to State Aid. The Governor’s Budget, which proposes an increase in the State Income Tax, is
focused on increasing funding to education and infrastructure. In the Governor’s budget, our Chapter 70
Aid, which defrays our school costs, was projected to increase from $4.6 million to $5.3 million. The
House Ways and Mean’s Committee Budget has essentially level funded our Chapter 70 funding at $4.6
million. Noting the possibility that the Governor’s tax increase may fail to pass the State Legislature, the
Revenue Committee chose to project $4.9 million for this item. As the State Budget is revised, it is
possible that the Finance Committee may need to revise their budget recommendations on ATM Floor.
For the first time in many years, there were no significant challenges in balancing the budget. However,
the Finance Committee was careful not to increase the budget too rapidly for a number of reasons. First,
by not ‘taxing to the max’ the impact of the Community Preservation Act tax, recently passed by the
voters will be lessened. Second, many of our expenses, such as public employee salaries and health
care will continue to rise at a rate greater than 2.5%. Increasing spending beyond the recommended
levels this year risks budget cuts in FY15 or FY16.
The Capital Planning Committee (CPC) and the Finance Committee are recommending that Canton
continue its capital funding at 5.2% of revenue. Allocating the Town's limited revenue between the
operating expenses, needed to maintain our services, and the capital expenses, needed to maintain our
buildings and infrastructure, is always a difficult decision. Our School system has continued to work
through a challenging period from a capital perspective, as past borrowing from future year’s capital
allocations has restricted its ability to handle unforeseen capital issues. The discovery of contaminants in
windows and door caulking at the Hansen and Galvin Schools has significantly increased the cost of the
project. These projects will be discussed more in Articles 32 & 33 but the CPC and Finance Committee
are recommending borrowing for these projects inside the levy but without requiring the Schools to further
borrow from their future years’ capital allocation. While this should have a minimal impact moving
forward, the Finance Committee will remain vigilant with regards to taking on unsupportable levels of
debt. The Town must also decide what to do with the old Knights of Columbus building, which is the
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
proposed site for the new Senior Center which will be moved in Article 11. Given our level of Free Cash
reserves, the CPC and Finance Committee recommend funding this project through that account.
1
Standard & Poor’s, in a recent report , assigned its AAA long-term rating to Canton’s general
obligation (GO) municipal purpose loan of 2013 bonds and affirmed the same rating on Canton’s
GO bonds outstanding, reflecting the Town’s sound fiscal policies. This is the highest bond rating
afforded to municipalities in the United States given only to towns that consistently demonstrate sound
fiscal policies. This rating allows the Town to borrow money for capital projects at the lowest available
interest rates, currently around 2.4%.
To qualify for this low borrowing rate, Canton is expected to maintain a ‘target’ level of reserves,
protecting the Town from unexpected expenses. Currently, Canton’s reserves are projected to be at $7.8
million as of June 30, 2013 which is at the bottom of the target range for AAA municipalities (see the
Status in Town’s Reserves Section Below). Last year, the Town took several other steps to enhance our
credit rating, including the creation of a Special Education Stabilization Fund, an Other Post Employment
Benefit (OPEB) Trust Fund and the adoption of the local option meals tax. To continue addressing our
OPEB liability, the Finance Committee, as part of Fixed Costs, has recommended a $400,000 contribution
to the fund.
The voters should read the Finance Committee discussions on each Article and note that a vote to
"postpone indefinitely" may have varied meanings. In some cases the Finance Committee had to
“postpone indefinitely” the subject matter of an Article due to the time frame for taking the vote and the
lack of available information. This should not be construed to mean that we were against the Article –
only that we did not have enough time or information to weigh the merits prior to our voting deadline for
the Warrant. In other cases, the Finance Committee weighed the information presented and a vote to
"indefinitely postpone" implies that we do not support the recommendations in the Article. The discussions
that follow each motion are intended to give insight into the Committee's decisions and the considerations
inherent in each motion.
Historical Perspective on Canton's Finances
Balancing the budget over the past few years has been a challenge. The poor economic conditions
resulted in lower revenues for the Town. Local receipts for excise tax and building permits dropped,
property owners sought tax abatements on their declining property values, and there was very little new
growth to offset the reductions in revenue. There was also a significant drop in state aid as
Massachusetts dealt with its own budget problems. It is very difficult for a town to reduce expenses
during difficult economic times. Our residents have become accustomed to the level of services the Town
provides, while other expenses such as health care, veteran services and special education significantly
increased during the past three years. However, Canton was able to maintain a consistent level of
services and offer our children a quality education by using the additional revenue from the override
passed in 2008 while prudently using its reserves to supplement the remaining revenue shortfalls. As the
economy recovers, we strive to restore services and rebuild our reserves.
Fiscal Year 2012- (7/1/11 – 6/30/12) - At the 2011 ATM voters approved a FY12 Budget based on $71.4
million in forecasted revenue and $71.9 million in expenses. The $500,000 shortfall in revenue was
funded by reducing the Assessors Overlay Reserve $500,000. While the use of $500,000 in Overlay
Reserves was anticipated by the Finance Committee in FY12, the Board of Assessors was uncomfortable
that the overlay reserve was getting too low and they warned that funds from the overlay reserves would
not be available to supplement future budgets.
Actual Revenue for FY12 was $72.5 million, approximately $1.1 million higher than budgeted as Canton
collected more Local Receipts and State Aid. There was also good news on the expense side in FY12.
Expenses were budgeted at just under $72 million and came in just under $71.7 million due to lower Fixed
Costs and State and County Charges. As a result, the Town increased its reserves in fiscal year 2012 as
shown in Figure 2 below.
1
Standard and Poor’s Ratings Direct® report dated March 1, 2013.
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Fiscal Year 2013 – (7/1/12 – 6/30/13) – At the 2012 ATM voters approved an FY 13 Budget based on
$73.9 million in forecasted revenue and $73.9 million in forecasted expenses. No assessor’s overlay
surplus was budgeted.
At the time of this writing, the Town's FY13 finances are more favorable than budgeted. The current
estimate of the Town's FY13 revenue is approximately $1 million greater than budget primarily because
state aid is $715k greater than planned and Local Receipts and Foreclosure Revenue have also
increased. Because of this unanticipated increase in revenue, the Town did not have to ‘tax to the max’ to
balance the voted FY 13 budget. As a result, Property Tax Revenue was approximately $548,000 less
than budgeted. The snowy winter of 2013 did add some stress to the Town's finances. All of budgeted
appropriations for snow and ice removal budget will be spent in FY13, and the account is over drawn by
approximately $520k. However, the Finance Committee’s reserve fund and surplus in the Health
Insurance budget should be sufficient to cover this shortfall. Over all, if these trends continue, even with
the cost associated with the Senior Center, we anticipate our cash reserves, which are the Free Cash,
Stabilization Fund, and the Assessors Overlay Reserve, remaining at the minimum 10% level required to
maintain our bond rating.
Figure 1 provides a historical view of the expenses between the School Department, the municipal side of
government, and the fixed costs (i.e. health care, retirement, etc.). Fixed costs have increased
dramatically since 2003 largely due to increases in health insurance. In previous year's annual
reports the Finance Committee report noted that bringing health care and employee benefit costs under
control is a critical component in alleviating Town’s financial stress. The Municipal Departments and
School Department have made progress towards this elusive goal through last year’s contract
negotiations coupled with the State’s healthcare reform. This Reform facilitated the Town's effort to
mitigate rising health care costs. This will provide us with a temporary reprieve from rising healthcare
costs.
The accelerated increases in the school department expenses can be attributed to an increase in
special education costs and the "automatic salary increases" built into the teacher contracts. Both
municipal and school employee contracts include “automatic salary increases” given to some employees
for longevity, steps (number of years served) and lanes (promotions or the amount of post-graduate
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
education for teachers), even when there is no Cost Of Living Adjustment (COLA). When there is a
COLA, as with the current contract, employees can receive both. The School department contracts
include more steps than the municipal contracts, and have more lanes with no restrictions on the number
of employees that can receive the promotional increases. As a result, the $588,306 in “automatic salary
increases” inherent in school contracts for FY13 represented an average salary increase of 2.4%
compared to the $92,560 (0.7%) automatic salary increase provided to municipal employees. All
employees received a 2% COLA for FY13 as well, which brings total average salary increase to 4.4% for
the schools and 2.7% for the municipal.
Status of the Town's Reserves
Budget variances are inevitable. The Town's reserves protect against unexpected costs exceeding the
budgets approved at ATM. The operating budget also includes a Finance Committee Reserve account,
which is can cover extraordinary or unforeseen expenditures in the operating budgets. In most years, a
sizable portion of the Finance Committee Reserve appropriation is used to supplement the snow and ice
removal budget because the appropriation for snow and ice is based on a very mild winter. This year, the
Finance Committee’s reserve fund will be used to supplement the School Department’s contract costs
and to cover the Snow and Ice deficit.
The Town also maintains three sources of "Reserves"
Free Cash Reserve - This is a poorly
(savings accounts) that serve as potential sources to fund
named reserve that the Town maintains
unplanned expenses. Figure 2 shows the Town's reserve
for unexpected emergencies. "Free
balances including the estimated balances as of June 30,
Cash" should not be used to supplement
2013. The Free Cash Reserve requires a majority vote at
operational budget deficits!
ATM to be appropriated. The Stabilization Fund requires a
2/3 vote at ATM to be appropriated and the Assessors
Overlay Reserve Fund can only be used if a transfer to general revenues is approved by the Town's
Assessors.
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
The Finance Committee recommended that the Town strengthen its reserve position during the years
following the 2008 override. Figure 2 shows that Canton’s Reserves have grown from $7 million at the
end of FY08 to an estimated $7.8 million at the end of FY13. Reserves were used during the economic
downturn to reduce the impacts to operating budgets as well as to cover shortfalls in the snow and ice
budget. As the economy has turned around, the Town has taken steps to restore these reserves.
However, some of those reserves are recommended to be spent for the Senior Center project, reducing
our reserves from $8.1 million at the end of FY12 to an estimated $7.8 million at the end of FY13.
The budget outlook for FY13, as noted above, looks encouraging due to an increase in State Aid, and
other favorable budget variances. Based on current estimates, Canton's reserves are estimated to reach
th
approximately $7.8 million, just above the $7.7 million target by June 30 , 2013. This estimate includes
the Free Cash spending recommendation in this year’s warrant.
In addition to providing a source of funding for unforeseen one-time emergency situations, the reserve
funds are viewed as a collateral source when rating agencies determine the Town's Bond Rating.
Canton's prudent fiscal management has allowed the Town to earn the highest long-term bond rating
(Standard & Poor's AAA) offered to municipalities in the United States. This allows Canton to issue
bonds for debt capital projects at the most favorable interest rates.
There would be a substantial increase in cost to the Town if a downgrade in Canton's bond rating were to
occur. A downgrade in the Town's bond rating results in higher interest rate for new borrowing. Each
downgrade represents an increase of approximately 25 basis points or ¼%. Each year, ATM approves
between $2.0 million and $3.0 million of additional debt for capital projects. A ¼% increase in interest
rate equates to approximately $300,000 increase in the cost to borrow $10.0 million over the life of a 20
year bond.
Bond rating agencies have recommended that Canton maintain its total reserves between 10%
and 15% of revenues to justify our excellent AAA rating. The $7.8 million of total reserves
estimated for FY13 (including the transfer recommended in Article 11) is $0.1 million above the
$7.7 million target based on the FY14 revenues. However, Canton's recent increase in reserves and
the recommended transfer of $400K from Free Cash to the Stabilization Fund in Article 40 should be
viewed favorably by the bond rating agencies. This transfer will not change the total amount of Canton’s
reserves, but will demonstrate that Canton is committed to maintain adequate reserves.
Capital Budget
For the last six years, the Capital Planning Committee (CPC) has recommended that the Town set aside
about 5.2% of the recurring revenues for the Capital Budget. The Town first pays debt service on all
existing debt within the levy from this amount. The remaining amount is used to fund capital projects
identified in the CPC 5-year plan. While the prior target was 6.0% of revenue to fund Capital projects, the
CPC has selected 5.5% or less in recent years so that additional money could be allocated to the
operating budgets. This has allowed Canton to avoid operational cuts in services during the economic
downturn, but it has also resulted in some difficult decisions to postpone important capital projects.
Deferring maintenance and other capital improvements runs the risk of low-cost projects becoming
expensive ones and continued deterioration of the Town’s infrastructure. As the economy recovers, the
Town should consider increasing the Capital Planning funding to the 6% figure to better fund the capital
needs of the Town.
The Finance Committee concurs with all of the recommendations made by the CPC as presented in
Article 11. The municipal requests include $443,000 in cash capital projects and $191,000 in capital
projects to be funded with debt. In addition, the CPC recommended one infrastructure capital
improvement project for the Water Enterprise Fund and Sewer Enterprise Fund, totaling $1.01 million in
debt capital between the two for meter replacements. The debt service for these projects will be included
in our water and sewer bills. In FY11, the Schools accelerated their 5-year capital spending budget to
pay for the Kennedy expansion, roof repairs, and the Rodman HVAC. As a result, there was only
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
$443,000 allocated to the schools for cash capital projects and $0 in debt capital projects recommended
by the CPC for the schools in FY14 (excluding the aforementioned Window Projects).
One of the major cash capital items recommended this year is $1.3 million for the renovations needed to
open a new Senior Center on Pleasant Street. The Finance Committee and CPC agreed that action
needed to be taken on behalf of the Seniors of Canton who have supported our Schools and Municipal
departments in the past. Our primary concern was how to fund a project that had ballooned from $650k
at 2012’s Town Meeting to over $2 million today. After examining the numbers, we agree the cost
increases are necessary and justified. Given our current level of cash reserves, we agreed that we could
use Free Cash reserves for this one-time expense without putting the Town in a compromised state.
Further, paying cash will reduce our interest and debt service costs moving forward.
In addition to the items in Article 11, the School's capital requests include Articles 32 and 33 which
supplement the FY13 appropriation for Window Repairs. These capital projects qualify for grants from
the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), and therefore, need to be addressed in separate
Articles. Although the Schools have already accelerated their 5-year capital spending in FY11 and these
projects require the use of capital spending that was earmarked for later years, the CPC recommended
approval of these projects to take advantage of the 45% reimbursement by the MSBA. Due to the
strained nature of the Schools capital plan the Finance Committee supported this project with the
additional borrowing not counting against their capital plan. Please refer to the discussion of these
Articles for more details.
Contract Obligations
The School Committee and Board of Selectmen completed negotiations with all unions in Town during
FY13. The tools provided by Municipal Healthcare Reform allowed the Town to take steps to control
rising health insurance costs.
Canton is fortunate to have many dedicated employees that work hard to serve our residents. The
Finance Committee continues to recommend, along with the Board of Selectman and School Committee,
that these employees be compensated and receive benefits commensurate with that offered by our
benchmark towns. We also believe that our Town employees should receive annual increases that reflect
the current economic conditions and the spending limits mandated by Proposition 2 1/2.
Canton residents should be aware that the recommended budget in this year's warrant includes $112,000
for automatic salary increases for the municipal departments and $421,000 for automatic salary increases
for the school employees related to steps, lanes and longevity. Additionally, there has been $209k set
aside for municipal Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) and $523k for School COLAs.
The School Committee is aware of the fact that the current automatic salary increases inherent in their
salary structure are not sustainable under the restrictions of Prop 2 ½. With the most recent contract they
took significant steps towards addressing this issue. It should be noted that a majority of the School and
st
Municipal contracts are in effect until August 31 , 2015 so the negotiation of the next contracts will likely
begin shortly.
On the Horizon
• SEMASS: Canton has enjoyed advantageous pricing for our Waste Disposal through SEMASS
for the last 20 years. However, our contract expires this year and will need to be renegotiated at
today's rates. This could result in an increase in Fixed Costs for FY15 budget in the neighborhood
of $250,000.
• Schools: New residential developments have and will continue to create a space crunch in our
current elementary schools. To begin to address this issue, the School Department plans to
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
create a School Building Study Committee. The purpose of the School Building Study Committee
is to assess the current school building facilities and to determine the extent to which they meet
the educational needs of the district and whether they will be sufficient in future years. If the
committee’s finding is that they will not, the SBSC is asked to make a specific recommendation
as to how the future educational space needs of the district might be met. This could include a
new elementary school.
• Schools: The Hansen modular classrooms have aged past their useful lives and must be
replaced. When similar modular classrooms were installed at the JFK in FY12 the cost was
approximately $1.2 million and included required sprinkler upgrades for the rest of the building.
The School Building Study Committee will also likely review the Hanson. The project is not
currently part of the school’s capital plan but will likely need to be addressed in FY15 or FY16.
• Shepard Pond Dam: The State DCR Office of Dam Safety [ODS] considers Shepard Pond Dam
to be in overall poor condition and has issued a dam safety order to bring the dam into ODS
compliance. The 2012 cost estimate including engineering, permitting, and construction to meet
the ODS order was $2,000,000. The repair project includes; stabilizing the downstream walls and
earth embankment; extending the concrete spillway; and lowering the pond level one foot. This
project will likely need to be addressed in FY15 or FY16.
• OPEB: Canton has made promises to its employees to not only provide pensions upon
retirement, but also various types of insurance. While the Town has been setting aside money to
pay pension benefits for many years, we only started setting aside money for these Other Post
Employment Benefits (OPEB) at last year’s town meeting with the establishment of the OPEB
Trust fund. The liability for these benefits is currently over $100,000,000 and the Finance
Committee recommended placing only $400,000 into this fund for FY14. At some point in the
future, the State is likely to change the rules around OPEB, reducing our liability, but at the same
time, requiring us to fully fund the liability. While putting aside some money now will put us in a
better financial situation than surrounding communities, the annual cost will likely be substantial.
• Storm Water Management: The Town of Canton has an investment of over $100,000,000 in the
municipal separate storm water system [MS4]. As owners and operators of the MS4 system, the
Town is subject to the current [2003 – 2008] and expected [Summer 2013] EPA General Permit.
Compliance with the permit is predicated on water quality and not just hydraulic flow. The new
MS4 permit is expected to require significant new funding needs to achieve water quality
stipulations. For Canton, EPA estimates the administrative costs alone at $100,000 per year. The
new MS4 permit will require Canton to identify the means through which the storm water
management program will be funded on an adequate and sustainable basis.
FY 2014 Budget
In Article 41, the Finance Committee is recommending a FY14 operating budget of $76.5 million for the
General Fund, which is a 3.5% increase over the FY13 budget approved at ATM. The increase in
revenue was partially driven by revenues from the Solar Farm as well as the Hotel and Meals Tax
revenue. These sources of funds have allowed Canton to restore services and rebuild reserves without
levying a full property tax increase, as has been necessary in past years. With new growth, Canton’s
property taxes could have increased by as much as 3.7% but the Finance Committee’s budget plans an
increase of 2.4%. However, it should noted that the Fall the Board of Assessors will recommend the
actual rate to the Board of Selectman for final approval. The Finance Committee has used all of the
available information to develop budget recommendations that represented a fair estimate of the revenue
and expenses for Canton in FY14. It is always possible that new information will become available after
the printing of this Warrant at which time the Finance Committee may modify its recommendations on
Town Meeting floor.
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
The revenue estimate built into in the Finance Committee's budget includes a provision for state aid
based on Governor Patrick's proposed budget. The Governor's budget included an increase in state aid
that would bring Canton in line with the State’s ‘Target Funding Amount’ which has been underfunded for
many years. It is unclear how this allocation would change if the Governor’s proposed income tax
increase does not materialize. The House Ways and Mean’s Committee Budget has essentially level
funded our Chapter 70 funding at $4.6 million. The Finance Committee's budget estimate assumed that
the final state aid increase over last year was 57% of that presented by the Governor and $250,000
higher than the House Ways and Means Budget.
The Finance Committee is recommending a 4.2% increase in the operating budgets for the municipal
departments and a 4.4% increase in the operating budget for the Schools. The School Department
received a larger budget appropriation in FY14 due to their higher contract costs. Overall, the School
Department received an additional $456,000 and the Municipal an additional $351,000 to enhance
services. Due to previous year’s borrowing from future capital funds set aside for school needs,
borrowing from inside the levy is needed to complete window replacement projects at Hansen and Middle
schools. The Finance Committee's recommended budget also includes a modest 1.3% increase in fixed
costs as the Town has realized savings in Health Insurance and reduced assessments as fewer students
from Canton attend the Blue Hills Regional School. Some of this savings was reallocated to Snow and
Ice and to the OPEB Trust fund.
The Water Enterprise Fund operating budget decreased 4.2% due to reduced MWRA charges associated
with utilizing our new water treatment facilities. The recommended budget for the Sewer Enterprise Fund
was increased 2.4% due to increased charges by the MWRA. The recommended budget for the Rink
Enterprise Fund has been reduced by -7.3% from FY13 budget due to a reallocation of employees’
salaries to the Recreation Department.
The Finance Committee believes that the recommended FY14 budget will be adequately funded with
expected revenues. In addition, the Finance Committee is confident that the recommended FY14 budget
will provide fair compensation to our Town employees, while allowing Canton residents to enjoy the high
quality of services they are accustomed to. While the Finance Committee supports a one-time use of
reserves to bring our new Senior Center online, we continue to adamantly oppose any use of Canton's
reserves to fund recurring operational deficits.
Respectfully submitted,
Town of Canton Finance Committee:
Mark Porter, Chairman
Eric Zine, Vice Chairman
Robert Barker
Sarah Calabria
Patricia Johnson
Barbara Saint André
Jim Sims
- 11 –Source page 12
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
TOWN FINANCE TERMINOLOGY
The terms below are frequently used in the annual Town report and at Town Meetings. In order to provide
everyone with a better understanding of their meanings, the following definitions are provided:
APPROPRIATE: To authorize spending. Once an appropriation for a budget or article has been made by Town
Meeting, the appropriation can only be changed by another Town Meeting. There is one exception-a transfer from
the Reserve Fund.
BONDS: The money Canton borrows to pay for capital building projects such as the High School and police
station.
CAPITAL EXPENSES: Expenses associated with the purchase of long term assets, or projects. Paying for these
expenses can come from either cash (Cash Capital) or from long term bonding.
CHERRY SHEET: A financial statement from the State, printed on cherry-colored paper which itemizes State
disbursements due the Town, and the State and County charge to the Town, usually resulting in a net receipt of
funds. It is the basis for the amounts which appear in the Finance Committee forecast of Revenue and Expenditure.
DEBT EXCLUSION: Taxes raised through a prop 2.5 override to pay for capital projects such as building the high
school or library.
ENTERPRISE SURPLUS: (Retained Earnings) This fund balance represents the amount to be used, by a vote of
Town Meeting, for operating cost offsets, funding capital improvements and reimbursing the General Fund for prior
year funding.
FIXED COSTS: Costs primarily associated with employee benefits, such as health insurance and retirement costs.
FREE CASH RESERVE: An accumulation of surpluses left at the end of the fiscal year. This funding is available to
be allocated at Town Meeting through a simple majority vote. It is akin to a savings account.
FY13: July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013
FY14: July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014
LEVEL FUNDING: The budget amount for this year will be identical to the budget amount last year (i.e., no
additional money will be available to cover increased costs in salaries or supplies.)
LEVY LIMIT: The maximum amount of tax levy in any given year. The levy limit is based on the previous year’s
levy limit plus 2 1/2% plus new growth, and not the previous year’s actual levy.
LOCAL RECEIPTS: Money the town collects from local sources such as excise tax, licenses and permits,
investment income, and penalties
NEW GROWTH: Additional tax revenue the Town receives from new construction, such as new homes or
additions to existing buildings.
OPERATIONAL OVERRIDE: An increase above the standard 2.5% yearly increase in taxes. This increase is
unlike a debt exclusion override, in that it is permanent.
OVERLAY: The amount raised by the Assessors primarily for the purpose of creating a fund to cover abatements.
OVERLAY RESERVE: This is the accumulated amount of the Overlay for various years not used or required to be
held in the specific Overlay accounts for a given year. The Assessors control release of funds in the Overlay reserve
that exceed pending tax liability.
RAISE: To tax. The tax rate is set by the Assessors after the Annual Town Meeting and after receipt of the
“Cherry Sheet.”
RESERVE FUND: This fund is established by the voters at an Annual Town Meeting, and may be composed of an
appropriation, money transferred from the Overlay Reserve, or both. Transfers from the Reserve Fund are within
the control of the Finance Committee, and are for “extraordinary and unforeseen expenditures.”
REVENUES: Amount of money the town receives to cover expenses. The majority of this money comes from
property taxes. The remainder comes from local receipts, State Aid and transfers from other funds.
STABILIZATION FUND: The fund is established by the voters for future uses. A Town Meeting vote is required
for its use towards a “borrowing article” and/or for “any lawful purpose.”
STATE AID: The amount of money that the state of Massachusetts gives to the town of Canton.
STEP AND LANE INCREASES: Automatic increases in salary for town workers, negotiated in the union contracts.
STRUCTURAL DEFICIT: Town’s recurring expenses are greater than its recurring revenues.
TAX LEVY: (LEVY): The revenue a community can raise through real estate and personal property taxes.
A GUIDE TO PARTICIPATING AT TOWN MEETING
If town meeting is to run smoothly a few simple rules must be followed…….
No person should speak unless standing at a microphone and then only after having been ‘recognized’ by the
moderator.
- 12 –Source page 13
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
It is both impolite and contrary to the rules of procedure to shout out “Question”, or “Move the Question” while
seated, while someone else is speaking, or without being ‘recognized’.
When recognized, a voter should first state his or her name and address clearly and distinctly before making any
statement.
Voters should be brief. It is a good idea to state at the outset why you have risen to speak: e.g. I rise to speak in
favor (or against) the motion to Voters may wish to summarize at the close of their remarks: I hope the motion
now pending is (not) adopted
Rather than repeat arguments already made, consider saying: I concur with the statements made by the previous
speaker(s) and for the same reasons urge you to vote (in support of) or (against) the main motion when it is put.
A town by-law restricts any one speaker to not more than ten minutes at any one time. The patience of other
voters is often not as long.
A town by-law restricts any one speaker from speaking more than twice on the same matter except to correct an
error or a misstatement.
A person who is speaking on behalf of another (such as an attorney) is required to disclose that fact before making
any statement.
A motion to reconsider is quite technical in nature. A person who intends to move reconsideration should discuss it
in advance with the moderator. Generally the motion may be made at any time so long as a sufficient interval has
elapsed since the last vote on the matter was taken, and/or additional information has become available, so as to
give a reasonable basis to believe the meeting might vote differently. When the motion to reconsider is pending
debate is limited to why reconsideration should prevail and not to the merits of the underlying motion.
When one voter is speaking every other voter in the hall should pay attention to what is being said. No person
should interrupt a speaker unless some ‘rule’ is being violated. If a voter believes a rule is being violated they
should rise in place, wait to be recognized by the moderator (For what purpose does the lady rise?) Voter: I rise to
a point of order. Moderator: State your point of Order. Voter: …The speaker is dealing in personalities, (or) the
remarks of the speaker are not germane to the subject at hand, etc.
Rather than read every warrant article the moderator may say “The chair asks unanimous consent that the reading
of the article be waived (Pause) Seeing no objection it is so ordered.”
Voters should refrain from displaying their approval or disfavor towards a speaker by applauding or by any other
means.
NOTE TO ALL VOTERS CONCERNING
TOWN MEETING PROCEDURES
At previous Annual Town Meetings a by-law was adopted which requires that almost all warrant articles be acted
upon in the order they are drawn by a lottery, not the order they appear in the warrant. There are certain
exceptions, however, to the lottery system. The following should help you understand how the Town Meeting
works:
Town Meeting will be opened by the Town Clerk. A Moderator will be elected (Article 1); procedures to govern
Town Meeting will be adopted (Article 2); and reports of all outstanding committees will be received (Article 3).
After these three articles have been acted upon, all subsequent articles, except next year’s proposed annual
operating budget, will be voted on in the order in which they are drawn by the Town Clerk. There are instances,
however, where the Moderator may declare that for some legal or technical reason a particular article or articles
must be considered in some other sequence.
The proposed annual operating budget cannot be acted upon until all matters which affect it have been acted
upon, specifically, all collective bargaining agreements, and any warrant article that calls for an expenditure. This
may mean that the proposed annual operating budget may, in fact, be the last article acted upon at the Annual
Town Meeting.
It is hoped that this brief explanation will be helpful to you in understanding the lottery system under which the
Town Meeting is currently operated.
- 13 –Source page 14
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
SUMMARY OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES
FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014
ACTUAL BUDGET PROPOSED
GENERAL FUND REVENUES:
PROPERTY TAX REVENUE 57,020,621 59,323,367 60,602,471
STATE AID 6,972,715 7,106,407 8,151,749
LOCAL RECEIPTS 5,702,014 5,234,686 5,574,543
TRANSFERS FROM OTHER FUNDS 2,404,929 2,239,456 2,178,581
TAX TITLE / FORECLOSURE REVENUE 371,909 0 0
TOTAL REVENUES 72,472,188 73,903,916 76,507,344
GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES:
SCHOOL EXPENSES 30,390,978 31,920,505 33,320,505
MUNICIPAL EXPENSES 15,562,479 16,002,440 16,674,371
FIXED COSTS 23,055,030 24,357,420 24,679,189
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 69,008,487 72,280,365 74,674,065
CASH CAPITAL EXPENDITURES 1,119,429 729,000 886,000
TRANSFERS TO STABILIZATION FUNDS 690,000 0 0
STATE & COUNTY CHARGES 874,821 894,551 947,279
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 71,692,737 73,903,916 76,507,344
OPERATING SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) - GENERAL FUND 779,451 (0) 0
ENTERPRISE FUNDS:
WATER REVENUE 6,585,226 6,446,385 6,178,655
SEWER REVENUE 5,131,835 5,488,176 5,618,111
RINK REVENUE 424,653 410,967 380,907
TOTAL ENTERPRISE FUNDS' REVENUE 12,141,714 12,345,528 12,177,673
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' SURPLUS USED 0 104,000 171,000
WATER EXPENSES 6,376,097 6,446,385 6,178,655
SEWER EXPENSES 5,270,426 5,488,176 5,618,111
RINK EXPENSES 448,479 410,967 380,907
TOTAL ENTERPRISE FUNDS EXPENSES 12,095,002 12,345,528 12,177,673
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' CASH CAPITAL EXPENDITURES 52,560 104,000 171,000
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) (5,848) 0 0
GRAND TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS 83,840,299 86,353,444 88,856,017
- 14 –Source page 15
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Town of Canton
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Norfolk, ss
To the Constables of the Town of Canton,
Greetings:
In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts you are hereby required to notify and warn the
inhabitants of the Town of Canton to meet at Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of the Canton High
School, 900 Washington Street in said town on;
MONDAY, THE THIRTEENTH DAY
OF MAY 2013
At seven o'clock (7:00 P.M.) in the evening for the annual town meeting at which time and place the
following articles are to be acted upon:
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 2014 or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
DISCUSSION: Nominations will be accepted and a moderator elected at Town Meeting during the discussion of
this article.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
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 2013 Annual
Town Meeting, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That this 2013 Annual Town Meeting shall meet on consecutive Monday and
Wednesday evenings (but not including Monday, May 27th) in the Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of
the Canton High School 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
- 15 –Source page 16
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption of this motion as it formalized procedures that
have been followed by Town Meetings in the past.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
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:
Mark Bobrowski, Esq.
Debra Bromfield, Director of Student Services
Rick Brandstatter, Canton Development Properties
David Carliner, Shelter Group LLC (Articles 16, 17, 18)
Nanci Cavaretta (Boston Mutual) (Articles 21, 22 & 25)
John Ciccotelli, Director of Public Health
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
James Donovan, Town Engineer
Helena Findlen, Police Department Lieutenant
Rick Fitzpatrick, Business Manager, Norfolk County Agricultural High School (Article 41)
William T. Friel, Town Administrator
Michael Glynn, Development Director, Brightview Senior Living (Articles 16, 17 & 18)
Jeffrey Granatino, Superintendent of Schools
Suzanne Green, Superintendent/Director, Norfolk County Agricultural High School (Article 41)
John Hamnett (Turnpike Street property) (Articles 23 & 24)
Jennifer Henderson, Director for Curriculum, Instruction & Technology
Brian Joyce, Senator
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Mark Lague, Library Director
Kenneth Leon, Business Administrator, School Department
Rick Mann, Esquire (Plymouth Rubber) (Articles 19 & 20)
James Murgia, Finance Director
Katie Napleton (Plymouth Rubber) (Articles 19 & 20)
Howard Neff (Boston Mutual) (Articles 21, 22 & 25)
Cynthia O’Connell, Conservation Commission Agent
Bernie Plante (Plymouth Rubber) (Articles 19 & 20)
David Proule, Business Manager, Blue Hills Regional Technical School
James Quaglia, Superintendent-Director, Blue Hills Regional Technical School
Mark Roy, Executive Director, Canton Housing Authority
Andrew Teeters, Senior Development Director, Brightview Senior Living (Articles 16, 17 & 18)
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of Council on Aging
Tony Will (Turnpike Street property) (Articles 23 & 24)
Tim Williams, Engineer, Allen Major Company (Articles 16, 17 & 18)
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption of this motion as it allows key non-resident town
officials and consultants to legally participate in the Town Meeting and formalizes procedures that have been
followed by Town Meeting in the past.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 16 –Source page 17
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
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
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption of this motion as it formalizes procedures that
have been followed by Town Meeting in the past to insure that Town Meeting ends with the adoption of a balanced
budget.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 3
HEAR REPORTS OF COMMITTEES APPOINTED AT PRIOR TOWN MEETINGS
Article 3 To hear the reports of all committees, appointed at previous town meetings, which have not yet
been discharged, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That reports of the following committees appointed at previous Town Meetings be
heard and accepted:
ADA Transition Plan Implementation Committee (ATM 1999, Article 10)
Economic Development Committee (ATM 2004, Article 14)
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the adoption of this motion to hear the reports of all standing
committees appointed at prior Town Meetings.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 17 –Source page 18
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
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.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the following articles be disposed of by a single vote, in accordance with the
Finance Committee motions or Planning Board motions as printed in the report of the Finance
Committee: Articles 6, 8, 9, 35, 38 and 39.
FINCOM
Article Description Motion VOTE Reason
Postpone
6 Unpaid Bills of Prior Years 7-0-0 There are none.
Indefinitely
Transfer Unexpended Prior Postpone
8 5-0-0 There are none.
Year Appropriations Indefinitely
Authorize Contracts of
9 Adopt the article 7-0-0 Non-controversial.
more than 3 years
Accept General or Session
Postpone There are none.
35 Laws enacted by General 7-0-0
Indefinitely
Court
Postpone
38 Insurance Proceeds 7-0-0 There are none.
Indefinitely
Rescind unused borrowing Postpone
39 7-0-0 There are none.
authorizations Indefinitely
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends that articles 6, 8, 35, 38 and 39 be placed into the consent
agenda as there is no action to be taken on any of them. The Finance Committee also recommends that article 9
be in the consent agenda as it is a standard boilerplate article that authorizes the Town’s Chief Procurement Officer
to award three- to five-year contracts for supplies or services with a prior supporting vote of the Board of
Selectmen.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 18 –Source page 19
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
ARTICLE 5
SET SALARIES OF ELECTED OFFICERS
Article 5 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.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for the Town Clerk be fixed at $76,061.00 for the
2014 fiscal year beginning July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this motion. At the 2011 Annual Town Meeting,
the salary of the Canton Town Clerk was determined to be less than the average of comparison towns. At that
time, the Finance Committee recommended that the Town bring the Town Clerks salary up to the average over a
period of time instead of increasing it all at once. The increase proposed this year is the third of three planned
annual increases for the Clerks salary to reach the average of comparison towns.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 2
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for all part-time elected officials of the Town be fixed
for the 2014 fiscal year beginning July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014, as follows:
Board of Assessors $2,400.00, for each member
Board of Health $600.00, for each member
Board of Selectmen $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: 5-2-0
MAJORITY DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee readily acknowledges that all elected and appointed
officials work long hours for the Town and the salary provided is low for the services being rendered. However, the
Finance Committee has long been concerned with the inequities of paying salaries to some elected officials and not
other elected or appointed officials.
For the 2014 Fiscal Year, the salary paid to elected officials amounts to just over $16,000. The salary payment to
an elected official entitles these officials to benefits, particularly health insurance. Elected officials do not accrue
service time for pension purposes.
The majority supported this motion because only three elected officials are participating in the insurance program
and the current insurance cost to the Town is approximately $16,000. Furthermore, in prior years, the Town
overwhelmingly opposed the Finance Committee's proposal to phase out the salaries and benefits.
MINORITY DISCUSSION: The Minority remains concerned that the decision to pay salaries to some town
officials and not others is capricious and without logical basis. There also seems to be no rationale for the existing
salaries. The salaries traditionally paid to members of the Assessors and the Board of Health were established to
compensate them for field work that is now being done by other Town Employees or outside contractors. Further,
it exposes the Town to unnecessary risk of significant additional costs for benefits including health care and (until
recently) pensions.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 19 –Source page 20
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
ARTICLE 6
PAY BILLS OF PRIOR FISCAL YEAR
Article 6 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds 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.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 6 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommended to indefinitely postpone Article 6 as there are no bills from
any prior fiscal year that need to be paid.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 7
ADJUST FISCAL ‘13 ACCOUNTS
Article 7 To see if the town will vote to increase or decrease or otherwise adjust the appropriations heretofore
made for the Fiscal Year 2013 beginning on July 1, 2012 and ending on June 30, 2013 and the revenues sources to
meet those appropriations, as voted pursuant to Article 46 of the warrant for the 2012 Annual Town Meeting, and
to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute to meet any
such increases or adjustments, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the appropriations voted for the fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2012 and ending
on June 30, 2013 pursuant to Article 46 of the warrant for the 2012 Annual Town Meeting be
supplemented as follows:
BUDGET TO BE REVISED
# SUPPLEMENTED ACCOUNT # AMOUNT BALANCE SOURCE OF FUNDS
1 HISTORICAL COMMISSION 16912-52000 $2,000 $2,000 COMMISSION ON DISABILITIES
2 HISTORICAL COMMISSION 16912-52000 $2,000 $4,000 CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE
SUPPLEMENT 1 VOTE: 5-0-0
SUPPLEMENT 2 VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this Article. The Canton Historical Commission has
developed a plan for repairing and restoring the historical grave markers in the Canton Corner Cemetery, with the
priority being given to stabilizing leaning grave markers that present a safety hazard to residents walking along the
paths in the park-like setting. The majority of funding for implementing the project has come from private
donations and grants. Unfortunately, the available funds have not been sufficient to resolve all the safety hazards,
let alone repair stones damaged in the past. The transfer of surplus funds from the Commission on Disabilities and
the Capital Planning Committee will be used to support this on-going gravestone restoration project.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 20 –Source page 21
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
ARTICLE 8
TRANSFER UNEXPENDED PRIOR YEAR APPROPRIATIONS
Article 8 To see if the town will vote to transfer the unexpended balance of certain appropriations made under
various articles in the warrants applicable to prior town meetings, to new purposes and uses, or to take any other
action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 8 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommended to indefinitely postpone this article as there were no
transfers needed for prior year appropriations.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 9
AUTHORIZE CONTRACTS OF MORE THAN THREE YEARS DURATION
Article 9 To see if the town will vote, in accordance with the provisions of section twelve (b) of chapter thirty B, of
the General Laws of the Commonwealth, to authorize the finance director (in his capacity as chief procurement
officer) to solicit and award contracts for terms of more than three years, provided in each such instance the longer
term is determined, prior to the solicitation, to be in the best interest of the town by a vote of the Board of
Selectmen, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) be authorized
to solicit and award contracts for terms of more than three years but not more than five years,
provided in each such instance the longer term is determined to be in the best interest of the Town by
a vote of the Board of Selectmen.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this Article authorizing the Chief Procurement
Officer to solicit and award contracts for supplies or services for a duration in excess of three years but no longer
than five years, with a prior supporting vote of the Board of Selectmen. The Finance Committee Members believe
that extending the period of time for certain supplies or services contracts could serve the best interests of the
Town from a fiscal, operational, or planning standpoint.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 21 –Source page 22
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
ARTICLE 10
AUTHORIZE CERTAIN REVOLVING FUNDS
Article 10 To see what revolving funds pursuant to c. 44, section 53E ½ of the General Laws of the
Commonwealth the town will authorize or reauthorize, for various boards, commissions or departments of the
town, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2013 and ending June 30, 2014, or to take any other action related
thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the following revolving funds are hereby established pursuant to the provisions of
MGL chapter 44, section 53 E ½ for the 2013 Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014.
Name of FY 14
Revolving Revolving Spending Spending
Fund # Fund Authority Revenue Sources Use of Funds Limit
Pequitside Farm Conservation Rental of Pequitside Farm, Rental of Maintaining, improving & renovation $40,000
Rentals Commission Little Red House, Rental of Rooms in of property, payment of salaries for annually
1 Main Building, Rental of Rooms in time spent arranging rentals.
Tavern or any other portion of building
or grounds.
Veteran's Veterans' Contributions, Donations, Gifts, Providing services to veterans not $60,000
Services Special Services Grants. funded under established program, annually
Revenues Director including but not limited to
newsletter publication, monthly
2 breakfasts, funeral services, other
commemorative programs and other
purposes in the opinion of the
Veterans' Director in the best
interests of Canton Veterans.
Fire Alarm Fire Chief Fees received by it from, or on behalf Payment of bills and charges $20,000
Relocation of Commonwealth, any public utility, incurred in connection with annually
3
any other business entity, or any relocation of fire alarm signal wires,
individual person. devices & other appurtenances.
COA Council on Donations received for providing Payment of bills and charges in $25,000
4 Transportation Aging transportation services. connection with transportation of annually
Fund elderly.
Board of Health Board of Contributions, donations, gifts, grants, Providing services to Canton citizens $15,000
Special Health reimbursements. not otherwise funded under annually
Revenues established program, including but
5 not limited to flu vaccinations, child
and teenage health education &
development programs and elderly
health programs.
Animal Control Animal Adoption and boarding fees. Payment for veterinary services and $40,000
6 Special Control Officer payments to Animal Control Officer. annually
Revenues
Library Building Board of Fees for rental and use of Community Paying bills, connected with the $30,000
Rentals Library or other assembly rooms used for providing of maintenance and supply annually
Trustees meetings, programs or other events, of facilities and for the support and
7 including payments for use of facilities safe conduct of said programs and
and conveniences in conjunction with events.
use of spaces, as may be established
by the Board of Library Trustees.
Student Parking School Fees paid by students to park their Payment of bills and charges to $75,000
8 Fees Committee vehicles at Canton High School. maintain the high school parking lots annually
and grounds.
Greenlodge Board of Fees paid by residents and non- Payment of bills and charges to $75,000
9 Street Parking Selectmen residents to park their vehicles along maintain the program with $35,000 annually
Fees Greenlodge Street. to be transferred to General Fund.
Beautification Beautification Fees received from the sale of bricks.Payment of services required to $10,000
10 Fund Committee install bricks and for other annually
beautification projects.
Library Board of Fees received for processing passport Payment of bills and charges for $40,000
Revolving Fund Library applications, loss, damage or late processing passport applications, annually
11
Trustees return of borrowed materials, purchasing books and other library
replacement of borrower cards, or any materials for public loan.
- 22 –Source page 23
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Name of FY 14
Revolving Revolving Spending Spending
Fund # Fund Authority Revenue Sources Use of Funds Limit
other such fees as may be established
by the Board of Library Trustees, for
the purpose of and consistent with
maintaining a fair and efficient library
loan system.
Soil Erosion and Conservation Fees received for permits and Payment of bills and charges to $30,000
Sediment Commission certificates of compliance under Article process permits and certificates of annually
12
Control Fund XX (20) of the Town General By-Laws. compliance under Article XX (20) of
the Town General By-Laws.
Youth Youth Donations. Payment of scholarships and other $10,000
13 Commission Commission expenses related to youth activities. annually
Fund
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimously to continue the thirteen funds that were approved at
the prior ATM. While there were no material changes to the sources of revenue or use of funds, the Finance
Committee voted to increase the size of the Veterans Revolving fund by $30,000 (see below for discussion).
DISCUSSION:
Revolving Fund #1
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting annually to allow the Conservation Commission to
continue its revolving account. They currently have a revolving account to which all rentals related to the use of the
properties located on the premises known as Pequitside Farm are credited.
Revolving Fund #2
DISCUSSION: This motion was requested by the Veterans’ Services Director to establish a revolving fund for
special revenues received. The fund will be used to provide services to veterans who are not otherwise funded
under any established program. The Finance Committee supports increasing the size of this fund to $60,000 to
permit the Veterans’ Services Director to receive additional donations for veterans’ affairs.
Revolving Fund #3
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Fire Chief to establish a revolving fund for
fees received to compensate the department for relocating fire alarm services.
Revolving Fund #4
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Council on Aging to establish a revolving
fund to which revenues derived from the transportation supplied to the elderly citizens must be credited. This fund
must be used for the payment of bills and charges in connection with transportation for our elderly citizens. The
expected source of funds will be donations rather than fees charged.
Revolving Fund #5
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Board of Health to establish a revolving fund
for donations and other reimbursement received. The fund will be used to purchase additional flu vaccinations and
offer educational programs on health-related topics not otherwise funded by their present annual budget.
Revolving Fund #6
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Animal Control Officer to establish a
revolving fund for donations received. The fund will be used to purchase veterinary services not otherwise funded
by their present annual budget.
Revolving Fund #7
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Board of Library Trustees to establish a
revolving fund for building rental fees and other payments received. The fund will be used to support the rental
programs and other related costs.
Revolving Fund #8
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the School Committee to establish a revolving
fund for fees paid by students to park their vehicles at Canton High School. The fund will be used for the payments
of bills and other charges to maintain the high school parking lots and grounds.
- 23 –Source page 24
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Revolving Fund #9
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Board of Selectmen to establish a revolving
fund for fees paid by residents to park their vehicles on Greenlodge Street. The fund will be used for the payments
of bills and other charges to maintain the parking program. At year end, any balance in this fund is transferred to
the general fund.
Revolving Fund #10
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Beautification Committee to establish a
revolving fund for fees paid by residents to purchase commemorative bricks. The fund will be used for the
payments of bills and other charges to install bricks and for other beautification projects.
Revolving Fund #11
DISCUSSION: This revolving fund will allow the Library to keep the fines they charge for books and other
materials that are returned late. This will help the library meet state requirements to receive annual state aid and
certifications. This revolving fund will also allow the Library to collect fees and pay expenses related to processing
passports.
Revolving Fund #12
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Conservation Commission to establish a
revolving fund for fees paid in accordance with the Town’s soil erosion by-law. The fund will be used for the
payments of bills and other charges to process permits and certificates of compliance under Article XX (20) of the
Town’s General By-Laws.
Revolving Fund #13
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Youth Commission to establish a revolving
fund for donations received. This revolving fund will allow the Youth Commission to use the donations to benefit
the Youth of Canton through continued programming.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 11
“OMNIBUS” CAPITAL OUTLAY PROGRAM
Article 11 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate, or to transfer from available funds, or to
authorize the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, 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, or to take
any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for Capital Planning Committee
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.
- 24 –Source page 25
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
(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: 7-0-0
MOTION 1
DISCUSSION: This motion authorizes the Finance Director to supervise the acquisition, trade-ins, or other
disposition of vehicles and other motorized equipment. This motion also authorizes the Building Renovations
Committee to oversee all building/land projects.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 2
MOVED: That Four Hundred Forty Three Thousand Dollars ($443,000) be appropriated from the
Fiscal Year 2014 tax levy and other general revenues of the Town to be spent by the Finance
Director/Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of various Municipal Departments designated
below and with the approval of the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of purchasing certain items of
property set forth below as follows:
FINCOM FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT VOTE
Police Department
Police Cruiser Replacement $48,000 7-0-0
DPW
Fueling Equipment Upgrade 75,000 7-0-0
Replace Cemetery Lawn Mowers 10,000 7-0-0
Purchase Pallet Fork Tool Attachment 6,000 7-0-0
Purchase Asphalt Hot Box Dump Trailer 38,000 7-0-0
Purchase Message Board 18,000 7-0-0
Finance
Computer Upgrades 18,000 7-0-0
Server Virtualization 135,000 7-0-0
Purchase Microsoft Office Professional Licenses 11,000 7-0-0
Website Redesign 23,000 7-0-0
Recreation
Replace 1994 Ford Pickup Truck #43 35,000 7-0-0
Library
Community Room Stacking Chairs 21,000 7-0-0
Workstations 5,000 7-0-0
_________
GRAND TOTAL $443,000
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 Four Hundred Forty Three Thousand Dollars
($443,000). 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 forgoing 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.
- 25 –Source page 26
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
MOTION 2
DISCUSSION:
Police Department
Police Cruiser Replacement ($48,000)
This is an ongoing vehicle replacement program for the Canton Police Department. The $48,000 appropriation, in
addition to the $100,000 available from FY13, will be used to purchase Four (4) Ford Interceptor AWD Police
Cruisers. The new vehicles will provide for a dependable fleet to help ensure a safe response to all different
emergencies.
DPW
Fueling Equipment Upgrade ($75,000)
This project will upgrade the fuel dispensing system to meet code and also upgrade the outdated SCADA software
control and fuel use reporting system. The existing fleet fueling and monitoring system does not meet revised
Massachusetts DEP code requirements. The fuel dispensers do not have a leak sensor, there is no emergency off
switch for the fuel island, and the high level of alarm for tanks must be made visual from outside.
Replace Cemetery Lawn Mowers ($10,000)
This purchase will replace the two walk behind mowers in the Canton Corner Cemetery that are over 12-years old,
with signs of excessive wear and tear. The structural frames and engine decks on the mowers are worn and
cracked. The engine compression on the mowers is also low, indicating worn cylinders or pistons.
Purchase Pallet Fork Tool Attachment ($6,000)
The pallet forks will be used at the Public Works Yard to help laborers safely move and handle plows, equipment,
and supplies. This will help prevent injuries and minimize labor costs.
Purchase Asphalt Hot Box Dump Trailer ($38,000)
This purchase will provide for the new or current year model Stepp Manufacturing SPHD 3.0 Hot Pack Dump Trailer.
This Trailer will keep hot mix asphalt at the required temperature and improve the quality of asphalt repairs (i.e.
patching potholes, trenches, and street defects), particularly during the cold months. Excess asphalt from prior
applications can also be preserved in the Trailer and re-used, which will reduce waste and save costs.
Purchase Message Board ($18,000)
This purchase will provide for a new or current year model Wanco Solar Message Board. This Wanco Solar Message
Board will help augment and expand the Department and Town’s ability to notify residents or get information to the
public. The design of the equipment provides great flexibility to display any type of message, large or small
letters, graphics and symbols.
Finance
Computer Upgrades ($18,000)
This project, part of an on-going PC replacement program, will cover the upgrade of 23 desktop systems in
Engineering, MIS, Town Clerk, Building, DPW, HR, Planning, and Water Departments. This will complement the 30
Microsoft Windows 7 systems that were installed in various offices last year.
Server Virtualization ($135,000)
This purchase/conversion is required to consolidate servers and implement a virtual infrastructure, an industry
trend over the past five years. The conversion will cut down on the number of physical servers, lower power
consumption and save on cooling costs.
Purchase Microsoft Office Professional Licenses ($11,000)
This project allows the Finance Department to transition to Microsoft Office Professional 2010 from prior versions.
There are multiple FEMA projects that require Office 2007 or later.
Website Redesign ($23,000)
The Town’s website was created back in 2000 and is outdated. This project will allow the Town to transition from
multiple packages and vendors to one consolidated and more advanced application. The migration and redesign
will specifically provide for improved performance, added security and a more favorable end user experience. All
Departments and Committees will have access to this application, providing for more uniformity, added efficiencies
and cost savings.
Recreation
Replace 1994 Ford Pickup Truck #43 ($35,000)
The current 1994 Ford Pickup Truck 2WD #43 is not feasible to repair and requires replacement. The replacement
will be a new or current year model Ford F-250 4WD with snow plow, which will provide for more dependable, all-
season use.
- 26 –Source page 27
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Library
Community Room Stacking Chairs ($21,000)
This purchase will replace 100 stacking chairs and two storage dollies in the Community Room. The chairs, which
pose a safety risk, are brittle and beyond repair.
Workstations ($5,000) This purchase, consisting of three (3) workstations, two (2) self-check stations and one
(1) laptop computer, will provide the ability for some patrons to quickly check out of the library and relieve some of
these tasks from the desk staff. The laptop will be used for presentations, occasional in-house loan when the LAN
is down, and staff in-house computing.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 3
MOVED: That Four Hundred Forty Three Thousand Dollars ($443,000) be appropriated from the
Fiscal Year 2014 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 FINCOM
AMOUNT VOTE
Building Repairs/Improvements
Bathroom Partitions - Hansen $ 19,372 7-0-0
HVAC - Systemwide 99,000 7-0-0
Hot water pump motor replacement - GMS 17,779 7-0-0
Grounds Improvement
School retaining walls replacement – Hansen 16,000 7-0-0
Technology
Infrastructure Upgrade – Phase One (of $140,800) 26,000 7-0-0
NetApp Storage Array 22,500 7-0-0
District Classroom Printers 19,995 7-0-0
High School & GMS Wireless Build – Phase One 50,555 7-0-0
CHS Art Lab Computer Upgrade 14,500 7-0-0
Adobe Illustrator & PhotoShop Upgrade – K-12 Art. Dir. 10,306 7-0-0
Rodman Security Cameras 17,575 7-0-0
Program Improvements
Textbooks Language Arts – Galvin 18,226 7-0-0
Textbooks – various – High School 77,216 7-0-0
New Educator Evaluation Mgmt. System – Systemwide 20,473 7-0-0
Furniture & Fixtures
Cafeteria tables - Luce 5,503 7-0-0
Extraordinary Maintenance
Structural engineering work on bleachers 8,000 7-0-0
_______
GRAND TOTAL $443,000
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 Four Hundred Forty Three Thousand Dollars
($443,000). The Finance Director and the Business Manager of the School Department, acting jointly,
are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such a manner as may be needed to accomplish the
forgoing 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.
- 27 –Source page 28
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
MOTION 3
DISCUSSION:
Building Repairs/Improvements
Bathroom Partitions – Hansen ($19,372)
This funding will provide for the installation of new solid phenolic floor mounted overhead braced partitions in the
Hansen School. The original metal partitions are in poor condition and falling apart. This has become a safety
concern.
HVAC – Systemwide ($99,000)
This request is to fund proactive maintenance and HVAC upgrades per the Town’s ten-year plan. This will update
equipment/systems, improve energy efficiency, and expand the life expectancy of existing equipment.
Hot water pump motor replacement – GMS ($17,779)
This funding is for the replacement of the hot water pump motors; three (3) at the GMS, two (2) at the Hansen,
and two (2) at the JFK. The new premium efficient motors will provide energy savings and rebates; with a pay
back of less than five years.
Grounds Improvement
School retaining walls replacement – Hansen ($16,000)
This funding is for the replacement of the retaining wall (approximately 106 feet) at the Hansen School. The
existing wall is in poor condition and near collapse.
Technology
Infrastructure Upgrade – Phase One (of $140,800) ($26,000)
This funding is required to upgrade all IDF backbone switches from 10/100 to 10/100/1000 ethernet with a fiber
uplink to local MDFs. The 10/100/1000 speed will increase network performance and connectivity as the schools
move forward in coming years with newer technologies. This will also help to better build upon a wireless platform.
NetApp Storage Array ($22,500)
The funding will provide for the increase in NetApp Storage array. The addition of clients to the Citrix requires
more disk space to build Virtual Servers for XenApp to accommodate.
District Classroom Printers ($19,995)
This request will provide for the replacement of the 155 existing local Ink Jet Printers with new Network Laser
Printers; 25 for CHS, 25 for GMS, 30 for each elementary school (grades 3 through 5), and 15 for Rodman. The
Ink Jet Printers are failing and no longer cost effective to operate.
High School & GMS Wireless Build – Phase One ($50,555)
This request will fund a build out for total wireless coverage in the CHS and GMS. Wireless will be the key
connectivity component for the “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) initiative.
CHS Art Lab Computer Upgrade ($14,500)
This request will provide for the upgrade of the nine-year-old art lab computers in the CHS. The newer Adobe
application requires more robust computer systems to run the programs. This will improve functionality and
productivity.
Adobe Illustrator & PhotoShop Upgrade – K-12 Art. Dir. ($10,306)
This request will fund the CHS Art Lab upgrade to the latest version of Adobe Illustrator and PhotoShop. CHS
students will gain the most up-to-date experience with the current technology used by art professionals.
Rodman Security Cameras ($17,575)
The request will fund the purchase and installation of additional security cameras and DVRs throughout the
Rodman and provide for the relocation of several existing cameras. There are currently no exterior cameras in the
areas of the Pre-School arrival and pick-up zones. There are no cameras in the playground area where the children
have to cross to enter. And the third floor and gym/gym entrances do not have proper coverage; the latter being
the area for Cole Harrington and CHARMS arrival and pickup zones.
Program Improvements
Textbooks Language Arts – Galvin ($18,226)
This request is to purchase 200 Prentice Hall Literature 2012 Common Core Student Edition textbooks for GMS
Grades 7 and 8, which are critical to the English language arts (ELA) instructional program. The existing textbooks
(1994 Editions) are in disarray, do not meet the needs of the students or teachers, are not aligned to the Common
Core standards, and are lacking in number. Grades 7 and 8 will each be allotted 100 textbooks.
- 28 –Source page 29
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Textbooks – various – High School ($77,216)
This request is to purchase textbooks and Samsung Digital Presenters for the CHS. The departments and
corresponding number of textbooks/Presenters are as follows: Science (92 books), Mathematics (591 books),
English Language Arts (9 Samsung Presenters), and Social Studies (50 books). The current textbooks, purchased
more than six (6) years ago, are largely out-of-date and need to be replaced. The Samsung Presenters are must-
have pieces of instructional equipment that effectively support instruction in English language arts (ELA) classes.
The Presenters allow teachers to demonstrate their own “thinking out loud” processes related to the instruction of
English.
New Educator Evaluation Mgmt. System – Systemwide ($20,473)
This request is to purchase an electronic organization, file and management system—the Talent Management
System—for all supervisory staff to manage the New Educator Evaluation. The purchase will also include Apple
iPads to access the online system which will be distributed as follows: Five (5) for the CHS, Five (5) for the GMS,
Five (5) for the Elementary and Rodman. The New Educator Evaluation system requires detailed record keeping
and ongoing communication with staff. The Talent Management System is an online program that allows easy
observation records and reports to be maintained and easily manipulated.
Furniture & Fixtures
Cafeteria tables – Luce ($5,503)
This request is to purchase Four (4) sets of cafeteria tables for the Luce School. This will replace the stackable
chairs and round tables.
Extraordinary Maintenance
Structural engineering work on bleachers ($8,000)
This request is to fund the structural engineering work on the CHS bleachers. State building code requires Canton
Public Schools to do a complete structural analysis every five (5) years on the bleachers per Massachusetts State
Building Code, Section 1001.3.2.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 4
MOVED: That One Hundred Ninety One Thousand Dollars ($191,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the Finance Director/Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Department of Public
Works Superintendent and the Board of Selectmen to purchase a catch basin truck and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, be authorized to
borrow, pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of One
Hundred Ninety One Thousand Dollars ($191,000).
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 4
DISCUSSION:
DPW
Replace 1994 Catch Basin Truck #17
The current catch basin truck, with over 80,000 miles of use, is not feasible to repair and needs to be replaced.
The recommended replacement cycle is 60,000 miles of use or ten years. The cleaning bucket and dump body on
the current truck are in good condition and can be recycled onto the new replacement.
The purchase will be a new or current model year 7300 International Truck equipped with Swaploader, bodies and
plow. The new truck and swaploader would allow additional uses such as bulk material hauling, sanding, and snow
plowing. The service life on the new or current model year 7300 International Truck is expected to be in the range
of ten (10) to nineteen (19) years.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 29 –Source page 30
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
MOTION 5
MOVED: That Forty Five Thousand Dollars ($45,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director/Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Fire Chief and the Board of Selectmen for
the purpose of purchasing a vehicle for the Deputy Chief and to meet this appropriation Forty Five
Thousand Dollars ($45,000) be transferred from Ambulance Receipts Reserved for Appropriation
Account.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 5
DISCUSSION:
Fire and Ambulance
Deputy Chief’s Vehicle Replacement
The current Deputy Fire Chief’s 2003 Ford Explorer 4WD vehicle has over 94,950 miles of use and is no longer
dependable for its emergency related functions (i.e. emergency response use and incident command unit
functions). The 2003 Ford Explorer, with its remaining service life, would be utilized as the Emergency Medical
Coordinator’s (EMC) transportation for the Town of Canton Fire Department. The EMC will require local travel
between Station One and Two as well as to local area hospitals.
This request is for the purchase of a new or current model year Ford Explorer for the Deputy Fire Chief with all the
necessary updated equipment. The service life on the new or current model year Ford Explorer is expected to be in
the range of five (5) to nine (9) years.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 6
MOVED: That Eight Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($810,000) be appropriated to be spent by
the Finance Director/Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Fire Chief and the Board of
Selectmen for the purpose of purchasing a ladder truck and to meet said appropriation the Town
Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Eight Hundred Ten Thousand
Dollars ($810,000). The bonds and notes to be issued pursuant to this vote shall be general
obligations of the Town with the intent that the debt service principal and interest is to be repaid in the
first instance from Ambulance Receipts Reserved for Appropriation Account.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 6
DISCUSSION:
The current 1998 Spartan Ladder 2 is not practical to further repair and the Fire Chief recommends that it needs to
be replaced. It recently required $30,000 in repairs to make it safe to operate and is anticipated to require an
additional $250,000 in repairs to extend its service time to 2020. Mechanical problems are also anticipated to
continue and add to its extensive “out-of-service” time. Parts for this unique prototype are for the most part,
custom, difficult to acquire and expensive.
The request is for the purchase of a new or current model year E-One Ladder 2 truck for Station 2 in the
Ponkapoag section of Canton. The truck is vital in that it serves the area of Canton with the highest life safety
hazard. The service life on the new or current model year E-One Ladder 2 is expected to be over 20 years.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 30 –Source page 31
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
MOTION 7
MOVED: That One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000) be appropriated to be spent by
the Finance Director/Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of purchasing a loader truck and to meet
said appropriation One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000) be transferred from the water
enterprise surplus (retained earnings).
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 7
DISCUSSION:
Water Enterprise
Replace 2003 Backhoe Loader Truck #32
Truck 32 JCB Backhoe is the excavator used by the Water and Sewer Division for leak repairs and dig ups. The
DPW feels that Truck 32 Backhoe no longer provides the digging depth and work area reach that the Town
requires. The replacement, a new or current model year CAT 420 F-IT Backhoe Loader with plow and CAT H90
hydraulic Hammer, will meet the DPW and Town’s needs and help maximize labor efficiencies. The hydraulic
hammer will be used to cut asphalt and break concrete and rock encountered on the job. The Truck 32 JCB would
be transferred to fill a need in the Cemetery Division for interments in lighter soils
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 8
MOVED: That Twenty One Thousand Dollars ($21,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Finance Director/Chief Procurement Officer with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of purchasing an asphalt roller and tilting
trailer and to meet said appropriation Twenty One Thousand Dollars ($21,000) be transferred from the
water enterprise surplus (retained earnings).
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 8
DISCUSSION:
Purchase Asphalt Roller and Titling Trailer
The Water/Sewer Division is now doing its own asphalt patching following road dig ups, but has to share a roller
with the Highway Division. As a result, there have been delays in completing work for both divisions. This
purchase of a new or current model year One Ton Asphalt Roller and Titling Haul Trailer for the Water/Sewer
Division will solve this problem and create the needed efficiencies.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 9
MOTION: That Six Hundred Thirty One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($631,250) be
appropriated to be spent by the Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the
Board of Selectmen to pay for a water meter replacement program and to meet said appropriation the
Town Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Six Hundred Thirty One
Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($631,250). It is the intent that the 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: 7-0-0
- 31 –Source page 32
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
MOTION 9
DISCUSSION:
Water Enterprise
Water Meter Replacement Program
This program is a comprehensive three year water meter placement program, which includes 7,500 meters, radio
data transmitters, truck mounted receivers, and a communication software package. The purpose of this program
is to improve the efficiency of meter reading and billing, to eliminate the need for estimated bills, and to increase
customer service. The replacement of meters is required due to their age and serviceability. Water meters lose
accuracy as they age and should be replaced every 10 to 15 years. The change out will include vehicle mounted
reading technology, saving read time and preventing recording errors. The new meter provides the ability to
detect if a leak is occurring in one’s plumbing.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 10
MOTION: That One Hundred Fifty Three Thousand Dollars ($153,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Board of Selectmen
to pay for a comprehensive water resource management plan and to meet said appropriation the Town
Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred Fifty Three
Thousand Dollars ($153,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town but are to be repaid in the first instance from sewer
revenues.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 10
DISCUSSION:
Comprehensive Water Resource Management Plan
Discharge of run off into rivers and streams is regulated under a five-year Federal/State MS4 Discharge permit,
which is renewable now. Canton also has continued reporting responsibilities for water and sewer uses under the
Massachusetts Water Management Act. The overlap of the management of these current needs and the need for
sustainable use of these resources should be handled in an integrated, efficient manner. This project will allow
Sewer Division to assess current CWRMP under the new reporting requirements, develop tools and information to
begin an Integrated Water Resource Management Plan to meet the foregoing US EPA and MA DEP requirements.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 11
MOTION: That Three Hundred Seventy Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($378,750)
be appropriated to be spent by the Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of
the Board of Selectmen to pay for a water meter replacement program and to meet said appropriation
the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen be authorized to borrow pursuant to
any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Three Hundred Seventy
Eight Thousand Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($378,750). It is the intent that the bonds and notes
issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town but are to be repaid in the first
instance from sewer revenues.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
- 32 –Source page 33
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
MOTION 11
DISCUSSION:
Sewer Enterprise
Water Meter Replacement Program
This program is a comprehensive five (5) year water meter placement program, which includes 7,500 meters, radio
data transmitters, truck mounted receivers, and communication software package. The purpose of this program is
to improve the efficiency of meter reading and billing, to eliminate the need for estimated bills, and to increase
customer service. The replacement of meters is required due to their age and serviceability. Water meters lose
accuracy as they age and should be replaced every 10 to 15 years. The change out will include vehicle mounted
reading technology, saving read time and preventing recording errors. The new meter provides the ability to
detect if a leak is occurring in one’s plumbing.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 12
MOTION: That Two Hundred Forty Five Thousand Dollars ($245,000) be appropriated to be spent
by the Recreation Director with the approval of the Board of Selectmen to pay for the replacement of a
compressor and glycol tank and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the
Board of Selectmen be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling
authority as may be, the sum of Two Hundred Forty Five Thousand Dollars ($245,000). It is the intent
that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town but are
to be repaid in the first instance from rink revenues.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 12
DISCUSSION:
Rink Enterprise Fund
The Unit Two Compressor and Glycol Tank at the Metropolis Rink has not been operational for the past eight years.
As a result, the rink is relying on a 15-year old compressor (Unit One) with no back up. Should Unit One fail, it will
take a minimum of two weeks to rebuild the ice, which would likely damage the rink’s reputation and result in the
loss of a diverse, repeat customer base.
The replacement for Unit Two, the “64 TR Ice Rink Chiller Package for R – 404A/ A /40%,” will allow the rink to
operate efficiently and cut energy costs by approximately 25%. Although the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
owns the rink, the Town of Canton is responsible for all capital improvements and rink maintenance costs.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTON 13
MOVED: That the sum of One Million Three Hundred Sixty Thousand Dollars ($1,360,000) be
appropriated to be added to the sums heretofore appropriated pursuant to Article 13, motion 9 of the
2012 Annual Town Meeting, to be expended by the Board of Selectmen under the direction of the
Building Renovation Committee, for the purposes of designing, permitting, constructing and equipping
a Canton Senior Center on property located at 500 Pleasant Street, Canton Massachusetts, and to meet
this appropriation that the sum of One Million Three Hundred Sixty Thousand Dollars ($1,360,000) be
transferred from the Free Cash in the Treasury of the Town thereby increasing the appropriation made
under Article 13 Motion 9 of the 2012 ATM from Six Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($650,000) to Two
Million Ten Thousand Dollars ($2,010,000).
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
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ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
MOTON 13
DISCUSSION:
Senior Center
The benefits of a full service Senior Center to the Canton community are clear: to provide spaces for activities and
programs in support of a variety of senior citizens interests and needs all in the same facility. It is well known from
the 500 Pleasant Street purchase, as voted in last year’s ATM, that Canton’s Washington Street Senior Center
Facility no longer provides these benefits and is inadequate for our seniors. The Town’s Council on Aging (COA)
has been advised that a Senior Center Facility of 12,500 to 15,000 gross square feet would be appropriate for the
size of the town and its demographics.
The 500 Pleasant Street location offers the most potential and is best suited for the new Senior Center; albeit with
a few caveats. The existing building has a gross area of 6,108 SF by a calculation from a field survey of the
conditions. Although the foot print is not 12,500, it provides the most potential for the continued development of a
full service Senior Center over the long-term. Because the Town cannot support the one-time expense associated
with a 12,500 facility, the Senior Center will need to evolve over a series of phases.
The BRC in conjunction with Richard Alvord Architects and the COA have determined that a developed “base”
design, within the bounds of the existing 6,108 SF Pleasant Street structure, could be modified in a suitable way to
combine some spaces to allow for the basic services and needs of the Senior Center to be met. This would include
an upgrade of all the building systems in order for the building to meet current acceptable building code standards
for energy conservation, accessibility and safety as well as modifications to the plan to provide for the program.
The cost estimate for this existing building renovation is $1,360,000.
The Finance Committee unanimously agrees that Canton senior citizens deserve better and are due for a new
facility. We are, however, concerned with the affordability of the project and a moving target budget; which has
morphed from $981,779 to now $1,759,925. The increased estimate, although unfortunate, is reasonable and
commensurate to the costs of a new Senior Center, whether at Pleasant Street or another location.
Renovation of the Pleasant Street location to provide a permanent home for the Senior Center will be a significant
step forward for the seniors of Canton. The building can be added to in the future and will be designed to provide
an eye to that future. The Finance Committee unanimously supports this project, providing it can be completed for
$1,360,000 or less. Anything higher will not be viewed as fiscally prudent for the Town and its taxpayers.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
MOTON 14
MOVED: That a School Building Study Committee be hereby created to assess the current
Canton Public Schools building facilities, to determine the extent to which such facilities meet the
educational needs of the district at the present time and in future years, and to make specific
recommendations as to how future educational space needs of the district might be met. The
Committee shall consist of seven members to be appointed by the Town Moderator for one year terms:
One member of the Board of Selectmen;
One member of the School Committee;
School Superintendent or his designee from within the School Department; and
Four at large members who are residents of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
MOTON 14
DISCUSSION: This motion would establish a School Building Study Committee to study the educational space
needs at the present time and in future years and to make recommendations as to how the future educational
space needs of the district might be met.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
- 34 –Source page 35
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
ARTICLE 12
TEMPORARY MORATORIUM, MEDICAL MARIJUANA TREATMENT CENTERS
Article 12 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-law as follows to enact a temporary moratorium
on medical marijuana treatment centers, or to take any other action related thereto.
By amending Section 11.0, Definitions, by adding the following definition in alphabetical order:
MEDICAL MARIJUANA TREATMENT CENTER
A not-for-profit entity as defined by Massachusetts law only, that acquires, cultivates, possesses,
processes (including development of related products such as food, tinctures, aerosols, oils, or ointments),
transfers, transports, sells, distributes, dispenses, or administers marijuana, products containing
marijuana, related supplies, or educational materials to qualifying patients or their personal caregivers,
which is properly licensed and registered by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health pursuant to all
applicable state laws and regulations.
And by amending Section 7, Special Regulations, by adding the following new subsection 7.7, Temporary
Moratorium-Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers:
7.7 TEMPORARY MORATORIUM - MEDICAL MARIJUANA TREATMENT CENTERS
7.7.1 PURPOSE.
The purpose of this moratorium is to provide restrictions that will allow the Town of Canton (“Town”)
adequate time to consider whether to allow facilities associated with the medical use of marijuana
(including Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers as defined herein), to the extent that such facilities are
permitted under state laws and regulations, and, if so, where and under what conditions. Given that a law
permitting the cultivation, distribution, possession and use of marijuana for medical purposes in the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts was approved by vote at the state election on November 6, 2012 and
has become effective on January 1, 2013, and that the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has yet
to promulgate the regulations by which facilities that produce or dispense medical marijuana shall be
registered and administered, a restriction on the establishment of such facilities and other uses related to
the regulation of medical marijuana in the Town shall provide the opportunity: to study and consider the
potential impacts of such facilities and other related uses on adjacent uses and on general public health,
safety and welfare; to study and consider the related novel and complex legal and planning issues; and to
develop zoning and other applicable regulations that appropriately address these considerations consistent
with statewide regulations and permitting procedures.
7.7.2 EXCLUSION OF OTHER MARIJUANA USES.
Any establishment that acquires, cultivates, possesses, processes (including development of related
products such as food, tinctures, aerosols, oils, or ointments), transfers, transports, sells, distributes,
dispenses, or administers marijuana, products containing marijuana, related supplies, or educational
materials to qualifying patients or their personal caregivers shall not be permitted if such establishment
has not been properly registered and licensed in accordance with applicable state and local laws and
regulations, or is not operated as a not-for-profit entity, or otherwise fails to meet the definition of a
Medical Marijuana Treatment Center.
7.7.3 EXCLUSION OF ACCESSORY USES.
In no case shall the acquisition, cultivation, possession, processing, transfer, transportation, sale,
distribution, dispensing, or administration of marijuana, products containing or derived from marijuana, or
related products be considered accessory to any use.
7.7.4 TEMPORARY MORATORIUM.
The use of land and/or structures for Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and related uses is prohibited
in all zoning districts in the Town so long as this Moratorium is in effect, as set forth in subsection 7.7.5
below and notwithstanding any provision in this Zoning Bylaw to the contrary. Variances from this Section
7.7 are strictly prohibited. During this Moratorium, the Town shall undertake a planning process
consistent with the purposes set forth herein.
7.7.5 EXPIRATION.
This Moratorium shall be effective until May 1, 2016, which is three (3) years from the deadline for the
Massachusetts Department of Public Health to promulgate regulations pursuant to the Medical Use of
Marijuana Law voted at the state election on November 6, 2012.
Board of Selectmen
- 35 –Source page 36
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law be amended as follows to enact a two-year, temporary
moratorium on medical marijuana treatment centers:
By amending Section 11.0, Definitions, by adding the following definition in alphabetical order:
Medical Marijuana Treatment Center
A not-for-profit entity as defined by Massachusetts law only, that acquires, cultivates,
possesses, processes (including development of related products such as food,
tinctures, aerosols, oils, or ointments), transfers, transports, sells, distributes,
dispenses, or administers marijuana, products containing marijuana, related supplies,
or educational materials to qualifying patients or their personal caregivers, which is
properly licensed and registered by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
pursuant to all applicable state laws and regulations.
And by amending Section 7, Special Regulations, by adding the following new subsection 7.7,
Temporary Moratorium-Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers:
7.7 Temporary Moratorium - Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers
7.7.1 Purpose
The purpose of this moratorium is to provide restrictions that will allow the Town of
Canton (“Town”) adequate time to consider whether to allow facilities associated with
the medical use of marijuana (including Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers as
defined herein), to the extent that such facilities are permitted under state laws and
regulations, and, if so, where and under what conditions. Given that a law permitting
the cultivation, distribution, possession and use of marijuana for medical purposes in
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts was approved by vote at the state election on
November 6, 2012 and has become effective on January 1, 2013, and that the
Massachusetts Department of Public Health has yet to promulgate the final regulations
by which facilities that produce or dispense medical marijuana shall be registered and
administered, a restriction on the establishment of such facilities and other uses
related to the regulation of medical marijuana in the Town shall provide the
opportunity: to study and consider the potential impacts of such facilities and other
related uses on adjacent uses and on general public health, safety and welfare; to
study and consider the related novel and complex legal and planning issues; and to
develop zoning and other applicable regulations that appropriately address these
considerations consistent with statewide regulations and permitting procedures.
7.7.2 Exclusion of Other Marijuana Uses.
Any establishment that acquires, cultivates, possesses, processes (including
development of related products such as food, tinctures, aerosols, oils, or ointments),
transfers, transports, sells, distributes, dispenses, or administers marijuana, products
containing marijuana, related supplies, or educational materials to qualifying patients
or their personal caregivers shall not be permitted if such establishment has not been
properly registered and licensed in accordance with applicable state and local laws and
regulations, or is not operated as a not-for-profit entity, or otherwise fails to meet the
definition of a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center.
7.7.3 Exclusion of Accessory Uses
In no case shall the acquisition, cultivation, possession, processing, transfer,
transportation, sale, distribution, dispensing, or administration of marijuana, products
containing or derived from marijuana, or related products be considered accessory to
any use.
7.7.4 Temporary Moratorium
The use of land and/or structures for Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and related
uses is prohibited in all zoning districts in the Town so long as this Moratorium is in
effect, as set forth in subsection 7.7.5 below and notwithstanding any provision in this
- 36 –Source page 37
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Zoning Bylaw to the contrary. Variances from this Section 7.7 are strictly prohibited.
During this Moratorium, the Town shall undertake a planning process consistent with
the purposes set forth herein.
7.7.5 Expiration
This Moratorium shall be effective until June 30, 2015.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 5-2-0
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law be amended as follows to enact a one-year, temporary
moratorium on medical marijuana treatment centers:
By amending Section 11.0, Definitions, by adding the following definition in alphabetical order:
Medical Marijuana Treatment Center
A not-for-profit entity as defined by Massachusetts law only, that acquires, cultivates,
possesses, processes (including development of related products such as food,
tinctures, aerosols, oils, or ointments), transfers, transports, sells, distributes,
dispenses, or administers marijuana, products containing marijuana, related supplies,
or educational materials to qualifying patients or their personal caregivers, which is
properly licensed and registered by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
pursuant to all applicable state laws and regulations.
And by amending Section 7, Special Regulations, by adding the following new subsection 7.7,
Temporary Moratorium-Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers:
7.7 Temporary Moratorium - Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers
7.7.1 Purpose
The purpose of this moratorium is to provide restrictions that will allow the Town of
Canton (“Town”) adequate time to consider whether to allow facilities associated with
the medical use of marijuana (including Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers as
defined herein), to the extent that such facilities are permitted under state laws and
regulations, and, if so, where and under what conditions. Given that a law permitting
the cultivation, distribution, possession and use of marijuana for medical purposes in
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts was approved by vote at the state election on
November 6, 2012 and has become effective on January 1, 2013, and that the
Massachusetts Department of Public Health has yet to promulgate the final regulations
by which facilities that produce or dispense medical marijuana shall be registered and
administered, a restriction on the establishment of such facilities and other uses
related to the regulation of medical marijuana in the Town shall provide the
opportunity: to study and consider the potential impacts of such facilities and other
related uses on adjacent uses and on general public health, safety and welfare; to
study and consider the related novel and complex legal and planning issues; and to
develop zoning and other applicable regulations that appropriately address these
considerations consistent with statewide regulations and permitting procedures.
7.7.6 Exclusion of Other Marijuana Uses.
Any establishment that acquires, cultivates, possesses, processes (including
development of related products such as food, tinctures, aerosols, oils, or ointments),
transfers, transports, sells, distributes, dispenses, or administers marijuana, products
containing marijuana, related supplies, or educational materials to qualifying patients
or their personal caregivers shall not be permitted if such establishment has not been
properly registered and licensed in accordance with applicable state and local laws and
regulations, or is not operated as a not-for-profit entity, or otherwise fails to meet the
definition of a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center.
- 37 –Source page 38
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
7.7.7 Exclusion of Accessory Uses
In no case shall the acquisition, cultivation, possession, processing, transfer,
transportation, sale, distribution, dispensing, or administration of marijuana, products
containing or derived from marijuana, or related products be considered accessory to
any use.
7.7.8 Temporary Moratorium
The use of land and/or structures for Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and related
uses is prohibited in all zoning districts in the Town so long as this Moratorium is in
effect, as set forth in subsection 7.7.5 below and notwithstanding any provision in this
Zoning Bylaw to the contrary. Variances from this Section 7.7 are strictly prohibited.
During this Moratorium, the Town shall undertake a planning process consistent with
the purposes set forth herein.
7.7.9 Expiration
This Moratorium shall be effective until June 30, 2014.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE MAJORITY DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted to support a two-year
moratorium on introduction of medical marijuana clinics in Canton because the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
has not yet released its final set of rules on how these clinics would be regulated. A temporary two-year
moratorium will provide the Town with the time needed to consider the implication of the State Department of
Public Health regulations concerning such centers, while affording the opportunity to conduct thorough planning
studies. These are unchartered waters and the Town should take the necessary steps to be informed and
prepared.
FINANCE COMMITTEE MINORITY DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee readily acknowledges that
medical marijuana treatment centers may have a place in Canton’s future. However, these centers bring new
issues and concerns that require a thorough planning process to address potential impacts. It is the understanding
of the Finance Committee that the Board of Selectmen were in favor of a one-year moratorium. The Finance
Committee initially discussed the possibility of supporting an alternative motion for a one-year moratorium, but the
Minority was concerned that the longer moratorium might be struck down by the Attorney General’s office, as has
been the case for towns that have attempted to ban marijuana clinics outright.
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted 4-0 to send a favorable recommendation in
support of the substitute motion for this article. The Planning Board supports the general concept of a one year
moratorium, as it allows the Town to plan from a zoning perspective for the possibility of a medical marijuana
dispensary in Canton.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 13
AMEND ZONING MAP BY PLACING PARCELS ALONG REVERE STREET AND NEPONSET STREET WITHIN
THE VHOD
Article 13 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Town's zoning map, as most recently amended, by placing
within the Village Housing Overlay District the following parcels of land located along Revere Street and Neponset
Street and shown on a plan entitled Proactive Rezoning of Property Along Revere and Neponset Streets, dated
January 3, 2013 and filed with and available for public review at the offices of the Planning Board, Town Clerk and
Board of Selectmen, the research desk of the Canton Public Library and on the Town website. ; or to take any other
action related thereto.
- 38 –Source page 39
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Map 26, Lots 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 222 and 111; Map
14, Lots 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131 and 132; and Map 15, Lots 80, 81, 82, 83,
84, 85 and 86.
Planning Board
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning
Board to Town Meeting be adopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 13 be indefinitely postponed.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the
Planning Board to Town Meeting be adopted. The Planning Board and the article sponsor both told the Finance
Committee that a substitute motion would be made on Town Meeting floor to withdraw this article without
prejudice. The Finance Committee understands that this will allow this article to be reintroduced at an unspecified
future time.
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted 4-0 to send a recommendation that this
matter be postponed indefinitely.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 14
AMEND ZONING BY-LAWS TO REVISE, UPDATE AND CORRECT SPELLING, GRAMMAR AND ANY OTHER
ADMINISTRATIVE ERRORS.
Article 14 To see if the Town will vote to amend and revise in its entirety the Zoning By-Law to correct spelling
and grammar errors and to delete any duplications, which corrections are on file with and available for public
review at the offices of the Planning Board, Town Clerk and Board of Selectmen, the research desk of the Canton
Public Library and on the Town website, provided said corrections do not substantively change the meaning or
application of any by-laws or provisions therein; or to take any other action in relation thereto.
Planning Board
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning
Board to Town Meeting be adopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Zoning By-law be amended and revised in its entirety to correct spelling and
grammar errors and to delete any duplications all as set forth in the Warrant and as on file at the
offices of the Planning Board, Town Clerk and Board of Selectmen, the research desk of the Canton
- 39 –Source page 40
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 13, 2013
Public Library and on the Town website, provided said corrections do not substantively change the
meaning or application of any provision of the Zoning By-law.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the
Planning Board to Town Meeting be adopted because it has very little financial implication.
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted 4-0 to send a favorable recommendation in
support of this article. The Planning Board supports the corrections to the current Zoning By-Law for
“housekeeping” purposes such as spelling, grammar, and duplications.
APPROVED__________DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE 15
AMEND ZONING BYLAW BY ALTERING THE CANTON CENTER DESIGN REVIEW BOARD (CCDRB),
SECTION 10.7.18
Article 15 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By-Law by amending Section 10.7.18 Uses and
Activities Subject to Design Review by striking the words “by the Town of Canton” from item four so it shall read:
4. Any construction, alteration, demolition or removal of a structure or a site shall be subject to review by
the Design Review Board. This includes all actions except those that are considered to be routine
maintenance.
or to take any other action in relation thereto.
Planning Board for the CCDRB)
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the Finance Committee recommends that the motion presented by the Planning
Board to Town Meeting be adopted.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That Section 10.7.18 of the Zoning By-law be amended by deleting subsection 4. and
replacing it with the following:
4. Any construction, alteration, demolition or removal of a structure or site, other than any
construction, alteration, demolition or removal of a single family residence which does not change the
single family use of the structure or site, shall be subject to review by the Design Review Board.
Construction, alteration, demolition or removal includes all actions except those that constitute routine
maintenance.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Canton Center Design Review Board was established in
approximately 2002 to ensure that changes made to buildings owned by the town in Canton Center were consistent
with the Master Plan. However, limiting this review to buildings owned by the town severely restricted the CCDRB’s
ability to keep Canton Center’s appearance consistent with the Master plan. The proposed amendment would
require that for any non-single residential building, any work other than routine maintenance should go before the
CCDRB. The Finance Committee fully supports the proposal of the Planning Board.
- 40 –