Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
Canton Annual Town Report — 2023
Saved text from 109 source pages. Transcription and OCR may contain errors; verify figures and wording against the original. Retrieved 2026-10-18.
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Report of the
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Playground and Recreation Commission William J. Armando Recreation Facility
Stacey Gorman, Chairman 92 Pleasant St.
Mark Grossman, Vice-Chairman Canton, MA 02021
Marsha Armando, Member Telephone 781-821-5030
Alison Grossman, Member Fax 781-575-6587
Cab Devoll, Member www.cantonrec.com
Debra Kelly, Member rec_dept@town.canton.ma.us
Department Staff
Tyler Radicioni, Recreation Director,
Jim Coutoumas, Assistant Recreation Director
Audrey Cohen, Secretary/Principal Clerk
Dennis Aldrich, Recreation Maintenance Supervisor
Office Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Department of the Parks and Recreation is dedicated to enriching the lives of all citizens through diverse and innovative
recreation programs and services. With a focus of arts, sports and games, the outdoors, education, and community events, we provide
both active and passive social opportunities that build community and inspire personal growth. Our parks provide support for
recreation that contributes to enhancing the quality of life. The department encourages citizens to become active, responsible, and
engaged members of the community.
The members of the Parks and Recreation Commission are appointed by the Select Board, embody a cross section of Canton
residence. The Commission works with the department staff to implement its mission and to meet the needs of the community. The
Commission members also play a vital role in planning and implementation of community events sponsored by the Parks and
Recreation Department.
FACILITIES
The Department of Parks and Recreation manage three main facilities: the Armando Recreation Facility, Metropolis Skating Rink, and
Bolivar Swimming Pool. In addition, the department is responsible for maintenance of nineteen athletic fields and seven playgrounds
located in thirteen locations throughout the town of Canton. The various facilities services Canton's youth sports programs in soccer,
ice hockey, lacrosse, football, baseball, and softball as well as adult softball leagues, summer playground and camp programs, other
rental groups and Canton citizens throughout the year. The Department of Parks and Recreation is also responsible for the lawns and
required waterway treatments of the Paul Revere Heritage Site and the Earl Newhouse Waterfront.
PROGRAMING
A full lineup of program offerings for citizens of all ages includes many popular returning programs such as summer camp, swim
lessons, and youth and adult programs. In the past year over 145 programs were offered to residents and non-residents and as the
department continues to grow additional program offerings will be made. As always, the demand is high for these programs run
directly through Canton Parks and Recreation and fill up quickly on a first come first serve basis. Visit the Recreation Website for all
program offering and registration timelines.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
During the course of the year the Parks and Recreation Commission work closely with the other town departments to offer numerous
community events. This past year the Department ran an Easter Egg Hunt, Halloween Parade, The Billy Armando Golf Tournament,
The 4th of July Celebration, Breakfast with Santa and partnered with the COA for the annual Holiday Senior Party. The Department
also partnered with CAASA to run the first ever Back to School Bash which saw over 400 people attend.
COLLABORATION
A Special thanks to Public Works, Fire, Police, Canton Public Schools, Conservation, Council on Aging, Board of Health, The Library
and the Select Board for their consistent contributions and cooperation throughout the year to assist us in our community events and
our programs. The Department would like to thank its staff, volunteers, the staff of all other supporting departments, the Select Board
and the citizens of Canton for their support in 2024.
Respectfully Submitted
Stacey Gorman, Canton Parks and Recreation Chair
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Report of the
PLANNING BOARD
Patricia McDermott, Chair 801 Washington St.
David McCarthy, Vice-Chair Canton, MA 02021
Kathy Gibbs McCormack, Clerk Telephone 781-821-5019
Jim Quigley, Member planningboard@town.canton.ma.us
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant
Thomas Houston, Professional Services, Inc.
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Organization and Membership
On April 2, 2023, Patricia McDermott was elected as a Planning Board member for her second five (5) year term. On June 7, 2023,
the Planning Board reorganized, at which time Patricia McDermott was re-elected Chair; David McCarthy was re-elected Vice Chair;
and Kathy Gibbs McCormack was re- elected Clerk.
Function
The Planning Board is comprised of five elected, volunteer town residents of varied backgrounds. They are charged with the
following responsibilities:
• Preparation and updating of the Town’s Master Plan;
• Review and approval of the construction of new subdivisions;
• Adoption and Review of Town’s Subdivision Rules and Regulations;
• Presenting new streets to Town Meeting for Acceptance;
• Review and recommendation of site plans for the Zoning Board of Appeals;
• Proposal of amendments to the Zoning By-laws and reporting on amendments filed by others;
• Overseeing the Town’s Scenic Ways;
• Approval of some special permits as permitted under the Zoning By-Laws;
• Appointment of the Canton Center Design Review Board;
• Any other duty as prescribed under the General Laws of the Commonwealth and the By-Laws of the Town of Canton.
Development Activity
The Planning Board conducted technical Site Plan Reviews for eight (9) projects, and their approval or denial; and separate Lot
Releases for Approved Definitive Subdivisions. The Board reviewed and approved two (2) Minor Modifications of existing
Approved Site Plans; approved two (2) Approval Not Required (ANR) Plans for division of land having frontage on existing roads
and streets; approved one (1) three (3) lot Definitive Subdivisions; four (4) applications for Design Review Board Approval; one (1)
Scenic Way application; and informational hearings to review streets to be completed, review bond reductions and bond releases.
The Planning Board played an active role in 2023 during the Town Meeting process by holding public hearings on Zoning Articles
and sponsoring Zoning Articles. These articles include, but are not limited to the procedures regarding housekeeping articles for
definitions; and review of table of uses.
T.J. Torres started working as the Town Planner in June, and came to us from Taunton with ten (10) years of experience. He looks
forward to exciting opportunities and working with the Planning Board and providing technical review and assistance for projects
reviewed by the Board, along with implementation of the Master Plan; Housing Production Plan; and also working with the Select
Board to procure grants and accomplish other special projects to reach Town goals.
The Board has worked with MAPC on the Downtown Canton Report which is updating and creating the Downtown Canton Zoning &
Design Guidelines Update. This is trying to create a strong sense of place. It will be walkable, vibrant with activity, have a broad
range of uses, and connect to nearby destinations. This will implement vision; provide detailed recommendations and language for
this process; with recommendations for updated zoning, along with updated design guidelines.
Committees
The Planning Board appointed the following members to various Boards: Community Preservation Committee, David McCarthy;
Comprehensive Water Resource Management Committee, Jim Quigley; Master Plan Implementation Committee, Patricia McDermott;
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Permit Advisory Committee, Jim Quigley; Sustainability Committee, Patricia McDermott; Walk/Bike and Hike Committee, Patricia
McDermott; and Wayfinding Committee, Jim Quigley.
Other Initiatives
This year the Planning Board and Town Planner worked together to draft Warrant Articles for Town Meeting 2023.
The Planning Board continued to work with various consultants on a number of planning efforts, including the Mary E. Wentworth
Boardwalk & Recreation Site Renovation; MAPC Study on the Canton Center Zoning and Design Guidelines; Master Plan
Implementation Committee; Walk Bike & Hike Committee; Housing; Street Scape; Paul Revere Museum; various grants; Micro-
Enterprise Grant; Municipal Housing Trust; Transportation and Neponset Street; Warner Trail to Rhode Island; and the Climate
Resiliency Grant, in regard to future flooding and solutions and recommendation projects.
We wish to extend our sincere appreciation to the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Engineering Division, Town Counsel, Paul DeRensis
and John Richard Hucksam, Jr., and HR Administrator Jody Middleton for their continued support throughout the year. We would
also like to thank the Planning Board’s Consultant Engineer, Thomas Houston, and his entire staff at PSC for their efforts in assisting
the Planning Board with the peer-review process.
Finally, on behalf of the Board, I would like to express our gratitude to Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant. Ms. Lawlor has been
extremely helpful in the operation of this department this past year and her work is greatly appreciated.
Report of the
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Helena Rafferty, Chief of Police #1440 1492 Washington St.
Canton, MA 02021
Telephone 781-828-1214
Fax 781-821-2549
The Canton, MA Police Department was first established in 1875 and has a proud and storied history of delivering professional and
dedicated police service, to all residents and business owners within our jurisdiction. As your 14th Chief of Police, I am so honored
and privileged to lead this Department and offer my report for calendar year 2023.
Dedication
There is no way to possibly start this overview, without first recognizing the imprint left by the Ruane family upon the Canton Police
Department. In July of this year, beloved Detective John F. Ruane III passed away, far too young, after a long battle with cancer.
During his time as a Canton Police Officer, he brought an immense amount of laughter to our halls and an unparalleled tenacity to his
work. He was followed in death this past December by his father, the 11th Chief of Police for the town, John F. Ruane Jr. Both of
these men, along with John F. Ruane Sr., gave decades of their lives to protect and serve this community. Between the three of them,
they served thru some of the most difficult and uncharted times in the history of law enforcement. For the Courage, Professionalism
and Dedication exhibited by these men to their fellow citizens, this report is dedicated to them.
Personnel
In February of 2023, we also experienced the heartbreaking death of retired Officer Robert Wadman, more commonly referred to as
“Waddie”. Waddie was a member of the “Olde Guarde” for the Canton Police Department and with his parting, the town was robbed
of another part of history. 2023 also brought the departure of three young officers seeking new opportunities. In February, Officer
Julianna Murray left our ranks to pursue a different career path while Officer Kelly Dever transferred to the Boston Police
Department in March. November saw the departure of Officer Robert McClellan who transferred to the Massachusetts State Police.
This past October, we added new personnel to our ranks as Officers Wade, Meade and Hines graduated the academy. As one thing
ends, another begins, candidate officers Michael Staffiere, Michael Antonelli, and Joseph Guarino started the academy in December
and have an anticipated graduation date of Spring 2024.
In July 2023, Isabelle Nolan joined the community as the Substance Use Prevention Coordinator (CAASA Director) for the Town.
Although she is assigned to the Recreation Department, her knowledge and resources are critical and intertwined with the mission of
our four (4) full-time School Resource Officers (SRO’s). Together with their partners in the school administration and faculty, they
build a framework for all our youth focused on personal safety and good decision making.
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Speaking of the School Resource Officers, they were absolutely thrilled to accompany (as either a police officer or a coach) both the
Boys and Girls Hockey teams to the Boston Garden for the State Finals in March 2023. It was an amazing day that brought the
community together and offered the very best that this Town has to offer.
Contemporary Issues
As noted in the past, law enforcement has consistently posed challenges, but its complexity has notably increased in recent years. Last
year, our full-time clinician (Ciara McGuire) and officers jointly responded to just under 550 calls in our community for neighbors
battling mental health issues. The world is a difficult place to maneuver these days, for so many reasons. There is so much anger and
uneasiness and mental health struggles are a REAL ramification. As a nation, we need to develop a much better plan to help those we
know need help, yet won’t seek it AND those crying out for help that can’t get it. Kudos to Ciara and all of our officers for the lives I
KNOW you have saved, in more ways than one!
In April of 2023, we completed a mock “active assailant” drill with the Canton Fire Department at the Kennedy School. It was an
incredibly useful training that we plan to do once a year at different venues/schools. The safety of our youth in our schools and other
safe spaces is one of the Canton Police Department’s most important missions.
Crime Over
Beyond the well-being checks and mental health responses, traffic stops, mandated training, community group discussions, school
presence and plethora of other roles that come with this profession, the women and men of the Canton Police Department handled
1111 calls for serious criminal activity to include armed robbery, rape, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, response to
domestic violence (one of the deadliest calls for officers), drug offenses, breaking and entering in progress, illegal firearm possession,
illicit drug investigations-some involving deadly fentanyl, child pornography cases and many others.
Community Reflections
The members of the Canton Police Department are so grateful for the support that we overwhelmed with during this past holiday
season. Whether it be the food that was dropped down, the donations for initiatives we plan to undertake, or the simple emails and
cards of encouragement, we thank you! It goes without saying, that this has been challenging year for the Canton Police Department
and the Town of Canton overall.
The Year Ahead
In the Fall of 2024, the Canton Police, Fire and School Departments plan to run a coordinated, mock “Active Assailant” drill at the
Dean S. Luce school. Although this is the worst nightmare I could think of, we believe the drill will highlight and pinpoint areas for
improvement in our response to this scenario.
In November of this past, the town held a Special Town Meeting to vote on an audit of the Canton Police Department, a movement
that grew from the investigation into the death of resident John O’Keefe. Those present on November 20th, voted to spend $200,000 to
fund the audit which presumably, should occur sometime this year.
The men and women of the Canton Police Department welcome the scrutiny and embrace the opportunity to enact any positive
transformations that may come about. We are confident it will put an end to all the speculation that has occurred over the past year and
instead, spotlight the daily contributions performed by the members of this organization. Ultimately, the goal of this audit for many, is
to help restore fractured trust for those residents who have lost faith in their police department. For others, the goal of the audit is to
underscore what they have believed all along, Canton has a great police department.
Reflection Quote
I am 18 months plus into my tenure as Chief of Police and it has been quite a journey thus far. I feel frustrated that I have not been
able to build and focus on all the different programs and initiatives that would benefit our community. I look forward to the future
I have learned so much and look forward to continuing that insightful journey. I ended last year’s report with this quote and I believe it
is even more relevant in these turbulent and confusing times, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be
changed until it is faced.” -James Baldwin
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Report of the
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works 801 Washington St.
Alfons Koka, Town Engineer Canton, MA 02021
William Walsh, Operations Manager Administrative Office & Engineering Division
Larry Bogue, Highway Supervisor Lower Level – 781-821-5023
Brian Lynch, Facilities and Grounds Director dpwdeptheads@town.canton.ma.us
Steve Choiniere, Facilities and Grounds Supervisor
Christopher Sykes, Water & Sewer Supervisor Water Division Administration
Patricia Cawley, Water & Sewer Billing Coordinator Second Floor – 781-821-5017
dpwdeptheads@town.canton.ma.us
It is the mission of the Public Works Department to ensure the value of and maintenance of the existing infrastructure of the Town of
Canton as well as to promote an investment in its future, thereby providing for the health and well being of its Citizens.
The Public Works Department, acting through the Superintendent and Managers, will provide these services in a cost effective,
responsive, and accountable manner, according to generally accepted municipal standards. The services will be provided with a
commitment to constant improvement.
ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
The Administration Division provides centralized administrative and management support for Public Works. Its activities include
managing customer service requests, business accounts, payroll, and information processing.
The Administration Division handled 6,397 phone inquiries; issued 1,853 Yard Waste Stickers, processed 5,230 invoices, created 924
service requests, under a new program issued 382 mattress / box spring receipts.
HIGHWAY & MAINTENANCE DIVISION
The Highway & Maintenance Division is responsible for the upkeep of Town roads, sidewalks, trees, drains, the Canton Corner
Cemetery, and the maintenance of all equipment. Its activities include sweeping streets, repairing or reconstructing roads and
sidewalks, providing winter maintenance, cleaning catch basins on all public streets, and repairing both Public Works and other Town
owned vehicles and equipment.
The Highway & Maintenance Division coordinated surface improvements including curb and sidewalk on Washington St. from
Walnut to the Sharon town line. Completed safety upgrade at the Kenny and Washington Sts. intersection.
The Division closed out 2,702 work orders generated from scheduled maintenance and customer service requests.
All streets were swept five times. 327 Catch basins were cleaned.
Streets were sanded or plowed 19 times. Winter storms totaled 16 inches. The largest snow fall was 3-inches falling January 23, 2023.
FACILITIES & GROUNDS DIVISION
The Facilities and Grounds Division is responsible for day to day care and maintenance of 21 buildings, covering 217,000 s.f., owned
by the Town. The Division’s responsibilities include safety inspections and preventative maintenance of generators, elevators, alarm
systems, fire sprinkler systems, and HVAC systems.
The Town began the reorganization of the Facilities and Grounds Division of Public Works into the Central Maintenance Department.
Brian Lynch was brought on as Director.
Larger projects completed by the Division include; renovation of St. Gerard’s ground floor into the Food Pantry, fire alarm system
installations for the Water Sewer and Parks and Recreation garages, new ceiling in Memorial Hall foyer, renovation to the second
floor at Sassamon St. Fire Station, furnace for Canton Corner Cemetery office.
The Division partnered with the State and Green Communities Program to secure money to install a heat pump in Memorial Hall.
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ENGINEERING DIVISION
The Engineering Division provides technical support and project co-ordination for the Department as well as for other Town Boards
and agencies. The Division manages funds received through the State’s Chapter 90 Program, also inspects and approves contract and
private work that add to the infrastructure of the Town.
During the year the Engineering Division completed several major efforts including installation of traffic signal at Pleasant and
Sherman, exploration of design concepts for Pine and Bolivar St. intersection, working with MassDOT on the design of the Revere Ct.
bridge, aiding the Federal Rail Administration and MBTA with the traffic study at Washington St. MBTA Station, obtained
professional services for the traffic light design at Randolph and York.
The Engineering Division worked with Highway and Planning to continue managing grant programs including Housing Choice Grant
for Neponset St. design, Shared Streets Grant for pedestrians’ signs at the Hanson School, Complete Streets Grant to help fund the
surface improvements on Washington St.
The Division issued 59 water permits, 50 sewer permits, 217 trench permits, 76 street excavation permits, processed $1,650,487 in
Chapter 90 reimbursements.
WATER SEWER DIVISION
The Water Sewer Division is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Town’s water and sanitary sewer systems. The
Division provides safe clean drinking water from eight Town wells and the MWRA. Sanitary waste is removed through the sewer
system and transferred to the MWRA interceptor and then to Deer Island treatment facility.
The Division processed 30,244 water sewer bills, handled 1,443 water, 339 sewer service requests, completed 135 water meter
installation and water meter service calls. Repaired 27 water breaks.
Water Sewer Division produced 394 MG from the Moran and Sullivan Treatment Facilities and bought 550 MG from the MWRA for
calendar year 2023.
The Division worked with its’ contractor, Veolia, to complete renovation and painting the Indian Ln. Spheroid Water Tank. D & C
Construction began the Granular Activated Charcoal addition to the Moran WTP at Pecunit St.
Reflection
Public Works congratulates Jim Connor for 35 years, Bill Walsh for 30 years, Chris Sykes for 20 years, Pat Cawley for 15 years,
Kelsey Quinlan, Rob Martin, James Gallagher, Sebastian Andreassi, and Peter Ferry for 5 years of service. Our success is built upon
their commitment and effort.
We welcomed 6 new employees to the Public Works roster: Kris Meaney, Alfons Koka, Brian Lynch, Michael Chase, James
Donahue, Larry James.
The Department congratulates and thanks Lisa Grega and Gerard Peters on their retirement.
Respectfully Submitted, Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
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Report of the
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Kendall O’Halloran, Chair 960 Washington St.
Maureen E. Moran, Vice-Chair Canton, MA 02021
Laura Arboleda, Clerk Telephone 781-821-5060
Kristian Darigan Merenda, Member Fax 781-575-6500
Kimberly McCourt, Member www.cantonma.org
Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
OVERVIEW
Throughout 2023, the Canton Public Schools (CPS), in collaboration with educators, staff, families, the community, our School
Committee and town officials, enjoyed a year of growth and learning and celebrated some notable achievements and milestones.
We closed out the school year in June 2023, celebrating our students who engaged in a number of incredible learning and
extracurricular experiences that were both transformational and fulfilling on many levels. In September, CPS welcomed over 3,100
students for the 2023-24 school year, and the students, staff and families cherished the relationships, the opportunities, achievement
and joy that happened in the classrooms, schools and beyond.
We accomplished this important work while also participating in educational visioning sessions, design meetings and community
forums for the future of a new Galvin Middle School. We loved seeing our students thrive in the present as we enthusiastically
planned forward.
We set forth several bold 2022-23 District Goals, and we achieved those Goals. In particular, we improved our District MCAS Math
Meeting and Exceeding scores by 5.1 percent, far outperforming the state. Overall, we saw achievement and growth scores across the
grade levels bounce back in a very positive way since COVID.
During the summer months and throughout the year, CPS engaged in program reviews for wellness and visual arts, and many hours of
curriculum work and job-embedded professional development for continued implementation of the math curriculum and writing goals.
Additionally, the educators and curriculum leaders did remarkable work implementing Wayfinder, a K-12 social emotional learning
curriculum, and the University of Florida Literacy Institute’s Foundations Program (UFLI), a research-based program that provides
explicit and systematic phonics program for K-2 and small groups in Grade 3. We also are proud of our continued professional
learning for restorative practices, educational equity, multi-tiered systems of support, and high quality teaching, learning and leading.
After a comprehensive process, the District also selected PowerSchool as our new Student Information System (SIS). The shift will
provide families, staff and students with a stronger and more interactive and integrated interface. The full implementation phase will
take over a year.
Through a District Goal focused on Human Resources, the CPS adopted several new title and personnel changes through restructuring.
Stephen Marshall became the Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations, Sarah Shannon became the Assistant
Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Deb Roonney became the Director for Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment, and Josh
Fogel earned the role of Director of Technology and Data Analytics. Recognizing a need for enhanced attention to Human Resources,
Julie Shore was named the Director of Personnel Services. We also welcomed Paul McKnight as the new principal of Hansen
Elementary School, Sarah Shaw as the PreK-5 Assistant Director of Student Services, and William Kickham as the 6-12 Assistant
Director of Student Services. Through a budget enhancement, we added assistant principals to the elementary schools. Through this
reorganization, we also appointed Melanie Omar as our first Multi-Language Coordinator for the District.
Finally, in collaboration with stakeholders, Canton Public Schools completed its 5-year Strategic Plan, which included an update to its
Mission, Vision and Core Values -- (REACH) Respectful and Collaborative Relationships, Educational Equity, Academic and
Personal Excellence, Community Engagement, and High Quality Teaching, Learning and Leading. This document will serve as a
guidepost for continuous improvement, rigorous and equitable experiences, and innovative thinking.
Above all, the District remains extremely proud of its schools and the school community and looks forward to a joyous and successful
second half of the school year, beginning January 2024.
FINANCE
The School Department operating budget for the 2023-2024 school year is distributed as follows:
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Salaries $43,472,282
Expenses $10,018,261
Total $53,490,543
The above figure represents a 5.59% increase above the 2022-2023 budget.
The operating budget of $53,490,543 is supplemented with revenue offsets projected at $4,321,640 from revolving (fee-based)
accounts and reserve fund accounts and $1,594,010 in federal, state and private grants.
Revolving Accounts/Reserve Funds
Athletic User Fees $125,000
Pre-School Revolving $100,000
Special Education Circuit Breaker Revolving $3,296,640
Special Education Reserve $800,000
TOTAL $4,321,640
Federal/ State/Private Grants
SPECIAL EDUCATION 94-142 $985,632
SPECIAL EDUCATION Early Childhood $32,752
PROFICIENCY-BASED OUTCOMES FOR LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH $16,250
QUALITY ENHANCEMENTS IN AFTER-SCHOOL AND OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME $75,000
FY24 TITLE I $307,592
TITLE II $58,496
TITLE III $20,078
TITLE IV $10,000
COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES $80,000
PROJECT LEAD THE WAY (CHS) $1,350
PROJECT LEAD THE WAY (GMS) $6,860
TOTAL $1,594,010
The District’s FY24 budget, approved at Annual Town Meeting in May 2023, totaled $53,490,543. This 5.59% increase from the
previous year’s budget supports the District’s efforts to effectively meet the needs of all our students from grades PreK-12.
The FY24 budget supported the following actions:
● Advance operating expenses to support the Strategic Framework and its four Strategic Objectives.
● Continue to meet the contractual obligations of all collective bargaining agreements.
● Address special education out-of-district tuition and transportation expenses that continue to increase.
The District’s FY24 Cash Capital Budget totaled $1,000,000. The District used the cash capital funds to address the following:
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Building/Grounds Repairs and Improvements
● HVAC Maintenance – District
● Innovation Lab Renovation – CHS
● Replacement of 1st Floor Tiles – Hansen, JFK
● Generator Replacement – Rodman
● RTU #3 - CHS
● RTU Over Library - Luce
● Landscaping & Grounds Improvement
Technology
● Replacement Classroom Phones - District
● Touchview Boards – District
● Airtame Upgrades – District
● Unit E Members Laptops – District
● Chromebooks Replacement Cycle – Elementary
● Teacher Pilot Devices - CHS
● Security System Server - CHS & GMS
Program Improvements
● Relocate Robotics - CHS
● AP Physics 2 Equipment – CHS
● Performing Arts Wenger Platforms CHS auditorium - District
● Technology Imac Upgrade - Music/Theater Production - CHS
● Replace Indoor Basketball Hoops – JFK
● Volleyball System Upgrade – CHS
● Replacement of Classroom Based Instruments - District
Furniture & Fixtures
● Visual Arts Replacement Furniture - District
● Elementary Library Furniture Enhancement - Tech
Extraordinary Maintenance/Vehicle Replacement
● School Bus - District
● ReMaintenance Department Truck - District
Debt Capital
● Unit Ventilators – JFK
● Brick Repointing –District
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
The following are enrollment figures for the pre-school, elementary, middle and high schools for October 2022 (school year 2022-
2023) and October 2023 (school year 2023-24):
2022-2023 2023-2024 Difference
Oct. 1, 2022 Oct. 1, 2023
Pre-school 99 134 +35
Elementary 1477 1470 -7
Middle School 755 742 -13
High School 908 931 +23
Out-of-District 58 59 +1
Total 3297 3336 +39
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Demographics 2022 and 2023
The chart below shows the race/ethnicity percentages of the Canton Public Schools student population in 2022 (total enrollment
3,239) and 2023 (total enrollment 3,277, not including out-of-district students).
Race/Ethnicity
Other Student Sub-Groups
% in 2022 % in 2023 % Difference
Limited English Proficient 3.4 4.1 +0.7
Students with Disabilities 16.2 16.9 +0.7
Economically Disadvantaged 20.8 20.9 +0.1
OPERATIONS
Transportation
CPS provides yellow bus transportation for approximately 1,928 students, including roughly 30 students who attend St. John’s. In
addition to yellow bus transportation, CPS provides van transportation for roughly 130 in-district students and 61 out of district
students. Van transportation is provided by Vanpool, Raz and ARTS, as well as a few local owner-operated companies.
In 2022, the District solicited bids for yellow bus transportation. Two vendors responded: First Student and Michael J. Connolly &
Sons. First Student was awarded a three-year contract with two option years; the cost of the three-year contract is $4,221,968.40. CPS
owns and operates one of 20 buses used to complete 98 daily routes for morning and afternoon runs.
The transition of vendors from Michael J. Connolly & Sons to First Student presented the District with many challenges. It took a few
months to consistently transport all of our students to school and back on time. District administration will continue to work closely
with First Student on improvements.
Food Service
CPS manages and operates its food service program in-house. On average, our Food Service department provides more than 2,500
meals each school day. The District employs 25 hourly staff members across five buildings, one administrative assistant, and one
director. Procurement of food and supplies is primarily achieved through a purchasing collaborative with TEC (The Education
Collaborative). Following COVID, school meals continue to be free provided free of charge to students. Our Food Service program is
self-sufficient, relying on local receipts, state reimbursement, and federal reimbursement to cover expenditures.
% in 2022 % in 2023 % Difference
African American/Black 11.7 12 +0.3
Asian 10.8 10.8 0
Hispanic 7 7.3 +0.3
Native American 0.1 0.1 0
White 63.2 62.6 -0.6
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Island 0.2 0.2 0
Multi-race Non-Hispanic 7 7.0 0
Total Enrollment 3239 3277 +38
Facilities
The CPS Facilities department consists of 21 full-time custodians, five full-time maintenance staff, and one director. In coordination
with other town departments and outside vendors, the facilities team completed multiple projects throughout the year, including
Generator Replacement at the Rodman, Innovation Lab Renovations at CHS, Food Service Serving Line at JFK, and Basketball Hoop
Replacement in the CHS Gym.
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A complete facilities assessment was completed in 2023, and work continues to finalize a five and ten-year capital improvement plan.
Areas of high need include roofs, HVAC equipment replacement, and replacement of bituminous surfaces.
RETIREMENTS
The following staff members retired in 2023. Congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to all our retirees for their decades of service
to the Canton Public Schools.
Employee Position Years of Service
Mark Eardley Maintenance 20
Donna Ferguson Administrative Assistant 25
Margaret Foley Food Services 10
Donna Kilday Preschool Coordinator 11
Lori Mooney Teacher 30
Steven Prisco Custodian 10
Cathy Spera Administrative Assistant 35
STUDENT HONORS, AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Each year, CHS holds both a Scholastic Honors Night and a Scholarship Night. We extend our most sincere thanks and appreciation to
our community partners whose generosity awarded the class of 2023 $213,850 in scholarship money. Below are just some of the
notable achievements:
Alan B Dewey Sr. Scholarship Caitlin O'Sullivan
American Association of University Women (AAUW)
Scholarship Nadira Simon
Anthony Maffie Memorial Scholarship Shauna Harney
Balsamo Family Memorial Charitable Foundation
Scholarship Keith Hannon Jr., Keefe Kristina
Johanna Bouwmeester, Elise Murphy, Olivia
Beth Spence Cann Memorial Scholarship Schnock
Blue Hill Lodge A.F & A.M Scholarship Bridget Feeney
Bud Herzog Theater Arts Scholarship Laura Walsh
Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA)
Scholarship Kristina Keefe, Emily Kelley, Tema Mazonson
Canton Art Association/Margaret Doody Award
Scholarship Leah Cohen
Canton Association of Business and Industry (CABI) Matthew Chafin, Raegan Norton, Allison Long,
Scholarship Ella Yeaton
Emma Massih, Sierra Abbott, Emily Kelley,
Ashley Factor, Audrey Koen, Francesca
Lamparelli, Lianna Lamparelli, Griffin Hughes,
Charlie Vaughn, Jessie Duhaime, Shannon
Mcgrann, Leah Cohen, Keith Hannon, Han
Hong, Joanna Vigevani, Abigail Martin, Rosalyn
CHS Citizenship Award Grady
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Maya Batista, Charles Vaughan, Matthew
Canton Police Association Scholarship Yeaton
Community Club of Canton
Elsie Poole Hays & Thomas Scholarship Tema Mazonson, Marissa Staffiere
Community Club of Canton Schmieder/Miller Scholarship Riley Costa, Abigail Mason
Community Club of Canton Scholarship Brianna Christie, Bridget Feeney
Cornerstone at Canton Health Services Scholarship Brianna Christie
Don and Marilyn Rodman Memorial Kelli Woodworth, Alexander Thomas IV
First Parish Unitarian Universalist Performing Arts
Scholarship Atlas Curran-Barker, Laura Walsh
Frank R & Elizabeth Simoni Foundation Ashley Factor, Courtney Pratt
Friends of Doc Levrault Scholarship Ellie Bohane, Matthew Hart
Gray, Gray & Gray LLP Scholarship Sierra Abbott
Emily Kelley, Tema Mazonson, Olivia Schnock,
James and Beatrice Salah Family Foundation Scholarship Nadira Simon, Charles Vaughn
Jimmy Pascal Memorial Scholarship Isabella Cox, Nathan Levis, Jessica Wright
Joseph F. Donnelly Memorial Scholarship Ellie Bohane, Matthew Yeaton
Matthew Christian Memorial Scholarship Abigail Mason, Ryan McLean
Mellisa Rose Kradin Foundation Katelyn Lavoie
Matthew Lesser, Shannon McGrann, Charles
Michael J. Gunning Memorial Vaughn
Organogenesis Regenerative Medicine Scholarship Zoe Yu
Ashton Cetoute, Carson Eagles, Keith Hannon,
Julius Hicks, Maeve Howard, Han Hong, Nathan
Principal Service Awards Levis, Ariana Pierre, Julian Prentice, Enoch Tai
Rotary Club of Randloph-Avon-Canton
Bernard Kafka Memorial Scholarship Jacqueline Smith
Ellie Bohane, John Flaherty, Matthew Hart,
Scott Herr Memorial Foundation Scholarship Emily Kelley, Emily McCabe, Charles Vaughn
Seabird Scholarship Widmeya Instervil
Shayne M. Cabino Scholarship Isabella Cox, Andrew Gillis
The Reissfelder Group Scholarship - new Tema Mazonson, Raegan Norton
Thomas J. Gunning Memorial Emily Mackay
William J. Armando Jr. Community Service Scholarship Ellie Bohane, John Flaherty
John and Abigail Adams Scholarship
The John and Abigail Adams Scholarship is a merit-based program that provides credit toward tuition for up to eight semesters of
undergraduate education at a Massachusetts state college or university. For this scholarship, merit is based on student scores on the
10th-grade Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) test. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must
22
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● Score in the Advanced category on one of three high school state assessment tests in English Language Arts, Mathematics, or
STE (Biology, Chemistry, Introductory Physics or Technology/Engineering)
● Score Proficient or Advanced on the remaining two high school state assessment tests
● Have a combined MCAS score on these assessments that ranks in the top 25% in their district.
Congratulations to the following students who received the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship in 2023.
Sierra Abbott Noah Doherty Audrey Koen Cole Ouellette
Colleen Bolger Olivia Durham Maxwell LaRose Joshua Richards
Johanna Bouwmeester Molly Dwoske Jack Lauro James Robbins
Jessica Braithwaite Carson Eagles Kitana Le-Garcia Thomas Salvatori
Abigal Brogan John Flaherty Maxim Leonov Olivia Schnock
Nicholas Brooks Andrew Garrett Matthew Lesser Nadira Simon
Thomas Brown Rose Giglio Allison Long Cameron Siu
Sophia Carr Makayla Gomes Leopold MacMullen Enoch Tai
David Chapin Julia Gugliotta Abigail Martin Vivian Tran
Leah Cohen Keith Hannon Jr. Emma Massih Alex Westhaver
Isabella Cox Han Hong Tema Mazonson Kelli Woodworth
Atlas Curran-Barker Maeve Howard Syriah McCruse Zoe Yu
Charlotte Davis Liya Joseph Shannon McGrann Madison Zimerman-Kelly
John Davis Kristina Keefe Iva Morozova
Liam Doherty Emily Kelley Elise Murphy
DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS
World Languages
Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy
In June of 2023, Canton High School students participated in the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy for the third year. The
following 16 students in the class of 2023 were awarded the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy for proficiency in English and the
languages below:
Jad Antoun (French) Noah Doherty (Spanish) Liya Joseph (Spanish) Tema Mazonson (Spanish)
Nicolas Brooks (Spanish) Rose Giglio (Spanish) Emily Kelley (French) Iva Morozova (Russian)
David Chapin (Spanish) Makayla Gomes (Spanish) Allison Long (Spanish) Nadira Simon (Spanish)
Alvaro Cezon Gimenez Keith Hannon (Spanish) Abigail Martin (Spanish) Kelli Woodworth (Spanish)
(Spanish)
The following two students in the class of 2023 earned the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction in English and the
languages below:
Matthew Lesser (Spanish) Zoe Yu (Mandarin)
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Higher Education Partnerships
The CPS World Languages Department continued to collaborate with the Goethe-Institut/Boston and UMASS-Boston to expand its
German programming to students in the elementary and middle grades. The eight-week SPARK for German virtual German language
and cultural program allowed students in grades K-8 to experience German language and culture firsthand. The innovative program,
which is fully sponsored by the German government and the American Association of Teachers of German, has provided German
language instruction to Canton elementary and middle school students for the last three years.
Community Partnership
In the fall of 2023, Canton High School added an Italian Language and Culture Cohort to its World Languages offerings thanks to a
community partnership that the District formed with CIAO, a non-profit educational organization led by Canton resident Paul Sergi,
MD, and Domenic Amara, PhD., the former Academic Superintendent of Schools for Boston and President of the Pirandello Lyceum.
Assisted by several other Italian cultural organizations in Massachusetts, including the Italian American Alliance (IAA of Boston,
MA), the Pirandello Lyceum (PL), and the Italian American Cultural Organization (IACO of the South Shore), CIAO provided seed
funds to expand the world languages offerings at Canton High School. CIAO plans to continue collaborating with the District to
support and build its new Italian Language and Culture Cohort.
Visual Arts
● "Artists in Bloom" show returned - a collaboration with the Canton Garden Club to raise money for their scholarship for
students pursuing art-related studies in college. 150 students, grades 1-12, had work in the show. 30 artworks were
interpreted as floral arrangements by Canton Garden Club members.
● "Perceptions" exhibit at the Artist's Studio & Gallery at Patriot Place. 50 CHS students had work on display in this show.
● UMASS Dartmouth curated a juried online exhibition, "Emerging Young Artists". Two CHS students had work selected for
this show.
● 18 CHS students had work included in the Massachusetts Art Education Association's online exhibit for Youth Art Month in
March.
● CHS student Tara Geoghan had her work selected as one of 20 to go on exhibit at the Hunt's Photo & Video Gallery. The
theme of the exhibit was "family pride".
● Three CHS students received Scholastic Art Awards, and four CHS students received Scholastic Writing Awards.
● CHS students in two art classes created design proposals for the electrical box that is being wrapped at the Paul Revere
Heritage Site. The box was unveiled on May 20th at the Heritage Day Festival.
● Students in Photography 2 & 3 worked with artist/MassArt professor Adriana Katzew to create photographs for the special
exhibit ("Our Many Heritages''). Adriana curated this community exhibit for the Paul Revere Heritage Site.
● CHS Video Production student Mekhala Costello produced a lip dub video for the school.
● Three video production students had their work selected to show at the Kids International Film Festival.
● CHS Innovation Lab renovation was completed and scheduled with classes.
Performing Arts
Below is a list of 2023 Performing Arts events.
● Jan 17 - Hansen concert
● Jan 25 - JFK, Luce concert
● Jan 27/28 - JFK performs Annie Jr.
● Feb 10/11 - Luce performs The Claw
● March 17-19 - CHS performs Little Shop of Horrors
● March 30/31 - CHS concert
● May 5/6 - GMS performs Charlie Brown
● May 12 - CHS cabaret
● May 19 - CHS pops concert
● May 24/ June 5 - GMS concert
● June 6/7 - Elementary Concerts
● August 14-18 - Music Camp
● August 21-25 - Theater Camp
● Nov 4 - Cantonstock
● Nov 17-19 - CHS performs Wizard of Oz
● Dec 19 - CHS concert
Athletics
24
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● Nov 4 - Cantonstock
● Nov 17-19 - CHS performs Wizard of Oz
● Dec 19 - CHS concert
Athletics
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25
25
52Source page 56
Massachusetts College of Art and
Brandeis University Design Trinity College
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy
Bridgewater State University and Health Sciences Tufts University
Bryant University Massachusetts Maritime Academy Tulane University of Louisiana
Bunker Hill Community College Massasoit Community College United States Naval Academy
Coastal Carolina University Merrimack College University of Alabama
Colby College Milford Academy University of Connecticut
College of Charleston North Carolina State University University of Florida
College of the Holy Cross Northeastern University University of Maine
Pace University, New York City University of Massachusetts -
Connecticut College Campus Amherst
Pennsylvania State University
Curry College -Penn State Harrisburg University of Massachusetts-Boston
Pennsylvania State University-Penn University of Massachusetts-
East Carolina University State Main Campus Dartmouth
Eckerd College Plymouth State University University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Elms College Providence College University of Miami
Elon University Quinnipiac University University of New Hampshire
Emmanuel College Rollins College University of New Haven
Endicott College Rutgers University University of North Carolina
Fairfield University Sacred Heart University University of Richmond
Fashion Institute of Technology Saint Anselm College University of Vermont
Fisher College Salve Regina University US Air Force
Framingham State University Simmons University Wentworth Institute of Technology
Gap Year Southern Maine Community College Western New England University
Gettysburg College Southern New Hampshire University Westfield State University
Hamilton College St. Lawrence University Wheaton College
Harvard University St. Thomas More School Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Hebron Academy Stonehill College Worcester State University
Howard University Syracuse University Xavier University
SCHOOL COMMITTEE UPDATE
In 2023, the School Committee welcomed one new member - Kimberly McCourt - as well as returning member Laura Arboleda, who
was elected to a full three-year term after having served two years filling a seat vacated by a resignation. The Committee continued its
rework to align priorities and set high professional standards against the four pillars of the CPS Strategic Framework: Achieving
Educational Excellence and Ensuring Equity; Cultivating School Culture and Climate; Transforming Teaching and Learning; and
Achieving District Excellence.
The successful settlement of contracts with the Canton Teachers Association (Unit A) and the Canton Educational Support Personnel
Association (Unit E) in February 2023 set the stage for continued District growth and achievement. The agreed-upon contract with
Unit A provided an 8 percent increase in base wages over three years and included an increase in the top step for the District’s most
senior teachers.
Seeking to offer compensation commensurate with Unit E’s professionalism, the School Committee offered a pay raise of
approximately 22 percent over three years, with starting wages beginning at $24.76 an hour. Both units were awarded 12 weeks of
maternity and paternity leave within the contracts. For the first time in Canton, Unit E received increased paid time off for family
illness, enhanced bereavement leave, paid religious and military leave and access to a sick bank. The Units A and E contracts
established the Canton School Committee as a leader in offering comprehensive and competitive benefits to District employees.
Throughout 2023, the School Committee made significant progress toward achieving a new – or renovated – Galvin Middle School.
Working with LeftField, LLC, an owner’s project management (OPM) firm, the School Committee and School Building Committee
moved the process forward when the architectural firm Ai3 was hired in the summer of 2023. Throughout the late summer and into the
fall, the School Building Committee, LeftField, and Ai3 engaged with stakeholders in public listening sessions, through surveys, and
at School Committee meetings to gather information and feedback. During this process, a Preliminary Design Plan (PDP) was
developed, and work began on a Preferred Schematic Report (PSR)
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At a joint meeting in December 2023, the School Committee and School Building Committee made two key decisions: to move grade
5 from the elementary schools to a new or renovated GMS, and to pursue additional funding for an 800-seat auditorium.
Even as the School Committee achieved major accomplishments with successful contract negotiations and marked significant GMS
milestones, members moved forward with key elements within their role. They solidified their commitment to following the
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s “Model Evaluation Process for Superintendents” by conducting Superintendent
Folan’s Formative and Summative Evaluations in February and June, respectively. They reviewed the results of an equity audit
conducted by Public Consulting Group (PCG) in spring 2023. They moved to retain new legal counsel, Murphy, Hesse, Toomey &
Lehane, LLP, and a new public relations firm, Matt Ellis Strategies, in the summer of 2023.
Fall 2023 continued the School Committee’s focus on planning for the future with the approval of the district’s first five-year strategic
plan. The “Champions of Excellence Canton Public School Strategic Action Plan, 2023-2028” lays out goals in four areas: Teaching,
Learning, and Leading for All; Management and Operations; Communication and Community Engagement; and Safe, Inclusive and
Equitable Environments. The comprehensive document establishes a roadmap for District success over the next five years.
The School Committee continues to embrace its service to the District and the community by fulfilling its myriad roles and
responsibilities. In addition to what has been outlined in this document, the School Committee reviews the CPS financial warrant and
external communications focused on celebrating CPS students, staff, and achievements. School Committee members and/or their
designees serve as liaisons to the Master Planning Implementation Committee, Canton Community Preservation Committee, Building
Renovation Committee, Canton Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, Canton Sustainability Committee, Health Insurance
Advisory Committee, Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse, and the CPS Wellness/Student Wellness Advisory Committee.
School Committee members meet regularly with the following town boards, particularly during January through May, as Canton
prepares for the Annual Town Meeting: Select Board, Capital Planning Committee, and Finance Committee. In addition, members
serve as liaisons to parent volunteer and educational leadership groups, including the Canton Alliance of Parents and Teachers
(CAPT), The Education Cooperative (TEC), and the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC).
CLOSING
The Canton Public Schools have a true commitment to achieving academic excellence and ensuring equity for every student, as well
as cultivating welcoming and supportive learning environments via effective teaching, learning, and leading, and by smartly managing
our resources. We are deeply proud of our schools and grateful for every member of our student body, faculty, volunteer groups,
families, and town citizenry who play a role in our success.
With this continued support and unwavering commitment to accomplishing our bold, student-centric goals, the Canton Public Schools
are positioned for continued growth - ever-improving how we prepare our next generation for their futures. It is an honor to be
stewards of this important work.
Respectfully submitted, Kendall O’Halloran, Chair, Canton School Committee and Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
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Report of the
TOWN PLANNER
Taylor (TJ) Torres, Town Planner 801 Washington St.
ttorres@town.canton.ma.us Canton, MA 02021
www.town.canton.ma.us/334/Planning Telephone 781-575-6575
www.facebook.com/CantonPlanningBoard/ Fax 781-821-5043
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Friday 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM
MISSION
The Town Planner is responsible for working towards town-wide goals with regard to zoning, land use, housing, economic
development, transportation, sustainability, and other areas specified in the Canton Master Plan. The Town Planner also works to help
procure grants and accomplish other special projects to reach town goals.
The Town Planner supports the Planning Board by providing technical assistance when necessary, facilitating Master Plan
implementation, and preparing zoning article drafts for Town Meeting.
The Town Planner serves as the representative to the Metropolitan Area Planning Council and the Neponset Valley Transportation
Management Association; the Planner also serves on the Traffic Committee, Permit Advisory Committee, Canton Affordable Housing
Trust, and staffs the Master Plan Implementation Committee, Economic Development Committee, Sustainability and Climate Action
Plan Committee, and the Planning Board. The Town Planner also organizes and facilitates project-based working groups as necessary.
ZONING AND LAND USE
This year brought an unprecedented challenge to Planners statewide, as the deadline for compliance with the Commonwealth’s 3A
MBTA Communities Law rapidly approached, affecting half of all municipalities in Massachusetts. As a Commuter Rail Community,
Canton must comply by December 2024, making the Annual Town Meeting of 2024 the last opportunity to enact a zoning change that
meets the state’s requirements. Canton has been diligent and proactive in this effort, led by the Town Planner and an internal working
group, and is proposing compliant zoning to the voters at ATM 2024. In accordance with the state law, the proposed Canton Junction
Overlay District incentivizes transit-oriented housing development near rail stations by streamlining the approval process for
multifamily housing in the specified zone.
Other zoning changes proposed by the Town Planner this year include updates to the Table of Use Regulations, Table of Dimensional
Requirements, and the Zoning Map. Many of these changes stem from recommendations of MAPC’s recent corridor study of Canton
Center. By separating the Central Business District from the rest of the Business District, the Town can better tailor its zoning and use
regulations to fit the downtown area, which is fundamentally different in form and function from other commercial areas in Canton.
HOUSING
The Town Planner works closely with the Town’s Housing Coordinator, and also serves as Vice Chair of the Canton Affordable
Housing Trust. While the MBTA Communities Zoning task was the biggest item tackled by the pair this year, they also collaborated
on designing a Rental Assistance Program funded by ARPA and are looking at ways to preserve affordable housing through zoning
policy for future years.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
In Canton the Town Planner is the default economic development point person and provides staff to the Economic Development
Committee (EDC). This year the EDC gained many new members who are looking at ways to be more connected with Canton’s
thriving business community. The Town Planner assists with providing an organizational backbone to the EDC, which this year
included exploring a small business grant program for reallocation of ARPA funds. An important future planning initiative in this
domain is using zoning policy to ensure the preservation of Canton’s strong commercial tax base.
TRANSPORTATION
The Town Planner plays a coordinating role when it comes to transportation planning, serving as a liaison between various
overlapping transportation entities including the Canton Public Works Department, MassDOT, the Boston Region Metropolitan
Planning Organization (MPO), the Canton Walk, Bike, and Hike Committee, and the Neponset Valley Transportation Management
Association. The Town Planner also serves as co-chair of the Suburban Mobility Working Group, a regional collaboration of public
and private organizations. Finding common goals and aligning those with sources of funding and ensuring all stakeholders are at the
table is the Planner’s main mission in this domain. This year’s initiatives included desiging intersection improvements at Randolph
Street, looking at opportunities for expanding microtransit, assisting with trails grants, helping direct funding to the Council on
Aging’s transportation services, bicycle rack grants for the schools and the library, and being a part of the regional discussion on the I-
93/I-95 future interchange improvements.
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SUSTAINABILITY
There are many different environmental efforts at the state, federal, and local levels. The Town of Canton has committees in place for
energy aggregation, sustainability, and climate action planning. Millions of dollars are being pumped into climate resilience in the
form of state grants and more recently the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has bolstered federal investment into this domain. The Town
Planner aims to be a resource in connecting the volunteer committees at the Town level with the government resources available to
address issues as well as be an administrative backbone to help these committees move toward their goals. This year the Town
received a grant to have a Climate Action Plan completed, and the Town Planner is staffing the Interim Steering Committee that has
been appointed to oversee this undertaking.
STRATEGIC PLANNING
In addition to the previously mentioned roles and responsibilities, the Town Planner also facilitates various internal strategic planning
initiatives, which this year included:
• Received $40,000 grant to have a Transition Plan done, building off the 2016 ADA Self-Assessment. This will include a
comprehensive inventory of all items to be corrected at public facilities to achieve full ADA compliance, as well as policy
and procedural recommendations.
• Created stormwater working group to identify inconsistencies and overlaps in policy and procedures with the goal of
consolidating, aligning, and optimizing the process of stormwater review for new development.
• Received $40,000 grant to begin next phase of the former St. Gerard’s property reuse planning, which will include an
architectural assessment of the current buildings and propose some potential future scenarios based off of those conditions
and the public feedback collected in the initial phase.
Respectfully submitted, Taylor (TJ) Torres, Town Planner
Report of
TOWN COUNSEL
Paul R. DeRensis, Esq. 260 Franklin Street, Suite 700
Brooks & DeRensis Boston, MA 02110
Telephone 857-259-5200
pderensis@aol.com
This year was a very active and successful year:
1. Advice & Legal Documents. This year numerous advisory opinions were rendered to various Town officials and Boards
relating to a wide variety of issues and subjects. Frequent and ongoing attention was given to the legal issues arising from open
meeting law issues; public records issues; conflict of interest issues under the State Ethics Act; bylaw enforcement issues; license
process issues for a variety of types of licenses, including alcohol, common victuallar, auto dealer licenses, and private drinking water
well licenses; the warrant and motions for the Annual Town Meeting and two Special Town Meetings; continuing issues relating to
the Paul Revere Heritage Site and the ongoing work at the Plymouth Rubber Site; reviewing and/or drafting Bylaws including animal
control bylaw; procurement documents, contract documents and agreements including energy contracts; easements and deeds;
assistance to Town regulatory boards (Planning Board, Board of Appeals) including cell tower application issues, MBTA
Communities Zoning issues, zoning covenants and performance bonds, and ANR issues; subdivisions including subdivision
performance guarantees, special permits and assistance for site plan review; assistance to the Board of Health regarding rules and
regulations and health code enforcement issues; Building Department code enforcement issues; Public Library regarding various legal
issues; Conservation Commission regarding wetland, conservation, and property issues; sustainability and climate change issues, and
other legal issues.
2. Projects. We assisted the town regarding the acquisition of various drainage easements, the Massachusetts Highway
Department Route 138 project impacting town owned land in Stoughton, water supply issues including wellhead protection issues and
PFAS contamination issues, acquisition of a housing unit at the Thorndike development site in Canton and the disposition thereof to
support affordable housing; the acquisition of land for a parking lot, and other real estate acquisitions. We also assisted with various
road layout issues, including acceptances of private roads as public ways, various public road documents; economic development
questions and issues, including Tax Incentive Financing Agreements, an implementation issue regarding the PILOT agreement with
the newly combined Tufts Health Plan and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Organization, now Point32; and ongoing issues relating to the
Paul Revere Heritage Park Site and adjacent housing developments; and conservation restrictions.
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3. Administrative Agencies. We pursued the interests of the Town with the Office of the Attorney General, Secretary of State
Superintendent of Public Records, and consulted with the State Ethics Commission, regarding various town issues.
4. Litigation & Labor Arbitrations. As of December 20, 2023, there were 8 matters pending in the courts or administrative
agencies, involving the Town, as follows:
• 8 matters involving the Select Board
Vertex Tower Assets LLC v. Town of Canton and Town of Canton Zoning Board of Appeals; Norfolk Superior Court Docket
No. 2382CV00188 and United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts Civil Action No. 1:23-cv-10476;
Carolyn LeClair v. Town of Canton and Republic Services; Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination No.
23NPA0541;
Meredith O’Neil, et al. v. Town of Canton and Canton Police Department, et al., United States District Court for the District
of Massachusetts Civil Action No. 1:23-cv-12685;
In re: Municipal Opioid cases, Suffolk Superior Court, Business Litigation Session Nos.: 1884CV02860-BLS2 and
1984CV01733-BLS2;
Town of Canton v. 3M Company (a//k/a Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. )._ et al, United States District Court for
the District of South Carolina, Civil Action No. 2:22-cv-00864-RMG;
In the Matter of Town of Canton, Massachusetts Land Court, Docket No.: 23 SBQ 08413 09 – 001;
In the Matter of Town of Canton, Massachusetts Land Court, Docket No.: 23 SBQ 09533 09 – 001;
In the Matter of Town of Canton, Massachusetts Land Court, Docket No.: 23 SBQ 18555 09 – 001.
Each of the above efforts required the participation of numerous Town officials and private citizen volunteers all working together
towards a better Canton.
Thanks to the Select Board and all other Town officials and citizens for their cooperation and assistance towards a successful year.
Respectfully submitted, Paul R. DeRensis, TOWN COUNSEL
Report of the
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Report of the
VETERANS SERVICES DEPARTMENT
30
Arafat M. Knight, Department of Veterans Services Director and Veteran’s Agent 660 Washington St.
Cynthia Maddestra, Veteran’s Agent Administrator Canton, MA 02021
Telephone 781-821-5005
aknight@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30-4:30 Tuesday 830-7pm Friday 8:30 A.M. to 1 P.M.
2023 VETERANS OUTREACH, BENEFITS AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS
• Coffee Social’s at the Department of Elderly, and Brightview have been a success averaging about 15 to 20 veterans
• Many thanks to the citizens of Canton for the generosity shown for our Veterans.
• Many thanks to all the elementary schools that allowed veterans to return to Veterans Day Assemblies
• Cynthia took over Facebook page and grew it from 630 to 1.5k followers and friends.
2023 CEREMONIES AND EVENTS
• Memorial Day Flags was planted on May 20, 2023
• Memorial Day Parade May 30, 2023
• June 23rd 77 Hometown Hero Banners went up to Honor Canton’s KIA service members. Program was opened to all veterans
from Canton.
• August 14th hired assistant Cynthia Maddestra
• 14th Annual Canton Veterans Golf Tournament, now renamed the Tony Andreotti/ Richie Eckler Golf Tournament August 14,
2023
• September got with Home Depot in Norwood who donated Carhart sweaters and vests for the fall season.
• October 5th took 11 veterans and assistant for a tour of the 1st Cadets Museum in Boston.
• November 6th another 40 Hometown Hero Banners were added in honor of any veteran who served.
• 3rd annual Veterans Day Luncheon at The Canton Town Club November 11, 2023 190 Veterans and guest attended
• November 22nd cooked and delivered 13 meals to veterans and spouses for Thanksgiving
• All of December organized a collection of donations from Rep. Bill Galvin, Home Depot, and businesses in the community to
provided veterans with gift bags and winter clothing for the season.
• December 26th Parade and ceremony to Honor Duncan McCleod’s 100th birthday.
• Throughout the year visited veterans who were home bound or sick in the hospital.
HONOR GUARD FUNERALS
Our all-volunteer Honor Guard was privileged to offer Military Honors as a show of respect at the funerals of 10 local veterans in 2023.
Since 2002, we have been honored to offer this tribute to over 880 veterans.
Honor Guard visits veterans in nursing come and assisted living during veteran’s day week.
DONATIONS RECEIVED
In 2023, the not-for-profit Canton Veterans’ Fund received numerous donations, bringing the total donations received since 2002 to
more than $600,000. Using this fund, the Department is able to offer programs and services to honor, serve, remember and assist our
local veterans who fall between governmental support programs. Thank you to all who have donated.
BENEFIT CLAIMS PROCESSES
In 2023 There were 60 VA claims processed
RETURN OF VETERAN’S BENEFITS
In 2023, more than $100,000.00 was reimbursed to the Town by the state for benefits paid out through the MA Ch. 115 assistance
program to qualifying Canton Veterans and their surviving dependents.
VETERANS SERVICES OFFICER CERTIFICATION
Our Veterans Services Director and Administrator, Arafat M. Knight, and Cynthia Maddestra has been certified by the state and attended
over 14 different meeting monthly and quarterly located in different sections of Mass, and via zoom as required.
PAST PROGRAMS, CEREMOIES AND EVENTS
• Relocation of town monuments to create Veteran’s Memorial Park;
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• Creation and Dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bench honoring Canton Veterans who survived the war but died
later from illnesses connected to Agent Orange exposure;
• “Fallen Heroes” Street Sign Program, 2001;
• Commencement Exercises for WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War Veterans;
• The Wall that Heals, Traveling Vietnam Memorial, 2005
• “Before You Go” WWII Honor and Remembrance Ceremony, 2007;
• Korean War Era Veterans Honor and Remembrance Ceremony, 2009;
• Vietnam Veterans “Welcome Home” Honor and Remembrance Ceremony, 2011;
• Rededication of the restored WWI Monument, 2013;
• Rededication of the restored Civil War Soldier statue 2014;
• Dedication of a Headstone for Sgt. Rudolph E. Araujo, killed in action in Vietnam, 2014;
• Dedication and Raising of the six new Branch Flags at the American Legion Walk of Honor, Veterans Memorial Park, 2015;
• Ceremony to Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War in conjunction with the Brookhaven Hospice We Honor
Veterans Program, 2017;
• In 2019 the Town of Canton dedicated the entrance road to Veteran’s Memorial Park as Andreotti’s Way in the name of Tony
Andreotti.
• In 2021 we moved the Veterans Day service from a breakfast to luncheon.
VIDEO TAPING VETERANS (ONGOING PROGRAM)
Interviews of veterans to preserve their war experiences for generations to come. To date, 29 videos have been produced with Canton
Community Television to be sent to the Library of Congress as part of the Veterans History Project.
Canton Roll of Honor
Honoring Those Who Died
In Service to Their Country
World War I: Edward J. Beatty, Patrick J. Cronin, Ettore DelVecchio, Allan W. Douglass, Josiah Fuller, Pietro Gallo, Albert H,
Gavigan, Leo V. Gray, Helen Homans, George H. Horton, William P. Monahan, John Shaw, Arthur W. Thomas, George St. George;
World War II: Walter G. Berteletti, Albert M. Callahan, Michael J. Callanan, William J. Casey, Robert G. Dallahan, Parker B. Dodge,
Donald J. Galligan, John J. Gately, Robert E. Gelpke, Donald J. Graham, John F. Griffin, Dana F. Igo, Michael J. Julian, John A. Lawrie,
Louis P. Mendes, Carlyle W. Packard, Frederick W. Powers, Dietrich F. E. Rasetzki, William F. Roach, Harold P. Rolfe, Gerald W.
Scully, Arthur A. Smith, Arthur W. Thomas, Harris P. Tracy, Andrew R. Wood, Jr.;
Korean War: Ferdinand Berteletti, Ernest Carrara, Paul J. Hannon;
Vietnam War: Rudolph E. Araujo, Antonio Falco, Peter H. Hansen, Bruce J. Matta;
Iraq War: Shayne M. Cabino;
Post-Vietnam (Agent Orange-Related Deaths): Robert J. Barrette, Richard D. Buck, Thomas F. Doherty, David L. Farrow, Robert F.
Femino, William J. Hogan, Kevin J. Kelly, Kevin F. LaCivita, Lance D. LeFever, Richard A. MacPhail, Robert W. Redmond, David A.
Schnopp, Anthony D. Uliano, Paul E. Weiderhold, William J. Weiderhold.
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Report of the
WATER SEWER RATE POLICY COMMITTEE
William R. Scollins III, Chair 801 Washington St.
Gerald Carmichael Canton, MA 02021
Patricia Cawley 781-575-6612
Dan Cole Fax 781-575-6608
C. David Emhardt rscollins@town.canton.ma.us
Walter Spiegel
Chris Sykes
Mike Trotta
Meetings of the committee are called as needed. The committee met in 2023 to develop recommendations on water and sewer rates.
After reviewing and discussing a detailed analysis of water & sewer rate drivers the committee developed a rate recommendation for
the Select Board, which they voted to adopt. The unanimous recommendation and vote of the Committee was to implement a 27%
water rate increase and no change to the sewer rates, effective July 1, 2023, resulting in a blended rate increase of 10%. The rates
adopted are consistent with the goals established during the previous years’ review of the needs of the Water and Sewer Enterprise
funds.
The major factors necessitating this action are the following:
• A trend of declining water consumption, and revenue, has continued over the last two years due to wet summers, continuing
and tightening water conservation requirements by the State, and increased water conservation efforts by residents and
businesses;
• Increased MWRA assessments, which are 25% of Water Enterprise expenses. FY 2023 assessment increased 33.2% or by
$504K. FY 2024 assessment increased 23% or by $467K to $2.49MM. These levels of assessment increases are primarily
the result of increased reliance on MWRA for water during maintenance of the Town’s two water treatment plants, which
require the plants to be offline during maintenance;
• Increased debt service costs, which are 38% of Water Enterprise expenses. The Town continues to invest responsibly in its
water infrastructure in efforts to provide dependably clean water to the community - $17.4MM over the last three years and
$1.3MM planned for FY24. However the fund has been unable to develop a balance that would allow for less reliance on
debt for these projects;
• All of these factors have combined to deplete the Water Enterprise fund balance, which needs to be restored.
Conversely, the Sewer Enterprise fund has been able to maintain a strong financial position, even without significant rate increases
recently.
It was noted that the Town has only increased rates four times over the previous nine years. It was also reported in a webinar by the
Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) that Canton’s water and sewer rates are solidly average for MWRA communities.
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Report of the
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Gregory L. Pando, Chairman 801 Washington St.
Brian Black, Member Canton, MA 02021
Michael Khoury, Member Telephone 781-575-6589
Matthew Carlton, Alternate Fax 781-575-6574
Barbara J. Saint Andre, Alternate zba@town.canton.ma.us
Tamra Stock and Ingrid Hartfiel, Administrative Assistants and Recording Secretaries
Office Hours: Monday 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM, Tuesday 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Wednesday and Thursday 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM, and Friday
7:30 AM-1:00 PM.
2023 proved to be a busy year for the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Board conducted 54 formal hearings. There were 16 informal
hearings consisting mainly of applications for signs/banners, request for extensions to prior decisions, and minor modifications to site
plans and previously approved decisions.
The Board wishes to express its appreciation to their support staff including Building Commissioner Ed Walsh, Administrative
Assistants Tamra Stock, Ingrid Hartfiel and Town Counsel, Brooks & DeRensis, all who provided the Board with the assistance
necessary to make 2023 meaningful and constructive for the Residents of the Town of Canton.
The Board welcomes new member Brian C. Black, and looks forward to benefiting from his insight.
The Board would also like to thank the Selectboard, Town Administrator, Charles Doody, the Engineering Department, the Planning
Board, and the Conservation Commission for all of their assistance and support during the year.
Finally, I would personally like to thank my colleagues on the Board: Michael Khoury, Brian Black, Barbara Saint Andre and
Matthew Carlton for another great year. Their knowledge, experience, dedication, and hard work are the qualities that have
contributed to the Zoning Board of Appeals significant accomplishments in the year 2023.
Respectfully Submitted, Gregory L. Pando, Chairman
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Report of the
TOWN CLERK
Tracy K. Kenney, Town Clerk 801 Washington St.
Gale M. McHugo, Assistant Town Clerk Canton, MA 02021
Patrice Wesner, Senior Clerk Telephone 781-821-5013
Fax 781-821-5016
tkenney@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
In January 2023 the Annual Town Census was mailed to each of the more than ten thousand residences in Canton. I would like to
remind residents of the importance of returning the Annual Town Census. Many of the funds allocated to the Town of Canton are
dependent on our reported population. The information obtained from the Town Census is also used to predict future student
enrollment, proof of residence and voter lists. If you are a registered voter, responding to the census also insures that your voter status
will remain active. By law, failure to respond to the census shall result in removal from the active voting list and may result in
removal from the voter registration rolls.
The Annual Town Election was held in April. The ballot contained three contested offices, including the Select Board, School
Committee and Trustee of the Public Library. There were 3,954 ballots cast.
During the week prior to the Annual Town Election 579 voters chose to take advantage of Early Voting by casting ballots in person at
Town Hall and 644 voters chose to Early Vote by mail.
This year the Select Board called for a Special Town Meeting to be held on the same night as the Annual Town Meeting in May. The
Meetings were held in Morse Auditorium at Canton High School with 259 voters in attendance.
In October a citizen petition was filed requesting the Select Board to hold a Special Town Meeting. The Board scheduled the meeting
for November 20th. A total of 1,903 voters attended the Meeting.
I would like to express my appreciation to the administration and staff at the Department of Elder and Human Services,
The Canton Public Schools and Blue Hills Regional Technical School for, once again, allowing us to utilize their facilities for voting
on election day.
According to Canton’s Annual Town Census, our population is 22,525. The number of registered voters in Canton totals 18,120, as
follows.
Precinct Democrat Republican Unenrolled Other Registered
Voters
1 665 186 1,561 32 2,444
2 829 239 1,756 27 2,851
3 648 199 1,477 20 2,344
4 603 306 1,657 22 2,588
5 617 239 1,737 18 2,611
6 725 212 1,578 24 2,539
7 769 239 1,710 25 2,743
Totals 4,856 1,620 11,476 168 18,120
In 2023 the Town Clerk’s Office recorded 166 Births, 95 marriages and 299 deaths.
I invite you to explore the Town Clerk’s webpage for information regarding our services at www.town.canton.ma.us. Click on
“Government”, next “Departments” and then “Town Clerk”.
In conclusion I would like to express my sincere appreciation to my fellow town employees, our election workers and to the citizens
of Canton for their many kindnesses and cooperation during the year. I would also like to thank Assistant Town Clerk Gale McHugo
and Senior Clerk Patrice Wesner for their support and friendship.
Respectfully submitted,
Tracy K. Kenney, Town Clerk
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Three year terms ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION April 4, 2023 SELECT BOARD LISA R. LOPEZ [CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL ALBERT JOHN R. McCOURT WRITE INS BLANKS TOTAL 307 1010 Three year term 1588 ASSESSORS 1 2 EUGENE F. MANNING 354 540 WRITE INS 0 6 BLANKS 154 248 TOTAL | 505 794 Three year term BOARD OF HEALTH TOTAL JULIE E. GOODMAN WRITE INS BLANKS Three year term SCHOOL COMMITTEE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 TOTAL LAURA ARBOLEDA 241 360 130 268 347 238 237 1821 KIMBERLY ANNE McCOURT 316 455 165 345 526 289 312 2408 RACHAEL L. WALLACE 155 282 94 194 219 181 168 1293 WRITE INS 1 5 2 1 1 | 0 0 10 BLANKS 297 486 229 360 429 | 242 333 2376 TOTAL 1010 1588 620 1168 1522 950 1050 7908 Five year term PLANNING BOARD PATRICIA ANN McDERMOTT WRITE INS BLANKS TOTAL 63
Source page 67
Three year terms LIBRARY TRUSTEE ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION April 4, 2023 MINDY M. MILMAN JOHN W. FOLEY GEORGE T. COMEAU BETTY A. CHELMOW SUSAN EILEEN COGLIANO WRITE INS BLANKS TOTAL Five Year Term HOUSING AUTHORITY ADAM BROTHERS WRITE INS BLANKS TOTAL *WINNERS IN BOLD 64
Source page 68
Town of Canton
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
MONDAY, THE 8th DAY OF MAY 2023
In accordance with the warrant the Annual Town Meeting was convened on May 8TH, 2023 at Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of
the Canton High School, 900 Washington Street, and called to order by the Town Clerk, Tracy K. Kenney at 7:00pm with 259 voters
present.
Tracy K. Kenney, Town Clerk, introduced Reverend Thomas Rafferty, of Saint Oscar Romero Parish in Canton, who offered the
invocation.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
The reading of the warrant was dispensed with on a motion duly made, seconded and unanimously voted.
The reading of the Constable’s return was dispensed with on a motion duly made, seconded and unanimously voted.
ARTICLE 1
ELECT A MODERATOR
Article 1 To elect a Moderator to preside at this Town Meeting to serve until the commencement of Annual Town Meeting in 2024; or
to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
A motion was made and seconded to elect Alan Hines as Moderator to preside at this Town Meeting to serve until the commencement
of Annual Town Meeting in 2024.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
ARTICLE 2
ADOPT RULES TO GOVERN TOWN MEETING
Article 2 To see if the Town will vote to adopt certain procedures to govern the conduct of the 2023 Annual Town Meeting; or to take
any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOTION 1
MOVED: That this 2023 Annual Town Meeting shall meet on consecutive Monday and Wednesday evenings in the
Morse Auditorium on the grounds of the Canton High School, 900 Washington Street, until the business of this Annual
Town Meeting has been concluded, each such session to begin at 7:00 o’clock P.M. and to adjourn at 11:00 o’clock P.M.,
or as near that hour as may be feasible, according to the nature of the business pending at the said hour.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 2, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 2, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
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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:
David Brauninger, Principal, Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School
Paul Brodmerkle, Interim Town Engineer
Meghan Byrne, Director of Student Services, Canton Public Schools
Steve Choiniere, Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
Paul Feeney, State Senator
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
Tom Houston, Professional Services Corporation, PC
Donna Kilday, Rodman Early Childhood Coordinator
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Arafat Knight, Veterans’ Agent
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
Brian Lynch, Facility Director, School
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
Steve Marshall, Director of Finance & Operations, School Department
M. Regen Milani, Conservation Commission Agent
Allison Neff, Canton Community Preservation Committee Administrator
Kristen Phelps, Revere & Son Heritage Trust Administrator
Tyler Radicioni, Parks & Recreation Director
Helena Rafferty, Police Chief
Barbara Reardon, Board of Health Director
Michelle Resendes, Asst. Supt. for Business & Personnel, Blue Hills Reg. Technical School
E. Wendell Robery, Fire Chief
Debbie Rooney, Director of Teaching and Learning PreK-8
Mark Roy, Executive Director, Canton Housing Authority
William Scollins, Finance Director
Sarah Shannon, Interim Asst. Superintendent of Schools
Julianne Shore, Director of Technology and Digital Learning
Jeffrey Sperling Principal of Canton High School
Walter Timilty, State Senator
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of the Department of Elder & Human Services
Saundra Watson, Principal of John F. Kennedy Elementary School
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved the following revised motion.
MOVED: That the following individuals be granted all of the rights and privileges of participation in this Annual Town Meeting,
except the right to vote, under any article of this warrant which affects matters within their jurisdiction:
Andrew Barkley, Principal, Robinson, Green and Beretta Corporation (RGB)
David Brauninger, Principal, Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School
Paul Brodmerkle, Interim Town Engineer
Meghan Byrne, Director of Student Services, Canton Public Schools
Steve Choiniere, Supervisor of Facilities and Grounds
Dave DeQuattro, Quality Assurance/Quality Control, (RGB)
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
Paul Feeney, State Senator
Derek Folan, Superintendent of Schools
Tom Houston, Professional Services Corporation, PC
Donna Kilday, Rodman Early Childhood Coordinator
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Arafat Knight, Veterans’ Agent
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
Brian Lynch, Facility Director, School
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
Bruce MacRitchie, President, MacRitchie Engineering Inc.
Steve Marshall, Director of Finance & Operations, School Department
M. Regen Milani, Conservation Commission Agent
Allison Neff, Canton Community Preservation Committee Administrator
Kristen Phelps, Revere & Son Heritage Trust Administrator
Tyler Radicioni, Parks & Recreation Director
Helena Rafferty, Police Chief
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Barbara Reardon, Board of Health Director
Michelle Resendes, Asst. Supt. for Business & Personnel, Blue Hills Reg. Technical School
E. Wendell Robery, Fire Chief
Debbie Rooney, Director of Teaching and Learning PreK-8
Mark Roy, Executive Director, Canton Housing Authority
William Scollins, Finance Director
Sarah Shannon, Interim Asst. Superintendent of Schools
Julianne Shore, Director of Technology and Digital Learning
Jeffrey Sperling Principal of Canton High School
Walter Timilty, State Senator
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of the Department of Elder & Human Services
Saundra Watson, Principal of John F. Kennedy Elementary School
VOTED: Amended motion adopted.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
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: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 2, Motion 3 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 2, Motion 3 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
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.
Select Board
MOVED: That reports of the following committees appointed at previous Town Meetings be heard:
Economic Development Committee (ATM 2004, Article 14)
Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) (ATM 2016, Article 32)
Revere & Son Heritage Trust Corporation (Ch. 150 of the Acts of 2020 per Governor on 8/7/20)
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
The Economic Development Committee, the Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) and the Revere and Son Heritage
Trust Corp. each provided printed reports for Town Meeting attendees.
REPORTS ACCEPTED, UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
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ARTICLE 4
ACT ON “CONSENT AGENDA”
Article 4 To see if the Town will vote to dispose of certain articles in this warrant by a single vote, in accordance with a so-called
“consent agenda” or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the following articles be disposed of by a single vote, in accordance with the Finance Committee
motions as written in the report of the Finance Committee: 6, 11, 12, 14, 16, 24, 25 and 26.
FINCOM
Article Description Motion VOTE Reason
Personal Service Contracts under There are no personal
6 Postpone Indefinitely. 7-0-0
the Select Board. service contracts to fund.
There are no insurance
11 Insurance Proceeds. Postpone Indefinitely. 6-0-0
proceeds to appropriate.
There are no laws
Accept Laws Enacted by the
12 Postpone Indefinitely. 6-0-0 proposed to be accepted
General Court.
under this article.
Community Recognition
14 Accept this article 8-0-0 Non-controversial.
Supplemental Funding.
4th of July Community
16 Celebration - $35,000 Free Cash Accept this article. 7-0-0 Non-controversial.
Funded Appropriation.
Amend General by-Law Article
24 Accept this article. 7-0-0 Non-controversial.
XIV Sec. 39 Regulation of Dogs.
Accept Provisions of Brave Act
25 Accept this article. 7-0-0 Non-controversial.
for Tax Exemption for Veterans.
Accept MGL Ch. 41 Sec. 110A Non-controversial.
26 Accept this article. 7-0-0
Town Clerk Saturday Hours.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 4 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 4 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
ARTICLE 5
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS UNDER THE SELECT BOARD
Article 5 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or transfer from Free Cash, a sum of
money for the purpose of funding any new cost items contained in any collective bargaining agreements entered into by the Select
Board, on behalf of the Town, with any group of employees, serving under its jurisdiction; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the sum of Seventy Six Thousand Dollars ($76,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated
Fund Balance) to increase the appropriation voted in Article 43 of the May 2022 Annual Town Meeting to the Police
Department (210) budget in Fiscal Year 2023, for the purpose of funding cost items contained in the collective bargaining
agreements executed by the Select Board.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 5 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 5 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
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ARTICLE 6
PERSONAL SERVICE CONTRACTS UNDER THE SELECT BOARD
Article 6 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or transfer from Free Cash, such sums
of money as may be necessary to fund new cost items contained in contracts for personal services with any individual employee; or
take any action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 6 be indefinitely postponed
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 7
SET SALARIES OF ELECTED OFFICERS
Article 7 To see if the Town will vote, in accordance with the provisions of section one hundred and eight of chapter forty-one (G. L.
chapter 41, §108) to fix the salary and compensation of all elected officers of the town; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
Article 7 - MOTION 1
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for the Town Clerk be fixed at $104,101 for the 2024 Fiscal Year
beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 7, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 7, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Article 7 - MOTION 2
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for all part-time elected officials of the Town be fixed for the 2024
Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024, as follows:
Board of Assessors $2,400.00, for each member
Board of Health $600.00, for each member
Select Board $1,400.00, for each member, with an additional $200.00 to chairperson
Planning Board $0.00
School Committee $0.00
Library Trustees $0.00
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 7, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 7, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
ARTICLE 8
PAY BILLS OF PRIOR FISCAL YEAR
Article 8 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, transfer from Free Cash, or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum or sums of money to pay any unpaid bills of any prior fiscal year; or to take any other
action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That a total of T h r e e H u n d r e d T h i r t y S i x D o l l a r s a n d E i g h t c e n t s ($336.08) be appropriated
to pay bills from p r i o r fiscal years for the purposes and vendors set forth below, and to meet this appropriation
a total of T h r e e H u n d r e d T h i r t y S i x D o l l a r s a n d E i g h t c e n t s ($336.08) be charged to the listed F i s c a l
Y e a r 2 0 2 3 appropriation accounts voted pursuant to Article 43 of the 2022 Annual Town Meeting as follows:
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Vendor Purpose Amount Source of Funds Account
Norwood Printing 1,000 #10 Envelopes with $236.08 11292-53108
The Select Board imprint
Commonwealth of Certificate Fees $ 100.00 14002-52000
Massachusetts
TOTAL $336.08
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 8 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 8 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
ARTICLE 9
ADJUST FISCAL ’23 ACCOUNTS
Article 9 To see if the Town will vote to increase/decrease or otherwise adjust the appropriations heretofore made for the Fiscal Year
2023 beginning on July 1, 2022 and ending on June 30, 2023 and the revenues sources to meet those appropriations, as voted
pursuant to Article 43 of the warrant for the 2022 Annual Town Meeting, and to raise and appropriate, or borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute, transfer from available funds or transfer from Free Cash to meet any such increases or adjustments; or to take
any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000) be transferred to fund the Compensated Absences
fund deficit and additional anticipated expenses in said Fund 864, and to meet said appropriation with transfers from the
following three sources: 1) One Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars ($140,000) from unused Fiscal Year 2023 funds in the
Snow and Ice budget, Department 423; 2) Thirty Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($32,500) from surplus in the
Fiscal Year 2023 Blue Hills Regional Technical School budget, Department 840; and 3) Seventy Seven Thousand Five
Hundred Dollars ($77,500) from surplus in the Fiscal Year 2023 Health Insurance budget, Department 914.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 7-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 9 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 9 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
ARTICLE 10
AUTHORIZE CERTAIN REVOLVING FUNDS
Article 10 To see what new or additional revolving funds, pursuant to c. 44, section 53E ½ of the General Laws of the
Commonwealth, the Town may establish by amendment to Article VIII (“Financial Regulations”), Section 16 (“Departmental Revolving
Funds”) of the General Bylaws of the Town and to see what amendments if any the town may vote to existing revolving funds contained
in the Town’s Bylaw, and to determine the limit on total amount that may be expended from the Town’s revolving accounts, for various
boards, commissions or departments of the town, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023 and ending June 30, 2024; or to take any
other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOTION 1: That Article VIII, “Financial Regulations” Section 16 “Departmental Revolving Funds” of the General
By-Laws of the Town be hereby amended by removing Revolving Fund #132 – Student Parking Fees from the listing of
Departmental Revolving Funds in its entirety.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 10, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
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VOTED: Article 10, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Richard Staiti took over as Moderator for Motion 2
MOTION 2:
MOVED: That the spending limits for the revolving funds established pursuant to General By-Laws Article
VIII, Section 16 pursuant to the provisions of MGL chapter 44, section 53 E ½ for the 2024 fiscal year beginning July
1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 as set forth below, and that each Revolving Fund shall be credited with the balance
remaining in such fund at the end of the FY 2023 as follows:
Revolving
Fund # Name of Revolving Fund FY24 Spending Limit
110 Veteran’s Services Special Revenues $100,000
119 Library Revolving Fund $75,000
130 Recreation Revolving Fund $500,000
134 Pequitside Farm Rentals $50,000
135 Greenlodge Street Parking Fees $100,000
136 Beautification Fund $10,000
137 Animal Control Special Revenues $50,000
138 Library Building Rentals $50,000
140 COA Revolving Fund $75,000
141 Board of Health Special Revenue $50,000
Paul Revere Heritage Site Rolling
142 Mill and Open Space Fund $120,000
145 Traffic Mitigation Fund $50,000
Paul Revere Heritage Site Museum
152 Fund $100,000
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 10, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 10, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Alan Hines resumed as Moderator.
ARTICLE 11
INSURANCE PROCEEDS
Article 11 To see whether the Town will vote to appropriate all sums over $150,000 recovered under the terms of any insurance
policy and any other insurance proceeds paid to the Town in connection with any losses suffered by the Town; or to take any other
action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 11 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
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ARTICLE 12
ACCEPT GENERAL OR SESSION LAWS ENACTED BY THE GENERAL COURT
Article 12 To see if the Town will vote to accept any general or session laws enacted by the General Court for the benefit of cities
or towns or of benefit to the Town of Canton; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 12 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 13
APPROPRIATION TO SUPPLEMENT THE COMMONWEALTH’S CHAPTER 90 PROGRAM
Article 13 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from Free Cash, transfer from available funds, transfer from
water enterprise surplus (retained earnings), or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, a sum of money to be spent by the Select
Board acting as the Board of Public Works to supplement the amount received from the Chapter 90 Roads Program with improvements
done in accordance with improvement specifications as determined by and subject to, the approval of the Board of Public Works and
consistent with locations identified in the Town’s Pavement Management System, or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That Seven Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars ($740,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Board of
Public Works to supplement the amount received from the Chapter 90 Roads Program with improvements done in
accordance with improvement specifications as determined by and subject to the approval of the Board of Public Works
and consistent with locations identified in the Town’s Pavement Management System and to meet said appropriation
Seven Hundred Forty Thousand Dollars ($740,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the
Treasury of the Town with the intent that said funds shall be available in FY23.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 13 as printed in the warrant.
VOTED: Article 13 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
ARTICLE 14
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING
Article 14 To see if the Town will raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute,
a sum of money in order to increase the appropriation voted in Article 32 of the 2017 Annual Town meeting for the purposes
named in said article for community recognition for present or former town employees and town officials, subject to all the terms and
conditions set forth in that 2017 appropriation; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board
MOVED: That the sum of Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($2,500) be transferred from Free Cash
(Undesignated Fund Balance) to Fund 100 to increase the appropriation voted in Article 32 of the 2017 Annual Town
Meeting for the purposes named in said article for community recognition for present or former town employees and
town officials, subject to all the terms and conditions set forth in that 2017 appropriation.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
VOTED: ADOPTED UNDER CONSENT AGENDA
ARTICLE 15
“OMNIBUS” CAPITAL OUTLAY PROGRAM
Article 15 To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, transfer from Free Cash, or to authorize
the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Select Board, to borrow (and to issue bonds or notes therefore) any sum or sums of
money, or by any combination of these methods of financing, as may be necessary or desirable, make available funds for the purpose
of purchasing, leasing, re-conditioning, improving or replacing any motor vehicles or other items of equipment or machinery or other
items of personal property for any town agency, or for the purpose of contracting for any service, or for the design, repair, acquisition,
construction, replacement or relocation or improvement to any town building or other structure, public works facility (including highway
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needs and traffic safety items), any other town owned facility or real property, or for any other purposes for which borrowing may be
authorized, to purchase, or to take by eminent domain, any land or easements necessary for any such purposes and, where applicable,
to authorize the trade-in of any presently owned motor vehicles, equipment or machinery to reduce the purchase or acquisition cost
of any item to be acquired, and to include in any new capital project borrowing authorization and/or to amend such borrowing
authorizations from prior years Town Meetings to provide for the application of any bond premiums to reduce the cost of such
borrowings or to apply same to payment of project costs; or to take any other action related thereto.
Select Board for Capital Planning Committee
Article 15 - MOTION 1
MOVED: (a) The acquisition of all vehicles and other motorized equipment that is authorized to be purchased or
otherwise acquired by any motion made under this warrant article shall be under the responsibility of the Finance
Director/Chief Procurement Officer. In addition to the procurement, the “trade-in” or other disposition of all vehicles
and other motorized equipment being replaced is also authorized and shall be under the responsibility of the Finance
Director/Chief Procurement Officer. In all cases where by a motion made under this warrant article, a vehicle or other
piece of motorized equipment is to be acquired by a town agency such purchase or acquisition shall be subject to and
bound by the detailed specifications regarding such purchase or acquisition on file in the office of the Town Clerk;
provided, however, the Finance Director/Chief Procurement Officer, may, in appropriate circumstances, waive or modify
the said detailed specifications, subject to a vote of the Finance Committee, taken within 30 (thirty) days following a
decision to waive or to modify the foregoing provision requiring full compliance with the specifications on file.
(b) All building related projects which are approved and or funded by any motion made under this article shall
be under the responsibility of the Building Renovations Committee appointed pursuant to Canton By-law, Article X,
section 4, except as may be provided by any specific motion made pursuant to this article.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that 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.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 1 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Richard Staiti took over as Moderator for Motion 2
Article 15 - MOTION 2
MOVED: That One Million One Hundred Thirty One Thousand Dollars ($1,131,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal
Year 2024 tax levy and other general revenues of the Town to be spent by the Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief
Procurement Officer) with the approval of various Municipal Departments designated below and with the approval of the
Select Board for the purposes set forth below as follows:
FINCOM
RECOMMENDATIONS AMOUNT
Council on Aging
Replace 2003 Crown Vic w/2023 Ford Focus/Edge $ 43,000
Finance Department
MUNIS System Reports – Town-wide 20,000
MIS
3 Year Antivirus Renewal Software 70,000
Wireless Controller Replacement/Upgrade 14,000
44 IP Phone Replacements in Municipal Offices 15,000
30 Desktop PC and Peripheral Device Replacements 43,000
2 Copier Replacements – Recreation & Police 9,500
Library Firewall Replacement 16,000
Phone Software Maintenance 5 Year Renewal 16,800
Fire Department
4 Thermal Imager Camera Replacements 15,000
Replace Obsolete Fire Intercom System 17,000
Replace 2015 Fire Chief’s Vehicle C-1 w/2023 Chevy Tahoe 68,000
Library
Roof & HVAC Repair and Replacement (partial funding) 28,790
Library Book Drop Replacement 5,000
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Parks & Recreation
14 ft. Landscape Trailer 10,000
Replace 60” Zero Turn Lawn Mower 25,000
Redesign & Replace Crawford Field Irrigation 73 16,500
Replace 2008 Ford 250 w/New 60,000
Police DepartmentSource page 77
Library Book Drop Replacement 5,000
Parks & Recreation
14 ft. Landscape Trailer 10,000
Replace 60” Zero Turn Lawn Mower 25,000
Redesign & Replace Crawford Field Irrigation 16,500
Replace 2008 Ford 250 w/New 60,000
Police Department
4 Police Cruiser Replacements, 2 Hybrid 234,000
Bullet Resistant Vests & Vest Carriers – 10 20,000
Replace 12 Stationary Radar Guns 36,700
Replace 50 Firearms 40,600
Property Maintenance
Replace HVAC System – Lower Level Memorial Hall 45,000
Kubota RTV Utility Vehicle for Pequitside (partial funding) 1,339
Fire/CO Alarms & Detectors – Water/Sewer Garage 44 Pine 50,000
Fire/CO Alarms & Detectors – Parks/Rec Garage 87 Pine St. 37,000
Engineering Design for Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF)
HVAC System at Senior Center 26,000
Department of Public Works
New – Ride-on Leaf Blower 13,000
Flail Boom Mower Attachment 15,000
Paint Exterior of DPW Garage 64,000
Revere & Son Heritage Trust
Storage Shed for Museum – Reimburse Fund 142 24,746
Website Redesign for PaulRevereMuseum.Org 20,000
Town Clerk
7 Poll Pads 11,025
_________
GRAND TOTAL $1,131,000
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual appropriations. The sums
shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount appropriated is one line item in the total sum of
One Million One Hundred Thirty One Thousand Dollars ($1,131,000). The Finance Director and Town Administrator,
acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such a manner as may be needed to accomplish the
foregoing list of purchases; provided, however, that each item contained in the list is procured and that the excess funds
are available because one or more items cost less than estimated and not because an item intended to be procured is
not so procured.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 2 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports all of the items in this
motion, as recommended to the Finance Committee.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 2 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF HANDS, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
Alan Hines resumed as Moderator.
Article 15 - MOTION 3
MOVED: That One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal Year 2024 tax levy and other
general revenues of the Town, for the Canton School Committee to expend for the purpose of purchasing certain items
of property set forth below for the School Department as follows:
FINCOM
AMOUNT
Building Repairs/Improvements
Replacement Art Wing Corridor Flooring – CHS $ 14,500
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HVAC Maintenance – Districtwide 65,000
Replacement of 1st Floor Corridor Tiles – Hansen 11,190
Replacement of 1st Floor Corridor Tiles – JFK 11,316
K-1st Grade Corridor Painting – Luce 19,875
Innovation Lab Renovation CHS (Phase 3) 45,000
Replacement of Roof Top Heating Unit #3 – CHS 45,000
Replacement of Roof Top Unit and Cooling Unit – Library – Luce 38,000
Grounds Improvement
Landscaping & Grounds Improvement 15,177
Information Technology
Grade 4 & 5 Chromebooks (525)/Replacement Cycle – Districtwide 187,425
Teacher Pilot Devices – CHS 33,250
Security System Server Upgrade – CHS & GMS 45,570
Replacement of Classroom Phones 14,960
Touchview Boards (10) – Districtwide 30,130
Airtame Upgrades 9,875
Laptops for Unit E Members (Phase 2) 34,375
Program Improvements
Reclaim Rm. 154 as Classroom/Relocate Robotics to Rm. 157 30,000
AP Physics 2 Equipment – CHS 11,000
Performing Arts Wenger Platforms – CHS Auditorium – Districtwide 14,040
Technology Imac Upgrade (5) – Music/Theater Production – CHS 6,840
Replacement of Classroom Based Instruments (7) – Districtwide 14,497
Volleyball System Upgrade – CHS 14,283
Replace Indoor Basketball Hoops – JFK 50,000
Furniture & Fixtures
Visual Arts Replacement Furniture – Districtwide 12,697
Elementary Library Furniture Enhancements – Tech 35,000
Extraordinary Maintenance/Vehicle Replacement
Maintenance Department Truck – Districtwide 76,000
School Bus – Districtwide 115,000
________
GRAND TOTAL $1,000,000
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual appropriations. The sums
shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount appropriated is one line item in the total sum of
One Million Dollars ($1,000,000). The Town Finance Director and the Director of Finance and Operations for the School
Department, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such a manner as may be needed to
accomplish the foregoing list of purchases; provided, however, that each item contained in the list is procured and that
the excess funds are available because one or more items cost less than estimated and not because an item intended to
be procured is not so procured.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 3 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports all of the items in this
motion, as recommended to the Finance Committee.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 3 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED SHOW OF HANDS, MODERATOR DECLARED MOTION ADOPTED
Article 15 – MOTION 4
MOVED: That One Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($102,500) be appropriated to be spent by the
Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Select Board to pay for the cost
of purchasing 50 Police Department tasers and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the
Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the
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sum of One Hundred Two Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($102,500). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued
pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 4 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports this motion.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 4 adopted as printed.
MODERATOR DECLARED ADOPTED BY A SUPER MAJORITY SHOW OF HANDS, MORE THAN TWO-THIRDS
Article 15 – MOTION 5
MOVED: That Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance Director (in his
capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works Superintendent and the
Select Board to pay for the costs of purchasing a new Ford F-350 Pick-Up Truck with Plow and to meet said appropriation
the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or
any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000). It is the intent that the bonds
and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 5 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports this motion.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 5 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Article 15 – MOTION 6
MOVED: That Three Hundred Twenty Four Thousand Dollars ($324,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Finance Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the costs of purchasing a 6-wheel dump truck and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Three Hundred Twenty Four Thousand Dollars
($324,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 6 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports this motion.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 6 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Article 15 – MOTION 7
MOVED: That Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance Director (in his
capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works Superintendent and the
Select Board to pay for the costs of purchasing an F350 Super Duty 4WD pickup truck and to meet said appropriation the
Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any
other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Ninety Thousand Dollars ($90,000). It is the intent that the bonds and
notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 7 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports this motion.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 7 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
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Article 15 – MOTION 8
MOVED: That Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars ($270,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Finance
Director (in his capacity as Chief Procurement Officer) with the approval of the Department of Public Works
Superintendent and the Select Board to pay for the costs of Pleasant Circle Storm Drain improvements and to meet said
appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any
applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Two Hundred Seventy Thousand Dollars
($270,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the
Town.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 8 moved that the subject matter in Motion 8 be postponed
indefinitely.
VOTED: POSTPONED INDEFINITELY BY A UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Article 15 – MOTION 9
MOVED: That Five Hundred Five Thousand Dollars ($505,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Fire Chief with
the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of replacing Ambulance 1 and to meet said appropriation the Town
Treasurer with the approval of the Select Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other
enabling authority as may be, the sum of Five Hundred Five Thousand Dollars ($505,000). It is the intent that the bonds
and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid
in the first instance from the Ambulance Receipts Reserved for Appropriation Account.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 9 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports this motion.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 9 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Article 15 – MOTION 10
MOVED: That Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($600,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Department of Public
Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of supplementing the Water System
Improvement Construction Contract 3 and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select
Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of
Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($600,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be
general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first instance from Water Receipts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 10 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports this motion.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 10 adopted as printed.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS SHOW OF HANDS
Article 15 – MOTION 11
MOVED: That Four Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars ($420,000) be appropriated to be spent by the Department
of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Select Board for the purpose of replacing a 6” water main on
Revere Court with an 8” water main and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Select
Board be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the sum of
Four Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars ($420,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this
authority be general obligations of the Town but it is expected that they shall be repaid in the first instance from Water
Receipts.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 8-0-0
Cindy Thomas, Chair of the Finance Committee moved Article 15, Motion 11 as printed in the warrant.
David Emhardt, Chair of the Capital Planning Committee, stated that the Capital Planning Committee supports this motion.
VOTED: Article 15, Motion 11 adopted as printed.
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