Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
2015 Annual Report
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Source page 1
TOWN OF CANTON 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Source page 2
On the cover: The New Canton Senior Center
500 Pleasant Street, Canton MA 02021
Photo taken by: Linda SacramonaSource page 3
ANNUAL TOWN REPORT
TOWN OF CANTON
2015Source page 4
Dedication
This Annual Report is dedicated to
AVRIL T. ELKORT
For 36 years of dedicated service to the Town of Canton and its
citizens as a member of the Finance Committee from 1979 to 1987 and
as a Selectman from 1988 to 2015.
2Source page 5
IN MEMORY WE HONOR
ATTORNEY MICHAEL P. CURRAN
1933 – 2015
Elected as Town Moderator for the years 1976, 1978, 1980, 1982,
1984, 1986, 1988 and 1990
Served as Town Counsel from 1990 until his retirement in 2002
3Source page 6
In recognition of their years of service to the Town and their
dedication to public service, we wish to recognize the retirement of
the individuals listed below.
Building Department
Paul J. Reynolds – Wiring Inspector
Department of Public Works
John S. Redquest – Sewer Foreman
Fire Department
Lieutenant Christopher S. Sanford
Police Department
Errol R. Lane – Patrolman
School Department
Marilyn C. Capone – Teacher – GMS
Jacqueline G. Gonyer – Teacher – CHS
Janice M. McCarthy – Teacher – GMS
Susan McGowan – Superintendent Admin. Asst.
Jane W. McNamara – Special Education
Elizabeth Pomfred – Teacher – Luce
Susan M. Rogers – Nurse – Kennedy
Barbara A. Stephens – Business Admin. Asst.
Margaret Sullivan – Teacher – Luce
Jane Thornton – Nurse – Hansen
Donna Treece – Teacher – CHS
4Source page 7
In Memoriam
Ruth Colmer - School Teacher
Michael Curran - Town Moderator, Town Counsel,
Democratic Town Committee Member
Joseph Kolesinski – Custodian
Charles Leary - Police Officer
Mary Stevenson - H/S Cafeteria Supervisor
5Source page 8
CANTON ALMANAC IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Settled 1650 United States Senators
Incorporated 1797 Elizabeth Warren, Boston
John F. Kerry, Boston
Location Representative in Congress
Southeastern (8TH Congressional District)
Massachusetts at Stephen Lynch, Boston
The Foot of the Blue Hills
Population: Councilors:
20,878 (Second District – Precincts 1-6)
Robert L. Jubinville, Boston
Form of Government State Senators
Open Town Meeting (Norfolk, Bristol & Plymouth District)
Total Number of Registered Brian Joyce, Milton
Voters: 14,984
Tax Rate: Representative in General Court
Residence - $12.79 (6th Norfolk District)
Commercial - $26.36 William C. Galvin, Canton
Taxable Property Annual Town Election Date
$4,320,712,300 First Tuesday after the
First Monday in April
School System: Annual Town Meeting:
3 Elementary, 1 Middle Second Monday of May - 7:00PM
1 High School, 1 Parochial
Elementary, Blue Hill Highways
Regional Technical School Town: 91 miles
State: 5.3 miles
Police:
Chief, Deputy Chief, 2 Lieutenants Altitude
6 Sergeants & 32 Patrolmen 126.8 feet above sea level
1 Animal Control Officer
1 Aide to Police Chief
Fire:
Chief, Deputy Chief, 5 Captains,
5 Lieutenants, 40 Firefighters,
1 EMS Coordinator; 1Administrative
Aide to the Fire Chief
6Source page 9
APPOINTMENTS
Town Administrator Executive Assistant
William T. Friel Christina A. Carlton
Town Accountant Emergency Management Director
Kathleen Butters Fire Chief Charles E. Doody
Superintendent of Public Works M.B.T.A. Advisory Member
Michael T. Trotta Edmund Franklin
Fire Chief Constables
Charles E. Doody Kenneth N. Berkowitz
Helena Findlen
Police Chief Patty Sherrill
Kenneth N. Berkowitz Thomas Keleher
Paul Close
Town Counsel James Farris
Paul DeRensis Charles E. Penders
Robert D. Churchill
Building Commissioner Harold March
Edward Walsh Walker C. Farrar, Jr.
Robert N. Witt
Finance Director/Collector/Treasurer Bradford Slocum
James Murgia
Director of Library Town Planner
Mark Lague Tim Richard
Custodian of Tax Title Board of Health Director
James Murgia John Ciccotelli
Assistant Collector/Treasurer Veteran’s Service Agent
Susan Desjardins Anthony Andreotti
Deputy Assessor Tree Warden & Pest Control
Karen Zukauskas Dan Teague
Workers Compensation Agent Parking Clerk
Jody Middleton Tracy Kenny
Sealer of Weights & Measures Superintendent of Fire Alarms
State Bureau of Standards Charles Doody
7Source page 10
Plumbing & Gas Inspector Animal Control Officer
Marc Zade Stacy Nee
Donald Sasin – alternate
Wiring Inspector Moderator (alternate years)
Paul Reynolds/Jonathan Levis Richard Staiti/Alan Hines
Paul McCarthy
Town Engineer Assistant Engineer
James Donovan Lisa Grega
Conservation Agent
Cynthia O’Connell
8Source page 11
TOWN OFFICERS
SELECTMEN, BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS Elected Term Expires
& LICENSING BOARD April of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
John J. Connolly, Chair 2016
Robert E. Burr, Jr., Vice-Chair 2017
Kevin T. Feeney, Clerk 2018
Victor D. Del Vecchio 2017
Mark J. Porter 2018
TOWN CLERK
Tracy Kenney 2018
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
Rocco Digirolamo 2018
William C. Galvin 2016
Daniel Flood 2017
BOARD OF HEALTH
Robert P. Schneiders 2016
Richard Levreault 2018
Dr. Julie E. Goodman 2017
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
John Bonnanzio 2017
Kristin Mirliani 2018
Reuki B. Schutt 2017
Mike Loughran 2016
Robert Golledge 2016
PLANNING BOARD
Christopher Connolly, Chair 2016
Tori McClain, Vice-chair 2018
Michael Mitcheroney, Clerk 2019
Jeremy Comeau 2017
George F. Jenkins 2020
9Source page 12
TRUSTEES OF LIBRARY
George T. Comeau 2017
Joyce Wiseman 2018
Margaret Mead 2016
Susan Cogliano, Chair 2017
Bernard Mendillo 2018
Dorothy Shea 2017
Kathy Fox Alfano 2016
Joan Schottenfeld 2018
Emily Prigot 2016
CANTON HOUSING AUTHORITY
John McSweeney, Chairman 2020
Joseph DeFelice (State Appointee) 2016
Glen Hannington, Vice-Chairman 2016
Adam Brothers 2019
Janet Walrod 2018
BOARD, COMMISSIONS & COMMITTEES Appointed Terms
Expires April of
APPOINTED BY THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Beautification Committee Term/Expires 3 Years
Michael McHugo 04/30/2016
Peter Pineo 04/30/2018
Jilian B. Hayes 04/30/2016
Vacancy (2)
Blue Ribbon Traffic Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
James Fitzpatrick (Precinct 1) 04/30/2016
Gary Ronan (Precinct 2) 04/30/2016
Kathy McCormack (Precinct 3) 04/30/2016
Peter Pineo (Precinct 4) 04/30/2016
Armin Azar (Precinct 5) 04/30/2016
Matthew Donohue (Precinct 6) 04/30/2016
Mark Porter (BOS) 04/30/2016
Kevin Feeney (BOS) 04/30/2016
Tim Richard (Town Planner) 04/30/2016
Cable Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Jim Sims 04/30/2016
Vacancy (3)
10Source page 13
Canton Veteran’s Council Term/Expires 1 Year
Robert DeYeso 04/30/2016
Walter Molis 04/30/2016
Arline Love 04/30/2016
Frank LaBollita 04/30/2016
Dan Teague 04/30/2016
Jack O’Neil 04/30/2016
Robert Witt 04/30/2016
Vacancy (3)
Commissions on Disabilities Term/Expires 3 Years
Nancy Gowe 04/30/2017
Lynn Findlen Valkanas 04/30/2016
Laura Findlen Lane 04/30/2016
Mark Perry 04/30/2017
Vacancy (1)
Comprehensive Water Resource Term /Expires 1 Year
Management Plan Comm.
Cynthia O’Connell (Con Comm) 04/30/2016
John Ciccotelli (Board of Health) 04/30/2016
Jim Murgia (Finance Director) 04/30/2016
Michael Trotta (Supt. Public Works) 04/30/2016
Joe Shea (Citizen) 04/30/2016
Dennis Morton (W/S Supervisor) 04/30/2016
William T. Friel (BOS) 04/30/2016
Conservation Commission Term/Expires 3 Year
Deb Sundin 04/30/2017
James A. Fitzpatrick 04/30/2016
Robert MacDonald 04/30/2018
Donald E. McAdams 04/30/2017
Gerald Carmichael 04/30/2016
Janna Shub 04/30/2018
Joshua Cohen 04/30/2018
11Source page 14
Council on Aging Term/Expires 3 Years
James Fitzpatrick 04/30/2016
Ann Resca 04/30/2016
Elaine Gilmore 04/30/2016
Dr. William Sullivan 04/30/2018
Elizabeth Lethin 04/30/2018
John M. Crowe 04/30/2017
Janet Walrod 04/30/2017
Economic Development Comm Term/Expires 1 Year
Gene Manning 04/30/2016
Kristen Draper 04/30/2016
Robert Panico 04/30/2016
Hamilton S. Rodrigues 04/30/2016
Brian Mahoney 04/30/2016
Vacancy (1)
Fair Housing Committee Term/Expires 1 year
Vacancy (3)
Canton Cultural Council Term/Expires 3 Years
Drusilla Sanusi 04/30/2017
Jean Keddy 04/30/2018
Elizabeth Ryan 04/30/2017
Barbara Erickson 04/30/2018
Renee Hanscom 12/31/2015
Jeremy Comeau 12/31/2015
Lisa Campbell 04/30/2018
Theresa Bielecki-Owens 04/30/2018
Ruth Pinkus 04/30/2018
Joyce Lauro 04/30/2018
Community Preservation Committee 9 Members Term/Expires 3 years
Lisa Lopez - Designee – Board of Selectmen 04/30/2016
Kathy Fox – Alfano - Designee – Board of Selectmen 04/30/2016
Robert Panico 04/30/2017
Larry Bogue 04/30/2018
John McSweeney 04/30/2017
Deb Sundin 04/30/2018
George Comeau 04/30/2018
Michael Loughran 04/30/2017
Michael Mitcheroney 04/30/2018
12Source page 15
Historical Commission Term/Expires 3 Years
George T. Comeau 04/30/2017
James A. Fitzpatrick 04/30/2017
Michael Nourse 04/30/2017
Sue P. Gibbs 04/30/2018
Kathleen Keith 04/30/2016
Paul Mitcheroney 04/30/2016
Sepp J. Bergschneider 04/30/2016
Gerald Carmichael 04/30/2017
Industrial Development Finance Authority Term/Expires 5 Years
Vacancy (5)
Liason to State Ethics Commission Term/Expires 1 Year
William T. Friel 04/30/2016
Metropolitan Area Planning Council Rep Term/Expires 3 Years
Brian Mahoney 2017
Master Plan Monitoring Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
Mike Nourse 04/30/2016
Diane Glenn 04/30/2016
Peter Pineo 04/30/2016
Vacancy (9)
Paul Revere Heritage Commission* Term/Expires 1 Year
Bruce Beckham 04/30/2016
George T. Comeau, Clerk 04/30/2016
Jeremy J. Comeau, Chair 04/30/2016
Victor D. Del Vecchio 04/30/2016
Mike Nourse 04/30/2016
Thomas C. Scully, Vice-Chair 04/30/2016
Deb Smith 04/30/2016
Janet Maguire 04/30/2016
*Building Use Committee
John Bonnanzio, Clerk 04/30/2016
Jeremy J. Comeau 04/30/2016
Victor D. Del Vecchio 04/30/2016
Kathy Fox Alfano, Chair 04/30/2016
John Mahoney 04/30/2016
Paul Mitcheroney, Vice-Chair 04/30/2016
Robert Panico 04/30/2016
13Source page 16
*Open Space Committee
Marilyn Curran 04/30/2016
Fredrick Fairfield, Vice-Chair 04/30/2016
Carl Lavin 04/30/2016
Alan Leary, Clerk 04/30/2016
Lisa Lopez, Chair 04/30/2016
Tori McClain 04/30/2016
Nick Pirelli 04/30/2016
Permit Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 year
William T. Friel (BOS 04/30/2016
Robert McCarthy (Citizen at large) 04/30/2016
Ed Walsh (Building Commissioner) 04/30/2016
Jeremy Comeau (Planning Board) 04/30/2016
Tim Richard (Town Planner) 04/30/2016
Paul Carroll (Zoning) 04/30/2016
Gene Manning (Economic Development) 04/30/2016
Chief Berkowitz (Police) 04/30/2016
Chief Doody (Fire) 04/30/2016
Cynthia O’Connell 04/30/2016
Vacancy (Moderator appointed Citizen at large)
Playground & Recreation Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
Debra Kelly 04/30/2017
Alison Grossman 04/30/2016
Larry Bogue 04/30/2016
Thomas W. Theodore 04/30/2016
Richard Eckler 04/30/2016
Stacy Gorman 04/30/2016
Cabot Devoll 04/30/2016
Registrars of Voters Term/Expires 1 Year
Marilyn C. Curran 04/30/2017
Edward Marshall 04/30/2017
J. Daneen Pate 04/30/2016
Tracy Kenney – Town Clerk N/A
Reservoir Pond Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Janet Maguire (Recreation Rep) 04/30/2016
Gerald Carmichael (Conservation Rep) 04/30/2016
Chief Ken Berkowitz (Police Rep) 04/30/2016
Chief Charles Doody (Fire Rep) 04/30/2016
William Walsh (DPW Rep) 04/30/2016
Sandy Denehy (RP Rep) 04/30/2016
14Source page 17
Ann Holden (PCIA Rep) 04/30/2016
David Cahill (William/Parrish/Breton Rep) 04/30/2016
Bill Cohen (WCC Rep) 04/30/2016
Melvin Darack (Orchard Cove Rep) 04/30/2016
Jim Fitzgerald (Citizen at large) 04/30/2016
John Dillon (Citizen at large) 04/30/2016
Scott Winter (Citizen at large) 04/30/2016
Pauline O’Leary (Citizen at large) 04/30/2016
Traffic Study Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Ken Berkowitz 04/30/2016
Michael Trotta 04/30/2016
Lisa Grega 04/30/2016
Chief Charles E. Doody 04/30/2016
Frank Labollita 04/30/2016
Peter Pineo 04/30/2016
Vacancy (2)
Water/Sewer Rate Policy Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
James Murgia 04/30/2016
Michael Trotta 04/30/2016
Karen Welch 04/30/2016
Denis Morton 04/30/2016
Jerry Dorfman 04/30/2016
(Vacancy 3)
Youth Commission Term/Expires 3 Year
Renee Hanscom 04/30/2016
Brenda Lee Boris 04/30/2016
Kerry Ann Callahan-Mofford 04/30/2016
Meg Kennedy 04/30/2017
Robert E. Panico 04/30/2017
Zoning Board of Appeals Term/Expires 3 Years
Greg Pando 04/30/2017
John S. Marini 04/30/2018
Paul B. Carroll 04/30/2016
Zoning Board of Appeals
Associate Members Term/Expires 1 Year
Gary Vinciguerra 04/30/2016
John McCourt 04/30/2016
15Source page 18
Town Sick Bank Committee
Jody Middleton Human Resources Administrator
Kathleen Butters Town Accountant
Christina Carlton Executive Assistant - BOS
Lisa Grega Assistant Town Engineer
Linda Brooks Adm. Aide to Police Chief
Diane Tynan Council on Aging Director
Mark Zade Alternate Member
Health Insurance Advisory Committee
Diane Tynan, Administrative Employees Association
Thomas Keleher, Superior Officers
Jeff O’Brien, Canton Firefighters Association
James Murgia, Finance Director
William T. Friel, Town Administrator
Jay Peters, AFSCME
Jane Consalvi, Retiree
Jody Middleton, Human Resources Administrator
Scott Connor, Police
Ryan O’Hare, CTA
Vacancy (1)
UNION PRESIDENTS
Jeff O’Brien, IAFF
Scott Connor, Police
Glen Piro, Superior Officers
Jay Peters, AFSCME
Edward Walsh, AEA
APPOINTED BY THE PLANNING BOARD
Canton Center Design Review Board
Michael Nourse, Historical Commission 2018
Peter Pineo 2018
Diane Glenn 2018
16Source page 19
APPOINTED BY MODERATOR
Finance Committee
Dianne Gustafson 2016
Jim Sims 2016
Jim Casamento 2016
Robert Barker, Vice-Chair 2018
Gerald Dorffman 2018
Barbara Saint Andre, Chair 2017
Nicola Gallagher 2017
Sepp Bergschneider 2016
Stephanie Leach 2017
Tim McKenna 2018
Vacancy (2)
Capital Planning Committee
Gene Manning, Chairman 2017
Paul Price 2017
Bob Panico 2017
Pat Johnson 2016
Building Renovations Committee
Robert McCarthy, Chairman 2016
Charles J. Armando 2015
Maureen A. McDonough 2016
John McCourt 2018
Chris Podgurski
Robert Carmody 2017
John Bonnanzio (School Comm.)
Kevin Feeney (COD)
John Connolly (BOS)
Kathleen Butters (Finance Dept.)
Associate Members: Ken Leon, Chief Kenneth Berkowitz, Chief Charles
Doody and Mark Lague. Freida Domaingue, Secretary
17Source page 20
BOARD OF SELECTMEN - 2015
The calendar year ending December 31, 2015 was a period of fiscal challenge and
continued focus on community planning, enhanced community communications and
public engagement. The Board worked collaboratively with professional staff and
citizen committee representatives, and sought to enhance the quality of municipal
services and responsiveness to our residents. The Board worked on the Town’s
behalf, through changes in Board membership due to the April election. We
acknowledge, recognize and thank Mrs. Avril T. Elkort for her decades of selfless
public service. We also appreciate and recognize the tireless efforts of Mr. Sal A.
Salvatori, for his past decade of service. His thoughtful and detailed analysis of
complex and difficult public policy matters remains an impressive legacy. We wish
to welcome and acknowledge our newest members, Kevin T. Feeney and Mark J.
Porter, and congratulate them on their victories and election to office in April.
The Board of Selectmen wishes to recognize and thank the countless
citizens who volunteer their time to serve on the various Boards, Committees, and
Commissions which are vital to the effective functioning of our local government.
The Board will continue to encourage, solicit and recruit citizens to volunteer their
time and skill to these important Town activities. Current openings for these Boards
can be found at www.town.canton.ma.us. We also thank all of our employees for
their dedication and professional service to the residents of Canton.
The Board of Selectmen continued this year with its ongoing, and now
successful, efforts to secure the necessary State funding approaching $40,000,000 for
the design and construction of roadway improvements along Dedham Street to
accommodate the expected increased traffic generated as a result of the University
Station Project, formerly known as the Westwood Station Project. The new
developer, Westwood Marketplace Holdings, LLC (WMH), continued to work
cooperatively with the Town and has proposed a project considerably smaller than
the original larger scale project. We are pleased to say that (WMH) and the Town of
Canton previously executed a Cooperation Agreement. As part of that Agreement,
(WMH) presented the Town with a check in the amount of $1,350,000. The Board
of Selectmen has spent considerable time this year engaging impacted residents at or
near locations which design and construction of roadway improvements is
contemplated including Dedham and Chapman Streets where intersection
alignments, widening and traffic signalization(s) is planned for spring 2016, along
with other town-wide locations as determined by the Board of Selectmen.
The redevelopment of Plymouth Rubber continued with major portions of
a number of abandoned buildings being demolished and removed from the site, along
with the active implementation of comprehensive site contamination remediation
efforts. This redevelopment is expected to last forty eight months or more and is the
18Source page 21
largest downtown redevelopment undertaking in decades. It will remain a major
focus of the Board into this coming year and beyond. The overall goal remains its
comprehensive cleanup and redevelopment via a plan that requires reduced density,
greater community open space and access, historical preservation and reuse, and
community-owned infrastructure improvements, including the Diversion Channel
which largely runs along Neponset Street. The Board continues to engage a diverse
cross section of the community, including the School Committee, Planning Board,
Historical Commission, Assessors, Conservation Commission, Community
Preservation Committee, ADA Committee, residents and various town staff and
other subject matter experts, to ensure Town planning and execution of, access to,
and reuse of land and or buildings at the site for municipal, school and the public’s
benefit consistent with past actions of Canton Town Meetings. Consistent with, and
to ensure the proper reuse of land and buildings, the Board appointed, this year, the
Paul Revere Heritage Site Commission.
Other initiatives, activities and accomplishments the Board of Selectmen
has worked on include:
1. The engagement of the services of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council
(MAPC) to conduct an asset and reuse plan for the Canton Reservoir, since
the Board negotiated and acquired by gift this $10,000,000 asset for the
Town. We expect the results of that advisory report in early 2016, setting
the stage, to bring to Town Meeting, any further legislative approvals which
may be needed for improved public access and asset protection.
2. The Board actively oversaw, and ultimately participated in, the opening of
the new Canton Senior Center located at 500 Pleasant Street. Our thanks to
the Building Renovation Committee, COA Director, Diane Tynan and the
Council on Aging for their assistance and ongoing efforts to provide our
senior community this long awaited, upgraded multi-functional center.
Since opening this year, the Center has been an outstanding success based
on senior population feedback and as demonstrated by increased levels of
participation in both COA sponsored activities and events now offered at
the Center.
3. We continue to work with the Massachusetts Municipal Association,
Norfolk County Selectmen’s Association and the Massachusetts
Selectmen’s Association on legislative matters impacting our Town. The
latest resolutions include, but are not limited to, calling for solutions to the
transportation finance crisis in Massachusetts. Congressman Steven Lynch,
Senator Brian A. Joyce, and Representative William C. Galvin, continue to
work diligently on our behalf. We are most appreciative for their continued
efforts and support. This year, to assist the business community, the Board
19Source page 22
sought, and are now finalizing, legislative approval for additional pouring
and package store licenses to improve the business climate and enhance the
convenience and dining experience for our residents, especially in the
downtown.
4. The Senior Tax Rebate Program proved, once again, to be a success. This
program, now enrolling over 110 seniors, administered with the assistance
of Karen Zukauskas, Director of Assessing, and Diane Tynan, Director
Council on Aging, benefited all who participated (both volunteers and
Town Departments).
5. The Town continues to realize the savings of millions of dollars annually by
producing water locally via our own wells at more than one half the cost of
purchasing water from the MWRA.
6. The Board of Selectmen oversaw the completion of Reservoir and Shepard
Pond Dam improvements. In particular, the Shepard Pond Dam
Improvements have led to positive resident feedback relative to the vast
visual improvement, not to mention it’s functionally, in terms of protecting
abutting and area properties from water overflows and flooding during
weather events.
7. The Town’s financial management was again recognized and awarded this
year, based on its completion and submission of a Comprehensive Annual
Financial Report (CAFR) to the National Government Finance Officers
Association (GFOA). Canton is one of approximately 27 elite
Massachusetts communities that have attained the level of professionalism
in financial tracking and reporting for the 9 th consecutive year. There are
many dedicated Town employees who deserve our appreciation, but the
efforts of Jim Murgia, Finance Director, and his professional finance staff,
warrant particular attention.
8. The Board continues its work to assist the Community Preservation
Committee (CPC) in its significant endeavors, which annually presents
important recommendations to Town Meeting. The Board of Selectmen
remains actively engaged in evaluating and studying the needs, possibilities
and resource allocation of CPC funds, in areas such as historic preservation,
housing, open space and recreation, that best meet the public need.
9. The Board approved, and is currently overseeing, efforts related to town
wide conversion of our street lighting inventory to LED lighting for
improved long term efficiency, reduced annual operating and maintenance
costs (expected to be $65,000. annually) and enhanced public safety.
20Source page 23
10. Curbside collection of solid waste and increased recycling was fully
implemented this past year. In an effort to reduce solid waste curbside
collection costs, increase recycling and not charge residents a separate
curbside fee, as is done in many communities, the Town successfully
launched this service and almost immediately realized recycling levels
doubling. This is especially important due to the fact the Town pays
nothing to dispose of recycled materials for significant resident savings.
11. The Board of Selectmen actively maintains emergency preparedness
training and communication with its Police, Fire, School Department, and
State and Federal agencies, to ensure that the proper level of
communications, equipment and training are ongoing in Canton to respond
to any emergency that impacts the public good. The Town is very well
served by the expertise and professionalism of Police Chief Ken Berkowitz
and Fire Chief Charlie Doody, our Emergency Preparedness Director. As
part of our emergency Response Preparedness the Board oversaw the
replacement of the salt/sand storage facility located at the Bolivar Street
Highway Garage. This new facility will better enable assigned Town staff
to store larger quantities of materials with improved access provided to
enable DPW vehicles responsible for loading vehicles as part of roadway
deicing and plowing operations during inclement weather.
12. Canton was once again awarded the prestigious AAA bond rating. We join
a very small and select group of Massachusetts communities (approximately
50 out of 351 cities and towns) that have been similarly designated. This
ongoing distinction, especially in the economic climate that we have
recently experienced, is a tribute to the Town’s sustained efforts to manage
its finances, consistent with the highest of standards. This accomplishment
is one we all should be very proud, and again kudos to Jim Murgia, Finance
Director, and his staff.
13. The Town remains steadfast in its efforts to address traffic issues Town
wide, resulting in the appointment of the Blue Ribbon Traffic Committee to
address the Towns number one complaint. This diverse group of
individuals went right to work. They continue to actively meet and closely
explore creative, practical and achievable approaches and solutions in a
town wide manner to tackle this difficult issue. The public is invited to
attend the meetings. In addition, and related to the traffic issue, the Board
appointed the Canton Walk, Bike and Hike Committee to explore safe,
integrated and complimentary modes of transportation.
21Source page 24
14. The Board continued its efforts, with the assistance of the Capital Planning
Committee, to address Town capital needs ensuring department staff in such
areas as police, fire and public works, all have the necessary tools to safely
and efficiently accomplish their departmental responsibilities.
15. The Board also initiated, and are overseeing, a municipal position
description and compensation evaluation process, to ensure employee
position descriptions accurately delineates the requirements and
responsibilities of the position and that the compensation provided is fair
and equitable after evaluating both internal and external comparable data.
The Board also made significant progress this year working with staff
members to complete nearly all required employee collective and individual
bargaining obligations. To those staff members we thank you for your
positive, thoughtful and active engagement.
In April 2015, at our annual Town Election, the Board welcomed the
election of two new members, Kevin T. Feeney and Mark J. Porter to new three-year
terms. Immediately following the 2015 Annual Town Meeting, the Board
reorganized, as follows: John J. Connolly, Chairman; Robert E. Burr, Jr., Vice
Chairman; Kevin T. Feeney, Clerk; Victor D. Del Vecchio, Member; and Mark J.
Porter, Member.
On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank everyone who continues to
use the Town’s web-based communication tools that allow citizens to directly
contact and communicate with the Board of Selectmen and other Town departments.
We have seen a dramatic increase in this form of communication. This year, we also
sponsored and implemented the enhanced utilization of social media with good
result. All citizens are encouraged to conveniently communicate with the Board and
its departments via email at bos@town.canton.ma.us. We are pleased to note that
design improvements were also implemented to the Town’s Website this year,
thanks to Louis Jutras and the Management Information Systems department.
Additionally, the Board owes a debt of gratitude to our staff. It is always a
point of pride to hear residents, business owners, members of various Town
committees, and other project proponents offer their appreciation for the assistance
Bill, Tina, Jen and Judy provide.
On a personal note, I know the members of the Board would like to take a
moment to recognize and thank our families. Like many elected and appointed
officials, the members of the Board spend a considerable amount of time away from
home at meetings and various functions as well as countless hours off camera doing
important work for the Town.
22Source page 25
We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Canton’s Town
Administrator, Bill Friel. For 26 years, Mr. Friel has dedicated his efforts and shared
his many strengths including financial foresight, budget analysis, successful
negotiating skills, compassion, diplomacy, and management structure which have
helped advance Canton to its current financial strength and made it a desirable town
where residents are proud to live. He will be truly missed and we wish him the very
best of luck in his future endeavors.
Finally, the Board of Selectmen wishes to recognize and honor all of the
brave men and women serving in the armed forces, both domestically and abroad, to
preserve freedom around the world.
It has been my honor and my privilege to serve as Chair this year,
working alongside Victor, Bob, Kevin and Mark. I want to thank each of them for
their support of me, and dedication to working on behalf of all Canton residents and
all businesses located in the Town of Canton.
Respectfully Submitted,
Mr. John J. Connolly, Chairman
Canton Board of Selectmen
23Source page 26
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
William C. Galvin, Chairman 801 Washington St.
Rocco DiGirolamo, Member Canton, MA 02021
Daniel Flood, Clerk Telephone 781-821-5008
Karen Zukauskas, Director of Assessing Fax 781-575-6624
E-mail: Assessing@town.canton.ma.us
Hours of Operation:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Tuesday 8:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
The Board of Assessors hereby submits its annual report:
Gross Amount to be Raised by Taxation: $100,173,794
Total Estimated Receipts and Available Funds: 31,977,464
Net Amount to be Raised by Taxation: 68,196,330
Residential Valuation: 3,367,549,515
Commercial, Industrial & Personal Property Value: 953,162,815
Total Taxable Valuation: 4,320,712,300
Residential Tax Rate: $12.79
Commercial Tax Rate: $26.36
The Board of Assessors was notified by the Department of Revenue that our tax rates
were approved. The total taxable valuation of the Town is over 4.3 billion dollars
this year. The next triennial revaluation of the Town will take place next year. We
would like to thank our current staff Karen Zukauskas – Director of Assessing,
Carolyn Floyd – Assistant to the Director of Assessing, Mary Tynan-Cassidy –
Assessing Technician, Patricia Brooks – Board Secretary and Katherine Barry –
Assessing Clerk for all of their hard work and dedication throughout this past year.
We would also like to thank our senior program worker, Sheila McNeely for all of
her assistance.
24Source page 27
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
801 WASHINGTON STREET
CANTON, MA 02021
TEL: 781-821-5003 FAX: 781-575-6574
DEPARTMENT HEAD
EDWARD T. WALSH
BUILDING COMMISSIONER/ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
INSPECTION STAFF OFFICE STAFF
Paul McCarthy, Local Building Inspector Marie Brennan, Admin. Assistant
Marc Zade , Plumbing/Gas Inspector Adrienne Borges , Dept. Secretary
Jonathan Levis, Electrical Inspector
OFFICE HOURS
Monday - 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Tuesday thru Friday – 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Submitted herewith is the Annual Report of the Building Department for the Year
2015
PLUMBING AND GAS DIVISION
Plumbing permits issued - 560 Fees collected - $51,752
Gas permits issued - 531 Fees collected - $24,063
ELECTRICAL DIVISION
Electrical permits issued - 794 Fees collected - $141,366
25Source page 28
BUILDING DIVISION
SUMMARY REPORT OF BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED
1. New Single Family Dwellings 26
2. New Two Family Dwellings 2
3. New Multi-Family Dwellings (9 Units) 2
4. New Commercial/Industrial Buildings 3
5. Additions to Residential Dwellings 28
6. Additions to Commercial Buildings 3
7. Alterations and Repairs to Residential Dwellings 902
8. Alterations and Repairs to Comm/Ind Buildings 250
9. Signs 29
10. Swimming Pools 13
11. Renewed, Replace Permits 35
12. Occupancy Permits 92
13. Temporary Occupancy 23
14. Stoves 7
15. Accessory Buildings, Sheds, Barns, etc 5
16. Demolition Permits 25
17. Temporary Structures, Tents, etc 36
18. Foundation Permits 20
19. Amendments to Permits 13
TOTAL 1514
TOTAL Valuation on Building Permits Issued $75,556,729
Fees collected on Building Permits Issued $951,550
Fees collected on Annual/Assembly Certificates Issued $4,185
Fees collected on Plumbing/Gas Permits Issued $75,815
Fees collected on Electrical Permits Issued $141,366
TOTAL REVENUE $1,172,916
Respectfully submitted,
Edward T. Walsh
Building Commissioner
26Source page 29
BUILDING RENOVATION COMMITTEE
Town of Canton, Massachusetts
801 Washington St.
Canton, Massachusetts 02021
Bob McCarthy Chairman, Chuck Armando, Chris Podgurski, Maureen McDonough,
John McCourt, Robert Carmody At Large Members.
Kevin Feeney, Disabilities; John Bonnanzio, School Comm; John Connolly BOS;
Kathy Butters, Finance Dept,
Frieda Domaingue, Secretary
During the 2015 year the Building Renovation Committee (“BRC”)
continued its management of the projects approved at earlier Town Meetings. The
Following is a list of some of the projects that were addressed by the Building
Renovation Committee in the past year:
1) Senior Center: Town Meeting Appropriated $650,000 to purchase and
rehabilitate the K of C Building in 2012. The Town voted $1,360,000 at
Town Meeting in May 2013 for complete renovations to the building as
required by State Law. Occupancy occurred in April 2015. This project has
been completed.
2) School HVAC: This is a continuing program. It is proceeding on schedule.
3) Canton High Tennis Courts: This project went out for bids in December.
Construction began in June of 2015. We had substantial completion in
November 2015.
4) Canton High School Boiler: This project has been completed
5) Police and Fire: These projects went out for bids in December.
Construction began in April both projects have been completed.
6) Hansen School Expansion: A detailed plan outlining the scope and cost
was presented to Annual Town Meeting in May 2015. Town Meeting voted
favorably and an override vote passed successfully. Construction has begun
and completion is expected by October 2016
7) Library: Converting book storage area to a computer room: This project
has been completed.
8) David Tilden House (Little Red House). Phase 1 of this project was
awarded to the Architect Spencer & Vogt Group, They are in process of
establishing an Historic Structures Report. Schematic Design/Design
Development, Construction Documents, Bidding and Construction will
continue into 2016. We expect phase 1 completion in June 2016.
27Source page 30
I would like to thank our associate members Barry Nectow, Mark Lague, Police
Chief Ken Berkowitz, Fire Chief Charles Doody and all the other professional
employee’s at Town Hall as will as our secretary Frieda Domaingue. As a volunteer
committee these people keep us informed and perform the day to day work necessary
to allow these projects to be completed on time, on budget.
I would like to thank my fellow committee members. Their knowledge and expertise
is what makes this committee functions so well.
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert J. McCarthy, Chairman
Building Renovation Committee
28Source page 31
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
801 Washington St
Canton, MA 02021
Tel: 339-502-5729
ccpc@town.canton.ma.us
Canton Community Preservation Committee (CCPC) Members
Lisa Lopez, Chair, Community Representative
George Comeau, Vice-Chair, Historical Commission Representative
Deb Sundin, Treasurer, Conservation Commission Representative
Kathy Alfano, Clerk, Board of Selectman Designee
Larry Bogue, Recreation Commission Representative
Michael Mitcheroney, Planning Board Representative
Michael Loughran, School Committee Representative
John McSweeney, Housing Authority Representative
Robert Panico, Capital Planning Committee Representative
The CCPC said goodbye to two original members of the Committee in 2015. Jeremy
Comeau, Planning Board representative, stepped down in order to turn his attention
to the Paul Revere Heritage Site Commission. He was instrumental in securing CPA
funding for the acquisition of the property known as Plymouth Rubber as a co-
sponsor (with the Conservation Commission) on the application for this purchase of
nearly ten acres in the heart of Canton. Bob Golledge also resigned his appointment
to the Community Preservation Committee upon becoming Chairman of the School
Committee. The CCPC extends its appreciation to Bob and Jeremy for their service
to the Town and their commitment to community preservation.
Purpose
To administer Community Preservation Act funds for projects that benefit the public
in the areas of open space protection, historic preservation, community housing and
outdoor recreation. Voters approved the statewide Community Preservation Act
(CPA) at the 2012 General Election through a 1% surcharge on all real estate
property tax bills with two exemptions: residential property owned and occupied by
any person who qualifies for low-income housing, or low- or moderate-income
senior housing and the first $100,000 of taxable value of all residential real property.
At the 2014 Annual Town Meeting (ATM), residents voted to extend the $100,000
tax exemption to commercial and industrial property owners.
Accomplishments
The CCPC was pleased to see several of the projects funded in the inaugural CPA
grant year (2014) advanced in 2015. The following table provides a summary of
first-round projects with a status report on each as of the close of the calendar year.
29Source page 32
Category - Open Space and Recreation
Project Title: Canton High School Tennis Courts Restoration
Project Sponsor: School Committee
CPA Funding Amount: $200,000
Project Description: Reconstruct the tennis courts at Canton High School.
Project Status: Project completed in the Fall of 2015.
Category - Historic
Project Title: Civil War Soldier Statue Restoration
Project Sponsor: Veteran’s Agent
CPA Funding Amount: $30,000
Project Description: Repair and restore the Town’s civil war statue and
install in front of Town Hall.
Project Status: Project completed in 2014.
Project Title: 1840 Friendship Quilt
Project Sponsor: Canton Historical Society
CPA Funding Amount: $2,705
Project Description: Clean, repair and stabilize one of the oldest remaining
quilts crafted by Canton women.
Project Status: Project completed in 2014.
Project Title: Canton Corner Cemetery Gravestone Restoration, Phase I
Project Sponsor: Historical Commission and Department of Public Works
CPA Funding Amount: $25,000
Project Description: Repair and preserve certain historic gravestones in the
Canton Corner Cemetery.
Project Status: Project commenced in 2015 and is ongoing.
Category – Community Housing
Project Title: Veterans’ Housing Smoke Detector Upgrade
Project Sponsor: Canton Housing Authority
CPA Funding Amount: $63,700
Project Description: Preserve Veterans’ Housing units by eliminating
individual battery-operated smoke detectors, and installing a hard wired,
interconnected smoke detection system.
Project Status: Project sponsor sought and received additional CPA funds at
May 2015 ATM and work was largely completed by December of 2015.
Project Title: Veterans’ Housing Electrical Box Upgrades
Project Sponsor: Canton Housing Authority
CPA Funding Amount: $30,000
Project Description: Preserve Veterans’ Housing units by replacing exterior
electrical boxes with new electrical panels.
Project Status: Project sponsor sought and received additional CPA funds at May
2015 ATM and work was largely completed by December of 2015.
30Source page 33
In addition to monitoring the ongoing projects funded in 2014, the Canton CCPC
recommended a total of eight projects (across all three funding categories) to Town
Meeting in 2015. Among these projects was the open space acquisition at Plymouth
Rubber, which was part of the 2015 Special Town Meeting action to redevelop this
long-vacant parcel. The CCPC is pleased to report that all eight projects
recommended for funding were approved at the May 2015 Town Meeting. An
outline of the most recent CPA-funded projects follows:
Historic Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Canton Corner Cemetery Phase II - funds will cover design $11,000
and engineering for repairs to receiving tomb and vaults as well
as an extensive retaining wall.
Canton Firefighter’s Memorial Bell - for the restoration of $15,000
Bronze “Blake” Bell manufactured in 1888.
Tilden House - to preserve and restore the “Little Red House”; $414,150
constructed in the early 1700s the building is one of the few
remaining first-period homes in the Commonwealth.
Historical Documents Master Plan – funds will be used to hire $10,000
a consulting archivist to assess storage needs and preservation
issues and to prepare a plan addressing both physical and virtual
organization and integration of the extensive collection of
historical documents.
Martha Howard Petticoat – to clean and stabilize unique $5,895
textile dating back to 1840.
First Parish Church Steeple and Spire – funds will cover $99,120
restoration and preservation of the steeple (which houses an
1821 Paul Revere & Son bell) and spire. A permanent
preservation restriction will be executed to ensure the continued
existence of this landmark.
31Source page 34
Community Housing Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Veteran’s Housing - supplemental funding to install a smoke $100,000
detection system and electrical panels .
Open Space Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Plymouth Rubber Land Acquisition - funds to be used for the $1,740,000
future purchase of approximately 7 acres of land for open space (10-year bond)
and recreation purposes upon completion of site remediation.
In the Fall of 2015, the CCPC received six pre-applications for CPA funding. Five
of these six projects were submitted as full applications in mid-November. The
CCPC held public meetings in November and early December to entertain
presentations from project proponents and to consider which projects to recommend
to Annual Town Meeting in May of 2016. Final decisions as to recommendations
will be reported in early January.
Financials
Total CPA revenues in fiscal year 2015 were $651,594.27. This includes the State
Match totaling $153,822. FY 2015 numbers are detailed below:
CCPC Revenues and Expenses for Period July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
Revenue
CPA Tax $491,959.51
State Match $153,822.00
Investment Income $5,812.76
Total Revenue $651,594.27
Expenses
Administrative Expenses $12,100.37
Community Housing $93,700.00
Historic Preservation $57,705.00
Open Space/Recreation $200,000.00
Unbudgeted Reserve (funds not allocated to a project) $288,088.90
Total Expenses $651,594.27
32Source page 35
The CCPC entered the FY 16 grant round with “carry-over” funds of $764,710.
With estimated revenues of $600,000, a total of $1,364,710 was available to fund
projects in the new fiscal year. In May of 2015, Town Meeting approved a total of
$655,155 in project funding (as detailed above). In addition, Town Meeting
authorized a 10-year bond to pay for the future purchase of open space at the former
Plymouth Rubber site. While the bond will not be issued until the site is remediated
in accordance with the development agreement, the CCPC voted to begin setting
aside the annual debt payments in the current fiscal year. The following table
summarizes the activity in the CPA fund over the past three years:
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION FUND
FY 14 FY 15 FY 16
Uncommitted/Unexpended $0 $476,621 $764,710
Funds from Prior Fiscal Year
Revenue for Fiscal Year $481,871 $651,594 $600,000*
Total Funds Available $481,871 $1,128,215 $1,364,710**
Total Admin Expenses ($5,251) ($12,100) ($30,000)
Debt Service for Open Space ($234,900)
Total Funds Available $476,621 $1,116,115 $1,099,810
for Projects
PROJECT FUNDING BY
CATEGORY
Open Space/Recreation $0 $200,000 $0
Historic $0 $57,705 $555,165
Housing $0 $93,700 $100,000
TOTAL PROJECT $0 ($351,405) ($655,165)
FUNDING
Uncommitted/Unexpended $476,621 $764,710 $444,645**
Funds for Fiscal Year
* projected amounts from CPA surcharge and State match
** estimated fund availability using conservative revenue expectations for
Fiscal Year 2016
33Source page 36
A Guide for CPA at Town Meeting
In addition to voting on projects recommended by the Committee, there are several
other CPA motions put forth at Town Meeting. The first motion is for administrative
expenses, which by law shall not exceed 5 per cent of the annual revenues in the
Community Preservation Fund. The second CPA motion voters will see is a
breakdown of monies being transferred between CPA accounts. Under the State’s
CPA legislation, in each fiscal year and upon the recommendation of the Committee,
the legislative body shall spend, or set aside for later spending, not less than 10 per
cent of the annual revenues in the Community Preservation Fund for open space, not
less than 10 per cent of the annual revenues for historic resources and not less than
10 per cent of the annual revenues for community housing. This motion ensures that
some monies are allocated to each category, whether or not a project in that category
is recommended for funding in that year. In 2015, voters agreed to allocate $60,000
to each CPA subaccount, which represents 10% of expected revenues for fiscal year
2016. Each motion for a proposed project will specify the amount taken from the
previous year’s subaccount balance and once that account is depleted, any monies
coming from the main CPA fund.
Continuing Initiatives
In FY 2016, the Committee will continue to build relationships with the community
and community leaders to solicit project ideas that will benefit the Town.
Additionally, the Committee will work with project sponsors to steward those
projects through completion. Some will be completed quickly and others will be
more long term in nature. The Community Preservation Plan is available on our
website. We encourage anyone with project ideas to apply using the forms also
available on our webpage.
The Committee wishes to thank past and current project sponsors, Canton citizens,
Town officials, the law firm of Deutsch/Williams, the Massachusetts Community
Preservation Coalition and each of its Committee members for their continued
dedication to CPA.
Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Lopez, Chair
34Source page 37
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Pequitside Farm
79 Pleasant Street, Second Floor
Canton, MA 02021
Office (781) 821-5035 Fax (781) 821-7456
concom@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Conservation Agent Hours:
Monday – Thursday Monday - Thursday
8:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. 7:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Friday 8:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. Appointment Only
Conservation Commission Members: Pequitside Sub-Committee:
Steven Landry– Chairman Debra Sundin– Chairman
Robert MacDonald– Vice – Chairman Gerald Carmichael – Conservation
Donald Macadam – Treasurer Kathleen Keith – Historical Commission
James Fitzpatrick – Clerk Edward Butler Superintendent of Grounds
Debra Sundin Janet Maguire – Recreation Director
Gerald Carmichael Cynthia O’Connell – Conservation Agent
Edward Jastrem (resigned Mar. 2015)
Janna Shub (appointed May 2015)
Conservation Agent: Office & Recording Secretary:
Cynthia O’Connell Heather Cahill
The Conservation Commission administers both the state and local by-law
regulations for the Wetland Protection Act as well as the local by-law regulations for
Storm Water and Soil Erosion and Sediment Control. The Conservation Commission
works directly with developers, town departments and residents regarding new or
redevelopment projects, new subdivisions, construction of new single-family homes
and building additions to ensure an understanding of the requirements for
compliance with the regulations.
The Commission holds public hearings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of
every month at Pequitside Farm in the Tavern Room located at the rear of the main
house. Public Hearings begin at 7:00 P.M. All hearings are open to the public and
recorded by Canton Community Television. Copies of current regulations and forms
are available on the Conservation Department website
town.canton.ma.us/335/Conservation-Commission or the Conservation Office (781)
821-5035.
Members of the Conservation Commission also serve on the Pequitside Sub-
Committee, the Community Preservation Committee, the Permit Advisory
Committee, the Paul Revere Heritage Commission, the Walk, Bike and Hike
35Source page 38
Committee, the Water and Sewer Tate and Policy Committee and the Reservoir Pond
Advisory Committee.
The economy continued to improve in 2015 resulting in an increase in the number of
applications for permits. Consequently, the Conservation Commission had a busy
year. There were 22 Public Hearings issuing a total of 112 permits which consisted
of 47 Wetland Permits, 34 Stormwater Permits, and 31 Land Disturbance Permits.
The Town of Canton is rich in natural resources which provide protection for public
water supplies and wildlife habitat as well as scenic beauty. The most important
natural resources have been identified as the Neponset River and its tributary
streams, ponds, and associated wetlands; the large Fowl Meadow and Ponkapoag
Pond Area of Critical Environmental Concern, and the remaining undeveloped areas
of natural vegetation in town. Currently, public access to many of Canton ponds is
difficult or limited. It is important to the town to continue to protect and enhance the
quality of surface and ground waters, flood protection and wetland resources as well
as improve wildlife habitat and provide recreational amenities. Despite the increasing
fragmentation of the Town’s natural areas, the existence of large areas of
undeveloped land gives Canton the opportunity to plan now to create open space
linkages.
To that end in 2015 the Commission has made an effort to create update the
inventory of town-owned open space parcels. In combination with work done by the
Engineering Department, a list of parcels was created and the development of a
town-wide map of all of the parcels has begun. It is hoped that by the end of 2016,
each parcel will have been visited and the boundaries walked in order to identify any
areas of encroachment. The goal of the effort is to prepare a Conservation
Management Plan and to update the Town of Canton Open Space and Recreation
Plan, last issued in 1997.
The Commission has also continued to work with the Board of Selectmen and the
Reservoir Pond Advisory Committee to develop the Earl Newhouse Waterfront on
Reservoir Pond. At the time of this writing the Metropolitan Area Planning
Commission has begun a study of Reservoir Pond, commissioned by the Board of
Selectmen, which will develop recommendations for the public access and use of the
pond.
The Pequitside Sub-Committee oversees projects and improvements to the
Pequitside Properties - Pequitside Farm, including the Edward J. Lynch Jr. House,
and Pequitside Woods. The Sub-committee meetings are held on the third Monday of
every month, 9:30 A.M., second floor of the Edward J. Lynch Jr., Main House of
Pequitside Farm. Pequitside Sub-Committee meeting dates are posted on the Town
of Canton website and at the Town Clerk’s office at Town Hall. All are welcome to
attend.
36Source page 39
The Edward J. Lynch Jr. Main House at Pequitside Farm is maintained and managed
for community use. The main and grounds are available to rent for fundraisers,
weddings, showers, or meetings. Applications are available on the Pequitside Farm
website www.town.canton.ma.us/336/Pequitside-Farm. For pricing and availability
please contact the office at (781) 821-5035.
During 2015 an update to the 2000 Pequitside Master Plan was completed by Laura
Campbell, a student in the Landscape Institute at the Boston Architectural Center.
Laura’s recommendations for the facility include a re-configuration of the vehicular
and pedestrian circulation systems at the north end of the property, re-use of the
vacant barn on the western side of the facility and removal of the existing tennis
court, currently in a state of disrepair. It is anticipated that Ms. Campbell will present
her findings to the Board of Selectman at a public meeting in early 2016. The
Commission has made a Capital Request for FY17 to fund a detailed survey and
engineering study of the property in order to provide safer and more efficient public
access to Pequitside Farm.
It is the Commissions’ sincerest wish that all Canton residents be allowed to enjoy
their own property and the public lands throughout the town. It is also our wish that
we all come to understand the great responsibility that we have as a community to
protect our natural resources for ourselves and for the many generations to follow.
When using public lands for recreation, please abide by the rules and regulations that
have been established for the protection of the land and the people who use it.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank two Commissioners who tendered
their resignations in 2015. Edward Jastrem was a Commissioner for three years and
contributed regularly to the discussions at public hearings. Steven Landry was
appointed to the Commission in 2012, served as Treasurer and became Chairman in
May of 2015. Steve completed an Open Space parcel inventory during his tenure and
was also a member of the Pequitside Sub-Committee. Their public service to the
Town of Canton is much appreciated.
We would also like to thank Ed Butler (Building and Grounds Technician), and the
Canton Board of Selectman without whose assistance the we would not be able
maintain and repair our buildings and grounds. In addition, we would like to thank
our secretary, Heather Cahill, for her support of the Commission and work to
maintain the Commission Office, manage the building and grounds rental and
supervise our senior volunteers.
Our sincerest thanks to Conservation Agent Cynthia O’Connell for all that she
accomplished this year for the Commission, her dedication to improving the
environment of Canton and her commitment to planning for Canton’s future.
Best wishes to all Canton residents,
Debra Sundin – Chairman, Canton Conservation Commission
37Source page 40
COUNCIL ON AGING
500 Pleasant Street
Canton, MA 02021
781-828-1323
Diane Tynan, Director COA Board
Robin Tobin, Outreach Worker Janet Walrod, Chairman
Elaine Gilmore, Vice Chairman
Administrative Staff James Fitzpatrick, Secretary
Dale Rushworth Betty Lethin, Member
Peggy Cibotti Dr. William Sullivan, Member
Linda Friel Dr. John Crowe, Member
Ann Resca, Member
COA MISSION
The Canton Council on Aging (COA) promotes a holistic approach that addresses
the physical, social and economic needs of older adults, thus providing a sense of
emotional well-being. By offering pertinent information, and a number of targeted
programs and services, the COA encourages Canton seniors’ participation in all
aspects of community life. In addition to the services for seniors, the Center also
focuses on the needs of the Canton community-at-large by providing assistance on
economic services and programs. In recent years the COA has become a vital
resource for the entire community offering information on aging, support for family
caregivers, outreach support, advocacy groups and educational seminars. The
overwhelming response we are seeing in our new facility enhances our confidence
that we are successfully meeting the prerequisites of our mission.
Statistical Overview
Of the total population in Canton, 25% are age 60 and older. During 2015, we
provided 33000 units of service to residents over age 60 and an additional 1600 to
those under the age 60. The COA anticipated this increase in attendance and program
participation once we were in our new facility. We continue to have a positive
response to all our programs. As the number of baby boomers increase in our
community so will the requirement to use our space efficiently through the multi-
functionality of individual areas and rooms, and effectively through scheduling.
Since moving into our new location on April 6, 2015 our participation has increased
by a conservative estimate of 18%. However, the increase is more like 20% when
measured by units of service. Seniors and non-seniors served in that same time
period were 28101 units of service in 2015 compared to 24,000 units in 2014.
38