Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
2015 Annual Report
Saved text from 215 source pages. Transcription and OCR may contain errors; verify figures and wording against the original. Retrieved 2026-10-15.
Source page 41
Transportation Program
The COA has three handicap- accessible buses and one car. Canton Seniors and non
-senior disabled residents are assisted Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to
4:30PM with transportation to medical appointments, COA programs, food
shopping, etc. In 2015 we provided approximately 8200 trips.
Health & Wellness Programs
Healthy Aging concepts include physical activities and exercise as integral
components since they can control and often prevent health conditions among
seniors. As a result, COA is offering several exercise programs, education, and
health seminars. Health screenings and flu clinics are also offered, some of which are
in conjunction with the Board of Health. The COA is gratified that the Town has
approved a Program Coordinator, Marylou Sullivan, who will begin working in
2016. This will help ensure the continued success and expansion of existing
programs through the efficient allocation of space and time
Outreach/Social Service
The Canton COA also offers assistance with housing, employment, home care
services, tax abatements, long-term care placement, prescription drug programs, and
many other programs and services. All of these services are under the direction of
our Outreach Worker and or the Director. The Outreach Worker is also available to
make home visits to homebound elderly and disabled residents to assess their needs
and make referrals.
Tax Work-Off Program
The Town of Canton offers a Tax Work-Off Program for senior homeowners over 60
years.. These seniors are offered a real estate tax credit of up to $1000.00 by working
in various Town Departments. This program benefits senior citizens, while providing
the town with knowledgeable workers. In 2015 senior workers were placed in the
Senior Center, Selectmen’s Office, Town Hall, Library, Treasurer/Collector’s office,
the Recreation Department, DPW, the Assessors’ office, the Building/Inspection
office, Animal Control, Fire Department, Police Department, Schools and other
Town Departments.
Volunteers
Undoubtedly, the COA has a most dedicated staff of volunteers. Their steadfast
service and commitment to the Senior Center affords us the opportunity to function
39Source page 42
with a small departmental staff. These volunteers not only enrich our programming,
they enhance our ability to serve older adults effectively. We greatly appreciate all
the individuals, organizations, and town departments that support us with time and
treasure, without which we could not provide the many services we offer.
We would be remiss if we did not recognize and thank all of the dedicated and hard-
working staff: Robin Tobin, Dale Rushworth, Linda Friel, Peggy Cibotti, Marylou
Sullivan, and bus drivers: Rich D’Attanasio, Charlie Penders, Herb Silverman, Al
Widberg, Bob Antonucci, Steve Genatasio and Fred Rausa.
We are thankful to all the Townspeople, the Board of Selectmen, all Town Boards
and Town Departments, and the Building Renovation Committee for helping us to
get our new building and making it a home.
Respectfully submitted,
Janet Walrod, Chairman
Diane Tynan, Director
40Source page 43
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
801 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021
Fax (781) 575-6608
James R. Murgia, Finance Director 781-575-6612
jmurgia@town.canton.ma.us
Kathleen D. Butters, Town Accountant 781-575-6605
kbutters@town.canton.ma.us
Susan Desjardins, Asst. Treasurer/Collector 781-821-5006
sdesjardins@town.canton.ma.us
Louis M. Jutras, Information Systems Manager 781-821-5069
ljutras@town.canton.ma.us
Hours of operation: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday)
9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Tuesday)
ANNUAL REPORT
In May, Josh Keif was hired as our part-time network technician, replacing Jake
Colbert who left to join API Technologies as their network coordinator. We wish
Jake well with his new position.
The Finance Department contributed to several major accomplishments during the
year:
Received from the Government Finance Officers Association their Certificate of
Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting due to our preparing a
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for fiscal 2014. This is the
9th year we have received this award after preparing a CAFR and plan on doing
this annually.
Prepared a Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for fiscal 2015, which is
available on the Town’s website.
Issued bonds in March 2015 amounting to $3.7 million with SunTrust Robinson
Humphrey being the low bidder at a net interest rate of 1.8%.
Collected 99.6% of the property taxes due for fiscal 2015, amounting to almost
$65 million.
Invested cash balances resulting in interest income of $114,000 in fiscal 2015.
41Source page 44
Submitted various financial reports to the Department of Revenue who then
certified the Town’s free cash reserve as of June 30, 2015 to be $3.8 million.
This “rainy day fund” along with $5.6 million in our Stabilization Fund will help
to maintain the Town’s highest bond rating of AAA and to fund one-time
expenditure needs.
Led the Town’s efforts in submitting reimbursement requests to FEMA
pertaining to the January, 2015 blizzard as well as storm related damage to the
rink and salt shed.
Continued responsibility of issuing stickers to allow commuters to park along
Greenlodge Street.
Implemented in-car video system and installed related network hardware and
software for the Police Dept.
Replaced copy machines for the Police, Fire, Council on Aging, and Recreation
Departments.
Replaced the financial server and upgraded Munis software to version 11.1 and
SQL to 2014.
Installed projector system in Salah Meeting Room and Armando Center;
replaced sound and projector system at the Police Station.
Expanded Virtual Desktop utilization and instituted off site replication of virtual
servers.
Facilitated technology installation and relocation for Council on Aging and
Veterans Department.
Continued for the 7th year to host a student intern in MIS from Blue Hills
Regional High School.
We have prepared a comparative balance sheet and statement of revenue and
expenditures for the Town’s general fund. We have also prepared a report on trust
fund cash balances and long-term debt.
I would like to thank all Departments, Boards, Commissions, Committees and the
Finance Department staff for their cooperation during the past year. The
accomplishments of the past year were the result of the hard work and efforts of this
entire group of professionals.
Respectfully submitted,
James R. Murgia
Finance Director
42Source page 45
TOWN OF CANTON, MASSACHUSETTS
REPORT OF CASH ACTIVITY AND BALANCES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2015
7/1/14 INCREASE 6/30/15
TRUST FUNDS BALANCE (DECREASE) INTEREST BALANCE
Balsamo Scholarship Fund 20,530.29 226.57 20,756.86
Bicentennial Fund 4,235.93 46.75 4,282.68
C.T. Downes Lib Fund 20,955.79 231.26 21,187.05
Cemetery P.C. Fund 403,366.04 5,267.83 408,633.87
Conservation Land Fund 141,178.11 1,843.74 143,021.85
Dean Luce Scholarship Fund 24,756.10 273.20 25,029.30
Dental Trust Fund 504,207.49 6,584.83 510,792.32
Detective Fund 8,402.62 (8,402.62) 0.00 0.00
Drug Forfeiture Acct 1,008,415.07 13,169.57 1,021,584.64
E. Bolster Library Trust 56,513.33 623.67 57,137.00
E.C. Harding Lib Fund 2,277.79 25.14 2,302.93
E. Kenealy Memorial Tr 3,230.95 35.66 3,266.61
Federico Memorial Fund 7,261.52 80.14 7,341.66
G.E. Downes Lib Fund 19,102.07 210.80 19,312.87
Health Claims Trust Fund 2,571,458.42 33,582.43 2,605,040.85
Helen Martis Scholarship Fund 4,876.53 53.82 4,930.35
High School Scholarship Fund 15,851.39 174.93 16,026.32
Jack Galvin Lib Fund 1,811.52 19.99 1,831.51
Joanna A Connors Fund 4,557.12 50.29 4,607.41
Kendall Recreation Fund 1,012.33 11.17 1,023.50
Kennedy Scholarship Fund 10,094.24 111.40 10,205.64
M Badoian School Fund 157.90 1.74 159.64
McLeod Fieldhouse Fund 2,309.98 25.49 2,335.47
Municipal Bldg. Ins. Fund 463,870.94 6,058.01 469,928.95
OPEB 579,880.02 551,000.00 59,912.93 1,190,792.95
Retirement Buyback Trust 138,152.35 1,524.62 139,676.97
Scholar Dollar Fund 36,046.27 397.80 36,444.07
Second Century Library Tr 46,356.69 511.58 46,868.27
Senior Center 2,200.15 24.28 2,224.43
Shaler Charity Fund 11,789.89 130.11 11,920.00
Stabilization Fund 403,366.04 5,267.83 408,633.87
Stabilization Fund 2,594,393.65 33,491.81 2,627,885.46
Stabilization Fund 2,015,284.77 21,795.29 2,037,080.06
Teen Activity Center 2,712.38 29.93 2,742.31
Unemployment Comp Trust 105,044.77 1,159.25 106,204.02
Van Schagen Library Trust 5,671.56 62.59 5,734.15
Workers' Comp Trust 28,328.42 312.63 28,641.05
Total Trust Funds 11,269,660.43 542,597.38 193,329.08 12,005,586.89
Surety Deposits 469,176.94
43Source page 46
TOWN OF CANTON, MASSACHUSETTS
LONG TERM DEBT AS OF JUNE 30, 2015
7/1/14 6/30/15 INTEREST
DATE PRINCIPAL NEW PRINCIPAL PRINCIPAL PAID IN
ISSUED INTEREST RATE BALANCE BOND ISSUE PAYMENTS BALANCE FY 2015
1/15/08 3.50% to 4.00% 1,750,000 300,000 1,450,000 64,151
3/15/08 2.50% to 4.00% 385,000 145,000 240,000 15,038
5/15/09 2.00% to 4.00% 3,835,000 340,000 3,495,000 133,762
5/15/10 2.00% to 3.55% 4,370,000 340,000 4,030,000 144,976
7/8/10 2.00% 3,274,755 163,365 3,111,390 68,651
11/15/10 0% 287,000 41,000 246,000 0
5/1/11 2.00% to 4.25% 9,665,000 1,085,000 8,580,000 343,469
3/27/12 2.00% to 4.00% 7,780,000 470,000 7,310,000 232,512
5/10/12 0% 400,000 50,000 350,000 0
3/15/13 2.00% to 4.00% 5,615,000 420,000 5,195,000 172,169
8/19/13 0% 1,656,500 222,300 1,434,200 0
11/13/13 2.00% to 5.00% 7,445,000 1,215,000 6,230,000 249,548
3/15/14 2.50% to 5.00% 13,325,000 1,495,000 11,830,000 641,007
2/24/15 2.00% 0 335,000 0 335,000 0
3/15/15 2.50% to 3.00% 0 3,689,150 0 3,689,150 0
Totals 59,788,255 4,024,150 6,286,665 57,525,740 2,065,283
44Source page 47
TOWN OF CANTON
MASSACHUSETTS
GENERAL FUND
Balance Sheet (1)
As of June 30
2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
Assets
Cash and Short-Term Investments $ 17,477,722 $ 16,360,540 $ 18,785,224 $ 17,912,965 $ 16,940,144
Receivables-Net of Uncollectible Amounts:
Property Taxes 541,545 451,911 576,418 621,348 739,410
Tax Liens and Foreclosures 1,203,433 1,341,202 1,531,791 1,330,045 1,104,284
Excise Taxes 478,923 212,688 547,033 106,840 170,863
Due From Other Governments 2,499,064 2,860,353 3,210,035 3,605,923 4,001,029
Other Assets 1,506,665 691,008 700,975 444,048 748,109
Total Assets $ 23,707,352 $ 21,917,702 $ 25,351,476 $ 24,021,169 $ 23,703,839
Liabilities and Fund Equity
Liabilities
Accounts Payable $ 957,884 $ 1,152,448 $ 1,131,795 $ 763,695 $ 1,034,789
Payroll Payable 3,849,178 3,562,869 3,148,230 2,821,074 2,722,580
Other Liabilities 41,894 34,916 29,963 358,064 448,654
Deferred Revenue 4,344,867 4,624,671 5,620,685 5,472,257 5,823,790
Provision for Abatements & Exemptions 1,925,000 1,475,000 1,152,000 1,220,000 446,000
Total Liabilities 11,118,823 10,849,904 11,082,673 $ 10,635,090 $ 10,475,813
Fund Equity
Restricted 0 0 5,160,240 5,483,092 6,033,902
Committed 364,246 358,148 470,608 0 0
Assigned 793,408 893,993 361,035 784,891 1,368,595
Unassigned (2) 11,430,875 9,815,657 8,276,920 7,118,096 5,825,529
Total Fund Equity 12,588,529 11,067,798 14,268,803 13,386,079 13,228,026
Total Liabilities and Fund Equity $ 23,707,352 $ 21,917,702 $ 25,351,476 $ 24,021,169 $ 23,703,839
(1) Excerpts from audited financial statements.
(2) Includes Stabilization Fund balance beginning in fiscal 2011.
45Source page 48
TOWN OF CANTON
MASSACHUSETTS
Combined Statements of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance (1)
General Fund for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30
(000 omitted)
Revenues 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011
Property Taxes $ 63,274 $ 61,063 $ 59,064 $ 56,247 $ 55,346
Payments in Lieu of Taxes 222 215 224 219 199
Tax Liens Redeemed 352 783 220 372 225
Excise Taxes 4,120 3,715 3,474 3,165 3,290
Penalties and Interest 311 344 324 264 306
Departmental and other 1,102 951 789 485 501
Licenses and Permits 1,283 818 1,044 912 646
Intergovernmental - State 11,910 16,882 16,482 15,228 14,884
Fines and Forfeitures 113 141 110 99 145
Earnings on Investments 142 145 82 122 145
Hotel and Meals Taxes 582 568 461 38 0
Total Revenues $ 83,411 $ 85,625 $ 82,274 $ 77,151 $ 75,687
Expenditures
General Government $ 3,806 $ 4,256 $ 3,589 $ 3,464 $ 3,447
Public Safety 10,038 9,745 9,438 8,887 8,903
Education 36,052 34,942 33,426 32,222 31,750
Public Works 5,024 4,649 4,308 3,790 4,208
Human Services 826 794 770 782 699
Culture and Recreation 1,698 1,703 1,513 1,465 1,477
Pension Benefits 7,321 11,915 11,733 11,325 11,105
Employee Benefits 11,500 11,081 10,226 10,304 9,973
State and County Charges 944 960 960 875 849
Debt Service 4,986 6,140 6,063 5,966 5,870
Total Expenditures 82,195 86,185 82,026 79,080 78,281
Excess (Deficiency) of Revenues Over
Expenditures 1,216 (560) 248 (1,929) (2,594)
Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Premium from Issuance of Debt 109 2,259 101 56 34
Proceeds from refunding bonds 0 15,185 0 0 0
Payments of refunded bonds 0 (21,739) 0 0 0
Operating Transfers - In 1,026 2,677 2,260 2,380 2,630
Operating Transfers - Out (830) (1,023) (1,726) (349) (235)
Total Other Financing Sources (Uses) 305 (2,641) 635 2,087 2,429
Excess (Deficiency) of Revenues and Other
Financing Sources (Uses) Over Expenditures 1,521 (3,201) 883 158 (165)
Fund Balance - Beginning (2) 11,068 14,269 13,386 13,228 13,393
Fund Balance - Ending $ 12,589 $ 11,068 $ 14,269 $ 13,386 $ 13,228
(1) Excerpts from audited financial statements.
(2) Includes Stabilization Fund balance beginning in fiscal 2011.
46Source page 49
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
2015 Annual Report
Business: (781) 575-6654 Fax: (781) 821-6591
Charles E. Doody
Emergency Management Director
Email: cdoody@town.canton.ma.us
Colonel, AUS Frank LaBollita (ret.) Chief James A. Fitzpatrick (ret.)
Deputy Director of Plans, Deputy Director of Logistics
Operations and Training & Damage Assessment
In 2015, the Canton Emergency Management Agency was awarded an Emergency
Management Planning Grant in the amount of $4,960 to purchase and install
software to assist Canton in preplanning emergencies due to natural and manmade
distasters.
In addition, the Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT) continued its training
and development and has a robust 50 member roster. This volunteer team completed
drills in shelter opening, first aid and CPR, fire extinguisher use and electrical safety.
The National Guard conducted an informative class on Weapons of Mass
Destruction and terrorism. The CERT was deployed to augment public safety
personnel at two events – the July 4th fireworks and the Irish Festival.
The Emergency Operations Center was activated during the historic snowstorms of
January and February and helped to communicate with and request resources from
the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.
I would like to thank the members of the Emergency Management Agency and the
new CERT volunteers for their dedication to ensuring the safety of the residents of
Canton and for their continuing efforts to improve Canton’s capacity to respond to
town wide emergencies.
Respectfully Submitted,
Charles E. Doody
Fire Chief/EMD
47Source page 50
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Annual Report – Canton Fire Department – 2015
On behalf of the Canton Fire Department, it is my pleasure to submit the 2015
Annual Report to the Town of Canton.
Our Mission is to protect the lives and property of the citizens of Canton by
providing the highest possible level of service through fire prevention, public
education, fire suppression, emergency medical services and mitigation of the effects
of manmade and natural disasters.
Personnel
The department hired two new firefighters in 2015. Kate Howarth was hired and is a
certified Paramedic. She graduated from the Massachusetts Fire Academy in
February of 2016. Anthony Flematti was also hired and is a certified Paramedic and
a fully trained Firefighter. Kate and Anthony are excellent additions to the
department and the community.
Operations and Planning
The Department responded 4,208 calls for assistance. This was a 9% increase over
the 2014 response numbers. On average we respond to 11calls per day. EMS
accounts for 60% of the calls. As the town continues to grow, Canton Fire is working
with contractors to complete several large scale projects such as Cornerstone
Assisted Living on Revere Street, Brightview Assisted Living on Turnpike Street
and the development of the Plymouth Rubber site.
Canton Fire applied for a $340,000 grant for replacing air packs. Results of the
application will be made available in the in summer of 2016. We continue to work
on different ways to fund important safety equipment needs that will help keep our
firefighters and citizens safe.
48Source page 51
Training
The Training Division promotes safety awareness and firefighting best practices to
the firefighters. Training sessions are based on current safety standards, emerging
technologies and department needs. Topics include: equipment use, skills
maintenance, fire suppression, rescue techniques, vehicle operations, emergency
medical services, dispatch procedures, preplan tours of target hazard buildings and
training drills at structures scheduled for demolition. Training records are kept up to
date for all members.
The Training Division procures tools for the apparatus and personal protective
equipment for the firefighters. In 2015 the division assisted the Fire Chief in
purchasing new personal protective equipment including firefighting helmets, boots
and turnout gear for all members.
Fire Prevention
The following permits and inspections were performed in 2016 by the fire prevention
Lieutenant.
• 18 cutting and welding permits
• 9 diesel storage permits
• 3 flammable gas
• 5 flammable liquid
• 40 liquid propane permits
• 37 Oil burner permits
• 74 plan reviews
• 493 smoke and carbon monoxide inspections
• 25 oil tank installs
• 31 oil tank removals
• 10 transfer tank inspections.
The total permit revenue brought in was $27,800, In addition there were inspections
done on all the schools, nursing homes, and all the restaurants with liquor licenses.
Canton Firefighters installed smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in over 70
homes as part of the program with the Red Cross and as part of the Senior Safe grant.
Many classrooms were visited as part of the SAFE grant program to provide fire and
safety education to students. CFD also hosted an open house again this year as part
of our SAFE program.
Emergency Medical Services
The Emergency Medical Services Division conducted ongoing continuous education
training to all of our first response personnel and continued our quality assurance
program to assure the highest quality of patient care. Our Ambulances responded to
49Source page 52
2224 medical related calls, including mutual aid calls to our surrounding
communities for which we transported 1893 patients to our local emergency rooms
and trauma centers. We performed regular inspections and maintenance on the 15
Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s) located in all public buildings including
the town hall, recreation facilities, senior center, library, police station and all public
schools, as well as added an additional AED to each elementary school and the
middle school.
Equipment
The Department purchased new protective equipment (turnout gear) for each
firefighter. The ensemble includes boots, pants, coats, gloves, hoods and helmets.
The state of the art gear will keep our firefighters safe in dangerous atmospheres.
Next, Engine 6, a 2003 Emergency One Pumper housed at Headquarters, was
refurbished to allow it to get to the end of its 20-year service life. Finally, the second
phase of the conversion to a radio master box system was completed in all of our
public school buildings to go along with the previous year’s conversion of all
municipal buildings. Phase three will conclude the project with the conversion of
privately owned buildings.
Donors
We also wish to thank the Elizabeth Simoni Foundation, the Canton Association of
Business and Industry, the Rodman Foundation and Pulse Systems for their
continued support of the department, helping us to purchase needed safety equipment
and provide training opportunities that the operating budget cannot accommodate.
Finally, we would like to thank the Canton Police Department, Building Department,
the Board of Health and the Department of Public Works for their cooperation and
assistance in providing for the safety of our residents. Public safety is truly a team
effort in the Town of Canton.
Respectfully Submitted,
Charles E. Doody
Chief of the Department
50Source page 53
BOARD OF HEALTH
Located at Pequitside Farm
79 Pleasant Street
Canton, MA 02021
Telephone: (781) 821-5021
Fax: (781) 821-0337
http://www.town.canton.ma.us/139/Board-of-Health
Att. Robert P.Schneiders, Chairman Term Expires 2016
Dr. Richard Levrault, Vice-Chairman. Term Expires 2018
Dr. Julie E. Goodman, Clerk. Term Expires 2017
Director of Public Health and Medical Reserve Corps Director: John L.
Ciccotelli, R.S., C.H.O.
Administrative Assistant/P.T. Food Inspector: Diane J. White
Full Time Public Health Nurse: Terri Khoury, R.N.
Public Health Nurses and Housing, Tobacco Inspector: Jane Pratt, R.N.
Health Agent/Sanitarians: Timothy Marble, R.S.
Recording Secretary: Karen D. Murphy
Animal Inspector: Kevin Brophy
Senior Citizen Assistants: Dorothy Hennessey, Deborah Tyler, Elaine Benson,
Harriet Blackman
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
PUBLIC HEALTH is the promotion of physical wellbeing and the prevention of
illness. This is the task of the Canton Board of Health as it relates to the Canton
Community. To accomplish this, the Board operates programs of inspection and
enforcement of Federal, State, and local public health statutes, regulations, and
policies. Additionally, the Board of Health plans, promotes, prepares and trains
in all-hazards emergency preparedness to protect the Town in the event of
disease outbreaks or epidemics, as well as natural or man-made disasters.
In July 2015, the Board of Health reorganized its officers and voted to appoint
Board member, Dr. Richard Levrault, MD, to serve as Chairman, Atty. Robert P.
Schneiders to serve as Vice Chairman, and Dr. Julie E. Goodman, PhD, to serve as
Clerk.
Director of Public Health, John L. Ciccotelli, assisted by Health Agents Timothy
Marble, Diane White, and Jane Pratt, RN, conducted or responded to investigations,
inspections, re-inspections, enforcement actions, and follow-ups to complaints or
violations of the various provisions in the State Sanitary Code or the State Food
Code.
51Source page 54
The list of investigations and inspections conducted in 2015 includes:
Food = 309 inspections or investigations including, but is not limited to
restaurants and other food service establishments, retail food stores,
caterers, and function hall kitchens
Title 5 = 66 inspections or investigations including septic system
installation inspections along with witnessing soil and percolation tests,
septic system plan reviews and approvals for septic repairs and new septic
systems, as well as the review of State mandated Title 5 Septic System
Inspections
Public and semi-public swimming pools = 34
Nuisances and Hoarding = 46
Septage hauler or haul offal truck inspections = 4
Housing and State Sanitary Code, Chapter II Inspections = 151
Mobile vendors and “canteen” trucks = 7
Ice skating rinks = 2
Children’s camps = 18
Health Club and Tanning Salon Inspections = 5
Tobacco and Nicotine Inspections = 56
Miscellaneous complaints = 52
As provided under Massachusetts statutes, the Director of Public Health, John L
Ciccotelli, R.S., C.H.O. represents the Board of Health in its enforcement authority
to bring violators into compliance in issues related to public nuisances, housing, food
protection, and health and safety pursuant to all relevant Federal, State and local
regulations and statutes. The Board of Health, through the Director, oversees
compliance with all State regulations and local Board of Health Regulations
affecting, food, camps, pools, housing, trash, nuisances and onsite sub-surface
sewage disposal systems. In total, the Board issued 644 permits and licenses
encompassing all phases of the Boards’ permitting responsibilities. Additionally, the
Director of Public Health reviews and approves proposed Title 5 onsite sewage
disposal system plans and septic system reports, and food service establishment and
hotel plans for compliance with applicable local, State and Federal laws and
regulations, and evaluates applications for any newly submitted permit requests to be
issued by the Board of Health.
The Board of Health’s 28th Annual Health Fair for children and parents were
once again successful health and education events organized by Public Health Nurse,
Terri Khoury, who brought together Town departments, volunteers, and community
businesses to present these annual educational events to both adults and children of
the Community.
As in past years, thanks to the cooperative efforts of Canton’s Medical Reserve
Corps volunteers, student nurses, and the Canton Board of Health, 290 residents of
52Source page 55
all ages were vaccinated at the 28th Annual Health Fair, as well as at variously
scheduled clinics and the homes of homebound residents. As has been the case for
the past several years, the bulk of flu vaccine was purchased from the Board of
Health’s revolving fund. Various exhibitors provided health related educational
materials, and demonstrated their health related services and merchandise. As
always, the 28th Annual Health Fair successfully drew satisfied residents of all ages.
Public Health Nurse, Terri Khoury, organized the 7 th Annual Summer Safety
Fair which was attended by over 600 children and their parents. Displays included
“mini” horses, displays from the Police Departments including bike safety and a
helmet giveaway, fire safety by the Fire Department, the importance of tick safety,
and various Town Department presentations and displays. Prizes were awarded to
winners of the School Department’s Bookmark Contest. The Masonic Youth
Childhood Identity Program (MY CHIP), which is a regular staple of this event, was
once again sponsored by the Canton Police Department and conducted by the
Freemasons from Canton’s Blue Hill Lodge, A.F. & A.M. which provided
personalized emergency identification kits containing, among other items,
fingerprints and DNA samples of children for the parents of those who participated
to keep should the need arise.
The Board of Health’s “Regulation of the Prohibition of the Sale of Tobacco
Products to Minors” which, prohibits certain tobacco and nicotine products from
getting into the hands of individuals 21 years old or younger by raising the purchase
age for tobacco and nicotine products to 21 continues to be monitored for
effectiveness. As required by the Regulation, the 3 rd tobacco and nicotine risk survey
was conducted in the Middle School and High School in December 2015. Results of
this round of surveys are still pending. This round of surveys is part of a required 5-
year study to determine how successful the Regulation is in reducing cigarette and
nicotine use in individuals under the age of 18.
Nursing staff members provided Canton Citizens the following services in 2015
Vitamin B-12 injections
216 Office visits and 280 Home visits
Annual Influenza Vaccinations:
360 doses to children
570 doses to adults
Blood Pressure Clinics
Veterans Clinics
State mandated sharps (needle) drop off and collection
Children’s camp inspection by the Nurses and Health Agents
Employee health screenings
Cable 8 Health Series broadcasts
Health Fair and Safety Fair
53Source page 56
The Town’s Animal Inspector, Kevin Brophy, continued to investigate potential
cases of rabies exposure from animal bites and scratches, and other rabies concerns.
When suspect animals are quarantined, Mr. Brophy ensures animals are humanely
placed in appropriate settings and maintains the proscribed level and length of
quarantine as required under the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural
Resources (DAR) policies and guidelines. The Animal Inspector is nominated by
and works under the Canton Board of Health and is appointed to that position by the
MDFA. The Animal Inspector also works closely with the Canton Animal Control
Officer.
Dr. Paul Andreani worked as the animal medical consultant for the Board and
with the Town’s Animal Inspector to ensure all State MDAR requirements are met.
With the popularity of pets in homes, the Board of Health works to ensure that the
risk of disease from pets to family members is reduced or eliminated as such health
risks are directly linked to the health of these animals. Accordingly the appropriate
steps must therefore be taken to control any known cases of zoonoses (animal
diseases that can be contracted by humans).
CONTINUING INITIATIVES:
In 2015, populations of human-biting mosquitoes infected with Eastern Equine
Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile Virus (WNV), two dangerous diseases spread by
infected mosquitoes, remained at an all-time low which was in part the result of
intense larvicide and insecticide applications by the Norfolk County Mosquito
Control Project using ultra-low volume (ULV) insecticide ground spraying as well as
abnormally dry weather conditions. These 2 arboviral epizootics continue to be
monitored by the Board of Health, the Norfolk County Mosquito Control Program,
and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Director of Public Health, John Ciccotelli, updated and upgraded the Town’s
2000+ page Emergency Dispensing Site and All Hazards Preparedness Plan. The
Plan is annually evaluated by the State for compliance with CDC and Federal
emergency preparedness guidelines. The Plan enables the Board of Health, with the
assistance from the Canton Medical Reserve Corps (CMRC) and the Town’s CERT
(Community Emergency Response Team), and other agencies to distribute needed
medications or vaccinations from the Federal Government’s Strategic National
Stockpile (SNS) to the entire population of Canton if necessary within a 48 hour
period in the event of a catastrophic epidemic, and/or to provide emergency medical
shelter with a non-acute care medical capacity to the public if needed and respond to
any other mass biological, chemical, radiological, or medical emergency or natural
disaster if necessary.
The CMRC is part of the NC-7 MRC (Norfolk County-7 Medical Reserve
Corps) which is also prepared to care for any part of the 7-town community
(Canton, Dedham, Milton, Needham, Norwood, Wellesley, Westwood) of which it is
54Source page 57
composed that might require emergency shelter or other necessary health-related
accommodations during a disaster or other emergency event. This year, the CMRC
continued working closely with Canton’s Community Emergency Response Team
directed by the Town’s Emergency Management Director and Fire Chief, Charles
Doody.
The Canton Medical Reserve Corps (CMRC), as one Division of the NC-7
MRC, is an official agency affiliated with the US Surgeon General’s Office. It
remains a vital resource of both medical and non-medical volunteers whose purpose
is to respond to large-scale biomedical emergencies or pandemics. Funding for the
CMRC is entirely through State, Federal and private institutional grants and does not
require financial support from Canton taxpayers. New volunteers are needed and are
always welcome.
The Board of Health would like to express its appreciation to the entire Health
Department Staff and all its volunteers for their generosity of time and hard work in
order to help keep Canton a healthy community.
As always, the Board of Health is pleased and privileged to serve the Town of
Canton and its citizens.
Respectfully submitted,
Atty. Robert P. Schneiders, Chairman
Dr. Richard Levrault, Vice-Chairman
Dr. Julie E. Goodman, Clerk
55Source page 58
HISTORICAL COMMISSION
801 Washington Street
Canton, MA 02021
histcomm@town.canton.ma.us
Sepp J. Bergschneider- Chairman James Fitzpatrick- vice chairman
George Comeau - member Paul Mitcheroney - member
Susan Gibbs - member Michael Nourse - member
Kathleen G. Keith - member Gerald Carmichael - alternate
The Historical Commission is responsible for community-wide historic preservation
planning. The Commission’s duty is to identify, protect and preserve Canton’s
properties and sites that are of historic significance.
The Commission works in cooperation with other municipal agencies, such as the
Board of Selectmen, Building Inspector,Community Preservation Committee,
Conservation Commission, Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals to
insure that the goals of historic preservation are considered in the planning and future
development of the Town.
The Inventory of Cultural and Historic Resources for the Town is one of the
principal and ongoing projects of the Commission. As of 2015 the Commission has
completed over 430 surveys of historic properties which are listed on the
Massachusetts Historical Commission’s State Register of Historic Places. The
inventory forms may be found through the Massachusetts Cultural Resources
Information System (MACRIS). Also available on MACRIS is the national Register
of Historic Places nomination form for the Canton Corner Historic District. Links to
MACRIS are on the Historical Commission’s webpage on the town website.
This year the Commission engaged an architectural historian to survey a number of
properties, some of which were slated for demolition. Although a building may be
lost to demolition it is important to town history to have photographic and written
documentation of a property.
In 2012 the Canton voters adopted the Community Preservation Act (CPA) which
has been a great benefit to the Commission’s ongoing project to clean and repair
historic gravestones in Canton Corner Cemetery. Prior to the adoption of the
Community Preservation Act the Commission was only able to have a small amount
of gravestone preservation work done each year. Due to funding from the Canton
Community Preservation Committee (CCPC) the Commission has been able to
expand its’ involvement in the gravestone preservation/restoration with the result
56Source page 59
being over 35 additional headstones perserved and plans for further restoration work
during the spring.
Additional funding from the CCPC allowed for plans to be developed for the
proposed rehabilitation work to the Canton Corner Cemeteries receiving and
associated tombs. An application has been made to CCPC to fund the work on these
tombs in the current cycle. The Commission is also seeking CCPC funding to
preserve the Old English Cemetery on Washington Street, the final resting place of
many of our earliest citizens.
The Commission takes an active interest in various projects about town such as the
Tilden House Restoration and the planning for the Paul Revere Heritage site. Both
projects offer the rare opportunity to preserve, restore and rehabilitate historic
structures for the general welfare of the town. It is hoped that the Town will
continue to stand behind these projects and others that highlight the historic nature of
Canton.
Respectfully Submitted,
Sepp J. Bergschneider, Chairman
57Source page 60
HOUSING AUTHORITY
Board of the Canton Housing Authority 660 Washington St
Chairman - John McSweeney Canton, MA 02021
Vice Chairman - Glen Hannington 781-828-5144
Board Members - Joseph DeFelice, cantonhous@aol.com
Adam Brothers, Janet Walrod
Executive Director - Mark Roy
Hours of Operation: 8:00AM to 4:00PM W 12:30PM to 4:00PM
The Canton Housing Authority reports the following activities for 2015.
The CHA had a number of capital improvement projects. Some of the projects that
were completed this past year include: window replacement during unit turnover at
Hagan & Rubin Courts, complete rehab upon unit turnover at two veteran’s family
units, sewer line replacement at a veteran’s family unit and window/ slider door
replacement at the Hemenway. We also completed the electrical panel and smoke
detector project at the veteran’s family units. This project was funded by CPA funds
and we are most grateful to the Town for their assistance. We hope to receive CPA
funds again this year for completion of the bathroom ventilation upgrade & GFI
installation at Hagan Court.
Our maintenance staff – Peter, Mike, Jim and John – had a very difficult year,
starting with the blizzards in January and February. It took months to get out from
under the snow and backed up unit turnover. They turned over 28 elderly units and 3
family units (all of which required complete rehab) this past year. We thank all the
guys for their hard work, in particular John, who supervised the many capital
projects. We said goodbye to Peter this fall, as he retired after 33 years with the
housing authority. He will be greatly missed. We also thank our Executive Director
Mark, our administrative staff Brenda & Denise, our volunteer Nancy and Roberta
for her extra help!
We also said goodbye to the Senior Center – our downstairs neighbor for many,
many years. We miss them dearly but are very excited for them in their new home!
Currently the office space is being used by Veteran’s Agent Tony Andreotti.
Welcome Tony! We are looking for ideas to utilize the other space – possibly rental
space. Please contact the office if you know of a group that might be interested.
The Canton Housing Authority manages 202 units of elderly housing, 33 units of
family housing, 12 units of barrier-free housing, 19 Massachusetts Rental
HousingVouchers, and we host 18 Section 8 Vouchers. Canton does not have an
actual Section 8 program and therefore cannot issue any vouchers.
58Source page 61
The wait for elderly Canton applicants is just a few months. The age requirement is
60. The wait for “non-elderly/ handicap” applicants is extremely long, even for
Canton residents. Our family wait list is currently closed to standard applications.
We will continue to accept emergency applications, and as a reminder, local
residents are given a priority.
The Board holds its monthly meetings on the second Tuesday starting at 6:00pm at
the Hemenway School.
We wish to express our continued appreciation to the Town (in particular the DPW),
our staff and the residents for their support in our efforts to provide decent, safe,
sanitary, and affordable housing within our community.
Respectfully submitted,
John McSweeney, Chairman
CANTON HOUSING AUTHORITY
59Source page 62
HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
Upper Memorial Hall
801 Washington Street
Canton, MA 02021
Fax: 781-575-6602
Jody K. Middleton, Human Resources Director
Jmiddleton@town.canton.ma.us, 781-821-2936
Carlene Campbell Hegarty, Human Resources Specialist
cchegarty@town.canton.ma.us, 339-502-5727
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tuesday: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
The Human Resources Department would like to thank all the residents for their
support of the Town of Canton. November of FY 15, we added a part-time position
of a Human Resources Specialist. This year FY17 we are requesting that her hours
be increased from 25 – 35 per week. This increase will ensure that the Human
Resources Department will always be staffed and help tremendously as we tackle
many complex projects such as Affordable Health Care Reform Act compliance,
updating all of the Town Policies and increasing training for town employees.
At the last Annual Town Meeting (May 2015), residents approved article 40
Municipal Compensation/Job Description Study. This article allowed us to hire
consultants to review and update 110 job descriptions for full and part time
municipal employees. This project was last completed in 2000 and technology and
terminology has certainly advanced over the last 15 years. This project is near
completion and will result in updated job descriptions that are consistent and reflect
the actual job practices in each department.
The Human Resources Department continues to provide benefit administration
services and support to over 645 school and municipal employees and to over 430
retirees. The Human Resources Website continues to be a great resource for benefits
information, job posting, updated announcements and open enrollment material.
Visit us at: http://town.canton.ma.us/159/Human-Resources-Department
We thank you for your continued support and for this opportunity to share with you
some of our initiatives for the upcoming year.
Respectfully submitted,
Jody K. Middleton, Human Resources Director
Carlene Campbell Hegarty, Human Resource Specialist
60Source page 63
PUBLIC LIBRARY
PUBLIC LIBRARY
Susan Cogliano, Chairperson 786 Washington St.
Joyce Wiseman, Vice-Chairperson Canton, MA 02021
Peg Mead, Secretary Telephone: 781-821-5027
email: calib@ocln.org
Mark Lague, Library Director
director: mlague@town.canton.ma.us
Hours of Service: Tue-Thu 10:00-9:00,
Fri-Sat 10:00-5:30, Closed Sun
(Children’s Library Closed Tues 5:30pm)
In Town Elections Joan Schottenfeld and Joyce Wiseman were re-elected, Bernard
Mendillo was newly elected to the seat vacated by the resignation of Beth Magann.
The Board elected officers for the year in May. Kathy Fox-Alfano was reappointed
to serve as liaison to the Friends of the Library. Policies were adopted on the use of
Social Media; Meeting Room and Friends of the Library policies were amended.
Michael Carlozzi was appointed Information & Technology Librarian. Part-time
Library Pages Mary Carr, Collette Gilchrist, and Maxine MacPhearson joined the
staff. The Library staff celebrated Children Librarian Ann Woodman’s thirty-year
anniversary with the Library. Patricia Ryburn completed an online Certificate
program in Genealogy from BU. Director Lague was elected President of the Old
Colony Library Network (OCLN). A welcoming face for many years at the
circulation desk, Bonney Lenehan announced her retirement. Many patrons have
come to rely on “Bonney’s picks” for their personalized reading recommendations.
She will be missed by all.
The Library met State Certification Standards at the highest level, increasing the
State Aid Award to $22,995. In FY15, the Library revolving funds earned a net
$18,575 from passport fees, $14,270 in borrower fees, and $4,610 from room rental
fees. Our four passport agents processed 852 applications, 130 more than our
previous best.
A grant from the CPA enabled the Library to collaborate with the Canton Historical
Society in hiring an archival consultant to develop an integrated Historical Document
Preservation Plan for photographs and manuscripts important to Canton history.
Overall circulation of items increased by 1% over last year for a total of 269,045
items, although active resident registered borrowers decreased by 216 to 10,796. The
loan of eBooks grew by 18%, a slower pace than last year’s 52% surge.
61Source page 64
Attendance decreased by an estimated 9% for the year due in some measure to a
difficult winter. 190 adult programs were offered by the Library and many more
were sponsored by outside groups. Total attendance of 2,516 for adult programs was
similar to last year. 241 children and teen programs involved 3,985 participants, a
small increase over last year.
The first annual volunteers expo succeeded in matching twenty local charity/service
groups with volunteers. Many popular authors entertained and enlightened,
including William Martin, Bob Ryan, Scott Hellman, Doug Most, Randy Susan
Meyers, Hallie Ephron, Alex Kershaw, as well as local authors Mark Kantrowitz,
Rumni Saha, Peter Zheutlin, Tara Shuman, and others. A series on Financial
Literacy was offered, as were programs on meditation, digital photography, birding,
genealogy, and more. Many readers joined one of our on-going book club series in
biography, mystery, young adult, and general fiction genres. Volunteer Louise La
Fontaine continued the monthly Poetry Circle. Seventy-four Canton writers of all
ages competed in the 6th edition of CantonWrites and shared their work at the annual
Awards Night.
The Friends of the Library program highlights included an intimate reminiscence by
Eleanor Roosevelt. Paint Night participants enjoyed wine and watercolors, with
artist Mona Podgurski. The James T. Moran Technology Gala drew nearly 300
people and raised over $17,200 in support of a “MakerSpace” for the Library. Live
music carried the Open Book Coffeehouse into its 10 th year! Book sales were held in
the fall and spring.
Many town committees and community groups used the Library for their program
activities including the Canton Art Association, Garden Club, Historical Society,
AAUW, MSPCC, Scouts, Mom’s Club. Meeting rooms were rented to commercial,
non-profit, and private groups, earning $4,610 that helped to subsidize maintenance
and programming expenses. The Library posted the events and messages of town
departments and non-profits daily on the Community Message Board.
The Children’s Librarians hosted tours and visited kindergartens, 1 st grades and
preschools, ran morning and bedtime story-times, family movies, and crafts.
Costumed storybook characters again brought books to life for story time attendees.
The popular Barn Babies petting zoo returned. Free certified Keyogi Yoga was
again offered. Self-Help Inc provided learning through play activities for
preschoolers. The Junior Room and the Friends offered an off-hours Pirate
Adventure.
Partnership for Children offered a variety of programs for preschoolers. New
Therapy dogs Dolly and Sunny encourage early readers to read aloud. The Summer
Reading program "Every Hero has a Story" had 229 participants who read a total of
2179 books. Over 200 attended the kickoff picnic. Fifteen children completed
62Source page 65
“1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” and proudly sport their new prize t-shirts. 168
more families are on their way to becoming lifelong readers. Overall, 241 children
and teen programs involved 3,985 participants, a small increase over last year.
Teen volunteers helped with retrieving and shelving books, shared recommendations
on books and media, and participated in planning and conducting their own
programs, and displays. Veteran volunteers helped train new volunteers.
Access to eBooks and eAudiobooks continued to grow by the thousands through
membership in OCLN and participation in the new statewide Commonwealth
Collection. The ease of access improved as well with direct download from our
catalog to an app on most mobile devices.
The need for additional program and meeting space was addressed through the
completion of the Thomas Bailey Aldrich Meeting Room on the main level. In a
joint purchase with the Historical Society, new exhibit cases were installed in the
Rotunda and will display artifacts from the Society’s collection. Indirect lighting
was added to enhance the beauty of the interior dome. The privately funded “Best
Friends” statue at the parking entrance was dedicated to the past and present children
of Canton.
We are ever thankful for the many volunteers and senior tax program workers who
perform important work for the Library. We are grateful for a superb library staff
dedicated to serving every individual, and for the collaborative spirit of all town
departments.
We are blessed with a generous and committed team of Friends whose imagination
and hard work combine to produce such wonderful events as the James P. Moran
Technology Gala. We gratefully acknowledge the generosity of individual and
corporate sponsors and donors to the Library Technology Fund, and especially to the
family of Mr. James Moran in whose memory the Gala was dedicated.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Cogliano, Chair, Board of Library Trustees
Mark Lague, Library Director
63Source page 66
NORFOLK COUNTY REGISTRY OF DEEDS
2015 Annual Report to the Town of Canton
William P. O’Donnell, Register
649 High St., Dedham, MA 02026
The Registry of Deeds is the principal office for real property records in Norfolk
County. The Registry receives and records hundreds of thousands of documents
annually. It houses more than 5 million land documents dating back to 1793. The
Registry is a primary and indispensable resource for title examiners, mortgage
lenders, municipalities, homeowners, and other individuals with a need for land
record information.
The Registry operates under the supervision of the elected Register, William P.
O’Donnell. In continuous operation for more than two hundred years, the Registry’s
mission has remained the same; to maintain and provide for accurate, reliable and
accessible land records to all residents and businesses of Norfolk County.
2015 Registry Achievements
Register William P. O’Donnell and his staff continue their direct outreach
to town halls, senior centers and civic groups across Norfolk County to
provide Registry services. Register O’Donnell held office hours at Canton
Town Hall on November 5th.
The Registry of Deeds newly renovated walk-in Customer Service and
Copy Center continues to provide residents and businesses with quality
service in all areas of Registry operations. You can contact the Customer
Service and Copy Center at 781-461-6101. Hours of operations are 8:30am
to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.
Electronic recording which is recording documents over the internet
continues to expand with 39,604 documents recorded electronically and 4.4
million in recording fees collected in 2015.
The internet library of images, accessible to the public through the Registry
of Deeds’ online research system at www.norfolkdeeds.org continues to
expand. Today all documents dating back to the first ones recorded in 1793
- are available for viewing.
This year, numerous technological improvements were implemented
including upgrades to the registry server and network infrastructure. The
Registry’s website www.norfolkdeeds.org is routinely updated and
enhanced to include the latest resources such as real estate statistics and
news, answers to frequently asked questions and the newest consumer
programs available to the public.
64Source page 67
The Registry of Deeds publicly rolled out its Consumer Notification
Service. This consumer/public safety program allows any county resident
to opt in to this free notification service and be alerted when any document
– fraudulent or otherwise – is recorded against their name. For more
information, please see our website at: www.norfolkdeeds.org.
Register O’Donnell hosted several free computer seminars at the Registry to
provide hands-on-training to the public, including trade groups, on how to
access land record information using the Registry’s new website
technology.
Canton Real Estate Activity Report
January 1, 2015 – December 31, 2015
During 2015, real estate activity in Canton saw increases in both total sales volume
and average sales price.
There was a 12% increase in the number of documents recorded at the Norfolk
County Registry of Deeds for the town of Canton in 2015, resulting in an increase of
578 documents from 4,767 to 5,345.
The total volume of real estate sales in Canton during 2015 was $370,766,682, a
65% increase from 2014. The average sale price of homes and commercial property
was up 55% in Canton. The average sale was $836,945.
The number of mortgages recorded (1,161) against Canton properties in 2015 was up
24% from the previous year. Total mortgage indebtedness actually decreased by 7%
to $658,732,616 during the same period.
There were 5 foreclosure deeds filed against Canton properties during 2015,
representing a 58% decrease from the previous year when there were 12 foreclosure
deeds filed.
Homestead activity increased 9% in Canton during 2015 with 463 homesteads filed
compared to 426 in 2014.
Finally, our objective at the Registry will always be to maintain, secure, accurate and
accessible land records for the residents and businesses of Norfolk County. It is a
privilege to serve you.
Respectfully submitted by,
William P. O’Donnell
Norfolk County Register of Deeds
65Source page 68
NORFOLK COUNTY MOSQUITO CONTROL DISTRICT
CANTON
NCMCD operations apply an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to
mosquito control that is rational, environmentally sensitive, and cost effective.
Surveillance
We are engaged in an intensive monitoring process through weekly field collections
and data analysis in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Public
Health (MDPH) to detect for disease-vectoring mosquitoes. Virus isolations assist us
in focusing our surveillance to hot zones thereby allowing us to alert nearby towns of
a potential epidemic.
Virus Isolations in the town: No virus isolations in 2015
Requests for service: 333
Water Management
Communication with residents and town/state/federal officials, site visits,
monitoring, wildlife management, and land surveys while maintaining regulatory
compliance is integral to the management of waterways that may contribute to
mosquito breeding. Pre- to post-management documentation allows us to assess the
efficacy of our work.
Culverts cleared 9 culverts
Drainage ditches checked/hand cleaned 6,600 feet
Intensive hand clean/brushing* 650 feet
Mechanical water management 0 feet
Tires collected 3
* Combination of brush cutting and clearing of severely degraded drainage systems
or streams by hand.
Larval Control
When mosquito larval habitat management is not possible, larval mosquito
abatement is the most environmentally friendly and effective method of disease
control. An intensive monitoring program, aides in our decision to effectively target
culprit locations.
Spring aerial larvicide applications (April) 655.8 acres
Summer aerial larvicide applications (May – August) 0 acres
Larval control - briquette & granular applications by hand 9.8 acres
Rain basin treatments – briquettes by hand (West Nile virus control) 1,124 basins
Abandoned/unopened pool or other manmade structures treated 1
66Source page 69
Adult Control
Adult mosquito control is necessary when public health and/or quality of life is
threatened either by disease agents, overwhelming populations, or both. Our
surveillance program, along with service request data and state of the art GPS and
computer equipment, allows us to focus our treatments to targeted areas.
Adult aerosol ultra low volume (ULV) applications from trucks 7,379 acres
Barrier applications on municipal property 7 using 110 gallons mix
Respectfully submitted,
David A. Lawson, Director
67Source page 70
PLANNING BOARD
801 Washington Street
Canton, MA 02021
Fax: 781-821-5019
Christopher Connolly, Chairman,
Tori McClain, Vice Chairman
Michael Mitcheroney, Clerk,
George F. Jenkins, Member
Jeremy J. Comeau, Member
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant
Timothy Richard, Town Planner
Thomas Houston, Professional Services, Inc.
Organization and Membership
On April 7, 2015, George Jenkins was re-elected as a Planning Board member.
On August 19, 2015, the Planning Board reorganized, at which time Chris Connolly
was elected Chairman of the Board, Tori McClain was elected Vice Chairman, and
Michael Mitcheroney was 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.
68Source page 71
Development Activity
The Planning Board conducted technical Site Plan Reviews for nine (9) projects
including; 725-755 Dedham Street, Judge Rotenberg Education Center parking lot
expansion, 612-614 Chapman Street, 683 Turnpike Street, 599 Washington Street,
869 Washington Street, 55 North Street Canton Ice House hockey rink, Hanson
School addition, 390 Turnpike Street solar canopy. The Planning Board reviewed
three (3) definitive subdivision plans for compliance with its Rules & Regulations
including; 60 Hudson Road, 296York Street, and 17 Stonewood Drive (Yorkshire
Estates). The Board reviewed one (1) Preliminary Subdivision along Indian Way for
Top Notch Development. The Board reviewed one (1) application for a Special
Permit to construct a hotel along Royall Street. The Board reviewed and approved
modifications for four (4) subdivisions including; Turtle Creek, Ames Ave,
Cedarcrest, and 1183 Washington Street Cardinal’s Corner. The Planning Board
reviewed and approved various Approval Not Required (ANR) Plans for division of
land having frontage on existing roads and streets. The approved ANR Plans include
properties at or around; 88 Beal Street, 46 Oak Street, 338 Washington Street, 1
Pecunit Street, 15 Randolph Street, Rockland Street, Walpole Street, 110 Royall
Street.
The Planning Board held Scenic Way Public Hearings on projects that were
proposing the removal of shade trees or stone walls within designated Scenic Ways
in the Town. These projects include trees along Greenlodge Street, trees and a stone
wall at 296 York Street, and tree removal at 18 Farm Road.
The Planning Board played an active role in 2015 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 adoption of an overlay on the former
Plymouth Rubber site, the adoption of a Hotel Overlay along Royall Street, the
adoption of a solar overlay, and the creation of a new Light Industrial District that
allows additional business uses.
Committees
Michael Mitcheroney - Community Preservation Committee
Chris Connolly & Tim Richard - Permit Advisory Committee
Jeremy Comeau - Paul Revere Heritage Commission
Tim Richard - Massport Community Advisory Committee
Tim Richard - Blue Ribbon Traffic Committee
Tim Richard & Jeremy Comeau - Canton Walk, Bike & Hike Committee
69Source page 72
Other Initiatives
This year the Planning Board and Town Planner worked together to draft Warrant
Articles for Town Meeting 2016. The Board continued the process to update the
Subdivision Rules and Regulations.
At Town Meeting 2015, residents voted to approve the adoption of a new CCEOD
overlay on the previous Plymouth Rubber property. The Town negotiated a
Development Agreement that includes 272 new residential units, a gift of open space
to the Town, and a gift of two historic buildings associated with Paul Revere’s
copper mill. The site was renamed the Paul Revere Heritage Site. The Paul Revere
Heritage Commission was formed to help establish what the buildings and open
space will be used for.
The Planning Board voted to accept a cash donation from the Cedarcrest Subdivision
in lieu of requiring the developer to create public open space. This donation will be
used towards the creation of open space and a walking trail along Forge Pond in the
downtown area.
MAPC was contracted to complete a Housing Action Plan to help the Town in
realizing the current housing situation in Canton and establishing a direction for
future development.
A representative from the Neponset Valley TMA attended a Planning Board meeting
to discuss traffic mitigation and the benefits of a TMA. The Board and the TMA
representative also discussed future projects and how Special Permit
recommendations can have a positive impact on efforts to reduce traffic.
We wish to extend our sincere appreciation to the Zoning Board of Appeals, the
Engineering Division, Town Counsel at Deutsch Williams Brooks DeRensis &
Holland, P.C, 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 and Tim Richard, Town Planner. Ms. Lawlor and
Mr. Richard have been extremely helpful in the operation of this department this past
year and their work is much appreciated.
Christopher Connolly, Chairman
Canton Planning Board
70Source page 73
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Annual Town Report- 2015
Mission Statement
It is the primary mission of the Canton Police Department, to deliver professional
police services to the residents and business owners of Canton, as well as those who
visit our community regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic origin or sexual
orientation.
Crime
The Canton Police Department made several substantial arrests throughout 2015 to
include, solving multiple house breaks, several sexual assaults, recovering a stolen
firearm and a effecting an arrest of a drive by shooting suspect (which took place on
Route 138). Additionally, we executed several search warrants and made numerous
arrests of suspects selling percocet, heroin and marijuana. Despite our proactive and
reactive (narcan distribution) measures, addiction to these substances continues to be
a problem of real concern.
Personnel
In the spring of 2015 Officer Errol Lane retired after completing 30 years of service
to the town of Canton.
In July, a Black Labrador retriever named “Dunkin” was sworn in. He was given that
moniker, as Canton based Dunkin Brands was a major sponsor in his acquisition. He
will work with his handler, Off. Bob Zepf, to help detect drugs in our community
and schools.
Late summer, Sgt. Charles Rae was promoted to Lieutenant. Lt. Rae holds a Master’s
degree in counseling and is assigned to oversee our School Resource Officer
program.
During the last quarter of 2015, Off. Eric Kascavitch joined the ranks on the 12-8
shift. Eric is a veteran of the United States Army, where he proudly served overseas
in Iraq. Upon his return, Off. Kascavitch followed his public service calling and
became a police officer.
Community Initiatives
The Canton Police Department continues to build strong meaningful bonds with our
community through proactive programs such as the Canton Substance Abuse
Coalition and our School Resource Officer program. The summer of 2015, saw the
launch of “Chillin with the Chief”! This community outreach program has the Chief
of Police visiting different neighborhoods throughout the summer with
complimentary ice cream. This innovative idea proved to be very successful in
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engaging the community in direct conversation in a relaxed atmosphere. We also
sponsored several community outreach programs that addressed police relations with
the minority communities. We are committed to helping to provide drug and alcohol
free gatherings for our young residents, such as “Open Gym” nights throughout the
summer as well as during school vacation periods. Our Family Service Unit (FSU)
has been a successful addition to our organization and we will continue to build upon
best practices within it.
Under the supervision of Canton resident Dr. Dan Muse, the Canton Police
Department continues to train and equip our staff with the narcotic overdose reversal
drug, Narcan. Since the inception of this program, our officers have reversed over
12 overdoses that could very easily have resulted in deaths. On the proactive front,
we will continue to work hard to educate our students on the dangers of substance
and alcohol use through our School Resource Officer program, inclusive of the
Galvin Middle School. We also continue to aggressively investigate, arrest and
prosecute individuals who sell drugs or provide alcohol to underage residents in our
community. This holistic approach completes the Education, Treatment and
Enforcement model when dealing with drugs in our community
The Year Ahead
In 2016, the Canton Police Department will continue to prioritize the reduction for
the demand of drugs in our community. We will continue to work diligently with
our partners in the schools to maintain safe environments in the buildings and
continue to grow our community coalitions. We are encouraged by the proactive
programs and strategies we have put in place. We are hopeful that they will help to
identify children at risk at earlier ages and thus help to circumvent issues from
arising in the future. We also look forward to continuing to work with the Canton
Families’ Embracing Diversity Committee (CFED).
We embrace our role as the first line of defense in the “homeland security” mission.
As many of you know, our department played a significant in safeguarding the 2014
and 2015 Boston Marathon by sending personnel and resources to Boston, Ashland,
Natick and Wellesley. The Canton Police Department will again play a vital role in
partnering with the Boston Police, the State Police, federal law enforcement and a
host of surrounding local police agencies in securing the 2016 Boston Marathon.
Although it seems like we face new threats daily, I am confident that the men and
women of this department will rise to any challenge as they have always done.
In Service,
Kenneth N. Berkowitz
Chief of Police
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PUBLIC BLDGS & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
79 PLEASANT STREET
CANTON, MA 02021
Edward Butler Tel. 781-821-5015
Building Maintenance Technician Fax 781-821-2138
e-mail ebutler@town.canton.ma.us
Hours of operation: Mon-Thurs 7AM to Midnight
Fridays 7 AM to 6 PM
Emergencies: 24/7
Under the Executive Office the Department currently has (4) four full-
time maintenance employees and (1) part-time administrative assistant at (5) five
hours per week. The Department is responsible for maintenance including HVAC,
cleaning, certain inspectional services (elevators etc.) and coordination of a variety
of vendors performing various routine and emergency service functions (generators
etc.), at the following facilities:
Memorial Hall 801 Washington Street
Pequitside Farm 79 Pleasant Street
Police Station 1492 Washington Street
DPW Garage maintenance only 150 Bolivar Street
Little Red House maintenance only 93 Pleasant Street
Water Dept Bldg. maintenance only 41 Pine Street
Fire Station 1 maintenance only 99 Revere Street
Fire Station 2 maintenance only 7 Sassamon Street
Animal Shelter maintenance only 160 Bolivar Street
Armando Recreation Facility maintenance only 92 Pleasant Street
Ponkapoag School maintenance only 2400 Washington Street
Cemetery Buildings maintenance only 1600 Washington Street
Respectfully Submitted,
Edward Butler
Building Maintenance Technician
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PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Administrative Office & Engineering Division 801 Washington Street-Lower Level
Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM 781-821-5023
Water Division Administration 801 Washington Street-Second Floor
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM 781-821-5017
Michael Trotta Superintendent of Public Works
Daniel Teague Operations Manager
James Donovan Town Engineer
William Walsh Highway Supervisor
Dennis Morton Water & Sewer Supervisor
Karen Welch Water & Sewer Billing Coordinator
It is the mission of the Public Works Department to ensure the value 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 and HIGHWAY & MAINTENANCE DIVISIONS
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 9,527 phone inquiries, issued 1,493 Yard
Waste Stickers, processed 4,113 invoices, and created 798 work orders.
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.
Highway & Maintenance Division coordinated 2.5 miles of paving on 15 streets. The
streets included Hearthridge, Cedar, Flagstaff Hill, Heritage, Homestead, Shepard,
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Hemlock, Pond, Dunbar, Greenwood, Country, Surrey, Estey, and Michael. The
Division closed out 698 work orders generated from customer service requests.
All streets were swept three times and over six hundred eighty five catch basins were
cleaned.
Streets were sanded or plowed 34 times. Winter storms totaled 128-inches. The
Division fought several major winter storms; 30-inches falling January 27/28,
2015,14.5-inches falling February 2, 2015, 22.5-inches February 7/8, 2015. And
18.5-inches February 14/16, 2015.
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 also
inspects and approves contract and private work that add to the infrastructure of the
Town.
The Division dealt with 727 service requests and issued 491 street opening or
utilities permits. The Division completed in-house design, and oversaw the
replacement of the Estey Way Sewer Main and the replacement of the Rebecca
Road Water Main.
Engineering also prepared and submitted State Grant Applications to assist with
pavement management program and supplement Chapter 90 appropriations.
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 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 32,441 water sewer bills, handled 2,419 water and 303 sewer
service requests, and completed 992 water meter installation and water meter service
calls.
Water Sewer Division produced 531 MG from the Moran and Sullivan Treatment
Facilities and bought 482 MG from the MWRA for calendar year 2014.
The Division complete the contract with USI Services to replace existing water
meters with radio read meters.
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Reflection
Public Works congratulates Steve McCarrick for thirty years, Larry Bogue for
twenty five years, Joe Smith for twenty years, Phil Leverault and Steve Teague for
ten years, and Susan Langan and Micheal Jerrier for five years of service. Our
success is built upon their commitment and effort.
We thank Karen Welch and John Redquest for their many years of service and wish
them continued success in their retirement.
Respectfully Submitted
Michael Trotta
Superintendent of Public Works
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PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
William J. Armando Recreation Facility
92 Pleasant Street
Canton, MA 02021
www.cantonrec.com
Office Hours
Monday – Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Phone: 781-821-5030 Fax: 781-575-6587
DEPARTMENT STAFF PLAYGROUND & RECREATION
COMMISSION
Janet M. Maguire Director Larry Bogue, Chairman
Nick Pirelli Assistant Director Debra Kelly, Secretary
Audrey Cohen Secretary Cab Devoll
Dennis C. Aldrich Maintenance Supervisor Richie Eckler
Allan White Facility Maintenance Worker Stacey Gorman
Michael T. O’Brien Grounds Maintenance Worker Alison Grossman
James G. Walsh Grounds Maintenance Worker Tom Theodore
Michael Mitcheroney Grounds Maintenance Worker
Canton Parks and Recreation is dedicated to enriching the lives of all citizens
through diverse and innovative recreational programs and services. With a focus on
the arts, sports and games, the outdoors, education, and celebrations, we provide both
active and passive social opportunities that build community and inspire personal
growth. Our parks provide support for formal and informal 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 Playground and Recreation Commission, appointed by the
Board of Selectmen, embody a cross section of Canton residents. The Commission
works with the department to implement our mission and to meet the needs of the
community. The Commission members also play a vital role in the planning and
implementation of special events sponsored by Parks and Recreation.
FACILITIES
The Recreation Department manages four main facilities: the Armando Recreation
Facility, Metropolis Skating Rink, Bolivar Swimming Pool, and the Gridley
Building. In addition, the department is responsible for the maintenance of nineteen
athletic fields and seven playgrounds located at thirteen locations throughout the
town of Canton. The various facilities service Canton’s youth sports programs in
soccer, ice hockey, lacrosse, football, baseball, and softball, as well as, adult softball
77Source page 80
leagues, summer playground and camp programs, other rental groups, and Canton
citizens throughout the year.
It became a very challenging year after the unprecedented winter snowstorms of
2015 led to a partial roof collapse of the rink at the south end of the building. The
Parks and Recreation Department continues to work closely with Town officials,
legal counsel, and the other parties involved in the process of bringing a Town
operated rink back online.
PROGRAMMING
A full line-up of program offerings for citizens of all ages included many popular
returning programs such as arts and crafts, summer camps, gymnastics, and swim
lessons. The department’s three in-house summer camp programs (Blast-Off
Program, Pequitside Day Camp, and The Edge Camp) for pre-school through
middle-school age children continued to generate strong participation numbers.
The department also introduced several new programs with an emphasis on
expanding opportunities at the pre-school, middle-school, and adult levels. Some of
the more popular new programs were archery, pre-school karate, adult and youth
golf programs, and senior water aerobics.
Parks and Recreation also kicked off a new program called M.E.A.N. Girls. The
program is designed to prepare middle-school girls with the tools to deal with the
personal, social, and societal challenges facing them today. The program, provided
in partnership with the Canton Board of Health and Police Departments, shows great
promise going forward and a similar program for middle-school boys will be
unveiled in the spring of 2016.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Once again, the Playground and Recreation Commission worked closely with the
department to offer numerous community events in 2015 including annual favorites
such as the Easter Egg Hunt, July 4th Road Race and Fireworks Celebration, Summer
Concert Series, Billy Armando Golf Tournament, Halloween Parade, and Senior
Citizen Christmas Party. These events are enhanced by the generosity of the many
individuals and businesses that contribute their resources and talents to make these
events successful.
Although snow on the ground forced the Easter Egg Hunt to become an indoor
Bunny Hop, it did not deter parents and children from enjoying an afternoon of
music, tons of eggs, games, and activities. Summer was filled with six concerts on
the CHS front lawn which continue to draw great crowds. Also, the Irish Cultural
Center played host again to an exceptional Fourth of July celebration with free
activities for families, a concert, and a top notch fireworks display.
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