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2017 Annual Report
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\ j Te ne Wey Lb HAE TOWNOFCANTON 2017 ANNUAL REPORT [Original embedded text, retained for comparison] TOWN OF CANTON 2017 ANNUAL REPORT
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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.
IT’S APPROPRIATE TO CELEBRATE PUBLIC SERVICE AND THE
TOUGHTFUL PEOPLE WHO CHOOSE TO SERVE.
THEY SYMBOLIZE WHAT IS GOOD AND DECENT ABOUT
THIS HISTORIC CITIZEN LEGISLATURE AND WE THANK THEM.
BOB EHRLICH
On the cover: The Avril T. Elkort Veranda at Canton Memorial Hall.
Photos taken by: Matt Carlton & Linda SacramonaSource page 3
ANNUAL TOWN REPORT
TOWN OF CANTON
2017Source page 4
Dedication
This Annual Report is dedicated to
The Late Retired Fire Chief
James A. Fitzpatrick, Jr.
For 43years of dedicated service to the Town of Canton and its
citizens as Firefighter, Fire Chief, and member of numerous Boards
and Committees
1Source page 5
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.
Council on Aging
Robert Antonucci, Bus Driver
Department of Public Works
Peter Curran, Heavy Equipment Operator
School Department
Kathleen Birtwell, Teacher, GMS
Peter Gandolfo, Custodian
Maureen Griffin, Teacher – GMS
Susan Hill, Teacher – Hansen School
Julieann Kemp, Teacher – CHS
Nancy Keyo, Library Aide – CHS
Kathleen Lovetere, Paraprofessional Aide – CHS
Carol Rogers, Teacher, Hansen School
Joyce Stenmon, Teacher, CHS
Lynne Wesman, Paraprofessional Aide – Hansen School
2Source page 6
In Memoriam
Marcia Crossman – Administrative Assistant
James Fitzpatrick, Jr., Fire Chief (retired)
Margaret Koelsch – Assessor Clerk
Elizabeth Lethin – Town Nurse (retired)
Richard Levrault, Board of Health
Susan Mulvey – Teacher
Donald Podgurski – Firefighter & Acting
Superintendent of DPW
3Source page 7
CANTON ALMANAC IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Settled 1650 United States Senators
Incorporated 1797 Elizabeth Warren, Boston
Edward Markey, Boston
Location Representative in Congress
Southeastern (8TH Congressional District)
Massachusetts at Stephen Lynch, Boston
The Foot of the Blue Hills
Population: Councilors:
20,985 (Second District – Precincts 1-6)
Robert L. Jubinville, Boston
Form of Government State Senators
Open Town Meeting (Norfolk, Bristol & Plymouth District)
Total Number of Registered Walter F. Timilty
Voters: 15,877
Tax Rate: Representative in General Court
Residence - $12.42 (6th Norfolk District)
Commercial - $25.86 William C. Galvin, Canton
Taxable Property Annual Town Election Date
$4,749,064,680 First Tuesday after the
First Monday in April
School System: Annual Town Meeting:
3 Elementary, 1 Middle Second Monday of May - 7:00PM
1 High School, 1 Parochial
Elementary, Blue Hill Highways
Regional Technical School Town: 91 miles
State: 5.3 miles
Police:
Chief, Deputy Chief, 3 Lieutenants Altitude
6 Sergeants & 32 Patrolmen 126.8 feet above sea level
1 Animal Control Officer
1 Aide to Police Chief
Fire:
1Chief, 1Deputy Chief, 5 Captains,
9 Lieutenants, 36 Firefighters,
1 EMS Coordinator; 1Administrative
Aide to the Fire Chief
4Source page 8
APPOINTED OFFICIALS
Town Administrator Executive Assistant
Charles J. Aspinwall Christina A. Carlton
Town Accountant Emergency Management Director
Kathleen Butters Fire Chief Charles E. Doody
Superintendent of Public Works M.B.T.A. Advisory Member
Michael T. Trotta P. Christopher Podgurski
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 Stuart Cooper
Director of Library Town Planner
Mark Lague Laura Smead
Custodian of Tax Title Board of Health Director
James Murgia John Ciccotelli
Assistant Collector/Treasurer Veteran’s Service Agent
Susan Desjardins Anthony Andreotti
Deputy Assessor Tree Warden & Pest Control
Karen Zukauskas Dan Teague
Workers Compensation Agent Parking Clerk
Jody Middleton Tracy Kenny
Sealer of Weights & Measures Superintendent of Fire Alarms
State Bureau of Standards Charles Doody
5Source page 9
Plumbing & Gas Inspector Animal Control Officer
Marc Zade Stacy Nee
Donald Sasin – alternate
Wiring Inspector Moderator (alternate years)
Jonathan Levis Alan Hines/Richard Staiti
Paul McCarthy
Town Engineer Assistant Engineer
James Donovan/Barbara Thissell Lisa Grega
Building Commissioner Conservation Agent
Ed Walsh Cynthia O’Connell
Council on Aging Director Parks & Recreation Director
Diane Tynan Elizabeth Francis
6Source page 10
TOWN OFFICERS
SELECTMEN, BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS Elected Term Expires
& LICENSING BOARD April of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
John J. Connolly, Chair 2019
Mark J. Porter, Vice-Chair 2018
Kevin T. Feeney, Clerk 2018
Christopher J. Connolly 2020
Thomas W. Theodore 2020
TOWN CLERK
Tracy Kenney 2018
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
Rocco Digirolamo 2018
William C. Galvin 2019
Gene Manning 2020
BOARD OF HEALTH
Ruth Slattery, Chairman 2019
Dr. Richard Levreault, Vice-Chairman 2018
Dr. Julie E. Goodman, Clerk 2020
SCHOOL COMMITTEE
John Bonnanzio, Chairman 2020
Mike Loughran, Vice-Chairman 2019
Reuki B. Schutt 2020
Kristin Mirliani, Secretary 2018
Meghan M. Gannon 2019
PLANNING BOARD
Thomas Scully, Chairman 2021
Michael Mitcheroney, Clerk 2019
Robert E. Panico 2022
David McCarthy 2020
Patricia McDermott 2018
TRUSTEES OF LIBRARY
George T. Comeau 2020
Joyce Wiseman 2018
Margaret Mead 2019
Susan Cogliano 2020
Emily Prigot 2019
Bernard Mendillo 2018
7Source page 11
Dorothy Shea 2020
Kathy Fox Alfano, Chairman 2019
Joan Schottenfeld 2018
CANTON HOUSING AUTHORITY
Adam Brothers 2019
Janet Walrod 2018
John McSweeney, Chairman 2020
Joseph DeFelice (State Appointee) 2021
Glen Hannington, Vice-Chairman 2021
BOARD, COMMISSIONS & COMMITTEES Appointed Term
Expires April of
APPOINTED BY THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Beautification Committee Term/Expires 3 Years
Michael McHugo 2019
Peter Pineo 2018
Jilian B. Hayes 2019
Cayenne Isaksen 2019
John Mahoney 2019
Blue Ribbon Traffic Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
James Fitzpatrick (Precinct 1) 2018
Gary Ronan (Precinct 2) 2018
Kathy McCormack (Precinct 3) 2018
Peter Pineo (Precinct 4) 2018
Vacant (Precinct 5)
Vacant (Precinct 6)
Mark Porter (BOS) 2018
Kevin Feeney (BOS) 2018
Laura Smead (Town Planner) 2018
Cable Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Jim Sims 2018
Vacancy (3)
Canton Alliance of Substance Abuse
Police Chief, Kenneth Berkowitz 2019
Fire Chief, Charles Doody 2019
Nick Pirelli 2019
Ryan Gordy 2018
Cindy Bonner 2019
Harriet Burak 2018
Janet Donnelly 2018
8Source page 12
Canton Veteran’s Council Term/Expires 1 Year
Robert DeYeso 2018
Walter Molis 2018
Frank LaBollita 2018
Dan Teague 2018
Jack O’Neil 2018
Robert Witt 2018
Vacancy (4)
Canton Walk, Bike & Hike Committee Term/Expires 3 Years
John T. Mahoney 2019
Debra Stein-Sharpe 2019
Darren Shaffer 2019
Richard Allen 2019
Laura Smead 2019
Phil Barows 2019
Dave Biggers 2019
Citizen Engagement Task Force Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles Aspinwall, Town Administrator 2018
Laura Smead, Town Planner 2018
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager 2018
Tom Theodore, Selectman 2018
Cindy Tobin, Citizen at Large 2018
David Cahill, Citizen at Large 2018
Jen Kemalian, Citizen at Large 2018
Carolyn Elkort, Citizen at Large 2018
Commissions on Disabilities Term/Expires 3 Years
Nancy Gowe 2020
Lynn Findlen Valkanas 2019
Laura Findlen Lane 2019
Vacancy (2)
Comprehensive Water Resource Term /Expires 1 Year
Management Plan Comm.
Cynthia O’Connell (Con Comm) 2018
John Ciccotelli (Board of Health) 2018
Jim Murgia (Finance Director) 2018
Michael Trotta (Supt. Public Works) 2018
Joe Shea (Citizen) 2018
Marybeth Wiser (W/S Supervisor) 2018
Charles J. Aspinwall (BOS) 2018
Patricia McDermott (Planning Board) 2018
Mike Fabbiano (CAI) 2018
9Source page 13
Conservation Commission Term/Expires 3 Year
Melissa D. Mayer 2019
Paul Degnan 2020
Robert MacDonald 2018
Elizabeth Sugameli 2018
Kevin M. Colmey 2020
Joshua Cohen 2019
Gerald Carmichael 2019
Council on Aging Term/Expires 3 Years
Jane Pratt 2020
Elaine Gilmore 2019
Elizabeth Lethin 2018
John M. Crowe 2020
Janet Walrod 2020
Ellen Donovan 2018
John Thoener 2020
James Fitzpatrick 2019
Economic Development Comm Term/Expires 1 Year
Gene Manning 2018
Kristen Draper 2018
Hamilton Rodrigues 2018
Brian Mahoney 2018
Alan Rapoport 2018
Emilio E. Mauro, Jr. 2018
Manuel Montrond 2018
Fair Housing Committee Term/Expires 1 year
Vacancy (3)
Canton Cultural Council Term/Expires 3 Years
Elizabeth Ryan 2020
Drusilla Sanusi 2019
Jean Keddy 2018
Theresa Bielecki-Owens 2018
Ruth Pinkus 2018
Joyce Lauro 2018
Barbara Erickson 2018
Joseph Paru 2020
Ashley Tarchara 2020
10Source page 14
Community Preservation Committee 9 Members Term/Expires 3 years
Lisa Lopez - Designee – Board of Selectmen 2019
Kathy Fox – Alfano - Designee – Board of Selectmen 2019
Emilio E. Mauro, Jr. 2018
John McSweeney 2019
George Comeau 2018
Stacey Gorman 2018
Michael Mitcheroney 2018
John Bonnanzio (Schools) 2018
Joshua Cohen (Conservation) 2018
Gridley School & Water Sewer Storage
Building Use Task Force Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles Aspinwall, Town Administrator 2018
Ed Walsh, Building Inspector 2018
Charles Armando, BRC Member 2018
Renee Tepper 2018
Emily Prigot 2018
Historical Commission Term/Expires 3 Years
George T. Comeau 2020
Michael Nourse 2020
Gerald Carmichael 2020
Sue P. Gibbs 2018
Paul Mitcheroney 2019
Emily Prigot 2020
Industrial Development Finance Authority Term/Expires 5 Years
Vacancy (5)
Liason to State Ethics Commission Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles J. Aspinwall 2018
Metropolitan Area Planning Council Rep Term/Expires 3 Years
Brian Mahoney 2020
Master Plan Monitoring Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
Mike Nourse 2018
Diane Glenn 2018
Peter Pineo 2018
Vacancy (9)
Master Plan Steering Committee
(4 members appointed by Board of Selectmen) Term/Expires 2 Years
Thomas Theodore, BOS Member 2019
Gerald Carmichael, Conservation Commission 2019
Emillio Mauro, Jr., Economic Development 2019
John McSweeney, Housing Authority 2019
11Source page 15
Paul Revere Heritage Commission* Term/Expires 1 Year
Bruce Beckham 2018
George T. Comeau, Clerk 2018
Victor D. Del Vecchio 2018
Mike Nourse 2018
Thomas C. Scully, Vice-Chair 2018
John Connolly 2018
Elizabeth Sugameli 2018
John McCourt 2018
John Bonnanzio 2018
Louis Jutras 2018
*Building Use Committee
John Bonnanzio 2018
Kathy Fox Alfano 2018
John Mahoney 2018
Paul Mitcheroney 2018
Robert Panico 2018
Vacancy (1)
*Open Space Committee
Marilyn Curran 2018
Fredrick Fairfield 2018
Carl Lavin 2018
Alan Leary 2018
Lisa Lopez, Chair 2018
Tom Scully 2018
Nick Pirelli 2018
Permit Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 year
Charles J. Aspinwall (BOS) 2018
Robert McCarthy (Citizen at large) 2018
Ed Walsh (Building Commissioner) 2018
Patricia McDermott (Planning Board) 2018
Laura Smead (Town Planner) 2018
Paul Carroll (Zoning) 2018
Cynthia O’Connell (Con Com) 2018
Chief Berkowitz (Police) 2018
Chief Doody (Fire) 2018
Vacancy (Moderator appointed Citizen at large)
Vacancy (Economic Dev)
Playground & Recreation Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
Debra Kelly 2020
Alison Grossman 2019
Larry Bogue 2019
12Source page 16
Richard Eckler 2019
John McCourt 2019
Cabot Devoll 2019
Stacy Gorman 2019
Recreation Open Space Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles J. Aspinwall 2018
Debra Stein-Sharpe 2018
Debra Kelly 2018
Ruth Slattery 2018
Sepp Bergschneider 2018
Patrick Manning 2018
Jason Mellon 2018
Kevin M. Colmey 2018
Vacancy (3)
Non-Voting Members
Cynthia O’Connell 2018
Nick Pirelli 2018
Laura Smead 2018
Kevin Feeney 2018
Michael Ray 2018
Registrars of Voters Term/Expires 1 Year
Marilyn C. Curran 2020
J. Daneen Pate 2019
Edward Marshall 2020
Tracy Kenney – Town Clerk 2018
Reservoir Pond Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Richard Eckler (Recreation Rep) 2018
Gerald Carmichael (Conservation Rep) 2018
Chief Ken Berkowitz (Police Rep) 2018
Chief Charles Doody (Fire Rep) 2018
William Walsh (DPW Rep) 2018
Sandy Denehy (RP Rep) 2018
Ann Holden (PCIA Rep) 2018
David Cahill (William/Parrish/Breton Rep) 2018
Bill Cohen (WCC Rep) 2018
Sallie Lyon (Orchard Cove Rep) 2018
Jim Fitzgerald (Citizen at large) 2018
John Dillon (Citizen at large) 2018
Scott Winter (Citizen at large) 2018
Pauline O’Leary (Citizen at large) 2018
Vacancy (Pappas Rehab Hospital)
13Source page 17
Town Insurance Advisory Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles J. Aspinwall 2018
Joan Pagel 2018
Paul Corcoran 2018
David Rooney 2018
Le Vu 2018
Traffic Study Committee Term/Expires 1 Year
Ken Berkowitz 2018
Michael Trotta 2018
Lisa Grega 2018
Chief Charles E. Doody 2018
Frank Labollita 2018
Peter Pineo 2018
Robert Panico 2018
Vacancy (1)
Water/Sewer Rate Policy Comm. Term/Expires 1 Year
James Murgia 2018
Michael Trotta 2018
Patricia Cawley 2018
Marybeth Wiser 2018
C. David Emhardt 2018
Gerald Carmichael 2018
(Vacancy 2)
Youth Commission Term/Expires 3 Year
Renee Hanscom 2019
Brenda Lee Boris 2019
Kerry Ann Callahan-Mofford 2019
Meg Kennedy 2020
Cayenne Isaksen 2019
Vacancies
Zoning Board of Appeals Term/Expires 3 Years
Greg Pando 2020
Gary Vinciguerra 2018
Paul B. Carroll 2019
Zoning Board of Appeals
Associate Members Term/Expires 1 Year
Charles J. Armando 2018
John McCourt 2018
14Source 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
Karen Lawlor Planning Board Admin. Assistant
Diane Tynan Council on Aging Director
Mark Zade Plumbing & Gas Inspector
Health Insurance Advisory Committee
Diane Tynan, Administrative Employees Association
Thomas Keleher, Superior Officers
Jeff O’Brien, Canton Firefighters Association
James Murgia, Finance Director
Charles J. Aspinwall, Town Administrator
Adrienne Borges, AFSCME
Jane Consalvi, Retiree
Jody Middleton, Human Resources Administrator
Robert Quirk, Police
Ryan O’Hare, CTA
Vacancy – Secretary Schools
UNION PRESIDENTS
Bob Collins, IAFF
Charles Rae, Superior Officers
James Galanis, Police
Jay Peters, AFSCME
Edward Walsh, AEA
APPOINTED BY THE PLANNING BOARD
Canton Center Design Review Board
Michael Nourse, Historical Commission 2018
Peter Pineo 2018
Diane Glenn 2018
Master Plan Steering Committee Term/Expires 2 Years
(5 members appointed by the Planning Board)
Dave McCarthy, Planning Board 2019
Sonja Grauds, Citizen 2019
Meredith McLoughlin, Citizen 2019
Michael McMahon, Citizen 2019
Tonja Mettlach, Citizen 2019
15Source page 19
APPOINTED BY MODERATOR
Finance Committee
Dianne Gustafson 2019
Robert Barker, Chair 2018
Barbara Saint Andre 2020
Nichola Gallagher 2020
Tim McKenna, Vice Chair 2018
Cynthia Holcombe 2019
Cynthia Thomas 2019
Vacancy (2)
Capital Planning Committee
Bob Panico 2020
Stephanie Doughty 2019
Dave Emhardt 2018
John Friel 2020
Emilio Mauro 2019
Vacancy(2)
Building Renovations Committee
Robert McCarthy, Chairman
Charles J. Armando, Vice-Chair
Maureen A. McDonough
John McCourt
Chris Podgurski
Bob Benedetti
Reuki Schutt (School Comm.)
John Connolly (BOS)
Kathleen Butters (Finance Dept.)
Associate Members: Charles J. Aspinwall, Barry Nectow, Chief Kenneth
Berkowitz, Chief Charles Doody and Mark Lague. Freida Domaingue,
Secretary
16Source page 20
BOARD OF SELECTMEN - 2017
ANNUAL REPORT
I am pleased to report to our residents that the state of the Town of Canton is
strong and 2017 saw a number of improvements in the community. Finance
Director Jim Murgia reports that the operating results from FY2017, otherwise
known as Free Cash, were certified by the Department of Revenue at $4,851,739.
This amount is the result of careful budgeting, judicious spending of budgeted
appropriations, and monitoring of town accounts. In addition to the Free Cash
certification, the Town was able to make a contribution of $1,000,000 towards its
Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liability and $500,000 was added to the
Stabilization Fund. All of this has contributed to Canton’s keeping its envied
AAA bond rating.
At the same time Canton has taken strides to improve its infrastructure. Over
$1,650,000 was appropriated in 2017 for road improvements on Cedar,
Campanelli, Carver, York Brook, Messinger, Walnut, Feldman, Lehan, and
Belcher Streets, all being selected for either road or road and sidewalk
improvements. The DPW continues to work with MassDOT on the Dedham
Street/Route 95 ramp project. Two public hearings were conducted on the project
and with one year of construction accomplished, the completion date of 2021 is on
track.
The Town continues to work whenever it can to obtain grant funding to
supplement Town appropriations. In 2017 the Town obtained Green Communities
Designation. The Town has developed a five year plan to reduce its energy
consumption by 20%. The plan has been approved by the Massachusetts
Department of Energy Resources and the Town will be receiving grant funds of
over $150,000 to address projects on the plan. Thereafter, the Town will be
eligible for competitive grants of up to $250,000 for other future projects. The
Town has also begun a Complete Streets program with the Commonwealth. The
Town has received a $35,000 grant from MassDOT to develop a multi-modal
street improvement plan. The Town has also been awarded $45,000 in grants from
the Community Compact program through the Department of Revenue to address
Cyber Security, Open Space Planning, and Citizen Engagement. The Town has
also been awarded two grants to improve handicapped access. A $25,000 grant
was submitted and received by Selectman Feeney for access improvements to the
Bolivar St. Pool. A second grant for $20,000 was submitted and received for an
update of the Town’s accessibility plan. Last, but not least, the Department of
Public Works secured a grant in the amount of $134,784 for the Pequit and Beaver
Brook stormwater improvement project. In addition to utilizing state grant funds,
the Town also received direct assistance grants from the state’s Central
Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS). Two studies were conducted in Canton by
17Source page 21
CTPS in 2017; the Washington Street/Randolph Street Intersection project and the
Rt. 138 Corridor Study. Both studies developed recommendations for future road
improvement projects.
Several Planning efforts were begun in 2017. Design of Pequitside Farm parking
and access improvements was completed in 2017. Future outreach with the
community and with abutters is planned for 2018. Two planning contracts were
awarded to the engineering firm of Weston & Sampson. One contract will update
the Town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan and its Trails Plan. The second
contract will produce a Master Plan for all Town Recreation facilities. The firm
of Kyle Zink Architects is producing a master plan for the Earl Newhouse
Waterfront property. The firm of GRL Architects presented a Town Building
Assessment Study identifying needed repairs and maintenance. The firm of GCG
Associates was hired to work with Town staff to update the Town’s Hazard
Mitigation Plan. The Plan will identify critical facilities and property that could be
affected by natural or manmade hazards such as floods and hurricanes and will
provide opportunities for the Town to apply for grants from FEMA to address such
hazards. Last, TBA Architects from Concord will be providing a Master Plan for
improvements to the barn on the Pequitside property.
The Metropolis Rink project continued to be a high priority for the Board in 2017.
The year started with work being done by the state Division of Conservation and
Recreation (DCR) to produce a feasibility study of replacement of the Rink. Two
public hearings were held and were attended by the Selectmen; one in Canton and
one in Norwood. Regrettably, the hearings and the feasibility study were dropped
by the DCR due to funding problems. In the summer of 2017 the DCR informed
the Town there would be no further state funding for the project and if the Town
were to continue with the Rink project, it would do so on its own. Soon thereafter
the Town advertised a contract for an Owners’ Project manager, and for an
architect. The contracts are funded by insurance proceeds. Both firms are now
working on producing an Investigation and Evaluation Study (I & E) that will be
submitted to the State Building Inspector for his review. The report will detail the
necessary repairs for the building. At the time of writing this report it is expected
that the I & E study will be complete before the 2018 Annual Town Meeting.
The Town completed its Cable License renewal project with Verizon in 2017. The
new five year license will provide a fresh infusion of new cable related capital
improvements and will add a new HD public access channel. The estimated new
capital grants will total approximately $300,000 over the five year license term.
The future of cable access programing bears watching as the internet may soon
provide platforms for cable broadcasts that avoid the local licensing process.
The Board of Selectmen has worked closely with Canton Holdings, the developer
of the former Plymouth Rubber site, otherwise known as the Paul Revere Heritage
18Source page 22
Site. The citizen appeal of the Conservation Commission’s Order of Conditions
was successfully defended by Town Counsel working with the developer. The
Town accepted a report from ConsultEcon, the firm hired to prepare a market
feasibility analysis and business operations plan for the two prospective town
buildings on the site (Rolling Mill and Barn). The Town’s environmental
consultant, GZA, has reviewed the cleanup progress at the site and determined that
the cleanup has been done in accordance with the requirements of the
Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP) process. A Request for Proposals was
developed for the reuse of the Rolling Mill building and the renovated Barn. At
the time this report goes to press the Town is working with two entities interested
in renting the Rolling Mill. Construction of the housing on the site is expected to
break ground in the spring of 2018.
The Town received news in 2017 that Reebok, the town’s largest employer, was
transferring its operations to Boston. The Town, through its Economic
Development Committee (EDC) and its Chairman Gene Manning, has kept close
tabs on the future of the building. The Town has worked closely with the agent
representing the property, CBRE New England. We look forward to learning who
the next tenant may be.
On October 22, 2017, the Town celebrated the accomplishments of former
Selectman Avril Elkort. The Town built a veranda just outside of Memorial Hall
commemorating the service Avril and other officials provided to the Town. Avril
served the Town in many capacities from 1988 to 2015 and it was a pleasure to
honor her service.
The Town welcomed two new department heads in 2017. Our long serving Town
Engineer James Donovan retired on September 30th. We wish him well in his
retirement. We welcome Barbara Thissell, PE, as Jim’s replacement. Barbara
comes to Canton with strong private and public experience. Janet McGuire left
the post of Parks & Recreation Director to take on a new career position coaching
the softball team at Cornell University. We know the coaching position was a
long term dream of Janet's and we trust she will be a success. The Parks &
Recreation welcomed Elizabeth Francis to the position. Liz brings to Canton a
successful record of leading other municipal Park & Rec. departments.
Other matters the Board worked on in 2017 include:
Resolution of the Reservoir Pond Dam Project.
Negotiated union contracts for AFSCME and 15 personal services
contracts.
Worked to have New Boston Drive accepted by the Town.
With the EDC, negotiated a special tax agreement with drug
manufacturer Fresenius Kabi.
Negotiated a special tax agreement with North End Motors.
19Source page 23
Arranged Violent Intruder Training for Town Hall employees.
Monitored and provided public comment on the MBTA South Coast Rail
project.
Produced a Request for Proposals for the Tilden House rehabilitation.
Worked with the Commonwealth’s Attorney General on abandoned
properties placed into receivership.
Obtained an appropriation for light cross walk signs for seven locations.
Worked with the First Parish Church to place a Preservation Restriction
on the Church Steeple.
I’d like to thank the other members of the Board with whom I have had the
pleasure to work with this year; Mark Porter, Kevin Feeney, Chris Connolly, and
Tom Theodore. I also would like to thank all of our Town employees who have
made this past year a successful year for the Town of Canton. In particular I want
to thank the staff of the Selectmen’s Office; Christina Carlton, Jennifer Kemalian,
Judy Levitsky, and Charles Aspinwall for all the work and support given to the
Board this year.
Respectfully submitted.
John J. Connolly
Chairman
20Source page 24
BOARD OF ASSESSORS
Rocco DiGirolamo, Chairman 801 Washington St.
Gene Manning, Member Canton, MA 02021
William C. Galvin, 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: 110,243,341
Total Estimated Receipts and Available Funds: 36,268,009
Net Amount to be Raised by Taxation: 73,975,332
Residential Valuation: 3,633,566,271
Commercial, Industrial & Personal Property Value: 1,115,498,409
Total Taxable Valuation: 4,749,064,680
Residential Tax Rate: $12.42
Commercial Tax Rate: $25.86
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 4.7 billion
dollars this year. The next revaluation of the Town will take place in Fiscal Year
2021.Mr. Gene Manning was elected to the Board of Assessors this year. He filled
the vacancy left by the untimely passing of Board member Daniel Flood. Mr.
Flood served on the Board of Assessors for over 15 years. He also served the
Town as selectman for many years. We would like to thank our current staff Karen
Zukauskas, Director of Assessing, Carolyn Floyd, Assistant to the Director of
Assessing, Mary Tynan-Cassidy, Assessing Technician, Patricia Brooks, Board
Secretary and Katherine Barry, Assessing Clerk for all of their hard work and
dedication throughout this past year. We would also like to thank Sheila McNeely
who works for us through the senior work program.
21Source page 25
BUILDING DEPARTMENT
801 WASHINGTON STREET
CANTON, MA 02021
TEL: 781-821-5003 FAX: 781-575-6574
EDWARD T. WALSH
BUILDING COMMISSIONER/ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
INSPECTION STAFF OFFICE STAFF
Paul McCarthy, Local Building Inspector Marie Brennan, Admin. Assistant
Marc Zade, Plumbing/Gas Inspector Tamra Stock, Department Secretary
Jonathan Levis, Electrical Inspector
OFFICE HOURS
Monday - 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Tuesday thru Friday – 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Submitted herewith is the Annual Report of the Building Department for the
Year 2017.
PLUMBING AND GAS DIVISION
Plumbing permits issued - 558 Fees collected - $36,228
Gas permits issued - 439 Fees collected - $31,361
ELECTRICAL DIVISION
Electrical permits issued - 756 Fees collected - $111,143
22Source page 26
BUILDING DIVISION
SUMMARY REPORT OF BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED
1. New Single Family Dwellings 18
2. New Two Family Dwellings 5
3. New Multi-Family Dwellings (9 Units) 0
4. New Commercial/Industrial Buildings 3
5. Additions to Residential Dwellings 36
6. Additions to Commercial Buildings 2
7. Alterations and Repairs to Residential Dwellings 604
8. Alterations and Repairs to Comm/Ind Buildings 160
9. Signs 35
10. Swimming Pools 11
11. Renewed, Replace Permits 33
12. Occupancy Permits 86
13. Stoves 6
14. Accessory Buildings, Sheds, Barns, etc 9
15. Demolition Permits 14
16. Temporary Structures, Tents, etc 41
17. Foundation Permits 11
18. Amendments to Permits 19
TOTAL 1093
TOTAL Valuation on Building Permits Issued $81,930,003
Fees collected on Building Permits Issued $1,065,088
Fees collected on Annual/Assembly Certificates Issued $ 4,555
Fees collected on Plumbing/Gas Permits Issued $ 55,614
Fees collected on Electrical Permits Issued $ 110,908
TOTAL REVENUE $ 1,236,165
Respectfully submitted,
Edward T. Walsh
Building Commissioner
23Source page 27
BUILDING RENOVATION COMMITTEE
Town of Canton, Massachusetts
801 Washington St.
Canton, Massachusetts 02021
Bob McCarthy Chairman, Chuck Armando,Vice Chairman, Chris Podgurski,
Maureen McDonough, John McCourt, Bob Benedetti At Large Members.
Reuki Schutt, School Comm; John Connolly BOS; Kathy Butters, Finance Dept,
During the 2017 year the Building Renovation Committee (“BRC”)
continued its management of the projects approved at earlier Town Meetings. The
Following is a list of some of the projects that were addressed by the Building
Renovation Committee in the past year:
1) Hansen School Roof Replacement: This project replaced 42,890
Square Feet of Roof at the Hansen School. This projects was
completed on time and on Budget
2) Canton Library: The Public Library’s Historic Entrance Project was
completed. The Oak doors, bronze detail, transom and Cast Iron
Posts were restored.
3) Canton Public Schools: Various maintenance and upgrades were
completed. These include Oil Tank removal from six locations,
Telco Bells paging system for Hansen, Kennedy and Luce Schools.
Front Entry Canope for the Kennedy and Luce Schools
4) Memorial Field: The track field was resurfaced in the spring of
2017
5) Metropolis Ice Rink: An Owners Project Manager (CMS
Construction Monitoring Services Inc.) has been hired to help
Manage the reconstruction and repair of the Rink. We currently have
an RFQ to hire a firm for Design Services. The first step will be to
prepare an Investigation and Evaluation report on the rink. We hope
to have cost estimates in time for the May Town Meeting
6) Pequitside Farm Barn Study: We recently hired Architect (TBA) to
perform a Comprehensive Investigation of existing conditions and
code review at the Pequitside Barn
24Source page 28
7) Boliver Pool: We recently hired an Architect (CHA) to determine
the needed repairs, upgrades and improvements necessary to fully
upgrade the Boliver Pool Facility
I would like to thank our associate members Charles Aspinwall, Barry
Nectow, Mark Lague, Police Chief Ken Berkowitz, Fire Chief Charles Doody and
all the other professional employee’s at Town Hall. As a volunteer committee
these people keep us informed and perform the day to day work necessary to allow
these projects to be completed on time, on budget.
I would like to thank my fellow committee members. Their knowledge and
expertise is what makes this committee functions so well.
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert J. McCarthy, Chairman
Building Renovation Committee
25Source page 29
CANTON ALLIANCE AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE (CAASA)
Prevention. Intervention. Treatment. Recovery.
www.cantonalliance.org
STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Charlie Doody, Fire-Rescue Department, Chair
Kenneth Berkowitz, Police Department, Vice Chair
Janet Donnelly, Community Member, Secretary
Jennifer Fischer-Mueller, School Department
Nick Pirelli, Department of Parks and Recreation
Cindy Bonner, Board of Health
MISSION
To reduce the demand and the abuse of drugs and alcohol in the Canton
community, with a special focus on middle and high school age students, while
creating a culture of good decision making.
REPORT
The Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA) was originally
established in 2013 to address youth substance abuse. CAASA consists of a
diverse representation of invested community partners from Public Health, the
Schools, Fire Rescue, Police, Parks and Recreation, Norfolk County DA’s office,
students, clinicians, and parents. Our collaboration allows for a 360 degree
perspective on the issues affecting Canton and how best to address them.
At 2016 ATM, CAASA was adopted as an official town committee and was
allocated the sum of $10,000 to conduct data, execute programs, and provide
educational resources. The members of CAASA, appointed by the Board of
Selectmen, embody a cross section of municipal departments and residents. This
year, CAASA began a speaker series on various substance abuse topics for the
general public at the Canton Public Library, facilitated the Sticker Shock program,
co-sponsored a town meeting article to prohibit the retail sales, distribution, and
manufacture of marijuana, continued planning for the establishment of drop-in
centers, hosted a Celebration of Life event at the Council on Aging in honor of
International Overdose Day and supported the efforts of Project SAVE students in
their mission to educate middle and high school students about substance use
disorder.
26Source page 30
CAASA is a part of a grant funded Substance Abuse Prevention Collaborative
(SAPC), a cluster of coalitions representing the communities of Stoughton,
Canton, Holbrook, and Walpole. The Committee meets on the third Monday of
each month. Meeting notices are posted on the Town’s Website. For more
information about CAASA, go to www.cantonalliance.org.
Respectfully submitted,
Charles E. Doody, Chairman
Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse
27Source page 31
CANTON CENTER DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
801 Washington Street
Canton, MA 02021
Tel: 781-821-5019
Michael J. Nourse, Chairman
Peter Pineo, Vice Chairman
Diane Glenn, Clerk
Brian Perreault, Member
The Canton Center Design Review Board is appointed by the Planning Board and
consists of five (5) member. Currently the Board consists of four (4) members:
Michael J. Nourse; Peter Pineo; Diane Glenn; and Brian Perreault.
The purpose of the Canton Center Design Review Board is to preserve and
enhance Canton Center’s cultural, economic and historical resources by providing
a detailed design review of the exterior appearance of buildings, landscaped areas,
and signs as well as site plan review, located within the boundaries of the Canton
Center Economic Opportunity District (“CCEOD”).
Use and activities subject to Design Review:
1. The design review procedure shall review any construction, alteration,
demolition or removal of a structure or site, other than any construction,
alteration, demolition and removal of a single family residence which
does not change the single family use of the structure or site, shall be
subject to review by the Design Review Board. This includes all actions
except those that are considered to be routine maintenance;
2. Request for sign permits;
3. Request for Site Plan; and
4. Request for Special Permit.
One example of a positive result of the Design Review process is the recent
redevelopment of the former Harold Drake Law Office, an historic building
located at 17 Neponset Street. The Board has established a collaborative review
process that encourages resident and abutter involvement. Review of site plans
always includes site visits which the public is encouraged to participate in.
In the calendar year 2017, the Design Review Board met formally six (6) times.
At those meetings, the Design Review Board reviewed new business along
28Source page 32
Washington Street for a music school, a medical aesthetics company, a new
threading business, a new nutrition center and restaurant, and a minor modification
of an apartment complex.
We would like to thank Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, and the members
for their time and guidance in these matter.
Respectfully Submitted,
Michael J. Nourse, Chairman
CANTON CENTER DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
29Source page 33
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
Stacey Gorman, Treasurer, Recreation Commission Representative
John McSweeney, Clerk, Housing Authority Representative
Kathy Alfano, Board of Selectman Designee
John Bonnanzio, School Committee Representative
Josh Cohen, Conservation Commission Representative
Emilio Mauro, Capital Planning Committee Representative
Michael Mitcheroney, Planning Board Representative
Deb Sundin, Bob Panico and Reuki Schutt all departed the Committee in 2017.
Deb Sundin played an integral role in the Town’s adoption of CPA and served on
the Committee since its inception. As the representative of the Conservation
Commission, Deb was also instrumental in applying for and receiving CPA funds
for the imminent purchase of the Paul Revere Heritage Site. Bob Panico also
served on the CCPC since it was formed in 2013 and helped establish the
committee’s procedures and protocols. With the departure of these three
members, the CCPC welcomed Josh Cohen, Emilio Mauro and John Bonnanzio
who represent the Conservation Commission, Capital Planning Committee and
School Committee respectively. All three members were appointed by the Board
of Selectmen in time to fully participate in the FY19 round of CPA funding
decisions. The CCPC extends its appreciation to Deb, Bob and Reuki for their
service to the Town and their commitment to community preservation.
Purpose
The role of the CCPC is to administer Community Preservation Act funds for
projects that benefit the public in the areas of open space protection, historic
preservation, community housing and outdoor recreation. Voters approved the
statewide Community Preservation Act (CPA) at the 2012 General Election
through a 1% surcharge on all real estate property tax bills with two exemptions:
residential property owned and occupied by any person who qualifies for low-
income housing, or low- or moderate-income senior housing and the first $100,000
of taxable value of all residential real property. At the 2014 Annual Town Meeting
(ATM), residents voted to extend the $100,000 tax exemption to commercial and
industrial property owners.
30Source page 34
2017 Major Accomplishments
The benefits of CPA are becoming more and more
visible as many of the projects made possible by
the adoption of the Act are finalized. Among the
projects completed in 2017 was the restoration of
the historic Washington Street entrance to the
Canton Public Library. The $38,000 grant provided
through the Community Preservation Fund was
used to restore and preserve the grand oak doors
and ornamental hardware as well as the bronze
transom, lampposts and granite steps. The
beautiful, restored façade of this 100-year-old
building is a stunning example of the potential
made possible through CPA.
A second high-profile project completed in 2017 was the installation of a copper
roof at the Revere Rolling Mill. In a unique collaboration, the Town worked with
Revere Copper Products, Inc. and Canton Holdings, Inc. to bring this project to
fruition. Revere Copper agreed to provide 7,300 pounds of 24” rolled copper
along with flashing and gutters to the Town at cost (i.e. no charge for fabrication
or shipping) and the site developer agreed to install the fabricated copper roof
provided that the Town would cover the cost differential between the proposed
copper roof and the asphalt roof they had agreed to install. The finished product –
seen in the photo below – was completed with $148,974 in CPA funds.
In addition to the projects noted above, progress was made on several other CPA
projects over the past year. The following table provides a summary of the
projects funded to date with a note regarding project status at the conclusion of the
2017 calendar year.
31Source page 35
Fiscal Category CPA Status
Year Funding
Project
Crane’s Guard Militia Flag 2017 Historic $18,900 ongoing
Olde English Cemetery 2017 Historic $36,915 ongoing
Canton Corner Cemetery – 2017 Historic $160,000 ongoing
Receiving Tomb & Vaults
Recreation Needs Assessment 2017 Recreation $50,000 ongoing
Hagen Court Senior Housing 2017 Housing $120,000 complete*
Canton Corner Cemetery Phase 2016 Historic $11,000 complete*
II
Ponkapoag Station Bell 2016 Historic $15,000 complete*
Restoration *
Tilden House Restoration 2016 Historic $414,150 ongoing
Historical Document Master 2016 Historic $10,000 complete*
Plan *
Martha Howard Petticoat 2016 Historic $5,895 complete
FPUU Steeple and Spire 2016 Historic $99,120 ongoing
Veterans Housing 2016 Housing $100,000 complete*
(Supplemental) *
Plymouth Rubber – Land 2016 Open $1,740,000 ongoing
Acquisition Space
High School Tennis Courts 2015 Recreation $200,000 complete
Veteran’s Housing – Electrical 2015 Housing $30,000 complete*
Boxes *
Veteran’s Housing – Smoke 2015 Housing $63,700 complete*
Detectors *
Canton Corner Cemetery Phase 2015 Historic $25,000 complete*
I *
Friendship Quilt 2015 Historic $2,705 complete
Civil War Soldier Restoration 2015 Historic $30,000 complete
* work complete / awaiting final invoices
** project complete and under budget (unused funds returned to the CPA fund).
2017 Approved CPA Projects
The CCPC reviewed a new round of applications and recommended a total of
eight projects (across all three funding categories) to Town Meeting in 2017. Total
CPA-funding requests for FY 2018 came in at $1,036,775. The CCPC is pleased
to report that all eight projects recommended for funding were approved at the
May 2017 Town Meeting. An outline of the most recent CPA-funded projects
follows:
32Source page 36
Historic Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Revere Rolling Mill Copper Roof $148,975
Install a rolled copper roof on the Revere Rolling Mill.
Canton Public Library Historic Entrance $35,000
Restore and preserve oak doors, bronze transom, light posts
and granite stairs at historic entrance to building.
Pequitside Barn Architectural Study $28,000
Assess work needed to maintain the historic structure (c.
1895) and bring to code for potential future uses.
Community Housing Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Rubin Court Senior Housing $80,000
Install bathroom exhaust fans in 32 units at senior housing
facility to address/prevent mold and mildew.
Open Space/Recreation Projects
Project Description CPA Funding
Devoll & Tilden Playgrounds $401,300
Remove existing structures and install new playground
equipment at two high-demand locations.
Kennedy School Field Restroom & Storage Facility $173,500
Construct restroom and storage facility to serve multiple
athletic organizations and 1500+ athletes.
Open Space & Recreation Planning Projects $150,000
Hire a consultant to undertake the following planning
projects: (1) Open Space & Recreation Plan Update;
(2) Comprehensive Trails Plan; and (3) Master Plan for
Newhouse Recreation Area.
PRHS Conservation Restriction $20,000
Reimbursement to independent 3rd party to hold CR on open
space at the Paul Revere Heritage Site.
33Source page 37
In the Fall of 2017, the CCPC received seven eligible applications for CPA
funding totaling $1,120,547. The CCPC held two public meetings in December to
entertain presentations from project proponents and to consider which projects to
recommend to Annual Town Meeting in 2018. Final decisions as to
recommendations will be reported in early January and voted at ATM in May of
2018.
Financials
Total CPA revenues in fiscal year 2017 were $665,636. 62. This includes the
State Match totaling $108.001. FY 2017 numbers are detailed below:
Canton Community Preservation Committee
FY2017 Cash Balance Sheet
Previous Balance* 879,739.18
Revenue
CPA Tax $545,946.62
State Match $108,001.00
Investment Income/Tax Liens $11,689.00
Total Revenue $665,636.62
Total Cash Balance $1,545,375.80
Expenses
Administrative Expenses $11,321.00
Project Expenses for FY 17 Approved Projects
Community Housing $120,000.00
Historic Preservation $555,165.00
Open Space/Recreation $50,000.00
Total FY17 Project Appropriations $385,815.00
Total FY17 Expenses $397,136.00
Unallocated Funds Available for Future Projects* $1,148,239,80
Total Expenses + Appropriations + Unallocated Funds $1,545,375.80
*Revenue carryover from prior fiscal years that was not allocated to a project
or expended from the administrative budget.
Additional financial information can be found on the Community Preservation
Committee website at: http://town.canton.ma.us/631/Financial-Reports
34Source page 38
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 2017, voters agreed to allocate $60,000
to each CPA subaccount, which represents 10% of expected revenues for fiscal
year 2017. Each motion for a proposed project will specify the amount taken from
the previous year’s subaccount balance and once that account is depleted, any
monies coming from the main CPA fund.
Ongoing Initiatives
In 2018, the Committee will continue to build relationships with the community
and community leaders to solicit project ideas that will benefit the Town.
Additionally, the Committee will work with project sponsors to steward those
projects through completion. Some projects will be completed quickly and others
will be more long term in nature. In all cases, the projects selected and put forward
will support the Community Preservation Plan and the edicts of the Community
Preservation Act. The Canton Community Preservation Plan is available on our
website. We encourage anyone with project ideas to apply using the forms also
available on our webpage, or to reach out directly to a member of the Committee.
The Committee wishes to thank past and current project sponsors, Canton citizens,
Town officials, the law firm of Deutsch/Williams, the Massachusetts Community
Preservation Coalition and each of its Committee members for their continued
dedication to CPA.
Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Lopez
Chairman
35Source page 39
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Pequitside Farm
79 Pleasant Street second Floor
Canton, Ma. 02021
Office (781) 821-5035 Fax (781) 821-7456
concom@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Conservation Agent Hours:
Monday – Thursday Monday - Thursday
8:300 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. 7:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Friday 8:00 to 11:30 Appointment Only
Conservation Commission Members: Pequitside Sub-Committee:
Joshua Cohen – Chairman Debra Sundin – Chairman
Gerald Carmichael – Vice - Chairman Gerald Carmichael – Conservation
Robert MacDonald – Treasurer Historical Commission
Paul Degnan – Clerk Steven Choiniere – Facilities Supervisorr
Kevin Colmey Elizabeth Francis – Parks and Recreation Director
Elizabeth Sugameli Cynthia O’Connell – Conservation Agent
Melissa Mayer
James Fiztpatrick (passed away July 2017)
Debra Sundin (resigned March 2017)
Donald MacAdam (resigned April 2017)
Conservation Agent: Office & Recording Secretary:
Cynthia O’Connell Heather Cahill
The Conservation Commission administers both the Massachusetts Wetland
Protection Act and the Town of Canton Wetland Protection By-law 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.
36Source page 40
Members of the Conservation Commission also serve on the Pequitside Sub-
Committee, the Community Preservation Committee, the Permit Advisory
Committee, the Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee, the Paul Revere
Heritage Commission, the Walk, Bike and Hike Committee, the Water and Sewer
Rate and Policy Committee and the Reservoir Pond Advisory Committee.
The economy continued to improve in 2017, keeping the Commission busy
reviewing permit applications. There were 21 Public Hearings issuing a total of
103 permits which consisted of 50 Wetland Permits, 18 Stormwater Permits, and
35 Land Disturbance Permits.
The Commission sponsored an article at the Annual Town Meeting in May 2017
amending Article XV, the Town of Canton Wetlands Protection By-law to exempt
vista pruning and the removal of dead, damaged or diseased vegetation within
jurisdictional areas from the local wetland regulations, provided that the vegetation
poses an immediate and substantial threat. In addition, the Commission proposed
to allow applicants to use certificates of mailing as proof of abutter notification
under the By-law. Both amendments were approved.
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.
In 2016 Conservation Commission submitted applications to the CCPC for
funding for both an update to the 1997 Open Space and Recreation Plan and for a
Master Plan for the Earl Newhouse Waterfront. Both applications were supported
by the CCPC and were approved at Town Meeting in 2017. Contracts for both
projects were awarded in 2017 and work is underway.
Several joint meetings were held between the Open Space and Recreation Plan
Update Committee and the Walk, Bike and Hike Committee to review the
proposals received in response to a Request for Proposals and to choose a
consultant. Weston & Sampson was awarded the contract for the update to the
Open Space and Recreation Plan as well as the Comprehensive Master Trails Plan.
An initial public listening session was held at the Canton Library Community
37