Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text
2017 Annual Report
Saved text from 209 source pages. Transcription and OCR may contain errors; verify figures and wording against the original. Retrieved 2026-10-15.
Source page 81
Reflection
Public Works congratulates Lisa Grega for thirty years of service, Kevin Brophy
for ten years, and Brian Levitsky for 5 years. Our success is built upon their
commitment and effort.
We wish James Donovan, Town Engineer, continued success and the best in his
retirement and welcomed Barbara Thissell in his stead.
Respectfully Submitted,
Michael Trotta
Superintendent of Public Works
78Source page 82
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
Elizabeth Francis, Recreation Director John McCourt, Chairman
Nicholas Pirelli, Deputy Director Stacey Gorman, Vice-Chair
Audrey Cohen, Secretary/Principal Clerk Debra Kelly
Dennis Aldrich, Recreation Maintenance Supervisor Cab Devoll
Allan White, Recreation Facility Maintenance Richie Eckler
Michael T. O’Brien, Recreation Grounds Maintenance Alison Grossman
James G. Walsh, Recreation Grounds Maintenance Larry Bogue
Paul Glowka, Recreation Facility Maintenance
The Department of 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 community
events, we provide both active and passive social opportunities that build
community and inspire personal growth. Our parks provide support for recreation
that contributes to enhancing the quality of life. The department encourages
citizens to become active, responsible, and engaged members of the community.
The members of the Playground and Recreation Commission, appointed by the
Board of Selectmen, embody a cross section of Canton residents. The
Commission works with the department staff to implement its mission and to meet
the needs of the community. The Commission members also play a vital role in
the planning and implementation of community events sponsored by Parks and
Recreation.
In 2017, Larry Bogue joined the Playground and Recreation Commission. Larry
had previously served on the Commission and brings leadership and years of
experience to the group.
79Source page 83
FACILITIES
The Department of Parks and Recreation 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 leagues, summer playground and camp
programs, other rental groups, and Canton citizens throughout the year.
In 2017 the Playground & Recreation Commission received funding through the
Community Preservation Committee to replace the playground structures at both
Devoll Park and Tilden Park. The Department is excited about the state of the art
renovations and is anticipating a spring 2018 opening for the revamped parks.
It was another year without the Metropolis Skating Rink. But, after meetings with
state officials, a plan was implemented to determine the feasibility of building the
rink in Canton at the current location.
PROGRAMMING
A full line-up of program offerings for citizens of all ages included many popular
returning programs such as summer camps, swim lessons, youth and adult
programs. Demand was on the rise for the Blast-Off Program, Pequitside Day
Camp, and Edge Camp. These programs are run directly through Canton Parks
and Recreation for pre-school through middle-school age children. This past
summer the Department offered an Edge Extreme program which targeted high
school students and offered day trips to local adventure themed locations.
Several new programs demonstrated high demand and positive feedback. In the
area of Youth Development, Babysitter Training, Home Alone Safety, 5 Star
Manners, Kids Cooking were among the leaders. The department began offering
additional pre-school enrichment programs as well. In the area of Health and
Wellness, it was adult yoga leading the way. This year we added a trip to Edaville
Railroad during the winter holiday season allowing families to enjoy the scenic
train ride. For the adventurous adults in the community we provided a Foxwoods
Casino day trip.
At the Bolivar Pool, the Department offered evening youth swim lessons this past
summer. Many families in Canton have households with two working adults and
aren’t able to attend the day time lessons creating a need for early evening lessons,
which were well attended.
80Source page 84
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Once again, the Playground and Recreation Commission worked closely with the
department to offer numerous community events in 2017 including annual
favorites such as the Easter Egg Hunt, July 4th Road Race and Fireworks
Celebration, Summer Concert Series, Billy Armando Golf Tournament, Halloween
Fest, 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.
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 July 4th celebration with free activities for families, a concert, and a
top notch fireworks display.
In the fall, Canton took home the trophy again for the annual Great Pumpkin Feud
between Canton and Stoughton.
In addition to the many programs offered, the Commission and Department work
in conjunction with other town departments and community organizations. Parks
and Recreation is actively involved in the annual Health Fair and the Canton Road
Race organized by the Canton Association of Business and Industry (CABI), and
in the Canton Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA).
COLLABORATION
Special thanks to Public Works, Fire, Police, Schools, Conservation, Board of
Health, and Library for their consistent contributions and cooperation throughout
the year to assist us with our programs and community events.
The Department would like to thank its staff and volunteers, the staff of all other
supporting town departments, the Board of Selectmen, and the citizens of Canton
for their continued support and participation in 2017. We hope everyone can find
their passion and get involved in 2018!
Respectfully submitted,
Elizabeth Francis
Director of Parks and Recreation
& the Playground and Recreation Commission
81Source page 85
BLUE HILLS REGIONAL DISTRICT SCHOOL COMMITTEE
800 Randolph Street
Canton, Mass. 02021
Telephone: 781-828-5800
Fax: 781-828-0794
Email: dsc@bluehills.org
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
The following members comprised the 2016-2017 / 2017-2018 District School
Committee:
AVON: Mr. Francis J. Fistori
BRAINTREE: Secretary Eric C. Erskine (Elected Secretary on July 11, 2017.)
CANTON: Mr. Aidan G. Maguire, Jr.
DEDHAM: Vice Chair Thomas R. Polito, Jr. (Elected Vice Chair on July 11, 2017)
HOLBROOK: Mr. Michael C. Franzosa
MILTON: Mr. Festus Joyce
NORWOOD: Mr. Kevin L. Connolly
RANDOLPH: Chair Marybeth Nearen (Elected Chair on July 11. 2017.)
WESTWOOD: Charles W. Flahive
The Blue Hills Regional District School Committee is pleased to submit its
Annual Report to the residents of the Town of Canton. Blue Hills Regional
Technical School continues its steadfast commitment to providing the highest
caliber academic and vocational instruction to district students in grades nine
through twelve, and to those receiving postgraduate training. The nine towns in
the district include Avon, Braintree, Canton, Dedham, Holbrook, Milton,
Norwood, Randolph, and Westwood.
Mr. James P. Quaglia is the Superintendent-Director of Blue Hills Regional
Technical School. Mr. Aidan G. Maguire, Jr., who graduated from Blue Hills in
1979, is the Canton representative on the Blue Hills Regional District School
Committee. The Committee meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month
at 7:00 p.m. in the William T. Buckley District School Committee Meeting
Room (Room 207A) at the school at 800 Randolph St., Canton. The public is
invited to attend.
82Source page 86
BLUE HILLS REGIONAL SCHOOL RENOVATION PROJECT
Our School Renovation Project has been approved by the Massachusetts School
Building Authority, and all nine of our member communities have approved the
project; giving Blue Hills the permission to borrow the money necessary to begin
construction in June of 2018. The MSBA will be reimbursing approximately
fifty percent of the total cost of the project. The construction phase is projected
to last approximately fifteen months. Blue Hills is fortunate to be partnered with
nine sending communities who strongly support our continued mission of
producing quality vocational technical graduates. For further information,
consult the following link: http://www.renovatebluehills.com
Sixty members of the Class of 2017 received John and Abigail Adams
Scholarships including Canton students Ashley DeJesus, Sabrina Gates, Conner
Graham, David Holton II, Jack Hulme, Nicholas Mahon, Sean McDonagh,
Joseph Nee and Joyce Quach.
The annual William A. Dwyer Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS)
Induction Ceremony was held on April
11, 2017. The new inductees included Canton students John Bourikas and
Michael Panico.
Several students from Blue Hills Regional Technical School in Canton earned
medals at the State Leadership and Skills Conference held from April 27-29,
2017, in Marlborough, Mass., by SkillsUSA, a national organization for
vocational students that holds competitions in dozens of technical areas. Students
can win gold, silver or bronze medals based on their projects and performance at
the event. The advisor to the Blue Hills chapter of SkillsUSA is Mr. Robert
Foley. Among the medalists were Canton students Andrew Bryant and John
Bourikas of Canton, who earned a gold medal in Engineering. The gold medal-
winning Engineering team, including student Erin Young of Holbrook, competed
at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference on June 19-24,
2017, in Louisville, Ky.
The annual breakfast held at Blue Hills to honor selected students with
scholarships, opportunities to attend a leadership conference and career assistance
awards from the Neponset Valley Rotary Club and Randolph/Avon/Canton
Rotary Club was held on May 3, 2017 in the school’s student-run restaurant, the
Chateau de Bleu. A $500 scholarship was awarded to student Joseph Nee of
Canton by the Randolph/Avon/Canton Rotary Club. A Rotary Youth Leadership
Award was given to student Bryan Healey of Canton by the
Randolph/Avon/Canton Rotary Club.
83Source page 87
At the Senior Scholarship and Awards Night on May 24, 2017, dozens of
students were honored for their achievements. Nearly $19,000 in memorial
scholarships and close to $27,000 in civic, state and industry awards were
distributed to students. Recognition awards were given out for academic and
vocational excellence. Blue Hills appreciates all the individuals and civic and
municipal organizations that generously recognized these deserving young men
and women.
In a ceremony held on May 25, 2017, 20 Health Assisting students received their
Certified Nursing Assistant pins, They also became Geriatric Patient Care
Associates, having completed training at Beth Israel Hospital
Deaconess Hospital—Milton that was funded by the Healthcare Workforce
Transformation Fund administered by the Mass. Dept. of Labor and Workforce
Development.
It was a truly stellar year in sports for Blue Hills Regional. Blue Hills Regional
takes great pride in all its student- athletes and coaches and congratulates them
for their tremendous dedication and hard work. Among the highlights were the
selection of Athletic Director Ed Catabia by the Massachusetts High School
Football Coaches Association to coach in the Shriners football game on June 17,
2017, and the selection of the Blue Hills Regional cheerleaders to participate as
well. Quarterback Andrew Bryant of Canton was the Mayflower League MVP in
football and baseball. He signed a letter of intent to play baseball at the
University of Dayton next year. The girls’ basketball team qualified for the
MVADA and MIAA tournaments. The boys’ basketball team won the Mayflower
Athletic Conference Championship. The baseball team qualified for the MVADA
and MIAA tournaments and were Mayflower League champions. The softball
team qualified for the MIAA tournament. The volleyball team qualified for the
MVADA tournament. Coaches Matt Manders (baseball), Beverly Woods
(swimming), Brian Gearty (boys’ basketball and golf) and Tom McGrath
(volleyball) were honored as Coaches of the Year in their respective leagues. The
girls’ soccer team and the golf team were honored for sportsmanship by the
Mayflower League.
Commencement was held on June 7, 2017. Seventeen students from Canton were
among the graduates including Gerrin Lee Boyce, Michael Brown, Samantha
Curnane, Ashley DeJesus, Sabrina Gates, Conner Graham, Jonathan Gronroos,
David Holton II, Jack Hulme, Jong Kgu Lee, Nicholas Mahon, Sean McDonagh,
Casey Moriarty, Dillon Muscato, Joseph Nee, Joyce Quach and Grayson Terry.
Superintendent Quaglia reassured them all that “change is perpetual, it’s normal,
it’s expected. Live your life without fear and apprehension and accept change as a
necessary constant in your life.” Principal Jill M. Rossetti exhorted them to
84Source page 88
always strive for new challenges. “Don’t settle for doing what is easy. Make
conscious choices to do what is hard,” she said. The Practical Nursing Program
(Postsecondary Programs Division) is a full-time program of study provided to
adults on a tuition and fee basis. The Practical Nursing students are prepared
upon graduation to take the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure
Examination for Practical Nursing) through the State Board of Registration in
Nursing. The Practical Nursing program (Postsecondary Programs Division) held
its 28th Annual Commencement at Blue Hills on June 28, 2017 for thirty-five
students.
The October 1, 2017 foundation enrollment numbers for Blue Hills from the
Massachusetts Dept. of Elementary and Secondary Education show 863 students
at the school. Sixty-one students were from Canton.
On November 14, 2017, Blue Hills Regional hosted its annual Open House. The
well-attended event allowed the public to visit classrooms and technical areas,
speak with students, teachers, and administrators, and gather information about
the school.
NASA astronaut Scott D. Tingle of Randolph, a member of the Blue Hills Class
of 1983, launched to the International Space Station (ISS) on December 17, 2017,
for his first mission in space.
Blue Hills Regional is proud to offer various services to district residents – and in
some cases, the general public– from a variety of technical programs. This
practice allows students to utilize their training in practical, hands-on situations
that augment their classroom work. Furthermore, these professional-quality
services are available at well below commercial cost. Over the years, residents
and civic or municipal groups in the Town of Canton have saved considerable
money by having Blue Hills Regional students perform work for them.
Students in Cosmetology offer a full range of services for hair, skin and nails by
appointment. All members of the public are welcome. Students in the Adult
Cosmetology class also welcome customers in the evening.
Full-course lunches prepared by students are served to the public during the
school year in the Blue Hills Regional restaurant, the Chateau de Bleu. The
restaurant is open five days a week to serve the public. Bakery goods are
available for purchase, and the facility can also be used for civic group meetings.
Design and Visual Communications offers services which include: graphic design
and large format printing and mounting, banners, posters, lawn signs, window
graphics and wall graphics.
85Source page 89
The Early Education Center features a preschool program for youngsters who are
two years, nine months old to kindergarten-entrance age. It is accredited by the
National Association for the Education of Young Children.
The program also provides a learning environment for students studying Early
Education.
Each year, Blue Hills Regional’s Construction Technology students build
residential projects. District residents are invited to submit applications for these
projects, which must last the full school year and have significant educational
value.
Automotive Collision Repair & Refinishing and Auto Technology students do
automotive projects for community residents on a departmental-approved
appointment basis.
Electrical offers services which include residential wiring, smoke detectors,
telephone voice and data wiring, CATV and public building wiring for municipal
structures.
Graphic Communications offers services which include business cards, menus,
company letterhead, silk screening (including T shirts), pamphlets, booklets and
programs.
Metal Fabrication produces items such as fire pits, custom railings, landscaping
trailers and custom ornamental metal projects.
Respectfully submitted, Mr. Aidan G. Maguire, Jr. Canton Representative
Blue Hills Regional Technical School District
December 31, 2017
86Source page 90
CANTON SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Michael Loughran, Chair 960 Washington Street
Canton, MA 02021
Kristin Mirliani, Vice-Chair Telephone – 781-821-5060
Fax – 781-575-6500
Meg Gannon, Secretary www.cantonma.org
Reuki Schutt, Member
John Bonnanzio, Member
Hours of Operation Monday through Friday 8 AM to 4 PM
BUDGET
The School Department operating budget for the current 2017-2018 school year is
distributed as follows:
Salaries $33,615,647
Expenses $ 6,605,912
Total $40,221,559
The above figure represents a 5.63% increase above the 2016-2017 budget.
The operating budget of $40,221,559 is supplemented with revenue offsets
projected at $2,199,000 from revolving (fee-based) accounts and $1,209,000 of
federal and state grants as follows:
87Source page 91
Revolving Accounts
Athletic User Fees/Gate Receipts $200,000
Building Rental Fees $300,000
Pre-School Revolving $100,000
Transportation $300,000
Student Parking $29,000
Special Education Circuit Breaker $1,250,000
Revolving
Extracurricular $ 20,000
Total $2,199,000
Federal and State Grants
Teacher Quality $57,945
SPEC. EDUCATION 94-142 $798,972
Early Childhood (262) $29,133
SPEC. EDUCATION Program $27,081
Improvement
Title I $119,636
Title IV $6,040
Essential School Health $77,900
Total $1,116,707
The District’s FY18 budget, approved at Annual Town Meeting, totaled
$40,221,559. This 5.63% increase from the previous year’s budget supports the
District to effectively meet the needs of our students from grades PK-12, including
the implementation of free full-day kindergarten.
88Source page 92
In addition to the shift in kindergarten, the FY18 budget supported the District to:
Continue to meet the contractual obligations of all Collective Bargaining
Agreements;
Address class size issues across the elementary, middle and high schools
Continue with development of special education programs to support
Canton students in the least restrictive environment;
Provide for appropriate coverage before school at elementary and
secondary levels; and,
Create more elective offerings for students at the secondary level,
including additional Mandarin, American Sign Language and STEAM
(Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) related courses.
The District’s FY18 Cash Capital Budget totaled $800,000. The district used the
cash capital funds to address the following:
Building/Grounds Repairs and Improvements
Teachers’ room renovation – GMS
Emergency generator radiator replacement – CHS
Oil tank removal – 6 locations across schools
Painting – District-Wide
HVAC improvements – District - Wide
Telcor bells/paging systems – Hansen, JFK & GMS
Brick wall repairs – Luce
Technology
Firewall – District-Wide
Server, SAN, virtualization upgrade – District-Wide
Printer replacement – District-Wide
Chromebook carts – Hansen, Luce & Galvin
Upgrade from Thin Clients to Aspire 14 laptop/tablet – Hansen, JFK &
Luce
Cafeteria projector system upgrade – GMS
Projectors and projector screens – CHS
Special Education technology Chromebooks and iPad Minis – Hansen,
JFK & Luce
Interactive projectors – All schools and administration
Document cameras – All schools and administration
89Source page 93
Program Improvements
American Sign Language lab equipment – CHS
Musical instruments – District-Wide
Performing Arts technology – District-Wide
Furniture & Fixtures
Front Entry Canopy - Luce & JFK
Classroom Window and Door Shades - JFK & GMS
Tables, chairs and mats – Hansen
Electric Convection Steamer – CHS
Mats for front and rear entrances - CHS
Cafeteria POS Systems - District-Wide
Custodial Equipment - District-Wide
Safety and Security Upgrade - Hansen, Galvin, CHS, Memorial Field
Vehicle Replacement
2017 Chevy Dump Truck 3500 HD 4WD
MAJOR BUILDING PROJECT
In collaboration with the Building Renovation Committee, during the summer of
2017, the roof at the Hansen School was replaced. This project was funded with
$1.8 Million of debt capital and will be partially offset with funding from the
Massachusetts School Building Authority.
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
Shown below are the enrollment figures for the elementary, middle and high
schools for last June 2017 (school year 2016-17) and this year, October 2017
(school year 2017-18):
2016-17 2017-18 Difference
June 2017 Oct. 1, 2017
Pre-school 90 88 -2
Elementary 1498 1502 +4
Middle School 786 736 -50
High School 951 982 +31
Ungraded 51 45 -6
Total 3376 3353 -23
90Source page 94
Demographics 2012 and 2017
The chart below shows the race/ethnicity percentages of the Canton Public
Schools student population in 2012 (total enrollment 3250) and 2017 (total
enrollment 3325, not including ungraded students). Over this time, there has been
an increase in the percentages of students who identify as African American/Black
(1.9%), Asian (2.9%), Hispanic (1.4%) and multi-race non-Hispanic (1.1%).
There has been a decrease in the percentages of students identifying as White (-
7.5%).
Race/Ethnicity
% in 2012 % in 2017 Difference
African American/Black 8.8 10.7 +1.9
Asian 7.5 10.4 +2.9
Hispanic 3.2 4.6 +1.4
Native American .1 0 -0.1
White 76.9 69.4 -7.5
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Island 0 .2 +0.2
Multi-race Non-Hispanic 3.6 4.7 +1.1
Total Enrollment 3250 3325 +75
Other Student Sub-Groups
% in 2012 % in 2017 Difference
Limited English Proficient 1.2 2.3 +1.1
Students with Disabilities 14.4 12.1 -2.3
Economically Disadvantaged 13.0 13.4 +0.4
Total Enrollment 3250 3325 +75
91Source page 95
Mobility
Mobility, as defined by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education,
is the students transferring into or out of public schools, districts or the state. There
are three different measures to capture mobility: Intake Rate, Churn Rate, and
Stability Rate. The Intake Rate measures the number of students that enroll in the
state, a district, or a school after the beginning of the school year; the Churn Rate
measures the number students transferring into or out of a public school or district
throughout the course of a school year; and the Stability Rate measures how many
students remain in a district or school throughout the school year. For further
details and explanations see
http://www.doe.mass.edu/infoservices/reports/mobility/.
Churn/Intake %Churn % Stability %
Enrollment Intake Enrollment Stability
2012 3324 5.9 3.8 3251 96.3
2016 2415 6.4 3.7 3318 96.4
PERSONNEL
The following staff members retired during calendar year 2017.
Employee Position Years of Service
Joyce Stenmon K-12 Visual Arts Coordinator 40
Nancy Keyo Library Aide 20
Juliann Kemp Technology Teacher 17
Peter Gandolfo Custodian 12
Kathleen Birtwell Science Teacher 20
Maureen Griffin Math Teacher 10
Susan Hill Kindergarten Teacher 37
Carol Rogers Grade 1 Teacher 20
Lynne Wesman Educational Assistant 12
92Source page 96
Congratulations and thank you to all our retirees for their decades of service to the
Canton Public Schools and our students.
Administration
During the 2016-17 school year, a number of administrative positions were filled.
Our new superintendent, Dr. Jennifer Fischer-Mueller was hired effective July 1,
2016. Jennifer Henderson, who had served one year as the Interim Superintendent
during the search process, moved back to her position as Assistant Superintendent
for Curriculum and Instruction effective July 1, 2016. Patricia Kinsella was hired
as the new Assistant Superintendent of Special Projects effective July 1, 2017.
STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK AND CORE VALUES
In September 2017, the School Committee approved the District’s 2017-2022
Strategic Framework, which outlines four Long-term Strategic Objectives:
Achieving Educational Excellence and Ensuring Equity
Cultivating School Climate and Culture
Transforming Teaching and Learning
Achieving District Excellence
The Long-term Strategic Objectives within the Strategic Framework represent a
major advance in our efforts to provide the Canton community with a forward-
thinking, well-managed, and responsive educational program for all students. The
Strategic Framework is a foundational resource that guides conversations and
decision-making related to all aspects of CPS work, including program, pedagogy,
budget, human resources, and organizational structure.
The Core Values of the Canton Public Schools continue to stand as the district’s
description of the climate and culture we aspire to create:
Academic Excellence and Rigor
Inclusive and Engaged Community
Respectful and Responsible Relationships
Continuous Reflection and Improvement
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Students of the Canton Public Schools and the state of Massachusetts continue to
perform well across all measures, with areas of improvement clearly identified as
the data are disaggregated by subgroups. Advanced Placement (AP) scores are
listed below as an example of Canton students’ performance (in the aggregate).
More detailed achievement data on multiple tests (MCAS, SAT and AP) are
available on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website,
http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/.
93Source page 97
Advanced Placement Test Scores*
AP Courses offered at CHS AP Tests Taken % of Total AP students
with scores of 3 or above
19 559 74.7
*The College Board, AP data updated July 11, 2017
MCAS Context
In spring 2017, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)
implemented the Next-Generation MCAS, a new assessment in both ELA and
Math for grades 3-8. Canton students in these grades participated in a computer-
based version of the test. Students in grades 9/10 participated in what is now
referred to as the Legacy MCAS in all subjects tested, as did students in grades 5
and 8 for the Science, Technology and Engineering test. The Legacy MCAS tests
were implemented in paper-based versions.
DESE Acting Commissioner Jeff Wulfson made two points that we believed were
critical for placing Next-Gen MCAS results in their proper context (DESE,
October 18, 2017):
MCAS results are only one measure of your child’s growth and
achievement. Your child’s teacher can also talk to you more broadly
about your child’s academic growth and about his or her social and
emotional development.
In some subjects and grades, fewer students scored Meeting or
Exceeding Expectations this year than scored Proficient or Advanced
in previous years. This does NOT mean that students learned less; it
reflects the fact that the next-generation MCAS measures more
rigorous standards in a different way.
MCAS Results: Achievement
Science – All grades
Because the science tests in grades 5, 8, and 10 continue to be Legacy tests, the
achievement levels are noted as in the past: Advanced, Proficient, Needs
Improvement, and Warning. We were pleased with the following increases in
scores:
Gr. 5: 19% Advanced in 2016, rising to 23% in 2017;
Gr. 8: 57% Proficient/Advanced combined in 2016, rising to 61% in
2017; and,
Gr. 9/10: 88% Proficient/Advanced combined in 2016, rising to 91% in
2017.
94Source page 98
High School ELA and Math
The MCAS Legacy test achievement levels of Advanced, Proficient, Needs
Improvement, and Warning continued to be applicable for grade 10 Math and
ELA. Of note in 2017, 65% of Canton high school students scored in the
Advanced category in ELA, as compared to 47% statewide. In Math, 61% of our
high school students scored in the Advanced category, as compared to 53%
statewide. Our results met all targets on 2017 Spring testing in ELA, Math and
Science along with several other positive markers (e.g., attendance and graduation
rate) moving Canton High School up from Level II to Level I, which is the highest
level that can be achieved.
Elementary and Middle School ELA and Math
Students in grades 3-8 participated in the computer-based Next-Gen MCAS, with
achievement levels defined as Exceeding Expectations, Meeting Expectations,
Partially Meeting Expectations, and Not Meeting Expectations. The four new
scoring categories do not have a one-to-one relationship with the prior scoring
categories of Advanced, Proficient, Needs Improvement, and Warning. Because
2017 was the baseline year for the new test, we are not comparing Legacy MCAS
achievement results with Next-Gen MCAS results.
● In English Language Arts, in grades 3-8 combined, 11% of our students
scored in the Exceeding Expectations category, as compared to 7%
statewide. The district to state comparison in the Meeting Expectations
category in ELA is 52% to 42% respectively.
● In Mathematics, in grades 3-8 combined, 11% of our students scored in
the Exceeding Expectations category, compared to 8% statewide; the
corresponding comparison in the Meeting Expectations category is 54%
to 40%.
MCAS Results: Growth
DESE defines a student growth percentile (SGP) as a relative measure of student
progress that compares changes in a student’s MCAS score to changes in MCAS
scores of other students with similar achievement profiles.
In general, students in the Canton Public Schools showed strong SGPs; our student
growth percentiles were above the state median in almost all grade levels and
content areas. District-wide, we noted significant growth (SGP of 60 or above) in
Math in grades 5, 7, and 8, and in ELA in grades 5, 8, and 10. (Students in grade 3
do not have SGPs, as third grade is the first year in which these students
participate in the assessment and, therefore, no prior year cohort can be created.)
95Source page 99
We noted the following highlights related to SGPs within individual schools:
● Gr. 4 at Hansen, median SGP of 79 in ELA;
● Gr. 5 at Hansen, median SGP of 76 in ELA;
● Gr. 5 at Luce, median SGP of 74 in Math;
● Gr. 5 at Hansen, median SGP of 77 in Math; and,
● Gr. 10 at CHS, median SGP of 68.5 in ELA
While standardized tests provide one source of data on student achievement, these
tests do not provide critical information about the full range of the student
experience in our schools. The District has begun developing a comprehensive set
of measures, the Indicators of Excellence, to provide that full description of
student and district success. The first draft of the Indicators of Excellence is now
undergoing revision, incorporating what we are learning through contact with
districts, university researchers, and non-profit organizations working on similar
initiatives to develop more complete measures of student and district success. The
Indicators of Excellence are the metrics used to measure our progress toward the
Strategic Framework’s Long-term Strategic Objectives.
Honors and Awards
In addition to performance on standardized tests, the excellence of the Canton
Public Schools is demonstrated by a multitude of honors and awards for students
and educators. All of the student, teacher and school awards of 2017 are too
numerous to list here. Below are some of the notable achievements:
Norfolk County Teachers Association
o Honor Award, Joyce Stenmon
o Service Award, Peter Gandolfo
o Harland L. Cook Book Award Katherine Pineo
National Merit Certificate of Merit Finalist
o Dasol Lee
National Merit Letter of Commendation
o Kyran Chu & Eric Solomon
MA Association of School Superintendents Certificate of Academic
Excellence
o Eric Solomon
MA DESE Stanley Z. Koplik Certificate of Mastery with Distinction
o Andrew Chung, Amanda Folan, Benjamin Mendillo, Evan
Tondre, Jacob Troderman, & Lindsay Ward
Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award
o Veronica Polsgrove
Jewish War Veterans Award
o Caroline McKenna
96Source page 100
Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
o Gold Key - Art: Emily Beatty & Meryl Prendergast; Writing:
Lauren DiTullio
o Honorable Mention - Art: Emily Borenstein, Hailey Kelleher,
Sarah Rawding, Meryl Prendergast, & Yanya Xu; Writing -
Lauren DiTullio
Art All State
o Brianna McArdle
Canton Community Television Award
o Michael Albert, Shelby Luongo, Michael Marino, Peter
McLaughlin, Joshua Nix, & Veronica Polsgrove
Central Film Festival
o Emily Bornstein & Jennifer Wolicki
Hockomock Film Festival
o Emily Bornstein, Emily Orkin, Veronica Polsgrove, & Jennifer
Wolicki
National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences
o Emily Bornstein & Jennifer Wolicki
o
National Student Television Network Honor Society Award
o Lindsey Barrett, Veronica Polsgrove, Emily Bornstein, &
Jennifer Wolicki
National Performing Arts Awards
o Sarah Campbell, Andrew Chung, Daniel Hathaway, & Benjamin
Mendillo
MA Secondary Schools Administrators Association Student
Achievement Award
o Nicole Poole
Principal’s Student Service Awards
o Kiyana Aldin, Julia Cohen, Kathryn Doody, Elgar Dummott,
Donyka Dumornay, Noeli Fernandez, Jackson Maffeo, Antonio
Ruggeri, Jane Sullivan, & Rachel Vatelia
Canton High School Citizenship Awards
o Molly Colburn, Emma Cunningham, Katherine Devine, Micaela
Duffy, Mary Agnes, Dunn, Matthew Floyd, Nicole Gefteas,
Mary Kent, Joshua Linsenberg, Matthew MacKay, Nicole Poole,
Tess Sestino, Margaret Wade, Jayna Wolfe, & Michael Yong
o
97Source page 101
Junior State of America Gavel Awards
o Nina Gilmore, Colin Messinger, & Addison Mirliani
CHS – 39th Annual German Exchange Program
Shayne M. Cabino Memorial Scholarship Fund
o Michael Albert, Taylor Carrington, Katherine Deardon, Faye
Green, Lily Johansen, Nicole Mason, & Katherine Pineo
Scott M. Herr Memorial Foundation Scholarship
o Julia Cohen, Katheryn Doody, Rebecca Eckler, Owen Guerini,
Lily Johansen, Jackson Maffeo, Christopher Martin, Molly
McLaughlin, David Trerice, & Benjamin Waterhouse
James & Beatrice Salah Family Foundation Scholarship
o Alaina Goodwin, Jackson Maffeo, Katherine Pineo, Evan
Tondre, & Lindsay Ward
Balsamo Memorial Charitable Foundation Scholarship
o Catherine Loftus
Canton Scholar Dollar Scholarships
o Izabella Bankowski, Selena Cho, Kristen Francis, Quentin
Germain, Victoria Hannon, Nicole Mason, Soterios (Sam)
Papakonstantino, Alanna Slayton, & Evan Tondre
CHS Class of 2017 – Colleges and Universities
Below is a list of the college and university choices of the graduating class of
2017:
Anna Maria College (2 ) Regis College (2)
Augusta University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Becker College Roger Williams University (2)
Boston College (6) Saint Anselm College (3)
Boston University (4) Salem State University
Bridgewater State University (4) Salve Regina University (4)
Bridgton Academy Santa Clara University
Brown University Simmons College
Bryant University Southern Connecticut State University
Bunker Hill Community College (2) Southwestern College
Clark University Springfield College
College of Charleston St. Andrews University
Connecticut College (2) State University of New York at Albany
Curry College Stonehill College
Dean College Suffolk University (4)
Elon University Syracuse University (3)
Emerson College (2) Temple University
98Source page 102
Emmanuel College The George Washington University
Fairfield University The University of Arizona
Fitchburg State University The University of Tampa
Georgetown University University of Colorado at Boulder
Indiana University at Bloomington University of Connecticut (2)
James Madison University University of Florida
Massachusetts Bay Community College (3) University of Maine (2)
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (3)
Massasoit Community College (12) University of Massachusetts, Amherst (26)
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & University of Massachusetts, Boston (5)
Health Sciences
Merrimack College (5) University of Massachusetts, Lowell (8)
Mount Holyoke College University of Michigan
Mount Ida College (6 ) University of New England
New York University University of New Hampshire (5)
Newbury College (2) University of Rhode Island (6)
Nichols College University of San Diego
Northeastern University (3) University of South Carolina
Pace University, New York City University of Southern Maine
Pennsylvania State University University of Vermont
Petersons Villanova University (2)
Plymouth State University (2) Wentworth Institute of Technology (5)
Providence College (6) Westfield State University (2)
Quinnipiac University Williams College
Worcester State University
In summary, the public schools of Canton continue to provide a high quality preK-
12 education for the children of this community. The school district’s success is
the result of the community’s high expectations for excellence and ongoing
support.
Respectfully Submitted:
Dr. Jennifer Fischer-Mueller, Superintendent of Schools
Michael Loughran, School Committee Chair
99Source page 103
TOWN COUNSEL
Paul R. DeRensis, Esq. One Design Center Place, Suite 600
Deutsch Williams Brool{S Boston, MA 02210
DeRensis & Holland, P.C. Telephone- 617-951-2300
Fax- 617-951-2323
E-mail- pderensis@aol.com
Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00AM to 5:00 PM
Can. Adv. Op. 224
ANNUAL REPORT
REPORT OF TOWN COUNSEL
2017
This year was a very active and successful year for the Law Department:
1. Advice & Legal Documents. This year numerous advisory
opinions were rendered to various Town officials and Boards relating to a wide
variety of issues and subjects. Frequent and ongoing attention was given to
reviewing and/or drafting Bylaws, contract documents and agreements,
easements, open meeting law issues, public records requests, license process
issues for a variety of types of licenses, including alcohol, common victuallar
and auto dealer licenses, wetlands issues, zoning covenants, procurement
documents, public road documents, conflict issues under the State Ethics Act,
bylaw enforcement issues, Warrants for the Annual and a Special Town
Meeting, ballot questions, regulations of recreational marijuana, ANR issues
and subdivisions including subdivision performance guarantees, affordable
housing issues including issues, Green Communities qualification
documentation, and other legal documents.
2. Labor Issues. We provided advice from time to time during 2017
regarding a variety of federal and state law and issues applicable to employees.
3. Projects. We assisted with various road layout issues including
transitioning private ways to public ways and various road projects such as the
intersection improvements at various intersections along Washington Street;
economic development questions; Building Department code enforcement
issues; assistance to Planning Board for site plan review; ongoing issues
relating to the Paul Revere Heritage Park Site; Reservoir Pond Dam issues;
University Station issues; sewer issues; election issues; animal control issues;
wireless tower leases; the solar power electrical generation facility at the
Town's former landfill; issues related to the town's Park and Recreation
Department; Board of Health Body Art regulations, Reservoir Pond Dam;
conservation restrictions and preservation restrictions; Community Preservation
100Source page 104
Act matters; Salt shed replacement, removal of unsafe and dilapidated
structures, the Special tax Assessment agreement with drug manufacturer
Fresenius Kabi, PILOT agreements with Dynamic Energy and N. E. Motors,
Tilden House restoration issues, and issues associated with the collapse of
Metropolis Rink.
4. Administrative Agencies. We pursued the interests of the Town
before the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission, Appellate Tax Board,
Bankruptcy Court and the Office of the Attorney General, and consulted with
the State Ethics Commission, and Department of Revenue regarding various
town issues.
5. Litigation & Labor Arbitrations. As of December 31, 2017, there
were 6 pending lawsuits and claims involving the Town, as follows:
1 lawsuit involving the Board of Selectmen:
Tri-Town Discount Liquors LLC, Michael A. Shain v. Board of
Selectmen, Norfolk Superior Court C.A. # 1782CV00265
1 lawsuit involving the Public Schools:
Burley v. Town of Canton Public Schools, EEOC# S23-2017-00424
4 Claims:
Legge v. Town of Canton (DPW)
Cole v. Town of Canton (DPW)
Nguyen v. Town of Canton, (DPW and Housing Authority)
Sanler, et al. v. Town of Canton (Public Schools)
Each of the above efforts required the participation of numerous Town
officials and private citizen volunteers- all working together towards a better
Canton.
Thanks to the Board of Selectmen and all other Town officials and
citizens for their cooperation and assistance towards a successful year.
Respectfully submitted,
Paul R. DeRensis
TOWN COUNSEL
DWLIBDB\305759.v1-7604/00
101Source page 105
TOWN PLANNER
Upper Memorial Hall
801 Washington Street
Canton, MA 02021
Tel: 781-575-6575 Fax: 781-821-5043
Laura Smead, Town Planner
Lsmead@town.canton.ma.us
Office Hours: Refer to Town’s website, under Town Planner
Visit us at: https://www.town.canton.ma.us/334/Planning
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CantonPlanningBoard/
ANNUAL REPORT
MISSION
The Town Planner is responsible for working towards town-wide goals with
regard to zoning, land use, housing, economic development, and other areas
specified in the Canton Master Plan. The Town Planner also works to help procure
grants and accomplish other special projects to reach town goals.
The Town Planner supports the Planning Board by providing technical review and
assistance for projects reviewed by the Planning Board, facilitating the Master
Plan update, preparing zoning article drafts for Town Meeting, and ensuring that
Planning Board documents are available online (refer to Town’s website, under
Planning department, side menu).
The Town Planner also serves on the Walk, Bike, and Hike Committee, Open
Space and Recreation Committee, Blue Ribbon Traffic Committee, Citizen
Engagement Task Force, and Permit Advisory Committee; The Town Planner also
regularly attends meetings of other committees and working groups as necessary,
especially the Planning Board and Master Plan Steering Committee.
REPORT
2017 Accomplishments
Green Communities Designation: Led and organized the process of meeting
the requirements necessary to become designated a Green Community. The
Green Communities Designation and Grant Program provides funding to
qualified municipalities for energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives
once designated as a Green Community. Communities must meet five criteria
in order to receive this designation. The Town was awarded $158,315 for their
102Source page 106
initial grant designation, and is eligible for up to $250,000 in competitive
grants annually. https://www.mass.gov/guides/becoming-a-designated-green-
community
Master Plan update: At the 2017 Annual Town Meeting, the town voted to
fund consultants to update the 2004 comprehensive master plan. The Town
Planner led and organized this funding initiative and the formation of a new
Master Plan Steering Committee. https://town.canton.ma.us/690/2018-Master-
Plan-update
Complete Streets Policy: Led and organized the process of drafting a
Complete Streets Policy with the Department of Public Works/ Engineering,
which was signed by the Board of Selectmen March 2017; The MassDOT
Complete Streets Funding Program provides technical assistance and
construction funding to eligible municipalities. Eligible municipalities must
pass a Complete Streets Policy and develop a Prioritization Plan.
https://www.mass.gov/complete-streets-funding-program
Washington and Randolph intersection study: Awarded free technical
assistance by the Boston Regional Metropolitan Area Planning Organization
transportation planners and engineers to study and make recommendations for
an intersection redesign. https://www.town.canton.ma.us/599/Blue-Ribbon-
Traffic-Committee
Paul Revere Heritage Site Feasibility Study and Business Plan: Worked with
the Paul Revere Heritage Commission, and ConsultEcon Inc., who was
retained by the Town of Canton to evaluate the feasibility of and prepare
business and operating plans for the Paul Revere Heritage Site historic
buildings. https://www.town.canton.ma.us/603/Paul-Revere-Heritage-
Commission
Grant for Mixed-Use Redevelopment of the Draper Knitting Company Site:
Awarded $28,000 by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental
Affairs for a planning assistance grant for a feasibility study and zoning
ordinance analysis.
Other Activities
Provided input into Canton’s Schools Master Plan
Provided input into the Central Transportation Planning Staff’s (Boston
Metropolitan Planning Organization) study of the Route-138 corridor: Route
138 Corridor Study:
http://ctps.org/data/calendar/pdfs/2018/MPO_0201_Report_Priority_Corridor
_Study_Route_138_Canton.pdf
Provided input into Canton’s Hazard Mitigation Plan update
Sponsored class projects for two Harvard University Graduate School of
Design urban planning graduate students
Wrote Community Preservation Committee applications on behalf of the
Board of Selectmen
103Source page 107
Ongoing Initiatives
Open Space and Recreation Plan update/ Trails Master Plan (Open Space and
Recreation Committee and Weston & Sampson)
Earl Newhouse Waterfront Master Plan: (Kyle Zick Landscape Architecture
and Conservation Agent) https://www.town.canton.ma.us/696/Earl-
Newhouse-Waterfront-Master-Plan
Complete Streets Prioritization Plan: Working with Public Works,
Engineering, Walk, Bike, and Hike Committee, and VHB transportation
planners on a complete streets prioritization plan – as a part of the State’s
Complete Streets grant program
I could not do my work without tireless and dedicated Town staff , committee and
board volunteers, and knowledgeable residents of Canton. Thank you.
Respectfully submitted,
Laura Smead, AICP
Town Planner
104Source page 108
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ SERVICES
Hours of Operation - Monday thru Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
660 Washington Street
Phone No. 781-821-5505 Fax No. 781-575-6570
Tony Andreotti
Director and Veterans’ Service Officer
tandreotti@town.canton.ma.us
Jennifer Trethewey
Office Administrator
jtrethewey@town.canton.ma.us
~ ANNUAL REPORT - 2017 ~
The Department of Veterans’ Services offers assistance, information, and support
to Canton Veterans and their families. Please reach out to us if you have questions
about benefits available to you through state and federal programs.
2017 VETERANS OUTREACH, BENEFITS AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS
The Agent’s Corner, our weekly column, is published in the Canton
Citizen and featured on Canton Community Television;
Maintenance and utilization continues of our Canton Veteran database
based on responses to the Canton census;
Monthly coffee hours, featuring a guest speaker, were held on the first
Thursday of each month at the Canton Senior Center. Many thanks to our
2017 speakers: Carla Azersky from myHealthEVet; Canton Selectman
Victor DelVecchio; Carol Milligan from the Bank of Canton; James
Maltz, Canton Financial; the Norwood Hospital Community Relations
Department and members of the hospital staff; Fesehaye Zewdie,
PharmD, Pharmacy Manager at Osco Pharmacy in Canton; Mary Beth
Kawalek of Brookhaven Hospice; Dr. Michael Rauch of Canton Health
and Wellness; Robert Pierson of RSVP Norfolk County; Canton Attorney
Brian J. Mahoney; and Debra Fradkin of HESSCO. We are grateful to all
of you for sharing your time, talents, and thoughtful information!
2017 CEREMONIES AND EVENTS
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, May 29, 2017;
Sixth Annual Canton Veterans Golf Day, August 14, 2017;
Ceremony to Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War,
September 24, 2017;
105Source page 109
Canton Remembers Our Veterans Photo Scanning Event with the Canton
Public Library, October 21, 2017;
Annual Veterans Day Breakfast at the American Legion Post #24,
November 11, 2017.
HONOR GUARD FUNERALS
Our all-volunteer Honor Guard was privileged to offer Military Honors as a show
of respect at the funerals of 40 local veterans in 2017. Since 2002, we have been
honored to offer this tribute to 702 veterans.
VETERANS’ MEMORIAL PARK
In 2017, the Department utilized donations from the Canton Veterans’ Fund to add
a monument to Canton’s veterans, no matter where they are buried, in honor of
American Legion Post #24. Look for a dedication ceremony in 2018. A plaque in
tribute to Marine Cpl. Lance LeFever was added to our In Memoriam bench
honoring Vietnam veterans who died of service-related causes long after the war
was over, bringing our total to 14.
DONATIONS RECEIVED
In 2017, the not-for-profit Canton Veterans’ Fund received $54,325 in donations,
bringing the total donations received since 2002 to over $450,000. Using this fund,
the Department is able to offer programs and services to honor, serve, remember,
and assist our local veterans without increasing our department’s budget. Thank
you to all who have donated!
PATRIOTIC PROGRAMS
The Department and members of the Honor Guard were pleased to return to the
Galvin Middle School, St. John the Evangelist School, and the Hansen, Kennedy,
and Luce Elementary Schools for programs in 2017.
BENEFIT CLAIMS PROCESSED
Over 70 claims, both state and federal, were processed in 2017, requesting burial
benefits, grave markers, G.I. insurance, and more.
RETURN OF VETERANS’ BENEFITS
In 2017, $120,073 was reimbursed to the town by the state for benefits paid out
through the MA Ch. 115 assistance program to qualifying Canton Veterans and
their surviving dependents.
VETERANS SERVICES OFFICER CERTIFICATION
Our Veterans Services Director and Agent Tony Andreotti has successfully
completed the mandated Massachusetts Certification for Veterans Services
Officers. His current certification is valid through 2018.
106Source page 110
PAST PROGRAMS, CEREMONIES AND EVENTS
Relocation of town monuments to create Veterans’ Memorial Park;
Creation and Dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bench
honoring Canton Veterans who survived the war but died later from
illnesses connected to Agent Orange exposure;
“Fallen Heroes” Street Sign Program, 2001;
Commencement Exercises for WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War
Veterans;
The Wall that Heals, Traveling Vietnam Memorial, 2005;
“Before You Go” WWII Honor and Remembrance Ceremony, 2007;
Korean War Era Veterans Honor and Remembrance Ceremony, 2009;
Vietnam Veterans “Welcome Home” Honor and Remembrance
Ceremony, 2011;
Rededication of the restored WW I Monument, 2013;
Rededication of the restored Civil War Soldier statue, 2014;
Dedication of a Headstone for Sgt. Rudolph E. Araujo, Killed in action in
Vietnam, 2014;
Dedication and Raising of the six new Branch Flags at the American
Legion Walk of Honor, Veterans Memorial Park, 2015.
Dedication of a plaque honoring, in memoriam, Canton resident, Army
veteran, and friend and supporter of the Veterans’ Services Department,
Al Meda, 2016.
VIDEO TAPING VETERANS (ONGOING PROGRAM)
Interviews of veterans to preserve their war experiences for generations to come.
To date, 29 videos have been produced with Canton Community Television to be
sent to the Library of Congress as part of the Veterans History Project.
WW II –REGISTRY OF REMEMBRANCE (ONGOING PROGRAM)
Over 1,000 veterans of WW II were entered on the website of the registry located
at the WW II MEMORIAL in Washington, D.C. by the veteran department
volunteers.
Respectfully submitted,
Tony Andreotti
Director and Veterans’ Services Officer
Jennifer Trethewey
Office Administrator
107Source page 111
Canton Roll of Honor
Honoring Those Who Died
In Service to Their Country
World War I: Edward J. Beatty, Patrick J. Cronin, Ettore DelVecchio, Allan W.
Douglass, Josiah Fuller, Pietro Gallo, Albert H, Gavigan, Leo V. Gray, Helen
Homans, George H. Horton, William P. Monahan, John Shaw, Arthur W. Thomas,
George St. George.
World War II: Walter G. Berteletti, Albert M. Callahan, Michael J. Callanan,
William J. Casey, Robert G. Dallahan, Parker B. Dodge, Donald J. Galligan, John
J. Gately, Robert E. Gelpke, Donald J. Graham, John F. Griffin, Dana F. Igo,
Michael J. Julian, John A. Lawrie, Louis P. Mendes, Carlyle W. Packard,
Frederick W. Powers, Dietrich F. E. Rasetzki, William F. Roach, Harold P. Rolfe,
Gerald W. Scully, Arthur A. Smith, Arthur W. Thomas, Harris P. Tracy, Andrew
R. Wood, Jr..
Korean War: Ferdinand Berteletti, Ernest Carrara, Paul J. Hannon.
Vietnam War: Rudolph E. Araujo, Antonio Falco, Peter H. Hansen, Bruce J.
Matta.
Iraq War: Shayne M. Cabino.
Post-Vietnam (Agent Orange-Related Deaths): Robert J. Barrette, Richard D.
Buck, Thomas F. Doherty, David L. Farrow, William J. Hogan, Kevin J. Kelly,
Kevin F. LaCivita, Lance D. LeFever, Richard A. MacPhail, Robert W. Redmond,
David A. Schnopp, Anthony D. Uliano, Paul E. Weiderhold, William J.
Weiderhold.
108Source page 112
WATER SEWER RATE & POLICY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Michael Trotta, Public Works James Murgia, Finance Director
Dennis Morton, Water Sewer Supervisor Sepp Berschneider
Patricia Cawley, Water Sewer Office Admin.
The Water Sewer Rate and Policy Committee meets to assure that the costs and
revenues needed to fund the pumping, treating, and delivery of a continuous safe
water supply are adequate for all residents and businesses in Canton. The
Committee’s goals in setting water sewer rates are to allocate costs fairly among
customers, to maintain a rate that fully covers cost of operation and infrastructure
investment, and to comply with regulatory and industry standards.
Enterprise funding for Canton Public Works is designed to cover Water Sewer
Division direct costs, such as salaries and purchase of goods and services, indirect
costs such as FICA, retirement, and workers compensation, and debt service
authorized at Annual Town Meeting.
After three years of holding rates the Committee recommended an average water
sewer rate increase of 5.83%. This increase was needed to cover increase in
MWRA Assessment and debt service for Water Sewer Capital Projects.
The cost of a gallon of water is 1.1 cents, a gallon of sewer is 1.5 cents to a Canton
Consumer.
Respectfully Submitted
Michael Trotta
Superintendent of Public Works
109Source page 113
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Paul B. Carroll, Chairman 801 Washington Street
Gregory L. Pando, Vice Chairman Lower Level
Gary E. Vinciguerra, Member Canton, MA 02021
John R. McCourt, Alternate Telephone 781-575-6589
Charles J. Armando, Alternate Fax 781-575-6589
Tamra Stock, Administrative Asst and
Recording Secretary
Hours of Operation:
Tuesday - Friday 7:30AM – 3:30PM
Monday 7:30AM – 5:00PM
2017 was an eventful year for the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Zoning Board of
Appeals conducted 55 formal hearings consisting of 25 residential petitions and 30
commercial petitions. There were 36 informal hearings consisting mainly of
applications for signs/banners, request or extensions to prior decisions, and minor
modifications to site plans and previously approved decisions.
The Board wishes to express its appreciation to their support staff including
Building Commissioner Ed Walsh, Administrative Assistant and Recording
Secretary, Tamra Stock, and Town Counsel Deutsch/Williams, all who provided
the Board with the assistance necessary to make 2017 meaningful and constructive
for the Zoning Board of Appeals.
The Board would also like to thank the Board of Selectmen, Town Administrator
Charlie Aspinwall, and the Planning Board for all their assistance and support
during the year.
Alternate member Chief James A. Fitzpatrick, a lifelong resident of Canton passed
away on July 21, 2017. Chief Fitzpatrick dedicated many years to the Town of
Canton including time on the Zoning Board of Appeals and I would like to thank
him for all of his knowledge, experience, dedication and hard work for the Town
of Canton and for this Board.
To replace this dedicated official, Charles J. Armando has become an alternate
member.
Finally, I would like to personally thank my colleagues on the Board: Greg Pando,
Gary Vinciguerra, John McCourt, and Charles Armando for another great year.
Their knowledge, experience, dedication and hard work are the qualities that have
contributed to the Zoning Board of Appeals significant accomplishments in the
year 2017.
Respectfully Submitted,
Paul B. Carroll
110Source page 114
TOWN CLERK
Tracy K. Kenney
Gale M. McHugo, Assistant Town Clerk
Kathy R. Dever, Senior Clerk
801 Washington Street
Canton, Massachusetts 02021
Telephone 781-821-5013 Fax 781-821-5016
Email tkenney@town.canton.ma.us
Hours of operation: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 9am – 5pm
Tuesday: 9am – 7pm
In February 2017 the Annual Town Census was mailed to each residence in
Canton. I would like to remind residents of the importance of returning the
Annual Town Census. Everyone residing at an address should be listed, including
children. Many of the funds allocated to the Town of Canton are dependent on our
reported population. The information obtained from the Town Census is also used
to predict future student enrollment, proof of residence and voter lists. If you are a
registered voter, responding to the census also insures that your voter status will
remain active. By law, failure to respond to the census shall result in removal
from the active voting list and may result in removal from the voter registration
rolls.
The Annual Town Election was held in April. The offices of Selectmen and
Planning Board were the only offices contested. A total of 2,640 votes were cast.
On May 8th Canton’s voters convened for the Annual Town Meeting held in Morse
Auditorium at Canton High School with a total of 240 voters in attendance over
the course of two sessions.
I would like to express my appreciation to the administration and staff at the
Canton Public Schools and the Blue Hills Regional Technical School for
accommodating us during this election year.
111Source page 115
In addition to elections, the annual census, voter registration, dog licensing, State
Ethics and Open Meeting Law requirements, public record requests and website
management keeps the Town Clerk’s office busy throughout the year.
The number of registered voters in Canton totaled 15,877. The population is
20,985.
In 2017 the Town Clerk’s office recorded 228 births, 111 marriages and 295
deaths.
In 2017 the Town Clerk’s office issued 1,465 dog licenses. For your convenience,
dog license renewals may be included with your response to the Annual Town
Census. Simply include a check payable to the Town of Canton. The fee is $15
for a spayed/neutered dog or $20 for a dog that has not been fixed. Please
remember to include a photocopy of your pets rabies certificate if it has recently
received a new vaccination. The deadline to license is May 30 th each year.
I invite you to explore the Town Clerk’s webpage for information regarding our
services at www.town.canton.ma.us. Click on “Departments” and then “Town
Clerk”.
In conclusion I would like to thank all of the elected officials, town employees,
our election workers and the citizens of Canton for their cooperation and support
during the year. I would also like to thank Assistant Town Clerk Gale McHugo
and Senior Clerk Kathy Dever for their continued support.
Respectfully submitted,
Tracy K. Kenney
Town Clerk
112Source page 116
April 4, 2017
Three year terms
BOARD OF SELECTMEN 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
JEREMY J. COMEAU 106 199 113 176 189 134 917
CHRISTOPHER
167 340 179 277 230 194 1387
J.CONNOLLY
THOMAS W.
204 285 108 246 240 189 1272
THEODORE
VICTOR DEL VECCHIO 110 232 108 208 228 169 1055
Others 4 0 0 4 0 2 10
Blanks 81 130 80 157 107 84 639
TOTAL 672 1186 588 1068 994 772 5280
Three year term
BOARD OF ASSESSORS 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
GENE MANNING 242 439 208 378 365 288 1920
Others 0 1 0 3 0 0 4
Blanks 94 153 86 153 132 98 716
Total 336 593 294 534 497 386 2640
113Source page 117
Three year term
BOARD OF HEALTH 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
JULIE GOODMAN 238 431 192 370 359 292 1882
Others 1 1 1 1 0 0 4
Blanks 97 161 101 163 138 94 754
Total 336 593 294 534 497 386 2640
Three year term
SCHOOL COMMITTEE 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
JOHN G. BONNANZIO 217 378 208 347 326 237 1713
REUKI B. SCHUTT 210 382 185 353 311 248 1689
Others 0 1 0 5 2 0 8
Blanks 245 425 195 363 355 287 1870
Total 672 1186 588 1068 994 772 5280
Five year term
PLANNING BOARD 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
ROBERT E. PANICO 226 380 188 347 324 250 1715
Others 0 1 0 1 0 1 3
Blanks 110 212 106 186 173 135 922
Total 336 593 294 534 497 386 2640
114Source page 118
Three year term (to fill a vacancy)
PLANNING BOARD 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
DAVID McCARTHY 231 386 186 358 327 260 1748
Others 0 1 0 2 0 0 3
Blanks 105 206 108 174 170 126 889
Total 336 593 294 534 497 386 2640
One year term (to fill a vacancy)
PLANNING BOARD 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
PATRICIA McDERMOTT 166 294 158 251 229 186 1284
PATRICK MANNING 135 215 87 192 192 166 987
Others 0 1 0 1 0 0 2
Blanks 35 83 49 90 76 34 367
Total 336 593 294 534 497 386 2640
Three year terms
LIBRARY TRUSTEE 1 2 3 4 5 6 TOTAL
DOROTHY M. SHEA 205 369 184 342 327 258 1685
SUSAN COGLIANO 206 372 186 343 330 258 1695
GEORGE T. COMEAU 207 365 184 331 307 246 1640
Others 0 2 0 1 0 1 4
Blanks 390 671 328 585 527 395 2896
1008 1779 882 1602 1491 1158 7920
Total
115Source page 119
Town of Canton
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
MONDAY, THE EIGHTH DAY
OF MAY 2017
In accordance with the warrant the Annual Town Meeting was convened on May
8th, 2017 in Morse Auditorium at Canton High School and called to order by the
Town Clerk, Tracy K. Kenney at 7:00pm with 207 voters present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Tracy K. Kenney, Town Clerk, introduced Fr. Thomas Raferty of St. John’s Church
who offered the invocation.
The Canton Choral Society performed the National Anthem.
The reading of the warrant was dispensed with on a motion duly made, seconded
and unanimously voted.
The reading of the Constable’s return was dispensed with on a motion duly made,
seconded and unanimously voted.
ARTICLE 1
ELECT A MODERATOR
Article 1 To elect a Moderator to preside at this Town Meeting to serve until the
commencement of Annual Town Meeting in 2018 or to take any other action
related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
A motion was made and seconded to elect Alan Hines As Moderator to
preside at this Town Meeting to serve until the commencement of
Annual Town Meeting in 2018.
APPROVED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
116Source page 120
ARTICLE 2
ADOPT RULES TO GOVERN TOWN MEETING
Article 2 To see if the town will vote to adopt certain procedures to govern the
conduct of the 2017 Annual Town Meeting, or to take any other action related
thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That this 2017 Annual Town Meeting shall meet on
consecutive Monday and Wednesday evenings (but not including Monday,
May 29th) in the Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of the Canton High
School until the business of this Annual Town Meeting has been
concluded, each such session to begin at 7:00 o’clock P.M. and to adjourn
at 11:00 o’clock P.M., or as near that hour as may be feasible, according
to the nature of the business pending at the said hour.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-0
Barbara Saint Andre, Chairperson of the Finance Committee, moved Article 2,
Motion 1 as printed in the warrant.
ADOPTED UNANIMOUS VOICE VOTE
MOTION 2
MOVED: That the following individuals be granted all of the
rights and privileges of participation in this Annual Town Meeting, except
the right to vote, under any article of this warrant which affects matters
within their jurisdiction:
Charlie Aspinwall, Town Administrator
Derek Bonner, VP US Compounding, Fresenius Kabi Compounding
USA, LLC (Art. 21)
David Brauninger, Principal, Lt. Peter M. Hansen Elementary School
Debra Bromfield, Director of Student Services
Christina Carlton, Executive Assistant, Board of Selectmen
John Ciccotelli, Director of Public Health
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
James Donovan, Town Engineer
Jennifer Fischer-Mueller, Superintendent of Schools
Derek Folan, Principal, Canton High School
Tom Houston, Professional Services Corporation, PC
Jen Henderson, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Mark Lague, Library Director
Karen Lawlor, Administrative Assistant, Canton Planning Board
Stephen Lynch, Representative in Congress
Christine McMahon, Principal, John F. Kennedy Elementary School
Steven Moore, Assistant Supt. for Business & Personnel, Blue Hills
Reg. Technical School
Thomas A. Mullen, Esq. (Art. 40 & Art. 41)
James Murgia, Finance Director
117