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Canton Town Meeting — 2010 ATM
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Source page 1
Recommendations oftheFinance Committee
totheVotersofCanton, Massachusetts
2010
TOWN OFCANTON
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
MONDAY, APRIL 26,2010@7:30p.m.
MorseAuditorium
CantonHighSchool
900Washington Street, Canton
StudythisreportandcometoAnnualTownMeeting.
Bringthisreportwithyou.
80,000,000 plus will be appropriated by YOUR VOTE at Town Meeting is important
Canton Town Meeting Voters for because it establishes the priorities for our schools,
Next Year’s expenditures. public works, public safety, town government and
future direction for our environment.
For Emergency Preparedness Information, log The Town, upon request, will endeavor, to the
onto www.town.canton.ma.us and click on greatest extent possible, to make available any
Emergency Planning Guide” or Call and all visual and audio devices and assistance for
1-800-480-2520 for afree FEMA Emergency the disabled. For more information, please call
Preparedness Handbook. 781-821-5000.Source page 2
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Page #
Reports
Finance Committee Report ……………………………………………………………….…
4
ChartsandExhibits
Figure 1 –Revenue vs. Expenditures – FY99-FY10 Estimated ……………..…..5
Figure 2 –Historical Summary of Expenses – FY99-FY10 Estimated …………6
Figure 3 –Reserve Accounts & Bond Rating Agency Expectation ……………..7
Town Finance Terminology ………………………………………………………………….
9
A Guide to Participating at Town Meeting ……………………………………………..
9
Note to All Voters Concerning Town Meeting Procedures ………………………..
10
Summary of Revenue and Expenditures ………………………………………………..
12
Consent Agenda Chart …………………………………………….………………………….
16
Revolving Funds …………………………………………………………………………………
21
Votes to Transfer Available Funds ………………………………………………………..
53
Operating Budget by Voting Category FY 2011 ………………………………………
54
CPC 5-Year Spending Plan for Municipal Departments …………………………….
56
CPC 5-Year Spending Plan for Self-Supported Funds ………………………………
56
CPC 5-Year Spending Plan for Enterprise Funds ……………………………………..
57
CPC 5-Year Spending Plan for School Committee ……………………………………
58
AnnualTownMeetingArticles
Art. Page #
1 Elect a Moderator ……………………………………………………………………………….
13
2 Adopt Rules to Govern Town Meeting ……………………………………………………
13
3 Hear Reports of Committees Appointed at Prior Town Meetings ………………15
4 Act On “Consent Agenda” …………………………………………………………..………
15
5 Collective Bargaining Agreements under the BOS ………………………...……..16
6 Funding of Cost Items Not In Departmental Budgets ………………….………….
17
7 Set Salaries of Elected Officers ………..…………………………………………………..
18
8 Pay Bills of Prior Fiscal Year ………………………………………………………………..
19
9 Supplement Fiscal ‘10 Accounts ……….………………………………………………….
19
10 Transfer Unexpended Prior Year Appropriations …..………………………………..
20
11 Authorize Contracts of More Than Three Years Duration ….……………….…….
20
12 Authorize Certain Revolving Funds ……………………………………….………………
21
13 “Omnibus” Capital Outlay Program ……………………………………….…………..…
23
14 Amend Zoning By-Law Sec. 2.17 Parkland, Recreation & Open
Space District with New Language ………………………….…………….………..…...
33
2 –Source page 3
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Art. Page #
15 Recodification and Amendment of the Zoning By-Laws …………………………..
34
16 Reinstatement of the Route 138 Revitalization Study Committee ………..…..35
17 Local Option Meals Excise ……………………………………………………………………
36
18 Local Option Room Occupancy Excise ……………………………………………………
37
19 Expand the Personal Property Exemption Amount ………………………..……….
38
20 Acquisition of Easements( s) Turnpike Street/ Lane ………………………..………
38
21 Acquire Permanent Water Easement – Washington Street to Green Street
Along the Canton/ Milton Town Line ……..…………………………………..…………
39
22 Vote to Release Town Sewer Easements …………………………………..………….
39
23 Acquire Easements for Route 138 Improvement Project, Segment 2 …..…..
40
24 Acceptance of Deeds in Lieu of Foreclosure ………..…………………………………
41
25 Vote to Sell town Property – 35 Turnpike St. ……..………………………..………..
41
26 Vote to Approve Acquisition of Property - 35 Turnpike St. ….………….……….
42
27 Article for Ponkapoag Golf Course ……………………………………………….……….
42
28 Vote to Lease Pine Street Landfill Site ………………………………………………….
43
29 Additional 43D Priority Development Sites ………………………………………..
44
30 Waste Acquisition Agreement with SEMASS ………………………………………….. 45
31 Safe Routes to School Grant Program – Hansen School ……….…………….……
45
32 Feasibility Study and Renovations to Kennedy School …………..………………..
47
33 Funding for Special Education Deficit for FY 2010 …………………………….……
47
34 Creation of a School Special Education Stabilization Fund ………………….……
48
35 Accept General or Session Laws Enacted by the General Court ………….…….
48
36 Insurance Proceeds …….……………………………………………………………………..
51
37 Vote to Rescind Unused Borrowing Authorizations …………………………………
51
38 Transfer of Funds to Meet FY11 Appropriations ……………………………..………
52
39 Appropriate Funds to Meet Expenses for Next Fiscal Year ………………..…….
53
3 –Source page 4
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Finance Committee Report totheTown ofCanton forATM 2010
Introduction
Canton residents hadexpected fiscalyear2010 (FY10) tobethesecond yearofathree-yearprogram torestore
Townservices withtherevenue fromthe4.5 million dollaroverride votedinMay2008, butinFY10therewere
several majorfinancial issuesthatcausedshortages. TheCommonwealth ofMassachusetts cuttheStateAidto
citiesandtownsofMassachusetts againforFY10. Theharshwinter weather withmanysnowandicestorms caused
theSnowandIcebudget tobeexceeded. Alsothereweremanyadditional Special Education (SPED) placements
causing theTowntoprovide theproper services tothesestudents. Anumber ofthesenewSPEDplacements were
unplanned because theywereaddedaftertheTownofCanton residents votedtheFY10budgetattheAnnual Town
Meeting (ATM).
Thefinancial collapse of2009continues andourStateRepresentatives believe itwillbemanyyears, possibly 2015,
before theCommonwealth ofMassachusetts begins toseerevenues equalto2007-2008. Theeconomic downturn,
whichcouldbethedeepest recession sincetheGreatDepression ofthe1930s, hasforcedtheCommonwealth of
Massachusetts tocutyetagainthisyears’ StateAid. TheFinance Committee believes thataone-timetransfer from
FreeCashReserves tocovertheunexpected expenses andlossofrevenue inFY10ispreferable toasignificant
disruption inTownservices andrecommends thetransfers inArticle 9ofthiswarrant. These transfers include
400,000forSnowandIceand $363,392forSpecial Education mandated funding. TheFinance Committee
believes thatthereduction inrevenue andincrease inexpenses should beproperly budgeted forinFY11anddoes
notbelieve thatanyofthesereserves shouldbeincluded inthebudget forFY11, andthatiswhythereareno
recommendations inthiswarrant forfurther useofourdepleted reserves inFY11. Thesereserves mustbe
maintained toprotect theTownfromadditional unexpected changes inrevenue orexpenses. Should reserves be
necessary forFY11, thenthosereserves should bevotedatnextyear’sTownMeeting.
Theprudent financial decisions votedinpastTownMeetings placedCanton inabetterfinancial position thanmost
citiesandtownsintheCommonwealth todealwiththeunexpected cutsinStateAid. TheFinance Committee hopes
thatcontinued restraint inbudgetspending canbemaintained sothatlayoffsandlossofservice canbeheldtoa
minimum asthisrecession continues overaprolonged period. InthisWarrant, theFinance Committee hopesto
provide thevotersoftheTownwithdataandhistorical perspectives necessary tomakeinformed decisions atthe
2010Annual TownMeeting. Weofferanoverview ofthefinancial statusoftheTownandattempt toexplain the
rationale supporting ourrecommendations withregard totheFY11Budget (Article39). Throughout thisWarrant
wehavefurtherprovided ourrecommendations toyouonawiderangeofissuesandhavemadeeveryeffortto
provide detailed discussions thatexplain ourpositions onthemanyissuesweface.
Voters should readtheFinance Committee discussions oneachArticle andnotethatavoteto "postpone
indefinitely" mayhavevaried meanings. InsomecasestheFinance Committee hadto “postpone indefinitely” the
subject matterofanArticleduetothetimeframeforthevoteandthelackofavailable information. Thisshouldnot
beconstrued tomeanthatwewereagainst theArticle –onlythatwedidnothaveenough timetoweighitsmerits
priortoourvotesneeding tobefinalized fortheWarrant. Inothercases, theFinance Committee hasweighed the
information presented andavoteto "postpone indefinitely" implies thatwedonotsupport therecommendations in
theArticle. Whileitiscertainly ourhopethatvoters willgivesubstantial weight andconsideration toour
recommendations, itisultimately uptothevotersoftheTownofCanton todeliberate andvoteontheseissues.
FinalResults forFiscalYear2009 (July1,2008through June30,2009)
The2008TownMeeting votersapproved anFY09Budget basedonrevenues forecasted tobe $63.85million and
expenses tobe $64.35million. The $.5milliondifference wasfunded from $500,000ofoverlay surplus. Theactual
revenue forFY09was $64.8millionwhiletheactualoperating expenses were $66million.
4 –Source page 5
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Historical andCurrent FiscalYear (FY10; July1,2009through June30,2010) Budget Status
ForFiscalYear2010therevenues oftheTowndidnotkeeppacewithitsexpenditures (Figure1),buttheTownwas
abletokeepitsveryfavorable AAAbondrating. Anincrease inbondratingsavestheTownconsiderable money as
itborrows moneytofundourcapital projects. TheFinance Committee believes thattheTown’sbondratingis
attributed totheelimination ofthestructural deficit, thepassage ofanoperational override in2008, anincrease in
reserves, andthehighquality awardwinning financial reportsprepared bytheFinance Department.
Atthisyear’sAnnual TownMeeting, votersarebeingaskedtousecurrent reserves tobridge thegapbetween
expenses andrevenue forFY10thatendsonJune30th2010. Thismeans thattheTownofCanton isprojected to
overspend thecurrentbudgeted revenue byapproximately $750,000. Itisimportant thatallcitizens ofCanton keep
thisinmindwhenapproving theBudget forthenextFY11starting July1st2010. TheFY11budgetisArticle39of
thisAnnual TownMeeting.
Revenue vs.Expendiures (inmillions)
70
65
60
55
50
45 RevenueExpenses
40
35
199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010 ( est.)
Fiscal Year
Figure 1
Figure2belowprovides ahistorical viewoftheexpenses between theschool system, themunicipal sideof
government, andfixedcosts (i.
e.healthcare, retirement, etc.). Fixedcostswererelatively stablefrom1999through
2002; however, thesecostshavegrowndramatically since2003largelyduetoincreases inhealthinsurance. The
Finance Committee believes thatbringing thecostsofhealth insurance undercontrol isacritical component in
solving someofourtown’sfinancial problems. In2006, achange inhealthinsurance plansstartedsavingtheTown
over $1million ayear. Wealsoexpect tosaveover $300,000ayearbymandating thatretirees enrollinMedicare.
Onecanseethatevenwiththesechanges thefixedcostportion ofthebudgetcontinues toriselargelyduetohealth
carecosts.
5 –Source page 6
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Historical Summary ofExpenses
33
28
23
18
13 Schools
Municipal
Fixed Costs
8
199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010
est.)
FiscalYear
Figure 2
Status oftheTown’sCashReserves
Figure 3belowshowstheTown’sreserves asof7/1/09were $6,400,000splitamong FreeCashReserves
1,700,000), Stabilization Fund ($3,200,000) andtheOverlay Reserve ($1,500,000). Oftheseaccounts theFree
CashReserves andtheStabilization accounts canbeaccessed byTownMeeting. OnlytheelectedBoardof
Assessors canreleasefundsfromtheOverlay Reserve.
Itisextremely important fortheTowntomaintain thisminimum levelofreserves asitprovides twovitalfunctions.
Firstandforemost, thereserves provide areadysourceoffundstodealwithunforeseen one-timeemergency
situations suchasunexpected cutsinStateAid,unexpected increases inmandated Special Education services, and
snowandiceexpenses. TheFinance Committee believes thatthecurrentlevelofreserves istoolowtobeusedto
supplement futurebudgetshortfalls. Spending levelsmustbecurtailed tomaintain abalanced budgetwiththe
projected 2011revenues.
6 –Source page 7
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Reserve Accounts & Bond Rating Agency Expectation (inmillions)
8
7
6
1.5
5 Overlay Reserves
1
4 Stabilization Fund
3.2 6.75 FreeCashReserves
3
3.4
2
1 1.7
0 0.7
Reserve Total 7/1/09Bond Rating AgencyReserve Total 6/30/10
Minimum( est)
Figure 3
Another financially important function ofthereserves istoprotect ourcurrent AAAbondrating. Current reserve
levelsinallthreefundsaccount forlessthan10%oftheFY10budget priortothetransfer outofreserves
recommended inArticle9. Bondratingagencies havestatedthatourreserves shouldbebetween 10%and15%of
revenues tojustifyourexcellent rating. Thereisasubstantial costtotheTownifadowngrade inthebondrating
weretooccur. Abondratingdowngrade would resultinanincrease intheinterest ratefornewborrowing of25
basispointsor ¼%.TheTownofCanton hasapproximately $32million ofdebtauthorized byTownMeeting; $4.5
million fortheGeneral Fund, $9.5 million forSewer Enterprise, and $18million fortheWaterEnterprise. In
addition tothis $32million, thereisanother $2million ofrequested debtauthorization onthisyear’swarrant. If
Canton weretoreceive adowngrade fromAAAstatus, theadditional costofa20yearbondissuefor $34million
wouldbethedifference between abondwith3%interest rateandonewitha3.25%interest rateoverthe20yearlife
ofthebond. During thistime,theTownofCanton wouldpayapproximately $900,000moreininterest overthe20
yearperiod. Additional costswouldalsobeincurred foranyfuturecapitalexpenditures approved bytheTown; a
increase ininterest ratesequates to ~$60,000forevery $2million borrowed overa20yearperiod.
Thisyear, theFinance Committee recommends inArticle 38that $200,000betransferred fromFreeCashReserves
totheStabilization Fundinanefforttostabilize ourreserve levelsattheminimum targetof10%oftheoperating
budget. Thistransfer willnotchange thetotalamount ofCanton’sreserve, butwillshow bondratingagencies that
Canton iscommitted totryingtomaintain anadequate levelofreserves. However, anyattempts tousethe
remaining FreeCashReserves tofundrecurring operating costswilllowertheamount ofreserves andincrease our
coststobondcapital projects including already approved projects.
Capital Budget
Theestablished procedure fortheTownistosetaside6%oftherecurring revenues fortheCapital Budget each
year. TheTownfirstpaysdebtservice onallexisting debtwithinthelevyfromthisamount. Theremaining amount
isusedtofundcapital projects identified intheCapital Planning Committee’s (CPC) 5-yearplan. Forthepast5
years, theCPChasreduced itsgoalof6%tohelpclosethestructural deficitforeachofthoseyearswhichhas
resulted inneeded capitalmaintenance and/orrepairs beingpostponed. Deferring maintenance and/orrepairs runs
theriskoflow-costprojects growing toexpensive onesinyearstocomeandthecontinued deterioration ofthe
Town’sinfrastructure. ForFY11capital expenses recommended bytheFinance Committee areapproximately 5.5%
oftheexpected revenue.
7 –Source page 8
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Performance Contracting
TheBoard ofSelectmen andSchool Committee haveeachengaged energy service companies toaudittheir
respective energyconsumption inordertoreduceoperating costsandtobemoreenvironmentally friendly. These
companies areintheprocess oflistingenergy conservation measures thatwillguarantee annualenergy savings will
exceedthecostsoftheenergy conservation measures. Atthetimethiswarrant wasfinalized forprinting, thelistof
projects wasinprocess butweexpect toseenewmotions fordebtauthorizations presented totownmeeting aspart
ofthecapital Article13tofundtheseprojects.
Special Education Spending
Thedramatic cutsinFY10statereimbursements forSPEDcosts, thecontinuing unfunded statemandates toprovide
SPEDservices andthevolatility ofSPEDenrollments throughout themajority oftheschool yearhavecontinued to
impact ontheschools’ ability tomaintain current levelsofservice. Theschools havecountered thesenegative
effectsbydeveloping innovative in-houseSPEDprograms which savesenormous amount ofmoney thatwould
otherwise havetobespentonout-of-districttuitions. However, without additional financial support fromthestate
orfederal government oradditional fundsfromanother operational override, itislikelythatSPEDcostswill
continue toerodetheability oftheTowntoprovide arichanddiverse educational experience forthemajority of
students intheeducational system.
Contract Obligations
TheFinance Committeeunderstands thattheTownislegally obligated tomeetthetermsofvarious contracts signed
twoyearsagoandthatunionmembers areentitled toa3% costoflivingincreasealong withstep, laneandlongevity
increases. Giventheeconomic crisis, theFinance Committee hasrecommended toalldepartments thattheywork
withunions toinstitute awagefreezeorawagereduction inordertosavejobs. Theunionsareundernoobligation
toworkwithTowndepartments toachieve thisgoal, butitmustbestressed thatwithout suchactions layoffs of
Townemployees willbeunavoidable inFY11.
Projections forFY2011
TheTownofCanton hasfacedfiscalchallenges inprioryears. Priortopassing the $4.5 million override $7.6
million infreecashavailable in2002wasusedtofillthegrowing gapbetween therevenues collected andthetown
expenses. Oncethereserves weredepleted, anoverride wasneeded justtomaintain ouressential services. The $4.5
million override allowed Canton torestore someoftheservices itlostandisallowing ustomaintain theseservices
duringthisdifficult financial period. However, theFinance Committee believes thattheTownneedstoexercise
fiscalrestraint inthesepooreconomic timessothatservices willnotdeteriorate toanunacceptable level. Ifthe
Towndoesnotcurtailitsspending tothelevelofrevenues itgenerates, reserves willdepleted andthecoststoissue
newbondswillriseandanother override willbeneededjusttomaintain ouressential services.
Theprojected revenue theTownwillreceive inFY11is $69.7million, a4%increase overthe $67milliontheTown
currently estimates tocollect inFY10. Thevastmajority oftheexpected revenue willcomefromproperty taxes
55.5 million; 5.5%fromFY10) withtheremaining fundsbeinggenerated fromlocalreceipts ($4.9 million; -2.5%
fromFY10), StateAid ($6.8million; -3.5%fromFY10), andothersources ($2.4 million; 11%fromFY10).
Budget
TheTown’sbudget (excluding capital debt) iscomprised ofanOperating Budget (publicschools andmunicipal
departments), Enterprise Funds, FixedCosts, CashCapital Expenses ($711,000) andState & County Charges
933,000). TownMeeting participants willvoteontheoperating budget including FixedCostsandEnterprise
FundsaslistedinArticle39.
Respectfully submitted,
TownofCanton Finance Committee
DavidEmhardt, Chairman AlanHines JimSims
Patricia Johnson, ViceChairman Mark Porter Diane Wolff
JohnFriel
8 –Source page 9
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
TOWN FINANCE TERMINOLOGY
The terms below are frequently used inthe annual Town report and atTown Meetings. Inorder toprovide
everyone with abetter understanding oftheir meanings, the following definitions are provided:
APPROPRIATE: To authorize spending. Once anappropriation for abudget orarticle has been made byTown
Meeting, the appropriation can only bechanged byanother Town Meeting. There isone exception-atransfer from
the Reserve Fund.
BONDS: The money Canton borrows topay for capital building projects such asthe High School and police
station.
CAPITAL EXPENSES: Expenses associated with the purchase oflong term assets, orprojects. Paying forthese
expenses can come from either cash (Cash Capital) orfrom long term bonding.
CHERRY SHEET: Afinancial statement from the State, printed on cherry-colored paper which itemizes State
disbursements due the Town, and the State and County charge tothe Town, usually resulting inanet receipt of
funds. Itisthe basis forthe amounts which appear inthe Finance Committee forecast ofRevenue and Expenditure.
DEBT EXCLUSION: Taxes raised through aprop 2.5 override topay forcapital projects such asbuilding the high
school orlibrary.
ENTERPRISE SURPLUS: ( Retained Earnings) This fund balance represents the amount tobe used, by avote of
Town Meeting, foroperating cost offsets, funding capital improvements and reimbursing the General Fund forprior
year funding.
FIXED COSTS: Costs primarily associated with employee benefits, such ashealth insurance and retirement costs.
FREE CASH RESERVE: Anaccumulation ofsurpluses left atthe end ofthe fiscal year. This funding isavailable to
be allocated atTown Meeting through asimple majority vote. Itisakin toasavings account.
FY10: July 1,2009 through June 30, 2010
FY11: July 1,2010 through June 30, 2011
LEVEL FUNDING: The budget amount for this year will beidentical tothe budget amount last year (i. e.,no
additional money will beavailable tocover increased costs insalaries orsupplies.)
LEVY LIMIT: The maximum amount oftax levy inany given year. The levy limit isbased onthe previous year’s
levy limit plus 21/2%plus new growth, and not the previous year’s actual levy.
LOCAL RECEIPTS: Money the town collects from local sources such asexcise tax, licenses and permits,
investment income, and penalties
NEW GROWTH: Additional tax revenue the Town receives from new construction, such asnew homes or
additions toexisting buildings.
OPERATIONAL OVERRIDE: An increase above the standard 2.5%yearly increase intaxes. This increase is
unlike adebt exclusion override, inthat itispermanent.
OVERLAY: The amount raised bythe Assessors primarily for the purpose ofcreating afund tocover abatements.
OVERLAY RESERVE: This isthe accumulated amount ofthe Overlay for various years not used orrequired tobe
held inthe specific Overlay accounts foragiven year. The Assessors control release offunds inthe Overlay reserve
that exceed pending tax liability.
RAISE: To tax. The tax rate isset bythe Assessors after the Annual Town Meeting and after receipt ofthe
Cherry Sheet.”
RESERVE FUND: This fund isestablished bythe voters atanAnnual Town Meeting, and may be composed ofan
appropriation, money transferred from the Overlay Reserve, orboth. Transfers from the Reserve Fund are within
the control ofthe Finance Committee, and are for “extraordinary and unforeseen expenditures.”
REVENUES: Amount ofmoney the town receives tocover expenses. The majority ofthis money comes from
property taxes. The remainder comes from local receipts, State Aid and transfers from other funds.
STABILIZATION FUND: The fund isestablished by the voters for future uses. ATown Meeting vote isrequired
for itsuse towards a “borrowing article” and/orfor “any lawful purpose.”
STATE AID: The amount ofmoney that the state ofMassachusetts gives tothe town ofCanton.
STEP AND LANE INCREASES: Automatic increases insalary fortown workers, negotiated inthe union contracts.
STRUCTURAL DEFICIT: Town’s recurring expenses are greater than itsrecurring revenues.
TAX LEVY: (LEVY): The revenue acommunity can raise through real estate and personal property taxes.
AGUIDE TOPARTICIPATING ATTOWN MEETING
If town meeting is to run smoothly a few simple rules must be followed…….
No person should speak unless standing atamicrophone and then only after having been ‘recognized’ bythe
moderator.
9 –Source page 10
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Itisboth impolite and contrary tothe rules ofprocedure toshout out “Question”, or “Move the Question” while
seated, while someone else isspeaking, orwithout being ‘recognized’.
When recognized, avoter should first state his orher name and address clearly and distinctly before making any
statement.
Voters should bebrief. Itisagood idea tostate atthe outset why you have risen tospeak: e.g.Irise tospeak in
favor (oragainst) the motion to Voters may wish tosummarize atthe close oftheir remarks: Ihope the motion
now pending is (not) adopted
Rather than repeat arguments already made, consider saying: Iconcur with the statements made by the previous
speaker(s)and forthe same reasons urge you tovote (insupport of) or (against) the main motion when itisput.
Atown by-law restricts any one speaker tonot more than ten minutes atany one time. The patience ofother
voters isoften not aslong.
Atown by-law restricts any one speaker from speaking more than twice onthe same matter except tocorrect an
error oramisstatement.
Aperson who isspeaking onbehalf ofanother (such asanattorney) isrequired todisclose that fact before making
any statement.
Amotion toreconsider isquite technical innature. Aperson who intends tomove reconsideration should discuss it
inadvance with the moderator. Generally the motion may be made atany time solong asasufficient interval has
elapsed since the last vote on the matter was taken, and/oradditional information has become available, soasto
give areasonable basis tobelieve the meeting might vote differently. When the motion toreconsider ispending
debate islimited towhy reconsideration should prevail and not tothe merits ofthe underlying motion.
When one voter isspeaking every other voter inthe hall should pay attention towhat isbeing said. Noperson
should interrupt aspeaker unless some ‘rule’ isbeing violated. Ifavoter believes arule isbeing violated they
should rise inplace, wait tobe recognized by the moderator (For what purpose does the lady rise?)Voter: Irise to
apoint oforder. Moderator: State your point ofOrder. Voter: …The speaker isdealing inpersonalities, ( or) the
remarks ofthe speaker are not germane tothe subject athand, etc.
Rather than read every warrant article the moderator may say “The chair asks unanimous consent that the reading
ofthe article be waived (Pause) Seeing no objection itissoordered.”
Voters should refrain from displaying their approval ordisfavor towards aspeaker by applauding orby any other
means.
NOTE TOALLVOTERS CONCERNING
TOWN MEETING PROCEDURES
Atprevious Annual Town Meetings aby-law was adopted which requires that almost allwarrant articles be acted
upon inthe order they are drawn by alottery, not the order they appear inthe warrant. There are certain
exceptions, however, tothe lottery system. The following should help you understand how the Town Meeting
works:
Town Meeting will beopened bythe Town Clerk. AModerator will beelected (Article 1);procedures togovern
Town Meeting will beadopted (Article 2);and reports ofalloutstanding committees will bereceived (Article 3).
After these three articles have been acted upon, allsubsequent articles, except next year’s proposed annual
operating budget, will bevoted oninthe order inwhich they are drawn bythe Town Clerk. There are instances,
however, where the Moderator may declare that forsome legal ortechnical reason aparticular article orarticles
must be considered insome other sequence.
The proposed annual operating budget cannot be acted upon until all matters which affect ithave been acted
upon, specifically, allcollective bargaining agreements, and any warrant article that calls for anexpenditure. This
may mean that the proposed annual operating budget may, infact, be the last article acted upon atthe Annual
Town Meeting.
Itishoped that this brief explanation will behelpful toyou inunderstanding the lottery system under which the
Town Meeting iscurrently operated.
10 –Source page 11
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
NOTES
11 –Source page 12
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
SUMMARY OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES
FY2009FY 2010FY 2011
ACTUALBUDGETPROPOSED
GENERAL FUNDREVENUE:
TOTAL PROPERTY TAX REVENUE49, 884,68952, 327,44455, 544,530
STATE AID6,831,6547,273,1326,809,660
TOTAL LOCAL RECEIPTS5, 747,8565,116,3634,936,363
TRANSFERS FROM OTHER FUNDS2, 138,5002,142,5572,391,336
TAX TITLE / FORECLOSURE REVENUE187, 08300
TOTAL REVENUE64,789,78366,859,49669,681,889
GENERAL FUNDEXPENDITURES:
PUBLIC SCHOOL EXPENSES27, 530,39928, 665,35929, 812,315
MUNICIPAL EXPENSES15, 033,20915, 088,07115, 460,151
FIXED COSTS21, 131,79822, 288,09723, 265,305
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES63, 695,40666, 041,52768, 537,771
TOTAL CASH CAPITAL EXPENDITURES968, 689395, 000711, 000
TRANSFER TO STABILIZATION FUND400, 000100, 000200, 000
STATE & COUNTY CHARGES924, 550922, 969933, 118
TOTAL EXPENDITURES65,988,64467,459,49670,381,889
OPERATING SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) - GENERAL FUND( 1,198,861)(600,000)(700,000)
ONE-TIME SOURCES OF FUNDS:
FREE CASH RESERVE960, 078100, 000200, 000
OVERLAY SURPLUS1, 100,000500, 000500, 000
TOTAL NON-RECURRING SOURCES2, 060,078600, 000700, 000
ADJUSTED SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) - GENERAL FUND861,217( 0) 0
ENTERPRISE FUNDS:
WATER REVENUE4, 851,1255,527,8845,929,590
SEWER REVENUE4, 787,7154,871,2094,981,813
RINK REVENUE391, 991429, 390445, 378
TOTAL ENTERPRISE FUNDS' REVENUE10, 030,83110, 828,48311, 356,781
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' SURPLUS USED0220, 000139, 000
WATER EXPENSES5, 395,0815,527,8845,929,590
SEWER EXPENSES4, 739,7414,871,2094,981,813
RINK EXPENSES405, 553429, 390445, 378
TOTAL ENTERPRISE FUNDS EXPENSES10, 540,37510, 828,48311, 356,781
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' CASH CAPITAL EXPENDITURES183, 738220, 000139, 000
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' SURPLUS/(DEFICIT)( 693,282) 00
GRAND TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS76, 712,75778,507,97981,877,670
12 –Source page 13
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
TownofCanton
Commonwealth ofMassachusetts
Norfolk, ss
To the Constables of the Town of Canton,
Greetings:
In the name of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts you are hereby required to notify and warn the
inhabitants of the Town of Canton to meet at Morse Auditorium, on the grounds of the Canton High
School, 900 Washington Street in said town on;
MONDAY, THE TWENTY- SIXTH DAY
OF APRIL, 2010
At half past seven o'clock (7:30 P.M.) in the evening for the annual town meeting at which time and
place the following articles are to be acted upon:
ARTICLE1
ELECT AMODERATOR
Article 1To elect aModerator topreside atthis Town Meeting, toserve until the commencement ofAnnual
Town Meeting in2011, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Town elect a Moderator to preside at this Town Meeting and to serve until a
successor Moderator is elected at the commencement of Annual Town Meeting in 2011.
VOTE: 6-0-0
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE2
ADOPT RULES TO GOVERN TOWN MEETING
Article 2 To see ifthe town will vote to adopt certain procedures togovern the conduct ofthe 2010 Annual
Town Meeting, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That this 2010 Annual Town Meeting meet on consecutive Monday and Wednesday
evenings ( but not including Monday, May 31st) 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
after the initial 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.
VOTE: 6-0-0
13 –Source page 14
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption ofthis motion asitformalized procedures that
have been followed by Town Meetings inthe past.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
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:
Robin Billing, Director for Curriculum, Instruction & Technology
Mark Bobrowski, Consultant Counsel for the Zoning Recodification Project
Joseph Ciccolo, Supt.-Director, Blue Hills Regional Technical School
John Ciccotelli, Director of Public Health
John D’Auria, Superintendent of Schools
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
Alan B. Dewey, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services
James Donovan, Town Engineer
Bernard Fallon, Superintendent of Buildings & Grounds
Helena Findlen, Police Department Lieutenant
William T. Friel, Town Administrator
Beth Greenblatt, Performance Contracting Consultant
Brian Joyce, Senator
Louis Jutras, Information Systems Manager
Jeffrey Kaylor, Recreation Director
Mark Lague, Library Director
Kenneth Leon, Business Manager, School Department
James Murgia, Finance Director
Robert Murphy, Conservation Commission Agent
David Proule, Business Manager, Blue Hills Regional Technical School
Mark Roy, Executive Director, Canton Housing Authority
Janine Smith, Town Accountant
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of Council on Aging
John Wieliczki, Director of Assessing
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption ofthis motion asitallows non-resident key town
officials tolegally participate inthe Town Meeting and formalizes procedures that have been followed byTown
Meeting inthe past.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 3
MOVED: That whenever during discussion under any article in this warrant during this year’s
annual town meeting, irrespective of which session such discussion is reached during the progress of
the annual town meeting, amotion is made, the effect of which is to increase the total amount to be
appropriated beyond that which is recommended by the Finance Committee or which changes the
method of obtaining funds to meet that appropriation, the moderator shall not accept such motion
unless said motion also contains acorresponding decrease in another appropriation as contained in an
appropriation article on this specific warrant or acorresponding transfer from any other available
funding source, so that the total amount to be appropriated by the town, at this town meeting, and to
be expended thereafter, for all the appropriation articles contained in this warrant, shall not in any
event exceed the total dollar amount recommended by the Finance Committee as set forth in the
published Report of the Finance Committee Recommendations as may be increased by any transfer
from available funds.
VOTE: 6-0-0
14 –Source page 15
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption ofthis motion asitformalizes procedures that
have been followed byTown Meeting inthe past toinsure that Town Meeting ends with the adoption ofabalanced
budget.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE3
HEAR REPORTS OF COMMITTEES APPOINTED AT PRIOR TOWN MEETINGS
Article 3 Tohear the reports ofallcommittees, appointed atprevious town meetings, which have not yet
been discharged, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Town Meeting hear and accept reports of all committees appointed at previous
Town Meetings such as:
ADA Transition Plan Implementation Committee ( ATM 1999, Article 10)
Economic Development Committee ( ATM 2004, Article 14)
Route 138 Revitalization Study Committee
VOTE: 6-1-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports the adoption ofthis motion tohear the reports of
allstanding committees appointed atprior Town Meetings.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE4
ACT ON “CONSENT AGENDA”
Article 4 To see ifthe town will vote to dispose ofcertain articles inthis warrant by asingle vote, in
accordance with a,so-called, consent agenda, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the following articles be disposed of by asingle vote, in accordance with the
Finance Committee motions as printed in the report of the Finance Committee, entitled
Recommendations of the Finance Committee for the Voters of Canton, Massachusetts”: Articles 8,10,
11, 16, 22, 24, 27 and 37.
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The purpose ofthe Consent Agenda Article istocombine non-controversial Articles together and
vote them inasingle motion, thus saving the time itwould take toact oneach one individually. The Finance
Committee recommends Articles 8,10, 11, 16, 22, 24, 27 and 37 becombined inthe consent agenda. No action is
needed for Articles 8,10, 24, and 27. Article 11isastandard practice that isconsidered every year. Articles 22
and 37 are housekeeping measures torelease unneeded easements and rescind unused borrowing authorization.
Finally Article 16allows for the reinstatement ofthe Route 138 Study committee. None ofthe Articles inthe
consent agenda have any known financial impact onthe Town.
15 –Source page 16
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
FINCOM
ArticleDescriptionMotionReason Vote
Pay bills of prior
8Postpone Indefinitely. 6-0-0There are none.
fiscal year
Transfer
unexpended prior
10Postpone Indefinitely. 6-0-0There are none.
year
appropriations
That the Finance Director ( in his capacity as
chief procurement officer) be authorized to
Authorize solicit and award contracts for terms ofmore
contracts ofmore than three years, provided ineach such
11 6-0-0Standard practice.
than 3years instance the longer term isdetermined tobe
durationin the best interest of the town by avote of
the Board of Selectmen.
Reinstate 138 No financial impact to the
16Committee to be Reinstated. 6-0-1
Study Committee Town.
That the Board of Selectmen isauthorized to
Ahousekeeping action to
Release Town sell, convey, release or otherwise dispose of
225- 0- 0 release unneeded
Sewer Easements the permanent sewer easements located –
easements.
see Article 22 for full motion.
Accept Deeds in There are no deeds to
24Postpone Indefinitely. 5-0-0
lieu of foreclosure accept.
The state has no
information as tothe lease
Ponkapoag Golf requirements and isnot
27Postpone Indefinitely. 5-0-0
Course prepared toenter into any
lease agreements with the
Town.
That the unused borrowing authorizations Ahousekeeping action to
Rescind unused
previously voted by the Town be hereby rescind unused borrowings
376-
borrowing 0- 0
rescinded. See Article 37 for details. from the water treatment
Authorizations
project.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE5
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS UNDER THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Article 5 To see ifthe town will vote, inaccordance with the provisions ofsection seven ofchapter one
hundred fifty E (G. L.Ch.150E, §7)toraise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, orborrow pursuant to
any applicable statute, asum ofmoney for the purpose offunding any cost items contained inany collective
bargaining agreements entered into by the Board ofSelectmen, on behalf ofthe town, with any group of
employees, or, groups ofemployees, serving under itsjurisdiction, and toraise and appropriate, transfer from
available funds, orborrow pursuant toany applicable statute, such sums ofmoney asmay be necessary tofund
contracts forpersonal services with any individual employee, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 5 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: 4-2-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE MAJORITY DISCUSSION: This Article had multiple votes. The initial motion toapprove
the contract, asnegotiated, was defeated by the Finance Committee by avote of3-4. This contract isfor the two-
year period 2010 and 2011. The rationale byamajority ofthe committee fornot recommending this contract to
ATM was that the COLA’s included inthe contract were not consistent with the economic conditions we are now
experiencing. The firefighters opted not toagree tothe contract two years ago when the 2.5%and 3.0%COLA's
were first proposed. All other unions intown accepted these terms atthat time. Since that time, the national and
local economy has had major financial problems; tax revenues are down and there have been significant budget
cuts atthe federal, state and local levels. Itwas also pointed out that the 12-month CPI (Consumer Price Index)
16 –Source page 17
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
increase inthe index forallitems less food and energy now stands at1.3 percent, the lowest since February 2004.
The CPI with Food and Energy now stands at2.1 percent. Many employees have not received pay increases orcost
ofliving increases during the past two years including: Social Security recipients, Federal Retiree employees,
Federal Railroad retirees and Military retirees, toname afew.
Another consideration for rejecting the 2.5%and the 3.0%COLA'sinthis contract was that the Fire Department
was not able tooperate within itsbudget this year. Reserve Fund Transfers have been needed tocover the
Department'sovertime spending. The Finance Committee recognizes the excellent work performed bythe Town
firemen and does agree that certain concessions inthe proposed firefighter’scontract have the potential for
generating cost savings tothe Town. However the reduction inTown-generated revenues combined with the
significant cuts instate aid have placed asevere strain on the Town’s ability tomaintain current levels ofservice,
staff and payroll.
On the advice ofcounsel the vote was not considered apositive motion sothe Finance Committee was required to
recommend tothe ATM toIndefinitely Postpone this article. The first vote for this motion did not have amajority
vote and was defeated 3-4. Atasubsequent meeting this Article was reopened. Considerable discussion took
place onthe equity ofnot accepting the 2.5%and 3.0%COLAs that were offered two years ago, especially since
other employees are now receiving these increases. Several members ofthe Finance Committee have suggested
that school and municipal elected officials attempt toreopen contracts currently inforce tosee ifunion’s members
would be willing totake awage freeze orawage-reduction inorder toavoid potential staff lay-offs.
Given the financial constraints the Town now faces, the majority ofthe committee did not feel that ATM should
approve the contract and, therefore, the Finance Committee voted toindefinitely postpone this Article.
FINANCE COMMITTEE MINORITY DISCUSSION: The minority members ofthe Finance Committee recognize
the efforts put forth by the Town'snegotiators toreach an agreement and were concerned that the cost tore-open
negotiations could reduce the savings that may begained and felt that other concessions inthe contract, balanced
the COLAs offered.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE6
FUNDING OF COST ITEMS NOT IN DEPARTMENTAL BUDGETS
Article 6 To see what sum ofmoney the Town will vote toraise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or
borrow pursuant toany applicable statute for the purpose offunding cost items, not included indepartmental
budgets appropriated for FY11, for the twelve month period beginning July 1,2010, tobudget category
Department 910 without further appropriationfor collective bargaining agreements and/orindividual employees or
groups ofemployees serving under itsjurisdiction, asmay bereached after the conclusion ofthis Town Meeting
between the Town and bargaining units, and/orindividual employees orgroups ofemployees serving under its
jurisdiction, such sums tobe allocated topay for the relevant departments payroll expenses from budget
classification Department 910 asrequired bysuch agreements; and totake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 6 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously voted topostpone indefinitely Article 6. The Town of
Canton regularly engages incontract negotiations, the timetables forwhich donot always fitthe timetable forthe
Annual Town Meeting. This Article has historically allowed the Town and bargaining units toeffectively set aside an
estimated amount ofpayroll funds for contracts that are settled after orduring ATM. Since there were nosuch
contract negotiations pending atthe time this Article was voted on bythe Finance Committee, the members voted
topostpone indefinitely.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
17 –Source page 18
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
ARTICLE7
SET SALARIES OF ELECTED OFFICERS
Article 7To see ifthe town will vote, inaccordance with the provisions ofsection one hundred and eight of
chapter forty-one (G. L.chapter 41, §108) tofixthe salary and compensation ofallelected officers ofthe town, or
totake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for the Town Clerk be fixed at $68,076 for the 2011
fiscal year beginning July 1,2010 through June 30, 2011.
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: TheFinance Committee unanimously supports this motion. The position isafull time position in
Canton. Under Massachusetts General Law, the Town Clerk’s salary and compensation must befixed annually by
vote atthe Annual Town Meeting. The contract provides for asalary increase of $1,983.00with noadditional
compensation forlongevity orexpanded responsibilities.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 2
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for all part-time elected officials of the Town
be fixed, as follows:
Board of Assessors: $ 2,400.00 for each member who has continuously served as an Assessor
prior to 2010 through the current year.
Board of Health: $600.00 for each member who has continuously served as aBoard of Health
member prior to 2010 through the current year.
Board of Selectmen: $ 1,400.00 for each member who has continuously served as aSelectman
prior to 2010 through the current year, with an additional $200.00 to the chairman if (
s)he has
continuously served as aSelectman prior to 2010 through the current year.
VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee has long been concerned with the inequities ofpaying salaries tosome
part-time elected officials and not others nor toany appointed board members. The Finance Committee considered
recommending auniform salary be paid toall39 part-time elected officials (5Board ofSelectmen, 5Planning
Board, 5School Committee, 5Canton Housing Authority, 3Board ofAssessors, 3Board ofHealth, 12 Trustees of
the Library and 1Moderator) but rejected the idea when itbecame clear that paying any amount ofasalary also
entitled the part-time elected official tobenefits, specifically health insurance.
The Finance Committee learned that the salaries traditionally paid tomembers ofthe Assessors and the Board of
Health were instituted tocompensate the officials for field work that isnow being done by other Town Employees
oroutside contractors. The reasoning behind paying members ofthe Board ofSelectmen has not been
determined.
The Finance Committee readily acknowledges that allelected and appointed officials work long hours forthe Town
and wedo not wish totake away the traditional compensation paid tothe current elected officials. However wedo
recommend that going forward any newly elected official who does not have continuous service inthe same elected
position nolonger beawarded apart-time salary. Thus, the Finance Committee unanimously supports the
adoption ofthe Article 7Motion 2.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
18 –Source page 19
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
ARTICLE8
PAY BILLS OF PRIOR FISCAL YEAR
Article 8 To see ifthe town will vote toraise and appropriate, transfer from available funds orborrow
pursuant toany applicable statute asum orsums of money topay any unpaid bills ofanyprior fiscal year, orto
take any other actionrelatedthereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 8 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: Atthe time ofthe vote, there were nobills tobepaid. Thus, the Finance Committee unanimously
voted toindefinitely postpone any action onArticle 8.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE9
ADJUST FISCAL ‘10 ACCOUNTS
Article 9 To see ifthe town will vote toincrease or decrease orotherwise adjust the appropriations
heretofore made forthe Fiscal Year 2010 beginning onJuly 1,2009 and ending on June 30, 2010 and the revenues
sources tomeet those appropriations, asvoted pursuant toArticle 46 ofthe warrant for the 2009 Annual Town
Meeting, and toraise and appropriate, transfer from available funds orborrow pursuant toany applicable statute to
meet any such increases oradjustments, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the appropriations voted for the fiscal year beginning on July 1,2009 and ending
on June 30, 2010 pursuant to Article 46 of the warrant for the 2009 Annual Town Meeting be
supplemented as follows:
MOTION 1 That the sum of Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) be appropriated to the
Snow and Ice Budget (Account # 14232-5530C) by transfer from Free Cash in the treasury of the Town.
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this motion. The FY10 budget forSnow and Ice
was set at $ 185,000 and atthe time this discussion was being written the Town had spent $573,580 and has
another $24,090 inopen purchase orders for salt. The transfer will address the current $388,580 Snow and Ice
deficit caused bysnow plowing, sanding and salting activities inFY10. The typical funding source forSnow and Ice
excess spending isthe Finance Committee Reserve fund; however $100,000 ofthe Reserve Fund has already been
spent tosupplement FY10 budget shortfalls inthe Veterans and Fire Department budgets and the remaining
Reserve Fund balance isnot sufficient tocover the Snow & Ice deficit. Ifthere isfurther need after Annual Town
Meeting tosupplement the Snow and Ice account because the open purchase orders for salt were filled, the
Finance Committee can consider atransfer from the Reserve Fund tocover these amounts.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOVED: That the appropriations voted for the fiscal year beginning on July 1,2009 and ending
on June 30, 2010 pursuant to Article 46 of the warrant for the 2009 Annual Town Meeting be
supplemented as follows:
19 –Source page 20
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
MOTION 2 That the sum of Three Hundred Sixty Three Thousand Three Hundred Ninety Two
Dollars ($363,392) be appropriated to the School Department Special Education Budget (Account
93009062- 53201) by transfer from Free Cash in the treasury of the Town.
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The specific objective for having aFree Cash Reserve istohave asmall pool offunds available to
offset unexpected emergency situations that may occur during the fiscal year. The unexpected 30%reduction in
special education reimbursement from the state mid-year certainly qualifies asanunexpected financial emergency
for the Town. Thus, the Finance Committee supports the transfer of $363,392 from Free Cash Reserve Fund to
cover the FY10 SPED school budget shortfall caused by the reduction instate aid. However, itmust be noted that
itisnot the Finance Committee’sintention tocontinue tosupplement the Schools budget using Town reserves in
future years.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE10
TRANSFER UNEXPENDED PRIOR YEAR APPROPRIATIONS
Article 10 To see ifthe town will vote totransfer the unexpended balance ofcertain appropriations made
under various articles inthe warrants from prior town meetings, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 10 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously voted topostpone indefinitely Article 10. Since there were
norequested transfers ofunexpended prior year appropriations known atthe time this Article was voted onbythe
Finance Committee, the members voted topostpone indefinitely.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE11
AUTHORIZE CONTRACTS OF MORE THAN THREE YEARS DURATION
Article 11 To see ifthe town will vote, inaccordance with the provisions ofsection twelve (b)ofchapter
thirty B,ofthe General Laws ofthe Commonwealth, toauthorize the finance director (inhis capacity aschief
procurement officer) tosolicit and award contracts for terms ofmore than three years, provided ineach such
instance the longer term isdetermined, prior tothe solicitation, tobe inthe best interest ofthe town by avote of
the Board ofSelectmen, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Finance Director ( in his capacity as chief procurement officer) be authorized
to solicit and award contracts for terms of more than three years, provided in each such instance the
longer term isdetermined to be in the best interest of the town by avote of the Board of Selectmen.
VOTE: 6-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports Article 11. From time totime itisinthe best
interest ofthe Town toenter into non-labor related contracts with aduration exceeding three years. The Finance
Director, asChief Procurement Officer, should have the authority necessary topursue these contracts.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
20 –Source page 21
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
ARTICLE12
AUTHORIZE CERTAIN REVOLVING FUNDS
Article 12 To see what revolving funds pursuant to c.44, section 53E ½ ofthe General Laws ofthe
Commonwealth the town will authorize orreauthorize, for various boards, commissions ordepartments ofthe
town, for the fiscal year beginning July 1,2010 and ending June 30, 2011, ortotake any other action related
thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the following revolving funds are hereby established pursuant to the provisions of
MGL chapter 44, section 53 E ½ for the 2011 Fiscal Year beginning July 1,2010 through June 30, 2011.
ARTICLE 12
FY11
Revolving Name of Spending Spending
Fund # Revolving Fund Authority Revenue Sources UseofFunds Limit
Pequitside Farm Conservation Rental of Pequitside Farm, Rental of Little
Maintaining, improving & renovation of $ 40,000
RentalsCommission Red House, Rental of Rooms in Main property, payment of salaries for time spent annually
1
Building, Rental of Rooms in Tavern, Any
arranging rentals with additional amounts
other portion of building or grounds.transferred to General Fund.
Veteran' s Veterans' Contributions, Donations, Gifts, Grants.
Providing services to veterans not funded $ 30,000
Services Special Services under established program, including but not annually
Revenues Director limited to newsletter publication, monthly
2 breakfasts, funeral services, other
commemorative programs and other purposes
in the opinion of the Veterans' Director in the
best interests of Canton Veterans.
Fire Alarm Fire Chief Fees received by it from, or on behalf of Payment of bills and charges incurred in $ 20,000
3RelocationCommonwealth, any public utility, any other connection with relocation of fire alarm signal annually
business entity, or any individual person. wires, devices & other appurtenances.
COACouncil on Donations received for providing Payment of bills and charges in connection $ 10,000
4 Transportation Agingtransportation services. with transportation of elderly. annually
Fund
Board of Health Board of Contributions, donations, gifts, grants, Providing services to Canton citizens not $ 15,000
Special Healthreimbursements. otherwise funded under established program, annually
Revenues including but not limited to flu vaccinations,
5 child and teenage health education &
development programs and elderly health
programs.
Animal Control Animal Control Adoption and boarding fees. Payment for veterinary services and payments $ 40,000
6 Special Officerto Animal Control Officer with additional annually
Revenues amounts transferred to General Fund.
Library Building Board of Fees for rental and use of Community or Paying bills, connected with the providing of $ 30,000
RentalsLibrary other assembly rooms used for meetings, maintenance and supply of facilities and for the annually
Trustees programs or other events, including support and safe conduct of said programs
7 payments for use of facilities and and events.
conveniences in conjunction with use of
spaces, as may be established by the Board
of Library Trustees.
Student Parking School Fees paid by students to park their vehicles Payment of bills and charges to maintain the $ 75,000
8 FeesCommittee at Canton High School. high school parking lots and grounds. annually
Greenlodge Board of Fees paid by residents and non-residents to Payment of bills and charges to maintain the $ 50,000
9 Street Parking Selectmenpark their vehicles along Greenlodge Street. programwith additional amounts transferred to annually
FeesGeneral Fund.
Beautification Beautification Fees received from the sale of bricks. Payment of services required to install bricks $ 10,000
10 FundCommittee and for other beautification projects. annually
Library Dues Board of Fees received for loss, damage or late return Payment of bills and charges for purchasing $ 30,000
FundLibrary of borrowed materials, replacement of books and other library materials for public annually
Trustees borrower cards, or any other such fees as loan.
11may be established by the Board of Library
Trustees, for the purpose of and consistent
with maintaining a fair and efficient library
loan system.
Soil Erosion and Conservation Fees received for permits and certificates of Payment of bills and charges to process $ 30,000
12 Sediment Control Commission compliance under Article XX of the Town permits and certificates of compliance under annually
FundGeneral By-Laws. Article XX of the Town General By-Laws.
21 –Source page 22
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimously toincrease the spending limit forrevolving Fund 1,
Pequitside Farm Rentals from $20,000 to $40,000 and Fund 6,Animal Control Special Revenues from $30,000 to
40,000. Both departments provided reasonable justification that increasing these spending limits isneeded to
effectively manage the donations and fees received and the needs ofthe population they serve and the services
they provide. There are noother changes toany other spending limits, though there are some changes inwording.
Revolving Fund #1
DISCUSSION: This motion must bevoted by Town Meeting annually toallow the Conservation Commission to
continue itsrevolving account. They currently have arevolving account towhich allrentals related tothe use of
the properties located onthe premises known asPequitside Farm are credited. The spending limit will beincreased
from $20,000 to $40,000 toreflect arecurring rental byaChurch and allow aportion ofthe CONCOM Secretary’s
salary tobe charged tothe account for arranging rentals.
Revolving Fund #2
DISCUSSION: This motion was requested by the Veterans’ Services Director toestablish arevolving fund for
special revenues received. The fund will beused toprovide services toveterans who are not otherwise funded
under any established program.
Revolving Fund #3
DISCUSSION: This motion must bevoted byTown Meeting for the Fire Chief toestablish arevolving fund for
fees received tocompensate the department forrelocating fire alarm services.
Revolving Fund #4
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Council onAging toestablish arevolving
fund towhich revenues derived from the transportation supplied tothe elderly citizens must be credited. This fund
must beused forthe payment ofbills and charges inconnection with transportation forour elderly citizens. The
new expected source offunds will bedonations rather than fees charged.
Revolving Fund #5
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted byTown Meeting for the Board ofHealth toestablish arevolving fund
fordonations and other reimbursement received. The fund will be used topurchase additional flu vaccinations and
offer educational programs onhealth-related topics not otherwise funded bytheir present annual budget.
Revolving Fund #6
DISCUSSION: This motion must bevoted by Town Meeting for the Animal Control Officer toestablish a
revolving fund for donations received. The fund will beused topurchase veterinary services not otherwise funded
by their present annual budget. Additionally, the Animal Control Officer may receive apercentage ofnew boarding
fees. To accommodate this, the spending limit will beincreased from $30,000 to $40,000.
Revolving Fund #7
DISCUSSION: This motion must bevoted by Town Meeting for the Board ofLibrary Trustees toestablish a
revolving fund for building rental fees and other payments received. The fund will be used tosupport the rental
programs and other related costs.
Revolving Fund #8
DISCUSSION: This motion must bevoted byTown Meeting forthe School Committee toestablish arevolving
fund for fees paid bystudents topark their vehicles atCanton High School. The fund will be used forthe payments
ofbills and other charges tomaintain the high school parking lots and grounds.
Revolving Fund #9
DISCUSSION: This motion must bevoted by Town Meeting for the Board ofSelectmen toestablish arevolving
fund forfees paid by residents topark their vehicles onGreenlodge Street. The fund will beused forthe payments
ofbills and other charges tomaintain the parking program. Atyear end, any balance inthis fund istransferred to
the general fund.
Revolving Fund #10
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Beautification Committee toestablish a
revolving fund for fees paid byresidents topurchase commemorative bricks. The fund will beused for the
payments ofbills and other charges toinstall bricks and forother beautification projects.
Revolving Fund #11
22 –Source page 23
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
DISCUSSION: This revolving fund will allow the Library tokeep the fines they charge for books and other
materials that are returned late. This will help the library meet state requirements toreceive annual state aid and
certifications.
Revolving Fund #12
DISCUSSION: This motion must bevoted byTown Meeting for the Conservation Commission toestablish a
revolving fund for fees paid inaccordance with the Town’s soil erosion by-law. The fund will beused for the
payments ofbills and other charges toprocess permits and certificates ofcompliance under Article XX ofthe
Town’sGeneral By-Laws.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE13
OMNIBUS” CAPITAL OUTLAY PROGRAM
Article 13 Tosee ifthe town will vote toraise and appropriate, ortotransfer from available funds, orto
authorize the Town Treasurer with the approval ofthe Board ofSelectmen, toborrow (and toissue bonds ornotes
therefore) any sum orsums ofmoney, orbyany combination ofthese methods offinancing asmay benecessary
ordesirable, make available funds for the purpose ofpurchasing, leasing, re-conditioning, improving orreplacing
any motor vehicles orother items ofequipment ormachinery orother items ofpersonal property for any town
agency, orfor the purpose ofcontracting for any service, orfor the design, repair, acquisition, construction,
replacement orrelocation orimprovement toany town building orother structure, public works facility (including
highway needs and traffic safety items), any other town owned facility orreal property, orfor any other purposes
for which borrowing may be authorized, topurchase, ortotake by eminent domain, any land oreasements
necessary for any such purposes and, where applicable, toauthorize the trade-inofany presently owned motor
vehicles, equipment ormachinery toreduce the purchase oracquisition cost ofany item tobe acquired, ortotake
any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for Capital Planning Committee
MOTION 1
MOVED:
a) The acquisition of all vehicles and other motorized equipment that is authorized to be
purchased or otherwise acquired by any motion made under this warrant article shall be under the
responsibility of the Finance Director/ Chief Procurement Officer. In addition to the procurement, the
trade-in” or other disposition of all vehicles and other motorized equipment being replaced isalso
authorized and shall be under the responsibility of the Finance Director/ Chief Procurement Officer. In
all cases where by amotion made under this warrant article, avehicle or other piece of motorized
equipment is to be acquired by atown agency such purchase or acquisition shall be subject to and
bound by the detailed specifications regarding such purchase or acquisition on file in the office of the
Town Clerk; provided, however, the Finance Director/ Chief Procurement Officer, may, in appropriate
circumstances, waive or modify the said detailed specifications, subject to avote of the Finance
Committee, taken within 30 (thirty) days following adecision to waive or to modify the foregoing
provision requiring full compliance with the specifications on file.
b) All building related projects which are approved and or funded by any motion made under
this article shall be under the responsibility of the Building Renovations Committee appointed pursuant
to Canton By-law, Article X, section 4,except as may be provided by any specific motion made pursuant
to this article.
VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 1
DISCUSSION: This motion authorizes the Finance Director tosupervise vehicle acquisitions and the Building
Renovations Committee tooversee allbuilding/land improvement projects.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
23 –Source page 24
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
MOTION 2
MOVED: That Four Hundred Five Thousand Dollars ($405,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal
Year 2011 tax levy and other general revenues of the town for the Board of Selectmen to expend with
the approval of the Department head or Board or Commission indicated below for the purpose of
purchasing certain items of property set forth below for various Municipal Departments as follows:
FINCOM CPC
RECOMMENDATIONS FINCOM VOTE VOTE
Police Department
Purchase Four Patrol Cars & Equip. w/Mobile Computers $ 133,000 6-0-1 7-0-0
Purchase Booking Station 37,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Replace Bullet Resistant Vests 5, 000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Replace Patrol Motorcycle 8, 000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Fire Department
Ford F350 Pickup Truck (3rdth & 4 year lease payments) 22,000 5-2-0 seebelow)
Replace 2002 Chevy Tahoe Command Vehicle ( purchase) 30,000 7-0-0 seebelow)
Replace Car 1 –Fire Chief’sCar (purchase) 30,000 7-0-0 seebelow)
DPW
Professional Services to Conduct Bolivar Pond Dam 8,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Safety Inspection
Finance
Purchase Network Storage Appliance 35,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Purchase Tape Backup 8,
000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Computer System Replacements 8,
000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Purchase Disaster Recovery Hardware 11,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Buildings & Prop. Maintenance
Ford F350 Truck (3rdth
& 4 year lease payments) 24,000 6-1-0 seebelow)
Recreation
Sod Replacement/ Field Rehabilitation 10,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Roller Rink Repairs 8, 000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Fence Repairs/ Replacements – Ponkapoag Field 6,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Diving Board Repairs 3, 000 5- 1-0 seebelow)
Waterslide Purchase 0 6-1-0 seebelow)
Skate Park Equipment 0 6-1-0 seebelow)
Library
Workstations – Computers for Staff Use (10 systems) 9,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Building & Grounds Improvements 7,
000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Collection Development 3,000 5- 1-0 Seebelow)
GRAND TOTAL $ 405,000
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual
appropriations. The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount
appropriated isone line item in the total sum of Four Hundred Five Thousand Dollars ($405,000). The
Finance Director and Town Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds
in such amanner as may be needed to accomplish the forgoing list of purchases; provided, however,
that each item contained in the list isprocured and that the excess funds are available because one or
more items cost less than estimated and not because an item intended to be procured is not so
procured.
24 –Source page 25
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
MOTON 2
FINANCE COMMITTEE MAJORITY DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee considered the information from the
Capital Planning Committee and made revisions totheir recommendations. Considering the economic challenges
facing the Town, the Finance Committee was not comfortable allocating $89,000 ofthe $405,000 capital
expenditures tothe recreation department. The Finance Committee did not feel that the expenditures for the
Skate Park would benefit asignificant number oftown's people and that the skate park increased the risk of
liability tothe Town. Based on information received from the Recreation Department, the Finance Committee also
understands that the diving board atthe Bolivar Pool may berepaired and remain inservice for afew more years
eliminating the immediate need for the water slide. Therefore, the funds for these projects were re-allocated to
other critical capital projects. The Fire Department requests include funds toreplace two vehicles on aLease-
Purchase Arrangement. Alease/purchase acquisition increases the cost tothe town and commits budgeted capital
for future year payments. The Finance Committee strongly discourages this type ofacquisition. Therefore, the
Finance Committee recommends that the funds from the water slide and skate park be allocated topurchase the
Fire Department'srequested vehicles and pay off two Lease-Purchase arrangements that were executed inprior
years onathird Fire Department Vehicle and Building Maintenance vehicle. This recommendation will free upthe
capital commitment fornext year's budget, which could then beused forrecreational needs orsome other critical
capital need that arises. The Finance Committee also identified $2,000 inpotential savings inthe Library Computer
acquisition. This savings and the additional $1,000 ofremaining funds from the reduction inthe Recreation
Department'scapital request were allocated tothe Library forcollection development.
FINANCE COMMITTEE MINORITY DISCUSSION: Aminority ofthe Finance Committee agreed that purchasing
ofvehicles ispreferable toleasing and supported the cash purchase ofthe fire vehicles and postponement ofthe
waterslide project. However, the minority felt that the skate park was agood investment for the children ofthe
town. The skateboarders ofthe town currently have nowhere togo and asaresult are often atodds with the
police, residents and business owners. Building askate park will provide skateboarders with alegal place togo
and protect the recent investment inthe downtown. To continue tofund the skate park, the minority was against
the two lease pay-offs aswell asthe additional, unrequested library funding.
MOTION 2
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSIONS:
Police Department
Replace 4Patrol Cars & Equipment with Mobile Computers ($ 133,000)
The Canton Police utilizes itsvehicles on 24 x7basis for the safety and security ofthe town. This isascheduled
replacement forhigh mileage vehicles.
Purchase Booking Station ($37,000)
The touch screen TM3800 Booking Station will replace the current TP2000 Live Scan fingerprint machine. Asof
June 2008 the manufacturer no longer makes parts forthe TP2000, and they will not offer amaintenance/ support
agreement. The Touch Print 3800 Booking Station will provide uswith anew and improved fingerprint capturing
system. Itwill also provide uswith the new ability forcapturing full handprints tobring the CPD incompliance with
Meghan’slaw requirement for capturing full handprints for sex offenders. Itwill also enhance our records
management interface byallowing ustoattach our digital booking images tothe print record and transfer both to
the Massachusetts State Police and the FBI.
Replace Bullet Resistant Vests ($5,000)
This isascheduled replacement ofbullet resistant vests forthe Canton Police. This isareplacement only ofvests
that have reached their five (5)year warranty.
Replace Patrol Motorcycle ($ 8,000)
This purchase will replace the current police patrol motorcycle with anew 2010 model. This vehicle isused for
traffic details and neighborhood patrols.
Fire Department
Ford F350 Pickup Truck (3rdth& 4 year lease payments) ($ 22,000)
This capital request forFY2011 istofund the third and fourth annual lease payments
needed topay for the new Ford F350 truck asoriginally approved atthe 2008 annual town meeting. [ see below]*
Replace 2002 Chevy Tahoe Command Vehicle (purchase) ($ 30,000)
The Command Unit was purchased in2002. Itwas due tobe replaced last fiscal year, but was moved toFY2011.
Itfunctions asour command post and allows ustocommunicate with mutual aid communities and Norfolk County
Dispatch during emergencies. The vehicle will be incurring increased maintenance costs due toaprojected
replacement ofthe rear end and necessary body work. The transmission has already been replaced.
see below]*
25 –Source page 26
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Replace Car 1 –Fire Chief’sCar (purchase) ($ 30,000)
The Chief’s car was purchased in2003. Itisarear wheel drive Crown Victoria that has limited effectiveness in
poor weather conditions and rough terrain. During the winter months, the Fire Chief has had togarage this car
and utilize the command Unit, leaving itunavailable for the Shift Commander and Training and Safety Captain.
Also, itisnot set up forlaptop computer use nor does ithave aseparate radio for Norfolk County Dispatch.
see below]*
The CPC originally approved the request toutilize additional lease/purchases forthe Fire Departments vehicles.
However, they unanimously voted toeliminate lease/purchase agreements asthe additional cost ofthis type of
arrangement can easily become prohibitive.
DPW
Conduct Bolivar Pond Dam Safety Inspection ($ 8,000)
The dam isclassified asasignificant hazard dam. The Town isrequired bystate law tohire aqualified engineer to
inspect and report conditions every five years.
Finance Department
Purchase Network Storage Appliance ($ 35,000)
This system will be used for network storage ofdata that can beused for alldatabase and user information that
will bereplicated between two sites and provide redundancy and growth forfuture virtualization/ media project.
Purchase Tape Backup ($ 8,000)
This isfor the consolidation ofthe tape backup system from five individual server based devices toone.
Consolidation will produce asavings ontape purchases and software licensing inthe future.
Computer System Replacements ($ 8,000)
This isthe continued ongoing replacement ofthe computer systems that are utilized by town personnel.
Purchase Disaster Recovery Hardware ($ 11,000)
This isanadvanced recovery/disaster recovery appliance for Police, Fire and Town Hall servers. Disaster recovery
isone component ofalarger business recovery undertaking. The physical server and the applications that they
manage drive the day today operations. The systems that we are looking atneed the 99.999% up-time. Atthe
present time wehave aplan inplace forour financial, billing and collection packages.
Buildings & Property Maintenance
Ford F350 Truck (3rdth
& 4 year lease payments) ($ 24,000)
The Finance Committee isrecommending that the remaining lease payments be made inFY11 tosave interest
instead ofmaking two more lease payments.
Ford F350 Dump Truck Lease / Unit#9 ($ 11,000)
This isathird payment, ofafour year lease approved byTown Meeting in2008.
Recreation
Sod Replacement/ Field Rehabilitation ($ 10,000)
This isongoing program torehab the town fields that isfunded inarotational basis each year. Past fields include
Galvin, Kennedy and Devol.
Roller Rink Repairs ($ 8,000)
This will fund repairs tothe Mutch Roller Rink which will include resurfacing ofthe playing surface and various
safety upgrades.
Fence Repairs/ Replacements – Ponkapoag Field ($6,000)
This item will provide fence repairs tothe Kennedy School Playing area that isneeded for safety reason.
Diving Board Repairs ($ 3,000)
The Finance Committee recommends that the existing diving board atBolivar pool berepaired for $3,000 instead
ofpurchasing awaterslide for $30,000.
Waterslide Purchase – ($ 30,000)
This will fund the purchase ofawaterslide forthe town pool. The current diving board isdamaged and needs tobe
replaced. Inaddition the town insurance company has advised increased risk ofliability with the use ofdiving
board. Inreview ofthis item the CPC isinagreement with the BOS topurchase this item asthe Bolivar Street pool
has see increased use by our citizens and we feel this replacement item will be awelcome addition tothe town
recreation complex.
26 –Source page 27
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Skate Park Equipment – ($ 35,000)
This will fund the construction ofanew skate park inthe area ofthe Hansen/Galvin school area on Pecunit Street.
The CPC approved funding ofthis item asthere isnocurrent area intown that offers this activity and itfrequently
has taken place onWashington Street inthe downtown area within the business community and interfering with
pedestrians. This area oftown has also seen asignificant investment with completion ofthe recent Streetscape
district. The area recommended iscurrently the site for two ofour schools and numerous recreation fields and
activities.
Library
Workstations – Computers for Staff Use (10 systems) ($ 9,000)
Purchase of10 new workstations for use by library staff. Current workstations were purchased in2003 and have
been maintained with replacement parts. Inaddition, circulation and cataloging software has grown more powerful
beyond the processor and memory resources ofthe current units and requires wider screen monitors.
Building & Grounds Improvements ($ 7,000)
Painting ofdamaged and worn areas ofboth the interior and exterior ofthe library. Facility has begun toshow
wear and tear resulting from nearly 200,000 visits per year.
Collection Development ($ 3,000)
The Finance Committee recommends that $3,000 bespent bythe Library foradditional library materials.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 3
MOVED: That Three Hundred Six Thousand Dollars ($306,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal
Year 2011 tax levy and other general revenues of the town, for the Canton School Committee to expend
for the purpose of purchasing certain items of property set forth below for the School Department as
follows:
CPC & FINCOM CPC
RECOMMENDATIONS FINCOM VOTE VOTE
Technology
District Data Management System $ 107,000 5-1-0 7-0-0
Voice Mail and Phone Consolidation ( VOIP) 9,000 6-1-0 7-0-0
Staff Computer Replacements ( 22) 14,000 6-1-0 7-0-0
Computer Laptop Carts – Elementary 17,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Computer Laptop Carts – GMS 33,000 6-0-1 7-0-0
Digital Cameras Replacement Art Dept. 8,000 6-0-1 7-0-0
Computer Netbook Carts(2) –HS 12,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Building Improvements
Asbestos Removal and Disposal – JFK 11,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Carpet Replacement – JFK 9,
000 7-0-0 6-1-0
Security Hardware Replacement – JFK 6,
000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Carpet Replacement with Tile – GMS 14,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Program Improvements
Wellness Equipment 3,
000 6-1-0 7-0-0
Textbooks – Math/ English Language Arts 47,000 5-1-0 7-0-0
Furniture & Fixtures
Systemwide – Gymnasium Repairs 16,000 7-1-0 7-0-0
GRAND TOTAL $ 306,000
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual
appropriations. The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount
appropriated isone line item in the total sum of Three Hundred Six Thousand Dollars ($306,000). The
Finance Director and the Business Manager of the School Department, acting jointly, are herby
authorized to distribute such funds in such amanner as may be needed to accomplish the forgoing list
of purchases; provided, however, that each item contained in the list isprocured and that the excess
27 –Source page 28
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
funds are available because one or more items cost less than estimated and not because an item
intended to be procured isnot so procured.
MOTION 3
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee strongly supports the use ofcash capital to
support the critical capital projects needed toimprove the School'sinfrastructure and does not support the use of
cash capital tosupplement structural budget deficits. The Finance Committee discussed their concern with the
School'sCommittee'srequest foradata management system and the consultant needed toimplement this system,
but the majority voted tosupport this request after Superintendent explained that this system isrequired for the
town tocomply with state mandated reporting and will beinstrumental for soliciting state funding. After the
Finance Committee took their vote, the School Committee voted toforego many ofthese capital requests and
include some ofthe funds forthese items intheir operating budget. Itisthe Finance Committee’sbelief that the
School Committee may modify this motion onthe floor ofTown Meeting.
MOTION 3
CAPITAL PLANNING DISCUSSIONS:
Technology
District Data Manager/ Consultant ($ 54,000)
Contractor, District Data System Conversion and Management ($ 54,000)
This contractor would beresponsible for the conversion toanew data information system tomake the district
compliant with new federal data requirements. Under aone-year contract, the contractor would lead aneffort to
assess needs, recommend the new system and help provide staff training toensure that itisbeing used properly.
Inaddition, the contractor would integrate and manage the district’svarious information systems, including
student, medical, food services, grading, special education and transportation. Finally, the contractor would be
responsible formanaging alldata linkages with the US Department ofEducation.
District Data Management System ($ 53,000)
Purchase District Integrated Data Management System ($53,000)
This project would include the purchase anew data management system and the costs oftransferring alldata from
the district’scurrent system and initial staff training. New regulations from the DESI (Department ofElementary
and Secondary Information) require substantially more data collection from districts inorder tocomply. The new
data management system will improve the accuracy and efficiency ofthe delivery ofthe required data tothe DESI.
Voice Mail and Phone Consolidation ( VOIP) ($ 9,000)
This project will replace the district’ssix outdated voicemail systems, which are DOS-based and nolonger
supported, with asingle new, integrated system providing better reliability and remote access.
Staff Computer Replacement - GMS, CHS, Luce, Hansen ($ 14,000)
Many ofthe system’sstaff computers are older Pentium 3’s and Pentium 4’s and need tobereplaced aspart of
Canton’sdistrict replacement plan. This replacement will include 22desktop PCs and monitors and improve overall
performance and productivity.
Elementary School Student Computer Laptop Carts ($17,000)
This project would expand last year’s successful elementary test ofproviding carts with multiple laptops for
students touse within the classroom rather than computer labs. This item would cover the cost oftwo carts with
12 laptops, wireless printer and router.
Computer Laptop Carts – Galvin Middle School ($33,000)
This project would extend into GMS last year’s successful elementary test ofproviding carts with multiple laptops
for students touse within the classroom rather than computer labs. This item would cover the cost of3-4carts
with 12 laptops, wireless printer and router.
Digital Cameras Replacement – CHS Art Department ($ 8,000)
The CHS Art Department cameras are 10+ years old, use floppy disks and are not compatible with the
department’scomputers orcurrent software. This project will purchase 23new digital cameras, batteries and
charger forthe use ofstudents and teachers.
CHS Social Studies Department Classroom Netbooks and Support Equipment ($ 12,000)
Instead ofanadditional computer lab, this set ofclassroom Netbooks will allow access tothe Internet and other
educational applications sothat students can work collaboratively while being online inthe classroom. This item
would cover the cost ofacart, 25Netbook computers, printers, and additional support equipment.
28 –Source page 29
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Building Improvements
Carpet and Asbestos Removal and Disposal - JFK School Library ($11,000)
This project will remove and dispose approximately 2000 square feet ofcarpet, tile and underlying asbestos
containing mastic from the JFK School Library. The carpet has buckled over the years and poses atripping hazard.
The project includes airclearance testing after the asbestos removal.
Carpet Installation - JFK School Library ($9,000)
After removal ofthe old carpet, tile and underlying asbestos, new carpeting will beinstalled inthe JFK School
Library. The project includes prep, carpeting with cushioned moisture barrier backing, cover base and transitions.
Security Hardware Replacement – JFK ($6,000)
This project will replace existing lockdown equipment atthe JFK School with new panic devices that will improve
lockdown security. The new devices will allow school personnel tolockdown the outside trim from the inside.
Carpet Replacement with Tile - Galvin Middle School ($14,000)
The existing carpet inthe Galvin office complex isinpoor condition and represents asignificant tripping hazard.
This project will demo and remove the existing carpet and vinyl base, replacing itwith approximately 2,295 square
feet ofvinyl tile.
Program Improvements
Wellness Equipment ($ 3,000)
CPC and the Finance Committee both agree with the School’sWellness Department’srequest for alow element
adventure site.
Textbooks – Math/ English Language Arts ($47,000)
The School Department wishes tospend $212,000 for textbooks with $47,000 paid from cash capital with the
balance of $165,000 borrowed.
Furniture & Fixtures
Systemwide – Gymnasium Repairs ($ 16,000)
The School Department has prioritized repairing allthe school gymnasiums asahigh priority.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 4
MOVED: That Three Hundred Thirty Two Thousand Dollars ($332,000) be appropriated to be spent by
the Board of Selectmen to pay costs of various capital projects and equipment as set forth below and to
meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, be
authorized to borrow, pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the
sum of Three Hundred Thirty Two Thousand Dollars ($332,000).
FINCOM CPC
RECOMMENDATIONS FINCOM VOTE VOTE
Replace 2001 Elgin Pelican Street Sweeper $ 167,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
Replace 1996 Ford L8000 Dump Sander 165,000 7-0-0 7-0-0
TOTAL $ 332,000
The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be appropriated is
one line item in the total amount of Three Hundred Thirty Two Thousand Dollars ($332,000). The
Finance Director and the Town Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such
funds in such manner as may be needed to accomplish the foregoing list of projects; provided,
however, that each project contained in the list set forth above is undertaken and that any excess
funds are available because one or more of the listed projects cost less than was estimated and not
because aproject intended to be undertaken is not so undertaken.
MOTION 4
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports the recommendations of
the CPC.
29 –Source page 30
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSIONS:
Replace 2001 Elgin Pelican Street Sweeper ($ 167,000)
The Sweeper Unit has 4,000 hours ofuse. The recommend replacement cycle forthis type ofvehicle iseight years
or3,000 hours. The Public Works Department has spent $66,600 onrepairs and upkeep onthis sweeper. This is
the only large street sweeper owned bythe town.
Replace 1996 Ford L8000 Dump Sander ($165,000)
The Dump Sander has 53,550 miles ofuse. The recommend replacement cycle forthis type ofvehicle isten years
or68,000 miles. The Public Works Department has spent $32,500 onrepairs and upkeep on this truck. This isa
primary piece ofsnow & ice fighting equipment and used for emergency spill calls. The new truck will beequipped
with stainless steel multi-purpose sander dump body and large plow.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
MOTION 5
MOVED: That One Million Four Hundred Ninety Three Thousand Dollars ($1,493,000) be appropriated
to be spent by the School Committee to pay costs of various capital projects and equipment as set forth
below for the School Department and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval
of the Board of Selectmen, be authorized to borrow, pursuant to any applicable statute or any other
enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Million Four Hundred Ninety Three Thousand Dollars
1,493,000).
CPC & FINCOM CPC
RECOMMENDATIONS FINCOM VOTE VOTE
Systemwide HVAC Replacements $ 112,000 6-0-0 7-0-0
Systemwide Plumbing Improvements inc. ADA 79,000 6-0-0 7-0-0
Boiler Replacement Rodman 130,000 6-0-0 3-2-2
Space Needs/ Modular - JFK 899,000 6-0-0 6-1-0
Installation of Energy Efficient Lighting in 108,000 6-0-0 7-0-0
Various School Buildings
Systemwide Textbooks - Math/ English Language Arts 165,000 4-1-1 seebelow)
TOTAL $ 1,493,000
The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount to be appropriated is
one line item in the total amount of One Million Four Hundred Ninety Three Thousand Dollars
1,493,000). The Finance Director and the School Business Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby
authorized to distribute such funds in such manner as may be needed to accomplish the foregoing list
of projects subject to the approval of the Building Renovations Committee; provided, however, that
each project contained in the list set forth above is undertaken and that any excess funds are available
because one or more of the listed projects cost less than was estimated and not because aproject
intended to be undertaken is not so undertaken.
MOTION 5
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: Motion 5isamotion toauthorize short and long term debt spending for
the School Department’scapital items. The Finance Committee unanimously supported allcapital expenditure
items inthis motion other than the Textbooks. The cash capital requests for the School Department are inmotion
3,where aportion ofthe textbook purchase isrequested. The School Department determined that approximately
212,000 isneeded this year forthe purchase ofmathematics textbooks forthe middle school and the first phase
oftheir K –5ELA textbooks. Since they could only commit $47,000 ofeach year’s cash capital, for the next 5
years, toward this purchase, the School Committee requests that the Town bond, over the next 5years, the
remaining $165,000. This will be paid off with yearly cash capital commitments of $47,000. The Finance
Committee strongly discourages capital expenditures that commit adepartment'sbudgeted cash capital infuture
years. The Finance Committee believes that cash capital acquisitions should belimited tothe funds available each
year. This concern was discussed with the School Committee. However, the Majority ofthe Finance Committee
supported this motion after hearing from the School Committee that the future cash capital commitment from this
purchase represented only 10%ofthe school'sbudgeted cash capital inthe future years. The Minority believes
that some ofthe acquisition should bedeferred until cash capital funds become available infuture years.
30 –Source page 31
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
MOTION 5
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSIONS:
Systemwide HVAC Replacements ($ 112,000)
This isanongoing program toreplace and upgrade theHVAC systems inthe Town’s three elementary schools,
Galvin Middle School, Canton High School and the Rodman Administration Building.
Systemwide Plumbing Improvements ($ 79,000)
This isan annual expense tofund repairs and upgrades toplumbing inthe three elementary schools, Middle
School, High School and Rodman Administration Building. Projects include bathroom upgrades, ongoing repair and
maintenance toschools plumbing and ADA upgrades.
Rodman Building – Boiler Replacement ($ 130,000)
The current steam heating system inthe Rodman Building isthe original and was installed in1946. The system
has required numerous repairs annually costing over $20,000. This will fund replacement ofnew energy efficient
system that will heat the entire building inasafe and more modern manner. Additional funding for this project will
befunded byan energy performance contract that has been entered into by the School Committee.
JFK – Space Needs/ Modular ($899,000)
This will fund the construction offour new classrooms atthe Kennedy School toadd capacity tothat facility. This
will provide more balance with the other elementary schools tohelp balance student requirements inthe district.
Inaddition this provides the School Committee future flexibility inaligning classroom size and enable children to
stay within their neighborhood throughout their elementary schools years.
Lighting Upgrades ($ 108,000)
This will fund energy efficient upgrades tolighting atthe three elementary schools, Galvin Middle School, High
School and Rodman Building. Similar tothe Boiler replacement this ispartially funded through an energy
performance contract with savings being projected tothe schools inthe form ofsavings inutility savings.
Systemwide Textbooks - Math/ English Language Arts ($165,000)
This will fund the purchase ofnew upgraded textbooks forthe elementary and middle schools aspart ofanupdate
inthe curriculum that isrequired tokeep the schools incompliance with MA Dept ofEducation. The current
textbooks inuse are out ofdate and donot provide the proper material forstudents using them in2011.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Motion 6
MOVED: That One Hundred Eighty Seven Thousand Dollars ($187,000) be appropriated to be
spent by the Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Board of Selectmen
to pay costs of replacing Well No. 10 and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the
approval of the Board of Selectmen be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any
other enabling authority as may be, the sum of One Hundred Eighty Seven Thousand Dollars
187,000). It is the intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general
obligations of the Town but are to be repaid in the first instance from water revenues.
VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 6
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this recommendation of
the CPC.
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: Town Well No. 10 islocated off ofForest Avenue and has
shown areduction incapacity. Ithas been cleaned and renewed several times but these efforts have failed to
bring its yield back toexpected capacity. Currently the wall screen has collapsed and the pump has failed.
Request covers site, permit, design, bid and construct ofareplacement ground water well.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
31 –Source page 32
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Motion 7
MOVED: That Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($700,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Board of Selectmen to pay costs
of valve and hydrant replacements and to meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer with the
approval of the Board of Selectmen be authorized to borrow pursuant to any applicable statute or any
other enabling authority as may be, the sum of Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($700,000). It isthe
intent that the bonds and notes issued pursuant to this authority be general obligations of the Town
but are to be repaid in the first instance from water revenues.
VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 7
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this recommendation of
the CPC.
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Water Division has identified approximately 100 fire
hydrants and 25water gate valves that need replacement. Many ofthese are in,but not limited to, the Cedarcrest
Road area. Request covers the design, bid, construct and inspection ofhydrant and valve replacement and
installation.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Motion 8
MOVED: That Seventy Thousand Dollars ($70,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Board of Selectmen to pay costs
of hydraulic improvements/ valve and hydrant replacements and to meet said appropriation Seventy
Thousand Dollars ($70,000) be transferred from the water enterprise surplus (retained earnings).
VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 8
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this recommendation of
the CPC.
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Water System Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) was
originally developed in2000 and updated in2003 and 2005, and has been largely funded and executed. The new
update will include calibration ofthe system computer model, identifying capital needs and prioritizing aschedule.
The CIP should beupdated inlight ofthe new water treatment plants coming on-line. The data and system model
provide aplanning road map and allows the Public Works Department tocontinue toaddress the Town's needs ina
methodical way.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Motion 9
MOVED: That Forty Nine Thousand Dollars ($49,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Board of Selectmen for the
purpose of purchasing autility truck with plow and to meet said appropriation Forty Nine Thousand
Dollars ($49,000) be transferred from the sewer enterprise surplus (retained earnings).
VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 9
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: After discussing the proposed use ofthis vehicle with town officials
Finance Committee unanimously supported the purchase ofthe vehicle recommended bythe CPC. However, the
Finance Committee believes that this vehicle should reside within the sewer enterprise budget.
32 –Source page 33
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: This replaces Truck No. 8which has 149,000 miles ofuse.
The recommended replacement cycle for this type ofvehicle isten years or60,000 miles. The Department of
Public Works has spent over $15,000 on repairs and upkeep. This isthe meter repair crew truck and inaddition to
daily use, isalso used foremergency calls and forsnow plowing.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
Motion 10
MOVED: That Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Recreation Director with the approval of the Board of Selectmen to pay the costs of rink
roof repairs and to meet said appropriation Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000) be transferred from
the rink enterprise surplus.
VOTE: 7-0-0
MOTION 10
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this recommendation of
the CPC.
CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: This project will fund repairs foradamaged roof area inthe
skate shop area ofthe town rink and will be funded by debt capital from the rink enterprise fund.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE14
AMEND ZONING BY-LAW SEC. 2.17 PARKLAND, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE DISTRICT WITH NEW
LANGUAGE
Article 14 To see ifthe Town will vote toamend Section 2.17ofthe Canton zoning by-Laws asmost recently
amended, asfollows:
STRIKE points F.,G., H.,and Iunder section 2.17.2
Insert new section:
2.17.3Construction, Repair and Restoration of Existing Buildings
Abuilding orstructure currently located within aParkland, Recreation and Open Space District may be repaired or
reconstructed within the same portion ofthe lot and used asbefore, provided that such repairs orreconstruction
do not alter the footprint, height orlocation ofthe building orstructure. The Board ofAppeals may, however, ina
specific case authorize aspecial exception from the height requirement where, inthe opinion ofthe Board, such a
height limit orrequirement will impose undue hardship. Such height exceptions will belimited toan increase ofno
more than 50%ofthe original building orstructure.
Insert new section:
2.17.4Construction of New Buildings
Any lawful building orstructure existing atthe time this By-Law orany amendment thereto isadopted may be
repaired asdescribed inSection 2.17.3 ofthis By-Law. Noadditional buildings orstructures may beconstructed
within aParkland, Recreation and Open Space District.
Petition by/for Patricia Johnson and 14 others
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 14 be deferred to the Planning Board.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-1
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 14 be indefinitely postponed.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 3-0-1
33 –Source page 34
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: Because there appears tobelittle, ifany, financial impact tothe Town
from this change, the Finance Committee unanimously votes todefer recommendations for Article 14 tothe
Planning Board.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE15
RECODIFICATION AND AMENDMENT OF THE ZONING BY-LAWS
Article 15 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toamend the Canton Zoning By-Law by deleting the following provisions in
their entireties:
Article I: Administration and Procedures
Article II: District Use Regulations ( Excepting All Zoning Maps)
Article III: Special conditions Relating toNon Residential Buildings and
Uses.
Article IV: General Regulations
Article V: Special Regulations
And bySubstituting the following therefore, soastorecodify completely and astoamend and restate the Zoning
By-Laws asfollows:
Section 1.0: Purpose and Authority
Section 2.0: Districts
Section 3.0: Use Regulations
Section 4.0: Dimensional Requirements
Section 5.0: Nonconforming Uses and Structures
Section 6.0: General Regulations
Section 7.0: Special Regulations
Section 8.0: Special Residential Regulations
Section 9.0: Special Districts
Section 10.0: Administration and Procedures
Section 11.0: Definitions
Full text ofwhich shall beonfile and available forpublic view atthe office ofthe Planning Board, atthe Office of
the Town Clerk, atthe Office ofthe Board ofSelectmen, atthe research desk atthe Canton Public Library and on
the town web site, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for the Board of Appeals
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 15 be indefinitely postponed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 6-0-1
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Canton Zoning By-Law be amended by deleting the following provisions in
their entireties:
Article I: Administration and Procedures
Article II: District Use Regulations ( Excepting All Zoning Maps)
Article III: Special conditions Relating to Non Residential Buildings and
Uses.
Article IV: General Regulations
Article V: Special Regulations
And by Substituting the following therefore, so as to recodify completely, amend and restate the
Zoning By-Laws as follows:
Section 1.0: Purpose and Authority
34 –Source page 35
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Section 2.0: Districts
Section 3.0: Use Regulations
Section 4.0: Dimensional Requirements
Section 5.0: Nonconforming Uses and Structures
Section 6.0: General Regulations
Section 7.0: Special Regulations
Section 8.0: Special Residential Regulations
Section 9.0: Special Districts
Section 10.0: Administration and Procedures
Section 11.0: Definitions
Full text of which ison file and available for public view at the office of the Planning Board, at the
Office of the Town Clerk, at the Office of the Board of Selectmen, at the research desk at the Canton
Public Library and on the Town web site.
PLANNING BOARD VOTE: 4-0-0
FINANCE COMMITTEE DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee did not have enough information todetermine
the financial impact ofthis Article atthe time ofvoting because the zoning Article changes had not been
completed.
PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION: The Planning Board voted tosend afavorable recommendation insupport of
this article. The Planning Board supports the recodification ofCanton’sZoning By-Laws, many ofwhich date back
tothe 1930s. The intent ofthe recodification istomodernize and clarify the language ofCanton’sZoning By-Laws
and toensure compliance with statutory requirements orjudicial decisions. The proposed By-Law constitutes a
reorganization and clarification ofthe current By-Law and the sections have been arranged and ordered tobe ina
more logical and user-friendly format. The recodification also proposes toinclude performance standards for the
Zoning Board ofAppeals and the Planning Board torefer toduring site plan review process, something that is
absent inthe current By-Law. These performance standards would include standards for lighting, noise, storm-
water management, pedestrian and vehicular access, site development standards, and fiscal analysis.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE16
THE REINSTATEMENT OF THE ROUTE 138 REVITALIZATION STUDY COMMITTEE
Article 16 To see ifthe Town will vote toreinstate the Route 138 Revitalization Study Committee, asvoted under
Article 3ofATM 2008 to:
Examine potential factors which may contribute towards further economic revitalization ofthe Route 138 Corridor
inCanton aswell aspotentially surrounding areas. Factors which may bestudied may include but are not limited
to: traffic, egress, and transportation issues, parking and potential parking structures, state and federal grants,
land use, existing and proposed zoning, marketing, etc.
Said committee shall becalled the “The Route 138 Revitalization Study Committee” and shall becomprised of
eleven members appointed bythe Town Moderator for aterm toexpire atthe conclusion ofAnnual Town Meeting
2011. Committee composition shall be:
One representative ofthe Board ofSelectmen
One representative ofthe Planning Board
One representative ofthe Zoning Board ofAppeals
One representative ofthe Conservation Commission
One representative ofthe Economic Development commission
One representative ofthe Canton Association ofIndustries
Five citizens atlarge
35 –Source page 36
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
Said committee shall hold public meetings, duly advertised, on aschedule they shall deem adequate with the
intention that the Committee shall present afinal report toAnnual Town Meeting 2011, ortotake any other action
related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Route 138 Revitalization Study Committee, as established by the motion voted
pursuant to Article 3of the 2008 Annual Town Meeting, be reinstated in order to:
Examine potential factors which may contribute towards further economic revitalization of the Route
138 Corridor in Canton as well as potentially surrounding areas. Factors which may be studied may
include but are not limited to: traffic, egress, and transportation issues, parking and potential parking
structures, state and federal grants, land use, existing and proposed zoning, marketing, etc.
Said committee shall be called the “The Route 138 Revitalization Study Committee” and shall be
comprised of eleven members appointed by the Town Moderator for aterm to expire at the conclusion
of Annual Town Meeting 2011. Committee composition shall be:
One representative of the Board of Selectmen
One representative of the Planning Board
One representative of the Zoning Board of Appeals
One representative of the Conservation Commission
One representative of the Economic Development commission
One representative of the Canton Association of Industries
Five citizens at large
Said committee shall hold public meetings, duly advertised, on aschedule they shall deem adequate
with the intention that the Committee shall present afinal report to Annual Town Meeting 2011.
VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this Article. There were discussions ofpotentially
limiting the scope and recommending toATM that the committee have clear parameters as tothe area tobe
studied. The BOS representative felt that the committee should have the option ofdeciding the geographical
parameters and recommendations for the study. The Rt. 138 committee will report tothe 2011 ATM with their
written and oral report. The majority ofthe Finance Committee members believe that amember ofthe Finance
Committee should be added tothe committee and makes that recommendation tothe Town Moderator.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE17
LOCAL OPTION MEALS EXCISE
Article 17 To see ifthe Town will vote toaccept section 2(a)chapter 64 Lofthe General Laws ofthe
Commonwealth toimpose an excise tax of .75%onsales ofrestaurant meals totake effect onJuly 1,2010; or
take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: Moved that Section 2(a) of Chapter 64L of the General laws of the Commonwealth as
established by section 60 of chapter 27 of the Acts of 2009, which section 2(a) would impose an excise
tax of .75% on sales of restaurant meals, be accepted by the town to take effect July 1,2010.
VOTE: 4-3-0
36 –Source page 37
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
FINANCE COMMITTEE MAJORITY DISCUSSION: The Majority ofthe Finance Committee supported amotion
toaccept section 2(a)chapter 64 Lofthe General Laws ofthe Commonwealth for anexcise tax of .75%on sales of
restaurant meals. Members ofthe majority did not feel that this tax would create an undue burden tothe
residents ofCanton; especially the members ofour community that can least afford topay additional taxes. The
Majority did not believe that this tax would cause an undue burden toour town's business owners because the
small amount ofthe tax would not cause consumers topatronize restaurants outside Canton. Finally, while
members ofthe Majority recognize that this tax may not create the amount ofrevenue that was projected by the
state, the Majority believed itwas important toadopt alloptions offered by the state toraise additional revenue to
mitigate the reductions instate funding forCanton. The majority believes this will strengthen the town's position
when requesting additional state support.
FINANCE COMMITTEE MINORITY DISCUSSION: The minority ofthe Finance Committee disagreed with the
Local Option meals tax. They felt that the revenue was almost negligible and the burden was shifted specifically to
local business owners and town residents that patronized Canton restaurants.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE18
LOCAL OPTION ROOM OCCUPANCY EXCISE
Article 18 To see ifthe Town will vote toaccept section 3A ofchapter 64G ofthe General Laws ofthe
Commonwealth and toamend the Town'slocal room occupancy excise under such chapter 64G, section 3A tothe
rate of6%totake effect on July 1,2010, on the rental ofrooms inhotels, motels, lodging houses and bed and
breakfast establishments; asprovided bysuch law; ortake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That sections 51 and 52 of Chapter 27 of the Acts of 2009 amending section 3A of
chapter 64G of the General Laws be hereby accepted and that the town'slocal room occupancy excise
under such chapter 64G, section 3A be hereby amended to be the rate of six percent (6%)to take
effect on July 1,2010, on the rental of rooms in hotels, motels, lodging houses and bed and breakfast
establishments, as provided by such law.
VOTE: 5-2-0
DISCUSSION: The Majority ofthe Finance Committee supported amotion toaccept section 3(a)chapter 64G of
the General Laws ofthe Commonwealth foralocal excise tax of2%onrental ofrooms inhotels, motels, lodging
houses and bed and breakfast establishments. Currently Canton does not have any hotels ormotels, however, the
recent passage ofthe Hotel Overlay Zoning district and strong interest ofdevelopers tobuild alocal hotel implies
that such establishments may be built inCanton inthe near future. Members ofthe majority did not feel that this
tax would create anundue burden tothe residents ofCanton oronany future hotel business. Finally the Majority
believed itwas important toadopt all options offered bythe state toraise additional revenue tomitigate the
reductions instate funding for Canton asitwill strengthen the town's position when requesting additional state
support.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
37 –Source page 38
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
ARTICLE19
EXPAND THE PERSONAL PROPERTY EXEMPTION AMOUNT
Article 19 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toaccept the provisions ofG.L.chapter 59, Section 5,clause 54, as
inserted bySection 114 ofChapter 159 ofthe Acts of2000, and toestablish avalue of $10,000 asthe minimum
value ofpersonal property tobe subject totaxation, ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen for Board of Assessors
MOVED: That chapter 59, Section 5,clause 54, as inserted by Section 114 of Chapter 159 of the
Acts of 2000 be accepted by the town, and that avalue of $10,000 be established as the minimum
value of personal property to be subject to taxation.
VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports the adoption ofArticle 19. The adoption would
allow the Board ofAssessors aswell asthe Finance Department some relief from the overhead ofadministering the
personal property tax from the smallest tax bills byeliminating 104 accounts totaling $15,000. The adoption of
this Article will not raise orlower the total amount oftaxes that the Town can collect; the loss inPersonal Property
valuation would bespread out tothe remaining Commercial, Industrial and Personal Property tax rate.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE20
ACQUISITION OF EASEMENT( S) TURNPIKE STREET/ LANE
Article 20 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen toacquire by purchase, gift or
eminent domain permanent easements over orunder allorany portion ofthe properties known as756 Turnpike
Street and 784 Turnpike Street and the right ofway known asTurnpike Lane and asshown onthe plan entitled
Water & Sewer Plan, 756 & 784 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA for Pat Considine,” dated January 15, 2008, prepared
byCivil Environmental Consultants and onfile with the Town Clerk, for the purposes ofaccessing, installing,
operating and maintaining water and sewer lines and transmitting water and sewage toand through such
properties and right ofway, tosee ifthe Town will vote toappropriate, borrow pursuant toany applicable statute
ortransfer from available funds, asum ofmoney forsuch purposes; ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent
domain permanent easements over or under all or any portion of the properties known as 756 Turnpike
Street and 784 Turnpike Street and the right of way known as Turnpike Lane and as shown on the plan
entitled “Water & Sewer Plan, 756 & 784 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA for Pat Considine,” dated
January 15, 2008, and prepared by Civil Environmental Consultants, for the purposes of accessing,
installing, operating and maintaining water and sewer lines and transmitting water and sewage to and
through such properties and right of way.
VOTE: 5-1-1
DISCUSSION: The owner ofthe two properties listed inthis Article requested hookup tothe Town’s sewer
system. This Article formally allows the Town toobtain the necessary easements for this sewer line and forfuture
needs. The owner, acontractor will doallthe work and will upgrade, atthe Town’s request, toalarger sized pipe.
This will save the Town the cost ofany future upgrade, benefit the owner’sproperties and provide the future
opportunity for sewer connection tothe other residents onTurnpike Lane ifthe need arose. Itisthe Finance
Committee'sunderstanding that the Town will incur no material costs for these easements.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
38 –Source page 39
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
ARTICLE21
ACQUIRE PERMANENT WATER EASEMENT – WASHINGTON STREET TO GREEN STREET ALONG THE
CANTON/ MILTON TOWN LINE
Article 21 To see ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen toacquire by purchase, gift or
eminent domain permanent easements over and under allorany portions ofthe properties known asCanton Tax
Assessor Map 70, Parcel 17and Map 71, Parcel 33and asshown onthe plan entitled “Plan ofEasements inCanton,
Mass.,” dated July 15, 1997, prepared by the Norfolk County Engineering Department and onfile with the Town
Engineer asParcel 1 ~1,223± sq. ft.,Parcel 2 ~2,850 ± sq. ft.,Existing 15.00' Right ofWay and Existing 15'
Right ofWay forthe purposes ofaccessing, installing, operating and maintaining within said Parcel 1and Parcel 2
utilities, sewer lines, water lines, stormwater drains and lines, electricity and telecommunication lines and facilities,
and allrelated connections, fixtures and appurtenances toserve said Parcel 1and Parcel 2and other properties; to
see ifthe Town will vote toappropriate, borrow pursuant toany applicable statute ortransfer from available funds,
asum ofmoney forsuch purposes; ortotake any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent
domain permanent easements over and under all or any portions of the properties known as Canton
Tax Assessor Map 70, Parcel 33 and Map 71, Parcel 17 and as shown on the plan entitled “Plan of
Easements in Canton, Mass.,” dated July 15, 1997, and prepared by the Norfolk County Engineering
Department as Parcel 1 ~12,231± sq. ft.,Parcel 2 ~2,850± sq. ft.,Existing 15.00' Right of Way and
Existing 15' Right of Way for the purposes of accessing, installing, operating and maintaining within
said Parcel 1and Parcel 2utilities, sewer lines, water lines, stormwater drains and lines, electricity and
telecommunication lines and facilities, and all related connections, fixtures and appurtenances to serve
said Parcel 1and Parcel 2and other properties.
VOTE: 7-0-0
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this Article because the property will be needed tocomplete
planned water and sewer projects.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE22
VOTE TO RELEASE TOWN SEWER EASEMENTS
Article 22 Tosee ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen tosell, convey, release orotherwise
dispose ofthe permanent sewer easements located offGreenlodge Street, Elm Street, Hoosic Drive and Cherokee
Road asshown onthe set ofplans containing four sheets entitled “Ponkapoag Brook Interceptor Sewer, Canton,
Mass., Plan ofEasement Taken for Sewer Purposes,” prepared byWhitman & Howard, Inc., dated July 1964,
recorded atthe Norfolk County Registry ofDeeds inPlan Book 217 asPlan Nos. 1040-1043, and onfile with the
Town Engineering Division ofthe Department ofPublic Works, orlesser interests therein, ortotake any other
action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to sell, convey, release or otherwise dispose
of the permanent sewer easements located off Green Lodge Street, Elm Street, Hoosic Drive and
Cherokee Road as shown on the set of plans containing four sheets entitled “Ponkapoag Brook
Interceptor Sewer, Canton, Mass., Plan of Easement Taken for Sewer Purposes,” prepared by Whitman
Howard, Inc., dated July 1964, and recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in Plan Book
217 as Plan Nos. 1040-1043 for aminimum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) each.
VOTE: 6-0-1
39 –Source page 40
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 26, 2010
DISCUSSION: These easements were taken many years ago and there have been nosewer orwater pipes
placed inthese easements. The BOS representative who spoke tothe Committee indicated that itisdoubtful that
the town would ever need these easements inthe future. Since there isno apparent financial impact tothe Town
the Finance Committee supports this Article.
APPROVED__________ DISAPPROVED__________
ARTICLE23
VOTE TO APPROVE ACQUISITION OF EASEMENTS FOR IMPROVEMENT OF TURNPIKE STREET – ROUTE
138 SEGMENT 2
Article 23 To see ifthe Town will vote toauthorize the Board ofSelectmen toacquire bypurchase, gift or
eminent domain permanent and temporary easements orlesser title interests inallorany portions ofthe parcels of
land on Turnpike Street listed below and shown on the plan entitled “Preliminary Right ofWay Plans, Turnpike
Street (Route 138) – Segment 2,inthe Town ofCanton, Norfolk County,” dated December 18, 2009, prepared by
the Massachusetts Department ofTransportation Highway Division and onfile with the Office ofthe Town Clerk,
for the purposes ofaccessing, grading, constructing and reconstructing sidewalks, curbing and driveways, installing
drains and utilities, landscaping and improving Turnpike Street; tosee ifthe Town will vote toappropriate, borrow
pursuant toany applicable statute ortransfer from available funds, asum ofmoney forsuch purposes; ortotake
any other action related thereto.
Property Address Assessor ID
138 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 77
122 & 124 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 171
116 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 78
0Randolph & 109 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lots 60 and 64
0Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 79
106 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 22
91 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 46
21 Red Tail Run Map 81, Lot 45
81 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 3
59 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 7
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the Board of Selectmen be authorized to acquire by purchase, gift or eminent
domain permanent and temporary easements or lesser title interests in all or any portions of the
parcels of land on Turnpike Street listed below and shown on the plan entitled “Preliminary Right of
Way Plans, Turnpike Street (Route 138) – Segment 2,in the Town of Canton, Norfolk County,” dated
December 18, 2009, and prepared by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation Highway
Division, for the purposes of accessing, grading, constructing and reconstructing sidewalks, curbing
and driveways, installing drains and utilities, landscaping and improving Turnpike Street, as follows:
Property Address Assessor ID
138 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 77
122 & 124 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 171
116 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 78
0Randolph & 109 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lots 60 and 64
0 Turnpike St. Map 80, Lot 79
106 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 22
91 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 46
21 Red Tail Run Map 81, Lot 45
81 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 3
59 Turnpike St. Map 81, Lot 7
VOTE: 7-0-0
40 –