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Canton Town Meeting — 2011 ATM
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Source page 1
Recommendations of the Finance Committee
to the Voters of Canton, Massachusetts
2011
TOWN OF CANTON
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
MONDAY, APRIL 25, 2011 @ 7:
30 p.
m.
Morse Auditorium
Canton High School
900 Washington Street, Canton
Study this report and come to Annual Town Meeting.
Bring this report with you.
000
84, 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 . ton.
a. canton. and click on
us 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 a free FEMA Emergency the disabled. For more information, please call
Preparedness Handbook. 781 -821 -
5000.Source page 2
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pacie #
Reports
FinanceCommittee Report ............................................. ............................... 4
Charts and Exhibits
Figure 1 - Historical Summary of Expenses - FY00 -FY11 Estimated .......... 6
Figure 2 - Reserve Accounts & Bond Rating Agency Expectation ................ 7
Figure 3 - Distribution of Automatic Increases in the Current Teacher
SalaryStructure ............................................................ ............................... 9
TownFinance Terminology ............................................. ............................... 11
A Guide to Participating at Town Meeting ...................... ............................... 11
Note to All Voters Concerning Town Meeting Procedures ............................. 12
Summaryof Revenue and Expenditures ......................... ............................... 14
Adjust Fiscal 2011 Accounts - Budgets to be Supplemented ........................ 20
RevolvingFunds .............................................................. ............................... 23
Votesto Transfer Available Funds .................................. ............................... 104
Operating Budget by Voting Category FY 2012 .............. ............................... 106
Operating Budget by Department - Detail FY2012 ........ ............................... 108
CPC 5 Y
- ear Spending Plan for Municipal Departments ... ............................... 116
CPC 5 Y
- ear Spending Plan for Self-Supported Funds ..... ............................... 116
CPC 5 Year
- Spending Plan for Enterprise Funds ............. ............................... 117
CPC 5 Y
- ear Spending Plan for School Committee ........... ............................... 118
Annual Town Meeting Articles
Art. Pape Pape
# #
1 Elect a Moderator ............................................................ ............................... 15
2 Adopt Rules to Govern Town Meeting ............................. ............................... 1515
3 Hear Reports of Committees Appointed at Prior Town Meetings .................. 17
4 Act on "Consent Agenda" ................................................ ............................... 17
5 Collective Bargaining Agreements Under the Board of Selectmen ............... 18
6 Funding of Cost Items Not in Departmental Budgets ..... ............................... 18
7 Set Salaries of Elected Officers ....................................... ............................... 19
8 Pay Bills of Prior Fiscal Year ........................................... ............................... 20
9 Adjust Fiscal ' 11 Accounts .............................................. ............................... 20
10 Transfer Unexpended Prior Year Appropriations ........... ............................... 21
11 Authorize Contracts of More Than Three Years Duration ............................. 22
12 Authorize Certain Revolving Funds ................................ ............................... 23
13 Omnibus" Capital Outlay Program ............................... ............................... 25
2-Source page 3
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Art. Page #
14 Proposed Amendment to Zoning By Laws
- - Ground- Mounted Solar
Photovoltaic Installation Overlay District ( SPOD) .. ............................... 33
15 Proposed Amendment to Zoning By Laws
- - Canton Center Design Review.. 45
16 Proposed Amendment to Zoning By Laws
- - Adding Section -
Canton Center Economic Opportunity District (CCEOD) .......................... 57
17 Proposed Amendment to Zoning Map - Expanding Boundaries of
Canton Center Economic Overlay District ( CCEOD) ... ............................... 76
18 Proposed Amendment to Zoning By Laws
- - -Motor Vehicle Related Uses "... 77
19 Vote to Create a Deputy Chief Position within the Police Department ......... 78
20 Vote to Adjust Exemption M.G. Chapter 59, Section 5K (Property Tax
L.
Liability Reduced in Exchange for Volunteer Services) ........................... 79
21 Vote to Lease School Buildings for 20 Years for Solar Project ...................... 80
22 Creation of School Special Education Stabilization Fund .............................. 80
23 Energy Performance Contracting Procured under Ch. 25I ........................... 81
24 Addition to Kennedy School - Request Additional Funding ( MSBA) ............ 81
25 Canton High School Roof Repair Project (Green Repair - MSBA) ................. 82
26 Rodman Building Roof Repair Project ( Green Repair - MSBA) ..................... 83
27 Proposed Street Acceptance - Crisileo Way ................... ............................... 84
28 New Article XXII of General By Laws
- - Stretch Energy Code ...................... 86
29 Vote to Accept L.
M.G. Chapter 138, S33B for sale of Alcohol on Sundays
for Section 12 licensees between 10 A.M. and 12 Noon ......................... 88
30 Proposed Amendment to Article VII, Section 11 of General By Laws
-
Reports by Town Agencies to Provide Certain Information) ................. 88
31 Proposed Tax Amnesty Program ( per Ch. 188 S. 68 of Acts of 2010 ........... 90
32 Amend General By Law
- (Article XVI S. 7A) Capital Planning Committee ..... 90
33 Adopt New Procedures for Unclaimed Checks (per Ch. 188 S. 65) .............. 95
34 Local Option Meals Excise Tax ....................................... ............................... 97
35 Vote to Approve Acquisition of Reservoir Pond & Reservoir Pond Dam ....... 98
36 Acquire Permanent Easement - Washington Street to Green Street
Along the Canton /Milton Town Line .......................... ............................... 98
37 Article for Ponkapoag Golf Course ................................. ............................... 99
38 Additional 43D Priority Sites .......................................... ............................... 100
39 Massachusetts Community Preservation Act ................. ............................... 101
40 Accept General or Session Laws Enacted by the General Court .................... 102
41 Insurance Proceeds ........................................................ ............................... 102
42 Vote to Rescind Unused Borrowing Authorizations ....... ............................... 103
43 Transfer of Funds to Meet FY12 Appropriations ............. ............................... 103
44 Appropriate Funds to Meet Expenses for Next Fiscal Year ........................... 103
3—Source page 4
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Finance Committee Report to the Town of Canton for ATM 2011
Introduction
While many of our neighboring towns have made significant cuts in services, the added revenue from
Canton's 4.$5 million dollar override voted in May 2008 has allowed the Town to maintain its quality of
services through this economic downturn. The $70.1 million FYI operating budget recommended by the
Finance Committee in this year's warrant is expected to continue the level of services Canton residents
are accustomed to. The recommended budget represents a modest 1. 2% increase over the FYI budget
approved at the 2010 ATM.
However, not all of the news is good. The poor economic conditions, the decrease in State Aid and the
unexpected increase in the snow and ice and special education expenses are beginning to put stress on
Canton's financial position. This year, the School Department was required to identify nearly a million
dollars in cuts from their baseline budget to meet the Finance Committee's targeted spending. In
addition, Canton's reserves are expected to be reduced in FYI from $5.6 million to $5.0 million as of
June 30, 2011. This 10.7% reduction may threaten the Town's AAA Bond rating and ultimately increase
the town's future borrowing costs at a time when the town is being asked to borrow money for some large
capital projects.
In an effort to maintain the quality of services, the Finance Committee is also recommending that Canton
continue its capital funding at 5.5% of revenue. This is the sixth consecutive year that Canton has funded
its capital below the 6. 0% target, while Canton's need for capital improvements continues to grow. This
year, the Capital Planning Committee ( CPC) and the Finance Committee needed to make some very
difficult recommendations to accelerate capital spending and postpone some very important capital
projects.
While it is never easy for elected or appointed officials to recommend a tax increase, the Finance
Committee strongly recommends that the ATM voters approve Article 34 and allow the Town to increase
its meals tax from 6.
25%to 7.0 %. This change would only result in a 75 cent increase on a $100
restaurant bill but will allow Canton to collect an estimated $275,000 annually from the state. Canton
residents are currently paying this tax when they visit restaurants in neighboring towns, and Canton
deserves the opportunity to collect these funds from non -residents that visit Canton's restaurants.
Within this warrant, the Finance Committee has tried to provide prudent financial recommendations that
not only considers the current needs of our residents, but also considers the implications that these
recommendations will have for the future. While we certainly hope that the voters will give substantial
weight and consideration to our recommendations, it is ultimately up to the voters of the Town of Canton
to deliberate and vote these issues at ATM.
The voters should read the Finance Committee discussions on each Article and note that a vote to
indefinitely postpone" may have varied meanings. In some cases the Finance Committee had to
indefinitely postpone" the subject matter of an Article due to the time frame for the vote and the lack of
available information. This should not be construed to mean that we were against the Article — only that
we did not have enough time to weigh its merits prior to our votes needing to be finalized for the Warrant.
In other cases, the Finance Committee has weighed the information presented and a vote to "indefinitely
postpone" implies that we do not support the recommendations in the Article. The discussions that follow
each motion are intended to give the community insight into the Committee's decisions and the
considerations inherent in each motion.
4—Source page 5
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Background and Historical Perspective
Fiscal Year 2010- 09
7/
( 1/—30/ At
6/
10) - the 2009 ATM voters approved an FYI General Fund Budget
based on revenues forecast to be $66.86 million and expenses to be $67.46 million. The $600,000
difference was to be funded by reducing the overlay reserve by $500,000 and by reducing the free cash
reserve by $100,000. The actual revenue for FY10 was $67.38 million, while the actual operating
expenses were $67.61 million. The unexpected $ 763,392 increase in Snow & Ice and Special Education
expenses was funded with the Free Cash reserves at ATM 2010.
Fiscal Year 2011- (10
7/ 1/— 6/
11)30/ At
- the 2010 ATM voters approved an FYI Budget based on
revenues forecast to be $69.68 million and expenses to be $70.82 million. The $1. 14 million difference
was funded by reducing the overlay reserve $ 500,000 and reducing the free cash reserve $ 640,000.
While the $500,000 use of the assessors overlay was anticipated in the Finance Committee' s budget, the
Finance Committee was not in favor of using $440,000 in Free Cash Reserves to supplement the School
Department budget. The Finance Committee recommended that the School Department balance its
budget in FY 11. However, the 2010 ATM voters recognized that the forecasted budget deficit was due to
unexpected increases in mandated Special Education ( SPED) costs and approved a one t-ime $440,000
supplement from the Free Cash Reserve along with utilizing another $250,000 allocated for cash capital.
This allowed the School Department to postpone its budget cuts until FYI 2.
The current estimate of the Town's FYI revenue remains close to the forecast used in the original
budget projections. However, the harsh winter and the extraordinary cost of snow and ice removal will
require the town to further reduce its free cash reserves. In Article 9 the Finance Committee is
recommending to use $250,000 of the free cash reserve to supplement the Snow and Ice removal costs.
When the Finance Committee recommended the override to the town in 2008, many of its members
anticipated future spending plans that would allow Canton's override capacity to last longer than the three
years included in the original spending proposal. Unfortunately, the downturn in the economy, the cuts in
State Aid, and the unexpected increase in mandated Special Education ( SPED) costs required that
Canton use the Town's remaining override capacity in the FYI budget as originally planned. For this
year, and until the Town approves another operational override, the Town's expenses will be limited by
Proposition 21
- /2.
Figure 1 below provides a historical view of the expenses between the School Department, the municipal
side of government, and the fixed costs ( i.e. health care, retirement, etc.).Fixed costs were relatively
stable from 1999 through 2002; however, these costs increased dramatically since 2003 largely due to
increases in health insurance and other benefits included in the union contracts. The Finance Committee
believes that bringing the health and benefit costs under control is a critical component in alleviating the
town's financial stress. The Town implemented changes in its health insurance plans that have mitigated
the increases in health care costs in recent years. However, we expect that future increase in health care
costs will consume most of the 2. 5% increase allocated to Canton's budget for fixed expenses.
5—Source page 6
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Figure 1
Historical Summary of Expenses
33
28
23
NC
O
E
13
8
2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
est. )
0 —
Schools Municipal Fixed Costs
BothBoth municipalmunicipal andand SchoolSchool employeeemployee contractscontracts includeinclude
" " automatic automatic increases"increases" duedue toto longevity,longevity, stepssteps
number number ofof yearsyears served)served) and and lanes lanes
( ( promotions promotions oror thethe amount amount ofof post post
- - graduate graduate education education forfor teachers).teachers).
The The School School department department contracts contracts include include more more steps steps than than the the municipal municipal contracts, contracts, and and also also have have more more
laneslanes withwith nono restrictionsrestrictions onon thethe numbernumber employees employees thatthat cancan receivereceive thesethese increases.increases. AsAs aa result,result, thethe
automatic automatic increases"increases" inherent inherent inin School School contracts contracts areare greater greater thanthan thosethose onon thethe municipal municipal side.side. InIn prior prior
years,years, thethe BoardBoard ofof SelectmenSelectmen negotiatednegotiated changeschanges toto thethe collectivecollective bargainingbargaining agreementsagreements thatthat reducedreduced
thethe amountamount ofof automatic automatic increasesincreases offeredoffered inin thethe salarysalary structurestructure forfor municipalmunicipal employees.employees. AsAs aa result,result,
thethe growthgrowth inin municipalmunicipal department department expenses expenses hashas remainedremained relativelyrelatively low,low, andand thethe forecastedforecasted increases increases
areare expectedexpected toto bebe withinwithin thethe Proposition Proposition 22 1/2 threshold.threshold. However,However, asas discusseddiscussed below,below, thethe automaticautomatic
increases increases offeredoffered inin thethe teacher's contractcontract willwill eithereither needneed toto bebe modifiedmodified oror thethe SchoolSchool Department Department willwill
needneed toto continue continue toto makemake budget budget cuts cuts toto remain remain withinwithin thethe Proposition Proposition 22 1/2 spending spending limit.limit.
Status Status of of the the Town's Reserves Reserves
Unplanned Unplanned expenses expenses are are unavoidable. unavoidable. The The operating operating budget budget includes includes aa Finance Finance Committee Committee Reserve Reserve
account,account, whichwhich isis usedused toto supplementsupplement unexpectedunexpected shortfallsshortfalls inin thethe operatingoperating budget.budget. ThisThis year,year, aa portionportion
ofof thethe appropriation appropriation forfor thethe FinanceFinance Committee Committee ReserveReserve waswas usedused toto supplementsupplement thethe FireFire Department's
Overtime Overtime budget budget duedue toto thethe military military deployment deployment ofof one one ofof ourour Firemen Firemen and and aa portion portion waswas used used toto
supplementsupplement thethe SnowSnow andand IceIce removalremoval budget.budget. TheThe FinanceFinance Committee Committee recommends recommends thatthat thethe FinanceFinance
CommitteeCommittee ReserveReserve bebe fundedfunded withwith $ $400,
400,000 forfor FY12.FY12.
TheThe TownTown alsoalso maintains maintains threethree sourcessources ofof" " Reserves"Reserves"
( (savingssavings accounts)accounts) thatthat serveserve asas potentialpotential sourcessources
toto fund fund unplanned unplanned expenses.expenses. Figure Figure 22 shows shows thethe Town's reserve reserve balances balances including including thethe estimated estimated
balancesbalances asas ofof JuneJune 30,30, 2011.2011. TheThe FreeFree CashCash ReserveReserve requiresrequires aa majoritymajority votevote atat ATMATM toto bebe
appropriated.appropriated. The The Stabilization Stabilization FundFund requires requires aa 2/3 vote vote atat ATMATM toto bebe appropriated appropriated and and thethe Assessors Assessors
Overlay Overlay Reserve Reserve Fund Fund can can only only be be used used ifif approved approved byby the the Town's Assessors. Assessors.
6—
6—Source page 7
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Figure 2
Reserve Accounts & Bond Rating Agency Expectation ( in millions)
7—Source page 8
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
There would be a substantial increase in cost to the Town if a downgrade in the bond rating were to
occur. A downgrade to the town's bond rating would result in an increase in the interest rate for new
borrowing. Each downgrade represents an increase of approximately 25 basis points or 14%. / Currently,
the Town of Canton has approximately $ 29 million of debt authorized by Town Meeting and each year,
ATM approves between $2.0 million and $3.0 million of additional debt to fund capital projects. A '/%
increase in interest rate equates to approximately $60,000 increase in the cost to borrow $2.0 million over
the life of a 20 year bond.
Bond rating agencies have recommended that Canton maintain its total reserves between 10% and 15%
of revenues to justify our AAA excellent rating. The $5.0 million of total reserves estimated for FY11
including the transfer recommended in Article 9) represents about 7%
of the $70.1 million revenues for
FY12. However, Canton can explain that the recent reductions in reserves were related to unexpected
one time
- costs and not used to supplement recurring operating deficits.
This year, the Finance Committee recommends in Article 43 that $40,000 be transferred from Free Cash
Reserves to the Stabilization Fund in an effort to demonstrate that Canton is committed to maintaining its
reserves. This transfer will not change the total amount of Canton's reserve, but will show bond rating
agencies that Canton is committed to maintain an adequate level of reserves.
Capital Budget and Performance Contracting
The established procedure for the Town is to set aside 6% of the recurring revenues for the Capital
Budget. The Town first pays debt service on all existing debt within the levy from this amount. The
remaining amount is used to fund capital projects identified in the Capital Planning Committee's CPC)
( 5-
year plan. For the past 5 years, the Capital Planning Committee has recommended funding the capital at
5.5% so that additional money could be allocated to the operating budgets. While this has allowed
Canton to avoid operational cuts in services, it has also resulted in the postponement or elimination of
capital projects and o/ r major repairs. Deferring maintenance and other capital improvements runs the risk
of low cost
- projects growing to become expensive ones and continued deterioration of the Town's
infrastructure.
The Finance Committee concurs with all of the recommendations made by the Capital Planning
Committee as presented in Article 13. The municipal requests include $581,000 for the DPW to repair
the culverts on Bolivar and Pine Street that were damaged by this year's floods. In addition to the items
in Article 13, the School's capital requests include Articles 24, 25 and 26. These capital projects may
qualify for grants from the Massachusetts School Building Association (MSBA),and therefore, need to be
addressed in separate Articles.
Article 24 requests $364,000 of additional funding for the Kennedy School addition to supplement the
899,000 approved at the 2010 ATM. The unexpected increase in construction results from Canton
having to comply with new building codes that will require a sprinkler system be added to the entire
Kennedy school when the addition is built. This additional capital request will require the School
Department to further accelerate its five year
- capital spending plan. The School Department proposed to
transfer other unused capital funds to finance the HVAC and Rodman Building capital repairs. While
accelerating capital spending plan is not usually recommended, both the CPC and the Finance
Committee recognized the importance of this project and support the School's request. Similarly, the
CPC and Finance Committee conditionally supported the School accelerating its capital spending for
Articles 25 and 26, assuming Canton will receive MSBA grants.
In Article 23, the School Department has introduced a creative plan to replace the entire heating system
at the Rodman building. This plan would require spending an additional $2.0 million on a performance
contract. Neither the Finance Committee nor the CPC recommends the school's creative financing plan
as presented in Article 23 and recommended that the School Department consider other alternatives. The
energy savings for this project does not support the capitalized cost to replace the heating system, the
School Department should not further reduce its operating budget to pay the deficit, and the School
8—Source page 9
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Department has already accelerated its budgeted capital spending to pay for the Kennedy addition and
the roof repairs.
Contract Obligations
The School Committee and Board of Selectmen are currently negotiating collective bargaining
agreements for town employees, but at the time this warrant was prepared, no collective bargaining
agreements had been reached. Canton is fortunate to have many dedicated employees that work hard to
serve our residents. The Finance Committee recommends that these employees be compensated and
receive benefits commensurate with that offered by our benchmark towns. The Finance Committee also
believes our town employees should receive annual increases that reflect the current economic
conditions and the spending limits mandated by Proposition 2 1/2. In response to the recent cuts in State
Aid, some towns worked with their unions to obtain wage freeze or other concessions to avoid layoffs.
Last year, Canton significantly depleted its reserves to honor the final year of its three year
- contract and
the increases that had been negotiated during better economic times.
While no appropriations have been recommended in Article 5 for collective bargaining agreements,
Canton residents should be aware that the recommended budget in this year's warrant includes $75,000
for salary increases for the municipal departments and $629,000 for automatic salary increases for the
school employees related to steps, lanes and longevity. While the budget recommended by the Board of
Selectmen for the municipal departments was able to absorb the $75,000 increase, the Schools are not
able to fund the automatic salary increases without reductions in staff and cuts in programs.
In 2008, the Finance Committee warned the Schools that they would need to make significant budget
cuts in FY12 if the three year contract was approved in its current form. At that time it was evident that
the automatic salary increases inherent in the current salary structure could not be sustained within the
Proposition 2 1/2 spending limits. The chart below shows the expected distribution of the FY12 salary
increases for the 272 employees that are covered by the Teachers contract. These increases include
only the automatic increases built into the current salary structure, assuming no COLA. Due to the 3. 0%
COLA in FY11, the increases were 3% greater than those shown in the table below and resulted in a
1. 36 million ( or a 4.7 %) increase to the School's budget.
Figure 3
9—Source page 10
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
The Finance Committee has suggested modifications to the existing salary structure that would maintain
the steps and lane format, reduce the extraordinarily large salary increases, and use some of the savings
to fund small increases for the highest paid teachers during the next three years. Without significant
revenue increases or modifications to the current salary structure, future budget cuts are
inevitable.
FY 2012 Budget
In Article 44, the Finance Committee is recommending a FY12 operating budget of $70.1 million for the
General Fund, which is a modest 1. 2% increase over the FYI budget approved at ATM. The reason for
the small increase was that last year, the School Department supplemented its FYI budget with a one-
time $690,000 transfer from the Free Cash Reserve ($
440,000)and school cash capital ($
250,000).The
Finance Committee adamantly opposes any further use of Canton's depleted reserves to further fund
recurring operational deficits.
The Finance Committee's recommended budget includes a 3.
5%increase in fixed costs, mostly due to
the increase in Health Insurance. The recommended budget for the Water Enterprise Fund includes a
8.
5%increase due to debt service &
operating costs for the Pecunit Street water treatment facility. The
recommended budget for the Sewer Enterprise Fund has been increased 6. 4% due to debt service on the
Greenlodge Interceptor & other operating costs. The recommended budget for the Rink Enterprise Fund
has been increased only 0.7% from FYI budget.
The Finance Committee believes that the recommended budget will allow Canton residents to enjoy the
high quality of services they are accustomed to while being adequately funded with the expected
revenues.
Respectfully submitted,
Town of Canton Finance Committee
Alan Hines, Chairman Mark Porter, Vice Chairman
Rob Barker David Emhardt
John Friel Patricia Johnson
Mike Loughran Jim Sims
Diane Wolff
10—Source page 11
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
TOWN FINANCE TERMINOLOGY
The terms below are frequently used in the annual Town report and at Town Meetings. In order to provide
everyone with a better understanding of their meanings, the following definitions are provided:
APPROPRIATE: To authorize spending. Once an appropriation for a budget or article has been made by Town
Meeting, the appropriation can only be changed by another Town Meeting. There is one exception -a transfer from
the Reserve Fund.
BONDS: The money Canton borrows to pay for capital building projects such as the High School and police
station.
CAPITAL EXPENSES: Expenses associated with the purchase of long term assets, or projects. Paying for these
expenses can come from either cash ( Cash Capital) or from long term bonding.
CHERRY SHEET: A financial statement from the State, printed on cherry - colored paper which itemizes State
disbursements due the Town, and the State and County charge to the Town, usually resulting in a net receipt of
funds. It is the basis for the amounts which appear in the Finance Committee forecast of Revenue and Expenditure.
DEBT EXCLUSION: Taxes raised through a prop 2.5 override to pay for capital projects such as building the high
school or library.
ENTERPRISE SURPLUS: ( Retained Earnings) This fund balance represents the amount to be used, by a vote of
Town Meeting, for operating cost offsets, funding capital improvements and reimbursing the General Fund for prior
year funding.
FIXED COSTS: Costs primarily associated with employee benefits, such as health insurance and retirement costs.
FREE CASH RESERVE: An accumulation of surpluses left at the end of the fiscal year. This funding is available to
be allocated at Town Meeting through a simple majority vote. It is akin to a savings account.
FY11: July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011
FY12: July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012
LEVEL FUNDING: The budget amount for this year will be identical to the budget amount last year ( i. e.,no
additional money will be available to cover increased costs in salaries or supplies.)
LEVY LIMIT: The maximum amount of tax levy in any given year. The levy limit is based on the previous year's
levy limit plus 2 1/ 2% plus new growth, and not the previous year's actual levy.
LOCAL RECEIPTS: Money the town collects from local sources such as excise tax, licenses and permits,
investment income, and penalties
NEW GROWTH: Additional tax revenue the Town receives from new construction, such as new homes or
additions to existing buildings.
OPERATIONAL OVERRIDE: An increase above the standard 2.5% yearly increase in taxes. This increase is
unlike a debt exclusion override, in that it is permanent.
OVERLAY: The amount raised by the Assessors primarily for the purpose of creating a fund to cover abatements.
OVERLAY RESERVE: This is the accumulated amount of the Overlay for various years not used or required to be
held in the specific Overlay accounts for a given year. The Assessors control release of funds in the Overlay reserve
that exceed pending tax liability.
RAISE: To tax. The tax rate is set by the Assessors after the Annual Town Meeting and after receipt of the
Cherry Sheet."
RESERVE FUND: This fund is established by the voters at an Annual Town Meeting, and may be composed of an
appropriation, money transferred from the Overlay Reserve, or both. Transfers from the Reserve Fund are within
the control of the Finance Committee, and are for 'extraordinary and unforeseen expenditures."
REVENUES: Amount of money the town receives to cover expenses. The majority of this money comes from
property taxes. The remainder comes from local receipts, State Aid and transfers from other funds.
STABILIZATION FUND: The fund is established by the voters for future uses. A Town Meeting vote is required
for its use towards a "borrowing article" and o/ r for "any lawful purpose."
STATE AID: The amount of money that the state of Massachusetts gives to the town of Canton.
STEP AND LANE INCREASES: Automatic increases in salary for town workers, negotiated in the union contracts.
STRUCTURAL DEFICIT: Town's recurring expenses are greater than its recurring revenues.
TAX LEVY: ( LEVY): The revenue a community can raise through real estate and personal property taxes.
A GUIDE TO PARTICIPATING AT TOWN MEETING
If town meeting is to run smoothly a few simple rules must be followed.......
No person should speak unless standing at a microphone and then only after having been recognized' by the
moderator.
11 —Source page 12
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
It is both impolite and contrary to the rules of procedure to shout out "Question ", or "Move the Question" while
seated, while someone else is speaking, or without being ' recognized'.
When recognized, a voter should first state his or her name and address clearly and distinctly before making any
statement.
Voters should be brief. It is a good idea to state at the outset why you have risen to speak: e.g. I rise to speak in
favor (or against) the motion to Voters may wish to summarize at the close of their remarks: I hope the motion
now pending is (not) adopted
Rather than repeat arguments already made, consider saying: I concur with the statements made by the previous
speaker(s) and for the same reasons urge you to vote (in support of) or (against) the main motion when it is put.
A town by l-aw restricts any one speaker to not more than ten minutes at any one time. The patience of other
voters is often not as long.
A town by law
- restricts any one speaker from speaking more than twice on the same matter except to correct an
error or a misstatement.
A person who is speaking on behalf of another ( such as an attorney) is required to disclose that fact before making
any statement.
A motion to reconsider is quite technical in nature. A person who intends to move reconsideration should discuss it
in advance with the moderator. Generally the motion may be made at any time so long as a sufficient interval has
elapsed since the last vote on the matter was taken, and o / r additional information has become available, so as to
give a reasonable basis to believe the meeting might vote differently. When the motion to reconsider is pending
debate is limited to why reconsideration should prevail and not to the merits of the underlying motion.
When one voter is speaking every other voter in the hall should pay attention to what is being said. No person
should interrupt a speaker unless some rule' is being violated. If a voter believes a rule is being violated they
should rise in place, wait to be recognized by the moderator ( For what purpose does the lady rise ?) Voter: I rise to
a point of order. Moderator: State your point of Order. Voter: ...The speaker is dealing in personalities, ( or) the
remarks of the speaker are not germane to the subject at hand, etc.
Rather than read every warrant article the moderator may say "The chair asks unanimous consent that the reading
of the article be waived (Pause) Seeing no objection it is so ordered."
Voters should refrain from displaying their approval or disfavor towards a speaker by applauding or by any other
means.
NOTE TO ALL VOTERS CONCERNING
TOWN MEETING PROCEDURES
At previous Annual Town Meetings a by l-aw was adopted which requires that almost all warrant articles be acted
upon in the order they are drawn by a lottery, not the order they appear in the warrant. There are certain
exceptions, however, to the lottery system. The following should help you understand how the Town Meeting
works:
Town Meeting will be opened by the Town Clerk. A Moderator will be elected ( Article 1);procedures to govern
Town Meeting will be adopted (Article 2);
and reports of all outstanding committees will be received (Article 3).
After these three articles have been acted upon, all subsequent articles, except next year's proposed annual
operating budget, will be voted on in the order in which they are drawn by the Town Clerk. There are instances,
however, where the Moderator may declare that for some legal or technical reason a particular article or articles
must be considered in some other sequence.
The proposed annual operating budget cannot be acted upon until all matters which affect it have been acted
upon, specifically, all collective bargaining agreements, and any warrant article that calls for an expenditure. This
may mean that the proposed annual operating budget may, in fact, be the last article acted upon at the Annual
Town Meeting.
It is hoped that this brief explanation will be helpful to you in understanding the lottery system under which the
Town Meeting is currently operated.
12—Source page 13
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
NOTES
13-Source page 14
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
SUMMARY OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES
FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012
GENERAL FUND REVENUE:
PROPERTY TAX REVENUE 52,
176
168, 55,
530
544, 57,
364
309,
STATE AID 6,
378
965, 6,
660
809, 6,
664
800,
LOCAL RECEIPTS 5,
626
881, 4,
363
936, 4,
391
940,
TRANSFERS FROM OTHER FUNDS 2,
263
167, 2,
336
391, 2,
592
382,
TAX TITLE / FORECLOSURE REVENUE 193,859 0 0
TOTAL REVENUE 67,
302
376, 69,
889
681, 71,
011
433,
GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES:
PUBLIC SCHOOL EXPENSES 28,823,
237 30,
315
502, 30,
978
440,
MUNICIPAL EXPENSES 15,256,
094 15,460,
151 15,535,
215
FIXED COSTS 075
22,
116, 305
23,
265, 632
24,
079,
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 66,
406
195, 69,
771
227, 70,
825
055,
CASH CAPITAL EXPENDITURES 379,531 461,000 910,000
TRANSFER TO STABILIZATION FUND 100,000 200,000 40,000
STATE & COUNTY CHARGES 932,878 933,118 967,186
TOTAL EXPENDITURES 67,
814
607, 70,
889
821, 71,
011
973,
OPERATING SURPLUS /(DEFICIT) - GENERAL FUND 231,513) ( 1,
000)
140, ( 540,000)
ONE T
- IME SOURCES OF FUNDS:
FREE CASH RESERVE 863,392 640,000 40,000
OVERLAY SURPLUS 500,000 500,000 500,000
TOTAL NON -RECURRING SOURCES 1,
392
363, 1,
000
140, 540,000
ADJUSTED SURPLUS /(DEFICIT) - GENERAL FUND 1,
879
131, ( 0) ( 0)
ENTERPRISE FUNDS:
WATER REVENUE 5,
764
128, 5,
590
929,590
929,
5, 6,
759
430,459
6,
7 30,
SEWER REVENUE 4,
409
777,709
4,
4 77, 4,
813
981, 5,
532
299,
RINK REVENUE 393,779 445,378 448,479
TOTAL ENTERPRISE FUNDS' REVENUE 10,299,952 11,356,781 12,178,770
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' SURPLUS USED 0 69,000 55,000
WATER EXPENSES 5,
834
373, 5,
590
929, 6,
759
430,
SEWER EXPENSES 083
4, 890, 813
4, 981, 532
5, 299,
RINK EXPENSES 439,114 445,378 448,479
TOTAL ENTERPRISE FUNDS EXPENSES 10,703,031 11,356,781 12,178,770
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' CASH CAPITAL EXPENDITURES 204,018 69,000 55,000
ENTERPRISE FUNDS' SURPLUS /(DEFICIT) 607,097) 0 0
GRAND TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS 78,
863
514, 82,
670
247, 84,
781
206,
14-Source page 15
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Town of Canton
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
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 -FIFTH DAY
OF APRIL, 2011
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:
ELECT A MODERATOR
Article 1 To elect a Moderator to preside at this Town Meeting, to serve until the commencement of Annual
Town Meeting in 2012 or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
DISCUSSION: Nominations will be accepted and a moderator elected at town meeting during the discussion of
this article.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED,
ADOPT RULES TO GOVERN TOWN MEETING
Article 2 To see if the town will vote to adopt certain procedures to govern the conduct of the 2011 Annual
Town Meeting, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That this 2011 Annual Town Meeting meet on consecutive Monday and Wednesday
evenings ( but not including Monday, May 30th) 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: 70
- 0
-
15—Source page 16
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption of this motion as it formalized procedures that
have been followed by Town Meetings in the 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:
Debra Bromfield, Director of Student Services
Rick Brandstatter, Director of Real Estate, North American Real Estate Management
Kathleen Butters, Town Accountant
John Ciccotelli, Director of Public Health
Richard Crisafulli, Massachusetts Hospital School
Paul R. DeRensis, Town Counsel
James Donovan, Town Engineer
Ronen Drory, Principal, Titanium Group, LLC
Helena Findlen, Police Department Lieutenant
William T. Friel, Town Administrator
Keith Gazaille, Aquatic Control, Inc.
Jeffrey Granatino, Superintendent of Schools
Jennifer Henderson, Director for Curriculum, Instruction & Technology
Paul Hollings, Orchard Cove
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
Brian Napleton, Principal, Canton Development Properties, Inc.
David Proule, Business Manager, Blue Hills Regional Technical School
James Quaglia, Superintendent- Director, Blue Hills Regional Technical School
Mark Rooney, Performance Contracting Consultant
Kathy Roth, Community Preservation Coalition
Mark Roy, Executive Director, Canton Housing Authority
Michael Trotta, Superintendent of Public Works
Diane Tynan, Director of Council on Aging
John Wieliczki, Director of Assessing
VOTE: 70
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption of this motion as it allows key non - resident town
officials and consultants to legally participate in the Town Meeting and formalizes procedures that have been
followed by Town Meeting in the 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, a motion 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 a corresponding decrease in another appropriation as contained in an
appropriation article on this specific warrant or a corresponding transfer from any other available
16-Source page 17
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
funding source or borrowing as an alternative 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: 70
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends adoption of this motion as it formalizes procedures that
have been followed by Town Meeting in the past to insure that Town Meeting ends with the adoption of a balanced
budget.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
HEAR REPORTS OF COMMITTEES APPOINTED AT PRIOR TOWN MEETINGS
Article 3 To hear the reports of all committees, appointed at previous town meetings, which have not yet
been discharged, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That reports of the following committees appointed at previous Town Meetings be
heard and accepted:
ADA Transition Plan Implementation Committee ( ATM 1999, Article 10)
Economic Development Committee ( ATM 2004, Article 14)
Route 138 Revitalization Study Committee
VOTE: 72
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the adoption of this motion to hear the reports of all standing
committees appointed at prior Town Meetings.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
ACT ON "CONSENT AGENDA"
Article 4 To see if the town will vote to dispose of certain articles in this warrant by a single vote, in
accordance with a, so-called, consent agenda, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 4 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: 80
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously voted to indefinitely postpone Article 4 because at the time
the Finance Committee's vote was taken, it was uncertain which items would be recommended for the consent
agenda. The purpose of the consent agenda article is to combine non - controversial articles together and vote
them in a single motion, thus saving the time it would take to act on each one individually.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
17—Source page 18
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS UNDER THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Article 5 To see if the town will vote, in accordance with the provisions of section seven of chapter one
hundred fifty E ( G. L. Ch.150E, §7)to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds, or borrow pursuant to
any applicable statute, a sum of money for the purpose of funding any cost items contained in any collective
bargaining agreements entered into by the Board of Selectmen, on behalf of the town, with any group of
employees, or, groups of employees, serving under its jurisdiction, and to raise and appropriate, transfer from
available funds, or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute, such sums of money as may be necessary to fund
contracts for personal services with any individual employee, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 5 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: 70
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously voted to indefinitely postpone Article 5. At the time the
Finance Committee' s vote was taken, there were no actual or expected funding requirements needed for the
collective bargaining agreements and other personal contracts being negotiated. All known and expected costs
were already included in the FY 2012 budget approved by the Finance Committee.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
FUNDING OF COST ITEMS NOT IN DEPARTMENTAL BUDGETS
Article 6 To see what sum of money the Town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or
borrow pursuant to any applicable statute for the purpose of funding cost items, not included in departmental
budgets appropriated for FY 12, for the twelve month period beginning July 1, 2011, to budget category
Department 910 without further appropriation for collective bargaining agreements and /or individual employees or
groups of employees serving under its jurisdiction, as may be reached after the conclusion of this Town Meeting
between the Town and bargaining units, and o / r individual employees or groups of employees serving under its
jurisdiction, such sums to be allocated to pay for the relevant departments payroll expenses from budget
classification Department 910 as required by such agreements; and to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED:That the subject matter of Article 6 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: B -0 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee recommends that this article be indefinitely postponed. The Finance
Committee was informed that no union contracts will be negotiated by the elected Boards until after the warrant is
published. It was the Finance Committee' s belief that no additional funding beyond the $628,663 increase that
was included in the School' s budget and the $75,064 increase included in the municipal department' s budget would
be needed to fund the cost of the contracts. Therefore, no additional funds need to be transferred to account 910.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
18-Source page 19
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
SET SALARIES OF ELECTED OFFICERS
Article 7 To see if the town will vote, in accordance with the provisions of section one hundred and eight of
chapter forty o
- ne (G. L. chapter 41, 1
§ 08) to fix the salary and compensation of all elected officers of the town, or
to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That the salary and compensation for the Town Clerk be fixed at $00
70,
118. for the
2012 fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012.
VOTE: 52
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The majority of the Finance Committee supports this motion. Under Massachusetts General Law,
the Town Clerk's salary and compensation must be fixed annually by vote at the Annual Town Meeting. This
provides for a salary adjustment of $2,
00 042. with no additional compensation for longevity or expanded
responsibilities. The Finance Committee understands that the goal of the town is to provide an employee salary
that is at or just above the average of comparison towns and recognized that the recommended amount for the
town clerk does not satisfy that goal for FY12. Most members of the Finance Committee believe the adjustments
needed to attain the town's average salary goal should be spread over a period of time. Given the severe
downturn in the economy and its sluggish, protracted recovery the Finance Committee felt that the proposed
increase for FY12 was an appropriate and sustainable amount.
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 00,
2, 400. for each member
Board of Health 600.00, for each member
Board of Selectmen 1,
00,400. for each member, with an additional
200.00 to chairperson
Planning Board 0. 00
School Committee 0. 00
Library Trustees 0. 00
VOTE: 43
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The majority of the Finance Committee supports this motion as this is the position the town has
strongly supported in prior ATMs. The Finance Committee has long been concerned with the inequities of paying
salaries and providing health insurance to some part t-ime elected officials and not others, or to any appointed
board members. The Finance Committee readily acknowledges that all elected and appointed officials work long
hours for the Town and the minority did not wish to take away the traditional compensation paid to the current
elected officials. However, the minority would have preferred that going forward no salary or health insurance be
provided to any newly elected official who does not have continuous service in the same elected position.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
19-Source page 20
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
PAY BILLS OF PRIOR FISCAL YEAR
Article 8 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow
pursuant to any applicable statute a sum or sums of money to pay any unpaid bills of any prior fiscal year, or to
take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 8 be indefinitely postponed.
VOTE: 70
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: At the time of the vote, there were no bills to be paid for FY 2010 or any prior fiscal year. The
Finance Committee unanimously voted to indefinitely postpone any action on Article 8.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
ADJUST FISCAL ' 11 ACCOUNTS
Article 9 To see if the town will vote to increase or decrease or otherwise adjust the appropriations
heretofore made for the Fiscal Year 2011 beginning on July 1, 2010 and ending on June 30, 2011 and the revenues
sources to meet those appropriations, as voted pursuant to Article 39 of the warrant for the 2010 Annual Town
Meeting, and to raise and appropriate, transfer from available funds or borrow pursuant to any applicable statute to
meet any such increases or adjustments, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOVED: That the appropriations voted for the fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2010 and ending
on June 30, 2011 pursuant to Article 39 of the warrant for the 2010 Annual Town meeting be
supplemented as follows:
BUDGET TO BE REVISED
SUPPLEMENTED ACCOUNT # AMOUNT BALANCE SOURCE OF FUNDS
1 BLUE HILLS REGIONAL 18402 -56991 72,725 1,
438
460, DEBT SERVICE ( #752)
2 SNOW & ICE 14232 -5530C 50,000 234,721 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ( # 192)
2 SNOW & ICE 14232 -5530C 100,000 334,721 RESERVE FUND ( #132)
UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS TRUST
2 SNOW & ICE 14232 -5530C 250,000 584,721
FUND ( #865)
2 SNOW & ICE 14232 -5530C 250,000 834,721 FREE CASH
TOTAL #2 650,000
EXECUTIVE AREA ( LEGAL
3 11512 -53127 25,000 921,246 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ( # 192)
SERVICES)
SUPPLEMENT SUPPLEMENT 1 1 VOTE:VOTE: 8 8- -1 1- -0 0
SUPPLEMENTS SUPPLEMENTS 2 2 AND AND 3 3 VOTE: VOTE: 99- -0 0- 0
-0
20-
20-Source page 21
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
DISCUSSION:
Supplement # 1: The Finance Committee voted 8 1
- 0
- to transfer the additional funds to Blue Hills
Regional. At Town meeting spring of 2010 the voters approved a lower figure for the FY11 budget than was
requested by Blue Hills Regional. However, if 6 out of 9 of the participating towns vote the higher budget, then
minority towns ( such as Canton) are required to support the budget of the majority ( unless they hold a special
Town Meeting to uphold their earlier vote). Since no additional Town Meeting was held in 2010, the transfer of
72,725 to Blue Hills Regional was supported by the Finance Committee. Funds to support this transfer will be
taken from the Debt Service account, which is expected to have a surplus in FY11.
Supplement # 2: The Finance Committee voted 9 0 - 0
- to support transfer of funds from various accounts
to supplement the FY11 budget for snow and ice. This past winter saw near record amounts of snowfall that
required removal. The budget for Snow and Ice is the only one under which expenditures can be made in the next
FY budget to cover overage, and typically the Town has voted to support transfers for payment of the Snow and
Ice account. Funds to cover this expense will be transferred from the Property Maintenance and Unemployment
Trust funds ( both of which are expected to have surpluses in FY11), as well as from the Finance Committee
Reserve Fund and from Free Cash.
Supplement # 3: Legal fees for the Town are anticipated to exceed the FY11 budget by approximately
75,000. The Selectman have indicated they have identified alternative sources from their budget to cover $50,000
so the Finance Committee recommends that the remaining $ 25,000 be offset from anticipated surpluses in the
Property Maintenance account.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED,
TRANSFER UNEXPENDED PRIOR YEAR APPROPRIATIONS
Article 10 To see if the town will vote to transfer the unexpended balance of certain appropriations made
under various articles in the warrants from prior town meetings, or to take any other action related thereto.
Board of Selectmen
MOTION 1
MOVED: That One Thousand One Hundred Seven Dollars ($1, 107) be appropriated to be spent
by the Information Systems Manager with the approval of the Board of Selectmen to Article 13 Motion
2 of the 2010 Annual Town Meeting thereby increasing such appropriation from Eight Thousand Dollars
8, 000) to Nine Thousand One Hundred Seven Dollars ($ 9, 107) and to meet this appropriation the
sum of One Thousand One Hundred Seven Dollars ($ 1, 107) be transferred from the appropriation voted
pursuant to Article 13 Motion 12 of the 2008 Annual Town Meeting.
VOTE: 60
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this motion. The 2008 ATM voted $ 75,000 to
upgrade the Finance Department phone system and the total cost was $73,893, leaving a balance of $1, 107. The
2010 ATM voted to spend $ 8, 000 for the consolidation of five server backup systems into a single system. The
transfer of $1,
107 will support the new computer backup system via software licensing and tape purchases.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
21-Source page 22
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
MOTION 2
MOVED: That Twenty One Thousand Three Hundred Eighty Four Dollars Fifty Cents
50)
21, 384. be appropriated to be spent by the Council on Aging with the approval of the Board of
Selectmen to be added to and increase the appropriation already voted pursuant to Article 50 Motion
11 of the 1999 Annual Town Meeting thereby increasing such appropriation from Four Million Two
Hundred Thousand Dollars ($ 000)
4, 200, to Four Million Two Hundred Twenty One Thousand Three
Hundred Eighty Four Dollars Fifty Cents ($384.
4, 221, and to meet this appropriation
50) the sum of
Twenty One Thousand Three Hundred Eighty Four Dollars Fifty Cents ($50)
21, 384. be transferred
from the appropriation voted pursuant to Article 6 Motion 1 of the 2005 Special Town Meeting for the
purpose of constructing a Senior Center on town owned land on Washington Street as shown on
Canton Assessor' s Map 46 Lot 91.
VOTE: 80
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports this motion. The Council on Aging submitted an
Article at a previous ATM for a Feasibility Study for a Community Center and Senior Center and ATM approved the
Article. The study was completed and the cost of the study was less than what was requested. There is currently
21,384 remaining in the account.
A serious issue at the current senior center exists
in that the ramp into the building does not meet the federal
standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
There have been several incidents particularly during
inclement weather when elders trying to navigate the ramp have been injured. If ATM approves this motion, the
unused monies combined with the balance in the Town ADA account will allow the repairs to be completed and will
make the senior center entrance compliant with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.
AUTHORIZE CONTRACTS OF MORE THAN THREE YEARS DURATION
Article 11 To see if the town will vote, in accordance with the provisions of section twelve ( b)of chapter
thirty B, of the General Laws of the Commonwealth, to authorize the finance director ( in his capacity as chief
procurement officer) to solicit and award contracts for terms of more than three years, provided in each such
instance the longer term is determined, prior to the solicitation, to be in the best interest of the town by a vote of
the Board of Selectmen, or to take 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 is determined to be in the best interest of the town by a vote of the Board of Selectmen.
VOTE: 90
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee unanimously supports Article 11. From time to time it is in the best
interest of the Town to enter into non -labor related contracts with a duration exceeding three years. The Finance
Director, as Chief Procurement Officer, should have the authority necessary to pursue these contracts.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
22-Source page 23
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
AUTHORIZE CERTAIN REVOLVING FUNDS
Article 12 To see what revolving funds pursuant to c. 44, section 53E 12/ of the General Laws of the
Commonwealth the town will authorize or reauthorize, for various boards, commissions or departments of the
town, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011 and ending June 30, 2012, or to take 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 12/ for the 2012 Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012.
ARTICLE 12
FY 12
Revolving Name of Spending Spending
Fund # Revolving Fund Authority Revenue Sources Use of Funds Limit
Pequitside Farm Conservation Rental of Pequitside Farm, Rental of Little Maintaining, improving & renovation of 40,000
Rentals Commission 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
3 Relocation Commonwealth, any public utility, any other connection with relocation of fire alarm signal annually
business entity, or any individual person. wires, devices & other appurtenances.
COA Council on Donations received for providing Payment of bills and charges in connection 25,000
4 Transportation Aging transportation 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 Health reimbursements. 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 Officer to Animal Control Officerwith 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
Rentals Library 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
Fees Committee 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 75,000
9 Street Parking Selectmen park their vehicles along Greenlodge Street. program with additional amounts transferred to annually
Fees General Fund.
Beautification Beautification Fees received from the sale of bricks. Payment of services required to install bricks 10,000
10 Fund Committee 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
Fund Library of borrowed materials, replacement of books and other library materials for public annually
Trustees borrower cards, or any other such fees as loan.
11 may be established by the Board of Library
Trustees, for the purpose of and consistent
with maintaining a fair and efficient library
loans stem.
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
Fund General By Laws.
- Article XX of the Town General By L - aws.
23-23-Source page 24
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
VOTE: 70
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee voted unanimously to increase the spending limit for revolving Fund 4,
COA Transportation Fund from $ 10,000 to $25,000 and Fund 9, Greenlodge St Parking Fees from $ 50,000 to
75,000. Both departments provided reasonable justification that increasing these spending limits is needed to
effectively manage the donations and fees received and the needs of the population they serve and the services
they provide. There are no other changes to any other spending limits, though there are some changes in wording.
Revolving Fund #1
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting annually to allow the Conservation Commission to
continue its revolving account. They currently have a revolving account to which all rentals related to the use of the
properties located on the premises known as Pequitside Farm are credited.
Revolving Fund #2
DISCUSSION: This motion was requested by the Veterans' Services Director to establish a revolving fund for
special revenues received. The fund will be used to provide services to veterans who are not otherwise funded
under any established program.
Revolving Fund #3
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Fire Chief to establish a revolving fund for
fees received to compensate the department for relocating fire alarm services.
Revolving Fund #4
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Council on Aging to establish a revolving
fund to which revenues derived from the transportation supplied to the elderly citizens must be credited. This fund
must be used for the payment of bills and charges in connection with transportation for our elderly citizens. The
expected source of funds will be donations rather than fees charged. The Fees in FY 2011 were approaching the
10,000 cap so the committee feels an increase is warranted.
Revolving Fund #5
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Board of Health to establish a revolving fund
for donations and other reimbursement received. The fund will be used to purchase additional flu vaccinations and
offer educational programs on health - related topics not otherwise funded by their present annual budget.
Revolving Fund #6
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Animal Control Officer to establish a
revolving fund for donations received. The fund will be used to purchase veterinary services not otherwise funded
by their present annual budget.
Revolving Fund #7
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Board of Library Trustees to establish a
revolving fund for building rental fees and other payments received. The fund will be used to support the rental
programs and other related costs.
Revolving Fund #8
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the School Committee to establish a revolving
fund for fees paid by students to park their vehicles at Canton High School. The fund will be used for the payments
of bills and other charges to maintain the high school parking lots and grounds.
Revolving Fund #9
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Board of Selectmen to establish a revolving
fund for fees paid by residents to park their vehicles on Greenlodge Street. The fund will be used for the payments
of bills and other charges to maintain the parking program. At year end, any balance in this fund is transferred to
the general fund. The Fees in FY 2011 were approaching the $50,000 cap so the committee feels an increase is
warranted.
Revolving Fund #10
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Beautification Committee to establish a
revolving fund for fees paid by residents to purchase commemorative bricks. The fund will be used for the
payments of bills and other charges to install bricks and for other beautification projects.
24-Source page 25
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Revolving Fund #11
DISCUSSION: This revolving fund will allow the Library to keep the fines they charge for books and other
materials that are returned late. This will help the library meet state requirements to receive annual state aid and
certifications.
Revolving Fund #12
DISCUSSION: This motion must be voted by Town Meeting for the Conservation Commission to establish a
revolving fund for fees paid in accordance with the Town's soil erosion by law.
- The fund will be used for the
payments of bills and other charges to process permits and certificates of compliance under Article XX of the
Town's General By L- aws.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
OMNIBUS" CAPITAL OUTLAY PROGRAM
Article 13 To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate, or to transfer from available funds, or to
authorize the Town Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, to borrow ( and to issue bonds or notes
therefore) any sum or sums of money, or by any combination of these methods of financing as may be necessary
or desirable, make available funds for the purpose of purchasing, leasing, re-conditioning, improving or replacing
any motor vehicles or other items of equipment or machinery or other items of personal property for any town
agency, or for the purpose of contracting for any service, or for the design, repair, acquisition, construction,
replacement or relocation or improvement to any town building or other structure, public works facility ( including
highway needs and traffic safety items), any other town owned facility or real property, or for any other purposes
for which borrowing may be authorized, to purchase, or to take by eminent domain, any land or easements
necessary for any such purposes and, where applicable, to authorize the trade -in of any presently owned motor
vehicles, equipment or machinery to reduce the purchase or acquisition cost of any item to be acquired, or to take
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 is also
authorized and shall be under the responsibility of the Finance Director /Chief Procurement Officer. In
all cases where by a motion made under this warrant article, a vehicle or other piece of motorized
equipment is to be acquired by a town 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 a vote of the Finance
Committee, taken within 30 ( thirty) days following a decision 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: 80
- 0
-
MOTION 1
DISCUSSION: This motion authorizes the Finance Director to supervise vehicle acquisitions and the Building
Renovations Committee to oversee all building /land improvement projects.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
25-Source page 26
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
MOTION 2
MOVED: That Four Hundred Thirty One Thousand Dollars ($431,000) be appropriated from the
Fiscal Year 2012 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
Replace four Patrol Cars 148,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Replace Bullet Resistant Vests 5,
000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Purchase License Plate Scanner 13,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Purchase Communications Console 25,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Fire Department
Ford F350 Pickup Truck (last year lease payment) 11,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Purchase /lease 2 Ford Explorers ( 2 yr. lease payment) 22,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
DPW
Replace Engineering' s Plotter /Copier /Scanner 19,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Replace 2001 Cemetery Division Mower 10,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Purchase Utility Vehicle for Cemetery Division 9,
000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Finance
Replace 2 Financial Servers 14,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
MUNIS Database Upgrade 17,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Replace Copier at Town Hall 14,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Buildings & Prot). Maintenance
Ford F350 Truck (last year lease payment) 12,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Recreation
Swimming Pool Rehab /Repair 15,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Sod Replacement/ Field Rehabilitation 10,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Kennedy Basketball Court Repair 7,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Council on Aging
Replace 2003 Van 53,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Library
Purchase Digital Books 15,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Building & Grounds Improvements 5,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Purchase Microfilm Scanner 7,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
GRAND TOTAL 431,000
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 is one line item in the total sum of Four Hundred Thirty One Thousand Dollars ($431,000).
The Finance Director and Town Administrator, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such
funds in such a manner as may be needed to accomplish the forgoing list of purchases; provided,
however, that each item contained in the list is procured 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.
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the recommendations of the CPC.
26-Source page 27
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Police Department
Replace 4 Patrol Cars & Equipment with Mobile Computers ($148,000)
The Canton Police utilizes its vehicles on 24 x 7 basis for the safety and security of the town. This is a scheduled
replacement for high mileage vehicles.
Replace Bullet Resistant Vests ($ 5, 000)
This is a scheduled replacement of bullet resistant vests for the Canton Police. This is a replacement only of vests
that have reached their five (5)year warranty.
Purchase License Plate Scanner ($13,000)
A license -plate scanner is a new law enforcement tool that reads the license plates of moving or parked cars and
links with remote police databases, immediately providing information about the car and owner. The police check if
there are any taxes owed on the car, if the car or license plate is stolen, and if the car is unregistered or uninsured.
The devices also help police find people wanted on criminal warrants and respond to urgent situations, such as
robbers on the run. The police have always been able to run a license plate manually but the scanner will vastly
improve the efficiency of running plates for information.
Purchase Communication Console ($ 25, 000)
The current communications controls access to overhead garage doors and sally ports at the police station and
communicates to patrol units on the road. The unit is obsolete. Technical and hardware support are no longer
available for the unit and parts are difficult to find. The current unit did fail this past year and the police were
forced to rely on a mobile unit until repairs could be affected. Attempting to continue maintenance on the current
unit is not financially practical.
Fire Department
Ford F350 Pickup Truck (final lease payments) ($ 11, 000)
This capital request for FY 2012 is to fund the fourth and final year annual lease payment as originally approved at
the 2008 annual town meeting. The CPC originally approved the request to utilize additional lease p / urchases for
the Fire Departments vehicles. However, they unanimously voted to eliminate lease /purchase agreements going
forward as the additional cost of this type of arrangement can easily become prohibitive
Lease Payment for Ford Explorers ( 2nd year lease payment) ($ 22,000)
This capital request for FY 2012 is to fund the 2 " year annual lease payment for two Ford Explorers as originally
approved at the 2010 annual town meeting. The CPC originally approved the request to utilize additional
lease /purchases for the Fire Departments vehicles. However, they unanimously voted to eliminate lease /purchase
agreements going forward as the additional cost of this type of arrangement can easily become prohibitive.
DPW
Replace Engineering' s Plotter /Copier /Scanner ($ 19,000)
Engineering' s current printer /scanner system is over 12 years old. The manufacturer no longer supports the
systems with parts or software. Engineering produces plans, copies and presentation documents for the Board of
Selectmen, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Health, Building, Capital Planning Committee and other
departments. Attempting to continue maintenance on the current unit is not financially practical.
Replace 2001 Cemetery Division Mower ($10,000)
Current mower was put into service in 2001 and has reached the end of its serviceable life. Industry standards
recommend replacing small to medium sized mowers at 5 years or 5, 000 hours. The current mower has logged
6,
100 hours of use.
Purchase Utility Vehicle for Cemetery Division ($9, 000)
This utility vehicle would be used in the Cemetery to move tools, supplies and materials along lawns, gravesites
and in between monuments and stone. The Cemetery Division currently uses a front e
- nd loader too large to access
all tight ground areas.
Finance Department
Replace 2 Financial Servers ($ 14, 000)
The Finance Department currently relies on 2 servers for town wide billing. These servers were put into service in
2004 and have reached the end of their useful life. The single new server will replace the two older servers and
combine all of the applications needed to run the complete financial package.
MUNIS Database Upgrade ($17,000)
The Finance Department currently utilizes the Informix database and AIX platform, which are becoming obsolete.
Financial software packages are moving to newer technologies that are based on the NET platform and SQL
database structures. Upgrading the MUNIS database will position the Finance Department to utilize future software
enhancements and will be better able to support software on the new server in the previous request item.
27-Source page 28
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Replace copier at Town Hall ($ 14,000)
The current copier at the Town Hall was put into service in 2002 and has generated approximately 1 million copies.
This copier has reached the end of its useful life and was originally listed in the capital plan for 2009 but was
reallocated to FY12.
Buildings & Property Maintenance
Ford F350 Dump Truck Lease ($ 12, 000)
This is the fourth and final year annual lease payment as originally approved at the 2008 annual town meeting.
Recreation
Swimming Pool Rehab /Repairs ($ 15,000)
Original repairs were done to half of the fiberglass bottom of the pool in 2010 and the goal of this request is to
complete the repairs on the remaining half of the pool floor. In addition, the pool pump and motor have reached
the end of their useful life and this request will purchase replacements for the coming season.
Sod Replacement/ Field Rehabilitation ($10, 000)
This is an ongoing program to rehab the town fields that is funded in a rotational basis each year. The fields
installed at Route 138 near the Canton - Stoughton town line were put in by a private developer and suffer from
poor drainage, which restrict the usage of the fields to the dry summer months. This request will rehabilitate the
drainage of the field so that it can be used earlier and later in the season.
Kennedy Basketball Court Repair ($
7,000)
The courts were built approximately 10 years ago. Normal wear and tear have obliterated the lines and eroded the
surface. This request will resurface and re l-ine 2 basketball courts at the Kennedy School. The Finance Committee
was reassured that any expansion of the Kennedy school, as approved at 2010 ATM, will not impact any repairs
done to the courts with this request.
Council On Aging
Purchase Replacement for 2003 Van ($ 53, 000)
This current van is seven years old, has 82,000 miles, can only seat 11 passengers and has an unreliable
handicapped accessible lift. On several occasions the COA had to call the Fire Department to help a person off the
lift, which had frozen in mid - range.
Library
Purchase Digital Books ($ 15,000)
This request will allow the library to purchase a core collection of approximately 600 standard titles not in the
public domain. This core collection will provide an assortment of titles for e-Readers, which are fast becoming a
popular format option of the public.
Building & Grounds Improvements ($5, 000)
This request will allow the library to purchase trees, scrubs, plants, or other landscaping supplies to improve the
grounds. It is hoped that volunteers can provide the labor required.
Purchase of Microfilm Scanner ($7, 000)
The current microfilm machine is 20 years old and no longer has the ability to print. Repairs to the print function
are estimated at $3, 500 with no guarantee of continued parts availability. Attempting to continue maintenance on
the current unit is not financially practical.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
MOTION 3
MOVED: That Four Hundred Three Thousand Dollars ($403,000) be appropriated from the Fiscal
Year 2012 tax levy and other general revenues of the town, for the Canton School Committee to expend
for the purpose of purchasing certain items of property set forth below for the School Department as
follows:
CPC & FINCOM CPC
RECOMMENDATIONS FINCOM VOTE VOTE
Technology
Virtual ization /Infrastructure upgrade 211,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
VOIP ( Voice Over Internet Protocol) Phone System 32,000 90
- 0
- 60
- 0
-
Music Lab - GMS 7,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Art - digital cameras - High School 3,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
28-Source page 29
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Wellness elementary visualizers 2,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Buildina Improvements
Plumbing Improvements 25,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Carpet Replacement 3,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Program Improvements
Textbooks —English Language Arts — phase 2 99,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Science microscopes - GMS 5,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Replace cafeteria tables — Luce 2,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Furniture & Fixtures
Student classroom furniture - GMS 4,
000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Extraordinary Maintenance
Computer Power Management 10,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
GRAND TOTAL
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual
appropriations. The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount
appropriated is one line item in the total sum of Four Hundred Three Thousand Dollars ($
403,000).The
Finance Director and the Business Manager of the School Department, acting jointly, are herby
authorized to distribute such funds in such a manner as may be needed to accomplish the forgoing list
of purchases; provided, however, that each item contained in the list is procured 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.
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the recommendations of the CPC.
Technology
Virtualization Infrastructure Upgrade ($211,000)
The purpose of this project is to reduce 26 servers to a single solution that will require less power, be easier to
maintain, and lower replacement costs. It also provides students and teachers the ability to access data from
anywhere, such as their homes or a library, instead of requiring them to utilize school computers. This request will
cover costs for Phases I and Phase II of the three phase project. The expected savings from not having to replace
computers going forward is expected to pay for Phase III of the project.
Voice Over Internet Protocol [ VOIP] enhancement to telephone system ($ 32,000)
This state of the art IP based telephone system will be configured to run all voice and auto - attendant applications
for all schools. Doing so will reduce calling costs, service work and on g
- oing maintenance. It will also eliminate the
need to proceed with Phase II of the telephone upgrade that was started last year. Phase II was supposed to
replace all the individual site voicemail systems with new ones at a cost of $3, 500 for each of 4 sites. The
centralized VOIP system consolidates all voicemail systems and thus will save $14,000.
Music Lab ($7, 000)
The current lab is no longer in good working condition and uses out o - f date
- music software. The proposed
MacBook Learning Lab ", which consists of MacBook laptop computers, would allow all GMS music classes to have
access to current music technology.
Art- Digital Cameras ($3, 000)
The current cameras are at least 10 years old and use floppy disks that are not compatible with school computers.
This request will purchase current technology cameras, batteries and chargers.
Wellness elementary visualizes ($ 2, 000)
Currently, the elementary Health Teachers do not have a consistent and reliable opportunity to utilize technology
during instruction because they "roam" among the various elementary schools. This request would be used to
purchase mobile laptop computers that connect to LCD projectors to create mobile technology carts for use by
Health Teachers. When not required by Health Teachers, other teachers in the school may utilize the carts.
Building Improvements
Plumbing Improvements ($25,000)
The Finance Committee recommends spending $25,000 of cash capital for various plumbing projects throughout
the school system.
29-Source page 30
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Carpet Replacement - Hanson ($3, 000)
This project is to replace worn carpet in the psychologist' s office at the Hanson.
Proaram Improvements
ELA Textbooks ($ 99, 000)
This will complete the ELA implementation approved in ATM 2010 and allow the district to function as a whole in its
approach to balanced literacy at the Pre K
- to 5 level. This purchase also includes the purchase of support materials
for all the special education programs as well as the reading support programs.
Science Microscopes — GMS ($5, 000)
Working microscopes are a critical tool in teaching grade 8 sciences. This also impacts the learning of grade 9
science. The current five microscopes are 20 years old and service class sizes of 25 students. The new microscopes
are essential for high school achievement in science.
Replacement Cafeteria Tables - Luce ($ 2, 000)
Broken cafeteria tables are unsafe and need to be replaced.
Furniture & Fixtures
Student classroom furniture — GMS ($
4,000)
Four first - grades with tables should be switched over to student desks and chairs. Further, several desktops had to
be replaced, which leaves no spare desk c / hairs for additional students.
Extraordinary Maintenance
Computer power management ($ 10, 000)
This request will purchase software that will control when and how often computers are turned on and o / r off
throughout the district. Controlling power consumption by computers is expected to reduce the cost of running
computers by approximately 50 %.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED,
MOTION 4
MOVED: That Eighteen Thousand Dollars ($18,000) be spent by the School Department for
masonry repairs to the Rodman Building and to meet said appropriation that Eighteen Thousand Dollars
18,000) be transferred from the appropriation voted pursuant to Article 13 Motion 5 of the 2008
Annual Town Meeting for the purpose of removing asbestos at the Rodman Building thereby reducing
the 2008 appropriation from One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) to Eighty Two Thousand
Dollars ($
82,000).
VOTE: 60
- 1
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports this motion to transfer funds. Both the CPC and the Finance
Committee did not support using FY12 Cash Capital funds for these repairs at the Rodman Building but
recommended the transfer of funds. The repairs are needed due to moisture coming into the building, but these
repairs are due to poor workmanship, as such transferring available funds is more appropriate then using Capital.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED,
MOTION 5
MOVED: That Five Hundred Eighty One Thousand Dollars ($581,000) be appropriated to be spent by
the Board of Selectmen to pay costs of various capital projects and equipment as set forth below and to
meet said appropriation the Town Treasurer, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, be
authorized to borrow, pursuant to any applicable statute or any other enabling authority as may be, the
30-Source page 31
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
sum of Five Hundred Eighty One Thousand Dollars ($
581,000) with the intent that these funds shall be
available in fiscal 2011.
FINCOM CPC
RECOMMENDATIONS FINCOM VOTE VOTE
Repair Bolivar Street Culvert 311,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
Repair Pine Street Culvert 270,000 70
- 0
- 40
- 0
-
TOTAL TOTAL
The The sums sums shown shown are are intended intended to to bebe estimates estimates ofof individual individual items items but but the the amount amount to to bebe appropriated appropriated is is
one one line line item item inin the the total total amount amount ofof Five Five Hundred Hundred Eighty Eighty One One Thousand Thousand Dollars Dollars ($ ($ 581,000). The The
Finance Finance Director Director and and thethe Town Town Administrator, Administrator, acting acting jointly,jointly, areare hereby hereby authorized authorized toto distribute distribute such such
funds funds inin such such manner manner asas may may bebe needed needed toto accomplish accomplish the the foregoing foregoing list list of of projects;projects; provided, provided,
however,however, that that each each project project contained contained inin the the list list set set forth forth above above isis undertaken undertaken and and that that any any excess excess
funds funds are are available available because because one one oror more more ofof the the listed listed projects projects cost cost less less than than was was estimated estimated and and not not
because because aa project project intended intended to to bebe undertaken undertaken is is not not soso undertaken. undertaken.
DISCUSSION: DISCUSSION: The The Finance Finance Committee Committee supports supports the the recommendations recommendations ofof the the CPC.CPC.
Repair Repair Bolivar Bolivar Street Street Culvert Culvert
($ ($311.
311.000)
TheThe Bolivar Bolivar Street Street culvert culvert consists consists ofof aa combination combination ofof stone stone masonry masonry andand concrete concrete walls walls andand roof.roof. During During the the
March March 2010 2010 flooding flooding the the upstream upstream end end ofof the the culvert culvert roof roof collapsed collapsed asas aa result result ofof high high flows flows removing removing stone stone from from
thethe walls walls undermining undermining thethe roof roof support.support. This This request request replaces replaces the the damaged damaged concrete concrete andand stone stone drainage drainage culvert.culvert.
Repair Repair Pine Pine Street Street Culvert Culvert
($ ($270,
270,
000)
The The Pine Pine Street Street culvert culvert consists consists ofof concrete concrete walls walls and and roof roof cast cast over over an an existing existing open open bottom bottom stone stone masonry masonry
culvert.culvert. The The March March 2010 2010 flooding flooding caused caused the the collapse collapse ofof the the roof roof of of the the culvert.culvert. This This request request replaces replaces the the
damaged damaged concrete concrete culvert. culvert.
APPROVED APPROVED DISAPPROVED DISAPPROVED
Motion Motion 66
MOVED: MOVED: That That One One Hundred Hundred Twelve Twelve Thousand Thousand Dollars ($ Dollars ($ 112,000) be be spent spent by by the the School School
Department Department for for HVAC HVAC repairs repairs to to school school buildings buildings and and to to meet meet said said appropriation appropriation that that Thirty Thirty Four Four
Thousand Thousand One One Hundred Hundred Thirty Thirty Five Five Dollars ($Dollars ($ 34,135) be be transferred transferred from from the the appropriation appropriation voted voted
pursuant pursuant toto Article Article 13 13 Motion Motion 55 ofof the the 2008 2008 Annual Annual Town Town Meeting Meeting for for the the purpose purpose of of replacing replacing the the roof roof
at at the the Galvin Galvin Middle Middle School,School, thereby thereby reducing reducing the the 2008 2008 appropriation appropriation from from One One Hundred Hundred Thirty Thirty
Thousand Thousand Dollars Dollars
($ ($130,
130,000) to to Ninety Ninety Five Five Thousand Thousand Eight Eight Hundred Hundred Sixty Sixty Five Five Dollars Dollars ($ ($95,
95, 865) and and
that that Seventy Seventy Seven Seven Thousand Thousand Eight Eight Hundred Hundred Sixty Sixty Five Five Dollars ($ Dollars ($ 77,865) bebe transferred transferred from from the the
appropriation appropriation voted voted pursuant pursuant to to Article Article 13 13 Motion Motion 55 of of the the 2009 2009 Annual Annual Town Town Meeting Meeting for for the the purpose purpose
of of replacing replacing the the roof roof at at the the Luce Luce School, School, thereby thereby reducing reducing the the 2009 2009 appropriation appropriation from from Three Three Hundred Hundred
Ten Ten Thousand Thousand Dollars Dollars
($ ($ 310,000) to to Two Two Hundred Hundred Thirty Thirty Two Two Thousand Thousand One One Hundred Hundred Thirty Thirty Five Five
Dollars ($Dollars ($ 232,135).
VOTE:VOTE: 99- -0 0- 0
-0
DISCUSSION: DISCUSSION: TheThe Finance Finance Committee Committee unanimously unanimously supports supports this this motion.motion. TheThe School School Committee Committee spends spends
112,000 per per year year toto maintain maintain the the HVAC HVAC systems systems for for all all school school buildings. buildings. Normally Normally the the source source ofof this this funding funding isis
from from their their budgeted budgeted debt debt capital. capital. Because Because of of the the extraordinary extraordinary capital capital needs needs ofof the the school school department department for for FY12,FY12, the the
Finance Finance Committee Committee recommends recommends that that the the $ $ 112,000 required required for for HVAC HVAC maintenance maintenance in in FY12 FY12 be be funded funded from from school school
capital capital projects projects that that were were approved approved atat previous previous ATM's but but are are no no longer longer needed. needed.
APPROVED APPROVED DISAPPROVED, DISAPPROVED,
31—
31—Source page 32
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Motion 7
MOVED: That Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) be appropriated to be spent by the
Department of Public Works Superintendent with the approval of the Board of Selectmen to pay costs
of rehabilitating the Ponkapoag Standpipe 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 Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000). 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.
1 9 'fflIIl]
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the recommendations of the CPC. The standpipe remains an
integral part of the water storage and water pressure system and thus needs to be properly maintained.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
Motion 8
MOVED: That Fifty Five Thousand Dollars ($55,
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 a utility truck and to meet said appropriation Fifty Five Thousand Dollars
55,000) be transferred from the water enterprise surplus ( retained earnings).
VOTE: 70
- 0
-
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the recommendations of the CPC. The current Truck has
149,000 miles of use. The recommended replacement cycle for this type of vehicle is ten years or 60,000 miles.
Public Works has spent $15,042 on repairs and upkeep on this truck. The truck is used daily, for emergency and
also used for snow plowing.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
MOTION 9
MOVED: That Seventy Six Thousand Dollars ($76, 000) be appropriated to be spent by the Fire
Chief with the approval of the Board of Selectmen for the purpose of various capital equipment as set
forth below and to meet this appropriation Seventy Six Thousand Dollars ($76,000) be transferred
from Ambulance Receipts Reserved for Appropriation Account.
CPC & FINCOM CPC
RECOMMENDATIONS FINCOM VOTE VOTE
Chest Compression System 28,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Purchase two (2)Power Ambulance Cots 30,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
Purchase EMS Software 18,000 70
- 0
- 50
- 0
-
TOTAL
32-Source page 33
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
The amounts listed above for particular acquisitions are not to be construed as individual
appropriations. The sums shown are intended to be estimates of individual items but the amount
appropriated is one line item in the total sum of Seventy Six Thousand Dollars ($ 76,000). The Finance
Director and the Fire Chief, acting jointly, are hereby authorized to distribute such funds in such a
manner as may be needed to accomplish the forgoing list of purchases; provided, however, that each
item contained in the list is procured 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.
DISCUSSION: The Finance Committee supports the recommendations of the CPC.
Chest Compression System ($28,000)
Two auto - compression devices should be deployed on Ambulances 1 and 2. These machines are used on patients in
cardiac arrest and allow for continuous cardiac compressions to be done without assistance from an EMT or
firefighter. Canton Fire department' s Medical Control Physician has trained our EMT's in Continuous Compression
Protocol, which increases the survival rate of cardiac arrest patients by up to 20 11 b.
/ They were used on a trial basis
with great success but had to be returned to the vendor. The device provides perfect compressions and rate while
freeing up a firefighter to render additional critical care to a patient in arrest.
Power Ambulance Cots (2)30,
($000)
The Power Ambulance cots allow for transfer of patients to the ambulance using a dual speed power lift system.
These stretchers replace traditional mechanical stretchers that require two firefighters /EMT's to physically lower
and lift the stretcher when moving a patient. Power cots will reduce the costs associated with back and shoulder
injuries incurred by the department when a firefighter injures himself /herself while transferring patients to the
ambulance. The power cots will save overtime costs related to replacing injured firefighters. The stretchers will
also improve patient care and safety by reducing the occurrences of dropping a patient.
Purchase EMS Software ($
18.
000)
Purchase and install Ambu -Pro EMS Software Package. Ambu -Pro software is the platform used to create patient
care reports ( PCP's)and for submitting bills electronically to a third party billing agency.
The current system is cumbersome and unreliable.
APPROVED DISAPPROVED
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ZONING BY LAWS
- — ADDING NEW SECTION 9.7 —LARGE -SCALE GROUND -
MOUNTED SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC INSTALLATION OVERLAY DISTRICT (SPOD)
Article 14 To see if the Town will vote to amend the Zoning By law
- by adding a new Section 9.7 as follows, or
take any other action related thereto:
9.7 Large S
- cale Ground-Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation Overlay District (SPOD)
9.
17. Purpose
The purpose of this Large Scale Ground Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation Overlay District ( SPOD) is to
promote the creation of new large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations by providing standards for
the placement, design, construction, operation, monitoring, modification and removal of such installations that
address public safety, minimize impacts on scenic, natural and historic resources and to provide adequate financial
assurance for the eventual decommissioning of such installations.
The provisions set forth in this section shall apply to the construction, operation, and /or repair of large -scale
ground - mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
33—Source page 34
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
9.
27. Overlay District
The SPOD shall be construed as an overlay district. This district may be applied as an overlay to any parcel of
land which has been designated by a town meeting vote. All requirements of the underlying zoning district(s) shall
remain in full force and effect, except where the requirements of the SPOD are less restrictive or provide for uses
or structures not otherwise available in the underlying district(s). In such cases the requirements of the SPOD
shall supercede the underlying zoning regulations.
9.
37. Applicability
This Section 9.7 applies to large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations proposed to be constructed
after the effective date of this section. This Section 9.7 also pertains to physical modifications that materially alter
the type, configuration, or size of these installations or related equipment.
9.
47. Expedited Permitting
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Zoning By l-aw, the Site Plan Review Authority shall render a decision
within 180 days after the filing of an application for Site Plan Approval of a Large S
- cale Ground Mounted Solar
Photovoltaic Installation. No provision of this Zoning By l-aw shall preclude issuance of a final approval, including
without limitation the issuance of a building permit, within one year of the filing of an application for a Large -Scale
Ground Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation.
9.
57. Definitions
As -of Right
- Siting: As -of Right
- Siting shall mean that development may proceed without the need for a special
permit, variance, amendment, waiver, or other discretionary approval. As o
- f right
- development may be subject to
site plan review to determine conformance with the Zoning Bylaw. Projects cannot be prohibited, but can be
reasonably regulated by the inspector of buildings, building commissioner or local inspector.
Building Inspector: The inspector of buildings, building commissioner, or local inspector;.
Building Permit: A construction permit issued by an authorized building inspector; the building permit evidences
that the project is consistent with the state and federal building codes as well as local zoning bylaws, including
those governing ground- mounted large -scale solar photovoltaic installations.
Designated Location: The location[s] designated in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A,
section 5, where ground - mounted large scale solar photovoltaic installations may be sited as -of right. Said
location is shown on Assessors Map 40, Parcel 44,pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A Section
4. This map is hereby made a part of this Zoning Bylaw and is on file in the Office of the Town Clerk.
Large -Scale Ground- Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation: A solar photovoltaic system that is structurally
mounted on the ground and is not roof - mounted, and has a minimum nameplate capacity of 250 kW DC.
On S
- ite Solar Photovoltaic Installation: A solar photovoltaic installation that is constructed at a location where
other uses of the underlying property occur.
Rated Nameplate Capacity: The maximum rated output of electric power production of the Photovoltaic system
in Direct Current ( DC).
Site Plan Review: Review by the Site Plan Review Authority pursuant to Section 10.5 of this Zoning By law.
-
Site Plan Review Authority: For purposes of this bylaw, Site Plan Review Authority refers to the body of local
government designated as such by the municipality.
Solar Photovoltaic Array: an arrangement of solar photovoltaic panels.
Zoning Enforcement Authority: The person or board charged with enforcing the Zoning Bylaw.
34-Source page 35
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
9.
67. General Requirements for all Large Scale Solar Power Generation Installations
The following requirements are common to all solar photovoltaic installations to be sited in designated locations.
9.
6.
7.Compliance with Laws, Bylaws and Regulations
1
The construction and operation of all large scale solar photovoltaic installations shall be
consistent with all applicable local, state and federal requirements, including but not limited to all
applicable safety, construction, electrical, and communications requirements. All buildings and
fixtures forming part of a solar photovoltaic installation shall be constructed in accordance with
the State Building Code.
9.
6.
7.Building
2 Permit and Building Inspection
No large scale solar photovoltaic installation shall be constructed, installed or modified as
provided in this Section 9.7 without first obtaining a building permit.
9.
6.
7. Fees
3
The application for a building permit for a large scale solar photovoltaic installation must be
accompanied by the fee required for a building permit.
9.
6.
7.
4 Site Plan Review
Ground - mounted large scale solar photovoltaic installations with 250 kW or larger of rated
nameplate capacity shall undergo site plan review by the Site Plan Review Authority pursuant to
Section 10.5 of this Zoning By l-aw prior to construction, installation or modification as provided in
this Section 9.
7.
9.
6.
7.General
5
All plans and maps shall be prepared, stamped and signed by a Professional Engineer licensed to
practice in Massachusetts.
9.
6.
7.Required
6 Documents
Pursuant to the site plan review process and in addition to documents otherwise required
pursuant to Section 10.5 of this Zoning By -law, the project proponent shall provide the following
documents:
a. A site plan showing:
Property lines and physical features, including roads, for the project site;
ii. Proposed changes to the landscape of the site, grading, vegetation
clearing and planting, exterior lighting, screening vegetation or structures;
iii. Blueprints or drawings of the solar photovoltaic installation signed by a
Professional Engineer licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts showing the proposed layout of the system and any potential
shading from nearby structures
iv. One or three line electrical diagram detailing the solar photovoltaic
installation, associated components, and electrical interconnection methods,
with all National Electrical Code compliant disconnects and overcurrent devices;
V. Documentation of the major system components to be used, including
the PV panels, mounting system, and inverter;
35-Source page 36
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
vi. Name, address, and contact information for proposed system installer;
vii. Name, address, phone number and signature of the project proponent,
as well as all co-proponents or property owners, if any;
viii. The name, contact information and signature of any agents representing
the project proponent; and
b) Documentation of actual or prospective access and control of the project site;
c) An operation and maintenance plan;
d) Zoning district designation for the parcel(s) of land comprising the project site (submission
of a copy of a zoning map with the parcel(s) identified is suitable for this purpose);
e) Proof of liability insurance; and
f) Description of financial surety that satisfies Section 3.
9.
8.
The Site Plan Review Authority may waive documentary requirements as it deems appropriate.
9.
6.
7.Site Control
The project proponent shall submit documentation of actual or prospective access and control of
the project site sufficient to allow for construction and operation of the proposed solar
photovoltaic installation.
9.
6.
7.Operation &
8 Maintenance Plan
The project proponent shall submit a plan for the operation and maintenance of the large- scale
ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installation, which shall include measures for maintaining safe
access to the installation, storm water controls, as well as general procedures for operational
maintenance of the installation.
9.
6.
7.Utility Notification
9
No large- scale ground — mounted solar photovoltaic installation shall be constructed until
evidence has been given to the Site Plan Review Authority that the utility company that operates
the electrical grid where the installation is to be located has been informed of the solar
photovoltaic installation owner or operator' s intent to install an interconnected customer -owned
generator. Off g- rid systems shall be exempt from this requirement.
9.
6.
7.
10 Dimension and Density Requirements
9.
6.
17.
10. Setbacks
For large - scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations, front, side and rear
setbacks shall be as follows:
a. Front yard: The front yard depth shall be at least 10 feet; provided, however,
that where the lot abuts a Conservation - Recreation or Residential district, the
front yard shall not be less than 50 feet.
36—Source page 37
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
b. Side yard. Each side yard shall have a depth at least 15 feet; provided,
however, that where the lot abuts a Conservation- Recreation or Residential
district, the side yard shall not be less than 50 feet.
C. Rear yard. The rear yard depth shall be at least 25 feet; provided, however,
that where the lot abuts a Conservation - Recreation or Residential district, the
rear yard shall not be less than 50 feet.
9.
6.
27.
10. Appurtenant Structures
All appurtenant structures to large- scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic
installations shall be subject to reasonable regulations concerning the bulk and height of
structures, lot area, setbacks, open space, parking and building coverage requirements.
All such appurtenant structures, including but not limited to, equipment shelters, storage
facilities, transformers, and substations, shall be architecturally compatible with each
other. Whenever reasonable, structures should be shaded from view by vegetation
and /or joined or clustered to avoid adverse visual impacts.
9.
77. Design Standards
9.
7.
7.Lighting
1
Lighting of solar photovoltaic installations shall be consistent with local, state and federal law.
Lighting of other parts of the installation, such as appurtenant structures, shall be limited to that
required for safety and operational purposes, and shall be reasonably shielded from abutting
properties. Where feasible, lighting of the solar photovoltaic installation shall be directed
downward and shall incorporate full cut o
- ff fixtures to reduce light pollution.
9.
7.
7.Signage
2
Signs on large- scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations shall comply with Section
6.3 of this Zoning By l-aw. A sign consistent with such Section 6.3 shall be required to identify the
owner and provide a 24 h - our emergency contact phone number.
Solar photovoltaic installations shall not be used for displaying any advertising except for
reasonable identification of the manufacturer or operator of the solar photovoltaic installation.
9.
7.
7.Utility Connections
3
Reasonable efforts, as determined by the Site Plan Review Authority, shall be made to place all
utility connections from the solar photovoltaic installation underground, depending on appropriate
soil conditions, shape, and topography of the site and any requirements of the utility provider.
Electrical transformers for utility interconnections may be above ground if required by the utility
provider.
9.
87. Safety and Environmental Standards
9.
8.
7.Emergency Services
1
The large scale solar photovoltaic installation owner or operator shall provide a copy of the
project summary, electrical schematic, and site plan to the Fire Chief. Upon request the owner or
operator shall cooperate with local emergency services in developing an emergency response
plan. All means of shutting down the solar photovoltaic installation shall be clearly marked. The
owner or operator shall identify a responsible person for public inquiries throughout the life of
the installation.
9.
8.
7.Land Clearing, Soil Erosion and Habitat Impacts
2
37—Source page 38
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Clearing of natural vegetation shall be limited to what is necessary for the construction, operation
and maintenance of the large — scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installation or otherwise
prescribed by applicable laws, regulations, and bylaws.
9.
97. Monitoring and Maintenance
9.
7.Solar Photovoltaic Installation Conditions
1
The large - scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installation owner or operator shall maintain
the facility in good condition. Maintenance shall include, but not be limited to, painting, structural
repairs, and integrity of security measures. Site access shall be maintained to a level acceptable
to the Fire Chief and Emergency Medical Services. The owner or operator shall be responsible for
the cost of maintaining the solar photovoltaic installation and any access road(s), unless accepted
as a public way.
9.
7.Modifications
2
All material modifications to a solar photovoltaic installation made after issuance of the required
building permit shall require approval by the Site Plan Review Authority.
9.
10
7. Abandonment and Decommissioning
9.
10.
7. Removal
1 Requirements
Any large- scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installation which has reached the end of its
useful life or has been abandoned consistent with Section 10. 9. 7. of this bylaw shall be
2
removed. The owner or operator shall physically remove the installation no more than 150 days
after the date of discontinued operations. The owner or operator shall notify the Site Plan Review
Authority by certified mail of the proposed date of discontinued operations and plans for
removal. Decommissioning shall consist of:
a. Physical removal of all large- scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations,
structures, equipment, security barriers and transmission lines from the site.
b. Disposal of all solid and hazardous waste in accordance with local, state, and federal
waste disposal regulations.
c. Stabilization or re-vegetation of the site as necessary to minimize erosion. The Site Plan
Review Authority may allow the owner or operator to leave landscaping or designated
below -grade foundations in order to minimize erosion and disruption to vegetation.
9.
10.
7. Abandonment
2
Absent notice of a proposed date of decommissioning or written notice of extenuating
circumstances, the solar photovoltaic installation shall be considered abandoned when it fails to
operate for more than one year without the written consent of the Site Plan Review Authority. If
the owner or operator of the large- scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installation fails to
remove the installation in accordance with the requirements of this section within 150 days of
abandonment or the proposed date of decommissioning, the Town may enter the property and
physically remove the installation.
9.
10.
7. Financial Surety
3
Proponents of large s- cale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic projects shall provide a form of
surety, either through escrow account, bond or otherwise, to cover the cost of removal in the
event the Town must remove the installation and remediate the landscape, in an amount and
form determined to be reasonable by the Site Plan Review Authority, but in no event to exceed
more than 125 percent of the cost of removal and compliance with the additional requirements
set forth herein, as determined by the project proponent. Such surety will not be required for
municipally- or state -owned facilities. The project proponent shall submit a fully inclusive
estimate of the costs associated with removal, prepared by a qualified engineer. The amount
shall include a mechanism for calculating increased removal costs due to inflation.
38—Source page 39
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Board of Selectmen for the Green Team
FINANCE COMMITTEE MOTION:
MOVED: That the subject matter of Article 14 be deferred to the Planning Board.
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOTE: 70
- 0
-
PLANNING BOARD MOTION:
MOVED: That the Town of Canton Zoning By l-aws be amended by adding a new Section 9.8, Large " -
Scale Ground - Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Overlay District" as follows and by adding to the list of
Zoning Districts in Section 2.0 of the Zoning Bylaws the following district: -Large -Scale Ground -
Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation Overlay District ( SPOD)"which Overlay District shall consist of
Assessor's Map 40, Parcel 44. The purpose of these amendments is to comply with the Green
Communities Act and allow large s- cale ground- mounted photovoltaic installations to be allowed by
right but with site plan approval and to be subject to expedited permitting, or take any other action
related thereto.
9.
8 Large -Scale Ground - Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation Overlay District ( SPOD)
9.
18. Purpose
The purpose of this Large -Scale Ground - Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation Overlay District
SPOD) is to promote the creation of new large s - cale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations
by providing standards for the placement, design, construction, operation, monitoring, modification
and removal of such installations that address public safety, minimize impacts on scenic, natural and
historic resources and to provide adequate financial assurance for the eventual decommissioning of
such installations.
The provisions set forth in this section shall apply to the construction, operation, and /or repair of
large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
9.
28. Overlay District
The SPOD shall be construed as an overlay district. This district may be applied as an overlay to any
parcel of land which has been designated by a town meeting vote. All requirements of the underlying
zoning district(s) shall remain in full force and effect, except where the requirements of the SPOD are
less restrictive or provide for uses or structures not otherwise available in the underlying district(s).
In such cases the requirements of the SPOD shall supersede the underlying zoning regulations.
9.
38. Applicability
This Section 9.8 applies to large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations proposed to be
constructed after the effective date of this section. This section 9.8 also pertains to physical
modifications that materially alter the type, configuration, or size of these installations or related
equipment.
9.
48. Expedited Permitting
A site plan shall be submitted in accordance with the requirements of Section 10.5 of this Bylaw. In
order to comply with the provisions of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 25A, Section 10(c)the "
Green Communities Act,"site plan review shall be expedited and no decision shall be rendered so as to
preclude the issuance of a building permit more than one year after the date of application.
9.
58. Definitions
As o- f Right
- Siting: As of
- Right
- Siting shall mean that development of a large -scale ground- mounted
solar photovoltaic installation, consistent with the protections offered by G.L. c. 40A, § 3, may proceed
without the need for a special permit, variance, amendment, waiver, or other discretionary approval.
As -of right
- development shall be subject to site plan review to determine conformance with the local
Zoning Bylaws. Projects cannot be prohibited, but can be reasonably regulated by the Site Plan Review
Authority.
39-Source page 40
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING APRIL 25, 2011
Building Inspector: The inspector of buildings, building commissioner, or local inspector charged with
the enforcement of the Zoning Bylaws.
Building Permit: A construction permit issued by an authorized building inspector; the building permit
evidences that the project is consistent with the state and federal building codes as well as local zoning
bylaws, including those governing large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
Designated Location: The location designated as the -Large -Scale Ground- Mounted Solar Photovoltaic
Installation Overlay District ( SPOD)"in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A,
Section 5, where large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installations may be sited as o
- f-right.
Said location is shown as Assessors Map 40, Parcel 44, pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws
Chapter 40A, Section 4. This map is hereby made a part of this Zoning Bylaw and is on file in the Office
of the Town Clerk.
Large -Scale Ground - Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installation: A solar photovoltaic system that is
structurally mounted on the ground and is not roof-mounted, and has a minimum nameplate capacity
of 250 kW DC.
On S
- ite Solar Photovoltaic Installation: A solar photovoltaic installation that is constructed at a location
where other uses of the underlying property occur.
Rated Nameplate Capacity: The maximum rated output of electric power production of the Photovoltaic
system in Direct Current ( DC).
Site Plan Review: Review by the Site Plan Review Authority pursuant to Section 10.5 of this Zoning By-
law.
Site Plan Review Authority: For purposes of this Bylaw, Site Plan Review Authority refers to the Zoning
Board of Appeals.
Solar Photovoltaic Array: An arrangement of solar photovoltaic panels.
Zoning Enforcement Authority: The person or board charged with enforcing the Zoning Bylaws.
9.
68. General Requirements for all Large -Scale Ground- Mounted Solar Power Generation Installations
The following requirements are common to all solar photovoltaic installations to be sited in designated
locations.
9.
6.
8.Compliance
1 with Laws, Ordinances and Regulations
The construction and operation of all large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic
installations shall be consistent with all applicable local, state and federal
requirements, including but not limited to all applicable safety, construction, electrical,
and communications requirements. All buildings and fixtures forming part of a solar
photovoltaic installation shall be constructed in accordance with all current and
applicable State Building Codes.
9.
6.
8. Building Permit and Building Inspection
2
No large -scale ground- mounted solar photovoltaic installation shall be constructed,
installed or modified as provided in this section without first obtaining a building
permit.
9.
6.
8. Fees
3
The application for a building permit for a large scale
- ground-mounted solar
photovoltaic installation must be accompanied by the fee required for a building
permit. The Planning Board or designated government body may adopt reasonable
administrative fees and technical review fees that are commensurate for the said
project.
9.
6.
8. Site Plan Review
4
Ground - mounted large scale solar photovoltaic installations with 250 kW or larger of
rated nameplate capacity shall undergo site plan review by the Site Plan Review
40—